Review of Hammers and Homicide by Paula Charles

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Paula Charles' Hammers and Homicide is an engaging cozy mystery with all the right elements to draw in fans of the genre—quirky characters, a small-town setting, and a murder that needs solving. The debut novel in the Carpenter's Corner Mystery series introduces Dawna Carpenter, a sixty-something widow who owns and runs a hardware store in the sleepy town of Pine Bluff, Oregon. When a dead body is discovered in her store's bathroom, Dawna, along with her daughter April, is thrust into an investigation that uncovers secrets and hidden motives in their seemingly quiet town.

Plot: ★★★★☆
The plot moves along at a steady pace, with a clear focus on the investigation that Dawna and April embark on after the shocking discovery of the murder. The setting of the small-town hardware store adds a cozy and familiar vibe, and the slow build-up of suspense keeps the reader engaged. The mystery itself is well-constructed, with clues that lead in several directions, making it a fun and satisfying puzzle to solve. The only downside is that some of the twists felt a bit predictable, but it didn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

Characters: ★★★★☆
Dawna is a delightful protagonist, a strong yet relatable character who is doing her best to navigate life as a widow and a business owner. Her daughter, April, provides a great balance to Dawna’s character, and their relationship is one of the highlights of the story. The supporting characters in Pine Bluff, from quirky town residents to a few potential suspects, add charm and depth to the narrative. While most of the characters are well-developed, I would have liked to see a bit more exploration of Dawna’s past, especially given her pivotal role in the story.

Writing Style: ★★★★☆
Paula Charles’ writing is smooth and easy to read, and she does a great job of bringing the town of Pine Bluff to life. The descriptions of the hardware store and the town’s small businesses give the book a sense of place, making it feel cozy and inviting. The dialogue flows naturally, and Charles does a good job of keeping the pacing tight while still developing the characters and relationships. The writing style is perfect for a cozy mystery—engaging without being too heavy-handed.

Romance: ★★★☆☆
While romance isn’t a major focus of the book, there are subtle hints of a developing relationship between Dawna and a potential love interest. However, the romance plays more of a background role in this first book, which I think was a smart move, allowing the mystery to take center stage. I would be curious to see how this element develops in future books of the series.

Suspense/Thrill: ★★★★☆
The suspense in Hammers and Homicide is just right for a cozy mystery. There’s a nice balance of tension without overwhelming the reader with high stakes. While it’s not a pulse-pounding thriller, the mystery is intriguing and the pace keeps the story moving forward. The reveal of the killer felt satisfying, though not overly dramatic, which is typical of the cozy mystery genre.

Overall: ★★★★☆
Hammers and Homicide is a promising start to the Carpenter's Corner Mystery series. With its charming setting, relatable characters, and an intriguing mystery, it’s a solid read for fans of cozy mysteries. While the plot could use a few more surprises and the romance could be expanded in future books, it’s a fun and engaging read that will leave you wanting more. If you're a fan of small-town mysteries with a heartwarming touch, this is a book you’ll enjoy.

Overall Rating: 4/5
A solid debut that offers a mix of charm, mystery, and a hint of romance. Hammers and Homicide will keep you entertained and eager to see what’s next for Dawna and her family in the quaint town of Pine Bluff.

A great start to a new series! Wonderful characters in an incredible setting. This book will keep you guessing until the end.

I have not stopped thinking about this book since I finished it months ago! I loved the mother/daughter detective duo. Also I loved Dawna’s personality and outlook on the case investigation. She wasn’t so prim and proper like some of the cozy mystery leads are. It was so refreshing that she was older and more established in her life than the standard hallmark movie cookie cutter of a young professional leaving her big city life for a small town.

I genuinely cannot wait for the next in this series! If you’re on the fence about this one go ahead and give it a shot!

Paula Charles’ Hammers and Homicide is a surprisingly wonderful read (or listen), particularly for those who enjoy cozy mysteries. While most cozy mysteries have repetitive themes, Charles’ novel offers a fresh perspective. The protagonist, Dawna, is a widow with grown children, which is not something one would expect from a typical cozy mystery. Dawna’s daughter, April, is also her sidekick, which adds a unique dynamic to the Hometown Hardware Mystery.

One of the book’s most enjoyable aspects is the relationship between Dawna and April. Charles also includes an element of the supernatural, with a ghost cat and Dawna’s deceased husband possibly haunting her home. While this may not appeal to all readers, it is not overly excessive or woo-woo.

However, there is one plot element that is mentioned at the beginning of the book and then dropped by the end, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the story. I am going to be blunt. It felt random and alone could would have been a main plot point on its own. It was a mystery that the author Charles should have resolved. Its resolution could have been better integrated into the plot.

Overall, Hammers and Homicide is an easy, fast, and fun read. The mother-daughter dynamic adds an extra layer of charm. Because the protagonist is a widow who is not interested in dating, that means that the book does not focus on romance, which can become redundant in some cozy mysteries. Romance is more of a subplot with April her daughter, and it’s not over the top or too sappy.

The audiobook, narrated by Petra Burchard, is well-done. And I hope she returns for the second book.

If you are looking for a new cozy mystery to read or listen to as an audiobook, Hammers and Homicide is worth considering. It’s a relatable and enjoyable read that I highly recommend.

The book started off well with the widowed Dawna running the family hardware store. I found the mystery interesting and the characters enjoyable. My main issue was a bank loan and calls from the bank that Dawna ignored. Then they were never discussed again. Why bring up this subplot only to leave readers hanging.

Hello Fellow Readers,

I picked this book because I wanted to settle into a nice cozy mystery, one of my favorite genres, what I didn't expect was the paranormal aspect of it. Dawna is a very likable character (I find myself more inclined to older characters as I age), a recent widow who owns a hardware store, and finds a body in her hardware store bathroom. She suddenly has her hands full. Dawna's characterization was nice but felt sheltered and naive something I wasn't expecting from a protagonist of her age. I also liked April, Dawna's daughter and I am so glad that Dawna had family to help her out. The story was fun and I liked that the author didn't waste time to get started with it. The ending felt a little too easy for me and I am unsure if I enjoyed it or not.

Widow, sexagenarian Dawna Carpenter makes the decision to run her husband’s Hardware store with the help of her daughter April. April has moved back to town to help look after her mother and open a decorating business. When a perhaps less than legitimate land developer is found bludgeoned in her store bathroom with what could be a hammer from her inventory, Dawna and April decide to investigate. Turns out the developer had a long list of enemies with sine right in town over the remodeling of the old theater into a new hotel. With Dawna and April receiving threats they know it’s a matter of time before they uncover the killer or get hammered themselves.

The paranormal aspect was a surprise. I thought it was a little odd, but it worked for the story. I wish there had been more of a storyline in the actual hardware store. I would have loved to hear more about the projects and store itself. I hope the author digs in to this more in future novels. It was a solid cozy mystery. I would read more in the series.

I really enjoyed this book by a new to me author but there was a major plot line that was introduced in the book that wasn't resolved at the end of the book, hence the 3 star review. It was nice to see a woman on her own and not rushed into love story right away, and it was refreshing to read about an older protagonist. The story itself was fun and interesting and I didn't see the ending coming.

Princess Fuzzypants here: Sometimes there are books that take a while to catch hold. The characters do not grab or there seems to be a whole bunch of stuff but nothing really gels. This book started like that. I am glad, however, that I stuck with it. Dawna, in spite of looking like she might be one of those frustrating heroines, got her footing as the book progressed. A widow who thinks the ghost of her husband might be lingering talks to him all the time. Her adult daughter who has returned home thinks the old girl has gone barmy. While there are lots of hints that there might be more than meets the eye, it is not until the end of the story that the reader is enlightened.

In the meantime, two murders are committed on the property of the hardware store Dawna and her late husband ran. And his best friend ends up in jail charged with the first murder because one of his tools is the murder weapon. Neither Dawna nor daughter April believe he is guilty which means someone else must have been the killer. And when the second murder creates doubts of the guilt, the clues are few and far between. The villain finally emerges and threatens the two women, assuming they had figured things out, but it is a surprise to everyone.

So, from an iffy start, it had a strong finish. Four purrs and two paws up.

Hammers and Homicide is the first book of a new cozy mystery series and is a wonderful debut. I loved the main character, Dawna, her daughter April and the town sheriff, J.T. I also enjoyed the setting of Pine Bluff, Oregon and look forward to many more books in the series.

This is a fun cozy mystery for those who like a small town flavor. What is a person supposed to do when someone is murdered in your store? You have to find out who did it. The characters were developed well and are likable.

I was a little surprised at the paranormal aspect of the novel. I did not understand from the summary that it would be included. While this is a good read on its own, there are several hints to more novels in this series.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an honest and independent review.

Dollycas's Thoughts

Dawna Carpenter never thought she would be running her hardware store, Carpenter's Corner without her husband in her sixties. She lost her active husband to a heart attack a few weeks ago and is still adjusting to life as a widow. Her youngest daughter April has moved back to town saying she was "tired of the corporate world, city life, and city men". Dawna believes her siblings decided "she was the best candidate to keep an eye on her nutcase of a mother" but she has taken over Dawna's design and furniture restoration business so that Dawna could work full-time at the hardware store. Dawna never imagined she would find a dead man in the bathroom she shares with the store next door.

The deceased Warren Highcastle had come to Pine Bluff to turn the town's old theater into a fancy new hotel which was a huge blow to the Women's Service Club which wanted to restore the theatre. With Highcastle's death, that option may be viable again but it could also land some members on the suspect list. Dawna and April are worried about the future of the store now that a murder has happened on the premises and that the police have made them close the store as their investigation continues. To hurry that up they decide to try to hammer out the path to the killer themselves. But with the body count on the rise, they know they could be next. Can Dawna and April catch the killer before the killer catches them?

____

In this first Hometown Hardware Mystery, the author introduces a large slate of characters. Dawna Carpenter is a strong mature woman with a huge heart and a lot on her plate. She is mourning her husband who she often thinks is nearby, she talks to him often, and when she gets in trouble he just may be around to help her. I loved the way she talked to him even though her kids thought she was crazy. Dawna uses the phrase "Good Night" like I use the phrase "Good Grief" and she is a bit klutzy like me so I was able to identify with her quickly. She has a great relationship with her daughter April. Their interactions reminded me of those I have with my daughters. Sweet, funny, sometimes trying, and sometimes only things we understand.

We also meet J.T. Dallas, Pine Bluff's chief of police. He's all business when working on a murder but otherwise is fun and caring and may be a good match for April. Darlene Lovelace owns Lipstick and Lace next door to Carpenter's Corner and is Dawna's least favorite person in Pine Bluff. We meet several other residents of the small town throughout the book. They all feel like folks you would meet in any small town, except one of them is a murderer.

Ms. Charles has written a compelling mystery. Our protagonist is still working on her sleuthing skills so all the clues didn't all fall into place for her before the reveal. I did figure it out a little quicker but the showdown was fantastic. "What in the name of Zeus is happening?" I loved the way everything played out.

There was a lot of humor throughout the story. There was an incident in Steam Engine Park that had me laughing out loud and in tears. Described so well, that I pictured it clearly, and then just a few pages later I was giggling again. Karma will get me back, I am sure.

Hammers and Homicide is a delightful start to the Hometown Hardware Mystery Series. I love that the lead character is my age and that the author has surrounded her with genuine true-to-life characters. The paranormal sprinkle was unexpected and appreciated. There is a subplot still open that has me concerned but excited to see what Ms. Charles has in store for her characters next.

Book Review: Hammers and Homicide by Paula Charles

Rating: 4.5 stars

Dawna Carpenter, a recent widow running her own hardware store, faces a new challenge when she discovers a dead man in her shop's bathroom. As the victim's identity unravels and suspicions arise, Dawna and her daughter, April, embark on a thrilling investigation to unveil the truth behind the murder. With a blend of wit, charm, and suspense, "Hammers and Homicide" by Paula Charles introduces readers to a captivating cozy mystery that sets the stage for an exciting new series.

The story unfolds seamlessly, drawing readers into a quaint small-town setting filled with intriguing characters and unexpected twists. Charles skillfully weaves a well-structured plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The dynamic between Dawna and April adds depth to the narrative, making their sleuthing endeavors entertaining.

One of the standout features of this book is its strong character development. Dawna's resilience and April's quick wit make for a compelling duo that readers will root for throughout the story. Additionally, the supporting cast adds layers of complexity and intrigue to the unfolding mystery, creating a rich tapestry of personalities that enhance the overall reading experience.

While the ending may have veered slightly off course and into rolling eye territory, the journey leading up to it is filled with suspenseful moments and cleverly crafted clues. Charles's writing style is engaging and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the town and its inhabitants. The cozy atmosphere she creates is inviting and immersive, making it easy for readers to become invested in the story's outcome.

Overall, "Hammers and Homicide" is a solid debut in the "Hometown Hardware" series that promises more thrilling adventures to come. With a compelling mystery, well-drawn characters, and a touch of small-town charm, this book is sure to delight fans of cozy mysteries. I eagerly anticipate delving into the next installment to see how the unresolved threads from this book unfold.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

An okay start to a new series. The premise of this one sounded interesting and I was hoping for a Jessica Fletcher type heroine given the age of the main character. This one missed the mark a bit on that hope. Dawna is definitely a character and a bit of a different one with the way she expects to see the ghost of her husband multiple times during the story. I wasn’t expecting that element in the story and it threw me a bit and I’m not sure how I feel about it yet. Also there was some random bank trying to call in a loan on her business that Dawna has no knowledge of, and with her husband being dead for 3 years, it seems mighty implausible that a bank would let it go for years without calling it in sooner. The fact that this element is left unresolved in the story which bugged me, even though it’s only mentioned twice in the whole book. It seemed out of place and jarring and completely unnecessary to the story especially since it isn’t resolved. I did like the mystery and most of the characters, so I will give a book 2 a chance and see if maybe it gels a little better than this one. I’ll also be interested to see if this random bank loan plays in to book 2. Maybe that’s supposed to be setting up the next mystery? If so, I think that could have been done better…

This was a fun debut to a new cozy series. I loved the them of the cozy, and I had so much fun trying to solve the mystery with the protagonist. I am excited for the next installment!

This was a great start to a new series. Dawna has taken over running the hardware store after her husband has passed away. A dead body appears in the bathroom of the hardware store. Dawna and her daughter, April, start investigating, fearing the impact the murder could have on business.

I really enjoyed the characters and the setting of the story. The mystery was well done and I didn't guess the culprit until the end. I will definitely be reading more.

🔨Book Review🔨

Title: Hammers & Homicide
Author: Paula Charles
Publication: 1/16/24
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Series: Hometown Hardware Mystery #1
My Rating: Really enjoyed!

In short: Dawna, a recent widow, finds a man murdered in the hardware store she runs.

What I enjoyed:
🛠️Small town Oregon setting
🛠️Older sleuth who is starting over after her husband passed away
🛠️The relationship between mother and daughter. They made a great team & their banter was so realistic

Audiobook:
🎧Narrated by Petrea Burchard - Loves her narration, tone & pacing!

Final thoughts: I really enjoyed this debut cozy mystery! Dawna was a great character and I really enjoyed the banter between her & her daughter and they made a great sleuthing team. The descriptions of the town gave this story a great sense of place and made me feel like I was there. This was a solid debut and set the stage for a great series.

Hammers and Homicide is the first book in a new cozy mystery series. The book features Dawna Carpenter, a widow taking over the running of the hardware store that her husband owned. When the body of a murder victim is found in the store, Dawna and her grown daughter start investigating.

This is a relaxing read with a nice small-town setting in the fictional town of Pine Bluff, Oregon. I had mixed feelings about the main character, so that detracted a bit from how much I liked the book as a whole. I like her daughter, April, though, and the way Dawna and April look out for each other and work together on the case. There is a very small paranormal element in the story, but not enough to be an issue if you don't usually read that type of book. I like how things wrapped up with the case and in the lives of Dawna and April. I think this has the potential to be a fun series. (3.5 stars)

I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.

I was definitely ready for something on the lighter side after finishing The Storm We Made by Vanessa Chan, and Hammers and Homicide proved to be a great choice. Only in a cozy mystery would a book involving a murder be considered light.

What drew me to this book was the older protagonist, Dawna Carpenter, a recent widow who runs her own hardware store. It's just like any other work day for Dawna until she finds a body in the shared bathroom between her store and the boutique next door. The victim turns out to be a land developer who was in town to buy the town's old theater and turn it into a hotel. The victim had made quite a few enemies in the short time he had been there. When a long time friend of Dawna's is arrested for the murder, Dawna doubles her efforts to find out what really happened, not believing her friend could have committed the crime. With the help of her daughter, there's nothing stopping Dawna, even when danger strikes even closer to home.

Dawna isn't the most graceful person, nor is she a good cook, but she is a good neighbor and friend. Her daughter April recently moved back to town to work and keep an eye on her mom. I enjoyed the mother/daughter relationship Dawna and April share, with their gentle ribbing and the way they look out for each other. There's a hint of romance between the sheriff and April, perhaps something to look forward to in future books. I did find the tell for who the killer upon first meeting too obvious, but there were still unexpected moments in the book. Hammers and Homicide was funny and entertaining. There's even a paranormal element I hadn't been expecting!