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A Scarlet Wilson Mystery #2
Miz Scarlet and the Vanishing Visitor
A pleasant night in Bay Head, NJ, unexpectedly turns dangerous as Scarlet Wilson heads for home after a delightful weekend at the Jersey Shore with boyfriend Kenny "Captain Peacock" Tolliver. A terrified teenager, chased by a homicidal maniac, clings to her car, refusing to let go of the moon roof. What do you do when a determined killer comes at the girl attached to your windshield, knife in hand? If you're Miz Scarlet, you get creative and put the pedal to the metal, even as the cars pile up in your wake.
That wild ride begins a journey of discovery for newly-orphaned Jenny Mulroney, the teenager who cared for her mother through her now-finished battle with cancer. The wicked stepfather has chased the girl out of her home and onto the road. Frightened and fending off unsavory characters with her wits, Jenny has no one to turn to and nowhere to go, until Miz Scarlet shows up and takes her home to the Four Acorns Inn, the family bed & breakfast she runs in Cheswick, CT.
While security expert Kenny delves into Jenny's secret past, searching for clues and the New Jersey State Police investigate a series of related crimes, the teenager begins to find her way again. Ready to start college with Miz Scarlet's help, busy earning her keep at the inn, Jenny's been less than honest about what happened before that crazed killer attacked. Now she's putting everyone in peril.
What does all this have to do with a bar of organic soap said to have healing powers? When uncut diamonds stolen in a heist turn up encased in lavender glycerine, it's more intrigue than Miz Scarlet can resist. With the help of the elderly "Googins girls", her brother Bur (better known as Colonel Grey Poupon), and Larry, the foxy female homicide investigator, the intrepid sleuth is hot on the trail, determined to solve the mystery. (Novella)
That wild ride begins a journey of discovery for newly-orphaned Jenny Mulroney, the teenager who cared for her mother through her now-finished battle with cancer. The wicked stepfather has chased the girl out of her home and onto the road. Frightened and fending off unsavory characters with her wits, Jenny has no one to turn to and nowhere to go, until Miz Scarlet shows up and takes her home to the Four Acorns Inn, the family bed & breakfast she runs in Cheswick, CT.
While security expert Kenny delves into Jenny's secret past, searching for clues and the New Jersey State Police investigate a series of related crimes, the teenager begins to find her way again. Ready to start college with Miz Scarlet's help, busy earning her keep at the inn, Jenny's been less than honest about what happened before that crazed killer attacked. Now she's putting everyone in peril.
What does all this have to do with a bar of organic soap said to have healing powers? When uncut diamonds stolen in a heist turn up encased in lavender glycerine, it's more intrigue than Miz Scarlet can resist. With the help of the elderly "Googins girls", her brother Bur (better known as Colonel Grey Poupon), and Larry, the foxy female homicide investigator, the intrepid sleuth is hot on the trail, determined to solve the mystery. (Novella)
229 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2013
647 people are currently reading
524 people want to read
About the author
Sara M. Barton
78 books78 followersSara M. Barton is the author of several fast-paced cozy mysteries featuring lively characters: The Scarlet Wilson Mysteries, The Off the Books Mysteries, The International Killer Chefs Competition Mysteries (The first book in the new series is entitled "Frosted!")
She has also written hybrid "cozy thriller" series, offering likeable characters and wild twists: The Gabby Grimm Fairy Tale Mysteries, The Cornwall & Company Mysteries
She also has written dark and dangerous spy thrillers based on historical events dating back to the Cold War. Some of these touch on now-unclassified government-funded research programs examining the feasibility of psychic abilities: The Project Stargazer Thrillers, The Arden Woods Thrillers
Sara M. Barton offers helpful tips, information, and education for families providing care to a loved one on The Practical Caregiver Guides website and her blog. As a passionate advocate for improving the lives of cancer patients and others managing serious health challenges, she has written "The Practical Caregiver's Essential Guide: How to Help Someone You Love" and a short, free guide for caregivers providing end-of-life care called "The Practical Caregiver's Guide to Home Hospice".
She is also a classically trained artist who loves to paint landscapes, seascapes, and portraits.
She has also written hybrid "cozy thriller" series, offering likeable characters and wild twists: The Gabby Grimm Fairy Tale Mysteries, The Cornwall & Company Mysteries
She also has written dark and dangerous spy thrillers based on historical events dating back to the Cold War. Some of these touch on now-unclassified government-funded research programs examining the feasibility of psychic abilities: The Project Stargazer Thrillers, The Arden Woods Thrillers
Sara M. Barton offers helpful tips, information, and education for families providing care to a loved one on The Practical Caregiver Guides website and her blog. As a passionate advocate for improving the lives of cancer patients and others managing serious health challenges, she has written "The Practical Caregiver's Essential Guide: How to Help Someone You Love" and a short, free guide for caregivers providing end-of-life care called "The Practical Caregiver's Guide to Home Hospice".
She is also a classically trained artist who loves to paint landscapes, seascapes, and portraits.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
September 10, 2021
Who'd have thought that driving home could lead to so much trouble? Not Scarlet Wilson. A daring rescue of a young teen in imminent danger is complicated by the girl's deceptions. But, maybe, just maybe, a mystery can be solved and redemption is possible.
This was a sweet and playful book. It's the type of story whose ending makes you lean back and say "I really enjoyed that." I loved that the extended "family" was so supportive of each other and that no one was self-serving, narcissistic, or caustic. The whole thing felt like a warm, cosy hug.
At this point, I have to admit that I didn't concentrate too much attention on the mystery. And, as I write that, I'm shocked at myself because that's usually where most of my attention goes when I'm reading a cosy. Don't get me wrong, it was a nice background to a heart-warming story but I didn't grasp for it as I usually do.
Loved this one. Recommended.
This was a sweet and playful book. It's the type of story whose ending makes you lean back and say "I really enjoyed that." I loved that the extended "family" was so supportive of each other and that no one was self-serving, narcissistic, or caustic. The whole thing felt like a warm, cosy hug.
At this point, I have to admit that I didn't concentrate too much attention on the mystery. And, as I write that, I'm shocked at myself because that's usually where most of my attention goes when I'm reading a cosy. Don't get me wrong, it was a nice background to a heart-warming story but I didn't grasp for it as I usually do.
Loved this one. Recommended.
November 2, 2018
So funny
Such a funny book! I loved the characters and Nick names.A very good story and I look forward to reading more of the series!
Such a funny book! I loved the characters and Nick names.A very good story and I look forward to reading more of the series!
Want to read
May 29, 2020EReaderNewsToday
August 2, 2019
Cute, enjoyable little read. I was under the impression that the book was a mystery, but it really wasn't. It was more a family type book It was nice how it played out to the end, though completely predictable.
Ms. Barton would do well to get herself a proofreader as there was a great faux pas in the book, right from the beginning. The book starts out with a bloody hand being put on the window of Scarlet's car and the girl, Jenny, covered in blood. Although Scarlet found no wounds on Jenny to account for the blood, Jenny said that Richie had slit Mozzie's (the dog) throat. That would account fo the blood. BUT, as the story nears the end, we find that Mozzie is very much alive, not having had his throat cut. Then, would someone kindly explain where the blood came from
Ms. Barton would do well to get herself a proofreader as there was a great faux pas in the book, right from the beginning. The book starts out with a bloody hand being put on the window of Scarlet's car and the girl, Jenny, covered in blood. Although Scarlet found no wounds on Jenny to account for the blood, Jenny said that Richie had slit Mozzie's (the dog) throat. That would account fo the blood. BUT, as the story nears the end, we find that Mozzie is very much alive, not having had his throat cut. Then, would someone kindly explain where the blood came from
March 14, 2022
Miz Scarlet owns and runs the Four Acorns Inn, a B &B and is driving down the street when a female teen grabs a hold of her moon roof and screams that someone is trying to kill her. Scarlet is dating Kenny "Captain Peacock" Tolliver. A man that is chasing the girl with a knife takes a stab at the girl and Scarlet puts pedal to the metal. Jenny Mulroney is a newly orphaned teenager and Scarlet and her "crew" have to find out why this man is trying to kill the girl and solve several other mysteries. A very complex set of mysteries that kept me on the edge of my seat for this wild ride! A very short but entertaining tail of murder and mayhem! The writer throws in a great deal of information but does it in a way that keeps you guessing and cheering till the end!
April 30, 2018
A Fun Book to Read
Miz Scarlet books are clever and funny. My favorite thing about this book is the loving relationship between friend and family. The family is genteel, but not wealthy. Everyone works to make the Four Acorns Inn, which is the family home, successful and gracious. The plot in this book was unique, and unraveling the mystery complicated enough. The subplot of finding a family for Jenny was an unexpected bonus. I expect lovers of cozy mysteries to love this funny, sweet story.
Miz Scarlet books are clever and funny. My favorite thing about this book is the loving relationship between friend and family. The family is genteel, but not wealthy. Everyone works to make the Four Acorns Inn, which is the family home, successful and gracious. The plot in this book was unique, and unraveling the mystery complicated enough. The subplot of finding a family for Jenny was an unexpected bonus. I expect lovers of cozy mysteries to love this funny, sweet story.
February 6, 2023
A very touching and poignant story about a teenage girl who flees an abusive relationship and lands in the middle of a large, caring family. There is murder and intrigue surrounding this girl, and she takes awhile to determine who she can trust with her story. She needs a lot of help and finds it in the loving and caring person of Scarlet Wilson.
I loved the way the story kept evolving with new twists and turns, while bringing in more characters to add to the flavor. Interesting characters to say the least. There is a lot of humor, as well as love and romance. Something for everyone!
I loved the way the story kept evolving with new twists and turns, while bringing in more characters to add to the flavor. Interesting characters to say the least. There is a lot of humor, as well as love and romance. Something for everyone!
January 25, 2021
A very engaging read. The characters are very true to live. You just want to get to know all of them.
The story starts with immediate action and requires our heroine to take decisive action. She begins to pull in her team, which is really her friends and people she knows. They work to solve the mystery, but discover that all is not as it seems.
There is heart grabbing undercurrent and the dogs do help pull you along.
A recommended read.
The story starts with immediate action and requires our heroine to take decisive action. She begins to pull in her team, which is really her friends and people she knows. They work to solve the mystery, but discover that all is not as it seems.
There is heart grabbing undercurrent and the dogs do help pull you along.
A recommended read.
February 2, 2021
Moxie
Another wonderfully written book by Sara Barton.
Miz Scarlet at her best, solving mysteries and involving her “family”. She and Kenny, her boyfriend, work together to find Jenny’s family and get her inheritance back for her.
Of course, along the way, Miz Scarlet, Jenny, and Kenny run into humorous snags as well as criminals.
For a relaxing evening reading, I would recommend this wonderful series.
Another wonderfully written book by Sara Barton.
Miz Scarlet at her best, solving mysteries and involving her “family”. She and Kenny, her boyfriend, work together to find Jenny’s family and get her inheritance back for her.
Of course, along the way, Miz Scarlet, Jenny, and Kenny run into humorous snags as well as criminals.
For a relaxing evening reading, I would recommend this wonderful series.
June 10, 2024
A cute cozy with a cast of eccentric characters. I listened to the story which was read by the author. I truly think I would’ve enjoyed it more read by an actress who can do different voices as the conversations ( a lot!) between characters was often confusing thereby diminishing the comedic aspect of the repartee of the characters.
April 2, 2019
Keeps getting better.
Purely addictive. I love these books. You just can’t help loving all of the characters. The stories are edge of the seat all the way to the end. Can’t wait to read book 3.
Purely addictive. I love these books. You just can’t help loving all of the characters. The stories are edge of the seat all the way to the end. Can’t wait to read book 3.
May 3, 2019
Cute and fun
Mix Scarlet and her band of characters help solve the mystery of Jenny. A teenager who found herself at Scarlets car. The story was fun to read and I really enjoyed it. I look forward to reading others books in this series.
Mix Scarlet and her band of characters help solve the mystery of Jenny. A teenager who found herself at Scarlets car. The story was fun to read and I really enjoyed it. I look forward to reading others books in this series.
Read
November 25, 2019Great characters
I love the banter between Miz Scarlet and her brother. Some very funny conversations. Humor and a little romance mixed with a good dose of mystery, makes this book a page turner.
I love the banter between Miz Scarlet and her brother. Some very funny conversations. Humor and a little romance mixed with a good dose of mystery, makes this book a page turner.
November 26, 2019
An okay read
This was an ok read as there weren't many interesting plot twists, but the characters were likable. If you're looking for a short mystery and a quick read, this books for you.
This was an ok read as there weren't many interesting plot twists, but the characters were likable. If you're looking for a short mystery and a quick read, this books for you.
January 23, 2020
Hilariously entertaining
This story is entertaining and fun with a mix of cozy mystery and great adventure the mystery is intriguing and well written and the characters are great so ENJOY.
This story is entertaining and fun with a mix of cozy mystery and great adventure the mystery is intriguing and well written and the characters are great so ENJOY.
February 2, 2020
Mix Scarlett and the Vanishing Visitor
Cute little story about wanna be private investigator who saves a teenage girl from a man chasing her and then becomes involved in attempts to solve the crimes she uncovers.
Cute little story about wanna be private investigator who saves a teenage girl from a man chasing her and then becomes involved in attempts to solve the crimes she uncovers.
June 25, 2022
Cute story. Miz Scarlet see a frightened teenager looking for help and steps up. Taking her to her family' s inn, she is kept safe from a jewel theft ring, a scum bag step-father and a host of other problems. A nice read.
September 4, 2025
good fast read this is book 2
After spending a pleasant weekend with her boyfriend Scarlet runs into a scared teenager who is being chased by a homicidal manic. This is a page turner good from start to finish. Good afternoon read.
After spending a pleasant weekend with her boyfriend Scarlet runs into a scared teenager who is being chased by a homicidal manic. This is a page turner good from start to finish. Good afternoon read.
February 16, 2018
Enjoyed this story. It was good and entertaining. A touch of possible romance with a cozy mystery.
May 28, 2018
Miz Scarlet #2
Easy mystery read with lots of humor. Miz Scarlet and her inn group keep her safe along with the teenager Jenny that needs rescued.
Easy mystery read with lots of humor. Miz Scarlet and her inn group keep her safe along with the teenager Jenny that needs rescued.
November 3, 2018
Full of trouble and compassion.
Main character development could use more information please. Action launcher into the story is
interesting and then the book looses steam.
Main character development could use more information please. Action launcher into the story is
interesting and then the book looses steam.
April 30, 2019
WOW! REALLY like Mz Scarlet. And Colonel Grey Poupon. And all the other "gamey" characters is this gripping and funny and enjoyable book. Now on to the next one,.
July 22, 2019
Some cursing
I would have given it a 4 but for the cursing good story line. Lots of family love, and cut pets.
I would have given it a 4 but for the cursing good story line. Lots of family love, and cut pets.
July 27, 2019
Great twist !
Like the twist ..you almost figure it out..then you threw more twist in.it..great surprises.clues kept coming...liked it at lot!!!!!!!keep writing !!!!
Like the twist ..you almost figure it out..then you threw more twist in.it..great surprises.clues kept coming...liked it at lot!!!!!!!keep writing !!!!
July 31, 2019
This series just keeps getting better! Love the addition of characters! Now I am getting book 3! Can't wait to see what is has in store for this reader!
August 9, 2019
Enjoyable cozy mystery. Loved all The Connecticut references with me being a native of Connecticut. Loved the main character Miz Scarlet
September 29, 2019
Good and cozy
Lots of stuff going on with all sorts of people, good and bad. Entertaining. Mysterious. A whole lot of fun
Lots of stuff going on with all sorts of people, good and bad. Entertaining. Mysterious. A whole lot of fun
November 22, 2019
Really good
A cozy mystery book with quite a bit of humour and romance. I like these books a lot and can't wait to read the next one.
A cozy mystery book with quite a bit of humour and romance. I like these books a lot and can't wait to read the next one.
December 25, 2019
When Miz Scarlet involuntary saves the life of a young girl, she did not bargain on being responsible for her!
Lovely story line with warm, likable characters
Lovely story line with warm, likable characters
January 20, 2020
What do you do when a determined killer comes at the girl attached to your hood of your car?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews