A Spoonful of Murder by J.M. Hall - Fiction - Paperback (The Retired Teacher Mysteries, Book 1)

Condition: BRAND NEW
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780008509613
Publisher: Avon (HarperCollins)
Age Range: Adult

Overview:
A Spoonful of Murder is the delightful debut cosy crime novel from J.M. Hall, launching The Retired Teacher Mysteries series. Three retired schoolteachers turn amateur sleuths after their old colleague dies suddenly, days after an odd reunion at their favourite garden centre café. Warm, witty and steeped in Yorkshire charm, this brand new paperback is perfect for fans of Richard Osman's Thursday Murder Club and readers who love gentle whodunits with heart, humour and a strong cup of tea.

About the Book:
Every Thursday, Liz, Thelma and Pat meet for their regular "coffee o'clock" catch-up at the Thirsk Garden Centre café. One week they unexpectedly bump into their former colleague Topsy — and by the following Thursday, Topsy is dead. Convinced something isn't right, the three friends set aside their knitting and crosswords to investigate, using decades of experience keeping unruly classrooms in line to outwit the local killer. What follows is a warm, funny and cleverly plotted mystery that balances genuine tension with gentle British humour. Hall's background as a Yorkshire deputy headteacher shines through in the authentic, affectionate portrayal of small-town life, school-gate gossip and long friendships tested by extraordinary circumstances. There's no graphic violence here — just clever misdirection, likeable characters and a properly satisfying puzzle for readers to solve alongside the trio. As the first instalment in The Retired Teacher Mysteries, the novel introduces a cast readers will want to return to, blending cosy-crime staples with genuinely fresh, funny writing — an ideal comfort read and a strong introduction to a series that has since expanded.

• Cosy, humour-filled mystery ideal for fans of Richard Osman and Agatha Christie
• First book in the popular Retired Teacher Mysteries series
• Brand new UK paperback edition — perfect gift for crime fiction fans
• Charming Yorkshire setting with authentic, well-observed characters
• Light on violence, big on wit, warmth and clever plotting
• Great for readers who love book club-friendly, feel-good crime fiction

About the Author:
J.M. Hall is the pen name of Jon Hall, a Yorkshire-born writer who has spent almost his whole life in the county. Before turning to fiction, he had a long career as a deputy headteacher in a northern primary school, an experience that continues to shape his warm, observant writing. He has also written for stage and radio, including the acclaimed BBC radio series "Trust," starring Julie Hesmondhalgh. A Spoonful of Murder was his debut novel and launched a beloved cosy crime series featuring three unforgettable retired teachers turned amateur detectives.

Why You'll Love This Cosy Mystery:
A witty, warm-hearted whodunit with unforgettable characters, a charming Yorkshire setting, and just enough intrigue to keep you guessing — the perfect comfort read or thoughtful gift for cosy crime fans.

Please Note: Cover shown is the current UK edition. ISBN is correct for the UK paperback edition supplied.