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Murder, She Sold
A no-nonsense realtor finds a dead body, a missing father and love with help from a small-town police officer in this charming mystery romance.
Realtor Vivian Bexley left home ten years ago, and she’d happily stay away. But when her father’s theatrics escalate to claiming life-or-death consequences if he doesn’t sell his house in the rolling hills of Darlington, California’s wine country, Vivian can’t help but get sucked back in. Weighed down with an extra-large serving of parental guilt, she begrudgingly books a flight—a quick trip, in and out.
Except when she arrives, there’s a dead body in the foyer, an annoyingly handsome officer on the lawn, and…her father is missing.
Plans derailed, Vivian tries to fix the mess her father left behind, but nothing in Darlington is as it seems—especially not Officer Chris Gomez, the do-gooder whose heated stares make it clear that he can’t possibly be as sweet as he appears.
With threats looming and a plane to catch, Vivian can’t risk her neck—or her heart—to solve every mystery. Can she?
Realtor Vivian Bexley left home ten years ago, and she’d happily stay away. But when her father’s theatrics escalate to claiming life-or-death consequences if he doesn’t sell his house in the rolling hills of Darlington, California’s wine country, Vivian can’t help but get sucked back in. Weighed down with an extra-large serving of parental guilt, she begrudgingly books a flight—a quick trip, in and out.
Except when she arrives, there’s a dead body in the foyer, an annoyingly handsome officer on the lawn, and…her father is missing.
Plans derailed, Vivian tries to fix the mess her father left behind, but nothing in Darlington is as it seems—especially not Officer Chris Gomez, the do-gooder whose heated stares make it clear that he can’t possibly be as sweet as he appears.
With threats looming and a plane to catch, Vivian can’t risk her neck—or her heart—to solve every mystery. Can she?
436 pages, Paperback
Published June 25, 2024
26 people are currently reading
4905 people want to read
About the author
Ray Riley
1 book65 followersAttorney turned author, Ray Riley writes mystery romance and believes strongly in the trifecta of an open door, a cozy murder and a hero who falls first.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews
July 3, 2024
This book was a three star for me for a few reasons. I didn’t realize it was a debut- so bravo on taking that step! It was 100% a slow burn which I can handle, but I did find myself getting a little bored with the overall story and romance aspect of it. I thought there would be more suspense. I felt like it was lingering and would get picked up throughout but less that I thought worked. There was a lot of potential here which is why I went with the 3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️. I liked both of the characters. I got a tadbit irritated with Vivian and how much she was fighting her attraction to Chris. I mean damn girl give it up LOL. At the same time I appreciated how much this author went into her trauma and mental health challenges from having an emotional abusive father. Reading that- I would recommend checking out the trigger warnings before diving in this one.
Vivian has her life all planned out. Her mom will retire. She will take over their business, and all will be well. That is until she gets an SOS from her dad and with no other choice flies back home to help him. Only to find him gone and a dead body in his house. Now she has found herself in the middle of an FBI sting operation with accusations against her father of being involved in theft and other things. Alongside that, her grandma is playing matchmaker with her and Chris Gomez- a cop who she has run into a few times. A cop who she is now fantasizing about. A cop who seems determined to start something with her even knowing she is leaving. But she is hesitant to lower her walls after all her father has put her through. He has made her question what love really is. Will she be able to lower her walls to see what true love can feel like? Love without rules or conditions? Or will it be too late with her return flight to Dallas coming up?
Overall, I thought this was a little longer than it needed to be. I liked the spicy scenes. I liked the fact that Chris fell first and MAN did he do his damndest to get Vivian there. I liked his romantics gestures and how he worshipped her like she deserved. I also liked the breadcrumbs about Tobias and Tilly- wondering if they will be next? I might be intrigued enough to find out.
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Ray for a copy of this book one exchange for an honest review!
Vivian has her life all planned out. Her mom will retire. She will take over their business, and all will be well. That is until she gets an SOS from her dad and with no other choice flies back home to help him. Only to find him gone and a dead body in his house. Now she has found herself in the middle of an FBI sting operation with accusations against her father of being involved in theft and other things. Alongside that, her grandma is playing matchmaker with her and Chris Gomez- a cop who she has run into a few times. A cop who she is now fantasizing about. A cop who seems determined to start something with her even knowing she is leaving. But she is hesitant to lower her walls after all her father has put her through. He has made her question what love really is. Will she be able to lower her walls to see what true love can feel like? Love without rules or conditions? Or will it be too late with her return flight to Dallas coming up?
Overall, I thought this was a little longer than it needed to be. I liked the spicy scenes. I liked the fact that Chris fell first and MAN did he do his damndest to get Vivian there. I liked his romantics gestures and how he worshipped her like she deserved. I also liked the breadcrumbs about Tobias and Tilly- wondering if they will be next? I might be intrigued enough to find out.
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Ray for a copy of this book one exchange for an honest review!
June 25, 2024
I love this meet - cute cozy romantic mystery in a small town setting that had meddling grandmothers and mothers, lots of LOL moments, a biker gang and so much more.
The mystery elements helped develop our FMC Vivian in a lot of ways with finding her voice, pushing her to walk into love rather than away from it, and reconnecting with her family.
The way Vivian and Chris meet for the first time is one of the best interactions I’ve read in a long time. It was hilarious, and to somehow slip in another similar encounter later on in the book was priceless.
The murder piece in this romantic suspense was predictable But although the plot was around finding out who did it, Chris and Vivians romance was the focal point overall! A funny and witty romance with elements of murder, bad biker boys and nosy neighbors created the perfect small town delight!
Thank you Love Notes PR for this ARC!
The mystery elements helped develop our FMC Vivian in a lot of ways with finding her voice, pushing her to walk into love rather than away from it, and reconnecting with her family.
The way Vivian and Chris meet for the first time is one of the best interactions I’ve read in a long time. It was hilarious, and to somehow slip in another similar encounter later on in the book was priceless.
The murder piece in this romantic suspense was predictable But although the plot was around finding out who did it, Chris and Vivians romance was the focal point overall! A funny and witty romance with elements of murder, bad biker boys and nosy neighbors created the perfect small town delight!
Thank you Love Notes PR for this ARC!
June 16, 2024
*3.5 rounded to 4 stars
~Chris & Vivian~ ️ ️ ️
Tropes
~Romantic suspense
~Police officer MMC x Relator FMC
~Black cat x golden retriever
~Mental health rep*
~Small town setting
When semi-estranged Vivian's father asks to quickly return home with no further explanation, she does. She shows up to his house, but he isn't there. As she has to break into her own family home, she doesn't expect a neighbor to call the town's hottie cop, Chris,...or a dead body. As Vivian decides to stay in town to see how the criminal investigation goes, but also waiting for her father to return, she ends up spending a lot of time with Chris. Since their families are also good friends, the more time they spend together, the more Vivian fears that she might be falling for him. Murder and love in a small town can't end up that badly...right?
Overall, I did enjoy this read! I signed up for the ARC right away, when I saw the tropes; you can never go wrong with a romantic suspense. While the murder plot was a little predictable, I still enjoyed reading and wanted to see it through to the end. I also thought it was a good balance between the romance and mystery storylines.
Personally, I struggle reading third person POV books (don't ask, I have no idea why) so I usually prefer my books in first person. Since this book was in third person, it took me a little longer than usual to read. If it was in first person and dual POV, I think it might have been a higher rating--but that is just my own preference! I would still recommend this to someone who enjoys this genre ◡̈
*Trigger warning: This book talks about a (mostly previous) eating disorder. Please read with care ♡
~Chris & Vivian~ ️ ️ ️
Tropes
~Romantic suspense
~Police officer MMC x Relator FMC
~Black cat x golden retriever
~Mental health rep*
~Small town setting
When semi-estranged Vivian's father asks to quickly return home with no further explanation, she does. She shows up to his house, but he isn't there. As she has to break into her own family home, she doesn't expect a neighbor to call the town's hottie cop, Chris,...or a dead body. As Vivian decides to stay in town to see how the criminal investigation goes, but also waiting for her father to return, she ends up spending a lot of time with Chris. Since their families are also good friends, the more time they spend together, the more Vivian fears that she might be falling for him. Murder and love in a small town can't end up that badly...right?
Overall, I did enjoy this read! I signed up for the ARC right away, when I saw the tropes; you can never go wrong with a romantic suspense. While the murder plot was a little predictable, I still enjoyed reading and wanted to see it through to the end. I also thought it was a good balance between the romance and mystery storylines.
Personally, I struggle reading third person POV books (don't ask, I have no idea why) so I usually prefer my books in first person. Since this book was in third person, it took me a little longer than usual to read. If it was in first person and dual POV, I think it might have been a higher rating--but that is just my own preference! I would still recommend this to someone who enjoys this genre ◡̈
*Trigger warning: This book talks about a (mostly previous) eating disorder. Please read with care ♡
July 2, 2024
Okay this was so cute and fun!! Like a hallmark movies and mysteries movie but they actually fuck and wowee what a win for us all. The book beautifully handles mental health issues and gives so many incredible moments of gentle love. Chris is so so gentle with Vivian and Vivian is so careful with her love. The meddling family is so cute, the small town is adorable and the insanity of it having a motorcycle gang and vineyard is perfect. Actually cannot wait for Tilley and Tobias. Whatever is happening between them has got to be juicy and I ready for it!
July 7, 2024
An incredible debut! I love me a suspense romance, and this one was everything. I never guess who the suspect is accurately, ever.
Highly recommend this cozy murder mystery!
Highly recommend this cozy murder mystery!
June 27, 2024
Set in small town Darlington, realtor Vivian Bexley arrives expecting to help sell her fathers home…except there's a dead body in the foyer, a handsome officer on the lawn, and her father is missing.
Murder, She Sold by @rayrileywrites is now live on Amazon and KindleUnlimited!!
I was hooked from the very beginning and absolutely devoured this read. From the cinnamon roll hero Chris, to the quirky side characters, to Vivian’s character arc, I loved everything about this debut novel! Chris and Vivian had incredible banter and undeniable chemistry from the start, and while it did feel a little like he was a little too good to be true at some points I loved that he never failed to show up for her and continued to prove that she was worthy of being loved.
Tropes:
💌 Murder Mystery
💌 Opposites Attract
💌 He Falls First
💌 Small Town
#lovenotespr #murdershesold #rayriley #authorrayriley #books #bookrecommendations #bookrecs #reader #newbooks #romance #romancebooks #romancereads #bookish #bookstagram #romanceauthor #murdermystery #oppositesattract #goldenretrievermmc #bossladyfmc #hefallsfirst #smalltown #familyhealing
Murder, She Sold by @rayrileywrites is now live on Amazon and KindleUnlimited!!
I was hooked from the very beginning and absolutely devoured this read. From the cinnamon roll hero Chris, to the quirky side characters, to Vivian’s character arc, I loved everything about this debut novel! Chris and Vivian had incredible banter and undeniable chemistry from the start, and while it did feel a little like he was a little too good to be true at some points I loved that he never failed to show up for her and continued to prove that she was worthy of being loved.
Tropes:
💌 Murder Mystery
💌 Opposites Attract
💌 He Falls First
💌 Small Town
#lovenotespr #murdershesold #rayriley #authorrayriley #books #bookrecommendations #bookrecs #reader #newbooks #romance #romancebooks #romancereads #bookish #bookstagram #romanceauthor #murdermystery #oppositesattract #goldenretrievermmc #bossladyfmc #hefallsfirst #smalltown #familyhealing
June 25, 2024
"But love isn't perfect, Vivian. It's a hundred imperfect moments, held together by a few perfect ones. But love still exists in those imperfect moments,”…
yes, ma’am! i am lovestruck! with ray and her debut novel! i want to drown in her book(s), please and thank you. romance reader, you desperately NEED this book. preorder today!
ps. championing for tilley and tobias. bad boy + mother hen. enemies to lovers, bb.
🗝️THINGS AND STUFF🗝️
-small town in Darlington, CA
-vineyards & farms
-she’s a realtor & he’s an officer
-mystery 🔎 and ✨danger✨ and an unalive body 🔪
-the BEST meet cute
-norman 🐑
-wine club ft the local motorcycle gang
-family dynamics (read: maternal meddling & daddy issues)
-he falls first (he’s also a romantic)
-when you know you know
-margarita fun
-his mary poppins emergency totes 🥹🤭
-#IsThisAKissingBook: open door. "I apologize, Vivian.." …"For wanting to kiss you, every time I see you." yes, chris.
BIG thanks to ray riley for the early arc!
yes, ma’am! i am lovestruck! with ray and her debut novel! i want to drown in her book(s), please and thank you. romance reader, you desperately NEED this book. preorder today!
ps. championing for tilley and tobias. bad boy + mother hen. enemies to lovers, bb.
🗝️THINGS AND STUFF🗝️
-small town in Darlington, CA
-vineyards & farms
-she’s a realtor & he’s an officer
-mystery 🔎 and ✨danger✨ and an unalive body 🔪
-the BEST meet cute
-norman 🐑
-wine club ft the local motorcycle gang
-family dynamics (read: maternal meddling & daddy issues)
-he falls first (he’s also a romantic)
-when you know you know
-margarita fun
-his mary poppins emergency totes 🥹🤭
-#IsThisAKissingBook: open door. "I apologize, Vivian.." …"For wanting to kiss you, every time I see you." yes, chris.
BIG thanks to ray riley for the early arc!
June 25, 2024
4.5 stars
I'm still in shock that this is a debut! Ray Riley has created such a visceral world in this book, it almost played out like a movie in my mind - I've never had that happen before.
Murder, She Sold centres around Vivian Bexley, a real estate agent returning to her hometown to help her dad with a 'life or death' crisis. She turns up to his empty house and tries to gain access via the window, but gets stuck. Officer Chris Gomez arrives after getting a call about an intruder - this was such a sexy meet cute.
Upon freeing Vivian from the window, they enter the house and find a dead body in the foyer.
I won't say anymore than that, but just want to say how much I enjoyed this book. Chris was the king of clear communication, loving openly and honestly and holding space for Vivian to move on from the issues raised during the murder investigation.
Chris has the key to my heart bless him.
Murder, She Sold is out now!
My edit will be up on Instagram later.
ARC received via Ray Riley and Love Notes PR.
I'm still in shock that this is a debut! Ray Riley has created such a visceral world in this book, it almost played out like a movie in my mind - I've never had that happen before.
Murder, She Sold centres around Vivian Bexley, a real estate agent returning to her hometown to help her dad with a 'life or death' crisis. She turns up to his empty house and tries to gain access via the window, but gets stuck. Officer Chris Gomez arrives after getting a call about an intruder - this was such a sexy meet cute.
Upon freeing Vivian from the window, they enter the house and find a dead body in the foyer.
I won't say anymore than that, but just want to say how much I enjoyed this book. Chris was the king of clear communication, loving openly and honestly and holding space for Vivian to move on from the issues raised during the murder investigation.
Chris has the key to my heart bless him.
Murder, She Sold is out now!
My edit will be up on Instagram later.
ARC received via Ray Riley and Love Notes PR.
July 1, 2024
I was sent this book as an ARC and I was so happy I signed up for this one. This was so good. I loved the characters so much. Chris and Vivian are endgame and deserve all the happiness!
The authors writing style is so easy to read and flows so well. There was not one part in this book I struggled to read or got bored with. I will defo be checking in for any other books being released by this author. 100% recommend checking out!!
The authors writing style is so easy to read and flows so well. There was not one part in this book I struggled to read or got bored with. I will defo be checking in for any other books being released by this author. 100% recommend checking out!!
June 28, 2024
After leaving her hometown a decade ago, Vivian Bexley returns to Darlington, CA when her father calls her urgently to help him sell his house. But when she arrives he’s missing and there’s a dead body in the foyer.
Ray Riley’s debut novel is fun and so well written. With an entertaining plot, meddlesome characters, a matchmaking grandma/mom duo, a sweet MMC, and a bit of suspense; this cozy murder mystery romance will be the perfect addition to your summer TBR.
Chris and Vivian will have you giggling from the start with their hilarious meet cute, instant chemistry, and flirty banter.
I had such a good time reading this story and added Chris Gomez the cinnamon roll acts of service king to my long list of book bfs.
Thank you Ray for the ARC! I’m excited to read more from you in the future and to see what else the residents of Darlington are up to. I’m really hoping for something about two people in particular. 🤭
Ray Riley’s debut novel is fun and so well written. With an entertaining plot, meddlesome characters, a matchmaking grandma/mom duo, a sweet MMC, and a bit of suspense; this cozy murder mystery romance will be the perfect addition to your summer TBR.
Chris and Vivian will have you giggling from the start with their hilarious meet cute, instant chemistry, and flirty banter.
I had such a good time reading this story and added Chris Gomez the cinnamon roll acts of service king to my long list of book bfs.
Thank you Ray for the ARC! I’m excited to read more from you in the future and to see what else the residents of Darlington are up to. I’m really hoping for something about two people in particular. 🤭
July 3, 2024
I really enjoyed this cozy fun, romantic mystery.
It’s funny and witty but you still get the whole did it vibe.
It was just a fun easy read , if romance is your thing I highly recommend adding it to your tbr asap!
Thank you love notes pr for gifting me an advanced copy 🖤
This book is giving :
Small town romance 💕
Mental heath rep 🥸
Murder mystery 🔪
Meddling mothers 👵
It’s funny and witty but you still get the whole did it vibe.
It was just a fun easy read , if romance is your thing I highly recommend adding it to your tbr asap!
Thank you love notes pr for gifting me an advanced copy 🖤
This book is giving :
Small town romance 💕
Mental heath rep 🥸
Murder mystery 🔪
Meddling mothers 👵
November 19, 2024
SO SO GOOD. NO NOTES.
July 2, 2024
Thank you to Ray Riley and Love Notes PR for the opurtuinty to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
To sum it up Vivian comes home after years away to check in on her father who called her for help. While trying to break into his home her and Office Christopher Gomez stumble upon a dead woman and no sign of her father. Vivian is approached by the head of the local biker gang in regards to outstanding debts or her father's and now has to come up with the money owed. All of this is haplening while her meddling grandma and Chris' mom are trying to set them up.
This is not your typical murder mystery, I'd say more romance than mystery and I found myself wishing there was more mystery. BUT I still really enjoyed it and my new book boyfriend is Christopher Gomez, once I got over him switching so quickly from flirty Chris to cop Chris so many times. There were some good funny parts and definitely some spice.
I'm giving 4.5 ⭐️
*Please check trigger warnings before diving in there are some heavy topics
To sum it up Vivian comes home after years away to check in on her father who called her for help. While trying to break into his home her and Office Christopher Gomez stumble upon a dead woman and no sign of her father. Vivian is approached by the head of the local biker gang in regards to outstanding debts or her father's and now has to come up with the money owed. All of this is haplening while her meddling grandma and Chris' mom are trying to set them up.
This is not your typical murder mystery, I'd say more romance than mystery and I found myself wishing there was more mystery. BUT I still really enjoyed it and my new book boyfriend is Christopher Gomez, once I got over him switching so quickly from flirty Chris to cop Chris so many times. There were some good funny parts and definitely some spice.
I'm giving 4.5 ⭐️
*Please check trigger warnings before diving in there are some heavy topics
June 26, 2024
I absolutely adored this small town romance from Ray Riley. It starts with a hilarious tension filled meet-cute that reels you in immediately and suddenly our main love interests are stumbling over a mysterious dead body. Vivian, our main character, is guarded and rightfully so, thanks to her narcissistic father who has conveniently fled town leaving Viv to clean up his mess. Her walls are slowly broken down by her meddling yet caring family, and by the local golden retriever police officer with dimples to die to for. The relationship between Marianne, Vivian’s grandma, and Vivian is so endearing and heartwarming. Everyone should have a Marianne in their lives! And Chris! Ahh Chris and his dimples and teasing and patience. He’s the perfect man to make Vivian feel safe and loved the way she deserves. The murder mystery weaves its way through the fun romance and keeps you guessing til the end. I can’t wait to see what happens next in Darlington.
Thank you LoveNote PR for the ARC
Thank you LoveNote PR for the ARC
June 28, 2024
Thank you SO very much to Ray Riley for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion! This was one of my most anticipated indie releases this year, and not just because my name is Riley 🤣 I loved every Single thing about this book! The characters were so well written, with wonderful character arcs, the plot never felt slow or like there were elements just to fill space, and the spice was immaculate 🥵 I was so invested in the story from page 1, and now I can’t wait to see what comes next for Darlington Realty!!
June 18, 2024
After following Ray Riley on socials for the last couple of months and seeing all of the incredible teasers she has posted, I was confident I would love Murder, She Sold once I got the opportunity to read it. And dear reader, I was right.
There is something about the author's style of writing that scratches a particular itch in my brain - I found it incredibly easy to read and found myself flipping pages (on my Kindle) rapidly because of the way the story flowed.
The meet cute was hilarious and you could tell that our boy, Chris Gomez, was down bad from the very beginning - dude was definitely crying at the gym, y'know? Definitely top tier book boyfriend material - so swoony and soft, but with a deliciously filthy mouth. And speaking of, the SPICE? My goodness. So freaking hot.
The mystery element added a bit of intrigue throughout the story and really helped set up Vivian as a character. I wasn't surprised by the reveal, but it was still heavy on the tension and I enjoyed it a lot.
There is something about the author's style of writing that scratches a particular itch in my brain - I found it incredibly easy to read and found myself flipping pages (on my Kindle) rapidly because of the way the story flowed.
The meet cute was hilarious and you could tell that our boy, Chris Gomez, was down bad from the very beginning - dude was definitely crying at the gym, y'know? Definitely top tier book boyfriend material - so swoony and soft, but with a deliciously filthy mouth. And speaking of, the SPICE? My goodness. So freaking hot.
The mystery element added a bit of intrigue throughout the story and really helped set up Vivian as a character. I wasn't surprised by the reveal, but it was still heavy on the tension and I enjoyed it a lot.
June 24, 2024
4.5 STARS
ARC Review
Murder, She Sold
-Cozy mystery
-Romance
-Small town
He's an officer and she's a realtor.
It's been a long time since I read something cozy and cute. I really loved this book. This is a debut novel but it didn't feel like it. This was pretty good.
Their meet was so CUTE! I couldn't stop smiling.He was blushing!!!!!!!
There's a sheep named Norman.
Chris and Vivian are so cute together. I liked these characters right on the first chapter.
Vivian's grandmother and Chris' mother are the help these two needed. They're the best! The meddling mamas. I don't like Vivian's father and the way he treats her, I really wanted to punch him. I liked how caring and loving are Vivian's family. I cried and laughed a couple of times.
Now, I need a book about Tobias and Tilley.
Thanks Ray Riley and Love Notes PR for the ARC.
ARC Review
Murder, She Sold
-Cozy mystery
-Romance
-Small town
He's an officer and she's a realtor.
It's been a long time since I read something cozy and cute. I really loved this book. This is a debut novel but it didn't feel like it. This was pretty good.
Their meet was so CUTE! I couldn't stop smiling.He was blushing!!!!!!!
There's a sheep named Norman.
Chris and Vivian are so cute together. I liked these characters right on the first chapter.
Vivian's grandmother and Chris' mother are the help these two needed. They're the best! The meddling mamas. I don't like Vivian's father and the way he treats her, I really wanted to punch him. I liked how caring and loving are Vivian's family. I cried and laughed a couple of times.
Now, I need a book about Tobias and Tilley.
Thanks Ray Riley and Love Notes PR for the ARC.
June 26, 2024
Murder, She Sold is a fantastic murder mystery with open door spice, and a swoon worthy MMC. Let me tell you, I am obsessed with Chris and Vivian. Vivian is a no nonsense realtor who came home to help her (horrid) dad sell his home, but finds a body in the house instead. Vivian wanted to come home, sell the house and leave due to her struggles with her dad. Ray Riley portrayed Vivian’s struggles with her parents, specifically her dad, and how those struggles led to other issues for her so beautifully.
Chris is a golden retriever cop, who definitely falls first. The mouth on Chris Gomez…excuse me!!! There were a few times where I kicked my feet and squealed when he was talking to Vivian, both in the sweet scene and the spicy ones. Chris makes Vivian understand she deserves love and it’s just perfect. I loved every aspect of this book, the witty banter, the meddlesome mom/grandma, the small town vibe, literally ALL of it. I did not want to put this book down.
Run, do not walk, to add this to your TBR.
PS: I cannot wait for Tilley’s story, because I just know it has to be next and it is going to be stellar. HINT HINT! 🤣
Thank you so much for the ARC! @rayrileywrites
Favorite Quote: “I’ll give you some time, but unless you tell me you don’t want me…I’ll keep trying. Because any piece of you that you want to share with me, it’s worth it. You’re worth it.”
Chris is a golden retriever cop, who definitely falls first. The mouth on Chris Gomez…excuse me!!! There were a few times where I kicked my feet and squealed when he was talking to Vivian, both in the sweet scene and the spicy ones. Chris makes Vivian understand she deserves love and it’s just perfect. I loved every aspect of this book, the witty banter, the meddlesome mom/grandma, the small town vibe, literally ALL of it. I did not want to put this book down.
Run, do not walk, to add this to your TBR.
PS: I cannot wait for Tilley’s story, because I just know it has to be next and it is going to be stellar. HINT HINT! 🤣
Thank you so much for the ARC! @rayrileywrites
Favorite Quote: “I’ll give you some time, but unless you tell me you don’t want me…I’ll keep trying. Because any piece of you that you want to share with me, it’s worth it. You’re worth it.”
June 26, 2024
Murder, she sold by @rayrileywrites 🌼🏠
Tropes:
#hefallsfirst
#smalltown
#cozymystery
#romance
What a surprise! | love it... | love Chris and Vivian (Norman you're still my favourite, don't worry) 🐑✨
I'm truly happy to have read this book. It has everything I love: mysteries to solve, deep love and lots of laughter.
Nothing is left to chance and I feel like every question I have has been answered.
Chris is the kind of man everyone would like and I could feel his love for him. If we then imagine him in the police uniform: BIG YES. Can I buy one?
I really appreciate that Vivian is proud of her choices and she doesn't let anvone make her feel bad for it. She made me crv with laughter! From this day forward, I'm one of your biggest supporters.
Ray's writing style is very pleasant and made me love the book so much that l'lol definitely get the paperback book as soon as I get home (anyone who knows me, knows)!
Now we just have to wait for Tobias and Tilley's story!
Obviously a highly recommended book!🫶🏻
Thanks @lovenotes.pr and @rayrileywrites for the ARC opportunity🤍
Tropes:
#hefallsfirst
#smalltown
#cozymystery
#romance
What a surprise! | love it... | love Chris and Vivian (Norman you're still my favourite, don't worry) 🐑✨
I'm truly happy to have read this book. It has everything I love: mysteries to solve, deep love and lots of laughter.
Nothing is left to chance and I feel like every question I have has been answered.
Chris is the kind of man everyone would like and I could feel his love for him. If we then imagine him in the police uniform: BIG YES. Can I buy one?
I really appreciate that Vivian is proud of her choices and she doesn't let anvone make her feel bad for it. She made me crv with laughter! From this day forward, I'm one of your biggest supporters.
Ray's writing style is very pleasant and made me love the book so much that l'lol definitely get the paperback book as soon as I get home (anyone who knows me, knows)!
Now we just have to wait for Tobias and Tilley's story!
Obviously a highly recommended book!🫶🏻
Thanks @lovenotes.pr and @rayrileywrites for the ARC opportunity🤍
July 2, 2024
Murder, She Sold is a stunning debut. Atmospheric, full of heart, humor and spice, this book is devour-able.
Our story follows Vivian, who after a concerning phone call from her estranged father goes back to the town she swore she wouldn’t return to. However when she arrives to the house, she founds two things she wasn’t expecting; a dead body, and Chris Gomez.
Now entangled in this mystery, she finds herself unwillingly drawn to the handsome local police officer (and his ridiculously adorable dimples). Chris and Vivian’s chemistry is palpable from their first interaction. Their infatuation grows into a very natural love, and when I tell you this book has SPICE? Whew 🥵 Ray Riley left that door WIDE open.
This is truly one of my favorite books of the year thus far, and I highly recommend picking it up when it hits shelves on June 25th. Thank you to Ray Riley and Love Notes PR for the early copy!
Our story follows Vivian, who after a concerning phone call from her estranged father goes back to the town she swore she wouldn’t return to. However when she arrives to the house, she founds two things she wasn’t expecting; a dead body, and Chris Gomez.
Now entangled in this mystery, she finds herself unwillingly drawn to the handsome local police officer (and his ridiculously adorable dimples). Chris and Vivian’s chemistry is palpable from their first interaction. Their infatuation grows into a very natural love, and when I tell you this book has SPICE? Whew 🥵 Ray Riley left that door WIDE open.
This is truly one of my favorite books of the year thus far, and I highly recommend picking it up when it hits shelves on June 25th. Thank you to Ray Riley and Love Notes PR for the early copy!
June 26, 2024
Hard to believe this is a debut the characters suck you in from the beginning and the cliffhangers keep you turning pages! Newer genre for me and it was not a disappointment! Way to go Ray 👏🏻👏🏻
July 3, 2024
Based off of the title, I expected this to be more of murder mystery genre. I would classify this as a cozy slow burn romance with a smaller part of the story being a mystery.
Things I appreciated:
The grandma was fully supportive of Vivian and being the parent mentor she never had growing up. The small town slice of life drama (old ladies playing matchmaker, neighbors passing out jam, everyone wanting to know everyone’s business, gossipy neighbors). Chris the main male protagonist seemed like your all around green flag too perfect guy. There was a lot of cute witty banter. Most people in Vivian’s life (outside of her dad) wanted the best for her and had her back.
Things that confused or bothered me while reading:
I had an expectation for this to be a murder mystery and since it was more of a predictable outcome romance, I kept looking for the suspense and storyline to be centered around the lady murdered in the beginning of the story which was confusing. There wasn’t much time spent on who killed her or why overall. During the end when the biker gang, stolen wine and gambling debts are explained, it doesn’t give the aha moment to the reader because the story is too general with the dad owning gambling money is just involved with illegal high end wine club. It seemed out of the blue for Vivian to get kidnapped at the end when the biker gang knew she was paying back her father’s debts when they could have kidnapped her the entire summer since the 200k wasn’t something they weren’t even worried about.
Chris is a too perfect character (good looking, gentlemanly, decent job) who would have been married by now if he existed in real life. Chris could be more flawed to add to his character and to provide some tension between the romantic relationship which makes for a less predictable storyline.
Things I appreciated:
The grandma was fully supportive of Vivian and being the parent mentor she never had growing up. The small town slice of life drama (old ladies playing matchmaker, neighbors passing out jam, everyone wanting to know everyone’s business, gossipy neighbors). Chris the main male protagonist seemed like your all around green flag too perfect guy. There was a lot of cute witty banter. Most people in Vivian’s life (outside of her dad) wanted the best for her and had her back.
Things that confused or bothered me while reading:
I had an expectation for this to be a murder mystery and since it was more of a predictable outcome romance, I kept looking for the suspense and storyline to be centered around the lady murdered in the beginning of the story which was confusing. There wasn’t much time spent on who killed her or why overall. During the end when the biker gang, stolen wine and gambling debts are explained, it doesn’t give the aha moment to the reader because the story is too general with the dad owning gambling money is just involved with illegal high end wine club. It seemed out of the blue for Vivian to get kidnapped at the end when the biker gang knew she was paying back her father’s debts when they could have kidnapped her the entire summer since the 200k wasn’t something they weren’t even worried about.
Chris is a too perfect character (good looking, gentlemanly, decent job) who would have been married by now if he existed in real life. Chris could be more flawed to add to his character and to provide some tension between the romantic relationship which makes for a less predictable storyline.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2024
✨ small town California
✨ murder mystery
✨ meddling family members
✨ cop x real estate agent
✨ this is just casual
Vivian is back in Darlington after a decade of avoiding everything to do with this place after a frantic call from her father. Only that he’s not here and there’s a dead body in his foyer. Small town cop Chris Gomez meets Vivian at the scene of the crime and the connection between these two are instant. But with the murderer on the loose and the unknown whereabouts of her father Vivian knows getting involved with only be a bad idea. Until her meddling grandmother and Chris’ mother are set on these two getting together. But who killed the woman in the foyer? And where is Vivian’s father?
THIS BOOK WAS PHENOMENAL. Truly had the absolute best time reading this story. From the very beginning Vivian and Chris had me in a chokehold. From their meet cute with Vivian half stuck in a window to the first kiss scene, I was giggling and kicking my feet like a little school girl. I love love love how Chris and Vivian complimented each other. Right away they saw things about each other that they try to hide from everyone else. Vivian’s stress and anxiety around being in Darlington and back involved in her fathers messes to Chris mask dropping to see him for just as he is, mistakes and all.
I love that Chris never gave up on her. He was willing to break his own heart in order to have just a little bit of Vivian. And the way he supported her through all the events that took place. To Vivian reconnecting with the family she had to leave behind years ago and healing the part of her that always regretting running away from them.
Add it, read it, you’ll love it I promise 😩
✨ murder mystery
✨ meddling family members
✨ cop x real estate agent
✨ this is just casual
Vivian is back in Darlington after a decade of avoiding everything to do with this place after a frantic call from her father. Only that he’s not here and there’s a dead body in his foyer. Small town cop Chris Gomez meets Vivian at the scene of the crime and the connection between these two are instant. But with the murderer on the loose and the unknown whereabouts of her father Vivian knows getting involved with only be a bad idea. Until her meddling grandmother and Chris’ mother are set on these two getting together. But who killed the woman in the foyer? And where is Vivian’s father?
THIS BOOK WAS PHENOMENAL. Truly had the absolute best time reading this story. From the very beginning Vivian and Chris had me in a chokehold. From their meet cute with Vivian half stuck in a window to the first kiss scene, I was giggling and kicking my feet like a little school girl. I love love love how Chris and Vivian complimented each other. Right away they saw things about each other that they try to hide from everyone else. Vivian’s stress and anxiety around being in Darlington and back involved in her fathers messes to Chris mask dropping to see him for just as he is, mistakes and all.
I love that Chris never gave up on her. He was willing to break his own heart in order to have just a little bit of Vivian. And the way he supported her through all the events that took place. To Vivian reconnecting with the family she had to leave behind years ago and healing the part of her that always regretting running away from them.
Add it, read it, you’ll love it I promise 😩
July 2, 2024
4.5/5
thank you so much to lovenotes pr and ray riley for the arc!!
murder she sold was swoony with the perfect dash of mystery. vivian was resilient and independent throughout her journey of coming back to the place she swore she’d never go. her and chris were flirty and iconic, and i loved it! chris had me giggling and kicking my feet half the book. ray riley knows how to write a man, because i could not get enough of chris! especially when he called her querida 🤭
the mystery of murder she sold had me on the edge of my seat! my mind was racing trying to figure out who was the culprit, and let me just say it was not what i expected at all!! the plot twist was wild and i was freaking out as the final events unfolded. overall, it was suchhh a good book and i can’t wait for tilley’s! (hoping hers is next!!)
thank you so much to lovenotes pr and ray riley for the arc!!
murder she sold was swoony with the perfect dash of mystery. vivian was resilient and independent throughout her journey of coming back to the place she swore she’d never go. her and chris were flirty and iconic, and i loved it! chris had me giggling and kicking my feet half the book. ray riley knows how to write a man, because i could not get enough of chris! especially when he called her querida 🤭
the mystery of murder she sold had me on the edge of my seat! my mind was racing trying to figure out who was the culprit, and let me just say it was not what i expected at all!! the plot twist was wild and i was freaking out as the final events unfolded. overall, it was suchhh a good book and i can’t wait for tilley’s! (hoping hers is next!!)
June 24, 2024
So I am an anxious person, no surprise, so usually mysteries are not for me. I have steered away from true crime after my binge of it from the years of 2014-2020 and murder documentaries are usually a no go for me. BUT I absolutely could not resist Murder, She Sold after seeing its gorgeous, alluring cover and reading the unique blurb. I hadn't seen anything like it before and I needed to know what it would be like.
The reading experience of this book was UNMATCHED. I think Ray did a wonderful job of introducing and moving along the murder mystery plot while also developing the characters and their love stories. I never felt like one plot was forgotten but I also didn't feel so bogged down in the heaviness of the crime that it was uncomfortable. Vivian and Chris were just everything to me. Chris was down bad from moment one and I was just obsessed with his earnestness and hopefulness. He knew what he wanted and boy he got her (her being the badass and amazing Vivian.) Vivian was also so special to me as someone also healing from a lifetime of disordered eating and body dysmorphia. Her journey to reconnect with herself, her family and her home was really special and I'm so happy she had Chris with her along for the ride.
Ultimately Chris is a top tier book boyfriend and I want to pour out and enjoy a sauvy b with Vivian. Congrats Ray on a book that is not only super romantic but incredibly interesting!
Thank you for the ARC!
The reading experience of this book was UNMATCHED. I think Ray did a wonderful job of introducing and moving along the murder mystery plot while also developing the characters and their love stories. I never felt like one plot was forgotten but I also didn't feel so bogged down in the heaviness of the crime that it was uncomfortable. Vivian and Chris were just everything to me. Chris was down bad from moment one and I was just obsessed with his earnestness and hopefulness. He knew what he wanted and boy he got her (her being the badass and amazing Vivian.) Vivian was also so special to me as someone also healing from a lifetime of disordered eating and body dysmorphia. Her journey to reconnect with herself, her family and her home was really special and I'm so happy she had Chris with her along for the ride.
Ultimately Chris is a top tier book boyfriend and I want to pour out and enjoy a sauvy b with Vivian. Congrats Ray on a book that is not only super romantic but incredibly interesting!
Thank you for the ARC!
July 2, 2024
📚🏡🔍💖🔑🌶️💸🧠👵🏼
Murder, She Sold is the first installment of the Darlington Reality series and it is off to a really interesting start! I initially went into reading Murder, She Sold thinking this was a cozy mystery, but this reads more like a contemporary romance. It’s jam packed full of tension, banter, spice and all the emotions.
📚 Series Debut
🏡 Small Town
🔍 Mystery
💖 Romance
🔑 Relator
🌶️ Spice
💸 Dangerous Debts
🧠 Mental Health
👵🏼 Meddling Grannies
While Murder, She Wrote wasn’t quite what I expected, it was a solid series debut! Very interested to see where the series will go from here! 📚
Please check TW before reading.
✨ Thank you so much LoveNotes PR for the gifted copy! ✨
Murder, She Sold is the first installment of the Darlington Reality series and it is off to a really interesting start! I initially went into reading Murder, She Sold thinking this was a cozy mystery, but this reads more like a contemporary romance. It’s jam packed full of tension, banter, spice and all the emotions.
📚 Series Debut
🏡 Small Town
🔍 Mystery
💖 Romance
🔑 Relator
🌶️ Spice
💸 Dangerous Debts
🧠 Mental Health
👵🏼 Meddling Grannies
While Murder, She Wrote wasn’t quite what I expected, it was a solid series debut! Very interested to see where the series will go from here! 📚
Please check TW before reading.
✨ Thank you so much LoveNotes PR for the gifted copy! ✨
July 3, 2024
I really enjoyed this murder mystery! The author did a great job of blending plot with romance, and provided enough detail that it was easy to follow along with the events of the case throughout the book. I loved Marianne’s meddling in Vivian and Chris’ relationship, and the bond Vivian has with her cousin Tilley. Their family (and the Darlington community, or at least the Gomez’s) seem to be very sweet and fun to be around, and definitely help build a wholesome feeling when you read about their Sunday dinners and other family events (excluding, of course, Vivian’s dad). I would love to see how Chris and VIvian end up a few years down the line, and whether or not Tilley and Tobias get closer!
July 2, 2024
This book was a quick and fun read! The story focused on Vivian and Chris’s relationship growing and unfolding, and simultaneously, they are trying to solve a murder.
The interactions and banter between Vivian and Chris throughout the book were well done, and meddling mothers and grandmothers working as match makers added a cute touch!
The mystery/murder aspect of the book was well done and tied everything together. I really enjoyed how it revolved around Vivian’s estranged father and his house, a bike gang and lots of wine!
You will love this book if you like:
✨He falls first
✨Meet cute
✨Murder mystery/ romance
✨Small town
✨Third person POV
I received this book as an ARC, but you can get yourself a copy of Murder, She Sold by Ray Riley out now!
The interactions and banter between Vivian and Chris throughout the book were well done, and meddling mothers and grandmothers working as match makers added a cute touch!
The mystery/murder aspect of the book was well done and tied everything together. I really enjoyed how it revolved around Vivian’s estranged father and his house, a bike gang and lots of wine!
You will love this book if you like:
✨He falls first
✨Meet cute
✨Murder mystery/ romance
✨Small town
✨Third person POV
I received this book as an ARC, but you can get yourself a copy of Murder, She Sold by Ray Riley out now!
July 3, 2024
There is only one thing I love more than romance books and that is…murder mysteries within romance books! I grew up on Murder, She Wrote and Agatha Christie and then on Law & Order and Criminal Minds so it’s not surprise that I absolutely ate this debut up! Ray did such an amazing job weaving in a hot and sexy romance (hi, Chris Gomez, please) with fun small town shenanigans, meddling moms, and a real whodunit. The writing was quick, sharp and witty, the banter was delicious and the way I am now obsessed with saying “I’m not at liberty to say” is almost comical. Ray - you did the damn thing and I can’t wait to go back to Darlington!
July 1, 2024
This is one of my new favorite meet-cute stories!
I loved that the characters were complex on their own way, I was fond of the relationship each one had with their families. And Chris... a man who listens to his mother and treats her like a gentleman? Yes, please! Total green flags this guy.
I truly enjoyed accompanying Vivian's journey to finding her voice and value through the events, it's hard to put yourself first, and it's a whole journey that she takes us on.
This is a 4.5stars for me, but because this book got so many smiles on me it deserves a round up! It would've been a five-star if I could get more into the mystery, but I think it was more of a side story rather than the main one, I would've loved to read more about it. But I applaud that it wasn't the typical story where she plays hero and gets it all before the FBI because come on, who believes in that?
Fav quote
"I think if you spend too much time looking at the horizon, you miss the beauty of the ground. There is beauty to be seen right where you are planted. Planning for the future is an admirable thing, but sometimes you need to enjoy the moment you're in. Especially the happy moments. They can be fleeting."
Thank you Ray for the early ARC, I truly enjoyed it and hope to read more of you in the future!!
I loved that the characters were complex on their own way, I was fond of the relationship each one had with their families. And Chris... a man who listens to his mother and treats her like a gentleman? Yes, please! Total green flags this guy.
I truly enjoyed accompanying Vivian's journey to finding her voice and value through the events, it's hard to put yourself first, and it's a whole journey that she takes us on.
This is a 4.5stars for me, but because this book got so many smiles on me it deserves a round up! It would've been a five-star if I could get more into the mystery, but I think it was more of a side story rather than the main one, I would've loved to read more about it. But I applaud that it wasn't the typical story where she plays hero and gets it all before the FBI because come on, who believes in that?
Fav quote
"I think if you spend too much time looking at the horizon, you miss the beauty of the ground. There is beauty to be seen right where you are planted. Planning for the future is an admirable thing, but sometimes you need to enjoy the moment you're in. Especially the happy moments. They can be fleeting."
Thank you Ray for the early ARC, I truly enjoyed it and hope to read more of you in the future!!
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