She's done it again! Fiona Leitch has tickled my tastebuds and got me hungry for book 3 in the Nosey Parker series.
Deliciously delightful, book 2, A Brush with Death, is a joy to read as we return to Penstowan in Cornwall and reacquaint ourselves with Jodie and her hilarious shenanigans, serving the community during Arts Festival week, and the finale which ISN'T a fete, it is a GALA, as she makes delectable delicacies in the form of saffron buns and a Stovall painting inspired lemon cake.
Not content with her 70s retro buffet and cake baking Jodie teams up with DCI Nathan Winters to solve the latest cozy crime to hit the Cornish village. Added to her culinary capers and detective dabbling, this time around Jodie appears to be battling her hormones with three, yes three, love interests, and I surrendered myself willingly to the funny internal dialogue she has every time she is with best mate Tony Penhaligon, DCI Withers (and his abs) and Duncan Stovall, the artist renting Lowenna Cottage on the cliffs with wife Genevieve Lorre.
Of course nothing is particularly straightforward and death will taint the Arts Festival week ensuring the crime duo Nathan and Jodie will be busy in action, solving the mystery and bringing the deadly no-gooder to justice.
Featuring favourites Jodie's Mum, Daisy, Callum and Debbie, and Germaine the dog, there is less mention of the Gimp-mobile and her father's police past, but just as much merriment, mystery and marvellous moments to make you smile, laugh out loud and race along to the end.
This is now a series I am committed to with a passion, so that every time I hear of a new book, I will not bother to read what it is about, I will buy it!
I can recommend this series if you love a lighter, brighter read with humorous dialogue, charming characters and a healthy side dish of romance.
The Nosey Parker series is definitely all I need on my reading menu as Starter, Main Course and Dessert!

I read the first book “Murder on the Menu” and was excited to read this second book. The murder and situation surrounding it was quite clever. I enjoy visiting Cornwall and the descriptions of the sea.
What brought the story down to 3 stars was Jodie’s preoccupation with men and falling for an unavailable married man. I grew weary of the mental gymnastics involved with the will or she won’t she succumb to Duncan and ooh Nathan is so good looking and then missing all the signals that Tony is interested in more than friendship.
Sometimes the first book is iffy and you give the second book a shot to see if it gets better. This time I thought the first book was great and the second was so-so.
I do appreciate the opportunity to review this book prior to publication.

With her first job and a body discovered what could possibly go wrong with helping out at the village festival??
Possibly another body found at the bottom of the cliff that's all lol. This book built a bit slower than the first but was still very enjoyable.

If you are after a nice cosy easy to read murder mystery this is the series for you.

Can't wait for book 3.

While I found the story to be pleasant enough, I wasn’t able to be entertained as I’d hoped.
I’m sure this is a series that other fans enjoy, it just wasn’t for me.

I thought this started out slow. I enjoyed it, although I would like less on Jodie's personal life it turned out to be relevant to the story. #A Brush with Death #NetGalley

Thank you NetGalley for the advanced reader copy of A Brush with Death by Fiona Leitch in exchange for an honest review. Jodie (Nosey) Parker is participating in the Penstowan Fete/Gala. The staff have been canceling work so Jodie has to stuff herself into a work dress that is smaller than she'd normally wear and help her mum waitress the party. The whole village turns out to help the Mayor honor a famous artist. During the Gala, a man goes over a cliff. With help from her friends, Jodie tries to solve who killed the man. This was a great story. To have the story take place in Cornwall was so interesting. I really enjoyed this book. I will have to look online to see what Cornwall looks like. Thanks for the fantastic read.

So first of all I need to say that I galloped through this book and loved it. But it is perfectly ridiculous. I had to suspend my disbelief for the whole time I was reading (something I was quite happy to do) in order to take it even slightly seriously.

The murder mystery plot was sprinkled over a fluffy romance and I don't think the two elements really went together. I'm not sure what to make of the main character Jodie, a former CID officer with the Met who has returned to her Cornish roots. I can't believe in her previous career and she seems to spend no time earning her living at her new one (catering), being too busy interfering in the work of the local police.

But the thing is, having said all this, I've enjoyed this book and its predecessor and I'm eagerly awaiting the next one. So Fiona Leitch clearly knows what she's doing.

Jodie (Nosey) Parker has recently moved back to her hometown of Penstowan, from London after leaving the force. Nosey by nature, outspoken Jodie involves herself (some might say meddles) in the comings and going’s of the town and as a result lands herself in a second investigation in this latest instalment.

The summer season is upon the people of Penstowan and the town is heaving with locals and holidaymakers. The heat is on for Jodie who is busy catering various events throughout week-long Penstowan’s Art Festival. It’s not only her food that’s making waves. When an artist visits the festival to create a painting of the idyllic Cornish coast, he forms an unlikely friendship with Jodie that’s bound to set tongues wagging. The festival is somewhat overshadowed by a murder of an author, which Jodie finds herself in the middle of. With her heart and head telling her different things, can Jodie help to solve the deepening mystery, and uncover the mastermind behind the crime? Twists and turns, followed by corruption and the shady world of art, Jodie and DCI Withers certainly have a lot on their hands.

I really enjoyed reading this, it was such a comforting and cozy read. It was a little slow to begin with but as I haven’t read the first instalment (yet), I could appreciate taking the time to get to know the different characters. I instantly loved Jodie, her family and her group of friends. The book itself showed off the stunning Cornish coastline, and anyone who has visited or been part of a village festival (or rather fete) can relate to the goings on, whether that’s enjoying a cream tea or a pint of scrumpy.
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK and One More Chapter for letting me read this ebook.

The is the second book in the series, I must admit that I hadn't read the first so have missed some of the back story although this didn't affect my enjoyment too much.
This is the true definition of a Cozy mystery : a lovely location in my favourite part of the world, Cornwall. A suspicious death, an author who had appeared at a local arts festival. Romantic interests in a famous artist, a DCI and an old friend - who, if any, does Jodie have an interest in? There are twists and turns in the plot and humour to soften the story. Overall I enjoyed this story and I really must go and read the first book in the series plus am looking forward to the next one.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

Another wonderful murder mystery from Fiona Leitch. I loved the first Nosey Parker novel and this one had a lot to live up to, I'm pleased to say it did not disappoint. Between solving crime and getting tangled up in her very complicated love life, this book had me unable to put it down. The characters are loveable and I can't get enough of them. Can not wait for the next installment.

This is the 2nd installment in the Nosey Parker mystery series. Jodie (aka Nosey) Parker has been back in her hometown of Penstowan Cornwall and she is ready to enjoy the upcoming summer Arts Festival. Jodie is getting her catering business off the ground and is hoping catering the opening night hor d'oeuvres is a hit. The night is in honor of artist Duncan Stoval and his wife Genevieve who in the early 90’s painted the Penstowan pictures which was a series of landscapes that became famous. Jodie’s waitstaff does not show so she has to get into one of the outfits which she hates and is spoken rudely to by the famous artist as he wants a whiskey but he does apologize and Jodie and Duncan become fast friends. The mayor announces that Duncan will be painting a picture this week for auction and it is clear that Duncan knows nothing about it and is mad. Also the cottage he and his wife is staying at will be open to the public to watch him paint. The next day Jodie shows up at the festival the next day and is hoping to see Duncan but he is a no show for his wife’s talk. Jodie is there and the first speaker is a terrible writer who Jodie takes down a bit in his Q&A. He later comes back and makes a disturbance during Gen’s talk and is taken out by the bodyguard of the art gallery owner who is in town with Duncan and Gen. Jodie decides to take her dog on a walk and check in on Duncan and ends up taking a walk with him on the cliffs and it ends with a kiss. Jodie leaves confused because Duncan is a married man albeit very unhappily but Jodie is clearly drawn to him. That night it is learned that someone has fallen off the cliff and she rushes out of the tent and races up to the cliff to see if it is Duncan. She is relieved that Duncan is safe but the writer who she saw heading up to the cottage when she was leaving earlier is the one dead at the bottom of the cliffs. Duncan claims to have heard him and tried to help. Nathan (DCI Withers) think Duncan is a prime suspect and everyone is noticing Jodie and Duncan and warn her she is married. Jodie helps Nathan inestigate and does ask Duncan some hard questions. I have to admit I like Jodie but she has three men that are interested in her and all are pretty nice guys. This was a good solid mystery and I like Jodie and Nathan as well as Tony. Wonder how it will all work out. Looking forward to the next in the series. Recommend.

Village Festival Fatality....
The second in a series of cosy mysteries featuring Jodie Parker (Nosey). Our protagonist has recently left the Metropolitan Police and returned to her Cornish hometown, along with daughter Daisy, and an ambition of starting a catering company. Unbeknown to her, life will be nothing like the relaxing and quietly content picture she envisioned. The village festival is in full swing and it’s a given that it will be unlikely to go without a hitch. Sure enough a body is soon discovered, this time at the bottom of a cliff, and Jodie’s sleuthing instincts kick in. Enjoyable fun read with a likeable protagonist and a colourful cast of supporting characters. A fitting addition to this new series.

I read the first book, so had to read the second and it was great. I have started to really enjoy the series. Loved all the supporting characters too.

A week long festival planned to bring tourists to Penstowan also brought passion, greed, deception and murder. That is how former police officer Jodie Parker once again finds herself using her skills to try and track down a killer. In the process she also ends up involved with a possible suspect.

There is something about this series that draws me in and I find myself wondering what is going to happen even when I am not reading the story. The protagonist seems real and her struggle to get settled again in her home town after a bad divorce feels credible. Thanks to One More Chapter and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.

I loved Murder on the Menu, Jodie’s first outing, and was delighted to be able to meet up with her again - would the second book be as good as the first? Absolutely! Everything that I loved in Murder on the Menu is here again - the gorgeous Cornish setting, the feisty and funny heroine, a dead body and some very fizzy romantic chemistry. The book does not require the reader to have read the first book, but you wouldn’t want to miss out on any of Jodie’s adventures. This time Jodie, an ex police woman, is catering for the village festival which sees an influx of visitors including a rather attractive new love interest. Of course there’s a body...and of course Jodie cannot resist a little sleuthing. This is such a gorgeous series. I really enjoy reading these books. The characters are brilliantly drawn, Jodie in particular. There’s the lovely feel of being in Cornwall, watching the sunshine twinkle on the water and smelling the delicious aromas of Jodie’s cooking. The characters feel friends who you want to catch up with on a regular basis and gosh I really need to know which chap Jodie is going to choose! With thanks to Netgalley and One More Chapter for a lovely read.

A Brush With Death sees a return to the seaside village of Penstowan with the second book in the Nosey Parker series as she once again helps the local DCI try and crack another case. This book focuses on the village’s festival and whilst a pleasant enough read, I just didn’t find it as captivating as the first novel. I would rate this book 3.5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley, One More Chapter and the author for the chance to review.

Loved this second instalment of the Nosey Parker series, particularly Jodie's inner monologue and her relationship with the supporting characters. The mystery was intriguing and well explained, with lots of enjoyable twists and turns. Highly recommended and looking forward to book 3!

After reading the first book in the series, I was happy to request a copy of this. Although still enjoyable, the emphasis seemed heavily oriented to Jodie’s love life and her liaisons with several men in the village. The way the DCI shared data from the investigation with Jodie seemed quite reckless, especially given that Jodie had developed a romantic relationship with one of the main suspects.
If you like your cosys to be more about romance and less on crime solving, you will enjoy.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy. I give it 3.5.

I loved this book, it’s funny, well written and has great characters. The main character has an ‘interesting’ love life; she’s the Cornish Stephanie Plum. (By the way, I’m rooting for Nathan). Great little details about Cornwall and a brilliant recipe at the end. As warming as a hot chocolate and a blanket on a cold day.

Jodie ‘Nosey’ Parker may have only been back in her Cornish home town of Penstowan for a few months but her inquisitive,meddling nature has already led her to a second investigation, on this occasion drawing her into the art world and some decidedly shady business dealings. Prepare to encounter murder alongside mushroom vol au vents as Jodie delights fans of this new cosy mystery series with her ability to sniff out dubious characters involved in dodgy shenanigans all within a five mile radius! Any whiff of a scandal and Jodie’s copper instincts kick in! One of the best things about Fiona Leitch’s latest fictional creation is there’s no stomach churning content or a single drop of bloodshed to put you off your dinner! Snuggle up,set aside some snacks to aid your super sleuthing skills and enjoy!

It’s festival time in Penstowan and whilst Jodie may be busy catering for the event she’s still got time to notice the dashing Duncan Stovall, much acclaimed artist of the Penstowan paintings that depict this idyllic Cornish landscape. Taking up temporary residence in Lowenna cottage with glamorous wife Genevieve Lorre, they are both feted as minor celebrities; she is in town to give a book talk alongside journalist turned author Robert Holmes whilst her husband attracts tourists and townsfolk alike to his open house who are keen to catch a glimpse of the artist at work. Add in the presence of Genevieve and Robert’s agent Laura Fulstrop and gallery owner Charles Harper and you have the all the characters necessary to begin this lighthearted, gentle mystery. All that’s required is a dead body and when Robert is found dead at the bottom of the cliffs near Lowenna cottage the finger of blame points straight at Duncan Stovall. Jodie’s heart (and nose!) tell her to consider other possibilities as she joins DI Nathan Withers in the search for the truth. Who else could be in the ‘frame’ for this murder?? Will it take more than a ‘stroke’ of luck to prevent further foul play?

As this latest investigation gathers pace taking the DI and his most willing civilian sidekick around the Cornish coastline I was impressed and surprised by the complexity of the crime in question. Leading the pair deeper into the depths of the art underworld, this mystery sheds light on Duncan and Genevieve’s marriage as well as those within their inner circle ultimately exposing the reasons for Robert’s demise.

Love is definitely in the sea air for our ex copper turned caterer, smitten with the charming and roguish Duncan, yet you can’t help feeling childhood friend Tony Penhaligon or DI Withers would be more suitable matches. Still love is blind and whilst there’s romantic rumblings between the DI it’s too soon to tell whether Jodie will choose to take their relationship beyond the realms of their professional one. For now this officer and a gentleman seems happy to let Jodie assist in any investigation, unperturbed by her presence or tendency to wheedle her way into matters that should only concern the local constabulary. Suffice to say they make a formidable duo! With Tony waiting in the wings he could be the dark horse in the competition for Jodie’s affections but only time will tell and I can’t wait to discover how these relationships will develop. Really that’s the appeal of cozy mysteries; the ability to reunite with familiar, amiable characters whose lives are a source of entertainment and laughter is what keeps the reader coming back for more just as much as any desire to solve the crime. Sunny dispositions, quirky personalities and loyal friendships, endear you to these characters so you feel inclined to follow their lives with interest and with a mixture of mild saucy innuendo, sand and sea air what’s not to love? Although daughter Daisy, mum Shirley and friends Debbie and Tony take a backseat I hope in time the author treats us to more than a glimpse of these supporting characters.

I knew I was going to love this series the minute I clapped eyes upon the enticing covers. This cozy mystery series is comfort reading at its finest; as a child my go to reads were anything by Enid Blyton, especially Malory Towers, St Clare’s and the Secret Seven and I predict I will feel the same way about this series as it develops since the pick me up powers of this author’s writing are second to none. If you think of your favourite indulgent treat then this series is the literary equivalent. With characters you care about and criminal capers that won’t give you nightmares set amid a location that is picture postcard perfect Fiona Leitch has found the winning combination.I just hope the author is a fast writer as I’ll need another fix of Cornish crime very soon! My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read.