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When Cupid comes to town it seems everyone’s relationship is in for a challenge. Not only does Zoe suspect that her dad’s new girlfriend is really a killer, but Zoe is the only one who believes that her soon-to- be evil stepmom is guilty of such a dastardly deed. Add that to the fact that Zak clearly has a secret, Jeremy’s baby mama is making his life as miserable as her pregnancy is making hers, Levi’s girlfriend Barbie is on a rampage, and Ellie is caught in a brotherly love triangle, and you have a Valentine’s Day disaster in the making. When Zoe finds not one but two dead bodies all bets are off as she works with her friends to uncover the truth before someone she loves falls victim to Cupid's Curse.

207 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2014

272 people are currently reading
591 people want to read

About the author

Kathi Daley

321 books1,791 followers
Kathi lives with her husband, kids, grandkids, and dogs in beautiful Lake Tahoe. When she isn't writing, Kathi likes to read (preferably at the beach or by the fire), cook (preferably something with chocolate or cheese,) and garden (planting and planning not weeding). She also enjoys spending time on the water when she's not hiking, biking, or snowshoeing, the miles of desolate trails surrounding her home.
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.

Join me on Facebook at Kathi Daley Books (www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks) for updates on my books, photos of life in Lake Tahoe, recipes, contests, and giveaways. For weekly updates and contests sign up for The Daley Weekly Newsletter (http://eepurl.com/NRPDf).



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5 stars
598 (53%)
4 stars
378 (33%)
3 stars
127 (11%)
2 stars
20 (1%)
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4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Profile Image for Tari.
3,659 reviews103 followers
February 6, 2020
I've been doing pretty well with this series and thought it was only fitting to read the first Valentine book in the series while it was still February. Zoe had a couple of issues to deal with, investigating a the murder of a local well-liked contractor and worrying about her dad's girlfriend possibly being a killer. It seemed like the sheriff was a little more tolerant of Zoe this time and was more willing to talk to her about the case.

I love how these books lead into the next one. With the main mysteries taken care of, it helps readers be curious enough to want to keep reading. The series does a nice job of combining these characters' everyday lives with what's always been a good murder mystery, and maybe a side mystery as well. If I always wait until the month of the next book in line's theme, I'll never get caught up, so I'll probably be reading the Easter one sooner than April!
Profile Image for Dharia Scarab.
3,255 reviews8 followers
November 4, 2014
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...

1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.

2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.

3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.

4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.

5 stars... I loved this book! It had earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
Profile Image for Chris Meads.
648 reviews10 followers
February 13, 2015
Another great cozy read by Kathi Daley.

Zak and Zoe are finally together, or are they? Her jealousy rages when Zak seems to be hiding something behind her back.

She finds another murder, this time in one of the cages at the Zoo. And that may hinder the opening of Zoe's Zoo. Could it be her father's new girlfriend who seems to be a bit on the weird side?
But Zoe once again uses her skills and finds out who the real killer is. And someone that she is very close to may be another body in the making as well.

I really love these books. They are fun to read as well as challenging in figuring out who could be the murderer. And I like the fact that each one is usually tied to a holiday. Cheers to Kathi Daley.
Profile Image for DelAnne Frazee.
2,027 reviews25 followers
April 17, 2014
Title: Cupid's Curse - A Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 4
Author: Kathi Daley
Publisher: Kathi Daley
Published: 1-2-2014
ISBN: 10-1494876558
ISBN: 13-978-1494876555
E-Book ASIN: B00HMXLQXS
Pages: 204
Genre: Suspense
Tags: Cozy Mystery
Sensual Level: Mild
Overall Rating: Very Good
Reviewed For: A Prairie Girl Reads
Reviewer: DelAnne


Relationships are a kilter all over. Zoe's dad is seeing a woman that she can not stand, Ellie is caught in the middle of two brothers, the closer that Jeremy's baby's mother comes to delivery the harder she makes Jeremy's life and Levi's and Barbie's relationship has hit a rough spot. Even Zoe has questions about Zak's mysterious guest. What is going on in Ashton Falls? The peaceful life of its residents is disrupted when Zoe once again stumbles upon the body of Trent Everett just days before Zoe's Zoo was to open. Zoe promises the sheriff that she will stay out of it, but knowing that Sheriff Salinger is not known for expediting an investigation, Zoe can not help but ask a few questions to help move things along. Things heat up and Zoe's loved ones are at risk. Who s next on the list of targets? Perhaps Zoe herself?


Things are never dull in Ashton Falls and I love visiting there often. Kathi Daley has created a town most of us only dream of living in. Although it is not perfect, it is pretty darn close. With great friends and friendly neighbors, I would not mind moving there. "Cupid's Curse is the fourth in the Zoe Donovan Mystery series and is the longest of the books thus far. That just means we have a more to enjoy and Ms. Daley throws a few extra twist and turns into the plot to help us figure out what secrets the old and new residents are hiding. With her usual use of humor mixed with intrigued to bring us a story that you will enjoy from start to finish. Come to meet the the diverse residents of the picturesque town of Ashton Falls, but stay around for the feeling of coming home that will claim your heart.


Each of the stories can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend that you read the series in order to get to know the characters and watch as they grow and their relationships develop through out the course of the series. If like me you are not ready to let go of Ashton Falls then take heart, book five, "Big Bunny Bump Off" and Book six, "Beach Blanket Barbie" are available now with more to come soon. If you should need more of Kathi Daley's incredible talent then check out her TJ Jensen Big Lake Mystery series.

Profile Image for Angelica Dimeo.
161 reviews47 followers
February 5, 2014
I got this book as a GoodReads First reads winner

At first the start of the book shows Zoe
who is a only child whose father raised her mainly alone
and her father has a new girlfriend named Blythe who
is a girlfriend zilla and Zoe despises her. The start
was a little slow but as the story progressed the paced picked
up and I was suprised about the ending of the mystery which I
really liked how I could not predict the Killer like I thought
I will not spoil the ending. Also the book has some good recipes
at the end.
thanks :)
Profile Image for Doward Wilson.
752 reviews18 followers
November 21, 2015
Zoe, her boyfriend, family and friends in Ashton Falls are getting ready to celebrate Valentine's Day and it is turning into a disaster. Zoe's day has a new woman in his life and Zoe doesn't like or trust anything about her. Zoe's boyfriend is keeping secrets from her and her two best friends have romance issues. This is a quick and entertaining read with secrets, lies, pregnant women and mafia ties. The characters are like your neighbors, the murder mystery is well done and there are surprises all around. This is a series that revolves around friendship, animal rescue and diabolical mysteries and murders.
Profile Image for Tracy.
181 reviews
September 28, 2014
She has done it again. The formula still works. I don't think I will ever tire of Kathi Daley's cozies. I've said before, I'd love to live there, but in many instances it seems newcomers tend to be the ones that end up dead. I think I'd have to make very fast friends with Zoe and her friends. Maybe with all the injuries they, especially Zoe, seem to have, a paramedic friend would be a welcome addition. Speaking of additions, it seems that Ashton Falls is going to have 2 more members quite soon. I am anxiously waiting to get on with the next book.
Profile Image for Trisha.
296 reviews6 followers
January 19, 2014
2014-01-19. I loved this. Zoe definitely has jealousy issues and they were rampant in this one. However, they worked well with the storyline and I enjoyed them more than I had in some earlier books. Glad the Zoo opened and hope to see more with it in future books as her original job was what hooked me on this series. Can't wait to see what happens with all the characters next. The mystery was good as well with a few interesting twists.
Profile Image for Sabine.
602 reviews90 followers
January 2, 2017
Zoe's Zoo is finally going to open. But then a contractor with a mysterious past is killed in her zoo just before the grand opening.... To make a bad day even worse Zoe's Dad introduces her to his new girlfriend Blythe whom Zoe dislikes from the first moment on. Is there a reason for Zoe not to trust Blythe?
And then what is up with Zak who tries to hide his visitor from Zoe....
I had a blast seeing this story unfold with its lovable cast of friends and small town residents.
Profile Image for Laura.
12 reviews1 follower
March 29, 2014
I LOVED this book!! It had a wonderful, well written plot with interesting characters that were fun to read about. I couldn't put it down until I finished it. Highly recommended fun love story!! Note: I received my copy through First Reads but that doesn't affect my review of the book.
595 reviews15 followers
December 8, 2014
I really liked this book, it is loaded. Zoe's father's girlfriend, does she have a mysterious past, what is up with Zak? Ellie and Levi? Murder of a likeable guy but a possible mysterious past of his own? This book keeps you guessing. I am definitely reading the next in the series.
258 reviews3 followers
February 15, 2015
Love a good mystery with lots of characters then this is it.

Zoe and her friends can't understand why someone would kill ani mean like Trent. But maybe he was not always so nice. What they find will shock the town.
Profile Image for Lori.
1,774 reviews5 followers
June 1, 2014
I just really, really like this series, I like the characters, the story line and I really wish I could live there. Just not be murdered. I already have the next story in this series ready to start.
Profile Image for Kathy .
1,303 reviews3 followers
January 21, 2019
Fun read

Zoe is a quirky animal lover who somehow manages to find herself trying to solve a murder. This time not only is the dead body found at Zoe's Zoo, her privately run animal shelter, but she is sure her wanna-be step-mom is somehow involved. Full of interesting characters, lovable pets, and delicious recipes.
1,116 reviews23 followers
February 14, 2016
Simple but entertaining mystery

Zoe Donovan is once again embroiled in a mystery. She's just about to open her no-kill shelter for animals when she finds a dead body inside. It was the contractor who'd come by to finish up some last minute details. In spite of the sheriff's warning, she launches her own investigation into the case. In the meantime, her boyfriend, Zak, has been acting strangely to the point Zoe wonders if he's either cheating on her or preparing to break up with her. This book contains the usual characters, Zoe's family and friends. I found it very entertaining, a quick read that kept my attention throughout.
143 reviews
October 27, 2017
Country librarian

I just love Kathis books. I have read her other series and am working my way through this series now. I especially enjoy new recipes at the end of her books. If you want a fun read pick up any of her books. Enjoy
Profile Image for Tammy.
18 reviews
February 15, 2014
Another great fun story in the life of our Zoe and friends & family! I love that all the stories take place around a holiday!!! Looking forward to read what comes next!!!
Profile Image for Dawn.
197 reviews28 followers
October 7, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Each book keeps on getting better and better. On to the next.
Profile Image for Bonnie Dale Keck.
4,677 reviews58 followers
March 14, 2017
Kindle Unlimited liked it but didn't love it hence 4 stars. Wasn't anything stupid such as typos or anything like that, just didn't love this.

Halloween Hijinks Anniversary Edition (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 1) * - The Trouble with Turkeys (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 2) * - Christmas Crazy (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 3) * - Cupids Curse (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 4) - Big Bunny Bump Off (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 5) * - Beach Blanket Barbie (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 6) * Maui Madness (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 7) - Derby Divas (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 8) - Haunted Hamlet (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 9) - Turkeys, Tuxes, and Tabbies (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 10) - Christmas Cozy (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 11) - Alaskan Alliance (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 12) - Matrimony Meltdown (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 13) - Soul Surrender (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 14) - Heavenly Honeymoon (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 15) - Hopscotch Homicide (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 16) - Ghostly Graveyard (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 17) - Santa Sleuth (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 18) - Shamrock Shenanigans (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 19) - Kitten Kaboodle (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 20) - Costume Catastrophe (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 21) - Candy Cane Caper (Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery Book 22) - Holiday Hangover (Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery Book 23) - Easter Escapade (Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery 24) {pre-order at this time}
Spin off from Zoe Donovan series Zimmerman Academy. *means NOT ku

Whales and Tails Mystery
Romeow and Juliet (Whales and Tails Mystery Book 1) - The Mad Catter (Whales and Tails Mystery Book 2) - Grimm's Furry Tail (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 3) - Much Ado About Felines (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 4) - The Legend of Tabby Hollow (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 5) - The Cat of Christmas Past (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 6) - A Tale of Two Tabbies (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 7) - The Great Catsby (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 8) - Count Catula (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 9) - The Cat of Christmas Present (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 10) - A Winter's Tail (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 11)

Murder at Dolphin Bay (Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery Book 1) - Murder at Sunrise (A Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery Book 2) - Murder at the Witching Hour (Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery #3) - Murder at Christmas (Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery #4)

Zoe Donovan, Whales and Tails, Sand and Sea, others, check out amazon page
Profile Image for Kelly.
898 reviews19 followers
September 7, 2020
I have read and enjoyed other books by Kathi Daley, but this was my first book in the Zoe Donovan Mystery series. I like the way that the author tells the story and how the characters are likeable and fun. In this book Zoe is worried about Zak, her boyfriend, and about her father's girlfriend Blythe. Also, a man is found dead at her new business that is about to open, and she wants to find out who killed him. There is a lot going on in this small town and I liked the characters involved in the story, and how they were all trying to help Zoe. This seems like it will be a fun series and I can't wait to read more of the books. I will go back and start with the first book so that I am caught up with the characters backstories.

I received a complimentary copy of this audio book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Nikki.
1,425 reviews12 followers
February 4, 2022
I love this cozy mystery series, a good mix of mystery, fun, animals and romance!

Local shelter part owner, Zoe, gets involved in another murder investigation which sees her fearing for her Fathers life when a new woman appears on the scene who he seems rather smitten by.

Zac, Zoe's boyfriend, and a multimillionaire to boot, seems to have become very secretive, Zoe worries he's going to break up with her at the most romantic time of the year.

This is a great cozy mystery series, each book is easily read in a few hours and is a good mix of mystery, fun and romance. As with most series, the books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.

Try some of this fabulous authors other series, there as good as this one!
Profile Image for Loretta TheMoodyRedhead.
1,054 reviews4 followers
January 4, 2025
Lots if things going on

There are several mysteries in this one. The first one that comes to my mind is how Zak is acting weird and Zoe is convinced he's cheating on her. Then when she shows up at has house, she sees a woman bent over rummaging through Zak's fridge yelling up to him about where the yogurt is. Oh. My. Gosh!!!

There's also a murder ... Again ... And it involves Zoe in an indirect way, but still relates to her so she's doing what she can to help solve the whodunnit. Again.

Then Zoe's dad may have his shedevil move in with him, but Zoe suspects she's hiding something bad and dangerous.

Then someone Zoe sorta knows is hanging around and the someone has a secret.

Oh boy oh boy!
Profile Image for Hilary (A Wytch's Book Review).
882 reviews
June 20, 2018
It is coming up on Valentine's Day but Zoe isn't really looking forward to it, she is sure that Zak is having an affair (can we say that Zoe has jealousy issues!), she dislikes (as in really dislikes!) the woman her dad is seeing (and Zoe is the only one who thinks there is anything wrong with Blythe), the shelter has finally opened with a whimper (or possibly a squeak as the only drop off is a hamster), Jeremy (the shelter assistant) is having problems with his ex-girlfriend, Levi has decided to break up with HIS girlfriend and Ellie is being torn between two brothers.

Add in two murders, another pregnancy and this Valentine's Day really does seem to have a curse laid upon it!
663 reviews11 followers
February 19, 2024
This book in the series deals with multiple issues that are causing Zoe concern. Zoe thinks her dad's girlfriend is a killer. She is also concerned that Zak is keeping a secret. Jeremy's baby mama is making his life miserable. Also, Levi's girlfriend Bambi is going on a rampage and Ellie has gotten caught up into a love triangle.

This story was a whirlwind of issues, and you just didn't know what would happen next. Zoe and her loved ones are all dealing with things. The mystery was interesting, and the book was hard to put down. I love that the author also includes recipes at the end of the book. I really am enjoying this series.
683 reviews10 followers
May 8, 2019
Such a fun series! It's Valentine's Day time in Ashton Falls. Zoe is convinced her dad's new girlfriend is bad news, but no one seems to believe her. Two murders occur and Zoe, Zak, Ellie, and Levi are on the hunt for the killer. Zoe's Zoo opens as well in this book and it was great to see the shelter and rescue back. We also see the return of Zoe's mom. I could just sit and read these books all day every day. I highly recommend this terrific series and can't wait to read more!
Profile Image for Neena Christianson Martin.
1,185 reviews11 followers
April 1, 2018
Beware of evil stepmother wannabes.

Zoe's dad has a new girlfriend that Zoe is convinced is a killer, an opinion no one else shares. Then she finds a body in the new animal shelter. She's convinced Zak is cheating on her, another opinion no one else believes. The poor girl is having a rough go around in this book!
Profile Image for Susan Clark.
549 reviews2 followers
June 6, 2019
Uh-oh

Although I really needed to get housework done, i found I couldn’t set aside this book, not even to watch the ballgame I had been looking forward to seeing. This book definitely is one of Daley’s best. ENJOY, but be prepared to forget everything else until you have finished reading this jewel.
453 reviews3 followers
February 9, 2023
I try to like this series but it is tough. The Valentine theme seemed appropriate but there is enough substance in this little book. One person always finds the dead body. Rich boyfriend does computer research. Helper at the animal shelter has ideas bounced off him. There never seems to be enough consistency in the characters.
These really long stories or novella are just not for me.
319 reviews
September 20, 2017
Great series

Like I said with the others. I love this series. It sure can keep your attention. It felt like I was there helping to solve the crime along with her. Can't wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for Tasha Mcclellan.
38 reviews2 followers
January 25, 2020
So much going on

Someone killed the contractor's assistant, and it's up to Zoe and her friends to figure out who. And why will no one believe her about her father's girlfriend? Who's the mysterious houseguest staying with Zac he's so secretive about?
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