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Little Red Truck Mysteries #1
Tracking Tilly
Who Stole Tilly from the Auction Block?
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book one of a new cozy mystery series.
The Hadley family ranch is struggling, so RaeLyn, her parents, and brothers decide to turn the old barn into an antique store. The only thing missing to go with the marketing of the store is Grandpa’s old red truck, Tilly, that was sold several years ago. Now coming back up on the auction block, Tilly would need a lot of work, but RaeLyn is sure it will be worth it—if only she can beat out other bidders and find out who stole Tilly after the auction ends. Hadley finds herself in the role of amateur sleuth, and the outcome could make or break the new family venture.
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book one of a new cozy mystery series.
The Hadley family ranch is struggling, so RaeLyn, her parents, and brothers decide to turn the old barn into an antique store. The only thing missing to go with the marketing of the store is Grandpa’s old red truck, Tilly, that was sold several years ago. Now coming back up on the auction block, Tilly would need a lot of work, but RaeLyn is sure it will be worth it—if only she can beat out other bidders and find out who stole Tilly after the auction ends. Hadley finds herself in the role of amateur sleuth, and the outcome could make or break the new family venture.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2024
6 people are currently reading
1288 people want to read
About the author
Janice Thompson
267 books757 followersWelcome to the wacky, wonderful world of inspirational author Janice Hanna Thompson, where romantic comedy rules the day! I hope you love to laugh, because I make it my goal to tickle your funny bone at every turn in my light-hearted tales.
Whether you’re looking for inspirational romance, quirky cozy mysteries, light-hearted historicals or fun books for younger readers, you will find it here. You will also find an abundance of non-fiction books, guaranteed to ease life’s burdens.
Why do I focus on the light-hearted stuff? Because life is hard! My readers lead busy, chaotic lives and need those special “Calgon, Take Me Away!” moments! Providing “Love, Laughter and Happily Ever Afters” brings me great delight. Lest you think it’s all fluff, think again!
Woven between the lines of each cheerful tale you will find the ultimate love story, one guaranteed to stir your soul and get your heart fluttering. Talk about a real happily ever after! There’s something for everyone on my site, so settle back in your chair, grab a cup of Earl Grey tea, and get ready to discover a light-hearted approach to life!
Whether you’re looking for inspirational romance, quirky cozy mysteries, light-hearted historicals or fun books for younger readers, you will find it here. You will also find an abundance of non-fiction books, guaranteed to ease life’s burdens.
Why do I focus on the light-hearted stuff? Because life is hard! My readers lead busy, chaotic lives and need those special “Calgon, Take Me Away!” moments! Providing “Love, Laughter and Happily Ever Afters” brings me great delight. Lest you think it’s all fluff, think again!
Woven between the lines of each cheerful tale you will find the ultimate love story, one guaranteed to stir your soul and get your heart fluttering. Talk about a real happily ever after! There’s something for everyone on my site, so settle back in your chair, grab a cup of Earl Grey tea, and get ready to discover a light-hearted approach to life!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
August 24, 2025
Five little red truck stars!
🛻🛻🛻🛻🛻
Tilly, the red truck, is a family heirloom. Raelyn Hadley is determined to return her Pawpaw's truck to their family fold. She wins a bidding war at the local auction house, but the truck disappears before the tow truck can deliver it. What happened to Tilly?
What I loved about this one:
🛻 Tilly comes to life for us on that vibrant cover. Love those Texas Bluebells! The reader is invested in the hunt for Tilly from the very first chapter.
🛻 Raelyn Hadley and family are a delightful bunch. Aunt Bessie Mae is 82 and still happily cooks for them all.
🛻 This is the best type of cozy. Includes a Dewberry Cobbler recipe from Bessie Mae. I had to Google dewberries. We have mulberry trees here in Missouri that produce similar looking fruit.
🛻 The Hadley family is a Texas version of the people I know and love from Iowa. The family works together, worships together, and enjoys their community.
🛻 After reading this one, I can go right into the second Little Red Truck Mystery since I have a copy checked out from my local library. Yay!
Several years ago I read the "Weddings by Bella" series by this same author. They are also clean, engaging reads with a real faith connection. Thank you to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
🛻🛻🛻🛻🛻
Tilly, the red truck, is a family heirloom. Raelyn Hadley is determined to return her Pawpaw's truck to their family fold. She wins a bidding war at the local auction house, but the truck disappears before the tow truck can deliver it. What happened to Tilly?
What I loved about this one:
🛻 Tilly comes to life for us on that vibrant cover. Love those Texas Bluebells! The reader is invested in the hunt for Tilly from the very first chapter.
🛻 Raelyn Hadley and family are a delightful bunch. Aunt Bessie Mae is 82 and still happily cooks for them all.
🛻 This is the best type of cozy. Includes a Dewberry Cobbler recipe from Bessie Mae. I had to Google dewberries. We have mulberry trees here in Missouri that produce similar looking fruit.
🛻 The Hadley family is a Texas version of the people I know and love from Iowa. The family works together, worships together, and enjoys their community.
🛻 After reading this one, I can go right into the second Little Red Truck Mystery since I have a copy checked out from my local library. Yay!
Several years ago I read the "Weddings by Bella" series by this same author. They are also clean, engaging reads with a real faith connection. Thank you to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2024
About this book:
“Who Stole Tilly from the Auction Block? Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book one of a new cozy mystery series. The Hadley family ranch is struggling, so RaeLyn, her parents, and brothers decide to turn the old barn into an antique store. The only thing missing to go with the marketing of the store is Grandpa’s old red truck, Tilly, that was sold several years ago. Now coming back up on the auction block, Tilly would need a lot of work, but RaeLyn is sure it will be worth it—if only she can beat out other bidders and find out who stole Tilly after the auction ends. Hadley finds herself in the role of amateur sleuth, and the outcome could make or break the new family venture.”
Series: Book #1 in “The Little Red Truck Mysteries” series.
Spiritual Content- A Scripture is mentioned & discussed; Church going, Sunday school, services, & sermons; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, Sunday school, youth group, Bible studies, a prayer team, worship, services, sermons, & pastors; Mentions of an Easter service & children’s choir; Mentions of missionaries, mission fields, & ministries; Mentions of Baptist and Methodist churches; A few mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; A few mentions of blessings & being Blessed; A few mentions of miracles; A couple mentions of a nativity set; A couple mentions of hymns; A mention of being reborn;
*Note: The phrase “don’t know me from Adam” is said; A mention of good lucky charms (not believing in them).
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘doggone’, a ‘shoot’, four ‘good grief’s, and seven forms of ‘oh my stars’; “B.S.” is said and refers to a time “before someone”, but it takes someone back when first said (implied cursing); Sarcasm & eye rolling; When a guy brings up about him and RaeLyn sneaking around when they were younger, she thinks that she doesn’t want her parents wondering how much sneaking around she did because “berry stealing was the height of [her] crime spree”; RaeLyn’s aunt suggests about doing something and keeping it a secret from her parents (they don’t do it, however); Some grief by RaeLyn for her grandfather; All about many mentions of a stolen car and items, thefts, thieves, & trying to find the car; Many mentions of divorces; Mentions of car accidents & a death (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of deaths in a house fire (a man’s parents when he was a teenager); Mentions of deaths of loved ones, grief (including RaeLyn with her grandfather), & illnesses (cancer and Alzheimer’s); Mentions of crimes, criminals, arrests, & jail; Mentions of trespassing & the possibility of being chased with a shotgun; Mentions of lies, lying, & deceit; Mentions of gossip & rumors; A few mentions of alcohol, drinks at a party, & not being a drinker; A couple mentions of the death of an infant; A couple mentions of an injury; A couple mentions of bullying; A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of a shoot-out in a movie; A mention of chewing tobacco;
*Note: A man calls his wife “the little woman” (which makes RaeLyn wonder if the man is always demeaning to women); Many mentions of car brands, brand names, & items; Mentions of stores & fast-food chains; Mentions of actors, movies, TV shows, & singers (including John Wayne, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Farrah Fawcett, & Frank Sinatra); Mentions of social media platforms; A couple mentions of a short story (“The Last Leaf” by O. Henry); A mention of Reader’s Digest; A mention of a married couple having vastly different views on politics due to one being from Texas and the other from California.
Sexual Content- A barely-above-not-detailed kiss; Touches, Dancing, Hand holding, & Butterflies/Flutters, (up to semi-detailed); Noticing (barely-above-not-detailed); RaeLyn recalls herself and a friend battling over a guy & believes a guy stole her friend away from her; A man gives too much attention to RaeLyn for her liking & tries to hit on her; A man is called a “rounder” (meaning he gets around), has cheated and had affairs, & left his current wife for another woman (he has been married and divorced four times); Another man is caught in an embrace with a woman who is not his wife (*Spoiler* ); A woman talks about her marriage to a man fifteen years her senior, their divorce after his cheating, & her regret over the relationship; Mentions of affairs & cheating; Mentions of an out-of-wedlock pregnancy & the couple getting married but someone else thinking that they never really loved the other; Mentions of boyfriends/girlfriends, dates, dating, exes, break-ups, & broken hearts; Mentions of winks, blushes, & flirting; A couple mentions of wives leaving their husbands or taking a “sabbatical” away from him; A couple mentions of men hitting on RaeLyn and also a married woman; A couple mentions of jealousy; A teasing mention of a stolen kiss; A mention of a woman using her “charms” to woo men; A mention of a crush (being allowed but not a crush on a married man); A bit of love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Mentions of a voluptuous woman and her low-cut & figure hugging outfits; A few mentions of labor pains.
-RaeLyn Hadley, age 26
1st person P.O.V. of RaeLyn
256 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
My most anticipated release of the year was a success!
I found my eyes squinting whenever Mason was on page because I wasn’t sure how to feel about him. 🤨 But he eventually won me over by the end of the book and I’m curious to see what happens next for the two of them.
Now, I’m not a big car person. Old, vintage, or brand new. Never really interested me. But because this book is written by one of my favorite authors and it sounded like there would be antiques been discussed, I was very interested in it.
If you like small town drama, go for this book. It’s messy and gets messier with each chapter. Which is why I would mark it for 16+, personally. I did find myself confused at times everyone’s different ages and some connections, but I just went along with trying to figure it out as I went and I think I did well. This book reminded me a lot of the “Brides with Styles” trilogy, though I liked that series a bit more. ;)
This was overall a fun, small town mystery and I’m super excited to see what this series leads to next!
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Barbour) for this honest review.
“Who Stole Tilly from the Auction Block? Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book one of a new cozy mystery series. The Hadley family ranch is struggling, so RaeLyn, her parents, and brothers decide to turn the old barn into an antique store. The only thing missing to go with the marketing of the store is Grandpa’s old red truck, Tilly, that was sold several years ago. Now coming back up on the auction block, Tilly would need a lot of work, but RaeLyn is sure it will be worth it—if only she can beat out other bidders and find out who stole Tilly after the auction ends. Hadley finds herself in the role of amateur sleuth, and the outcome could make or break the new family venture.”
Series: Book #1 in “The Little Red Truck Mysteries” series.
Spiritual Content- A Scripture is mentioned & discussed; Church going, Sunday school, services, & sermons; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, Sunday school, youth group, Bible studies, a prayer team, worship, services, sermons, & pastors; Mentions of an Easter service & children’s choir; Mentions of missionaries, mission fields, & ministries; Mentions of Baptist and Methodist churches; A few mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; A few mentions of blessings & being Blessed; A few mentions of miracles; A couple mentions of a nativity set; A couple mentions of hymns; A mention of being reborn;
*Note: The phrase “don’t know me from Adam” is said; A mention of good lucky charms (not believing in them).
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘doggone’, a ‘shoot’, four ‘good grief’s, and seven forms of ‘oh my stars’; “B.S.” is said and refers to a time “before someone”, but it takes someone back when first said (implied cursing); Sarcasm & eye rolling; When a guy brings up about him and RaeLyn sneaking around when they were younger, she thinks that she doesn’t want her parents wondering how much sneaking around she did because “berry stealing was the height of [her] crime spree”; RaeLyn’s aunt suggests about doing something and keeping it a secret from her parents (they don’t do it, however); Some grief by RaeLyn for her grandfather; All about many mentions of a stolen car and items, thefts, thieves, & trying to find the car; Many mentions of divorces; Mentions of car accidents & a death (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of deaths in a house fire (a man’s parents when he was a teenager); Mentions of deaths of loved ones, grief (including RaeLyn with her grandfather), & illnesses (cancer and Alzheimer’s); Mentions of crimes, criminals, arrests, & jail; Mentions of trespassing & the possibility of being chased with a shotgun; Mentions of lies, lying, & deceit; Mentions of gossip & rumors; A few mentions of alcohol, drinks at a party, & not being a drinker; A couple mentions of the death of an infant; A couple mentions of an injury; A couple mentions of bullying; A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of a shoot-out in a movie; A mention of chewing tobacco;
*Note: A man calls his wife “the little woman” (which makes RaeLyn wonder if the man is always demeaning to women); Many mentions of car brands, brand names, & items; Mentions of stores & fast-food chains; Mentions of actors, movies, TV shows, & singers (including John Wayne, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Farrah Fawcett, & Frank Sinatra); Mentions of social media platforms; A couple mentions of a short story (“The Last Leaf” by O. Henry); A mention of Reader’s Digest; A mention of a married couple having vastly different views on politics due to one being from Texas and the other from California.
Sexual Content- A barely-above-not-detailed kiss; Touches, Dancing, Hand holding, & Butterflies/Flutters, (up to semi-detailed); Noticing (barely-above-not-detailed); RaeLyn recalls herself and a friend battling over a guy & believes a guy stole her friend away from her; A man gives too much attention to RaeLyn for her liking & tries to hit on her; A man is called a “rounder” (meaning he gets around), has cheated and had affairs, & left his current wife for another woman (he has been married and divorced four times); Another man is caught in an embrace with a woman who is not his wife (*Spoiler* ); A woman talks about her marriage to a man fifteen years her senior, their divorce after his cheating, & her regret over the relationship; Mentions of affairs & cheating; Mentions of an out-of-wedlock pregnancy & the couple getting married but someone else thinking that they never really loved the other; Mentions of boyfriends/girlfriends, dates, dating, exes, break-ups, & broken hearts; Mentions of winks, blushes, & flirting; A couple mentions of wives leaving their husbands or taking a “sabbatical” away from him; A couple mentions of men hitting on RaeLyn and also a married woman; A couple mentions of jealousy; A teasing mention of a stolen kiss; A mention of a woman using her “charms” to woo men; A mention of a crush (being allowed but not a crush on a married man); A bit of love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Mentions of a voluptuous woman and her low-cut & figure hugging outfits; A few mentions of labor pains.
-RaeLyn Hadley, age 26
1st person P.O.V. of RaeLyn
256 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
My most anticipated release of the year was a success!
I found my eyes squinting whenever Mason was on page because I wasn’t sure how to feel about him. 🤨 But he eventually won me over by the end of the book and I’m curious to see what happens next for the two of them.
Now, I’m not a big car person. Old, vintage, or brand new. Never really interested me. But because this book is written by one of my favorite authors and it sounded like there would be antiques been discussed, I was very interested in it.
If you like small town drama, go for this book. It’s messy and gets messier with each chapter. Which is why I would mark it for 16+, personally. I did find myself confused at times everyone’s different ages and some connections, but I just went along with trying to figure it out as I went and I think I did well. This book reminded me a lot of the “Brides with Styles” trilogy, though I liked that series a bit more. ;)
This was overall a fun, small town mystery and I’m super excited to see what this series leads to next!
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Barbour) for this honest review.
August 5, 2024
Tracking Tilly by Janice Thompson (Book 1 in the Little Red Truck Mysteries Series)
4 Stars
Because I can relate to this story with my Dad and his old truck/trucks, I really enjoyed this one! We have a cute small town in Texas, a vintage truck, a girl opening an antique store and some great character relationships here. This is a Christian Cozy Mystery (with no deaths) that centers around our main character RaeLyn's grandpa's old vintage truck going missing after the auction to get it back. Her grandpa passed away many years ago, so it's very important to get it back.
We see RaeLyn work to figure out what has happened, with her old high school flame Mason hanging around helping, but honestly he's a bit suspicious at first too. :)
We have some small town drama going on with a romance subplot. I did get the side character's mixed up several times but it was fine - I was just here for the read! :)
Overall a cute feel good story that will bring the nostalgia of things from back in the day, memories with your grandparents and the importance of family.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for providing a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4 Stars
Because I can relate to this story with my Dad and his old truck/trucks, I really enjoyed this one! We have a cute small town in Texas, a vintage truck, a girl opening an antique store and some great character relationships here. This is a Christian Cozy Mystery (with no deaths) that centers around our main character RaeLyn's grandpa's old vintage truck going missing after the auction to get it back. Her grandpa passed away many years ago, so it's very important to get it back.
We see RaeLyn work to figure out what has happened, with her old high school flame Mason hanging around helping, but honestly he's a bit suspicious at first too. :)
We have some small town drama going on with a romance subplot. I did get the side character's mixed up several times but it was fine - I was just here for the read! :)
Overall a cute feel good story that will bring the nostalgia of things from back in the day, memories with your grandparents and the importance of family.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for providing a copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 2, 2024
What a fun mystery about a missing vintage truck! I really enjoyed the family and friends in this story. They have strong bonds and seem like they’d just welcome you in. I love that she’s opening an antique store and items are described. I like all the different relationships and their different storylines. The Texas, small town setting is quaint and that’s perfect for a a cozy mystery.
May 11, 2024
This author always provides a fun and easy read. These stories are filled with mystery, romance and a side of quirkiness! Bessie Mae was by far my favorite character and her frequent references to John Wayne were endearing!
Thanks to netgalley and Barbour Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own.
The review will be placed on my blog (kroosreadsandreviews blogspot.com) not more than 30 days before publication
Thanks to netgalley and Barbour Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own.
The review will be placed on my blog (kroosreadsandreviews blogspot.com) not more than 30 days before publication
December 12, 2024
One of my upcoming New Year's resolutions is to begin reading more contemporary fiction. I saw Tracking Tilly's cover and decided to get a head start on that resolution.
This book is so cute. It's a quaint slice-of-life story with a bit of mystery, a touch of romance, a heaping of humor, and a portion of faith. It perfectly matches that adorable cover.
I'm not southern in the least, and frankly never want to be (you crazies can keep your hurricanes, humidity, grits, and chiggers), but this book did so well painting the little Texas town that I could be convinced to visit if it was actually real.
RaeLynn is a fun character. I enjoyed seeing life from her 1st person POV. Bessie Mae nearly steals the show. She's such a crack-up and will keep you snickering. I loved the family dynamic. So many books dis the healthy, nuclear family, so I really appreciated seeing healthy family relationships.
Content Warnings:
It's insinuated one secondary character is a player (and he is), there's typical small-town gossip (which, I admit, was amusing), and there are affairs and mentions of affairs. Nothing goes in depth and nothing's uncomfortable or untoward.
Tracking Tilly is a fun story, and I am anticipating the second book so I can find out what happens with certain characters, couples, and dreams.
This book is so cute. It's a quaint slice-of-life story with a bit of mystery, a touch of romance, a heaping of humor, and a portion of faith. It perfectly matches that adorable cover.
I'm not southern in the least, and frankly never want to be (you crazies can keep your hurricanes, humidity, grits, and chiggers), but this book did so well painting the little Texas town that I could be convinced to visit if it was actually real.
RaeLynn is a fun character. I enjoyed seeing life from her 1st person POV. Bessie Mae nearly steals the show. She's such a crack-up and will keep you snickering. I loved the family dynamic. So many books dis the healthy, nuclear family, so I really appreciated seeing healthy family relationships.
Content Warnings:
It's insinuated one secondary character is a player (and he is), there's typical small-town gossip (which, I admit, was amusing), and there are affairs and mentions of affairs. Nothing goes in depth and nothing's uncomfortable or untoward.
Tracking Tilly is a fun story, and I am anticipating the second book so I can find out what happens with certain characters, couples, and dreams.
July 3, 2024
Are you in the mood for a cozy mystery with a dose of Texas charm? Tracking Tilly by Janice Thompson is the perfect read for that mood! One of the standout aspects of the book is how Thompson brings the Hadley family and their small-town community to life. The strong family bond adds a rich, emotional layer to the mystery without overwhelming the reader.
The Texas setting adds an extra layer of charm to the story. From the dusty old barn to the friendly town, Thompson paints a vivid picture of life in a close-knit community. The mystery is a puzzle to solve, but it’s also about rediscovering the past and reconnecting. As RaeLyn digs into the mystery, she uncovers secrets and learns more about herself and her family.
Tracking Tilly is a delightful, feel-good read. It’s the kind of book that makes you smile, with its mix of nostalgia, family values, and a touch of romance. If you’re looking for a lighthearted escape with a Texas twist, this book is sure to warm your heart and leave you eager for the next installment in the series.
Janice Thompson has crafted a cozy mystery that celebrates family, faith, and the simple joys of life.
I received a digital ARC of Tracking Tilly from the publisher, Barbour Publishing, and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
The Texas setting adds an extra layer of charm to the story. From the dusty old barn to the friendly town, Thompson paints a vivid picture of life in a close-knit community. The mystery is a puzzle to solve, but it’s also about rediscovering the past and reconnecting. As RaeLyn digs into the mystery, she uncovers secrets and learns more about herself and her family.
Tracking Tilly is a delightful, feel-good read. It’s the kind of book that makes you smile, with its mix of nostalgia, family values, and a touch of romance. If you’re looking for a lighthearted escape with a Texas twist, this book is sure to warm your heart and leave you eager for the next installment in the series.
Janice Thompson has crafted a cozy mystery that celebrates family, faith, and the simple joys of life.
I received a digital ARC of Tracking Tilly from the publisher, Barbour Publishing, and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
September 17, 2024
Release date: 1st of August 2024
Rating: 3.5 stars rounded up to four.
I’ve heard a lot about Janice Thompson’s books so when I got an ARC of Tracking Tilly from NetGalley I picked it up quite quickly. Now, for preface, I’m not a big contemporary fan so I was a tiny bit skeptical if I’d enjoy this… but I’m happy to say that I did! (despite finding RaeLyn annoying at times).
Also, since I’ve read this book I’ve fallen in love with Texas and vintage cars.
I would recommend this book to people who love Texas, small towns, a close knit family, vintage cars, bluebonnets flowers, nostalgic reads, ranches, food, low stake mysteries, and dogs.
***thank you NetGalley and Barbour Fiction for this free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 3.5 stars rounded up to four.
I’ve heard a lot about Janice Thompson’s books so when I got an ARC of Tracking Tilly from NetGalley I picked it up quite quickly. Now, for preface, I’m not a big contemporary fan so I was a tiny bit skeptical if I’d enjoy this… but I’m happy to say that I did! (despite finding RaeLyn annoying at times).
Also, since I’ve read this book I’ve fallen in love with Texas and vintage cars.
I would recommend this book to people who love Texas, small towns, a close knit family, vintage cars, bluebonnets flowers, nostalgic reads, ranches, food, low stake mysteries, and dogs.
***thank you NetGalley and Barbour Fiction for this free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2025
4.25 stars (rounded down to 4)
This is a cozy, Christian mystery set in Texas, featuring a beloved truck gone missing. I loved the story! It's a classic kind of setup - a search for a stolen item - which is my favorite kind of mystery to read.
The setting and characters are great! The main character, RaeLyn, is working to open an antique shop on her family's property. RaeLyn's interactions with her parents and brothers are fun to read, and I especially loved her spunky aunt, Bessie Mae. At times, their small town is a bit too full of drama/gossip for my preferences (see my content note below for extra details), but it's woven into the mystery well enough that all the little twists kept me guessing.
I also liked the clean romance subplot! Second-chance romances are sometimes hit or miss for me, but this one is really cute! There are a couple of chapters in particular I already want to read again. I'm excited for the rest of the series so I can see more of these characters together - and explore more fun mysteries, of course!
*Content to note*
Mentions of affairs, divorces, and pregnancy before marriage. Brief scenes of spotting a married man flirting with/embracing another woman. Discussions of a family feud.
This is a cozy, Christian mystery set in Texas, featuring a beloved truck gone missing. I loved the story! It's a classic kind of setup - a search for a stolen item - which is my favorite kind of mystery to read.
The setting and characters are great! The main character, RaeLyn, is working to open an antique shop on her family's property. RaeLyn's interactions with her parents and brothers are fun to read, and I especially loved her spunky aunt, Bessie Mae. At times, their small town is a bit too full of drama/gossip for my preferences (see my content note below for extra details), but it's woven into the mystery well enough that all the little twists kept me guessing.
I also liked the clean romance subplot! Second-chance romances are sometimes hit or miss for me, but this one is really cute! There are a couple of chapters in particular I already want to read again. I'm excited for the rest of the series so I can see more of these characters together - and explore more fun mysteries, of course!
*Content to note*
Mentions of affairs, divorces, and pregnancy before marriage. Brief scenes of spotting a married man flirting with/embracing another woman. Discussions of a family feud.
July 30, 2024
This was a nice little mystery. It’s an easy to read book. It’s full of twists and some secrets. Lots of interesting characters running around in this book. It also has some sweet romance too. It’s a good first book in a new series
July 15, 2024
Raelynn and her family are opening an antique store, and when she finds the truck that her grandfather sold years ago up for auction, she knows that it will be the perfect touch for the store. But when the truck goes missing from the auction yard, Raelynn is determined to track it down.
A wonderful start to a new series, and introduction to the Hadley family. I loved Raelynn's large family with all their banter. There is a lot going on in this small town cozy mystery, from the family dramas, revelations from the past, and the mystery of the missing truck.
A highly enjoyable read with a lot of twists along the way, I loved the close knit family, with strong ties to faith, and many wonderful characters. There is plenty going on, I liked that Raelynn and Mason were able to rekindle their friendship, and that there is also plenty going on with the other members of the family. An excellent start to a new series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A wonderful start to a new series, and introduction to the Hadley family. I loved Raelynn's large family with all their banter. There is a lot going on in this small town cozy mystery, from the family dramas, revelations from the past, and the mystery of the missing truck.
A highly enjoyable read with a lot of twists along the way, I loved the close knit family, with strong ties to faith, and many wonderful characters. There is plenty going on, I liked that Raelynn and Mason were able to rekindle their friendship, and that there is also plenty going on with the other members of the family. An excellent start to a new series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 14, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for providing me the opportunity to review an ARC of this novel. All of the thoughts and the opinions expressed are my own.
RaeLyn Hadley won her grandfather’s old truck (aka Tilly) in a bidding war at a local auction house. However, it was stolen out of the lot the next morning before she could have it towed. RaeLyn was almost outbid by three different people, so one of them is probably the culprit. One of the side stories is RaeLyn reconnecting with her old friend Mason. This story is supposed to center around RaeLyn and her family trying to locate her missing truck, but in reality it is more of a snapshot in the life of the Hadley family.
I am not even sure that I would classify this as a cozy mystery. It was a very sweet story, but I feel that what should have been the main part of the story seemed to take a back seat to life on the Hadley farm. There was some faith content but it was not front and center to the story. At times in the book you can see Christ reflected in the actions of the characters
I would recommend this book to people looking for a mystery like book that does not revolve around murder.. I would not recommend this book for anyone looking for a true mystery.
RaeLyn Hadley won her grandfather’s old truck (aka Tilly) in a bidding war at a local auction house. However, it was stolen out of the lot the next morning before she could have it towed. RaeLyn was almost outbid by three different people, so one of them is probably the culprit. One of the side stories is RaeLyn reconnecting with her old friend Mason. This story is supposed to center around RaeLyn and her family trying to locate her missing truck, but in reality it is more of a snapshot in the life of the Hadley family.
I am not even sure that I would classify this as a cozy mystery. It was a very sweet story, but I feel that what should have been the main part of the story seemed to take a back seat to life on the Hadley farm. There was some faith content but it was not front and center to the story. At times in the book you can see Christ reflected in the actions of the characters
I would recommend this book to people looking for a mystery like book that does not revolve around murder.. I would not recommend this book for anyone looking for a true mystery.
September 12, 2024
“He said there’s no point in looking in the rearview mirror. You need to keep your focus on the road.”
Seeing Janice Thompson’s name on this cozy mystery about an old red truck, I couldn’t resist picking it up. Tracking Tilly does not disappoint. There is plenty of humor, a bit of romance, and some mystery with twists. Anytime you have a young, single woman and her 82-yr-old feisty aunt playing sleuth, you know there’s fun ahead!
It may be a cozy, but I was happy to see growth and change in a couple of characters, specifically RaeLyn and her mother. RaeLyn is holding grudges against, well, actually quite a few people. She has to learn the meaning of “water under the bridge.” RaeLyn does begin to understand different people’s possible points-of-view as the novel proceeds, which is good. RaeLyn’s mother has a few things to learn, too. (Like prayer requests should stay in the group!), although her gossip makes for a very entertaining story! Also, reserve your judgment on someone until you get to know them.
Bessie Mae is an instrument of reminder that God is in control, and He will work things out. “Sometimes life’s just not fair.” My aunt sighed. “But God is the one who will have the final say. That brings me some degree of peace when injustices happen.”
Boy, did I love it when Meredith comes to the conclusion that maybe her life isn’t all what people were doing to her, but how she was responding with jealousy. “There was still a teensy-tiny part of me that wondered why the Stephanies of this world always seemed to get the best—the high school prom king, the star quarterback, the cozy life in Iowa. She was Papaw. I was Wyatt Jackson.”
Definitely, if you like clean, Christian cozies with a great big dollop of laughter, pick up this book!
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Seeing Janice Thompson’s name on this cozy mystery about an old red truck, I couldn’t resist picking it up. Tracking Tilly does not disappoint. There is plenty of humor, a bit of romance, and some mystery with twists. Anytime you have a young, single woman and her 82-yr-old feisty aunt playing sleuth, you know there’s fun ahead!
It may be a cozy, but I was happy to see growth and change in a couple of characters, specifically RaeLyn and her mother. RaeLyn is holding grudges against, well, actually quite a few people. She has to learn the meaning of “water under the bridge.” RaeLyn does begin to understand different people’s possible points-of-view as the novel proceeds, which is good. RaeLyn’s mother has a few things to learn, too. (Like prayer requests should stay in the group!), although her gossip makes for a very entertaining story! Also, reserve your judgment on someone until you get to know them.
Bessie Mae is an instrument of reminder that God is in control, and He will work things out. “Sometimes life’s just not fair.” My aunt sighed. “But God is the one who will have the final say. That brings me some degree of peace when injustices happen.”
Boy, did I love it when Meredith comes to the conclusion that maybe her life isn’t all what people were doing to her, but how she was responding with jealousy. “There was still a teensy-tiny part of me that wondered why the Stephanies of this world always seemed to get the best—the high school prom king, the star quarterback, the cozy life in Iowa. She was Papaw. I was Wyatt Jackson.”
Definitely, if you like clean, Christian cozies with a great big dollop of laughter, pick up this book!
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
July 11, 2024
Absolutely loved this story! A small town where everyone knows each other and its picturesque scenery made me feel right at home. There is so much to love about this book. The fun of solving who took Tilly with RaeLyn Hadley and her family had me laughing, especially Aunt Bessie Mae. All the delicious food and table talk with family was an added bonus to the sweet build of a romance. This story was entertaining and had many surprising secrets thrown in that keeps the reader wondering what’s around the bend. Not only was I drawn in by all the wonderful characters but felt that the Hadley’s were family. So excited about more books from this author as I will be snatching them up!
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
June 23, 2024
An enjoyable cozy mystery with romance and faith.
Clues are dropped along the way, with a family history connecting suspects, but it kept me guessing up until the end. A renewed friendship between RaeLyn and Mason added some romantic tension and a bit of complication to the plot, as he is a possible suspect. The Hadley family dynamics were well done, with a lot of sibling interaction, and made the story feel more authentic. Felt like taking a trip home, especially with the family dinners cooked by Aunt Bessie Mae. She was a kick!
Recommend to readers who enjoy a lighter mystery with faith, family, and a little romance. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
September 30, 2024
Mabank, TX
This was more of a romance than a mystery. It still was a fun story. I had figured out who the bad guys were early on. It was still fun to see the main character figure it out. I would have liked this more if it had been either mystery or romance instead of both.
This was more of a romance than a mystery. It still was a fun story. I had figured out who the bad guys were early on. It was still fun to see the main character figure it out. I would have liked this more if it had been either mystery or romance instead of both.
June 25, 2024
This was a really enjoyable read! Janice Thompson is one of my go-to cozy-mystery authors, and I so enjoyed this first installment in her new series. Defo looking forward to reading more of the books as they come out!
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 12, 2024
Cozy mystery in the heart of Texas.
A slow read, my biggest problems with these reads are the repetitive information or clues but I guess that's why it's cozy, I can stop reading for a month and be back up to speed just picking up where I left off vibes.
All of the gossiping busybody vibes I wasn't a fan of as the Bible says we shouldn't and yet it was the sole reason many of the women in this book wanted to be part of the prayer chain.
Otherwise a cozy read with lots of cozy characters, the mystery was pretty easy to solve but again emphasis on cozy. Thanks netgalley for letting me read an ARC, this is my honest take.
A slow read, my biggest problems with these reads are the repetitive information or clues but I guess that's why it's cozy, I can stop reading for a month and be back up to speed just picking up where I left off vibes.
All of the gossiping busybody vibes I wasn't a fan of as the Bible says we shouldn't and yet it was the sole reason many of the women in this book wanted to be part of the prayer chain.
Otherwise a cozy read with lots of cozy characters, the mystery was pretty easy to solve but again emphasis on cozy. Thanks netgalley for letting me read an ARC, this is my honest take.
June 27, 2024
The cover of this book really caught my eye so I had to read it!
I was a little disappointed however. It’s a cute romance but was a little hard for me to get into it. I found myself skim reading quite a bit.
Personally the “mystery” & overall story just didn’t hold my attention.
Again it is a sweet story just not for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Barbour publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was a little disappointed however. It’s a cute romance but was a little hard for me to get into it. I found myself skim reading quite a bit.
Personally the “mystery” & overall story just didn’t hold my attention.
Again it is a sweet story just not for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Barbour publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2024
Scripture Connection
Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.
Prov. 17:9 NLT
See also Heb. 12:15.
Spiritual Themes
Spiritual content is light, but present, with threads of reconciliation (contrasted with bitterness) as well as allusion to God’s providence in bringing people back together. The beauty of nature points RaeLyn, and the reader, back to the Creator.
There was one line, albeit thematically peripheral, that I liked:
“He’s the one who gave you this dream; He will be the One to fulfill it.”
p. 65
I appreciate the message of trust here, and the posture of recognition and submission.
What I Liked
Tracking Tilly caught my eye because of the mystery element, but it also ended up being a fun and timely read for me, as the novel opens with the main character buying a truck. (With just over a week until I return to work, I have no transportation and am looking for a vehicle, prayers SO appreciated!).
The novel stands out to me for its delightful emphasis on family. At 26, RaeLyn makes her home on the family ranch. RaeLyn lives in the larger house with her parents, her great aunt Bessie Mae, and two of her brothers: Dallas and Gage. Her other two brothers, Logan and Jake, live on smaller homes on the property, Jake with his pregnant wife, Carrie.
I really like that RaeLyn is just one of the adult children living at the ranch, and that the family members work together to care for one another. I don’t often see adult children living at home in contemporary reads, so I found this living situation to be refreshing and delightful. I especially appreciate the relationship between RaeLyn and her great aunt. In her eighties, Bessie Mae is strong and ready to sleuth.
Overall, I think the strength of the story is with the characters. Outside of RaeLyn’s family, Thompson casts a wide net of community members: both friends and suspects. We meet an auctioneer, the wealthy businessman who owns half the town, a knowledgeable librarian and a cantankerous neighbor, plus RaeLyn’s best friend, as well as a former friend who has recently returned to town.
Although much of the plot moved a bit slowly for me, I wouldn’t mind continuing the series, simply to follow-up with this community.
Also worth noting are the sweet natural descriptions. Thompson embeds some beautiful details that point readers back to the Creator.
I also enjoyed the gentle romance plotline. As Tracking Tilly is book one in the series, I’m curious to keep reading and see how certain threads continue to develop.
Content Notes
Romance is sweet and very light in terms of physicality. There’s one kiss, which is not descriptive.
In the small-town Texas setting, characters are very aware of the local happenings, largely because of the prayer chain. In addition to offering prayer, the chain also seems to be a possible dispatch for gossip (which I recognize is a real cultural phenomenon), and we do see some instances of gossip.
There’s also a scene where RaeLyn and her friend quickly make up a story to explain their presence in an off-limits area. (RaeLyn feels bad about her friend lying for her).
Recommendation Status
Tracking Tilly is a sweet, slow-paced mystery with a small-town setting and a fun cast of characters. I’m curious to see how the series will progress, and look forward to the opportunity to “hang out” in this small town, in the future.
Recommended for readers who enjoy gentle stories with tight-knit families and especially for those with an appreciation for classic cars.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.
Prov. 17:9 NLT
See also Heb. 12:15.
Spiritual Themes
Spiritual content is light, but present, with threads of reconciliation (contrasted with bitterness) as well as allusion to God’s providence in bringing people back together. The beauty of nature points RaeLyn, and the reader, back to the Creator.
There was one line, albeit thematically peripheral, that I liked:
“He’s the one who gave you this dream; He will be the One to fulfill it.”
p. 65
I appreciate the message of trust here, and the posture of recognition and submission.
What I Liked
Tracking Tilly caught my eye because of the mystery element, but it also ended up being a fun and timely read for me, as the novel opens with the main character buying a truck. (With just over a week until I return to work, I have no transportation and am looking for a vehicle, prayers SO appreciated!).
The novel stands out to me for its delightful emphasis on family. At 26, RaeLyn makes her home on the family ranch. RaeLyn lives in the larger house with her parents, her great aunt Bessie Mae, and two of her brothers: Dallas and Gage. Her other two brothers, Logan and Jake, live on smaller homes on the property, Jake with his pregnant wife, Carrie.
I really like that RaeLyn is just one of the adult children living at the ranch, and that the family members work together to care for one another. I don’t often see adult children living at home in contemporary reads, so I found this living situation to be refreshing and delightful. I especially appreciate the relationship between RaeLyn and her great aunt. In her eighties, Bessie Mae is strong and ready to sleuth.
Overall, I think the strength of the story is with the characters. Outside of RaeLyn’s family, Thompson casts a wide net of community members: both friends and suspects. We meet an auctioneer, the wealthy businessman who owns half the town, a knowledgeable librarian and a cantankerous neighbor, plus RaeLyn’s best friend, as well as a former friend who has recently returned to town.
Although much of the plot moved a bit slowly for me, I wouldn’t mind continuing the series, simply to follow-up with this community.
Also worth noting are the sweet natural descriptions. Thompson embeds some beautiful details that point readers back to the Creator.
I also enjoyed the gentle romance plotline. As Tracking Tilly is book one in the series, I’m curious to keep reading and see how certain threads continue to develop.
Content Notes
Romance is sweet and very light in terms of physicality. There’s one kiss, which is not descriptive.
In the small-town Texas setting, characters are very aware of the local happenings, largely because of the prayer chain. In addition to offering prayer, the chain also seems to be a possible dispatch for gossip (which I recognize is a real cultural phenomenon), and we do see some instances of gossip.
There’s also a scene where RaeLyn and her friend quickly make up a story to explain their presence in an off-limits area. (RaeLyn feels bad about her friend lying for her).
Recommendation Status
Tracking Tilly is a sweet, slow-paced mystery with a small-town setting and a fun cast of characters. I’m curious to see how the series will progress, and look forward to the opportunity to “hang out” in this small town, in the future.
Recommended for readers who enjoy gentle stories with tight-knit families and especially for those with an appreciation for classic cars.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
July 5, 2024
It's been way too long since I last picked up a title from Janice Thompson, and I'm so thankful that more and more cozy mysteries are starting to make their way into the Christian fiction genre. This was actually one of my most anticipated releases for 2024, and that was based on basically only knowing it was written by Janice and that it was a Christian cozy mystery. Let me say that it definitely did not disappoint, and I'm already on the edge of my seat waiting eagerly for future installments of this series.
Readers follow Raelyn Hadley after she's just purchased her beloved grandfather's antique red truck at an auction block. After losing her grandpa, it's something she feels the whole family will appreciate that much more. Unfortunately, life rarely goes the way we want it to, and before she can even get the truck delivered, it goes missing from the auction house. As Raelyn and her family struggle to get to the bottom of their mystery, many suspects will be called into play including the boy she never got over, and an elderly man who appears to have a surprising connection to her own family.
With a well written plot, a mystery that keeps the reader guessing, a loveable romance, and hijinks and mayhem in typical Janice Thompson fashion, Tracking Tilly was everything I was hoping for and more, and is definitely one of my favorite reads of the year so far.
I especially loved Bessie Mae, and the big heart she has for her family and community. Her love for John Wayne was a hoot, and it was hysterical how no matter the situation, she always had a quote at the ready. The faith element was also a lovely touch, and it blended seamlessly into the rest of the story, which to me always speaks volumes to the writing talent of the author.
All in all, I adored this one from start to finish, and can't possibly recommend it enough! Definitely pick this one up if you're a fan of clean cozy mysteries and/or Christian contemporaries with Texas flair.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to Barbour Fiction for allowing me to read and review this title!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Barbour Fiction) via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
Readers follow Raelyn Hadley after she's just purchased her beloved grandfather's antique red truck at an auction block. After losing her grandpa, it's something she feels the whole family will appreciate that much more. Unfortunately, life rarely goes the way we want it to, and before she can even get the truck delivered, it goes missing from the auction house. As Raelyn and her family struggle to get to the bottom of their mystery, many suspects will be called into play including the boy she never got over, and an elderly man who appears to have a surprising connection to her own family.
With a well written plot, a mystery that keeps the reader guessing, a loveable romance, and hijinks and mayhem in typical Janice Thompson fashion, Tracking Tilly was everything I was hoping for and more, and is definitely one of my favorite reads of the year so far.
I especially loved Bessie Mae, and the big heart she has for her family and community. Her love for John Wayne was a hoot, and it was hysterical how no matter the situation, she always had a quote at the ready. The faith element was also a lovely touch, and it blended seamlessly into the rest of the story, which to me always speaks volumes to the writing talent of the author.
All in all, I adored this one from start to finish, and can't possibly recommend it enough! Definitely pick this one up if you're a fan of clean cozy mysteries and/or Christian contemporaries with Texas flair.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to Barbour Fiction for allowing me to read and review this title!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Barbour Fiction) via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
June 29, 2024
Name of Book: Tracking Tilly
Series: Little Red Truck Mystery
Author: Janice Thompson
Genre: Mystery/Thriller-Romance
Publisher: Barbour Publishing
Pub Date: August 1, 2024
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pages: 256
Story features Raelyn Hadley who is in the process of opening an antique shop on her family’s ranch; they are having financial difficulties.
The book cover photo features ‘Tilly’ Papaw’s seventy year old red Chevy truck.
When Raelyn finds out that the red truck will be auctioned. She is anxious to bid and win the truck back into the family. Her hope is having the antique truck display will be a big attraction to bring customers to the antique and thus may bring in extra income.
She wins the bid and is excited however since it needs some repairs it isn’t drive able right now and will be delivered tomorrow . . . . but it was stolen from the auction property during the night.
I was immediately drawn to this story as my granddaughter drives an old red truck. It was her high school graduation gift. It was what she wanted to haul her things back and forth to college.
Plus the red truck theme has been popular as a holiday decoration-I loved sending her little red truck gifts.
Additionally I have a handsome wonderful grandson named Mason.
So yes I was indeed hoping for a HEA story!
This was my first story by Janice Thompson so thought I would read her bio – which starts with Welcome to the wacky, wonderful world of inspirational author Janice Hanna Thompson, where romantic comedy rules the day! I hope you love to laugh, because I make it my goal to tickle your funny bone at every turn in my light-hearted tales.
She answers why her stories focus on the light-hearted stuff?
She says ~ Life is hard! Readers lead busy, chaotic lives and need those special ‘Take Me Away!” moments!
“Love, Laughter and HEA" is something most of us need and she says it ~ bring her great delight. Plus if think it is all fluff, think again!
There is a bit of mystery as to who took Tilly – not my usual murder mystery with big revels etc. But it was fun quick enjoyable read,
Want to thank NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for granted me the pleasure of this early eGalley. Publishing Release Date scheduled for August 1, 2024.
Series: Little Red Truck Mystery
Author: Janice Thompson
Genre: Mystery/Thriller-Romance
Publisher: Barbour Publishing
Pub Date: August 1, 2024
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pages: 256
Story features Raelyn Hadley who is in the process of opening an antique shop on her family’s ranch; they are having financial difficulties.
The book cover photo features ‘Tilly’ Papaw’s seventy year old red Chevy truck.
When Raelyn finds out that the red truck will be auctioned. She is anxious to bid and win the truck back into the family. Her hope is having the antique truck display will be a big attraction to bring customers to the antique and thus may bring in extra income.
She wins the bid and is excited however since it needs some repairs it isn’t drive able right now and will be delivered tomorrow . . . . but it was stolen from the auction property during the night.
I was immediately drawn to this story as my granddaughter drives an old red truck. It was her high school graduation gift. It was what she wanted to haul her things back and forth to college.
Plus the red truck theme has been popular as a holiday decoration-I loved sending her little red truck gifts.
Additionally I have a handsome wonderful grandson named Mason.
So yes I was indeed hoping for a HEA story!
This was my first story by Janice Thompson so thought I would read her bio – which starts with Welcome to the wacky, wonderful world of inspirational author Janice Hanna Thompson, where romantic comedy rules the day! I hope you love to laugh, because I make it my goal to tickle your funny bone at every turn in my light-hearted tales.
She answers why her stories focus on the light-hearted stuff?
She says ~ Life is hard! Readers lead busy, chaotic lives and need those special ‘Take Me Away!” moments!
“Love, Laughter and HEA" is something most of us need and she says it ~ bring her great delight. Plus if think it is all fluff, think again!
There is a bit of mystery as to who took Tilly – not my usual murder mystery with big revels etc. But it was fun quick enjoyable read,
Want to thank NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for granted me the pleasure of this early eGalley. Publishing Release Date scheduled for August 1, 2024.
June 1, 2024
When reading a book by Janice Thompson, my experience has always been consistent. I know her stories encompass family, friends and faith, all my favorites. This book is no exception; it perfectly fits that description, with some intrigue in the mix.
RayLyn Hadley used nearly all of her savings to buy her grandfather, “Papaw’s” beloved 1952 truck at an auction. Although it turned into a bidding war, she was happy to win “Tilly,” and all the precious memories that came with the old truck. Her former high school boyfriend, Mason, also at the auction and had bid for Tilly too, agreed to tow Tilly to her family farm in the morning. Although the truck was in a locked, fenced-in yard, Tilly was no longer there the next morning. RayLyn’s first thought was Mason had already picked up Tilly. Her next thought was did Mason steal Tilly? They had not seen each other in ten years, not since he left for college with her best girl-friend. RayLyn wasn’t even aware that he had moved back to town.
RayLyn, along with family and close friends, go on the hunt for Tilly, thinking of every possible person who might have taken Tilly, as well as figuring out who could have gotten inside the locked gate. Numerous suspects came to mind and although they checked them out, Tilly seemed to have completed disappeared in their small town.
As the search for Tilly was never far from RayLyn’s mind, she was also working long hours converting their family barn into an antique shop. Every suspicion of where Tilly could be proved to be a dead-end.
This was a heartwarming story of family and friends, who had their own issues and lives, and yet they reached out to help with the search for Tilly, and to prepare the barn for the grand opening of the antique store.
There is a large cast of characters in this delightful, sweet story. They are relatable and not easily forgotten.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
RayLyn Hadley used nearly all of her savings to buy her grandfather, “Papaw’s” beloved 1952 truck at an auction. Although it turned into a bidding war, she was happy to win “Tilly,” and all the precious memories that came with the old truck. Her former high school boyfriend, Mason, also at the auction and had bid for Tilly too, agreed to tow Tilly to her family farm in the morning. Although the truck was in a locked, fenced-in yard, Tilly was no longer there the next morning. RayLyn’s first thought was Mason had already picked up Tilly. Her next thought was did Mason steal Tilly? They had not seen each other in ten years, not since he left for college with her best girl-friend. RayLyn wasn’t even aware that he had moved back to town.
RayLyn, along with family and close friends, go on the hunt for Tilly, thinking of every possible person who might have taken Tilly, as well as figuring out who could have gotten inside the locked gate. Numerous suspects came to mind and although they checked them out, Tilly seemed to have completed disappeared in their small town.
As the search for Tilly was never far from RayLyn’s mind, she was also working long hours converting their family barn into an antique shop. Every suspicion of where Tilly could be proved to be a dead-end.
This was a heartwarming story of family and friends, who had their own issues and lives, and yet they reached out to help with the search for Tilly, and to prepare the barn for the grand opening of the antique store.
There is a large cast of characters in this delightful, sweet story. They are relatable and not easily forgotten.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 12, 2024
My impressions: When I first started this book it felt like it might be morphing from a cozy mystery to a romance – like it wasn’t sure of its identity but once I accepted this was more of a romance-mystery, I just settled in for the ride and discovered it was a well-balanced mix.
The characters in this book were very likable, other than the occasional bad apple who wasn’t supposed to be liked. My favorite character was Bessie Mae, main character RaeLyn’s great aunt. She was hilarious and sweet and I absolutely loved what a huge John Wayne fan she was since I am as well.
I loved how the author tied in Bessie Mae’s love of John Wayne by having her offer up quotes in stressful or crossroad moments in the book. Like:
“And you know what Duke would say...”
“A man’s gotta do what a man’s gotta do.”
Or,
“This is quite the conundrum,” Bessie Mae chimed in. “But you know what the Duke would’ve said.”
“What’s that?” Mom asked.
“Life s just a bowl of cherries, and you happen to be in the pits.”
I also loved how RaeLyn took Bessie Mae along on some of her sleuthing.
I was glad that the romance between RaeLyn and ...well, someone (I’ll keep that a secret until you read it) is very natural and sweet and doesn’t overshadow the mystery. It’s in the background and moves forward in a couple of chapters but not to the point of making this book a true romance book. I like a mix of romance and mystery but when the romance takes over a book, I find myself rolling my eyes and wondering where the mystery is already.
This one did take a bit to get to the mystery but once it did it was the main focus and the vehicle for the readers to meet all of RaeLyn’s friends and family including her mom, dad, three brothers, best friend and her mom’s best friend.
The subtitle says this is the first in the Little Red Truck Mysteries so I am already looking forward to more installments in this series.
The characters in this book were very likable, other than the occasional bad apple who wasn’t supposed to be liked. My favorite character was Bessie Mae, main character RaeLyn’s great aunt. She was hilarious and sweet and I absolutely loved what a huge John Wayne fan she was since I am as well.
I loved how the author tied in Bessie Mae’s love of John Wayne by having her offer up quotes in stressful or crossroad moments in the book. Like:
“And you know what Duke would say...”
“A man’s gotta do what a man’s gotta do.”
Or,
“This is quite the conundrum,” Bessie Mae chimed in. “But you know what the Duke would’ve said.”
“What’s that?” Mom asked.
“Life s just a bowl of cherries, and you happen to be in the pits.”
I also loved how RaeLyn took Bessie Mae along on some of her sleuthing.
I was glad that the romance between RaeLyn and ...well, someone (I’ll keep that a secret until you read it) is very natural and sweet and doesn’t overshadow the mystery. It’s in the background and moves forward in a couple of chapters but not to the point of making this book a true romance book. I like a mix of romance and mystery but when the romance takes over a book, I find myself rolling my eyes and wondering where the mystery is already.
This one did take a bit to get to the mystery but once it did it was the main focus and the vehicle for the readers to meet all of RaeLyn’s friends and family including her mom, dad, three brothers, best friend and her mom’s best friend.
The subtitle says this is the first in the Little Red Truck Mysteries so I am already looking forward to more installments in this series.
July 10, 2024
** “Sometimes life’s just not fair. But God is the one who will have the final say. That brings me some degree of peace when injustices happen.” **
Janice Thompson delivers another fun cozy mystery with “Tracking Tilly,” a story about never giving up and the power of family.
RaeLyn Hadley is excited she finally found her beloved PawPaw’s truck, Tilly, after it being gone for 10 years. But she’s devastated when, after winning it at auction, it goes missing before she can even claim it from the auction house.
As she tries to root through the various suspects, she is also reacquainted with her former crush Mason Fredericks, who left her years ago for her best friend.
Will RaeLyn and Mason be able to locate the missing Tilly, as well as solve some past family mysteries? Will she be able to get her family’s new antique business up and running in the meantime? And will they be able to work through their pasts and find love?
Thompson has created a lovely story filled with budding romance, a little mystery, sweet moments and a love for animals. Her characters are both delightful and unlikeable, creating great friction. She also fills “Tracking Tilly” with several great themes, like finding the ability to forge ahead even when there’s old wounds to overcome; creating a fresh start; God arranges our steps; we should learn from the past; and the power of family legacy.
Fans of cozy mysteries will love “Tracking Tilly,” which is due out Aug. 1.
Five stars out of five.
Barbour Fiction provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
Janice Thompson delivers another fun cozy mystery with “Tracking Tilly,” a story about never giving up and the power of family.
RaeLyn Hadley is excited she finally found her beloved PawPaw’s truck, Tilly, after it being gone for 10 years. But she’s devastated when, after winning it at auction, it goes missing before she can even claim it from the auction house.
As she tries to root through the various suspects, she is also reacquainted with her former crush Mason Fredericks, who left her years ago for her best friend.
Will RaeLyn and Mason be able to locate the missing Tilly, as well as solve some past family mysteries? Will she be able to get her family’s new antique business up and running in the meantime? And will they be able to work through their pasts and find love?
Thompson has created a lovely story filled with budding romance, a little mystery, sweet moments and a love for animals. Her characters are both delightful and unlikeable, creating great friction. She also fills “Tracking Tilly” with several great themes, like finding the ability to forge ahead even when there’s old wounds to overcome; creating a fresh start; God arranges our steps; we should learn from the past; and the power of family legacy.
Fans of cozy mysteries will love “Tracking Tilly,” which is due out Aug. 1.
Five stars out of five.
Barbour Fiction provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
August 8, 2024
PLEASE READ THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG: https://bookreadingtic.com/2024/08/07... AND PLEASE FOLLOW ME, THANK YOU!
My Little Red Truck….
RaeLyn Hadley has spent every penny she had to win a ferocious bidding war to get back her grandfather's ancient red truck, Tilly. Missing for many years, it was a fluke to find Tilly had re-surfaced, and was being auctioned. Now, RaeLyn, has been told Tilly was taken (stolen) from the auction house's parking lot.
Suspects abound, starting with the ones who bid against RaeLyn which include her old boyfriend, Mason. Recently returned to town, Mason, and her relationship ended on a sour note when he started dating her best friend--former best friend, that is.
Other possibilities include the richest guy in town, Clayton, who is disliked by almost everyone; the auctioneer’s ex-wife, Meredith; and Wyatt, an old man scorned by her family.
This is a serious mystery that will keep you on your toes while trying to figure it out. But the tale is full of fun, local characters, and Texas charm. Small town life, and faith round out this excellent, five-star story.
Tracking Tilly, a story which stands on its own, is book one in a new series. I can't wait for the next installment. This will tickle your funny bone, while giving your sleuthing skills a work-out. Fans of mystery, humor, and well-written tales will enjoy this book. Don't miss it!
Thank you, Barbour Books, for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own.
My Little Red Truck….
RaeLyn Hadley has spent every penny she had to win a ferocious bidding war to get back her grandfather's ancient red truck, Tilly. Missing for many years, it was a fluke to find Tilly had re-surfaced, and was being auctioned. Now, RaeLyn, has been told Tilly was taken (stolen) from the auction house's parking lot.
Suspects abound, starting with the ones who bid against RaeLyn which include her old boyfriend, Mason. Recently returned to town, Mason, and her relationship ended on a sour note when he started dating her best friend--former best friend, that is.
Other possibilities include the richest guy in town, Clayton, who is disliked by almost everyone; the auctioneer’s ex-wife, Meredith; and Wyatt, an old man scorned by her family.
This is a serious mystery that will keep you on your toes while trying to figure it out. But the tale is full of fun, local characters, and Texas charm. Small town life, and faith round out this excellent, five-star story.
Tracking Tilly, a story which stands on its own, is book one in a new series. I can't wait for the next installment. This will tickle your funny bone, while giving your sleuthing skills a work-out. Fans of mystery, humor, and well-written tales will enjoy this book. Don't miss it!
Thank you, Barbour Books, for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own.
September 9, 2024
What a fun cozy mystery that has a rather large item being the object of greed and envy. A beat up old red truck, which I know is quite valuable these days. And this particular truck is very valuable to the Hadley family and when they finally have it back, it disappears. But who would have taken it, and the bigger question is why? Is it due to just the monetary gain, or is that old truck hiding secrets?
Raelyn and her family are trying to save their ranch and keep it in their family and times are hard right now. So, Raelyn has decided to open an antique store on their property, selling their antiques that have been handed down through the generations. All in all, that is sad too, but they are keeping the most sentimental of the pieces. I like how the whole family is working towards saving the ranch so that future generations can call it home too.
Enter in a group of suspects, and Raelyn seems to be getting dirt on everybody. She especially doesn't trust her one time friend and crush Mason Fredericks. Could he be involved in the truck's theft and that is why he is always coming around? Or maybe, just maybe he could be coming around for Raelyn.
This was an enjoyable story filled with small town southern charm, laugh out loud moments, and very strong familial bonds of the Hadley family. What a great quirky cast they were.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and al views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Raelyn and her family are trying to save their ranch and keep it in their family and times are hard right now. So, Raelyn has decided to open an antique store on their property, selling their antiques that have been handed down through the generations. All in all, that is sad too, but they are keeping the most sentimental of the pieces. I like how the whole family is working towards saving the ranch so that future generations can call it home too.
Enter in a group of suspects, and Raelyn seems to be getting dirt on everybody. She especially doesn't trust her one time friend and crush Mason Fredericks. Could he be involved in the truck's theft and that is why he is always coming around? Or maybe, just maybe he could be coming around for Raelyn.
This was an enjoyable story filled with small town southern charm, laugh out loud moments, and very strong familial bonds of the Hadley family. What a great quirky cast they were.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review, and al views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
June 19, 2024
"Tracking Tilly by Janice Thompson is such a good book set deep in the heart of Texas. This book talks about old cars, antiques, Texas bluebells, family and friendship. There are definitely some heavy topics at times with fractured relationships but overall the book was very enjoyable trying to figure out which of the quirky townsfolk may have stolen "Tilly", an old red truck that belonged to the main character RaeLynn's Pawpaw, who passed away some time ago. The truck disappeared the morning after she won the auction to bring Tilly back to her family.
As RaeLynn and her best friend Tasha become amateur sleuths trying to figure out who stole Tilly. There is also a bit of romance in the book as well which helped to keep it a light read. I really liked that this is mystery about a stolen item, not the typical murder mystery full of danger. There are light faith themes and mentions of going to church but not overall heavy or in depth with faith themes. I would have liked more but still enjoyed the story. It has a very clean storyline as well.
It looks like this is the beginning of a new series and I look forward to seeing what the author does in the next books for this series. I've read other books by Janice Thompson and this one is definitely one of the best ones I've ready by her.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
As RaeLynn and her best friend Tasha become amateur sleuths trying to figure out who stole Tilly. There is also a bit of romance in the book as well which helped to keep it a light read. I really liked that this is mystery about a stolen item, not the typical murder mystery full of danger. There are light faith themes and mentions of going to church but not overall heavy or in depth with faith themes. I would have liked more but still enjoyed the story. It has a very clean storyline as well.
It looks like this is the beginning of a new series and I look forward to seeing what the author does in the next books for this series. I've read other books by Janice Thompson and this one is definitely one of the best ones I've ready by her.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 2, 2024
Janice Thompson's newest novel, Tracking Tilly, is not only a whodunit but also a whydunit!
RaeLyn Hadley embarks on a quest to bring her grandfather's classic truck, Tilly, back to her family. After winning the bid at an auction, Hadley is devastated to discover that Tilly vanishes before she can get her towed to a body shop.
This marks the exciting beginning of Thompson's new series, "The Little Red Truck Mysteries."
RaeLyn is determined to locate her grandfather's truck and chooses to investigate on her own, offering us a delightful peek into the Hadley family dynamics. Will her dream of an antique shop in her family's barn ever come to fruition?
Aunt Bessie Mae quickly became one of my favorite characters due to her charming quirks which were amusing and endearing. I often found myself wishing to be a part of the delightful family dinners she prepared.
The messages of faith in the story were portrayed through the actions of the Hadley family and their neighbors, which I appreciated. The emphasis on faith in the story was both inspiring and thought-provoking.
The book paints a vivid picture of the quaint town of Mabank, capturing the essence of Texas with its inviting warmth and appeal. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.
I received this book from Barbour Fiction through NetGalley. However, my review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
RaeLyn Hadley embarks on a quest to bring her grandfather's classic truck, Tilly, back to her family. After winning the bid at an auction, Hadley is devastated to discover that Tilly vanishes before she can get her towed to a body shop.
This marks the exciting beginning of Thompson's new series, "The Little Red Truck Mysteries."
RaeLyn is determined to locate her grandfather's truck and chooses to investigate on her own, offering us a delightful peek into the Hadley family dynamics. Will her dream of an antique shop in her family's barn ever come to fruition?
Aunt Bessie Mae quickly became one of my favorite characters due to her charming quirks which were amusing and endearing. I often found myself wishing to be a part of the delightful family dinners she prepared.
The messages of faith in the story were portrayed through the actions of the Hadley family and their neighbors, which I appreciated. The emphasis on faith in the story was both inspiring and thought-provoking.
The book paints a vivid picture of the quaint town of Mabank, capturing the essence of Texas with its inviting warmth and appeal. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.
I received this book from Barbour Fiction through NetGalley. However, my review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
August 19, 2024
About the Book:
Who Stole Tilly from the Auction Block?
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book one of a new cozy mystery series.
The Hadley family ranch is struggling, so RaeLyn, her parents, and brothers decide to turn the old barn into an antique store. The only thing missing to go with the marketing of the store is Grandpa’s old red truck, Tilly, that was sold several years ago. Now coming back up on the auction block, Tilly would need a lot of work, but RaeLyn is sure it will be worth it—if only she can beat out other bidders and find out who stole Tilly after the auction ends. Hadley finds herself in the role of amateur sleuth, and the outcome could make or break the new family venture.
My Review:
What a fun little read! I loved the nostalgia of the story. It was very down to earth and homey. I really enjoyed this story of Raelyn hunting down something that was so near and dear to her family. My dad and my husband are both avid classic car guys. They love it! I do too, to some extent.Raelyn's grandfather past away a few years ago and when she runs across his old truck, Tilly--she immediately wants her back.
Raelyn is n the hunt and her latest adventure takes her to some pretty interesting places and she meets a lot of unexpected people along the way. Perfect read for a blustery fall day.
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Who Stole Tilly from the Auction Block?
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book one of a new cozy mystery series.
The Hadley family ranch is struggling, so RaeLyn, her parents, and brothers decide to turn the old barn into an antique store. The only thing missing to go with the marketing of the store is Grandpa’s old red truck, Tilly, that was sold several years ago. Now coming back up on the auction block, Tilly would need a lot of work, but RaeLyn is sure it will be worth it—if only she can beat out other bidders and find out who stole Tilly after the auction ends. Hadley finds herself in the role of amateur sleuth, and the outcome could make or break the new family venture.
My Review:
What a fun little read! I loved the nostalgia of the story. It was very down to earth and homey. I really enjoyed this story of Raelyn hunting down something that was so near and dear to her family. My dad and my husband are both avid classic car guys. They love it! I do too, to some extent.Raelyn's grandfather past away a few years ago and when she runs across his old truck, Tilly--she immediately wants her back.
Raelyn is n the hunt and her latest adventure takes her to some pretty interesting places and she meets a lot of unexpected people along the way. Perfect read for a blustery fall day.
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
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