emilywemily6's review against another edition
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
Although the mystery of this book was not as robust as the last one, I enjoyed it more and felt the book overall had more going for it. The pacing was more consistent throughout the story, and while the creature behind the murder seemed obvious, the “why” was harder to parse out. I still had questions that kept me engaged in the mystery even though it felt like Vera and Orville were slow to connect the dots I saw. I listened on audio and found I liked it better than a physical book; I could suspend my disbelief easier in the awkward way some of the characters talk.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Murder and Death
Minor: Death of parent and Toxic friendship
sarah_plemmons's review against another edition
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Just like the first installment of Shady Hollow, Cold Clay is a perfect, bite-sized cozy mystery. It leads you through the charming town of Shady Hollow and introduces you a delightful cast of characters, both familiar and new. The mystery may not be as strong, but the steady stream of clues makes you feel like you're solving it alongside Vera at a much more even pace than the first installment in the series.
Content Warnings
Minor: Animal death, Classism, Abandonment, Death of parent, and Toxic friendship
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