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Camper & Criminals #24
Vistas, Vices, & Valentines (A Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery)
MP3 CD Format Welcome to Normal where nothing is normal!
Join Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies as they cha cha and twirl their way around Happy Trails Campground as they put on some sleuthing dance shoes to bring closure to this southern and fun cozy Valentine's mystery.
When I begged Hank Sharp to take dance lessons to celebrate Valentine's Day, I knew I was getting more than I had bargained for. But when a dancer's dead body shows up at the height of the competition and Hank is hired to investigate the murder, I had no idea what we were in store for when he had Dottie Swaggert and Henry Bryant go undercover as a dance competition couple to get insider information.
After a little snooping around, we discovered there were deep running feuds and passions behind those sequins and smiles that gave motive and opportunity to kill for the desires to win the most coveted dancing title.
Time is running out and we fear Dottie's life is in danger. Let's face it, she has a hard time keeping her mouth shut. And no one puts Dottie in the corner.
Join Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies as they cha cha and twirl their way around Happy Trails Campground as they put on some sleuthing dance shoes to bring closure to this southern and fun cozy Valentine's mystery.
When I begged Hank Sharp to take dance lessons to celebrate Valentine's Day, I knew I was getting more than I had bargained for. But when a dancer's dead body shows up at the height of the competition and Hank is hired to investigate the murder, I had no idea what we were in store for when he had Dottie Swaggert and Henry Bryant go undercover as a dance competition couple to get insider information.
After a little snooping around, we discovered there were deep running feuds and passions behind those sequins and smiles that gave motive and opportunity to kill for the desires to win the most coveted dancing title.
Time is running out and we fear Dottie's life is in danger. Let's face it, she has a hard time keeping her mouth shut. And no one puts Dottie in the corner.
1 pages, Audio CD
Published November 15, 2022
462 people are currently reading
1358 people want to read
About the author
Tonya Kappes
301 books3,649 followersBeloved cozy mystery author Tonya Kappes is bringing her charming world to the screen!
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Twitter
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
February 14, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Audiobook
Book #24 of the A Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery Series
This book is actually a three star read because I guessed the murderer almost immediately and it had more filler than actual story. I also understand the author wanting these to be standalone books, but by book #24 it’s getting very repetitive hearing about how and why Mae is the owner of the camp ground/RV Park. That could be something that’s mentioned in the book description instead of the story itself. So why did I rate it four stars? I love the characters. Dottie is the star of this series and deserves the extra star.
“I can meddle with the best of ’em.” -Dottie
Book #24 of the A Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery Series
This book is actually a three star read because I guessed the murderer almost immediately and it had more filler than actual story. I also understand the author wanting these to be standalone books, but by book #24 it’s getting very repetitive hearing about how and why Mae is the owner of the camp ground/RV Park. That could be something that’s mentioned in the book description instead of the story itself. So why did I rate it four stars? I love the characters. Dottie is the star of this series and deserves the extra star.
“I can meddle with the best of ’em.” -Dottie
January 22, 2023
Bookish Books Reading Challenge & #LibraryLoveChallenge
January 26, 2023
I enjoyed taking another great trip to Normal, KY to visit with Mae and the rest of the Laundry Club Ladies. During this visit we enjoy reading about the ladies and their gentlemen taking ballroom dance lessons. Then we get to enjoy a ballroom dance competition in which a couple of friends put on a great performance. Seriously this was a great escape from my day. I love the characters, it truly feel like I’m reading about my friends. The mystery was full of twists and turns, I never really suspected the culprit. This is a great cozy mystery full of humor and southern charm.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
January 21, 2022
Normal Kentucky will never be normal. Mae and the Laundry ladies never slow down. They always are right in the middle of something. SMH. Dancing is on the ticket this go round. I laughed so much about those lessons. Come on, the people that end up dancing in the competition is priceless. I was all in when someone else had to show up dead. Now I am just throwing out guesses as to who the killer was. I should know how to pick them out by now. The book kept me involved all the way to the end. I can't believe Mae has so much story to tell. Great book. Love everything.
January 27, 2022
When the International Dance Company holds their big dance competition in Normal, Kentucky, Mae gets a brilliant idea to offer free dance lessons to the guests at the campground for Valentine's Day. Two of the instructors, Corie & Ricky, who are in the competition are giving the lessons.
When Ricky turns up dead in a vehicle belonging to two guest campers inside Grassel's Garage on a lift, it leaves Corie without a partner in the competition. Corie hires Hank to investigate with Mae's help. Soon the Laundry Club ladies along with Henry, the campground handyman, find themselves undercover. Corie points out to a disgruntled Dottie and a bemused Henry, that they have chemistry. For the good of the investigation and a cash reward, Dottie agrees to be Henry's dance partner, and Mae will be their photographer while Hank is their new manager.
Mae putting her foot in her mouth causes hurt feelings between her, Abby, and Bobby Ray. Hank's granny in the hospital leaves Mae without an inside ally and two of the suspects on Mae's list aren't panning out has Mae contemplating who exactly put Ricky in that car?
This will keep you guessing right along with Mae to figure out who the culprit is! Also, you'll cringe at poor Abby being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Another wonderful addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy and I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
When Ricky turns up dead in a vehicle belonging to two guest campers inside Grassel's Garage on a lift, it leaves Corie without a partner in the competition. Corie hires Hank to investigate with Mae's help. Soon the Laundry Club ladies along with Henry, the campground handyman, find themselves undercover. Corie points out to a disgruntled Dottie and a bemused Henry, that they have chemistry. For the good of the investigation and a cash reward, Dottie agrees to be Henry's dance partner, and Mae will be their photographer while Hank is their new manager.
Mae putting her foot in her mouth causes hurt feelings between her, Abby, and Bobby Ray. Hank's granny in the hospital leaves Mae without an inside ally and two of the suspects on Mae's list aren't panning out has Mae contemplating who exactly put Ricky in that car?
This will keep you guessing right along with Mae to figure out who the culprit is! Also, you'll cringe at poor Abby being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Another wonderful addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy and I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
March 15, 2022
Disappointing
The storyline is confusing, partly because the premise is nonsensical, and partly due to poor editing. It honestly reads like the author lost track of (or interest in) her own story. Characters responding to unasked questions, sentences making no sense, missing and overused words... I'm surprised and disappointed because she can do better.
The storyline is confusing, partly because the premise is nonsensical, and partly due to poor editing. It honestly reads like the author lost track of (or interest in) her own story. Characters responding to unasked questions, sentences making no sense, missing and overused words... I'm surprised and disappointed because she can do better.
January 31, 2022
Vistas, Vices, & Valentines earns 5/5 Tango Tantrums…Exciting & Clever!
Residents and tourist alike are excited about the International Dance Company‘s big competition being held this year in their town, Normal, Kentucky. Mae West, owner of the Happy Trails Campground, thought it a fun idea to provide dance lessons for campground guests and locals by hiring contestants Corie Sadek and her partner Ricky as instructors. They may find the amateur nature of the class a trial, but campground guests Kirby and Felicity seem to be dealing with their own trials which challenges the magic the campground usually has on relationships. Kirby doesn’t really want to be here and the car he was suppose to get repaired needs more repairs. Mae’s foster brother Bobby Ray is conscripted to help, despite his new wife Abby’s accusation he’s a workaholic, but Kirby and he get into a serious dispute over what Kirby describes as “inflated” cost. But, nothing compares to the row between Kirby, who makes threats to stay away from his Felicity, and the very accommodating dancer Ricky, who snipes about Kirby’s inability to take care of Felicity. Explosive emotions. Fists flying. Abby collateral damage. Ricky found dead.
Tonya Kappes has kept her Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery series fresh and entertaining even after this twenty-fourth book, and with several references to background and connections and descriptions of the environment that I didn’t need, it means newbies can join right in. The lead-in to the crime takes a few chapters to acquaint readers with new characters, evolving problems, and a few physical interactions, but when revealed, the victim was a surprise. The investigation is filled with engaging twist, plenty of suspects to ponder, and since a closer look on the dance competitors is needed, an undercover operation that entangles an unlikely pair…Dottie and Henry! Beyond checking alibis and confronting suspects and a surprising conclusion, Kappes includes enjoyable side trips: dance classes, checking out a new trail, a trip to the hospital, newlywed problems, politics in the sheriff’s department, and lots of conversations with family and friends. Excellent treat!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Residents and tourist alike are excited about the International Dance Company‘s big competition being held this year in their town, Normal, Kentucky. Mae West, owner of the Happy Trails Campground, thought it a fun idea to provide dance lessons for campground guests and locals by hiring contestants Corie Sadek and her partner Ricky as instructors. They may find the amateur nature of the class a trial, but campground guests Kirby and Felicity seem to be dealing with their own trials which challenges the magic the campground usually has on relationships. Kirby doesn’t really want to be here and the car he was suppose to get repaired needs more repairs. Mae’s foster brother Bobby Ray is conscripted to help, despite his new wife Abby’s accusation he’s a workaholic, but Kirby and he get into a serious dispute over what Kirby describes as “inflated” cost. But, nothing compares to the row between Kirby, who makes threats to stay away from his Felicity, and the very accommodating dancer Ricky, who snipes about Kirby’s inability to take care of Felicity. Explosive emotions. Fists flying. Abby collateral damage. Ricky found dead.
Tonya Kappes has kept her Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery series fresh and entertaining even after this twenty-fourth book, and with several references to background and connections and descriptions of the environment that I didn’t need, it means newbies can join right in. The lead-in to the crime takes a few chapters to acquaint readers with new characters, evolving problems, and a few physical interactions, but when revealed, the victim was a surprise. The investigation is filled with engaging twist, plenty of suspects to ponder, and since a closer look on the dance competitors is needed, an undercover operation that entangles an unlikely pair…Dottie and Henry! Beyond checking alibis and confronting suspects and a surprising conclusion, Kappes includes enjoyable side trips: dance classes, checking out a new trail, a trip to the hospital, newlywed problems, politics in the sheriff’s department, and lots of conversations with family and friends. Excellent treat!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
January 25, 2022
“The forest was an amazing place to fall asleep and let dreams fall all over you.” Latest in the Campers and Criminals series, Tonya Kappes describes the Daniel Boone National Forest in delightfully whimsical, new ways. Mae West loves where she lives and finds joy in every season, holiday, and event. Each novel can be read as a standalone with sufficient backstory for the novice or returning reader. The characters are quirky, memorable, and very well depicted. Mae, Hank, and the laundry club ladies try to fit different scenarios to the clues, but whodunit and why is elusive until the very end.
Valentine’s Day is coming, and so is the dance that Mae and Dottie are planning for Happy Trails Campground. That same week, the International Dance Company is having a critical dance competition in Normal, also. Held at the event center at the Old Train Station Motel, the four-day competition will determine who will represent the United States in the Royal Dance competition that will be presented to the Queen of England and her family.
Mae hired Corie and Ricky from a nearby dance school to give dance lessons to guests from Happy Trails who are interested. Mae and her boyfriend Hank, Abby and her husband Bobby Ray, and the rest of the laundry club ladies are at an early morning lesson. Hank and Bobby Ray aren’t excited to be included in the classes, but this time it will serve them very well.
Felicity and Kirby are two of the guests taking dance lessons. They started arguing during the class. Later that evening, Felicity and Kirby, Bobby Ray and Abby, and Mae and Hank, are out to dinner. Ricky and Corie are there with others from the dance competition. Kirby and Bobby Ray disagree over the cost to repair Kirby’s car. Kirby then gets upset with Ricky, who asked Felicity to dance. Before they know it, Bobby Ray, Ricky, and Kirby are escorted to the sheriff’s department. The next morning, Ricky is found dead, murdered, in Felicity and Kirby’s car, inside the garage where Bobby Ray is a mechanic.
Corie hired the PI firm Hank works for to investigate Ricky’s murder, not confident the sheriff’s department will get the job done before the end of the dance competition. After the antics of the day before, the sheriff has two suspects, each with a different motive. Kirby and Bobby Ray’s wives know that they are innocent, but they seem to have the only motives. Hank, Mae, and the Laundry Club Ladies will work together this time to find whodunit, with some of their group going undercover to get the job done. We get to see the oddest of all Odd Couples this time! What a hoot!
I love how fresh and surprising each cozy in this series is. The author gives such a great mystery with our favorite folks in Normal, Kentucky, that I look forward to their next adventure! I had briefly considered the real whodunit but couldn’t come up with an adequate motive. Mae, Dottie, and the ladies worked well together, as always, to learn what they could when “undercover” at the competition. There are many laughs along the way even as they uncover the real whodunit. I highly recommend this to those who love well-written Southern cozy mysteries with much laughter, love, and mystery.
From a thankful heart: I received an ARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
Valentine’s Day is coming, and so is the dance that Mae and Dottie are planning for Happy Trails Campground. That same week, the International Dance Company is having a critical dance competition in Normal, also. Held at the event center at the Old Train Station Motel, the four-day competition will determine who will represent the United States in the Royal Dance competition that will be presented to the Queen of England and her family.
Mae hired Corie and Ricky from a nearby dance school to give dance lessons to guests from Happy Trails who are interested. Mae and her boyfriend Hank, Abby and her husband Bobby Ray, and the rest of the laundry club ladies are at an early morning lesson. Hank and Bobby Ray aren’t excited to be included in the classes, but this time it will serve them very well.
Felicity and Kirby are two of the guests taking dance lessons. They started arguing during the class. Later that evening, Felicity and Kirby, Bobby Ray and Abby, and Mae and Hank, are out to dinner. Ricky and Corie are there with others from the dance competition. Kirby and Bobby Ray disagree over the cost to repair Kirby’s car. Kirby then gets upset with Ricky, who asked Felicity to dance. Before they know it, Bobby Ray, Ricky, and Kirby are escorted to the sheriff’s department. The next morning, Ricky is found dead, murdered, in Felicity and Kirby’s car, inside the garage where Bobby Ray is a mechanic.
Corie hired the PI firm Hank works for to investigate Ricky’s murder, not confident the sheriff’s department will get the job done before the end of the dance competition. After the antics of the day before, the sheriff has two suspects, each with a different motive. Kirby and Bobby Ray’s wives know that they are innocent, but they seem to have the only motives. Hank, Mae, and the Laundry Club Ladies will work together this time to find whodunit, with some of their group going undercover to get the job done. We get to see the oddest of all Odd Couples this time! What a hoot!
I love how fresh and surprising each cozy in this series is. The author gives such a great mystery with our favorite folks in Normal, Kentucky, that I look forward to their next adventure! I had briefly considered the real whodunit but couldn’t come up with an adequate motive. Mae, Dottie, and the ladies worked well together, as always, to learn what they could when “undercover” at the competition. There are many laughs along the way even as they uncover the real whodunit. I highly recommend this to those who love well-written Southern cozy mysteries with much laughter, love, and mystery.
From a thankful heart: I received an ARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
January 24, 2022
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, Mae has decided to offer free dance classes for her guests at the campground. Not only are the guests Kirby and Felicity included, she has Hank, Bobby Rae and Abby, as well as the rest of the group of the Laundry Club Ladies (LCL) involved in preparation for the big dance competition being held in Normal, Kentucky. Since Betts, Queenie, and Dottie don’t have dance partners, they were taking turns with each other. When one of the dance instructors, Ricky gives some suggestions to Kirby by taking Felicity for a spin, the two guests begin arguing among themselves and stomp off the dance floor, followed by Bobby Ray and Abby. As Henry Bryant shows up to take the campground guests back to their bungalow, he and Dottie get into it. Is something in the air other than love? Corie, the dance instructor sees “chemistry” between Henry and Dottie encouraging them to become partners. That just sets the dance ball rolling! Tempers continue to fly, creating doubt and suspicion between the couple, especially when the murder victim is found in Kirby’s car. The one Bobby Ray was working on.
Vista, Vices, & Valentines, is the 24th book in the Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery Series. Throughout this series, Tonya has developed her characters in a way that you begin to look upon them as family. There is always a murder for Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies to solve with plenty of clues scattered during the course of the story. There were several suspects that had me second guessing the “whodunit.” I love how she throws in humor and a few Southern sayings keeping things light, all while dealing with murder. I requested and received an advanced copy from the author.
Vista, Vices, & Valentines, is the 24th book in the Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery Series. Throughout this series, Tonya has developed her characters in a way that you begin to look upon them as family. There is always a murder for Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies to solve with plenty of clues scattered during the course of the story. There were several suspects that had me second guessing the “whodunit.” I love how she throws in humor and a few Southern sayings keeping things light, all while dealing with murder. I requested and received an advanced copy from the author.
January 29, 2022
Whenever I pick up a book (regardless of the series) by Tonya Kappes, I always expect a fun and twisty turny Kindle swiper of a book with action, snarkiness, and of course, a difficult to solve murder. There are no spoilers ever in my review, and for a teaser of the story, you can read the blurb, but to satisfy your curiosity, here's what you need to know: This book was no disappointment in any of the above aspects. The characters are flawlessly written and have distinct personalities of their own which actually makes you feel like you know them. The plot is well written and gives you the entertainment, descriptors, and suspense so artfully crafted by Ms. Kappes and what every cozy mystery lover has come to expect. Mae West is a hoot, I think that says it best, and her sidekicks compliment her well. There is no shortage of trouble and intrigue in this hard-to-put-down, laugh-out-loud installment of the Camper and Criminals series. This does fine as a standalone if this is your first, you'll be sure to go back for the others. So, stop reading now, and just one click! You won't be sorry!
January 27, 2022
Vistas, Vices, and Valentines by Tonya Kappes takes us back to Normal, Kentucky in time for Valentine’s Day. There is a dance competition in town which has everyone ready to don their dancing shoes. Mae West is having a Valentine’s Day party at the campground and has arranged for guests to take dancing lessons from two competitors. Unfortunately, one couple is not enjoying the magic of the holiday and they end up having several loud arguments. When the male dancer ends up dead, Mae and the Laundry Club ladies come up with a unique way to get intel that will help them solve the crime. Dottie Swaggert, the campground manager, and Henry Bryant, the handyman and jack of all trades, go undercover at the competition. As they cha cha around the dance floor, they listen for gossip that may help the case. It appears that there are secrets and feuds among the passionate members of the dancing competition circuit. Can the Mae and the Laundry Club ladies assemble the clues and identify the guilty party before Dottie spills the beans? Vistas, Vices, and Valentines by Tonya Kappes is the twenty-fourth A Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery. It can be read as a standalone because the author provides Mae’s backstory along with that of the campground. I like Tonya Kappes’ easy going writing style. It feels like chatting with old friends when I open each book. Normal, Kentucky is a charming town on the edge of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Mae takes a hike with a guest in this story to check out a new trail. I laughed often while reading Vistas, Vices, and Valentines. Dottie is a hoot in this installment. I can just imagine Dottie on the dance floor with a feather boa and a cigarette hanging out her mouth while she is being twirled around by Henry (let us hope that Henry does not get burned). I enjoyed the vivid descriptions of the dance costumes and routines (it appears that a certain author likes to watch ballroom dance competitions). The whodunit had Mae and the Laundry Club ladies hopping (plus Hank). There are clues to help readers solve the crime as long as you do not get deterred by red herring. I enjoyed the action filled reveal. There are RV hacks at the end along with a recipe or two. We also get a hint at what will happen in the next A Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery. Vistas, Vices, and Valentines is a cute cozy with cutthroat competitors, dazzling dance costumes, a dead dancer, loyal ladies, quarreling couples, a car conundrum, and festive fun on Valentine's Day.
January 23, 2022
Like all of Tonya Kappes' books, Vistas, Vices and Valentines doesn’t disappoint. Mae West and all of the Laundry Club Ladies are here. This time the murder involves a group of dancers from the International Dance Company. The competition is fierce, but does the competition lead to murder?
In order to find clues, Dottie pairs up with Henry (who she repeatedly professes not to like) and enters the contest. The descriptions of their costumes and dance routines are so vivid, it is easy to picture the couple as they dance around the floor.
This is a fun, engrossing read that will transport you to Normal, Kentucky, no matter where you have to be.
In order to find clues, Dottie pairs up with Henry (who she repeatedly professes not to like) and enters the contest. The descriptions of their costumes and dance routines are so vivid, it is easy to picture the couple as they dance around the floor.
This is a fun, engrossing read that will transport you to Normal, Kentucky, no matter where you have to be.
January 30, 2022
Vistas, Vices, & Valentine’s by Tonya Kappes is book 24 in the Camper and Criminal Cozy Mystery Series and wow!! I loved it!! Valentine’s is right around the corner and Mae talked Hank into some dancing lessons. Well then there’s a murder and it’s up to Hank, Mae, Dottie, and Henry to go undercover to solve the murder and oh no! Dottie is in trouble, they better hurry!
I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a cute and fun read to escape into.
I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a cute and fun read to escape into.
July 31, 2023
As my first cozy mystery, I really enjoyed this. The characters were relatable. It was a bit hard to get into at first but as the story got more in depth I really liked this. Definitely will be reading more of these whenever Id like a quick read.
February 12, 2024
DNF. I couldn’t even finish this short book. It was so boring and there were so many plot holes.
January 18, 2022
What a tangled weave when using long-term planning. WOW!!! Some people are just evil and mean and way too intelligent. This is one of my favorite series and I just love the backstory on this and the storyline. It’s so much fun to read it and participate in my imagination with what the characters were doing. I would love to of been at the dancing competition being all dressed up and sharing with my friends and all the fun!!! I would especially love to see Dottie dance, in my mind she did not miss a step and she was graceful and beautiful!!
February 20, 2024
No. the writing is terrible, the dialogue is terrible, the plot was thin and nobody was likable. Maybe this book is the worst or maybe I just don’t like cozy mysteries.
January 12, 2024
After this first title, clearly cozy mysteries are not for me! I did find one or two okay items about this book but ultimately the nosy women, who needed to mind their own business, just overwhelmed anything positive.
January 28, 2022
Vistas, Vices, & Valentines is another exciting installment in Kappes' camper and criminals cozy mystery series. I always look forward to each installment in this mystery series, and this latest adventure definitely didn't disappoint. Mae and the Laundry Club ladies are getting ready to celebrate Valentine's Day with Mae getting Hank to take some dance lessons. Things take a turn when Mae and one of her guests find a dead body at the garage where her brother works. Mae is determined to prove her brother's innocence by solving this latest murder in record time.
Kappes sets up a compelling mystery that hits close to home for Mae with her own brother being a suspect. This mystery also sets up some tension between Mae and her brother and her new sister in law. The family drama helped make the story more compelling and the case more urgent for Mae to solve. I also enjoyed seeing my favorite secondary characters back. Kappes did a fun thing in this book by pairing up Dottie and Henry in a dance competition. This unexpected pair up proved to be a delightful treat. I'm hoping to see some more interaction between these two in the future. Overall Vistas, Vices, & Valentines proved to be an exciting read that I would most definitely recommend. I look forward to reading Mae's next adventure.
Received a copy from the author.
Kappes sets up a compelling mystery that hits close to home for Mae with her own brother being a suspect. This mystery also sets up some tension between Mae and her brother and her new sister in law. The family drama helped make the story more compelling and the case more urgent for Mae to solve. I also enjoyed seeing my favorite secondary characters back. Kappes did a fun thing in this book by pairing up Dottie and Henry in a dance competition. This unexpected pair up proved to be a delightful treat. I'm hoping to see some more interaction between these two in the future. Overall Vistas, Vices, & Valentines proved to be an exciting read that I would most definitely recommend. I look forward to reading Mae's next adventure.
Received a copy from the author.
January 22, 2022
Time to get all gussied up, put on your dancing shoes and join Mae, Hank, Dottie and Henry along with the Laundry Ladies in a laugh a minute investigation during a dance competition. The International Dance Company is in Normal, KY for their competition and Mae thinks it would be nice to offer dance lessons to the camp ground visitors. Sounds innocent enough but remember, this is Normal, KY and nothing is ever normal. Corie and Ricky are part of the dance company and they are going to give the dance lessons. All that changes when Ricky is found dead in the car of one of the campers and Corie asks Hank to take the case. Let the laughter begin. Murder is no laughing matter but when this bunch go undercover to investigate trust me, it's hilarious.
This is one of my all time favorite series, the best escape from the stress we are living with these days. Each mystery is well constructed with plenty of twists, turns and red herrings and I just go along for the ride. It would be nice to have friends like Mae and the Laundry Ladies. I'd even like to live in Normal. It sure wouldn't be boring.
This is one of my all time favorite series, the best escape from the stress we are living with these days. Each mystery is well constructed with plenty of twists, turns and red herrings and I just go along for the ride. It would be nice to have friends like Mae and the Laundry Ladies. I'd even like to live in Normal. It sure wouldn't be boring.
January 24, 2022
Welcome to Normal Kentucky, where thing never are!
It's almost Valentine's Day and love is in the air.....well for almost everyone. There are guests at Mae's campgrounds that are there to try to rekindle that loving feeling. The problem is, they can't stop arguing. It doesn't matter where they are! Even at free dancing lessons. To add insult to injury, the male dancing instructor keeps flirting with the wife and the husband is seeing red!
When the dance instructor winds up dead in the back of the couple's car, all eyes are looking at the husband, who conveniently can't be found! But that seems too easy.
When the dance instructor's partner hire's Hank and Mae to solve to crime, using Henry and Dottie to be undercover as dance partners, all bets are off! Will they be able to work together without killing each other?!
This story has a bit of humor, red herrings galore and when the culprit is revealed, you will be as shocked as I was!
Thank you Tonya Kappes for the advanced copy.
It's almost Valentine's Day and love is in the air.....well for almost everyone. There are guests at Mae's campgrounds that are there to try to rekindle that loving feeling. The problem is, they can't stop arguing. It doesn't matter where they are! Even at free dancing lessons. To add insult to injury, the male dancing instructor keeps flirting with the wife and the husband is seeing red!
When the dance instructor winds up dead in the back of the couple's car, all eyes are looking at the husband, who conveniently can't be found! But that seems too easy.
When the dance instructor's partner hire's Hank and Mae to solve to crime, using Henry and Dottie to be undercover as dance partners, all bets are off! Will they be able to work together without killing each other?!
This story has a bit of humor, red herrings galore and when the culprit is revealed, you will be as shocked as I was!
Thank you Tonya Kappes for the advanced copy.
January 27, 2022
“Vistas, Vices, & Valentines” the 24th instalment in the "Camper & Criminals “ Mystery series by Tonya Kappes. I absolutely love this series, and can’t get enough of the Laundry Club Ladies and Happy Trails Campground.
Join Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies as they cha cha and twirl their way around Happy Trails Campground as they put on some sleuthing dance shoes to bring closure to this southern and fun cozy Valentine's mystery.
In this instalment we have the ladies and Hank learning to dance for Valentine’s Day!
But the best bits are the dottisms lol she cracks me up. My favourite was “He’s as useless as a milk bucket underneath a bull”
The mystery was good, with lots of suspects and a few red herrings.
I’m full of anticipation/excitement for Book 25 as I want to know more about what’s in store for Normal KY!
I highly recommend you read this series from the beginning and enjoy the escapism as much as I do.
Join Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies as they cha cha and twirl their way around Happy Trails Campground as they put on some sleuthing dance shoes to bring closure to this southern and fun cozy Valentine's mystery.
In this instalment we have the ladies and Hank learning to dance for Valentine’s Day!
But the best bits are the dottisms lol she cracks me up. My favourite was “He’s as useless as a milk bucket underneath a bull”
The mystery was good, with lots of suspects and a few red herrings.
I’m full of anticipation/excitement for Book 25 as I want to know more about what’s in store for Normal KY!
I highly recommend you read this series from the beginning and enjoy the escapism as much as I do.
January 27, 2022
Welcome back to Normal and Happy Trails Campground. Mae has convenience Hank to take a dance lesson with her for Valentine’s. But little do they know, it’s is the very talent for deceit, backstabbing and the possible cause of murder. Or is it? Mae, Dottie, Hank and Henry (yes Henry the Campgrounds maintenance worker) to go undercover to help solve this murder.
One of Mae guest at the campground is a #1 suspect and his wife wants to prove his innocence. But to find out they aren’t truly married, they are life partners. But Mae has also, possibly made her foster brother a suspect and Bobby Ray doesn’t know how to handle the betrayal that Mae placed him as a possible suspect.
Will Mae get this murder solved in time to restore her relationship with her foster brother or will this cause a division between them and possibly lose her friendship with one of her BFF’s Abby Fawn Bond.
Can things get any hectic in Normal? Stop on by get a glass of sweet tea and let’s find out.
The characters that Tonya creates gives you a since of friendship and home. They make you feel welcome and like you are right there in the mist of the excitement and chaos. The sad part is when it’s over you feel a since of loss. But then you know the next big adventure is awaiting you just around the corner because they will be back.
I am a advance copy reader these are my thoughts and open opinions.
Happy Reading
Kia G
One of Mae guest at the campground is a #1 suspect and his wife wants to prove his innocence. But to find out they aren’t truly married, they are life partners. But Mae has also, possibly made her foster brother a suspect and Bobby Ray doesn’t know how to handle the betrayal that Mae placed him as a possible suspect.
Will Mae get this murder solved in time to restore her relationship with her foster brother or will this cause a division between them and possibly lose her friendship with one of her BFF’s Abby Fawn Bond.
Can things get any hectic in Normal? Stop on by get a glass of sweet tea and let’s find out.
The characters that Tonya creates gives you a since of friendship and home. They make you feel welcome and like you are right there in the mist of the excitement and chaos. The sad part is when it’s over you feel a since of loss. But then you know the next big adventure is awaiting you just around the corner because they will be back.
I am a advance copy reader these are my thoughts and open opinions.
Happy Reading
Kia G
November 21, 2024
"Now, now. It’s just a little bit of something you do best.” Hank smiled. “Meddling.”
Another story about Mae and her camping spot. Now they have a dance competition. She's roped her boyfriend and friends into when suddenly - there's a body.
I liked this one, thought it was cute and I like that it centered on Valentine's day, not a holiday I've gotten to spend with Mae yet - but the humor parts didn't quite get me chuckling on this one. And, since Dottie took a pretty big focus on this one, I don't like her as much so this one was a little slower for me to get through.
On to the next!
Another story about Mae and her camping spot. Now they have a dance competition. She's roped her boyfriend and friends into when suddenly - there's a body.
I liked this one, thought it was cute and I like that it centered on Valentine's day, not a holiday I've gotten to spend with Mae yet - but the humor parts didn't quite get me chuckling on this one. And, since Dottie took a pretty big focus on this one, I don't like her as much so this one was a little slower for me to get through.
On to the next!
January 19, 2022
I love my visits to Normal, Kentucky (even though there's nothing "normal" about it) and Mae West and the Laundry Club ladies had me right in the middle of all that was happening from the first word to the last when the International Dance Company was holding their competition in Normal during the week of Valentine's Day. This was such a fun read with a great must-solve mystery after one of the professional dancers was found dead. If you enjoy really good mysteries that have lots of southern charm, small town vibe and a few laughs, don't miss Vistas, Vices and Valentines. Ms. Kappes' books can be read as a stand-alone but you probably don't want to miss out on any of the fun with this great cast of characters. I received an advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 22, 2022
Let’s Dance!!! It’s time for a National Dance Championship in Normal, KY. Dance teams come to town to have a competition to decide who goes to the Royal Dance Competition in London. When someone meets an untimely death and Hank is hired to investigate of course the Laundry Club ladies have to jump in and help out. When the Laundry Club Ladies decide they need to go undercover to snoop Dottie and Henry get nominated to enter the dance competition and then things get really interesting. Mae starts kidding Dottie that she secretly has a crush on Henry….could it really be true??? Things move at a fast pace and when the killer is revealed it will shock you!!!
January 22, 2022
Shall we dance? There is a dance competition in town. Unfortunately, a contestant is murdered. Now Mae needs Dottie to go undercover, with Henry as her partner and compete. (After reading about their routine, I wish I could see it in person). With several suspects and twists, I wasn’t sure who the guilty party was until the end.
I love this book series, which is set in a campground and town surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forest. Tonya Kappes so vividly describes the landscape, I feel like I can close my eyes and picture what it is like to be there.
I love this book series, which is set in a campground and town surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forest. Tonya Kappes so vividly describes the landscape, I feel like I can close my eyes and picture what it is like to be there.
January 22, 2022
The Dance Competition is in town, along with a lot of visitors to compete. One of the dancers is found dead in a running car. Was it suicide or something more sinister? Hank is hired to investigate and the Laundry Club is on the case. Mae and the ladies research the dancers to see who has a motive. Mae finds a clue. This is another fine mystery with plenty of extra story to keep you invested. Enjoy this cozy mystery.
January 25, 2022
Oh this one is so good I love the fact Hank start to really recognize Mae's talents and ask her help , their chemistry is really good .
This one was even more more funny with Dottie and Henry undercover it's impossible not to smile watching/reading their interactions.
But Mae has, as always, not only an investigation to take care of ( discreetly) but also every day life troubles because she can't keep her nose out of others troubles and when it's her best friend and brother who needs help she won't stay out of it even if it makes things worse.
really a great series and this book is a perfect stand alone too.
This one was even more more funny with Dottie and Henry undercover it's impossible not to smile watching/reading their interactions.
But Mae has, as always, not only an investigation to take care of ( discreetly) but also every day life troubles because she can't keep her nose out of others troubles and when it's her best friend and brother who needs help she won't stay out of it even if it makes things worse.
really a great series and this book is a perfect stand alone too.
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