Death at the Chateau Bremont

Death at the Chateau Bremont by M.L. Longworth

Death at the Chateau Bremont by M.L. Longworth

Today, I have the pleasure of reviewing Death at the Chateau Bremont by M.L. Longworth, the first book in the Verlaque and Bonnet series. If you’re a fan of cosy mysteries and Francophile literature, then this book is right up your rue!

Set in the charming town of Aix-en-Provence in the South of France, Death at the Chateau Bremont introduces us to Antoine Verlaque, a magistrate with a passion for wine, and his on-again-off-again girlfriend, Marine Bonnet, a law professor with a love for gourmet cuisine. When a local lawyer is found dead at a chateau in the nearby countryside, Verlaque and Bonnet are called in to investigate. Along the way, they must navigate the complex social dynamics of the small town and uncover the secrets that lie beneath the surface.

Longworth’s writing is witty and engaging, and her descriptions of the town and its inhabitants are vivid and atmospheric. The mystery itself is well-crafted, with plenty of suspects and motives to keep you guessing. But what sets Death at the Chateau apart from other cozy mysteries is its focus on food and wine. Verlaque and Bonnet are both passionate about gastronomy, and Longworth’s descriptions of the meals they prepare and the wines they drink are enough to make your mouth water.

As a Francophile myself, I also appreciated Longworth’s attention to detail when it comes to French culture and customs. From the way people greet each other to the differences between French and American legal systems, Longworth’s portrayal of life in Aix-en-Provence feels authentic and lived-in.

But what really makes Death at the Chateau Bremont stand out is the chemistry between Verlaque and Bonnet. Their on-again-off-again romance adds a layer of tension to the mystery, and their banter is both witty and charming. Longworth also does a great job of developing their characters over the course of the book, so that by the end, you feel like you really know them.

Of course, no cosy mystery would be complete without a cast of quirky characters, and Death at the Chateau Bremont does not disappoint in that regard. From the eccentric owner of the chateau to the snobbish members of the local aristocracy, there’s no shortage of suspects and red herrings to keep you guessing.

In conclusion, Death at the Chateau Bremont by M.L. Longworth is a delightful start to the Verlaque and Bonnet series. Longworth’s writing is witty and engaging, and her characters are charming and likeable. If you’re a fan of cosy mysteries, Francophile literature, or just good food and wine, then this book is definitely worth checking out. So pour yourself a glass of your favourite vintage and settle in for a charming and delicious read!

This site is maintained by Paul S Ross

Murder in provence

Murder in Provence: The Verlaque and Bonnet Series

Murder in Provence: The Verlaque and Bonnet Series

Verlaque and Bonnet series

Today, I have the pleasure of giving you an overview of the Verlaque and Bonnet series by M.L. Longworth, now adapted for TV as Murder in Provence. If you’re a fan of cosy mysteries and Francophile literature, this series will surely charm you like a glass of fine Bordeaux!

The Verlaque and Bonnet series is set in the charming town of Aix-en-Provence in the South of France and follows the adventures of Antoine Verlaque, a magistrate with a passion for wine, and Marine Bonnet, a law professor with a love for gourmet cuisine. Together, Verlaque and Bonnet must navigate the complex social dynamics of the small town and solve a series of murders and other crimes that threaten the peace and tranquillity of Aix-en-Provence.

One of the things that make the Verlaque and Bonnet series so appealing is Longworth’s vivid and atmospheric descriptions of Aix-en-Provence and its inhabitants. From the narrow streets of the old town to the sun-drenched vineyards of the surrounding countryside, Longworth’s prose transports you to the heart of Provence and immerses you in the sights, sounds, and flavours of this enchanting region.

But what really sets this series apart is its focus on food and wine. Verlaque and Bonnet are both passionate about gastronomy, and Longworth’s descriptions of the meals they prepare and the wines they drink are enough to make your taste buds tingle with delight. From rustic cassoulets to delicate bouillabaisses, and from crisp rosés to full-bodied reds, Longworth’s writing captures the essence of French cuisine and wine culture in a way that is both informative and entertaining.

Of course, no cosy mystery would be complete without a cast of quirky characters, and the Verlaque and Bonnet series does not disappoint in that regard. From the eccentric artists and intellectuals of the town to the snobbish members of the local aristocracy, there’s no shortage of suspects and red herrings to keep you guessing. And Verlaque and Bonnet themselves are a charming and engaging duo, whose on-again-off-again romance adds a layer of tension to the mysteries they must solve.

Speaking of mysteries, the Verlaque and Bonnet series has plenty of them! From the death of a local lawyer in Death at the Chateau (the first book in the series) to the disappearance of a priceless manuscript in The Curse of La Fontaine, Longworth’s mysteries are well-crafted and full of surprises. And while the crimes themselves are often serious and sometimes violent, Longworth’s light touch and charming characters keep the tone of the series firmly in the cosy mystery genre.

In addition to the mysteries themselves, the Verlaque and Bonnet series also explores broader themes of culture, history, and politics. From the legacy of World War II to the tensions between old and new in modern France, Longworth’s writing is thoughtful and thought-provoking, adding depth and richness to the series.

In conclusion, the Verlaque and Bonnet series by M.L. Longworth is a delightful and engaging series of cosy mysteries that will transport you to the sun-drenched vineyards and charming streets of Aix-en-Provence. Longworth’s vivid descriptions of French cuisine, wine culture, and the town’s inhabitants are both informative and entertaining, and her mysteries are well-crafted and full of surprises. So pour yourself a glass of your favourite vintage and settle in for a charming and delicious read!

I have written a further review of the series with an individual review of each of the books in the series. Starting with “Death at the Chateau Bremont” moving onto “”Murder in the Rue Dumas” and “Death in the Vines”. The review continues with “Murder on the Ile Sordou” and “The Mystery of the Lost Cezanne” and then “the Curse of La Fontaine”.

Death at the Chateau Bremont
Murder In The Rue Dumas
Death in the vines
Murder on the Ile Sordou
Mystery of the lost Cezanne
The Course of La Fontaine

This site is maintained by Paul S Ross

Murder in provence

Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery Series by M.L. Longworth

Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery Series by M.L. Longworth

The Verlaque and Bonnet mystery series is set in the charming town of Aix-en-Provence in the South of France, and follows the adventures of Antoine Verlaque, a magistrate with a passion for wine, and Marine Bonnet, a law professor with a love for gourmet cuisine. Together, Verlaque and Bonnet must navigate the complex social dynamics of the small town and solve a series of murders and other crimes that threaten the peace and tranquility of Aix-en-Provence.

One of the things that makes the Verlaque and Bonnet series so appealing is Longworth’s vivid and atmospheric descriptions of Aix-en-Provence and its inhabitants. From the narrow streets of the old town to the sun-drenched vineyards of the surrounding countryside, Longworth’s prose transports you to the heart of Provence and immerses you in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this enchanting region.

A Provencal Mystery: Death at the Chateau Bremont by M.L. Longworth (Verlaque and Bonnet Series #1)

Death at the Chateau Bremont

If you’re a fan of cosy mysteries and you love France, then this book is for you! Death at the Chateau Bremont is the first instalment in the Verlaque and Bonnet series by M.L. Longworth, and it’s a delightful read from start to finish.

The book follows Antoine Verlaque, a chief magistrate in Aix-en-Provence, and his on-again-off-again girlfriend Marine Bonnet, a law professor and wine connoisseur. When a wealthy Englishman is found dead in his chateau, Verlaque and Bonnet are called in to investigate, and they soon find themselves caught up in a web of family secrets and hidden motives.

The plot is well-crafted and keeps you guessing until the end, and the setting of Aix-en-Provence is vividly portrayed, making you feel like you’re right there in the South of France. Longworth’s writing is witty and engaging, and her characters are charming and likeable. Overall, Death at the Chateau Bremont is a delightful start to a series that is sure to please fans of cosy mysteries and Francophiles.

Murder in the Rue Dumas The second book in the Verlaque and Bonnet series.

Murder In The Rue Dumas

The Verlaque and Bonnet series continues with Murder in the Rue Dumas, and it’s another charming mystery set in the South of France. This time, Verlaque and Bonnet are called to investigate the murder of a local artist, and they soon find themselves caught up in the competitive world of contemporary art.

Along the way, we learn more about Verlaque and Bonnet’s relationship and their respective passions for food and wine. Longworth’s writing is again witty and engaging, and her descriptions of the art scene in Aix-en-Provence are fascinating. The mystery is well thought out, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. Overall, Murder in the Rue Dumas is another delightful instalment in a series that is quickly becoming a favourite of cosy mystery fans.

Death in the Vines by M.L. Longworth (Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery #3)

Death in the vines

The Verlaque and Bonnet series continues with Death in the Vines, and it’s another charming mystery set in the South of France. This time, Verlaque and Bonnet are called to investigate the murder of a winemaker, and they soon find themselves caught up in the cutthroat world of wine production.

Along the way, we learn more about the history of the region and the secrets that lie behind the labels of some of the world’s most famous wines. Longworth’s writing is once again witty and engaging, and her descriptions of the wine industry are fascinating.

The mystery itself is well-crafted, with plenty of suspects and motives to keep you guessing. Overall, Death in the Vines is another delightful instalment in a series that is quickly becoming a favourite of cosy mystery fans.

Murder on the Ile Sordou a book by M.L. Longworth (Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery #4)

Murder on the Ile Sordou

The Verlaque and Bonnet series continues with Murder on the Ile Sordou, and it’s another charming mystery set in the South of France. This time, Verlaque and Bonnet are called to investigate the murder of a retired sailor on a remote island, and they soon find themselves caught up in a world of smugglers and hidden treasure.

Along the way, we learn more about the history of the island and the secrets that lie beneath its surface. Longworth’s writing is once again witty and engaging, and her descriptions of the island and its inhabitants are vivid and atmospheric.

The mystery itself is well-crafted, with plenty of red herrings and surprising twists. Overall, Murder on the Ile Sordou is another delightful instalment in a series that is sure to please fans of cosy mysteries and armchair travel.

The Mystery of the Lost Cézanne a book by M.L. Longworth (5th Book in the Verlaque & Bonnet Series)

Mystery of the lost Cezanne

The Verlaque and Bonnet series continues with The Mystery of the Lost Cézanne, it’s another charming mystery set in the South of France. This time, Verlaque and Bonnet are called to investigate the disappearance of a valuable Cézanne painting, and they soon find themselves caught up in the world of high-end art collectors and auction houses.

Along the way, we learn more about the history of the painting and the secrets that surround it. Longworth’s writing is once again witty and engaging, and her descriptions of the art world are fascinating.

The mystery itself is well-crafted, with plenty of suspects and motives to keep you guessing. Overall, The Mystery of the Lost Cézanne is another delightful instalment in a series that is quickly becoming a favourite of cosy mystery fans.

The Curse of La Fontaine a book by M.L. Longworth (Book 6 in Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery Series)

The Course of La Fontaine

The Verlaque and Bonnet series continues with The Curse of La Fontaine, and it’s another charming mystery set in the South of France. This time, Verlaque and Bonnet are called to investigate the murder of a local historian, and they soon find themselves caught up in a centuries-old mystery involving a cursed treasure.

Along the way, we learn more about the history of the region and the secrets that lie beneath its surface. Longworth’s writing is once again witty and engaging, and her descriptions of the region and its history are fascinating.

The mystery itself is well-crafted, with plenty of clues and suspects to keep you guessing. Overall, The Curse of La Fontaine is another delightful instalment in a series that is sure to please fans of cosy mysteries and armchair travel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Verlaque and Bonnet series by M.L. Longworth is a delightful collection of cosy mysteries set in the charming and picturesque South of France. Longworth’s writing is witty and engaging, and her characters are charming and likeable. Each book in the series is well-executed and will keep you guessing until the very end. If you’re a fan of cosy mysteries of Francophile literature, then these books are definitely worth checking out.

This site is maintained by Paul S Ross

The Burning Bridge

The Burning Bridge by John Flanagan

The Burning Bridge by John Flanagan

Right, so I’ve just finished reading “The Burning Bridge” by John Flanagan, and let me tell you, it’s an absolute corker of a book! If you’re looking for action, adventure, and heroics, then this is the book for you.

The story follows Will and his mentor Halt as they embark on a dangerous mission to stop the evil warlord Morgarath from invading the kingdom of Araluen. Along the way, they encounter all manner of obstacles and adversaries, from treacherous terrain to deadly assassins.

But what sets this book apart is its characters. Will and Halt are a dynamic duo, with Will’s youthful enthusiasm and Halt’s grizzled experience making for a perfect team. And then there’s the warrior princess Evanlyn, who brings a whole new level of intrigue and complexity to the story.

Of course, as with any good adventure story, there are plenty of heart-pumping action scenes. Flanagan does an excellent job of describing the battles and skirmishes, making them feel vivid and real.

All in all, “The Burning Bridge” is a cracking read that I’d highly recommend to anyone who loves a good adventure story. It’s got everything you could want: heroic characters, treacherous enemies, and thrilling action. So what are you waiting for? Get reading!

This site is maintained by Paul S Ross

The Ruins of Gorlan

“The Ruins of Gorlan” by John Flanagan

The Ruins of Gorlan by John Flanagan

1 The Ruins of Gorlan
1. The Ruins of Gorlan

What a delightful romp through the world of Rangers, apprentices, and dastardly villains! “The Ruins of Gorlan” by John Flanagan is a rollicking good time from beginning to end, and I found myself thoroughly entertained throughout.

The story centers around a young boy named Will, who dreams of becoming a Ranger, one of the skilled and secretive guardians of the kingdom of Araluen. But when he’s rejected by the Battleschool, he’s sent to be an apprentice to the enigmatic Ranger Halt. What follows is a thrill filled adventure full of danger, intrigue, and unexpected twists.

Flanagan’s writing is crisp and engaging, with just the right amount of humor and pathos to keep the reader hooked. The world-building is top-notch, and I found myself fully immersed in the world of Araluen, with its complex politics, deep history, and colorful characters.

One of the things I loved about this book is how it subverts expectations in delightful ways. The characters are not always what they seem, and the story takes unexpected turns that kept me guessing right up until the end.

All in all, “The Ruins of Gorlan” is a fantastic read that will appeal to readers of all ages. If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure full of heart, humor, and heroism, then look no further than this charming and delightful book. Highly recommended!

See the Full Ranger’s Apprentice series here

This site is maintained by Paul S Ross

Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby

Updated on 25th February 2023

The Great Gatsby

First published in 1925, “The Great Gatsby” is a novel written by American author F. Scott Fitzgerald. It is considered a classic of 20th-century literature and is widely regarded as one of the greatest American novels of all time.

The novel is set in the 1920s and follows the life of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious and wealthy man who throws lavish parties in an attempt to win back the love of his former flame, Daisy Buchanan. Through the eyes of narrator Nick Carraway, we see Gatsby’s attempts to recapture the past and to attain the American Dream, despite the obstacles and corruption that stand in his way.

Fitzgerald’s writing is both elegant and insightful, and he masterfully captures the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and the decadence of the era. The novel is both a portrayal of a specific time and place and a meditation on the American Dream and the pursuit of happiness.

One of the most striking things about “The Great Gatsby” is its exploration of the theme of the American Dream and its corruption. Fitzgerald creates a vivid and moving picture of a world in which the pursuit of wealth and success is fraught with danger and disappointment, and he raises important questions about the nature of the American Dream and its relationship to reality.

In conclusion, “The Great Gatsby” is a must-read for fans of classic literature and for anyone interested in the themes of the American Dream, the pursuit of happiness, and the corruption of the era. Fitzgerald’s writing is both beautiful and affecting, and the novel remains a classic of contemporary American literature.

the personal touch Bookshops

The Personal Touch – The Advantages of Shopping at Local Bookshops

The Personal Touch – The Advantages of Shopping at Local Bookshops

Shopping at a local bookshop has many advantages over shopping at a big chain store or online retailer. One of the main advantages is the personal touch that local bookshops offer.

Local bookshops are often independently owned and operated, which means that they have a more personalized approach to curating their inventory. They often have a unique selection of books that you won’t find at a big chain store or online retailer. This is because they have the freedom to select books based on their own preferences and the interests of their customers, rather than on what will sell the most.

Another advantage of shopping at a local bookshop is the opportunity to connect with knowledgeable staff. Local bookshops are often staffed by book enthusiasts who have a wealth of knowledge about the books they carry. They are passionate about reading and are more than happy to make recommendations or help customers find a specific book. This personal touch can make the shopping experience even more enjoyable.

In addition, local bookshops often host events such as book clubs, author readings, and writing workshops. These events provide a great opportunity to connect with other book lovers, as well as to meet local authors and learn about their writing process. This helps to create a sense of community and fosters a love of literature.

Lastly, shopping at local bookshops is a way to support small businesses in your community. When you shop at a local bookshop, you’re not only supporting the bookshop itself, but also the local authors and publishers whose work is featured on their shelves. You are also helping to keep the literary culture alive in your community.

In conclusion, shopping at local bookshops has many advantages over shopping at a big chain store or online retailer. They offer a personalised touch, a chance to connect with knowledgeable staff and other book lovers, and an opportunity to support small businesses in your community. So, next time you’re in the market for a new book, consider visiting your local bookshop and experience the personal touch that only a local bookshop can offer.

Writing Workshop

Supporting Local Bookshops The Key to a Thriving Literary Culture

Supporting Local Bookshops The Key to a Thriving Literary Culture

Local Bookshops have always been more than just places to buy books. They are community hubs, cultural centers, and gateways to the world of literature. Local bookshops play a vital role in the literary culture of a community, and supporting them is crucial for the survival of the literary world.

One of the main reasons to support local bookshops is that they provide a platform for local authors. Local bookshops often carry books by local authors and host events such as book signings and readings. This helps to promote local literature and gives local authors a chance to connect with their community.

In addition, local bookshops often have a carefully curated selection of books. They may focus on specific genres or local authors and they often have a more personalised approach to curating their inventory. This means that customers are more likely to discover new and exciting books that they might not have otherwise come across.

Another important aspect of local bookshops is that they promote literacy and education. They often partner with schools and libraries to provide books and educational resources to children and young adults. This helps to foster a love of reading and encourages lifelong learning.

Finally, local bookshops help to create a sense of community. They bring people together through book clubs, author events, and other literary gatherings. They also serve as a hub for knowledge and information, offering a curated selection of books and knowledgeable staff to help customers find the perfect read.

In conclusion, local bookshops play a vital role in the literary culture of a community. They provide a platform for local authors, promote literacy and education, and create a sense of community. Supporting local bookshops is crucial for the survival of the literary world, and for fostering a love of reading in the community. So, next time you’re in the market for a new book, consider visiting your local bookshop and supporting the literary culture in your community.

the personal touch Bookshops

Discovering Hidden Gems – The Joys of Exploring Local Bookshops

Discovering Hidden Gems – The Joys of Exploring Local Bookshops

There’s something special about browsing the shelves and exploring local bookshops. The musty scent of pages mixed with the sound of pages rustling and the occasional muffled conversation creates an atmosphere that can’t be replicated by browsing online. But, the true beauty of local bookshops lies in their ability to surprise and delight us with hidden gems we never knew we needed.

One of the main benefits of shopping at a local bookshop is the opportunity to discover books you might not have otherwise come across. Local bookshops often have a unique selection of books that you won’t find at a big chain store or online retailer. This is because they are independently owned and operated, they often have a more personalised approach to curating their inventory, and they may focus on specific genres or local authors.

Another perk of shopping at a local bookshop is the opportunity to connect with the community. Local bookshops often host events such as book clubs, author readings, and writing workshops. These events provide a great opportunity to connect with other book lovers, as well as to meet local authors and learn about their writing process.

Furthermore, local bookshops are often staffed by book enthusiasts who have a wealth of knowledge about the books they carry. They are passionate about reading and are more than happy to make recommendations or help customers find a specific book. This personal touch can make the shopping experience even more enjoyable.

Lastly, shopping at local bookshops is a way to support small businesses in your community. When you shop at a local bookshop, you’re not only supporting the bookshop itself, but also the local authors and publishers whose work is featured on their shelves. You are also helping to keep the literary culture alive in your community.

In conclusion, visiting and exploring local bookshops offer a unique shopping experience that can’t be replicated by browsing online or at a big chain store. They offer a personalised touch, a chance to discover hidden gems, and an opportunity to connect with the community. So, next time you’re in the market for a new book, consider visiting your local bookshop and see what hidden gems you can find.

Personal touch bookshop

Why Supporting Local Bookshops Matters

In a world where online shopping and e-books dominate the market, it can be easy to forget the value of a bricks-and-mortar bookshop. However, supporting local bookshops is important for both the community and the literary world.

First and foremost, local bookshops provide a sense of community. They bring people together through book clubs, author events, and other literary gatherings. They also serve as a hub for knowledge and information, offering a curated selection of books and knowledgeable staff to help customers find the perfect read.

Furthermore, buying from local bookshops helps to support the local economy. When you shop at a local bookshop, you’re not only supporting the bookshop itself, but also the local authors and publishers whose work is featured on their shelves.

Local bookshop also play a crucial role in supporting literacy and education. They often partner with schools and libraries to provide books and educational resources to children and young adults.

In addition, local bookshops also offer a unique and personal shopping experience. They often have a carefully curated selection of books, and the staff is knowledgeable about their inventory and can make personalized recommendations.

In short, supporting local bookshops helps to foster a love of reading, supports the local economy, and promotes a sense of community. So, next time you’re in the market for a new book, consider visiting your local bookshop.

In the end, it’s clear that local bookshops are vital to the literary and community world. They offer a unique and personal shopping experience, support local authors, and promote literacy and education. So next time you’re looking for a new book, consider visiting your local bookshop. It’s not just about buying books, it’s about supporting a community that values reading and the written word.