The Juliet Code - (A Freddie and Grace Mystery) by Pepper Basham (Paperback)

Grace Percy is finally getting a honeymoon in Italy with her husband, Lord Frederick Astley, but their honeymoon takes a back seat when they join Detective Jack Miracle in searching for stolen artwork. Venice may never be the same! How can two people get in so much trouble without even trying? Is it Grace's insatiable love for mysteries that's come from reading detective stories, or is it Freddie's unswerving devotion to his bookish wife? I love these characters and I keep visualizing them as Nick and Nora Charles, the super-sleuthing couple from The Thin Man movies. Grace and Freddie are deeply in love, they don't run from adventure, and they're also charming and oh, so witty. I laugh out loud, I swoon over their romantic chemistry, and I'm always caught up in the adventure and danger! If you want an intriguing adventure with romance, mystery, and exotic locations, grab a copy of The Juliet Code. It's rom-com at its best and a great addition to the Freddie & Grace Mystery series! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. These are my own thoughts.

What a wonderful and delightful new book in the Freddy and Grace Mystery Series! Ms. Basham has such a way with stories, endearing characters, laugh out loud moments, and unexpected mysteries, that she never fails to entertain me and make me sigh at the sweet romantic moments! Frederick and Grace Percy finally arrive in Italy for their much awaited and delayed honeymoon. They are anxious to explore the beauty and history in Venice, when unexpected turn of events lead them to Detective Jack Miracle, who is investigating a series of art heists that start at the house of an eccentric millionaire called Laraby Covington. Detective Miracle ensues their help as sleuths, to Grace’s absolute delight, and Freddie’s hesitant yet burgeoning interest. The “Juliet Paintings” -named because their theme is Shakespeare’s tragic heroine- that have been stolen are rumored to hold a secret code that leads to an underground vault with a hidden treasure lost over the centuries. As Freddie and Grace immerse in the mystery, they find than much more than they imagined is at stake, especially after Detective Miracle disappears. Can they both team up and be brave enough to discover and capture the culprit and save their beloved detective? What a delightful and page turning adventure! I absolutely loved it! A third book in a series is not easy to live up to the previous two books expectations, but The Juliet Code definitely did! I loved the scenery: I have to say I lived in Italy for nine years and visited Venice once, so I could imagine perfectly the scenes, imagine the palaces, plazas, gondolas, etc. She’s so good at describing places, that it’s so easy to imagine the scenery. And the historical details of the era are so realistic too. The book kept me guessing and I had a hard time putting the book down because I wanted to know what would happen next, became suspicious of almost every new character, and especially wanted to help the Ashley’s save our dear Detective Jack. There were a few twists I wasn’t expecting! I also love Grace’s ingenuity and passion for sleuthing as she calls it, and Freddie’s devoted love for her -antics included- and his protectiveness. Their relationship is really sweet and I love how they grow with each story. I love how they are so different, yet they complement each other, with Grace’s optimistic and passionate nature and Freddie’s more serious and reflexive mood. I loved Grace’s gumption, at the same time she seemed relatable with having her own fears. And their witty banter is a delight of course! The mysterious murder, the villains, the danger at every angle, kept me glued to the book. And what I love about Basham’s stories is that there’s always an inspiring message delivered in a natural, non-preachy way. The way they help each other to trust God with their lives, even in uncertain circumstances, was uplifting. This is a delightful mystery novel that I vividly recommend. Although it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading them in order. You get to know the characters better as they grow in love and character through each new adventure. I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing but wasn’t required to post a review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

The Juliet Code is part of the Freddie and Grace mystery series by Pepper Basham. This story tells the tale of missing paintings as part of a collection set in the historic city of Venice. Freddie and Grace have finally arrived on their honeymoon. They are looking forward to spending time together. However, they quickly learn of a mystery of several paintings that make up the Juliet series. Several of these paintings have been lost with a very high risk, most significantly death. They run into their friend Jack, who is working on the mystery of the Juliet paintings. Of course, Freddie and Grace are eager to help. However, is it worth the risk? Should they stop their honeymoon and help out Jack? What type of adventures await them? This is definitely a true fiction Christian romance mystery. There are lots of details to discover in the story. I have to say I was a bit confused at times, but in the end, the story did come together. I did find it an enjoyable read. I would recommend to those who definitely prefer mystery.

We can start in our little corner where God places us. Lord Frederick Astley and his lovely wife Grace Percy are finally on their honeymoon in Venice. Needless to say, they find themselves embroiled in a mystery that makes this trip anything but boring. Locked in a trunk, almost drowning and even a ghost make this ‘game’ one to long remember. What really is the curse that seems to follow the lovely Juliet paintings? With lots of action and plenty of love, you will find yourself laughing out loud at times and wondering if they will survive in the next moment. Published by Barbour Publishing this copy was received through NetGalley. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.

A series of paintings based on Romeo and Juliet have been disappearing. Known as the Juliets, they are highly prized by art collectors, and are rumored to contain clues to a treasure. As Frederick and Grace, Lord and Lady Astley, honeymoon in Venice, the latest installment of the mystery surrounding the paintings takes place there, too. Their detective friend, Jack, pulls them into what seems to be a simple case, working for Daniel Laraby. But he is newly rich, and eccentric, and likes to liven life up, even if it is with things he fabricates. The paintings have left a trail of dead owners besides the pictures disappearing. Only three have not been stolen, all possessed by Laraby. He is holding a party at his newly remodeled, lavish estate on his private island. Laraby intends to show off his Juliets to an eclectic group of guests. He is not heeding Jack's warning that this party would be asking for trouble. Frederick and Grace attend, and find themselves up to their necks in kidnappings, injuries, missing people, and deaths. The question is whether-or-not Frederick, Grace, or Jack, can figure things out without one or all of them losing their life. This is a clean story, but some adult subject matter is talked about. Because of that, I recommend it for older teens and adults. Although part of a series, this tale stands on its own. Red herrings, danger, and excitement abound in this thrilling mystery. Many references are made by the characters about their faith, and what it has done in their lives. Fans of puzzles, treasure hunts, and adventure will enjoy this five-star book. Thank you, Barbour Press, for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own.

While on their honeymoon, Grace and Frederick are invited into a mystery by Detective Jack Miracle. Several thefts of expensive paintings have occurred along with murders of anyone that dares to get in the way. There’s also a code hidden in the paintings that supposedly lead to a hidden treasure on an island owned by Daniel Laraby. Laraby wants the thieves caught but also instigates some games of his own that irritate the detectives. Several characters were also involved in the “game” and kept this reader guessing about what would happen next and who would be in danger. Mysteries, surprises, murders, who dunnits, plus some humor and sweet moments were “peppered” among the pages. (Pun intended) I haven’t met a book yet by Pepper Basham that I haven’t enjoyed. She covers several genres in her writings, and also includes some swoon worthy romance. I need to go back and read the first two books in this series but it didn’t keep me from being entertained by The Juliet Code. I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.

From the gorgeous front cover to the last page of the novel, The Juliet Code (Pepper Basham’s third novel in the Frederick and Grace Mystery series) is a wonderful book. With every adventure, Freddie and Grace become more and more endearing. I find it refreshing to read about a married couple that falls more in love with each other as their story unfolds. Their relationship is full of humor, fun, and romance. Grace is so truly delightful and Freddie is her perfect partner. I loved this latest novel set in Venice. Basham includes just the right amount of detail for the historical setting to make readers feel as if they have stepped right into early 1900’s Venice. I could picture the canals and gondolas as well as the island estate where a great deal of the story takes place. The mystery part of this story was exciting and puzzling – a true whodunit! Just when I thought I had everything figured out, Basham introduced a twist. I recommend this entire series of mysteries. Once you read one, you will want to read them all.

I find the Freddie and Grace mysteries entertaining and always good for a chuckle or two. In this installment you will be swept away to Venice for their delayed honeymoon after their escapades in Egypt. Soon they are pulled into intrigue as their old pal Detective Jack Miracle asks for assistance in the heists of the Juliet paintings. They will find themselves on a private island following leads that lead to murder, mayhem, and strange occurrences. It becomes a match of wits against unsavory characters to solve the mysteries. If you are a fan of Agatha Christy or Murder She Wrote you will be in your element reading this. Well defined characters that pull you into their world. I love that the romance between husband and wife is playful and lightens the mood of the book. I especially like the direction Jack’s character is being taken that hopefully inspires future books. I received a complimentary copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

The Juliet Code is another exciting adventure with Freddie and Grace packed with mystery, drama, humor, romance, and faith. The intriguing plot, with a wonderful Venetian setting, kept me guessing for the entirety of the story. A favorite quote: “This whole case has been a series of things or people not being what or who they’re supposed to be”. So true! I love the delightful interaction between Freddie and Grace in both their personal and professional lives. They complement each other perfectly. I also enjoyed the cast of secondary characters as I tried to distinguish the “good” ones from the “bad”! I greatly appreciate the valuable faith lessons on courage and God’s “holding us wherever we are”. This book can easily be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the books in order for a more complete reading experience and just because they are all so good! Hopefully there are more adventures with Freddie and Grace to come. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley with no obligation to post a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I really enjoyed this Freddie and Grace adventure! As they travel to Venice to honeymoon (did they even get a date night?), they barely make it into a gondola before they are thrown into a mysterious chase! This escapade introduces a cast of captivating characters, some more likeable than others, that are invited to an island house party, making everyone suspect as the Juliet paintings “go missing”. With obscure clues and dastardly mishaps, Freddie and Grace help our dashing Detective Jack Miracle attempt to discover what is really going on and whom is whom, all while learning to fight with a parasol! You just have to read it! I am already anticipating book 4 and hope that we hear more from Elliot along with a hopeful match for Jack Miracle. What? Yes! I am fully invested in this series with it’s swoony heroes and eccentric heroines! I enjoyed the audiobook narration by Pamela Klein. The book was well read considering the number of characters that are included in this episode. True Brits might find fault with the accents but I thought her depiction of Freddie and Jack was fairly distinct. This book is suitable for teens and older with no inappropriate intimate scenes and no bad language. I received this book from the author/publisher free of charge, with no expectation of a positive review. I also purchased the audiobook version.

The Juliet Code is the third book in Pepper Basham's delightful Freddie and Grace Mystery series. Fans of Jen Turano will also be fans of this book and series. Like Turano, Basham is able to add romance and humor into an exciting detective story involving quirky, lovable characters. They both build strong female characters who are supported by men during times in history when women were expected to stay within strict social boundaries. Most importantly they both develop plots that honor God and honor living a life that is pleasing to Him without sounding judgmental. The Juliet Code is the perfect example of all of these wonderful characteristics. I would highly encourage readers to read the series in order even though this book will work as a stand-alone read. In case you are wanting just a little peek into The Juliet Code... We join Lord and Lady Astley on their honeymoon in Venice. While there, their friend, Detective Jack Miracle, pulls them into a case he is investigating concerning stolen paintings. An investigation that seems fairly safe as investigations go, quickly turns dangerous. Lord and Lady Astley must learn to trust God with their health and safety while doing what they feel Him calling them to. Readers may learn something about trusting in the goodness of God as they too join the investigation. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of The Juliet Code from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. I am hoping that there are more books coming in this series in the future.