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An Odelia Grey Mystery #8
Secondhand Stiff
Odelia uncovers a deadly storage war
Spending Thanksgiving with her faultfinding mother has Odelia more tightly wound than a turkey in November. But her husband's cousin Ina, who shows up for dinner with ugly bruises and without her two-timing husband, clearly has it worse. Wild horses can't stop Odelia's mom from tagging along with Ina, who runs a consignment shop, to a storage auction. Everyone is shocked when Ina's husband is found inside a storage locker--dead.
Spending Thanksgiving with her faultfinding mother has Odelia more tightly wound than a turkey in November. But her husband's cousin Ina, who shows up for dinner with ugly bruises and without her two-timing husband, clearly has it worse. Wild horses can't stop Odelia's mom from tagging along with Ina, who runs a consignment shop, to a storage auction. Everyone is shocked when Ina's husband is found inside a storage locker--dead.
312 pages, Paperback
First published December 8, 2013
13 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Sue Ann Jaffarian
67 books546 followersSue Ann Jaffarian is the author of the popular Odelia Grey mystery series, the Ghost of Granny Apples mystery series and the Madison Rose vampire mysteries, as well as short stories.
Sue Ann also writes the Winnie Wilde romance novellas.
Like the character Odelia Grey, Sue Ann Jaffarian is a middle-aged, plus-sized paralegal. She lives in Los Angeles.
In addition to writing, Sue Ann is sought after as a motivational/ humorous speaker. You can visit her on the web at www.sueannjaffarian.com, www.sueannjaffarian.blogspot.com, and on Twitter and Facebook.
Sue Ann also writes the Winnie Wilde romance novellas.
Like the character Odelia Grey, Sue Ann Jaffarian is a middle-aged, plus-sized paralegal. She lives in Los Angeles.
In addition to writing, Sue Ann is sought after as a motivational/ humorous speaker. You can visit her on the web at www.sueannjaffarian.com, www.sueannjaffarian.blogspot.com, and on Twitter and Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
February 2, 2014
Reasons why I doubt I'll read any more Odelia Grey mysteries:1. I really have to suspend disbelief too much while reading mystery series like this one. I always ask myself:Why would anyone spill his/her guts to nosey nancies who have NO authority (or even those that do)? Odelia is no where near as charming as J.B. Fletcher (main character in a television show that used to come on ages ago-Murder, She Wrote) so whenever she starts firing invasive questions at people, I just want to smack her upside the head. Realistically speaking (and yes I know that it's not supposed to be realistic)few would open up to someone like Odelia. I find it way more believable that she'd be punched in the nose (if you stick with the story long enough you'll read about it...the most entertaining part for me to be honest...just kidding-don't get all excited). 2. I haven't read the previous stories in this series but it really irked me that someone would even talk to a "mother" (I use that term loosely) who abandoned him/her at the age of 16. I don't care about the reasons. This rubs me the wrong way. 3. I could have done without and all the waterworks.Ugh.This didn't add anything to the story. 4. Who takes an elderly "mother" to go snooping around places and people that could lead to dangerous situations? Yeah, ok. That makes perfect sense! 5.Overall the story is b-o-r-i-n-g with a captial B. It was something to pass the time with but that is about it and it didn't leave me eager to read more. 6.*rolls eyes* The cliche of all mysteries seems to be the bad guy spilling his guts when he should be killing off the witnesses/amateur sleuth. This mystery is no exception. 7. The ending was horribly cheesy and made me cringe.
December 25, 2013
I'm a big fan of the Odelia Grey mystery series, featuring a plus-size paralegal, her wheelchair bound but very active husband, and assorted pets, family members and coworkers set in Southern California. This latest entry, Secondhand Stiff, is as wonderful as ever. One change offered here by Jaffarian is a lessening of the antagonism of those around Odelia to her investigating the crime, in part because her husband Greg is even more eager to solve it than she is, being that his cousin is being investigated in the murder of her husband. Though Odelia gets a warning not to stick her nose into police business, it's a much lighter one than usual, so she doesn't have to feel she's going behind anyone's back, perhaps because her close friends Seth and Zee are out of town. Her boss, Mike Steele, makes some well-time appearances, and doesn't give Odelia too many reasons to gripe about him this time around. The second change is that, in addition to Greg as a helper, she's got her mom, Grace, and their relationship develops in a very positive way as old hurts are put to rest and Odelia makes discoveries about her elderly mom (her blog An Old Broad's Perspective is quite charming).
The mystery, centered in the world of secondhand retail stores and storage units, with a side visit to a food truck whose menu made my mouth water (can someone open Comfort Foodies for real, please?) is as deftly handled as always, and kept me guessing right up until the end. Another thing to love about this series is that, while reading them in order adds to the experience, Jaffarian doesn't give too much away so you can jump right into this one without ruining your enjoyment if you later go back to the older ones. There's lots that's touching and sad about the personal side of this mystery, but a lot that's heartwarming too. I like that Odelia, while the main star of the series, is never painted as a superhuman heroine solving crimes completely on her own, but with plenty of help from those as invested in the outcome and in Odelia's happiness as she is. This one's a true family affair and total page-turner. Brava, Sue Ann Jaffarian! I look forward to the next Odelia adventure.
The mystery, centered in the world of secondhand retail stores and storage units, with a side visit to a food truck whose menu made my mouth water (can someone open Comfort Foodies for real, please?) is as deftly handled as always, and kept me guessing right up until the end. Another thing to love about this series is that, while reading them in order adds to the experience, Jaffarian doesn't give too much away so you can jump right into this one without ruining your enjoyment if you later go back to the older ones. There's lots that's touching and sad about the personal side of this mystery, but a lot that's heartwarming too. I like that Odelia, while the main star of the series, is never painted as a superhuman heroine solving crimes completely on her own, but with plenty of help from those as invested in the outcome and in Odelia's happiness as she is. This one's a true family affair and total page-turner. Brava, Sue Ann Jaffarian! I look forward to the next Odelia adventure.
September 4, 2016
When Odelia's mother's stay with the Stevens is extended after Thanksgiving, Odelia, her mother Grace, and her mother-in-law Renee attend a storage auction with Greg's (Odelia's husband's) cousin, Ina, who owns a consignment shop. Imagine their horror when a storage locker is opened for bidding, and Ina's husband is found inside - dead. Odelia and Greg immediately investigate in hopes of clearing Ina as a suspect (because she's not helping herself any by not talking to the police). Surprisingly, Grace insists on joining in on the investigation and proves that the mother and daughter are far more alike than they realized. Things get trickier when people associated with the auction mysteriously start dying, missing, and/or being endangered. This book serves as a catalyst for a lot of potentially big changes in Odelia's life. If you know me well at all and haven't yet read this book (but want to), please stop reading this review now as you will be able to figure out some spoilers. If you don't know me well, feel free to read on. I really enjoyed this story. It had a good plot that moved at a nice pace. Just the premise itself was interesting, I thought. It was interesting to see Odelia and Grace work on their relationship as well as to witness the dynamics between Grace and Greg's parents. Although I'm generally not a huge fan of Greg's, I feel as though I got to know him better in this book as he seemed to take a greater role in it than in some of the past ones. Steele, Seth, Zee, and Jill were featured for far too short of a time for my liking in this installment. The ending of the mystery surprised me a bit, but I liked that. Because I'm a member of the author's Facebook fan page, I've known for quite some time about something (in general) that was going to happen - just not the details. As neat as it is to be privy to Sue Ann's thought processes as she writes, I kind of wish I hadn't known about it as it would have been a greater surprise when reading (this from a reader who doesn't even read dust jackets for fear of spoilers). However, I guess it did allow me some adjustment time. Then, some people shared spoilers, so I knew what was going to happen before I read the book. I was NOT happy about that! In fact, I almost quit this series right then and there because I don't read about certain subjects and because it was hitting too close to home for me (based on recent events in my life). But, because I knew that Sue Ann did not handle this subject lightly at all, I decided to at least read this book and then decide if I wanted to continue with the series. Without spoiling it for anyone, let me just say that I was disappointed with the side story as I personally felt it was unnecessary. It may be part of life, and I'm sure the author had her reasons (time will tell), but it greatly saddened me. After much consideration, however, I have decided to continue with the series. The author dealt with the matter in such a delicate and clearly compassionate way that I feel comfortable in doing so. I still don't like that it happened, but it couldn't have been better or more thoughtfully handled than it was. I just get really attached to characters I love, and that individual was one of my most favorites. I'm looking forward to reading the next installment to see how Odelia and Greg handle the changes in their lives.
December 13, 2013
Secondhand Stiff (The Odelia Grey Mysteries)
5.0 out of 5 stars Top of the line, December 13, 2013
This review is from: Secondhand Stiff (The Odelia Grey Mysteries) (Kindle Edition)
My question is when can I move in with Odelia & Greg? That's how much I love this series and the author didn't disappoint with this latest entry.
Odelia's Mother is in the building...building being Odelia & Greg's home. And she's afoot...or rather sleuthing away with Odelia. They're delving into the unknown and dangerous realm of a murder together. A bonding starts to take shape and Odelia hears words from her Mom that heals wounds she never thought possible to heal.
Greg's in it with all his usual gusto and the trio soon find themselves wrapped up in a murder mystery that has layers of illegal activity. But who is behind it all?
I loved and appreciated the way in which the author weaves in the love of pets in this story. It adds an important dimension to Odelia, Greg and their immediate friends & family.
Beautifully written, held my interest to the end. Love this series and the characters.
March 28, 2017
This is the first Odelia Gray book I found at my library and I checked it out just so I could look up the series. ( I'm super old school like that.) I then went home and asked for the first book to be sent to my library branch. After I finished the first book, and found out that the library only had the first one then the last three.(That should be a crime...) I read this one. I feel like I missed out. She talks about a lot of things that I had no idea about since I hadn't read the in between books. I struggled on if I wanted to buy the missing books on my kindle or not and eventually just read the one I had. I like Odelia. I'll eventually read all of the books and follow the series in books to come.
One thing that did bother me is all the sweetheart, hubs, cutesy names thrown around. It was a little gag worthy and not really something I've picked up in other books.
One thing that did bother me is all the sweetheart, hubs, cutesy names thrown around. It was a little gag worthy and not really something I've picked up in other books.
April 25, 2020
This was the perfect scenario, dead body in a storage locker, in which to include Odelia's mother. I can definitely see her sitting at home, glued to the television while watching "Storage Wars" and "Pawn Stars". I liked getting to know Greg's family. I do wish we had spent more time with Ina though. Maybe in future books? One fact confused me, however. In "Secondhand Stiff" the author states that Greg's parents and siblings live in California and have for a long time, but I could have sworn they were living in Minnesota when first introduced into the series. What gives? Did I misinterpret facts in an earlier book?
The whole subplot with Seamus was so sad, but so realistic. I cried at both parts. It's obvious Sue Ann Jaffarian has lost a pet before. And I feel sorry for Odelia's mom, too, because she was looking forward to have Seamus as a companion. I have a feeling a new kitty will be introduced before long.
A good, complex mystery. I like the addition of Andrea Fehring. And I think plenty of laughs are going to be in store with Odelia's mom around for the ride. I do think the additions of Grace, Clark and Andrea over the last couple of books are a definite plus. One of the best books in the series.
The whole subplot with Seamus was so sad, but so realistic. I cried at both parts. It's obvious Sue Ann Jaffarian has lost a pet before. And I feel sorry for Odelia's mom, too, because she was looking forward to have Seamus as a companion. I have a feeling a new kitty will be introduced before long.
A good, complex mystery. I like the addition of Andrea Fehring. And I think plenty of laughs are going to be in store with Odelia's mom around for the ride. I do think the additions of Grace, Clark and Andrea over the last couple of books are a definite plus. One of the best books in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2022
STORAGE WARS!!!
This is book number eight in the Odelia Grey mystery series...I only have four more to read ! That makes me sad.
This time around it's all about storage wars...Greg's cousin, Ina, frequents storage units to partake in the auctions. People do this for the fun of it, mystery, adventure, and to replenish stock in their own second hand stores. Odelia's mom, Grace, is in town and wants to attend a storage auction. So, off they go! And the fun and mystery begins.
As is always the case, this book is full of action, fun, down-to-earth characters, mystery, and surprises. The book starts with a BANG and never looks back.
I love how Sue Ann Jaffarian extends her own love of animals into the book. I was moved to tears several times while reading. But mostly I laughed and just enjoyed the ride.
This is book number eight in the Odelia Grey mystery series...I only have four more to read ! That makes me sad.
This time around it's all about storage wars...Greg's cousin, Ina, frequents storage units to partake in the auctions. People do this for the fun of it, mystery, adventure, and to replenish stock in their own second hand stores. Odelia's mom, Grace, is in town and wants to attend a storage auction. So, off they go! And the fun and mystery begins.
As is always the case, this book is full of action, fun, down-to-earth characters, mystery, and surprises. The book starts with a BANG and never looks back.
I love how Sue Ann Jaffarian extends her own love of animals into the book. I was moved to tears several times while reading. But mostly I laughed and just enjoyed the ride.
January 21, 2020
Once again Odelia stumbles across something or should I say someBODY and like a dog with a bone, she can't let it go until all the juicy bits have been discovered. This time Odelia and Greg are in the midst of things to help Greg's cousin, Ina. Whether Ina wants their help or not is another story. There's plenty of action in this quick read! I figured out who and why a bit before Odelia fit all the pieces in this puzzle together. I had to laugh when her mother, Grace, decided to get involved in the snooping ... that is one feisty lady and I can see where Odelia gets it from!
December 10, 2024
First book in this series that I've read, but I'm going to go find more.
Odelia and her semi-estranged mother are thrown together after Thanksgiving because Mom has no way to get back home. While trying to entertain Mom, Odelia takes her to a storage auction. There, a cousin's husband is found dead. While trying to clear the cousin's name, the pair find more suspicious things, and a whole trail of scary, interelated events.
I liked that no one was perfect, and the grumpy comraderie that ensued.
Odelia and her semi-estranged mother are thrown together after Thanksgiving because Mom has no way to get back home. While trying to entertain Mom, Odelia takes her to a storage auction. There, a cousin's husband is found dead. While trying to clear the cousin's name, the pair find more suspicious things, and a whole trail of scary, interelated events.
I liked that no one was perfect, and the grumpy comraderie that ensued.
March 31, 2018
Thanksgiving, family, and murder
Secondhand Stiff has Odelia on the hunt to solve the murder of a member of her husband Greg’s family. The story revolves around second-hand store owners vying for the contents of storage lockers that are being auctioned. With the help of Odelia’s mother and Greg, she sets out to find out who killed Greg’s cousin’s husband. Again, there are many twists and turns to keep the reader interested.
Secondhand Stiff has Odelia on the hunt to solve the murder of a member of her husband Greg’s family. The story revolves around second-hand store owners vying for the contents of storage lockers that are being auctioned. With the help of Odelia’s mother and Greg, she sets out to find out who killed Greg’s cousin’s husband. Again, there are many twists and turns to keep the reader interested.
December 20, 2017
Another good mystery from Sue Ann. I like the main characters an the storyline moves briskly along. Good book!
July 15, 2018
Fun read,as usual
This is the second in the series that I've read,so out order. Didn't matter. Still a great quick fun read .Certainly willing to read more.
This is the second in the series that I've read,so out order. Didn't matter. Still a great quick fun read .Certainly willing to read more.
January 3, 2020
Fun read.
April 29, 2020
LOVED IT!
I love these books! I read one book and bought the whole series!! Every book is as great at the last one!
I love these books! I read one book and bought the whole series!! Every book is as great at the last one!
October 13, 2020
A light-hearted mystery which will resonate with fans of Storage Wars.
January 27, 2021
So far one if my favorite books in this series.
July 17, 2013
4 STARS
This is my first Odelia Grey Mystery but hopefully not my last. It kept me guessing till the end. Easy to read and follow. Does make me curious to read previous books but definitely not needed. The regular cast of characters are well developed. As a middle age heavyset woman it is fun to see one as a lead. Her husband is in a wheel chair but it does not stop him much at all.
The plot was laid out step by step as they found different clues and reasoned out what was going on. That at the end it all fit and made perfect sense. Odelia, her mom Grace, her mother-in-law Renee and her husband's cousin Ina were all at a auction of storage units. Ina invited them but one of the storage units when unlocked they found Ina's husband dead inside sitting in a chair.
Ina was arrested because she had in her purse a unregistered handgun and no permit. Ina is not talking to even her lawyer. Greg her cousin wants to help find the real killer and get his cousin out of jail.
Ina is a heavyset women who keeps having dead bodies turn up around her. She works for a lawyer and sometimes works from her home. Her mother came to visit for Thanksgiving and is staying longer. Her husband Greg has a shop. He does not like her finding dead bodies all the time. Ina is always curious and sticks her nose into solving the cases. This time Greg likes her to jump into the case.
The cops don't like her sticking her nose in them. One of the detectives on the case used to be partners with Odelia's friend. She warns her off when she sees her at the storage unit. But when Odelia calls the police with information she is taken serious but told again to stay out of their business. Unless they want her to do something for them.
Odelia has a smart mouth sometimes. She does not like to be told that she and her mom are alike in some ways. Grace finds that she wants to figure out what is going on too and even threatens Odelia if she leaves her home she will call a cab and follow her own leads too.
This is a very modern up to date mystery with ipads, storage wars, lunch trucks with fancier food. It has a real modern feel to it.
I would love to read more of Sue Ann Jaffarian novels in the future especially Odelia Grey Mystery.
I was given this ebook to read and asked in return to give honest review of it when finished by Netgalley and Midnight Ink.
12/08/2013 PUB Midnight Ink
Description below taken off of Netgalley.com
Odelia uncovers a deadly storage war
Spending Thanksgiving with her faultfinding mother has Odelia more tightly wound than a turkey in November. But her husband's cousin Ina, who shows up for dinner with ugly bruises and without her two-timing husband, clearly has it worse. Wild horses can't stop Odelia's mom from tagging along with Ina, who runs a consignment shop, to a storage auction. Everyone is shocked when Ina's husband is found inside a storage locker—dead.
November 6, 2013
Coming December 8th, the 8th (grin) in this series packs a punch! I love a good cozy mystery, and even more a cozy full of real people! What a great read!
A new cozy series must read!! Now to get all the rest!! This is book No.8 and I fell into this without reading any of the others without any problems. I am truly and madly in love with Odelia and her mother, and her husband and the animals! What a hoot! Oh dear, that means I need the rest of them, all seven. I bet I could spend a week reading these back to back without blinking an eye.. You know I have to laugh, there have been many series I have fallen into because I found a copy at a local thrift store... so the basis for this mystery and how I fell into this read :) but I digress!
I am a huge cozy mystery fan but I find many of them create clues that are much to obvious. Miss Jaffarian was able to completely blindside me for much of the book and I rate a mystery on a scale from 1-10 on the obvious scale and this one rates about an 8.5 difficulty, which is pretty dang good! Honestly she totally had me by the toe for most of it! And the end, Oh me oh my! I cannot say much!
As usual with a cozy she sticks her nose where it does not belong and the cops do not like it. She has a nemesis, of course. And one of them is, or was, her mother. Also, this is not a pretty little HOT thing, she is pretty but she is not little. She is just find for her wonderful and loving hubby Greg, she occasionally gives herself a hard time about her weight but at the same time has no problem eating food and enjoying it. Hats off to Odelia! I am going to have to comeback and revisit her with a recipe in honor of this book. Who knows, maybe I can get the author to let me interview her!
Another nice thing, I usually have issues when they use a lot of name brand tech, this was done so well that I did not even blink. It won't be a problem with dating it when someone reads it decades from now, just look at Miss Marple! I had the chuckle a bit with the use of sockpuppet reviews I would suggest perhaps a few authors watch out because some folks may take this to heart of you pull these dirty tricks *mischievous grin*
Also, if Odelia's mom can blog *coughing* ohhh mother, get your act together and start reviewing and blogging all your books! Where do you guys think I got the bug to read from anyway? At least these kinds of books!
A new cozy series must read!! Now to get all the rest!! This is book No.8 and I fell into this without reading any of the others without any problems. I am truly and madly in love with Odelia and her mother, and her husband and the animals! What a hoot! Oh dear, that means I need the rest of them, all seven. I bet I could spend a week reading these back to back without blinking an eye.. You know I have to laugh, there have been many series I have fallen into because I found a copy at a local thrift store... so the basis for this mystery and how I fell into this read :) but I digress!
I am a huge cozy mystery fan but I find many of them create clues that are much to obvious. Miss Jaffarian was able to completely blindside me for much of the book and I rate a mystery on a scale from 1-10 on the obvious scale and this one rates about an 8.5 difficulty, which is pretty dang good! Honestly she totally had me by the toe for most of it! And the end, Oh me oh my! I cannot say much!
As usual with a cozy she sticks her nose where it does not belong and the cops do not like it. She has a nemesis, of course. And one of them is, or was, her mother. Also, this is not a pretty little HOT thing, she is pretty but she is not little. She is just find for her wonderful and loving hubby Greg, she occasionally gives herself a hard time about her weight but at the same time has no problem eating food and enjoying it. Hats off to Odelia! I am going to have to comeback and revisit her with a recipe in honor of this book. Who knows, maybe I can get the author to let me interview her!
Another nice thing, I usually have issues when they use a lot of name brand tech, this was done so well that I did not even blink. It won't be a problem with dating it when someone reads it decades from now, just look at Miss Marple! I had the chuckle a bit with the use of sockpuppet reviews I would suggest perhaps a few authors watch out because some folks may take this to heart of you pull these dirty tricks *mischievous grin*
Also, if Odelia's mom can blog *coughing* ohhh mother, get your act together and start reviewing and blogging all your books! Where do you guys think I got the bug to read from anyway? At least these kinds of books!
December 5, 2013
Just released December 1!
This cozy mystery is the most recent in Sue Ann Jaffarian's Odelia Grey Mysteries series, and I've read them all. Yes, I love a good cozy mystery with a female protagonist who pals around with cops, but there's something about the characters that makes this series stand out. Odelia isn't too perfect or too quirky... She seems real. She and her husband Greg clearly love each other but have regular arguments, too. Their extended family annoys them - hey, just like real life! Odelia's nosiness gets her mixed up with the wrong crowd more than occasionally, but she manages to solve mysteries and save herself - from death, but not always from harm - with the help of Greg and their friends.
This particular book explores the world of storage unit auctions, secondhand stores, and illusions of grandeur. Odelia and Greg's commitment to their family means this mystery is personal - and they'll stop at nothing to prove their relative's innocence.
When I read this book, I felt like I was watching it happen in real life. Jaffarian describes places and events so well that reading it became a movie in my mind. She controls her writing so tightly: a grilled cheese sandwich is written in with precision - just enough mention to picture yourself at the table with the characters, hearing the crunch and licking buttery fingers (she doesn't say that, but I imagined it!), but not so much that it interrupts the flow of the story. That's good writing.
Secondhand Stiff is a solid, funny, caper-ridden novel with well-developed characters and awesome writing. Sue Ann Jaffarian is one of the few writers I regularly seek out for new releases, which I'll pay top dollar for. I recommend the whole series, but they can be read as standalone books or out of order.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This cozy mystery is the most recent in Sue Ann Jaffarian's Odelia Grey Mysteries series, and I've read them all. Yes, I love a good cozy mystery with a female protagonist who pals around with cops, but there's something about the characters that makes this series stand out. Odelia isn't too perfect or too quirky... She seems real. She and her husband Greg clearly love each other but have regular arguments, too. Their extended family annoys them - hey, just like real life! Odelia's nosiness gets her mixed up with the wrong crowd more than occasionally, but she manages to solve mysteries and save herself - from death, but not always from harm - with the help of Greg and their friends.
This particular book explores the world of storage unit auctions, secondhand stores, and illusions of grandeur. Odelia and Greg's commitment to their family means this mystery is personal - and they'll stop at nothing to prove their relative's innocence.
When I read this book, I felt like I was watching it happen in real life. Jaffarian describes places and events so well that reading it became a movie in my mind. She controls her writing so tightly: a grilled cheese sandwich is written in with precision - just enough mention to picture yourself at the table with the characters, hearing the crunch and licking buttery fingers (she doesn't say that, but I imagined it!), but not so much that it interrupts the flow of the story. That's good writing.
Secondhand Stiff is a solid, funny, caper-ridden novel with well-developed characters and awesome writing. Sue Ann Jaffarian is one of the few writers I regularly seek out for new releases, which I'll pay top dollar for. I recommend the whole series, but they can be read as standalone books or out of order.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
May 29, 2016
Odelia Grey is back and this time she's spending Thanksgiving with her husband, his family, her mother, and her brother. The next day, instead of hitting the black Friday sales, Odelia, her mother, and mother-in-law accompany her husband Greg's cousin Ina to a storage locker auction. When the auctioneer opens the storage contain that is up for bid, everyone is shocked to find Ina's husband Tom, dead. Ina becomes the main suspect. Odelia in tow with her fearless, mother investigate to solve the murder and clear Ina's name, and in the process Odelia and her mother can clear up their difficult past and become more of a mother/daughter.
This witty series, will keep you sitting on the couch reading. Character's are well developed, lots of humor, laugh out loud moments, and we can't forget the pets that are their that bring in so much warmth to the story. I do love the fact that the author makes this series easy to connect with, the character's are life like. She also has the main character a plus-size, and her husband is wheelchair bound. But the story doesn't focus on those two factors. The husband is very active and it doesn't take away from the story. His character is so develop that you forget he's in a wheelchair. It is so refreshing to have a heroin that isn't this perfect size three trophy wife, that keeps the perfect house, can make a seven course dinner on the spur of the moment when hubby calls and says he's bring home guest, can solve a crime without damaging her high dollar manicure. I think with Odelia and Greg, that's what makes them more relate-able, and fans can connect more to them since they appear to be more down to earth.
This witty series, will keep you sitting on the couch reading. Character's are well developed, lots of humor, laugh out loud moments, and we can't forget the pets that are their that bring in so much warmth to the story. I do love the fact that the author makes this series easy to connect with, the character's are life like. She also has the main character a plus-size, and her husband is wheelchair bound. But the story doesn't focus on those two factors. The husband is very active and it doesn't take away from the story. His character is so develop that you forget he's in a wheelchair. It is so refreshing to have a heroin that isn't this perfect size three trophy wife, that keeps the perfect house, can make a seven course dinner on the spur of the moment when hubby calls and says he's bring home guest, can solve a crime without damaging her high dollar manicure. I think with Odelia and Greg, that's what makes them more relate-able, and fans can connect more to them since they appear to be more down to earth.
July 23, 2014
Odelia Grey, fifty-something, plus-sized paralegal, has her estranged mother visiting for Thanksgiving. Her husband’s cousin Ina, who shows up for Thanksgiving dinner without her husband, and with ugly bruises, clearly has marital problems.
A few days after Thanksgiving, Odelia, her mother, and Ina attend a storage auction to get bargains for Ina’s second-hand store. To their horror, Ina’s husband’s body is found in the unit they are bidding on. Ina is arrested for the murder and Odelia steps in to find the truth behind the dead guy’s killer. Ina won’t tell the police anything, so Odelia and Mom start asking pointed questions. Suddenly, dangerous accidents begin to happen, way too close to Odelia and her mother.
Who is behind the murder and the accidents, and who was the guy shacked up with? Hopefully, Odelia can find out before she becomes another corpse in a storage unit.
This is the eighth book in this series and I found it to be charming and quite funny. Odelia is a heroine that I can enjoy reading about and she isn’t one of those protagonists who are too perfect to love.
I look forward to getting the other books in the series and enjoying more of Odelia’s adventures. Sue Ann Jaffarian writes a clever, winning tale with lots of laughs along the way. Congrats, Sue Ann, you’ve got a great series going!
Reviewed by Holly Price author of “At Death’s Door”
A few days after Thanksgiving, Odelia, her mother, and Ina attend a storage auction to get bargains for Ina’s second-hand store. To their horror, Ina’s husband’s body is found in the unit they are bidding on. Ina is arrested for the murder and Odelia steps in to find the truth behind the dead guy’s killer. Ina won’t tell the police anything, so Odelia and Mom start asking pointed questions. Suddenly, dangerous accidents begin to happen, way too close to Odelia and her mother.
Who is behind the murder and the accidents, and who was the guy shacked up with? Hopefully, Odelia can find out before she becomes another corpse in a storage unit.
This is the eighth book in this series and I found it to be charming and quite funny. Odelia is a heroine that I can enjoy reading about and she isn’t one of those protagonists who are too perfect to love.
I look forward to getting the other books in the series and enjoying more of Odelia’s adventures. Sue Ann Jaffarian writes a clever, winning tale with lots of laughs along the way. Congrats, Sue Ann, you’ve got a great series going!
Reviewed by Holly Price author of “At Death’s Door”
September 3, 2013
I am of a fan of Sue Ann Jaffarian's Madison Rose vampire series, but this is my first Odelia Grey mystery. Ms. Jaffarian did not disappoint with this book!
Odelia has a house full of guests for the Thanksgiving holidays. Odelia, Odelia's mother Grace, her mother-in-law Renee and her husband's cousin Ina go to an auction. Ina and her spouse, Tom, own a thrift shop and often go to storage locker auctions. When the last locker of the day is opened, Tom's corpse is found.
Ina is arrested on the scene, and Odelia begins her investigation. Odelia is a history with the lead detective on the case and is warned to butt out. Odelia is not deterred .
The clues are well laid out. It was a very satisfying mystery to read. I loved Odelia's relationship with her mom. I can't wait to go back and read the earlier books in this series.
I received an advanced reading copy from Net Galley.
Odelia has a house full of guests for the Thanksgiving holidays. Odelia, Odelia's mother Grace, her mother-in-law Renee and her husband's cousin Ina go to an auction. Ina and her spouse, Tom, own a thrift shop and often go to storage locker auctions. When the last locker of the day is opened, Tom's corpse is found.
Ina is arrested on the scene, and Odelia begins her investigation. Odelia is a history with the lead detective on the case and is warned to butt out. Odelia is not deterred .
The clues are well laid out. It was a very satisfying mystery to read. I loved Odelia's relationship with her mom. I can't wait to go back and read the earlier books in this series.
I received an advanced reading copy from Net Galley.
April 26, 2018
Plus-sized paralegal Odelia is entertaining an extended family group for Thanksgiving, although husband Greg's cousin Ina came alone, without her loser husband Tom. Some of the guests join Ina later that week for an auction of storage locker contents--she runs a resale shop--and Tom's body is found in one of the lockers. The police immediately suspect Ina, but the family rallies round her, including Odelia's long-estranged mother, who is visiting from New Hampshire. So, yes, there's investigation, there are long drives through the California freeway maze, there are drug lords and a least-likely criminal, but much of the book is about Odelia's relationship with her highly-critical mother, who has never apologized for deserting Odelia when she was only 16.
May 14, 2014
Plus-size Odelia and her mother, who is visiting from New Hampshire, try to forge a bond in their unstable relationship over the Thanksgiving holidays. What better way to find a common ground than to join forces and poke their noses where they don't belong - into a murder investigation. The mother-daughter duo teams up with Odelia's husband, Greg, when his cousin is considered the prime suspect in her husband's murder. A delightful plot, lots of potential suspects, and the thrill of a chase are woven throughout the story. The characters are quite likeable with flaws the average person can relate to.
December 2, 2015
Secondhand Stiff by Sue Ann Jaffarian is the 8th book in the Odelia Grey Mystery series. Odelia accompanies her mother and mother-in-law to a storage container auction with her husbands cousin Ina.Unfortunately, Ina's husband is found shot dead in one of the units up for sale. I love Odelia, and only wish that I had read the series in order as a lot seems to have happened since the first book. The death of Seamus, her cat spoilt what was otherwise an enjoyable book. I will have to go back and catch up with the books I missed.
October 30, 2013
I love Odelia Grey and wait not-so-patiently for every new volume in this fun, fast-paced series. In Secondhand Stiff, Odelia Grey is back in full-figured form--and with her mother in tow. I loved the interplay between Odelia and her mom as well as the reappearance of Greg and some of the my other favorite characters. Having this escapade build around the secondhand market was an extra-fun bonus. A great read!
January 2, 2014
I read this book in a day because the plot was interesting and the characters were engaging. This time, Odelia's mother comes along for the snooping and sets up some great mother-daughter moments. The murder centers around the storage locker auction business and is a very timely setting. There was only one part of the story I didn't like because it made me cry. If you've read the other books in the story, you'll understand when you get to it. Can't wait until the next book!
December 9, 2013
When Odelia accompanies her husband's cousin to a storage auction, they are surprised to find a dead body in one of the units.
This book mixes humor, great characters, and a strong plot perfectly. Will delight fans of the series, and if you aren't already reading it, fix that today.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This book mixes humor, great characters, and a strong plot perfectly. Will delight fans of the series, and if you aren't already reading it, fix that today.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
February 14, 2015
There's so much to enjoy about Secondhand Stiff. The emotionally intimate cast of characters continues with their nosiness into a plot inspired by addictive cable reality shows. A deft integration of resolution threads gives this final entry in the Odelia Grey series extra emotional umpf.
[Feb. 2015 addendum: My mistake in thinking Secondhand Stiff was the series finale. Just got Hell on Wheels, which has a Nov. 2014 pub. date. So excited to read another Odelia story.]
[Feb. 2015 addendum: My mistake in thinking Secondhand Stiff was the series finale. Just got Hell on Wheels, which has a Nov. 2014 pub. date. So excited to read another Odelia story.]
November 21, 2016
This is #8 in the Odelia Grey series. (I read #10 before this one, I don't think it took anything away from the story by reading it "out of order".) Think of that show "Storage Wars", what if when they opened the locker they just bought they found a dead body inside? That is a bit like this book which features plus sized paralegal Odelia and her sexy wheelchair bound husband. Somebody in Hollywood really needs to make these into a television series!
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