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Presley Thurman #0.5
Promotions and Poisons
Presley wants a new job, not a new jail cell.
Presley Thurman is dead serious about getting a promotion. She knows she’s the best candidate for the job. But when the co-worker who was also vying for the new position ends up dead, the police are taking a very close look at Presley.
Now, it’s up to Presley to clear her name before she’s hauled off to jail.
Can Presley prove that she didn’t kill her co-worker?
A Presley Thurman Cozy Mystery Prequel
Presley Thurman is dead serious about getting a promotion. She knows she’s the best candidate for the job. But when the co-worker who was also vying for the new position ends up dead, the police are taking a very close look at Presley.
Now, it’s up to Presley to clear her name before she’s hauled off to jail.
Can Presley prove that she didn’t kill her co-worker?
A Presley Thurman Cozy Mystery Prequel
- GenresCozy MysteryMystery
59 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2019
About the author
Laina Turner
152 books342 followersLaina Turner writes clean small town romance and cozy mysteries with heart, humor, and a guaranteed happily ever after.
Her sweet romance novels feature mature, relatable characters finding love in charming small town settings. Her cozy mystery series stars quirky, lovable sleuths and their unforgettable pets.
A college professor by day and storyteller by night, Laina has been publishing feel-good fiction since 2009. She lives in the Midwest with her husband, three dogs, and one cat who believes she is in charge.
If you love sweet romance, cozy mysteries, or just books that make you smile, follow Laina to be the first to know about new releases and deals.
Her sweet romance novels feature mature, relatable characters finding love in charming small town settings. Her cozy mystery series stars quirky, lovable sleuths and their unforgettable pets.
A college professor by day and storyteller by night, Laina has been publishing feel-good fiction since 2009. She lives in the Midwest with her husband, three dogs, and one cat who believes she is in charge.
If you love sweet romance, cozy mysteries, or just books that make you smile, follow Laina to be the first to know about new releases and deals.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
September 21, 2020
Story was flowing fine until unexpectedly it decided to end and then the murderer kindly monologues their entire motivation to tie up loose ends. Super abrupt.
January 31, 2020
I'm not sure that there was really enough of a story to rate it. Also, the editing was completely nonexistent. Punctuation was atrocious and the constant run-on sentences were irritating.
September 9, 2020
I just wanted some quick, light, and easy to read. This book really was a great fix. It had that cozy mystery feel, the start of Presley stumbling into a life of mystery... and then, the ending just kind of folded. She didn't really solve the mystery before the bad guy turned up with a gun. If the ending would have been better rounded out, I would have considered a solid four-star book. It won't keep me from trying the next book in the series, as I realize that sometimes with a short story, it's hard to solidify the ending and that could be something better in other books.
There was absolutely no romance in this one and I knew from the start this wasn't a Christian book, so I wasn't expecting anything religious in it. However, it was really clean and nothing cringe-worthy came up, so I count that as a plus.
There was absolutely no romance in this one and I knew from the start this wasn't a Christian book, so I wasn't expecting anything religious in it. However, it was really clean and nothing cringe-worthy came up, so I count that as a plus.
August 24, 2020
This was a good intro
I enjoyed this short story and look forward to reading a full length book. I liked the characters and the office setting is familiar and I like how in books you can do the things you can’t in your real office. Looking forward to reading more.
I enjoyed this short story and look forward to reading a full length book. I liked the characters and the office setting is familiar and I like how in books you can do the things you can’t in your real office. Looking forward to reading more.
February 27, 2021
This book is a promotional teaser for a cozy mystery series. I bought it for free from Amazon at the start of 2020, but now in 2021 when I look back at the list of Laina Turner’s books there this one is not present, and the rest seem to be out of stock. This might mean that they have been pulled for re-release. It’s quite short, at around 9000 words including trailers and promotional text, but that’s not an unheard-of length for this kind of freebie.
The story is told from the point of view of Presley Thurman, who works in the Human Resources department of a large company in Chicago. We are introduced to some small aspects of her day-to-day life, and her best friend and confidante, Tonya, as they tuck in to some free birthday cake. Presley is a bit concerned that she will not get the promotion she wants, because a rival, Gladys, has the ear of their boss. Naturally, as this is a cozy mystery, Presley finds this rival dead on the floor of her office, poisoned by the same birthday cake. Presley is now a suspect, and decides to work with Tonya to clear her name.
The setting for the story, and the introduction of the murder are largely standard cozy mystery stuff, but then the story begins to go off the rails. The author piles on a few more suspects, gives us a few more leads, and everything looks as if it is building to a pleasantly Agatha Christie-style denouement in which the real culprit is revealed and the plodding local policeman is surprised by Presley’s detective skill.
Sadly, none of this happens at all. The villain of the story just blunders in, waves a gun about for no obvious reason and admits everything, including a paper-thin motivation, with no need for encouragement. All the other clues, suspects and plotlines are completely abandoned and never mentioned again. There is no moment when the amateur detective triumphs, impressing both police and colleagues. There is no attempt to explain why it was not any of the other suspects. There is not even a satisfactory explanation of the murder method.
If I had to guess, I would say that this book was written using the “paint yourself into a corner” technique and, as it began to get complicated, Turner just ran out of steam and scribbled down what she thought might have happened. There is certainly no sign of developmental editing before release to tighten it into the intriguing little mystery it could have been. I hope that is why it has been pulled from Amazon. Maybe a properly-edited “second edition” will be more readable.
As a promotional book, this was not a success. If this is the best that Laina Turner can produce, then I am unlikely to read any more.
The story is told from the point of view of Presley Thurman, who works in the Human Resources department of a large company in Chicago. We are introduced to some small aspects of her day-to-day life, and her best friend and confidante, Tonya, as they tuck in to some free birthday cake. Presley is a bit concerned that she will not get the promotion she wants, because a rival, Gladys, has the ear of their boss. Naturally, as this is a cozy mystery, Presley finds this rival dead on the floor of her office, poisoned by the same birthday cake. Presley is now a suspect, and decides to work with Tonya to clear her name.
The setting for the story, and the introduction of the murder are largely standard cozy mystery stuff, but then the story begins to go off the rails. The author piles on a few more suspects, gives us a few more leads, and everything looks as if it is building to a pleasantly Agatha Christie-style denouement in which the real culprit is revealed and the plodding local policeman is surprised by Presley’s detective skill.
Sadly, none of this happens at all. The villain of the story just blunders in, waves a gun about for no obvious reason and admits everything, including a paper-thin motivation, with no need for encouragement. All the other clues, suspects and plotlines are completely abandoned and never mentioned again. There is no moment when the amateur detective triumphs, impressing both police and colleagues. There is no attempt to explain why it was not any of the other suspects. There is not even a satisfactory explanation of the murder method.
If I had to guess, I would say that this book was written using the “paint yourself into a corner” technique and, as it began to get complicated, Turner just ran out of steam and scribbled down what she thought might have happened. There is certainly no sign of developmental editing before release to tighten it into the intriguing little mystery it could have been. I hope that is why it has been pulled from Amazon. Maybe a properly-edited “second edition” will be more readable.
As a promotional book, this was not a success. If this is the best that Laina Turner can produce, then I am unlikely to read any more.
June 19, 2022
A fun and short intro into the life of one Presley Thurman when she worked in HR for a company in Chicago. I can see this was written about ten years after the series actually started which I imagine is kinda fun for an author to look back at a character she's created and come up with a first murder mystery for her to solve.
Until a certain point in the book, I wasn't sure whodunit, but for only being 40 pages, this packs a lot of good action and sleuthing. Nice, short and to the point. I've peeked at the first chapter of the first book and thought maybe it'd be fun if the author had written a short story on why/how Presley left the company, maybe 0.75?
I got this version of the prequel from a BookFunnel free promotion and voluntarily read and reviewed it. The prequel's also available as part of a boxed set on Amazon of books 1-4 plus the prequel which is the only way to leave this novella a review on Amazon.
Until a certain point in the book, I wasn't sure whodunit, but for only being 40 pages, this packs a lot of good action and sleuthing. Nice, short and to the point. I've peeked at the first chapter of the first book and thought maybe it'd be fun if the author had written a short story on why/how Presley left the company, maybe 0.75?
I got this version of the prequel from a BookFunnel free promotion and voluntarily read and reviewed it. The prequel's also available as part of a boxed set on Amazon of books 1-4 plus the prequel which is the only way to leave this novella a review on Amazon.
March 23, 2026
Presley never expected a routine meeting to turn into a murder investigation—but that’s exactly what happens when a colleague fails to show up and Presley goes looking, only to discover her dead. With an upcoming promotion on the line—and the victim as her main competition—Presley quickly finds herself at the center of suspicion.
What follows is a fast-paced, engaging story as Presley sets out to clear her name while uncovering the truth behind the murder. Her determination and sharp instincts drive the narrative, making her a compelling protagonist. Presley has a satisfying amount of spunk; she’s not easily intimidated and refuses to bend under pressure, even when the odds are stacked against her.
This is a fun, short read that delivers a solid mystery without overstaying its welcome. While the premise is familiar, Presley’s strong personality and persistence keep the story entertaining and worth the read.
What follows is a fast-paced, engaging story as Presley sets out to clear her name while uncovering the truth behind the murder. Her determination and sharp instincts drive the narrative, making her a compelling protagonist. Presley has a satisfying amount of spunk; she’s not easily intimidated and refuses to bend under pressure, even when the odds are stacked against her.
This is a fun, short read that delivers a solid mystery without overstaying its welcome. While the premise is familiar, Presley’s strong personality and persistence keep the story entertaining and worth the read.
August 22, 2026
Presley is up for a promotion at work, but she has stiff competition for the position. When her rival is found dead in her office, the police are taking a long look at Presley. Determined to clear her name, Presley does some sleuthing of her own, dragging her work BFF into the drama with her. Will she solve the crime or get demoted to jail?
This was a fun story, although it was too short to have much substance. I don’t think we ever saw Presley anywhere but at work; therefore, it was difficult to get a handle on her as a character. The plot was fast-paced, but the resolution seemed a bit rushed.
Giving this an average score. I have others in the series, and I hope they are meatier reads. Three stars.
This was a fun story, although it was too short to have much substance. I don’t think we ever saw Presley anywhere but at work; therefore, it was difficult to get a handle on her as a character. The plot was fast-paced, but the resolution seemed a bit rushed.
Giving this an average score. I have others in the series, and I hope they are meatier reads. Three stars.
June 27, 2020
I read this novella in a larger collection by the same author. This story was poorly developed with cardboard characters and an unreasonable reason for the murder. The rest of the collection was similar with shallow characterizations, and the protagonist tends to have the solution handed to her rather than actually figuring anything out. The entire collection was riddled with typos, misspellings, continuity errors and even a change from first person to third person narration for about 3 paragraphs for no discernable reason. In addition the collection was not set up in chronological order, very bad for a series with cliffhangers.
March 18, 2021
I read an updated (2021) version of this book. Presley is hoping for a big promotion at her company. She's worked hard for it, but she knows that her boss likes Susan Smith, her competitor, better. Until Susan turns up dead. Presley comes under suspicion so she and her friend Tonya decide to do some investigation on their own.
This is a short read and a lot of fun. It's an intro to the Presley Thurman series. I enjoyed the quick moving story. It can be read by any reader.
I was provided an advanced reader copy of the book by the author. This is my honest review.
This is a short read and a lot of fun. It's an intro to the Presley Thurman series. I enjoyed the quick moving story. It can be read by any reader.
I was provided an advanced reader copy of the book by the author. This is my honest review.
March 27, 2020
Promotions & Poisons is a quick introduction to the character of Presley Thurman, an HR manager at a mid-sized company. Almost as soon as we meet her, her co-worker is murdered and it looks like she's in the frame.
This story is definitely a teaser - a chance to experience the Presley Thurman series without committing. As such, it was very short and quite compact. Much happen in a very tight time-span and little character development (other than that of the protagonist) occurred.
I honestly didn't really connect with Presley, but there was enough enticement that I've started the next book in the series which is a full-length novel.
This story is definitely a teaser - a chance to experience the Presley Thurman series without committing. As such, it was very short and quite compact. Much happen in a very tight time-span and little character development (other than that of the protagonist) occurred.
I honestly didn't really connect with Presley, but there was enough enticement that I've started the next book in the series which is a full-length novel.
February 4, 2022
Promotions & Poison is the prequel to The Presley Thurman Mystery series. I’m just not sure what to make of this title. It’s not the worst book I’ve ever read but I just didn’t enjoy the story. I don’t know if maybe it was the length of the story that didn’t allow it to fully develop into a more complete story that flowed better. It was just all over the place and based on this story I wouldn’t want to read the next book in the series.
September 10, 2021
An interesting start to a new series.
Turner is a new-to-me author and this series intrigued me enough to purchase a twelve-volume set! I'm glad I did though. The prequel is the perfect tidbit to pique my interest, I'm looking forward to being able to binge read the whole series!
Turner is a new-to-me author and this series intrigued me enough to purchase a twelve-volume set! I'm glad I did though. The prequel is the perfect tidbit to pique my interest, I'm looking forward to being able to binge read the whole series!
March 7, 2022
This mystery felt like it ended a bit abruptly. I feel like the story could have used some more time spent on the various suspects and the clues that pointed to them and explanations for their actions. The main character was interesting though so it would have been nice to learn more about her too.
September 26, 2022
This is the beginning of the series. The main character is Presley. When a woman Presley was up against for a promotion is murdered and Presley thinks that makes him look the most guilty. While trying to figure out who did it, Presley thinks he might have gone to far. Can he figure this out before it's too late?
April 22, 2023
I received this prequel as a freebie in return for an honest review.
Because of the short format of the story, it obviously wasn't padded out to prolong the intrigue. It will be interesting to read the rest of the series to see how it develops. It would have been nice to find out what caused the death.
Because of the short format of the story, it obviously wasn't padded out to prolong the intrigue. It will be interesting to read the rest of the series to see how it develops. It would have been nice to find out what caused the death.
April 21, 2020
Great story
I love the way it started with murder. How she is found dead. You think that she would be in the office eating her cake but she is spread out on the floor. Thanks for a great story.
I love the way it started with murder. How she is found dead. You think that she would be in the office eating her cake but she is spread out on the floor. Thanks for a great story.
May 31, 2020
Why bother
There is a coffee cup on the 'about the book', it is advertised to take less than an hour to read ... if I wanted a short story. Probably needs editing ... Amazon you are not Calgon! Go away!
There is a coffee cup on the 'about the book', it is advertised to take less than an hour to read ... if I wanted a short story. Probably needs editing ... Amazon you are not Calgon! Go away!
June 1, 2020
A good read...
I enjoyed the story but was a little disappointed in how short it was. Presley didn't get a chance to do any deep sleuthing. I bought Book #1 to try out. Hope it goes a lot deeper into the character.
I enjoyed the story but was a little disappointed in how short it was. Presley didn't get a chance to do any deep sleuthing. I bought Book #1 to try out. Hope it goes a lot deeper into the character.
December 4, 2020
This is a quick introduction to the Presley Thurman series. There isn’t a lot of character development due to the shortness of the novella but I think it’s a good introduction nonetheless and promotes interest in reading more of the series.
May 4, 2021
Entertaining story of office intrigue.
It was a "Hey. Presto." resolution. Most of the staff have defined their innocence when the killer says "It was me." There were more possibilities and so the story could have had a better solution.
Fun, anyway
It was a "Hey. Presto." resolution. Most of the staff have defined their innocence when the killer says "It was me." There were more possibilities and so the story could have had a better solution.
Fun, anyway
April 23, 2020
Cake or coffee or what for death
Interesting short little book. Quick read. Mystery of the plot and resolution made me finish the book. Kept looking for a little more.
Interesting short little book. Quick read. Mystery of the plot and resolution made me finish the book. Kept looking for a little more.
April 23, 2020
Verging on 1. A nothing story with a stupid ending, and the introduction to Presley did nothing to make me want to meet her again. At least it was free.
June 4, 2020
Work involvement
There is always someone who smiles in your face then turn around and stab you in your back. Competition in the work place is fierce.
There is always someone who smiles in your face then turn around and stab you in your back. Competition in the work place is fierce.
June 21, 2020
Fun read
July 2, 2020
Excellent short read
Two ladies, up for the same job. One is murdered. Who could have done it, and why? The answer is surprising.
Two ladies, up for the same job. One is murdered. Who could have done it, and why? The answer is surprising.
July 24, 2020
Fun short story about work place grudges-quick read
October 16, 2020
interesting prequel story, looking forward to reading the first in the series...
April 30, 2023
Who killed Susan Smith and why??? Promotions??? Be careful what brownies you eat!!! I enjoyed this story and recommended the book.
February 22, 2025
Super short story to ease into series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews