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Good Buy Girls Mystery #3
Buried in Bargains
By Jenn McKinlay, author of the Library Lover's mysteries and the Cupcake Bakery mysteries, writing as Josie Belle
Maggie Gerber and those discount divas, the Good Buy Girls, are gearing up for their first big holiday thrift shop sale. But one of the Girls—Joanne Claramotta, pregnant with her first child—is acting less than festive. It could be hormones. Or it could be Diane Jenkins, the young knockout her husband, Michael, hired as his new deli assistant.
Calming Joanne’s nerves proves impossible when Maggie finds Michael unconscious on his deli floor—and with Diane next to him, strangled to death with her apron strings. Then Maggie discovers something even more disturbing.
There’s no record of Diane having been hired. In fact, she has no history at all. It’s as if she never even existed. Now Maggie fears that unwrapping Michael’s secrets could really kill her holiday spirit.
INCLUDES BARGAIN-HUNTING TIPS!
Maggie Gerber and those discount divas, the Good Buy Girls, are gearing up for their first big holiday thrift shop sale. But one of the Girls—Joanne Claramotta, pregnant with her first child—is acting less than festive. It could be hormones. Or it could be Diane Jenkins, the young knockout her husband, Michael, hired as his new deli assistant.
Calming Joanne’s nerves proves impossible when Maggie finds Michael unconscious on his deli floor—and with Diane next to him, strangled to death with her apron strings. Then Maggie discovers something even more disturbing.
There’s no record of Diane having been hired. In fact, she has no history at all. It’s as if she never even existed. Now Maggie fears that unwrapping Michael’s secrets could really kill her holiday spirit.
INCLUDES BARGAIN-HUNTING TIPS!
272 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2013
47 people are currently reading
1124 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
September 6, 2016
I've come to the conclusion that one of the reasons why I enjoy Josie Belle's Good Buy Girls mysteries so much is that, by reading them, I experience something I've never had: the close friendship and emotional support of a group of women. These books almost make me want to start wearing nail polish and looking for bargains on shoes. Almost. (Sorry, Jenn, but I never was and never will be a girly girl.) This time around, Maggie and her friends are still dealing with the dangerous diva, Summer Phillips, but the emphasis is less on bargains and cat fights, and more on family, relationships, and a first-rate mystery.
Another thing that I love about this series is that no character is really left behind. When a long-married couple splits in one book, they don't disappear; we get to see how they deal with living apart. When these amateur sleuths help a dead woman's daughter, the next book shows us how she is coping-- and how she is able to move with her life. This is definitely a series about family and about friends, and while a killer is being hunted, Buried in Bargains really delivers. A word of warning: when reading about the fancy dress Christmas ball, please have tissues on hand. You will need them. It's one of the very best cry-for-happy scenes I've read in a long, long time. I also have to admit that finally getting a chance to see Maggie's daughter was a bonus-- as well as watching further progress in the relationship between Maggie and Sheriff Sam Collins.
If you love feeling invested in the crime fiction you read, get hold of the Good Buy Girls series. The whodunit aspects are good, and the cast of characters is so strong that you'll wish you could move to St. Stanley, Virginia, to become a part of such a loving, supportive group. Buried in Bargains is the best of the bunch so far. It can be read as a standalone since the author does provide enough backstory for you to get a feel for the characters, but I'd advise that you read 'em all. Why deny yourself the pleasure?
Bring on the next one-- I have my coupons ready!
Another thing that I love about this series is that no character is really left behind. When a long-married couple splits in one book, they don't disappear; we get to see how they deal with living apart. When these amateur sleuths help a dead woman's daughter, the next book shows us how she is coping-- and how she is able to move with her life. This is definitely a series about family and about friends, and while a killer is being hunted, Buried in Bargains really delivers. A word of warning: when reading about the fancy dress Christmas ball, please have tissues on hand. You will need them. It's one of the very best cry-for-happy scenes I've read in a long, long time. I also have to admit that finally getting a chance to see Maggie's daughter was a bonus-- as well as watching further progress in the relationship between Maggie and Sheriff Sam Collins.
If you love feeling invested in the crime fiction you read, get hold of the Good Buy Girls series. The whodunit aspects are good, and the cast of characters is so strong that you'll wish you could move to St. Stanley, Virginia, to become a part of such a loving, supportive group. Buried in Bargains is the best of the bunch so far. It can be read as a standalone since the author does provide enough backstory for you to get a feel for the characters, but I'd advise that you read 'em all. Why deny yourself the pleasure?
Bring on the next one-- I have my coupons ready!
May 4, 2019
Another good book in this series. The mystery was predictable and I guessed the killer easily, but that's not what made the story. I love the friendship and love between all the characters. It's getting stronger as the series continues and I can't wait to read the next one!!
May 22, 2016
I think this was my favourite in the series so far. Even though we had to wait for the murder to happen for quite a while it was very entertaining to see the storyline that goes through whole series further develop. A lot less furious interaction between Maggie and Summer which was very OK and even though I don't mind it too much I didn't miss it either. Go ahead and read it, it is lots of fun :)
May 4, 2021
Loved it! I enjoyed the characters and the story. I figured out who did it 50 pages before the end of the book. The ending was exciting. I liked the relationship developments in this book. Can't wait to read the next one!
March 13, 2024
Great story!
October 3, 2013
Josie Bell is the pseudonym of Jenn McKinlay, author of the Cupcake Mysteries. Under this name, she writes the Good Buy Girls series about four friends always looking for a good deal when out shopping. I like this series well enough. The characters are likeable and easy to keep track of. I wish the theme of bargain shopping was a little more prevalent in the books though. It seems that Maggie and her friends, especially in this book, spend a lot less time shopping and a lot more time sleuthing. I think a good cozy should have a mixture of both the theme and the sleuthing.
That being said, this one was a little predictable. I knew who the killer was way before we ever found out as readers and I almost never do. I know a lot of readers can figure it out but I feel like if you do, you're probably guessing. This one was pretty obvious.
I love Jenn McKinlay's other 2 series, the Cupcake Mysteries and the Library Lovers series so I definitely want to keep reading this one. However, this series isn't as strong as the other 2 but it is interesting enough to keep reading.
That being said, this one was a little predictable. I knew who the killer was way before we ever found out as readers and I almost never do. I know a lot of readers can figure it out but I feel like if you do, you're probably guessing. This one was pretty obvious.
I love Jenn McKinlay's other 2 series, the Cupcake Mysteries and the Library Lovers series so I definitely want to keep reading this one. However, this series isn't as strong as the other 2 but it is interesting enough to keep reading.
November 17, 2013
Buried In Bargains by Josie Belle has twists and charm, romance and mystery, and Best of all Christmas.
I didn't know who-done-it until the main character, Maggie Gerber figured it out. There is also a romance brewing between Maggie, the resale shop owner (sleuth), and the local sheriff, Sam. And they are both baby boomers. I love that.
There's a great bonus as well, in the back of the book are money saving holiday tips and a recipe for Maggie's To-Go-Gift, her Hot Chocolate for two. This is a perfect Holiday read if you like mysteries or romances or both. It also will make a great holiday gift.
I didn't know who-done-it until the main character, Maggie Gerber figured it out. There is also a romance brewing between Maggie, the resale shop owner (sleuth), and the local sheriff, Sam. And they are both baby boomers. I love that.
There's a great bonus as well, in the back of the book are money saving holiday tips and a recipe for Maggie's To-Go-Gift, her Hot Chocolate for two. This is a perfect Holiday read if you like mysteries or romances or both. It also will make a great holiday gift.
January 17, 2015
Not as good as the first two in series.
January 9, 2021
Interesting cozy mystery
I enjoyed this third addition of the Good Buy Girls. Sam and Maggie developed their relationship more in this book (Joanne and her husband play a semi important role, but Claire and Ginger are much more in the background). The mystery was secondary and very "fluffy." I really enjoyed seeing more of Laura as well as Sandy and her family.
I enjoyed this third addition of the Good Buy Girls. Sam and Maggie developed their relationship more in this book (Joanne and her husband play a semi important role, but Claire and Ginger are much more in the background). The mystery was secondary and very "fluffy." I really enjoyed seeing more of Laura as well as Sandy and her family.
October 19, 2018
Book 3 in the Good Buy Girls Mystery series, has the quartet – Maggie, Ginger, Claire and Joanne – faced with another murder close to home. Joanne and Michael are expecting their first child, and she’s feeling fat and unattractive, especially since Michael hired the pretty young, blond Diane as an assistant at the deli. When Diane is found strangled in the back room, Michael and/or Joanne are immediate suspects.
This has all the elements of a successful cozy mystery series: a group of friends who serve as amateur sleuths, a villainous temptress “mean girl” who is the bane of their existence, a handsome sheriff with a definite interest in widowed Maggie, and a lovely small community with a high murder rate.
I identified the culprit the first time said culprit made an appearance in the book. But it was still fun to watch everyone else catch up. The one thing that really annoys me is the relationship between Maggie and her former high-school rival, Summer. These two forty-year-olds act like they are still in junior high, throwing tantrums and all but wrestling one another to the ground. Grow up, ladies! Seriously.
Cozy mysteries are my reading comfort food, and as winter approaches, I’m sure I’ll be reading more of them.
This has all the elements of a successful cozy mystery series: a group of friends who serve as amateur sleuths, a villainous temptress “mean girl” who is the bane of their existence, a handsome sheriff with a definite interest in widowed Maggie, and a lovely small community with a high murder rate.
I identified the culprit the first time said culprit made an appearance in the book. But it was still fun to watch everyone else catch up. The one thing that really annoys me is the relationship between Maggie and her former high-school rival, Summer. These two forty-year-olds act like they are still in junior high, throwing tantrums and all but wrestling one another to the ground. Grow up, ladies! Seriously.
Cozy mysteries are my reading comfort food, and as winter approaches, I’m sure I’ll be reading more of them.
December 2, 2013
Buried In Bargains is the third book in the A Good Buy Girls Mystery series. I think it is the best yet.
The holidays are getting near and things are busy for Maggie at home and at her shop, My Sister's Closet.
Everyone is also busy getting ready for the Holiday Ball to held at Bianca's fashionable home. Joanne, one of the Good Buy Girls, is in the early term of her pregnancy and is feeling jealous of the new girl that her husband Michael has hired at their deli. When Maggie overhears a private conversation between Michael and the girl, Maggie begins to wonder if something is going on. The next day Maggie goes to the deli to order additional food for holidays and finds the young lady has been strangled and Michael lying in a pool of blood from a head injury.
So it's time for the Good Buy Girls to put their heads together and to make sure the police don't continue to look at Joanne and Michael as the murderer.
All the character we have learned to love and hate are back. Summer is back to reek havoc on Maggie's sanity. Also Britney's obnoxious self is back.
Also Laura, Maggie's daughter, is home from school and is a joy for Maggie to have help out at the shop.
Oh, yes, and Maggie has seemed to have made a decision of who the love of her life will be.
Definitely looking forward to this next book.
The holidays are getting near and things are busy for Maggie at home and at her shop, My Sister's Closet.
Everyone is also busy getting ready for the Holiday Ball to held at Bianca's fashionable home. Joanne, one of the Good Buy Girls, is in the early term of her pregnancy and is feeling jealous of the new girl that her husband Michael has hired at their deli. When Maggie overhears a private conversation between Michael and the girl, Maggie begins to wonder if something is going on. The next day Maggie goes to the deli to order additional food for holidays and finds the young lady has been strangled and Michael lying in a pool of blood from a head injury.
So it's time for the Good Buy Girls to put their heads together and to make sure the police don't continue to look at Joanne and Michael as the murderer.
All the character we have learned to love and hate are back. Summer is back to reek havoc on Maggie's sanity. Also Britney's obnoxious self is back.
Also Laura, Maggie's daughter, is home from school and is a joy for Maggie to have help out at the shop.
Oh, yes, and Maggie has seemed to have made a decision of who the love of her life will be.
Definitely looking forward to this next book.
November 8, 2013
I liked this one. I'm glad the love triangle is over - I hate when they get dragged out, especially when it's obvious who the MC should be with, as was the case here. I thought if was fairly obvious who the murderer was, but I can see why the characters had a hard time figuring it out.
My only complaint is the fact the characters used last names when talking about other people far too frequently. When speaking to a close friend about another close friend's husband, it's extremely impractical to refer to the husband by both his first and last name, especially as far in as chapter 18 when we know who everybody is. That sort of thing drives me crazy in a book.
My only complaint is the fact the characters used last names when talking about other people far too frequently. When speaking to a close friend about another close friend's husband, it's extremely impractical to refer to the husband by both his first and last name, especially as far in as chapter 18 when we know who everybody is. That sort of thing drives me crazy in a book.
October 12, 2014
Buried in Bargains is the third installment in cozy mystery series about a group of four good friends who bond over their love of bargain shopping. Maggie Gerber is the main character and she is a curious widow with a grown daughter and a new relationship with her high school boyfriend. Sam has recently returned to town after 20 years away and is the sheriff.
I liked the first two books in the series more than I liked this one, but it could have just been the subject matter (young woman found murdered). I'm not sure, but I do really like the characters and I love the way the author moves the relationship between Sam and Maggie along at the speed it would happen in real life.
I liked the first two books in the series more than I liked this one, but it could have just been the subject matter (young woman found murdered). I'm not sure, but I do really like the characters and I love the way the author moves the relationship between Sam and Maggie along at the speed it would happen in real life.
October 22, 2013
Another great addition to this well-written series by Josie Belle, aka Jenn McKinlay. several of the scenes were very poignantly written and brought tears to my eyes. I really enjoy this series and it has a different feel from Jenn's other series. I also enjoyed the comedic scenes provided by Summer. If you want a great Cozy to read for the holidays, then this book is perfect!! I can't wait for the next one!
February 7, 2019
Grrr disappointing, so skimmed through to the end, which was no surprise. Unreal how many times the characters names are mentioned in full and their backstory, every few paragraphs. Between the cop divulging case information to civilians and smooching everywhere, I could not take it! As if people would be privy to confidential crime reports, and allowed into hospital ICU rooms.
December 30, 2013
Not much action or adventure, and really very VERY little to do with Christmas. I think it was mentioned once or twice that someone was shopping for wrapping paper and that was pretty much the extent of the Christmas theme, which was disappointing. Still, it was an enjoyable enough read.
July 29, 2015
Loved it! I'm really enjoying this series though I feel like I missed something by not reading the second book before this one. Won't be a problem much longer though as I'm going to get it and read them again in order :D
October 26, 2013
A vast improvement over the first two books.
Review: http://jenn.booklikes.com/post/659812...
Review: http://jenn.booklikes.com/post/659812...
October 15, 2013
Quick easy read. The characters relationships progressed nicely and was the highlight of the book. The murderer was easy to pick, motive was easy too.
June 22, 2022
It’s almost Christmas in St. Stanley, Virginia. The Good Buy Girls, a group of local bargain hunters, are prepping for a holiday thrift shop sale. They’ve planned in advance what they want to buy and who will visit which aisle. It’s also the time of year for a traditional Christmas ball. Maggie’s consignment shop is busy supplying formal ball gowns around town. Michael Claramotta, who runs the deli, will provide some of the refreshments at the ball. As the dance is in full swing, Maggie overhears Michael remonstrating with a new employee. He tells her “This can’t go on.” Maggie worries Michael is having an affair with the new employee. Diane Jenkins is new in town, and she’s Michael’s latest employee. His wife, Joanne, is one of the Bood Buy Girls, and she’s pregnant with their first child.
The morning after the ball, Maggie visits the deli only to find Diane strangled with her own apron strings and Michael unconscious in a pool of blood.
Maggie and the local sheriff, Sam Collins, argue over whether Michael would have killed Diane Jenkins. Days later, Michael awakens and can’t remember anything. And Diane Jenkins isn’t who she said she was.
Before this ends, Maggie and Ginger, two of the Good Buy Girls, are in danger of losing their lives. It’s a suspenseful and ultimately satisfying ending.
The morning after the ball, Maggie visits the deli only to find Diane strangled with her own apron strings and Michael unconscious in a pool of blood.
Maggie and the local sheriff, Sam Collins, argue over whether Michael would have killed Diane Jenkins. Days later, Michael awakens and can’t remember anything. And Diane Jenkins isn’t who she said she was.
Before this ends, Maggie and Ginger, two of the Good Buy Girls, are in danger of losing their lives. It’s a suspenseful and ultimately satisfying ending.
November 24, 2016
#3 in the Good Buy Girls mystery series. Maggie Gerber is the pivotal GBG, 4 women who have a passion for bargains. Bianca Madison (A Deal To Die For (2012)) decides to continue the tradition of her mother and host a holiday ball. Maggie has all of the late Vera Madison's balls on consignment in her thrift shop. GBG Joanna is pregnant and jealous of the young lady her husband has hired for their deli. The GBGs and Maggie's family are attractive characters, but I felt that the obligatory victim and villain were rather obvious. Worth reading for cozy fans, who will enjoy the continuation of Maggie's romantic life.
Good Buy Girls mystery - Maggie Gerber and the Good Buy Girls, are gearing up for their first big holiday thrift shop sale. But Joanne Claramotta, pregnant with her first child--is acting less than festive. It could be hormones. Or it could be Diane Jenkins, the young knockout her husband, Michael, hired as his new deli assistant. Calming Joanne's nerves proves impossible when Maggie finds Michael unconscious on his deli floor--and with Diane next to him, strangled to death. Then Maggie discovers something even more disturbing. There's no record of Diane having been hired. In fact, she has no history at all.
Good Buy Girls mystery - Maggie Gerber and the Good Buy Girls, are gearing up for their first big holiday thrift shop sale. But Joanne Claramotta, pregnant with her first child--is acting less than festive. It could be hormones. Or it could be Diane Jenkins, the young knockout her husband, Michael, hired as his new deli assistant. Calming Joanne's nerves proves impossible when Maggie finds Michael unconscious on his deli floor--and with Diane next to him, strangled to death. Then Maggie discovers something even more disturbing. There's no record of Diane having been hired. In fact, she has no history at all.
November 18, 2024
WOW. The suspense. The heart. The romance. Buried in Bargains, book no. 3 in the Good Buy Girls cozy mystery series, has it all. The Good Buy Girls are a group of women who love to get a good deal, and they help solve mysteries on the side, too.
I binged the book in one day, and I had never been more engrossed in a cozy mystery book. Josie Bell, a pen name for Jenn McKinlay, truly has a gift for writing cozy mysteries; I also highly recommend the Library Lover’s series by McKinlay.
The element of found family is strong in the Good Buy Girls series, but there are actual familial relationships in the story as well. While every cozy mystery series tends to have a side romance story, the story between Maggie and Sam is truly romantic. I can’t wait to read the next installment, but I’m also sad because the entire series is just five books.
I binged the book in one day, and I had never been more engrossed in a cozy mystery book. Josie Bell, a pen name for Jenn McKinlay, truly has a gift for writing cozy mysteries; I also highly recommend the Library Lover’s series by McKinlay.
The element of found family is strong in the Good Buy Girls series, but there are actual familial relationships in the story as well. While every cozy mystery series tends to have a side romance story, the story between Maggie and Sam is truly romantic. I can’t wait to read the next installment, but I’m also sad because the entire series is just five books.
November 25, 2021
This is a cozy Christmas mystery set in a small town in Vermont, but the elements in the formula differ from the standard. The main character is Maggie Gerber, a 40ish widow with a 19-year-old daughter, and a group of friends known as the Good Buy Girls. Maggie is courted by the sheriff, Sam Collins, and they have numerous romantic encounters like teen agers. They work together to solve the murder of a young woman, new in town, who has no ID. The killer turns out to be another stranger in town, a psychopath, who was stalking the young woman. Very convenient when the killer is a newcomer to town, and a crazy person. No need to do any set up or reveal any clues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2019
Bargain shopping has been replaced by selling at Maggie's store. I guess I don't mind, but just so you know. There is something quite mysterious going on in one of the friend's lives. This scenario is fairly up-to-date, and scary. However, somehow, they miss the obvious suspect, who sticks out like a sore thumb, so I down-rated this one star. And, the location where the killer corners Maggie seems a little unrealistic. Even in a small town, would they just leave this open?
A lot of the plot lines from the series have been settled, so I'll be interested to see what happens in the next book.
A lot of the plot lines from the series have been settled, so I'll be interested to see what happens in the next book.
April 2, 2019
Things kick up a notch at the local Christmas Ball. A surprise family reunion, a new romance debut, and an overheard conversation that leads to murder.
Really enjoyed this book. Maggie and Sam are on friendlier terms, and Summer is just as jealous as ever. Loved the friendship the Good Buy Girls show for each other as they come together to support one of their members, and we finally meet Maggie’s daughter.
Great plot, a fun and fast paced read that I flew through.
4 stars
Really enjoyed this book. Maggie and Sam are on friendlier terms, and Summer is just as jealous as ever. Loved the friendship the Good Buy Girls show for each other as they come together to support one of their members, and we finally meet Maggie’s daughter.
Great plot, a fun and fast paced read that I flew through.
4 stars
December 16, 2019
I enjoy this series. The characters are fun and engaging. Doesn't matter in this one you know the killer right away if you're paying attention. Still a fun read. Glad the nemesis, Summer, wasn't in this book much. My only complaint is way too much romance for a cozy mystery. Every other page Maggie and the Sheriff were locked into an embrace no matter the setting. But a good choice for a cozy fan.
April 15, 2022
A great addition to the series! I'm sad that there are only five books in this series. The mystery felt like it got started a little late in the book, but I enjoy reading about Maggie's life so I didn't mind. I will say that some of the characters, especially Maggie, can seem very immature at times. However, they are fun and I have a great time reading these books. The mystery was interesting and I enjoyed learning more about the Good Buy Girls' relationships.
June 14, 2021
I love this series. With the helpful tips and reading how to get great sales. I absolutely love the characters in this small town. Adding the Christmas holiday makes it even more fun and festive. Things are starting to change with relationships and living arrangements which will change things up in the future. Cannot wait to see what happens next.
July 23, 2021
3.5 stars
I like the friendship of the women, but the murderer seemed very obvious long before it's ever brought up by the women. There really wasn't anyone else it could've been so that wasn't much of a challenge. I do like the Maggie character.
I like the friendship of the women, but the murderer seemed very obvious long before it's ever brought up by the women. There really wasn't anyone else it could've been so that wasn't much of a challenge. I do like the Maggie character.
June 5, 2024
Picked this book out of a Little Free Library while camping, it was a fast and enjoyable read. The story had a few twists but I figured it fairly easily. I will certainly read others in this series or by this author
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews