What do you think?
Rate this book
Lindenshaw Mysteries #7
And Nothing But the Truth
Some truths don’t set you free.
The pandemic may be winding down, but for Chief Inspector Robin Bright, life never really goes back to normal. One second, he’s having breakfast with his adorable husband—and their equally adorable Newfoundland, Hamish—and the next, he gets the dreaded call: a body’s been found. What initially appears to be a mugging gone wrong turns out to be murder, and Robin is on the case.
Adam Matthews is happy to act as a sounding board—much as he tries not to get involved—but when Robin’s case intersects with a mystery from within their own family, he’s embroiled whether he likes it or not. Loquacious genealogists, secret pregnancies, and a potentially dubious inheritance all ensure that Adam won’t be doing his hundred-and-one headteacher tasks in peace anytime soon.
Lies pile onto lies, and the more the story changes, the more the killer is revealed. Without proof, however, Robin and his team are powerless, and the murderer isn’t the only one with something to hide. But Robin won’t stop until he’s found the whole truth, and nothing but.
The pandemic may be winding down, but for Chief Inspector Robin Bright, life never really goes back to normal. One second, he’s having breakfast with his adorable husband—and their equally adorable Newfoundland, Hamish—and the next, he gets the dreaded call: a body’s been found. What initially appears to be a mugging gone wrong turns out to be murder, and Robin is on the case.
Adam Matthews is happy to act as a sounding board—much as he tries not to get involved—but when Robin’s case intersects with a mystery from within their own family, he’s embroiled whether he likes it or not. Loquacious genealogists, secret pregnancies, and a potentially dubious inheritance all ensure that Adam won’t be doing his hundred-and-one headteacher tasks in peace anytime soon.
Lies pile onto lies, and the more the story changes, the more the killer is revealed. Without proof, however, Robin and his team are powerless, and the murderer isn’t the only one with something to hide. But Robin won’t stop until he’s found the whole truth, and nothing but.
- GenresMysteryM M RomanceCrime
314 pages, ebook
Published May 6, 2024
13 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Cochrane
90books370followersBecause Charlie Cochrane couldn't be trusted to do any of her jobs of choice—like managing a rugby team—she writes. Her mystery novels include the Edwardian era Cambridge Fellows series, series, and the contemporary Best Corpse for the Job. Multi-published, she has titles with Carina, Samhain, Riptide and Bold Strokes, among others.
A member of the Romantic Novelists� Association, Mystery People and International Thriller Writers Inc, Charlie regularly appears at literary festivals and at reader and author conferences with The Deadly Dames.
A member of the Romantic Novelists� Association, Mystery People and International Thriller Writers Inc, Charlie regularly appears at literary festivals and at reader and author conferences with The Deadly Dames.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 8, 2024
Reviewed for Love Bytes � 5 hearts.
I usually start a review with a brief ‘this is the story� bit. However, I’m not sure what to say on this occasion. So, read the blurb and get ready to become one of the investigating team because I felt like one of the bunch in this beautifully British detective story� we have a murder to solve and will leave no stone unturned to get to the truth � awesome.
Yup � I loved it.
It is a story of how two adoptive histories can turn out so different, and while one shouldn’t talk ill of the dead � those in the coffin aren’t always angels either.
The story is told in the third person, past tense, from the viewpoints of Chief Inspector Robin Bright, who is in the thick of the investigation, and school headmaster Adam Matthews, who helps by giving an outside view. COVID is used mainly as a reference point that many will connect to � it is a reason for XYZ, not a mainstay or significant point of discussion, which is right considering murder is the mystery that needs solving - COVID is a minefield all in its own.
And Nothing but The Truth is book seven in the Lindenshaw Mysteries, which the reader does not have to have read previous installments to enjoy. I can vouch for this statement because I have not read the preceding books. However, given the breakfast chatter between Robin and Adam at the story's beginning, I wondered if reading the previous books wouldn’t have given me a better understanding of the characters and events under discussion. That was the only wobble that I had while reading. The story drew me in once the investigation got underway, and I felt like one of Robin’s squad. I was alongside the team, following the thought process and theorizing while silently having my own ideas. Seeing things I’d thought of come up in conversation gave me confidence in the investigation, the story, and the author. Because, let’s face it, everyone tries to see a missed loophole in every detective story.
While there is a lot of information to process, there are briefing segments that consolidate what is known while filtering facts from gossip, and what is relevant to the case. I found the piecing together of a person’s life - fascinating. Building a picture of the victim’s life and the people within was akin to a ten-thousand-piece jigsaw and then some. When complete, these people I knew nothing about had faces and histories I had feelings about.
The imagery was superb, too. I could easily picture myself in that fly-on-the-wall position, watching the easy flow of conversation, none of which came across as engineered. Ideas were floated while munching the dog, and the icing on the cake was the many Britishisms. It was awesome to read things like, ‘not a sausage�, ‘bugger all else�, ‘cheeky sod�, ‘stonking, etc. - I smiled every time I read them and was proud to read everything familiar to me in a quality story.
Similarities to the case cause Robin to question aspects of his own ancestry search and the differing viewpoints on discovering long-lost relatives. Adam’s support was beautiful. It made a refreshing change to have protagonists who were in a secure, established relationship. It allowed the investigative process to shine. The more I read, the more I got involved, and the more I liked what I read.
The ending was satisfactorily completed, albeit there was a crack or two in the door for things to develop in another book. I was thoroughly entertained and wish I’d discovered this series much earlier.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
I usually start a review with a brief ‘this is the story� bit. However, I’m not sure what to say on this occasion. So, read the blurb and get ready to become one of the investigating team because I felt like one of the bunch in this beautifully British detective story� we have a murder to solve and will leave no stone unturned to get to the truth � awesome.
Yup � I loved it.
It is a story of how two adoptive histories can turn out so different, and while one shouldn’t talk ill of the dead � those in the coffin aren’t always angels either.
The story is told in the third person, past tense, from the viewpoints of Chief Inspector Robin Bright, who is in the thick of the investigation, and school headmaster Adam Matthews, who helps by giving an outside view. COVID is used mainly as a reference point that many will connect to � it is a reason for XYZ, not a mainstay or significant point of discussion, which is right considering murder is the mystery that needs solving - COVID is a minefield all in its own.
And Nothing but The Truth is book seven in the Lindenshaw Mysteries, which the reader does not have to have read previous installments to enjoy. I can vouch for this statement because I have not read the preceding books. However, given the breakfast chatter between Robin and Adam at the story's beginning, I wondered if reading the previous books wouldn’t have given me a better understanding of the characters and events under discussion. That was the only wobble that I had while reading. The story drew me in once the investigation got underway, and I felt like one of Robin’s squad. I was alongside the team, following the thought process and theorizing while silently having my own ideas. Seeing things I’d thought of come up in conversation gave me confidence in the investigation, the story, and the author. Because, let’s face it, everyone tries to see a missed loophole in every detective story.
While there is a lot of information to process, there are briefing segments that consolidate what is known while filtering facts from gossip, and what is relevant to the case. I found the piecing together of a person’s life - fascinating. Building a picture of the victim’s life and the people within was akin to a ten-thousand-piece jigsaw and then some. When complete, these people I knew nothing about had faces and histories I had feelings about.
The imagery was superb, too. I could easily picture myself in that fly-on-the-wall position, watching the easy flow of conversation, none of which came across as engineered. Ideas were floated while munching the dog, and the icing on the cake was the many Britishisms. It was awesome to read things like, ‘not a sausage�, ‘bugger all else�, ‘cheeky sod�, ‘stonking, etc. - I smiled every time I read them and was proud to read everything familiar to me in a quality story.
Similarities to the case cause Robin to question aspects of his own ancestry search and the differing viewpoints on discovering long-lost relatives. Adam’s support was beautiful. It made a refreshing change to have protagonists who were in a secure, established relationship. It allowed the investigative process to shine. The more I read, the more I got involved, and the more I liked what I read.
The ending was satisfactorily completed, albeit there was a crack or two in the door for things to develop in another book. I was thoroughly entertained and wish I’d discovered this series much earlier.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
June 18, 2024
I'm going to jump out of the gate and say "YAY!!!!!!!!!"
Okay, now that I got that out of my brain let's continue.
And Nothing But the Truth is not only a great title for a mystery but it clues you in to just how many untruths Robin and his team will have to wade through before the culprit is found. I've always said how much this series brings thoughts of my favorite British mystery series, Midsomer Murders, and this entry continues on that memory-inducing love. There are even a few scenes where television cop shows reference a few laughs("If this was a tv cop show . . . "). Just something about Brits and their love of whodunits that always keep me coming back, I can only watch Columbo so many times but Midsomer, Death in Paradise, Foyle's War? Those I can watch, rewatch, watch again, etc, there will never be a number of watches that will make me turn it off. It sounds like I'm digressing into a different review here but I mention these shows and my love of them because I can read, re-read, listen, and re-listen to Lindenshaw Mysteries endlessly. The author kept me guessing up until about a chapter before the reveal and now that I know who did it, well Charlie Cochrane has a knack of storytelling that keeps it fresh and fun even when the adrenaline rush of a first time read and edge-of-my-seat guessing is gone. There seems to always be another new question or line of inquiry turn up and you just know one of the nearly throwaway threads will most likely crack the case wide open.
Some may not like the unending questions, they may feel it mires down the plot but I don't see it that way, I love playing armchair detective trying to weed my way through all the muck and mire. It makes me feel like a member of the team. Speaking of team. Robin has a great bunch of men and women working for and with him. Too often the senior cops tend to forget they were once the low man on the totem pole and only delegate chores but not Robin, he doesn't give them leads to check that he himself is unwilling to do, now that doesn't mean he don't avoid a few things by passing them on, he's human afterall but he's not a "you do the grunt work I'll take the credit" kind of guy and I love that about him.
Robin and Adam never get old, not in age of course they aren't Peter Pan, but in entertainment value. I'll admit there may have been less Adam in this newest entry, he was more of a sounding board for his husband and a go-between for Robin and someone who is helping with both the case inquiries and a personal matter regarding Robin's family background. Having said that, Adam is never window-dressing nor is he "just" the above statement. He is the supportive and loving husband who has his own career that just so happened not to overlap with his husband's case this time around. Those "sounding board" moments showcase the obvious and ever-growing chemistry the couple have. I'm sure in the non-case moments between entries, Robin plays the role of sounding board listener to many a chaotic school-related stress😉.
If I keep babbling like this I'll let something slip that I don't want to, I refuse to do spoilers. Just know that if you love a good mystery with a cozy, humorous, and all around entertaining feel then And Nothing But the Truth is for you.
Okay, now that I got that out of my brain let's continue.
And Nothing But the Truth is not only a great title for a mystery but it clues you in to just how many untruths Robin and his team will have to wade through before the culprit is found. I've always said how much this series brings thoughts of my favorite British mystery series, Midsomer Murders, and this entry continues on that memory-inducing love. There are even a few scenes where television cop shows reference a few laughs("If this was a tv cop show . . . "). Just something about Brits and their love of whodunits that always keep me coming back, I can only watch Columbo so many times but Midsomer, Death in Paradise, Foyle's War? Those I can watch, rewatch, watch again, etc, there will never be a number of watches that will make me turn it off. It sounds like I'm digressing into a different review here but I mention these shows and my love of them because I can read, re-read, listen, and re-listen to Lindenshaw Mysteries endlessly. The author kept me guessing up until about a chapter before the reveal and now that I know who did it, well Charlie Cochrane has a knack of storytelling that keeps it fresh and fun even when the adrenaline rush of a first time read and edge-of-my-seat guessing is gone. There seems to always be another new question or line of inquiry turn up and you just know one of the nearly throwaway threads will most likely crack the case wide open.
Some may not like the unending questions, they may feel it mires down the plot but I don't see it that way, I love playing armchair detective trying to weed my way through all the muck and mire. It makes me feel like a member of the team. Speaking of team. Robin has a great bunch of men and women working for and with him. Too often the senior cops tend to forget they were once the low man on the totem pole and only delegate chores but not Robin, he doesn't give them leads to check that he himself is unwilling to do, now that doesn't mean he don't avoid a few things by passing them on, he's human afterall but he's not a "you do the grunt work I'll take the credit" kind of guy and I love that about him.
Robin and Adam never get old, not in age of course they aren't Peter Pan, but in entertainment value. I'll admit there may have been less Adam in this newest entry, he was more of a sounding board for his husband and a go-between for Robin and someone who is helping with both the case inquiries and a personal matter regarding Robin's family background. Having said that, Adam is never window-dressing nor is he "just" the above statement. He is the supportive and loving husband who has his own career that just so happened not to overlap with his husband's case this time around. Those "sounding board" moments showcase the obvious and ever-growing chemistry the couple have. I'm sure in the non-case moments between entries, Robin plays the role of sounding board listener to many a chaotic school-related stress😉.
If I keep babbling like this I'll let something slip that I don't want to, I refuse to do spoilers. Just know that if you love a good mystery with a cozy, humorous, and all around entertaining feel then And Nothing But the Truth is for you.
May 13, 2024
Adam Matthews and Robin Bright have been together for eight years and for the most part it has been a happy and successful time. Their love has grown and become stronger and has resulted in marriage and they have both achieved promotion, Adam to become a headteacher and Robin to Detective Chief Inspector. Only one thing has marred their contentment, the death of their adored Newfoundland dog, Campbell, but while they will never forget him, they now have a new puppy, Hamish.
Robin’s widowed mother comes to see them to ask their advice. Robin’s late father had never made a secret of the fact that he was adopted but he insisted that he had no desire to discover anything about his biological parents. Now Robin’s mother has been offered a bequest from an anonymous source and she wants to know if it is all above board. She suspects the bequest is connected with her late husband’s biological family and she wants to find out more about his origins. Robin and Adam agree to help her, and Robin admits to Adam that he too is curious about his biological grandparents.
Although Robin has been busy at work, there have been no murders that require him and his team to investigate, which is just the way he and Adam prefer it. However, despite Robin telling Hamish to keep his paws crossed, it is only a matter of time before his luck changes and a man’s body is found in his jurisdiction.
The body is found in woodland, well off the beaten track, and the victim has no personal effects on or near his body. Also. there is no sign of an abandoned car in either of the nearby car parks. It is not a place that is easily accessed by public transport and the police must discover how he got to the woods without anybody noticing him. After a couple of frustrating days, they manage to identify the victim, a young man who has a tragic past, whose wife died during the pandemic. Further investigation reveals that the victim felt as if the world has treated him very badly and he seems to have borne grudges against several people. Despite this, most of the people that Robin’s team interview claim that they found him likeable and got on well with him. However, as all the detectives know, not everybody tells the truth, especially when they may be suspected of murder.
Robin finds it concerning that the victim’s family situation regarding adoption bears an uncanny similarity to that confronting Robin himself. As the investigation progresses it becomes increasingly riddled with secrets and deceit regarding many of the victim’s relationships. However, Robin is determined to discover the solution to the crime and refuses to be distracted by the parallels to his own life.
And Nothing But The Truth is the seventh in the series featuring Adam Matthews and Robin Bright. It is a gently paced, intriguing book in which the plot has several layers of deceit and self-deception. Adam and Robin are engaging protagonists and the peripheral characters in Robin’s team and family are likeable. This is an enjoyable book that I recommend.
------
Reviewer: Carol Westron
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
Robin’s widowed mother comes to see them to ask their advice. Robin’s late father had never made a secret of the fact that he was adopted but he insisted that he had no desire to discover anything about his biological parents. Now Robin’s mother has been offered a bequest from an anonymous source and she wants to know if it is all above board. She suspects the bequest is connected with her late husband’s biological family and she wants to find out more about his origins. Robin and Adam agree to help her, and Robin admits to Adam that he too is curious about his biological grandparents.
Although Robin has been busy at work, there have been no murders that require him and his team to investigate, which is just the way he and Adam prefer it. However, despite Robin telling Hamish to keep his paws crossed, it is only a matter of time before his luck changes and a man’s body is found in his jurisdiction.
The body is found in woodland, well off the beaten track, and the victim has no personal effects on or near his body. Also. there is no sign of an abandoned car in either of the nearby car parks. It is not a place that is easily accessed by public transport and the police must discover how he got to the woods without anybody noticing him. After a couple of frustrating days, they manage to identify the victim, a young man who has a tragic past, whose wife died during the pandemic. Further investigation reveals that the victim felt as if the world has treated him very badly and he seems to have borne grudges against several people. Despite this, most of the people that Robin’s team interview claim that they found him likeable and got on well with him. However, as all the detectives know, not everybody tells the truth, especially when they may be suspected of murder.
Robin finds it concerning that the victim’s family situation regarding adoption bears an uncanny similarity to that confronting Robin himself. As the investigation progresses it becomes increasingly riddled with secrets and deceit regarding many of the victim’s relationships. However, Robin is determined to discover the solution to the crime and refuses to be distracted by the parallels to his own life.
And Nothing But The Truth is the seventh in the series featuring Adam Matthews and Robin Bright. It is a gently paced, intriguing book in which the plot has several layers of deceit and self-deception. Adam and Robin are engaging protagonists and the peripheral characters in Robin’s team and family are likeable. This is an enjoyable book that I recommend.
------
Reviewer: Carol Westron
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
July 9, 2024
And Nothing But the Truth (Lindenshaw mysteries 7)
By Charlie Cochrane
Riptide Publishing, 2024
Five stars
Chief Inspector Robin Bright and his husband, school principal Adam Matthews, are back in another mystery for the Lindenshaw series.
I’ve loved the Lindenshaw mysteries, from the very first book, in which Detective Bright meets Adam Matthews, a schoolteacher caught up in a murder. In all of these books Charlie Cochrane develops the partnership between her two main characters, even as she pulls her readers into murders that are, by their nature, dark.
In this seventh book in the series, the brutal murder of a young man, recently widowed, starts the ball rolling as Robin and his team of young police officers tackle the complicated mystery bit by bit, teasing out the truth from a dizzying assortment of people and possibilities.
It’s a tragic murder, but its solution is in the stories of all the people engaged on both sides of the search for truth. The very essence of the cozy mystery is the fact that so much of the action takes place in Robin and Adam’s house; or in other equally convivial settings. This mild-mannered couple bring their own dynamic into the telling of the tale, right down to the new Newfoundland puppy who has overtaken their lives, even as they continue to grieve over the old dog they lost.
In good measure, it is the contrast between the quiet interpersonal interactions and the increasingly unsettling facts of the case that creates the tension that keeps the reader turning the pages. Added into the mix is a parallel plotline on each side of the mystery: the discovery of a unknown adoption that raises questions about family ties. As always with Cochrane’s books, the complexity of human nature is the key. Human nature can be pretty dark, and so can a cozy mystery.
By Charlie Cochrane
Riptide Publishing, 2024
Five stars
Chief Inspector Robin Bright and his husband, school principal Adam Matthews, are back in another mystery for the Lindenshaw series.
I’ve loved the Lindenshaw mysteries, from the very first book, in which Detective Bright meets Adam Matthews, a schoolteacher caught up in a murder. In all of these books Charlie Cochrane develops the partnership between her two main characters, even as she pulls her readers into murders that are, by their nature, dark.
In this seventh book in the series, the brutal murder of a young man, recently widowed, starts the ball rolling as Robin and his team of young police officers tackle the complicated mystery bit by bit, teasing out the truth from a dizzying assortment of people and possibilities.
It’s a tragic murder, but its solution is in the stories of all the people engaged on both sides of the search for truth. The very essence of the cozy mystery is the fact that so much of the action takes place in Robin and Adam’s house; or in other equally convivial settings. This mild-mannered couple bring their own dynamic into the telling of the tale, right down to the new Newfoundland puppy who has overtaken their lives, even as they continue to grieve over the old dog they lost.
In good measure, it is the contrast between the quiet interpersonal interactions and the increasingly unsettling facts of the case that creates the tension that keeps the reader turning the pages. Added into the mix is a parallel plotline on each side of the mystery: the discovery of a unknown adoption that raises questions about family ties. As always with Cochrane’s books, the complexity of human nature is the key. Human nature can be pretty dark, and so can a cozy mystery.
May 14, 2024
Excellent addition to this series!
I love this series and was excited to buy and read this latest addition! It did not disappoint!
It's wonderful seeing Adam and Robin continuing their cozy happy-ever-after, supporting each other, and evolving into a comfortable (but not taking each other for granted) marriage. This is, after all, a cozy mystery and the mystery is the plot. Their romance and live for each other is a bonus for readers like me.♥️😍😃
I'm the kind of mystery reader who reads along, learning clues as they come as opposed to trying to figure it out as I read. So I found the mystery to be intriguing and well plotted and enjoyed the slow discovery of the various clues taking the reader to the conclusion. I admit to getting a little confused by all of the various names and characters but I take the blame for reading while distracted.
No spoiler but I also enjoyed meeting Hamish! (And appreciate the author's care.)
Highly recommend this book as well as the entire series!
I love this series and was excited to buy and read this latest addition! It did not disappoint!
It's wonderful seeing Adam and Robin continuing their cozy happy-ever-after, supporting each other, and evolving into a comfortable (but not taking each other for granted) marriage. This is, after all, a cozy mystery and the mystery is the plot. Their romance and live for each other is a bonus for readers like me.♥️😍😃
I'm the kind of mystery reader who reads along, learning clues as they come as opposed to trying to figure it out as I read. So I found the mystery to be intriguing and well plotted and enjoyed the slow discovery of the various clues taking the reader to the conclusion. I admit to getting a little confused by all of the various names and characters but I take the blame for reading while distracted.
No spoiler but I also enjoyed meeting Hamish! (And appreciate the author's care.)
Highly recommend this book as well as the entire series!
May 16, 2024
I’m already a huge fan of this author’s historical detectives, but this is the first time I’ve read on of her modern set mysteries. I loved this story, with its solid detective work, and endearing characters. I need to play catch up with the rest of the series now.
I loved the mix of working the case, Adam and Robin’s relationship, and the parallels between the investigation and Robin’s own family mystery. Adam and Robin are wonderful together. I love how they prioritise communication, share their lives, and rib each other good-naturedly. I enjoyed seeing snippets of their life together in the everyday moments, and Hamish is a delight.
I liked the supporting cast too, especially Robin’s mum, and Robin’s team. I appreciated the fact that the reality of Adam’s job wasn’t ignored either, with him needing to bring work home etc.
I’ve always loved small town British detective stories, and this hit the spot perfectly. I liked that the mystery needed work to be solved, and how all the pieces, and a few red herrings, slowly came together.
A very satisfying read.
I loved the mix of working the case, Adam and Robin’s relationship, and the parallels between the investigation and Robin’s own family mystery. Adam and Robin are wonderful together. I love how they prioritise communication, share their lives, and rib each other good-naturedly. I enjoyed seeing snippets of their life together in the everyday moments, and Hamish is a delight.
I liked the supporting cast too, especially Robin’s mum, and Robin’s team. I appreciated the fact that the reality of Adam’s job wasn’t ignored either, with him needing to bring work home etc.
I’ve always loved small town British detective stories, and this hit the spot perfectly. I liked that the mystery needed work to be solved, and how all the pieces, and a few red herrings, slowly came together.
A very satisfying read.
May 8, 2024
This was an excellent romantic suspense story, I haven’t read the prior books but that wasn’t an obstacle to being drawn into Robin and Adam’s story. I really enjoyed the slice of life style the author uses, you really feel part of the investigation in a very authentic way. I also love books with established couples, Adam and Robin have a wonderful stable and committed life together. These two are a great team, it feels very natural how Adam tries to help Robin by being a sounding board of sorts. It’s a very realistic marriage, which is rare to find. It’s also has a fabulous mystery, it was cool seeing Robin and his team put the story together bit by bit. I also loved the author’s writing style, the dialogue in particular is so charmingly British - which really helps the establish a sense of place. I liked it a lot, will definitely read more from this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 8, 2024
I adore this series and I had pre-ordered 'And Nothing But The Truth' as soon as it was listed. I ordered directly from the publisher which meant that I received my copy a couple of days before the general public. This is something that Riptide does and I am very happy for this service.
There is a murder to solve and there is also a family mystery to investigate and these together make for a very satisfying story.
I was sad to read about Campbell but the manner of his demise was very fitting. There is no in page drama to view - we are told what happened and even I, who always wants the animals to be safe, handled it well. Hamish is the new family member and he is adorable. I am looking forward to reading more about him in another book.
I love seeing Robin and Adam together. They are a very supportive couple and very much in love and in sync.
It is not necessary to read the series from the start but this is recommended.
I am already waiting for the next book in the series.
There is a murder to solve and there is also a family mystery to investigate and these together make for a very satisfying story.
I was sad to read about Campbell but the manner of his demise was very fitting. There is no in page drama to view - we are told what happened and even I, who always wants the animals to be safe, handled it well. Hamish is the new family member and he is adorable. I am looking forward to reading more about him in another book.
I love seeing Robin and Adam together. They are a very supportive couple and very much in love and in sync.
It is not necessary to read the series from the start but this is recommended.
I am already waiting for the next book in the series.
March 2, 2024
I've thoroughly enjoyed this series, and this book was, on the whole, no exception. It's lovely to curl up with these men in love, read about a fictional variety of police who care about doing the job right, and try to figure out whodunnit before the characters do.
I do have quibbles. For one thing, in a series that acknowledges Covid and even uses it repeatedly as a plot point, it bothers me that the disease is treated as if it's now gone/controlled. Beyond that, the ending of this book felt not fully baked. Both the main mystery and the secondary/home plot line ended, I thought, a bit too abruptly. Another page or two on each would have made the ending feel more satisfying.
That said, I'll be looking forward to the next installment of this series!
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
I do have quibbles. For one thing, in a series that acknowledges Covid and even uses it repeatedly as a plot point, it bothers me that the disease is treated as if it's now gone/controlled. Beyond that, the ending of this book felt not fully baked. Both the main mystery and the secondary/home plot line ended, I thought, a bit too abruptly. Another page or two on each would have made the ending feel more satisfying.
That said, I'll be looking forward to the next installment of this series!
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
April 22, 2024
I received an ARC copy from a third party with the promise of an honest review.
I loved the Cambridge "lessons" series by this author and related so well to them, I admit I started out expecting this to be similar. In many ways it was different and yet it shared one thing in common - two partners (this time as times have changed married) where one is the dominant investigator while the other was an helpful ally.
This case is complicated in the number of people to interview and takes the reader into police procedurals. It is also complicated because of a genealogist who is involved in doing some research for the policeman that is personal but who also is involved in the genealogy of the victim.
As easy as this book was to read and as complicated as it was, it did not match the 5, I would give some of the Cambridge series.
I loved the Cambridge "lessons" series by this author and related so well to them, I admit I started out expecting this to be similar. In many ways it was different and yet it shared one thing in common - two partners (this time as times have changed married) where one is the dominant investigator while the other was an helpful ally.
This case is complicated in the number of people to interview and takes the reader into police procedurals. It is also complicated because of a genealogist who is involved in doing some research for the policeman that is personal but who also is involved in the genealogy of the victim.
As easy as this book was to read and as complicated as it was, it did not match the 5, I would give some of the Cambridge series.
May 9, 2024
I'm a wee bit embarrassed to admit that I had no idea Charlie Cochrane's Lindenshaw Mysteries series was still an on-going thing. I had the pleasure of reading the first four novels a few years ago, but my cluelessness had me missing out on the next two books. But here we are with the seventh book, and while I'm going to make a point of catching up on the ones I missed, I was still able to fully enjoy And Nothing But the Truth.
Robin and Adam continue to be a formidable twosome, although I'd be remiss in not making note of Hamish (because come on now, how noteworthy of a fur baby was he?). The romance was heartwarming and the mystery/suspense was on-point, making for a truly great read from start to finish. The ending does seem to leave the door open for an upcoming addition to the series. This gets 4.5 stars.
Robin and Adam continue to be a formidable twosome, although I'd be remiss in not making note of Hamish (because come on now, how noteworthy of a fur baby was he?). The romance was heartwarming and the mystery/suspense was on-point, making for a truly great read from start to finish. The ending does seem to leave the door open for an upcoming addition to the series. This gets 4.5 stars.
May 23, 2024
I really loved this book!
Previously, I had read books 1 & 2, but this is my favorite thus far. I loved seeing the relationship progression between Robin and Adam and how wonderful they are together in all aspects of their lives.
I’m going to keep it a bit short to prevent any mystery spoilers, but the mysteries involved here were fantastic. We were taken in so many directions and I loved that I couldn’t guess what was going to happen. And it’s always a bonus when we get separate mysteries that end up all tangled together.
These two and their pets absolutely warm my heart and I cannot wait to go back and continue my previous reading experience with Book 3. I know these books are going to get better and better, and I’m excited to experience the full progression of this romance, along with the cozy mysteries.
Previously, I had read books 1 & 2, but this is my favorite thus far. I loved seeing the relationship progression between Robin and Adam and how wonderful they are together in all aspects of their lives.
I’m going to keep it a bit short to prevent any mystery spoilers, but the mysteries involved here were fantastic. We were taken in so many directions and I loved that I couldn’t guess what was going to happen. And it’s always a bonus when we get separate mysteries that end up all tangled together.
These two and their pets absolutely warm my heart and I cannot wait to go back and continue my previous reading experience with Book 3. I know these books are going to get better and better, and I’m excited to experience the full progression of this romance, along with the cozy mysteries.
May 8, 2024
I was thrilled to read a new Lindenshaw Mysteries book because I love Adam and Robin and their new fur baby Hamish though still miss Campbell. The murder part of the story was complicated and I found myself liking the guilty parties and not liking the murder victim even though he didn't deserve to die and really disliking Suzy because she reminded me of people I knew who were real manipulators. The search for Robin's grandfather's real father made me think of Finding Your Roots which I love and find endlessly fascinating. I love Adam and Robin's relationship and Hamish's antics and got teary-eyed whenever they accidentally started to call him by Campbell's name and really got teary-eyed when they talked about not wanting to get rid of his lead. I hope there will be more stories.
May 12, 2024
Syndactyly. A load of cobblers, Sod's Law, stirring the shite
This was an arduous read for me. It takes place in an English town. It's written in British English, using all of their customs, slang words and phrases. Often, I had a hard time understanding what was being said or conveyed. I had to frequently Google words when I couldn't figure out the meaning of what was being said.
The police investigation goes into almost every detail and aspect. This isn't a gay romance, but more of a detective crime mystery. There are many characters in this story that it sometimes becomes confusing.
Translation: I couldn't read at my normal speed. It took me so much longer to finish the book. That's why I said it was arduous. All-in-all, the story is good; it's intriguing too.
This was an arduous read for me. It takes place in an English town. It's written in British English, using all of their customs, slang words and phrases. Often, I had a hard time understanding what was being said or conveyed. I had to frequently Google words when I couldn't figure out the meaning of what was being said.
The police investigation goes into almost every detail and aspect. This isn't a gay romance, but more of a detective crime mystery. There are many characters in this story that it sometimes becomes confusing.
Translation: I couldn't read at my normal speed. It took me so much longer to finish the book. That's why I said it was arduous. All-in-all, the story is good; it's intriguing too.
May 12, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read in this series and I will definitely be reading more because I really enjoyed this one. The dynamic between Robin and Adam is so realistic and beautiful that I need to find out how they came about as a couple. Even simple things like calling their new dog by their old dog’s name resonated with me. Thankfully I have no experience with murder but Robin as Chief Inspector is up for that job and Adam acts as a good foil for him. I like how the different mysteries are twisted through the story and slowly things come to light. If you are looking for a good detective series then I would recommend this one even though I have only read this one.
I got a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest review.
I got a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest review.
May 12, 2024
I kinda wish I wouldn't get the culprits right quite so often, but the twists and turns are still good, makes me second guess my ideas.
I love the 2 main characters. And while I like Hamish, I will never get the people who goes for the same breed every time.
Off topic.
Of dogs I will count as mine, some from when I lived at home, we've had a cocker spaniel, a lab/rotweiler mix, a terrier/dachshund mix, a shepard mix, a something big, white and fluffy of unknown origin (possibly a polar bear was involved...) a small doodle of some sort, and a couple of coton de tulear, those were at the same time though.
And about twice as many cats, some of all these at the same time.
Hamish did make me miss having a dog though, more than Campbell did.
I love the 2 main characters. And while I like Hamish, I will never get the people who goes for the same breed every time.
Off topic.
Of dogs I will count as mine, some from when I lived at home, we've had a cocker spaniel, a lab/rotweiler mix, a terrier/dachshund mix, a shepard mix, a something big, white and fluffy of unknown origin (possibly a polar bear was involved...) a small doodle of some sort, and a couple of coton de tulear, those were at the same time though.
And about twice as many cats, some of all these at the same time.
Hamish did make me miss having a dog though, more than Campbell did.
May 8, 2024
This is part of a larger series, and while you don’t have to have read prior books to enjoy this one, if you like the vibe here: romantic partners whose lives include some cosy domesticity, a beloved pet, and regular crime solving with a touch of peril, the previous books will probably also hit the spot. I’m so fond of Robin and Adam at this point that I’m delighted to see them again, and while Campbell is much missed, Hamish is a force unto himself. The mystery is interesting, and I mean that in a good way, and worth experiencing on its own terms: overall, a lot to like here.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
May 11, 2024
Surprisingly, this is the first I've heard of this series, and the first book I've read in it. Surprising because it is so good and entertaining and thoughtful, with great characters. I am subscribed to enough author newsletters and MM reader groups, that I usually hear about any really good series, but here is book 7. I loved the book and following along with Robin and Adam as they try to solve the mystery (and seeing if I can get there first.😉) I was thoroughly engaged with the the characters and the story, and I will definitely be looking to read more of both past and future books in the series.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
May 19, 2024
Whilst i always enjoy Robin amd Adam, I did find at times, the humour a bit forced.
Adam quite in the background on this one,Robin taking point in the story and we see quite a bit of his police colleagues.
The major point is that they have a new Newfie - with Campbell gone to chase rabbits in the sky, Hamish is the new member of the household.
Blurred lines between adoption related investigations in the murder and Robin’s own background - the few bits we get must be followed up in another book.
The murder investigation follows the normal gamut of culptits but with all seemingly not likely, it is the revist that throws out the clues.
Adam quite in the background on this one,Robin taking point in the story and we see quite a bit of his police colleagues.
The major point is that they have a new Newfie - with Campbell gone to chase rabbits in the sky, Hamish is the new member of the household.
Blurred lines between adoption related investigations in the murder and Robin’s own background - the few bits we get must be followed up in another book.
The murder investigation follows the normal gamut of culptits but with all seemingly not likely, it is the revist that throws out the clues.
April 6, 2024
This book is a police procedural that is cozy in nature. It could also be classed as MM but that is not the focal point of the story.
I have not read any others in this series and I don’t feel this affected my experience as it’s fairly standalone although the characters obviously have back story but the gaps are easy to fill in.
So this was a police investigation into a murder. It was fairly well written but the plot was lack lustre and there was no explosive ending. It was just standard chipping away at the evidence and clues until the conclusion was reached. I could see this on tv.
I have not read any others in this series and I don’t feel this affected my experience as it’s fairly standalone although the characters obviously have back story but the gaps are easy to fill in.
So this was a police investigation into a murder. It was fairly well written but the plot was lack lustre and there was no explosive ending. It was just standard chipping away at the evidence and clues until the conclusion was reached. I could see this on tv.
May 9, 2024
It was easy from the first pages of this story to really like Robin and Adam. They have such a neat vibe. The author writes this pair with such a good flow and they make such a good team. The love is obvious but they also are so supportive of one another that it was fun following along with them as the mystery unfolded in this story. I like a good mystery and the love story adds a wonderful element and made me like and feel invested in the couple. I will have to read others in this series. I received an ARC from GRR and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 7, 2024
First book by this author and I loved it. It has more twists and turns than Lombard Street in San Francisco. Was a real introduction for a ton of new British slang, just about wore out my knidle looking up the new words. CI Bright has a great crew to work with and Adam is the perfect sounding board. I do dislike books if the victim truly didn't deserve to die, and Mark Bircher definitely didn't deserve to die.
May 11, 2024
I am totally disappointed.........that I haven't read any of this author's books before! This was fantastic. I was so engaged, I forgot to watch the clock and read two extra hours before realizing that I was supposed to be sleeping! Oops. Losing the sleep was totally worth it. As soon as I got up I was back at the book. This was one thrilling and amazing story and I am definitely going back to read the prior books. I'm so excited!!
May 7, 2024
I enjoyed reading this latest book of Ms. Cochrane. This is one of those series that when I see a new one has come out, I order it and I have yet been disappointed. I thought the story was well written and I enjoyed seeing new secondary characters added. It was nice reading about Adam and Robin, but sad due to the loss of Campbell. Recommend reading.
May 10, 2024
This was a hard one. Detective Robin and his husband Adam return from vacation feeling rested, when Robin gets a call about a murder. Just when he thinks he's close to solving the mystery, Robin gets stumped at every turn. It takes and amazing writer to keep the reader engaged, stumped and happily reading. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 12, 2024
I have no idea how I've missed this series but that is about to be remedied after this book. The characters are interesting both individually and as a couple and the author has done a superb job of mixing the personal and the professional in the murder mystery. I loved the way the clues were dropped and once I started the story I couldn't put it down.
May 20, 2024
another grand slam
Ms. Cochane has written another fantastic tale. A heart felt opening for Campbell, and a murder with more twists than a French braid. The murder victim, is a complex character, the reader will truly feel for them. And always love the Britishisms……they add so much flavor for this boring American reader.
Ms. Cochane has written another fantastic tale. A heart felt opening for Campbell, and a murder with more twists than a French braid. The murder victim, is a complex character, the reader will truly feel for them. And always love the Britishisms……they add so much flavor for this boring American reader.
August 21, 2024
There was too much 'speculative investigating' between Robin and Adam (IMO) - a judicious pruning by about 15% would have resulted in a tighter and less meandering plot pace. I did feel the loss of Campbell's presence. However, the forensic genealogical elements kept me from fast-forwarding during the 'flagging' sections of this read. 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
May 1, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I enjoyed the story which was a pretty standard routine police crime drama which I think was actually maybe drawn out a bit but we got the truth in the end. Robin and Adam were good together and helped each other out. 3.5 rounded up to 4.
May 7, 2024
I have to say every time I was sure I knew who the murderer was I was wrong! The writing is brilliant and every tidbit of a clue has you wondering what truly happened. The characters and story history are so intriguing you can’t stop reading.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.