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Gemma Becker #1
Murder She Sang
A murdered opera singer, a cruise ship full of secrets, and a retired housekeeper dragged into the mess.
Hoping for a peaceful retirement after years of dedicated service, sixty-something Gemma Becker embarks on her first cruise. Too bad no one told her murder was on the itinerary.
When a despicable diva is found dead in her cabin, Gemma reluctantly teams up with the last person she ever expected to make friends with, Viv, a retired showgirl with enough charm and sass to fill the ocean.
With her furry first mate Buddy helping sniff out the clues, the unlikely duo set a course for justice…with gourmet dishes, hilarious antics, and bonding moments along the way.
But as they navigate through a crew of quirky characters , they realize everyone has secrets hidden below the surface.
The ship security officer isn’t the only person on board who wants the ladies to stop asking questions. When a threat turns deadly , Gemma and Viv are in dangerous waters.
As the cruise nears its final port, they'd better find the killer fast, or Gemma’s first cruise may be her last.
**Author Hazel Smith books can be read in any order and are free from cussing, graphic descriptions of violence, and bedroom activities. Bonus recipes included!
Hoping for a peaceful retirement after years of dedicated service, sixty-something Gemma Becker embarks on her first cruise. Too bad no one told her murder was on the itinerary.
When a despicable diva is found dead in her cabin, Gemma reluctantly teams up with the last person she ever expected to make friends with, Viv, a retired showgirl with enough charm and sass to fill the ocean.
With her furry first mate Buddy helping sniff out the clues, the unlikely duo set a course for justice…with gourmet dishes, hilarious antics, and bonding moments along the way.
But as they navigate through a crew of quirky characters , they realize everyone has secrets hidden below the surface.
The ship security officer isn’t the only person on board who wants the ladies to stop asking questions. When a threat turns deadly , Gemma and Viv are in dangerous waters.
As the cruise nears its final port, they'd better find the killer fast, or Gemma’s first cruise may be her last.
**Author Hazel Smith books can be read in any order and are free from cussing, graphic descriptions of violence, and bedroom activities. Bonus recipes included!
232 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 18, 2024
355 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
November 23, 2024
I really enjoyed this cozy read! Gemma and Viv made this whole story a 5 star for me. I think I know what I'll be doing when I retire;)
April 12, 2024
Silver sleuths take the high seas with their canine companions in this cozy murder mystery. Can two Unlikely friend on this Atlantic cruise find the right pitch to solve this Opera sings last song? Or will Gemma and Vivian exit stage right as well?
This was such a great read it gave me Murder She Wrote meets Rizzoli and Isles on the high seas vibes. It was fun, easy to read, and i literally laughed aloud. In moments Gemma and Vivian reminded me of Dorthy and Blanche from the Golden Girls trying to solve this case before grumpy ship head security guy. I really loved what the author did with this story and characters it didn’t feel like something I had read before. I thought it was so cool Hazel Smith had a pet cameo contest which was where Buddy came from. All the details and descriptions of the main characters, their furry companions and the ship were so great, I could actually picture everything as if I were watching a Hallmark movie. It was never boring or just about the whodunnit but about Gemma Beaker and her Cocker Tzu Buddy’s adventure on the Paradise princess to enjoy quiet, and relaxing retirement….. or so they thought until they meet Vivian and her chihuahua Fernando and try to solve the murder of the Opera singer headliner on their 7 day cruise from London to New York. Will a retired head housekeeper and retired Vegas showgirl find out how and who took out this ships song bird before they dock or will they be next?…. Can’t wait to read more of Hazel Smiths books, especially the next in Gemma Becker and Buddy’s cruise adventure.
This was such a great read it gave me Murder She Wrote meets Rizzoli and Isles on the high seas vibes. It was fun, easy to read, and i literally laughed aloud. In moments Gemma and Vivian reminded me of Dorthy and Blanche from the Golden Girls trying to solve this case before grumpy ship head security guy. I really loved what the author did with this story and characters it didn’t feel like something I had read before. I thought it was so cool Hazel Smith had a pet cameo contest which was where Buddy came from. All the details and descriptions of the main characters, their furry companions and the ship were so great, I could actually picture everything as if I were watching a Hallmark movie. It was never boring or just about the whodunnit but about Gemma Beaker and her Cocker Tzu Buddy’s adventure on the Paradise princess to enjoy quiet, and relaxing retirement….. or so they thought until they meet Vivian and her chihuahua Fernando and try to solve the murder of the Opera singer headliner on their 7 day cruise from London to New York. Will a retired head housekeeper and retired Vegas showgirl find out how and who took out this ships song bird before they dock or will they be next?…. Can’t wait to read more of Hazel Smiths books, especially the next in Gemma Becker and Buddy’s cruise adventure.
April 20, 2024
New beginnings
Gemma Becker has retired from the Hotel LaFontaine and embarked on her retirement. She’s decided to take a series of cruises curated for retired people and sets sail with her faithful canine companion. What she didn’t expect is to have her normally structured and routine life upended in more ways than one, and certainly didn’t see a murder onboard and a curious desire to solve the puzzle coming either. So with a new and vivacious friend Viv and their pups they search for clues and enjoyment in equal measure. Retirement was supposed to be relaxing who knew a murder investigation and an extroverted new friend were just the ticket.
I really enjoyed the ethics spin off to the Ivy Stone series. Mrs. Becker is an intriguing character prim and proper in that posh British way. Yet below the surface there’s so much more to her and I truly was fascinated finding out about her past and her life. Viv was her perfect foil and a wonderful addition. Full of life and always ready for an adventure the two make an unlikely but fabulously compatible pair. A wonderful beginning to a new series I’m excited to see what happens next for Gemma Becker!
I received an ARC from the author. This is my sincere and honest review.
Gemma Becker has retired from the Hotel LaFontaine and embarked on her retirement. She’s decided to take a series of cruises curated for retired people and sets sail with her faithful canine companion. What she didn’t expect is to have her normally structured and routine life upended in more ways than one, and certainly didn’t see a murder onboard and a curious desire to solve the puzzle coming either. So with a new and vivacious friend Viv and their pups they search for clues and enjoyment in equal measure. Retirement was supposed to be relaxing who knew a murder investigation and an extroverted new friend were just the ticket.
I really enjoyed the ethics spin off to the Ivy Stone series. Mrs. Becker is an intriguing character prim and proper in that posh British way. Yet below the surface there’s so much more to her and I truly was fascinated finding out about her past and her life. Viv was her perfect foil and a wonderful addition. Full of life and always ready for an adventure the two make an unlikely but fabulously compatible pair. A wonderful beginning to a new series I’m excited to see what happens next for Gemma Becker!
I received an ARC from the author. This is my sincere and honest review.
April 11, 2024
Gemma Becker retires as head housekeeper after forty years at a posh hotel and embarks on her first ocean cruise to America looking for peace and relaxation. Instead she finds a vibrant retired ex showgirl on board who bonds with her and becomes her sleuthing partner when the opera diva on board turns up dead the next morning after the evening performance they attended. Since Gemma was on the scene when she was found dead, she is naturally
curious to want to know what happened and her new friend Viv readily agrees to assist in finding out as well.
Together they compile a list of suspects, irritate the security chief on board with their own investigation, help out a couple of crew members and find themselves in the cross hairs of the murderer who leaves Gemma a threatening note and both of them a “gift” which Gemma realizes could be how the diva was murdered. As things get closer to the end of the
cruise, Gemma is captured and when things look like it’s all over for her, help comes in a most unexpected way!
I really enjoyed this first of a new series and highly recommend it! It’s a book of opposites attract. Gemma is a sedate, low-keyed individual whereas
Vivian is a vivacious outgoing engaging one. You’d think being just the exact opposites they wouldn’t get along but you’d be wrong. Gemma wanted a peaceful cruise and Vivian wanted to find love and instead they found friendship and solved a murder together! I’d say that worked out better than they had planned!
curious to want to know what happened and her new friend Viv readily agrees to assist in finding out as well.
Together they compile a list of suspects, irritate the security chief on board with their own investigation, help out a couple of crew members and find themselves in the cross hairs of the murderer who leaves Gemma a threatening note and both of them a “gift” which Gemma realizes could be how the diva was murdered. As things get closer to the end of the
cruise, Gemma is captured and when things look like it’s all over for her, help comes in a most unexpected way!
I really enjoyed this first of a new series and highly recommend it! It’s a book of opposites attract. Gemma is a sedate, low-keyed individual whereas
Vivian is a vivacious outgoing engaging one. You’d think being just the exact opposites they wouldn’t get along but you’d be wrong. Gemma wanted a peaceful cruise and Vivian wanted to find love and instead they found friendship and solved a murder together! I’d say that worked out better than they had planned!
April 13, 2024
Murder She Sang is a nice, light little read. I especially liked Gemma and Viv. Their characters are extremely likeable and easy to visualize. (I pictured Gemma as Angela Lansbury in Murder She Wrote.) This is the first book in the series and I hope that at some point they reconnect on another adventure in the future.
I received this as an ARC from the author. My opinions are my own.
I received this as an ARC from the author. My opinions are my own.
April 16, 2024
This is a spin off of Ivy Stone the maid mystery series. Gemma Becker retires from her head housekeeper position at a posh hotel. She decides to travel and goes on a cruise with her newly adopted dog Buddy. Gemma ends making an unexpected friendship with a fellow passenger. A nice cozy cruise ship mystery.
April 20, 2024
An entertaining cozy murder mystery with two lovable sleuths and a fine compliment of suspects. Some nice comedic touches blended into the investigation made me smile and the fast moving narrative meant it was all over too quickly. Looking forward to book 2
July 28, 2024
Delightful, well crafted mystery novel. Character development was excellent. Repeating their names at intervals throughout helped keep me oriented.
January 10, 2025
Loved these two ladies and their dogs
What a unique partnership. Gems and Big make. This was such a fun and delightful adventure. I loved the way their dogs took blood care of their owners.
What a unique partnership. Gems and Big make. This was such a fun and delightful adventure. I loved the way their dogs took blood care of their owners.
January 5, 2025
unlikely friends
What an unlikely pairing, quiet and boring vs flamboyant and loud. Their pets equally different. They come together to solve a murder and become besties.
What an unlikely pairing, quiet and boring vs flamboyant and loud. Their pets equally different. They come together to solve a murder and become besties.
April 19, 2024
murder at Sea
I was in awe at this great book from the early pages. So engaged in the world of embarkation of a cruise ship and the wonderful introduction and insight shared detail . The vivid characters sprung to life and I was quickly settled into the story…. Mrs Gemma Becker former Head housekeeper of Hotel LaFontaine retired , is off on a yearlong cruise if things go according to plan on her first trial week , a nonstop cruise to America from Southampton, England with Buddy her Cocker Tzu and her trusty box of Earl Grey. Thrilled she can journey with her beloved pet and her home comforts. Yes perhaps they may serve her preferred beverage on the Princess of Paradise a top notch liner of repute , but there’s nothing like being prepared that’s her motto. Prepared she wasn’t on meeting larger than life Vivian / Viv Carlisle , a former Star Singer with her Chihuahua Fernando , a total opposite personality…. When a diva of an opera star dies suddenly , there’s an unsettling feeling on the ship. Is it a case of accidental death? Murder? Suicide? With plenty of suspects on a quickly drawn up list, and no stop until New York , could the unaware passengers be in deep , dark , dangerous waters…. And who is to save them from a peril at sea ? Ship security? Pah!…. “So, what do you say, Gemma? Are you in? You and me, solving this mystery together?” And just like that, the game’s afoot and a strange friendship has started. Even Buddy and Fernando bark out their differences…“Just a couple of retirees making the most of this cruise life, right, Gemma?” .Brilliant writing Hazel Smith , superb characters , epic narratives with great humour. The descriptors are on point and give depth and realism to the storytelling. An overall Immersive, unputdownable reading experience. I look forward eagerly to the next Gemma Becker Mystery Cruise
I was in awe at this great book from the early pages. So engaged in the world of embarkation of a cruise ship and the wonderful introduction and insight shared detail . The vivid characters sprung to life and I was quickly settled into the story…. Mrs Gemma Becker former Head housekeeper of Hotel LaFontaine retired , is off on a yearlong cruise if things go according to plan on her first trial week , a nonstop cruise to America from Southampton, England with Buddy her Cocker Tzu and her trusty box of Earl Grey. Thrilled she can journey with her beloved pet and her home comforts. Yes perhaps they may serve her preferred beverage on the Princess of Paradise a top notch liner of repute , but there’s nothing like being prepared that’s her motto. Prepared she wasn’t on meeting larger than life Vivian / Viv Carlisle , a former Star Singer with her Chihuahua Fernando , a total opposite personality…. When a diva of an opera star dies suddenly , there’s an unsettling feeling on the ship. Is it a case of accidental death? Murder? Suicide? With plenty of suspects on a quickly drawn up list, and no stop until New York , could the unaware passengers be in deep , dark , dangerous waters…. And who is to save them from a peril at sea ? Ship security? Pah!…. “So, what do you say, Gemma? Are you in? You and me, solving this mystery together?” And just like that, the game’s afoot and a strange friendship has started. Even Buddy and Fernando bark out their differences…“Just a couple of retirees making the most of this cruise life, right, Gemma?” .Brilliant writing Hazel Smith , superb characters , epic narratives with great humour. The descriptors are on point and give depth and realism to the storytelling. An overall Immersive, unputdownable reading experience. I look forward eagerly to the next Gemma Becker Mystery Cruise
December 26, 2024
Catty, mean , rude and practically unreadable.
April 22, 2024
This is the first book in this series although we first met Gemma Becker in the Maid Ivy series. Now Gemma is retired and off to experience her own adventures. She goes on a cruise with her canine pal, Buddy and finds a friend in the unlikely Viv, a former showgirl who’s as different from Gemma as can be. But they mesh together well and work to solve a mystery onboard the ship.
It was nice to see a more relatable side to Gemma. As Ms Becker of the Hotel Fontaine, she was a bit intimidating but here we even saw her have a bit of fun. I love the character of Viv. She’s a hoot. She’s outlandish but brings out the lighter side of Gemma. They’re both dog moms too and their pals Buddy and Fernando also became friends in this book. Although Fernando is the much better dressed of the too. lol.
This book was a fun, light read and I really enjoyed it. If you like this series, and haven’t read the Maid Ivy series, I recommend that one also.
I received this book as a free ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was nice to see a more relatable side to Gemma. As Ms Becker of the Hotel Fontaine, she was a bit intimidating but here we even saw her have a bit of fun. I love the character of Viv. She’s a hoot. She’s outlandish but brings out the lighter side of Gemma. They’re both dog moms too and their pals Buddy and Fernando also became friends in this book. Although Fernando is the much better dressed of the too. lol.
This book was a fun, light read and I really enjoyed it. If you like this series, and haven’t read the Maid Ivy series, I recommend that one also.
I received this book as a free ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 19, 2024
This is a new series for Hazel Smith but it’s a spin off of A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery Series. Gemma Becket, the former head housekeeper of a luxurious hotel in London has retired and is taking her first vacation in years. Her goal is to relax on a cruise ship on its way to New York along with her dog Buddy. On the ship she meets Vivian, a former Vegas showgirl and her fancy dog Ferdinand.
When a Diva opera singer with plenty of talent but disliked by everyone around her murdered, it's up to the unlikely new friends to solve the mystery, including how the diva was killed. There are so many possible suspects and i was quite surprised when the killer was revealed.
This was a delightful mystery reminiscent of an Agatha Christie caper, especially since Gemma reminds me of Miss Marple. i really enjoyed reading a mystery with senior sleuths. i certainly look forward to reading more about Gemma and Viv and their canine partners.
i was fortune to receive an advanced copy.
When a Diva opera singer with plenty of talent but disliked by everyone around her murdered, it's up to the unlikely new friends to solve the mystery, including how the diva was killed. There are so many possible suspects and i was quite surprised when the killer was revealed.
This was a delightful mystery reminiscent of an Agatha Christie caper, especially since Gemma reminds me of Miss Marple. i really enjoyed reading a mystery with senior sleuths. i certainly look forward to reading more about Gemma and Viv and their canine partners.
i was fortune to receive an advanced copy.
April 9, 2024
After four decades as head housekeeper at London’s posh Hotel LaFontaine, 64-year-old Gemma Becker is going on her first cruise on The Princess of Paradise, hoping for a quiet restful start to her retirement. But that’s not exactly what she finds! She meets Meg, a worker who is upset after running, literally, into the rude opera diva Valentina DeLucca, who threatens to have Meg fired! She and her Cocker Tzu, Buddy, make friends with Viv Westwood and her Chihuahua, Fernando. When Meg is sent to the divas cabin for her wake-up call and discovers her dead, Gemma responds to her screams. Viv decides that she and Gemma need to investigate! A fun cruise ship cozy mystery that will definitely keep you entertained! I received a free copy of this book from the author and write this review voluntarily.
April 23, 2024
Murder She Sang is full of hilarious adventures that will leave you wanting more! Gemma has just retired from Hotel LaFontaine and adopted a dog named Buddy. Gemma decided they will take some time for themselves and books them on a cruise full of quirky characters you will come to love: a diva and a showgirl lead this cast. Not long into her adventure, she is notified there’s been a death. What could she do? Of course, our sleuthing friend jumps right in to solve the case with the help of an unexpected new best friend! Smith’s story will pull you right in and keep you up until you finish the book! Be ready for plot twists and hilarious adventures to ensue! I look forward to the next book in what is certain to be a really fun series! I received an ARC of this book. The opinions here are my own.
April 25, 2024
When Gemma decides to retire as Head Housekeeper at Hotel LaFontaine and to sail the world with her faithful four-legged companion, Buddy, she only imagined that she would have lots of relaxation. Imagine her surprise when at the start of her cruise the diva from an opera company performing on the ship gets murdered. Somehow she gets pulled into the investigation from someone so totally different from her - a retired Las Vegas showgirl. Viv is vivacious, while Gemma is a very reserved lady. Somehow the two become best of friends while they try to figure out who the murderer is before they reach New York and the murderer could very well get away with it. Lots of humor, suspense as they try to stay out of harms way, all with the help of Buddy and Viv’s four-legged companion, Fernando. Can’t wait to see what further adventures Gemma gets into on her future cruises!
May 24, 2024
Life After 60 And Retirement?
I only recently discovered the author Hazel Smith and I am happy I did. Gemma Becker has retired after working for more than 4 decades as the head of housekeeping for the most prestigious and luxurious hotel in London. Work had been her entire life and has decided to spend a year cruising and resting. When Gems and her adopted pet Buddy, board the ship for the first cruise she feels out of her comfort zone and when she meets retired Vegas show girl Viv she isn't anymore at ease. These two 60 something join forces and along with their dogs, Buddy and Fernando, they will have you laughing one minute and hoping they survive the next. (Two women looking for something in their lives and don't know what find what they least expected it, FRIENDSHIP!)
I only recently discovered the author Hazel Smith and I am happy I did. Gemma Becker has retired after working for more than 4 decades as the head of housekeeping for the most prestigious and luxurious hotel in London. Work had been her entire life and has decided to spend a year cruising and resting. When Gems and her adopted pet Buddy, board the ship for the first cruise she feels out of her comfort zone and when she meets retired Vegas show girl Viv she isn't anymore at ease. These two 60 something join forces and along with their dogs, Buddy and Fernando, they will have you laughing one minute and hoping they survive the next. (Two women looking for something in their lives and don't know what find what they least expected it, FRIENDSHIP!)
April 13, 2024
It was my pleasure to receive an early copy to enjoy.
Emma has planned a relaxing cruise for her retirement. Preboarding she meets a flamboyant character Viv is boisterous and lively compared to Emma’s ways as a former housekeeper for many years.
Viv suggests they attend dinner and see the opera singer. Great evening until the singer is murdered.
Emma is a keen observer and notices things others miss and wants to solve the murder. While enjoying new activities aboard the ship the newly formed friendship begins making a list of possible suspects.
A must read for every super sleuth out there. Many secrets abound.
Friendships, laughter and amateur detectives will make the pages fly one by one.
Emma has planned a relaxing cruise for her retirement. Preboarding she meets a flamboyant character Viv is boisterous and lively compared to Emma’s ways as a former housekeeper for many years.
Viv suggests they attend dinner and see the opera singer. Great evening until the singer is murdered.
Emma is a keen observer and notices things others miss and wants to solve the murder. While enjoying new activities aboard the ship the newly formed friendship begins making a list of possible suspects.
A must read for every super sleuth out there. Many secrets abound.
Friendships, laughter and amateur detectives will make the pages fly one by one.
April 14, 2024
Gemma Becker recently retired from her job as head of housekeeping at a prestigious hotel in England. She decides to start her retirement by taking a cruise and if it turns out well she plans on taking many more. Upon landing on deck she has the chance to see Valentina DeLuca, an opera singer, as she rudely walks by calling out insults. When she later encounters Meg, a ship employee, she comforts her after hearing about her encounter with the woman. When Valentina is later found dead, Gemma can't help but investigate since her new friend, Meg, is a suspect. With the help of her dog, Buddy, and another new friend Viv and her dog Fernando, they sniff out the clues that will hopefully lead to the killer.
I really enjoyed this book and hearing about the life on a cruise ship.
I really enjoyed this book and hearing about the life on a cruise ship.
April 16, 2024
Delightful read with a cuppa!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Murder She Sang develops Gemma Becker's character from a strict, no nonsense supervisor recently retired in the Maid Ivy Series, also by Hazel Smith, into a proper 'lady' of a certain age who decides to broaden her horizons by travelling abroad by cruise ship. This is a story of unexpected friendship, a clarity of the past, and a rebirth in Gemma's life. These storylines on their own are enthralling but we've also got a murder!
There is a plethora of suspects to investigate and all have a motive with varying levels of ill will towards the victim so it's tough to pick the culprit. This makes the mystery more intense! Loved the book and look forward to more in the series!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Murder She Sang develops Gemma Becker's character from a strict, no nonsense supervisor recently retired in the Maid Ivy Series, also by Hazel Smith, into a proper 'lady' of a certain age who decides to broaden her horizons by travelling abroad by cruise ship. This is a story of unexpected friendship, a clarity of the past, and a rebirth in Gemma's life. These storylines on their own are enthralling but we've also got a murder!
There is a plethora of suspects to investigate and all have a motive with varying levels of ill will towards the victim so it's tough to pick the culprit. This makes the mystery more intense! Loved the book and look forward to more in the series!
April 19, 2024
Gemma Becker used to work as a housekeeper and now having retired she wants a bit of pampering herself.
She goes on her first ever cruise to relax along with her dog Buddy.
But instead she finds murder, danger, excitement and even a new friend in the form of a vivacious, former blonde bombshell showgirl, Viv and her dog companion Fernando .
When an on board opera diva, Valentina DeLuca dies in mysterious circumstances the duo and their canines race to find the killer, before they can strike again...
But with a ship full of suspects who disliked Valentina this task won't be easy.
I love ship board novels so this was right up my street.
A fun, quirky cosy with a Marple-esque protagonist.
Great read and hope there are more adventures to come.
She goes on her first ever cruise to relax along with her dog Buddy.
But instead she finds murder, danger, excitement and even a new friend in the form of a vivacious, former blonde bombshell showgirl, Viv and her dog companion Fernando .
When an on board opera diva, Valentina DeLuca dies in mysterious circumstances the duo and their canines race to find the killer, before they can strike again...
But with a ship full of suspects who disliked Valentina this task won't be easy.
I love ship board novels so this was right up my street.
A fun, quirky cosy with a Marple-esque protagonist.
Great read and hope there are more adventures to come.
April 24, 2024
I enjoy reading this story, which I hope is the first of the serie. It is page turning book with authentic characters. This mystery is engaging and suspenseful in which one of the protagonists is Gemma Becker who is a side character in "A maid Ivy cozy mystery series". When she retired she went for a cruise on which she met Viv, her total opposition. After first night, star of cruise opera, was found dead and it was considered as a murder. Gemma and Viv decided to look for culprit. But as time passed they had more questions than answers, and weren't sure if they could find the murderer before the end of the cruise. They didn't give up and a culprit was afraid that they might solve this mystery and decided to kill them. If you want to know who will succeed, you should read this book.
April 11, 2024
What a great opening for a new series. Gemma is such a warm and kind character, and you are right away excited for her retirement and future. She is the best representation of honest housekeeping for a major hotel. On the other hand, Viv is colorful, savvy and outgoing character, willing to jump into experiences and new friends with both feet. Together, this new relationship proves an exciting and refreshing team. The banter and comments to each other stress the differences and commonalities in their characters, and secures fast friendship and teamwork. I loved reading this book, and getting to know these two amazing ladies….
April 17, 2024
Gemma Becker has retired after many years as chief of housekeeping in a large hotel in London. She and her four-legged friend Buddy embark on her first cruise that is going to New York.
Gemma meets Viv who is an ex-showgirl and her Chihuahua Fernando.
After an opera diva is discovered dead in her stateroom Gemma and Viv team up to try to solve the mystery. Was it natural causes or is something more sinister in play?
This is a fun easy to read cozy mystery set on board a cruise ship.
I hope there are more books to come in this series.
I received a free copy of this book and freely and honestly leave my review.
Gemma meets Viv who is an ex-showgirl and her Chihuahua Fernando.
After an opera diva is discovered dead in her stateroom Gemma and Viv team up to try to solve the mystery. Was it natural causes or is something more sinister in play?
This is a fun easy to read cozy mystery set on board a cruise ship.
I hope there are more books to come in this series.
I received a free copy of this book and freely and honestly leave my review.
April 18, 2024
This was a fun book. It had me laughing all the way through it until the end. It was a page turner and the suspense was amazing. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t even put it down. It was addicted. Mrs. Becker and Gemma had to solve a case on the cruise ship. But who was killed on this ship could they find the culprit in time before the end of the trip is over or when they leave the dock port? And will never find out who the culprit was? It is a surprise? 😮 I definitely enjoyed this story. I definitely recommend this book to anyone and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones
April 18, 2024
I was so happy to see that the Hotel LaFontaine’s former head maid, Gemma Becker, is off on a new adventure of her own. The fact that this all takes place on the Princess of Paradise cruise ship makes it even more fun. There are colorful and varied characters that come alive through their well written conversations and actions. And since all cozy mysteries must include a murder, this one does not disappoint. Gemma really comes out of her well disciplined shell after years of order and formality at the hotel. This book truly kept me guessing until the end. I can't wait for the next installment of this new series!
April 20, 2024
Hazel Smith writes such fun cozies. When Gemma left her beloved Hotel LaFontaine after many years of service, she decided to possibly take a year to cruise around and relax. Relax? Murder soon ensues to take her mind off of any thoughts of relaxation. With her new aquaintance, a retired Vegas showgirl, and their furry companions, this elderly duo go about the ship hunting up clues. Gemma and Vi remind me a bit of an older Cagney and Lacey. It was a delightful read and perhaps we shall see move of this pair in future books.
I received a free reader's copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my opinion of the tale.
I received a free reader's copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my opinion of the tale.
April 24, 2024
This first in a new series, cosy, cruise mystery is slower paced to reflect English lady Gemma Becker’s retirement plans and her physical capabilities yet in between there are quick drama, distresses and deductions going on!
Enjoyed the contrasts of personalities between Gemma and her new American friend, Vivian, and the changing interactions between their pooches brought plenty of smiles. Even though there is murder, it felt to be a clean, light read and this reader was still guessing who the culprit was before they were revealed!
Recommended!
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy from the author and this is my own opinion given voluntarily.
Enjoyed the contrasts of personalities between Gemma and her new American friend, Vivian, and the changing interactions between their pooches brought plenty of smiles. Even though there is murder, it felt to be a clean, light read and this reader was still guessing who the culprit was before they were revealed!
Recommended!
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy from the author and this is my own opinion given voluntarily.
April 26, 2024
Oh my gosh, if Ivy would’ve seen her former boss enjoying cruise life, she’d first be a little shocked since Mrs. B was always so proper. But I know she’d be over the moon for Gemma to finally have some relaxation in her life and some cruise fun. That is, when Gemma and new pal Viv weren’t chasing a killer, lol. Viv was a real hoot! I just love her character so much.
I really hope Gemma changes her mind about a next destination so they can end up on the same next cruise together! (Viv needs to convince her to eat some real cruise food that’s not part of the salad bar lol.) Gemma’s toast at the end was awesome! What a fun tale of two unlikely besties in the making!
I really hope Gemma changes her mind about a next destination so they can end up on the same next cruise together! (Viv needs to convince her to eat some real cruise food that’s not part of the salad bar lol.) Gemma’s toast at the end was awesome! What a fun tale of two unlikely besties in the making!
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