The plot starts out cleverly but becomes too obvious and unoriginal, The over worked characterisation is still thin and most unrealistic, (several hints are not followed through). The editing is poor and the author's comments silly and unnecessary.

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet or computer – no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Julia Flowers' First Casebook. The Sorrowful Woman: 1 (Julia Flowers' Casebooks) Paperback – 21 Oct. 2016
by
Alan M.A. Friedmann
(Author)
Sorry, there was a problem loading this page.Try again.
Peter J. Earle: “Let it be said that this is a tale that kept me glued. Intriguing indeed, and so this gripping tale continues; a seriously worthwhile read." Sarah Ward: "The tone of the book is light-hearted and humorous. There’s a strong Scottish sense of place to the setting and The Sorrowful Woman is an enjoyable start to what I’m sure will be a great new series." She is not a detective, a private investigator, or a pathologist. Julia Flowers, 50, divorced, and happy, is a specialist in Oriental antiques. And yet without her expertise the brutal murder of a former diplomat would remain unsolved. The mixture of antiques and murder, set in Edinburgh and North East Scotland, turns out to be more exciting than the Antiques Road Show on speed. Forget Scandinavian Noir, this is Scotch Blanc. The Sorrowful Woman is the first of four original investigations introducing the enigmatic Inspector Bland and the unique Julia Flowers, a woman sleuth like no other. Professional reviews: Peter J Earle at www.bookpostmortem.wordpress.com Sarah Ward at https://crimepieces.com/2016/11/30/four-recent-e-book-reads-kevin-wignall-margot-kinberg-christina-philippou-alan-m-a-friedmann/ The Puzzle Doctor at www.classicmystery.wordpress.com
- Print length220 pages
- LanguageEnglish
- PublisherMuirhouses Partnership
- Publication date21 Oct. 2016
- Dimensions14.8 x 1.3 x 21 cm
- ISBN-101527202372
- ISBN-13978-1527202375
Product details
- Publisher : Muirhouses Partnership
- Publication date : 21 Oct. 2016
- Edition : First Edition
- Language : English
- Print length : 220 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1527202372
- ISBN-13 : 978-1527202375
- Item weight : 358 g
- Dimensions : 14.8 x 1.3 x 21 cm
- Customer reviews:
Customer reviews
3.9 out of 5 stars
3.9 out of 5
10 global ratings
- 5 star4 star3 star2 star1 star5 star39%38%0%23%0%39%
- 5 star4 star3 star2 star1 star4 star39%38%0%23%0%38%
- 5 star4 star3 star2 star1 star3 star39%38%0%23%0%0%
- 5 star4 star3 star2 star1 star2 star39%38%0%23%0%23%
- 5 star4 star3 star2 star1 star1 star39%38%0%23%0%0%
How customer reviews and ratings work
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings, help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyses reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonTop reviews from United Kingdom
There was a problem filtering reviews. Please reload the page.
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 3 December 2016
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 6 November 2016Deserves all 5 stars for interesting characters and twisting plot and also great knowledge of antiquities - well written and a joy to read! Leo H.
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 25 February 2017Thoroughly enjoyed the storyline and being able to enjoy and recognise the localities of Edinburgh. This thriller presents mystery, intrigue and humour, worth your time and interest.
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 18 December 2016Antiques Roadshow meets Inspector Rebus. It's great to read a novel where you're familiar with the landscape. This thrilling and clever crime novel is a tribute to the East Neuk!
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 3 December 2016A very exciting story, well written, with an intriguing plot. Nice to recognize the Edinburgh setting. Looking forward to read Julia Flowers' next case..
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 9 December 2016The plot is fantastic and captivating! Love the characters and the detailed descriptions of Edinburgh! Fantastic book would recommend to anyone!
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 24 November 2016I thoroughly enjoyed this excellent read and look forward to more!
- Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 December 2016Right from the beginning I can hardly put it down, even during my busiest time a year. It is a very convincing story with far reaching imagination and fantasy. I live in Fife, also close to Heriot Row. Moreover, I like Chinese antiques (bought some at Stockbridge), finally very keen on Chinese politics. Everything Julia does seems very familiar, yet the story is totally unexpected and illuminating. I like DCI Bland too, just like a real person. Next time when I walk in-law's dog near Fettes, I will look around if he is driving by. I am relieved by the end that the Bogeyman from China does no appear, hence we are all back to a normal life from a fictional world. On the other hand, I am eagerly waiting for the next casebook. Certainly Alan Friedmann will offer us a more interesting and emotional experience. I truly enjoyed reading every page of this book and highly recommend it to those who like a combination of culture, adventure and exotic life, emerging from a very realistic social background in Scotland today.
Top reviews from other countries
- Jeannette HartmanReviewed in the United States on 13 December 2016
4.0 out of 5 stars Fascinating world; improbable story
This mystery takes places in the interesting world of appraising oriental antiques in Scotland. Ultimately though, the way that appraiser Julia Flowers becomes entangled seems a little too pat.