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Haley Randolph #7
Beach Bags and Burglaries
Part-time sleuth and full-time fashionista Haley Randolph just won an all-expenses-paid vacay at the Rowan Resort, a ridiculously exclusive island getaway that caters to the whims of millionaires, royalty, and Hollywood A-listers. With her three BFF's--Marcie, Bella, and Sandy--along for the ride, the only thing she's missing is the Sea Vixen, the season's hottest beach bag. . .The island has everything Haley pristine beaches, posh accommodations, and possibly Brad Pitt. But trouble soon looms on the horizon when Jaslyn Gordon, a maid at the island resort, goes missing. And while practically looting the resort for a Sea Vixen beach bag, Haley of course finds the maid--on the beach. . .and clearly dead.Everyone at the resort says Jaslyn's death was just an accident, but Haley thinks there's a lot going unsaid. . .especially when she spots hunky FBI agent Luke Warner. He claims to be on the island only for a wedding but Haley's not buying it.Haley's faced down clever criminals before and always come out on top, but this malicious murderer might be too crafty. And though she's dying to get her hands on a Sea Vixen, she also wants to live long enough to be seen with it!Praise For Dorothy Howell And Her Haley Randolph Mysteries!Evening Bags And Executions"Enjoyable. . .an unlikely but engaging sleuth." -- Publishers WeeklyTote Bags And Toe Tags"The well-crafted plot, humor, and designer details will appeal to fans of Laura Levine and MaryJanice Davidson." -- BooklistClutches And Curses"Frothy. . ..The well-crafted plot offers plenty of red herrings." -- Publishers WeeklyShoulder Bags And Shootings"Recommend this series to fans of lightweight, humorous mysteries." -- BooklistPurses And Poison"A treat for those with a passion for fashion. No doubt this sassy heroine's in for a long run." -- Kirkus ReviewsHandbags And Homicide"Fashionistas take Dorothy Howell's delightful Handbags and Homicide dangles shopping to die for and a murder in store in a breezy debut mystery as sure to please as a Notorious handbag." --Carolyn Hart, author of Death Walked In"Dorothy Howell is one funny lady. I laughed out loud as I followed Haley's adventures tracking down both a killer and a Louis Vuitton organizer in this fast-paced, fun-filled page turner. I recommend it highly." --Laura Levine, author of Death of a Neighborhood Witch
Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
51 people are currently reading
612 people want to read
About the author
Dorothy Howell
78 books272 followersDorothy Howell writes for two publishing houses, in two genres, under two names. She writes mysteries as Dorothy Howell historical romance novels under the pseudonym Judith Stacy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
November 21, 2018
Good news: this book restored my faith in the series and reminded me why I love it so much. (You'll note - coincidentally - Ty does not play a starring role.)
Although the last book ends with the truly tantalizing vision of part-time department store employee Haley working full time at corporate alongside her wants-her-back-ex, this book starts off with her on vacation and no intentions of going corporate. She's got her three BFFs in tow and a fabulous, caters-to-the-stars resort to explore.
Oh, and also the little matter of murder.
At the start of the book, I assumed "girls' getaway week" meant none of the usual hot guys revolving around Haley would play a role. I should have known better. The various ways they all manage to follow her left me chuckling instead of annoyed.
Haley is her usual crazy self and it is fun to see her outside of the department store environment. Holt's gets a little wearisome even for the reader.
Of course, the usual dramatic plot points play out, including a vicious search for this season's It bag and Haley's attraction to her entourage of men. What I love about Haley, though, is that for all her pining, she's too busy solving murders or looking for purses to give the guys much actual time of day.
Anyway, fabulous and fun and unfortunately the last one my library has. May need to add the rest of the series to my Christmas list.
Although the last book ends with the truly tantalizing vision of part-time department store employee Haley working full time at corporate alongside her wants-her-back-ex, this book starts off with her on vacation and no intentions of going corporate. She's got her three BFFs in tow and a fabulous, caters-to-the-stars resort to explore.
Oh, and also the little matter of murder.
At the start of the book, I assumed "girls' getaway week" meant none of the usual hot guys revolving around Haley would play a role. I should have known better. The various ways they all manage to follow her left me chuckling instead of annoyed.
Haley is her usual crazy self and it is fun to see her outside of the department store environment. Holt's gets a little wearisome even for the reader.
Of course, the usual dramatic plot points play out, including a vicious search for this season's It bag and Haley's attraction to her entourage of men. What I love about Haley, though, is that for all her pining, she's too busy solving murders or looking for purses to give the guys much actual time of day.
Anyway, fabulous and fun and unfortunately the last one my library has. May need to add the rest of the series to my Christmas list.
August 11, 2014
This was my first Dorothy Howell book. The mystery was very good. The beach resort setting was wonderful!! The four friends all had different personalities and kept me grinning or laughing almost constantly!! If you're looking for a funny mystery with a hint of romance, this is the story for you!
I was provided a copy of this book from NetGalley. I voluntarily posted an honest review.
I was provided a copy of this book from NetGalley. I voluntarily posted an honest review.
August 4, 2019
Such a crazy bunch of characters that had me interested throughout ! The storyline was so very amazing that I couldn't stop reading till the end. This is a must read.
May 31, 2017
It's a Long Story I really did not enjoy the story. Every time she started to tell about something, it was always a "Long Story," and nothing was ever told about the long story. If this was book was from a series, it didn't make sense to keep saying it was a long story and dropping it. Also, many people were introduced and not much was shared, except that they had a history and maybe their jobs. Also, there was an obsession with a beach bag, to the point of chasing anyone that she thought had one.
Too many people thrown in and too many other things happening, the book was too busy and too many "it's a long story" thrown in. Life is too short to be stuck with a bad book.
Too many people thrown in and too many other things happening, the book was too busy and too many "it's a long story" thrown in. Life is too short to be stuck with a bad book.
June 28, 2017
Haley and her BFFs win an all expenses paid trip to a high class resort. Haley is looking for some fun in the sun and that must-have beach bag that everyone is carrying around. But things don't go according to plan when Haley stumbles on a dead body. Finding the body makes her a top suspect and she realizes she's going to have to find the killer so she can have a relaxing vacation. I picked up this book because I was looking for a fun beach read, but it was a bit too lite for my tastes. Haley is 20 years younger than me so that doesn't help! I'm not inspired to pick up another book in the series.
March 23, 2017
I love this series....Haley gets into some of the BEST of the worst situations. While I chuckle through most of the stories when it comes to how she's thinking -- this book came out in 2014, there is a line about someone reacting as if North Korea was invading California. Not so funny....except sometimes you gotta wonder.
June 19, 2022
In Beach Bags and Burglaries by Dorothy Howell (Haley Randolph Mystery #7/14), Haley has won a vacation to an ultra-exclusive resort for herself and her three BFFs. This would be perfect except she couldn’t find a “fabulous Sea Vixen beach tote,” and she discovered Jaslyn Gordon’s murdered body. This was meant to be a no-men vacay, but five of her “hot” male friends showed up. Even worse she couldn’t get a Starbucks mocha Frappuccino and her friend Bella’s lucky panties were stolen.
A light summer beach read. Don’t expect too much from these 20-something singles.
For my expanded notes: https://1book42day.blogspot.com/2022/...
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A light summer beach read. Don’t expect too much from these 20-something singles.
For my expanded notes: https://1book42day.blogspot.com/2022/...
“As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”
Check out https://amzn.to/2SpaDMN to see my books.
Check out https://amazon.com/shop/influencer-20... for book recommendations.
July 26, 2017
Haley Randloph won a luxury vacation for 4 at her department store. So she and her 3 BFFs (yes, really) take off for Rowan Resort. What follows is a murder on an island variation. While she seems to be somewhat of a dim bulb, she does have some skills, and besides working at a department store, is also working for an events company. However, having to deal with her obsession with a certain handbag, or her need for a Starbucks coffee, it's hard to focus on the mystery. Definitely one of the lightest type of cozy mysteries. Not a lot of substance or interest. If it wasn't for the contemporary references, I would have felt like I was reading about an 80s Valley Girl.
August 29, 2019
It was a nice light hearted mystery about a woman who won a vacation for 4 to a ritzy resort. Of course shortly after arrival someone turns up dead and the vacation turns into sleuthing. Nice setting, good characters, plenty of little mysterious things to keep this reader's interest. Really enjoyed it.
November 30, 2019
An average read
This is not my first Haley Randolph book. I’m not so sure that it won’t be the last, however. Like in previous books in the series, continuity and proofreading seem to be an issue. This time, however, I even caught switches from first person to third person. It makes it hard to keep up with the story.
This is not my first Haley Randolph book. I’m not so sure that it won’t be the last, however. Like in previous books in the series, continuity and proofreading seem to be an issue. This time, however, I even caught switches from first person to third person. It makes it hard to keep up with the story.
February 22, 2025
My first experience with this series & author. And though I was excited at first to see several books from this series on my library's shelves, I won't be revisiting. I can't stand the MC, and this particular book had too much...product placement in it for me. I ended up not caring about the mystery, and only wanted the book to end.
May 10, 2018
Ok so I really didn’t enjoy this book for many reasons. The first being all of the descriptive-hyphenated-run-on-phrases on every page! Also, wasn’t there some traumatic stuff that happened to here and all she could do was swoon over 4-5 guys? Horrible horrible book. Do not recommend.
May 21, 2019
Beach Bags & Burglaries
Love,Love Haley Randolph !! Cant put the story down as I keep turning page after page. For pretending to be a sleuth and always solving murders before the paid professionals do. Keep writing Dorothy!!!!
Love,Love Haley Randolph !! Cant put the story down as I keep turning page after page. For pretending to be a sleuth and always solving murders before the paid professionals do. Keep writing Dorothy!!!!
July 1, 2022
This is the first Haley Randolph mystery I have read.
It was nice that it only mentioned previous murders she solved and didn't go into long re-telling as some series do.
It is light hearted and funny with a Bridezilla thrown into the mystery.
I stayed up late to find out who killed Jaslyn Gordon.
It was nice that it only mentioned previous murders she solved and didn't go into long re-telling as some series do.
It is light hearted and funny with a Bridezilla thrown into the mystery.
I stayed up late to find out who killed Jaslyn Gordon.
August 8, 2020
A quick, enjoyable beach read!
Want to read
April 14, 2021Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
July 16, 2021
Fun Murder Mystery
I love the Haley Randolph series. They are fun, lighthearted reads mixed with mystery and a little romance. Perfect books for vacation.
I love the Haley Randolph series. They are fun, lighthearted reads mixed with mystery and a little romance. Perfect books for vacation.
February 11, 2022
5! 5 men in her life who want her company!!! 5!
August 17, 2023
This book started out slow for me and I really didn’t think I liked it, haven’t read any of the books in this series before. But it ended up being really good!
May 14, 2024
3.5 stars
This series is definitely improving. Fun cozy mystery. Haley and friends are ridiculous and entertaining.
This series is definitely improving. Fun cozy mystery. Haley and friends are ridiculous and entertaining.
July 28, 2014
“Vacation Snoozes, Bamboozles, a Murder and a Wedding!?"
Twenty-four year-old Haley Randolph, part-time sales clerk at “Holt’s Department Store” as well as an Event Planner at “L.A. Affairs” is super excited. She won a posh cruise through a contest held by Holt’s—but the prize has now been mysteriously upgraded to a week’s vacation at the celebrity-renown “Rowan Resort”. Accompanied by her BFFs
Marcie, Sandy and Bella, Haley is off for a week of sun, fun and new adventures. They had all agreed, this was to be a BFF trip—no mention of past or present boyfriends would be allowed. It was a good idea too—since Haley had broken up with her boyfriend, Holt’s Dept. Store magnate, Ty Cameron. The Rowan Resort has catered to A-list celebrities, royalties and millionaires with their luxurious accommodations and the highest standards in privacy, security, and seclusion. Recluse (and perhaps, as many may think) the late Sidney Rowan bought the rambling mansion and island decades ago with the plans to create a posh hotel and resort. One extraordinary feature—the only way to get onto or off the island is by helicopter, which makes monitoring guests much easier. The happy threesome had hardly landed on the heliport when word of a missing employee cropped up on the horizon. Twenty-one yr. old maid, Jaslyn Gordon has been discovered missing. No one had seen her since she finished her shift the night before—however, her cell phone and driver’s license were located on some cliffs overlooking a rough section of beachfront. She was a hard worker and a devoted employee, but supposedly upset about something. In despair, did she jump off the cliffs? As per normal for the aficionado of all things purse-related, Haley was on a quest for the latest item in beach accessories, a gorgeous, polka-dot beach tote named “The Sea Vixen”. It was while she was tailing someone who was displaying one, and going off the beaten path usually taken by guests, that she happened to spot a swatch of fabric in jungle-type vegetation and, sadly, the lifeless body of Jaslyn Gordon. Immediately, she became a person of interest—not only by House Detectives Vance and Pierce, but, also, the Chief of Security, Walt Pemberton. Haley was determined to clear her name, but also try to find out who could have done the dastardly deed. Could it have been Jaslyn’s hot-headed boyfriend Gabe Braxton? What part could the mysterious and suave Sebastian Lane have played in all of this? In the midst of all of the sleuthing, everyone’s most un-favorite person, a privileged soul named Yasmin shows up at the same resort! And she’s getting married!! Yasmin wails that many of her guests are not attending, including her maid of honor, due to the murder on the island. Who gets roped into standing up for the frantic bride? None other than the extremely unhappy Haley! Personalities that Haley knows start appearing on the island and they are not all here for the wedding—is something else going on besides Jaslyn’s demise? Well, someone did steal Bella’s “Lucky Panties”, but whatever could that have to do with anything? Why would boyishly handsome FBI agent, Luke Warner be on the island? What about “Nose in his laptop”, L.A. Daily Courier reporter, Ben Oliver? Was he hot on a story that they knew nothing about? Two possible heart-throbs of Haley’s also surface—hunky P.I. Jack Bishop and now, single again, Detective Sluman—Are they on the island because they are worried about Haley, or could it be some other reason? Perhaps, it may have something to do with the treasured “Heart of Amour” pendant? Will Haley ever get her hands on a “Sea Vixen”? The only way you’re going to unravel this tight braid of mysteries is to put this fast, easy read on your TBR list. You don’t need to start at the beginning of the “Haley Randolph mysteries” to get introduced to Author Howell’s quirky characters, but I’m betting you’ll want to check out the other 6 adventures (“Handbags and Homicide”, “Clutches and Curses”, Tote Bags and Toe Tags”, etc.) as well as this one. If you don’t, we’ll just have to give you the serious “Triple Stink-eye”—you’ll understand when you read this clever cozy.
Nancy Narma
Twenty-four year-old Haley Randolph, part-time sales clerk at “Holt’s Department Store” as well as an Event Planner at “L.A. Affairs” is super excited. She won a posh cruise through a contest held by Holt’s—but the prize has now been mysteriously upgraded to a week’s vacation at the celebrity-renown “Rowan Resort”. Accompanied by her BFFs
Marcie, Sandy and Bella, Haley is off for a week of sun, fun and new adventures. They had all agreed, this was to be a BFF trip—no mention of past or present boyfriends would be allowed. It was a good idea too—since Haley had broken up with her boyfriend, Holt’s Dept. Store magnate, Ty Cameron. The Rowan Resort has catered to A-list celebrities, royalties and millionaires with their luxurious accommodations and the highest standards in privacy, security, and seclusion. Recluse (and perhaps, as many may think) the late Sidney Rowan bought the rambling mansion and island decades ago with the plans to create a posh hotel and resort. One extraordinary feature—the only way to get onto or off the island is by helicopter, which makes monitoring guests much easier. The happy threesome had hardly landed on the heliport when word of a missing employee cropped up on the horizon. Twenty-one yr. old maid, Jaslyn Gordon has been discovered missing. No one had seen her since she finished her shift the night before—however, her cell phone and driver’s license were located on some cliffs overlooking a rough section of beachfront. She was a hard worker and a devoted employee, but supposedly upset about something. In despair, did she jump off the cliffs? As per normal for the aficionado of all things purse-related, Haley was on a quest for the latest item in beach accessories, a gorgeous, polka-dot beach tote named “The Sea Vixen”. It was while she was tailing someone who was displaying one, and going off the beaten path usually taken by guests, that she happened to spot a swatch of fabric in jungle-type vegetation and, sadly, the lifeless body of Jaslyn Gordon. Immediately, she became a person of interest—not only by House Detectives Vance and Pierce, but, also, the Chief of Security, Walt Pemberton. Haley was determined to clear her name, but also try to find out who could have done the dastardly deed. Could it have been Jaslyn’s hot-headed boyfriend Gabe Braxton? What part could the mysterious and suave Sebastian Lane have played in all of this? In the midst of all of the sleuthing, everyone’s most un-favorite person, a privileged soul named Yasmin shows up at the same resort! And she’s getting married!! Yasmin wails that many of her guests are not attending, including her maid of honor, due to the murder on the island. Who gets roped into standing up for the frantic bride? None other than the extremely unhappy Haley! Personalities that Haley knows start appearing on the island and they are not all here for the wedding—is something else going on besides Jaslyn’s demise? Well, someone did steal Bella’s “Lucky Panties”, but whatever could that have to do with anything? Why would boyishly handsome FBI agent, Luke Warner be on the island? What about “Nose in his laptop”, L.A. Daily Courier reporter, Ben Oliver? Was he hot on a story that they knew nothing about? Two possible heart-throbs of Haley’s also surface—hunky P.I. Jack Bishop and now, single again, Detective Sluman—Are they on the island because they are worried about Haley, or could it be some other reason? Perhaps, it may have something to do with the treasured “Heart of Amour” pendant? Will Haley ever get her hands on a “Sea Vixen”? The only way you’re going to unravel this tight braid of mysteries is to put this fast, easy read on your TBR list. You don’t need to start at the beginning of the “Haley Randolph mysteries” to get introduced to Author Howell’s quirky characters, but I’m betting you’ll want to check out the other 6 adventures (“Handbags and Homicide”, “Clutches and Curses”, Tote Bags and Toe Tags”, etc.) as well as this one. If you don’t, we’ll just have to give you the serious “Triple Stink-eye”—you’ll understand when you read this clever cozy.
Nancy Narma
March 10, 2025
Not good!
August 9, 2014
Beach Bags and Burglaries by Dorothy Howell is the eighth book in the Haley Randolph Mystery series. It is a crazy humorous book that I would consider more chick-lit than a cozy, although there are some cozy elements seen throughout the book.
Haley Randolph has won an all-expense paid vacation to an exclusive island resort getaway. The resort caters to the rich and famous and celebrities, so when she brings her three best friends along on the trip, some of them are hoping to get a glimpse of Brad Pitt or other celebrities. The four friends have decided that this vacation will be for “girls only” and no talk of men or boyfriends will be tolerated. This may be hard for Haley to do, since there are two hot men that she knows from her past also staying on the island.
Besides going to the resort for rest and relaxation, Haley is on a mission to find the perfect beach bag, the Sea Vixen. She just knows that somewhere on the island she will find the bag, and all will be right with her world. During the course of her search, she finds the dead body of a resort worker who has been missing. So not only does she have to continue her search for the Sea Vixen, she now has to try to find a murderer. And on her vacation, no less. Will Haley succeed in her missions, or will the elusive beach bag slip through her fingers? Oh yeah, and will she nab a killer?
The writing style flows smoothly and this book is an easy ready. The author is very descriptive in her writing and the setting came to life while reading the book. At times I felt like I was there on the resort, enjoying the warmth and beauty. The was a lot of humor in this book and at times I felt myself smiling while I was reading.
The characters were quirky and somewhat shallow in my opinion. They did not feel very realistic to me. I don’t know anyone personally, (myself included), that would go to such lengths for a beach bag. I really did not feel any connection to Haley or any of her friends, but that’s just my opinion. Obviously this opinion is not shared by all because this is the eighth book in the series. I have not read any other books in the series so maybe that is one of the reasons I didn’t connect with the characters.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a humorous, light-hearted chick-lit read with a bit of mystery thrown in. I plan on getting book one in the series at some point and start at the beginning of the series.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this book.
Haley Randolph has won an all-expense paid vacation to an exclusive island resort getaway. The resort caters to the rich and famous and celebrities, so when she brings her three best friends along on the trip, some of them are hoping to get a glimpse of Brad Pitt or other celebrities. The four friends have decided that this vacation will be for “girls only” and no talk of men or boyfriends will be tolerated. This may be hard for Haley to do, since there are two hot men that she knows from her past also staying on the island.
Besides going to the resort for rest and relaxation, Haley is on a mission to find the perfect beach bag, the Sea Vixen. She just knows that somewhere on the island she will find the bag, and all will be right with her world. During the course of her search, she finds the dead body of a resort worker who has been missing. So not only does she have to continue her search for the Sea Vixen, she now has to try to find a murderer. And on her vacation, no less. Will Haley succeed in her missions, or will the elusive beach bag slip through her fingers? Oh yeah, and will she nab a killer?
The writing style flows smoothly and this book is an easy ready. The author is very descriptive in her writing and the setting came to life while reading the book. At times I felt like I was there on the resort, enjoying the warmth and beauty. The was a lot of humor in this book and at times I felt myself smiling while I was reading.
The characters were quirky and somewhat shallow in my opinion. They did not feel very realistic to me. I don’t know anyone personally, (myself included), that would go to such lengths for a beach bag. I really did not feel any connection to Haley or any of her friends, but that’s just my opinion. Obviously this opinion is not shared by all because this is the eighth book in the series. I have not read any other books in the series so maybe that is one of the reasons I didn’t connect with the characters.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a humorous, light-hearted chick-lit read with a bit of mystery thrown in. I plan on getting book one in the series at some point and start at the beginning of the series.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this book.
September 4, 2014
Haley won a cruise in the last book of the series, but in the meanwhile, the cruise has been upgraded to an island resort. Haley and her 3 BFFs are having a no-men vacation, but murder, theft and Yasmin interfere with the fun. There's non-stop action in this one, with Haley bouncing all over the island like a ping pong ball and it's a vastly different setting for the series (yay!).
In the last year or so, I read all of the books in this series to this point all in a row. I enjoyed them and would probably give them all 3 stars. I think the break between them and now as well as the fact I was reading one book involving Haley makes me give Beach Bags and Burglaries 3.5-4 stars.
Haley has some traits that I really don't like in a character. She is clothing obsessed, in her case, purses, she is obsessed and fickle with men and dithery about choosing one despite the fact she's been with Ty for quite a while (but currently broken up)and she seems totally self absorbed. A constant diet of this makes her irritating to me however, I had the long break.
The book starts off with Haley obsessed with the Sea Vixen beach bag, Oh, no, I thought, here we go again with the purse obsession. It does continue to play a role and it's amusing in the end by what ultimately happens with Haley's quest to obtain her own Sea Vixen.
You have to suspend your disbelief in this series as well regarding Haley's relationships with men. Wouldn't you know ALL of the men she's attracted to in the previous books and who are supposedly attracted to her end up at the island resort. (As well as the former Holt fat employee who is now a soap star.) They all have small roles with fairly believable reasons for being on the island, quite a writing trick. So, it actually worked for me. There was no romance in this story which may be why it also worked because in the previous books the romantic interactions Haley had just didn't fit.
I also enjoyed Haley's honesty in her dealings with Yasmin, who is getting married at the resort and ropes Haley into planning her bridal shower, and the wedding planner. To have a character who says it like she means it (thanks, Wendy Williams for the term) is refreshing.
BB and B could probably stand alone alright, but to understand Haley's relationships with all the reoccurring characters, you may prefer to start with the first book in the series.
I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
In the last year or so, I read all of the books in this series to this point all in a row. I enjoyed them and would probably give them all 3 stars. I think the break between them and now as well as the fact I was reading one book involving Haley makes me give Beach Bags and Burglaries 3.5-4 stars.
Haley has some traits that I really don't like in a character. She is clothing obsessed, in her case, purses, she is obsessed and fickle with men and dithery about choosing one despite the fact she's been with Ty for quite a while (but currently broken up)and she seems totally self absorbed. A constant diet of this makes her irritating to me however, I had the long break.
The book starts off with Haley obsessed with the Sea Vixen beach bag, Oh, no, I thought, here we go again with the purse obsession. It does continue to play a role and it's amusing in the end by what ultimately happens with Haley's quest to obtain her own Sea Vixen.
You have to suspend your disbelief in this series as well regarding Haley's relationships with men. Wouldn't you know ALL of the men she's attracted to in the previous books and who are supposedly attracted to her end up at the island resort. (As well as the former Holt fat employee who is now a soap star.) They all have small roles with fairly believable reasons for being on the island, quite a writing trick. So, it actually worked for me. There was no romance in this story which may be why it also worked because in the previous books the romantic interactions Haley had just didn't fit.
I also enjoyed Haley's honesty in her dealings with Yasmin, who is getting married at the resort and ropes Haley into planning her bridal shower, and the wedding planner. To have a character who says it like she means it (thanks, Wendy Williams for the term) is refreshing.
BB and B could probably stand alone alright, but to understand Haley's relationships with all the reoccurring characters, you may prefer to start with the first book in the series.
I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
September 12, 2014
Haley Randolph, in this latest installment of the series, wins a vacation to Rowan Resort, a private vacation island. She brings her three BFFs with her - Bella, Marcie and Sandy - and decides that this will be a "girls' vacation". Everything they want is theirs merely for the asking, they even have their own private attendant, Avery, who is responsible for making theirs a memorable stay.
Unfortunately for Haley it will be memorable in more ways than one - one of the resort's maids has been missing for a few days - and she's just discovered the body. When she is questioned by police and the head of security, Walt Pemberton, she figures that's the end of it. But it's only just the beginning...
She spots a reporter she knows, Ben Oliver, and he's not too fond of her - to use one of Haley's lines: it's a long story. While he insists he's onto something big, he also insists it has nothing to do with the murder. Not long after that, FBI agent Luke Warner shows up - and he insists he's not there for the murder, either - he's there for a wedding. Then, Haley is cornered by Yasmin, a woman she knows who is getting married, and insists Haley help her plan her wedding and attend (with her friends) as a guest, since most of Yasmin's guests have cancelled because of the murder.
Okay, so maybe this vacation isn't going the way she wanted. And maybe the new guy she's trying to get her friend Sandy interested in isn't what he appears to be. And so what if a couple more guys she knows - and are hot - show up? It's all good as long as she gets her hands on the Sea Vixen, the latest tote that she must have...
While Haley weaves herself in and out of situations that would make a lesser woman give up in defeat, she tries to juggle time with her friends and tries to figure out why her male friends are showing up in droves; and get her hands on the Sea Vixen tote which is eternally out of her reach. This book is fun, amusing, enchanting and delightful. Although we're not any farther into the Haley-Ty where-is-it-going-to-go relationship, what we have here is an enjoyable ride that I'm glad I was able to take part.
Highly recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2014
I was disappointed with this novel. The author did not re-introduce us to the characters in the beginning. And the pacing of the story felt like she shot a starting pistol and said GO! I felt like I was running through the first part of the book without a breather. I would have liked to have seen more parts were characters were re-introduced. Not everyone who picks up this book will have read the last book, if any of the previous books. I know I am bad about reading books out of order. And I can't believe I'm the only one.
I know this whole series seems to be about Haley's obsession with handbags, but it just seemed a petty indulgence to me not something she just couldn't control about herself.
I felt like there were way too many old flames, detectives, FBI agents, reporters and secret agents for my liking. I mean, can you say overkill? Especially in light of the fact the beginning of the book said his vacation was a no man holiday.
The vacation package that Haley suspiciously won from the department store where she worked seemed a bit over the top, and then that vacation package gets upgraded? Please. I would have liked to seen a bit more realism in this story. It was all a bit melodramatic. I know cozy mysteries are supposed to be mystery on the lighter side but this was just too much over the top for me.
I gave this book 3 stars merely for the fact that there were a few redeemable characters that appealed to me. This book just wasn't my cup of tea, so to speak. And I am a big fan of cozy mysteries.
I received this ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) from Net Galley in return for an honest review. I thank the author, publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to review this title.
I know this whole series seems to be about Haley's obsession with handbags, but it just seemed a petty indulgence to me not something she just couldn't control about herself.
I felt like there were way too many old flames, detectives, FBI agents, reporters and secret agents for my liking. I mean, can you say overkill? Especially in light of the fact the beginning of the book said his vacation was a no man holiday.
The vacation package that Haley suspiciously won from the department store where she worked seemed a bit over the top, and then that vacation package gets upgraded? Please. I would have liked to seen a bit more realism in this story. It was all a bit melodramatic. I know cozy mysteries are supposed to be mystery on the lighter side but this was just too much over the top for me.
I gave this book 3 stars merely for the fact that there were a few redeemable characters that appealed to me. This book just wasn't my cup of tea, so to speak. And I am a big fan of cozy mysteries.
I received this ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) from Net Galley in return for an honest review. I thank the author, publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to review this title.
July 30, 2014
3 STARS
This is a fun cozy mystery. This is the first Haley Randolph book that I have read. Haley is obsessed with getting the hottest beach bag. It is a clean read. It was pretty good on who was doing what crime.
Haley loves fashion. Her boyfriend had broken up with her. So she had won a vacation at resort and brought her 3 good girlfriends.
They are not going to talk about guys. She keeps a lot of secrets from her friends. Every time she turned around she was talking to different guy she was attracted to.
Haley on first day finds the missing Jaslyn body. The two detectives think that she might know more about them.
Haley is determined to find out who the murder is.
The setting for this book is a island off from California. The only way to get onto the island is from the private helicopter or the supply boat. So the murder is still on the island.
Their is a lot of mentioning history with different men in her life that is a long story so feel a little bit of lost because never read the seven other books.
It seems Haley is a little shallow the way she says one thing and does another. She keeps mentioning her want for the hottest bag, or her new clothes she put on credit cards. The way she talks about different guys in her life. How she tries to walk away from people calling her name like she does at work all the time.
It is meant to be a light hearted mystery.
I was given this ebook to read by Harlequin and Kensington. I agreed to give honest review of Beach Bags and Burglaries.
August 31, 2014
Well this is the first time reading this author and reading this series. I didn’t realize when I started reading this book that it is the 8th in the series. When I first started reading the book I was kind lost wondering about the characters, but I don’t think that really matters that much in the story. I was able to read the whole story and thought the author did a wonderful job for letting me know who was who, I wasn’t lost but just didn’t really know her friends.
This story starts out with Haley winning an all expense vacation to an exclusive island. Of course there is a mystery to be solved and I felt that Haley really just wanted to relax but found herself right in the middle of the whole thing, all because she wanted a hard to find popular new beach bag. Yep that is really all she wanted was the beach bag that she had seen in a magazine. But no, she had to find some trouble as well.
I felt this book is real written and fun to read, I am glad I was given the opportunity to read this book. I am looking forward to reading more of her books. This was a splendid summer read that can be read any time.
I received this book from Net Galley for an honest review.
This story starts out with Haley winning an all expense vacation to an exclusive island. Of course there is a mystery to be solved and I felt that Haley really just wanted to relax but found herself right in the middle of the whole thing, all because she wanted a hard to find popular new beach bag. Yep that is really all she wanted was the beach bag that she had seen in a magazine. But no, she had to find some trouble as well.
I felt this book is real written and fun to read, I am glad I was given the opportunity to read this book. I am looking forward to reading more of her books. This was a splendid summer read that can be read any time.
I received this book from Net Galley for an honest review.
July 30, 2014
Beach Bags and Burglaries by Dorothy Howell
Although this book is a series book this is the first I've read of the author.
Didn't feel so much in the dark but there are a lot of characters from past cases that have popped up as the investigations go on.
Four women take a vacation at a resort and find not only one hostess has been murdered but one of their friends is getting married -they were not invited.
But now that the family's relatives won't come to the resort island the friends are now the brides best friends. Also one of the girls lucky underwear is stolen.
Lots of drama from a lot of different people made this a funny book for me to read while they go through the clues. Loves the Sea Vixen bag although I'm not
a woman who cares what bag I carry I just found it amazing what some will do for a special bag.
Good book and I am pretty sure I will read the others in the series and by this author as she covers all bases.
I received this book from The Kennsington Books in exchange for my honest review
Although this book is a series book this is the first I've read of the author.
Didn't feel so much in the dark but there are a lot of characters from past cases that have popped up as the investigations go on.
Four women take a vacation at a resort and find not only one hostess has been murdered but one of their friends is getting married -they were not invited.
But now that the family's relatives won't come to the resort island the friends are now the brides best friends. Also one of the girls lucky underwear is stolen.
Lots of drama from a lot of different people made this a funny book for me to read while they go through the clues. Loves the Sea Vixen bag although I'm not
a woman who cares what bag I carry I just found it amazing what some will do for a special bag.
Good book and I am pretty sure I will read the others in the series and by this author as she covers all bases.
I received this book from The Kennsington Books in exchange for my honest review
August 20, 2014
This is a great book! It is book 8 in the Haley Randolph series, but it can be read as a standalone. This is the first book that I have read in this series, and I loved it! I have just added the rest of the book to my wish list. Haley won an all expense paid trip to a posh island that is known to have famous actors as guests. She takes her girl friends with her to relax and enjoy an all girls vacation. Haley has been dreaming of getting a rare Sea Vixen beach bag, so when she sees someone carrying one at the resort she follows her to see where she can get one. While she is following the lady she ends up finding the missing maid dead. Now Haley is on a mission to find the killer, and track down a Sea Vixen beach bag for herself. This book has it all, humor, mystery and a little romance. I can’t wait to read more books by this author!!
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
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