A Heavenly Blend of Mystery and Stitching in “Back to the Burgh and Beyond” by C.S. McDonald

Book Details:

Book Title:  Back to the Burgh and Beyond (The Owl’s Nest Mysteries, Book 1) 
Author:  C.S. McDonald
​Category:  Adult Fiction, 208 pages
Run Time: 5 hours, 59 minutes
Genre:  Cozy Mystery
Publisher:  McWriter Books
Release date:  Sep 10, 2020
Formats Available for review​: audiobook (audible download), ebook (mobi for kindle, epub, pdf)
Tour dates:  Nov 6 to Dec 8, 2023
Content Rating:  G. C.S. McDonald’s books are appropriate for YA readers as well as adults–no bad language or sexual content.

Book Description:

​Meet Alexa Owl. She’s returned home to Pittsburgh after a divorce to start a new life and a new business, The Owl’s Nest Couturier Shoppe. Much to her surprise, she’s getting more than she ever bargained for: Detective Bobby Starr, and he’s no ordinary sleuth. Bobby is an angel who’s returned to Earth in hopes of earning his way into the Guardian Angel Squad. He’s been sent by none other than Saint Pete to acquire Alexa’s help to solve three cold case murders he left behind. Except, here’s the catch: he’s only been allotted four days to solve the first case! How in heaven’s name is she supposed to do that? Alexa is a professional seamstress—not a detective. Bobby insists the only way to solve the first case is to return to 1953, and Alexa’s not in love with that idea at all!

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Why Should You Read This?

“Back to the Burgh and Beyond” by C.S. McDonald introduces readers to the enchanting world of Alexa Owl, a recently divorced woman embarking on a new chapter of her life in Pittsburgh. Little does she know that her fresh start will involve more than just stitching fabrics – it involves solving cold case murders with an unexpected celestial partner.

The narrative takes a delightful twist when Detective Bobby Starr enters the scene, and he’s not your typical investigator. In fact, he’s an angel on a mission from none other than Saint Peter himself. Bobby enlists Alexa’s help to crack three cold cases he left behind, but there’s a celestial catch – they’ve got only four days to solve the first case. This leaves Alexa, a professional seamstress with no detective experience, wondering how in heaven’s name she’s supposed to accomplish such a feat.

One of the strengths of McDonald’s storytelling lies in her ability to seamlessly blend genres. The novel effortlessly combines mystery and a touch of the supernatural, creating a unique and engaging narrative. The author’s vivid descriptions of Pittsburgh and the carefully crafted characters add depth to the story, making the setting as much a character as the protagonists themselves.

The character of Alexa Owl is a refreshing departure from traditional mystery heroines. As a professional seamstress, she brings a unique perspective to the investigation, and her reluctance to time-travel to 1953 adds an extra layer of humor and intrigue to the plot. Bobby Starr’s celestial charm and his earnest desire to earn his place in the Guardian Angel Squad make him a likable and endearing character.

The time-travel element introduces an exciting twist, transporting readers back to 1953. McDonald skillfully navigates between the past and present, creating a vivid and authentic atmosphere in both timelines. The challenges and discoveries Alexa faces in the past contribute to the overall suspense and keep the reader eagerly turning pages.

“Back to the Burgh and Beyond” is a delightful mix of mystery, romance, and the supernatural, offering readers a unique and engaging reading experience. C.S. McDonald’s storytelling prowess shines through as she weaves together a compelling tale that keeps you guessing until the very end. Whether you’re a fan of cozy mysteries, time-travel adventures, or celestial interventions, this novel is a heavenly blend that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Alexa Owl series.