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Berit Gardner #2
Just Another Dead Author
When mystery author Berit Gardner agrees to attend a writer's conference in the idyllic French countryside, she dreams of basking in the sun and nurturing budding talent. But her vacation takes a dark turn when the keynote speaker—a notorious literary titan known for his biting critiques—drops dead at the end of her lecture. As whispers of foul play swirl, Berit quickly realizes she's stepped into a tangled web of jealousy, betrayal, and long-held grudges.
Enter the French commissaire, who is less than thrilled to have a curious author meddling in her investigation. But as the suspects pile up—each with their own motive for wanting the egotistical writer dead—she reluctantly recognizes Berit's sharp instincts could crack the case wide open. With a colorful cast of authors, agents, and aspiring writers all hiding secrets, the stakes rise higher with every clue uncovered.
To make matters worse, a tenacious young journalist vows to outsmart Berit and solve the mystery first, placing herself in the killer's sights. Now, Berit must navigate a maze of deceit and danger while trying to keep the ambitious reporter safe. With time running out and the killer lurking in the shadows, can Berit unravel the truth before her own story ends in tragedy?
Enter the French commissaire, who is less than thrilled to have a curious author meddling in her investigation. But as the suspects pile up—each with their own motive for wanting the egotistical writer dead—she reluctantly recognizes Berit's sharp instincts could crack the case wide open. With a colorful cast of authors, agents, and aspiring writers all hiding secrets, the stakes rise higher with every clue uncovered.
To make matters worse, a tenacious young journalist vows to outsmart Berit and solve the mystery first, placing herself in the killer's sights. Now, Berit must navigate a maze of deceit and danger while trying to keep the ambitious reporter safe. With time running out and the killer lurking in the shadows, can Berit unravel the truth before her own story ends in tragedy?
384 pages, Paperback
First published August 12, 2025
73 people are currently reading
9631 people want to read
About the author
Katarina Bivald
10 books860 followersKatarina Bivald is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend and The Murders in Great Diddling.
She grew up working part-time in a bookshop and lives in Sweden outside Stockholm with her books and her dog.
She grew up working part-time in a bookshop and lives in Sweden outside Stockholm with her books and her dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
August 13, 2025
The second book in this series about Berit Gardner - I really enjoyed the first one The Murders in Great Diddling
Mystery author Berit Gardner attends a literary conference in France where the keynote speaker dies mysteriously. Berit cannot help herself from investigating the case and of course putting herself in danger. The Detective from the first book arrives at the end to help save the day but Berit also has the local detective on her side.
I thought this was a well written book with some well developed characters. Can we hope that the English detective is going to be a romantic interest? Berit is a very interesting character and I would very much like to see more of her. Altogether a very good read.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Mystery author Berit Gardner attends a literary conference in France where the keynote speaker dies mysteriously. Berit cannot help herself from investigating the case and of course putting herself in danger. The Detective from the first book arrives at the end to help save the day but Berit also has the local detective on her side.
I thought this was a well written book with some well developed characters. Can we hope that the English detective is going to be a romantic interest? Berit is a very interesting character and I would very much like to see more of her. Altogether a very good read.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 25, 2025
In Just Another Dead Author, Berit Gardner and her literary agent find themselves once again entangled in another murder mystery. This one taking place at a writing retreat in France.
The first half of this book was, I'll admit, agonizing and slow. It was very difficult to keep pushing myself to continue reading, which was disappointing because I truly really enjoyed the first book in the series *The Murders in Great Diddling *. The book does pick up speed in the second half but you do have a very large cast of characters to keep track of and they're all writer's, which is a bit difficult.
While I didn't really enjoy the first half, I did appreciate the second half. The characters aren't the most likeable bunch and neither are the police inspectors.
Overall, my opinion of Just Another Dead Author was that this book was just ok, but I'm not sure if I'd read on in the series after being a bit disappointed in this second installment in the series.
Expected Publication Date: August 12th 2025.
Thank you to both Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The first half of this book was, I'll admit, agonizing and slow. It was very difficult to keep pushing myself to continue reading, which was disappointing because I truly really enjoyed the first book in the series *The Murders in Great Diddling *. The book does pick up speed in the second half but you do have a very large cast of characters to keep track of and they're all writer's, which is a bit difficult.
While I didn't really enjoy the first half, I did appreciate the second half. The characters aren't the most likeable bunch and neither are the police inspectors.
Overall, my opinion of Just Another Dead Author was that this book was just ok, but I'm not sure if I'd read on in the series after being a bit disappointed in this second installment in the series.
Expected Publication Date: August 12th 2025.
Thank you to both Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 3, 2025
Hooray! Singular author Berit Gardner returns in this sequel to the remarkable The Murders in Great Diddling. In this novel, Berit — an egalitarian, she insists everyone call her by first name — and her sidekick, junior literary agent Sally Marsch, attend a literary workshop in Lyon, France, as a favor to a longtime friend of Berit’s. But the main attraction of this workshop, the arrogant, dismissive John Wright, is killed on the first day. (No spoiler: It’s in the title!) The Swedish-English Berit does what she does best: observe, deduce and discover the villain. I only wish I could give this novel more than five stars!
Katarina Bivald is herself a Swedish author, making this book even more fun. Unlike Berit, Ms. Bivald remains happily at home in Sweden, just outside of Stockholm.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press in exchange for an honest review.
Katarina Bivald is herself a Swedish author, making this book even more fun. Unlike Berit, Ms. Bivald remains happily at home in Sweden, just outside of Stockholm.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2025
What a fun little cozy mystery this one was! 🙌
This whodunnit kept me guessing and had some twists as well! I do like the Berit Gardner character so now I need to go pick up The Murders in Great Diddling to read more of her! Definitely recommend this one to cozy mystery lovers! 👏
Thank you so much to partner Poisoned Pen Press for the gifted physical ARC in exchange for my honest review! ❤️ Looking forward to reading more from Katarina Bivald in the future!
This whodunnit kept me guessing and had some twists as well! I do like the Berit Gardner character so now I need to go pick up The Murders in Great Diddling to read more of her! Definitely recommend this one to cozy mystery lovers! 👏
Thank you so much to partner Poisoned Pen Press for the gifted physical ARC in exchange for my honest review! ❤️ Looking forward to reading more from Katarina Bivald in the future!
April 13, 2023
Jag gillar att hänga med Berit, hon är cool.
Och kommissarie Ahmed 🥰
Och kommissarie Ahmed 🥰
April 19, 2025
I just couldn’t get into this one. I had to dnf at 30%.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 17, 2025
3.5 stars. I think Berit Gardner is such an interesting detective because she doesn’t see herself as one - she’s just a writer who likes puzzles. It makes her so much more relatable.
This book had the same issue as the last one - it was too long and there were too many characters. Lots of side conversations, most of which were either repetitive or unnecessary to the overall plot. It bogged down the pace, which is an issue with mysteries!
Overall it was entertaining but not sure I’ll continue with more of Berit’s cases.
Thank you to NetGalley, Katarina Bivald, and Poisoned Pen Press for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book had the same issue as the last one - it was too long and there were too many characters. Lots of side conversations, most of which were either repetitive or unnecessary to the overall plot. It bogged down the pace, which is an issue with mysteries!
Overall it was entertaining but not sure I’ll continue with more of Berit’s cases.
Thank you to NetGalley, Katarina Bivald, and Poisoned Pen Press for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2023
I romanen ”Döden på Château des Livres” får vi följa med den underbara Berit Gardner på nya äventyr. Hon är författaren som löser brott när hon egentligen borde skriva på nästa roman. Berit har en förmåga att hamna mitt i händelsernas centrum och i en och annan mordutredning. Hennes nyfikenhet, listighet och stora människointresse gör att Berit alltid ligger steget före polisutredarna. Hon upptäcker små detaljer och får människor att öppna upp sig om ledtrådar som leder henne – oftast – rätt. Den här gången befinner hon sig på ett franskt slott i Lyon där hon blir vittne till hur en författarkollega dör mitt framför ögonen på henne… och det visar sig att han har blivit mördad. Än en gång blandas mys med rys i denna kluriga deckargåta, i en fin fransk miljö med goda viner och god mat tillsammans med ett helt gäng nyfikna författare.
Det här är verkligen cozy crime med spänning, finurligheter och förvecklingar i en vacker omgivning, med en brokig skara intressanta och underhållande karaktärer. Vem av de närvarande på slottet kan vara den skyldige? Alla börjar misstänka varandra.
Det här är verkligen cozy crime med spänning, finurligheter och förvecklingar i en vacker omgivning, med en brokig skara intressanta och underhållande karaktärer. Vem av de närvarande på slottet kan vara den skyldige? Alla börjar misstänka varandra.
May 23, 2025
I really liked the idea of a murder mystery set at a writers' retreat in a château in the French countryside, a setting that feels both charming and refreshingly different! I haven’t read the first book, which is referenced quite often throughout, but this still works well as a standalone. (Fun fact: the prequel recently won the Lilian Jackson Braun Award for Best Cozy Crime, now I’m even more intrigued!)
There’s a light, witty tone throughout, though I could occasionally tell it was written by a non-native English speaker, some of the dialogue leaned a bit into movie-style clichés. Still, the story had plenty of charm, suspense, and character drama to keep me engaged.
A quick, clever, and enjoyable read, especially if you love books about writers solving crimes! Thanks to NetGalley & Poisoned Pen Press for the opportunity to read this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
There’s a light, witty tone throughout, though I could occasionally tell it was written by a non-native English speaker, some of the dialogue leaned a bit into movie-style clichés. Still, the story had plenty of charm, suspense, and character drama to keep me engaged.
A quick, clever, and enjoyable read, especially if you love books about writers solving crimes! Thanks to NetGalley & Poisoned Pen Press for the opportunity to read this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2025
This book gave me Murder She Wrote meets Emily in Paris energy…..if Emily had a typewriter, murder suspects, and the patience of a seasoned cozy mystery sleuth. Berit Gardner is the kind of nosy, clever heroine I’d follow anywhere, especially into a murder investigation wrapped in writerly egos and simmering secrets.
The French countryside setting? Chef’s kiss. The mystery? Twisty enough to keep me side-eyeing everyone. And the cast? A delightful chaos of writers, agents, and one very exasperated commissaire. Bonus points for the snarky journalist frenemy situation, I’d read a whole spin-off about her.
It’s a fun, clever whodunnit with a literary flair and just the right amount of sass and suspense. Would recommend for fans of closed-circle mysteries, bookish drama, and fictional authors who accidentally become crime-solvers on vacation.
The French countryside setting? Chef’s kiss. The mystery? Twisty enough to keep me side-eyeing everyone. And the cast? A delightful chaos of writers, agents, and one very exasperated commissaire. Bonus points for the snarky journalist frenemy situation, I’d read a whole spin-off about her.
It’s a fun, clever whodunnit with a literary flair and just the right amount of sass and suspense. Would recommend for fans of closed-circle mysteries, bookish drama, and fictional authors who accidentally become crime-solvers on vacation.
June 14, 2025
Honestly, the title hooked me. “Just Another Dead Author” evokes the feeling that authors are irrelevant and murdered authors are common. The story was originally written in Swedish with the main character being a Swedish author named Berit Gardner. Berit, as most amateur sleuths and many writers, has a tendency to be very observant. Berit is attending a writer’s retreat in France as a teacher and a friend of the organizer.
The retreat continues as planned when an unlikeable but successful author is killed. The police and Berit want to solve it.
As you can imagine, there is an interesting cast of characters at the retreat. The location is beautifully described including their field trips.
The author makes the culpability of many of the attendees viable options. It is well written and has mini cliff hangars to entice you to keep reading.
I loved the book club questions included at the end.
I would recommend this book to others.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the advanced readers copy.
The retreat continues as planned when an unlikeable but successful author is killed. The police and Berit want to solve it.
As you can imagine, there is an interesting cast of characters at the retreat. The location is beautifully described including their field trips.
The author makes the culpability of many of the attendees viable options. It is well written and has mini cliff hangars to entice you to keep reading.
I loved the book club questions included at the end.
I would recommend this book to others.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the advanced readers copy.
May 6, 2023
Berit Gardner är inbjuden som föreläsare på vännen Emmas författarkurs på Château des Livres i Frankrike.
Första dagen inleds med att den kände författaren John Wright håller ett föredrag och efter lunch, med densamme i publiken, är det Berits tur. När hon är färdig inser hon att han inte somnat av hennes framförande - han är död.
Kommissarie Roche och hennes team försöker hitta mördaren. Berit klurar också och hon är inte den enda bland författarna som gör det. Och mördaren slår till på nytt...
***
Den andra boken om Berit är lika bra som den första. Klurig, spännande, intressant. Perfekt sällskap på promenader och löpband! 🤗
Första dagen inleds med att den kände författaren John Wright håller ett föredrag och efter lunch, med densamme i publiken, är det Berits tur. När hon är färdig inser hon att han inte somnat av hennes framförande - han är död.
Kommissarie Roche och hennes team försöker hitta mördaren. Berit klurar också och hon är inte den enda bland författarna som gör det. Och mördaren slår till på nytt...
***
Den andra boken om Berit är lika bra som den första. Klurig, spännande, intressant. Perfekt sällskap på promenader och löpband! 🤗
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September 9, 2025A writers' retreat in beautiful France, near Lyon, in a charmingly dilapidated chateau should be fun. Unfortunately, writers are not always fun people and so someone does have to die. Thankfully, Berit Gardner is on the scene to provide writing tips and to try and solve a crime. I had a fun time with Just Another Dead Author and even got some writing inspiration out of it! Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Writers are amongst the weirdest people in the world. Whether it is an extensive knowledge of poisons available in the nineteenth century or a complete obsession with replicating historical details of the specific year 1652, writers have their special interests and get stuck in them. So, naturally, with this attention to detail and obsessional nature, writers make for an excellent cast in a detective novel. They also make for excellent detectives themselves, or at least, in fiction they do. I enjoy novels that take the publishing industry and the writing process itself as the backdrop for the plot, especially when the plot is thrillery. Most recently, I had excellent fun with The Labyrinth House Murders by Yukito Ayatsuji (trans. by Ho-Ling Wong) and How to Survive a Horror Story by Mallory Arnold, who both use this to great effect. In Just Another Dead Author we have the same fun, except that it is a little more grounded than either of the above, being neither as claustrophobic as the first, nor as gory as the second. However, the dynamics largely align, the figure of The Great Author ™, the ingenue, the flashy agent, the strict editor, and adding the wise older female author. I really enjoy dabbling in this sub-genre of mystery/suspense/detective novels and like seeing how it is slightly adjusted by each author. I had read a previous book by Katarina Bivald, The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend, translated by Alice Menzies, which I really enjoyed. I also interviewed her as part of the blog tour.
Berit Gardner is taking part in a writers' retreat, organised by her friend Emma, which is taking place in the beautiful French coutryside. It is crucial that this retreat is a success for Emma and all seems (mostly) well, aside from some tension between the star guest, John Wright, and some other guests. Unfortunately, this tension quickly boils over and John ends up dead. Berit has some experience solving crimes, aided by her writerly attention to detail and character, so she can't help but get involved. Unfortunately, all the other guests are also very keyed in to this chance to see a crime investigation up close. Commissaire Roche has seen plenty of crimes, but being surrounded by authors who can't decide between being scared they're next and being excited about all the inspiration is something new to her. A somewhat uncertain alliance forms between Berit and Roche as confusing clues and various motives are uncovered. I really like Berit as a main character, but that is because I have a fondness for mature women solving crimes. She is a very observant person, but she also isn't someone who wouldn't put her own morals and beliefs before solving a crime, and that creates a nice kind of tension. I also really liked Sally, her editor, who is a nice side-character, as well as Commissaire Roche, who is a nice twist on the usual dark and grim detective-trope.
I had no idea Just Another Dead Author was a second in a series, mainly because I didn't look up the book on Goodreads or StoryGraph before requesting. But this didn't prove to be an issue because important elements of the previous story get recapped or addressed so that I never felt like I was missing out on anything major. The novel is told through an omniscient third-person narrator, who mostly focuses on Berit but also jumps into the minds of the other characters where relevant or interesting. This is interspersed with small chapters from the killer, which serve to make everyone seem suspicious but also to ratchet up some of the tension. There's weren't necessarily my favourite bits, because they seemed a bit cliche at times (i.e., isn't it freeing to kill someone), but they did add to the overall experience. The writing style is, in many ways, very straightforward and doesn't focus on the more sensationalist angles of crime and suspense novels. It very much read like a Cozy Thriller to me, in that sense, and I had a fun time with it, even if maybe I could have used a little more tension and darkness. One very frustrating thing is that I couldn't find any information on the translator either in the book itself or online. It was initially published in Swedish as Döden på Château des Livres. There is a Q&A with Bivald at the end in which the translation process is addressed, so I think it's super odd the translator isn't credited in the general copyright info at the beginning? It could be that I have utterly misunderstood the Q&A, but I ended up emailing the publisher and I'll update if they get back to me. The cover design by Sandra Chiu is delightful though!
Just Another Dead Author is a fun time in the French sun. While technically the stakes are deadly, it is definitely a cozier book with a lot of fun asides about authors being weirdos.
URL: https://universeinwords.blogspot.com/...
Writers are amongst the weirdest people in the world. Whether it is an extensive knowledge of poisons available in the nineteenth century or a complete obsession with replicating historical details of the specific year 1652, writers have their special interests and get stuck in them. So, naturally, with this attention to detail and obsessional nature, writers make for an excellent cast in a detective novel. They also make for excellent detectives themselves, or at least, in fiction they do. I enjoy novels that take the publishing industry and the writing process itself as the backdrop for the plot, especially when the plot is thrillery. Most recently, I had excellent fun with The Labyrinth House Murders by Yukito Ayatsuji (trans. by Ho-Ling Wong) and How to Survive a Horror Story by Mallory Arnold, who both use this to great effect. In Just Another Dead Author we have the same fun, except that it is a little more grounded than either of the above, being neither as claustrophobic as the first, nor as gory as the second. However, the dynamics largely align, the figure of The Great Author ™, the ingenue, the flashy agent, the strict editor, and adding the wise older female author. I really enjoy dabbling in this sub-genre of mystery/suspense/detective novels and like seeing how it is slightly adjusted by each author. I had read a previous book by Katarina Bivald, The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend, translated by Alice Menzies, which I really enjoyed. I also interviewed her as part of the blog tour.
Berit Gardner is taking part in a writers' retreat, organised by her friend Emma, which is taking place in the beautiful French coutryside. It is crucial that this retreat is a success for Emma and all seems (mostly) well, aside from some tension between the star guest, John Wright, and some other guests. Unfortunately, this tension quickly boils over and John ends up dead. Berit has some experience solving crimes, aided by her writerly attention to detail and character, so she can't help but get involved. Unfortunately, all the other guests are also very keyed in to this chance to see a crime investigation up close. Commissaire Roche has seen plenty of crimes, but being surrounded by authors who can't decide between being scared they're next and being excited about all the inspiration is something new to her. A somewhat uncertain alliance forms between Berit and Roche as confusing clues and various motives are uncovered. I really like Berit as a main character, but that is because I have a fondness for mature women solving crimes. She is a very observant person, but she also isn't someone who wouldn't put her own morals and beliefs before solving a crime, and that creates a nice kind of tension. I also really liked Sally, her editor, who is a nice side-character, as well as Commissaire Roche, who is a nice twist on the usual dark and grim detective-trope.
I had no idea Just Another Dead Author was a second in a series, mainly because I didn't look up the book on Goodreads or StoryGraph before requesting. But this didn't prove to be an issue because important elements of the previous story get recapped or addressed so that I never felt like I was missing out on anything major. The novel is told through an omniscient third-person narrator, who mostly focuses on Berit but also jumps into the minds of the other characters where relevant or interesting. This is interspersed with small chapters from the killer, which serve to make everyone seem suspicious but also to ratchet up some of the tension. There's weren't necessarily my favourite bits, because they seemed a bit cliche at times (i.e., isn't it freeing to kill someone), but they did add to the overall experience. The writing style is, in many ways, very straightforward and doesn't focus on the more sensationalist angles of crime and suspense novels. It very much read like a Cozy Thriller to me, in that sense, and I had a fun time with it, even if maybe I could have used a little more tension and darkness. One very frustrating thing is that I couldn't find any information on the translator either in the book itself or online. It was initially published in Swedish as Döden på Château des Livres. There is a Q&A with Bivald at the end in which the translation process is addressed, so I think it's super odd the translator isn't credited in the general copyright info at the beginning? It could be that I have utterly misunderstood the Q&A, but I ended up emailing the publisher and I'll update if they get back to me. The cover design by Sandra Chiu is delightful though!
Just Another Dead Author is a fun time in the French sun. While technically the stakes are deadly, it is definitely a cozier book with a lot of fun asides about authors being weirdos.
URL: https://universeinwords.blogspot.com/...
August 12, 2025
3 Stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
This cozy mystery had an intriguing premise that immediately caught my attention a quirky setup, a nod to the world of authors and books, and the promise of a layered cast of characters. However, the pacing in the beginning was slow, which made it difficult to stay engaged at first. It took a while for the mystery to really kick in, and the large number of characters made it a bit challenging to keep track of everyone and their roles in the story.
That said, once the plot picked up, it became more enjoyable. The author did a nice job creating an atmospheric small town feel and weaving in humor and charm. The idea itself centering the mystery around the literary world was something I loved, and when the story found its rhythm, the wit and cleverness began to shine through.
While this one didn’t fully hook me from the start, fans of slow build cozy mysteries with eccentric characters and bookish settings may find it worth the read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
This cozy mystery had an intriguing premise that immediately caught my attention a quirky setup, a nod to the world of authors and books, and the promise of a layered cast of characters. However, the pacing in the beginning was slow, which made it difficult to stay engaged at first. It took a while for the mystery to really kick in, and the large number of characters made it a bit challenging to keep track of everyone and their roles in the story.
That said, once the plot picked up, it became more enjoyable. The author did a nice job creating an atmospheric small town feel and weaving in humor and charm. The idea itself centering the mystery around the literary world was something I loved, and when the story found its rhythm, the wit and cleverness began to shine through.
While this one didn’t fully hook me from the start, fans of slow build cozy mysteries with eccentric characters and bookish settings may find it worth the read.
August 7, 2025
I had a fun time with this one. The setting and atmosphere sucked me into the story. I really enjoyed each character. They all felt so well fleshed out. I will say it felt a but long. I wanted to get to the outcome faster. I got a bit bored towards the end but overall I still highly recommend this book if you love who done its.
3/5 Stars
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for sending me an arc copy in exchange for my honest opinion,
3/5 Stars
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for sending me an arc copy in exchange for my honest opinion,
August 25, 2025
Lyssnade som ljudbok. En mysig deckare.
August 27, 2025
Another charmer from Bivald. I love that it's set in Lyon, a city I really enjoyed.
A fun mystery, but the solution was flat and disappointing.
A fun mystery, but the solution was flat and disappointing.
May 2, 2024
Helt okej deckare. Ganska seg första halvan och jag tycker att man kunde lista ut vem mördaren var rätt snabbt.
July 21, 2025
Book review: Katarina Bivald’s Just Another Dead Author.
Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
This book was an absolute delight to sink into—layered, witty, and sharper than it first lets on. Katarina Bivald delivers a clever, bookish murder mystery set in the lush French countryside, where egos are outsized, secrets are well kept, and even the writers have murder on the brain. We’re reunited with Swedish mystery author Berit Gardner, first introduced in The Murders in Great Diddling, and while this sequel stands perfectly well on its own, having a bit of context makes her character even more enjoyable.
Berit arrives in Lyon expecting twelve peaceful days of mentoring aspiring writers and basking in the charm of a literary retreat. Instead, she finds herself giving a lecture at the exact moment a famously arrogant author, John Wright, drops dead in the front row. The retreat carries on, as these things always do in fiction, but the air shifts. Someone there is a killer—and Berit can’t help but investigate, despite the not-so-gentle warnings from Commissaire Roche, who’s less than thrilled to have a nosy novelist on her heels.
The first half of the book leans heavily into atmosphere and setup. It’s a slow burn that spends time introducing us to a large ensemble cast: other authors, agents, publishers, bookstore owners, and one very persistent young journalist. This could have bogged down the story, but Bivald’s sly humor and keen eye for character detail kept me engaged. Still, I won’t lie—it’s a lot to track. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, high-stakes thriller, this might feel too leisurely. But if you love a mystery that rewards close reading and subtle clues, this one delivers.
The plot structure includes brief but effective interludes from the killer’s perspective. These are never cheesy or over-the-top—they’re restrained, a bit clinical, and carefully worded to tease without spoiling. It added a creeping tension that picked up speed in the second half, especially as Berit begins to close in. I also appreciated how realistic the investigation felt—there were no outlandish plot twists, just human motives: jealousy, professional insecurity, wounded pride.
What Bivald does brilliantly is play with the literary world itself. This isn’t just a murder mystery set at a writers’ retreat—it’s also a story about writers and how they observe, embellish, and sometimes hide behind their stories. There’s a gently satirical edge here, but it’s never mean-spirited. One of the strongest themes is the role of observation—how writers see everything and say very little until they’re ready. As Berit puts it: “Being a writer means listening to people even when they’re not talking.” That line is the heartbeat of this story.
Berit herself is an outstanding protagonist—mature, steady, wry, and deeply observant. She doesn’t play the role of brilliant detective as much as someone who pays attention when others don’t. Her relationship with Commissaire Roche evolves nicely over the course of the book, from irritation to mutual respect. It’s refreshing to see two women—one a cop, one a civilian—collaborate not because the plot demands it, but because they both want justice.
The side characters are a lively and sometimes ridiculous bunch. There’s Mildred, the aging British writer who may or may not actually write anything. There’s the insecure romance novelist clinging to relevance. And then there’s the aggressive young journalist determined to scoop the mystery before Berit can solve it. Each character feels distinct and plausible in their flaws. Some are more memorable than others, but together, they make up the perfectly dysfunctional mix of personalities you’d expect at a retreat where success and failure sit uncomfortably close together.
I do wish the middle had been trimmed slightly—it gets a bit talky and repetitive as we bounce between interviews, alibis, and speculative theories. But the final third makes up for it. The unraveling of the mystery is smart, logical, and satisfying. The ending doesn’t rely on shock—it earns its resolution through slow, thoughtful buildup. The clues were there all along; I just didn’t see them clearly until Berit did.
Overall, Just Another Dead Author is a cozy, literate, and deeply enjoyable mystery that knows exactly what it is. It’s funny without being silly, clever without being smug, and thoughtful without dragging. If you’ve ever wanted to attend a writer’s retreat with a murder thrown in, this is the book for you. If you’ve ever dreamed of writing your own mystery novel, it might even make you pick up the pen.
Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
This book was an absolute delight to sink into—layered, witty, and sharper than it first lets on. Katarina Bivald delivers a clever, bookish murder mystery set in the lush French countryside, where egos are outsized, secrets are well kept, and even the writers have murder on the brain. We’re reunited with Swedish mystery author Berit Gardner, first introduced in The Murders in Great Diddling, and while this sequel stands perfectly well on its own, having a bit of context makes her character even more enjoyable.
Berit arrives in Lyon expecting twelve peaceful days of mentoring aspiring writers and basking in the charm of a literary retreat. Instead, she finds herself giving a lecture at the exact moment a famously arrogant author, John Wright, drops dead in the front row. The retreat carries on, as these things always do in fiction, but the air shifts. Someone there is a killer—and Berit can’t help but investigate, despite the not-so-gentle warnings from Commissaire Roche, who’s less than thrilled to have a nosy novelist on her heels.
The first half of the book leans heavily into atmosphere and setup. It’s a slow burn that spends time introducing us to a large ensemble cast: other authors, agents, publishers, bookstore owners, and one very persistent young journalist. This could have bogged down the story, but Bivald’s sly humor and keen eye for character detail kept me engaged. Still, I won’t lie—it’s a lot to track. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, high-stakes thriller, this might feel too leisurely. But if you love a mystery that rewards close reading and subtle clues, this one delivers.
The plot structure includes brief but effective interludes from the killer’s perspective. These are never cheesy or over-the-top—they’re restrained, a bit clinical, and carefully worded to tease without spoiling. It added a creeping tension that picked up speed in the second half, especially as Berit begins to close in. I also appreciated how realistic the investigation felt—there were no outlandish plot twists, just human motives: jealousy, professional insecurity, wounded pride.
What Bivald does brilliantly is play with the literary world itself. This isn’t just a murder mystery set at a writers’ retreat—it’s also a story about writers and how they observe, embellish, and sometimes hide behind their stories. There’s a gently satirical edge here, but it’s never mean-spirited. One of the strongest themes is the role of observation—how writers see everything and say very little until they’re ready. As Berit puts it: “Being a writer means listening to people even when they’re not talking.” That line is the heartbeat of this story.
Berit herself is an outstanding protagonist—mature, steady, wry, and deeply observant. She doesn’t play the role of brilliant detective as much as someone who pays attention when others don’t. Her relationship with Commissaire Roche evolves nicely over the course of the book, from irritation to mutual respect. It’s refreshing to see two women—one a cop, one a civilian—collaborate not because the plot demands it, but because they both want justice.
The side characters are a lively and sometimes ridiculous bunch. There’s Mildred, the aging British writer who may or may not actually write anything. There’s the insecure romance novelist clinging to relevance. And then there’s the aggressive young journalist determined to scoop the mystery before Berit can solve it. Each character feels distinct and plausible in their flaws. Some are more memorable than others, but together, they make up the perfectly dysfunctional mix of personalities you’d expect at a retreat where success and failure sit uncomfortably close together.
I do wish the middle had been trimmed slightly—it gets a bit talky and repetitive as we bounce between interviews, alibis, and speculative theories. But the final third makes up for it. The unraveling of the mystery is smart, logical, and satisfying. The ending doesn’t rely on shock—it earns its resolution through slow, thoughtful buildup. The clues were there all along; I just didn’t see them clearly until Berit did.
Overall, Just Another Dead Author is a cozy, literate, and deeply enjoyable mystery that knows exactly what it is. It’s funny without being silly, clever without being smug, and thoughtful without dragging. If you’ve ever wanted to attend a writer’s retreat with a murder thrown in, this is the book for you. If you’ve ever dreamed of writing your own mystery novel, it might even make you pick up the pen.
August 19, 2025
This book follows Bivald’s charming Edgar winner, The Murders in Great Diddling, which was all the things a British village cozy should be. In this book, main character Berit Gardner, a well known writer, is attending a writer’s retreat in Lyon, France, at the request of her bookseller friend, Emma. Berit feels Emma was the first person to understand her as a writer and is eternally grateful, so even though she’s not big on writer’s conferences, she agrees to head to France, to the absolute bafflement of her assistant, Sally.
The group assembled at the conference, which takes place in a somewhat down at the heels castle in the French countryside (surrounded by vineyards) is a varied one. Many of them have signed up not just because there will be agents and editors there who might help their careers, but there’s also a superstar author who is the lynchpin of the conference. Unfortunately, the superstar is so unpleasant and nasty that even though the writers attending want to suck up his knowledge of their shared craft, they can’t stand being around him.
As in the last book, the most unpleasant person is quickly dispatched, and as in the last book, that makes the stakes for the hunt for the killer somewhat lower. The guy deserved what he got, which was dying of poison in the front seat at Berit’s lecture. Berit, who was of great assistance in the Great Diddling murders – the police detective there is now a fan – steps up to help out French officer Beatrice Roche.
As in book one, the character of the police officer in charge is carefully delineated, and she’s an interesting mix of independence, devoted mom, and somewhat scary boss to her junior who she’s nicknamed the “Mayor” (his father is the mayor of the town). Her personality adds greatly to the investigation, and she eventually comes to accept Berit’s assistance.
In fact, the strength of both of Bivald’s mystery novels are the characters. Each writer at the retreat who is depicted, with their hopes, fears and dreams for the future, are all beautifully drawn and memorable. While the suspect pool is small, it’s also rich, because Bivald has made each character come fully to life. This reminded me a great deal of Agatha Christie, whose characters were all indelible.
We read the first book in our book club and while some felt it was too long, there were many of us who savored every word of Bivald’s humorous and thoughtful prose. She’s taken the very traditional tropes of the Golden age and pulled them gently into the present. Strip the story of cell phones and laptops and it easily have been set in the 40’s, but the beauty here is that the story is set so believably in the present. This is a new author to treasure.
The group assembled at the conference, which takes place in a somewhat down at the heels castle in the French countryside (surrounded by vineyards) is a varied one. Many of them have signed up not just because there will be agents and editors there who might help their careers, but there’s also a superstar author who is the lynchpin of the conference. Unfortunately, the superstar is so unpleasant and nasty that even though the writers attending want to suck up his knowledge of their shared craft, they can’t stand being around him.
As in the last book, the most unpleasant person is quickly dispatched, and as in the last book, that makes the stakes for the hunt for the killer somewhat lower. The guy deserved what he got, which was dying of poison in the front seat at Berit’s lecture. Berit, who was of great assistance in the Great Diddling murders – the police detective there is now a fan – steps up to help out French officer Beatrice Roche.
As in book one, the character of the police officer in charge is carefully delineated, and she’s an interesting mix of independence, devoted mom, and somewhat scary boss to her junior who she’s nicknamed the “Mayor” (his father is the mayor of the town). Her personality adds greatly to the investigation, and she eventually comes to accept Berit’s assistance.
In fact, the strength of both of Bivald’s mystery novels are the characters. Each writer at the retreat who is depicted, with their hopes, fears and dreams for the future, are all beautifully drawn and memorable. While the suspect pool is small, it’s also rich, because Bivald has made each character come fully to life. This reminded me a great deal of Agatha Christie, whose characters were all indelible.
We read the first book in our book club and while some felt it was too long, there were many of us who savored every word of Bivald’s humorous and thoughtful prose. She’s taken the very traditional tropes of the Golden age and pulled them gently into the present. Strip the story of cell phones and laptops and it easily have been set in the 40’s, but the beauty here is that the story is set so believably in the present. This is a new author to treasure.
August 18, 2025
Amateur detective/professional author Berit Gardner always seems to find herself in the middle of trouble. She's supposed to be teaching at a writer's retreat in the French countryside, but finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation. The victim had more enemies than friends, and everyone in attendance is a suspect.
This book reminded me of a classic detective novel. It was a fun read and kept me guessing. When I thought I had it figured out, I was wrong! I particularly enjoyed the behind-the-scenes of the publishing industry, which added an intriguing layer to the story.
The book is written in different POVs, in the third person, which is my favorite. While I enjoy books written in the first person, with the third, I like to imagine the story as an observer.
I also loved the tone of this book. Katatina Bivald drew me in with Sally trying to speak French right in the first chapter. I felt a kinship since I'm trying to learn French, and my accent is terrible! But good for her for trying. Berit, our protagonist, is an interesting character. She wants to help the students at the retreat and is committed to the best interests of everyone. She has a sense of justice that is admirable, making her a character many can relate to.
The author has an engaging style, but the police share way too much with Berit, as is often the case with this type of book. Berit is a regular person, but she has a way of getting to know the cast of characters and learning their motivations.
It's interesting how Berit describes the process of writing and shares how some authors think when bringing their creations to life. I've never read any of the author's other books, but I wonder if Berit's feelings about writing are mirrored in the author.
There was a large cast of characters in this book, but all were compelling and had their own story. The detailed character development made me feel invested in each of their journeys. I'd definitely check out more of this author's books in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own
This book reminded me of a classic detective novel. It was a fun read and kept me guessing. When I thought I had it figured out, I was wrong! I particularly enjoyed the behind-the-scenes of the publishing industry, which added an intriguing layer to the story.
The book is written in different POVs, in the third person, which is my favorite. While I enjoy books written in the first person, with the third, I like to imagine the story as an observer.
I also loved the tone of this book. Katatina Bivald drew me in with Sally trying to speak French right in the first chapter. I felt a kinship since I'm trying to learn French, and my accent is terrible! But good for her for trying. Berit, our protagonist, is an interesting character. She wants to help the students at the retreat and is committed to the best interests of everyone. She has a sense of justice that is admirable, making her a character many can relate to.
The author has an engaging style, but the police share way too much with Berit, as is often the case with this type of book. Berit is a regular person, but she has a way of getting to know the cast of characters and learning their motivations.
It's interesting how Berit describes the process of writing and shares how some authors think when bringing their creations to life. I've never read any of the author's other books, but I wonder if Berit's feelings about writing are mirrored in the author.
There was a large cast of characters in this book, but all were compelling and had their own story. The detailed character development made me feel invested in each of their journeys. I'd definitely check out more of this author's books in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own
August 5, 2025
I read a free advance digital review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
In this follow-up to The Murders in Great Diddling, Swedish mystery author Berit Gardner, who lives in England, is now in a country chateau near Lyon, France, teaching at a week-long writers’ workshop being sponsored by her favorite bookshop owner, Emma.
It’s a stressful time for Emma, because of how precarious the economics are for bookshop owners these days, but also because of her keynote speaker, the famous novelist John Wright. Nabbing him made it easy to sign up attendees, but Wright is a nightmare, conceited and demanding and, worst of all, he tells the would be attendees that they should just give up because the odds of becoming successful writers are overwhelmingly against them. Infuriating! Later, when it’s Berit’s turn to speak, Wright comes in late and sits right down front, looking increasingly bored by her talk until he actually falls asleep. But Berit realizes he’s not asleep, he’s dead.
As in the prior book, this one has Berit, with her keen eye and understanding of people, working to solve the murder despite the opposition of the local police detectives. But unlike so many mysteries, in which the amateur detective and the professionals are at loggerheads at all times, Berit earns the grudging respect of the locals and even a little bit of cooperation. It is Berit’s doggedness and knowledge of the workshop’s attendees that gives her the edge, though.
The cast of characters is large, but Bivald makes them easy to distinguish from each other. Her police detective locals are full characters as well, and ones I wish would have their own series. The story is well paced, has humorous moments, and is engaging—even if I did figure out the whodunnit fairly early.
Bivald is a Swedish writer and this series is translated into English. I see that there are four Berit Gardner books in Swedish. I look forward to reading the English translations of the next two.
4.5 stars, rounded up
In this follow-up to The Murders in Great Diddling, Swedish mystery author Berit Gardner, who lives in England, is now in a country chateau near Lyon, France, teaching at a week-long writers’ workshop being sponsored by her favorite bookshop owner, Emma.
It’s a stressful time for Emma, because of how precarious the economics are for bookshop owners these days, but also because of her keynote speaker, the famous novelist John Wright. Nabbing him made it easy to sign up attendees, but Wright is a nightmare, conceited and demanding and, worst of all, he tells the would be attendees that they should just give up because the odds of becoming successful writers are overwhelmingly against them. Infuriating! Later, when it’s Berit’s turn to speak, Wright comes in late and sits right down front, looking increasingly bored by her talk until he actually falls asleep. But Berit realizes he’s not asleep, he’s dead.
As in the prior book, this one has Berit, with her keen eye and understanding of people, working to solve the murder despite the opposition of the local police detectives. But unlike so many mysteries, in which the amateur detective and the professionals are at loggerheads at all times, Berit earns the grudging respect of the locals and even a little bit of cooperation. It is Berit’s doggedness and knowledge of the workshop’s attendees that gives her the edge, though.
The cast of characters is large, but Bivald makes them easy to distinguish from each other. Her police detective locals are full characters as well, and ones I wish would have their own series. The story is well paced, has humorous moments, and is engaging—even if I did figure out the whodunnit fairly early.
Bivald is a Swedish writer and this series is translated into English. I see that there are four Berit Gardner books in Swedish. I look forward to reading the English translations of the next two.
4.5 stars, rounded up
July 25, 2025
Katarina Bivald’s Just Another Dead Author has author Berit Gardner attending a creative writing workshop in France. The people there are either professionals (writers, agents, etc) or students / would-be writers. One of the professional authors – in fact, by far the biggest name there – is a vile, spiteful man, which means there is no shortage of suspects when he dies, presumed murdered.
I loved the ways in which the author emphasised the students’ prioritisation of colour and copy over mourning. One really gets a sense of how professional writers will use their experience to inform their books. Berit is one of the few witnesses who can step aside and realise that a murder implies a murderer; and that identifying the murderer and arresting them is much more important than observing what’s happening.
The characters are very well drawn. The local police inspector, Béatrice Roche, has been saddled with a trainee, who happens to be the Mayor’s son. While it may have been tempting to show the son as an incompetent idiot who is only there because of his father’s influence, Bivald gives us a much more realistic picture of, yes, an inexperienced trainee who makes mistakes and needs a lot of guidance, but who learns and offers a different perspective from Roche.
Although the writing is witty and there are undoubtedly moments of humour, I wouldn’t call this a “cosy” mystery. The murderer is clever and evades identification and capture, making us empathise with Berit’s fear and frustration. All in all, this is a very well written book and I recommend it with any reservations.
#JustAnotherDeadAuthor #NetGalley
I loved the ways in which the author emphasised the students’ prioritisation of colour and copy over mourning. One really gets a sense of how professional writers will use their experience to inform their books. Berit is one of the few witnesses who can step aside and realise that a murder implies a murderer; and that identifying the murderer and arresting them is much more important than observing what’s happening.
The characters are very well drawn. The local police inspector, Béatrice Roche, has been saddled with a trainee, who happens to be the Mayor’s son. While it may have been tempting to show the son as an incompetent idiot who is only there because of his father’s influence, Bivald gives us a much more realistic picture of, yes, an inexperienced trainee who makes mistakes and needs a lot of guidance, but who learns and offers a different perspective from Roche.
Although the writing is witty and there are undoubtedly moments of humour, I wouldn’t call this a “cosy” mystery. The murderer is clever and evades identification and capture, making us empathise with Berit’s fear and frustration. All in all, this is a very well written book and I recommend it with any reservations.
#JustAnotherDeadAuthor #NetGalley
August 22, 2025
From beginning to end, JUST ANOTHER DEAD AUTHOR delivered the cozy mystery vibes I was hoping for. Bivald wrote a mystery that was layered, filled with fabulous characters, and fun.
The cast of aspiring and established writers (including their partners), agents, publishers, and conference holders make this story. Their complicated relationships, secrets, and sneaky actions enhance the mystery at hand. Then you have the way the author carefully reveals bits of information to get closer to solving the investigation. Though it may seem effortless, it is clear that Bivald has a talent for weaving a tale that has suspense, heart, and wit.
Oh! The best part might be the murderer’s writing sprinkled throughout. This gives the reader a slightly menacing feeling and reminds us that the threat to all is still looming.
Spending time with Berit Gardner was delightful, even though it was murder filled. Her amateur sleuthing was on point and gave me all the J.B. Fletcher energy this mystery lover could ask for. This series is now an instant read for me. Now, I just have to wait for another book to come out.
Highly Caffeinated Rating of… ☕ ☕ ☕ ☕
Reviewer Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
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✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
The cast of aspiring and established writers (including their partners), agents, publishers, and conference holders make this story. Their complicated relationships, secrets, and sneaky actions enhance the mystery at hand. Then you have the way the author carefully reveals bits of information to get closer to solving the investigation. Though it may seem effortless, it is clear that Bivald has a talent for weaving a tale that has suspense, heart, and wit.
Oh! The best part might be the murderer’s writing sprinkled throughout. This gives the reader a slightly menacing feeling and reminds us that the threat to all is still looming.
Spending time with Berit Gardner was delightful, even though it was murder filled. Her amateur sleuthing was on point and gave me all the J.B. Fletcher energy this mystery lover could ask for. This series is now an instant read for me. Now, I just have to wait for another book to come out.
Highly Caffeinated Rating of… ☕ ☕ ☕ ☕
Reviewer Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
Follow the Art, Books, & Coffee:
Website | Instagram | Facebook Group
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
May 20, 2025
Berit Gardner, renowned mystery author, agrees to attend a 2 week writers' workshop in the French countryside, aimed at helping aspiring writers. However, when John Wright, arrogant, successful and well-published author and keynote speaker at the retreat dies unexpectedly not long after delivering a savage address, and while she is delivering her presentation, Berit is thrust into the middle of the French commissaire's investigation.
Berit can't help but conduct her own investigation, much to the dismay of the commissaire, and she is determined to assist despite being asked to stop interfering with the official investigation. However, with a victim disliked by many, suspects piling up and a diverse cast of writers, publishers and agents all with secrets of their own, Berit finds herself in danger with every clue she helps discover.
This story is the sequel to The Murders in Great Diddling, which also features the character of Berit Gardner. Despite not having read the first book, I had no trouble reading this as it read well as a stand-alone story. A cleverly written, witty murder mystery with a good mix of characters to love and despise, and some terrific book-related references throughout the story. I didn't guess the whodunnit (always a bonus in my eyes) and thoroughly enjoyed this read. A definite recommendation.
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the opportunity to read and review this book. Publication date is 12 August 2025.
Berit can't help but conduct her own investigation, much to the dismay of the commissaire, and she is determined to assist despite being asked to stop interfering with the official investigation. However, with a victim disliked by many, suspects piling up and a diverse cast of writers, publishers and agents all with secrets of their own, Berit finds herself in danger with every clue she helps discover.
This story is the sequel to The Murders in Great Diddling, which also features the character of Berit Gardner. Despite not having read the first book, I had no trouble reading this as it read well as a stand-alone story. A cleverly written, witty murder mystery with a good mix of characters to love and despise, and some terrific book-related references throughout the story. I didn't guess the whodunnit (always a bonus in my eyes) and thoroughly enjoyed this read. A definite recommendation.
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the opportunity to read and review this book. Publication date is 12 August 2025.
July 23, 2025
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Katarina Bivald for letting me dive into this ARC early!
Imagine a sun-drenched château in the French countryside, a perfect setting for a writer’s retreat, until the keynote speaker keels over dead at the end of Berit Gardner’s lecture. Talk about an unforgettable plot twist!
Berit is such a delight: calm, curious, and resourceful in her sleuthing. She's not only smart and capable, but also warm and relatable. Watching her navigate the tension with the skeptical French commissaire, then gradually earn her respect, is a real treat. And the reporter vying to beat her to the story brings just the right mix of rivalry and tension.
What stands out is Bivald’s ability to craft a cozy mystery that’s both atmospheric and smart. The retreat attendees. Authors, critics, aspiring writers, are quirky and secret-keeping in all the best ways. Each one seems to have a motive, which keeps the suspects pile-up intriguing.
The story takes its time at the start, setting up the characters and setting beautifully. It moves more slowly than some thrillers, but once the mystery begins to unfold, it grips you. A few subplot threads don’t fully resolve, but the main whodunit has a satisfying and twisty payoff.
In short, this is a charming, clever mystery with literary flair. If you enjoy author-themed cozy mysteries, as in the vein of The Thursday Murder Club or The Murders in Great Diddling, this one’s for you.
Imagine a sun-drenched château in the French countryside, a perfect setting for a writer’s retreat, until the keynote speaker keels over dead at the end of Berit Gardner’s lecture. Talk about an unforgettable plot twist!
Berit is such a delight: calm, curious, and resourceful in her sleuthing. She's not only smart and capable, but also warm and relatable. Watching her navigate the tension with the skeptical French commissaire, then gradually earn her respect, is a real treat. And the reporter vying to beat her to the story brings just the right mix of rivalry and tension.
What stands out is Bivald’s ability to craft a cozy mystery that’s both atmospheric and smart. The retreat attendees. Authors, critics, aspiring writers, are quirky and secret-keeping in all the best ways. Each one seems to have a motive, which keeps the suspects pile-up intriguing.
The story takes its time at the start, setting up the characters and setting beautifully. It moves more slowly than some thrillers, but once the mystery begins to unfold, it grips you. A few subplot threads don’t fully resolve, but the main whodunit has a satisfying and twisty payoff.
In short, this is a charming, clever mystery with literary flair. If you enjoy author-themed cozy mysteries, as in the vein of The Thursday Murder Club or The Murders in Great Diddling, this one’s for you.
June 16, 2025
Katarina Bivald's new book Just Another Dead Author is a cozy mystery set at a French writer's retreat. When one of the most notable attendees winds up dead, the investigation begins.
Because this is a hungry set of mostly crime fiction/mystery/thriller writers, no one is scared off by a real life crime. Everyone wants to know whodunnit and how, and learn as much as they can about the investigation process as the retreat plows ahead. There are a lot of suspects, and motives aplenty - did one of them take their crime research a little too far?
Like all cozy mysteries I've read, this novel is prescriptive. You pick it up and know exactly what you're getting. If you're a mood reader, there is so much value in that.
The tone is somewhat detached and the investigation itself is quite clinical. This one had a few snippet chapters in the point of view of the killer which kept things interesting, but I never felt myself in edge-of-my-seat territory.
I believe this is the second book in this series by Katarina Bivald, so if you like this, you should check out The Murders in Great Diddling as well.
Note:: I received an early copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews, visit thelitertarian.com.
Because this is a hungry set of mostly crime fiction/mystery/thriller writers, no one is scared off by a real life crime. Everyone wants to know whodunnit and how, and learn as much as they can about the investigation process as the retreat plows ahead. There are a lot of suspects, and motives aplenty - did one of them take their crime research a little too far?
Like all cozy mysteries I've read, this novel is prescriptive. You pick it up and know exactly what you're getting. If you're a mood reader, there is so much value in that.
The tone is somewhat detached and the investigation itself is quite clinical. This one had a few snippet chapters in the point of view of the killer which kept things interesting, but I never felt myself in edge-of-my-seat territory.
I believe this is the second book in this series by Katarina Bivald, so if you like this, you should check out The Murders in Great Diddling as well.
Note:: I received an early copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews, visit thelitertarian.com.
July 14, 2025
3.75 stars
This is the second mystery featuring Swedish mystery author Berit Gardner. The setting is a French chateau, where she is attending/appearing at a writer's workshop and retreat, mostly to help out an old friend who is struggling after losing her bookshop.
The main draw for the conference is a celebrity/famous mystery writer who is much revered in writing circles. There has been controversy with his agent and his publishing company and he has a reputation for being difficult.
It isn't long before the first body appears. The French police don't know quite what to make of all the writers who appear more interested in turning their experiences into books than solving the crime. The plot is nicely done but what is the most fun is the various interactions, between the members of the police team, among the writers who have different life circumstances and between Berit and the other authors. She is an offbeat character who doesn't care much for what others think but who also is empathetic in her own way. And her straightforward and honest demeanor turns out to be quite successful in eliciting information. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the second mystery featuring Swedish mystery author Berit Gardner. The setting is a French chateau, where she is attending/appearing at a writer's workshop and retreat, mostly to help out an old friend who is struggling after losing her bookshop.
The main draw for the conference is a celebrity/famous mystery writer who is much revered in writing circles. There has been controversy with his agent and his publishing company and he has a reputation for being difficult.
It isn't long before the first body appears. The French police don't know quite what to make of all the writers who appear more interested in turning their experiences into books than solving the crime. The plot is nicely done but what is the most fun is the various interactions, between the members of the police team, among the writers who have different life circumstances and between Berit and the other authors. She is an offbeat character who doesn't care much for what others think but who also is empathetic in her own way. And her straightforward and honest demeanor turns out to be quite successful in eliciting information. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 16, 2025
Just Another Dead Author is a cozy mystery featuring, you guessed it —- authors. It gives us an insight on how budding writers try to get their works recognized thru agents and publishers. I like the setting of French chateau with idyllic vineyards. I think it makes for a good murder mystery. As usual, I didn’t realize that this is book 2 of Berit Gardner series (book 1 being The Murders in Great Diddling). You can read it as a standalone. Berit reminds me of Miss Marple — she’s intuitive, empathetic and very curious about human nature. However, unlike Miss Marple, she constantly throws herself into the investigation even if it means she would get killed in the process! Her fascination into human psychology is what makes her a great writer, but her recklessness makes you want to scream at her lol! Despite these, you can’t help but admire her while she tests out her hypothesis and deduces whodunnit. Katarina Bivald truly created a unique and memorable amateur sleuth in Berit. I’m drawn to her like a moth to a flame. I love her thought process and understanding of human psyche. I think this is what mostly made me adore the book. Thank you @poisonedpenpress for my e-copy. I now have a new favorite MC. Definitely need to read book 1 asap!
July 7, 2025
Just Another Dead Author is the second book in Katarina Bivald’s charming cozy mystery series, and it whisks readers away to a writers’ retreat in the idyllic French countryside. Our clever protagonist, Berit Gardner, is attending the retreat as a favor to a friend. When keynote speaker dies under suspicious circumstances, Berit begins asking some questions. But she isn't the only one asking questions. A young journalist is conducting her own investigation but this seems to stirs up even more tension as she hunts for the truth.
Admittedly, the story starts off on the slower side, with a sizable cast of characters to introduce. All with connections to the victim and to each other, it took me a bit to keep everyone straight. However, by the end I felt confident in who was who. The mystery itself is satisfyingly twisty, woven with a quiet suspense that kept me guessing.
Berit’s voice and steady approach to solving mysteries make her a compelling series lead, and I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where she heads next.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest review.
Admittedly, the story starts off on the slower side, with a sizable cast of characters to introduce. All with connections to the victim and to each other, it took me a bit to keep everyone straight. However, by the end I felt confident in who was who. The mystery itself is satisfyingly twisty, woven with a quiet suspense that kept me guessing.
Berit’s voice and steady approach to solving mysteries make her a compelling series lead, and I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where she heads next.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest review.
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