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esmayrosalyne's review
5.0
And Patricia Meredith does it again! This second instalment in the Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries series took everything that was good from book 1 and somehow cranked it all up a notch, it was fantastic!
We return to our favourite characters from book 1 as they find themselves wrapped up in another mind-boggling murder mystery. And if you thought the mystery in book 1 was confounding, then I suggest you buckle up, because this one kept me on my toes even more!
The absolute highlight of this series is 100% the delightful cast of characters though! These people (yes, they are absolutely real people in my mind, thank you very much) are just so well-realised and they all have SO much personality, I love them all!
It's such a wonderfully diverse motley crew and the relationships in this series are some of the best I have ever read, just so heartwarming and touching! Roselyn and Bernard are true relationship goals, we love to see it.
Also, I really appreciate how deeper themes of identity, disability and mental illness are explored in a very organic and authentic way through these characters' personal journeys. I especially love that we see two disabled characters who are in fact capable of living very full and fulfilling lives, that's so important and uplifting to see!
There is simply so much to love about this series, I just can't get enough! If you like historical mysteries with fantastic characters, murder and mayhem, excellent atmosphere and lots of heart, then this is the series for you!
We return to our favourite characters from book 1 as they find themselves wrapped up in another mind-boggling murder mystery. And if you thought the mystery in book 1 was confounding, then I suggest you buckle up, because this one kept me on my toes even more!
The absolute highlight of this series is 100% the delightful cast of characters though! These people (yes, they are absolutely real people in my mind, thank you very much) are just so well-realised and they all have SO much personality, I love them all!
It's such a wonderfully diverse motley crew and the relationships in this series are some of the best I have ever read, just so heartwarming and touching! Roselyn and Bernard are true relationship goals, we love to see it.
Also, I really appreciate how deeper themes of identity, disability and mental illness are explored in a very organic and authentic way through these characters' personal journeys. I especially love that we see two disabled characters who are in fact capable of living very full and fulfilling lives, that's so important and uplifting to see!
There is simply so much to love about this series, I just can't get enough! If you like historical mysteries with fantastic characters, murder and mayhem, excellent atmosphere and lots of heart, then this is the series for you!
sarahstarnes's review against another edition
5.0
First 5 star read of 2024! I love the painstakingly detailed history in these books! The humor translates amazingly and for being a period piece is a joy to read (or listen to) especially for the modern reader. The mysteries are head scratching and enjoyable as they should be! Also the underlying story is why I'll be running to book #3 as soon as I can!
kayshiddenshelf's review against another edition
informative
inspiring
mysterious
fast-paced
5.0
5/5 Stars
Cupboards All Bared brings a captivating sequel to the Spokane Clocktower Mysteries. From a mysterious death, great character work, and delicious food, this was another binge worthy read.
Picking up one month after the events of Butcher, Baker, Candlestick Taker, readers are brought back into the lives of the Carew brothers. When a body is discovered in Hangman Creek, the Carew brothers investigate what looks to be an accidental fall. Though it quickly turns into something bigger than they anticipated.
I found Cupboards All Bared to have different tone compared with Butcher, Baker, Candlestick Taker. Where the first book felt more mystery oriented, Cupboards All Bared balances the mystery with more focus on the characters. I personally loved getting to know the characters better and to see more of their history, relationship dynamics and how this impacts the story. There were also new characters to meet along the way, some of which were detestable or intriguing. Ultimately, taking characters I enjoyed and turning them into characters I love.
Patricia Meredith’s passion for history and literature is clear within her stories. Creating her stories within historical events, places, and figures, while mixing in literary references appropriate for the period.
I can’t forget to mention the representation of disability and mental illness. Done in a way that’s appropriate for the period but also gives a nuanced depth to the characters.
I also read the physical book along with the audiobook. The narrator, Rebecca Cook, is quickly becoming one of my favorite narrators for her ability to capture the characters personalities.
With memorable characters, eerie moments, and an intriguing mystery this was a compelling read.