Ginger Reviews Murder, She Wrote: Aloha Betrayed by Jessica Fletcher and Donald Bain

Hello, everyone! It's been a while, bit I'm happy to be back with another cozy mystery review. If you love armchair travel as much as you love mysteries, this one might be just the ticket.

In Murder, She Wrote: Aloha Betrayed, Jessica Fletcher leaves Cabot Cove behind for the beautiful island of Maui, where she's been invited to teach a course on community involvement in police investigations. Her co-instructor is retired detective Mike Kane. Before long Jessica finds herself investigating the death of a well-liked college professor whose fatal fall from a cliff doesn't seem accidental at all. The victim had been passionately involved in a local environmental controversy, so there are plenty of suspects and motives to sort through.

One of my favourite things about this book was the setting. Author Donald Bain (and co-author Mrs. Fletcher, of course) clearly wanted readers to feel as though they were taking a Hawaiian vacation alongside Jessica. There are descriptions of the scenery, local traditions, Hawaiian customs, and enough tropical atmosphere that I could almost feel the sunshine warming my whiskers. If you enjoy mysteries that double as travel adventures, this one delivers.

Jessica is kind, observant, endlessly curious, and somehow manages to make everyone around her feel comfortable enough to reveal just a little more than they intended. I also enjoyed her partnership with Mike Kane. He makes an excellent investigative companion without ever overshadowing Jessica.

The mystery itself unfolds at a relaxed pace. Rather than racing from one dramatic scene to another, the story takes its time introducing the suspects, the local politics, and the relationships surrounding the victim. That's exactly what I want from a cozy mystery. It gives you plenty of opportunities to play detective from your favourite reading chair—or your favourite sunny windowsill, if you're a kitten like me.

I will admit there was one odd subplot involving an obnoxious secondary character that felt out of place compared to the rest of the novel. I think you'll understand what I'm referring to when you read this book for yourself. It didn't seem to fit with the overall story, which made it stand out even more. Fortunately, it's only a small part of the book, and it didn't stop me from enjoying the mystery as a whole.

Overall, Aloha Betrayed is a lovely blend of tropical vacation and classic Jessica Fletcher sleuthing. If you're looking for a cozy mystery filled with beautiful scenery and a puzzle that's enjoyable to unravel, I'd happily recommend packing Murder, She Wrote: Aloha Betrayed in your beach bag.

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Enjoy 3 Small Town Cozies with Serenity Bay Mysteries 4-5-6

Serenity Bay Mysteries 4-5-6
Author: J.J. Brass
Publisher: Rainbow Crush
Word Count: 115,000
Ebook ISBN: 9798233631160

Join amateur sleuth Lucy Larkin as she solves murders in Serenity Bay, the quaint little town she calls home. This charming box set includes books four, five, and six in the beloved Serenity Bay Mysteries series.

In Murder by Christmas, Lucy attends a festive gathering with the cast and crew of Serenity Bay's beloved holiday musical. When a winter snowstorm traps everyone inside, the partygoers make the best of it, but the evening takes a chilling turn when murder rocks the celebration. As hidden secrets are revealed, Lucy finds herself entangled in a web of love, lies, and unexpected motives. With no way in or out, it's up to her to unravel the truth and expose the murderer among them.

In Mind Over Murder, psychic medium Gabriel Kolter descends upon the town, offering his otherworldly insights to curious residents. Little does he know that this visit will lead to his own demise. With suspects aplenty and a town full of secrets, Lucy navigates the tangled relationships of Serenity Bay's residents. Will she uncover the killer's identity before Valentine's Day is forever stained with the shadows of a chilling murder?

Finally, in Murder in a Pickle, When an injunction is issued against the local pickleball club for exceeding legal noise levels, club members are irate. And when the man who initiated the injunction is found dead, the idyllic community is thrown into turmoil. As the close-knit pickleball club rallies to clear their name, Lucy pieces together a puzzle that reveals a web of deception and hidden motives.

Brimming with wit and warmth, this collection is a treat for lovers of cozy mysteries, charming small towns, and delightfully quirky characters. Come back to Serenity Bay, where every corner hides a secret and every mystery is just waiting to unfold.

Buy Now from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GNTXCHTR?tag=dorishay-20
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=zfvBEQAAQBAJ
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/serenity-bay-mysteries-4-5-6/id6759294308

Find Serenity Bay Mysteries 4-5-6 at many more retailers using the Universal Book Link: https://books2read.com/u/4jkMoo

It's also available in Large Print: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GP18Q79B?tag=dorishay-20

There's also an audio version: https://play.google.com/store/audiobooks/details?id=AQAAAEBavC78ZM

 

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KitKat Reviews Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng

Hi friends. I just finished Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng, and I’m still sitting with it. It’s one of those books that lingers quietly after you close it.

I’ll be honest: I went in expecting a domestic thriller. A missing girl, a mysterious death? That setup usually means twists and secrets. And yes, there are secrets here. But this isn’t a thriller in the usual sense. It’s slower, deeper, and more emotional. It’s literary, but not in an intimidating way, just beautifully written and full of truth.

If I had to label it, I’d call it a literary family drama with elements of mystery. The story starts with Lydia, the middle child of the Lee family, found dead in a lake. The question isn’t just what happened, but why. And in trying to answer that, Celeste Ng pulls apart every thread of this family’s life.

The Lees live in 1970s Ohio, and that setting matters. It’s a time when a mixed-race family (Chinese-American father, white mother) stands out. The small, subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways they’re treated differently ripple through everything. It shapes how each person sees themselves and each other. You feel the isolation in every page.

What struck me most was how real the family dynamic felt. Everyone’s trying, in their own way, to love and be understood, and they're failing just enough to make it hurt. The parents want the best for their kids, but they’re weighed down by their own regrets. The children are desperate to be seen, but no one really knows how to talk about what they need. The title says it perfectly: Everything I Never Told You.

The writing is evocative and spare, the kind that lets emotions creep in quietly. You can almost smell the 1970s kitchens, hear the hum of a house full of silence. It’s beautiful, and sad, and sometimes painfully true.

If you want a story that captures the ache of family, identity, and everything we leave unsaid, this one’s unforgettable.

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KitKat Reviews Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect by Benjamin Stevenson

Hi everyone! It’s KitKat again. I just hopped off this train-mystery, and I’ve got thoughts.

First: the humour. You'll remember it from the first book in the series. The main character Ernest (Ernie) Cunningham’s voice is wry, self-aware, and always nudging the reader. He often addresses you, lets you in on the tropes, even warns you when he’s doing something “murder-mystery-ish.” That meta quality is a delight. It doesn’t feel showy; it feels playful and smart.

The setup is a closed-circle: you’re on a train with a bunch of writers, and when a murder happens, the killer has to be one of those on board. The tension of knowing the murderer is “in the room” (or the carriage) is classic, and Stevenson leans into it well. You want to turn the pages, check every motive, and second-guess every conversation.

One of my favourite scenes takes place in Coober Pedy. If you haven’t heard of it, it’s a fascinating town in South Australia where, because of the brutal heat, many people live underground in “dugouts.” The novel leans into that strangeness, but I had to do some outside research to discover the true weirdness of place. There’s something thrilling about being in a spot where the landscape itself feels uncanny—hot, exposed, subterranean, hidden.

The train itself is a real one: The Ghan, a luxury line running north to south across Australia (Darwin to Adelaide). The slow stretches of outback, the stops in remote places, the shifts between isolation and motion — they all contribute to the atmosphere. You feel both confined and unsettled.

The characters are strong. Ernest is not perfect, and that’s good. He doubts himself. He’s funny and vulnerable. The other writers, the festival guests, the staff — each has quirks, secrets, ambitions. Nobody is wasted. Even small roles feel alive.

If you like ultra-dark mysteries, this isn’t that. The tone often leans lighter, more witty than grim. Also, the puzzle is tricky. Stevenson plays fair, giving clues, nods, and hints. But I don’t think I solved it before the reveal; there were surprises. The meta asides help you notice things you’d otherwise miss.

All told: Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect is one of those rare mystery books that’s both clever and fun. You get suspense and wit. You get place, and characters, and a puzzle you can chew on.

I highly recommend this one — especially if you like mysteries that wink at the genre. Hop on board early in this series and you’ll be waiting for the next Ernest Cunningham train.

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KitKat Reviews Exit by Belinda Bauer

Hi friends, it’s KitKat here with some complicated thoughts about Exit by Belinda Bauer. I just finished the audiobook, and I’m still sorting through how I feel—so this review might be a bit more reflective than usual.

To start with the good: I was completely hooked for most of this book. It’s a dark comedy-meets-mystery with a truly unique main character, Felix Pink, a retired man involved in assisted dying (or at least, he thinks that’s what he’s doing). The tone walks a fine line between quirky and grim, and for the most part, it works beautifully. I laughed, I gasped, I looked forward to every chapter. The narrator of the audiobook did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life—I’d honestly recommend listening if you can.

But then came a moment that really took the wind out of my sails.

Without giving too much away, there's a twist late in the book that relies on the old and deeply frustrating “fake disability” trope. If you’re not familiar with it, it’s when a character pretends to have a disability as part of some deception or hidden agenda. It’s something I’ve seen show up in mystery fiction and on TV more often than I’d like, and every time, it lands badly—especially for readers or viewers who live with disabilities in real life.

As a feline living with a disability myself, I find this trope especially harmful. It contributes to a culture of doubt, where people already question whether disabled folks are “really” disabled. Using disability as a disguise or red herring doesn’t just feel lazy—it actively reinforces mistrust and stigma. And even though this book didn’t linger on it or spell it out in detail, it soured what had been, until then, a smart and engaging read.

So now I feel really torn. I loved so much of this book. The writing, the pacing, the character work—it all clicked for me. But this one narrative choice pulled me out of the story and left me feeling disappointed and uneasy. I’ve been sitting with that discomfort, wondering if I’m being too hard on the book or too easy on myself for having enjoyed it so much. But I keep coming back to this: you can admire a book’s craft and still name the ways it let you down.

I wish this trope would go away. It’s tired, it’s damaging, and it adds nothing that a writer couldn’t achieve through better, more respectful storytelling.

So, would I recommend Exit? Honestly… I don’t know. I wish I could, because so much of it is smart, funny, and humane. But I also don’t want to overlook the way it uses disability as a plot device. I guess my honest answer is: read it if you want—but read it with eyes open.


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Zorro Reviews: We Solve Murders by Richard Osman

We Solve Murders. Richard Osman. New series. Book one. Big win.

Richard Osman knows what he’s doing. This thing is sharp, quick, and funny. Very funny. Not cute funny—actual laugh-out-loud funny. Jokes land. Dialogue snaps.

The pace? Fast. But not chaotic. It moves. England. Ireland. America. Dubai. It hops around. You always know where you are. You always want to see what’s next.

The story’s solid. Twists, reveals, secrets. One mystery leads to another. Never drags.

Main guy is Steve Wheeler. Ex-cop. Haunted by grief. Dry sense of humor. Keeps things close to the chest.

Then there’s Amy Wheeler. His daughter-in-law. Professional bodyguard. Tough, sharp, no-nonsense. Their dynamic works.

And Rosie. She’s the client. Big energy. Total wildcard. She makes everything more complicated—and more fun.

Side characters? Weird. Memorable. No filler. Everyone’s got a line, a look, something strange. Osman makes it all work.

The tone? Stylish. Clever. Never smug. Cool without trying too hard. It’s also got heart. Hits when it needs to.

This is the start of a new series. You want in now. Ground floor. No question.

Zorro says: read it. No hesitation.


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Butterball Reviews: Thirteen Steps Down by Ruth Rendell

Posted by Butterball, Esquire of the Drawing Room, Keeper of the Hearth, Master of Suspense

Ah, Thirteen Steps Down. A title that positively purrs with menace, don’t you think? When I spotted this Ruth Rendell novel perched precariously on the shelf—like a vicar’s secret—I knew it was meant for me. And I must say, dear readers, it did not disappoint. This book slinks across the mind like a cat in moonlight: quietly, stylishly, and with claws at the ready.

We find ourselves in Notting Hill (not the one with Hugh Grant, thank heaven), where a peculiar young man named Mix Cellini rents a room in a crumbling Victorian house and quickly becomes obsessed—with both a faded model and a long-dead serial killer. Oh yes. And with Rendell at the helm, obsession is never just obsession, is it? It’s an infestation, a rot beneath the floorboards. Delicious.

Rendell is a master of the slow simmer. If you're looking for a chase scene or a shootout, you may as well go chase your own tail. But if you, like me, prefer your suspense with a side of existential dread and a sherry glass full of decay, then pull up a tufted armchair and get comfortable.

What I adore about this novel is the way Rendell writes madness. Not with melodrama, but with method. Mix is not a cartoonish villain; he is pitiful, lonely, deluded... in other words, deeply human. Uncomfortably so. I found myself hissing at him one moment and pitying him the next. Quite exhausting. I had to lie on the radiator for an hour afterward just to reset.

The house itself is nearly a character. It creaks, it sighs, it harbors secrets in every stair. Rendell knows exactly how to let place and psychology mirror one another until you're not sure where the walls end and the madness begins. Which is, in my semi-professional opinion, the goal of every proper psychological thriller.

A word to the wise: this is not a book to rush. It’s a slow descent—thirteen steps down, if you will—into obsession, control, and the rot that festers when we let fantasy take root in our reality. Read it when the rain taps at the windows, when the air smells of dust and secrets. Read it alone, and maybe not just before bed, unless you like your dreams with a twist of menace.

Final Judgment:
A sinister little masterpiece. Dark, deliberate, and magnificently British. 

Now if you’ll excuse me, I believe I hear the kettle boiling and a faint knocking on the cellar door. Probably nothing...

Buy Thirteen Steps Down from Amazon

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KitKat Reviews Cold Skies by Thomas King (a DreadfulWater Mystery)

Hi everyone, it’s KitKat. I just finished reading Cold Skies by Thomas King, and I wanted to share my thoughts while they’re still fresh.

This is the third book in the DreadfulWater mystery series. I haven’t read the first two yet, but I didn’t feel lost—King gives just enough context that you can jump in here if you want. It’s a mystery set in a small town, with a retired cop-turned-photographer who ends up pulled into a murder investigation. It’s also funny. Not laugh-out-loud all the time, but there’s a dry, low-key sense of humor throughout that really worked for me.

That said, it took me a while to get into it. I’m a slow reader, and the writing style—especially the dialogue—felt like it would click better for someone who reads a bit faster. I kept thinking it might work really well as a dramatic reading or maybe an audiobook (I’m not sure if there is one). The pacing of the jokes and conversations might land better when heard.

Early on, I also found some of the side details distracting. There are a lot of little asides—extra bits about characters or the town—that sometimes pulled me off track. I think a faster reader could probably absorb those without losing the thread, but I ended up needing to refocus a few times.

Still, the deeper I got into the book, the more I enjoyed it. The story pulls you in gradually, and by the second half, I didn’t want to put it down. My special someone actually kept stealing the book from me, finished it in three days, and loved it. Honestly, that helped me stay motivated.

I’m really glad I stuck with it. Once I settled into the rhythm, I appreciated how well King balances mystery with character and tone. The mystery is satisfying, the humor is smart, and the world of Chinook feels real. There are themes, too—about technology, land, and the people caught in between—but King keeps the tone light, never preachy. It's more sardonic tail-flick than hiss. I’d definitely consider reading more in the series. 

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Butterball’s Positively Purrfect Review of Huge by Brent Butt #90s #Noir #Thriller

Gather 'round, my dear humans, for I, Butterball the Magnificent, should like to inform you of a book I recently read that impressed me enormously. 

"Huge" by Brent Butt is a noir thriller: a genre I, being of a refined nature, do not typically gravitate toward. I prefer the sophisticated coziness of a good literary mystery, perhaps with a hot cup of cream on the side. But my curiosity got the better of me. How could I possibly resist a thriller penned by the master of comedy himself, Brent Butt, whom many of you may know from the sitcom Corner Gas?

As I say, noir thrillers aren’t often my cup of tea, but I wondered how Brent Butt's comedic genius would translate to the shadowy world of a 90s-set thriller.

I listened to the audiobook—read by Butt himself, no less. And I must say, if you haven’t yet indulged in this form of storytelling, you are missing out on a delectable treat. Brent Butt’s narration is nothing short of mesmerizing. His voice carries you through the story with such grit that I was positively enraptured. 

Let’s talk about the book itself. Huge is a brilliant blend of chilling tension and biting humour. You’d think these two tones might clash, but I assure you, they do not. Butt manages to weave in moments of humour without undermining the seriousness of the plot—an extraordinary feat, to be sure. One moment you’re amused by a sharp one-liner, and the next, you’re gripping your seat as the suspense builds. It’s truly the best of both worlds. I found myself chuckling softly, only to freeze in suspense moments later. The balance of light and dark is nothing short of masterful.

And, oh, the 90s setting. What a time! A grungy, shadowy world full of pager codes, fax machines, and landlines that clang like a bell. Butt captures the essence of the era flawlessly, transporting us back to a time before smartphones ruined the art of a proper mystery.

I won’t spoil the plot for you, but let me tell you—there are gruesome moments, indeed. Dark, sinister, and raw. Yet they never feel gratuitous. And the humour? Well, it doesn't diminish the grimness, but rather, it enhances the story’s depth, making the characters feel alive and real.

Brent Butt, my dear readers, proves himself not only a master of comedy but also a formidable force in the thriller genre. If you’ve any sense at all, you’ll give Huge a listen or a read—whichever suits your fancy. But do consider the audiobook; it’s a performance you won’t soon forget.

In summary, Huge is nothing short of extraordinary. Gripping, hilarious, and chilling all at once. A noir thriller that even a British cat with highbrow tastes can thoroughly enjoy. Brent Butt, you’ve outdone yourself, and I would tip my hat (if I wore one) to you.

Get HUGE at Amazon    

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Murder on Wheels, Serenity Bay #Mysteries #Series 7 #SmallTown #CozyMystery

Murder on Wheels
Series: Serenity Bay Mysteries
Book: 7
Author: J.J. Brass
Publisher: Rainbow Crush
Word Count: 34,000
Ebook ISBN: 9798227631930

When the sleepy town of Serenity Bay is rocked by a deadly fire at a local ebike rental shop, amateur sleuth Lucy Larkin finds herself pedaling straight into her most perplexing case yet. The blaze, initially dismissed as a tragic accident, soon reveals itself to be something far more sinister. Evidence suggests it was no mere mishap, but a carefully orchestrated murder.

With her trusty uncle Frank at her side and a cast of quirky townsfolk, Lucy dives into the mystery, navigating a tangled web of secrets. But as she uncovers hidden truths, Lucy must confront the possibility that the killer may be closer than she ever imagined.

As tensions mount and the danger escalates, Lucy must race against time to unmask the culprit before this crafty killer strikes again. Will she solve the case and restore peace to her beloved Serenity Bay, or will the murderer slip through her fingers?

Murder on Wheels delivers a perfect blend of small-town charm, suspense, and a dash of humor that will keep readers guessing until the bitter end.

Buy Now from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DDTV6ML8?tag=dorishay-20
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=M2sbEQAAQBAJ

Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murder-on-wheels-jj-brass/1146196194
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/murder-on-wheels-10
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/murder-on-wheels/id6646345355

Read with your Everand subscription: https://www.everand.com/book/760509187/Murder-on-Wheels-Serenity-Bay-Mysteries-7

AI-Narrated Audiobook available from: https://play.google.com/store/audiobooks/details?id=AQAAAEAyOwB7IM
and https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murder-on-wheels-jj-brass/1146196194?ean=2940191091419

Paperback: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murder-on-wheels-jj-brass/1146196194?ean=9798224252527

Find more retailers with the Universal Book Link: https://books2read.com/MurderOnWheels

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KitKat Reviews The Retreat by Sherri Smith #Thriller #ChildStar #CanLit #MustRead #BookReview

Hey, mystery and thriller fans! KitKat here, your purr-fect guide to all things suspenseful and spine-tingling. Today, I’m sinking my claws into a book that took me on one wild ride: The Retreat by Sherri Smith.

First things first: let’s talk about the setup. We’ve got a group of college friends—Katie Manning, an all-grown-up child star, and two of her pals—getting dragged to a weekend wellness retreat by Katie's soon-to-be sister-in-law. 

Sounds relaxing, right? Maybe even a bit of a snooze-fest? 

Well, I’ll admit, I almost thought this book had been mis-marketed as a thriller. For a good chunk of it, it reads like solid women’s fiction. You’ve got the personal dramas, the friendship dynamics, and Katie’s train wreck of a life, all wrapped up in a setting that screams “self-discovery” more than “danger.”

But let me tell you, when the thriller side of this book hits, it hits hard. I was lulled into a false sense of security, purring along as the story meandered through the lives of these women. And then—BAM!—out of nowhere, the claws come out, and the blood starts to spill. 

I’m not exaggerating when I say the gore caught me totally off guard.  I found myself wide-eyed and on the edge of my comfy perch.

Sherri Smith masterfully plays with tone in this book, using the gossipy vibe of the wellness retreat and the slow unraveling of secrets to set up the real thrill. It’s this contrast that makes the sudden plunge into darkness so much more jarring—and effective. You think you’re safe, and then you’re not. It’s the kind of book that makes your fur stand on end, in the best possible way.

The story’s told from the perspectives of the three college friends and Katie’s almost-sister-in-law, which keeps things interesting and lets you really get inside their heads. Katie, especially, is a fascinating character—a former child star with money but no direction. She’s a mess, but she’s a mess you can’t stop watching. Her story isn’t just about survival; it’s about confronting the demons that have been chasing her for years.

If you’re in the mood for a thriller that sneaks up on you and then doesn’t let go, The Retreat is your book. Just be ready for that shift when it comes. You’ll go from sipping milk to claws out in no time. 

Trust me, you don’t want to miss this one.

Find The Retreat at Amazon.   

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Murder in a Pickle: Serenity Bay #Mysteries Book 6 #NewRelease #SmallTown #Pickleball #Quozy #Cozy #Mystery

Murder in a Pickle
Series: Serenity Bay Mysteries
Book: 6
Author: J.J. Brass
Publisher: Rainbow Crush
Word Count: 47,000
Ebook ISBN: 9798224068296

Serenity Bay is known for its peaceful atmosphere, charming shops, and spirited pickleball games. When an injunction is issued against the pickleball club for exceeding legal noise levels, club members are irate. And when the man who initiated the injunction is found dead, the idyllic community is thrown into turmoil.

Lucy Larkin, a resourceful amateur sleuth, finds herself at the heart of the investigation as secrets begin to surface. With the help of her quirky Uncle Frank, a fife-playing florist, Lucy uncovers more than she bargained for. From a mysterious toxicology report to a stolen journal, clues lead them deep into the victim’s complicated life.

As the close-knit pickleball club rallies to clear their name, Lucy pieces together a puzzle that reveals a web of deception and hidden motives. Friendships are tested and new alliances formed.

Murder in a Pickle is a captivating cozy mystery filled with eccentric characters, heartwarming moments, and a twisty plot that will keep readers guessing until the very end. Perfect for fans of small-town mysteries and amateur sleuths with a knack for solving crimes, this delightful tale will leave you craving more adventures in Serenity Bay.

Read Murder in a Pickle by J.J. Brass today!

Get it from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D57R7C48
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=PqoKEQAAQBAJ

Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murder-in-a-pickle-j-j-brass/1145655820?ean=2940180035257
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/murder-in-a-pickle
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/murder-in-a-pickle/id6503297487

Everand: https://www.everand.com/book/736981833/Murder-in-a-Pickle-Serenity-Bay-Mysteries-6
Fable: https://fable.co/book/x-9798224068296

Find links for the paperback, hardcover, audiobook, and other retailers with the Universal Book Link: https://books2read.com/u/3RDKXx

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Zorro Reviews Elevator Pitch by Linwood Barclay #Thriller #Novels

Hey, mystery buffs! 

Zorro here, back with a nail-biting review of "Elevator Pitch" by Linwood Barclay. Get ready for a thrill ride like no other!

This book starts with a pitch – and not the baseball kind. A screenplay with a sinister twist sets the stage for a spine-chilling tale. Elevators, yeah, those metal boxes we ride every day? Well, brace yourself 'cause they ain't so safe anymore. Terrorists are hacking 'em, causing chaos and fear in big cities. Makes my fur stand on end just thinking about it.

Barclay's got a knack for dialing up the tension. Every floor, every button press, is a heart-pounding moment. You'll be gripping the pages tighter than a mouse in a cat's claws, trust me.

The technological twist? Genius, if you ask me. Elevators turned into weapons? It's a cat-and-mouse game with high stakes and no room for error. You'll think twice before stepping into that metal box again, mark my words.

This ain't your run-of-the-mill thriller. Barclay's got a knack for keeping you on the edge of your seat, and "Elevator Pitch" is no exception. Highly recommended for adrenaline junkies who love a good scare. A novel idea for a novel? You betcha!

So, strap in, folks. You're in for one heckuva ride.

Find it at Amazon

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Serenity Bay Mysteries 1-2-3 #CozyMystery #BoxSet

Serenity Bay Mysteries 1-2-3
Author: J.J. Brass
Publisher: Rainbow Crush
Word Count: 90,000
Ebook ISBN: 9798224928781
Paperback ISBN: 9798224593286

Join amateur sleuth Lucy Larkin as she solves murders in Serenity Bay, the quaint little town she calls home. This charming box set includes the first three books in the beloved Serenity Bay Mysteries series.

In Murder Over the Rainbow, Lucy finds herself entangled in a murder investigation when local artist Marcus Briggs is found dead at the site of a proposed rainbow crosswalk. Teaming up with the surly yet endearing Detective Johnson, Lucy navigates a town filled with colorful characters, secrets, and suspects aplenty.

In Murder by the Books, Lucy and her uncle Frank stumble upon an unfinished manuscript that leads them to suspect a real-life murder. Join them as they unravel the mystery with the help of quirky characters, including new friends and an insightful librarian.

Finally, in Murder by Night, Lucy, now working as a local florist, finds her quiet life disrupted once again. Can she and Detective Johnson solve a series of muggings before deadly crimes are committed?

Filled with heaps of humor and heart, this collection is perfect for fans of cozy mysteries, small-town comforts, and eccentric characters. Get ready for a relaxing journey through Serenity Bay, where secrets abound and mysteries await.

Get the Hardcover at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2L8WJ7L?tag=dorishay-20

Get the Ebook at Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=ZcEDEQAAQBAJ Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2JMBMTK?tag=dorishay-20

DriveThruFiction: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/478542/Serenity-Bay-Mysteries-123

Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/serenity-bay-mysteries-1-2-3-jj-brass/1145467295

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/serenity-bay-mysteries-1-2-3

Universal Book Link: https://books2read.com/u/38JnRd

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Ginger Reviews "The Bullet That Missed" by Richard Osman #cozy #mystery #cozymysteries

Hello, fellow book lovers! 

Ginger here, your friendly neighborhood kitten, ready to share my thoughts on "The Bullet That Missed" by the delightful Richard Osman. Let's dive right into this cozy mystery, shall we?

I must confess that I made a rookie mistake. This book is part of a series, and while it stands well on its own, I couldn't help but feel a tad lost without the context of the first two books. Lesson learned: always start at the beginning! If only I had followed that advice, I might have been better acquainted with our cast of charming characters from the get-go.

Speaking of characters, let me tell you about the delightful bunch in "The Bullet That Missed." Picture this: a club full of elderly amateur sleuths, each with their quirks and secrets. There's a former spy among them, adding a dash of intrigue to the mix. Oh, the tales they must have to tell!

At their club, these intrepid investigators delve into cold cases, and the one at the center of this installment is a real humdinger. It involves a TV investigative journalist with connections to a prominent television personality who seems to have been quite smitten with the deceased. Cue the backstage drama and onscreen antics!

Osman's narrative effortlessly weaves together the world of TV personalities and backstage intrigue with the cozy charm of a classic mystery. It's like curling up by the fire with a bowl of warm milk and a whodunit unfolding before your very eyes. Romances and attractions simmer beneath the surface, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the mix.

While the mystery itself kept me guessing until the very end, it was the characters and their relationships that truly stole the show. From budding romances to unlikely friendships, there's a warmth and camaraderie among the club members that is utterly endearing.

"The Bullet That Missed" is a delightful romp through the world of TV personalities, backstage drama, and cold case investigations. Recommended for readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with a dash of romance and a sprinkle of onscreen magic. If you're smarter than me, you might even start at the beginning of the series for the full experience. 

Find "The Bullet That Missed" at Amazon

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Death Among the Petals #Cozy #SmallTown #Gardening #Mystery

Readers of the Serenity Bay Mysteries won't want to miss this novella! Death Among the Petals is mentioned in Murder by the Books and Mind Over Murder by J.J. Brass. Now it's a real book! You can really read it! For real!

Death Among the Petals
A Violet and Sage Mystery
Publisher: Rainbow Crush
Author: Penelope Hawthorne
Word Count: 22,000

In the idyllic town of Serenity Bay, known for its vibrant gardens and close-knit community, retired neighbors Violet and Sage are amateur gardening enthusiasts with a passion for all things green and growing. Living in neighboring cottages with beautiful gardens that back onto each other, they eagerly prepare for the annual Serenity Bay Garden Show, a highlight of the town's calendar.

But when the charming Garden Show judge, Milhouse Wainwright, is discovered dead in Violet's rose bush, the tranquil atmosphere of Serenity Bay is shattered. The local sheriff dismisses Mr. Wainwright's death as an unfortunate accident, but Violet and Sage refuse to accept such a simple explanation.

With their keen gardening knowledge and sharp wit, Violet and Sage embark on a quest to uncover the truth behind Mr. Wainwright's demise. As they dig deeper into the secrets of Serenity Bay, they uncover a web of deceit, jealousy, and long-buried rivalries lurking beneath the town's picturesque facade.

Join Violet and Sage as they navigate the twists and turns of this delightful whodunit, cultivating clues and unraveling mysteries amidst the blossoming beauty of Serenity Bay's gardens.

"Death Among the Petals" is a captivating tale of friendship and community sure to delight fans of cozy mysteries everywhere.

• Amazon Kindle (US): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CW1HBPNS
• Amazon Kindle (UK): https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CW1HBPNS
• Amazon Kindle (CA): https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW1HBPNS
• Amazon Kindle (AU): https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CW1HBPNS

For paperback links and more: https://books2read.com/u/4XYV87

Penelope Hawthorne is the flamboyant wordsmith behind the Violet and Sage Mysteries. A lifelong resident of the picturesque town of Serenity Bay, Penelope's larger-than-life personality and extravagant flair infuse every page of her debut mystery, "Death Among the Petals." With an unmatched love for the dramatic and a taste for the opulent, Penelope brings her unique brand of charm and charisma to the world of cozy mysteries.

Buy Now from Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=bhUMEQAAQBAJ
DriveThruFiction: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/483307/Death-Among-the-Petals

Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/death-among-the-petals-penelope-hawthorne/1145027477?ean=2940180289780
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/death-among-the-petals-a-violet-and-sage-mystery
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/death-among-the-petals-a-violet-and-sage-mystery/id6503708240

Read it at Everand: https://www.everand.com/book/738881542/Death-Among-the-Petals-A-Violet-and-Sage-Mystery-Serenity-Bay-Mysteries-2-5

Find more retailers with the Universal Book Link: https://books2read.com/u/4XNr89

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Mind Over Murder: Serenity Bay #Mysteries Book 5 #NewRelease #SmallTown #Quozy #Cozy #Mystery

Mind Over Murder
Author: J.J. Brass
Series: Serenity Bay Mysteries
Book: 5
Publisher: Rainbow Crush
Word Count: 36,000
Ebook ISBN: 9798223325154

Visit the quaint town of Serenity Bay, where gossip travels faster than the speed of love. 

Valentine's Day takes an unexpected turn in "Mind Over Murder," the latest installment of the Serenity Bay Mysteries by J.J. Brass.

When psychic medium Gabriel Kolter descends upon the town, offering his otherworldly insights to curious residents, little does he know that this visit will lead to his own demise. After providing an open mediumship session to the townsfolk, the psychic is found murdered, leaving the town shrouded in an eerie atmosphere.

Enter Lucy Larkin, a spirited twenty-something with a penchant for amateur sleuthing. In an attempt to win the approval of the gruff yet captivating Detective Johnson, Lucy dives headfirst into the investigation, determined to unveil the truth behind the psychic's untimely demise.

With suspects aplenty and a town full of secrets, Lucy navigates the tangled relationships and enigmatic pasts of Serenity Bay's residents. Will she uncover the killer's identity before love's favorite day is forever stained with the shadows of a chilling murder?

As Valentine's Day approaches, join Lucy Larkin in this captivating cozy mystery. In "Mind Over Murder," she puts her wits to the test, attempting to solve a puzzle where love, secrets, and the supernatural converge in a spellbinding small-town tale.

Buy Now from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CTV9WK5Z
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=aYryEAAAQBAJ
DriveThruFiction: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/469933/Mind-Over-Murder

Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/mind-over-murder-j-j-brass/1144796932?ean=2940179532866
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/mind-over-murder-9
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/mind-over-murder/id6477372524

Read it at Everand: https://www.everand.com/book/703674982/Mind-Over-Murder-Serenity-Bay-Mysteries-5

Get the Hardcover: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CTZK8L6C

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Butterball's Literary Whisker-Twitch: "The Moving Toyshop" by Edmund Crispin

Greetings, literati and feline enthusiasts! It is I, Butterball, your refined raconteur, here to regale you with my take on the rather curious literary affair that is "The Moving Toyshop" by the distinguished Edmund Crispin.

Set against the spires of Oxford, this enigmatic tale unfolds in the hallowed halls where intellects clash and crime takes a scholarly turn. 

At the helm is Gervais Fen, a detective with a penchant for recruiting students in his sleuthing escapades. One could say he's an academic Hercule Poirot, but with a flair for involving the bright young minds of Oxford in his investigations.

The Oxford backdrop is not just a setting; it is a character in itself. Crispin masterfully weaves the city's atmosphere into the narrative, a treat for those who relish the academic ambiance. The dimly lit corners of Oxford become an integral part of the mystery, immersing the reader in a world where intellectual pursuit meets the sly art of detection.

Our protagonist, a poet with an inquisitive bent, stumbles upon a

corpse in a toy shop—a setting so whimsically macabre that it's practically catnip for mystery aficionados. The intrigue deepens when our poetic friend finds neither corpse nor toy shop upon his return with the constabulary. A mystery within a mystery – a plot twist that even a cat with nine lives wouldn't see coming!

For fans of Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour, "The Moving Toyshop" is a literary treat akin to a saucer of the finest cream. The Oxford setting, the academic charm, and the peculiarly English eccentricity of the characters would make even the most distinguished detective purr with satisfaction.

In conclusion, dear readers, "The Moving Toyshop" is a literary conundrum that will tickle your intellect and bewitch your senses. It's a cat-and-mouse game of the highest order, set against the backdrop of one of England's most venerable institutions. Crispin's clever narrative and Fen's scholarly prowess make this a mystery worth sinking your claws into.

Read The Moving Toyshop Today

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Murder by Christmas: Serenity Bay #Mysteries Book 4 #SmallTown #Christmas #Quozy #Cozy #Mystery

Murder by Christmas
Author: J.J. Brass
Series: Serenity Bay Mysteries
Book: 4
Publisher: Rainbow Crush
Word Count: 32,000

Join amateur sleuth Lucy Larkin as she attends a festive Christmas Eve party with the cast and crew of Serenity Bay's beloved holiday musical. The partygoers make the best of it when the lights go out and a winter snowstorm traps everyone inside, but the evening takes a chilling turn when murder rocks the celebration.

As hidden secrets are revealed, Lucy finds herself entangled in a web of jealousy, love, and unexpected motives. With no way in or out, it's up to her to unravel the truth and expose the murderer among them.

Can Lucy uncover the killer's surprising identity before the snow melts and the holiday spirit is forever tainted?

Dive into a winter wonderland of mystery with "Murder by Christmas," a cozy holiday tale that will keep you guessing. Experience the magic of the season tinged with suspense as snow falls, secrets unfold, and Lucy discovers that, even in the midst of celebration, darkness can lurk where you least expect it.

Get ready for a holiday read that combines the joy of Christmas with the whimsical comedy of a charming cozy mystery!

Buy now from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPMLN4CZ?tag=dorishay-20
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=olroEAAAQBAJ

Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murder-by-christmas-j-j-brass/1144459612
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/murder-by-christmas-3
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/murder-by-christmas/id6474047247

You can find more ebook retailers with the Universal Book Link: https://books2read.com/MurderByChristmas

 

 

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Zorro's Quick Take on "The Nancy Drew Files, Case #64: The Wrong Track" by Carolyn Keene

Hey there, mystery lovers! 

Zorro here with a rapid-fire review of "The Wrong Track" by Carolyn Keene. It's book 64 in the Nancy Dres Files series. 

This one's a blast from the past, copyright 1991. Grab your ski gear, 'cause Nancy's hitting the trails.

Action-packed? You bet. Nancy's at a cross-country ski resort, undercover as a ninja teen reporter. Except without the ninja part. Nostalgia hits hard with VCR tapes and fluorescent ski suits – totally rad.

Nancy's not lounging in a cozy cabin. Nope. Sauna lock-in, a whack on the head, she even gets poisoned and she's back on her feet in no time. She's tougher than a nails, no "paws" for a breather – get it? Cat humor, there

Fast-paced like a laser dot. Nancy’s on a mission, no time for catnaps. Perilous situations, twists, and turns. You're in for the thrill ride with this one. 

Enjoyed it for what it was – a quick, action-packed Nancy Drew mystery. Nan-tastic!

You can even get the Kindle version here! Wow, it's been digitized! 

 

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