This book is full of mystery and plot twists Three authors go on a writing retreat held on a small scottish island but nothing is at it seems with the writers or in the castle. The mystery got more complex as the book went on and I enjoyed trying to work it out.

I loved learning more about the main characters and their motivations as the story went on. They are all so different but complement each other nicely. This Scottish island seems to be inhabited by only the most beautiful of men so I'm going to need the specific coordinates immediately!

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
A new book from the Three Ws is always a treat, and I was over the moon when I got approved to read an ARC for The Author’s Guide to Murder. While I did have some minor concerns, like that it seemed to lean on the cozy side of the mystery spectrum, I had faith in the self-anointed Unibrain to pull it off. And “pull it off,” they did.
I’m a sucker for meta books about authors and writing, and this one is that to a bonkers degree. I had to chuckle at the Deanna Raybourn name-drop in a situation that I half-wondered was inspired by something that actually happened to the spoofs of publishing house names.
But having picked up each of their collaborations, and having also read some or all of Willig, White, and Williams’ respective individual works, I also loved the playful jabbing at both certain aspects of their author personas through the central characters, making this almost transparent who wrote who ( I say almost, because while certain Easter eggs suggest one thing, I know they’ll likely never confirm it for sure). The story also pokes fun at their collaboration as a whole, playing against the idea that they were set up by their editor, and riffing on one of their early, more ridiculous ideas. While I can’t say whether someone who doesn’t know these authors that well, and is just going in cold will enjoy this aspect quite as much, it’s an absolute treat for those who’ve been with them at least since they began writing together, as I have.
But that’s not to say that the satire is all there is in the book, although there’s a heavy dose of it. The “why” behind bringing the three central characters, Kat, Emma, and Cassie, together, is a compelling one that comes to light throughout the book. It’s clear that they’re not the “best friends” they claim to be, although kinship does develop between them to the point that this changes. They’re not always the most likable; they’re flawed and rather messy. But I couldn’t help but find them endearing, and it grew more so once I discovered their (and their editor’s) respective dark histories with the murder victim.
Speaking of which, I do think anyone going in specifically for the mystery might be let down. There is a mystery element, yes, and I did like the initial choice to juxtapose the early “pre-murder” scenes with transcripts between the detective inspector working the case and each of the women as he questioned them to set the tone, while the story simultaneously unfolded, depicting the events leading up to the murder. This part is a little slower, but no less entertaining, due to the compelling characters. The intrigue somewhat picks up in part two, post-murder, but while the authors are involved in the investigation, it takes a backseat to the personal developments, with the revelation of the murderer not even being all that shocking. This is why I say that the satirical elements and really being familiar with the authors is what carried it for me, and I don’t know if the publisher is selling it quite as well on those merits.
This was such a fun read, and a potential contender for one of my favorites of the year. With the caveat that it’s a more meta satire of the author community with a mystery twist than the promised “locked-room mystery,” I’d recommend checking it out if you go in with the right expectations, especially if you’re a fan of some or all of the authors’ prior works.

Thank you Beatriz Williams ( @authorbeatriz ), Lauren Willig ( @laurenwillig ), Karen White ( @karenwhitewrite ), William Morrow ( @williammorrowbooks ) , and NetGalley ( @netgalley ) for allowing me to read The Author’s Guide to Murder early (publishes November 5, 2024).

Three authors from different genres team up at a writing retreat in Scotland to research a new novel. The mysterious host winds up murdered and it’s up to these authors to find the murderer or end up in jail themselves. Along the way, will they uncover a centuries old mystery?

I was hooked on the three very different main characters, romance and strife, and the multiple mysteries within the book. I especially enjoyed to friendship between the three authors. It is such a good book, and I found it hard to put down!

#TheAuthorsGuidetoMurder #NetGalley #BeatrizWilliams #LaurenWillig #KarenWhite #WilliamMorrow

Literary Cozy-ish Mystery Satire set in Scotland about three American novelists who're collaborating on a novel find their research trip interrupted after the host, a male writer, is murdered.

4/5 stars: This is a Williams, Willig & White's Maggie Walker series, which is Literary Cozy-ish Mystery Satire that takes place at Scotland and follows a three American novelists: Kat – a slinky, sexy erotica writer; Cassie – a Southern mom of six juggling multiple cozy mystery series and Emma – a New England blue blood and author of critically acclaimed historical fiction. The trio, who're writing a book about the castle’s lurid past and the unsolved murder of an infamous debauched laird, soon find their research trip interrupted after their host, a literary superstar male writer, is found dead – under bizarre circumstances. Putting the three woman square in the sights of the DCI investigating the crime. Watch out for the twists and turns, Williams, Willig & White has deftly crafted a mystery that balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering until the final reveal. These three worked masterfully together to weave together a great whodunit. With biting humor and just a sprinkle of romance, Williams, Willig & White's writing and character work are excellent; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable. Kat, Cassie and Emma are great, I love seeing their friendships grow and each of them getting their HEAs and Happily Under the Circumstances with their handsome Scottish beaus... and in Cassie's case her Southern gentlemen of a husband. Overall, an incredibly crafty locked-room mystery that's a pointed satire about the literary world and I very much enjoyed.

I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.

DNF at 20%. I am so disappointed. I’m a huge fan of all three of these authors so I was super excited to get my hands on this book. But this is full of so much sexual innuendo and crass talk that I am not going to continue reading. I’m not interested in this content and can’t recommend it to my followers in good conscience.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review an advanced copy of this novel. I highly enjoyed it and will be recommending it.

The Author’s Guide to Murder excels in its portrayal of the characters and their intricate relationships. The dynamic between the three authors is both engaging and complex, adding depth to the narrative. The setting of Castle Kinloch, with its gothic architecture and remote location, enhances the eerie and suspenseful atmosphere, making it a perfect backdrop for a murder mystery.

However, while the characters are intriguing, they sometimes come across as a bit two-dimensional. This slight lack of depth can make it challenging to fully connect with them on a deeper level. Despite this, the unfolding mystery and the interplay between the characters keep the reader engaged and invested in the story.

Overall, The Authors Guide to Murder is an enjoyable read for fans of cozy mystery, though I would recommend checking trigger warnings as it does touch on some heavy topics.


(I will post my review on social media the week of release)

This was a super fun mix of mystery, drama, and a little romance. The whole murder-at-a-castle thing? Total vibes. It’s set in Scotland (yes, please!) and features three American authors who are basically thrown into this crazy murder mystery. Each of them has their own secrets, and it’s kinda hilarious watching them try to figure things out while looking totally suspicious.

The writing is witty, and there’s some clever humor sprinkled in, especially with the detective interviews. The characters might be a bit much at first, but they definitely grow on you, and the setting just makes everything feel so atmospheric. Plus, there’s a pet sheep, and who doesn’t love a pet sheep in a mystery?!

It’s not, like, a hardcore twisty mystery or anything, but it’s totally entertaining and makes for a light, cozy read. Oh, and the romance? Kinda cheesy but fun in a “why not?” way. Overall, I had a good time reading this one—perfect for a lazy afternoon! If you’re into Scotland, writer drama, and a bit of mystery, this is sooo your next read!

Thank you sooo much, NetGalley, for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!

This was the story of three female writers of different genres (and very different personalities) who go to Scotland supposedly to collaborate on a book together. It’s told from alternating perspectives as we go through the book in which a murder has been committed. Some of the story is the police interview with each of these three writers, who are also suspects. The murder victim is the famous male author, Brett Saffron Presley (BSP) who is renting the castle and responsible for the writers’ retreat they are attending. BSP was not what he appeared to be. What was it about him that made someone want to murder him? We get some answers through the police interrogations and also through chapters from the perspective of Emma, Cassie and Kat (the collaborative authors). As we go through the book, we learn more about each of them and if or how they were acquainted with BSP. Do they have a motive for murder? Could any of them be the murderer?
Having read a book by Lauren Willig, one of the real authors of this story, I was anxious to read it. It was quite different than I had imagined. It’s definitely farcical, with some characters being quite over the top. I had a difficult time getting into the book, as it seemed to meander a lot in the beginning. The story became more cohesive further into the book and you also got better acquainted with the characters. I expected some comedy, but this was not a book rooted in reality. If you can accept the premise and go along for the ride, it’s a light and sometimes entertaining read.
#theauthorsguidetomurder #netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Morrow for the chance to read an advance copy.

Review: The Author's Guide to Murder by Beatriz Williams, Lauren Willig, and Karen White

The Author's Guide to Murder marks the fifth collaboration between the dynamic trio of Beatriz Williams, Lauren Willig, and Karen White, and it’s clear that they are having an absolute blast working together. Their latest cozy mystery feels like an inside joke shared with the reader, blending a lighthearted atmosphere with a tongue-in-cheek narrative style that keeps you smiling throughout.

The plot is delightfully self-aware, almost breaking the fourth wall as it taps into the quirks and charms of the mystery-writing world. The “insider” moments—like a meet up at Bouchercon, which mystery lovers will recognize as a real-life convention for crime writers and fans—are a special treat. Having attended a couple of Bouchercons myself, it was a thrill to see these references woven into the story, making it feel all the more personal and immersive.

Set against the backdrop of a charming Scottish village, the setting is like the cherry on top, adding to the novel’s cozy and atmospheric appeal. There's something about the misty Scottish highlands that perfectly complements a good murder mystery. It’s an ideal setting for readers who enjoy a mix of charm, wit, and a dash of satire.

For fans of cozy mysteries, this book delivers the perfect blend of humor, insider knowledge, and suspense. If you’re looking for a fun, satirical read with a strong sense of place and character, The Author's Guide to Murder is a delightful choice.

Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing an ARC of this novel. All opinions are my own.

I have read every single book from this trio, and for that reason I finished this book. For whatever reason I just could not get into this book at all. I'm not sure if it had to do with the way some of the characters spoke, or if it just wasn't for me.

The book follows three authors (Emma, Kat and Sandy) who have embarked on a journey to a foreign land to write a book together, or so they say. The group was sent by their agent, Rachelle, to work together and create a book involving the possible solving of a decades old mystery and murder. While the ladies are researching and investigating there happens to be another murder on the island, and the girls may need to solve this one too since they have now become murder suspects themselves.

Unfortunately, this book just wasn’t for me. When I read the synopsis for it on NetGalley, I thought it sounded like a fun, lighthearted mystery since it was listed as humor/satire. However, I didn’t realize how much sexual humor, innuendos, and other references it was going to be chock full of, and that really isn’t my kind of story or humor. I appreciate the opportunity to give this book a try, but I ultimately decided to DNF’d it.

DEFINITE recommend
4.0 stars

I really wanted to love this book, but I couldn't do it. I liked, rather than loved this book. It was overly long and needed some strong editing.

The police interrogations at the beginning of each chapter at the start of the book were the best part! The interrogations were hysterical!

Unfortunately, the book moves very slowly until the last 25% or so and then becomes fast-paced and so much fun! The ending was perfection! I wish the last 25% could have been all of this book!

Published/posted dates with links
• Goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6382361209; posted 10/11/2024
• Books by Dorothea - https://booksbydorothea.blogspot.com/2024/10/review-authors-guide-to-murder-ebook.html; posted 10/11/2024

I read this book early release on NetGalley, and I love it. It took a little bit to get really into the book and story line, but after I got into it I loved it and couldn’t stop! If you are looking for murder, drama, crazy ride with some girlfriends, love stories this book is for you!
Be sure to look for this book on shelves next month November 5th!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The first thing to remember about this book, and to keep in mind the whole way through, is that it's satire. It's supposed to be ridiculous. The characters are supposed to be insufferable, it's all supposed to make you laugh with disbelief, and maybe even roll your eyes a little. Once I got that straight in my head, I loved this one! Remember that Netflix show a few years ago? The Woman in the House Across the Street From the Girl in the Window? If you liked that at all, you'll like this book.

The Author's Guide to Murder is a mystery novel written by three authors about three authors trying to write a mystery novel together. Unfortunately, the writer's retreat they've chosen to work together at is the scene of a murder and they're all going to be suspects.

I want to say this one is for fans of the mystery genre who also like to laugh, but I think that, even more than that, this one is for fans of writing and the bookish life, if that makes sense. There are so many tongue-in-cheek jokes that bookworms will appreciate, I think. Especially bookworms who enjoy a little #booktok drama every now and then.

I've read other books by the individual authors of The Author's Guide to Murder, but never one of their collaborations. After reading this, I'm planning to go back and check out their other works together.

I love the three W's collaborations and as an avid mystery fan, this seemed right up my alley. However, it just didn't work for me. Perhaps it was the wrong time for it. We have three female authors off to a writing retreat on a Scottish island owned by a mysterious and famous author. Each author had the voice of one of the actual authors and they wrote a variety of genres. It was definitely a parody of the genre and showed insight into the publishing world. I enjoyed how they slowly unpeeled each layer of the story along the way. I just think it was too over the top with some of the humor that hampered my reading. I loved the setting though and the variety of backgrounds of the three authors. I look forward to reading their individual work and their next collaboration in due time!

Book Review: The Author's Guide to Murder
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)

I had the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy of The Author's Guide to Murder by Beatriz Williams, Lauren Willig, and Karen White, thanks to Netgalley. While I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and character development, I’m giving it 4 stars because there were parts that felt unnecessarily long, which slowed the pacing at times. However, I must commend the authors for their seamless collaboration—had I not known, I wouldn’t have realized multiple people had written it. The narrative felt cohesive, and the unique blend of suspense and humor kept me engaged.

The setting was rich and vivid, giving off a cozy yet intriguing atmosphere, which made me want to find an excuse to travel to a foreign country to write! If you enjoy mysteries with sharp wit, an engaging plot, and compelling characters, I recommend giving this a read. It’s a delightful escape, and fans of these authors will not be disappointed.

#ARC #Netgalley #ScotlandFiction #authorswhoread

The Author's Guide to Murder offers a fun look into being a writer and the obsession with true crime. Three writers (probably based on the authors themselves) team up to write a book about an unsolved murder at a Scottish castle. What they really hope to do is to solve the murder themselves. They attend a writers' retreat in the castle, sponsored by a male author who neglects to make an appearance. Cassie is a mom of six kids, unsure she should even be there. Emma is the historian of the trio. Kat is a sex-pert in thigh high stiletto boots. The novel flits between the three writers being interviewed by police about a current murder, then goes back to before the murder. The prose tends to be a bit cliche - BFFs and bestie are bandied about - A LOT. Sometimes the prose forces a "we're hip and in the know cuz we're authors" vibe. Overall the book is a fun, light-hearted read.

I've been a fan of Beatriz Williams's books for a few years now, and I've read all but one of the books by Team W. This book is a little different from their others, but from the moment I saw the cover and book description on social media, I started ticking off the days until it came out. (Thank you, William Morrow, for the ARC!)

I loved the book, and not just because I'm already a fan of this writing team. The Author's Guide to Murder is a satirical peek at three mystery writers who come together to write one mystery (at the suggestion of their publisher), and as someone who's spent some time in the mystery world, I couldn't help laughing at the tropes and the stereotypes (some of which are perpetuated within the mystery-writing community). By the 10% mark, I knew this was a book I wouldn't want to end, so I tried to slow my reading pace, but if you're reading this, then you're a reader too, and you know that doesn't work.

It's clear upon reading this that the authors had a lot of fun with this one. Feminism, friendship, dark secrets, Scotland, romance, and a mystery--there wasn't a lot left on the table. And about that ending, the mystery reader in me has to say: I knew it!

I can tell the 3 authors had fun writing this crazy mystery set in an old Scottish castle. There is a little bit of everything in this story, mystery, romance, secrets, a dead body, a daring rescue. Some quirky characters and witty conversations in this book written by the three authors who call themselves Team W.