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Mad for Mod Mystery #11
Please Don't Push Up the Daisies
She killed him, she killed him not...
When interior decorator Madison Night finally meets the family of boyfriend and police captain Tex Allen, the circumstances are less than joyful. His sister’s broody botanist husband left Lily to raise their four rambunctious boys on her own, and she’s at wit’s end. The only bright spot is the mid-century ranch he gave her in their divorce settlement.
The soon-to-be-ex has one request: a face to face with Lily before he says goodbye. Madison offers to go along for moral support, but in lieu of signed settlement papers, she finds the ex’s body crumpled in the corner of the arboretum where he works. When swarm of angry bees sideline Tex, it’s Madison’s job to dig up the secrets that led to the murder — but if she’s not careful, the dirt she uncovers could fill her grave instead.
When interior decorator Madison Night finally meets the family of boyfriend and police captain Tex Allen, the circumstances are less than joyful. His sister’s broody botanist husband left Lily to raise their four rambunctious boys on her own, and she’s at wit’s end. The only bright spot is the mid-century ranch he gave her in their divorce settlement.
The soon-to-be-ex has one request: a face to face with Lily before he says goodbye. Madison offers to go along for moral support, but in lieu of signed settlement papers, she finds the ex’s body crumpled in the corner of the arboretum where he works. When swarm of angry bees sideline Tex, it’s Madison’s job to dig up the secrets that led to the murder — but if she’s not careful, the dirt she uncovers could fill her grave instead.
- GenresMysteryCozy MysteryCozy
256 pages, Paperback
First published June 27, 2023
15 people are currently reading
2708 people want to read
About the author
Diane Vallere
83 books1,011 followersI use Goodreads to track my reading and TBR list. For that reason, my rating scale is less important. I don't force myself to finish books, and I don't rate books I DNF. Each year I choose my own BOTY from my have-read list.
AUTHOR BIO: Diane Vallere is the national bestselling author of several mystery series. She edited the Agatha Award-winning essay collection Promophobia: Taking the Mystery out of Promoting Crime Fiction. Diane majored in art history at the College of William and Mary and worked in luxury retailing before reigniting her love of fiction. She currently lives in Pennsylvania. Find out more at: www.dianevallere.com.
Amazon: http://bit.ly/DianeVallere
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3nGyOGZ:
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3aVXczm
YouTube: https://bit.ly/2RfiyAE
AUTHOR BIO: Diane Vallere is the national bestselling author of several mystery series. She edited the Agatha Award-winning essay collection Promophobia: Taking the Mystery out of Promoting Crime Fiction. Diane majored in art history at the College of William and Mary and worked in luxury retailing before reigniting her love of fiction. She currently lives in Pennsylvania. Find out more at: www.dianevallere.com.
Amazon: http://bit.ly/DianeVallere
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3nGyOGZ:
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3aVXczm
YouTube: https://bit.ly/2RfiyAE
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 1, 2023
Please Don't Push Up The Daisies is another exciting installment in Vallere's Madison Night cozy mystery series. I always look forward to new installments in this series, and this new entry definitely didn't disappoint. Madison finally has the opportunity to meet Tex's family when his sister decides to move to town with her boys. Madison offers to help Tex's sister when she gets a home as part of the divorce settlement. The house ends up being more of a fixer upper than originally thought, but Madison is still determined to turn this place into a home for Lily and her boys. Things take a turn for the worse when Lily's ex is found dead, and Madison finds herself needing to solve this mystery and fast.
Vallere sets up a great mystery with the stakes raised for Madison with the victim being married to Tex's sister. There are a lot of dynamics at play since Tex, Lily, and even Nasty become part of this case. I liked that this mystery caused some internal conflict as well amongst the major players. Madison has really grown as a character, and this book showcases that. I also loved seeing my favorite secondary characters back as well since I really think that they add to the story. The book can be read as a standalone, but it is best as part of the series. Overall Please Don't Push Up The Daisies proved to be a great read that I would definitely recommend.
Received a copy of Please Don't Push Up The Daisies from the author.
Vallere sets up a great mystery with the stakes raised for Madison with the victim being married to Tex's sister. There are a lot of dynamics at play since Tex, Lily, and even Nasty become part of this case. I liked that this mystery caused some internal conflict as well amongst the major players. Madison has really grown as a character, and this book showcases that. I also loved seeing my favorite secondary characters back as well since I really think that they add to the story. The book can be read as a standalone, but it is best as part of the series. Overall Please Don't Push Up The Daisies proved to be a great read that I would definitely recommend.
Received a copy of Please Don't Push Up The Daisies from the author.
August 9, 2024
What a wonderfully entertaining story! This is quickly becoming my favorite series and this latest book is the best yet! The author has created a marvelous mosaic of multiple plots involving family difficulties, along with a variety of crimes, misdirection (who knew that a pile of dirt could be so threatening and also provide an important clue for the police?!), and dead bodies. Even the final murderer admits that “one murder leads to the other murder in an endless loop to keep the police chasing their tales while I go on my merry way.” That person obviously hadn’t factored in Madison’s tenacity and success in solving crimes that affect people important to her. The ending is very surprising and how the culprit is captured is very unique.
In addition to being a cozy and at times humorous mystery, this book is also a very real look at what makes a family. We don't get to choose our biological family members. Friends, on the other hand, are the families we choose for ourselves. By the end of this book Madison has learned the value of this truth.
While each book can be read on its own, I recommend you read them in order as the main character, Madison, has grown in numerous ways since we first met her, including in her relationships with a very entertaining squad of supporting characters. Her relationship with the police chief is especially realistic in how it is portrayed, with the give and take that makes any such partnership a success.
The author is as much of an excellent crafts-person as Madison, she just works in words instead of design. Thank you, Ms. Vallere, for creating Madison’s world and extended family. I can’t wait to read the next Madison Knight book. Until then I just may need to watch a Doris Day movie to tide me over.
In addition to being a cozy and at times humorous mystery, this book is also a very real look at what makes a family. We don't get to choose our biological family members. Friends, on the other hand, are the families we choose for ourselves. By the end of this book Madison has learned the value of this truth.
While each book can be read on its own, I recommend you read them in order as the main character, Madison, has grown in numerous ways since we first met her, including in her relationships with a very entertaining squad of supporting characters. Her relationship with the police chief is especially realistic in how it is portrayed, with the give and take that makes any such partnership a success.
The author is as much of an excellent crafts-person as Madison, she just works in words instead of design. Thank you, Ms. Vallere, for creating Madison’s world and extended family. I can’t wait to read the next Madison Knight book. Until then I just may need to watch a Doris Day movie to tide me over.
August 13, 2023
Please Don't Push Up the Daisies is an essential new chapter in the life of intrepid interior decorator Madison Night, and I have enjoyed watching one of my favorite fictional characters rising to each and every occasion as this series progresses.
This newest installment is all about relationships and family. Past events in Madison's life have always made her feel like the person on the outside looking in, but meeting boyfriend Tex Allen's sister and four nephews begins to change all that. (And while I'm on the subject of those nephews, let me just say that I was not amused by their "antics". There's a difference between high-spirited and "Call 9-1-1!")
One of the departures in this book is the sidelining of Tex Allen. Madison is effectively cut off from her investigative mainstays, and she has to look elsewhere for help. The help she receives often surprises her, further highlighting the importance of relationships and family.
Please Don't Push Up the Daisies is another enjoyable entry in one of my favorite series. Whodunit surprised me, which I always love, and there's a bonus epilogue available which I heartily recommend reading. If you enjoy strong female characters, intriguing mysteries, humor, and a strong dash of creativity, this series is the one for you. Begin at the beginning with Pillow Stalk so you don't miss a single step of Madison's journey.
This newest installment is all about relationships and family. Past events in Madison's life have always made her feel like the person on the outside looking in, but meeting boyfriend Tex Allen's sister and four nephews begins to change all that. (And while I'm on the subject of those nephews, let me just say that I was not amused by their "antics". There's a difference between high-spirited and "Call 9-1-1!")
One of the departures in this book is the sidelining of Tex Allen. Madison is effectively cut off from her investigative mainstays, and she has to look elsewhere for help. The help she receives often surprises her, further highlighting the importance of relationships and family.
Please Don't Push Up the Daisies is another enjoyable entry in one of my favorite series. Whodunit surprised me, which I always love, and there's a bonus epilogue available which I heartily recommend reading. If you enjoy strong female characters, intriguing mysteries, humor, and a strong dash of creativity, this series is the one for you. Begin at the beginning with Pillow Stalk so you don't miss a single step of Madison's journey.
July 5, 2023
Another wonderful book in the Madison Night Mystery series. Tex's sister Lily is moving to Dallas with her four boys and Madison has offered to help her redecorate the mid-century modern house that she is getting in her divorce settlement. Tex has his hands full with his nephews while Madison is meeting Lily at the house for their walk through. This is just the start of a well thought out story that has Madison putting on her sleuthing hat while trying to navigate the family dynamics. The mystery was well plotted and I couldn't wait to find out who was responsible. This book can be read as a stand alone, but Madison is such a wonderful character that you will want to go back and read the whole series.
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 27, 2023
BEST OF THE SERIES SO FAR!
Author Diane Vallere writes the delightful Madison Night Mystery Series and, in my opinion, her latest release, Please Don’t Push Up the Daisies, is the best of the series! Vallere’s reoccurring characters are quirky, fun, likable, and excellent at their chosen careers. The new characters in this book make it entertaining and keep you wondering if they are part of the problem or the solution. This plot is filled with mischief, havoc, and murder. This whodunit will keep you guessing until the end! Vallere makes this one a wild ride from start to finish!
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the author/publisher. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own and without influence.
Author Diane Vallere writes the delightful Madison Night Mystery Series and, in my opinion, her latest release, Please Don’t Push Up the Daisies, is the best of the series! Vallere’s reoccurring characters are quirky, fun, likable, and excellent at their chosen careers. The new characters in this book make it entertaining and keep you wondering if they are part of the problem or the solution. This plot is filled with mischief, havoc, and murder. This whodunit will keep you guessing until the end! Vallere makes this one a wild ride from start to finish!
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the author/publisher. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own and without influence.
June 22, 2023
This clever and absolutely delightful mystery is beautifully crafted by one of my favorite contemporary authors. Madison finally meets Tex’s family when his sister & nephews hit town. Murder is not far behind when Madison finds the body of the sister’s estranged husband. This book has it all! Plenty of suspense and plot twists, nicely developed characters, and great writing, all topped off with a big dollop of mid-century modern design. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next in the series. I received a complimentary copy of this book and chose to write a voluntary, unbiased review.
June 25, 2023
It is always a treat to get another book to read written by author Diane Vallere, and this, the 11th entry in the Madison Night series, is no exception. It works perfectly well as a standalone but you will be doing yourself a disservice if you don’t go back and read the entire series, because author Vallere is an expert at story arc and character growth. You won’t want to miss any of the references to the past because they all contribute to the wonderful, compelling woman Madison is today.
Remember Madison is the Doris Day lookalike, the successful decorator and businesswoman who loves, loves, loves anything mid-century and knows all there is to know about it. More than once she’s also found herself in the usually dangerous role of amateur sleuth.
The story this time feels more personal and serious and gives us a more detailed look into Madison’s parents and the accident that took their lives when she was young. She became independent because she had to. Many of her career and style choices have root in the memories of her folks. She’s a loyal friend and her relationship with Tex is solid, but she hasn’t had family in her life and has valued doing whatever she wants whenever she wants. We’ve seen this change slowly over the last several books as her relationship with Tex has become more serious, but when she meets Tex’s sister Lily and her four sons she remembers just how important those family ties can be. How you might do just about anything to protect family.
Lily says her infuriating husband Gil has finally agreed to a divorce after many, many requests and years of living apart. Not so fast – before anything is finalized Madison and Lily discover his dead body. Madison doesn’t know Lily, doesn’t know if she could have murdered the husband she so longed to be free of, but she does know that this is Tex’s sister we’re talking about and family comes first.
As always Vallere provides a solid, well-written, well-plotted, well-paced mystery with an interesting cast of new and familiar characters, as well as a lot of danger, excitement and fun. And don’t forget the style: from Madison’s spot-on mid-century Doris-Day-suitable hair and clothes to her amazing ability to come up with the perfect decorating solutions on less than a moment’s notice you’ll be stunned and fully immersed in that time and fashion.
The story is full of miscommunication, practical jokes and antics by Lily’s rambunctious four sons with Tex as their victim and the realization that everything may not have been as straight-forward as it seemed with Gil and his business partner. There are plenty of clues but you’ll still be guessing right until the end and you’ll enjoy seeing yet another side of our Madison.
Thanks to the author for providing an advance copy of Please Don’t Push Up the Daisies for my reading pleasure and honest opinion. Loved the book, loved the series, recommend this and everything else this author writes without hesitation. Always a very satisfying read. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Remember Madison is the Doris Day lookalike, the successful decorator and businesswoman who loves, loves, loves anything mid-century and knows all there is to know about it. More than once she’s also found herself in the usually dangerous role of amateur sleuth.
The story this time feels more personal and serious and gives us a more detailed look into Madison’s parents and the accident that took their lives when she was young. She became independent because she had to. Many of her career and style choices have root in the memories of her folks. She’s a loyal friend and her relationship with Tex is solid, but she hasn’t had family in her life and has valued doing whatever she wants whenever she wants. We’ve seen this change slowly over the last several books as her relationship with Tex has become more serious, but when she meets Tex’s sister Lily and her four sons she remembers just how important those family ties can be. How you might do just about anything to protect family.
Lily says her infuriating husband Gil has finally agreed to a divorce after many, many requests and years of living apart. Not so fast – before anything is finalized Madison and Lily discover his dead body. Madison doesn’t know Lily, doesn’t know if she could have murdered the husband she so longed to be free of, but she does know that this is Tex’s sister we’re talking about and family comes first.
As always Vallere provides a solid, well-written, well-plotted, well-paced mystery with an interesting cast of new and familiar characters, as well as a lot of danger, excitement and fun. And don’t forget the style: from Madison’s spot-on mid-century Doris-Day-suitable hair and clothes to her amazing ability to come up with the perfect decorating solutions on less than a moment’s notice you’ll be stunned and fully immersed in that time and fashion.
The story is full of miscommunication, practical jokes and antics by Lily’s rambunctious four sons with Tex as their victim and the realization that everything may not have been as straight-forward as it seemed with Gil and his business partner. There are plenty of clues but you’ll still be guessing right until the end and you’ll enjoy seeing yet another side of our Madison.
Thanks to the author for providing an advance copy of Please Don’t Push Up the Daisies for my reading pleasure and honest opinion. Loved the book, loved the series, recommend this and everything else this author writes without hesitation. Always a very satisfying read. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
June 28, 2023
Another wonderful book in the Madison Night series that grabs you from the beginning and keeps you totally engaged between the family dynamic and the murder. An independent, successful business woman in her decorating business. Her boyfriend, Tex, police chief, wants Madison to meet his family. When she meets Lily, Tex's sister, things aren't all peachy. It seems Lily is finally going to get her soon to be ex husband Gil to sign the divorce documents even though they've been separated a long time. Lily is not happy at all having been left with her four out of control sons. When her soon to be ex tells Lily he will sign the papers if she could see him one last time at his flower shop. Grudgingly, Lily agrees and Madison goes with her for moral support to get the papers signed. They sure didn't count on his being murdered in the back of the shop! With Lily's brats constantly playing pranks some mean and a murder mystery that points to Lily, Madison has to get involved. And with so many possible scenarios, twists and turns and lots of miscommunication, we are taken through to the surprise ending that is great! Once I began the book I couldn't put it down and had to read it in one sitting and you will too! I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
June 18, 2023
Single people who are single children don't always play well with others, however Madison Night surpasses every marker for getting along with others in this book! Between Tex's sister (who seems somewhat cagey) and his nephews (who are beyond mean as pranksters) and ex cop Nasty (who always seems aloof around Madison) things change and Madison has become a supernova in human understanding and friendship. Now this doesn't mean the book is full of sunshine and roses! Instead, the author has pushed many characters in the book besides Madison into situations that challenge their patience and become dangerous. The fantastic characters both old and new, and the complex mysteries that are slowly unraveled make this one of the best books in the series! Laced with humor and kindness, all the changes and upheaval work out for Madison, Tex, and his family in surprisingly satisfying ways. I was absorbed in the book from beginning to the all too soon end. It was fantastic!
August 9, 2024
In the time that Madison Night has dated Tex Allen, she hasn’t met his sister. Until now. Lily and her four sons are moving to Dallas now that her husband is finally granting her a divorce. However, when Madison goes with Lily to pick up the papers, they find him dead in his office. With Tex out of commission thanks to his nephews, can Madison figure out what really happened?
This is another great mystery that jumps right in and keeps us guessing until the end. I did find a couple of things that could have been a little clearer, but nothing that truly impacted the plot. What I really loved is the character growth we got for Tex and another series regular. But Madison really shines in her moment; it was my favorite part of the book. There are some funny moments as well, and fans of Doris Day’s movie will find some fun nods. If you’ve been enjoying this series, you’ll be glad you picked up the latest in the series.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This is another great mystery that jumps right in and keeps us guessing until the end. I did find a couple of things that could have been a little clearer, but nothing that truly impacted the plot. What I really loved is the character growth we got for Tex and another series regular. But Madison really shines in her moment; it was my favorite part of the book. There are some funny moments as well, and fans of Doris Day’s movie will find some fun nods. If you’ve been enjoying this series, you’ll be glad you picked up the latest in the series.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
July 1, 2023
PLEASE DON'T PUSH UP THE DAISIES is the eleventh book of the Mad for Mod Mystery series written by Diane Vallere. A solid, well-written, well-plotted, well-paced mystery with an interesting cast of new and familiar characters, as well as a lot of danger, excitement and fun. There are plenty of clues but you’ll still be guessing right until the end and you’ll enjoy seeing yet another side of our Madison. Loved the book, loved the series, recommend this and everything else this author writes without hesitation. I received an advanced reader copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2023
This is the 11th in the Madison Night series. Madison’s boyfriend, Captain Allen, has his sister and her four sons moving back. Lily’s husband, Gil, gave her a mid-century house in the divorce. Madison is supposed to redo her for her. But then things go haywire. Gil is found dead and Captain Allen is under the weather. So it’s on Madison’s shoulders to uncover just exactly what happened. Can she do it, or will someone close to her go to jail? I totally enjoy reading about Madison and her crazy, chaotic life. The plot twists definitely had my mind whirling. It didn’t disappoint and I can’t wait to read the next one. Well done!
September 15, 2023
Wow!
This series is wonderful entertainment. Madison, and all the characters, grow and change with the happenstances that surround them.
Madison, this time, helps welcome Tex's family to Dallas. And, of course, gets involved with more murder! Tex is sidelined with injuries received from pranks played by his nephews.
And Madison reaches the moment of realizing that she is not alone. She just has to let in those who love her.
I look forward to 2024 and the next Madison Night mystery!
This series is wonderful entertainment. Madison, and all the characters, grow and change with the happenstances that surround them.
Madison, this time, helps welcome Tex's family to Dallas. And, of course, gets involved with more murder! Tex is sidelined with injuries received from pranks played by his nephews.
And Madison reaches the moment of realizing that she is not alone. She just has to let in those who love her.
I look forward to 2024 and the next Madison Night mystery!
October 17, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyable next installment in the Mad for Mod series, and it always leaves me wanting more. With all her epiphanies, I sure hope Madison Night reutrns again for some more - especially now that she has accepted this big, boisterous cast of characters as her family. I feel like there is so much more to explore for her, Tex, Lily and the boys, Nasty and Huxley, Effie and JN.
Readable as a stand alone, but honestly, just read the others. They are fun and funny and frivolous and sweet. Just what I needed!
Readable as a stand alone, but honestly, just read the others. They are fun and funny and frivolous and sweet. Just what I needed!
June 16, 2023
Madison Learns a Few Things
This book is part of a series that is best enjoyed when read in sequence. Each story is a complete mystery, but the interpersonal relationships build and change over time, from episode to episode. I have read all of this author's books and have really enjoyed them all. This is, I think, the best book she has written. The mystery is tight and not predictable. The growth in personal lives is outstanding. I highly recommend this book and this series.
This book is part of a series that is best enjoyed when read in sequence. Each story is a complete mystery, but the interpersonal relationships build and change over time, from episode to episode. I have read all of this author's books and have really enjoyed them all. This is, I think, the best book she has written. The mystery is tight and not predictable. The growth in personal lives is outstanding. I highly recommend this book and this series.
September 18, 2023
This one was more about Madison and her personal life than the actual mystery. She is finally able to process things that happened in her past while gaining more appreciation for the family of friends she has created. Madison and Tex are closer than ever and by the end of the book, they finally take a bigger step in their relationship. I hope it carries over into the next book. Being with Madison and crew is always a treat, but this was definitely one of my favorite books in the series.
June 27, 2023
So clever!
One of my favorite series out there! A new Madison Night book out means that I push everything aside and read. Clear my calendar and read. It was so good. So good! The mystery was well done, the whole book well plotted, in that can’t-put-it-down way. Highly recommend!
One of my favorite series out there! A new Madison Night book out means that I push everything aside and read. Clear my calendar and read. It was so good. So good! The mystery was well done, the whole book well plotted, in that can’t-put-it-down way. Highly recommend!
June 27, 2023
Ms Vallere doesn’t disappoint with this latest addition to the Madison Night series. This light-hearted cozy mystery provided several enjoyable evenings with Madison and her friends as she solved another murder.
July 2, 2023
Madison Night books are always a fun read. I enjoy all the Doris Day references and the mid century modern design elements. The characters are some of my favorites to read since they are not young, I think they appeal to a wider audience. I look forward to the next Madison Night Mystery!
October 2, 2023
Classic Vallere
I really enjoyed this book. It had everything that first drew me to Madison's world. It's about family & when friends become your family. Oh, & let's not forget fantastic decor, a hunky boyfriend & a mystery. What more could a girl want?! Bravo Diane!!
I really enjoyed this book. It had everything that first drew me to Madison's world. It's about family & when friends become your family. Oh, & let's not forget fantastic decor, a hunky boyfriend & a mystery. What more could a girl want?! Bravo Diane!!
Read
September 12, 2023What a clever way to get Tex (mostly) out of the picture! Another fun, fast read.
September 18, 2023
There’s the obligatory dead body for Madison to find, but this one is really about her discovering her found family.
June 30, 2023
The indomitable Madison Night is back. I adore all of the books in the series, but this one grabbed me in a really personal way. I walked around with my Kindle up to my face, groping at things one-handed so I did not have to be separated from Madison's current mystery. Over the course of the story, I quite literally snorted with humor and welled up with tears. Madison has some stuff to deal with, and is put in a position where she really has to decide how she wants to view her life and the people in her chosen family, as well as her birth family. She has some serious choices to make and comes to a point of new understanding and acceptance of what family is for her. Meanwhile, there is a terrific mystery, the answer to which I never saw coming. Wonderful book of mystery, mid-century modern design, family, and an adorable dog or two.
April 20, 2024
Going into this book, I expected the usual frothy mix of intriguing murder, funny situations, and complicated relationships, especially since trouble-making kids would be involved this time around. You see, Madison Night’s boyfriend, Tex Allen, has invited his sister Lily to stay with him while she adjusts to getting divorced and she has kids. Four stubborn, unruly boys.
Right off the bat, they put Tex in the hospital. Then Madison and Lily turn up at a local arboretum to serve divorce papers but instead they serve witness to the barely cold corpse of Lily’s ex-husband lying on the floor. Now Madison needs to provide unofficial help in clearing Lily’s name with the police since Tex is sidelined, and she does this while juggling her own business interests, helping Tex recuperate, remodeling a dilapidated mid-century house, wondering what Lily is really doing in town, and keeping Lily’s boys at bay, all while trying to avoid the killer’s attention. It is definitely a fast, furiously paced mystery, one that Madison will be lucky to survive. If the killer doesn’t get her, the boys might still accidentally do her in.
Knowing a little bit about the author’s background, and following the death of my mother right before the book came out, I couldn’t help but see this book like Dominic Toretto would- “It’s about family.” Whether deliberate or intentional, that seems to be the underlying theme to the book., one I appreciated since it helped me reflect on my life.
Madison is suddenly dealing with a found family, when her cozy relationship with Tex suddenly finds five more people and personalities vying for her attention. Are these people new found family to be embraced or are they obstacles to her relationship? Is Lily really beyond suspicion or is she hiding something? Her husband died shortly after she arrived in town and she has been lying to Madison about some possibly shady behaviour.
Then there is her complicated friendship with former officer Donna “Nasty” Nast who seems to have it all together – perfect job, perfect child, and a marriage that suits her goals in life. And then things get even more complicated when Nasty poaches an employee from Madison’ business. Is Madison jealous of her and angry at what she does or is Nasty the straight-shooting big sister type Madison needs in her life?
Also, what about the neighbor at the house she is remodeling. What is he up to? Is he capable of murder? Should Madison be afraid to work on the house by herself with him nearby?
All of this piles on Madison’s stylish shoulders and she attempts to figure out a murder and decide where to devote her time and efforts. To her relationship with Tex, to her newly found bonus family, to her extended family of friends, to her work family? She better figure it out quick because the killer is closing in and Lily’s boys are getting bored sitting around Tex’s house.
Madison tries to navigate this treacherous terrain with her usual aplomb, intelligence and compassion, figuring out how to handle tricky situations, giving energy to those who need it, and doing right by her family, the one she chooses as the story unfolds, all while hoping to avoid six feet of dirt and a vase of daisies as her reward.
Right off the bat, they put Tex in the hospital. Then Madison and Lily turn up at a local arboretum to serve divorce papers but instead they serve witness to the barely cold corpse of Lily’s ex-husband lying on the floor. Now Madison needs to provide unofficial help in clearing Lily’s name with the police since Tex is sidelined, and she does this while juggling her own business interests, helping Tex recuperate, remodeling a dilapidated mid-century house, wondering what Lily is really doing in town, and keeping Lily’s boys at bay, all while trying to avoid the killer’s attention. It is definitely a fast, furiously paced mystery, one that Madison will be lucky to survive. If the killer doesn’t get her, the boys might still accidentally do her in.
Knowing a little bit about the author’s background, and following the death of my mother right before the book came out, I couldn’t help but see this book like Dominic Toretto would- “It’s about family.” Whether deliberate or intentional, that seems to be the underlying theme to the book., one I appreciated since it helped me reflect on my life.
Madison is suddenly dealing with a found family, when her cozy relationship with Tex suddenly finds five more people and personalities vying for her attention. Are these people new found family to be embraced or are they obstacles to her relationship? Is Lily really beyond suspicion or is she hiding something? Her husband died shortly after she arrived in town and she has been lying to Madison about some possibly shady behaviour.
Then there is her complicated friendship with former officer Donna “Nasty” Nast who seems to have it all together – perfect job, perfect child, and a marriage that suits her goals in life. And then things get even more complicated when Nasty poaches an employee from Madison’ business. Is Madison jealous of her and angry at what she does or is Nasty the straight-shooting big sister type Madison needs in her life?
Also, what about the neighbor at the house she is remodeling. What is he up to? Is he capable of murder? Should Madison be afraid to work on the house by herself with him nearby?
All of this piles on Madison’s stylish shoulders and she attempts to figure out a murder and decide where to devote her time and efforts. To her relationship with Tex, to her newly found bonus family, to her extended family of friends, to her work family? She better figure it out quick because the killer is closing in and Lily’s boys are getting bored sitting around Tex’s house.
Madison tries to navigate this treacherous terrain with her usual aplomb, intelligence and compassion, figuring out how to handle tricky situations, giving energy to those who need it, and doing right by her family, the one she chooses as the story unfolds, all while hoping to avoid six feet of dirt and a vase of daisies as her reward.
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