What do you think?
Rate this book
Braxton Campus Mysteries #1
Academic Curveball
When Kellan Ayrwick returns home for his father’s retirement from Braxton College, he finds a dead body in Diamond Hall’s stairwell.
Unfortunately, Kellan has a connection to the victim, and so do several members of his family. Could one of them be guilty of murder? Soon after, the college's athletic program receives mysterious donations, a nasty blog denounces his father and someone attempts to change students' grades.
Someone is playing games on campus, but none of the facts add up. With the help of his eccentric and trouble-making nana, Kellan tries to stay out of the sheriff’s way. And if that wasn't enough already, his own past comes spiraling back to change his life forever.
In the debut novel in the Braxton Campus Mysteries Series, you'll discover a cozy, secluded Pennsylvania village full of quirky, sarcastic and nosy residents.
Unfortunately, Kellan has a connection to the victim, and so do several members of his family. Could one of them be guilty of murder? Soon after, the college's athletic program receives mysterious donations, a nasty blog denounces his father and someone attempts to change students' grades.
Someone is playing games on campus, but none of the facts add up. With the help of his eccentric and trouble-making nana, Kellan tries to stay out of the sheriff’s way. And if that wasn't enough already, his own past comes spiraling back to change his life forever.
In the debut novel in the Braxton Campus Mysteries Series, you'll discover a cozy, secluded Pennsylvania village full of quirky, sarcastic and nosy residents.
272 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2018
About the author
James J. Cudney
20 books3,985 followersJames is my given name; most call me Jay. I grew up on Long Island and currently live in Connecticut, but I've traveled all across the US and various parts of the world. After college, I accepted roles working in technology, program management, and business operations in the retail, sports, entertainment, and media industries. Although I enjoy my career, I began to focus on other passions in 2016: telling stories and connecting people through words. My debut novel is 'Watching Glass Shatter,' a contemporary fiction family drama with elements of mystery, suspense, humor, and romance. From there, I've written other family dramas and an eight-book mystery series. To see samples or receive news from my current and upcoming books, please subscribe with your email address at my website: https://jamesjcudney.com
I'm an avid genealogist (discovered 2K family members going back about 250 years) and cook (I find it so hard to follow a recipe). I love to read; between Goodreads and my blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, I have ~1800 book reviews which will give you a full flavor for my voice and style. On my blog, I started the 365 Daily Challenge, where I post a word each day that has some meaning to me, then converse with everyone about life. There is humor, tears, love, friendship, advice, and bloopers. Lots of bloopers where I poke fun at myself all the time. Even my dogs have segments where they complain about me. All these things make up who I am; none of them are very fancy or magnanimous, but they are real and show how I live every day.
I'm an avid genealogist (discovered 2K family members going back about 250 years) and cook (I find it so hard to follow a recipe). I love to read; between Goodreads and my blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, I have ~1800 book reviews which will give you a full flavor for my voice and style. On my blog, I started the 365 Daily Challenge, where I post a word each day that has some meaning to me, then converse with everyone about life. There is humor, tears, love, friendship, advice, and bloopers. Lots of bloopers where I poke fun at myself all the time. Even my dogs have segments where they complain about me. All these things make up who I am; none of them are very fancy or magnanimous, but they are real and show how I live every day.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
January 4, 2019
*3.5 stars *
Okay, I have to mention the end of this book first! Yes I know, that’s just crazy, but I wanted to say WoW - what an ending, I never saw that coming!
Set in the world of academia, this is the first in the Braxton Campus series. It begins with single dad Kellan Ayrwick returning home on the occasion of his father’s retirement from Braxton college.
When one of the college professor’s is found dead, Kellan finds himself playing the part of amateur sleuth, but he soon discovers that members of his own family appear to have something to hide too!
I’m not a big cozy reader but I did enjoy the story, it was amusing, and light hearted and had a really intense and compelling plot. Though overly descriptive at times, it was nevertheless a winning start to this new series - and did I mention that ending! Yes I did - in fact I’ve mentioned it twice now!!
Okay, I have to mention the end of this book first! Yes I know, that’s just crazy, but I wanted to say WoW - what an ending, I never saw that coming!
Set in the world of academia, this is the first in the Braxton Campus series. It begins with single dad Kellan Ayrwick returning home on the occasion of his father’s retirement from Braxton college.
When one of the college professor’s is found dead, Kellan finds himself playing the part of amateur sleuth, but he soon discovers that members of his own family appear to have something to hide too!
I’m not a big cozy reader but I did enjoy the story, it was amusing, and light hearted and had a really intense and compelling plot. Though overly descriptive at times, it was nevertheless a winning start to this new series - and did I mention that ending! Yes I did - in fact I’ve mentioned it twice now!!
August 21, 2019
Academic Curveball by James Cudney is a 2018 publication.
A clever whodunit!
Widower, and single father, Kellan Ayrwick, has returned home to help his father celebrate his retirement from Braxton College. He is also hoping to connect with a professor at the college regarding a show he is working on. But, before he can speak with her, her body is found in Diamond Hall’s stairwell. Concerned that his father may somehow be connected, Kellan tries to determine who would want the professor dead, and why.
I’ve been trying to read more of my beloved cozy mysteries and have had my eye on this series for a while. I am glad I finally had the chance to settle into this first installment, as I found it to be quite refreshing. Kellen’s voice is unique, and the premise is original, especially in a mystery firmly ensconced in the cozy category. It’s nice to have a good, clean mystery, with sharp dialogue and humor, to complement a solid whodunit!
While I do like to dabble in all the various subjects and styles of cozy mysteries, this book was a change of pace from the oversaturation of cozies centered around food or crafts.
I never guessed who the murderer was but had a lot of fun trying to figure it out. I was so invested in Kellen’s personal situation, I was gobsmacked by the ending! I am most definitely tuning in for the second book in this promising series!!
A clever whodunit!
Widower, and single father, Kellan Ayrwick, has returned home to help his father celebrate his retirement from Braxton College. He is also hoping to connect with a professor at the college regarding a show he is working on. But, before he can speak with her, her body is found in Diamond Hall’s stairwell. Concerned that his father may somehow be connected, Kellan tries to determine who would want the professor dead, and why.
I’ve been trying to read more of my beloved cozy mysteries and have had my eye on this series for a while. I am glad I finally had the chance to settle into this first installment, as I found it to be quite refreshing. Kellen’s voice is unique, and the premise is original, especially in a mystery firmly ensconced in the cozy category. It’s nice to have a good, clean mystery, with sharp dialogue and humor, to complement a solid whodunit!
While I do like to dabble in all the various subjects and styles of cozy mysteries, this book was a change of pace from the oversaturation of cozies centered around food or crafts.
I never guessed who the murderer was but had a lot of fun trying to figure it out. I was so invested in Kellen’s personal situation, I was gobsmacked by the ending! I am most definitely tuning in for the second book in this promising series!!
March 13, 2019
Kellan Ayrwick, a thirty-two-year-old single father, has returned to his hometown to celebrate his father's retirement from Braxton College. But instead of listening to speeches and celebrating, he finds the dead body of a professor at Braxton. Adding into the mix are the hostile message his father has been receiving. Apparently, someone is not happy with the anonymous donations being made to the College's Athletic program. Then a second dead body is found. Kellen always seems to be caught up in the mix and is using his investigative talents to try to learn the identity of the killer as well. When not investigating the case, Kellen takes the time to catch up with two people from his past, a former girlfriend, Maggie and friend, Connor, who is now head of security at the college.
Although I am not a big cozy mystery fan, I did find this book to be quite enjoyable and fun at times. Nana D provided some comedy and had me smiling from time to time. Plus, there is a little bit of tension between Kellen and his father to keep things interesting as well. I liked that I did not figure out the identity of the killer. Plus, as other reviewers, have mentioned, that last line. WHAT!?! Now, that is how you end a book! Seriously, with that last line, the Author pretty much guaranteed that we will all be picking up book two in the series. Very Clever!
Another hit by Cudney! Not I need to get my hands (and eyes) on book two because seriously.... I must know what is going to happen!
Fans of Cozy Mysteries and the Author’s previous books should really enjoy this one. Well thought out and carefully plotted.
Although I am not a big cozy mystery fan, I did find this book to be quite enjoyable and fun at times. Nana D provided some comedy and had me smiling from time to time. Plus, there is a little bit of tension between Kellen and his father to keep things interesting as well. I liked that I did not figure out the identity of the killer. Plus, as other reviewers, have mentioned, that last line. WHAT!?! Now, that is how you end a book! Seriously, with that last line, the Author pretty much guaranteed that we will all be picking up book two in the series. Very Clever!
Another hit by Cudney! Not I need to get my hands (and eyes) on book two because seriously.... I must know what is going to happen!
Fans of Cozy Mysteries and the Author’s previous books should really enjoy this one. Well thought out and carefully plotted.
December 16, 2019
This was an interesting and entertaining cozy set on a college campus in America. The dialogue was frequently amusing and the whole formed a very pleasant way to pass a Sunday afternoon!
If I had an issue with anything it would be the characters. Why were they all so horrible to each other? At the beginning I thought Kellan's parents were supposed to be cross that he did not come home enough. Watching how they treated him I was surprised he went home at all. That was only a small thing though. The mystery was involved and very tricky and I was surprised when we found out who the killer was.
The ending was truly remarkable. That is what I call a real cliff hanger! I have to read the next one now.
If I had an issue with anything it would be the characters. Why were they all so horrible to each other? At the beginning I thought Kellan's parents were supposed to be cross that he did not come home enough. Watching how they treated him I was surprised he went home at all. That was only a small thing though. The mystery was involved and very tricky and I was surprised when we found out who the killer was.
The ending was truly remarkable. That is what I call a real cliff hanger! I have to read the next one now.
September 30, 2018
This is the third book I’ve read by Cudney and what I love is how each novel is so different yet each one is equally awesome! Academic Curveball kept me on my toes while I tried to figure out the mystery. I also loved Kellan and reading from his POV! He felt real and completely relatable, which is one of my favorite kind of characters. What you’ll get is plenty of mystery, fantastic writing, and witty dialogue. And that ending seriously has me yearning for book 2!!
October 16, 2019
Well I can honestly say I wasn't expecting that. This was a brilliantly crafted slightly cozy whodunnit mystery. I know it was obviously set in the USA but change the location to say Lincolnshire or Suffolk in England and it wouldn't have made any difference. Jay, (James) you have written a real corker here.
The characters are interesting and the story is so intricately put together it just zings a long at a fast pace.
I don't usually give out any spoilers but These were just the icing on the cake as the book is a fabulous example of a classic whodunnit.
I have already bought book 2 to continue this journey. Thanks Jay
(ooh is it a contender for my October book of the month, gonna be tough this month)
The characters are interesting and the story is so intricately put together it just zings a long at a fast pace.
I don't usually give out any spoilers but These were just the icing on the cake as the book is a fabulous example of a classic whodunnit.
I have already bought book 2 to continue this journey. Thanks Jay
(ooh is it a contender for my October book of the month, gonna be tough this month)
November 25, 2018
She lay dead in the stairwell, the very woman Kellan Ayrwick was to meet with to get the down and dirty on Braxton College, where his father was the retiring head.
Was it the athlete in academic trouble? His coach desperate to have one of his players go professional, putting a feather in his own cap? What about the bitter academic who sees no value in sports? Was it a member of the powerful Ayrwick family, seeking to silence negative press?
Part cozy mystery, part disinterment of the ghosts in everyone’s closets, James J. Cudney’s ACADEMIC CURVEBALL is a collage of suspects, a kaleidoscope of motives and Kellan Ayrwick is determined to get through the maze of clues to uncover the culprit.
James J. Cudney brings his characters to life with scars, flaws and festering relationships and emotions, particularly in the Ayrwick family where Kellan feels as if he is the stranger, the outsider. As he ferrets through the clues and his deductions on the murders at Braxton, he will also attempt to unravel his own confusing thoughts. Is it true one can never truly go home?
Not a fast-paced read, but rich in human detail, spend some time in Kellan’s mind, see what he sees and try to discover who the killer is and why they did it.
Publisher: Creativia; 3 edition (October 15, 2018)
Publication Date: October 15, 2018
Genre: Mystery | Suspense
Print Length: 283 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Was it the athlete in academic trouble? His coach desperate to have one of his players go professional, putting a feather in his own cap? What about the bitter academic who sees no value in sports? Was it a member of the powerful Ayrwick family, seeking to silence negative press?
Part cozy mystery, part disinterment of the ghosts in everyone’s closets, James J. Cudney’s ACADEMIC CURVEBALL is a collage of suspects, a kaleidoscope of motives and Kellan Ayrwick is determined to get through the maze of clues to uncover the culprit.
James J. Cudney brings his characters to life with scars, flaws and festering relationships and emotions, particularly in the Ayrwick family where Kellan feels as if he is the stranger, the outsider. As he ferrets through the clues and his deductions on the murders at Braxton, he will also attempt to unravel his own confusing thoughts. Is it true one can never truly go home?
Not a fast-paced read, but rich in human detail, spend some time in Kellan’s mind, see what he sees and try to discover who the killer is and why they did it.
Publisher: Creativia; 3 edition (October 15, 2018)
Publication Date: October 15, 2018
Genre: Mystery | Suspense
Print Length: 283 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
January 13, 2019
Kellan Ayrwick returned home – under sufferance – to join the farewell dinner for his father as he retired from his position at Braxton College, but he was looking forward to catching up again with Nana D. His connection with Nana D was even stronger than to his mother, and his father and he clashed constantly. His sister Eleanor was another person he was looking forward to catching up with, although he would only be there for a few days as he’d left his six-year-old daughter Emma with her maternal grandmother.
On the night of the dinner, Kellan had organized to meet someone who could give him papers pertaining to his job, but before that could happen there was an accident on the College campus and the person involved was dead. Kellan was suspicious – but it was when a second body was discovered that he knew strange events were occurring. He was determined to discover what was happening and why – could he do it without getting in the way of the local Sheriff?
Academic Curveball is a fast-paced, intense murder mystery by debut novelist James J Cudney which I quite enjoyed. At times overly descriptive, I also found little mention of Emma for the first 2/3 of the book, which was strange with Kellan being a single father and him having left her in someone else’s care. Academic Curveball is also the first in the Braxton Campus Mystery Series and with the cliff-hanger of an ending, book 2 should start with a bang! Recommended.
On the night of the dinner, Kellan had organized to meet someone who could give him papers pertaining to his job, but before that could happen there was an accident on the College campus and the person involved was dead. Kellan was suspicious – but it was when a second body was discovered that he knew strange events were occurring. He was determined to discover what was happening and why – could he do it without getting in the way of the local Sheriff?
Academic Curveball is a fast-paced, intense murder mystery by debut novelist James J Cudney which I quite enjoyed. At times overly descriptive, I also found little mention of Emma for the first 2/3 of the book, which was strange with Kellan being a single father and him having left her in someone else’s care. Academic Curveball is also the first in the Braxton Campus Mystery Series and with the cliff-hanger of an ending, book 2 should start with a bang! Recommended.
December 17, 2018
You can read all my review on Blog - Books Teacup and Reviews
Academic Curveball was cozy murder mystery set around Braxton College, Pennsylvania,hometown of main character, Kellan. The book revolved around the Ayerwick family, Braxton college and murder of professor on campus.
characters-
Kellan was 32-year-old single father who wanted to start his have his own television show. But returning back to his hometown Braxton changed his life entirely. His sense of humor and unique voice was refreshing. He was smart, witty, and empathetic person.
There were many secondary characters, Ayerwick family, Kellan’s friends and those involved in the murder mystery. Not all characters were likable but I bet you can’t resist Nana D, Kellan’s grandmother. She brought the book to life.
What I Liked-
This is third book by James I read and it was quite different from the first two. Book was character driven first person narrative with wonderful writing.I must admit James creates wonderful characters and each described fantastically with minute details that feel like watching them playing their role live on drama stage.
First 30% of the book was all about introduction of protagonist,his family and their quirks, picturesque narration of Braxton village, college campus and intriguing puzzle of anonymous blogger defaming Kellan’s father and murder in campus on the day of his retirement party.
I liked Kellan’s relationship with his sister and grandmother and his complex relation with his parents. I didn’t like the attitude of Sheriff and Connor, they did almost nothing to solve the case and the way they were treating Kellan for his efforts was pathetic. I have a feeling Kellan’s relation with these to was going to be even more complex in the next book.
It was interesting to find out the answers of- who was attacking Kellan’s father and why someone killed Abby Monoroe, who tampered the grades and why, how sport and politics of college was involved in murder and was it someone from the faculty or student or someone else. The mystery was hard to solve, I couldn’t guess who might be the killer among so many suspects.
The twist and turns were placed in such a way that it eliminate done suspect but at the same time added another. It kept stalling me till the last chapter. The climax and end was smooth and I liked the way the case was solved.
It was not fast pace book but certainly interesting. It was more like getting to know the characters and setting of the book. That last page twist hinting the sequel of the book was surprising.
Overall, it was interesting cozy mystery with quirky characters and a great start of series that I recommend to all cozy mystery lover.
*** Note: I downloaded free e-book via Amazon Kindle. ***
Academic Curveball was cozy murder mystery set around Braxton College, Pennsylvania,hometown of main character, Kellan. The book revolved around the Ayerwick family, Braxton college and murder of professor on campus.
characters-
Kellan was 32-year-old single father who wanted to start his have his own television show. But returning back to his hometown Braxton changed his life entirely. His sense of humor and unique voice was refreshing. He was smart, witty, and empathetic person.
There were many secondary characters, Ayerwick family, Kellan’s friends and those involved in the murder mystery. Not all characters were likable but I bet you can’t resist Nana D, Kellan’s grandmother. She brought the book to life.
What I Liked-
This is third book by James I read and it was quite different from the first two. Book was character driven first person narrative with wonderful writing.I must admit James creates wonderful characters and each described fantastically with minute details that feel like watching them playing their role live on drama stage.
First 30% of the book was all about introduction of protagonist,his family and their quirks, picturesque narration of Braxton village, college campus and intriguing puzzle of anonymous blogger defaming Kellan’s father and murder in campus on the day of his retirement party.
I liked Kellan’s relationship with his sister and grandmother and his complex relation with his parents. I didn’t like the attitude of Sheriff and Connor, they did almost nothing to solve the case and the way they were treating Kellan for his efforts was pathetic. I have a feeling Kellan’s relation with these to was going to be even more complex in the next book.
It was interesting to find out the answers of- who was attacking Kellan’s father and why someone killed Abby Monoroe, who tampered the grades and why, how sport and politics of college was involved in murder and was it someone from the faculty or student or someone else. The mystery was hard to solve, I couldn’t guess who might be the killer among so many suspects.
The twist and turns were placed in such a way that it eliminate done suspect but at the same time added another. It kept stalling me till the last chapter. The climax and end was smooth and I liked the way the case was solved.
It was not fast pace book but certainly interesting. It was more like getting to know the characters and setting of the book. That last page twist hinting the sequel of the book was surprising.
Overall, it was interesting cozy mystery with quirky characters and a great start of series that I recommend to all cozy mystery lover.
*** Note: I downloaded free e-book via Amazon Kindle. ***
October 8, 2019
This was a fun, non-stop intriguing book. Kellan is like a dog with a bone – determined and persistent, and he won't let go no matter how many times people tell him to.
When a body is found on campus –the same person he travelled to meet – Kellan is pulled into a tangle of who-did-it; with a lot of sarcasm, suspects, and plenty of murderous reasons to go around.
I honestly had no idea how all the threads would tie at the end, there were so many murderer candidates, I was, like Kellan, trying to figure out who-did-it too. And the real killer? Not telling you! But it was definitely none of the various people I'd considered.
I enjoyed the brief glimpses of Kellan as a father, his interaction with his Nana (boy was she scary and fun), and the dry humor that was thrown around. The mystery of the murder was done exceptionally well, with all the threads tied perfectly at the end. And the killer? Oh, I was so not suspecting that particular character! And once the murderer was revealed, I had one of those ah!-of-course moment.
The tone of the book is light throughout most of the way, humorous and mysterious, with a simple writing style. It’s the kind of writing and storytelling one can’t have enough. My second book by this author, I can definitely say it won't be the last.
Expect the review of the next book in the Braxton Campus Mysteries series, Broken Heart Attack, coming soon!
When a body is found on campus –the same person he travelled to meet – Kellan is pulled into a tangle of who-did-it; with a lot of sarcasm, suspects, and plenty of murderous reasons to go around.
I honestly had no idea how all the threads would tie at the end, there were so many murderer candidates, I was, like Kellan, trying to figure out who-did-it too. And the real killer? Not telling you! But it was definitely none of the various people I'd considered.
I enjoyed the brief glimpses of Kellan as a father, his interaction with his Nana (boy was she scary and fun), and the dry humor that was thrown around. The mystery of the murder was done exceptionally well, with all the threads tied perfectly at the end. And the killer? Oh, I was so not suspecting that particular character! And once the murderer was revealed, I had one of those ah!-of-course moment.
The tone of the book is light throughout most of the way, humorous and mysterious, with a simple writing style. It’s the kind of writing and storytelling one can’t have enough. My second book by this author, I can definitely say it won't be the last.
Expect the review of the next book in the Braxton Campus Mysteries series, Broken Heart Attack, coming soon!
October 22, 2018
Genre: Murder Mystery
Publisher: Creativia Publishing House
Pub. Date: Oct. 15, 2018
I just had the pleasure of reading “Academic Curveball.” True to its title, the setting takes place in the world of academia. The novel is filled with multiple spins provoked by murders that may have been the result of the clashing cultures within colleges: educations vs. sports. The author, James J. Cudney, cleverly puts together an often humorous, cozy murder mystery brimming with family drama, action, a twisting plot, and romance. All are nicely wrapped together and kept this reviewer guessing whodunit.
Since spoilers are not welcome, here is a snapshot of the story. Our protagonist is Kellan Ayrwick. He is a young widow and single dad. He works as a writer for a murder mystery TV series. His father is the President of Braxton College. Kellan and his father have a long history of not getting along. The reader will feel the “ouch” during most of their conversations. The mystery gets moving when our hero returns home to attend his father’s retirement party. Once home, murder and mayhem occur on campus, allowing Kellan to play amateur sleuth. There are a host of characters who may be the killer/s. She is not a suspect, but I would be a poor reviewer if I didn’t mention Kellan’s grandmother, Nana D. She is a pistol. Her sassy remarks (all seems a little too Tanya Harding versus Nancy Kerrigan to me) makes her an endearing character as she helps her grandson on his quest to learn the identity of the murderer/s.
In the tradition of Agatha Christie, the story is never dull. However, sometimes I felt as if the information is being spoon-fed to the reader. There is a lot of rehashing. Still, “Curveball” is a delight to read. I am happy to report I did not guess the killer/s identity. That is a feather in the cap to any author of a murder mystery. Full disclosure: I am friends with the author. I know that in real life his dog’s name is Baxter, so very close to the name of the novel’s college—such a sweet ode to his four-legged buddy. How can you not like someone who names a college after his dog? This novel is the first book in the “Braxton Campus Mysteries.” The last sentence in “Curveball” is a cliffhanger. Personally, I cannot wait to read “Braxton Campus Mysteries II.”
I received this Advance Review Copy (ARC) novel from the author at no cost in exchange for an honest review.
Find all my book reviews at:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/review/list...
Martie’s Book Reviews: https://twitter.com/NeesRecord
Leave Me Alone I am Reading and Reviewing:
https://books6259.wordpress.com/
Publisher: Creativia Publishing House
Pub. Date: Oct. 15, 2018
I just had the pleasure of reading “Academic Curveball.” True to its title, the setting takes place in the world of academia. The novel is filled with multiple spins provoked by murders that may have been the result of the clashing cultures within colleges: educations vs. sports. The author, James J. Cudney, cleverly puts together an often humorous, cozy murder mystery brimming with family drama, action, a twisting plot, and romance. All are nicely wrapped together and kept this reviewer guessing whodunit.
Since spoilers are not welcome, here is a snapshot of the story. Our protagonist is Kellan Ayrwick. He is a young widow and single dad. He works as a writer for a murder mystery TV series. His father is the President of Braxton College. Kellan and his father have a long history of not getting along. The reader will feel the “ouch” during most of their conversations. The mystery gets moving when our hero returns home to attend his father’s retirement party. Once home, murder and mayhem occur on campus, allowing Kellan to play amateur sleuth. There are a host of characters who may be the killer/s. She is not a suspect, but I would be a poor reviewer if I didn’t mention Kellan’s grandmother, Nana D. She is a pistol. Her sassy remarks (all seems a little too Tanya Harding versus Nancy Kerrigan to me) makes her an endearing character as she helps her grandson on his quest to learn the identity of the murderer/s.
In the tradition of Agatha Christie, the story is never dull. However, sometimes I felt as if the information is being spoon-fed to the reader. There is a lot of rehashing. Still, “Curveball” is a delight to read. I am happy to report I did not guess the killer/s identity. That is a feather in the cap to any author of a murder mystery. Full disclosure: I am friends with the author. I know that in real life his dog’s name is Baxter, so very close to the name of the novel’s college—such a sweet ode to his four-legged buddy. How can you not like someone who names a college after his dog? This novel is the first book in the “Braxton Campus Mysteries.” The last sentence in “Curveball” is a cliffhanger. Personally, I cannot wait to read “Braxton Campus Mysteries II.”
I received this Advance Review Copy (ARC) novel from the author at no cost in exchange for an honest review.
Find all my book reviews at:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/review/list...
Martie’s Book Reviews: https://twitter.com/NeesRecord
Leave Me Alone I am Reading and Reviewing:
https://books6259.wordpress.com/
October 11, 2018
What an exciting cozy mystery that gets you involved and keeps you there as you learn of the Ayrwick family, their friends and the city they live in, Braxton! The characters are great and are fully described so they soon feel like your own family. The son, Kellan, is visiting the home for a week,brought there under duress by his sister and parents. He has not been home for awhile, caring for his young daughter after losing his wife in an accident. While home he finds things are normal, with his Dad working too much even though starting retirement soon, his mother frazzled and his Nana the same gossipy head of all she sees!
You quickly become interested as things are not what they seem, with a twist and surprise around every corner. I am not a big cozy reader, but was delighted with a wonderful story that was light at some moments and intense at others. Great language with sarcasm and wit between the characters, I found myself reading quickly to find what happens! With an enormous surprise at the end, I am so ready to read the next!!
I received an ARC from author James J. Cudney, who I thank for a delightful experience, and I put my thoughts in this review hoping you will want to get to know the goings-on in Braxton. 5 STARS for sure!!
You quickly become interested as things are not what they seem, with a twist and surprise around every corner. I am not a big cozy reader, but was delighted with a wonderful story that was light at some moments and intense at others. Great language with sarcasm and wit between the characters, I found myself reading quickly to find what happens! With an enormous surprise at the end, I am so ready to read the next!!
I received an ARC from author James J. Cudney, who I thank for a delightful experience, and I put my thoughts in this review hoping you will want to get to know the goings-on in Braxton. 5 STARS for sure!!
December 19, 2018
I loved this and I can’t wait to read the next one. I’m invested. Nana D is hilarious and so is the MC Kellan. I have a Nana so it is good to see one in a story.
All that dessert talk. My gosh !! I seriously feel the need to bake something or talk someone else into it.
I haven’t read a cozy in a while and this was just perfect to ease me back in to the genre. This was my type of cozy. It was missing a cat but it had pies ! I laughed a lot and loved and appreciated the humor. It was a huge bonus in addition to the excellent mystery.
I adored the mystery and how Kellan went about getting ppl to talk about things. Everyone was their own, unique and defined character. I had no trouble keeping up with the many characters and suspects because of this, though there were quite a few.
Some interesting developments are in the works, it seems, for book 2 and I’m here for it! Yay!
Let’s see what else.. I highlighted some of my favorite passages bc this was kindle format. The author didn’t ask me to read this, I just did because it sounded good and it was better than that.
The ending was quite the smack! Like cherry pie in the face ! Oh! Shocker. Great job, Mr. Cudney.
(Well some of my highlights are being a butt. But there are more than appear here. They will eventually catch up. )
All that dessert talk. My gosh !! I seriously feel the need to bake something or talk someone else into it.
I haven’t read a cozy in a while and this was just perfect to ease me back in to the genre. This was my type of cozy. It was missing a cat but it had pies ! I laughed a lot and loved and appreciated the humor. It was a huge bonus in addition to the excellent mystery.
I adored the mystery and how Kellan went about getting ppl to talk about things. Everyone was their own, unique and defined character. I had no trouble keeping up with the many characters and suspects because of this, though there were quite a few.
Some interesting developments are in the works, it seems, for book 2 and I’m here for it! Yay!
Let’s see what else.. I highlighted some of my favorite passages bc this was kindle format. The author didn’t ask me to read this, I just did because it sounded good and it was better than that.
The ending was quite the smack! Like cherry pie in the face ! Oh! Shocker. Great job, Mr. Cudney.
(Well some of my highlights are being a butt. But there are more than appear here. They will eventually catch up. )
October 15, 2018
One of the first novels I have ever read as a kid – yeah, you guessed it – a mystery. Add a murder to that mystery, it becomes exciting. Add a dash of sarcasm to that, it becomes humorous. To all this, add another murder, mix it with a number of suspects, and it becomes an unputdownable potboiler of a book which is both thrilling and intriguing.
James J Cudney has done it again, he is quite a maverick. His versatility is well shown in the genres he has chosen to write. From family drama to gentle investigation (I wouldn’t call it totally cozy), the author’s writing has progressed in leaps and bounds. He seems to have found his niche in this book, his brilliance is seen in the multitude of layers this story presents.
Writing a murder mystery is never easy, there is always a hidden thread which escapes, but James has seen to it that the book is complete in its investigation, all threads tied in a neat bow. This is the first in the series, and I get to meet Kellan, a single father and an assistant director /researcher of a television show, who comes home for his father’s retirement, and the murder occurs…
Kellan is a well put together young man, who is rebellious at the idea of moving home yet tender with his daughter. He is kind to his mom, yet sarcastic with his sister and Nana. He is strict with his students, yet is a pal to them. Most just seem to be drawn to him, he comes across as curious and unassuming. And he is plenty intelligent. He did solve the murders, read the book to find out how!!
Nana D needs a separate mention here, as she is A CLASS APART. It would be totally appalling if I dared to describe her. I am sure she would slap me funny for being audacious. But her love and her bond with Kellan is enveloped in her sarcastically humorous banter.
The books reads fast, the story is gripping, the dialogs especially of Myriam and April had me chuckling hard. I loved them. The book has everything that would make it a great investigative series. And yes, it does have the exciting cliffhanger which makes me long for book 2.
James J Cudney has done it again, he is quite a maverick. His versatility is well shown in the genres he has chosen to write. From family drama to gentle investigation (I wouldn’t call it totally cozy), the author’s writing has progressed in leaps and bounds. He seems to have found his niche in this book, his brilliance is seen in the multitude of layers this story presents.
Writing a murder mystery is never easy, there is always a hidden thread which escapes, but James has seen to it that the book is complete in its investigation, all threads tied in a neat bow. This is the first in the series, and I get to meet Kellan, a single father and an assistant director /researcher of a television show, who comes home for his father’s retirement, and the murder occurs…
Kellan is a well put together young man, who is rebellious at the idea of moving home yet tender with his daughter. He is kind to his mom, yet sarcastic with his sister and Nana. He is strict with his students, yet is a pal to them. Most just seem to be drawn to him, he comes across as curious and unassuming. And he is plenty intelligent. He did solve the murders, read the book to find out how!!
Nana D needs a separate mention here, as she is A CLASS APART. It would be totally appalling if I dared to describe her. I am sure she would slap me funny for being audacious. But her love and her bond with Kellan is enveloped in her sarcastically humorous banter.
The books reads fast, the story is gripping, the dialogs especially of Myriam and April had me chuckling hard. I loved them. The book has everything that would make it a great investigative series. And yes, it does have the exciting cliffhanger which makes me long for book 2.
July 13, 2019
Rating: 3.5/5.0
This is the second book I read for James J. Cudney after reading Father Figure. One will look into its gorgeous cover and can't resist but think about those Agatha Christie's beautiful covers. The story here is also a murder mystery. Kellan returns home for his father's retirement party, unfortunately, his return does not turn as uneventful as he was thinking. A dead body is found in the stairwell. He and the others know the identity of the dead! Kellan's adventure starts to reveal the truth.
The story is enjoyable, it has both suspense and humor. I feel this will appeal to a wide range of readers. The characters were good but the problem I faced at the beginning of the book was that I am introduced to many characters within a few pages which were somehow difficult for me to follow, but after advancing further into the story things became more clear. Sometimes the story became slower but I think that is the case with most cozy mysteries.
I liked this novel and hopefully will get into the second book sometime soon. This was a completely new theme for James Cudney. Father Figure was a more dramatic tragedy which I liked a lot. Academic Curveball is a lot lighter and filled with humor while retaining the suspense.
Many thanks to the author for providing me with a free digital copy of this book.
This is the second book I read for James J. Cudney after reading Father Figure. One will look into its gorgeous cover and can't resist but think about those Agatha Christie's beautiful covers. The story here is also a murder mystery. Kellan returns home for his father's retirement party, unfortunately, his return does not turn as uneventful as he was thinking. A dead body is found in the stairwell. He and the others know the identity of the dead! Kellan's adventure starts to reveal the truth.
The story is enjoyable, it has both suspense and humor. I feel this will appeal to a wide range of readers. The characters were good but the problem I faced at the beginning of the book was that I am introduced to many characters within a few pages which were somehow difficult for me to follow, but after advancing further into the story things became more clear. Sometimes the story became slower but I think that is the case with most cozy mysteries.
I liked this novel and hopefully will get into the second book sometime soon. This was a completely new theme for James Cudney. Father Figure was a more dramatic tragedy which I liked a lot. Academic Curveball is a lot lighter and filled with humor while retaining the suspense.
Many thanks to the author for providing me with a free digital copy of this book.
November 26, 2018
Academic Curveball (Released October 15th, 2018) is the first book in author James J. Cudney’s Braxton Campus Mysteries series and the third book I have read by the writer following on from his amazing novels Watching Glass Shatter and Father Figure.
This book is told from the POV of the protagonist Kellan Ayrwick who is 32 and a single father. He returns home to Pennsylvania following his father’s retirement and finds himself in the middle of a murder mystery (Like you do! J) when he finds not one but two murder victims. What really drives this book along so well is Kellan as a character and telling the novel from his POV gives readers a chance to really get to know him and root for him. Alongside Kellan, I really quite liked his grandmother and their interactions together were great to read. In the book his father’s donations to the athletics program in the college is under fire as a blogger is reporting that these dealings are somewhat biased and shady. This, alongside his father’s weird behavior, causes Kellan to wonder if he indeed has anything to do with the murders. Add into this his entire family has connections that could cast suspicions and you’ve got a hot bed of wondering and guessing about each of them and their possible involvement in murder.
This book is filled with intrigue, witty dialogue and an array of characters that are easy to like while others are easy to not like which adds quite a lot of depth and reality to the plot. There was plenty of red herrings to throw readers off the scent and I didn’t see the outcome of who the killer/s was which is obviously one of the key elements of a mystery book. Very solid writing which sweeps readers as much into Kellan’s life as the mystery plot.
All I can say is roll on book 2!
This book is told from the POV of the protagonist Kellan Ayrwick who is 32 and a single father. He returns home to Pennsylvania following his father’s retirement and finds himself in the middle of a murder mystery (Like you do! J) when he finds not one but two murder victims. What really drives this book along so well is Kellan as a character and telling the novel from his POV gives readers a chance to really get to know him and root for him. Alongside Kellan, I really quite liked his grandmother and their interactions together were great to read. In the book his father’s donations to the athletics program in the college is under fire as a blogger is reporting that these dealings are somewhat biased and shady. This, alongside his father’s weird behavior, causes Kellan to wonder if he indeed has anything to do with the murders. Add into this his entire family has connections that could cast suspicions and you’ve got a hot bed of wondering and guessing about each of them and their possible involvement in murder.
This book is filled with intrigue, witty dialogue and an array of characters that are easy to like while others are easy to not like which adds quite a lot of depth and reality to the plot. There was plenty of red herrings to throw readers off the scent and I didn’t see the outcome of who the killer/s was which is obviously one of the key elements of a mystery book. Very solid writing which sweeps readers as much into Kellan’s life as the mystery plot.
All I can say is roll on book 2!
April 7, 2020
3.5 stars
This is my first cozy mystery and I finally understood why it's termed as such. It's light and humourous, and has a distinct lack of thrills and spills. There wasn't much suspense as well even though I was kept engaged by the murder mystery. The characters were enjoyable to read about, especially Kellan's grandmother, Nana D. As much as I would love to have a grandma who can cook and bake like that, it'll be the end of any weight control that I could possibly muster. Culinary skills aside, she's sarcastic, witty and totally unapologetic about her misdemeanours. An absolute delight. Kellan is a good main character as well, but I think I'm spoiled by edgier and more intriguing personas in other mystery or crime thrillers.
All in all, this is an easy and entertaining read with a mystery that does not need to rely on action and thrills to keep one engaged. The ending was also completely unexpected. I believe that I would pick up this series again in the future.
This is my first cozy mystery and I finally understood why it's termed as such. It's light and humourous, and has a distinct lack of thrills and spills. There wasn't much suspense as well even though I was kept engaged by the murder mystery. The characters were enjoyable to read about, especially Kellan's grandmother, Nana D. As much as I would love to have a grandma who can cook and bake like that, it'll be the end of any weight control that I could possibly muster. Culinary skills aside, she's sarcastic, witty and totally unapologetic about her misdemeanours. An absolute delight. Kellan is a good main character as well, but I think I'm spoiled by edgier and more intriguing personas in other mystery or crime thrillers.
All in all, this is an easy and entertaining read with a mystery that does not need to rely on action and thrills to keep one engaged. The ending was also completely unexpected. I believe that I would pick up this series again in the future.
October 28, 2018
Things are not what they seem in this debut of the Braxton Campus mystery series!
Kellan Ayrwick is going home for his father's retirement ceremony from the college he's run for the past twenty years. Kellan's boss takes the opportunity to have him meet a woman with information for a true crime show they're working on, but before he can find her there's a murder on campus.
Kellan's dad, Wesley, becomes a prime suspect and Kellan must weave his way through a tangled web of lies and deceit if he wants to find the true killer.
There's plenty of stress in the Ayrwick home as accusations against Wesley's management of funds is questioned and rumors abound. My favorite character was Nana D, whose sarcasm and sage advice give humor to a tense situation.
Favorite lines:
Nana D: Is that a dirty wet mop on your head? You're dressed like a hooligan. Put on a coat, it's cold out.
Me: Thanks, Captain Obvious. I fell on the walkway. You think I'm normally this much of a disaster?
Nana D: And you're supposed to be the brilliant one? Have you given up on life, or did it give up on you?
Me: Keep it up, and I won't visit this weekend. You're supposed to be a sweet and loving grandma.
Nana D: If that's what you want, go down to the old folks' home and rent yourself a little biddy. Maybe you two can share some smashed peas, green Jell-O, and a tasty glass of Ovaltine. I'll even pay.
Cudney, James J.. Academic Curveball (Braxton Campus Mysteries Book 1) (Kindle Locations 138-140). Creativia. Kindle Edition.
I give Academic Curveball 5 lovely kisses: A great new-to-me author!
Kellan Ayrwick is going home for his father's retirement ceremony from the college he's run for the past twenty years. Kellan's boss takes the opportunity to have him meet a woman with information for a true crime show they're working on, but before he can find her there's a murder on campus.
Kellan's dad, Wesley, becomes a prime suspect and Kellan must weave his way through a tangled web of lies and deceit if he wants to find the true killer.
There's plenty of stress in the Ayrwick home as accusations against Wesley's management of funds is questioned and rumors abound. My favorite character was Nana D, whose sarcasm and sage advice give humor to a tense situation.
Favorite lines:
Nana D: Is that a dirty wet mop on your head? You're dressed like a hooligan. Put on a coat, it's cold out.
Me: Thanks, Captain Obvious. I fell on the walkway. You think I'm normally this much of a disaster?
Nana D: And you're supposed to be the brilliant one? Have you given up on life, or did it give up on you?
Me: Keep it up, and I won't visit this weekend. You're supposed to be a sweet and loving grandma.
Nana D: If that's what you want, go down to the old folks' home and rent yourself a little biddy. Maybe you two can share some smashed peas, green Jell-O, and a tasty glass of Ovaltine. I'll even pay.
Cudney, James J.. Academic Curveball (Braxton Campus Mysteries Book 1) (Kindle Locations 138-140). Creativia. Kindle Edition.
I give Academic Curveball 5 lovely kisses: A great new-to-me author!
October 16, 2018
Kellan Ayrwick has returned home for a few days to attend a dinner in honor of his father's retirement from Braxton College. While Kellan's there, he is supposed to meet up with a woman who has done some research for the true crime TV show that he works on. However, Kellan gets distracted when, near the end of the dinner, he finds a dead body. The victim was a professor at Braxton. With everything swirling around the at college, Kellan is afraid that someone he loves will be arrested for the crime. Can he figure out the truth before that happens?
I wanted to like the book, but I felt it had some flaws to it. It was overly wordy, especially with some rehashing of things we already knew and theories we'd already considered. Additionally, there were several nitpicks, like this dinner several months before Kellan's father planned to fully retire. The mystery, overall, was strong, however. There were several believable suspects that kept me guessing until Kellan figured things out. Likewise, I really liked the potential series regulars, and the book introduced several threads that will make for great future books in the series.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I wanted to like the book, but I felt it had some flaws to it. It was overly wordy, especially with some rehashing of things we already knew and theories we'd already considered. Additionally, there were several nitpicks, like this dinner several months before Kellan's father planned to fully retire. The mystery, overall, was strong, however. There were several believable suspects that kept me guessing until Kellan figured things out. Likewise, I really liked the potential series regulars, and the book introduced several threads that will make for great future books in the series.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
October 11, 2018
This is the third book I have read by James Cudney, and this is quite a different book from the other two. There are some similarities, such as a dysfunctional family, but this is a cozy mystery, with some humour. Kellan Ayrwick is a single father following the death of his wife in an accident. He has returned home for his father's retirement celebration as well as to meet and talk to a woman who has a story for the reality television show he works for. The woman, who promised to give some dirt to Kellan's boss on trouble behind-the-scenes at Braxton College, ends up being killed, Kellan steps in and begins to investigate. With the help of an old friend and head of security, Collin, the begrudging tidbits of information from the sheriff, the case heats up before the murderer is found.
Many of the characters in this book were extremely unlikable. Kellan's parents were too busy to spend time with family members and had actually driven several siblings away. Even though Kellan's sister Eleanor lived in town, there was no relationship between her and her parents. In fact, Eleanor and Kellan really didn't have much of a relationship either, they met up when one of them wanted something from the other one. Then there is Nana D. She is the humour in the story. She is a smart, sassy, busybody who loves Kellan and in her own way helps him figure things out. Add in the college employees, many of them rather bitter and nasty, some students who were involved in the mystery and you have an intersting mix. This was a good mystery dealing with sports, college politics, families, flawed characters with a huge surprise at the end. There were enough of red herrings to keep me changing my mind about the culprit and their identity was a total surprise as well as the motive. It made sense when it was all laid out though. My one complaint is that this is a longer book than most of the cozies I have read, but there was enough to keep me reading. Kellan is a great MC, with a lot of baggage yet to be unpacked. I am very interested to see where this series will go next, especially with the surprise at the end. The author generously provided me with a copy of this book to read. The rating, opinions and ideas are my own.
Many of the characters in this book were extremely unlikable. Kellan's parents were too busy to spend time with family members and had actually driven several siblings away. Even though Kellan's sister Eleanor lived in town, there was no relationship between her and her parents. In fact, Eleanor and Kellan really didn't have much of a relationship either, they met up when one of them wanted something from the other one. Then there is Nana D. She is the humour in the story. She is a smart, sassy, busybody who loves Kellan and in her own way helps him figure things out. Add in the college employees, many of them rather bitter and nasty, some students who were involved in the mystery and you have an intersting mix. This was a good mystery dealing with sports, college politics, families, flawed characters with a huge surprise at the end. There were enough of red herrings to keep me changing my mind about the culprit and their identity was a total surprise as well as the motive. It made sense when it was all laid out though. My one complaint is that this is a longer book than most of the cozies I have read, but there was enough to keep me reading. Kellan is a great MC, with a lot of baggage yet to be unpacked. I am very interested to see where this series will go next, especially with the surprise at the end. The author generously provided me with a copy of this book to read. The rating, opinions and ideas are my own.
Read
September 18, 2019The first book is always more introduction and background. So, we have Kellan who lost his wife some time ago and has a young daughter to care for. His father is retiring from the Braxton Campus and there is party thrown in his honor. The night of the party, however, one of the staff members is seen dead at the bottom of a stairway. The funny thing is, that was the woman Kellan was supposed to meet in regards to a second season of a show he is helping with called, Dark Reality.
Yeah, reality just got dark for Kellan - I don't care if that was lame, I thought it was a little funny.
Kellan had me from the beginning of this quote:
"I'm powerless to desserts - also known as my kryptonite - hence, why I've always thought they should be a major food group."
I agree!! I have the BIGGEST sweet tooth in the world. Peanut butter and chocolate are god send and who ever put them together in the first place was a genius and should forever be rewarded!
The whole murder centers around baseball. No, seriously. I'm not at all a baseball fan, or a sports fan in general, but apparently the woman murdered, Abby Monroe, found out something that could ruin a student's chance at a baseball career and believe me, that's not where it ends.
Kellan has an AWESOME grandmother, Nana D, who is so overly outspoken. She almost reminds me of my own grandmother.
"I thought about killing your Grandpop a few times. Run him down with a tractor or stab him with a pitch fork while bailing hay. In the end, it was always too much of a mess to clean so I let him live."
Obviously there's more to that but that part just made me laugh. She's a little nuts, but not the good kind - there is such thing as a good nut - trust me...I could be one of them.
I didn't really make any guesses as to who the killer was - I had a hunch, but I was wrong - but the revealing was a bit of a surprise. Kind of wondered what did I miss, which that's not a bad thing.
The ending...well, let's just say I have a lot of questions as to how THAT is anywhere near possible unless it's the damn apocalypse!
Everything is told from Kellan's point of view. Sometimes he is a bit of a chatty Cathy and asks a lot of questions to himself - and maybe he answers back - sometimes you just need expert advice! There are a lot of side stories going on that tie into the one main story so going into details about them would be turning this post into a book report and while I enjoy doing those, I'm sure not everybody wants to sit and read a full detailed one.
Plus, it means that your curiosity is peaked enough to go read the first book of this series. Which I believe is now getting to book 5 - so I have a lot of catching up to do.
If I could just one little nit picky observation - cell phones do not have dial tones. Just saying.
This is a fun little cozy mystery. It is a murder mystery, yes, but it reads like Murder She Wrote or perhaps one of Roald Dahl's morbid short stories - those are fantastic by the way. Now if you'll excuse me...I need to see about getting the second book.
I don't really rate anymore, but if I must, I'd say this was four out of five stars. Fun read, not short, but it didn't need to be. The characters are fun and hysterical, Nana D mostly.
Yeah, reality just got dark for Kellan - I don't care if that was lame, I thought it was a little funny.
Kellan had me from the beginning of this quote:
"I'm powerless to desserts - also known as my kryptonite - hence, why I've always thought they should be a major food group."
I agree!! I have the BIGGEST sweet tooth in the world. Peanut butter and chocolate are god send and who ever put them together in the first place was a genius and should forever be rewarded!
The whole murder centers around baseball. No, seriously. I'm not at all a baseball fan, or a sports fan in general, but apparently the woman murdered, Abby Monroe, found out something that could ruin a student's chance at a baseball career and believe me, that's not where it ends.
Kellan has an AWESOME grandmother, Nana D, who is so overly outspoken. She almost reminds me of my own grandmother.
"I thought about killing your Grandpop a few times. Run him down with a tractor or stab him with a pitch fork while bailing hay. In the end, it was always too much of a mess to clean so I let him live."
Obviously there's more to that but that part just made me laugh. She's a little nuts, but not the good kind - there is such thing as a good nut - trust me...I could be one of them.
I didn't really make any guesses as to who the killer was - I had a hunch, but I was wrong - but the revealing was a bit of a surprise. Kind of wondered what did I miss, which that's not a bad thing.
The ending...well, let's just say I have a lot of questions as to how THAT is anywhere near possible unless it's the damn apocalypse!
Everything is told from Kellan's point of view. Sometimes he is a bit of a chatty Cathy and asks a lot of questions to himself - and maybe he answers back - sometimes you just need expert advice! There are a lot of side stories going on that tie into the one main story so going into details about them would be turning this post into a book report and while I enjoy doing those, I'm sure not everybody wants to sit and read a full detailed one.
Plus, it means that your curiosity is peaked enough to go read the first book of this series. Which I believe is now getting to book 5 - so I have a lot of catching up to do.
If I could just one little nit picky observation - cell phones do not have dial tones. Just saying.
This is a fun little cozy mystery. It is a murder mystery, yes, but it reads like Murder She Wrote or perhaps one of Roald Dahl's morbid short stories - those are fantastic by the way. Now if you'll excuse me...I need to see about getting the second book.
I don't really rate anymore, but if I must, I'd say this was four out of five stars. Fun read, not short, but it didn't need to be. The characters are fun and hysterical, Nana D mostly.
February 22, 2019
Quirky characters in the academic world made this a fun and entertaining read. The murder plot was well done and lead us to a surprising ending in more than one way! I highly recommend this delightful cozy to anyone who enjoys a good book!
June 6, 2019
I LOVED IT. This book really exceeded my expectation. I knew it'll be a good cozy mystery but I wasn't expecting the hilarity of it. Kellan is such a refreshing MC for this genre. :)
I'll post a full review soon (I need to review the first books I've read first. I'm too behind schedule.) but you guys can read my friend's reviews/ like mine, they gave this book 5 stars and their opinions are pretty much what I thought after reading this book.
NORIKO's Review
SHALINI's Review
I'll post a full review soon (I need to review the first books I've read first. I'm too behind schedule.) but you guys can read my friend's reviews/ like mine, they gave this book 5 stars and their opinions are pretty much what I thought after reading this book.
NORIKO's Review
SHALINI's Review
January 19, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
We meet Kellan Ayrwick, who works on true crime dramas in Hollywood. He has come home to attend his father’s retirement party and meet with a woman who has done some research for an upcoming season on his television show. Near the end of the party, Kellan makes a tragic discovery. One of the professors appears to have fallen to her death down a flight of stairs. Evidence quickly points to murder and the top suspects include people close to Kellan. Kellan is encouraged to do a little investigating and the finds one curve after another before he hits it out of the park and uncovers whodunit.
We rarely have male protagonists in cozy mysteries and I liked Kellan right away. A single dad living and working in California. He is clearly not happy with his boss. His relationship with his parents is complicated, they are a unique pair, but he sure loves his Nana and their relationship was so heartwarming. Kellan is smart, funny and sarcastic is a delightful way. He comes across as very laid back and confident. His arrival home and the subsequent murder lands him right in the middle of everything going on at the college.
The author has written a mystery that encompasses a wide variety of people. Professors, students, and staff of the Braxton Campus are all entangled in the murder investigation. Another death hits close to Kellan and his family and I was heartbroken when he found the body. All of the characters feel real and believable. Campus life is truly portrayed with an emphasis on the athletic department. Twists and turns kept me guessing right up until the end.
The pace was good but it was wordy in places and that bogged it down a bit. I think a little tightening up would make it fly. The character development was great and left plenty of room for growth. I hope to get to know Kellan’s daughter better in future stories. The world building clearly gave me a sense of time and place.
This series is off to a wonderful start. I found the story entertaining and enjoyable. I look forward to future installments.
We meet Kellan Ayrwick, who works on true crime dramas in Hollywood. He has come home to attend his father’s retirement party and meet with a woman who has done some research for an upcoming season on his television show. Near the end of the party, Kellan makes a tragic discovery. One of the professors appears to have fallen to her death down a flight of stairs. Evidence quickly points to murder and the top suspects include people close to Kellan. Kellan is encouraged to do a little investigating and the finds one curve after another before he hits it out of the park and uncovers whodunit.
We rarely have male protagonists in cozy mysteries and I liked Kellan right away. A single dad living and working in California. He is clearly not happy with his boss. His relationship with his parents is complicated, they are a unique pair, but he sure loves his Nana and their relationship was so heartwarming. Kellan is smart, funny and sarcastic is a delightful way. He comes across as very laid back and confident. His arrival home and the subsequent murder lands him right in the middle of everything going on at the college.
The author has written a mystery that encompasses a wide variety of people. Professors, students, and staff of the Braxton Campus are all entangled in the murder investigation. Another death hits close to Kellan and his family and I was heartbroken when he found the body. All of the characters feel real and believable. Campus life is truly portrayed with an emphasis on the athletic department. Twists and turns kept me guessing right up until the end.
The pace was good but it was wordy in places and that bogged it down a bit. I think a little tightening up would make it fly. The character development was great and left plenty of room for growth. I hope to get to know Kellan’s daughter better in future stories. The world building clearly gave me a sense of time and place.
This series is off to a wonderful start. I found the story entertaining and enjoyable. I look forward to future installments.
September 20, 2019
I can't recall reading a series and I don’t tend to read a lot of mysteries so I thought I'd better remedy it. I’d seen this book across my social media networks and have read an earlier book by this author, Watching Glass Shatter (see my earlier review https://sckarakaltsas.com/2018/08/24/...)
Academic Curveball is the first of the Braxton Campus Mysteries and is set at Braxton College in Pennsylvania. Single father, Kellan Ayrwick returns home to dutifully attend his father’s retirement function. Both of his parents work at his old college, and he discovers his father is embroiled in some political issues on the eve of his retirement. After the dinner on campus, Kellan discovers a dead body and reluctantly gets involved in trying to solve the murder. Throw in his feisty and cheeky, grandmother, an ex-girlfriend and another murder along the way and things get very interesting.
It’s a very enjoyable read with great pace. The murderer was not who I expected it to be and the twists and turns kept me guessing. The end was left on a high with a cliff hanger and of course, I just have to get the next book in the series to find out what happens. I’m glad I picked this one up and look forward to getting into the next one.
Academic Curveball is the first of the Braxton Campus Mysteries and is set at Braxton College in Pennsylvania. Single father, Kellan Ayrwick returns home to dutifully attend his father’s retirement function. Both of his parents work at his old college, and he discovers his father is embroiled in some political issues on the eve of his retirement. After the dinner on campus, Kellan discovers a dead body and reluctantly gets involved in trying to solve the murder. Throw in his feisty and cheeky, grandmother, an ex-girlfriend and another murder along the way and things get very interesting.
It’s a very enjoyable read with great pace. The murderer was not who I expected it to be and the twists and turns kept me guessing. The end was left on a high with a cliff hanger and of course, I just have to get the next book in the series to find out what happens. I’m glad I picked this one up and look forward to getting into the next one.
February 10, 2021
I have to be honest – I haven’t read many cozy mysteries, but a small town college setting, the adorable cover, and great reviews drew me to this book.
I immediately liked Kellan. He’s a fairly recent widower with an adorable young daughter who’s trying to do the single dad thing, while also keeping the peace with his in-laws. When he travels to his hometown for his father’s retirement party, it’s clear there’s also friction in his own family. The reader doesn’t have to wait long for the action to begin. A body is discovered at the party and what looks to be an accident is soon revealed to be a murder. In several mysteries I’ve read, it’s pretty obvious who the murderer is early in the story, but that’s not the case in this novel. Several characters have a motive (even some within Kellan's family), and I was kept guessing until almost the end.
While investigating on his own (and finding himself in some interesting situations), Kellan reconnects with some old friends and a girlfriend. Learning his backstory gave me more insight to his character, and I liked him even more. He also ponders making some life changes in the best interests of his family. Speaking of his family, shout-out to Nana D, who gave me several laugh out loud moments. She’s a feisty, intelligent lady who speaks her mind – and also makes repeated attempts to fix up her grandson with questionable choices in women.
I’m so glad I picked up this cozy mystery – the author has a new fan of the series. I have to comment on that cliffhanger at the end – it was a doozy and completely out of left field. And I absolutely need to know what happens next!
I immediately liked Kellan. He’s a fairly recent widower with an adorable young daughter who’s trying to do the single dad thing, while also keeping the peace with his in-laws. When he travels to his hometown for his father’s retirement party, it’s clear there’s also friction in his own family. The reader doesn’t have to wait long for the action to begin. A body is discovered at the party and what looks to be an accident is soon revealed to be a murder. In several mysteries I’ve read, it’s pretty obvious who the murderer is early in the story, but that’s not the case in this novel. Several characters have a motive (even some within Kellan's family), and I was kept guessing until almost the end.
While investigating on his own (and finding himself in some interesting situations), Kellan reconnects with some old friends and a girlfriend. Learning his backstory gave me more insight to his character, and I liked him even more. He also ponders making some life changes in the best interests of his family. Speaking of his family, shout-out to Nana D, who gave me several laugh out loud moments. She’s a feisty, intelligent lady who speaks her mind – and also makes repeated attempts to fix up her grandson with questionable choices in women.
I’m so glad I picked up this cozy mystery – the author has a new fan of the series. I have to comment on that cliffhanger at the end – it was a doozy and completely out of left field. And I absolutely need to know what happens next!
December 18, 2018
Kellan Ayrwick is 32 year old widower with a six year old daughter, who works on a true crime television series called "Dark Reality." He returns home to Pennsylvania for his father's retirement party at Braxton Campus, where he has also scheduled a meeting with professor Abby Monroe, who has been gathering information on behind the scenes corruption. However, Abby is found dead under suspicious circumstances on the night of the party.
Told in the first person, the story follows Kellan's attempts to uncover the truth behind Abby's death, as he weaves his way through a myriad of twists and turns, and a number of red herrings.
Although he has a troubled relationship with his father, and his mother seems to be too busy to listen, he has a wonderful relationship with his grandmother-Nana D, who is an incredibly feisty but fun character. Their conversations are amazing, and made me chuckle throughout.
A second murder keeps the reader guessing till the end. I did not suspect the culprit, as it was highly unexpected .
Academic Curveball is the third book I have read by the author James J. Cudney. It is a joy to read, and I look forward to reading more in this series.
Told in the first person, the story follows Kellan's attempts to uncover the truth behind Abby's death, as he weaves his way through a myriad of twists and turns, and a number of red herrings.
Although he has a troubled relationship with his father, and his mother seems to be too busy to listen, he has a wonderful relationship with his grandmother-Nana D, who is an incredibly feisty but fun character. Their conversations are amazing, and made me chuckle throughout.
A second murder keeps the reader guessing till the end. I did not suspect the culprit, as it was highly unexpected .
Academic Curveball is the third book I have read by the author James J. Cudney. It is a joy to read, and I look forward to reading more in this series.
July 3, 2019
If you like cozy mysteries, you're going to love Academic Curveball. The setting is a college and this is a perfect setting in my opinion. The characters are well-developed and the plot moves at a good pace. I kept trying to guess who did it but was surprised at the ending. Kudos to James J. Cudney for keeping this mystery fan from guessing right. Can't wait to read the next one.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
March 6, 2019
Oh, the mystery. Actually, there’s a lot of it in ACADEMIC CURVEBALL. And the interesting thing here is that it’s difficult to solve. The author provides hints and the like, and when I was about to figure out who the killer was. boom, another suspect appeared. It’s like the whole cast had a motive and a loose alibi, except for a handful of people. This is actually a very good thing that kept me interested and made my thinking juices swirl in my brain, until I spew out smoke from my ears!
When the killer is finally unmasked, it doesn’t come as a total surprise, because, well, motives everywhere. It feels good. It makes sense. And it rocks.
Besides Kellan, my other favorite character is Nana D. She’s cool!
Overall, an excellent read with a satisfying ending.
More on my blog: https://gerardowrites.wordpress.com/2...
When the killer is finally unmasked, it doesn’t come as a total surprise, because, well, motives everywhere. It feels good. It makes sense. And it rocks.
Besides Kellan, my other favorite character is Nana D. She’s cool!
Overall, an excellent read with a satisfying ending.
More on my blog: https://gerardowrites.wordpress.com/2...
June 19, 2019
Having been raised in an academic household our hero rebels into the world of media entertainment. He’s not on the screen but he does work behind the scenes for *dun dun* a reality show. Now in search of stories for the true crime show he sets out to meet with a woman who is affiliated with his father’s college. Since this meeting coincides with Dad’s retirement party he plans to attend. A little time with the parental units and his lovable, unusual Granny then back to the big city with fodder for season 2.
Unfortunately sometimes an investigative journalist for a reality show comes across real life.
An excellent story with wonderful characters. Lots of twists and turns throughout as we search for a murderer.
Unfortunately sometimes an investigative journalist for a reality show comes across real life.
An excellent story with wonderful characters. Lots of twists and turns throughout as we search for a murderer.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews