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Rose Gardner Mystery #4

Thirty-One and a Half Regrets

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While Rose recovers from a broken heart, she finds herself at odds with her sister — and business partner — Violet. Rose buries herself in her landscaping work, but becomes worried when her employee and friend, Bruce Wayne Decker, goes missing.

In the meantime, Fenton County assistant D.A., Mason Deveraux has been patiently waiting to begin a relationship with Rose, but she realizes she needs to confront the demons of her past before she can embrace a new future. She needs to find out the truth about her birth mother.

But her past isn’t her only demon. An undercurrent of tension has been spreading through Henryetta, Arkansas since drug lord, Daniel Crocker’s arrest six months ago. Still, she’s not prepared for a nightmare come true: Crocker’s escape from prison. Crocker carries a grudge and he’s determined to make Rose pay, but he plays a game of cat and mouse, forcing Mason and the Fenton County Sheriff’s department to hide Rose on her birth mother’s farm. But will it be enough to save her?

360 pages, ebook

First published January 4, 2014

1120 people are currently reading
2119 people want to read

About the author

Denise Grover Swank

132 books5,890 followers

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5 stars
4,464 (56%)
4 stars
2,468 (31%)
3 stars
817 (10%)
2 stars
115 (1%)
1 star
14 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 406 reviews
Profile Image for Emily Pearson.
Author 7 books78 followers
December 26, 2013
First off, Denise, you can stop breaking my heart into thousands of tiny pieces okay? Seriously. Knock it off. Secondly, holy crap!!! What a roller coaster. I am completely lost in this series. Any one who knows me or has read my reviews of the other Rose books knows that I am a DIE HARD Team Joe supporter. IF YOU LOVE JOE THIS BOOK WILL CRUSH YOUR SOUL!!! Why Denise? Why....I absolutely LOVE the growth this story shows. Our Rose has shown an incredible change since book one and boy does it work for her. She is strong and independent and falling in love with herself...and maybe even a certain someone else.
Daniel Crocker escapes from prison and taunts Rose. Mason embarks on a mission to keep Rose safe and they are forced into hiding. Rose discovers herself and finds the strength to face her past but does she find the strength to move on and find love again? You must read Thirty-One to find out. Don't miss out on the 4th installment of Rose Gardner, it's the best one yet!
Profile Image for Debbie "Buried in Her TBR Pile".
1,902 reviews298 followers
January 1, 2020
3.5 stars

Wow - did not see the end coming on this one. I was so angry at Joe and was leaning toward Team Mason, now - I'm not sure. I really like Rose - I feel protective of her. She really started standing up for herself more in this one - to Joe, to Violet and just all around. Of course I will read more in the series - but if I didn't, I would be satisfied.
Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].
3,033 reviews25.3k followers
November 11, 2015
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Thirty One and a Half Regrets is the fourth book in the Rose Gardner Mysteries by Denise Grover Swank. I am such a HUGE fan of D.G. Swank. I have loved every single thing she has written. I have been in love with the Rose Gardner series right from the start. I have been with Rose from the beginning as she first began to finally find herself. I feel like she is part of my family. You need to start at the beginning with this series as each book is an important step in her life. Make sure you include #3.5 as it is equally important.

Rose is forced to accept the end of her relationship with Joe. And she knows Mason has been patiently waiting for her, giving her all the time she needs to heal. But Rose realizes she needs to resolve her past before she can move on and give her heart to Mason. Rose is finally tired of not standing up for herself, especially with her sister, Violet. More than ever before, I am so impressed with Rose Gardner. With all she has been through, her strength and resolve are so impressive. And, as usual, trouble has a way of finding her no matter what. Daniel Crocker has escaped from jail and he has a score to settle with Rose. And there is a leak in the Sherriff’s department. So Rose and Mason are forced into hiding.

So between facing up to her past, addressing her present relationships, and fleeing from danger, Rose Gardner has her hands full. I have been a fan of Mason’s all along so I was so happy in this book to finally have some Rose/Mason time. And I am just so proud of our Rose. I can’t wait to see what is in store for them next.

“Enough regrets, we can’t change the past. We can only look toward the future.”
Profile Image for Angie.
8 reviews
December 28, 2013
Rose has grown out of some of her quirky innocent funniness but she's still fun and ready to move on with her life!!!! If she doesn't get killed in the process. Oh My and her love life has really taken off you really don't want to miss this. There are mysteries at every corner from Daniel Crocker's jailbreak to politicians coming to town and the population expanding.
Denise has done it again with a great story its sensitive, sweet and something you can recommend to your teen or your grandmother.
192 reviews12 followers
January 6, 2014
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.

I am quickly learning as I read Denise's new releases that she is always going to be full of surprises and that she appears to have a goal of surprising, shocking, and amazing her readers. 31 1/2 Regrets accomplishes them all!

Not only does this book show how Rose has grown and changed. A change long in the making I might add! But Rose does something I worried she wouldn't do. She stood up to those that sought to control her, to change her, and belittle her and she fought back! I love strong character's and in earlier books Rose had the makings of a strong character but was not quite there yet. This is truly how you know a great author. I often find myself comparing Denise's books as works of art, and while I love all her books to varying degrees 31 1/2 Regrets is without a doubt my favorite masterpiece so far!

I will not give spoilers, but I will warn, do not pick this up and expect to walk away easily. At 30% I was so hooked I refused to put it down until I was finished! That is where it becomes intense-forewarning. :)

I highly recommend this book and this series!
Profile Image for Becky Martin.
7 reviews
January 10, 2014
Rose...Rose... Rose!!! This girl gets herself into so much trouble. Without even trying!! I love this book!! it was amazing!! I can't wait to see what kind of trouble that Rose finds herself in. I am also hoping maybe that she will find her way back to Joe!!!
Profile Image for Julie Keller.
13 reviews4 followers
January 6, 2014
The best of the Rose Gardner series! That is pretty impressive, because they have all been great. This book shows so much growth in all of the characters, even the minor, supporting folks. Rose has grown so much and embraces her new self. She faces her past, deals with her present, looks to the future. I am so happy for her. There are some surprises, and some things that happen were (at least to me)expected, but NECESSARY for the story to go forward. I do not want to go into detail because I do not want to spoil anything for the other Rose fans out there.
If you are new to this series, I highly recommend starting from the beginning. While a person may be able to get brought up to speed starting later, they not only will miss out on some wonderful storytelling, but they will miss out on the development of the characters. This is something that the author excels at and is what makes her books different from other popular writers in this genre.
I have bonded so with the characters in her books. We laugh, cry, ponder, and react together. I cannot wait for the next book in the series!
Profile Image for Mayra.
84 reviews2 followers
December 28, 2013
BEST one yet LOVE LOVE LOVE how Rose has grown and matured she makes me proud! Her relationship with Mason is awesome. I love Joe but he is broken and needs to fix Joe before he can EVEN think of going for anyone...Can I PLEASE kick Hilary's butt?
You had me up and down worried sick all the emotions that this book has done is incredible if you love Rose you will LOVE thirty one and a half regrets!
Profile Image for Sevil Charmed.
53 reviews26 followers
April 23, 2020
Serinin en güzel kitabıydı ben şimdi 5.kitabı nasıl bekleyeceğim. O kadar güzel yerde bitti ki. 😍 Joe ve Mason ilk defa bir kitap da iki erkek karakteri de seviyorum.
Profile Image for Annette M Guerriero Nishimoto.
340 reviews
August 9, 2016
Today's review is on Thirty-One and a Half Regrets by Denise Grover Swank

I was recently allowed to read an ARC of this latest installment in Swank's Rose Gardner Series and I have to say that I have zero regrets after reading it. In fact, this fourth installment is my absolute favorite of them all so far!

On the heels of her break up with Joe, Rose is hesitant to start any new relationship. She needs time to heal her broken heart and to come to grips with what has happened. Not only that, she needs time and an opportunity for some closure. Thankfully she is able to do all of that between Falling to Pieces and this book.

Like Mason, I was content to wait for Rose to realize that Joe really wasn't the right man for her but my patience was wearing thin at the end of Falling to Pieces, and I know that I wasn't the only one.

Now we all know that Rose's life wouldn't be Rose's life without danger and a little drama and there is plenty of each in this fantastic book.
Bruce Wayne is nowhere to be found, Daniel Crocker has escaped from prison, and Rose has to be at the nursery when Joe and Hilary make a stop along the campaign trail to present a check to the Gardner Sisters Nursery from the Small Business Association. Thank goodness Mason was there for her should she had needed him.

Yes, I said Mason. That handsome, smart, patient man who loves Rose with his entire being. The wonderful man who loves her so much that he is willing to wait until she is ready to move on. The man who has always been there for her no matter what, and quite frankly the only man she should ever be with.

Denise has mastered the art of suspense as it's clear that she know just how much she needs to keep the reader on the edge of their seat. And talk about sexual tension!! The anticipation alone is what kept me turning the pages!! When asked if I thought the sex secnes were a bit much I relayed this back: "I personally think you should keep it as it is. It shows not only the evolution of Rose, it shows a natural evolution in her relationships."

Am I disappointed by anything in book 4? Nothing at all. Am I on pins and needles waiting for book 5 already? You bet your momma's rolling pin I am.

Another sure fire hit for Swank!

5 of 5 stars
Available on Amazon January 9, 2014




Profile Image for Rosie.
243 reviews3 followers
January 9, 2014
I stayed up late, and got up early to finish this book because the pre-reviews said it was by far the best book of the series. I suggest taking your time and reading it at your own pace. It's good enough because we are all vested in Rose Gardner, but it's not the best book in the series. It's a slower read for sure, and I found myself wanting to get to the end already, but you will see Rose develop and come into herself more. I'm just not sure I like the new Rose? What I loved about Rose was her naivety, and her curiosity that sometimes got her into trouble. She doesn't get into much trouble this time, and it's not as funny of a read. I missed Joe SO much in this book because he was always her Yin to her Yang. He liked taking care of her, and maybe it was because he needed so much looking out for himself. But I was disappointed in Rose for accepting what Joe did for her sister so easily, without fighting for him. Joe always fought for Rose. So I'm hoping the author puts Joe in the next book more as I miss him. Joe and Rose crack me up together, they bicker, but they work. Joe's only fault is he loves Rose TOO much. He needs to realize Rose can hold her own as he figures out how to quiet up his family once and for all. I can't stand Hilary and if Rose is to tell anyone off it's that woman! I like Mason, but not for Rose. I find Mason boring, and I don't feel that pull that Joe and Rose have... I also felt Rose rushing it with Mason just to have someone in her life. I'm not sure the last time I fell in love with 2 guys within 5 weeks especially my first love. It takes a very long time to get over a first love, and most guys coming soon after are rebounds. It'll be interesting to see where the story line goes, I'll stay tuned because I want to see what Rose gets herself into next just not going to plow through it like I did this one...
Profile Image for Michele Sharp.
3 reviews
January 1, 2014
Wow! I didn't think I could enjoy the books about Rose any more. Boy, was I wrong! This is by far the best book of the series. It has suspense, drama, romance, and a thrilling cliffhanger. I couldn't put it down. Rose has developed into a wonderful and interesting woman. No longer do we laugh at her naive antics, but we do rejoice in her accomplishments, celebrate her new relationships and cry with her when she is sad. I'm proud of the steps she has taken over the last few books but none are as noteworthy as what she does in this book. DGS draws you in with Rose's wonderful personality and keeps you hooked with the thrilling action scenes. You know you're hooked when you get to the end and want to encourage the author to hurry up and write the next one! Well done!!
Profile Image for Kathy Rice.
214 reviews1 follower
December 28, 2013
By far my favorite Rose book yet!
Rose is sassy, brassy, and has finally came out of her " comfort" zone. She tells how she feels and holds nothing back. Mason is the perfect gentleman, giving her space yet letting her know he's there when she's ready. When Dan comes back in the picture and Rose is in danger.... Once again it's Mason who has her back. Secluded farm house, a hot sexy DA and Rose. Who needs electricity with the chemical reaction and sparks that ignite when those two are together. But wait, here comes Joe begging Rose to take him back. Promising his love. What ever shall Rose do, who will she choose?
Profile Image for Theresa .
1,849 reviews77 followers
March 13, 2018
4.5 Intense Stars...this series is starting to heat up... Rose is focused on moving forward in her life facing her past and planning for the future....just as pieces begin to fall into place, enemies from the past make their presence known and attempt to tear away Rose's happiness.... with several twists and turns and some action packed thrilling moments, this addition to the series turned up the intensity...in addition, the chemistry between Rose and Mason is HOT yet incredibly sweet and sexy...I love the balance these two seem to provide one another while still challenging one another to be more...can not wait to see the direction this story takes...fantastic read:)
Profile Image for Barbara Anderson.
109 reviews1 follower
March 30, 2014
I could not stop reading these books.

I could not stop reading these books.

I was so interested in this series. I can not wait for the next book. I haven't decided yet whether I want to see Rose with Joe or Mason. I feel for both of them and they both sacrificed for Rose and love her. Ugh I want to see both of them with her.

Profile Image for Kelly Mccurdy.
899 reviews38 followers
December 27, 2013
~~I received and ARC in exchange for an honest review~~

I believe that Denise has written the best book ever! There is action, sex, visions, and Muffy. And who doesn't love Muffy! Rose has become a very strong and independent person in this book. She has become stronger and she has friends that love and care about her more than ever. Her relationship with Violet is volatile and she finally lets Violet know how she is really feeling. All I can say is ITS ABOUT DAMN TIME!! I am glad that Denise made Rose stand up to her sister. That was a huge weight on Roses shoulders, and I believe that she feels a million times better now that everything is out in the open.

What I love about this book, is that Rose is so strong. She is independent and she is making choices for her, and not for anyone else. She has someone that she can talk to (Jonah) and she is working through all of her demons that have been haunting her. I also love the fact that her and Mason take their relationship to the next level. The chemistry that those two have is explosive.

Rose has been told by Jonah and Mason that she has to confront her past. Meaning her birth mother. Rose has the family farm that was her birth mothers, and she has to decide what to do with it. There are memories in the house and pictures that she has to go through and make the decision on what to do. There is also a nursery in there that piques her interest.

This book has suspense, revenge, criminals, and a very jealous girlfriend. I believe that Denise has done a wonderful job on this book. I need more. NOW! The story ends in a very small cliff hanger, don't worry it is very tiny on what could or would happen. If you don't get this book you will regret it!
Profile Image for Pamela .
1,438 reviews77 followers
May 11, 2016


Denise Grover Swank ("Swank") knocks it out of the park and beyond once again as book 4 is an absolute amazing read. I loved it! She never disappoints (unless you're on Team Joe. I'm Team Mason all the way.) Swank is truly an awe-inspiring author who knows what her readers want and always delivers without fail. Her talent doesn't just stop at her brilliant story-telling, it's also the in-depth, loveable, and wonderful heroines (and supporting characters) that she creates, all of whom continue to grow and develop into a more self-confident, stronger, and mature individual with each passing novel. It's amazing to see how far her protagonist, Rose Gardner, has come from when we first met her in book 1, "Twenty-Eight and a half Wishes." There's so much I want to say about this novel, but I don't want to give anything away as this series is just brilliant. My favourite part of the whole novel was when Rose takes off her blinders and comes to realize that Mason had been, and was always there for her, even when she was with Joe. I honestly cannot wait to read the next book in the series which can't come soon enough for me. My only hope is that Rose comes to realize that Mason truly loves her; that he loves her just as much as she loves him. Team Mason all the way!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kat.
220 reviews27 followers
May 27, 2015
Review
How do you heal a broken heart?

Rose underwent the biggest and most toughest breakup with Joe, with him not being able to stand up for himself he reverts back to his parents control.

But a broken heart can be mend right? Walks in Mason . . .

But Rose's broken heart isn't the only thing, Daniel Crocker broke out of jail and is on the hunt for Rose. Worry about her safely, she goes into hiding but there's another problem . . . there's a leak in the police department that may get Daniel Crocker closer to Rose then she would like.

Can Rose out run Daniel Crocker? Or will she fail under his trap?

A new journey awaits for Rose

PURRRFECT! I LOVE LOVE! this book! There was so much growth for Rose and the being on the run while hunted by a psychopath made this book contains so much excitement and changes that it kept me reading it over and over again.


Seriouly you need to read all my little Meow Meow Meow thoughts because it went crazy! http://sassycatsbooksreview.blogspot....
Profile Image for Peach.
789 reviews2 followers
January 21, 2014
Of the series, I have enjoyed this book the most to date. The series keeps getting better and I have become so vested in the characters, Rose, Mason, Joe, and Violet. I agree with the other readers that you see a transformation in Rose in this book. She became more confident and not afraid to face conflicts. Mason was truly swoon-worthy. He was patient with Rose wanting her to be ready though he wanted her for months. Moreover, he treated her with respect, more like a peer while protecting her and having her interest at the forefront. In this book, the villain Crocker whom Rose led to his capture in a previous book, escaped from prison. Being obsessed with Rose, he set out to hunt for her. I liked how the author reminded us of key events that happened in the earlier books without being awkward.
Profile Image for Kim.
835 reviews3 followers
August 5, 2016
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. I have to say this is my FAVORITE ROSE GARDNER BOOK in the series so far. I love all the unexpected but expected twists and turns. You have to read to see what I mean. I am so glad that she stood up to her sister. I am also glad she has stood up to Joe and that she is growing up more and more. Rose is becoming her own woman and not having anyone one shape her into what they want her to be. This series is a MUST READ by Denise Grover Swank. This one didn't have the humor in it like the others had but this was more suspenseful and interesting.
Profile Image for Stormy Udell.
37 reviews1 follower
December 30, 2013
I think I say this every time…but I’ll say it again. Denise has knocked it out of the park, AGAIN! This is my favorite Rose Gardner installment yet. All of us Rose lovers out there get to once again watch her grow. It’s so much fun to read Rose really come into her true strength as she faces her past in more than one way. She learns even more to trust herself and her instincts and her confidence is much more evident in all of her actions. I won’t give anything away…but this is a book not of regrets but justice and closure in a lot of ways. If you are a Rose fan you won’t regret reading this installment! Happy Reading!
Profile Image for Pamela.
748 reviews
October 1, 2014
Loved, loved this book, number 4 in the series and my favorite one so far.

Rose finally comes into her own in this book, she has grown so much. She finally stands up for herself.

There is so much excitement, suspense, action and love in this book, there is something for everyone. It is so well written that you will feel like you are part of the story too.

I am not going to give anything away, you must read this book yourself. You will not be disappointed.

I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Barbara Mills.
11 reviews2 followers
January 4, 2014
This is the best Rose Gardner book yet. I love this series. The characters are wonderful and the story is great. I would highly recommend this book. Rose has grown so much in these books. I feel it is best to read the books in order starting with Twenty eight and a half wishes. I feel this way because of character development and plot line continuation. Denise Glover Swank is a wonderful writer.
Profile Image for Joanette Fountain.
34 reviews7 followers
January 11, 2014
Love this series so far. Although I must say that I am not a fan of love triangles and am worried that this is starting to develop into one. Also, Rose was a little more skittish in this book but not a clumsy and curious. But she seems to be making smarter decisions, but I think Mason is the reason for this. He tends to make her stop and think of the consequences a little more than she did before. I just love Mr. Mason!!
Profile Image for Gayla Glass.
282 reviews
January 10, 2014
Yep, got it this morning, listened when I could throughout the day (at work). Walked in the house and read the rest. Loved it! Love Rose and Mason!!! Want joe to find his happy, but with someone else.
Profile Image for Janet.
772 reviews
April 23, 2014
I just love these books so much . I have enjoyed seeing roses character evolve from the timid fearful girl in the 1st book to the strong young woman she is in this book . FAB
Profile Image for Suze Prescot.
Author 12 books31 followers
November 24, 2022
Loves and Losses

Rose Gardner is devastated when Joe leaves her, and worse when she learns he is engaged. When he visits the nursery on his campaign trail, she argues with him. Meanwhile, Mason is there for her, and when she comes under threat again, she needs him more.
Well-written and exciting, this next episode of Rose's life is as enjoyable as the others.
432 reviews2 followers
June 11, 2019
We continue on with the journey Rose makes. DGS adds some twists and turns to the plot and readers are introduced to some new characters in Fenton County. If you are looking for a fun, witty, creative read - you have found it. Rose has a natural ability to solve mysteries and there are plenty in Fenton County! Mason also adds a romantic interest but is he any better than Joe? Is he too good to be true?
Profile Image for Charity.
1,437 reviews1 follower
January 11, 2014
I love this series so much that I stopped reading what I was reading, and bought this the day it dropped (January 9) when I got up at 5 a.m. I was finished with it the next day, and it only took me that long because I had to waste 9 hours going to work!

This is book 4 in the series, and the plot keeps moving forward: Joe is still gone (or is he!?), but Mason isn’t, which is good since Daniel Crocker has finally found a way to escape from prison, hellbent on getting to Rose. With the ever-present side story of Rose and her family history becoming intertwined with the main action, this was, to me, the best entry in the series (tied with book 1).

The book ends on what I call a soft cliffhanger; one where you are dying to know what will happen next, but not one where the author has left the character strapped to a chair being beaten with a hose, or dying on the side of the road after a car accident. Book 5 in the series will be released June 26, 2014, entitled Thirty-Two and a Half Complications. And I will download it at midnight.


The story has a flow that keeps you guessing, dialogue that is hilarious (laugh out loud moments galore) and completely believable, and just enough romance to make your tummy squishy and your heart beat a bit harder.

Hands down one of my favorite series.
Profile Image for Lori Clark cook.
74 reviews1 follower
January 22, 2014
OMG! OMG! OMG! How can one person put a bunch of words on the page and make them come to life??!!! Denise Grover Swank does just that with the 4th installment of the Rose Gardner series. Book 3 left Rose reeling from the breakup with Joe. Thirty One and a Half Regrets gives us a look at the new and improved Rose. She has grown into a strong, independent woman who is trying her level best to move on with her life. She stands up for herself finally, she faces her past and opens herself up to the possibility of a different future.

The ending of this book made me squeal out loud and give a fist pump! So glad I finished it at home instead of at work or in the doctors office. If you haven't read this series, you are missing out on a great story. Denise Grover Swank
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