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Recommend this book:
Piña Colada Calamity
Kalliope Brooks Mysteries Book 2
Tanya Westlake
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Pina Colada Calamity by Tanya Westlake sets sail on the high seas in an epic murder mystery. Tess’s luck pays off when she calls in to a radio show and wins big with the adventure of a lifetime that she can’t wait to share with her best friend Kalli. A cruise is meant to be a time to relax and have fun but when someone winds up dead, the ship transforms into a crime scene. This can only mean one thing: there’s a killer on board. With help far away, the two friends are determined to uncover the truth and catch the killer. Though this is not their first mystery, it is their first time solving one on a ship, a task that comes with a variety of new and exciting challenges as well as danger.
Tanya Westlake has blended a murder with a delightful vacation to create an original mystery that is fun from the first page. The friendship between Kalli and Tess is a wholesome and endearing aspect of the story as the two play off each other well and give the story plenty of heart. Their clever banter and genuine loyalty are what make these two best friends lovable and make you want to join them for every stage of the adventure. There’s true joy in seeing these two friends chasing down a killer while also finding ways to enjoy the vacation and getting a thrill out of solving a mystery. The writing is charming with an ear for witty dialogue, thanks to fun word choices and delightful character interactions, not just between the friends but between the other characters as well. Pina Colada Calamity merges an adventurous cruise vacation with a murder mystery that has humor, heart, and plenty of fun friendship moments.
Pina Colada Calamity by Tanya Westlake sets sail on the high seas in an epic murder mystery. Tess’s luck pays off when she calls in to a radio show and wins big with the adventure of a lifetime that she can’t wait to share with her best friend Kalli. A cruise is meant to be a time to relax and have fun but when someone winds up dead, the ship transforms into a crime scene. This can only mean one thing: there’s a killer on board. With help far away, the two friends are determined to uncover the truth and catch the killer. Though this is not their first mystery, it is their first time solving one on a ship, a task that comes with a variety of new and exciting challenges as well as danger.
Tanya Westlake has blended a murder with a delightful vacation to create an original mystery that is fun from the first page. The friendship between Kalli and Tess is a wholesome and endearing aspect of the story as the two play off each other well and give the story plenty of heart. Their clever banter and genuine loyalty are what make these two best friends lovable and make you want to join them for every stage of the adventure. There’s true joy in seeing these two friends chasing down a killer while also finding ways to enjoy the vacation and getting a thrill out of solving a mystery. The writing is charming with an ear for witty dialogue, thanks to fun word choices and delightful character interactions, not just between the friends but between the other characters as well. Pina Colada Calamity merges an adventurous cruise vacation with a murder mystery that has humor, heart, and plenty of fun friendship moments.
Recommend this book:
A Perilous Premiere
Stone & Steel Mysteries Book 1
Gail Meath
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
A Perilous Premiere by Gail Meath, the first book in the Stone & Steel Mysteries, is a thrilling read for fans of historical mysteries, suspense, and detective novels. The book depicts two sides of life in California in the late 1930s. Glamorous facades often hide corruption, dishonesty, evil intentions, and even lust for murder. Vivian Steele loses her husband, George, during a shooting incident in a store. Vivian, a fashion designer and a boutique owner, starts her investigation and helps the police catch George's possible killer. Yet Vivian is not content and suspects the police arrested the wrong person. An unknown woman asks Vivian to meet her in a hotel suite. Arriving, she encounters Preston Stone, her adversary and a Hollywood socialite, who has also been invited. They find a murdered young actress, and Vivian sees a photo that shakes her to the core. George's secrets now threaten to destroy Vivian's life. Vivian and Preston must join forces to find a killer who plays wicked games with them both.
Gail Meath's A Perilous Premiere is a skillfully built mystery with multiple layers. It is a pleasure to uncover them and explore the characters. Vivian is bright, strong-willed, and determined to get justice. A puzzling enigma surrounds Vivian, and her best friend is none other than the great Carole Lombard! Vivian has a superpower akin to a photographic memory, which makes her character unforgettable. Preston's sarcastic attitude masks a brave and gentle heart. They are a dynamic team that is always ready for another witty exchange. The artfully written dialogue is one of the most appealing aspects of this book. Gail's expressive writing style finely conveys the emotional intensity of the narrative. The outstanding editorial work gives us an amazing read. The narrative is very well-paced, every chapter is straight to the point, and the plot's culmination is breathtaking. While this is an entertaining mystery, the author includes a substantive theme of trust. I cannot wait for Vivian and Preston's next adventure.
A Perilous Premiere by Gail Meath, the first book in the Stone & Steel Mysteries, is a thrilling read for fans of historical mysteries, suspense, and detective novels. The book depicts two sides of life in California in the late 1930s. Glamorous facades often hide corruption, dishonesty, evil intentions, and even lust for murder. Vivian Steele loses her husband, George, during a shooting incident in a store. Vivian, a fashion designer and a boutique owner, starts her investigation and helps the police catch George's possible killer. Yet Vivian is not content and suspects the police arrested the wrong person. An unknown woman asks Vivian to meet her in a hotel suite. Arriving, she encounters Preston Stone, her adversary and a Hollywood socialite, who has also been invited. They find a murdered young actress, and Vivian sees a photo that shakes her to the core. George's secrets now threaten to destroy Vivian's life. Vivian and Preston must join forces to find a killer who plays wicked games with them both.
Gail Meath's A Perilous Premiere is a skillfully built mystery with multiple layers. It is a pleasure to uncover them and explore the characters. Vivian is bright, strong-willed, and determined to get justice. A puzzling enigma surrounds Vivian, and her best friend is none other than the great Carole Lombard! Vivian has a superpower akin to a photographic memory, which makes her character unforgettable. Preston's sarcastic attitude masks a brave and gentle heart. They are a dynamic team that is always ready for another witty exchange. The artfully written dialogue is one of the most appealing aspects of this book. Gail's expressive writing style finely conveys the emotional intensity of the narrative. The outstanding editorial work gives us an amazing read. The narrative is very well-paced, every chapter is straight to the point, and the plot's culmination is breathtaking. While this is an entertaining mystery, the author includes a substantive theme of trust. I cannot wait for Vivian and Preston's next adventure.
Recommend this book:
Justice For The Forgotten
A Steel Wheels Cold Mystery
R Weir
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite
Donnie is an ex-cop who runs a blog and gets all kinds of requests. In Justice For The Forgotten by R. Weir, he gets one request that catches his eye, and, after a few replies, he decides to meet with the Riveras to hear about their case. After the meetup and some inquiries, Donnie realizes that the details of the case are fishy, from the intimidations to the shoddy investigations by Officer Warren. Enzo Rivera used to work in Rio Celeste before his untimely murder. The town of Rio Celeste is full of mysteries. They have their own paramilitary and do not recognize the authority of the state or federal government. How is everything connected, and will they succeed in stopping Donnie from continuing the investigation to give the Riveras the closure that they deserve?
Justice For The Forgotten by R. Weir is a must-read! The writing is engaging and filled with well-crafted dialogue that brings the story and the well-developed characters to life. I loved the mystery and how Weir utilized suspense to great effect, which kept me on the edge of my seat and looking forward to the events of subsequent chapters. This thought-provoking work also got me thinking about the criminal justice system and how sometimes access to justice can be denied. The plot flowed seamlessly, leaving no room for confusion, and the reader will also appreciate the excellent narration, which adds to the overall beauty of this work. This was an amazing read, and I look forward to reading something else by this talented author.
Donnie is an ex-cop who runs a blog and gets all kinds of requests. In Justice For The Forgotten by R. Weir, he gets one request that catches his eye, and, after a few replies, he decides to meet with the Riveras to hear about their case. After the meetup and some inquiries, Donnie realizes that the details of the case are fishy, from the intimidations to the shoddy investigations by Officer Warren. Enzo Rivera used to work in Rio Celeste before his untimely murder. The town of Rio Celeste is full of mysteries. They have their own paramilitary and do not recognize the authority of the state or federal government. How is everything connected, and will they succeed in stopping Donnie from continuing the investigation to give the Riveras the closure that they deserve?
Justice For The Forgotten by R. Weir is a must-read! The writing is engaging and filled with well-crafted dialogue that brings the story and the well-developed characters to life. I loved the mystery and how Weir utilized suspense to great effect, which kept me on the edge of my seat and looking forward to the events of subsequent chapters. This thought-provoking work also got me thinking about the criminal justice system and how sometimes access to justice can be denied. The plot flowed seamlessly, leaving no room for confusion, and the reader will also appreciate the excellent narration, which adds to the overall beauty of this work. This was an amazing read, and I look forward to reading something else by this talented author.
Recommend this book:
Unremembered
Christine Mager Wevik
2025 Bronze Medal
391 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
Unremembered by Christine Mager Wevik follows Brynn, a young wife and artist who suffers a brutal attack and, in the wake of her trauma, discovers a unique ability to see memories in old and abandoned houses. As she attempts to piece together her life, Brynn stumbles upon the name Sadie, a missing girl whose case seems intertwined with hers. Compelled to seek justice for herself and Sadie, Brynn’s journey leads her to explore abandoned homes, revealing haunting memories tied to her attackers while confronting the darker aspects of her past. As Brynn navigates the challenges of balancing her family life with her quest for truth, the tension builds, culminating in harrowing revelations about her and Sadie's experiences. Can she unravel the truth and find justice for herself and the mysterious Sadie?
Christine Mager Wevik’s characterization of Brynn is compelling; the author contrasts her strength and vulnerability, presenting the complex emotions of a survivor. The narrative explores Brynn's internal struggles and moral dilemmas, especially when confronting the question of justice versus revenge. The supporting characters, Sheriff Heller and Aggie, enhance the plot's depth, revealing various layers of complicity and innocence in the face of violence. Heller’s initially antagonistic demeanor toward Brynn highlights the indifference to victims' struggles, while Aggie represents the possibility of connection and understanding. The setting of rural Minnesota, especially the dilapidated houses, offers a metaphor for both physical and emotional decay. The fear and danger lurking within these abandoned structures heighten the sense of conflict in the story. Tension in Unremembered escalates with each chapter, intensifying Brynn's desperation for closure while uncovering the horrors in these houses. This tale is thrilling, and I enjoyed the paranormal elements, the rich prose, and the expert storytelling.
Unremembered by Christine Mager Wevik follows Brynn, a young wife and artist who suffers a brutal attack and, in the wake of her trauma, discovers a unique ability to see memories in old and abandoned houses. As she attempts to piece together her life, Brynn stumbles upon the name Sadie, a missing girl whose case seems intertwined with hers. Compelled to seek justice for herself and Sadie, Brynn’s journey leads her to explore abandoned homes, revealing haunting memories tied to her attackers while confronting the darker aspects of her past. As Brynn navigates the challenges of balancing her family life with her quest for truth, the tension builds, culminating in harrowing revelations about her and Sadie's experiences. Can she unravel the truth and find justice for herself and the mysterious Sadie?
Christine Mager Wevik’s characterization of Brynn is compelling; the author contrasts her strength and vulnerability, presenting the complex emotions of a survivor. The narrative explores Brynn's internal struggles and moral dilemmas, especially when confronting the question of justice versus revenge. The supporting characters, Sheriff Heller and Aggie, enhance the plot's depth, revealing various layers of complicity and innocence in the face of violence. Heller’s initially antagonistic demeanor toward Brynn highlights the indifference to victims' struggles, while Aggie represents the possibility of connection and understanding. The setting of rural Minnesota, especially the dilapidated houses, offers a metaphor for both physical and emotional decay. The fear and danger lurking within these abandoned structures heighten the sense of conflict in the story. Tension in Unremembered escalates with each chapter, intensifying Brynn's desperation for closure while uncovering the horrors in these houses. This tale is thrilling, and I enjoyed the paranormal elements, the rich prose, and the expert storytelling.
Recommend this book:
The Storm Within
Gill D Anderson
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Jon Michael Miller for Readers' Favorite
The Storm Within by Gill D. Anderson is a murder mystery set on a contemporary Mediterranean cruise ship, the Ocean Breeze. Like an Agatha Christie tale, a group of characters is in a closed setting so that when the killing occurs, we are trying to figure out the culprit from a limited list of those motivated to have done the dirty deed. The author explores in detail the psychological backgrounds of each character’s past. Some characters are dissected before the crime and some after, and it’s clear that the author is trained in the field. The first characters we meet are Jake, the handsome young cruise director; Claire, his girlfriend of the moment; Vincent, an embittered and vengeful assistant; and Tia, a sexy young hustler who comes on to older men whom she and her pimp Tony blackmail. And so the list of future suspects grows.
I marveled at Gill D. Anderson’s skill in managing the extensive character list and their interrelationships while at the same time weaving in the exciting cruise atmosphere, food, entertainment, and several stops along the way such as Florence and Rome. When the murder finally takes place and investigators arrive, I was aware of the various rivalries and haters among the cast who might be the culprit. Then, as we are trying to figure it out, the author reveals the psychological backgrounds of the cast that might have led to the victim’s demise and also to the killer’s motivation. These background profiles are detailed and fascinating, leading to one of the novel’s profound queries: “Do we ever know anyone?” as everyone has deep psychological issues that they keep hidden but which account for their outward behavior. The Storm Within will keep you on your toes figuring out the killer and their motive. All the elements of a superb mystery and psychological thriller come together in a book I couldn’t put down.
The Storm Within by Gill D. Anderson is a murder mystery set on a contemporary Mediterranean cruise ship, the Ocean Breeze. Like an Agatha Christie tale, a group of characters is in a closed setting so that when the killing occurs, we are trying to figure out the culprit from a limited list of those motivated to have done the dirty deed. The author explores in detail the psychological backgrounds of each character’s past. Some characters are dissected before the crime and some after, and it’s clear that the author is trained in the field. The first characters we meet are Jake, the handsome young cruise director; Claire, his girlfriend of the moment; Vincent, an embittered and vengeful assistant; and Tia, a sexy young hustler who comes on to older men whom she and her pimp Tony blackmail. And so the list of future suspects grows.
I marveled at Gill D. Anderson’s skill in managing the extensive character list and their interrelationships while at the same time weaving in the exciting cruise atmosphere, food, entertainment, and several stops along the way such as Florence and Rome. When the murder finally takes place and investigators arrive, I was aware of the various rivalries and haters among the cast who might be the culprit. Then, as we are trying to figure it out, the author reveals the psychological backgrounds of the cast that might have led to the victim’s demise and also to the killer’s motivation. These background profiles are detailed and fascinating, leading to one of the novel’s profound queries: “Do we ever know anyone?” as everyone has deep psychological issues that they keep hidden but which account for their outward behavior. The Storm Within will keep you on your toes figuring out the killer and their motive. All the elements of a superb mystery and psychological thriller come together in a book I couldn’t put down.
Recommend this book:
Fertile Ground for Murder
Steven Nimocks, Stella Sinclaire
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Fertile Ground for Murder by Stella Sinclaire is an exciting murder mystery featuring Samantha Brewer, a true crime podcaster who returns to her quiet hometown in Iowa to find out who killed her old mentor, Ethan Green. This quickly turns into a story of greed, family secrets, and surprising betrayals, especially as Ethan has made enemies due to his strong beliefs about organic farming. Samantha soon realizes she has also stumbled into something more dangerous than she thought. Working with a journalist named Jenny Mack and her former boyfriend Jake Emerson, Samantha tries to solve the mystery before she becomes the next victim. The story takes readers through a complex maze of possible killers and reasons for murder that keeps them guessing until the very end.
Author Stella Sinclaire shows great writing skill in a mystery that works both as an old-fashioned whodunit and a modern story. I was really impressed by how she mixed issues about protecting the environment and corrupt big businesses into a traditional murder mystery, while still keeping the personal feel of a small-town story. Samantha is a main character who feels real - she's determined to solve the case but also shows her fears and doubts. Sinclaire describes Iowa farm countryside so well you can almost smell the corn fields and hear the screen doors squeaking. I liked how the personal relationships and professional detective work get tangled together in the plot and make everyone a possible suspect for different reasons. The story moves at just the right speed and the narrative brings out all the charms, but also the hidden dangers of small-town life while tackling bigger issues that matter today. Overall, I strongly recommend Fertile Ground for Murder to anyone who enjoys mysteries with strong characters and social issues.
Fertile Ground for Murder by Stella Sinclaire is an exciting murder mystery featuring Samantha Brewer, a true crime podcaster who returns to her quiet hometown in Iowa to find out who killed her old mentor, Ethan Green. This quickly turns into a story of greed, family secrets, and surprising betrayals, especially as Ethan has made enemies due to his strong beliefs about organic farming. Samantha soon realizes she has also stumbled into something more dangerous than she thought. Working with a journalist named Jenny Mack and her former boyfriend Jake Emerson, Samantha tries to solve the mystery before she becomes the next victim. The story takes readers through a complex maze of possible killers and reasons for murder that keeps them guessing until the very end.
Author Stella Sinclaire shows great writing skill in a mystery that works both as an old-fashioned whodunit and a modern story. I was really impressed by how she mixed issues about protecting the environment and corrupt big businesses into a traditional murder mystery, while still keeping the personal feel of a small-town story. Samantha is a main character who feels real - she's determined to solve the case but also shows her fears and doubts. Sinclaire describes Iowa farm countryside so well you can almost smell the corn fields and hear the screen doors squeaking. I liked how the personal relationships and professional detective work get tangled together in the plot and make everyone a possible suspect for different reasons. The story moves at just the right speed and the narrative brings out all the charms, but also the hidden dangers of small-town life while tackling bigger issues that matter today. Overall, I strongly recommend Fertile Ground for Murder to anyone who enjoys mysteries with strong characters and social issues.
Recommend this book:
Mushroom Blues
Adrian M. Gibson
2024 Finalist
408 Pages
Check current price
Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Mushroom Blues is the first novel in The Hofmann Report series by Adrian M. Gibson. This science fiction murder mystery follows NKPD Detective Henrietta Hofmann and her mushroom-headed partner Koji Nameko. The island nation of Neo Kinoko, Hōppon, was struggling after a decade of Spore War. Now that the war had ended, the capital city was riddled with problems and crime. As the tension between fungal people and humans rose, Koji and Henrietta had their work cut out for them as the bodies of fungal people and half-breed children started to turn up. While the two partners didn’t get along that well, they had to set their differences aside to solve these murders before it was too late. But that was not all. To find out who it was, Henrietta had to embrace the fungal way and become part of the crowd, or else she and her partner would never find the culprit behind the murders. But was it possible?
Author Adrian M. Gibson started the story with a bang and made sure to keep the momentum going until the end. The story was incredible, to say the least. The universe (or the fungalverse as the author called it) was intricate, rich with details, and created to perfection. The world-building was fantastic, and the unique characters were equally interesting. The glossary at the beginning was a great addition, and that helped me get into the narrative. I loved Koji and his sarcastic ways. While he struggled with being part of the police department, he did a great job of finding justice for his people. Henrietta was battling in her own way, but the two complemented each other very well. I loved their chemistry, and I think we will see them grow closer in future novels. The fast pace was perfect, the unrelenting action was entertaining, and the story was outstanding. There was never a moment where it felt rushed. It was perfect from start to finish, and I cannot wait for the next novel in the series.
Mushroom Blues is the first novel in The Hofmann Report series by Adrian M. Gibson. This science fiction murder mystery follows NKPD Detective Henrietta Hofmann and her mushroom-headed partner Koji Nameko. The island nation of Neo Kinoko, Hōppon, was struggling after a decade of Spore War. Now that the war had ended, the capital city was riddled with problems and crime. As the tension between fungal people and humans rose, Koji and Henrietta had their work cut out for them as the bodies of fungal people and half-breed children started to turn up. While the two partners didn’t get along that well, they had to set their differences aside to solve these murders before it was too late. But that was not all. To find out who it was, Henrietta had to embrace the fungal way and become part of the crowd, or else she and her partner would never find the culprit behind the murders. But was it possible?
Author Adrian M. Gibson started the story with a bang and made sure to keep the momentum going until the end. The story was incredible, to say the least. The universe (or the fungalverse as the author called it) was intricate, rich with details, and created to perfection. The world-building was fantastic, and the unique characters were equally interesting. The glossary at the beginning was a great addition, and that helped me get into the narrative. I loved Koji and his sarcastic ways. While he struggled with being part of the police department, he did a great job of finding justice for his people. Henrietta was battling in her own way, but the two complemented each other very well. I loved their chemistry, and I think we will see them grow closer in future novels. The fast pace was perfect, the unrelenting action was entertaining, and the story was outstanding. There was never a moment where it felt rushed. It was perfect from start to finish, and I cannot wait for the next novel in the series.
Recommend this book:
Race Into Murder
Karen Black
2024 Honorable Mention
352 Pages
Check current price
Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Race Into Murder is penned by author Karen Black in the sports, murder mystery, and intrigue subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. The plot follows Jeff Frazier, a promising racehorse trainer whose dreams are shattered when his colt becomes entangled in a murder case. When a well-known jockey is killed and an innocent man is arrested, Jeff's aspirations turn into a nightmare. With the trial looming, the true culprit remains elusive, leading some in the close-knit racing community to take matters into their own hands. Amidst the chaos, the investigation uncovers dark secrets and ruthless individuals willing to do whatever it takes to come out on top, all while the races continue despite the turmoil.
Author Karen Black has crafted a truly exhilarating reading experience that weaves together the worlds of horse racing and crime thriller with really effective results. Jeff Frazier's journey from hopeful trainer to embattled protagonist captivated me, with strong characterization and a close narrative feel that keeps you invested in his personal journey. The intricate plot, filled with twists and turns, kept me guessing until the very end and had some great surprises, but everything was logical to the overall arc. Black expertly navigates the dynamics of a close-knit community, where alliances and rivalries run deep, adding layers of personality, reality, and complexity to the investigation. The suspenseful atmosphere heightened with each revelation, as the stakes escalated with the looming trial date. I loved how the descriptive language matched the setting to the mood. Overall, Race into Murder is a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and justice, showcasing Black's talent for crafting thrilling mysteries set against the backdrop of the racetrack, and I would certainly recommend it to mystery fans everywhere.
Race Into Murder is penned by author Karen Black in the sports, murder mystery, and intrigue subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. The plot follows Jeff Frazier, a promising racehorse trainer whose dreams are shattered when his colt becomes entangled in a murder case. When a well-known jockey is killed and an innocent man is arrested, Jeff's aspirations turn into a nightmare. With the trial looming, the true culprit remains elusive, leading some in the close-knit racing community to take matters into their own hands. Amidst the chaos, the investigation uncovers dark secrets and ruthless individuals willing to do whatever it takes to come out on top, all while the races continue despite the turmoil.
Author Karen Black has crafted a truly exhilarating reading experience that weaves together the worlds of horse racing and crime thriller with really effective results. Jeff Frazier's journey from hopeful trainer to embattled protagonist captivated me, with strong characterization and a close narrative feel that keeps you invested in his personal journey. The intricate plot, filled with twists and turns, kept me guessing until the very end and had some great surprises, but everything was logical to the overall arc. Black expertly navigates the dynamics of a close-knit community, where alliances and rivalries run deep, adding layers of personality, reality, and complexity to the investigation. The suspenseful atmosphere heightened with each revelation, as the stakes escalated with the looming trial date. I loved how the descriptive language matched the setting to the mood. Overall, Race into Murder is a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and justice, showcasing Black's talent for crafting thrilling mysteries set against the backdrop of the racetrack, and I would certainly recommend it to mystery fans everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Trust the Terrier
A Coral Shores Veterinary Mystery
DL Mitchell
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Vernita Naylor for Readers' Favorite
The fluffy white sandy beach is what makes Coral Shores a beautiful little town. Its small, quaint, and neighborly appeal is why the townspeople want to maintain the old historic Florida charm. Dr. Emily Benton became the town’s newest veterinarian once Dr. Dinsmore retired and sold the Coral Shores Veterinary Hospital to her. One day her life changed after she made a house visit to her former piano teacher, Mrs. Eliza Klein, whose pet terrier, Elvis, had a nasty cough. In Trust the Terrier: A Coral Shores Veterinary Mystery by DL Mitchell, when she returns to Mrs. Klein’s house to give Elvis’ diagnosis and instructions on how to administer his medication, Emily discovers Mrs. Klein dead in her den. Elvis was shaking and frantic and Emily knew that she must act quickly.
I loved reading Trust the Terrier by DL Mitchell and enjoyed how the author intertwined the relationship between Bella, a Maine Coon cat, and Elvis into the story. Their relationship added comic relief to this mystery. While Emily felt the need to care for Elvis and try to help solve the mystery behind Mrs. Klein’s death, Bella set out to avoid Elvis at all costs. Bella had no time to befriend and play with Elvis. Emily later discovers that maybe Elvis is the catalyst in helping her, her best friend, Anthony, her brother, Deputy Sheriff Duncan, and Detective Mike Lane discover the truth. Will Elvis be able to communicate to everyone about what happened and why or will this mystery go unsolved? Want to find out more? Get your copy of this book, sit back with your favorite beverage, and get ready to go on a wonderful journey.
The fluffy white sandy beach is what makes Coral Shores a beautiful little town. Its small, quaint, and neighborly appeal is why the townspeople want to maintain the old historic Florida charm. Dr. Emily Benton became the town’s newest veterinarian once Dr. Dinsmore retired and sold the Coral Shores Veterinary Hospital to her. One day her life changed after she made a house visit to her former piano teacher, Mrs. Eliza Klein, whose pet terrier, Elvis, had a nasty cough. In Trust the Terrier: A Coral Shores Veterinary Mystery by DL Mitchell, when she returns to Mrs. Klein’s house to give Elvis’ diagnosis and instructions on how to administer his medication, Emily discovers Mrs. Klein dead in her den. Elvis was shaking and frantic and Emily knew that she must act quickly.
I loved reading Trust the Terrier by DL Mitchell and enjoyed how the author intertwined the relationship between Bella, a Maine Coon cat, and Elvis into the story. Their relationship added comic relief to this mystery. While Emily felt the need to care for Elvis and try to help solve the mystery behind Mrs. Klein’s death, Bella set out to avoid Elvis at all costs. Bella had no time to befriend and play with Elvis. Emily later discovers that maybe Elvis is the catalyst in helping her, her best friend, Anthony, her brother, Deputy Sheriff Duncan, and Detective Mike Lane discover the truth. Will Elvis be able to communicate to everyone about what happened and why or will this mystery go unsolved? Want to find out more? Get your copy of this book, sit back with your favorite beverage, and get ready to go on a wonderful journey.
Recommend this book:
Under a Blood Moon
CJ O'Hara Thrillers Book 2
John Deal
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
In John Deal's terrifying mystery thriller, Under a Blood Moon, a serial rapist was terrorizing Charleston, South Carolina, and Detective CJ O'Hara was still plagued by her past. CJ feared another killer had started when she discovered a dead woman whose forehead was covered with a nasty dark-brown powder. The heart of the woman was discovered near the center of an oddly shaped circle marked with chalk and adorned with white candles. CJ believed that this may have something to do with full moon-related hoodoo rituals. A Gullah woman who has the gift of sight might be able to assist CJ in discovering the truth, but she does not want to share information with CJ. The next blood moon is approaching, but will CJ be able to apprehend the killer before he strikes once more?
John Deal's Under a Blood Moon explores the Gullah people's use of hoodoos, and at times the narrative was unsettling. It was difficult to put this book down because the story moved quickly and was a page-turner. With all the turns and twists, I was captivated from the beginning and kept guessing right up to the very end. I was constantly on the edge of my seat, wondering what would happen next due to the suspense. The chapters blended together well, and I liked how well-written the accounts of South Carolina and the Gullah people's traditions were. The characters were all relatable and realistic. Being a skilled investigator, CJ had to put her grief aside and use unusual methods to track down the killer. The book was a pleasure to read and was expertly written.
In John Deal's terrifying mystery thriller, Under a Blood Moon, a serial rapist was terrorizing Charleston, South Carolina, and Detective CJ O'Hara was still plagued by her past. CJ feared another killer had started when she discovered a dead woman whose forehead was covered with a nasty dark-brown powder. The heart of the woman was discovered near the center of an oddly shaped circle marked with chalk and adorned with white candles. CJ believed that this may have something to do with full moon-related hoodoo rituals. A Gullah woman who has the gift of sight might be able to assist CJ in discovering the truth, but she does not want to share information with CJ. The next blood moon is approaching, but will CJ be able to apprehend the killer before he strikes once more?
John Deal's Under a Blood Moon explores the Gullah people's use of hoodoos, and at times the narrative was unsettling. It was difficult to put this book down because the story moved quickly and was a page-turner. With all the turns and twists, I was captivated from the beginning and kept guessing right up to the very end. I was constantly on the edge of my seat, wondering what would happen next due to the suspense. The chapters blended together well, and I liked how well-written the accounts of South Carolina and the Gullah people's traditions were. The characters were all relatable and realistic. Being a skilled investigator, CJ had to put her grief aside and use unusual methods to track down the killer. The book was a pleasure to read and was expertly written.
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