The Sign of the Calico Quartz

The Sweetbrier Inn Mysteries, Book 1

De: Jan Drexler

Narrado por: Gillian Wiggin

Emma Blackwood's favorite pastime is solving literary murder mysteries...until the body in her living room makes everything a little too real. When Emma comes to the Black Hills to work at her Aunt Roses B&B, the Sweetbrier Inn, she is hoping for a quiet break from the corporate treadmill. But she hadn't expected murder and intrigue to mar this peaceful setting. As she wades through too many clues to identify the murderer, she soon finds that the culprit isn't stopping at only one homicide and may even have placed Emma herself on the list of targets. With the help of her friend Becky and a deputy sheriff who grudgingly lets them join in on the investigation, Emma tracks down the killer. But will it be in time to save the next victim?

©2022 Jan Drexler (P)2024 Jan Drexler

Narration made the difference!

I liked the Black Hills setting and the lead character, Emma. Emma was well drawn by the author and the narrator brought her to life- kept me interested when the mystery became apparent. Enjoyed listening to all the voices and loved the description of the Black Hills.

Good Story, Superb Narration

This Whodunit kept my attention throughout. Lots of characters though so the narrator’s ability to dramatically differentiate the voices was essential. I really enjoyed getting to know them and the Black Hills setting.

So Cute!

This was such a cute start to a new series!

This is the first novel that I’ve read by this author, and I fell in love with her writing style and overall storytelling. I liked Emma from the start with her astute and playful personality and love that the murder mystery began quickly, seeping you into the charade swiftly. There are quite a few players quickly thrown in but the impressive writing and energetic narration by the talented Gillian Wiggin made it feel seamless and coherent. I quickly fell in love with the Sweetbriar Inn and all of the cast of characters, especially Emma’s aunt Rose, the always professional Sheriff Cal, and the adorable four-legged friends Thatcher the corgi and Tim the cat.

I enjoyed the overall mystery though I figured out who was behind the shenanigans before the final reveal. Honestly, it didn’t even matter. I loved the ending so much and it’s got me hungry for more from this series. I think that the experience from some books is enhanced when you can listen to them and The Sign of the Calico Quartz is a great example of this. Listening to the audiobook really brought this world to life and it was so fun following this mystery while I handled household chores. It made cleaning so much more enjoyable and was overall a pleasure to listen to.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

Enjoyable cozy mystery

Okay, I'll admit it: what drew me first to this audiobook is the cover. I love Corgis! And cats. I've recently learned that I enjoy a good cozy mystery now and then. The Sign of the Calico Quartz audiobook is a fun listen.

Gillian Wiggin does a decent job narrating, with voice changes for each character, which makes for an enjoyable listen. In addition, the Black Hills have a special place in my heart, since my first honeymoon was spent there.

If you enjoy a cozy mystery, grab a copy. Listening to audiobooks is one great way to pass the time during a hurricane, or in the aftermath (I say, as I am sitting here in Florida, waiting for Hurricane Milton to make landfall...)

I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.