I am absolutely besotted with this trio and would happily read on and on! I read the first instalment and absolutely loved it so was thrilled to be able to move straight onto book 2. Melody sees dead people (literally) and has decided to move away from the family business (both her mother and Gran see dead people too) and has set up her very own ghost busting agency. Now don't get me wrong I know that this sounds ridiculous and I for one would (previous to the first book) be rolling my eyes. I couldn't have been more wrong and instead have fallen hook line and sinker for these wonderful characters.

Melody's agency consist of Marina, the fiery Sicilian, the shy but wonderfully direct Artie as well as Lestat the one eared pug! They find themselves called to Maplemead Castle as it appears to be crawling with ghosts. The new owners call them in and within the first ten minutes at the castle all sorts has happened including the appearance of trapeze artist Britannia Lovell who has been dead for a century and a very funny incident with a dead ringmaster and his lion. It sounds barmy, and it IS barmy but it also an enticingly funny read that will leave the majority laughing out loud.

The addition of Melody's ex-boyfriend Leo as well as reported Fletcher Gunn (also Melody's enemy as well as secret desire) makes the story a whole lot more interesting and get Melody and the team into a whole heap of ridiculous and unsavoury situations. I wish we had seen more of Melodys Mum and Gran who are both a rule unto themselves and are exceptional characters who I love.

The one liners, the crazy situations and the skills from this author have created another stonkingly good book. I am totally girl fanning over Kitty French and am absolutely delighted to have read this series, I am just crossing my fingers and hoping the next one is just as good. If you wan't something different that will cheer you up no end, make you laugh, and keep you utterly entertained from the very first to the very last page, then look no further!

The book might have been good, but I could not get past the immature vulgarity. I thought I was reading a cozy mystery. Instead I got constant genital references. I found it sad rather than funny.

Last year, I came across “Melody Bittersweet and the Girls’ Ghostbusting Agency.” The title intrigued me and Amazon’s “Look Inside” feature had me hooked. It was a laugh-out-loud cozy mystery with ghosts and I couldn’t wait for the next one in the series. When I couldn’t find it, I wrote to Ms. French and was informed the original book had been reissued as “The Skeletons of Scarborough House” and a second book was on its way. As soon as I saw “Mystery at Maplemead Castle” on NetGalley, I requested an ARC and my wish was granted. The second book is as good as, maybe even better than, the first one. All the characters, including the ghosts, are appealing, entertaining, and hilariously funny. There are so many uproariously comical moments, that I would often find myself laughing in public places ignoring the people staring at me. LOL! Although it’s a standalone book, I highly recommend reading the first one. Why? It will familiarize you with the main characters, you’ll love it, and it’s only 99 cents on Amazon. If you don’t choose to read the first book, note that Ms. French does an excellent job catching new readers up. I highly recommend “Mystery at Maplemead Castle,” give it two big thumbs up, and can’t wait for the next book in the series!!

This book was a different one for me, I've never really read a book about this sort of topic (ghost stories usually scare the life out of me) but this book managed to capture serious plots with humour as well. It made me laugh out loud and I really enjoyed the book.

Until I started reading this book however, I had no idea that I could potentially enjoy a book which did indeed feature ghosts. The story follows Melody, a 'normal' girl with an extraordinary ability. Having not read the first book, I thought I would get very confused indeed about whether or not I could follow the storyline but I did. It was easy to follow on with and the author often described more in the purpose for those who hadn't read the first of the series. Melody can see and talk to ghost as though they are usual people like you or me. Of course, it may look weird as an outsider, as they can't see who she's talking too!

The ghosts are causing mayhem at Maplemead Castle and Melody is sent to the castle in order to help out. The ghosts in question are a ringmaster and two trapeze artists, one of which plunged to her death and repeats that every night (so you can see why Melody and her team were sent in!).

Again, although I didn't read the first book, I found myself relating to the characters in different senses and enjoyed learning all about their stories. I didn't once feel lost in the storylines and as the book went on I found that it was hard to put down! I even found the ghosts in this book really enjoyable to read about (never thought I'd say that!) and I enjoyed their individual stories.

Overall, I found Mystery at Maplemeads Castle to be a very interesting and unique story and I would urge you all to pick up this book and take a read, you'll soon be hooked!

Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

MYSTERY AT MAPLEMEAD CASTLE by Kitty French is a ghostbuster story that makes you play sleuth and voyeur. The colorful cast of characters from the Chapelwick series are back with all their nuances. Melody narrates the story to the reader as she works to solve the mystery that is holding the ghosts inside Maplemead Castle. She navigates her sexual tension with Fletcher Gunn and Leo Dark, while working side by side with her best friend Marina and their sidekick Artie. This time, the ghosts that refuse to budge are old circus performers staking their claim in more ways than one. French manages to capture the humor of the twenty-somethings while doing mysterious justice for the 100+ year old ghosts. This read had me smiling, sighing, and ooh la laaing. And wanting to find myself a good pair of Converse. A good read for those that enjoy this type of literary escape!

I received an ARC of this novel from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I like this series, quirky characters and a fun plot.
What sets it apart is the beautiful way in which the author writes. This sets it apart. Want to know what happens next

Maplemead Castle is the second book in the Chapelwick Mysteries series and it's every bit as brilliant as the first one. Melody and her little band of misfits are fast becoming firm friends and it's great to know I can rely on them when I need a laugh.

Maplemead Castle was bought by an American couple, sight unseen, over the internet. As you do. But they quickly realise all is not right. For this case, Melody is forced to work together with the ever annoying ex-boyfriend Leo and with irresistible reporter Fletch. No problems there then.

The story of the ghosts haunting Maplemead Castle is incredibly sad once again. Britannia used to be a trapeze artist who plunged to her death and she has done every night since. But was it an accident? Thank goodness for the humour or I'd be bawling like a baby.

Leo gets in far over his head. Melody doesn't even know where her head is at most of the time as having Fletch around is utterly distracting. While I wouldn't mind having a Fletch of my own (sorry OH), it was Artie and Lestat who stole the show for me.

Personally, I felt this one was a bit too heavy on the romance. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery aspect and trying to figure out exactly what happened. And of course, the ever-present humour. I don't know how Kitty French comes up with some of these things but her brain must be the most wonderful place.

All in all, captivating, full of witty characters and I can't wait to see where the crew ends up next time. There's a next time, right?

Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my copy which I chose to review.

Mystery at Maplemead Castle is a delightfully laugh out loud book. I loved the story and the quirky cast of characters. Melody and her gang of ghostbusters, ghosts and ghouls will keep you entertained

4.5 stars

“I genuinely cannot fathom what goes on inside your head, ghostbuster,” he says. “You’re the most unusual person I’ve ever met.”

This series just gets better and better! Bravo Kitty French, this second instalment was just brilliant. What a fabulous time we spent back with characters that now feel like best friends, seeing their journey continue, revelling in how everyone is getting on and what’s happening with them, personally as well as their new ghost hunting shenanigans. Melody, Marina and Artie, we want to join your crew! Melody, we want to come drink champers round the kitchen table with your mum and gran.

“Gran, are you offering to lend me your gimp mask?”

“Don’t judge me, darling, I’ve been married for over sixty years, how else am I to keep the spice in our marriage?”

What we loved is how book two builds on the development of characters and their relationships. Book one felt like an introduction and the slow build has encouraged and solidified this deep connection we now feel. Kitty French has made us care deeply for all her characters whilst laughing our arses off and feeling the subtle vulnerability and emotional angst threaded through the story. We definitely saw a different side to the arrogant heart-breaker, Leo as well as journalist and sceptic, Fletch…

‘Needless to say, my mum and gran can’t abide him; he never misses a chance to take pot-shots at us and our industry in the press.’

This is pure British comedy with an ongoing romantic possibility that we yearn for, but for once the anticipation is just as delicious and addictive as a loving end, when and if that comes.

‘He’s offering to be my summer fling, but not my winter coat. My fair-weather lover. Can I do that? I worry that my heart cannot withstand him, but then I also worry that he will for ever be my missed regret.’

The supernatural elements are marvellous and we loved the mystery in this one, it was circus-fantastic, yet so sad and quite distressing too. A perfect blend. It’s fanciful, silly, sweet, funny, emotional and exciting. It’s eccentric and quintessentially British. We bloody love this series! This RomCom is without question a feel-good read that’ll have you smiling and laughing out loud, it’s so different to what’s out there at the moment and we’re loving that!

‘Fletch and I have an inexplicable connection and it’s bloody inconvenient for both of us.'

So entertaining.

This is the second book in the Bittersweet series and I wasn't disappointed.
After recently reading the first, and loving it, I was very happy when this sequel was written.
Melody is funny and sassy and has such a great, interesting life that it's hard not to love her and her sidekicks, I had to laugh out loud in some places as her thought process is hilarious and the story was so entertaining that I finished it in a couple of days.

If you like supernatural comedy mixed with a bit of romance and attitude, this is the book for you.

Welcome back to the decidedly kooky world of Melody Bittersweet and her coven of crazy compatriots. In this world she's the girl who not only sees dead people but has cozy chats with them too. For part two of this series we're back with her ghostbusting partners - Marina, still Chapelwicks very own don; Artie, as geeky and sweet as ever and Lestat, the flatulent biscuit stealing pug. Also returning is Leo Dark and his minion twins and the crazy sexy but seriously sceptical journalist Fletcher Gunn.
In this second installment Melody is called in to Maplemead Castle. It's new American owners want it to be the go to stately home for film makers and they've got their first booking. But the leading lady is spooked by the castles longest residents, a motley crew of circus ghosts. There's Brittania Lovell, a trapeze artist who plunged to her death a century before. And trapped in the castle with her is her lover and her husband (and his lion), and together every night her dying moments are replayed. It's up to Melody to find out why she fell and why they have all been trapped between here and the afterlife.

Again Kitty French has written a funny and compulsive story, just a delightfully daft as the last book but this time with more poignancy and feeling. Melody and her friends are all likeable but in this one we learn more about Fletcher and even Leo is more likeable (the fembots are still cows though). If you like cozy mysteries with a strong dose of wry humour you'll love this.

Easily one of the funniest books I've ever read. There is so much about this book that just hit my funny bones in the right way and the amount of times I was giggling out loud to myself was great.

I never knew ghostbusting could be so much fun, maybe I should go watch that film! In fact until I started reading these Chapelwick Mysteries, I never realised I could potentially enjoy a story which featured ghosts. And its the way that the ghosts are portrayed that makes my skepticism towards all things supernatural stay at bay while I read this book.

For Melody Bittersweet is just an ordinary girl, but with a rather extraordinary ability, as she introduces herself in book 1, she states "I see dead people". It just so happens she see the ghosts that surround us all as living beings, and she can converse with them as though they are still living. Of course to her friends she looks as though she is talking to herself, but luckily at her Ghostbusting agency, Marina her best friend and new friend Artie are quick to back her up and offer assistance as they try to solve the mysteries that keep some ghosts routed to the here and now, instead of free to go wherever is they are meant to!

Now in Mystery at Maplemead Castle there aren't just human ghosts that Melody has to deal with, there is a rather unusual ghost called Goliath, who I loved Melody, and also Leo (a rival ghosthunter)'s first encounter with . For the ghosts in question that are causing havoc at Maplemead castle are a ringmaster and two trapeze artists, and Goliath is a ghostly lion!

One of my favourite scenes involves Lestat, Melody's pug who has never really seemed to notice ghosts before, has an encounter with Goliath. I was laughing my head off at it, and just one of so many amusing moments. Pretty much anything Melody says while she is around skeptical reporter Fletcher Gunn is funny, as she can't seem to think straight. There is undeniable chemistry between them, despite Fletcher thinking Melody is a charlatan!

It was great to be reunited with characters from The Skeletons of Scarborough House, and although this is book two of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone. The mystery in this book is not related to the previous, and all the relevant details for the recurring cast are repeated, so that newcomers can know all the useful informations about them.

I loved meeting the ghosts in this book, and their story was really enjoyable. I also loved the renewed rivalry between Leo and Melody, and also Melody and Fletcher, and Fletcher and Leo...all around fun with the interactions between the three.

Overall I just found Mystery at Maplemeads Castle to be a highly entertaining story, from a series I can't get enough of, and is a series I would urge you to take a chance on if you like laughing, are interested in ghost busting, mysteries or all around fun story writing, great dialogue and just slightly over the top characters!

Thank you so much to Netgalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

'Melody Bittersweet and the Girls' Ghostbusting Agency' (or 'The Chapelwick Mysteries #1), was one of my top ten books of 2016, so I was beyond eager to find out what Melody, Marina and Artie would get up to next. Kitty French did not disappoint with this sequel.
Melody is quirky and, obviously, has this unusual talent of being able to see and communicate with ghosts. But, she is also really relatable and likeable. Her best friends and co-worker Marina is a fierce, Sicilian force that you would always want in your corner, and Artie, the young apprentice is loveable and develops further in this book.
So our trio return, along with the characters of Melody's mum and nana, ex-boyfriend Leo and his scary twin assistants, and reporter Fletch with his romantic interest in Melody, and this time the ghosts in need of help are circus performers trapped in a mansion. As Melody strives to untangle their love triangle and release them, much hilarity ensues as well as some heartache.
The story is a funny and comforting read. These stories to me, are the equivalent of cuddling up on the sofa with a blanket and a cup of hot chocolate. And I can't wait for the next!

This is a great book; this is the second book in the Chapelwick Mystery series written by Kitty French. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. If you are looking for a great book, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.

Melody and crew feel like old friends at this point, and I was so pleased to be aquatinted with them again. Not much has changed since the first book, Melody is still a sugar addict who daydreams of sexy superheroes, Marina is still a vixen in stilettos, Artie is still slowly gaining confidence and may be ready to dip his toes into the dating pool, and Silvana and Dicey are still up to their old tricks. This time around the Girls Ghostbusting Agency is tasked with clearing a gorgeous castle of its lingering spirits and things are seriously complicated. Leo Dark is also underfoot and Fletcher Gunn is writing yet another piece for the newspaper. One ex boyfriend and one potential new love interest for Melody is overwhelming enough, but a ghostly love triangle, with the terrifying bonus of a lion is enough to push sweet Melody over the edge.

I can’t get over how hilarious this was! I laughed even harder than I did during the first book, at one point I was crying with laughter, full blown hysterics. There is an over abundance of witty, snarky banter between all of the characters, but when Marina and Melody go off on a tangent, I lose it. They get naughty, sassy and are downright incorrigible but I love every minute of it. Fletch played a large presence in this one and the heat between him and Melody was awesome! Their banter was amazing as well, their chemistry is sizzling and the way he manages to make Melody tangle herself in verbal knots is beyond funny. I think I’ll chuckle to myself anytime I hear/see the word rhubarb.

I now know that I can only start a Kitty French book when I have nothing else to do because I hate having to put it down. For such a quirky, fun loving read, there were some heartfelt and tender moments, I swear this series has it all. This book was an utter delight and I can’t wait for the next one. I dare you to read this without cracking a smile, I’m still smiling and giggling hours after finishing.

This is the second book in the Chapelwick Mysteries series which I absolutely loved so you can imagine my excitement when I heard Kitty had written a second one. I couldn't wait to get on my hands on it. It’s not very often I come from over the dark side but this series is pure magic!

In this story Melody and her team are at Maplemead castle which is crawling with ghosts and the new owners need them gone. A century ago, stunning trapeze artist Britannia Lovell plunged to her death, and has done every night since. But did she really just fall, or was there something more to her demise? Forced to work with Leo Dark, her scoundrel ex, and infuriating, irresistible reporter Fletcher Gun. Somewhere, hidden in the castle, is a heart-breaking secret, but what will it take to find it? And is there a chance it could set Britannia free, or is she doomed to repeat her last fateful act forever?

Even though this is the second book in the series it can easily be read has a standalone. The story is full of likable characters. And Melody is just brilliant she is fun and quirky.

I loved the setting for this story and Kitty has wrote a story that isn't just a laugh out loud entertaining read it is freaky hilarious. Even my children kept asking me what was so funny. Devouring this in a day I couldn't put it down. It is certainly a page turner.

If you are looking for a fun book then this is the one for you. Which I highly recommend giving it 5 stars.

I think I have found a new favorite series and author, as the Chapewick mysteries just crack me up.

An American couple bought the Maplemead Castle and it’s full of ghost, so they have asked Melody Bittersweet and her ghostbusting gang to come and see what they can do. Meanwhile, the lady of the house finds out that Leo is offering his help and they could have their place on TV. So they decided to let them both help them with their ghost problem.

There is more than one ghost but only one that seems to not want anyone there and the couple decides to go stay at a B&B while and make the ghostbusters stay in the house. Melody is also being shadowed for the newspaper by Flecher Gunn, so he stays too. Now Melody is stuck in their with her ex-boyfriend, Leo Dark, and with the one man who makes her forget that he is her nemesis, Fletcher Gun.

The Mystery at Maplemead Castle is full of laugh out loud moments with three circus performers (who are a bit of a love triangle) and a Lion. A ghost LION!!! They are not the only ghost but they are the ones who surround the mystery and are the ones that really need to go to give the home some peace and quiet. Not only do we get all those ghosts but Lestat, the pug, gets to stay in the castle and is a part of the action.

All the characters in this story are so much fun, well maybe not the fembots (the two ladies who are really strange and work with Leo), but they play their part. Melody is just so quirky and fun, Marina is her bestie and protector, Artie is coming out of his shell and a lot of fun, Leo is well, Leo and Fletcher Gun is just sexy, and some ghost and you got a story filled with lots of fun!

I can’t wait to see what trouble Melody and the gang can get into next!

I love this book. I am so invested in this series now. I cannot wait to see what happens with Melody and the rest of the crew. I loved the interactions with Fletcher in this one and that ghost animal!! That was perfect! LOVED!

If you love cozy mysteries, this is a great book to read. Full of witty banter and real characters, Kitty French really hit a winner. I absolutely loved the characters and wait to read what comes next. Ms. French has definitely found a new fan in me!

Another sparkling story from Kitty French. 4/5 stars.

I recently caught up with book 1 of the Chapelwick Mysteries and thoroughly enjoyed it. I don’t want to repeat the review for that book here, but safe to say that book 2 is another funny ghostbusting adventure with Melody and friends. If you enjoyed book 1, you’ll love book 2.

I thought the mystery had more depth this time and also gave one of the main characters in particular the opportunity to show considerable character development. It also features a ghost lion; surely sufficient reason alone to read this!

Maplemead Castle is a fantastic setting for mystery and a great backdrop for escalating romantic shenanigans (I won’t say more to avoid spoilers). However, for all the additional steam in this installment, I’d argue the most engaging relationships are still those between the fabulous female characters: between the generations of the Bittersweet family and between Melody and her best friend Marina.

You could read this book as a standalone. That said, as with all series, I think it’s best to read the books in order to get the most from the small details in the characters’ interactions.

If, like me, you’re partial to sweet treats, you’ll be pleased to know that delicious baked goods appear at regular intervals, just in case our heroine or her readers need a sugar rush.

And finally, I’d like to take this opportunity to say something about comedy. Both in books and film, just because something is funny it’s often seen as frivolous. This is why comedies hardly ever win Oscars or book awards: there’s an assumption that creating something which is consistently amusing is somehow easy. Well, in my opinion it’s a darn sight easier to make someone cry than laugh. Pulling off good comedy is a very difficult trick which requires great skill, and I take my hat off to Kitty French for just how funny Melody’s adventures are. It’s not often a book makes me laugh out loud, or has me trying out inventive and weirdly satisfying rude hand gestures (don’t ask, read the book!).

Overall: I haven’t come across anything as funny and fun as The Chapelwick Mysteries for a very long time. Highly recommended if you’re looking for some perfect, light-hearted escapism with loveable characters, a cosy mystery and a sprinkling of romance.