Old Girls Behaving Badly: Two Strangers. One Wedding. The Adventure of a Lifetime! by Kate Galley - My Guess? If You're over 50 You'll Loves Galley's Books...

 

Douglas had said on more than one occasion that he just didn’t really get it, as if there was a special something he had to understand more tricky than two people simply loving one another.

‘My goodness, how very disappointing of him,’ Dorothy said. ‘I’m generalising here, I do realise, but women tend to find themselves through friendships and activity, through reading and learning. I think men tend to need some sort of justification for existing through sex.’ There was a beat of silence while we digested those words before Dorothy added her caveat: ‘Not all men, of course.’

‘Dorothy, my friend, you are so insightful and offer up such an impassioned speech with a great argument for independence without shackles and yet, somehow I’m feeling myself even more compelled than ever to do your bidding and find this painting for you. Bravo.’ 

‘I meant every word, you know. I think we can help each other,’ she said. I was about to ask her how she planned to help me, but some of the others’ voices were within earshot again, so I took her hand, gave it a squeeze, and tried not to think about the task before me that was far greater than getting us out of this maze. I then pulled my phone from my pocket and opened my maps app, zoomed in on our location and, watching the flashing blue dot move, I pulled Dorothy gently to the left. ‘Here,’ I said. ‘We don’t need Leonard’s terrible clues to reach the middle; we have technology!’ 

The middle of the maze was surprisingly large, and the entire group were already there, proving that Leonard’s clues were hardly tricky at all. His staff had managed to navigate the labyrinth of hedging and deliver a table laden with food and drinks. There were more plastic rose trees and I remembered the game of croquet earlier. Leonard liked a theme; that was for sure. A huge glass bowl of something that looked like punch sat on one end of the table with a sign next to it – Drink me! 

Platters of meat and cheese, bread, cakes and fruit covered the rest with the obligatory sign – Eat me!

Juliet was crowing over the fact that she had worked out all the clues and wanted to know what her prize was because it couldn’t possibly just be dinner. Leonard smiled, indulgently, and handed her a twenty-pound note from his wallet. She looked surprised at his change in attitude, but then pocketed the money. This was going to be a meal that I couldn’t get out of, I realised as everyone took their seats. Some jazz music began to fill the air around us from hidden speakers and mingled with the sounds of people piling food onto their plates and glasses being filled. 

If it hadn’t been for what Dorothy had planned for me, this all might be a lovely thing to do on a warm summer evening, but instead my mind was twitchy and preoccupied. I opened my photos on my phone and began to scroll through the pictures I’d taken earlier while Leonard was safely at the other end of the table. There was so much of the house I had yet to see and probably many places that would be completely out of bounds to me. He could have it hanging up in the attic rooms or hidden in a shed or storeroom somewhere; he may have even destroyed it. I glanced across at Dorothy who was sitting opposite me on the other side of the table. She had helped herself to some food and was nibbling on a chunk of cheese with slices of apple. She looked like she didn’t want to be there much either and I wondered what would happen if I didn’t find the painting. Dorothy had already said she wouldn’t be able to let it go and move on. She would be consumed with anger when she should really be grieving the death of her husband, but then, wasn’t anger one of the many stages? 

When my beloved mother Ellen died, I had eventually been angry. Firstly, though, I’d wandered aimlessly through my days in a haze as dark as the smoke that had filled our house on that terrible night. There was a numbness to my existence with the occasional awakening to grief and guilt. Ellen was a gentle woman, kind and funny, smart and serious when seriousness was needed. She was appreciated for her work, loved by many, admired by more than just my father and, ultimately, fallible. It had been eighteen months after her death that I met Douglas. The year was 1980 and I was twenty-eight. My friends had dragged me out in some odd celebration after the successful court case, but I couldn’t feel any sort of victory over the man who had started the fire. How could I possibly? Douglas had been drinking with a few of his own friends and as the pub filled and we had to start sharing tables, I found myself talking to him. To this day I can’t remember what was said – I don’t recall much about that time at all – but I must have thought him nice and friendly, because I married him and had his children. I wouldn’t have guessed that a man who would see me through that terrible time with care and compassion would be able to discard me so easily over forty years later. 

I felt a determination settle over me. I would find the painting or certainly find out if Leonard was responsible; then Dorothy could move on with her life.

~~~

With a solid mystery, this story is catchy, fun, and somewhat of a page-turner. While at the same time, it is completely character-driven, even though readers may not get to know much about the entire cast. The three or four that are upfront and center necessarily drive the book forward... 

First we have the two female main characters. They are truly characters for whom you will quickly develop a caring concern for both of them. We first meet Gina who was jilted with a short letter when she and her husband were both in their seventies. Needless to say she was shocked, but soon began to deal with the fact that if she were going to be alone, she needed to work to survive. Reading the want ads, she noticed that there were many who were looking for carers or companions. Gina had been caring for three for many years, so applied for one that was listed for only one week with a possible longer time period. She was to be a companion of a woman in her late 80s who would be needing help to attend a week-long guest vacation which would end with one of her relatives getting married.

Dorothy knew nothing about that ad and was quite adamant that she didn't need a companion! However, after scaring the first applicant who quickly left, she was resigned to continuing and was somewhat kinder to Gina since she was an older woman. And, when she learned of her background, she immediately started asking for details... And she was hired...

It was only as they met and talked more, that Gina was to learn exactly what her job would be... And then learned even more that caused her concern, when the driver was quite open about the owner of the place:

‘He’s rich and arrogant according to my wife’s sister, Violet, who cleaned there for a short time a few years back. I’ll bet no more arrogant than any other rich man, though. The house is something else, very grand, but Vi said she wasn’t sorry to lose her job, as she was always terrified of breaking one of his precious art pieces. I’ve never been in there myself. ‘He’s done a little for the village: new planting for the green, a project with a local children’s charity for a fun run around his estate, that sort of stuff. He’s not married and hasn’t got any kids of his own, though. There’s not many that know him well.’ He sounded eccentric, like a nice, kindly old man, but then as uncle to the bride, he couldn’t be that old, I thought. I relaxed a bit then. A week at a country estate in Norfolk for the wedding of Dorothy’s grandson didn’t seem like much of a challenge. A house full of art – I won’t pretend that didn’t interest me. Dorothy Reed herself, who seemed like a person I could get along with. Of course I was to be paid for my services too, which was a huge motivator in this set-up. I settled back in my seat and tried to tell myself not to expect too much, but the truth was, with my life in a state of limbo, I was actually expecting quite a lot.

~~~

Arriving at the country mansion, Gina was at once overwhelmed with the house... But, with her past background, she began to be confused. There was no theme to how very extravagant pieces of art were displayed, often with others of much lesser value. As she was led to her room, she noticed a small vase on a windowsill that sat in the corner, rather than, as she thought it should, centering it for display. She even relocated it, but soon saw it back where it had once been... She began to wonder just who the owner of this home was...

And Dorothy's discussion on what she wanted was no real help... You see, she believed that the owner of the house had sent somebody to steal a painting from her home. They had been scheduled to be out of town but had a late change. Dorothy and her husband was in bed when they heard the thief. Her husband ran downstairs and after the intruder and fell that night and died. Dorothy explained how and why she knew who had been behind the theft. She wanted Gina to find that stolen painting, so that he could be indicted for murder!

Instead, what started to happen, during a planned week-long event where the owner, who was uncle of the bride, essentially took charge of everything, serving lavish meals, for which he had a theme, a costume, even if nobody else did, and a way to make him the center of attraction rather than the bride/groom couple. Even at the planned breakfast, he had insisted he be at the head table contrary to the parents' wishes... The bride had agreed...

During all these events, Gina was excusing herself and spent time within the home to try to find the stole picture. The owner was suspicious of her but he had little ability to actually stop her... And she learned that several of the local staff were willing to respond truthfully to specific questions even to the point of condemning their own actions that had taken place and afterward used to blackmail their willing subservience...

Until the wedding was actually underway! And the painting had not been found... Dorothy was beginning to feel as if all of this was a waste of time and she was extremely feeling guilty for putting Gina through what she had asked. She sat thinking that her paycheck must reflect all that she had been forced to do, even in the end willing to help Dorothy. But the wedding was so very beautiful and the after period was a success. Dorothy brightened when the bride, Caroline, came to her and held her tightly thanking her for being there with her and her loved ones...

I enjoyed every single minute of it. Especially when a young teenager who was bored being there among all the family, with little to do. But readers discover that she has been creating her own entertainment... And she had recordings... Because after the bride and groom had left, it was discovered that the owner had disappeared...

Do check this journey to A country estate over in England, where we find a little village with workers and a small church where the wedding is to be held... But be careful, the first event in finding your way to lunch is through a maze... Enjoy!

GABixlerReviews

Rita Mae Brown Even Writes Political Novel: Feline Fatale: A Mrs. Murphy Mystery! A Fun Read! Or, Maybe Not...

 

An overview of the new characters...

Amanda Fields is a first-term Republican delegate to the Virginia statehouse, the House of Delegates. She is a smashing-looking former TV reporter in middle age. Bright, self-possessed, she usually knows how our political system really works. Aidan Harkness—Facile, in his late thirties, a rising star among the Democrats. Reasonably intelligent, good at avoiding the tough issues, he goes head-to-head with Amanda. He struggles to contain his emotions. Lucas Dennison is Amanda’s right-hand man, a dear friend from William and Mary days. He wears many hats: secretary, campaign planner, willing ear. He loves her deeply but is not in love with her. Ellis Barfield shoots Assembly meetings, which are streamed in real time. He makes a good living creating alluring videos for small businesses and individuals. The state job is steady money. He pays attention to what goes on on the floor and is good at capturing events and personalities. Reid Ryder is a fourteen-year-old page; like all of them, he is enraptured by state politics. He has been handpicked to be a page, which means he is an outstanding student.

~~~

And, oh yes,

Here's a clue to solve the mystery...

Ok, I was surprised when even Mrs. Murphy got into politics in Rita May Brown's latest in series, Feline Fatale...If you're feeling frustrated about politics lately, this may not be the book from Brown you should start with. On the other hand, seeing what happens, because I know you'll get a laugh out of the book, it may be able to break your frustration. Because Brown brings in an interesting bit of history in order to actually solve this political mystery...

If you have never read this series, you should know quickly that there are many more animal characters besides Mrs. Murphy. And that there are two women who are happily married and most times involved with the mysteries... "Harry" Haristeen is the amateur detective, while Susan Tucker has been Harry's friend since grade school and considers their love--as sisters.

In this story, Harry is supporting Susan as she, in turn, supports her husband. Ned is the politician--the district’s delegate to the General Assembly’s House of Delegates, the lower house. And if you don't know what that means, neither do I, so I can guarantee it isn't important to know for the book... LOL

What we do know is that there is something funny going on... And Ned who shares his concern with Susan who starts talking to Harry... Get the idea? Most of the time what Harry knows then Susan knows... But, when it comes to politics, does anybody really know anything??? 

So, what we do know is that Amanda is a first-term republican delegate... And in the Virginia Assembly, she has made quite an impression in the state house. Because, you see, she wears...well, I'm just going to share that quite extraordinary scene (or is it really extraordinary these days?)

Mr. Speaker, may I propose we form a committee to study hiring individuals to clear our roads, be it a terrific monsoon or a blizzard?” Amanda called out, “That’s a dodge. We don’t need a committee. We need numbers and a sense of weather cycles. That isn’t that difficult to find, despite what you and Delegate Harkness say. 

You Democrats, all you want to do is throw around money. We Republicans are far stronger than you are in rural counties. You’re just trying to buy them off.” “That’s bullshit.” Aidan forgot himself. The Speaker banged the gavel as poor Ned wiped his brow. Susan leaned to Harry. “Ned will hold it together, but look how red his cheeks are. This isn’t going to plan.” 

“How dare you swear in this chamber, which has seen far better public servants than you, you lowlife,” Amanda said. “Bitch.” He totally lost it. So did she. She flew out of her seat, ran over to him, and slapped his face. Then she slipped off one of her frightfully expensive shoes and beat him around the head with it. The page, Ryder, tried to stop the enraged woman, but couldn’t. Finally two capitol guards came in and pulled her off. She stopped immediately, flashing a radiant TV smile, then walked to her seat. “This chamber is in recess.” The Speaker banged the gavel, stood up, and left the podium. He was seething and needed to get to his small room in the back behind the podium to get under control. 

Meanwhile, the streaming service people were beside themselves with joy. Ellis Barfield, head videographer, slapped hands with two assistants. This would be watched by jillions. Amanda took a deep breath, stood up, and looked composed as she turned toward the cameras. She could easily handle millions, even jillions. Ned, on the other hand, put his arm through Aidan’s and forcefully led him up the aisle. “I’ll kill that bitch.” Aidan spoke too loudly. “If you give her enough time, she’ll dig her grave with her teeth. Now calm down. You know you are both going to be censured. That won’t help us and it isn’t going to help the party.” 

As Amanda walked out, the Majority Leader, who was from her party, fell in with her. “Amanda, that is going to cost us.” “I make you a promise, it will work for us. Trust me, Mr. Kilgore, I know the media.” He did not want to argue with her in front of people, but the Majority Leader was a strong believer in decorum, tradition. “I’ll see you after everyone calms down.” “Mr. Kilgore, I know how proper you are. You are such a good majority leader but do remember that John Randolph tore into Congress in Washington urging his pack of foxhounds into the chamber while he ran on ahead to beat with his crop those he felt deserved it. I promise you, Sir, I was out of order but still not that bad.” She smiled that melting smile. He nodded, knowing he really had his hands full. 

Susan sat there, stunned, as did most of the people in the gallery. “Harry, we need to go to Ned but I don’t know what we will find.” “I give him credit for not losing his temper.” “I do, too.” Susan breathed a stream of air out of her nostrils, then stood up as Harry joined her. They had to get to the Pocahontas Building, where Ned’s office and everyone else’s were. The snow was really falling now. Harry pulled on her coat, which wasn’t easy given her shawl but she was glad to have both. They zipped and slipped into the building, snow sticking to their shoes. “Oh dear.” Susan saw the crowd outside her husband’s office. “Why don’t we wait here until they disperse?” “Actually, this may be one of those times when my husband could use my presence. And yours, too. Okay, sugar. Time to remember cotillion.” Harry moaned. “Oh God.” “We are about to be the quintessential Virginia ladies.” 

Susan took a deep breath. They reached the crowd. Susan beamed. “Bill, haven’t seen you in far too long. Harry, this is Bill Donovan. I think of him as king of the Shenandoah Valley.” This made him laugh and those who heard it. Delegate Donovan took Harry’s hand when she extended it, and a few pleasantries were exchanged. Susan walked in. People parted. Harry stuck with Bill. “I am so proud of you.” She kissed Ned on the cheek. As most of the people in there were Democratic delegates, with only one or two Republicans, smiles greeted her. Aidan, still fuming, also smiled at Susan, although it was more like a twitch. Susan took his arm. “Aidan, you said what the rest of us think.” Everyone laughed, including Ned. The mood shifted. Aidan breathed less heavily. The delegates started talking about issues in front of them, plus the possibility of a committee. Harry realized although she had known Susan all her life, she often forgot how smart, emotionally smart, her beloved friend truly was. —

~~~

Now here's the part that bothered me... In this area, pages were young teens rather than older. When things got to be "chaotic," it wound up that one of those pages was affected. Drugs and "Moonshine" were involved... (Will our children ever be free from what happens to them due to "supposed" adults who are in it for money?)

We also heard from a friend of the affected page who had become close enough to date and she stated clearly that her friend was not involved in either drugs or drinking, nor would he be allowed to be a page if that was true...

So, the first mystery is what happened to that young page... The second mystery is what happened to Amanda's assistant that was so awful that he wound up living in a guest house and taken care of by Susan and Ned... while Amanda and a professional photographer wound up in jail...

This mystery was so easy for me to solve that I decided not to divulge much of the story...just enough to get you interested... If you are, then I think you will enjoy just how stupid it can get within state politics. If you aren't, then you've probably picked up on just how much crap is fought over between parties... 

But, the methodology used was interesting to unfold... You decide! By the way, I've been a fan of this series for years... Find the author in my right column to discover quite a few mysteries that I highly recommended!

GABixlerReviews

Dead to Rights - First in New Mackenzie Owens Mystery Series - by Jasmine Webb - A 2024 Personal Favorite For Me!

Apparently, my mouth speaks before my brain has the time to decide whether or not that’s a good idea.”

“It’s only people who are too scared to tell the truth who worry about that sort of thing,” Maggie replied. 

“That’s how I’ve always seen it too,” I said with a small smile. “As far as grandchildren go, I suppose you could be worse.”

I loved this Book! It has all of my favorite things - Book series, a book shop, kitten, cozy mystery and a family simpatico friend with a major age difference... Reminded me of my Great-Niece and myself... (pic is at her wedding)

Maggie looked like she’d just walked out of a Vanilla Ice music video, if Vanilla Ice’s target market had been septuagenarian white people who lived in cozy tourist hamlets on the British seaside. Her slacks had been replaced by jeans that were so oversized they surely must have belonged to Carl, because there was no way she’d have owned them herself. She’d made a belt for them out of a piece of rope that had probably been used to hold up a set of blinds in the past. On top, she had on a soccer jersey, a weird purple-and-green one with ‘AIA’ written in white letters across the front. Over that was a massive gold chain, and on her head was a pair of oversized Ray Bans. She’d finished off the outfit with a baseball cap flipped backward. “Everything,” I replied. “Everything is wrong with that. No one is going to sell drugs to you. You could not possibly look more like an undercover cop right now.” “I don’t look like a cop, I look cool,” Maggie snapped at me. “I’ve got it all: the oversized clothes, the football shirt, the gold chain. I look like someone who would buy drugs.”

“You didn’t know about me at all?” I asked quietly. Maggie had implied as much yesterday, but I wanted to be sure. “No. He never mentioned you. It wasn’t until after his death that Alfred told me about you. Carl didn’t want me to know, he said. But you seem to have done all right for yourself despite the lack of a father figure.” “My mom worked hard to provide for me as a single parent. Although most people would disagree with you. I was always getting in trouble at school. Apparently, my mouth speaks before my brain has the time to decide whether or not that’s a good idea.” “It’s only people who are too scared to tell the truth who worry about that sort of thing,” Maggie replied. “That’s how I’ve always seen it too,” I said with a small smile. “As far as grandchildren go, I suppose you could be worse.” 

“Do you have any others? Grandchildren, I mean.” “No. Carl was my only child, and you’re the only one he had. As far as I know, anyway. But I assume he would have named any others in the will too.” “Have you lived here your whole life?” “Most of it, yes. I moved here with my first husband at nineteen after growing up in Truro.” “What happened to him?” “He died. Christmas Day, 1972. I couldn’t have asked for a better present from Santa.” “Well, this got dark fast. Did you kill him too? There seems to be a pattern here. Am I going to end up on a true-crime podcast?” “He slipped on a patch of ice and hit his head when he insisted on going out. His whole family can attest to the fact that I was in the living room after having told him it was too dangerous and that he really didn’t need to bet on the horses on Boxing Day. But James insisted, and the universe had different plans for him.” “Was he Carl’s father?” “No. That was my second husband, Tim. I married him in 1974. I already lived here. Carl was born the year after that. He died when Carl was one.” “How?” “He was too into coffee.” Maggie obviously didn’t want to talk about it. Maggie grunted, and I cracked a smile at her moxie. “Too bad for you. 

Can’t divorce your grandkids. By the way, tea sucks.” “That’s your American upbringing. Never learned to enjoy a proper cuppa. Very disappointing. I’m not sure we’ll be able to live together if you don’t like tea.” “If that’s a deal-breaker for you, you’d never make it these days. I once had a roommate who secretly decided to breed snakes in her room as a side hustle and didn’t tell any of us. She got drunk one night, opened the terrariums to feed them, and passed out without closing them properly. You can guess how that ended.” “Did you evict her?” “No, because she paid the rent on time, and as far as roommates go, that’s far from the worst story you’ll ever hear.” “Well, I’ve never had a roommate. I lived with my parents until I married James. Then, after his death, I lived alone in the house we owned until I married Tim. We worked hard to buy property.” “Yeah, I could have worked hard and saved too, when homes cost six dollars.” “Oh, please. It was a little bit more difficult than that.” “Your first down payment probably couldn’t buy a footlong at Subway anymore. Believe me, if homes still cost the same as they did back then, I’d have one. It sounds better than finding out about your roommate’s snakes at three in the morning.” “I imagine it would.” 

The two of us stood across from each other in frosty silence. This felt a bit like the end of the Cold War. We weren’t actively trying to kill each other anymore, but there was very little trust there. “What are your thoughts about the bookshop?” I asked. “I haven’t got any. Thought it was a waste of time. A vanity project. Carl wasn’t making any money from it. He pretended otherwise, but I know the truth. It’s not a real business. You ask me, you should have stayed in America, where you had a job that you say you did well. Although if you were willing to drop it to come here and run a bookshop, I’m not sure how much sense you really could have.” “If the universe drops a bookstore into your lap in the most beautiful part of England and says ‘Here, this is yours now to do with what you want, oh, and you also get a house with it,’ there isn’t a millennial on this planet who would say no to that. I’m literally living the dream that has existed in a whole bunch of memes.” “What is a meme?” 

“Do you not use the internet at all?” “Of course I do. I’m old, not a Luddite.” “Then how do you not know what a meme is?” “I choose not to partake in social media, as I find it to be a vain expression of self-gratification that serves no use to anybody.” “Well, you’re not entirely wrong. But so you’re not sitting there on Facebook adding a new status that just says ‘how to download PDF to computer’?” “I am not, and I’m offended you asked. I know how to use the internet.” “Questionable, since you don’t know what a meme is.” “I’ve told you, I’m not interested.” “I’m not interested in tea, but I can still tell you’re drinking Earl Grey. Just because you’re not interested in something or are ignorant about it doesn’t make it unimportant.” 

“Touché,” Maggie replied. “Anyway, a meme is a usually funny photo that works its way around the internet, often with small changes to make the meme fit the topic. And a lot have to do with having the opportunity to change your life by going somewhere romantic in a way that’s completely unrealistic. Like getting left a bookstore in Cornwall, along with a house. That doesn’t happen to people in real life. Most of the time. So when the universe dropped it into my lap, I figured I had to do it. When else will I ever get the opportunity to do something like this? Never. There will always be other marketing jobs. But this? No, this is once in a lifetime. 

The memes just never mentioned sharing with a psychopathic grandmother you didn’t know you had.” “Please. I’m not a psychopath.” “You don’t drink coffee. Oh, and you already tried to kill me once.” “Tea is far superior.” “So you’re not going to be involved in the bookstore at all?” “No. If it were up to me and you weren’t around, I’d be closing it down permanently.” “What’s wrong with it?” “Everything. No one reads books anymore, and those that do are doing so on those newfangled e-readers or their phones.” “I don’t think that’s true. Sure, reading electronically is on the rise, but there are lots of people who still enjoy the smell of a fresh paperback. The sound of flipping through the pages of a new purchase. The slightly grainy feel of the paper beneath their fingertips.” 

“Well, even if you’re right, the problem Carl had was he thought he was in Central London. Honestly, you’ve never seen a more boring selection of books in your life. It was as though he simply went through the Sunday Times every week and ordered every book that’s on the bestsellers list without bothering to look at any others. Bestsellers only.” I nodded. “There’s no way that would work here. This is a small village, a cozy town, that requires a more curated touch.” “Precisely right.” “Where did the money come from for Carl to start his business? And why did he do it?” “He trained in finance and worked in the City in London. He moved back here to be with his childhood friends. He told me he grew tired of the fast-paced life in the City and wanted to come homes. Put all of his money into the bookshop, thinking it would be a hit. It wasn’t.” “It was losing money?” “I assume you know virtually nothing about my son’s finances?” “No. Only that I own half of this house and bookstore.” “There was almost nothing else. If he hadn’t died, I expect this next year would have been his last in business. He’d have found himself with no other choice but to close up shop and to move back to London. 

It’s why I think you should give up before you start, frankly. The store is a money pit. Save yourself what little you have left. It might be nice to dream of a romantic life on the internet, but reality is quite a bit different.” I shrugged. “It’s not like I have anything else to do. I might as well give it a shot. I didn’t see much of the village yesterday, but I get the impression marketing specialists with a degree in graphic design aren’t in very high demand around here.” “No, you aren’t wrong. All the same, there are better ways to spend your time than to essentially light what little money you have on fire.” “I could always spend it all on avocado toast instead,” I replied. Maggie cracked a smile. “As far as I’m concerned, it’s all yours. But don’t get your hopes up. Do you know where the shop is located?” “I’m told its right in the center of town.” “Exactly. I haven’t been there since he passed, but you would have been sent a key. It’s yours to do with as you wish.”

~~~

Through a series of secrets, mistakes, and, ultimate revelation, our main characters--Mack and Maggie met one day. It was a happy day for both of them, since they both thought they had just received an inheritance. Maggie had lost her son recently, while Mackenzie (Mack) had learned that her father, with whom she had never had a relationship, had died and left her his estate...

Mack had just been fired, due to nepotism, but was thrilled to learn that she had just been awarded her dream... A Bookstore! So she had quickly made all arrangements to leave America! She would be traveling to Cornwall... She was excited about the beauty of her new environment, and quickly found her new home, opened the front door with the key she had been sent by the law office and was thrilled to be walking into her new home...

Only to be immediately threatened by somebody who was seriously making an effort to murder her! Long story short, Mack and Maggie was to inherit half of Carl, Maggie's sons, inheritance. The law office had made the mistake, which they immediately made light of... After all, they were relatives and surely could easily share the house and bookstore! NOT! At least that was the immediate reaction from both of the women. Maggie had the even bigger shock since she had never known she had a granddaughter. Mack had never known of any relatives so she was simply happy to have an unexpected gift at the best time...

Actually, Mack and Maggie soon knew that it would be a necessity, both had sold their previous homes. They would have to accept the confusion and try to make the best of it... But, let's face it, Maggie had been prepared to attack, perhaps murder Mack... And so it was quite easy for her to continue to blame Maggie. Maggie more or less just said, "live with it." So they did...

At least until Mack had gone to the bookstore to see what needed to be done to get it up and running. Only to find a man, dead on the floor, with a knife sticking out of him. She did check to be sure he was gone, and then called Maggie: 

I pulled out my phone and called Maggie. I didn’t know what else to do. “Don’t tell me you’ve got lost in a two-street village,” she answered. “Don’t tell me you’re the one who left a body in your son’s bookshop,” I replied.

The next time she went into the Shop was after the police had released it and she was beginning to clean and paint... Suddenly there was a loud noise. Mack immediately stopped, telling herself that she refused to consider that the stop was also haunted--already!

Instead... she found a kitten which had fallen from the furnace piping...

Soon she was purring and kneading biscuits on my thighs.

 

Mack looked around and could not find either the mother cat or other kittens... Suddenly she was being told that a cat or kitten would just appear whenever one was needed... but Mack wasn't sure that Maggie

would be interested in yet another member of the family, but that worry was soon put to rest as Slightly Burnt Toast (Toast for short) was soon chowing down and letting both of them know where she found the most

comfortable to sleep... and I might as well finish that subplot, that Toast's pawprints were soon enshrined on the Bookstore floor, and she was there looking out the windows on the day the shop was to reopen then jumped up on the table in the front window where dozens of new books were displayed, and quietly went to sleep until the first customer came through the door!

Ok, with a cozy, you have probably already guessed that Mack and Maggie were going to be the amateur investigators... and they proved to be very good at it. At least until Mack was attacked while taking a brief hike, while waiting for an appointment, and wound up being pushed into the water and fighting to stop from drowning! Everybody accepted that it was probably the killer who had tried to stop the investigation. But that didn't help in identifying just who it could be!

For me, I had no chance to solve the mystery when it turned out that Mack had discovered a book, but it was in code...Could Maggie figure it out, since she was a local? Soon the two were going all over the surrounding area, talking to anybody and everybody. And, actually, making a number of new friends who were excited by all the new events occurring in their slow, sleepy town... And, suddenly Mack knew who it was... The giant twist that had her looking for books was a fun and fascinating way to identify the guilty one. I "thought" I knew...and was wrong!

Yep, I love a book which keeps be guessing up until the reveal... And, as soon as I finished it, I downloaded the next in series! So, be on the lookout when you see Toast pop up next at Book Readers Heaven... I have to tell you an interesting truth about this book. I had read several important books straight in a row, and was feeling depressed... It only took the first scene of this book that had me laughing and happy... That's what this book will bring you! So if you are just tired of your reality--whatever that may be--I'm willing to say that if you are a cozy lover, this is a must-read to make you laugh and enjoy page after page after page!

GABixlerReviews

Chase's Return: The Clear Creek Series Presented by T. E. Killian

When I need a break from everything, I turn to a cozy mystery, preferably with a cat character... And I found just what I needed with Chase's Return by  T. E. Killian, with a wonderful cat named Garfield!

She’d thought she had loved Bobby, and she’d thought he’d loved her too. But boy was she ever wrong. At least she’d been wrong about Bobby. He couldn’t have loved her, not after the way he’d put off starting a family and then finally how he’d literally run off with another woman. She had to be honest, though. She had loved Bobby. So how could she know if hr love for Chase was strong enough? The words to a song were trying to invade her mind just then. It was an old song, and she was pretty sure that Frank Sinatra had sung it. What was it? She searched her mind and came up with part of the lyrics. ‘Love is lovelier, the second time around.’ That was it. Then she remembered that the title was ‘The Second Time Around.’ After some more thinking, she remembered a little more. ‘With your feet firmly planted on the ground.’ She laughed so loud that Garfield, who was taking a nap on her bed, raised his head to give her one of his looks. Well, she knew she didn’t have her feet firmly planted on the ground this time, either. But she was thinking that this time her love might just be enough to keep the man. Or was it just that Chase was a totally different kind of man than Bobby had been? She hoped and prayed that was the case. 

She started getting ready for her date then. She wanted to look nice for Chase, but couldn’t decide what she should wear. She finally settled on one of her favorites, a dark blue summer dress she knew highlighted her long blond hair perfectly. So, what if it was February? Her coat would keep her warm on the way and the restaurant would be warm once they made it there. She had barely finished and was leaving the bedroom to wait in the living room when the doorbell rang. Once she opened the door, she couldn’t help but notice the look that Chase gave her. That appreciative look made her feel special, even cherished. They both just stood there, staring at each other. He was wearing a dark green long sleeve sweater with tan corduroy slacks. He didn’t look so bad himself. 

Finally, he asked to come in, saying he had something Hunter wanted him to ask her. But as he was going through the open door, he stopped to look at the door facing. His whole body seemed to tense up. “Let’s go sit down for a minute. I have to call Hunter right away.” They both sat on the sofa as he made the call. Tiffany couldn’t tell anything from what Chase said to Hunter on the phone. All she knew was that he was somewhat agitated, and that Hunter was coming right over. 

When he disconnected the phone, Chase looked into her eyes. “As soon as Hunter gets over here, he’ll explain everything to you. Okay?” She only had time to nod her head before Garfield came flying through the air and landed on the sofa cushion between her and Chase. She had totally forgotten about the big cat. She wrapped her arms around his neck just to make sure he didn’t attack Chase. But no, she was almost shocked when all Garfield did was to sit there rather calmly, for him at least, and stare at Chase. She had to smile at the expression on Chase’s face as he stared back at the huge cat. After a long moment like that, Garfield made a strange sound between a growl and a hiccup, curled up on the cushion between them, and purred loudly immediately. In fact, Chase had to move a little to give the ornery cat room to do so. Even so, Garfield seemed to be keeping one eye on Chase. They just made nervous small talk until they heard a car pull up out front. Chase went to the door to let Hunter in. Tiffany wasn’t surprised to see that Frank Slaughter came in behind Hunter. But she was surprised when she realized that Denise Boone wasn’t with them. Frank saw her surprise. “Denise had to go back to Jeff City tonight on some personal business, but she’ll be back in the morning.” 

Chase showed the other two men the door facing that for some reason had caught his eye earlier. After they all examined it, Frank came over to where she sat. “Tiffany, did you know someone has broken into your apartment recently?” She was really shocked then. Her face had to have lost all color. Her apartment? No! “Are you sure?” 

“Yes, I’m afraid so, and I’d say it was done within the last week or so. Have you noticed anything missing or disrupted in any way?” She was shaking her head before he even finished. But then she remembered something. “Oh dear! Yes, come to think of it. When I came home Saturday night, I went into the kitchen to get a drink of water and my knife drawer was halfway open. And I’m sure I didn’t leave it that way.” 

Frank jumped back up out of the chair he’d just sat in. “Would you show me that drawer right now, please?”

~~~

I found this book at Author's Den where I am once again reviewing books for their members... At some point a mention was made of an earlier book, and I knew right away I wanted to read the series--3 book series now in place on my Kindle... This is a book where the characters often pray for each other... Nothing deep or religious in the story--just friends and family caring for each other and acting in faith to support their neighbors... Jesus was indeed welcome in Clear Creek Baptist...

The two main characters are the principal and English teacher, respectively. Chase lost his wife to cancer two years ago, while Tiffany Cameron was divorced, having been devastated when her husband ran off with another teacher... Needless to say that neither had been interested in looking for another mate... It took one hateful person to bring strong feelings from both of them where they began to worry and be concerned about the other. In the end, both realizing just how much they had started to care...

What a lovely romantic story... What horrible villains...

Tiffany was short... That wasn't the problem, however, it was the fact that several larger children were bullies and had chosen Tiffany as one they could easily intimidate... Two women who had tortured Tiffany throughout her school years was now also teachers at the same school... One of them had also recently filed a complaint against Chase, in his role as principal. It was later when she even added that Chase had touched her inappropriately.

Chase had an excellent reputation with most of the town, so that, when she filed the additional charges, Hunter, the local police officer arranged to make the arrest, but he'd also contacted the judge for being freed on his own recognizance. At the same time, Tiffany had her own problem of dealing with her mother having been diagnosed with cancer. Both of these issues began the closer connection between the two as they, separately, tried to deal with their own life situations.

And then, one night, when Tiffany decided to go and visit with her parents, she was rammed by someone driving an old truck. Tiffany was forced off the road and taken to the hospital for a checkup, having a large bump on her head... It was later that the driver of that truck was discovered, murdered... And because of who it was Tiffany had become a prime suspect! But, so was Chase--the woman murdered was the same one who had filed a complaint against the principal!

This is such a heartwarming story. Both Chase and Tiffany were insecure in their respective lives. Chase's wife had died of cancer two years ago, while Tiffany had been jilted by her husband when had had left town with another woman... But they differed in one major way. 

Chase had stopped attending church; he felt that God had not helped when his wife had cancer and died, leaving him and two sons... Tiffany stood firm in her faith, even while her husband deserted her...

And, with the help and support of friends and families on both sides, they moved quickly when they realized just how much they cared for each other... The wedding was set for a month away! But, of course, they'd known each other for ten years... getting to know each other professionally and to some extent personally as situations brought them together.

But would one of them be charged with murder? Soon outside police were called in since the local officers were close to the possible suspects. And they were quite demanding in following the trail to the truth...

Personal events kept occurring for the happy company, as they moved closer together... Until suddenly, there was another murder! And it seemed certain that Tiffany was the next target!

But Garfield Was There to Protect Her!

Cozy and Cat fans are bound to consider this a must-read! It's a cat-as-tro-phe if you miss it! LOL

GABixlerReviews

The Hayloft: A 1950s Mystery (and Music!) by Alan Cook - Young Adult On... Another Personal Favorite!

I have great faith in the people of the United States

to do the right thing in the long run.”

“I hope you’re right.”

“It’s what keeps me going.”

Apparently Ralph stayed behind and was there all alone.” None of this made any sense. “Does Dad know?” I asked. “I just called him,” Mother said. “He’s on his way home.” My father was the brother of Aunt Dorothy and the uncle of Ralph. I asked more questions, but my mother had given me all the information she had. If it were anybody else, I might have almost believed it—but Ralph. Ralph was indestructible. He climbed the highest trees, dove off the biggest rocks. We were the same age, but he did everything a little bit better than I did—and a lot more flamboyantly.

I heard our car pull into the driveway and turned off the radio. I was tired of hearing about communist-hunting by the House Un-American Activities Committee, anyway. And tired of listening to pop songs that had lost their music and meaning since Ralph died.

(My song selection based upon words; all others in book)

I admit, when I saw the 1950s mystery designation, I immediately bought it--for less than a dollar I surely got my money's worth...and more! By now you all know that I love books with music as part of the background story...So prepare to spend time with me as you read this review...

The book opens as Gary is isolated with measles and his family are coming back from the funeral for his first cousin, Ralph. Gary is confronted with his not being able to be there, but also with the confusion as to how he could possibly have died the way that he did. He fell off a balcony at his school... Gary didn't believe it and so, this quickly turned into somewhat of a cozy mystery as Gary was determined to find out exactly what happened--he wondered who else had been with Ralph that night and whether he was pushed!

A jukebox in the corner blasted out the Bill Haley and the Comets version of “Rock Around the Clock.” Rock and roll was still new, and some adults saw it as the latest form of teenage depravity. There had been a jukebox in the Atherton cafeteria that took nickels. Sylvia told me this one was free. Ralph had listened to this jukebox...

Gary's home room was in the cafeteria so music was playing quite often and some of the girls even did the Charleston. He laughed wondering how they'd learned those steps!

Gary met Sylvia on his first day at Carter. She was the class president and assigned to show him around the school. But before she came, Gary had been greeted by his new principal, Dr. Graves...

But Dr. Graves, first, spent time talking about Gary's being transferred to Carter, noting that it was at his discretion that he be accepted... And, he then mentioned that Sylvia would be coming in soon and that he needed Gary to work with him secretly. He noted that Sylvia's father had undergone a congressional investigation related to whether he was a communist... Dr. Graves wanted him to watch Sylvia and report back on anything that seemed suspicious...

Now that Ralph was gone, there was only one reason Gary was happy to be at Carter... He had fallen "in love" with the head cheerleader when they played at his old school... Even though she was, of course, dating the football hero here, he couldn't forget about her great beauty... But he got to know her through Sylvia while keeping one of those secrets... In the meantime, Gary began asking questions, and even risked going to a dance, alone, hoping to learn more...

I didn’t think anybody would hear me if I rang the doorbell, and the door was unlocked, so I walked in. The music instantly became much louder. I followed the sound to the living room where cigarette smoke curled lazily toward the ceiling. A fire in an old brick fireplace produced more smoke, most of which went up the chimney. Several couples were dancing on a hardwood floor, darkened with age, doing some version of the swing or dirty bop. The music was coming from a phonograph playing 45 RPM records. The girls who were dancing wore skirts with several crinolines underneath, which flashed when they spun. I saw a couple of poodle skirts. 

The boys, who outnumbered the girls, were dressed as their version of juvenile delinquents: blue jeans, T-shirts with rolled-up sleeves and a cigarette pack on one shoulder. A couple of them wore black leather jackets. Most wore their hair long. 

I immediately felt out of place with my short hair and neat clothes,especially because I didn’t recognize anybody. Then Willie materialized from someplace near the table that had been set up as a bar and grabbed me by the arm. He had a cigarette hanging out of the corner of his mouth and had obviously been drinking. He pulled me over to the table where I recognized his brother, Dennis, larger and stockier than Willie, but with the same hair. When Dennis spotted me in tow of his brother, I stuck out my hand and said, “Gary Blanchard.” He shook my hand and said, “You’re the new kid. Have a beer.” He pulled a bottle out of a tub filled with ice, opened it deftly, and handed it to me. I took a sip. It was cold and slid down easily. One beer wouldn’t impair my driving ability. Although there were a few older boys and girls there, including Dennis, who had probably flunked a grade or two, I was willing to bet that most of the partygoers were under eighteen. And that included me. There wasn’t a parent in sight. No adults—just booze and broads. It reminded me of a definition I had heard of the difference between a good girl and a nice girl. A good girl goes on a date, goes home, goes to bed. A nice girl goes on a date, goes to bed, goes home. Although the saying was mostly wishful thinking, as was most sex talk at the high school level, it was tempting, if perhaps unfair, to imagine which kind these girls were. 

I had briefly thought about asking Sylvia if she would like to come, thinking that she needed to get out, just as I did. Now I was glad I hadn’t. And what was I doing here? I obviously didn’t fit in. I wouldn’t stay long. Willie was probably the youngest one at the party, and he was sitting by himself. I went over and sat down beside him on a folding chair. “Nice party,” I said. He smiled at me, a little bleary-eyed. “I have a question for you,” I said. Might as well take the opportunity to try and get some information. I continued, speaking loud enough to be heard over the pounding beat of the music, “I…I’m interested in Ralph Harrison. You said there was something funny about the way he died.” Willie took a drag on his cigarette and said, “Did I say that?” Of course, he had been in a drunken stupor at the time, just as he was now. I tried a different tack. “You said he taught you to walk on your hands.” Willie’s face brightened. “Ya wanna see me walk on my hands?” “No thanks.” Even if he succeeded, I was afraid he’d leave a trail of destruction in his path. “You must have known Ralph very well. How did you meet him?” Since they were two years apart in school. “He was on the varsity baseball team when I went out for JV. We both played catcher.” “Who’s the coach?” “Mr. Jarvis.” One of the gym teachers. 

“Dr. Graves sometimes comes to our practices.” “Oh.” I recalled Dr. Graves had said he watched swimming classes too. “Yeah, he knows a lot about baseball. He used to play semi-pro. He would give us tips.” “It sounds like Dr. Graves takes an interest in sports.” “That and he has favorites among the guys. Ralph was one of them. I’m another.” “What, do you brown-nose him?” “Naw, don’t have to.” “So what does he do?” Willie stubbed out his cigarette in an ashtray sitting on an end table. He picked up a pack of Camels from the table, offered me one, which I refused, then took one for himself. He lit it with a lighter, also from the table. He inhaled deeply and blew smoke out through his nostrils. He looked at me and said, “Promise you won’t tell anyone?”

~~~ 

And then the unthinkable happened. Sylvia's father was fired from his job. He had admitted that he had once joined the Communist party, but once he realized what it was all about, he left. That didn't matter to anybody in the surrounding area of Carter. Both the father...and Sylvia...were ostracized!

Gary and Sylvia had become closer, as friends, and moving toward more... But all of a sudden both Dr. Graves, Gary's father...and the Communist Craze was coming between them. At first he would sit with her at lunch and had been driving her to school... Then that was forbidden...

And somewhere along the way, a family heirloom, a necklace, was discussed, which immediately led to the young teens of the family on treasure hunts... And they began in The Hayloft!

And then as school was nearing the last day, a special program was held on the estate of one of the students. Gary was putting his clues together, but was it too late for him to find the murder of his cousin because, suddenly, he was caught in a trap from which he may never be able to escape!

The climatic ending is exciting, nail-biting, and certainly unexpected! As Gary turns into a school hero as the final dance occurs... And, in appreciation of this writer's fantastic storytelling, I want to close with a scene I had highlighted early in the book...the writing drew me in for a short escape before tragedy started... song by one of the most famous singers of the time ... Nat King Cole...

On Saturday afternoon, Carter played Atherton in football. At Carter. I knew I should be rooting for Carter, but my heart was still with Atherton. However, I decided that I had better sit on the Carter side of the field, since I attended Carter High now. Besides, the visitors’ bleachers faced west, and the spectators had the afternoon sun in their eyes. I was sure the field had been designed that away on purpose.

It was unseasonably warm—shirtsleeve weather. Perhaps too early to be called Indian summer, since it was officially just barely autumn, but the leaves were starting to turn to their autumn colors. The reds and golds made it the most beautiful season of the year—except for winter when a blanket of white covered the ground. And spring, when new green life appeared. And summer, when yellow grain filled the fields scraped flat by an ancient glacier. It was the kind of day that made me almost forget about my problems and just be happy I was alive.

Until I saw some Atherton people I knew across the gridiron. That brought a pang in my heart that I had been trying to quell. I arrived just before the game started, by design. The Carter stands were pretty much filled. The Carter band played the school fight song in the middle of the field with more enthusiasm than skill. The band members stood in the shape of a large C. I walked along in front of the bleachers, looking for a friendly face. The first one I saw was Sylvia’s. I turned away, feeling like a traitor. The band stopped playing, and I heard my name called. It was Sylvia...

And it was with Sylvia that he now had his last school dance... 

I was glad when the dance was over, but for different reasons. I finally got to dance with Sylvia again, to the band’s version of “Autumn Leaves.” Appropriate.

GABixlerReviews

Diamonds In The Dumpster: A Silver Sisters Mystery Presented by Morgan St. James and Phyllice Bradner - Join The Fun!

“Stuff it. He’s got enough to do as it is.

Besides, don’t you know you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?”

“Hogwash. We’re old. 

We learn new tricks all the time.”

“Such a mensch, my son-in-law!” Flossie reached up and patted his cheek. “It was so sweet of you to do this for us. I read the cards this morning and they even indicated magic and mystery—reminded me of that old Beatles song Magical Mystery Tour.

Flossie plopped into her chair just as the orchestra began to play a John Phillip Sousa march and the lights dimmed. A stream of waiters carrying trays of Baked Alaska adorned with flashing sparklers marched around the dining room in step with the music. Their waist-length red jackets, worn over crisp white trousers, featured epaulets trimmed with gold braid. Their snazzy uniforms added to the spirit of a wonderful parade. Most of the other diners were excited, but Flossie was bummed. 

“I didn’t learn a darn thing. She couldn’t get rid of me fast enough.” “Well, Old Girl, I guess this show’s a wrap. Ali Kazaam won’t be zapping any more assistants with his electronic doodads, his murderer has been caught, and the elusive Jade will remain an enigma. It was an exciting cruise, though, with some mystery theater thrown in to keep us on our toes.” Flossie scooped a few morsels off her plate into a napkin and tucked them into her handbag. “I’ll bring these to Waldo. I think he deserves some extra treats for his part in sniffing out the bad guys.” “You can say that again. Waldo got quite a workout. I’m glad we left him in the cabin tonight. 

To think, Goldie thought this cruise would be relaxing. Hah!” Before they left the table, Red gave Flossie and Sterling hugs and told them how great it had been to have them on his ship. “Sorry about the murder, but I really didn’t have any control over that.” 

“Oy, it was a real shame that arrogant Sheik bit the dust, but it sure made things exciting for us.” Red shrugged. “That it did, but I could do without that kind of excitement. I might not see you in the morning because I’ll have my hands full with the passengers disembarking.” “Don’t worry about us, Red. Flossie and I will find our way off the ship with no problem.” “Just the same, I arranged for you to be in the first group of passengers to leave. Deke Hand, one of my crew members, will come to your cabins, help you with the whole process and hand you off to Godiva. I talked to her last night and she’ll be waiting at the dock. Take care of my favorite service dog, okay? I’ll miss old Waldo.”

~~~

What a Fun Story! I've been on several cruises, but never ones that resulted in my finding a dead body! And that's not even the whole story... He had been murdered! Ok, we knew that somewhere along the way there was going to be at least one murder, else it wouldn't be a mystery where amateur detectives actually solve the case! But... Most of the time, one of the detectives would not have verbally accosted the victim... Oy vey, what a mess!

So, let's begin at the beginning. Two retired magician act members--Sterling Silver and his sister-in-law, Flossie Silver, who was his assistant--but is also the proud mother of a set of twins--Godiva and Goldie--and Waldo the Wonder Dog. They now all of are living in small bungalows on the estate of Godiva who is a rich widow who arranges for the "oldsters" to go on a cruise. Goldie only comes for a visit from her primary home in Alaska, to help in this time of Distress, yes, with a capital D! 

Red Pepper, Goldie's husband, is Captain of a cruise ship, the Aurora Borealis... and after much discussion among the family, Red agreed to host Sterling and Flossie on a cruise when it would be hosting magicians from all over! And, with a little bit of truth-twisting, Waldo was to become Sterling's service dog because he was prone to "fits" and Waldo could tell when one was coming on and help...

Thing was, when Sterling actually had the "fit" for which he would be later jailed, Waldo did little, to help Sterling, because he was later very busy finding the body of Sheik Ali Kazaam... who was twisted between several deck chairs and discovered on an evening stroll during which Flossie pointed out that Sterling really shouldn't have made such a fuss after performance. The key point for Sterling was that the Sheik used electronic gizmos and the Sheik's former assistant had been electrocuted during their last rehearsal... Now, she had been replaced by another beautiful woman who could also be accidentally hurt because the Sheik had chosen these dangerous tools rather than learn the old, but safer vaudeville magic...

Even though Sterling was very upset, he, nonetheless, was personally attracted to the turban that the Sheik wore! And, when they found the Sheik and Flossie had gone for help, Sterling had picked up the turban between the deck chairs and stuffed it down deep into Flossie's large bag in which she always carried possible needs, including water, a sweater...and more... That would prove to be the worst mistake that Sterling had ever made, or at least...the latest! 

Of course, the investigation begins onboard; however, everybody there, including Red's family members were not only allowed to leave, but he had arranged for them to leave as part of the first group and would be met by Red's Wife, Flossie's daughter...

Actually, once they had left the ship is when the major work on the murder mystery begins... And it becomes quite complex, even if readers can begin to identify the villains. While the plot may be simple and fun, the complexity is found in the characters and how they play their roles... Flossie is certain, when she finds out that Sterling had stolen the turban, that it would lead to bad luck and began to read the cards to find out exactly what could happen. While the two daughters got together, comparing their clothes and personalities that were so different even as twins and then settled down to work.

Godiva was a newspaper columnist, called Ask G.O.D. for Advice and they had so many submissions, they picked the very "worst" to print:

Dear G.O.D., A few weeks ago I got sick and my husband said he would take care of the house. In a couple of days, when I felt better, I walked around and everything looked fine until I opened the dishwasher. I don’t know what he was thinking, but there in the top basket along with the glasses and cups were two toilet bowl brushes, a pair of old sneakers and the mud flaps from his pickup truck. Now I can’t bear to eat off my dishes. I’m using paper cups and plastic spoons. He says the hot water sanitizes everything and I’m just acting crazy, but I’m ready to throw the bum out with the dishwater. What should I do?

So readers will enjoy reading a number of letters from the many who seek advice... and I have to say, the responses are just as explosive as you will ever see in similar columns you might have read. I love this silly little addition to our reading pleasure. 

By the way, did I mention that the main characters, Sterling and Flossie are in their eighties?! And, it was very clear that Flossie had the deeper drive to solve what happened... Her persistence in chasing after those with whom she wanted to speak is intense and when it results in not having moved the case further, she quickly acknowledges she shoulda, coulda, woulda figured it out if only... Actually, though, I could be wrong, but I think this book will have a follow-up story... Otherwise, there's a lot of rare jewels that are floating somewhere around the world, only waiting for Sterling and Flossie to get back on the trail! And I'll be waiting to follow them wherever they travel... I'm hooked on this fantastic and endearing family who comes together for any crisis... Got to love them all!

“Hmmmph. Who’d ever thought you’d have a jade Buddha, a gaudy menorah, and a huge jewel-encrusted gold cross all in the same display? Either she’s got a sense of humor, or can’t make up her mind. Wanna go in?”

~

Flossie jumped in before her daughter could say anything, “I just don’t get it, with your sister’s looks and all her money you’d think she’d find the prince—not the frog. But, what does she do? She attracts another schlemiel.”

~~~

GABixlerReviews