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Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery #1
Staged to Death
Cozy mystery, Book 1 in the Caprice DeLuca home-stager mystery series
Caprice DeLuca stages houses for high-end clients. When she discovers a body in the castle-mansion she staged to sell and starts asking questions, she finds herself in danger. On the way to solving the murder, Caprice's large Italian family helps and hinders. She also finds romance with Dr. Seth Randolph. But does her brother's partner, attorney Grant Weatherford, care about her, too? Or is he just worried she'll get herself killed and her family will blame him?
Caprice DeLuca stages houses for high-end clients. When she discovers a body in the castle-mansion she staged to sell and starts asking questions, she finds herself in danger. On the way to solving the murder, Caprice's large Italian family helps and hinders. She also finds romance with Dr. Seth Randolph. But does her brother's partner, attorney Grant Weatherford, care about her, too? Or is he just worried she'll get herself killed and her family will blame him?
357 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
218 people are currently reading
2397 people want to read
About the author
Karen Rose Smith
351 books907 followersAward-winning author Karen Rose Smith was born in Pennsylvania. Although she was an only child, she remembers the bonds of an extended family. Family is a strong theme in her books and she suspects her childhood memories are the reason.
In college, Karen began writing poetry and also met her husband to be. They both began married life as teachers, but when their son was born, Karen decided to try her hand at a home-decorating business.
She returned to teaching for a while but changes in her life led her to writing relationship novels. Now she writes romances as well as mysteries full time. Her first book was published in 1992; her 110th novel will be published in 2024. A winner of New Jersey's Golden Leaf Award in Short Contemporary Romance, Colorado Romance Writers Award Of Excellence for short contemporary, as well as the Phoenix Desert Rose Chapter's Golden Quill for Traditional Romance, she has also been honored with Cataromance.com's award for Best Special Edition and Washington Romance Writers Career Achievement Award. Her romances have made both the USA TODAY list and the Amazon Romance and Contemporary Romance Bestseller lists. Her mysteries have made the USA TODAY and Barnes and Noble bestseller lists.
She has written for Meteor/Kismet, Kensington, Silhouette and Harlequin. Readers can contact Karen through her website, on Facebook (Karen Rose Smith Author) and on Twitter @ Karenrosesmith, on TIKTOK at karenrosesmithauthor and on Instagram. They can also follow her monthly e-zine IN TOUCH with KAREN ROSE SMITH which has the latest news about her books, recipes and contests.
In college, Karen began writing poetry and also met her husband to be. They both began married life as teachers, but when their son was born, Karen decided to try her hand at a home-decorating business.
She returned to teaching for a while but changes in her life led her to writing relationship novels. Now she writes romances as well as mysteries full time. Her first book was published in 1992; her 110th novel will be published in 2024. A winner of New Jersey's Golden Leaf Award in Short Contemporary Romance, Colorado Romance Writers Award Of Excellence for short contemporary, as well as the Phoenix Desert Rose Chapter's Golden Quill for Traditional Romance, she has also been honored with Cataromance.com's award for Best Special Edition and Washington Romance Writers Career Achievement Award. Her romances have made both the USA TODAY list and the Amazon Romance and Contemporary Romance Bestseller lists. Her mysteries have made the USA TODAY and Barnes and Noble bestseller lists.
She has written for Meteor/Kismet, Kensington, Silhouette and Harlequin. Readers can contact Karen through her website, on Facebook (Karen Rose Smith Author) and on Twitter @ Karenrosesmith, on TIKTOK at karenrosesmithauthor and on Instagram. They can also follow her monthly e-zine IN TOUCH with KAREN ROSE SMITH which has the latest news about her books, recipes and contests.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
July 8, 2020
I must agree with another reviewer, that I do not understand all of the 4 and 5-star reviews. I have been reading cozy mysteries for years and I have very rarely come across one that depended more on side stories and the writers' interests than I have with this book.
I learned more about decorating, redecorating, and staging business than I did about the murder. I realize that this is the first book in the series and it needs to set things up for future books with back-story on the characters and such, but this book really left nothing to explore in the future books. I also don't like the fact that the author is following a trope that so many other authors are trying to follow(and they mostly do it just as badly, think Joanne Fluke)in this genre - which is having two love interests for the protagonist.
With this book following so many other authors formulas (multiple love interests, adding recipes, etc.) and not being particularly creative at it - I can safely say that, while I will always wonder if the author learns from her mistakes, I don't think I will take a chance on using up my reading time to find out.
I learned more about decorating, redecorating, and staging business than I did about the murder. I realize that this is the first book in the series and it needs to set things up for future books with back-story on the characters and such, but this book really left nothing to explore in the future books. I also don't like the fact that the author is following a trope that so many other authors are trying to follow(and they mostly do it just as badly, think Joanne Fluke)in this genre - which is having two love interests for the protagonist.
With this book following so many other authors formulas (multiple love interests, adding recipes, etc.) and not being particularly creative at it - I can safely say that, while I will always wonder if the author learns from her mistakes, I don't think I will take a chance on using up my reading time to find out.
April 5, 2015
Staged to Death by Karen Rose Smith is a 2015 Kensington publication.
I enjoy a good cozy mystery from time to time but it's been a while since I found a series I really, really liked. This one just might fit the bill. This is the first book in the series and it's off to a wonderful start!
When Roz and her husband, Ted, decided too sell their spacious castle style home, Caprice is hired to do a 'staging' to help the property sell. However, Roz and Caprice can not convince Ted to remove his collection of swords and daggers in time for the open house. But, when the ladies discover Ted murdered with his own dagger, suspicions fall on Roz. Caprice is convinced her friend did not kill her husband despite the fact he was having an affair. So, before Roz can be arrested for a crime she did not commit, Roz decides to do a little detective work on her own. Naturally, this is very dangerous and Caprice could find herself being the next murder victim.
Caprice and Roz discover Ted had been keeping quite a few secrets from Roz, not just his relationship with another woman, but also a great many issues at his job. But, the fact remains that Roz will need an attorney which puts Caprice back in touch with Grant, a guy she once had feelings for. But, Grant is a widower so he may not be quite ready for a relationship, so perhaps being just friends works best for them? Grant is not the only guy showing interest in Caprice though. Could there be a little romance in the air?
I really enjoyed reading about Caprice and her Italian family and all their dramas, quirks, and flaws. The staging job, while close to interior design, is a very important role for those who are wishing to sell a home.
You couldn't find a better friend in Caprice and her instincts for detective work are above average, but she does put herself in dangerous positions, so I could understand her family having concerns.
Plus, anyone who loves pets and is willing to take in strays and help them find a home gets my approval.
The story is written by the cozy mystery rule book with little violence, sexual content, and language. Some cozies as of late have begun to steer away from some this and that's a shame since many people love cozies for that very reason.
I also thought the characters felt real and Caprice is not silly or foolish like some amateur sleuths can be. In fact, I admired her loyalty, her intuitions, and the hard work she put into helping to find a murderer, but also the work she puts into being a good daughter, sister and friend, and pet owner. I wasn't sure about her love interest, but we will have to see how that plays out in the future. Either way I'm cheering her on! The story was light and easy to read with a compelling mystery, appealing characters, and some awesome recipes added at the end. This was a very enjoyable read. 5 stars
I enjoy a good cozy mystery from time to time but it's been a while since I found a series I really, really liked. This one just might fit the bill. This is the first book in the series and it's off to a wonderful start!
When Roz and her husband, Ted, decided too sell their spacious castle style home, Caprice is hired to do a 'staging' to help the property sell. However, Roz and Caprice can not convince Ted to remove his collection of swords and daggers in time for the open house. But, when the ladies discover Ted murdered with his own dagger, suspicions fall on Roz. Caprice is convinced her friend did not kill her husband despite the fact he was having an affair. So, before Roz can be arrested for a crime she did not commit, Roz decides to do a little detective work on her own. Naturally, this is very dangerous and Caprice could find herself being the next murder victim.
Caprice and Roz discover Ted had been keeping quite a few secrets from Roz, not just his relationship with another woman, but also a great many issues at his job. But, the fact remains that Roz will need an attorney which puts Caprice back in touch with Grant, a guy she once had feelings for. But, Grant is a widower so he may not be quite ready for a relationship, so perhaps being just friends works best for them? Grant is not the only guy showing interest in Caprice though. Could there be a little romance in the air?
I really enjoyed reading about Caprice and her Italian family and all their dramas, quirks, and flaws. The staging job, while close to interior design, is a very important role for those who are wishing to sell a home.
You couldn't find a better friend in Caprice and her instincts for detective work are above average, but she does put herself in dangerous positions, so I could understand her family having concerns.
Plus, anyone who loves pets and is willing to take in strays and help them find a home gets my approval.
The story is written by the cozy mystery rule book with little violence, sexual content, and language. Some cozies as of late have begun to steer away from some this and that's a shame since many people love cozies for that very reason.
I also thought the characters felt real and Caprice is not silly or foolish like some amateur sleuths can be. In fact, I admired her loyalty, her intuitions, and the hard work she put into helping to find a murderer, but also the work she puts into being a good daughter, sister and friend, and pet owner. I wasn't sure about her love interest, but we will have to see how that plays out in the future. Either way I'm cheering her on! The story was light and easy to read with a compelling mystery, appealing characters, and some awesome recipes added at the end. This was a very enjoyable read. 5 stars
March 26, 2015
Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://tinyurl.com/ojaevyj
I have always enjoyed cozy mysteries and am glad to have discovered the writing of Karen Rose Smith. Set in Kismet, Pennsylvania, Staged to Death is book #1 in Karen's home staging series. While I have no skill whatsoever when it comes to interior design, it's fascinating to watch home staging on HGTV, so I enjoyed this premise for a continuing series.
A series is only sustainable if you like the protagonist, and I liked Caprice De Luca very much. Forced by an economic downturn to reinvent herself, Caprice transformed her talent for interior design into a home-staging enterprise, through a lot of study and hard work, and learned what rich people wanted so she could fit into their networks: "They want me to be right. They want to be able to trust me, not just my skill, but my connections." She specializes in themed stagings for high-end clients, which is how she met Roz and Ted Winslow in this first book - staging a Camelot theme for their castle-like home.
But what makes Caprice most relatable to me is that she is loyal, rescues stray cats (which is also reflective of the author's heart), and comes from a delightful Italian family, the dynamics of which leave a lot of room for character development through this series.
Realistic or not, I love it when an amateur detective puts herself in the middle of a murder investigation with the best of intentions - which is one of the definitions of a cozy mystery. Caprice tries to help her high school friend, Roz, clear her name in this mystery that combines old-fashioned sleuthing with staging of homes, worrying about her sister Bella's marriage, balancing two possible romantic interests, and finding homes for stray cats. Staged to Death seems to be more character driven than action packed or suspenseful, which is perfect for my tastes because I don't like the scary stuff.
At times, I wished the narrative moved at a little quicker pace, but loved these characters, thought the mystery was well plotted, and will definitely read more of Caprice's adventures. And I greatly appreciated the fact that, with the exception of 2-3 uses of mild profanity, this was a clean read. Recommended to cozy mystery fans.
Thank you to Karen for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I have always enjoyed cozy mysteries and am glad to have discovered the writing of Karen Rose Smith. Set in Kismet, Pennsylvania, Staged to Death is book #1 in Karen's home staging series. While I have no skill whatsoever when it comes to interior design, it's fascinating to watch home staging on HGTV, so I enjoyed this premise for a continuing series.
A series is only sustainable if you like the protagonist, and I liked Caprice De Luca very much. Forced by an economic downturn to reinvent herself, Caprice transformed her talent for interior design into a home-staging enterprise, through a lot of study and hard work, and learned what rich people wanted so she could fit into their networks: "They want me to be right. They want to be able to trust me, not just my skill, but my connections." She specializes in themed stagings for high-end clients, which is how she met Roz and Ted Winslow in this first book - staging a Camelot theme for their castle-like home.
But what makes Caprice most relatable to me is that she is loyal, rescues stray cats (which is also reflective of the author's heart), and comes from a delightful Italian family, the dynamics of which leave a lot of room for character development through this series.
Realistic or not, I love it when an amateur detective puts herself in the middle of a murder investigation with the best of intentions - which is one of the definitions of a cozy mystery. Caprice tries to help her high school friend, Roz, clear her name in this mystery that combines old-fashioned sleuthing with staging of homes, worrying about her sister Bella's marriage, balancing two possible romantic interests, and finding homes for stray cats. Staged to Death seems to be more character driven than action packed or suspenseful, which is perfect for my tastes because I don't like the scary stuff.
At times, I wished the narrative moved at a little quicker pace, but loved these characters, thought the mystery was well plotted, and will definitely read more of Caprice's adventures. And I greatly appreciated the fact that, with the exception of 2-3 uses of mild profanity, this was a clean read. Recommended to cozy mystery fans.
Thank you to Karen for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 4, 2013
A lot of people have been affected by the economic down turn, Caprice DeLuca is no different who was once an interior designer, but now stages homes for a quick sale in the real estate market. She has a variety of clients and homes, so she must be excellent at seeing potential and using her various sources to enable her to make a vision come true. This last home owned by Ted and Roz Winslow is a challenge in two ways. First, the house is in the shape of a castle that Ted built for Roz 5 years ago and second, Ted absolutely refuses to see the logic in removing a collection of swords and daggers for the open house. Caprice hires extra guards for security and constantly circulates with the guests on the day of the open house. It appears that all is going as planed until she happens upon Ted in a locked embrace with a woman who is Not his wife. Caprice gives much thought over the weekend to what she has witnessed and decides she must tell Roz, but before the opportunity arises she finds Ted stabbed to death with one of his own prized daggers. As many factors come to light, Roz is now the prime suspect in a murder investigation. Caprice being Caprice she feels as though she must help Roz, who was a good friend in high school, clear her name. She figures since she knows how to tract down items needed for her home staging business that this couldn’t be much different. She watches crime shows and television and knows that you follow up on clues by asking lots of questions, so that’s where she will start. The problem arises that the more clues she finds the more questions she has and not everyone likes her asking questions. Who is Ted’s killer? Will Caprice find the answers she is looking for?
This is a wonderful mystery interlaces with suspense and a little romance. The plot flows effortlessly and will keep the reader turning pages. I was given this book by the author for an honest review.
This is a wonderful mystery interlaces with suspense and a little romance. The plot flows effortlessly and will keep the reader turning pages. I was given this book by the author for an honest review.
May 14, 2014
Caprice De Luca has a good thing going in her small town of Kismet, PA. She lives near her close knit family and her house staging business is growing daily. She's growing her business into the high end housing market with the staging of her old high school friend's "Camelot" home. The first showing brought out loads of people, but they weren't all in the market to buy. There were those only wanting to see the big house, those there for the gourmet food, and those there with evil intent. There was also her friend's hairdresser giving more than a friendly kiss to her friend's husband.
So when the husband turns up dead in his own home, stabbed with one of his prized daggers, the police suspect the wife might just have motive and means. Caprice believes there are many other possibilities and she sets out to find answers the police might just be missing. After her husband's murder, Roz, has come to stay with Caprice for a while, falling in love with one of her rescue animals. Seems the "hubbie" was not so popular around town, but someone doesn't like Caprice asking questions and aims to stop her, whatever it takes!
This fun cozy is filled with interesting staging ideas. There is also lots of great romantic tension between Caprice and a couple of the other characters. Of course, Caprice's large Italian family is constantly on the look out to find her someone to be with. The family relationships are so realistically portrayed, that I felt like a DeLuca by " reader adoption". Nana's Minestrone Soup recipe, included in the book, is to die for. But best of all, the mystery kept me guessing, with multiple suspects showing up through out the book. Looking forward to further adventures, and a bit more romance with Caprice in the upcoming book--DEADLY DECOR.
So when the husband turns up dead in his own home, stabbed with one of his prized daggers, the police suspect the wife might just have motive and means. Caprice believes there are many other possibilities and she sets out to find answers the police might just be missing. After her husband's murder, Roz, has come to stay with Caprice for a while, falling in love with one of her rescue animals. Seems the "hubbie" was not so popular around town, but someone doesn't like Caprice asking questions and aims to stop her, whatever it takes!
This fun cozy is filled with interesting staging ideas. There is also lots of great romantic tension between Caprice and a couple of the other characters. Of course, Caprice's large Italian family is constantly on the look out to find her someone to be with. The family relationships are so realistically portrayed, that I felt like a DeLuca by " reader adoption". Nana's Minestrone Soup recipe, included in the book, is to die for. But best of all, the mystery kept me guessing, with multiple suspects showing up through out the book. Looking forward to further adventures, and a bit more romance with Caprice in the upcoming book--DEADLY DECOR.
January 3, 2014
Solve The Crime
Caprice De Luca is a very well known interior decorator that has changed her business into a thriving staging business to help people sell their homes. One of her recent clients is a very wealthy couple who Caprice knows the wife Roz who was an old friend from High School.
When a murder occurs in their home and Roz’s husband Ted is found murdered it is Caprice and Roz who find the body. Naturally the wife is always the number one suspect and so Caprice decides to play “amateur detective” and see if she can help solve the murder.
Along the way, we are introduced to Caprice’s two sisters and her brother along with her parents and nana. We get to learn a lot about her family and I truly enjoy the closeness and caring they show for each other.
Caprice also helps find homes for stray animals and especially the two new kittens she has recently taken in. Caprice does help solve the murder and I know I never would of guessed who did it and don’t think you will either. It was truly enjoyable and well-written book and looking forward to her next in the series.
Caprice De Luca is a very well known interior decorator that has changed her business into a thriving staging business to help people sell their homes. One of her recent clients is a very wealthy couple who Caprice knows the wife Roz who was an old friend from High School.
When a murder occurs in their home and Roz’s husband Ted is found murdered it is Caprice and Roz who find the body. Naturally the wife is always the number one suspect and so Caprice decides to play “amateur detective” and see if she can help solve the murder.
Along the way, we are introduced to Caprice’s two sisters and her brother along with her parents and nana. We get to learn a lot about her family and I truly enjoy the closeness and caring they show for each other.
Caprice also helps find homes for stray animals and especially the two new kittens she has recently taken in. Caprice does help solve the murder and I know I never would of guessed who did it and don’t think you will either. It was truly enjoyable and well-written book and looking forward to her next in the series.
December 20, 2013
I thought This book was interesting and intriguing to read as a mystery. It mostly a mystery more than romance. It had a some some romance which includes Caprice dating an urgent care doctor name Self Randolf. There were several instances she would instigate possibles scenarios in find out the truth pertaining to Ted's Winslow murder while his wife Roz would be the major suspect in her husbands death. Caprice would use her knowledge to home- staged her clients houses. Her Grandmother Nana would say to her about find the missing link in the mystery of Ted's murder. The Missing link ended to be someone from Roz's high school past.
I would definitely recommennd to book anyone who is interested in reading her book. I find out it is a clean and wholesome reading with out any foul languages.
I would definitely recommennd to book anyone who is interested in reading her book. I find out it is a clean and wholesome reading with out any foul languages.
December 4, 2013
Caprice De Luca is in the home staging business in Kismet, Pennsylvania. She helps clients display their homes using a specific theme. Her latest job is for her friend, Roz Winslow. The showing goes well but what happens next is not what she expects. Caprice finds Ted, Roz's husband, dead. He has been stabbed with one of his prized daggers. Now Roz is the main suspect. Caprice is determined to help her. She will find the killer. Or die trying. Karen Rose Smith has written an engaging and suspenseful mystery. Caprice is smart, resourceful and witty. I love that she is an animal lover who rescues strays. Caprice is surrounded by characters who give the story that special zing and a touch of romance. This is such a well plotted story. I didn't know until the very end who the killer was. I can't wait for Caprice's next adventure. If you love a cozy mystery, this is the book for you.
December 9, 2018
What a cute book! I loved the DeLuca family dynamics and all the characters involved. They are so tight knit. My early years took place in an Italian neighborhood in New York before we moved. I spent many a weekend and weekday night at my friends' dining room tables with their multi-generational family members (Nanas included) where huge platters of homemade, delicious food were served. (Great recipes at the end of the book.) Between those memories lovingly kindled through this story and the locations referenced in this book (York/Adams County, Pennsylvania) where I currently live just outside of Gettysburg, PA, it was a kick. Great murder/mystery to solve too. Yes, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am already starting the second book in the series. After all, I HAVE to know which guy Caprice will end up with. I have an inkling! ;)
December 1, 2013
Reviewing a novel by Karen Rose Smith gets easier and easier with each book you read. In her first mystery book. Karen Rose Smith's signature style truly shines. The characters and locations really come to life in your mind with vivid descriptions that never get in the way of the story telling.
At 352 pages Staged to Death keeps your attention, as well as keeps you guessing until the end.
After one book about the life of Caprice De Luca I feel like she is my friend. I can't wait for the next book in the series so I can see what happens next!
At 352 pages Staged to Death keeps your attention, as well as keeps you guessing until the end.
After one book about the life of Caprice De Luca I feel like she is my friend. I can't wait for the next book in the series so I can see what happens next!
December 1, 2013
If you like Karen Rose Smith's other books, you are going to love, love, love this one! Karen is so talented at providing the reader with great dialog and descriptive text. Caprice De Luca is a interior designer turned home stager and accidentally happens upon a murder. She finds herself in trouble herself because she asks too many questions.
May 18, 2014
4 Stars! I enjoyed learning about 'home staging'; a career I'd never heard of before reading this cozy. The characters are interesting, with a little romance between Caprice and Seth. The development of Caprice and Roz's friendship was heartfelt. The mystery kept me guessing until the last few pages. I enjoyed the addition of the foster kittens to the story.
June 4, 2014
I generally really enjoy "cozy" mysteries, and thought I'd love Caprice and her job as a home stager. Instead, this book was bogged down with waaaay too many details and couldn't quite seem to make up its mind what it was - foodie novel? funky retro shopping guide? animal rescue propaganda? I had to force myself to finish it, and frankly I found the ending cheesy.
March 20, 2017
This was a 4.5 star read for me. This is also a new series to me, although there are now four in this series. If the rest are as enjoyable as this one, I will definitely follow the exploits of Caprice DeLuca and her family and friends for many more entertaining hours.
Caprice DeLuca is a home stager. She tries to work for clients with high end homes for sale. When Roz, a childhood friend of Caprice's, and her husband, Ted, decided too sell their spacious castle style home, Caprice is hired to do a 'staging' to help the property sell. Although they remove many things from the home before the Open House, Ted refuses to remove his collection of swords and daggers. During the Open House, Ted catches Ted in a compromising situation with Valerie, a local hair stylist. Before she has a chance to tell Roz what she saw, she and Roz discover Ted murdered with his own dagger. Of course, suspicions fall on Roz, the spouse who inherits everything as well as being the beneficiary of a healthy life insurance policy. Caprice is convinced her friend did not kill her husband despite the fact he was having an affair. So, before Roz can be arrested for a crime she did not commit, Caprice decides to do a little detective work on her own. Naturally, this is very dangerous and Caprice could find herself being the next murder victim. It seems there are any number of people who might want Ted dead, including some laid off employees, their local gardner as well as others at PA Pharm where he worked.
Roz needs a lawyer, but does not want someone she does not know. Caprice tries to get i contact with her brother, but ends up getting his partner, Grant to help out. At one time, Caprice has feelings for Grant, but they lost touch and he married someone else. He is now divorced as well as being a grieving father after the death of their child and is back in Kismet. There is definitely some tension between these two characters. Caprice is also just starting a relationship with Seth, the new doctor in town, so there might be a triangle coming in the next book.
The Deluca family are a great group of characters. They cook, love one another, get in each other's business, spend a lot of time together and are the epitome of the traditional Italian family. You couldn't find a better friend in Caprice and her instincts for detective work are above average, but she does put herself in dangerous positions, so I could understand her family having concerns. Of course there are animals in this book, Caprice takes in strays and finds them home so another endearing quality is there.
The book has everything you would expect in a cozy mystery: a little violence or murder, some sexual tension, some romance, pets, food and family. The story was light and easy to read with a compelling mystery, appealing characters, and some awesome recipes added at the end. This was a very enjoyable read.
Caprice DeLuca is a home stager. She tries to work for clients with high end homes for sale. When Roz, a childhood friend of Caprice's, and her husband, Ted, decided too sell their spacious castle style home, Caprice is hired to do a 'staging' to help the property sell. Although they remove many things from the home before the Open House, Ted refuses to remove his collection of swords and daggers. During the Open House, Ted catches Ted in a compromising situation with Valerie, a local hair stylist. Before she has a chance to tell Roz what she saw, she and Roz discover Ted murdered with his own dagger. Of course, suspicions fall on Roz, the spouse who inherits everything as well as being the beneficiary of a healthy life insurance policy. Caprice is convinced her friend did not kill her husband despite the fact he was having an affair. So, before Roz can be arrested for a crime she did not commit, Caprice decides to do a little detective work on her own. Naturally, this is very dangerous and Caprice could find herself being the next murder victim. It seems there are any number of people who might want Ted dead, including some laid off employees, their local gardner as well as others at PA Pharm where he worked.
Roz needs a lawyer, but does not want someone she does not know. Caprice tries to get i contact with her brother, but ends up getting his partner, Grant to help out. At one time, Caprice has feelings for Grant, but they lost touch and he married someone else. He is now divorced as well as being a grieving father after the death of their child and is back in Kismet. There is definitely some tension between these two characters. Caprice is also just starting a relationship with Seth, the new doctor in town, so there might be a triangle coming in the next book.
The Deluca family are a great group of characters. They cook, love one another, get in each other's business, spend a lot of time together and are the epitome of the traditional Italian family. You couldn't find a better friend in Caprice and her instincts for detective work are above average, but she does put herself in dangerous positions, so I could understand her family having concerns. Of course there are animals in this book, Caprice takes in strays and finds them home so another endearing quality is there.
The book has everything you would expect in a cozy mystery: a little violence or murder, some sexual tension, some romance, pets, food and family. The story was light and easy to read with a compelling mystery, appealing characters, and some awesome recipes added at the end. This was a very enjoyable read.
February 7, 2014
Veteran romance author, Karen Rose Smith, has launched a new cozy series: the Caprice De Luca, Home Stager Mysteries. If you've read Smith's novels, don't miss out on her debut series about an amateur sleuth who stumbles upon a murdered client at Caprice's VIP Open House for her good friend Roz.
Roz becomes the prime suspect in her husband's death, although everyone present at the Open House event could be considered a suspect. The crime has no lack of good suspects--and Caprice is determined to help her friend prove her innocence.
Caprice is a loyal friend, a former interior designer who has begun a business decorating homes to help sell them quickly in the depressed real estate market, and she needs upscale clientele. Roz and hubby fit the bill. But how will Caprice prove Roz didn't kill her spouse for his money?
While Caprice snoops, she meets a new man who sidelines her. Her new admirer forces another man to step out from the shadows. And amid all the danger and confusion, the big Italian DeLuca clan complicate the case with good-hearted intentions. Add to this a few rescued kittens and a pup she tries to find homes for and you get a delightful blend of murder and romance in STAGED TO DEATH.
Roz becomes the prime suspect in her husband's death, although everyone present at the Open House event could be considered a suspect. The crime has no lack of good suspects--and Caprice is determined to help her friend prove her innocence.
Caprice is a loyal friend, a former interior designer who has begun a business decorating homes to help sell them quickly in the depressed real estate market, and she needs upscale clientele. Roz and hubby fit the bill. But how will Caprice prove Roz didn't kill her spouse for his money?
While Caprice snoops, she meets a new man who sidelines her. Her new admirer forces another man to step out from the shadows. And amid all the danger and confusion, the big Italian DeLuca clan complicate the case with good-hearted intentions. Add to this a few rescued kittens and a pup she tries to find homes for and you get a delightful blend of murder and romance in STAGED TO DEATH.
December 13, 2018
Nope, this one didn't work at all. I don't really care about the actual mystery in cozy mysteries, provided the cast is colorful and fun. I need to want to spend time with them, because these cozies sometimes run for a long time. But in this case, Caprice is a hard pass. So is her family, her irritating love interests who're beyond gorgeous, never date, but somehow fall over each other to be with her, and all her friends. Actually, I don't know if she has any friend but Roz, the lady whose good name Caprice is sworn to protect, because the cops will never look at other people. Not sure how she got that idea, because the grapevine around her keeps mentioning that the cops are asking hard questions to every one of her suspects.
Anyhow. I'm calling this series done, without even wanting to sample the second one.
Anyhow. I'm calling this series done, without even wanting to sample the second one.
January 22, 2014
An interesting look at staging houses as they are to be put on sale. A quirk in interior design, Caprice gives houses a new look to help them sell, and is quite successful. She did not plan on the body in the sword room of her latest stage, so not the look she was going for. Set in the fictional town of Kismet Pennsylvania, this is a wonderful new sleuth with a full cast of characters including family, friends and the strays that our heroine seems to attract like a magnet. Definitely a keeper.
December 3, 2013
Staged to Death is the first in a new mysteries series and one to keep an eye on. Caprice De Luca is on the A list for home stagers, amateur detectives, and most of all, for loyalty and friendship. The story is solidly written, well paced, and a fun over all read. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a good mystery with some fun retro thrown into the mix.
December 3, 2013
A cozy mystery by Karen Rose Smith. This book brought me right in with her vivid descriptions. I fell in love with Caprice De Luca with her home staging business and amateur sleuth. Caprice will not give up until she finds the culprit. It kept me guessing until the end, of who done it. Looking forward to reading the nest book in the series.
November 19, 2013
I enjoyed this book that Kensington sent me to preview. I liked the main character Caprice and I thought the home staging business was fun to read about. I will definately pass this on to others in my group!
December 3, 2013
The manner in which Karen Rose Smith wrote this book made me feel as if the characters are my neibhbors. I could easily visualize things in the book because of the detail she used in descrbing them. This was a really enjoyable book and I want to read more like them from this author.
March 1, 2014
This was not as good as I had hoped. But that being said I enjoyed it a lot so maybe I was expecting too much. The thing I liked best was the fact that the amateur sleuth who had a day job actually did some work. I liked her family and hope there will be more of them in future books.
December 17, 2013
Great debut mystery. The characters are likable and unique.
November 27, 2013
(SPOILER FREE) If you're a fan of Karen Rose Smith's other books, you will adore STAGED TO DEATH.
March 12, 2025
Caprice De Luca was an interior designer who started a home staging business. a friend Roz Winsow asked her to use her skills on her mansion to help sell it. Unfortunately, Roz's husband, Ted, is found in his sword room killed by one of his own possessions. Caprice decides to try to solve the case before the police.
This is a longer book but it keeps you interested throughout. Caprice is smart enough to have some backup in uncompforable situations as going to see the potential murderer. The main character also cares for animals as well as her friends. There are recipes included at the end. this is a good book to have with you while you are going to have to wait somewhere.
This is a longer book but it keeps you interested throughout. Caprice is smart enough to have some backup in uncompforable situations as going to see the potential murderer. The main character also cares for animals as well as her friends. There are recipes included at the end. this is a good book to have with you while you are going to have to wait somewhere.
February 26, 2025
This is the most promising set up of a cozy I’ve read in awhile. Yes, the suggestion of a triangle is annoying and yes, there was a lot of side info with Caprice’s business but it was a solid base to start from. And I truly appreciated that Caprice actually was smart enough to take back up or call for help when needed; sure she meddled but she was logical about it!
Honestly my biggest complaint was that the murderer ended up being someone I could recall because they were in it so briefly.
Honestly my biggest complaint was that the murderer ended up being someone I could recall because they were in it so briefly.
October 21, 2019
I liked this first book in the series. It was a little longer (in pages) than I usually read but it held my interest. I will read more from the series after I've read some other books.
July 7, 2021
So disappointed in this book. The idea is great, the writing is good, but way too much time spent on the staging process: flea markets, color coordination, etc.
December 27, 2013
What a delightful new series! There isn't a better time to be releasing a book about home staging.
Meet Caprice De Luca home stager and all around nice person. Caprice is in the midst of staging a home for a high school friend Roz and her husband Ted Winslow. Roz and Ted are putting their home on the market, so they have hired Caprice to work her magic, before their open house so their home will show better.
What Caprice didn't expect was the murder of Ted shortly after the open house. Caprice and Roz find his body in his own "sword room" where his priceless collection of antique swords and knives are displayed. Bad enough to find his body, but he had been murdered with one of his own pieces.
Of course, the cops start to believe, that what is true in many cases, may apply in this case. They always look at the spouse first. Caprice convinces Roz to stay with her for a while, at least until the murderer is caught. Caprice does not believe that her friend is guilty of murder, Roz would never kill the husband that she loved so much. Caprice decides that the only way to prove Roz innocent is to give the police the real killer.
With all the home shows now on television, the publisher was very wise to release it now.
This book will delight cozy readers, and also home decorators. Karen will soon find a place for herself in this much loved genre.
Meet Caprice De Luca home stager and all around nice person. Caprice is in the midst of staging a home for a high school friend Roz and her husband Ted Winslow. Roz and Ted are putting their home on the market, so they have hired Caprice to work her magic, before their open house so their home will show better.
What Caprice didn't expect was the murder of Ted shortly after the open house. Caprice and Roz find his body in his own "sword room" where his priceless collection of antique swords and knives are displayed. Bad enough to find his body, but he had been murdered with one of his own pieces.
Of course, the cops start to believe, that what is true in many cases, may apply in this case. They always look at the spouse first. Caprice convinces Roz to stay with her for a while, at least until the murderer is caught. Caprice does not believe that her friend is guilty of murder, Roz would never kill the husband that she loved so much. Caprice decides that the only way to prove Roz innocent is to give the police the real killer.
With all the home shows now on television, the publisher was very wise to release it now.
This book will delight cozy readers, and also home decorators. Karen will soon find a place for herself in this much loved genre.
October 13, 2021
3.5/5 Stars
Staged to Death is the first book in the Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery Series. As the first book, it does a fair job of setting the stage and introducing the cast of characters to us, gives us a little but doesn’t try to give the characters whole life story in one book. I enjoyed learning about Caprice, her home staging business, her family (and furry family) and friends. It has been a while since I’ve read a cozy mystery so this was a nice ease back into the genre.
As far as the mystery goes, while Caprice did (with good intentions) stick her nose in and snoop around for the best interests of her friends, it wasn’t like she did anything outrageously stupid or dangerous as I’ve seen in some cozy mysteries. Some things were a little bit questionable (or a lot questionable at the end), but she did let other people know about it and knew to call for help. I like that she was motivated by her determination to protect someone important to her. The mystery part was enjoyable, if a little slow paced. It was light, easy reading with likable characters. I will certainly try the next book in the series.
Staged to Death is the first book in the Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery Series. As the first book, it does a fair job of setting the stage and introducing the cast of characters to us, gives us a little but doesn’t try to give the characters whole life story in one book. I enjoyed learning about Caprice, her home staging business, her family (and furry family) and friends. It has been a while since I’ve read a cozy mystery so this was a nice ease back into the genre.
As far as the mystery goes, while Caprice did (with good intentions) stick her nose in and snoop around for the best interests of her friends, it wasn’t like she did anything outrageously stupid or dangerous as I’ve seen in some cozy mysteries. Some things were a little bit questionable (or a lot questionable at the end), but she did let other people know about it and knew to call for help. I like that she was motivated by her determination to protect someone important to her. The mystery part was enjoyable, if a little slow paced. It was light, easy reading with likable characters. I will certainly try the next book in the series.
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