J.M. Hall has woven a very clever and authentic feeling story. This is not really just about Topsy’s story, sad as it is. It is a study of the impact that age and declining health have on family, the way in which the deterioration of a previously sharp mind is one of the many fears that we all face as we advance in years. There is also a real sense of the way in which people may seek to take advantage of those who may naturally be more trusting, or perhaps just less aware, of the risks of modern life. Topsy is a victim in more ways than one, and each of those elements of her story serve to muddy the waters, and keep the truth of the whole story hidden until the very last moment. The list of potential suspects, assuming there is anything to suspect them of, is long, the motives equally so. The reveal, when it comes, is surprising, and yet fitting. Perhaps not satisfying, kind of sad actually, but in keeping with the nature of the book. In 2021, his first novel was published by Harper Collins. "A Spoonful of Murder" introduced us to the unlikely crime-solving trio of retired teachers Liz, Thelma and Pat. These wonderfully warm and funny characters took on a life of their own and spawned a series of cosy crime novels. The eagerly awaited second novel is due in March 2023 and the third is already well underway. The audiobook of this is brilliantly narrated by Julie Hesmondhalgh, and can definitely be recommended. If captures the combination of hope, melancholy and humour that the story deserves, for there are as many moments that will make you smile and even laugh, as those that will leave you saddened by what comes to pass. I know that the three women, Liz, Thelma and Pat, were great characters, brought perfectly to life in the audio, and really good to spend time with. If you like a good cosy crime, with emotional and thoughtful undercurrent, this may well be the book for you. About the Author

The three friends have to be my favourite characters, they were very different from one another but came together to see their sleuthing through and get justice for their friend. I also have this lovely picture of Ness the older woman chasing young Jake!Three Miss Marples for the price of one... The plot is carefully assembled, rather like a patchwork quilt, with each element placed just so’ NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A cosy crime mystery but with added bite, and cake. Liz, Pat and Thelma are curious and inquisitive and you’ll warm towards them and their sometimes unpredictable ways of discovering clues’ NetGalley Review Product Details But they know there’s more to Topsy’s death than meets the eye – and it’s down to them to prove it… Warm characters and wonderful writing... It’s steeped in Yorkshire like a mug of hot, strong tea... I loved it’ SJ Bennett, author of The Windsor Knot Without a hint of condescension, J.M. Hall imbues his senior citizen characters with warmth, humour and humanity. Certainly Liz, Thelma and Pat have their foibles and flaws, but there’s no writing off people just because they might be retired. Their collective experience of previously working in a school is pitch perfect, so that all three women are warm, quirky and just like anyone you might know in real life. This makes them so endearing and believable.

Three Miss Marples for the price of one… The plot is carefully assembled, rather like a patchwork quilt, with each element placed just so’ NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The school is now administered by Kayleigh Brittain an influential, confident, and enigmatic headmistress. She has a reputation for being a forward-thinking person who has some very innovative plans for the school. Recently there has been an upsurge in cosy mysteries featuring more mature amateur detectives, a modern take on Miss Marple. Certainly as an older reader, I appreciate this trend. In between seeking answers we learn more about the friends’ lives. The title says it all! Along with the opening line “to be involved in anything like murder quite simple it was something they would never set out to do!! I knew then it was going to be a really good read.As the story progresses, I find it difficult to keep myself attentive in the story. Each chapter all throughout, there are new characters or code names introduced. It makes me confused who is who. Even if I take down notes of the important characters (and clues) to help myself solve the mystery, the author's writing style has managed to make me engaged in the story as I follow the journey of the main characters to reach the revelation. In the end, I have made myself extremely annoyed. The author has created a good villain that I will never like.

Absolutely loved this book!! I really enjoyed the characters and the sweet story line!! I was up all night reading and couldn't put the book down! I highly recommend!!' NetGalley review Delightful and masterful storytelling, it makes for an eventful and imaginative read similar to Miss Marple but with a strong sense of unity. What a fantastic read! It gave me all the cosy… Really enjoyable characters that you feel like you've known for years once you finish the book. It was the perfect pace, and easy to follow. Love, love, loved this book’ NetGalley review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ But one fateful week, as they are catching up with a slice of cake, they bump into their ex-colleague, Topsy.The three retired ladies, Thelma, Pat, and Liz, who all taught at the same Primary school together, met weekly for a coffee and chat. One week they saw an ex-colleague and friend who appeared to be in trouble and set them on the path of trying to find out what was going on, especially when she was found dead the following week. The three women try to communicate with Topsy and are sad at her condition. But Topsy then confides in Thelma and things take an alarming turn. Apparently, people had been coming to her house and she had heard voices saying that things would be much better if she was dead. If you are looking for a crime adventure without those dark disturbing violence, this could be a good read for you.