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Murder Takes the High Road
From award-winning male/male author Josh Lanyon: a librarian finds himself in a plot right out of one of his favorite mystery novels
Librarian Carter Matheson is determined to enjoy himself on a Scottish bus tour for fans of mystery author Dame Vanessa Rayburn. Sure, his ex, Trevor, will also be on the trip with his new boyfriend, leaving Carter to share a room with a stranger, but he can’t pass up a chance to meet his favorite author.
Carter’s roommate turns out to be John Knight, a figure as mysterious as any character from Vanessa’s books. His strange affect and nighttime wanderings make Carter suspicious. When a fellow traveler’s death sparks rumors of foul play, Carter is left wondering if there’s anyone on the tour he can trust.
Drawn into the intrigue, Carter searches for answers, trying to fend off his growing attraction toward John. As unexplained tragedies continue, the whole tour must face the fact that there may be a murderer in their midst—but who?
This book is approximately 60,000 words
Librarian Carter Matheson is determined to enjoy himself on a Scottish bus tour for fans of mystery author Dame Vanessa Rayburn. Sure, his ex, Trevor, will also be on the trip with his new boyfriend, leaving Carter to share a room with a stranger, but he can’t pass up a chance to meet his favorite author.
Carter’s roommate turns out to be John Knight, a figure as mysterious as any character from Vanessa’s books. His strange affect and nighttime wanderings make Carter suspicious. When a fellow traveler’s death sparks rumors of foul play, Carter is left wondering if there’s anyone on the tour he can trust.
Drawn into the intrigue, Carter searches for answers, trying to fend off his growing attraction toward John. As unexplained tragedies continue, the whole tour must face the fact that there may be a murderer in their midst—but who?
This book is approximately 60,000 words
250 pages, ebook
First published April 23, 2018
168 people are currently reading
1442 people want to read
About the author
Josh Lanyon
201books5,344followersAuthor of 100+ titles of Gay Mystery and M/M Romance, Josh Lanyon has built her literary legacy on twisty mystery, kickass adventure, and unapologetic man-on-man romance.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the ŷ M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the ŷ All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and ŷ.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the ŷ M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the ŷ All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and ŷ.
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May 3, 2020
THANK YOU TO THE AUTHOR FOR PROVIDING ME WITH THIS ARC AFTER I LOW KEY STALKED HER AND SHE PROBABLY FELT SORRY FOR ME AFTER NETGALLEY REJECTED MY REQUEST.
WARNING, THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SOME SHIT FROM MY PAST. AGAIN.
When I was in high school, I had a bit of a juvenile imagination.
For my first three years, I resided in an old dorm house dubbed “Main Block�. One of the oldest structures in the school. Dating back all the way to around 1922.
It had a ghostly whitewashed façade. The inside was a belly of countless rooms painted a bland cream or grey or ashy green. They had gaping fireplaces that were bordered by groaning wood.
The 1920s were a time rife with colonialism, especially in those highlands. The town, Limuru, used to be known as a White Highland. Flooded by the white man out to farm his precious green gold called tea.
The school is still surrounded by lush green tea farms that look like a carpet of moss. The air is always crisp and cold. Sunlight in Limuru is like a mythical creature that only comes out when the chief’s youngest virgin daughter goes to sacrifice the youngest virgin goat to appease the ancestors.
Limuru Girls� School (at the time) was like a perfect setting for an adventure. Or a mystery novel. But that never occurred to me. Surprisingly so, as the school was rife with tales and legends of child-watching madmen and ghosts.
There was a particular one called The Man but I never understood the gist of it when I was a freshman. The Man was said to sneak into our dorms and tickle our feet as we slept. The Man was also said to be a madman, trapped within the tea farms always looking to escape through the school. Another legend said that he liked to look at the young girls sleep because he was looking for his daughter whom he only knew by how she slept. Actually, that’s a crock of shit. I made that last one up.
However, a more famous legend was of Stephanie’s Window. On the first floor, to the side of Main Block, was a lone window- a dark maw that stood out in the white starkness. Like an unlit lantern room of a lighthouse. A senior told me that a girl once jumped out the window trying to run away from a broken heart or something.
“She was seated on the ledge singing. She was wearing a white nightgown. There were no lights on. Just the moon bathing her in this eerie white glow. People ignored her as they went about their business. What they didn’t know was that she was crying for her demons to take her home. She was lost. And maybe he found her. Next thing they knew, she stopped singing and just fell out.�
I gulped when I heard the story. I simply don’t do ghosts or any of that hokum. I used to give Stephanie’s Window a wide berth every time I walked around it. A part of me knew it couldn’t possibly be true. It being the custom of Kenyan authorities to wipe out anything they find remotely unpleasant. If some poor little girl had dropped herself out that window, they would have boarded it up, shut it with chains then built another Main Block around it.
However, the legend of Stephanie’s Window remained strong as its name always rang in the halls of Main Block. Particularly because some hapless student had decided to hang up their shirts or socks to dry. Limuru is known for its damp weather. Sometimes hanging stuff indoors was the only way to guarantee an almost-dry shirt to wear to class the following day.
The reason I am sharing this is because I was living in the midst of a story worthy of a HBO miniseries. And I was clueless as to how I could share it. Or retell it. It just simply- never occurred to me. I wasn’t even ever curious enough to find out the exact reason why it was called Stephanie’s Window.
My immature imagination also couldn’t take advantage of the fact that a hallway away- a converted gym housed an alarming number of owls. They would perch on the gutters every day after sunset- like clockwork. The silhouettes of those silent sentries always caused some kind of hysteria among the more- superstitious- of my schoolmates. And still- I came up with nothing.
True to form, my now prepubescent imagination still can’t come up with anything to quite explain what a thrill this ride was. Murder Takes the High Road follows the highlands of Scotland. A group of mystery enthusiasts are on a road trip to go visit a favourite author. Until one of them winds up dead and another one inexplicably leaves. Our main character, endearing librarian Carter Matheson, ends up entangled in all kinds of shit all while having to deal with his mysterious last-minute room-mate.
If it was up to my imagination, the suspicious room-mate would have been the next victim. Stephanie would have had something to do with it and The Man would have been a deus ex machina.
Thankfully, it wasn’t. So trust Lanyon's imagination and my high praise for it.
WARNING, THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SOME SHIT FROM MY PAST. AGAIN.
When I was in high school, I had a bit of a juvenile imagination.
For my first three years, I resided in an old dorm house dubbed “Main Block�. One of the oldest structures in the school. Dating back all the way to around 1922.
It had a ghostly whitewashed façade. The inside was a belly of countless rooms painted a bland cream or grey or ashy green. They had gaping fireplaces that were bordered by groaning wood.
The 1920s were a time rife with colonialism, especially in those highlands. The town, Limuru, used to be known as a White Highland. Flooded by the white man out to farm his precious green gold called tea.
The school is still surrounded by lush green tea farms that look like a carpet of moss. The air is always crisp and cold. Sunlight in Limuru is like a mythical creature that only comes out when the chief’s youngest virgin daughter goes to sacrifice the youngest virgin goat to appease the ancestors.
Limuru Girls� School (at the time) was like a perfect setting for an adventure. Or a mystery novel. But that never occurred to me. Surprisingly so, as the school was rife with tales and legends of child-watching madmen and ghosts.
There was a particular one called The Man but I never understood the gist of it when I was a freshman. The Man was said to sneak into our dorms and tickle our feet as we slept. The Man was also said to be a madman, trapped within the tea farms always looking to escape through the school. Another legend said that he liked to look at the young girls sleep because he was looking for his daughter whom he only knew by how she slept. Actually, that’s a crock of shit. I made that last one up.
However, a more famous legend was of Stephanie’s Window. On the first floor, to the side of Main Block, was a lone window- a dark maw that stood out in the white starkness. Like an unlit lantern room of a lighthouse. A senior told me that a girl once jumped out the window trying to run away from a broken heart or something.
“She was seated on the ledge singing. She was wearing a white nightgown. There were no lights on. Just the moon bathing her in this eerie white glow. People ignored her as they went about their business. What they didn’t know was that she was crying for her demons to take her home. She was lost. And maybe he found her. Next thing they knew, she stopped singing and just fell out.�
I gulped when I heard the story. I simply don’t do ghosts or any of that hokum. I used to give Stephanie’s Window a wide berth every time I walked around it. A part of me knew it couldn’t possibly be true. It being the custom of Kenyan authorities to wipe out anything they find remotely unpleasant. If some poor little girl had dropped herself out that window, they would have boarded it up, shut it with chains then built another Main Block around it.
However, the legend of Stephanie’s Window remained strong as its name always rang in the halls of Main Block. Particularly because some hapless student had decided to hang up their shirts or socks to dry. Limuru is known for its damp weather. Sometimes hanging stuff indoors was the only way to guarantee an almost-dry shirt to wear to class the following day.
The reason I am sharing this is because I was living in the midst of a story worthy of a HBO miniseries. And I was clueless as to how I could share it. Or retell it. It just simply- never occurred to me. I wasn’t even ever curious enough to find out the exact reason why it was called Stephanie’s Window.
My immature imagination also couldn’t take advantage of the fact that a hallway away- a converted gym housed an alarming number of owls. They would perch on the gutters every day after sunset- like clockwork. The silhouettes of those silent sentries always caused some kind of hysteria among the more- superstitious- of my schoolmates. And still- I came up with nothing.
True to form, my now prepubescent imagination still can’t come up with anything to quite explain what a thrill this ride was. Murder Takes the High Road follows the highlands of Scotland. A group of mystery enthusiasts are on a road trip to go visit a favourite author. Until one of them winds up dead and another one inexplicably leaves. Our main character, endearing librarian Carter Matheson, ends up entangled in all kinds of shit all while having to deal with his mysterious last-minute room-mate.
If it was up to my imagination, the suspicious room-mate would have been the next victim. Stephanie would have had something to do with it and The Man would have been a deus ex machina.
Thankfully, it wasn’t. So trust Lanyon's imagination and my high praise for it.
June 9, 2018
I really liked this story.
It is totally obvious the author actually went on a bus tour through Scotland and based this book on personal experience.
I am proud to say that I also visited Scotland by doing such a bus tour and everything rang annoyingly true.
I am saying this in a loving way.
Carter Matheson, mild-mannered librarian and mystery fan, booked a bus tour through Scotland years ago, when he was still with his long-term partner Trevor. Both guys intended to enjoy a unique tour through the land of Carter's ancestors and to visit the locations of the famous mystery books by star author Dame Vanessa Rayburn. The itinerary even includes a personal meet and greet with the lady herself in her Scottish castle.
Too bad that by the time the tour actually takes place, Carter is a) single and b) asked by his ex Trevor to give his ticket to Trevor's new boyfriend Vance.
What a charming sweetheart, right?
However, Carter is determined to enjoy the tour he's been looking forward to and now suffers through being on a bus with both Trevor AND Vance.
But that's the least of Carter's issues in this story, really.
Luckily, Carter shares a room with a handsome stranger who has some interesting sleeping habits and seems not to have read a single Rayburn book in his life.
So what's the guy doing on a fan tour to the locations of the famous novels, then?
The plot is a pure mystery, so I can't really say anything about it. But think 'Murder on the Orient Express'; think 'And Then There Were None' and add a dash of gay romance.
I'm going to deduct one star, though, for Carter getting hit on by every available guy on the tour (librarians must be to gay guys what Pamela Anderson was to straight men in the 90s...) and for Trevor and Vance being a double dose of idiocy that I could have lived without.
I also couldn't help but notice that the guys all act a decade younger than they actually are.
Other than that, it's an amazing novel and a typical Lanyon: Well-constructed, mysterious and touching.
4 stars
It is totally obvious the author actually went on a bus tour through Scotland and based this book on personal experience.
I am proud to say that I also visited Scotland by doing such a bus tour and everything rang annoyingly true.
I am saying this in a loving way.
Carter Matheson, mild-mannered librarian and mystery fan, booked a bus tour through Scotland years ago, when he was still with his long-term partner Trevor. Both guys intended to enjoy a unique tour through the land of Carter's ancestors and to visit the locations of the famous mystery books by star author Dame Vanessa Rayburn. The itinerary even includes a personal meet and greet with the lady herself in her Scottish castle.
Too bad that by the time the tour actually takes place, Carter is a) single and b) asked by his ex Trevor to give his ticket to Trevor's new boyfriend Vance.
What a charming sweetheart, right?
However, Carter is determined to enjoy the tour he's been looking forward to and now suffers through being on a bus with both Trevor AND Vance.
But that's the least of Carter's issues in this story, really.
Luckily, Carter shares a room with a handsome stranger who has some interesting sleeping habits and seems not to have read a single Rayburn book in his life.
So what's the guy doing on a fan tour to the locations of the famous novels, then?
The plot is a pure mystery, so I can't really say anything about it. But think 'Murder on the Orient Express'; think 'And Then There Were None' and add a dash of gay romance.
I'm going to deduct one star, though, for Carter getting hit on by every available guy on the tour (librarians must be to gay guys what Pamela Anderson was to straight men in the 90s...) and for Trevor and Vance being a double dose of idiocy that I could have lived without.
I also couldn't help but notice that the guys all act a decade younger than they actually are.
Other than that, it's an amazing novel and a typical Lanyon: Well-constructed, mysterious and touching.
4 stars
May 30, 2018
Checklist for a classic Lanyon:
Atmospheric scenery:
A creepy Scottish castle on a remote island, need I say more? So... *check*
Mysterious mystery:
In other words: I had no friggin' clue who dunnit, so... *check*
Adorable characters:
Carter made me laugh and John made me swoon, so... *check*
Typic Lanyon humor:
Dry and sarcastic, exactly how I like it, so... *check*
Great narrator of the audiobook:
Gary Furlong did an amazing job, especially with the Scottish accent, so... *check*
Hit ratio = 100% = Loved it!
Atmospheric scenery:
A creepy Scottish castle on a remote island, need I say more? So... *check*
Mysterious mystery:
In other words: I had no friggin' clue who dunnit, so... *check*
Adorable characters:
Carter made me laugh and John made me swoon, so... *check*
Typic Lanyon humor:
Dry and sarcastic, exactly how I like it, so... *check*
Great narrator of the audiobook:
Gary Furlong did an amazing job, especially with the Scottish accent, so... *check*
Hit ratio = 100% = Loved it!
May 9, 2018
3 Stars
Carter is on a tour; his ex is also on the tour with his new boyfriend. It’s a ten-day tour of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.
"Every stop and every stay was planned around a particular setting in one of the Rayburn books."
And she was Carte’s fave author so he couldn’t pass his ticket just because his ex is on the trip. In this trip, Carter has a roommate, John. He’s a man of many secrets. Like his wandering in the middle of the nights and the thing that John hasn’t read any of this author’s books! In this tour, strange things happen like the murder of a traveler among other things. So Carter becomes suspicious of his roommate but he also can’t prevent his attraction toward him!
It was an okay read, actually, it wasn’t as exciting or romantic as I expected. The 3rd POV in this one didn’t really work out for me. The only thing that made me read the whole story was Carter’s character, I liked him. but I should confess that after reading 65% I started skimming! Told in single POV, 3rd person. It’s a standalone novel. I think it was just me not the book and my friends really enjoyed this story, hope you like it!
Carter is on a tour; his ex is also on the tour with his new boyfriend. It’s a ten-day tour of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.
"Every stop and every stay was planned around a particular setting in one of the Rayburn books."
And she was Carte’s fave author so he couldn’t pass his ticket just because his ex is on the trip. In this trip, Carter has a roommate, John. He’s a man of many secrets. Like his wandering in the middle of the nights and the thing that John hasn’t read any of this author’s books! In this tour, strange things happen like the murder of a traveler among other things. So Carter becomes suspicious of his roommate but he also can’t prevent his attraction toward him!
It was an okay read, actually, it wasn’t as exciting or romantic as I expected. The 3rd POV in this one didn’t really work out for me. The only thing that made me read the whole story was Carter’s character, I liked him. but I should confess that after reading 65% I started skimming! Told in single POV, 3rd person. It’s a standalone novel. I think it was just me not the book and my friends really enjoyed this story, hope you like it!
April 25, 2018
4 Stars!
Another brilliant mystery by the amazing JL. I just wish the romance was played up a little bit more.
The mystery is forefront and well executed with many players in the mix. I loved it. It's has a vibe of Clue going on, only JL did it better and smarter.
Nothing better then some sweet revenge on an ex then to go on the same trip as him and his new man to make it miserable for them. Maybe not so new though considering he was seeing this bloke during his and Carter's relationship. But Carter had this trip planned out 2 years prior and never thought he'd be going alone while his ex takes along his new boyfriend. His ex Trevor actually had the nerve to ask for Carter's ticket for his new dude. WHAT?! Seriously this guy is a complete douchebag and continues to be one till the end.
John was Carter's mystery roommate who soon turned into his love interest. I wish there was more build up there but you gotta know your going to get the mystery before the romance in a JL book. So I couldn't be that disappointed.
If your in the mood for a great mystery where the romance is light, pick this one up!
Happy reading dolls! xx
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Another brilliant mystery by the amazing JL. I just wish the romance was played up a little bit more.
The mystery is forefront and well executed with many players in the mix. I loved it. It's has a vibe of Clue going on, only JL did it better and smarter.
Nothing better then some sweet revenge on an ex then to go on the same trip as him and his new man to make it miserable for them. Maybe not so new though considering he was seeing this bloke during his and Carter's relationship. But Carter had this trip planned out 2 years prior and never thought he'd be going alone while his ex takes along his new boyfriend. His ex Trevor actually had the nerve to ask for Carter's ticket for his new dude. WHAT?! Seriously this guy is a complete douchebag and continues to be one till the end.
John was Carter's mystery roommate who soon turned into his love interest. I wish there was more build up there but you gotta know your going to get the mystery before the romance in a JL book. So I couldn't be that disappointed.
If your in the mood for a great mystery where the romance is light, pick this one up!
Happy reading dolls! xx
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2018
4 Stars
is another of Lanyon’s finely crafted mystery stories featuring a tasty side of romance.
This story follows American librarian and recently single Carter Matheson as he goes on a once-a-year exclusive tour through Scotland, visiting sights and scenes as featured in the books of mystery author, Vanessa Rayburn.
Carter should be thrilled to be on this tour, not only because he’s had this trip planned for years and it’s his first time overseas, but because the whole thing is about the life and works of his favourite author, who he will even get to meet along the way. Unfortunately, Carter’s excitement is soured a bit because his ex, whom he originally planned the trip with, is also in attendance� along with the guy he left Carter for ten months earlier. Carter decides to be an adult about it and make the best of this potentially disastrous situation, trying his best to ignore his petulant and confrontational ex along the way and to enjoy this Scottish adventure as much as possible.
The situation is certainly helped when he gets a roommate in the form of the sexy and enigmatic John Knight. Sparks quickly fly between the two men, but Carter can’t help but have his suspicions about John and his presence on the tour, especially when John tends to goes wandering in the middle of the night and more especially when bad things start to befall several members on the tour.
So much of what is happening around him seems seriously suspect to Carter, so, with a little push from some fellow mystery-fan travelers, he decides to do some sneaky investigating to work out what is actually going on.
As per usual, the mystery portion of this particular story plays front and centre. I had no problem with this because by now I know exactly what I’m getting when I crack open a story by Lanyon. Yes, the romance is light, and yes, I was left wanting more than I got in that regard, but the fun of the plot and the skill of the writing itself was more than enough to keep me completely entertained from start to finish.
No doubt, I had a lot of fun reading this one. Mysteries are one of my absolute favourite genres, but unfortunately I don’t read nearly enough of them these days. Thankfully, Lanyon is one of the best in this field and I doubt I’ll ever tire of her skilled brand of mystery/romance. And if this were to become a series? Well, I certainly wouldn’t complain.
is another of Lanyon’s finely crafted mystery stories featuring a tasty side of romance.
This story follows American librarian and recently single Carter Matheson as he goes on a once-a-year exclusive tour through Scotland, visiting sights and scenes as featured in the books of mystery author, Vanessa Rayburn.
Carter should be thrilled to be on this tour, not only because he’s had this trip planned for years and it’s his first time overseas, but because the whole thing is about the life and works of his favourite author, who he will even get to meet along the way. Unfortunately, Carter’s excitement is soured a bit because his ex, whom he originally planned the trip with, is also in attendance� along with the guy he left Carter for ten months earlier. Carter decides to be an adult about it and make the best of this potentially disastrous situation, trying his best to ignore his petulant and confrontational ex along the way and to enjoy this Scottish adventure as much as possible.
The situation is certainly helped when he gets a roommate in the form of the sexy and enigmatic John Knight. Sparks quickly fly between the two men, but Carter can’t help but have his suspicions about John and his presence on the tour, especially when John tends to goes wandering in the middle of the night and more especially when bad things start to befall several members on the tour.
So much of what is happening around him seems seriously suspect to Carter, so, with a little push from some fellow mystery-fan travelers, he decides to do some sneaky investigating to work out what is actually going on.
As per usual, the mystery portion of this particular story plays front and centre. I had no problem with this because by now I know exactly what I’m getting when I crack open a story by Lanyon. Yes, the romance is light, and yes, I was left wanting more than I got in that regard, but the fun of the plot and the skill of the writing itself was more than enough to keep me completely entertained from start to finish.
No doubt, I had a lot of fun reading this one. Mysteries are one of my absolute favourite genres, but unfortunately I don’t read nearly enough of them these days. Thankfully, Lanyon is one of the best in this field and I doubt I’ll ever tire of her skilled brand of mystery/romance. And if this were to become a series? Well, I certainly wouldn’t complain.
June 12, 2020
3.5 stars
This was a fun read. Wonderful setting, likable characters and the mystery part was entertaining.
Great narration by Gary Furlong. I love his Scottish accent.
This was a fun read. Wonderful setting, likable characters and the mystery part was entertaining.
Great narration by Gary Furlong. I love his Scottish accent.
June 8, 2020
This was one of the most fun to read books by Lanyon yet. Going on a years-planned vacation with the ex who cheated. And with the ex's new boyfriend with whom he cheated.
I knew why "the high road" was in the title with that setup.
But Carter does take the high road with his ex. He's always wanted to go on this once-a-year, very expensive, bus tour dedicated to his favorite author, and he's staying!
The antics from the ex were entertaining on their own and made me smile more than once.
But then we meet John - a last minute addition to the group and a man who doesn't seem like he's read a single one of the author's books. Carter is suspicious.
But the antics play out, and the bodies start dropping, and it was your typical Lanyon-style from there.
I found John to be one of the most romantic MCs that I've seen from Lanyon, which was awesome.
Fans of the author won't want to miss this one!
I knew why "the high road" was in the title with that setup.
But Carter does take the high road with his ex. He's always wanted to go on this once-a-year, very expensive, bus tour dedicated to his favorite author, and he's staying!
The antics from the ex were entertaining on their own and made me smile more than once.
But then we meet John - a last minute addition to the group and a man who doesn't seem like he's read a single one of the author's books. Carter is suspicious.
But the antics play out, and the bodies start dropping, and it was your typical Lanyon-style from there.
I found John to be one of the most romantic MCs that I've seen from Lanyon, which was awesome.
Fans of the author won't want to miss this one!
March 12, 2019
Carter has been planning his literary trip to the Scottish highlands for years, looking forward to seeing all the picturesque haunts he's only read about till now. What he hasn't been planning was to have his recent ex and his new beau shooting him angry looks at every step... that is, when they're not busy throwing each other love sick looks.
As if all his sentimental baggage weren't enough, the trip quickly takes a turn for the worst: full of hearsay and skirmishes between the tour participants. And then, there is also Carter's mysterious roommate, who doesn't seem particularly interested in the tour's literary aspect, constantly sneaking off in the dead of the night.
Wait, was that a steamy look he's been given? Come to think of it, the roommate's not bad looking at all...
Dumfries House in Ayrshire
British murder mysteries, love triangles and rectangles with steam coming off hot guys at every step of the way? Penned by one of my favorite authors? Sign me up!
I just loved everything about the Scottish Highlands and dreary castles where the tour set its participants up for the night. I got so into these descriptions that I truly wouldn't have minded if I could have teleported myself on that literary tour bus. Ironic really, as I was on a train to Lake Titikaka, while reading this. Greener pastures, and all that jazz...
Score: 3/5 stars
After 2 consecutive days of altitude sickness, with a 3rd threatening to make things worse, this short little novel was the perfect guilty pleasure to lift my spirits. I loved the setting, and the romantic aspects have also managed to hold my interest till the end.
As if all his sentimental baggage weren't enough, the trip quickly takes a turn for the worst: full of hearsay and skirmishes between the tour participants. And then, there is also Carter's mysterious roommate, who doesn't seem particularly interested in the tour's literary aspect, constantly sneaking off in the dead of the night.
Wait, was that a steamy look he's been given? Come to think of it, the roommate's not bad looking at all...
Dumfries House in Ayrshire
British murder mysteries, love triangles and rectangles with steam coming off hot guys at every step of the way? Penned by one of my favorite authors? Sign me up!
I just loved everything about the Scottish Highlands and dreary castles where the tour set its participants up for the night. I got so into these descriptions that I truly wouldn't have minded if I could have teleported myself on that literary tour bus. Ironic really, as I was on a train to Lake Titikaka, while reading this. Greener pastures, and all that jazz...
Score: 3/5 stars
After 2 consecutive days of altitude sickness, with a 3rd threatening to make things worse, this short little novel was the perfect guilty pleasure to lift my spirits. I loved the setting, and the romantic aspects have also managed to hold my interest till the end.
April 4, 2025
"Murder Takes the High Road" is definitely on the cozy side of murder mysteries! I didn't know that going in but I wasn't exactly mad about it.
Good and/or hilarious characters on tour around Scotland for fans of a made-up murder mystery author (how cool does that sound? 😳), some insta romance subplot thrown in, and plenty of mystery and suspicion going around regarding not only the author herself but the previous tour - someone supposedly died??
Carter was a good MC to follow, and John was...a good love interest? I don't think I have much to say about both of them, honestly. They were nice, they had good chemistry. Just...good, yeah 😅 They fucked for the first time in around 36 hours of meeting each other, which - okay, sure. Sex with a stranger, a simple physical release, why not? But JL tried to write the scene as something emotional and "feeling complete" and that's where it fell completely flat for me. You know a whole ass nothing about this person, and you feel as if your heart is whole, as if you've always wanted this moment? That's exactly the kind of sappy bullshit that makes my eyebrows try to fly off my face. But it could be the endorphins talking, what do I know.
(Not to mention, the sex itself was cringe as hell with some questionable and ridiculous word choices.)
There was also some ex-boyfriend drama but holy shit it was hilarious 😂 I don't know if it was intentionally written this OTT but it worked, I couldn't even be annoyed because I was laughing my ass off, Trevor and his new boytoy (also on the tour btw, awkward much) were a pair of insufferable drama queens that frankly deserved each other.
The mystery itself was fairly predictable in some aspects but there were still some twists I didn't see coming, and some red herrings I readily jumped on, so it was pretty satisfying. I liked the last third of the book the most because the pace finally picked up in that regard.
And as a cherry on top - JL's quite abrupt ending, she didn't disappoint 😂 I always click on the next page expecting the last chapter and go "Oh!" when I realize I just finished the last chapter 👀
Anyone who's ever been on an organized tour with a guide will have a good time with this, I was certainly transported to the last tour I went to 🥰
(and when I think about it... I was probably the odd one that would immediately be suspected as the serial killer, holy shit 👁️👄👁️)
Good and/or hilarious characters on tour around Scotland for fans of a made-up murder mystery author (how cool does that sound? 😳), some insta romance subplot thrown in, and plenty of mystery and suspicion going around regarding not only the author herself but the previous tour - someone supposedly died??
Carter was a good MC to follow, and John was...a good love interest? I don't think I have much to say about both of them, honestly. They were nice, they had good chemistry. Just...good, yeah 😅 They fucked for the first time in around 36 hours of meeting each other, which - okay, sure. Sex with a stranger, a simple physical release, why not? But JL tried to write the scene as something emotional and "feeling complete" and that's where it fell completely flat for me. You know a whole ass nothing about this person, and you feel as if your heart is whole, as if you've always wanted this moment? That's exactly the kind of sappy bullshit that makes my eyebrows try to fly off my face. But it could be the endorphins talking, what do I know.
(Not to mention, the sex itself was cringe as hell with some questionable and ridiculous word choices.)
There was also some ex-boyfriend drama but holy shit it was hilarious 😂 I don't know if it was intentionally written this OTT but it worked, I couldn't even be annoyed because I was laughing my ass off, Trevor and his new boytoy (also on the tour btw, awkward much) were a pair of insufferable drama queens that frankly deserved each other.
The mystery itself was fairly predictable in some aspects but there were still some twists I didn't see coming, and some red herrings I readily jumped on, so it was pretty satisfying. I liked the last third of the book the most because the pace finally picked up in that regard.
And as a cherry on top - JL's quite abrupt ending, she didn't disappoint 😂 I always click on the next page expecting the last chapter and go "Oh!" when I realize I just finished the last chapter 👀
Anyone who's ever been on an organized tour with a guide will have a good time with this, I was certainly transported to the last tour I went to 🥰
(and when I think about it... I was probably the odd one that would immediately be suspected as the serial killer, holy shit 👁️👄👁️)
April 30, 2018
The first thing that drew me to this book was the word ‘Scottish� in the blurb. Scotland’s on my bucket list, so I was hoping this book would deliver some picturesque scenes.
And I wasn’t disappointed! We’ve got ancient streets, mountains, seaside roads, and creepy old castles. The vivid descriptions of gloomy Scottish weather gave the book a sombre and foreboding feel.
When we’re first introduced to Carter, he’s a bit of a pitiful character. It’s obvious that his decision to go on the tour is as much to spite his ex as it is out of personal interest in mystery author Vanessa Rayburn.
But it didn’t take me long to warm up to him. He’s a librarian and crazy about reading - I could see the appeal! Plus, his ex, Trevor, and Trevor’s new boyfriend Vance are so immediately unlikeable, that I couldn’t help but root for Carter.
The love interest, John, is a bit of enigma. We don’t get his POV, and at first all readers see of him are his odd night-prowling habits. But that’s enough to pique Carter’s interest.
This isn’t a particularly romantic read. Carter and John might be in close quarters, and it only takes them a couple of days to fall into bed together, but the relationship plays second fiddle to the mystery aspect.
That being said, the two still make for a sweet couple. Both men are cautious about love, but it can’t be denied that there’s an obvious connection between them. By the end of the book, I was sure that they were well on their way to a happy ending.
The murder mystery was entertaining, and kept me guessing. I was never entirely sure what was happening, and how all the moving pieces connected together.
However, at some point I did start getting bored. The mystery’s just too tame for what I’d normally expect from Josh Lanyon. I was expecting something more thrilling that would keep me on the edge of my seat.
Overall, this was a good read, with enough romance and mystery to keep me entertained. Fans of Josh Lanyon should know that this is a lot more low-key than her usual fare. I wouldn’t mind a short sequel or epilogue to see where Carter and John end up!
And I wasn’t disappointed! We’ve got ancient streets, mountains, seaside roads, and creepy old castles. The vivid descriptions of gloomy Scottish weather gave the book a sombre and foreboding feel.
When we’re first introduced to Carter, he’s a bit of a pitiful character. It’s obvious that his decision to go on the tour is as much to spite his ex as it is out of personal interest in mystery author Vanessa Rayburn.
But it didn’t take me long to warm up to him. He’s a librarian and crazy about reading - I could see the appeal! Plus, his ex, Trevor, and Trevor’s new boyfriend Vance are so immediately unlikeable, that I couldn’t help but root for Carter.
The love interest, John, is a bit of enigma. We don’t get his POV, and at first all readers see of him are his odd night-prowling habits. But that’s enough to pique Carter’s interest.
This isn’t a particularly romantic read. Carter and John might be in close quarters, and it only takes them a couple of days to fall into bed together, but the relationship plays second fiddle to the mystery aspect.
That being said, the two still make for a sweet couple. Both men are cautious about love, but it can’t be denied that there’s an obvious connection between them. By the end of the book, I was sure that they were well on their way to a happy ending.
The murder mystery was entertaining, and kept me guessing. I was never entirely sure what was happening, and how all the moving pieces connected together.
However, at some point I did start getting bored. The mystery’s just too tame for what I’d normally expect from Josh Lanyon. I was expecting something more thrilling that would keep me on the edge of my seat.
Overall, this was a good read, with enough romance and mystery to keep me entertained. Fans of Josh Lanyon should know that this is a lot more low-key than her usual fare. I wouldn’t mind a short sequel or epilogue to see where Carter and John end up!
February 14, 2025
I am officially a Josh Lanyon fan, and will be reading every book she's written.
Edit:
...Hi there, future Noah here! I've since come to sorely regret taking on this mission.
Edit:
...Hi there, future Noah here! I've since come to sorely regret taking on this mission.
March 14, 2018
I think this book can make happy not only the fans of Josh Lanyon, but in the first place the lovers of the classic mystery genre a là Agatha Christie.
Some essential prerequisites are needed: a bunch of strangers, who are put together for a while. In OUR case it is a colorful mixed group of tourists on the bus trip 'Tour to Die For' for the fans of mystery author Dame Vanessa Rayburn. This tour takes place only once per year and leads the lucky participants through the beautiful landscape of Scotland, all well-known mystery places from Vanessa's books and ends with an absolute highlight: the tour participants spend some days with their idol on her private island in her own castle.
Who wouldn't want to enjoy this extraordinary tour, even not being a fan of a popular publicity-shy mystery author? For sure not Carter Matheson. And it doesn't matter that the tour that was booked by Carter personally one year in advance has a little inconvenience - his ex is on this tour either. With his new boyfriend. So we have also an interesting triangle (as an essential prerequisite).
Or should I name it rectangle? Because...who could imagine? - a singe attractive insurance man in his best age joins the tour at the last minute. (I ask myself how did he manage to get a free place?!) John Knight. And so...our librarian Carter gets a roommates. Too bad for him, he has been already delighted to have a double room for ONLY himself.
And of COURSE we have a murder case, a bad weather at the end, no telephone connection to the mainland, and MANY SUSPECTS, and not least, picturesque landscape, charming little villages and interesting locations of historically rich Scotland .
I really enjoyed this new novel by one of my favorite MM Romance writers. It is a nice cosy murder mystery, don't expect a cold shiver running down your spine while reading it, but be prepared to find some funny and of course hot moments. It has REALLY all good elements that defines a potentially successful novel in the genre. I can't even explain why I didn't enjoy it much more. But for now I don't even know if I'm going to read the next book in the series.
My recognized issues: there were many names of the travelers, I found myself not be able to memorize them all at once, especially during reading the first half of the book I had to turn back (again and again) to remind me who was who. That was a bit annoying. There were some moments that could be cleared easily (IMO), but they weren't. I don't like when a healthy logic has to be sacrificed in order to artificially stir the things up or make a situation more thrilling. I HAD fun with Carter and John together, but I still don't know what to think about John and I can't say that I definitely want to know more about their relationship. I also wasn't THAT tied to the story itself. I could put it down every second and not to come back for a whole time.
My incomprehensible issues: I just haven't got myself emotionally attached to this book, and I don't have a perfect explanation for it for you.
But it is Josh Lanyon. So, of course it is a recommended read.
***ARC provided kindly by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
July 28, 2021
i liked it and had my fun but i bigger part of me without a doubt zoned out a few times. basically a selected group of fans of vanessa rayburn, a renowned thriller and mystery author, was in this bus tour in scotland to visit the places or actual sites that inspired the author for her works. but theres more, said fans can actually meet vanessa rayburn in this haunted looking castle she lives. maybe just me but i find it hilarious how the said tour is named as Tours to Die For. our main character carter matheson is a librarian in LA and at the same time a die hard of said author. this group of fans as the story progressed became close as they share with each other their love and devotion for rayburn's works until one of them was found dead in her room. was it natural death or foul play? and then something happened more of that. something sinister.
as for the mystery, there were definitely some highs and lows but overall still enjoyable. a classic whodunit mystery. i feel like you can never go wrong with this trope in this genre. my advice is to map everyone out and play detective. also, there were several reveals/twists in this story. the first one was anticlimactic. it tested my resolve to finish this story. all my theories burned up into thin smoke. i was like 'what was even the point?'. the other two were decent. let me just say this, for me a good mystery novel is one when it outsmarts its readers without being too reaching or far-fetched. this is my dilemma. i would've not guessed the coming twist because they're not even part of the actual story. fucking shocking.
as for the romance, i didn't liked it. it wasn't bad but there was no definitely swooning for my part. it felt bland to me. needs more flavor. i wasn't aroused. i wasn't turned on. i wasn't smiling. i wasn't gagging with the sweetness. nothing. if i indeed swoon, i would probably be more forgiving and not ranting. also, i don't like how unplaced it was? yeah, just me. you don't trust anyone in especially in the situation these characters were in. especially where foul play is possible.
lastly, i was eye rolling in all the ex drama. i don't like how the mc was just being ganged upon by his ex and/or his ex's new boyfriend. girl, make some good comebacks!
as for the mystery, there were definitely some highs and lows but overall still enjoyable. a classic whodunit mystery. i feel like you can never go wrong with this trope in this genre. my advice is to map everyone out and play detective. also, there were several reveals/twists in this story. the first one was anticlimactic. it tested my resolve to finish this story. all my theories burned up into thin smoke. i was like 'what was even the point?'. the other two were decent. let me just say this, for me a good mystery novel is one when it outsmarts its readers without being too reaching or far-fetched. this is my dilemma. i would've not guessed the coming twist because they're not even part of the actual story. fucking shocking.
as for the romance, i didn't liked it. it wasn't bad but there was no definitely swooning for my part. it felt bland to me. needs more flavor. i wasn't aroused. i wasn't turned on. i wasn't smiling. i wasn't gagging with the sweetness. nothing. if i indeed swoon, i would probably be more forgiving and not ranting. also, i don't like how unplaced it was? yeah, just me. you don't trust anyone in especially in the situation these characters were in. especially where foul play is possible.
lastly, i was eye rolling in all the ex drama. i don't like how the mc was just being ganged upon by his ex and/or his ex's new boyfriend. girl, make some good comebacks!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2022
This was a solid, if not very plausible, mystery novel of the traditional sort with a set of people brought together for a Reason (in this case a mystery-novel related tour of Scotland) some of whom seem to be lying about something. They have Secrets. The novelist whose work they're fans of also has a murder in her past, but it's not a secret, and she did her time in jail. There are some red herrings and convolutions. It reminded me quite a bit of of the lesser, post-Golden Age mystery stories of, say, later-life Allingham or Wentworth. If you like Scottish setting and classic mysteries you'll probably enjoy it.
Our protagonist Carter is a librarian from California, gay and single. His cheating ex and the ex's cheating-with-guy are also on the tour. Carter seems like a pleasant and reasonably bright guy, although a bit bland as a POV character. His roommate and love interest is John, less nice but not awful. John is clearly there to investigate something, and he's not very clever or subtle about. John didn't particularly appeal to me, and their budding romance left me tepid.
All in all, pretty typical Lanyon mystery/romance with a bookish lead and slightly more macho love interest.
Our protagonist Carter is a librarian from California, gay and single. His cheating ex and the ex's cheating-with-guy are also on the tour. Carter seems like a pleasant and reasonably bright guy, although a bit bland as a POV character. His roommate and love interest is John, less nice but not awful. John is clearly there to investigate something, and he's not very clever or subtle about. John didn't particularly appeal to me, and their budding romance left me tepid.
All in all, pretty typical Lanyon mystery/romance with a bookish lead and slightly more macho love interest.
April 29, 2018
(4.25 stars)
if i had to sum this book up in one word it would be...
D R A M A !
drama here! drama there! drama EVERYWHERE!
and it was great.
there were more twists than i expected, and even the guessable things didn't quite pan out the way i was expecting. the writing was very strong and suspenseful, so much so that i read this in one sitting (really not a good idea, since i should either be sleeping or studying because i have a really important exam tomorrow but i digress).
there was also some pretty good Relationship Drama in the form of carter's ex, and some steamy scenes in the form of Mysterious New Guy.
i didn't think it warranted five stars exactly because there was something... missing? maybe it was the fact that the overall mystery was a tad predictable in the motive if not the culprit, although there were some really good twisty moments before that.
this was the first book i've read by josh lanyon and it definitely won't be the last!
if i had to sum this book up in one word it would be...
D R A M A !
drama here! drama there! drama EVERYWHERE!
and it was great.
there were more twists than i expected, and even the guessable things didn't quite pan out the way i was expecting. the writing was very strong and suspenseful, so much so that i read this in one sitting (really not a good idea, since i should either be sleeping or studying because i have a really important exam tomorrow but i digress).
there was also some pretty good Relationship Drama in the form of carter's ex, and some steamy scenes in the form of Mysterious New Guy.
i didn't think it warranted five stars exactly because there was something... missing? maybe it was the fact that the overall mystery was a tad predictable in the motive if not the culprit, although there were some really good twisty moments before that.
this was the first book i've read by josh lanyon and it definitely won't be the last!
April 23, 2018
Awesome mystery with some delicious m/m action. Great job.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I made a mistake the other day when I was reading an offer about advanced reader copy of a book. I ended up selecting a few books that I wasn’t expecting because I thought I was just reading the synopsis.
However, I can say that I am quite happy about the so called mistake because out of that I was able to read and review a fabulous book.
Now I love a good mystery story now and again. But when you combine one with an exciting travel tour and a decidedly sweaty m/m romance, you have my attention.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book but the author grabbed me from the very beginning with her captivating detail, true to life character descriptions that make me smirk and grin, and the overall excitement surrounding the story.
As we move through the book, the build up of the mystery and the amateur sleuthing were perfect and brought me to the edge of my seat a few times. Then bring on the hottie romance and wow, things kicked up several notches. MMmmm
I have to say I was surprised that the author is a female. With her name I automatically assumed she was male. Not that it makes any difference, because regardless of who wrote this book, it was a fun and fabulous read.
For anyone that loves a great MM read with a wonderfully written mystery that will surprise you in many ways, you have to check out this book. I’m so glad I did. And I definitely will be finding more from this author.
*advance copy received for review consideration
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I made a mistake the other day when I was reading an offer about advanced reader copy of a book. I ended up selecting a few books that I wasn’t expecting because I thought I was just reading the synopsis.
However, I can say that I am quite happy about the so called mistake because out of that I was able to read and review a fabulous book.
Now I love a good mystery story now and again. But when you combine one with an exciting travel tour and a decidedly sweaty m/m romance, you have my attention.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book but the author grabbed me from the very beginning with her captivating detail, true to life character descriptions that make me smirk and grin, and the overall excitement surrounding the story.
As we move through the book, the build up of the mystery and the amateur sleuthing were perfect and brought me to the edge of my seat a few times. Then bring on the hottie romance and wow, things kicked up several notches. MMmmm
I have to say I was surprised that the author is a female. With her name I automatically assumed she was male. Not that it makes any difference, because regardless of who wrote this book, it was a fun and fabulous read.
For anyone that loves a great MM read with a wonderfully written mystery that will surprise you in many ways, you have to check out this book. I’m so glad I did. And I definitely will be finding more from this author.
*advance copy received for review consideration
March 25, 2018
Lightly and confidently written as is on par for Lanyon. As usual Lanyon just carries ones onto the words. This time we climbed on board a bus, complete with bagpipes and went chugging along the coast of Scotland. What else do you need for a cozy mystery a' la' Christie or a' la' Fletcher. And the denouement completely in character as well.
In the story Lanyon weaves in a lot of reference to fiction crime and true crime in more ways then one. It's there in the words but also in the subject which reminded me of this .
Sweet cherry on top - Carter and ...... well I better not say, but let me just say that it was nicely, quietly done and fit write into the story.
An ARC was gently given by the author/publisher in return for a review.
November 24, 2024
Carter Matheson is a librarian determined to enjoy a bus tour about his favorite thriller author, Vanessa Rayburn, even if he has to endure the presence of his ex-boyfriend and his new partner. But when weird things start to happen, Carter feels the need to investigate further. Is it true that someone died on the last tour? What does the stranger who shares his room do at night? Why does everyone act suspicious?
Murder Takes The High Road balances a fun POV and light scenes with an always-present suspense. I enjoyed the mixture, it wasn’t too dark nor felt like a comedy, and the mystery was well-done. The whole idea of a bus trip about a thriller author that used to be in jail for murder was interesting: you were suspicious of her on top of everyone else. I also enjoyed having a love interest as a subplot.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this. I would recommend it if you want a fun mystery with a bit of mm romance to pass the day that isn’t too serious but also not trashy. The main character reminded me of Adrien (this author seems to be able to write only two types of characters), but I didn’t mind too much because I love Adrien’s POV.
Murder Takes The High Road balances a fun POV and light scenes with an always-present suspense. I enjoyed the mixture, it wasn’t too dark nor felt like a comedy, and the mystery was well-done. The whole idea of a bus trip about a thriller author that used to be in jail for murder was interesting: you were suspicious of her on top of everyone else. I also enjoyed having a love interest as a subplot.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this. I would recommend it if you want a fun mystery with a bit of mm romance to pass the day that isn’t too serious but also not trashy. The main character reminded me of Adrien (this author seems to be able to write only two types of characters), but I didn’t mind too much because I love Adrien’s POV.
February 21, 2021
2021 audio
Still not my favorite of JL but still well written.
2019 audio review
Yep. This was good. I remembered everything from my first read and still was laughing and cringing and gasping in parts. I hope there will be a sequel!!!
Reading my below review over I want to change my opinion for the better. 😊 Maybe because I knew what to expect this time around I was better prepared. I really loved this story and ALL the characters. Even Trevor and Vance. What a pair of...better left unsaid. Carter and John are so cute. I desperately want to know how their story continues.
Audio 4.5 stars. I listened to this via audiobooks.com and there was an annoying echo to the playback. I think tied to the playback speed i picked. It was distracting and made it hard to understand fully what was being said. There were times it was worse than others. Strange.
Story 4.5 stars just because I want to see more of Carter and John together as a couple. 💜
2018 ebook review
A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Murder Takes the High Road is different from Lanyon's previous works. The beginning started off very slow for me and things didn't really pick up/get interesting until around the 25% mark. Is it wrong for me to say that I enjoyed seeing Carter being upset and miserable because of Trevor and Vance (Trevor is Carter's ex and Vance is the new BF)? I hated Trevor and Vance, and the drama and upset they caused Carter (and several other people of the tour) was disturbing but so over the top that I couldn't help but be amused by it. How could two people be so selfish and self absorbed that they couldn't see that Carter was just trying to thumb his nose at them by being on the tour? Poor Carter. He is well rid of Trevor.
The relationship between John and Carter was nice. They didn't exactly jump into a relationship (they wait to sleep together until about the 3rd night, lol) and Carter internally acknowledges that they hardly know each and that a relationship between them is...farfetched to put it nicely. But they also both sense they have a good connection and that it is worth pursuing beyond the tour. It all felt like the beginning of something (which makes sense since it's been a week), and I can't remember if this is going to be a series or standalone. I do hope more is written about them because I would love to see them together. The ending to Murder Takes the High Road leads us to believe that John's job is going to lead to more sleuthing, and he has invited Carter to join in. How cool is that? I want to read all about that adventure.
Overall this was an enjoyable story, but it felt different (off) from Lanyon's other novels. Don't mistake this comment for a negative. The story and writing were very entertaining, and the action (once it started) really kept up a fast pace and I was able to read roughly 70% in one day.
Yes, there is amateur sleuthing; yes, there is a murder to solve; yes, there is a romance between the two MCs; yes, the guilty party gets caught. The specific differences are tied to the feel of the story, the mysteries, the murders, the detecting and the characters. They were all different from Lanyon's past stories, but it does have the same feel as her All's Fair series (up to a point).
I do recommend this and give it 4 stars, maybe 4.25. Need to think on it.
P.S. The romance between Carter and John is almost secondary to the mystery plot. It was nice, I enjoyed seeing them find each other, but they didn't come across as the primary focus.
Still not my favorite of JL but still well written.
2019 audio review
Yep. This was good. I remembered everything from my first read and still was laughing and cringing and gasping in parts. I hope there will be a sequel!!!
Reading my below review over I want to change my opinion for the better. 😊 Maybe because I knew what to expect this time around I was better prepared. I really loved this story and ALL the characters. Even Trevor and Vance. What a pair of...better left unsaid. Carter and John are so cute. I desperately want to know how their story continues.
Audio 4.5 stars. I listened to this via audiobooks.com and there was an annoying echo to the playback. I think tied to the playback speed i picked. It was distracting and made it hard to understand fully what was being said. There were times it was worse than others. Strange.
Story 4.5 stars just because I want to see more of Carter and John together as a couple. 💜
2018 ebook review
A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Murder Takes the High Road is different from Lanyon's previous works. The beginning started off very slow for me and things didn't really pick up/get interesting until around the 25% mark. Is it wrong for me to say that I enjoyed seeing Carter being upset and miserable because of Trevor and Vance (Trevor is Carter's ex and Vance is the new BF)? I hated Trevor and Vance, and the drama and upset they caused Carter (and several other people of the tour) was disturbing but so over the top that I couldn't help but be amused by it. How could two people be so selfish and self absorbed that they couldn't see that Carter was just trying to thumb his nose at them by being on the tour? Poor Carter. He is well rid of Trevor.
The relationship between John and Carter was nice. They didn't exactly jump into a relationship (they wait to sleep together until about the 3rd night, lol) and Carter internally acknowledges that they hardly know each and that a relationship between them is...farfetched to put it nicely. But they also both sense they have a good connection and that it is worth pursuing beyond the tour. It all felt like the beginning of something (which makes sense since it's been a week), and I can't remember if this is going to be a series or standalone. I do hope more is written about them because I would love to see them together. The ending to Murder Takes the High Road leads us to believe that John's job is going to lead to more sleuthing, and he has invited Carter to join in. How cool is that? I want to read all about that adventure.
Overall this was an enjoyable story, but it felt different (off) from Lanyon's other novels. Don't mistake this comment for a negative. The story and writing were very entertaining, and the action (once it started) really kept up a fast pace and I was able to read roughly 70% in one day.
Yes, there is amateur sleuthing; yes, there is a murder to solve; yes, there is a romance between the two MCs; yes, the guilty party gets caught. The specific differences are tied to the feel of the story, the mysteries, the murders, the detecting and the characters. They were all different from Lanyon's past stories, but it does have the same feel as her All's Fair series (up to a point).
I do recommend this and give it 4 stars, maybe 4.25. Need to think on it.
P.S. The romance between Carter and John is almost secondary to the mystery plot. It was nice, I enjoyed seeing them find each other, but they didn't come across as the primary focus.
April 25, 2018
2.5* I may read again but no guarantees.
I fear Lanyon's have lost their appeal for me. So wanted to like this, it has all the well-loved tried and tested ingredients. Yet it lacks any charm.
There are too many characters who are interchangeable, little more than names. The limited scope of a tour bus should have brought out more personalities instead of a dust dry visit to Scotland. I love Scotland there's far more to it than a quaint named cafe and some off-page dance. Tourist leaflets hold more life.
There's two main mystery plots here, the first I thought predictable which isn't necessarily bad, but the second read as a farce - while no-one reads Christie and her ilk for realism there has to be a degree of connection with the characters and acceptance of the setting. This read like an episode of Cluedo. A stagey castle, overdone special effects and over emoting players. It was nice to see the librarian read a book, but too much here was unrealistic or just plain didn't make sense.
Oh and a little side plot, that's just there.
Love interests were everywhere, not sure why bland librarian guy is suddenly so appealing to every gay in the vicinity. The ex his caricature new-boyfriend, two other tourists. After four days there was LOVE though very little conversation between them.
Most frustrating thing about this book is that if told the story I'd expect to love it, I grew up on Agatha Christie, cosy mysteries are my first reading love. This should have been an instant favourite, instead I finished with a tired sigh. It's readable, though not gripping. Can only think it;s the pacing that's off. The story runs along without catching breath for a little humour, local colour or personality growth, meaning we get the story but never build a rapport.
Disappointing.
I fear Lanyon's have lost their appeal for me. So wanted to like this, it has all the well-loved tried and tested ingredients. Yet it lacks any charm.
There are too many characters who are interchangeable, little more than names. The limited scope of a tour bus should have brought out more personalities instead of a dust dry visit to Scotland. I love Scotland there's far more to it than a quaint named cafe and some off-page dance. Tourist leaflets hold more life.
There's two main mystery plots here, the first I thought predictable which isn't necessarily bad, but the second read as a farce - while no-one reads Christie and her ilk for realism there has to be a degree of connection with the characters and acceptance of the setting. This read like an episode of Cluedo. A stagey castle, overdone special effects and over emoting players. It was nice to see the librarian read a book, but too much here was unrealistic or just plain didn't make sense.
Oh and a little side plot, that's just there.
Love interests were everywhere, not sure why bland librarian guy is suddenly so appealing to every gay in the vicinity. The ex his caricature new-boyfriend, two other tourists. After four days there was LOVE though very little conversation between them.
Most frustrating thing about this book is that if told the story I'd expect to love it, I grew up on Agatha Christie, cosy mysteries are my first reading love. This should have been an instant favourite, instead I finished with a tired sigh. It's readable, though not gripping. Can only think it;s the pacing that's off. The story runs along without catching breath for a little humour, local colour or personality growth, meaning we get the story but never build a rapport.
Disappointing.
April 18, 2018
What a ride! Just when you think you have the answer to the mystery all figured out a new case pops up and you're back to square one...
I was captured by the story and was constantly trying to guess what the truth was. I was able to guess one of the mysteries right and was very pleased by that. I was also a little disappointed because the truth was revealed relatively early and there was still a good 30% of the book left. Just when I was wondering what we were supposed to be reading for that many pages in a mystery book when the mystery was already solved, I was dropped back in a new case!
The whole story happens in about five days, so a really small amount of time, but all the characters were basically living together since they were on a trip in Scottland so their connection and familiarity rose pretty quickly but also understandably. There are a lot of secondary characters here but we don't get to know all of them the same amount. It would have required a much larger book for something like that to happen and I don't think it was necessary. There are twenty people in the group, plus the driver and the manager. Later on, we get introduced to the writer the tour was centered around and her PA. That's a big cast but it made for an interesting plot with a lot of suspects. I'll admit that I never remembered all the names and who was with whom but that didn't affect my understanding of the story. I knew the people that played important roles in the plot and that was enough.
I haven't seen any indication, but I deeply believe and hope this book was only the first in a series-to-be. It ends in a very tentative HFN with the MCs only in the beginning of something, presumably, good but it leaves a lot of open threads and unfinished side plots. The potential for a second part is clear as day and I hope that's the author's plans for these two characters.
There are a couple of secondary characters that frustrated me with their behavior and unbelievable stubborness. I'm talking of course bout the ex and his new boyfriend. They were both very self-absorbed and didn't care about anything else except what they had in mind. They couldn't hold a reasonable conversation and it was annoying the way they fixated on something and couldn't see past what they had in mind to what others were saying. I think there is more to know about them too. Not as a main couple but in the roles they had here. It was one of the things that I felt were left unfinished. Like we were supposed to know something more about them and why they acted the way they did throughout the book. What was going on with them?
About the main characters, I can only really talk about Colin since I didn't feel like I got to know John at all. Colin was a complex character but also very self-aware and sure of himself. He went on the trip because he wanted to go and because he didn't want to back down when his ex demanded he passed on it so he could have a good time there with his new guy. Over just five days we see Colin move on and change, leaving the past behind and getting ahold of his feelings. It would have seemed abrupt, except for the fact that. for those five days, he practically lived together with his ex and his new boyfriend. Seeing them together and having awful arguments with his ex helped him put the past behind.
The last 30% was the best part of the book. It was full of angst, revelations, dark places, uncertainty and it even had a bit of action. If you want a romance or even a romantic suspense story, that's not the book for you. If you want a good mystery with a little helping of the first tentative steps of romance then you are in the right path!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. *
I was captured by the story and was constantly trying to guess what the truth was. I was able to guess one of the mysteries right and was very pleased by that. I was also a little disappointed because the truth was revealed relatively early and there was still a good 30% of the book left. Just when I was wondering what we were supposed to be reading for that many pages in a mystery book when the mystery was already solved, I was dropped back in a new case!
The whole story happens in about five days, so a really small amount of time, but all the characters were basically living together since they were on a trip in Scottland so their connection and familiarity rose pretty quickly but also understandably. There are a lot of secondary characters here but we don't get to know all of them the same amount. It would have required a much larger book for something like that to happen and I don't think it was necessary. There are twenty people in the group, plus the driver and the manager. Later on, we get introduced to the writer the tour was centered around and her PA. That's a big cast but it made for an interesting plot with a lot of suspects. I'll admit that I never remembered all the names and who was with whom but that didn't affect my understanding of the story. I knew the people that played important roles in the plot and that was enough.
I haven't seen any indication, but I deeply believe and hope this book was only the first in a series-to-be. It ends in a very tentative HFN with the MCs only in the beginning of something, presumably, good but it leaves a lot of open threads and unfinished side plots. The potential for a second part is clear as day and I hope that's the author's plans for these two characters.
There are a couple of secondary characters that frustrated me with their behavior and unbelievable stubborness. I'm talking of course bout the ex and his new boyfriend. They were both very self-absorbed and didn't care about anything else except what they had in mind. They couldn't hold a reasonable conversation and it was annoying the way they fixated on something and couldn't see past what they had in mind to what others were saying. I think there is more to know about them too. Not as a main couple but in the roles they had here. It was one of the things that I felt were left unfinished. Like we were supposed to know something more about them and why they acted the way they did throughout the book. What was going on with them?
About the main characters, I can only really talk about Colin since I didn't feel like I got to know John at all. Colin was a complex character but also very self-aware and sure of himself. He went on the trip because he wanted to go and because he didn't want to back down when his ex demanded he passed on it so he could have a good time there with his new guy. Over just five days we see Colin move on and change, leaving the past behind and getting ahold of his feelings. It would have seemed abrupt, except for the fact that. for those five days, he practically lived together with his ex and his new boyfriend. Seeing them together and having awful arguments with his ex helped him put the past behind.
The last 30% was the best part of the book. It was full of angst, revelations, dark places, uncertainty and it even had a bit of action. If you want a romance or even a romantic suspense story, that's not the book for you. If you want a good mystery with a little helping of the first tentative steps of romance then you are in the right path!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. *
March 10, 2018
I adored this. It is quintessential Josh Lanyon and I fell in love with all the characters.The mystery is engaging and the story held my attention from the beginning right through to the end.
The story starts off in an unassuming way. Carter is a librarian and a great fan of the mystery writer Dame Vanessa Rayburn. He has saved up to go on a 'Tour to Die For' which is a tour of Scotland and all the places from Vanessa's books. It also includes a few nights in the old castle belonging to Vanessa and the opportunity to spend time with her and discuss her writing. This is Carter's first time away from the USA and he had dreamt of doing this tour with his boyfriend Trevor.
Unfortunately dreams die.
By the time the tour starts Trevor has broken up with Carter and is on the same tour, but with his new boyfriend Vance. Carter knows that a tour with his ex and his ex's new boyfriend will be a hard thing to do but this is a trip of a life time and so why should he give up his place and his paid ticket for Trevor's new boyfriend?
So off he goes and yes, Trevor and Vance are there too, and it is awkward, but as the tour progresses Carter gets to know his other tour buddies and there are two other men that catch his eye, his tour room mate John and another passenger called Ben. Beyond the nice looking guys there is also a coach load of eccentric, engaging and enigmatic passengers, all fans of Vanessa, and all with undisclosed pasts of their own. There are the wilds and the beauty of Scotland, a mysterious author with murder in her past and also a murder.
As Carter travels, enjoying the tour he realises that there is much more to this tour than meets the eye and there is much more to his fellow passengers than meets the eye too. As the murder unfolds, all of them are stuck on Vanessa's island in the midst of a storm with no way of escape.
I think this is now one of my favorite books by Josh Lanyon. The characters are just so richly depicted and I cant wait to hear them come to life once again when the audiobook is released.
I loved the way this story is set during a tour. Touring is my favorite way of seeing the world and I have been on tours with complete strangers all over Europe, Latin America and the US. The author just captures the dynamics of a tour group and has woven an intriguing mystery into it. I will remember this book whenever I tour in the future and I shall think about casting my future tour buddies as characters in this story.
This story is paced so beautifully. It starts out gradually and then the tension slowly builds up. There is the friction with the old boyfriend (boo) and the potential for a new boyfriend (yay). There is attraction and passion, and there are puzzles, mystery, odd goings on accompanied by echoes and shadows from the past.
Everything I like in a good mystery is here and with a castle setting to round it all off! This going on my list of exquisite reads for 2018. I feel like reading it all over again.
Excellent and fun to read!
I now need the audiobook!
Copy provided very generously by the author and publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
May 16, 2018
I don't know...is it me? Is it that I compare everything Lanyon writes these days to her AE Mysteries? And nothing measures up?
I am just completely ho hum about this story. It was nothing special for me. It certainly wasn't bad, it had its moments, but I expect better from this author. If this is the beginning of a series, ok, I might read/listen-to the next one. Often first in series books, in retrospect, doesn't indicate the appeal of the entire series.
With reference to the narrator, Gary Furlong. I thought he was a fair-to-middlin' narrator. Also nothing special, and certainly not an outstanding voice actor like Chris Patton, Iggy Toma, or Matthew Shaw. And there were a number of mispronunciations.
I am just completely ho hum about this story. It was nothing special for me. It certainly wasn't bad, it had its moments, but I expect better from this author. If this is the beginning of a series, ok, I might read/listen-to the next one. Often first in series books, in retrospect, doesn't indicate the appeal of the entire series.
With reference to the narrator, Gary Furlong. I thought he was a fair-to-middlin' narrator. Also nothing special, and certainly not an outstanding voice actor like Chris Patton, Iggy Toma, or Matthew Shaw. And there were a number of mispronunciations.
April 29, 2018
I can't even believe how much I loved Murder Takes the High Road. I really do love everything Josh Lanyon writes, but this was truly spectacular.
The mystery was completely original and kept me guessing through the end.
The romance was sweet, and quaint, and totally hot - and worked 100% of the time.
And the ENDING was wonderful.
Lanyon fans will be right pleased and if you haven't had the pleasure of one of my all time favorite authors, this is the perfect book with which to start!
Regarding the audio version, Gary Furlong was perfect. He had some challenging accents to deal with in this one and handled them well. I'll definitely look for him again.
The mystery was completely original and kept me guessing through the end.
The romance was sweet, and quaint, and totally hot - and worked 100% of the time.
And the ENDING was wonderful.
Lanyon fans will be right pleased and if you haven't had the pleasure of one of my all time favorite authors, this is the perfect book with which to start!
Regarding the audio version, Gary Furlong was perfect. He had some challenging accents to deal with in this one and handled them well. I'll definitely look for him again.
July 12, 2021
4.5� "A cozy mystery novel with a dose of MM romance".
This is my second book by Josh Lanyon and I had so much fun reading it.😊😊 Although at times, I had the distinct feeling that I am reading Agatha Christie in the modern setting. But I am not complaining because who doesn't love their mysteries with a touch of romance right!!! especially if it is an MM romance( case-specific).💕
We have our MC, Carter, who is a librarian and a super fan of mystery writer Vanessa Rayburn, he had signed for a special bus tour to Scotland. The problem is the trip also has his ex, Trevor and Trevor's current boyfriend. The nine days tour has a bunch of mystery enthusiasts, filled with their shenanigans. So, we have gossiping folks, a cheating ex, clue games and loads of Scottish charm.
Like a true lover cozy mystery lover, I adored the drama. The subplot of romance between Carter and John was interesting too. But, I hated the whole drama between Carter and his ex. I understand it was important to the plot but sometimes I felt it was overdone. Still, I highly recommend it to anyone who loves reading mystery romances especially the audiobook narrated by Gary Furlong.😇😇
This is my second book by Josh Lanyon and I had so much fun reading it.😊😊 Although at times, I had the distinct feeling that I am reading Agatha Christie in the modern setting. But I am not complaining because who doesn't love their mysteries with a touch of romance right!!! especially if it is an MM romance( case-specific).💕
We have our MC, Carter, who is a librarian and a super fan of mystery writer Vanessa Rayburn, he had signed for a special bus tour to Scotland. The problem is the trip also has his ex, Trevor and Trevor's current boyfriend. The nine days tour has a bunch of mystery enthusiasts, filled with their shenanigans. So, we have gossiping folks, a cheating ex, clue games and loads of Scottish charm.
Like a true lover cozy mystery lover, I adored the drama. The subplot of romance between Carter and John was interesting too. But, I hated the whole drama between Carter and his ex. I understand it was important to the plot but sometimes I felt it was overdone. Still, I highly recommend it to anyone who loves reading mystery romances especially the audiobook narrated by Gary Furlong.😇😇
April 4, 2018
3.5 stars
Initially, I thought that Murder Takes the High Road would be like one of those classic closed-space Agatha Christie-esque murder mystery. It definitely has the perfect premise. Bunch of strangers getting together for a tour that aptly calls Tour to Die For, a mysterious man joining the tour at the last minute, fluttery gossip about unexplained death that happened in the previous tour...
BUT, it didn't really reach quite that level for me. First of all, it moved rather slow for a murder mystery. The death of one of the tour members didn't really happen until 1/3rd of the book. Even so, it wasn't really a "shocking" death; it didn't make our strangers got all excited and concerned at the same time. There was no deep investigation to each of tour member's background, no scandals arose from any of them.
So yes, the Agatha Christie fan in me was not quite content with the story. I even felt that the story took more time dealing with Carter Matheson's love problem with his ex, and his ex's new boyfriend rather than the mystery. Not that I don't care about the romance factor... I really do, I want Carter to end up with someone. It's just that the book doesn't quite fulfill my expectation.
Furthermore, John Knight still ends up as rather unknown character, and that's too bad for someone who becomes Carter's love interest. I would love to know more about him, about his job, what makes him tick, and so on. Unfortunately, since I don't know whether there will be any sequel to this book, I have to deal with being slightly unsatisfied.
Having said that, I thought the final 'act' of this book was REALLY, REALLY good!! I loved that Carter solved the mystery by doing plain old research using books at the library. Heck, actually I thought it was pretty brilliant murder plot, the kind that I devour in mystery/thriller books. So on that part of the book, I was really happy.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Initially, I thought that Murder Takes the High Road would be like one of those classic closed-space Agatha Christie-esque murder mystery. It definitely has the perfect premise. Bunch of strangers getting together for a tour that aptly calls Tour to Die For, a mysterious man joining the tour at the last minute, fluttery gossip about unexplained death that happened in the previous tour...
BUT, it didn't really reach quite that level for me. First of all, it moved rather slow for a murder mystery. The death of one of the tour members didn't really happen until 1/3rd of the book. Even so, it wasn't really a "shocking" death; it didn't make our strangers got all excited and concerned at the same time. There was no deep investigation to each of tour member's background, no scandals arose from any of them.
So yes, the Agatha Christie fan in me was not quite content with the story. I even felt that the story took more time dealing with Carter Matheson's love problem with his ex, and his ex's new boyfriend rather than the mystery. Not that I don't care about the romance factor... I really do, I want Carter to end up with someone. It's just that the book doesn't quite fulfill my expectation.
Furthermore, John Knight still ends up as rather unknown character, and that's too bad for someone who becomes Carter's love interest. I would love to know more about him, about his job, what makes him tick, and so on. Unfortunately, since I don't know whether there will be any sequel to this book, I have to deal with being slightly unsatisfied.
Having said that, I thought the final 'act' of this book was REALLY, REALLY good!! I loved that Carter solved the mystery by doing plain old research using books at the library. Heck, actually I thought it was pretty brilliant murder plot, the kind that I devour in mystery/thriller books. So on that part of the book, I was really happy.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
May 8, 2019
It amazes me how so many Lanyon books can feel so similar without becoming repetitive or stale. Enjoyed this immensely. Well narrated.
June 2, 2018
4.2 Stars
This is very much a Josh Lanyon novel, focusing more on the characters & plot than the romance...but that doesn't mean it was lacking! I actually liked the way the tale was woven, very tightly and intricately, and how the blooming relationship between Carter and John fit in. There were some sexy times (eventually, half-way in) and the ending was a positive HFN - which means sequels, I'm hoping!
The murder mystery itself was very reminiscent of something that would happen in another JL series, Holmes & Moriarity, and as such I think I could easily see a crossover were JL to consider it. In fact, add in a third series by setting it in and around Adrien's bookstore! OMG I'd fangirl that to death.
I also loved how convoluted the plot turned out to be. I will admit to being proud of my ability to "solve" or at least suss out the bad guy in most whodunit books, but I was completely befuddled here. I never expected that plot twist and honestly it was quite brilliant (if unlikely and possibly unethical, but still). Only, that wasn't the last plot twist! So, actually I DID have a good idea of who was responsible for what happened, only it hadn't happened yet, and wasn't for the reason I thought the motive would turn out to be! I KNOW, crazy, huh?!!?! Just read it; when you get to about 70% or so all of that will make sense.
So yeah, I really hope JL makes this into another series. John being lends a legitimate procedural edge to any new installments, and I think, seriously, I would die of happiness were there to be a Rare/Priceless book theft from a major library so that both John & Carter could work together...and while they're following leads Carter drags John to Adrien's bookshop to meet Kit, there for a book signing event...and then there's a murder...or two...and Jake has to investigate & X consults and....*dies*
I can haz that, plz?
Anywhoo, great start to a new series. And Gary Furlong did an EXCELLENT job with the narration!!
ARC provided via Netgalley and Carina Press in exchange for honest review.
This is very much a Josh Lanyon novel, focusing more on the characters & plot than the romance...but that doesn't mean it was lacking! I actually liked the way the tale was woven, very tightly and intricately, and how the blooming relationship between Carter and John fit in. There were some sexy times (eventually, half-way in) and the ending was a positive HFN - which means sequels, I'm hoping!
The murder mystery itself was very reminiscent of something that would happen in another JL series, Holmes & Moriarity, and as such I think I could easily see a crossover were JL to consider it. In fact, add in a third series by setting it in and around Adrien's bookstore! OMG I'd fangirl that to death.
I also loved how convoluted the plot turned out to be. I will admit to being proud of my ability to "solve" or at least suss out the bad guy in most whodunit books, but I was completely befuddled here. I never expected that plot twist and honestly it was quite brilliant (if unlikely and possibly unethical, but still). Only, that wasn't the last plot twist! So, actually I DID have a good idea of who was responsible for what happened, only it hadn't happened yet, and wasn't for the reason I thought the motive would turn out to be! I KNOW, crazy, huh?!!?! Just read it; when you get to about 70% or so all of that will make sense.
So yeah, I really hope JL makes this into another series. John being lends a legitimate procedural edge to any new installments, and I think, seriously, I would die of happiness were there to be a Rare/Priceless book theft from a major library so that both John & Carter could work together...and while they're following leads Carter drags John to Adrien's bookshop to meet Kit, there for a book signing event...and then there's a murder...or two...and Jake has to investigate & X consults and....*dies*
I can haz that, plz?
Anywhoo, great start to a new series. And Gary Furlong did an EXCELLENT job with the narration!!
ARC provided via Netgalley and Carina Press in exchange for honest review.
May 7, 2018
Overall book rating: 4.5
Audio Book: Gary Furlong : 4 Stars
Book Cover: 3.8
So I’m blaming my new found “love-for-Lanyon� totally and completely on SIMONE.
The beauty about reading is the way your preferences and enjoyment of certain genre’s either grow with time or deteriorate. I have to admit that the “lack� of romance/hot scenes in Lanyon’s stories made me rather pick up something else in the beginning.
But.. she does write such interesting and enjoyable characters! There’s just something about the way she does personality.
I’m not a great “mystery� fan, that also had a stake in the whole thing, but I have to admit that even that is changing. I’m finding the who-done-it thing all the more enjoyable.
So this was one of those really ENJOYABLE reads to me. I had so much fun with it! And the characters, again, was just fabulous. I’m thinking that updating my “Lanyon� collection will be a high priority in the near future.
I also enjoyed the audio very much.
Audio Book: Gary Furlong : 4 Stars
Book Cover: 3.8
So I’m blaming my new found “love-for-Lanyon� totally and completely on SIMONE.
The beauty about reading is the way your preferences and enjoyment of certain genre’s either grow with time or deteriorate. I have to admit that the “lack� of romance/hot scenes in Lanyon’s stories made me rather pick up something else in the beginning.
But.. she does write such interesting and enjoyable characters! There’s just something about the way she does personality.
I’m not a great “mystery� fan, that also had a stake in the whole thing, but I have to admit that even that is changing. I’m finding the who-done-it thing all the more enjoyable.
So this was one of those really ENJOYABLE reads to me. I had so much fun with it! And the characters, again, was just fabulous. I’m thinking that updating my “Lanyon� collection will be a high priority in the near future.
I also enjoyed the audio very much.
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