A Pen Dipped in Poison: A witty and cozy mystery story, perfect for fans of Richard Osman

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Retired schoolteachers and amateur sleuths Liz, Pat and Thelma have a brand-new mystery to solve in this witty tale... Malice and mayhem spur a school reunion of three modern Marples – and some of their Thirsk community learn a lesson they’ll never forget!’ Sarah Yarwood-Lovett, author of A Murder of Crows The themes explored in A Pen Dipped in Poison are worth mentioning too; there are some great messages about education within this book. It covers how educational systems have become focused on money instead of children, which highlights how important it is for us all to remember that education should always be about helping children learn and grow rather than just making money off them or treating them as numbers on a spreadsheet. I especially enjoyed the epilogue; it brings everything full circle with a heart-warming message of what really matters when it comes to education. I really had high hopes for this. I was expecting a cozy mystery but, in my opinion, that is not what I got.

But as they work to uncover the truth, they begin to wonder just how far someone will go to silence this poison pen… Retired schoolteachers and amateur sleuths Liz, Pat and Thelma have a brand-new mystery to solve in this witty tale – perfect for fans of The Thursday Murder Club, by Richard Osman The ingredients for the perfect modern cosy crime: intrigue, characters you care about and a good dollop of humour' Ian Moore, author of Death and CroissantsA Pen Dipped in Poison is an uncomplicated but highly entertaining dramatic mystery with likeable, and dare I say at a pinch, loveable protagonists. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have no qualms whatsoever in recommending it. this was a great mystery novel, it was what I was hoping for when reading the description. It was really well written and does what a good mystery is suppose to. I really enjoyed the characters in the story and they worked really well. I'm glad I was able to read this as I really enjoyed what I read, and can't wait to read more mysteries by J.M. Hall. A charming read with a cast of characters you’ll really connect with” - Faith Martin, author of A Fatal End

I really liked Kayleigh Brittain, the new headmistress. She is wealthy, driven, enigmatic, confident and influential. She has a clear vision for the school and will stop at nothing to ensure it is achieved. She doesn’t care what others think of her, which may make her slightly callous, especially as a head teacher and she doesn’t endear herself to the children or parents, but I admired her determination and strength. A truly strong female lead character.

This time the case they solve is about poison pen letters that are sent to staff at their old school. As one by one, careers are ended, marriages destroyed and no one is beyond suspicion, the three friends decide enough is enough. They must take matters into their own hands before more damage is done. But when poison pen letters start landing on the doorsteps of friends and neighbours in their Yorkshire village, old secrets come to light. If you’re looking for a cozy mystery that can keep you guessing until the end, then look no further than J.M. Hall’s A Pen Dipped in Poison! This is the second book in Hall’s mystery series, and it follows Thelma, Liz, and Pat as they work together to solve a new case involving poison pen letters sent to teachers and staff at their former school St. Barnabus. Get ready to be entertained – this review will tell you why this book is worth your time!