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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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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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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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

Find more retailers with the Universal Book Link: https://books2read.com/u/m0aOXM

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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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Murder by Night: Serenity Bay #Mysteries, Book 3 #NewRelease #SmallTown #Quozy #Cozy #Mystery

Murder by Night
Author: J.J. Brass
Series: Serenity Bay Mysteries
Book: 3
Publisher: Rainbow Crush
Word Count: 32,000

Welcome to the enchanting town of Serenity Bay, where secrets lurk around every corner, and mysteries await in the most unexpected places.

Follow Lucy Larkin, marketing maven turned local florist, as her quiet life takes a dramatic turn. When a routine night deposit at the bank ends in robbery, Lucy once again joins forces with the determined Detective Johnson. With a series of muggings turning deadly, can they catch the culprit before more crimes are committed?

Get ready for a charming, humorous, and heartwarming story that will keep you guessing until the very end. "Murder by Night" is the perfect cozy mystery for those who adore small-town allure, quirky characters, and a touch of comedy. Dive into this captivating tale of secrets and suspense in Serenity Bay.

J.J. Brass is a queer author living with disability who writes hilarious and heartfelt LGBT mystery stories. If you like your mysteries cozy and comedic, check out tales like Small Town Scandal, The Turkey Wore Satin, Murder at the Office, The Courtyard Clairvoyant Mysteries series, and the Serenity Bay Mysteries.

You can find this book practically everywhere!

The list includes... 

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CLKZBVY2
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=t5HiEAAAQBAJ

Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/book/1144343674?ean=2940179210047
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/murder-by-night
Apple: https://books.apple.com/ca/book/murder-by-night/id6471791356

Scribd: https://www.everand.com/book/683482479/Murder-by-Night-Serenity-Bay-Mysteries-3
DriveThruFiction: https://www.drivethrufiction.com/product/459786/Murder-by-Night

Universal Book Link: https://books2read.com/u/b6l2Gy

Murder by the Books: Serenity Bay #Mysteries, Book 2 #NewRelease #SmallTown #Quozy #Cozy #Mystery

Murder by the Books
Series: Serenity Bay Mysteries
Book: 2
Author: J.J. Brass
Publisher: Rainbow Crush
Word Count: 30,000

Welcome to Serenity Bay, where books hold secrets, and mysteries lurk behind every page.

When Lucy Larkin and her uncle Frank stumble upon an unfinished manuscript hidden in a dresser at the Annual Antiques Street Fair, they uncover more than just forgotten words.

As the mystery unfolds, Lucy and Uncle Frank embark on a quest to unravel the truth. Can they convince Detective Johnson that a crime has been committed, or will they find themselves met with skepticism?

Now, with time running out, Lucy and her uncle must race against the clock to piece together clues hidden within the unfinished book. With curiosity, wit, and a touch of amateur sleuthing, can they unmask the killer and bring justice to Serenity Bay?

"Murder by the Books" is a page-turning journey into the heart of a small town where books can be deadly. Join Lucy and Uncle Frank in this charming cozy mystery.

J.J. Brass is a queer author living with disability who writes hilarious and heartfelt LGBT mystery stories. If you like your mysteries cozy and comedic, check out tales like Small Town Scandal, The Turkey Wore Satin, Murder at the Office, The Courtyard Clairvoyant Mysteries series, and the Serenity Bay Mysteries.

You can find this book practically everywhere!

The list includes... 

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CHFYYY3D
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CHFYYY3D
Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CHFYYY3D
Amazon AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CHFYYY3D

Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1144051882
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/murder-by-the-books-1
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/id6465686025
Scribd: https://www.scribd.com/book/670153611/Murder-by-the-Books-Serenity-Bay-Mysteries-2

If you'd rather listen to this story, you can get the AI Audio version from Google Play
https://play.google.com/store/audiobooks/details?id=AQAAAEDihELEsM

Find even more places to buy Murder by the Books with the Universal Book Link: https://books2read.com/MurderbytheBooks

Butterball Reviews #MurderSheWrote: Hook, Line, and Murder #JessicaFletcher #CabotCove #Mystery

Meow, fellow book lovers!

It is I, your favorite feline connoisseur, Butterball, here with an exclusive review of "Murder, She Wrote: Hook, Line, and Murder." 

Now, let me tell you, I was thrilled when I pawed my way into this book, for it whisked me right into the captivating world of "Murder, She Wrote," long after its television glory days. 

But, as my keen senses detected, there were some whiskers out of place.

First, let's give credit where credit is due! Authors Donald Bain, Renée Paley-Bain, and of course, the astute Jessica Fletcher herself, have done a serviceable job in crafting a tale that transports us to Cabot Cove's murky mysteries once more. 

In this novel, Mrs. Fletcher enters a fishing competition. Sheriff Metzger's wife, Maureen, tags along and is promptly kidnapped. One might call this book a thriller or suspense rather than a cozy mystery, so perhaps it might have been more up Zorro's alley than my own.

I must admit, my whiskers weren't fully quivering with delight as I delved into this particular novel. The writing style was rather bland, for my discerning taste. The prose lacked the purr-sonality that would have made it a real page-turner. The story, despite its thrilling premise, was more like a gentle grooming session than a heart-stopping chase.

Now, don't get me wrong; the characters were as charming as ever. Jessica Fletcher, with her keen intellect, continues to be the reigning queen of amateur sleuths. The supporting characters were a delightful bunch too, but their interactions seemed meek and mundane, like a lowly scratch on the furniture.

Despite my disappointment, the nostalgia factor whisked me back to a time when mysteries were solved with a twinkle in the eye. I appreciated that this book allowed me to reunite with cherished memories of Jessica Fletcher's brilliant deductions. My tail twitched with contentment at the familiar setting of Cabot Cove and the aroma of intrigue that always filled the air.

In conclusion, "Murder, She Wrote: Hook, Line, and Murder" was a delightful opportunity to saunter back into the world of the legendary Jessica Fletcher. While the book may not have clawed its way to the top of my recommended reads list, it's still a worthwhile jaunt for anyone seeking a comforting visit to yesteryears. So, cozy up with a cup of milk and a purring friend, and dive into the mysteries of Cabot Cove once more.

Find "Murder, She Wrote: Hook, Line, and Murder" at Amazon

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Murder Over the Rainbow: Serenity Bay Mysteries Book 1 #Queer #Cozy #Quozy #SmallTown #Mystery

Murder Over the Rainbow
Series: Serenity Bay Mysteries
Book: 1
Author: J.J. Brass
Publisher: Rainbow Crush
Word Count: 25,000

When Lucy Larkin moves in with her gay uncle Frank in the small town of Serenity Bay, she doesn’t expect to get caught up in a murder investigation.

But when local artist Marcus Briggs is found dead at the site of a controversial rainbow crosswalk, Lucy can't help but get involved.

As she teams up with the surly but loveable Detective Johnson to solve the case, Lucy finds herself navigating a town full of colorful characters.

With suspects aplenty and secrets lurking around every corner, Lucy and Detective Johnson must work together to catch the killer.

Full of suspense, humor, and heart, "Murder Over the Rainbow" is a cozy mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.

 
Now Available from Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BZ125M6M

Find more places to buy this cute quozy with https://books2read.com/MurderOverRainbow

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Zorro Reviews The Nancy Drew Files #106: Flying Too High

Title: Flying Too High (The Nancy Drew Files 106)
Author: Carolyn Keene
Genre: Action Adventure / Female Sleuth / Series
Status: Read
Cats?: Zero

Zorro Says:

You love our reviews of Nancy Drew books, so here's another one!

What could a book called Flying Too High be about, you might be asking. Well, you'll be thrilled to hear that Nancy goes undercover as a trainee fighter pilot!

Hard to believe? Not a bit! It's established early on that Nancy Drew is already a great pilot, so why shouldn't she fit right in among the other air force cadets?

Flying Too High is a real stunner. If you like your mysteries action-packed, this is the Nancy Drew for you!

Nancy's been called in by the admiral to investigate the death of one young pilot. Was it an accident?  A technical malfunction?  Or was it sabotage (aka MURDER!)?

We all know Nancy Drew is up to any task, but this one puts her through the ringer. Boy howdy, does it ever! I lost track of the number of explosions that took place over the course of the story. Exciting stuff!

Here's a line from the book, to give you a feel for what Nancy goes through:

"In the couple of days since she'd arrived at Davis Field, she'd been knocked out, her plane had been sabotaged, and she'd had a computer screen blow up in her face."

And you know what? That's not the half of it! There are even more explosions to follow! Lots of action in the air! It's non-stop!

If you're looking for a Nancy Drew novel that's all action (and even a hint of romance), you got it here.  Dive right in!

Find Flying Too High at Amazon

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KitKat Reviews The Baby-Sitters Club #Mystery 1: Stacey and the Missing Ring

Title: Stacey and the Missing Ring
Author: Ann M. Martin
Genre: Juvenile / Nostalgia / Mystery
Status: Read
Cats?: Yes, there's a cat named Mouse!

KitKat Says:

It's not often that I get to read the first book in a series that features characters I remember fondly from kittenhood, but here we have one with The Baby-Sitters Club Mystery #1: Stacey and the Missing Ring.

It's been ages since I've read a Baby-Sitters Club book, but I loved this series as a kitten.  So when this mystery crossed our desk, you better believe I got my paws on it right away.  I couldn't wait to dive right in!

Reading this book really took me back.  It begins with three chapters of reminding you who all the characters are: the girls in the club, their families, their clients.  This takes a while, but kids like repetition, and this is juvenile fiction, after all.

Then we get into the juicy stuff: the babysitting.  No, I'm kidding.  THE MYSTERY. As you've probably guessed from the title, this mystery involves 13-year-old Stacey and a missing diamond ring.

See, diamond is Stacey's birthstone and she's been begging her mom for a (diamond) birthstone ring. Mother and daughter have an argument about it, and Stacey tells all her friends.  As luck would have it, she babysits for a fancy new client and, sure enough, that client's diamond ring goes missing. Stacey is blamed.  No, it's worse than that.  Stacey is accused of stealing.  And when she won't confess, the client threatens to tell all The Baby-Sitters Club's clients she's a thief.

I really felt for Stacey, when she was accused of a crime she didn't commit.  It's hard enough for that to happen to you as a grown-up, but when you're thirteen, the trouble is compounded by the fact that you're a kid and nobody believes you.  She has no way of proving she didn't steal the ring, and even her best friend seems to think she's guilty.

Nobody, cat or kitten, would want to find themselves in Stacey's predicament.

But Stacey comes up with a clever way to solve the problem. That, paired with a bit of luck, leads her to the solution.

Is there a lot of investigation in this book? No. Does it include all the components you expect to find in your typical mystery? No.  There's no questioning suspects or anything along those lines, but there are enough red herrings that I thought I had this mystery tied up and I was wrong, wrong, wrong.  But I don't mind being wrong.  The ending surprised me and put a little smile on my face.

The Baby-Sitters Club Mystery #1: Stacey and the Missing Ring took me on a trip down memory lane. I would recommend it to people who are currently thirteen years old, as well as grown-ups who read these books when they were young. If you're as much of a sucker for nostalgia as I am, you're sure to enjoy it!

Find Stacey and the Missing Ring at Amazon

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Murder at MarketFresh, Book 2 in the Lasagna Lady #Mysteries #Series

Hi, hi, hi!

It's me again, your pal KitKat, with another announcement about our cat mom Doris Hay's Lasagna Lady Mysteries series.

Book Two is now available! 

Much like its predecessor Murder at Meadowlark, the new book Murder at MarketFresh is set in the Mystery Cats' hometown of Toronto.  The first book was set at a retirement residence. This murder takes place in a supermarket parking lot. It's a hit-and-run, but is it deliberate?  Is it an accident?  Luella Genova is one of only three witnesses, and she votes for deliberate act of violence.

One thing I love about the second book in any series is that you've gotten all the meeting your main characters stuff out of the way. We met Luella and Chandelle in Book One.  We already love them--despite their quirks or because of their quirks, I'm not sure which. Now we're ready to watch them take on the worlds of lasagna delivery, crime-solving, and dealing with the ghosts of the past.

You may recall that in Book One, someone broke into Luella's house. That was never fully resolved, was it?  Well, in Book Two we find out who it was--and the answer will blow you away!

We also get to see Luella trying to worm her way into Chandelle's young life. Luella's convinced Chandelle would be happier if she made some friends her own age. When she tries to get the transgender teen to join her school's LGBT Alliance, let's just say it doesn't go well. Chandelle's great at driving other people's lives, but she doesn't appreciate it when Luella interferes in hers.

There's so much going on in this book it would be a great read even without the murder mystery, but, that said, the mystery is actually central to the action.

What does it take to solve a murder in a supermarket parking lot? A mischievous husky dog, an entrepreneurial high school student, and a little lasagna lady with a whole lotta heart!

When Luella Genova witnesses a hit-and-run in the parking lot of the MarketFresh superstore, it isn’t her first brush with murder. It is, however, the first time she’s witnessed the death of a teen.

Grace Tangoco was a determined young woman working three jobs to pay for university. Her classmates and coworkers loved her, and yet nobody knew her all that well. Nobody but her secret boyfriend, who mysteriously disappeared after the hit-and-run.

Who could have killed such a kind and hard-working young girl? The police are investigating, sure, but this case can only be cracked by Luella the Lasagna Lady and her business partner Chandelle “Garlic Bread Girl” Jervais. After all, they’re the only two people who know about the teenager’s haunting last words.

If you're ready to watch Luella and Chandelle's friendship build while they solve another murder, you're ready for Murder at MarketFresh.

Murder at MarketFresh is currently enrolled in Amazon's Kindle Unlimited program. That means, if you're a KU member, you get to read the entire novel for free!

Murder at MarketFresh is the second book in the Lasagna Lady Mysteries series.

Read MURDER AT MARKETFRESH by Doris Hay today! 
It’s free with KindleUnlimited!

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079ZZNLB6?tag=dorishay-20
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B079ZZNLB6
Amazon CANADA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B079ZZNLB6
Amazon AUSTRALIA: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B079ZZNLB6

Zorro Reviews The Charmed Bracelet (Nancy Drew Graphic Novels: Girl Detective #7)

Title: The Charmed Bracelet (Nancy Drew Graphic Novels: Girl Detective #7)
Author: Stefan Petrucha
Illustrator: Vaughn Ross
Genre: Action Adventure / Female Sleuth / Graphic Novel
Status: Read
Cats?: Zero

Zorro Says:

Last year KitKat inspired me to read a Hardy Boys mystery for the first time. When The Charmed Bracelet showed up on the Mystery Cats' desk, I swiped it too. (Sorry, KitKat. You can read it next.)

Why did Zorro, your action/adventure cat, want to read a Nancy Drew mystery? Easy answer. Just flip through this graphic novel and the first thing you'll notice is all the car chases and squirming around in air ducts. Nancy Drew is a total ninja in this graphic novel. Early on, she saves her boyfriend from being struck down by a murderous motorcycle. Okay, the motorcycle itself wasn't murderous. The guy riding it was. But wouldn't that be cool if the motorcycle was a sentient being intent upon Ned's ultimate demise?

Maybe I should be writing Nancy Drew graphic novels!

As you might have guessed by my description, the Nancy Drew in this graphic novel is a contemporary version of the character. She's a kick-ass super-heroine, for the most part.

Bess and George are no delicate doilies either. While Bess is interpreted as a bit of a femme fatale, George is her usual tomboy (KitKat's type, I'd venture to guess) and self-proclaimed "Girl Computer Whiz."

There are two mysteries to be solved in The Charmed Bracelet. One involves a stolen computer chip. The other is more personal: Nancy's boyfriend Ned is being framed for crimes he didn't commit.

Despite the dual mysteries, The Charmed Bracelet is a quick read. Maybe too quick? I'm not a big reader of graphic novels, so I'll be the first to admit I'm not overly familiar with how the pacing usually works in this style of book. I'll pass it along to KitKat, but I don't think she's a huge reader of graphic novels either, so the Mystery Cats probably can't provide an expert opinion. But, heck, we never claimed to be experts! We're just cats who like mysteries. And, as a cat who likes actiony thrillery tales, I thought it was a neat little read, but with an emphasis on "little." This glossy paperback has a total of 112 pages, and a whopping 24 of those pages are bonus materials and ads for other books! 

If you're a Nancy Drew aficionado, you'll surely want to investigate this graphic take on the franchise.

Find The Charmed Bracelet at Amazon

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Murder at Meadowlark, Book 1 in the Lasagna Lady #Mysteries #culinary #cozy #mystery #series

Hello, friends!

KitKat here, with a big announcement on behalf of myself and my fellow Mystery Cats and our dear old cat mom, Doris Hay:

At long last, it is with great pleasure that we, the Mystery Cats, announce to you that our cat mom has released the first book in her Lasagna Lady Mysteries series!

Murder at Meadowlark takes place here in Toronto, where we Mystery Cats live. It's largely set at the Meadowlark Retirement Residence. Those seniors really get around! You'll be amazed! There's lots of LGBT content to keep me happy (sometimes I think Mama Doris writes these books just for me!), but I know Ginger loved the big feels she got from the characters.

There's a lot to love about Luella and Chandelle and their burgeoning friendship. A lady in her sixties and a sixteen-year-old makes for a great pairing. They're such an odd couple, but that's why they fit together so well. Luella never speaks her mind. Chandelle never stops speaking her mind. They work so well together, and I really enjoyed watching their friendship deepen throughout the book. 

This is a mystery novel with a whole lot of heart. We Mystery Cats hope you'll enjoy the twists and turns Murder at Meadowlark takes you on. Some of those twists are a little dark, especially for a culinary cozy, but ultimately this books captures the heart as much as it intrigues with its backbone of murder mystery.

Murder at Meadowlark is currently enrolled in Amazon's Kindle Unlimited program. That means, if you're a KU member, you get to read the entire novel for free! We Mystery Cats definitely recommend it. Mind you, we're somewhat biased. After all, we warm the author's feet every night, and she provides us with food and litter. So we certainly want her book to succeed.  If it does particularly well, maybe she'll even buy us treats!

Read Murder at Meadowlark today! It's the first book in the Lasagna Lady Mysteries series, and you're sure to fall in love with these quirky characters just like you've fallen in love with us Mystery Cats!

Murder at Meadowlark

Lasagna Lady Mysteries

Book 1

Author: Doris Hay

Luella Genova has never been great at speaking her mind. When community-spirited high school student Chandelle Jervais asks her to bring one of her famous lasagnas to the potluck at Meadowlark Retirement Residence, the aging widow would rather stay home and swallow a bottle of pills.

Who’d have thought lasagna could change a lady’s life?

When Luella arrives at Meadowlark, a woman has just died—not an uncommon occurrence in a home for seniors, but Luella smells a rat. Even the old woman’s family is satisfied to believe that she died of natural causes, but that only makes Luella more suspicious. The only way to prove it was murder… is to find the killer!

Book One in the Lasagna Lady Mysteries series.

Read MURDER AT MEADOWLARK by Doris Hay today! 
It’s free with KindleUnlimited!

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078YGP2N3?tag=dorishay-20
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B078YGP2N3
Amazon CANADA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B078YGP2N3
Amazon AUSTRALIA: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B078YGP2N3

KitKat Reviews The Courtyard Clairvoyant Mysteries #Ace #LGBTQIA #Paranormal #Cozy #Mystery #Series

Title: The Courtyard Clairvoyant Mysteries Collection One
Author: J.J. Brass
Genre: LGBT / Psychic / Cozy
Status: Read
Cats?: Yes, but I don't want to talk about it.

KitKat Says:

I have a new favourite queer cozy mystery series and it's called The Courtyard Clairvoyant Mysteries.

What's so great about the Courtyard Clairvoyant? Well, first of all we've got an asexual aunt and her pansexual niece as main characters. Aunt Elise is currently recovering from a cornea transplant and guess what?  Turns out the cornea she received previously belonged to a psychic!  Now when she looks people in the eye, she can see what they're hiding.

What are you going to do when you find out you're suddenly psychic? You're going to solve mysteries, of course! Especially if you live on a small-town courtyard and your neighbours are all a bunch of gossipy (but mostly friendly) people.

My favourite of the four books I've read was the third in the series: I Spy a Courtyard Casanova.

In this book, Aunt Elise's former fiance arrives on the courtyard. It turns out she left him at the altar many years ago, and seeing him again brings out lots of messy feelings.

I love the way author J.J. Brass shows us this older woman coming to a greater understanding of what it means to be asexual, for her.  It's not like she's been identifying as ace for 50 years.  The idea of identifying as asexual and that there are other people in the world who are a lot like her is pretty new.

I also love the way her niece Val helps along the way. Life can be confusing for anybody, but for someone who is questioning her identity later in life, Elise sometimes feels really discombobulated. She admires the way her niece's generation can be so out and proud while she still feels a need to keep certain matters private.

The other thing I love most about I Spy a Courtyard Casanova is the mystery itself. It starts out looking like a simple theft, but we soon discover an art fraud ring going on right under their noses. Who doesn't love a good art forgery story, am I right?

There are cats in this series but I won't say too much about that. When you get to the fourth book in the series, I Spy a Wedding Dress Mess, you'll find out why.

I highly recommend The Courtyard Clairvoyant for any cozy mystery reader who wants a strong cast of queer characters. This series has got it all kinds of representation covered: characters who are genderqueer, ace, poly-pan, trans, lesbian, gay, bisexual, the list goes on! There are even a few straight people in there too. 😛

If you want to sink your teeth into a cozy small-town mystery series with a hearty dose of queer representation, look no further. The Courtyard Clairvoyant Mysteries by J.J. Brass is the series for you!

Find The Courtyard Clairvoyant at Amazon

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Magical Bookshop Mysteries: A New #Paranormal #Cozy #Mystery Series

Title: Magical Bookshop Mysteries: A New Paranormal Cozy Mystery Series

Author: Samantha Silver
Genre: Cozy / Paranormal / Small Town
Status:TBR
Cats?: Yes

Ginger Says:


Mystery author Samantha Silver is best known for paranormal cozies, and she's back at it with her new venture: the Magical Bookshop Mystery series!

If you've got a taste for witchcraft, small-town life and books, you might want to give this new series a try. There are already three installments available:

1) Alice In Murderland
2) Murder on the Oregon Express
3) The Very Killer Caterpillar (pre-order, available July 30, 2017)

Here's a bit more information about the first in the series, Alice In Murderland:

Moving from Miami to small-town Oregon was supposed to be boring...

When Alice Calliope takes over her recently deceased aunt's bookshop in Sapphire Village, Oregon, she's not expecting her world to be flipped upside down, but that's exactly what happens when her cousin Cat reveals to Alice that she's actually a witch. Add in the fact that the two of them stumble upon a dead body, and Alice's first day in town ends up being a lot more eventful than she could have possibly imagined!

What was supposed to be a simple cross-country move winds up with Alice having to learn how to navigate a whole new magical world while at the same time trying to clear Cat's name as she emerges as the main suspect in the murder. Add in the eccentric Grandma Cee, witchcraft lessons, a whiny old ghost and the laziest cat ever, and Alice definitely has her hands full.

With pressure mounting for the super-hot local sheriff to arrest her cousin, will Alice be able to hunt down the real killer before it's too late?

Alice in Murderland is a full-length novel and the first book in the Magical Bookshop Mystery series of paranormal cozy mysteries.

Find Alice in Murderland at Amazon

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FRESH CREAM: The Continental Gentleman #Victorian #Historical #Mystery

Title: The Continental Gentleman (Book 5 in the Lady C. Investigates Series)
Author: Issy Brooke
Genre: Historical Mystery
Status: TBR
Presence of Cats: Unknown

The Honorable Butterball Catsworth III Says:

I am ever so pleased to announce that the fifth book in Issy Brooke's Lady C. Investigates series is now available for readers to purchase! The Continental Gentleman has certainly found its way on to my To Be Read list. If you enjoy Victorian mysteries, I do believe it warrants a place on yours as well.

Cordelia, Lady Cornbrook confronts her past. It’s not pleasant, but luckily she’s armed with a short, stabby sword.

It’s late summer and Cordelia is rattling around her Surrey estate, annoying the servants and causing the gardeners to hide in the bushes. Her old friend – or nemesis – Hugo Hawke turns up, and he’s closely followed by his own past. It’s good news … at first.

But Cordelia has received a note warning her that she is at risk of harm from a “continental gentleman” and it turns out that the local area is positively brimming with potential suspects.

It’s not Cordelia who is found dead in a stream, however.

The race is on to find the killer before they strike again. She’s aided by her motely retinue of servants, and severely hampered by her well-meaning friends who only wish to help her improve her social standing.

Etiquette has never been Cordelia’s strong point. But she’s still got that sword…

Find the most elegant Lady C. at Amazon.

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