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I'm Not the Only Murderer in My Retirement Home
After a decades-long stint in prison, former serial killer Carol is looking to kick back and relax in her new retirement home...until a fellow resident drops dead and Carol has to prove she actually didn't do it this time....
Carol is delighted to be leaving her tiny prison cell behind to take her place in a luxury retirement home. She's hoping her past as a serial killer won't come to light so she can make a few friends and find some murder-free hobbies. But it's not long before a fellow resident—who happens to be a former police commissioner—drops dead, and Carol's true identity is leaked—making catching up over daily activities of bingo and baking rather awkward.
Just her luck, Carol soon realizes that the victim wasn't the only former law enforcement officer at Sheldon Oaks—it's filled to the brim with former cops, barristers, and government representatives, her newfound friends included. And everyone thinks Carol's guilt is a no-brainer, but she is ready to prove them dead wrong...without killing anyone, for once.
Carol is delighted to be leaving her tiny prison cell behind to take her place in a luxury retirement home. She's hoping her past as a serial killer won't come to light so she can make a few friends and find some murder-free hobbies. But it's not long before a fellow resident—who happens to be a former police commissioner—drops dead, and Carol's true identity is leaked—making catching up over daily activities of bingo and baking rather awkward.
Just her luck, Carol soon realizes that the victim wasn't the only former law enforcement officer at Sheldon Oaks—it's filled to the brim with former cops, barristers, and government representatives, her newfound friends included. And everyone thinks Carol's guilt is a no-brainer, but she is ready to prove them dead wrong...without killing anyone, for once.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published February 17, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 413 reviews
Review of advance copy
Senior citizen sleuths and murder clubs are popping up everywhere lately, in books and on TV. Some of these are The Thursday Murder Club, Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers, Too Old for This, Man on the Inside, Only Murders in the Building, and now, I'm Not the Only Murderer in My Retirement Home. Sometimes ludicrous and often hilarious these geriatric retirees are anything but dumb or lazy.
Carol Quinn is a serial killer. She committed the crimes (7 of them) and then did her time (35 years in prison) but now she wants to put that all behind her and move on with her life and maybe at the same time make a few friends. She's hoping to fit in some relaxation when she moves into a posh retirement home in North London, but somehow trouble seems to find her.
While she is enjoying a cup of tea on her balcony a body comes sailing over the roof of the building and lands headfirst onto the cement below. The victim is pronounced dead, and it doesn't take much time before all eyes and fingers are pointing at Carol. She soon realizes that the only way for her to get out of this sticky situation is for her to find the real killer or killers herself.
Carol ends up enlisting the help of a few of her quirky neighbors. Readers will have fun just trying to keep up with this elderly group of Agatha Christie and Sherlock Holmes wannabes. What ensues is a rollicking entertaining fun time that will surely appeal to cozy mystery fans and puzzle enthusiasts alike. I may have chuckled a time or two myself.
My sincere thanks to Berkley Publishing and Book Browse for sending me an ARC of this delightful book in exchange for an honest review.
Carol Quinn is a serial killer. She committed the crimes (7 of them) and then did her time (35 years in prison) but now she wants to put that all behind her and move on with her life and maybe at the same time make a few friends. She's hoping to fit in some relaxation when she moves into a posh retirement home in North London, but somehow trouble seems to find her.
While she is enjoying a cup of tea on her balcony a body comes sailing over the roof of the building and lands headfirst onto the cement below. The victim is pronounced dead, and it doesn't take much time before all eyes and fingers are pointing at Carol. She soon realizes that the only way for her to get out of this sticky situation is for her to find the real killer or killers herself.
Carol ends up enlisting the help of a few of her quirky neighbors. Readers will have fun just trying to keep up with this elderly group of Agatha Christie and Sherlock Holmes wannabes. What ensues is a rollicking entertaining fun time that will surely appeal to cozy mystery fans and puzzle enthusiasts alike. I may have chuckled a time or two myself.
My sincere thanks to Berkley Publishing and Book Browse for sending me an ARC of this delightful book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Thursday Murder Club meets Too Old For This
This was a fun, highly entertaining, cozy mystery. I loved the characters and I felt the audiobook made the story even better!
It's worth reading just to find out what can go wrong with nail scissors. #iykyk
This was a fun, highly entertaining, cozy mystery. I loved the characters and I felt the audiobook made the story even better!
It's worth reading just to find out what can go wrong with nail scissors. #iykyk
March 3, 2026
Got the vibes of Thursday Murder Club with a little twist.
Good book, definitely worth the read!
Good book, definitely worth the read!
February 2, 2026
In Fergus Craig's witty and engaging comedic whodunit, I'M NOT THE ONLY MURDERER IN MY RETIREMENT HOME, the enigmatic story revolves around Carol Quinn, a feisty 75-year-old woman with a shadowy past as a retired serial killer.
With her razor-sharp wit and an undeniable charm, Carol navigates the complexities of life in a seemingly peaceful luxury retirement community, where the facade of tranquility is shattered by unexpected twists and dark secrets lurking behind closed doors. As the plot unfolds, readers will be drawn into a delightful blend of humor and suspense, questioning the nature of crime and morality among the elderly.
About...
Meet Carol, a 75-year-old former serial killer. A sharp, laugh-out-loud whodunit with surprising heart, the novel follows Carol—a former serial killer newly released from prison—who just wants a quiet life in a luxury retirement home. Unfortunately, when a fellow resident turns up dead, and Carol’s past is exposed, she must solve the murder to prove she didn’t do it this time… all while living among former cops, barristers, and government officials who are very sure she did.
Highlights...
My thoughts...
A cleverly crafted whodunit, Fergus Craig masterfully weaves a tapestry of humor and intrigue, guiding readers through a labyrinth of suspense and wit. With a comedic lens that both entertains and engages, he delves into profound themes of the elderly and justice. This delightfully amusing mystery is punctuated by a darker undercurrent, offering a unique blend of laughter and contemplation that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
You can't help but adore Carol! Carol Quinn is a complex character driven chiefly by self-preservation. As a retired serial killer with a troubled past, she finds herself entangled in a murder mystery that threatens to tarnish her hard-won freedom. With an urgent need to clear her name and evade the grim prospect of returning to prison, her actions unfold in a tense blend of intellect and instinct.
Her "moral compass" operates on a pragmatic level; she’s more concerned with survival than with notions of right and wrong. Against this compelling backdrop, a cast of quirky and eccentric characters springs to life, adding layers of humor and intrigue to the narrative. This captivating tale promises to keep you thoroughly entertained from start to finish!
A major theme is the underestimation of older women. Carol is frequently ignored or patronized because she looks like a harmless 75-year-old, yet she possesses a lethal "skill set" that makes her the most capable person in the building. Carol’s new "friends" (ex-cops and government officials) are loath to trust her, and Carol herself is amused by how quickly they turned her into a pariah once her past is leaked.
Can a person truly move past their history? Carol has "done her time" and wants a fresh start, yet she finds that society (and her neighbors) struggle to see her as anything past her crimes. There is a constant tension between Carol’s history of illegal acts and her current quest for justice. The story suggests that even someone who has broken the law can still be on the "right side of justice" when it counts.
The book explores how society views older people, often treating them as "done" or past their prime. By featuring a cast of former high-level professionals—cops, pathologists, and even a serial killer—it highlights the agency and hidden "badass" nature of the elderly.
While standard cozy mysteries feature retirees with law enforcement backgrounds, Craig flips this by making the lead, Carol Quinn, an actual convicted serial killer.
Charming yet deadly, this is supposed to be a "safe" setting, a luxury retirement home, pointing out the irony of its contents. Carol observes that after decades of being denied metal cutlery in prison, her new home is a "playground" filled with potential weapons.
Themes...
~Redemption and "Moving On."
~The Invisibility of the Elderly
~Justice vs. Legality
~Unlikely Friendships & Community
~Class and Snobbery
The title is significant both as a literal plot point and a satirical commentary on the "cozy crime" genre.
I'M NOT THE ONLY MURDERER IN MY RETIREMENT HOME is a captivating blend of dark humor and intriguing mystery, crafted for fans of the author. This engaging narrative appeals to the spirited senior boomer audience, proving that life still holds endless possibilities for those with a zest for adventure. At its heart is an unstoppable heroine, whose vibrant personality and tenacity shine through, making for a thrilling and entertaining read that celebrates the strength and resilience of life at every age.
Recs...
If you enjoyed the "cracked cozy" style of "I’m Not the Only Murderer in My Retirement Home," here are my recommendations that also feature dark humor, the older crowd, or subverted mystery tropes.
"Mad Mabel" by Sally Hepworth (2026), Samantha Downing's "Too Old For This." Richard Osman’s “The Thursday Murder Club,” Netlfix’s “A Man on The Inside,” Tess Gerritsen's "The Martini Club series," Phillip Fracassi's "The Autumn Springs Retirement Home Massacre," Joy Fielding's "Jenny Cooper Has A Secret," Elle Cosimano's "Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave," (Mrs. Haggerty), Mark de Castrique's "Secret Lives Mystery series," "An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good" by Helene Turstenand, "Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers" by Jesse Q. Sutanto, "Killers of a Certain Age," by Deanna Raybourn, and Rebecca A. Keller's "You Should Have Known."
Blog Tour Stop...
Check out my blog on Feb 17 for a fun Blog Tour Stop!
Special thanks to Berkley and NetGalley for graciously sharing an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: Feb 17, 2026
My Rating: 5 Stars
Feb Newsletter
Feb 17 Blog Tour Stop
With her razor-sharp wit and an undeniable charm, Carol navigates the complexities of life in a seemingly peaceful luxury retirement community, where the facade of tranquility is shattered by unexpected twists and dark secrets lurking behind closed doors. As the plot unfolds, readers will be drawn into a delightful blend of humor and suspense, questioning the nature of crime and morality among the elderly.
About...
Meet Carol, a 75-year-old former serial killer. A sharp, laugh-out-loud whodunit with surprising heart, the novel follows Carol—a former serial killer newly released from prison—who just wants a quiet life in a luxury retirement home. Unfortunately, when a fellow resident turns up dead, and Carol’s past is exposed, she must solve the murder to prove she didn’t do it this time… all while living among former cops, barristers, and government officials who are very sure she did.
Highlights...
A Fresh Start:
After 35 years in prison for seven homicides, Carol is released and moves into Sheldon Oaks, a luxury retirement home in Hampstead. She plans to keep her past a secret and enjoy quiet hobbies such as baking.
The Incident:
While sitting on her patio, Carol witnesses fellow resident Sir Desmond Crisp fall to his death from the roof.
Blown Cover:
The victim was a former police commissioner, and soon Carol’s true identity as a serial killer is leaked to the entire facility. She immediately becomes the prime suspect for the murder.
Unlikely Allies:
To clear her name, Carol teams up with a group of "bored" residents who have their own law-related backgrounds, including an ex-cop named Geoffrey, a former pathologist named Catherine, and a former Home Secretary named Margaret.
The Investigation:
Carol uses her "expertise" as an actual killer to help the group snoop around and develop theories, though her new friends are understandably nervous that she might murder them too.
The Reveal:
The mystery culminates in a dramatic "performance" at a karaoke night, where the identity of the real killer is finally unmasked.
My thoughts...
A cleverly crafted whodunit, Fergus Craig masterfully weaves a tapestry of humor and intrigue, guiding readers through a labyrinth of suspense and wit. With a comedic lens that both entertains and engages, he delves into profound themes of the elderly and justice. This delightfully amusing mystery is punctuated by a darker undercurrent, offering a unique blend of laughter and contemplation that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
You can't help but adore Carol! Carol Quinn is a complex character driven chiefly by self-preservation. As a retired serial killer with a troubled past, she finds herself entangled in a murder mystery that threatens to tarnish her hard-won freedom. With an urgent need to clear her name and evade the grim prospect of returning to prison, her actions unfold in a tense blend of intellect and instinct.
Her "moral compass" operates on a pragmatic level; she’s more concerned with survival than with notions of right and wrong. Against this compelling backdrop, a cast of quirky and eccentric characters springs to life, adding layers of humor and intrigue to the narrative. This captivating tale promises to keep you thoroughly entertained from start to finish!
A major theme is the underestimation of older women. Carol is frequently ignored or patronized because she looks like a harmless 75-year-old, yet she possesses a lethal "skill set" that makes her the most capable person in the building. Carol’s new "friends" (ex-cops and government officials) are loath to trust her, and Carol herself is amused by how quickly they turned her into a pariah once her past is leaked.
Can a person truly move past their history? Carol has "done her time" and wants a fresh start, yet she finds that society (and her neighbors) struggle to see her as anything past her crimes. There is a constant tension between Carol’s history of illegal acts and her current quest for justice. The story suggests that even someone who has broken the law can still be on the "right side of justice" when it counts.
The book explores how society views older people, often treating them as "done" or past their prime. By featuring a cast of former high-level professionals—cops, pathologists, and even a serial killer—it highlights the agency and hidden "badass" nature of the elderly.
While standard cozy mysteries feature retirees with law enforcement backgrounds, Craig flips this by making the lead, Carol Quinn, an actual convicted serial killer.
Charming yet deadly, this is supposed to be a "safe" setting, a luxury retirement home, pointing out the irony of its contents. Carol observes that after decades of being denied metal cutlery in prison, her new home is a "playground" filled with potential weapons.
Themes...
~Redemption and "Moving On."
~The Invisibility of the Elderly
~Justice vs. Legality
~Unlikely Friendships & Community
~Class and Snobbery
The title is significant both as a literal plot point and a satirical commentary on the "cozy crime" genre.
I'M NOT THE ONLY MURDERER IN MY RETIREMENT HOME is a captivating blend of dark humor and intriguing mystery, crafted for fans of the author. This engaging narrative appeals to the spirited senior boomer audience, proving that life still holds endless possibilities for those with a zest for adventure. At its heart is an unstoppable heroine, whose vibrant personality and tenacity shine through, making for a thrilling and entertaining read that celebrates the strength and resilience of life at every age.
Recs...
If you enjoyed the "cracked cozy" style of "I’m Not the Only Murderer in My Retirement Home," here are my recommendations that also feature dark humor, the older crowd, or subverted mystery tropes.
"Mad Mabel" by Sally Hepworth (2026), Samantha Downing's "Too Old For This." Richard Osman’s “The Thursday Murder Club,” Netlfix’s “A Man on The Inside,” Tess Gerritsen's "The Martini Club series," Phillip Fracassi's "The Autumn Springs Retirement Home Massacre," Joy Fielding's "Jenny Cooper Has A Secret," Elle Cosimano's "Finlay Donovan Digs Her Own Grave," (Mrs. Haggerty), Mark de Castrique's "Secret Lives Mystery series," "An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good" by Helene Turstenand, "Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers" by Jesse Q. Sutanto, "Killers of a Certain Age," by Deanna Raybourn, and Rebecca A. Keller's "You Should Have Known."
Blog Tour Stop...
Check out my blog on Feb 17 for a fun Blog Tour Stop!
Special thanks to Berkley and NetGalley for graciously sharing an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: Feb 17, 2026
My Rating: 5 Stars
Feb Newsletter
Feb 17 Blog Tour Stop
February 11, 2026
The irony of a retired serial killer living among retired law enforcers? I was cracking up from the start.
The premise kept this interesting - Carol having to prove her innocence while finding something special along the way: friends. Craig wrote Carol's voice sharp and funny at the same time. Her thoughts had me smiling throughout. I loved that the author made sure readers get to know her beyond her past.
Audio experience: Joan Walker's narration was fantastic. She kept Carol interesting from start to finish. It was fun listening to Carol maintain her calm demeanor even when every finger was pointing at her.
You'll love this if: You want cozy mysteries with dark humor, unlikely friendships, and protagonists with questionable pasts.
Thank you to Berkley and Penguin Random House Audio for the advance copies.
The premise kept this interesting - Carol having to prove her innocence while finding something special along the way: friends. Craig wrote Carol's voice sharp and funny at the same time. Her thoughts had me smiling throughout. I loved that the author made sure readers get to know her beyond her past.
Audio experience: Joan Walker's narration was fantastic. She kept Carol interesting from start to finish. It was fun listening to Carol maintain her calm demeanor even when every finger was pointing at her.
You'll love this if: You want cozy mysteries with dark humor, unlikely friendships, and protagonists with questionable pasts.
Thank you to Berkley and Penguin Random House Audio for the advance copies.
March 11, 2026
(3.75 stars)
Thank you to PRH Audio for the chance to listen to a review copy of I’m Not The Only Murderer In My Retirement Home by Fergus Craig.
This was a fun mystery filled with quirky characters. As with some other books in recent years, this one centers around people in their 70s and 80s, who live in a retirement home. This one is a very posh one in a lovely section of London. The twist here is that the newest resident is a (former) serial killer who has just been released from a very long prison term. Gradually someone figures out who she is/was and Carol is the immediate suspect when a fellow resident is murdered. But she didn’t do it and needs to clear her name to have any semblance of a normal life in the years left to her.
Joan Walker voiced all the characters on the audiobook version and she did a great job with various accents (mostly a variety of English accents). I had a lot of listening time available for some reason today, and I sped through this in just the one day.
This particular retirement home turns out to have a few law enforcement retirees, including a former detective and a former forensic pathologist, as well as the former Home Secretary! Quite a bunch of intelligent amateur sleuths indeed. I did guess part of the solution but not all of it and it was great fun to follow along. Carol gathers everyone at the end of the book to explain it all, just like Hercule Poirot did.
The author pokes a bit of fun at the genre and I enjoyed those touches. Being “of a certain age” myself, I sympathized with the residents and their various physical ailments/limitations. I liked the snark of some of Carol’s thoughts, such as her reaction to entertainment at the retirement home being focused on a much earlier generation’s music, with her thoughts reflecting that she used to go see David Bowie in concert, not the WW2-era music they were playing.
Thank you to PRH Audio for the chance to listen to a review copy of I’m Not The Only Murderer In My Retirement Home by Fergus Craig.
This was a fun mystery filled with quirky characters. As with some other books in recent years, this one centers around people in their 70s and 80s, who live in a retirement home. This one is a very posh one in a lovely section of London. The twist here is that the newest resident is a (former) serial killer who has just been released from a very long prison term. Gradually someone figures out who she is/was and Carol is the immediate suspect when a fellow resident is murdered. But she didn’t do it and needs to clear her name to have any semblance of a normal life in the years left to her.
Joan Walker voiced all the characters on the audiobook version and she did a great job with various accents (mostly a variety of English accents). I had a lot of listening time available for some reason today, and I sped through this in just the one day.
This particular retirement home turns out to have a few law enforcement retirees, including a former detective and a former forensic pathologist, as well as the former Home Secretary! Quite a bunch of intelligent amateur sleuths indeed. I did guess part of the solution but not all of it and it was great fun to follow along. Carol gathers everyone at the end of the book to explain it all, just like Hercule Poirot did.
The author pokes a bit of fun at the genre and I enjoyed those touches. Being “of a certain age” myself, I sympathized with the residents and their various physical ailments/limitations. I liked the snark of some of Carol’s thoughts, such as her reaction to entertainment at the retirement home being focused on a much earlier generation’s music, with her thoughts reflecting that she used to go see David Bowie in concert, not the WW2-era music they were playing.
March 1, 2026
This is a Cozy Mystery. I liked this book ok, but there were parts that moved slow. This book reminded me a lot of The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osmand. If you loved that book I think you would enjoy this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
March 24, 2026
I find this one funnier than Osman’s series. 😂 Maybe because the punchlines are more relatable. I will not be surprised if there’s a follow-up on this book.
February 16, 2026
I read an eARC courtesy of Berkley Publishing Group!
Carol has just gotten out of prison where she was behind bars for being a serial killer. Now she’s retirement age and is moving into a retirement home. She doesn’t reveal that she is a serial killer in hopes to make friends. When one of the other residents of the retirement home falls to their death, Carol’s past comes to light and everyone thinks that she killed the resident. Carol admits to being a serial killer in her past, but she is adamant she didn’t do this. While the other residents embark on an investigation, Carol starts her own investigation. No one will believe it wasn’t her if she can’t find out who it was.
This book is perfect for fans of cozy mysteries! Carol is a hoot! Yes, she was once a serial killer, but she has a fantastic sense of humor too. And the author made sure that we knew her beyond just being a serial killer. Aside from that part of her past, she seemed like a pleasant person!
All of the characters were unique, quirky even, but they all fit together somehow. It was hilarious that Carol found herself in a retirement home with a bunch of police officer/law enforcement. These characters had fun sneaking around and eating special cake. That had to be one of the most funny scenes I’ve read in a long time!
The next best scene was the karaoke dramatic performance where all was revealed. It definitely felt like this book was a little satirical! Even if it didn’t mean to be satirical, it was great.
If you like cozy mysteries that will make you laugh, grab it!
Carol has just gotten out of prison where she was behind bars for being a serial killer. Now she’s retirement age and is moving into a retirement home. She doesn’t reveal that she is a serial killer in hopes to make friends. When one of the other residents of the retirement home falls to their death, Carol’s past comes to light and everyone thinks that she killed the resident. Carol admits to being a serial killer in her past, but she is adamant she didn’t do this. While the other residents embark on an investigation, Carol starts her own investigation. No one will believe it wasn’t her if she can’t find out who it was.
This book is perfect for fans of cozy mysteries! Carol is a hoot! Yes, she was once a serial killer, but she has a fantastic sense of humor too. And the author made sure that we knew her beyond just being a serial killer. Aside from that part of her past, she seemed like a pleasant person!
All of the characters were unique, quirky even, but they all fit together somehow. It was hilarious that Carol found herself in a retirement home with a bunch of police officer/law enforcement. These characters had fun sneaking around and eating special cake. That had to be one of the most funny scenes I’ve read in a long time!
The next best scene was the karaoke dramatic performance where all was revealed. It definitely felt like this book was a little satirical! Even if it didn’t mean to be satirical, it was great.
If you like cozy mysteries that will make you laugh, grab it!
March 5, 2026
If 𝘛𝘩𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘔𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘭𝘶𝘣 and 𝘛𝘰𝘰 𝘖𝘭𝘥 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 had a love child, it would be this snarky little devious delight. 𝗜'𝗺 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗠𝘂𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗿 𝗜𝗻 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 is a splendid “cracked cozy” mystery. A clever blend of the octogenarian amateur sleuth and the retired killer tropes, it’s brimming with dark humor and sharp wit.
Formerly imprisoned serial killer Carol just wants to live out her days of release in peace at the luxury retirement home Sheldon Oaks. Unfortunately for her, soon after her arrival, a resident turns up dead. Even more unfortunate, the residents (victim included) had just recently uncovered her morbid past. People don't bat an eye if you're an ex-vegan or a retired teacher but let them find out you used to be a serial killer, and suddenly it's ALL they can think about you. Sheesh!
𝗜'𝗺 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗠𝘂𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗿 𝗜𝗻 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 was a wicked good fun read that had me LOLing at work. Despite its shorter length, the plot is pleasantly layered, and the characters are a well-rounded and developed ensemble. Watching Carol try to solve the crime and prove her innocence was pure entertainment. She was the perfect hybrid of Elizabeth and Joyce from 𝘛𝘩𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘔𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘭𝘶𝘣 and Lottie from 𝘛𝘰𝘰 𝘖𝘭𝘥 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴. And honestly, does it get any better than that?!
I loved Fergus Craig's sly nods to some of my favorite series, including 𝘛𝘩𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘔𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘭𝘶𝘣. I had a blast with this book and would gladly pick up another by him!
🎙 Joan Walker’s narration was pitch perfect. Her accent was clear, and her intonations were a flawless fit for portraying Carol. I highly recommend audio for this one!!
Formerly imprisoned serial killer Carol just wants to live out her days of release in peace at the luxury retirement home Sheldon Oaks. Unfortunately for her, soon after her arrival, a resident turns up dead. Even more unfortunate, the residents (victim included) had just recently uncovered her morbid past. People don't bat an eye if you're an ex-vegan or a retired teacher but let them find out you used to be a serial killer, and suddenly it's ALL they can think about you. Sheesh!
𝗜'𝗺 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗠𝘂𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗿 𝗜𝗻 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 was a wicked good fun read that had me LOLing at work. Despite its shorter length, the plot is pleasantly layered, and the characters are a well-rounded and developed ensemble. Watching Carol try to solve the crime and prove her innocence was pure entertainment. She was the perfect hybrid of Elizabeth and Joyce from 𝘛𝘩𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘔𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘭𝘶𝘣 and Lottie from 𝘛𝘰𝘰 𝘖𝘭𝘥 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴. And honestly, does it get any better than that?!
I loved Fergus Craig's sly nods to some of my favorite series, including 𝘛𝘩𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘔𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘭𝘶𝘣. I had a blast with this book and would gladly pick up another by him!
🎙 Joan Walker’s narration was pitch perfect. Her accent was clear, and her intonations were a flawless fit for portraying Carol. I highly recommend audio for this one!!
March 30, 2026
was hoping to love this but unfortunately didn't..I was just so confused the whole time and didn't find myself liking any of the story or the characters.
Audiobook - 2☆
Audiobook - 2☆
April 4, 2026
If you liked Too Old For This and The Thursday Murder Club, you’ll probably enjoy this!
It was quick and fun! Nothing too new or fancy, but just an enjoyable and silly read.
It was quick and fun! Nothing too new or fancy, but just an enjoyable and silly read.
March 23, 2026
I didn't like this book as much as others have. Oh well.
Library Loan
Library Loan
March 31, 2026
I really wanted to love this book - but I didn’t. Lightweight (but not in a good way), didn’t like any of the characters and they were poorly drawn, their friendships felt unreal and it felt derivative of TTMC - and it wasn’t ‘clever’ name checking Richard Osman and TTMC in the book - it just reminded me how much better those books were 🙄. And the ending was stupid.
March 2, 2026
so cute and witty. loved the characters’ personalities and the comical undertone of the book. hated the ending/last chapter.
December 8, 2025
3.5 rounded up.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
When a mysterious death shakes an otherwise peaceful care home, a group of sharp-witted residents refuse to let the truth be brushed aside.
As secrets bubble to the surface, unexpected alliances form between residents and staff.
What follows is a charming, twisty investigation where the most unassuming characters prove to be the most formidable!
I absolutely loved that this story is set in Hampstead—it’s where I grew up, so the familiar locations added a warm, nostalgic layer to the entire reading experience. I also adore books that centre older protagonists rather than the typical middle-aged lead, and this one delivers that brilliantly. The characters bring so much life, humour, and perspective to the story.
The tone is wonderfully balanced with great humour throughout, giving it that cosy-mystery charm without undermining the tension. I I sometimes got a little confused with the characters early on, but that ebbed away as the story settled and everyone found their stride.
Overall, this was a fun, cosy murder mystery—with heart, wit, and a cast I genuinely enjoyed spending time with. I had a great time reading it 😊
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
When a mysterious death shakes an otherwise peaceful care home, a group of sharp-witted residents refuse to let the truth be brushed aside.
As secrets bubble to the surface, unexpected alliances form between residents and staff.
What follows is a charming, twisty investigation where the most unassuming characters prove to be the most formidable!
I absolutely loved that this story is set in Hampstead—it’s where I grew up, so the familiar locations added a warm, nostalgic layer to the entire reading experience. I also adore books that centre older protagonists rather than the typical middle-aged lead, and this one delivers that brilliantly. The characters bring so much life, humour, and perspective to the story.
The tone is wonderfully balanced with great humour throughout, giving it that cosy-mystery charm without undermining the tension. I I sometimes got a little confused with the characters early on, but that ebbed away as the story settled and everyone found their stride.
Overall, this was a fun, cosy murder mystery—with heart, wit, and a cast I genuinely enjoyed spending time with. I had a great time reading it 😊
March 14, 2026
A cute and surprisingly funny mystery. Carol, a reformed-ish serial killer, has been released after 35 years in prison and is starting her new life in a posh retirement home. Unfortunately her secret is revealed just before she happens to be the first on the scene of a murder in the home. She's got to find the real killer before she's blamed, etc. etc. The setting and characters are more original than the motivations.
Though the vibes are cozy, the murders are not, and the author does not shy away from Carol's past murders or obvious sociopathy. This book is an excellent addition to the Old Amateur Detectives ouvre. It even references other books in the genre.
Though the vibes are cozy, the murders are not, and the author does not shy away from Carol's past murders or obvious sociopathy. This book is an excellent addition to the Old Amateur Detectives ouvre. It even references other books in the genre.
March 9, 2026
3.25/5
If you like Only Murders in the Building, I feel like you'd like this book. It follows old people and crime, so I guess that's why. It's fun!
This is definitely a cozy kind of mystery. It is a slower moving story, but it didn't feel like it was dragging though.
The characters were fun and there was a nice little tough of humor to them.
I can see this turning into a series.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
If you like Only Murders in the Building, I feel like you'd like this book. It follows old people and crime, so I guess that's why. It's fun!
This is definitely a cozy kind of mystery. It is a slower moving story, but it didn't feel like it was dragging though.
The characters were fun and there was a nice little tough of humor to them.
I can see this turning into a series.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
February 9, 2026
Absolutely loved it! It was so funny and witty. Five stars easily.
(Thanks goodreads for the giveaway)
(Thanks goodreads for the giveaway)
January 25, 2026
“Seven was Carol’s number. Not a big number. Pathetic really, stopped before she got started, but it was enough to call her a serial killer. Enough to make her point.”
Carol is fresh from prison and ready to settle into her new home - that is until a fellow resident dies and she has to prove she wasn’t the perpetrator. It doesn’t look good that the victim is a former police commissioner and the retirement home is stacked full of law enforcement - cops, barristers and government officials make up her new neighbours. Can she prove she’s actually innocent this time?
“We’d probably work better as a team but I’m getting the sense you don’t want me in your club just yet. It’s a shame because I think we could be phenomenal. A former detective, a former home secretary, a former doctor and me, someone with a bit of practical experience.”
The Thursday Murder Club meets dark humour in this cosy retirement home mystery. With hilarious one liners and a comedic tone that somehow still creates tension and mystery, this was a great read. I had such a fun time reading this!
I loved the characters and how we got to know their backstories - who they were in their ‘youth’ and how they can apply those skills to sleuthing in their retirement. Margaret was my favourite.
Overall I’d really recommend this one!
ARC copy provided by Little Brown & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Carol is fresh from prison and ready to settle into her new home - that is until a fellow resident dies and she has to prove she wasn’t the perpetrator. It doesn’t look good that the victim is a former police commissioner and the retirement home is stacked full of law enforcement - cops, barristers and government officials make up her new neighbours. Can she prove she’s actually innocent this time?
“We’d probably work better as a team but I’m getting the sense you don’t want me in your club just yet. It’s a shame because I think we could be phenomenal. A former detective, a former home secretary, a former doctor and me, someone with a bit of practical experience.”
The Thursday Murder Club meets dark humour in this cosy retirement home mystery. With hilarious one liners and a comedic tone that somehow still creates tension and mystery, this was a great read. I had such a fun time reading this!
I loved the characters and how we got to know their backstories - who they were in their ‘youth’ and how they can apply those skills to sleuthing in their retirement. Margaret was my favourite.
Overall I’d really recommend this one!
ARC copy provided by Little Brown & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
March 31, 2026
Fröhliches Seniorenheim
Nur finanziell steht es nicht ganz so gut um das Seniorenheim Sheldon Oaks. Eine der Wohnungen zu verkaufen, ist daher eine gute Gelegenheit. Dass dafür eine verurteilte Serienmörderin einzieht, die nach fünfunddreißig Jahren endlich wieder in Freiheit ist, muss man ja nicht an die große Glocke hängen. Das ist Carol Quinn ganz recht so, denn sie will ihre Vergangenheit hinter sich lassen und endlich ein paar Freunde finden. Störend ist da schon, dass direkt vor ihrem Balkon ein Bewohner vom Dach fällt. Natürlich ist es Carol, die sofort unter Verdacht steht. Wenn sie in Sheldon Oaks ankommen will, muss sie herausfinden, wer der wahre Täter ist.
Schnell bildet sich ein Ermittlerteam denn in dem Heim für wohlsituierte Senioren leben ein ehemaliger Kripobeamter, eine Gerichtsmedizinerin, eine ehemalige Politikerin und nun auch eine ehemalige Mörderin. Zwar denken die anderen zunächst, es kann nur Carol gewesen sein. Deshalb stellen sie Nachforschungen an, um zu beweisen, dass Carol es getan hat. Jedoch kommen leise Zweifel auf. Carol ist schließlich gerade erst eingezogen und heißt es nicht. „Im Zweifel für den Angeklagten“? So wird aus dem anfänglichen Gegeneinander schließlich doch ein Miteinander, mit Anlaufschwierigkeiten. Allerdings hat auch die noch aktiv tätige Polizei ihr Augenmerk auf Carol gelegt.
Ein britischer Kriminalroman, der sehr vergnüglich zu lesen ist. Es geht ein wenig um die Eigenheiten der Bewohner des Seniorenheims, die Eigenheiten der Polizei und natürlich auch um Carols Eigenheiten. Denn Carol will nicht mehr die mordende Außenseiterin sein. Endlich will sie dazugehören und richtige Freundschaften finden. Schafft sie das? Und schafft sie es die Tat aufzuklären? Nachher kommt ihr noch die Polizei zuvor. Obwohl es um Mord und Totschlag geht, bekommt man beim Lesen/Hören gute Laune. Manchmal lacht man, häufig schmunzelt man.
Bei der Sprecherin des Hörbuchs handelt es sich um die Schauspielerin Manon Straché, die die Handlung so lebendig vorträgt, dass man beinahe glaubt, man ist mitten drin.
4,5 Sterne
Nur finanziell steht es nicht ganz so gut um das Seniorenheim Sheldon Oaks. Eine der Wohnungen zu verkaufen, ist daher eine gute Gelegenheit. Dass dafür eine verurteilte Serienmörderin einzieht, die nach fünfunddreißig Jahren endlich wieder in Freiheit ist, muss man ja nicht an die große Glocke hängen. Das ist Carol Quinn ganz recht so, denn sie will ihre Vergangenheit hinter sich lassen und endlich ein paar Freunde finden. Störend ist da schon, dass direkt vor ihrem Balkon ein Bewohner vom Dach fällt. Natürlich ist es Carol, die sofort unter Verdacht steht. Wenn sie in Sheldon Oaks ankommen will, muss sie herausfinden, wer der wahre Täter ist.
Schnell bildet sich ein Ermittlerteam denn in dem Heim für wohlsituierte Senioren leben ein ehemaliger Kripobeamter, eine Gerichtsmedizinerin, eine ehemalige Politikerin und nun auch eine ehemalige Mörderin. Zwar denken die anderen zunächst, es kann nur Carol gewesen sein. Deshalb stellen sie Nachforschungen an, um zu beweisen, dass Carol es getan hat. Jedoch kommen leise Zweifel auf. Carol ist schließlich gerade erst eingezogen und heißt es nicht. „Im Zweifel für den Angeklagten“? So wird aus dem anfänglichen Gegeneinander schließlich doch ein Miteinander, mit Anlaufschwierigkeiten. Allerdings hat auch die noch aktiv tätige Polizei ihr Augenmerk auf Carol gelegt.
Ein britischer Kriminalroman, der sehr vergnüglich zu lesen ist. Es geht ein wenig um die Eigenheiten der Bewohner des Seniorenheims, die Eigenheiten der Polizei und natürlich auch um Carols Eigenheiten. Denn Carol will nicht mehr die mordende Außenseiterin sein. Endlich will sie dazugehören und richtige Freundschaften finden. Schafft sie das? Und schafft sie es die Tat aufzuklären? Nachher kommt ihr noch die Polizei zuvor. Obwohl es um Mord und Totschlag geht, bekommt man beim Lesen/Hören gute Laune. Manchmal lacht man, häufig schmunzelt man.
Bei der Sprecherin des Hörbuchs handelt es sich um die Schauspielerin Manon Straché, die die Handlung so lebendig vorträgt, dass man beinahe glaubt, man ist mitten drin.
4,5 Sterne
March 14, 2026
Carol, a 75 year old former serial killer, has been released after 35 years in prison. She has traded one institution for another moving into Sheldon Oaks, a retirement community for the wealthy in Northern London. Carol adapts well at Sheldon Oaks and many of her new friends include retired cops, lawyers, doctors and government officials. When resident Desmond, a former police commissioner, is pushed to his death Carol's past is unmasked and she becomes a prime suspect for murder. To prove her innocence Carol teams up with some residents to solve the crime. This book had a very clever premise and I laughed out loud several times. I would like to see this fun romp continue as a series.
March 5, 2026
Wow! I was really surprised by how much I liked this book, and even more surprised to find it really hasn’t been reviewed much.
The characters were great, I especially enjoyed Geoffrey, he always made me laugh. I appreciated his character definitely having some form of autism while it never being directly discussed. His special interest being everything lol.
He also takes the win for my favorite line-
“Catherine, I’ve… My penis. It’s really quite-“
Hilarious. Comedy gold. Tended to remind me of the golden girls in the best way.
My only complaint, which isn’t really a complaint but more of an observation, is that I thought it was very easy for the reader to solve the mystery.
That being said, if you take this book for what it is: a comedy, and just enjoy it, I find that I don’t mind knowing the ending before it’s finished.
I’m excited to see if the author decides to continue the story as a series. I don’t typically like that, but I’m already missing my favorite characters.
Although I don’t doubt his next book will hit just as hard even in a new series without Geoffrey.
Following in hopes of more books to come!
The characters were great, I especially enjoyed Geoffrey, he always made me laugh. I appreciated his character definitely having some form of autism while it never being directly discussed. His special interest being everything lol.
He also takes the win for my favorite line-
“Catherine, I’ve… My penis. It’s really quite-“
Hilarious. Comedy gold. Tended to remind me of the golden girls in the best way.
My only complaint, which isn’t really a complaint but more of an observation, is that I thought it was very easy for the reader to solve the mystery.
That being said, if you take this book for what it is: a comedy, and just enjoy it, I find that I don’t mind knowing the ending before it’s finished.
I’m excited to see if the author decides to continue the story as a series. I don’t typically like that, but I’m already missing my favorite characters.
Although I don’t doubt his next book will hit just as hard even in a new series without Geoffrey.
Following in hopes of more books to come!
March 3, 2026
3.5 stars
March 2, 2026
3.5 rounding up. Retirement home murders are apparently a thing for me because I can’t get enough of these kinds of books. I enjoyed the premise a lot but the execution felt choppy and uneven.
Carol is a serial killer but she has now been released and has moved into a luxury retirement home. She’s put her old murderous ways behind her, made some great friends and even joined a baking group. However when someone dies suspiciously in retirement community, all eyes turn to Carol and she will have to investigate to clear her name.
The beginning and ending were great but the middle lagged and the investigation confused me. If they had all those resources, why wouldn’t they have used them in the beginning? I also found the motive of one the murders to be a bit light which took away from an otherwise excellent denouement. I adored Carol and her crew of friends and hope they’ll be back
Carol is a serial killer but she has now been released and has moved into a luxury retirement home. She’s put her old murderous ways behind her, made some great friends and even joined a baking group. However when someone dies suspiciously in retirement community, all eyes turn to Carol and she will have to investigate to clear her name.
The beginning and ending were great but the middle lagged and the investigation confused me. If they had all those resources, why wouldn’t they have used them in the beginning? I also found the motive of one the murders to be a bit light which took away from an otherwise excellent denouement. I adored Carol and her crew of friends and hope they’ll be back
March 1, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for providing me with an eARC.
This was really fun. I'm a huge sucker for books about old people solving crime or honestly old people in general. This one really took a different approach to this. It's usually retired cops or spies or doctors but in this one it's a retired serial killer. It's crazy that this is a thing and how the author managed to make that wholesome. I really liked the characters and their dynamics. All four of the main characters were so wholesome. The plot itself wasn't too shocking because the clues dropped were quite obvious. I saw most of the twists coming but some definitely took me off guard. In any case, this book is really for the characters. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoyed Thursday Murder Club, Vera Wong series and/or The Armchair Detectives.
This was really fun. I'm a huge sucker for books about old people solving crime or honestly old people in general. This one really took a different approach to this. It's usually retired cops or spies or doctors but in this one it's a retired serial killer. It's crazy that this is a thing and how the author managed to make that wholesome. I really liked the characters and their dynamics. All four of the main characters were so wholesome. The plot itself wasn't too shocking because the clues dropped were quite obvious. I saw most of the twists coming but some definitely took me off guard. In any case, this book is really for the characters. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoyed Thursday Murder Club, Vera Wong series and/or The Armchair Detectives.
March 6, 2026
I wasn’t sure that I would like this book with the protagonist being a convicted serial killer but it was funny and a clever mystery.
September 18, 2025
3.75 stars
This was a different sort of cozy. The main character has just been paroled from prison after serving decades for various murders. Carol confessed to some (but not all) of the people she killed. She is referred to as a serial killer, but there doesn't appear to be any theme or commonality to her victims -- she apparently just offed people who got on her bad side through rudeness, cruelty to animals or some other transgression.
There is lots of dry, stellar Brit humor in this set-up. Carol winds up in an expensive retirement home and when the other residents find out her past, they quickly withdraw the friendship they had originally offered. But then a murder occurs, and guess who gets blamed? Carol figures she'll need to solve the killing or be under suspicion forever. She and three other residents reluctantly band together to investigate.
There is lots to enjoy in this book, including some surprises in the end. But lots of discrepancies too. Carol seems pretty human until they discover a fairly psychotic notebook talking about how she likes to kill people. Margaret is supposed to be a former British Home Secretary, but she often comes across as being ditzy. Geoffrey, a retired cop, is a tremendously annoying know it all. He manages to attract a girlfriend, Catherine, who admits she really only likes him when he is not saying anything. She is a very bright retired pathologist and her attraction to such a low watt bulb is a mystery.
But the banter and Carol's straight-faced asides and the crew's escapades are sometimes hilarious. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a different sort of cozy. The main character has just been paroled from prison after serving decades for various murders. Carol confessed to some (but not all) of the people she killed. She is referred to as a serial killer, but there doesn't appear to be any theme or commonality to her victims -- she apparently just offed people who got on her bad side through rudeness, cruelty to animals or some other transgression.
There is lots of dry, stellar Brit humor in this set-up. Carol winds up in an expensive retirement home and when the other residents find out her past, they quickly withdraw the friendship they had originally offered. But then a murder occurs, and guess who gets blamed? Carol figures she'll need to solve the killing or be under suspicion forever. She and three other residents reluctantly band together to investigate.
There is lots to enjoy in this book, including some surprises in the end. But lots of discrepancies too. Carol seems pretty human until they discover a fairly psychotic notebook talking about how she likes to kill people. Margaret is supposed to be a former British Home Secretary, but she often comes across as being ditzy. Geoffrey, a retired cop, is a tremendously annoying know it all. He manages to attract a girlfriend, Catherine, who admits she really only likes him when he is not saying anything. She is a very bright retired pathologist and her attraction to such a low watt bulb is a mystery.
But the banter and Carol's straight-faced asides and the crew's escapades are sometimes hilarious. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I thought this was going to be a mystery along the lines of The Thursday Murder Club or maybe The Marlow Murder Club, or even an episode of Miss Marple. But, alas, it turned out to have too many points-of-view (mostly characters who sounded the same), and a lot of crudeness (profanity, sexual content, and rather too many gory details). I'm not big on murder mysteries anyway, so I skipped to the end to see who did the killing and then I moved on to the next book on my TBR pile.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an e-ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an e-ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
March 7, 2026
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Serial killer Carol Quinn has been released after 35 years from her tiny prison cell and heads to her new home in a luxurious retirement complex, optimistic about leaving her sordid past behind. Then her plans of meeting new people and making new friends go terribly awry when another resident is murdered, and her secrets are revealed. She finds herself at the top of the suspect list and realizes too late that Sheldon Oaks is what many former police officers, barristers, and government workers now call home. She needs to find the truth, and no matter how much the people around her irritate her, she can’t kill any of them.
As soon as I saw the title, I knew I had to read this book. Senior sleuths and murder clubs are everywhere in books, television, and movies. Setting the story in a senior living complex was a delightful move. The elderly, and especially older women, are underestimated in life. My much older sister has recently moved into an assisted living situation, and while there are no serial killers there that we know of, those ladies there are on the ball, and many love mysteries. They would be all in on a mystery like this to solve.
This is the first book I have read by this author, but his comedic talents shine from the start with the quirky characters he has created, and each scene he places those characters in. Seventy-five-year-old serial killer Carol just wants to live a quiet life, so of course, a body goes sailing past her soon after she arrives. This sets off a clever whodunit to clear her name and find the real killer. She is a smart woman, but doesn’t know whom she can trust. The supporting cast is crazy unique, with their own issues. They are quick to throw her under the bus.
I loved that Mr. Craig turned the cozy mystery on its head with a serial killer protagonist instead of the usual upstanding town resident trying to solve the crime. I enjoyed that the author allowed a woman with a horrific past to have redeeming qualities and that she was able to get some people to help her ferret out the truth. I found the story entertaining as we learned about Carol and other residents of Sheldon Oaks while the investigation continued and clues were followed. While Carol does get a few nervous “friends” to help her, but she draws on her own skills to develop theories for the crime. The scene where all is revealed gave me a good giggle, but there were others where I caught myself laughing out loud.
I’m Not the Only Murderer in My Retirement Home is a little darker than a typical cozy mystery, but the premise is hilarious. A lead character with a criminal past, unlikely friendships, suspicious happenings, and a murder, all housed in a retirement community where people go to be safe. If you enjoy a well-plotted mystery with a huge dose of comedy, this book would be a great escape for a few hours.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Serial killer Carol Quinn has been released after 35 years from her tiny prison cell and heads to her new home in a luxurious retirement complex, optimistic about leaving her sordid past behind. Then her plans of meeting new people and making new friends go terribly awry when another resident is murdered, and her secrets are revealed. She finds herself at the top of the suspect list and realizes too late that Sheldon Oaks is what many former police officers, barristers, and government workers now call home. She needs to find the truth, and no matter how much the people around her irritate her, she can’t kill any of them.
As soon as I saw the title, I knew I had to read this book. Senior sleuths and murder clubs are everywhere in books, television, and movies. Setting the story in a senior living complex was a delightful move. The elderly, and especially older women, are underestimated in life. My much older sister has recently moved into an assisted living situation, and while there are no serial killers there that we know of, those ladies there are on the ball, and many love mysteries. They would be all in on a mystery like this to solve.
This is the first book I have read by this author, but his comedic talents shine from the start with the quirky characters he has created, and each scene he places those characters in. Seventy-five-year-old serial killer Carol just wants to live a quiet life, so of course, a body goes sailing past her soon after she arrives. This sets off a clever whodunit to clear her name and find the real killer. She is a smart woman, but doesn’t know whom she can trust. The supporting cast is crazy unique, with their own issues. They are quick to throw her under the bus.
I loved that Mr. Craig turned the cozy mystery on its head with a serial killer protagonist instead of the usual upstanding town resident trying to solve the crime. I enjoyed that the author allowed a woman with a horrific past to have redeeming qualities and that she was able to get some people to help her ferret out the truth. I found the story entertaining as we learned about Carol and other residents of Sheldon Oaks while the investigation continued and clues were followed. While Carol does get a few nervous “friends” to help her, but she draws on her own skills to develop theories for the crime. The scene where all is revealed gave me a good giggle, but there were others where I caught myself laughing out loud.
I’m Not the Only Murderer in My Retirement Home is a little darker than a typical cozy mystery, but the premise is hilarious. A lead character with a criminal past, unlikely friendships, suspicious happenings, and a murder, all housed in a retirement community where people go to be safe. If you enjoy a well-plotted mystery with a huge dose of comedy, this book would be a great escape for a few hours.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
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