A new series by author/narrator Simon Brett is cause for rejoicing. Ellen Curtis is a declutterer who works with hoarders and those who need a nudge at organization. Brett's portrayal of low-key Ellen is supportive and tactful when she needs to persuade her clients to let go of possessions. Listeners will be intrigued by elderly Queenie, who has 11 cats, and Ashleigh, who loves her baby but lives in squalor. Even before Ellen discovers a body at the home of one of her clients, she exudes an undercurrent of sadness. Characters are well rendered, with Ellen the standout as she investigates what turns out to be a murder. Most entertaining is Ellen's aged mother, Fleur, an actress who is always performing. Even though this mystery includes issues relating to mental illness, drugs, prison, and death, its upbeat tone makes it an enjoyable listen.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2020
Duration: 6 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781662003257
Publisher: Dreamscape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Jesse Vilinsky gives a vibrant performance of this delightful cozy mystery featuring a fun romance. Emersyn, who is caring for her young niece after her brother's death, is struggling to keep afloat financially after being swindled by her ex-boyfriend, Hoffman. Emersyn's natural warmth and intelligence come through in Vilinsky's narration as she creates a fictitious detective agency to scare Hoffman into returning the money. Through her efforts she meets the charming Wyatt, whose deep voice and infectious mischievousness convince Emersyn to let him help. When Emersyn's 80-year-old neighbor is accused of murdering their building super, the fictitious agency is hired to investigate. Vilinksy creates an atmospheric listen full of heart, romantic spark, and found family.
Pub Date: Jan. 6, 2026
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217159048
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Chef Paul Delamare is back for a second helping of mystery in this action-packed adventure. Narrator Sebastian Humphreys brings sparkle to his portrayal of the perpetually down-on-his-luck chef whose house has just been flooded when he receives an invitation from an old friend. After joining Parisian socialite Xéra on her honeymoon cruise across the Atlantic in a superyacht, Paul stumbles upon the scene of a tragic death and realizes he may be trapped at sea with a murderer. Humphreys hits just the right notes as the chef, emphasizing his knack for putting clues together and his hilarious outrage when his investigation goes sideways. Humphreys deftly juggles the accents and affectations of the passengers and yacht crew, strongly delineating each character.
Pub Date: Dec. 16, 2025
Duration: 10 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9798899739194
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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