The Christie Curse

Book Collector Mystery Series, Book 1

By: Victoria Abbott

Narrated by: Carla Mercer-Meyer

Jordan Kelly needs a new job and a new place to live. She's back in Harrison Falls, New York, living with her not so law-abiding uncles, in debt thanks to a credit card-stealing ex and pending grad school loans.

Enter the perfect job, a research position that includes room and board, which will allow her to spend her days hunting down rare mysteries for an avid book collector. There's just one problem: her employer, Vera Van Alst - the most hated citizen of Harrison Falls.

Jordan's first assignment is to track down a rumored Agatha Christie play. It seems easy enough, but Jordan soon finds out that her predecessor was killed while looking for it, and there is still someone out there willing to murder to keep the play out of Vera's hands. Jordan's new job is good...but is it worth her life?

©2013 Penguin Group (USA) Inc. (P)2014 Tantor

Critic reviews

"Abbott gives readers a nicely crafted mystery." ( RT Book Reviews)

Love this book...

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes I would recommend this book to any of my friends who enjoy cozy mysteries - and it might be a good book for those who are not familiar with cozies to get started reading them.

What did you like best about this story?

I liked the characterizations. I became very fond of Jordan and her uncles (and I was hoping that Officer Smiley would end up being a good guy). Also, the book moved along smoothly and didn't drag. It held my attention throughout.

Have you listened to any of Carla Mercer-Meyer’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I have not listened to any of her other performances, but I have listened to a lot of audio books and I thought her performance was exceptional.

Any additional comments?

I usually have two audio books going at once - one in the house on my Kindle and one in the car on my iPod. This one was in the car, but several times I brought it in because I didn't want to wait until I was on the road again to hear more. That's unusual for me, which is an indication of how much I enjoyed it. I will definitely be getting the remaining books in this series.

Charming entertainment

Would you listen to The Christie Curse again? Why?

Not sure I would listen again. In fact, can't think of any books I would listen to again but a couple.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

The plot was always moving forward and revealing just enough to keep the listener coming back.

Which scene was your favorite?

Any scene with Vera. What a nasty old crone.

Nice story line different twist

Easy to listen and follow. Like the story line it fits in the genre as many of the murder mysteries however the twist hear is to bring in the crazy family members. Story moves well with many laughable moments. Will continue the series.

Great book

I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the story in this book and the narration was exceptional. I will search for more of Victoria Abbott's novels.

fun listen

I recommend this book. I've been listening to very dark mysteries. This one is fun and entertaining. I'll be looking for more from this author and narrator.

Love every minute

Would you consider the audio edition of The Christie Curse to be better than the print version?

Yes. I loved the narrator and the different character voices

What did you like best about this story?

The unexpected plot twists

Which character – as performed by Carla Mercer-Meyer – was your favorite?

Jordan

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes

Any additional comments?

Can wait to start number 2!

Good mystery

Fun but wished it came with recipes. Good light hearted mystery that I would recommend.

Great story, best narration

Loved this book and the narration brings it to life. Love the uncles and always smile when hearing Vera's gravelly voice. Happily hooked on the series.

The Christie Curse

What a wonderful mystery! This is a good story that kept me entertained. The narrator did an amazing job of bringing the characters to life. I will listen to it again.

Some what of a stretch

Is there anything you would change about this book?

The whole story seemed to be trying to live off of Agatha Christie's image but could even come close. Christie the queen of mystery would not need to fear from this authour

If you’ve listened to books by Victoria Abbott before, how does this one compare?

my first will listen to one more with hopes of a better story and far better plot.

Was The Christie Curse worth the listening time?

not really.