THE MARIGOLD COTTAGES MURDER COLLECTIVE

This character-heavy cozy gets off to a slow start as author Jo Nichols introduces its many characters. The intrepid narrators, Meg Price and Jim Meskimen, take some time to settle into the particular personalities and voices of the 14 people they portray, becoming more engaging as the story moves forward. Each chapter features a different character. Sometimes they're linked to the somewhat convoluted story, and sometimes they're part of the play being written by one of the characters. Initially, this is confusing, but as the narrators' performances take on more individualized vocal rhythms and timbres, following the story becomes easier. In the end, Price and Meskimen's increasing playfulness with the characters and the twists and turns of the plot make this an enjoyable listening experience. S.G. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2025]