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Camper & Criminals #34
Elves, Evergreens, & Evidence
Snow's falling and sleigh bells are ringing in the town of Normal, but there's nothing "normal" about this festive season.
Mae West's first Christmas as a married woman at Happy Trails Campground should've been merry and bright. But when a Winter Festival turns deadly and one of their own lands on the suspect list, Mae and the Laundry Club ladies know there's more to unwrap than just presents.
With a mischievous reindeer, a friend in jeopardy, and the campground's reputation at stake, Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies are dashing through clues and untangling Christmas mysteries.
Dive into a world of holiday in the campground, Southern charm, and yuletide twists, where tinsel, traditions, and murder collide. Grab a cup of cocoa and join the holiday hunt with Mae and the gang, as they jingle all the way to justice.
Mae West's first Christmas as a married woman at Happy Trails Campground should've been merry and bright. But when a Winter Festival turns deadly and one of their own lands on the suspect list, Mae and the Laundry Club ladies know there's more to unwrap than just presents.
With a mischievous reindeer, a friend in jeopardy, and the campground's reputation at stake, Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies are dashing through clues and untangling Christmas mysteries.
Dive into a world of holiday in the campground, Southern charm, and yuletide twists, where tinsel, traditions, and murder collide. Grab a cup of cocoa and join the holiday hunt with Mae and the gang, as they jingle all the way to justice.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 26, 2023
420 people are currently reading
890 people want to read
About the author
Tonya Kappes
435 books3,669 followersBeloved cozy mystery author Tonya Kappes is bringing her charming world to the screen!
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Twitter
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
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November 28, 2023
I'm so grateful to each and everyone of you! Enjoy your murdery visit in Normal!
June 30, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Audiobook 🎧
Three more books and I’ll be caught up with this series. *Confetti*
Three more books and I’ll be caught up with this series. *Confetti*
July 2, 2024
Another fun adventure that kept me guessing until the end. The mystery was well plotted and always something fresh and new.
November 22, 2024
“I reckon them reindeer got rid of him.”
ha! This one was one of the ones I liked more! The mystery started right off the bat. I liked the twist of the reindeer, the question of poisoning and the twists and turns from there. Dottie still gets on my last nerve and flipping to audio actually makes her voice grating - but I do love the other parts of the story on audio so I'm enjoying listening versus reading.
This one was cute but I think I'm done with the series for now.
ha! This one was one of the ones I liked more! The mystery started right off the bat. I liked the twist of the reindeer, the question of poisoning and the twists and turns from there. Dottie still gets on my last nerve and flipping to audio actually makes her voice grating - but I do love the other parts of the story on audio so I'm enjoying listening versus reading.
This one was cute but I think I'm done with the series for now.
July 7, 2024
"Elves, Evergreens, & Evidence" by Tonya Kappes is book 34 in the "Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery" series. Mae and the Laundry Club ladies try to figure out who killed not only 1 but 2 people. Mae knows how to get people to talk and puts her sleuthing to work. She goes undercover to get closer to someone who has put a protective order against her and gets herself in a pickle. I enjoy reading Tonya's books and always look forward to the next one. The Camper series is one of my favorite series by Tonya.
November 21, 2023
It’s the Holiday Season in Normal, Kentucky and the town is living up to its slogan, “Welcome to Normal Where Nothing is Normal”. Instead of enjoying some Holiday Cheer the town is plagued with yet another murder! After a patron appears to have been trampled to death at the Holiday Festival, it’s up to Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies to sift through the clues, sleuth out the killer and wrap up the case because 🎶 Santa Claus is Coming to Town 🎶!
🎄 Holiday Festival
🔍 Cozy Mystery
😹 Hoot & a Half Humor
🐎 Kentucky
🏘️ Small Town
🪦 Murder
📚 34th in a Series
Elves, Evergreens & Evidence is another fantastic installment of the Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery Series and I can’t wait to see what happens next in Moonlight, Marshmallows & Manslaughter!
Thank you Tonya Kappes for the gifted copy!
November 26, 2023
This is one of my favorite books in the series. The description of the setting made me feel like I was in a winter wonderland. The overall feel of the story brought back Christmas memories.
The murder mystery also involved the holidays with an unusual murder weapon. It narrowed down the possible suspects but still was a challenge for Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies. Mae was able to solve the mystery in a creative manner. Although the killer was a surprise, the way it was revealed made sense.
The characters really demonstrated the holiday spirit. When Mae’s adoptive mother became ill, Mae invited the Laundry Club Ladies to help with the baking, using Mary Elizabeth’s special family recipes. There were other examples in the story. The way it ended reminded me of a Christmas movie.
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this delightful read.
The murder mystery also involved the holidays with an unusual murder weapon. It narrowed down the possible suspects but still was a challenge for Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies. Mae was able to solve the mystery in a creative manner. Although the killer was a surprise, the way it was revealed made sense.
The characters really demonstrated the holiday spirit. When Mae’s adoptive mother became ill, Mae invited the Laundry Club Ladies to help with the baking, using Mary Elizabeth’s special family recipes. There were other examples in the story. The way it ended reminded me of a Christmas movie.
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this delightful read.
October 14, 2024
Maybe it was the holiday vibe, but this was a great Normal adventure. Horses, Santa, and life as a newlywed was a great experience for me. Mary Elizabeth reminded me so much of my momma in this one that it pulled at my heartstrings.
October 28, 2024
I enjoyed listening to this holiday mystery.
November 21, 2024
I read them out of order, but I was feeling Christmasy! Another great book in the series!
November 30, 2024
Cozy, festive, & perfectly cheesy
November 25, 2024
I have enjoyed this series. I feel like I'm a part of Normal and the Laundry Club. While Normal is preparing for Christmas, a murder interrupts the towns winter festival. The Laundry Club ladies are on the case.
It was a fun book. I'm looking forward to reading the next adventure.
It was a fun book. I'm looking forward to reading the next adventure.
November 27, 2023
Mae is preparing for her first Christmas as a married lady. So every thing should be so joyful for her, but when the winter festival turned deadly , one of her best friends is a suspect . Mae and the laundry club jump right into their investigation.
This is such an entertaining series with great characters and a fun setting. The characters are quirky and interesting with great chemistry. I love Christmas cozies and the idea of the mischievous Reindeer. The mystery is well crafted with plenty of twists and turns. I never suspected the person who was the murderer.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, I have not been influenced by anyone.
This is such an entertaining series with great characters and a fun setting. The characters are quirky and interesting with great chemistry. I love Christmas cozies and the idea of the mischievous Reindeer. The mystery is well crafted with plenty of twists and turns. I never suspected the person who was the murderer.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, I have not been influenced by anyone.
November 21, 2023
The Winter Festival is in full swing with a booth for Happy Trails Campground, and the townspeople were all looking forward to the tree lighting. The children were more excited to share their wish list with Santa.
Mae is on the panel to judge gingerbread houses by participants of all ages. Mae headed to pick up the judging sheets only to hear a scream and see a shocked Mayor Mackenzie emerge from the reindeer shed where Carter Yelland had been trampled by his reindeer!
Coroner Holz finds evidence of foul play, and Mae recalls how she and Dottie witnessed a commotion involving Carter and someone else. It's time for Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies to do some sleuthing, and one suspect turns into many, including people they thought they knew. Unfortunately, expressing a theory out loud to Sheriff Al Hemmer, the suspect overhears and slaps Mae with a protection order. Mae won't give up that easy!
I wondered how Mae would go about sleuthing after being served with a protection order. My favorite part was the visual of Dottie dumpster diving in her housecoat and curlers!
I received an advanced reader's copy and voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
Mae is on the panel to judge gingerbread houses by participants of all ages. Mae headed to pick up the judging sheets only to hear a scream and see a shocked Mayor Mackenzie emerge from the reindeer shed where Carter Yelland had been trampled by his reindeer!
Coroner Holz finds evidence of foul play, and Mae recalls how she and Dottie witnessed a commotion involving Carter and someone else. It's time for Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies to do some sleuthing, and one suspect turns into many, including people they thought they knew. Unfortunately, expressing a theory out loud to Sheriff Al Hemmer, the suspect overhears and slaps Mae with a protection order. Mae won't give up that easy!
I wondered how Mae would go about sleuthing after being served with a protection order. My favorite part was the visual of Dottie dumpster diving in her housecoat and curlers!
I received an advanced reader's copy and voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
November 23, 2023
Mae West is preparing for her first Christmas as Mrs. Hank Sharp, but there is a little boy in town whose daddy won’t be with him on Christmas or any other day. The murder of Carter Yelland would keep “this band of unlikely investigators”, better known as the Laundry Club Ladies, busier than anyone ought to be the week before Christmas, pouring out suspicion on people in Normal, Kentucky. Love, laughter, and speculation keep Mae, Dottie, Queenie, Betts, and Abby busy!
The Winter Festival is a favorite each year for both residents and tourists, one in which everyone can participate. The Christmas tree has been decorated with ornaments donated by individuals, families, and businesses. The tree lighting will soon take place. Dottie and Mae saw and heard a couple men arguing nearby. One was pushed in the dirt and shouted a threat as the other stomped away. Fortunately, the families, especially the children, were in another area of the park.
After the tree lighting, even Dottie feels the love, joy, and sense of community. Mae was preparing to judge tonight’s round of gingerbread houses when she found an interesting contract mixed in with the voting sheets. Moments later, she heard a scream and ran. It was the mayor, running from the reindeer shed. Mae found Carter Yelland, who had shoved the man he was angry with earlier. Carter was dead, covered with what looked like reindeer tracks.
Mae wasn’t going to get involved. She was still a newlywed, and Christmas was only days away. But one bit of information, whether or not she asked for it, led to another, and her best friends Dottie, Abby, Betts, and Queenie were on the hunt for whoever left a little boy without a daddy, who had also just taken the reins of his family farm in recent months. When they learned Yelland had been overdosed on a powerful veterinary drug before he was trampled, another layer was added to the mystery. Very few people in the county would be able to get the heavily-controlled drug. And at least two of them had bones to pick with Carter. As Dottie said, “Now, ain’t that a tangled web of horse hair and deceit.”
At first, they uncovered more suspects than they ruled out, and Sheriff Al was unusually willing to listen to anything Mae and Dottie brought him. When the second body showed up, with one of their suspects standing over the body with a syringe in hand, they thought it was solved. Until…it wasn’t. This armchair sleuth was very surprised at whodunit really was. Somebody I had considered and set aside as the person had no motive. The end was very satisfying, leaving no open issues. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys Southern cozy mysteries, and camper living, with lots of laughter and love.
From a thankful heart: I received an ARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
The Winter Festival is a favorite each year for both residents and tourists, one in which everyone can participate. The Christmas tree has been decorated with ornaments donated by individuals, families, and businesses. The tree lighting will soon take place. Dottie and Mae saw and heard a couple men arguing nearby. One was pushed in the dirt and shouted a threat as the other stomped away. Fortunately, the families, especially the children, were in another area of the park.
After the tree lighting, even Dottie feels the love, joy, and sense of community. Mae was preparing to judge tonight’s round of gingerbread houses when she found an interesting contract mixed in with the voting sheets. Moments later, she heard a scream and ran. It was the mayor, running from the reindeer shed. Mae found Carter Yelland, who had shoved the man he was angry with earlier. Carter was dead, covered with what looked like reindeer tracks.
Mae wasn’t going to get involved. She was still a newlywed, and Christmas was only days away. But one bit of information, whether or not she asked for it, led to another, and her best friends Dottie, Abby, Betts, and Queenie were on the hunt for whoever left a little boy without a daddy, who had also just taken the reins of his family farm in recent months. When they learned Yelland had been overdosed on a powerful veterinary drug before he was trampled, another layer was added to the mystery. Very few people in the county would be able to get the heavily-controlled drug. And at least two of them had bones to pick with Carter. As Dottie said, “Now, ain’t that a tangled web of horse hair and deceit.”
At first, they uncovered more suspects than they ruled out, and Sheriff Al was unusually willing to listen to anything Mae and Dottie brought him. When the second body showed up, with one of their suspects standing over the body with a syringe in hand, they thought it was solved. Until…it wasn’t. This armchair sleuth was very surprised at whodunit really was. Somebody I had considered and set aside as the person had no motive. The end was very satisfying, leaving no open issues. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys Southern cozy mysteries, and camper living, with lots of laughter and love.
From a thankful heart: I received an ARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
November 25, 2023
The Winter Festival is full speed ahead in Normal, Kentucky. The lampposts are wrapped in garland and ribbon, lights are strung throughout the town, and the aroma of Christmas is in the air with the smell of cocoa and gingerbread. However, we know it would not Normal, Kentucky if there was not a dead body just around the corner from all of this delightfulness. Of course, our star character, Mae West, is present when the body is discovered. Mae is always in the right place at the wrong time, or maybe it is the wrong place at the right time. Nevertheless the Laundry Club Ladies are on the job. For those of you who have not read any books in this series, the Laundry Club Ladies are a group of local ladies who are amateur sleuths, and they are actually quite good at it. These ladies are very observant and are also nosy, but it pays off as they work to help solve crimes in their little neck of the woods.
The mystery is interesting and there are red herrings scattered throughout. Tonya Kappes always provides plenty of suspects to choose from as I tried to solve the mystery along with the Laundry Club Ladies. I dearly love this cast of characters. Dottie is the comedic entertainment, although there is a serious scene involving Dottie that caused me to shed a little tear. She is feisty and full of sass, but she is a true softie underneath all of that bluster. When Dottie went dumpster diving right in front of the garbage pickup men, I thought I was going to bust a gut. This little town named Normal may not be normal, but it has charm in spades. I could definitely live there. The descriptions of the Christmas celebrations made me want to watch a Hallmark movie. Once again my cozy queen Tonya Kappes has delighted this reader's heart.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The mystery is interesting and there are red herrings scattered throughout. Tonya Kappes always provides plenty of suspects to choose from as I tried to solve the mystery along with the Laundry Club Ladies. I dearly love this cast of characters. Dottie is the comedic entertainment, although there is a serious scene involving Dottie that caused me to shed a little tear. She is feisty and full of sass, but she is a true softie underneath all of that bluster. When Dottie went dumpster diving right in front of the garbage pickup men, I thought I was going to bust a gut. This little town named Normal may not be normal, but it has charm in spades. I could definitely live there. The descriptions of the Christmas celebrations made me want to watch a Hallmark movie. Once again my cozy queen Tonya Kappes has delighted this reader's heart.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 4, 2023
Elves, Evergreens And Evidence
A Camper And Criminals Cozy Mystery, Book #34
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Snow's falling and sleigh bells are ringing in the town of Normal, but there's nothing 'normal' about this festive season.
Mae West's first Christmas as a married woman at Happy Trails Campground should've been merry and bright. But when a Winter Festival turns deadly and one of their own lands on the suspect list, Mae and the Laundry Club ladies know there's more to unwrap than just presents.
With a mischievous reindeer, a friend in jeopardy, and the campground's reputation at stake, Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies are dashing through clues and untangling Christmas mysteries.
Dive into a world of holiday in the campground, Southern charm, and yuletide twists, where tinsel, traditions, and murder collide. Grab a cup of cocoa and join the holiday hunt with Mae and the gang, as they jingle all the way to justice (Amazon)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. The ladies are getting ready for the Winter Festival but before they can enjoy it, someone is killed. Now the Laundry Club ladies will have to figure out who the murderer is and why. Join them as they try to figure it out.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery is well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider and the mystery was not easily solved.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. Try the book and you will be hooked.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
A Camper And Criminals Cozy Mystery, Book #34
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Snow's falling and sleigh bells are ringing in the town of Normal, but there's nothing 'normal' about this festive season.
Mae West's first Christmas as a married woman at Happy Trails Campground should've been merry and bright. But when a Winter Festival turns deadly and one of their own lands on the suspect list, Mae and the Laundry Club ladies know there's more to unwrap than just presents.
With a mischievous reindeer, a friend in jeopardy, and the campground's reputation at stake, Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies are dashing through clues and untangling Christmas mysteries.
Dive into a world of holiday in the campground, Southern charm, and yuletide twists, where tinsel, traditions, and murder collide. Grab a cup of cocoa and join the holiday hunt with Mae and the gang, as they jingle all the way to justice (Amazon)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. The ladies are getting ready for the Winter Festival but before they can enjoy it, someone is killed. Now the Laundry Club ladies will have to figure out who the murderer is and why. Join them as they try to figure it out.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery is well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider and the mystery was not easily solved.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. Try the book and you will be hooked.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
November 26, 2023
It's another Christmas festival in Normal, KY and Mae is excited to attend her first one as a married woman. Manning the booth for their Happy Trails Campground, Mae and Dottie hear an argument between Carter Yelland and another man that became physical as well. When Mae, who is judging the gingerbread house competition goes to get the paperwork in the mayor's office, she finds an unusual contract signed by Yelland to stop bringing his reindeer to the celebration. Strange. Then when the mayor comes running out of the barn screaming, Mae is on the spot. It seems Carter Yelland has been trampled by his reindeer. When she find out from the coroner that he was poisoned by ketamine, Mae, Dottie and the other Laundry Club Ladies are on the case! There are quite a few suspects including one of her good friends and they need to narrow it down. Dottie pulls a stunt looking for clues that will have you laughing out loud! Add to that one of the main suspects gets murdered, another suspect serves Mae with a restraining order and since one of her close friends gets blamed the ladies have got to save the day! This is the 34th book in the series each one a fresh read that never grows old! I can't wait for more! I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
November 30, 2023
Elves, Evergreens, & Evidence is the 34th book in the Camper & Criminals series but it's as fresh and exciting as the first book. Reading Elves, Evergreens, & Evidence is just like coming back home to Normal, Kentucky. I love the familiarity of the characters, the hominess of the setting, and the comfort knowing Mae, Hank, and the Laundry Club Ladies are keeping everyone safe.
It's Christmastime in Normal, KY. The town has geared up for the Winter Festival. Right before the gingerbread house contest judging can begin, a scream shatters the merriment. Murder is now in air and the Laundry Club ladies are on the case to exonerate one of their own.
The book was full of twists, turns, red herrings, and shifts in direction. The mystery would start out going one direction, then completely shift a new way. The suspense build-up was written well and intensified until the very end. I was kept guessing until the very end.
As with the rest of the books in the series, the mystery isn't the only thing going on in the book. Tonya Kappes did a terrific job weaving the main storyline and several smaller ones together. The characters are wonderfully crafted, realistically written, and I feel like I'm coming home to Normal with every book in the series. I was provided a copy of this book.
It's Christmastime in Normal, KY. The town has geared up for the Winter Festival. Right before the gingerbread house contest judging can begin, a scream shatters the merriment. Murder is now in air and the Laundry Club ladies are on the case to exonerate one of their own.
The book was full of twists, turns, red herrings, and shifts in direction. The mystery would start out going one direction, then completely shift a new way. The suspense build-up was written well and intensified until the very end. I was kept guessing until the very end.
As with the rest of the books in the series, the mystery isn't the only thing going on in the book. Tonya Kappes did a terrific job weaving the main storyline and several smaller ones together. The characters are wonderfully crafted, realistically written, and I feel like I'm coming home to Normal with every book in the series. I was provided a copy of this book.
November 27, 2023
It’s the holiday time as our newlyweds share their first Christmas together. The town is all lit up with decorations and bright lights. There is a feeling of joy in the air as the Winter Festival kicks off. I could smell the delicious peppermint coffee mixture as Mae strolled down the street. I would love to try one of those sometimes. I wonder if Mae will invite me to stay at her campground?
Just as the fun gets started a body is found. Now I wasn’t surprised at this since Mae seems to attract this kind of tragedy. It is nothing she does, but it seems to find her every time. Suspense grows as finger pointing begins. I adore this series so much I can’t get enough of it. It may be a little predictable but the characters make this series exceptional. I love to try to guess who the guilty person is but I never get it right.
The Laundry Club Ladies are on the case in this exciting adventure. With a list of suspects, Christmas in the air and the town that comes together this is a delightful read. Come join the author as she delivers another story that entertains as well as gives us a taste of small town life.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
Just as the fun gets started a body is found. Now I wasn’t surprised at this since Mae seems to attract this kind of tragedy. It is nothing she does, but it seems to find her every time. Suspense grows as finger pointing begins. I adore this series so much I can’t get enough of it. It may be a little predictable but the characters make this series exceptional. I love to try to guess who the guilty person is but I never get it right.
The Laundry Club Ladies are on the case in this exciting adventure. With a list of suspects, Christmas in the air and the town that comes together this is a delightful read. Come join the author as she delivers another story that entertains as well as gives us a taste of small town life.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
November 27, 2023
We are back in Normal, Kentucky for the Christmas season and nothing says Christmas more than a dead body and some reindeer. Mae and the laundry club ladies find themselves on yet another case figuring out who killed the man behind the reindeer for the Winter Festival the town has.
This addition to the cozy mystery series really had me wondering who it was, and I was not expecting it to be not one but TWO people who ended up doing it.
The last book left us on a bit of a cliffhanger when Hank was called on his honeymoon with Mae to be an interim sheriff while Al (the current sheriff) was under investigation. We find out that Hank doesn’t have to be the sheriff, but he will do it if he is needed to help.
With Santa, Reindeer, and the holiday spirit this book is perfect for sitting next to that fireplace with the fire on and a cup of whatever you want to drink. This is a 4 ½ star book for me and with it being a cozy mystery there is no spice to it, but the book is one you won’t want to put down because the journey you go on is great.
This book was just released on Amazon and if you are a Kindle Unlimited member you can read this book for free as it’s included in your membership. I really can’t wait to see what Tonya will do with Mae and the gang in the next book.
This addition to the cozy mystery series really had me wondering who it was, and I was not expecting it to be not one but TWO people who ended up doing it.
The last book left us on a bit of a cliffhanger when Hank was called on his honeymoon with Mae to be an interim sheriff while Al (the current sheriff) was under investigation. We find out that Hank doesn’t have to be the sheriff, but he will do it if he is needed to help.
With Santa, Reindeer, and the holiday spirit this book is perfect for sitting next to that fireplace with the fire on and a cup of whatever you want to drink. This is a 4 ½ star book for me and with it being a cozy mystery there is no spice to it, but the book is one you won’t want to put down because the journey you go on is great.
This book was just released on Amazon and if you are a Kindle Unlimited member you can read this book for free as it’s included in your membership. I really can’t wait to see what Tonya will do with Mae and the gang in the next book.
November 30, 2023
Elves, Evergreens, & Evidence is another entertaining installment in Kappes' camper and criminal cozy mystery series. I always look forward to new books in this series, and this holiday read definitely didn't disappoint. The town of Normal is busy celebrating the holiday season, and Mae and the Laundry Club ladies are right in the middle of the festivities. Mae and Dottie witness an argument between two men at the Winter Festival and then one of the men turns up dead. Mae and the Laundry Club ladies quickly take on solving this holiday mystery.
Kappes does a great job at setting up an entertaining holiday read that contains a good mystery as well as giving readers some holiday cheer with their favorite characters. I loved seeing this new dynamic now that Mae and Hank are married. I also enjoyed spending some of the holiday season with my favorite characters from Normal. The book's mystery is well done with some twists and turns keeping the reader's attention. Overall Elves, Evergreens, & Evidence proved to be a great holiday read that I would most definitely recommend. I look forward to Mae's next adventure.
Received a copy of Elves, Evergreens, & Evidence from the author.
Kappes does a great job at setting up an entertaining holiday read that contains a good mystery as well as giving readers some holiday cheer with their favorite characters. I loved seeing this new dynamic now that Mae and Hank are married. I also enjoyed spending some of the holiday season with my favorite characters from Normal. The book's mystery is well done with some twists and turns keeping the reader's attention. Overall Elves, Evergreens, & Evidence proved to be a great holiday read that I would most definitely recommend. I look forward to Mae's next adventure.
Received a copy of Elves, Evergreens, & Evidence from the author.
November 7, 2023
Another fun whodunit in the Camper & Criminals series. A body is found, seemingly trampled to death, but the coroner determines it was murder instead. The suspect list grows, and the Laundry Club Ladies naturally get involved. Some of the suspects are prominent members of Normal and Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies find it hard to believe any of them could commit murder but, until evidence proves them innocent, they remain on the list. One of the top suspects is also found dead, which causes more confusion.
Just as quickly as the suspect list grew, it went down again as alibis were verified. Mae narrows it down to one individual with plenty of motive, but can she get the proof she needs? As usual, Mae gets herself into trouble. How will she get out of it this time, when she's confronted by the real killer?
I couldn’t help but picture Tonya as Mae, sleuthing her way through the clues. Made me chuckle!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Just as quickly as the suspect list grew, it went down again as alibis were verified. Mae narrows it down to one individual with plenty of motive, but can she get the proof she needs? As usual, Mae gets herself into trouble. How will she get out of it this time, when she's confronted by the real killer?
I couldn’t help but picture Tonya as Mae, sleuthing her way through the clues. Made me chuckle!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 30, 2023
Tonya Kappes has once again delivered a mystery that will keep your head spinning. The Christmas Winter festival is in full swing and the residents of Normal, Kentucky are enjoying the festivities. But not everyone is wearing a big smile – certainly not those who become caught up in the murder investigation of a local man.
The author seamlessly integrates the investigation by Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies into the merriment of the holiday. There are so many avenues to investigate and it will be a difficult task for them to figure out who committed the murder. Every pursuit seems as if it could be the right one, but one by one they slowly eliminate suspects until the real killer is revealed.
Characters are well developed and even though I had not read a book in this series for a while, I had no problem keeping up with the “who’s who” in this fast-moving story. It is a well-written story that cozy mystery fans will enjoy and I heartily recommend picking up a copy of your own.
The author seamlessly integrates the investigation by Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies into the merriment of the holiday. There are so many avenues to investigate and it will be a difficult task for them to figure out who committed the murder. Every pursuit seems as if it could be the right one, but one by one they slowly eliminate suspects until the real killer is revealed.
Characters are well developed and even though I had not read a book in this series for a while, I had no problem keeping up with the “who’s who” in this fast-moving story. It is a well-written story that cozy mystery fans will enjoy and I heartily recommend picking up a copy of your own.
November 16, 2023
We are going in Normal Kentucky for Christmas!!! I am so excited. Just when everyone is getting into the Holiday Someone turns up dead. Very dead it seems because they find out he was injected with a potent sedative before he was trampled. That's right trampled. smh. Poor Carter Yelland. It seems that newlyweds Mae and Hank are not going to get to have the Christmas they was hopping for.
The Laundry Club Ladies quickly get busy trying to solve this murder. The list keeps getting bigger as they are working the case. I wasn't sure they was going to figure this one out. When you think they have something right they have another dead body show up. Mae gets tangled up in a mess that puts her in danger. keeping you on the edge of your seat. I was holding my breath saying come on, we need this solved so our Christmas will be great. LOL
Your going to love this book just as much as the rest. Great read for the Holidays.
The Laundry Club Ladies quickly get busy trying to solve this murder. The list keeps getting bigger as they are working the case. I wasn't sure they was going to figure this one out. When you think they have something right they have another dead body show up. Mae gets tangled up in a mess that puts her in danger. keeping you on the edge of your seat. I was holding my breath saying come on, we need this solved so our Christmas will be great. LOL
Your going to love this book just as much as the rest. Great read for the Holidays.
November 27, 2023
This is the thirty-fourth book in the series. Mae is newly married. She is a judge for the gingerbread house competition during the Winter Festival in Normal. While picking up the scoring sheets, she hears a scream. Carter Yelland has been found trampled by a reindeer.
The coroner rules it is not an accident. Mae doesn’t want to get involved but does as Carter’s son will be facing Christmas without his father.
My favorite scene was Dottie dumpster diving for evidence. I can see it vividly and couldn’t stop laughing.
As always, there are plenty of suspects with plenty of motives. Carter was an underhanded businessman with little heart for his fellow man.
What I did not like was the over use of the word palpable throughout the story. Hopefully, this was adjusted in the final copy.
What I found interesting was the way Mae avoided breaking the restraining order to find the killer.
Many thanks for the advanced readers’ copy and these are my own opinions.
The coroner rules it is not an accident. Mae doesn’t want to get involved but does as Carter’s son will be facing Christmas without his father.
My favorite scene was Dottie dumpster diving for evidence. I can see it vividly and couldn’t stop laughing.
As always, there are plenty of suspects with plenty of motives. Carter was an underhanded businessman with little heart for his fellow man.
What I did not like was the over use of the word palpable throughout the story. Hopefully, this was adjusted in the final copy.
What I found interesting was the way Mae avoided breaking the restraining order to find the killer.
Many thanks for the advanced readers’ copy and these are my own opinions.
December 20, 2023
It’s the Winter Festival and Normal is decked out for Christmas. And the campground has a booth set up in the middle of the festivities. I could picture the lights and allost smell the Christmas goodies.
But it’s not all fun and games here in Normal, especially as things take a sad turn when one of the locals is killed. And we also find that things aren’t what they appeared between the reindeer farm and the town. It may take all that the Laundry Club Ladies have to solve this mystery. Suspects are added and removed from the list, and while I knew they always get their killer, I couldn’t help but wonder if this case might throw them for a loop. I even added some of the removed suspects back onto my “whodunit” list, but was pleasantly surprised at the end of the book. Tonya has done it again , and I can’t wait to see what the folks of Normal are up to next time! I received an arc copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
January 3, 2024
I love the characters in this book, Mae, Hank, the Laundry Club ladies they're the kind of people you just want to be friends with and hang out with them. The love and care for their community that they show makes it no surprise that when there's trouble, they are all right there in the middle making sure their town/community is protected. The loving relationships between each other makes me wish this was a real place because I definitely want to live there, maybe I could be a laundry club lady. I love that Mae's mind is so sharp, she and ladies know how to get the info they need and what to do with it. This story had a lot of twists and turns but I will admit until the end I had no clue who the killer(s) were but I will admit Dottie's dumpster dive had me laughing until I cried but I could so see her doing that. This book is a really good, entertaining read and I would highly recommend it.
July 1, 2025
I can't do it anymore. At first I enjoyed these books. Probably since the last four or five or six the author 's words bug the crap out of me. Below are some things that got on my nerves. I wish I didn't feel this way, but my time is done with these. I wish the author nothing but the best, but I cannot continue with these books. I hope other people stick with them, but not me! Peace out folks!
souls connecting, heartbeat syncing, OMG.
An unmistakable air of merriment....said merriment way too many times!
Walked with purpose, ugh
Eyes full of wonder
HINT OF MISCHIEF
Skillfully measuring out flour
Nimbly cracking an egg
Feeling the warmth of friendship
Warmth of baking and commrodrory
A testament to.....blah, blah
sense of Nostalgia
Sense of community too many times
Sense of unity
sense of contentment
sense of peace and togetherness
give it a rest already!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
souls connecting, heartbeat syncing, OMG.
An unmistakable air of merriment....said merriment way too many times!
Walked with purpose, ugh
Eyes full of wonder
HINT OF MISCHIEF
Skillfully measuring out flour
Nimbly cracking an egg
Feeling the warmth of friendship
Warmth of baking and commrodrory
A testament to.....blah, blah
sense of Nostalgia
Sense of community too many times
Sense of unity
sense of contentment
sense of peace and togetherness
give it a rest already!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 21, 2023
It's always the one I least suspect. Mae once again is there when someone finds a dead body. She just can't help but get involved and Hank is worried about her investigating again. Mae and Hank are settling into married life, and they are at the Winter Festival when Mae hears a scream. A man she had just seen having an argument with another man is lying dead and it looks like he has been trampled by reindeer. As she and her crew investigate, Mae finds another dead body and it is the man that had been arguing with the other dead man. What is going on? She was sure he was the person who murdered the first guy. Hank is very worried that Mae is putting her life on the line with her nosing about. Mae gets a restraining order against her and is sure puts a crimp in her investigating. Can they find the killer before someone else is dead?
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