Fascinating and Fun New Mystery Novel--Don't Miss it!
926824
I love it! A mystery that is smart, whimsical, poignant and endearing! Characters are well-developed and interesting. It is largely written from the viewpoint of Aletta, the intrepid waitress with a blog that provides the main source of news to this rural area of New Mexico, populated by oil wells, oil field workers, beautiful wild mustangs, and some wild people. The Roadhouse cafe is a great place to meet this interesting cast of characters. And did I mention that there are also shapeshifters, furries, archaeologists, parrots, feathers, space aliens and more! What's not to like? This is the pre-publication proof so don't be put off by a few typos. They do not detract from the story.
1024248
Not your typical mystery, this book made me feel as if I experienced this unique area of the US and the characters in the story. I was disappointed when the novel was over, because Brad Pope felt like a really good friend and not just a character. The author is so effectively seductive in describing the culture, the characters and the story, that it is as if I had been there. An avid reader for more than 40 years, especially of mysteries and character-driven novels, I  was so excited to find a new author of this caliber. If someone likes a fun, but beautifully written work, along with a twist here and there, they will love this mystery. I cannot wait to read another work about Brad Pope!
3641538
What an excellent 'first in series' book! The characters are so interesting! Jordan, looking for a job so she can pay bills and go back to grad school, going to work as a live-in research assistant. I really like her, and enjoy seeing the world through her eyes. The curmudgeon Vera Van Alst (can a lady be called that?) boss, the cook (You! Eat! Eat!), the loving uncles who raised Jordan and lived kind of on the other side of the law. The slapping Siamese cat.
The plot is also interesting - Jordan's first assignment is to find a rumored lost play of Agatha Christie's even though her predecessor had been murdered trying to find it. Exploring in the closely guarded locked, climate-controlled library of Vera's with many valuable editions, getting caught up in eluding the murderer while trying to keep her position. Multi-layered plot. Fun to follow the mystery while learning more about Dame Agatha and her writings. The bad guy/ gal could be the one she least suspects - what will the results be? Especially as others who begin to help her in the search are injured...
Highly recommend for those who love well-written mysteries that are both suspenseful and fun, with eccentric characters (aren't we all) and adorable pets.  Well worth the read!
485022
I am happy to welcome this excellent new voice in the mystery genre.  "The Missing Hours" was the first book I've read by author Emma Kavanagh and it exceeded my expectations.  I am a big fan of English style mystery thrillers and I think that my standards are high.  I was pleasantly surprised to be caught up in this mystery novel from the first page and finished it within 24 hours; I really love to find an author whose books I don't want to put down.  Definitely not a cosy mystery, but not as complex as a P.D. James. It had an interesting setting (the world of international ransom negotiators), a likable brother/sister team of investigators and a good glimpse into the behind the scenes working of detectives in a remote police force in the U.K.

As the book opens, a young girl is playing near the water, having wandered off from her mother and younger sister. She is angry, and defiantly swirling her dress shoes in the water; she knows it will upset her mother.  When she goes back to the swings, her young sister is sitting there alone and her mother is nowhere to be seen.  A neighbor finds them, brings them home and calls the police.  The detective in charge of the case is DC Leah Mckay. Her discussions with the missing woman's neighbor and then sister, builds the image of psychologist Selena Cole, a recent widow and devoted mother. What could possibly make her abandon her beloved children? In the meantime, Leah's younger brother is a recent Detective Sergeant, Finn Hale. He has been called out on his first murder case, the death of a well know solicitor, Dominic Newell.

Although Selena returns in 24 hours as mysteriously as she vanished, the case does not feel closed to Leah and she continues to check back with Serena.  There is a dawning suspicion on Leah's part that not only is the case not finished, there seems to be a connection to Finn's murder case. There are some twists and turns that drive the plot. It's a well told story and although the two cases are ultimately connected, that does not feel contrived.  I did figure out the ending but that didn't take away from my enjoyment of this book.  I'd like to read more about Leah and Finn.
1515430
Pipsqueak is a fast-paced, humorous and highly entertaining mystery novel.  Brian M. Wiprud?s writing is parallel to that of Carl Hiaasen or Gregory McDonald.  Quirky and unique, this cleverly plotted story is both engaging and memorable.
Garth Carson is a taxidermist.  Driving by a small roadside shop, a window display catches eye.  Stopping, he expects to purchase one thing, but winds up locating a personal treasure from his youth, Pipsqueak the puppet.  Pipsqueak is a squirrel from a local, once popular, television show.  Aside from Garth?s own sentimental attachment, the relic is worthless.  However, when he offers to buy the piece, the clerk tells him no.  The place is about to be robbed while Garth is using the stores facilities.  The thief wants Pipsqueak.  The clerk kills the would-be robber and flees the scene with the puppet, leaving Garth in hiding in back.
Surprisingly enough, after fifteen years of never seeing each other, Garth?s brother, Nicholas, shows up in town. Nicholas is working as a Private Investigator.  In a roundabout way, he, too, is looking for Pipsqueak.  It is almost a race as Nicholas and Mafia-like crooks battle desperately and ruthlessly against each other, one looking for answers ? the others looking to stop him from getting answers.
As people keep turning up dead, Garth finds himself caught up in the middle of it all.  Attorneys, police, bad guys, good guys ? questionable people who might or might not be guys ?
Pipsqueak is the story of a marvelously ingenious conspiracy theory and a dangerously action-packed page-turner.  Full of whit, real-life dialogue and a new perspective on dangerous cults ? Brian M. Wiprud knows how to churn out a novel that any mystery reader will undoubtedly enjoy!
 --Phillip Tomasso III, author of Johnny Blade and Third Ring
1917462
Shes back and sleuthing has never been better. Mrs. Hudson and her two colleagues, Holmes and Watson set sail to carry out what appears to be a routine background investigation of a prospective bridegroom of Mrs. Hudsons niece, Caroline, and history unfolds before our eyes. Politics, famous folk, an apparent assassination attempt on legendary financier J.P. Morgan, and a web of intrigue follow. This fascinating tale takes us into the New York City of the Gay Nineties, accommodations at the Waldorf, dinner at Delmonicos, the curious inner world of baseball, plotting a jailbreak from the storied Tombs correctional facility, a farm that is the scene of a showdown and rescue attempt, and, of course, the mansion of J.P. Morgan himself. Dr. Watson is astonished at the widespread ownership of guns in the New World, evades introduction to the new science of phrenology, and is introduced to the phenomenon of sports gambling and some of the finer points of baseball. History is skillfully interwoven in Browns latest novel, in a way that introduces the reader to some of Morgans political embarrassments (such as the sale of defective rifles to the Union Army at a huge profit) and his political machinations, New York near the turn of the century, and the popularity of such literary figures as Mark Twain, whose acquaintance Mrs. Hudson is charmed to make, and who himself becomes a player in the drama. The novel is an intriguing entertainment (as Graham Greene used to describe his own work) that takes the reader through unexpected twists and turns that evoke vivid images of Holmes, Watson, Mrs. Hudson, and New York City of more than a century ago. Fans of detective literature, the world of Holmes and his associates, and new approaches to a fascinating genre are in for a treat in this informative and entertaining adventure. This new adventure is highly recommended!
2801543
Dane Hunter has a new fan! I love the interplay of razor-sharp Washington D.C. intellect with the charm and intrigue of a small town in the deep south. Murder at Myrtle Hill Plantation introduces a likable cast of multi-dimensional characters we want to get to know better. A classic "who-done-it" with uncommon heart and soul, this mystery is well developed and keeps the reader guessing through the end. I'm thrilled with the surprising elements of mysticism, so real, that lend both ancient and modern depth to this story. The book ends with a teaser for the next Dane Hunter Mystery, Death Dive Ripples, that transports us to the world of contemporary espionage and Russian revenge. Set against the glittering, dangerous backdrop of a Las Vegas high-dive performance, Dane Hunter's next mystery promises to be another great read.

<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Murder-and-Myrtle-Hill-Plantation/dp/0996308172/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Murder and Myrtle Hill Plantation</a>
4221369
"Don't You Forget About Me" by Erin McCole-Cupp is a rollicking fun and exciting cozy murder mystery.  I found it genuine and fascinating in every way: the characters, the setting, the plot, and the twists.

Mary Catherine Whelihan, a successful author in her thirties, has no desire to return to the town where, as a young girl, she discovered a dead body in the creek. But a nun's funeral and a strange email from Gene, an old grade school classmate (and her secret crush), lure her backinto a net of danger as she encounters foes from her childhood class, mystery, mayhem, and murder.

When another dead body turns up, Cate finds herself held as a suspect. Will Cate be able to escape the so-called Curse of '87 that seems to strike almost everyone from her grade school class? Together, Cate and Gene search for answers, uncovering secrets that could cost them, and their loved ones, their lives.

The author's strong and clever command of the written language makes this book an entertaining page-turner. Don't You Forget About Me is well-plotted with never a dull moment. From a narrow escape from a window, to a gunfire-in-the-woods scene, this novel will have you reading with bated breath.

Fans of Christian fiction will particularly enjoy the elements of faith that add to the richness of the story without hampering the plot. Fallen away from the Catholic faith of her childhood, Cate  encounters not preaching, but simple, strong faith in action, even in the face of deadly adversity.

The ending of "Don't You Forget About Me" is satisfying without being predictable, and an epilogue hints at just enough danger to tantalize a sequel. I recommend this highly-enjoyable, cozy, clean, lively mystery to all readers!

Reviewed by:
Therese Heckenkamp
Catholic novelist
1646700
This book was recommended by a Friend of the Library and we added it to our collection on her recommendation.  Being interested in mysteries and generally from the same area as the book's setting, I picked it up.  This novel is fast-paced, interesting, well-written, and simply riveting! I could not put the book down and I look forward to Vinson's next novel!
4367348
Ann Charles' new series begins with Nearly Departed in Deadwood...and it is a humdinger of a story!  I couldn't stop once I started reading...I laughed, shuddered and grinned throughout this fun mystery.  I was kept guessing to nearly the end of the book and that is just one of the many things that made this book so cool.  I highly recommend to all who love spooky mysteries, lovable children, sexy romantic moments and a plot that is downright unique.  I cannot wait for the next in this series.  Kudos to the talented author behind this great mystery.
3441640
With a cast of intriguing characters, the plot twists and turns in this new release will make your head spin. Four different narrators portray the alternating points of view in the audiobook, which makes for a fascinating, oftentimes chilling, presentation. Whether you buy the audiobook, the print version, or the digital format, go out and purchase this book today. Better yet, save it for your summer vacation. Suspenseful, with female characters of all ages, this fab new book is not one you want to miss. This fast-paced mystery will keep you guessing until you turn the final page.

When police find the body of a newborn baby girl by the Essex Bridge in Ridgedale, New Jersey, Molly Anderson, an inexperienced reporter for the local paper, is assigned to the story. Never mind that Molly is still traumatized from the loss of her own baby, a daughter who was stillborn only two years beforehand. Investigating this story is oddly therapeutic for Molly, and she puts the many pieces of the puzzle together to solve the mystery. Other points of view include Sandy, a teenage high school dropout who finds herself evicted from her apartment hours have her mother disappears. And Barbara, the unstable wife of the police chief who refuses to believe her teenage daughter and young son are anything less than perfect. These characters, and more, are tied in some way to the dead baby girl. There are a lot of characters to keep up with, and many different plot lines to follow, but McCreight does a brilliant job of tying everything together in the end.

Get ready for a wild and thrilling ride, because just when you think youve got it all figured out, McCreight will throw you a curve ball.
1972884
Cancel all your appointments, because once you start this book you're not going to want to put it down. What a great mystery with vivid characters. I read this last spring, yet I still have daydreams about Parker sneaking through the Vermont woods to unravel the scary secrets behind radical environmentalists who'll stop at nothing... Loads of excitement!

I thought of this book as well while reading the Vermont news this autumn, as the state is currently grappling with spirited people who do versus do not want to place 47,000 acres off limits to all but bush-whackers. Some of the people in the news sound just like Pittman's characters!
869962
In The Desert Rats, his tremendously entertaining new mystery, author Christopher Church vividly constructs a world of historic urban interiors and eerie desert landscapes, peopled with characters I did not want to leave behind when I finished the book. In an eclectic mix of periods and cultures, The Desert Rats takes us on a thrilling adventure through a Los Angeles underneath and beyond what we may already know.

The protagonist of this mystery series is a gay psychic investigator named Mason Braithwaite who enjoys a progressive yet retro urban lifestyle with his partner Ned, which includes both their devout loyalty to vegan cooking and their fascination with vintage cars.  It is a brilliant device to put their domestic life at the center of the narrative because it grounds the story like a moral compass.

Churchs exquisite details, simple yet powerful, make the book's supernatural scenes believable, even as they defy logic. His intelligent writing allows a surprisingly complex story to unfold with the perfect integrity of an origami animal. This new mystery series promises a very rich history ahead of it.
4898760
4&1/2 ****
I had trouble putting this one down!
Minar-Jaynes has written a story that grabs your attention on page one and does not let it go until the very last page.  It is wonderful to read a mystery that is not truly solved until the very end.  I enjoyed the fact that a few times I was positive that I knew who the culprit was only to discover myself being led in yet another direction.
Not only is Minar-Jaynes able to weave a fascinating mystery, she also creates characters who are truly believable, characters that come alive in your imagination.
At times I felt as if I was truly in Grand Trespass, even when I didn't want to be there.  Looking forward to more from Minar-Jaynes.
1153780
Cave's mystery plot is a clever and adventurous twisting ride. I love when I "can see where this is going" and am proven wrong--but in this it wasn't so soon that I didn't question myself for awhile first. The exploration of the culture of gender and stereotypes scratches and digs at what we have come to know in society and provides a glimpse of what most of us really would never experience in our sheltered lives. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

And, regarding the review about grammar, this is at least on par with much of this genre with publisher-hired editors that is highly rated, so to me the comment seems out of line. Some of what the grammar police would have deemed "wrong" a short time ago is also changing, and it looks like some of the possible "grammar issues" are based on conscious choice by the author to use recently accepted forms.

Impressive and fun. I never stay up late reading mysteries and I did with this one! Always a pleasant surprise with authors I've not read before.
4174286
When the Grits Hit the Fan is everything and more that I would anticipate in a cozy mystery from this author. It is fun, intriguing and fraught with suspense. There is a full, unique cast of characters and suspects. The setting is in the upper Midwest, with rich descriptions of the surrounding areas that made me homesick. It is third in the Country Store Mysteries Series and can be read as a stand-alone.

One thing I appreciated in this novel is how the author includes more of the history of the building that houses Pans N Pancakes. Even though South Lick is fictional, I liked how the author inserted a Carnegie library and its design as is prevalent in Indiana. There are wonderful-sounding breakfast dishes that almost made my mouth water! Foodies will love the included recipes.

I feel as if I got to know the primary characters better in this novel, in particular Robbie (owner of Pans N Pancakes), Danna (Robbies right hand person), and Abe (Robbies boyfriend). Birdy, the black and white cat who chose Robbie as her person, is more of a presence in this novel yet I would love to see her become more of a close companion. Robbie is mature for her age, with wisdom beyond her years and the ability to ask questions and put the answers together to find the solution. Her strength in demoing second floor walls parallels her strength of character.

The plot is complex, with additional mysteries that may or may not be related to the murder occurring in the early chapters. The murder victim had very few people who actually liked him, complicating the investigation by the State Police. Robbie knows their first suspect, Lou, is not the killer, as the two women are friends; the accusation from a relative of the deceased was simply not true. The stunning surprises Robbie finds add fascinating and frightening suspense. The pace steadily increases as the mysteries grow more puzzling; I like one of Robbies methods of finding solutions! Discovering who the bad guy/ gal is was a challenge! I was surprised to learn who it was, as I had already guessed at and discarded the person as innocent. Overall, I very much enjoyed this novel and highly recommend When the Grits Hit the Fan to cozy mystery fans who enjoy intriguing, well-crafted mysteries that include a bit of history and tasty regional and Italian foods.

With a grateful heart, I received an Advance Readers Copy of this book and as a courtesy, I am posting my honest review.
2579349
I really enjoyed this book; what a novel approach to the murder mystery world!  Something definitely different in the often over-worked detective mystery genre.  The characters were engaging, and likable - with quirky, amusing personalities.  My husband is an ex-criminal attorney, and he once represented a man accused of murder.  There were 14 witnesses to the crime - and there were 14 wildly varying accounts of what happened.  Not what we see on TV, with neatly tied up storylines!  The author takes it to a new level within the spirit world - and how their witness accounts, and personal feelings, play into the facts of the case.  Who and how did the crime really happen?  If I were to offer constructive criticism of the book, I wish the book had been fleshed out a bit more so I could have enjoyed longer!  It was a great first work by a new author, and I look forward to further installments.  It would also make a great TV series!