The Tale of Hill Top Farm (Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter Series #1) by Susan Wittig Albert

Cute little cozy mysteryby Sensitivemuse

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December 10, 2009: This was a cute tale! I loved how they switched from the townsfolk and then to the animals. I really enjoyed how the animals got themselves "involved" in solving some of mysteries in the book. Mind you, the death of Mrs Tolliver was just one of the mysteries in this tale, there's also a few other little mysteries within the big one that need to be solved and although not necessary it does add more substance to the book. The description and feel of rural village life is well done and beautifully written. I absolutely loved it and it really did feel as if you were there in the town with these people. Naturally, what isn't a town without the endless drivel of gossip? you have your stereotypical characters: a gossip, a priest, the "liberated" woman who poses as a danger to society (OMG she rides a bike everybody! and wears pants!!), the pair of spinster sisters that live together, the list is endless.

The characters are very likable each in their own little way. I don't think I have a particular favorite yet. Although I really do love the part where Beatrix defends someone, and comes out of her shell to say what's on her mind. It shows Beatrix developing on her own without her parents following her every step with disapproval. I admire her independence and her steps to get away from her parents, and her new skill on how to say "no". The animals are likeable as well I love Mrs Tiggy, she's cute and lovable (especially when she curls up in a ball to sleep, with her little handkerchief covering her face) they each have their own personalities and again, I'd have to say, I don't have a favorite, I like all of them.

The downside of this book; there's no thrills or chills. When you get to the bottom of the mysterie(s) they're not filled with that pack and punch as you find in regular ones. Although my favorite was the one in which the animals had solved one of the mysteries featured in this book. Since this is my first cozy one, I'm not sure if that's the standard with these mysteries, is the finale always low key? so I wish there was a little more excitement in the end. It was all right though. I loved the description of village life enough that it kept me interested until the end. I admit there was a little bit of intrigue and mystery throughout the story but it wasn't much and not what I quite expected. Again, I'll let that pass considering it was my first cozy mystery.

Overall, a cute little tale of village life, their dramas and how the inhabitants of a little town deal with scandal, newcomers, and their mysteries. I definitely recommend this to fans of Beatrix Potter, and her tales. Definitely worth your time, especially to those cozy mystery fans out there.

Mark of a good seriesby Katherine30

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September 17, 2009: After reading the first of the Potter series, I was 'so so', I thought I might get around to reading the other books 'sometime', but the book was different and a bit off-putting to me. The 2nd book I liked, I thought I 'would probably' read the series, and then read the third promptly. I then immediately bought the fourth book and didn't put down, then bought the 5th book in hardback as soon as it came out. So, that's all an indication of a good series to me.

These books are unique, and so fun to read once you let yourself slip into the style of them. Give them a chance!! Yes, the series has some fantasy to it, but that suits a Beatrix Potter mystery just fine. As you get to know the characters, both animal and human, the Potter world will become very real and endearing to you. Highly recommend!!