Death Stalks Kettle Street

Just from the title of this novel....Death Stalks Kettle Street, I knew I was in for a fresh murder, mystery treat. John Bowen has written a fab novel that you will not want to put down. Greg is a treasure trove full of endearing and at times heartbreaking emotions, we see him battling every single day, living with severe OCD as he pushes himself to overcome the smallest task, most of us take for granted. Beth is just as lovely, an aspiring writer, who lives with Celebral Palsy, totally opposite to Greg , also misunderstood by sociaty, but they join forces when people are suddenly dying on their street, the police deem them as just accidents, but Greg and Beth are sure there is a killer at work, the only problem being no one believes them and their concerns are dismissed,.I just loved this novel, it brings two very sensitive subject matters into the open, opens our eyes to the struggle endured, but at the same time shows the strenght and depth of our 2 protagonists, they are a wonderful combination, supported by such lively characters, this is a true murder, mystery, it will keep you quessing as to who the killer is, I was routing for Greg and Beth as the killer got ever closer, holding my breath with a couple of red herrings, until finally, the moment was revealed in a true , well I never saw that one coming syle!!.. A must read.

When is an accident no accident?
That's the premise of this wonderful book and the same can be said of the book itself. This book is written in a beautifully naturalistic style, like it has emerge organically from Bowen's pen (or typewriter or whatever) but its beauty and skill is no accident.
It's a mystery that works on many levels and Bowen doesn't hide the fact that it's telling us something beyond the surface story. The narrative is, as the book tells us up front, a cozy mystery but one of it's key investigators, Beth, is also attending a writing course on how to write it, yep, a cozy mystery novel. Bowen openly peels back the layers of his own story and does it without making the book seem trite or obvious.
So, who is committing the horrible murders in Kettle Street?
Is it the dangerous ex-con who's just moved into the street? (I thought it was him)
Is it the unorthodox therapist hired to help our other detective, Greg? (I thought it was him too)
Is it the embittered author come to the end of his murder thriller writing career? (Yeah, I thought it was him)
Is it the nosey neighbourhood watch guy? (... him too)
The story just keeps us guessing in a plausible way, leading us inescapably to the book's delicious conclusion.

First off, let me say that while attending college I worked in a mystery-only bookstore for several years, and chances are that I've read more mysteries that you've had hot lunches. Not bragging at all, but I am literally an obsessive reader, and the reason I rarely write reviews is because the moment I finish one book I pick up another, immediately. It is a compulsion not unlike the main character's OCD in this novel. In a pinch I'll read all that stuff on the bottle of Dr Bronner's peppermint soap!

Another confession. I *HATE* "cozy mysteries!" HATE them! Quaint villages (UK or US) and their eccentrics, bloodless, genteel murders at the village fete , even frigging cats and dogs as co-detectives. BLECHHH! I even had a sort of private, sneering catch-all title for them, "Lord Tippy and The Mystery Of Who Gives A **** What Happened At The Vicarage?!" (Please realize that doesn't mean I think you're wrong for liking them, if you do, just that it's a genre that never appealed to me personally. I like psychological thrillers, which have their own genre conventions and repetitive storylines, so while different are really no better. Particular favorites, Stuart MacBride, Val McDermid, John Sandford...)

BUt after reading Mr Bowen's "horror" novel, which I also loved, I thought this guy isn't going to quaint me to death" so I'll give it a try, and I'm glad I did! In Death Stalks Kettle Street, John Bowen has in some ways married the best of both genres, cozy and psychological thriller. The keen psychological insights of one, with the limited suspects and (relatively) non gory murders, and puzzle basis of the other.

Reading as I do, at the rate that I do, much of the time I'm just looking for something to fuel my addiction, mind candy fiction is fine usually, but (as with most mystery readers, I suspect) I'm always on the lookout for books that "transcend the genre," bring something new to it or say something larger. I feel that Mr Bowen has done this with his sensitive portrayal of his two main characters, both "handicapped" in the world's eyes, but stronger for fighting against their limitations and to be seen for their own strengths and qualities. By entension, the same truths about them can be said of most of us.

Another interesting feature is that one of the characters is taking a night class on writing a fiction novel, which acts as a commentary ON fiction, while you're reading fiction, a meta-analysis of how it works, including the book in your hand,

Firstly, this is a classic, brilliantly paced whodunnit. Excellent character development and interactions, and real-life settings that any Brit could relate to. Oh yeah, and it really keeps you guessing!

But more than that, the author tackles issues that most writers would steer well clear of, and should be commended for it. The two main protagonists each have their own challenges, one mental, the other more physical. Bowen approaches them with brutal honesty in a way that anyone who is either afflicted with the issues themselves or knows someone who is, will find themselves empathizing with both while at the same time crying and cringing with equal measures of smiles and sympathy.

'Death Stalks Kettle Street' is an intriguing, in-depth look at both the potentially debilitating effects of OCD and cerebral palsy, and the daily struggles and stigmas attached to them, all wonderfully interwoven around a gripping and believable tale.

For those interested in or suffering from either of those afflictions, or anyone who loves a good murder mystery, then take an eye-opening journey down Kettle Street, a place we can all relate to on many levels.

This was a twisty little read, and I enjoyed it very much. Having had bouts with OCD in the past, but not so much any more (thankfully), I found this to be an interesting base for the story, and one I could personally connect with. So...
There were a couple parts that went bit wordy, but the overall is that it is a fine book, with good descriptions and characters, and some nice tongue-in-cheek dry humor. A nice writing style, to be sure.

If you are a sucker for a great 'who dunnit' that keeps you guessing right until the end then this is definitely one for you -BUT this book is so much more than that!!

It is beautifully written and has the most wonderful lead characters; the delightfully endearing Greg faces numerous personal battles - his heartbreaking backstory being revealed as we go through the book - and Beth, a new friend to Greg who has challenges of her own to contend with. These leading roles are supported by a fabulous cast of other characters, not all of whom live to the end of the book.

Can Greg overcome the fears to save the day? Does the day need saving? Is anyone who or what they seem to be?

Fasten up and enjoy this character rich roller coaster ride - I definitely did, what a great escape from reality!! 5 big fat quirky stars from me :)

I finished this book a few days ago and needed a little time to gather my thoughts. My conclusion - this book gets #allthestars from me, I absolutely loved it!

An interesting take on the classic whodunnit story; somebody is striking down the residents of Kettle Street whilst making them look like tragic accidents. Greg (OCD sufferer extraordinaire) is being sent cryptic clues as to who the next victim will be but is oblivious. Beth (who has cerebal palsy) works in the local library and has aspirations of becoming an author. They make an unlikely team but together attempt to solve the mystery.

Twice in the book I was convinced I had worked out who the culprit was but was wrong on both occasions - a sign of a good book for me. I really hope we see more from this unique crime fighting duo!

This book could use a good proofreader, as there were several places where a comma or the correct form of a word would have made reading a little easier. The plot and characters, however, were very real and totally sucked me in. It was interesting and exciting, but at the same time, the characters were kind, compassionate, and real. There weren't so many characters I couldn't keep track of them, or a plot so complicated I couldn't remember what was happening. There were layers of plot, characters, and emotions. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will be looking for more by this author.

I would have given this book five stars, but it got a tiny bit draggy in the middle. I almost gave up, but I'm so glad I didn't. I once read somewhere "Everyone does the best they can with what they have to work with at the time they do it." I try to remember that someone lets me down or seems to do a mediocre job. It helps me to be less judgemental, more forgiving, and less resentful. But never have I seen a better illustration of it than in this book. For that reason, the character of Greg will live with me for the rest of my life. Thank you, John Bowen!

I enjoy reading thrillers and mystery novels. I have tried the work of many authors, but not till now I got to appreciate the uniqueness of this book, where the main characters the amateur pair investigating the murders, have plenty of challenges on their private lives, being not what society considers "normal". So yes... very endearing to see these people that struggle plenty, but nevertheless dedicate themselves to find who the killer is. Some parts of the book are a bit slow, but overall very pleasant reading, with a surprise ending. I totally recommend it.

I would like to thank Helen at TBC and the author for giving me the opportunity to read this which I voluntarily reviewed.
I loved this book. It's a step above the usual murder/mystery.
I started reading it and struggled to put it down. It grabbed me from the first page and kept me guessing until the end.
Greg and Beth are 2 unlikely heroes. He battles with OCD, not being able to cross a road until he's counted to 100 and she has cerebral palsy. They are 2 brilliant characters, so well drawn. I'd love to think we'll meet up with them again.
I tried to guess who the "baddie" was but was totally off the mark.
I can't wait to read more of John Bowan's books.

I was lucky enough to get this book from TBC on Facebook & I loved it. It is a really refreshing different murder mystery with two most unusual sleuths in Greg- hopelessly battling OCD and Beth- who has never let her CP stand in her way!

When neighbours start dying in Kettle Street and Greg keeps getting clues as to their demise he badly wants to stop it happening again. He meets Beth, who doesn't think a local elderly lady's death was accidental and together they try to catch the killer before the body count grows even larger.

I found the characters really endearing and the mystery kept me guessing right to the very end. I'll be reading more from John Bowen.

This was a fantastic read. The complexity of the characters was delightfully surprising. The author proved that heroes come in all forms and that, not matter what your abilities (or disabilities, in this case), one can touch the life of another. The murders were well thought out and plausible.
And just when you think you have figured out who the killer might be, think again. It kept me engaged throughout. A great murder mystery and a touching romance all rolled into one.

Death Stalks Kettle Street starts off as a ‘cosy’ murder mystery, but it soon becomes apparent that it is so much more. There is nothing ordinary about this whodunit, and just when you think there can’t possibly be any more twists and turns, another piece of information comes to light that takes the reader off in another direction. The two main characters, Greg and Beth, both have their own challenges to overcome and are extremely well written, with just a touch of humour in the right places. You can’t help but like them and be rooting for them to catch the killer. A very enjoyable read that kept me on my toes right up to the end.

This was such a great book! John knows how to bring his characters to life flaws and all. The two main subjects each have issues that are dealt with in a way that you can literally feel their pain. Limitations that few can imagine yet their character and gumption inspire you to believe life can still be good. A realistic relationship that is not sugar coated. There is also an assortment of side players that are every bit as rich as the two main subjects. And yes, there is murder! I'm usually pretty good at figuring out the bad guy but this one had me stumped up until the moment of the reveal. There is a character that made me feel like I could write a book! There is a story in the story that is pretty dang good too. All in all a great read.

Oh dear, my heart ached a little bit every time Greg had to cross a road and that was before I knew his tragic back story. I guess I do have a soft spot for quirky, oddball characters and Greg definitely fits that criteria. His pairing with Beth as the unlikely investigators of a series of murders was delightful. This will appeal to those who like cosy crime and reminded me of the Agatha Raisin books.

I received a free copy of Death Stalks Kettle Street via THE Book Club on Facebook and my thanks to the author John Bowen for that.

Never having read a murder mystery, my only experience had been surfing past Murder She Wrote on television. Not really my genre, but after reading another of Mr. Bowen's offerings, namely Where The Dead Walk, I was interested to see what else he had to offer. I was not disappointed! Mr. Bowen gives us characters with such vitality, that you can imagine meeting them walking down the street. Greg Unsworth is a man plagued with obsessive compulsive disorder. His rank and file life now teeters on the edge of disarray and death when his neighbors on Kettle Street begin dying in a series of accidents. Accompanied by mysterious envelopes dropped through his mail slot and cryptic phone calls, Greg and his new friend Beth, the lovely librarian set out to find out why Death Stalks Kettle Street. Definitely worth the read!

Death Stalks Kettle Street is not your average murder mystery. The two main characters, Greg and Beth, are battling their own insecurities and troubles. They are brought together by an "accident" on Kettle Street, which they believe has more to it then meets the eye. However, when they cannot prove it what can they do?

A thoroughly enjoyable read, with many jaw dropping moments. Greg and Beth are two lovable characters, who make this book even more of a pleasure to read. A well deserved five stars!

I have become a BIG John Bowen fan!! Found his writing on social media, and haven't stopped reading anything he puts out there! Love his style and rythm of his books. He sets the scene and tone in the first couple of pages and then I'm hooked! In this book, kept trying to figure out who did and was surprised that I was wrong with my guess, but still intrigued and loved the ending. I am so happy I have found this author and now patiently waiting on his next book. You won't regret reading any of his books. ENJOY!

The character development of Greg as suffering from OCD was actually very good. Believable. And I liked Beth as well. It was a little long and I found myself skimming some of the lengthy descriptions. However, there were some wonderful lines, especially the sentence concerning the pregnant pause, that caused me to laugh out loud. I would, and will, read another of this author's work.

I listened to this on Audible and loved it, the narrator was great.

I was totally gripped from the beginning and finished the book in under a day.

I look forward to reading or listening to more books from this author.

5 whopping stars!

I really enjoyed this book, it's so clever in so many ways. The author manages to get humour to sit comfortably alongside murder and the examination of the mental effects of disabilities. The idea of weaving into the plot of a cosy murder mystery a creative writing course....about cosy murder mysteries, is a brilliant idea. The characters, even the minor ones, and their back stories are perfectly crafted. Congratulations to the author for having the conviction to step away from the genre of his previous well received book, Where The Dead Walk. I enjoyed that one too but this is even better.

I loved the characters. And the descriptions. I'm a murder mystery fan and this was fresh. I couldn't wait to get back to it at the end of the day. It mept me going. Always nice to find a new author. Will be looking for more by this one.

What a charming book. It seems to start innocently then it sends you into the odd territory of the human mind. What a pleasure to read. Believe anyone interested in the mind, or the way we prejudge people would find it interesting.

This book was very well written. I am a fan. Loved the characters and the unusual pairing up. The story was exactly what the class instructor deemed it should be. Kudos and will definitely chase down more from this author.

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Once I started reading it I got carried away by the characters and plot. Loved Greg and Beth and their uniqueness. I promise you won't figure out the killer in this one.

Don't step off the curb, Kettle Street is a dangerous place.

John Bowen uniquely weaves at least two, perhaps three or more depending on how you look at things, stories together in this highly entertaining mystery. You will be certain you've found the truth only to turn the page and question everything you thought you knew. By the end you'll find yourself saying, "Well, I sure didn't see THAT coming ... maybe?"

Read & enjoy!

A thoroughly enjoyable read. Greg's neighbours are dying and the police dismiss the deaths as accidents. However, Greg meets Beth and both suspect foul play, so they team up to try to identify the killer. I loved these characters who are so endearing, as both have their own personal issues, Greg has OCD and Beth has CP, but they deal with them with determination and humour. With plenty of twists and turns this book will keep you guessing right until the end.

I'm not normally a cozy reader, but this one caught my interest with its unique characters and compelling story line. While it could use some minor clean up by an editor as far as punctuation and a mistaken word here and there (grizzly for grisly, for example), it was well-written. I'll definitely be looking for other books by this author in future.

I like this book very much. I found the main characters' physical and mental disabilities quite novel. While the author digressed sometimes, the question of who did the murders kept me guessing. Several red herrings were well placed.

Excellent book! OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) cannot be cured and can last for years or a lifetime. Besides that, this was an exciting story and very hard to put down. Very well written. I will follow this author.

Death Stalks Kettle Street is on the surface a great English cost, but it is so much more. With his intelligent writing that flows seamlessly, Mr Bowen also addresses a timeless issue- What is normal, and he delivers a succinct reminder that we are all flawed in some way. How Beth and Greg deal with their issues as they attempt to solve a series of murders drives the story to the surprise ending. Loved this book. With its intriguing plot and three dimensional characters, I read it in one day. Hope he writes many more.

This is a must read for anyone who enjoys a great who done it murder mystery. This is a cleverly written, quick paced page turner. The two main characters are quirky and so likable. I loved them. Don’t miss out on this book! It is brilliant!

A thoroughly enjoyable read. Greg's neighbours are dying and the police dismiss the deaths as accidents. However, Greg meets Beth and both suspect foul play, so they team up to try to identify the killer. I loved these characters who are so endearing, as both have their own personal issues, Greg has OCD and Beth has CP, but they deal with them with determination and humour. With plenty of twists and turns this book will keep you guessing right until the end.

What a gem of a book! I loved the characters, the plot, the beautiful prose - just everything!
A murder mystery with a twist, and although it contains a handful of gruesome deaths, is also both heartwarming and poignant in equal measures.
I totally loved this book which will join a handful that will stay with me forever. Highly recommended.

I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

I'm not normally a cozy reader, but this one caught my interest with its unique characters and compelling story line. While it could use some minor clean up by an editor as far as punctuation and a mistaken word here and there (grizzly for grisly, for example), it was well-written. I'll definitely be looking for other books by this author in future.

I like this book very much. I found the main characters' physical and mental disabilities quite novel. While the author digressed sometimes, the question of who did the murders kept me guessing. Several red herrings were well placed.

Excellent book! OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) cannot be cured and can last for years or a lifetime. Besides that, this was an exciting story and very hard to put down. Very well written. I will follow this author.

Death Stalks Kettle Street is on the surface a great English cost, but it is so much more. With his intelligent writing that flows seamlessly, Mr Bowen also addresses a timeless issue- What is normal, and he delivers a succinct reminder that we are all flawed in some way. How Beth and Greg deal with their issues as they attempt to solve a series of murders drives the story to the surprise ending. Loved this book. With its intriguing plot and three dimensional characters, I read it in one day. Hope he writes many more.

This is a must read for anyone who enjoys a great who done it murder mystery. This is a cleverly written, quick paced page turner. The two main characters are quirky and so likable. I loved them. Don’t miss out on this book! It is brilliant!

As a Special Education teacher, I quickly became involved in the characters with disabilities and found the book hard to put down. Highly recommend this book to any reader, especially those who love “whodunnit “ mysteries.

A gripping 'cosy' murder mystery, one of the best I've read in a long time. An absolute must for the fans of Agatha Christie. Well written, intelligent, with wonderful, original characters and unpredictable, suspenseful storyline. I loved all the little clues and red herrings dotted throughout the book and even more so I loved that I didn't guess the murderer!
I really enjoyed reading this and can't stop recommending it to everyone I know.
A huge thank you to TBC for the advanced copy.

Great book! I just discovered John Bowen and i have been reading his books like candy! This is a particularly great one, the characters and so engaging, the mystery is engrossing, and as promised, it is a cosy mystery that plays by the rules!

This was great. I am not a huge fan of this genre, but the character dev and nuanced way Mr. Bowen drew in my intellect for the who done it part kept me guessing. It was almost like a murder mystery theater diner, the killer twist at the end was almost guessed but not quite. Bravo.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love a good murder mystery and this one had me guessing, until the end. The main characters were not the typical type, which was a pleasant surprise. It was an easy read, and I felt involved in the story. Looking forward to more from this author.

Interesting protagonists with believable disabilities attempt to solve a crime where no one else thinks there is one.Comfortable reading with a couple of unexpected twists , will look for the next book by this author.

I loved this book! The concept was great and the characters were well written. I enjoyed the story and really liked the characters. Flaws and all. Great story. Pick this up. You will not be disappointed.

This was a great murder mystery! It really kept you guessing. I think it was great that the characters were people who had problems of their own. The ending was a surprise! I really loved this book!

Just from the title of this novel....Death Stalks Kettle Street, I knew I was in for a fresh murder, mystery treat. John Bowen has written a fab novel that you will not want to put down. Greg is a treasure trove full of endearing and at times heartbreaking emotions, we see him battling every single day, living with severe OCD as he pushes himself to overcome the smallest task, most of us take for granted. Beth is just as lovely, an aspiring writer, who lives with Celebral Palsy, totally opposite to Greg , also misunderstood by sociaty, but they join forces when people are suddenly dying on their street, the police deem them as just accidents, but Greg and Beth are sure there is a killer at work, the only problem being no one believes them and their concerns are dismissed,.I just loved this novel, it brings two very sensitive subject matters into the open, opens our eyes to the struggle endured, but at the same time shows the strenght and depth of our 2 protagonists, they are a wonderful combination, supported by such lively characters, this is a true murder, mystery, it will keep you quessing as to who the killer is, I was routing for Greg and Beth as the killer got ever closer, holding my breath with a couple of red herrings, until finally, the moment was revealed in a true , well I never saw that one coming syle!!.. A must read.

It's loaded with F bombs and few even worse than that. Greg has OCD, I get that, but was it really necessary to actually count down from 100 so many times? I mean actually having each and every number printed out for us to read, ridiculous. I didn't really like or dislike the main characters, didn't really care what happened to them. Beth, when she meets an old flame, thinks about their history and we are forced to endure several pages of that before any dialogue between the two, yippy.

I don't really know how to describe this book, but I've got a cold right now, kinda feels like that. I don't know what other books this author has, but I'll pass.

I got the title from a Facebook ad/recommendation...so I thought I'd give it a try...lots of good things said about it and it seemed interesting enough...I did not enjoy this book...I found it a bit monotonous and rather uneventful. I was truly disappointed.

Firstly, this is a classic, brilliantly paced whodunnit. Excellent character development and interactions, and real-life settings that any Brit could relate to. Oh yeah, and it really keeps you guessing!

But more than that, the author tackles issues that most writers would steer well clear of, and should be commended for it. The two main protagonists each have their own challenges, one mental, the other more physical. Bowen approaches them with brutal honesty in a way that anyone who is either afflicted with the issues themselves or knows someone who is, will find themselves empathizing with both while at the same time crying and cringing with equal measures of smiles and sympathy.

'Death Stalks Kettle Street' is an intriguing, in-depth look at both the potentially debilitating effects of OCD and cerebral palsy, and the daily struggles and stigmas attached to them, all wonderfully interwoven around a gripping and believable tale.

For those interested in or suffering from either of those afflictions, or anyone who loves a good murder mystery, then take an eye-opening journey down Kettle Street, a place we can all relate to on many levels.

Death Stalks Kettle Street starts off as a ‘cosy’ murder mystery, but it soon becomes apparent that it is so much more. There is nothing ordinary about this whodunit, and just when you think there can’t possibly be any more twists and turns, another piece of information comes to light that takes the reader off in another direction. The two main characters, Greg and Beth, both have their own challenges to overcome and are extremely well written, with just a touch of humour in the right places. You can’t help but like them and be rooting for them to catch the killer. A very enjoyable read that kept me on my toes right up to the end.

Death Stalks Kettle Street is not your average murder mystery. The two main characters, Greg and Beth, are battling their own insecurities and troubles. They are brought together by an "accident" on Kettle Street, which they believe has more to it then meets the eye. However, when they cannot prove it what can they do?

A thoroughly enjoyable read, with many jaw dropping moments. Greg and Beth are two lovable characters, who make this book even more of a pleasure to read. A well deserved five stars!

When Greg’s neighbours have a series of unfortunate “accidents”, and he is sent random items in the post, he begins to suspect foul play. When fate throws him together with the lovely Beth, the unlikely amateur sleuths cannot convince the police there is foul play at work, so they set about solving the mystery themselves. As Greg has OCD, this proves to be the biggest challenge of his life!
The characters are brilliant, and so likeable! A highly enjoyable read, with a difference!
Thanks to TBC for a review copy!

I really enjoyed this book and author (new to me). While I kept guessing to the end and even then I did not foresee who the murderer was. Insight into an OCD experience enlighten me regarding the real challenges this condition presents.

What a gem of a book! I loved the characters, the plot, the beautiful prose - just everything!
A murder mystery with a twist, and although it contains a handful of gruesome deaths, is also both heartwarming and poignant in equal measures.
I totally loved this book which will join a handful that will stay with me forever. Highly recommended.

I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

Great book! I just discovered John Bowen and i have been reading his books like candy! This is a particularly great one, the characters and so engaging, the mystery is engrossing, and as promised, it is a cosy mystery that plays by the rules!

This story is a fun read that also presents information about OCD in a way that makes it very real for those of us who do not suffer from it. The protagonists must solve a mystery working within their unique boundaries, giving the story an intriguing edge. In the meantime one of the characters is taking a writing class ... pieces from her class assignments are in the book. So the author gives you enough of a second story to piece together the plot. It is a surprising bonus. Some typos and word-os but not so much to ruin the read.

Once again I wish to be able to give a book 3\12 stars but that is not an option. If you want a nice enjoyable mystery with likeable characters this is a good book for you. Not a great work of fiction but a very quick to read and a very entertaining book.