Gwen Wells, 55, longed for a peaceful escape from hernewly empty nest. Little did she know that her first cruise with her golden retriever Ginger would thrust her into a maritime mystery that would change her life forever.
When a wealthy passenger is found dead in the ship's spa, Gwen's relaxing getaway turns into a high-stakes investigation. Armed with a lifetime of reading mystery novels and her loyal canine companion, she reluctantly partners with a famous mystery novelist eager to research her next bestseller.
As they navigate through a sea of eccentric passengers and tight-lipped crew members, Gwen and her new ally discover that everyone on board harbors secrets. With the ship's security officer breathing down their necks, the amateur sleuths must tread carefully to uncover the truth.
Gwen's natural intuition and Ginger's keen nose lead them to unravel a web of lies deeper than the ocean itself. But as the cruise nears its final port, the killer sets their sights on our unlikely heroine.
To solve the case and survive, Gwen must confront her own insecurities and embrace her newfound independence. Will her first adventure as an empty-nester be her last, or will Gwen prove that life after 50 can be the most thrilling chapter yet?
"Deadly Waves" serves up a delightful mix of mystery, humor, and self-discovery, proving it's never too late to embark on a new adventure – even if it comes with a side of murder.
**Author This series doesn't contain any explicit violence or sex scenes, making it suitable for readers who prefer their mysteries cozy and family-friendly.
Gwen Wells needs a holiday after her divorce, so she books herself on a cruise - not on her own though, she would never leave her gorgeous golden retriever, Ginger, behind.
Gwen instantly makes friends with Evelyn, a mystery writer, and this soothes her anxiety somewhat. Then Gwen's accommodation is upgraded, and all seems perfect.
However, Gwen finds a dead body, and appears to be the prime suspect in their murder, and things go downhill...
Gwen enlists Evelyn to help her find the real murderer, and clear her name.
I read a lot of non-fiction and dark stories, and this book was the perfect one to make me smile 😊 It is a lovely start to what I am sure will be a lovely series.
The author kindly provided me with an advance copy, and I had the option to leave a review.
This was an absolutely delightful, cozy mystery! The first in a new series featuring Gwen Wells and her fabulous dog Ginger. Gwen is a bookshop owner, recently divorced, and setting off on her first cruise. She's ready to do something for herself, and the cruise on the North Star is a wonderful escape. Everything is going very well until she stumbles upon a murder.
It seems Gwen is the prime suspect, but luckily, her new friend Evelyn has decided that they are going to find the true culprit. Evelyn and Gwen make quite the intrepid duo as they investigate the murder.
This was a super fun and quick read with witty dialog and charming characters. I loved the locked room aspect of a mystery aboard a ship. I look forward to seeing what Gwen gets up to next!
Recently divorced Gwen decides to book a cruise with her trusty loyal companion Ginger the golden retriever. Whist on board she meets her favourite mystery author Evelyn. The once in a lifetime cruise however doesn’t go to plan, when a murder happens on board Gwen & Evelyn are swept into one of her novels on a mysterious adventure.
This adventure was such a sweet cozy mystery. I loved Gwen’s character and how she really got into being an amateur sleuth, I liked that she was an older protagonist that wasn’t afraid to step up!
The plot was fast paced and well thought out. As the reader, we uncover clues and motives as the characters uncover them themselves. It kept me guessing until the very end!
Very sweet story, if you enjoy cozy mysteries then I have no doubt you’ll enjoy this book. Plus who doesn’t love a canine side-kick? GO GINGER ❤️ the ending set itself up nicely for book two and I’m excited to read more of the series!
Thank you to the author for a copy of this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Bookshop owner, Gwen Wells, is going on holiday, it’s no biggie, however, it is her first getaway since the divorce, and so she’s closing her store for a fortnight to go on a cruise! It could all be a bit daunting, really, but as she’s waiting to embark, the woman in front of her strikes up a conversation, which makes everything seem a little easier. Of course, her beautiful golden retriever, Ginger, always helps to break the ice with strangers!
After a fortuitous cabin upgrade and a surprise meeting with her all-time favourite author, Evelyn Sinclair, Gwen is walking on air. Everything is just wonderful, and she’s having the time of her life! An early morning visit to the ship’s spa changes all that and almost before Gwen realises it she’s found a dead body, become the prime suspect in a murder, and begun investigating alongside Evelyn to prove her innocence! With everyone on board a potential suspect there’s a lot to do but Gwen and Evelyn are nothing if not determined even if the ship’s security officer is following their every move and forbidding them to speak with anyone!
With nowhere to escape to it’s obvious the killer is nearby, but writing or selling crime novels is very different to looking into the real thing! Can they solve the case before returning to their home port, or will Gwen be hauled away in handcuffs when the ship finally docks?
The first in a new series by author Lily Voss, this is an easy read with likeable, fully formed main protagonists, a lovely location, and more suspects than you can shake a stick at! I suspected most of the characters Gwen and Evelyn interviewed and worked my way through them without actually guessing whodunit! There is the hint of a possible romance and clues as to where their next investigation will take place, which all sound great. I will absolutely be on the lookout for book two when it is released.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to the author, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a fun series starter with the potential for more great stories in the future. 4*. Recommended.
Ready to embark on a cruise without leaving the comfort of your reading nook? Well, Deadly Waves by Lily Voss is just the book for you! I really enjoyed this mystery on the high seas with Gwen, the heroine and recently divorced empty-nester sleuth, her Retriever Ginger, and favorite mystery author friend Evelyn. The mystery was captivating, the characters were interesting and well-developed and the antics were very fun. I loved the components Ms. Voss chose to include. Thank you for allowing me to review this cruisy mystery!
Deadly Waves was more than I bargain for! Gwen (the owner of bookstore Whimsical Word) and her dog Ginger both excitedly waiting to board the North Star ship for her first cruise. A spur of the moment decision and Gwen needed this break. She would be leaving her bookstore closed for two glorious weeks. Once boarded she is upgraded by Captain Harris to a VIP suite because her ticket stated Gwen and Ginger; of course Ginger is a dog not a person. On the way to her new cabin she notices two men in a heated argument.
After a nap and some unpacking, Gwen and Ginger set off to find the library. Gwen meets author Evelyn Sinclair as she was recommending one of her own mysteries, just having a bit of fun! Of course as an owner of a bookstore Gwen compliments Evelyn on her writing and compares her to other great writers. They have a chat about Gwen girls and Evelyn tells her she is excited to see the magic show with Max Russo and introduced her to self help guru Jessica. Gwen says I've read many self help books by Jessica not knowing that was the person she had been introduced to is in fact Jessica Lee!
Evelyn invites Gwen and Ginger to the Grand Banquet Hall dinner staring Max Russo. Evelyn's at ease introduces themselves to the guests at the table. Jack Reeves, Vincent and Natalie Beaumont. Jack began to brag of being a professional gambler and Vincent called him on it stating he used the trip to get Vincent to funds his gambling and Natalie chimed in telling how Jack blew through all his earlier winnings. The Beaumont's began complaining about the wine and asked for a better quality and Captain Harris noted the empty four bottles at the table. Before things got tense Evelyn, Gwen and Ginger went to check out the tennis courts and had another drink.
The next day Gwen had a hangover and took some meds. She took the dog to relieve herself and ran into Lila and asked for her VIP massage. Lila said he was the only one there. Gwen gave Ginger a bowl of water in the locker room and after not seeing Lila heads to room two for the massage. When she opens the door she saw someone on the table. An arm dangled from the table and Gwen noticed a knife sticking out of a man's back. Vincent Beaumont! She ran to Captain Harris cabin to let him know.
Gwen stayed in the cabin with Ginger. She runs into Evelyn and proposes with Gwen's help to help solve the crime. Sophia joins them for coffee and tells them that Lila Chen found Vincent but to shaken to report the murder and had Gwen do it. Officer Winslow questions Gwen. Evelyn and Gwen united to solve this mystery. Questioning passengers, and following the clues. Murder is not the only crime that needs to be solved on the cruise.
Delighted with all the fun characters and back stories, friendships form, and yes reprimands by Officer Winslow and Captain Harris to stay out of the investigation. I'm not going to give away and of the entreating finds that come about.
Page turning excitement here and following the clues where they lead and change and keep us guessing all the way. I hope you'll indulge in the quest that ends before the ship docks.
This is the first in a mystery series featuring recently divorced and book shop owner Gwendolyn (Gwenn) Wells and Ginger, her loyal and faithful Golden Retriever, plus her new friend, mystery author Evelyn Sinclair.
Right from the start this sounds like delightful fun, and it proves to be an amazing adventure aboard a large cruise ship, which allows dogs on board! Soon we meet quirky and complex characters, and there is a murder, of course. I am glad that the murder happened soon, as it creates suspense right from early on, and gives our new friends and us readers more time to try and solve the murder.
Gwenn happens to be the one to discover the body, and she becomes the main suspect. Obviously, she must investigate with Evelyn’s and Ginger’s help. Gwenn is the more rational and low key of the pair, which works well when they start snooping around the ship, and when questioning the suspects. In many cases, Ginger facilitated their interactions with the suspects and uncovering clues.
Their sleuthing gets them into sticky situations, and they are in danger many times, but that does not deter them from pushing on and boldly accusing their suspect-of-the hour. Ginger is a huge help, as she guides them and protects them. In the end, after many twists and turns, Gwenn is vindicated, as we expect from our heroine, so she can continue to sleuth along in future books in this mystery series.
All in all, this was a fun mystery book to read, and it is easy to root for the three sleuths until the end.
I highly recommend this easy and delightful read, and I look forward to reading the next book in this series, since there is a hint about the next adventure to happen the next summer.
Thank you to Ms. Lily Voss for offering me the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book and post a personal review.
Fast-paced mystery that takes place aboard a large cruise ship sailing from southern England. The lead is Gwen, a bookstore owner with her large dog Ginger. once onboard, Gwen meets Evelyn, a mystery author in the ship's library and makes an immediate friend. This is important, as Gwen quickly stumbles across a dead body on day 2 in the spa. What follows is Gwen and Evelyn looking for the murderer aboard ship, in unlikely places. The book is written with warm humor and interesting characters, as Gwen and Evelyn move about the ship. If you have not been on a cruise, this will be an enjoyable read. However, I have been on more than 10 cruise ships on five different cruise lines, so I struggled with several inaccuracies about life as a passenger aboard ship. Never could I imagine a large cruise ship where a passenger could go up and knock on the Captain's office door, nor only have one staff member in the spa. Passengers would not be able to "find" their way down to the Crew Quarters on a ship (as it requires a special key card), or be able to reach the Wine Room either. The only way dogs are allowed on ships is if they are a service or guide dog, and then only on a couple of cruise lines. Also, found it HIGHLY unlikely that a ship-wide announcement about a death on board would be made, as the crew is notified with a special code that a death has occurred. Ships have a special cold Morgue in a stainless steel room for deaths that do occur on board. Finally, changing an entire ship's agenda canceling ALL stops for one death is unheard of in the cruising industry.
I like books with older women as the central character. I like books about dogs. I can have great sympathy for a woman going through a divorce and taking a long overdue vacation. I like murder mysteries. I enjoy cruises and seeing new things. I thought this would be the perfect book for me. What I couldn’t deal with was the lack of realism within the first few pages. Ms. Wells is taking a long deserve vacation on a cruise ship with her dog. Unfortunately, this is either an “alternate reality” story or a book for people who’ve never been on a cruise ship? The only cruise ship that takes dogs (which are not service) is the Queen Mary. They have a special kennel for them. And the kennels are booked two years in advance. Next, nobody gets on a cruise ship without their passport being recorded as part of the ticketing process. Nobody is going to mistake a dog for a passenger. Dogs have to have international health certifications, the cruise line would be grossly negligent to let a dog on board without the paperwork being done. A more minor flaw is that a multi story cruise ship is not going to have the captain standing on the gang plank with a clipboard, checking off guests. Normally, I could overlook that, but up coming on top of the extraordinarily improbable dog issue… it pretty much killed the book for me. Any fiction requires a “suspension of disbelief” as you read the story. However, the scenario in this book exceeded my capacity. Sadly - I think the author could have pulled the thing off by making the dog a certified service animal with appropriate paperwork completed.
Newly divorced Gwen decides to close her bookstore, do something for herself and go on a grand European cruise vacation with her trusted dog Ginger. Everything is going splendid, making a new friend while boarding the ship, a VIP upgrade from the handsome Captain and meeting her favorite author (Evelyn)in the library! After a curious VIP dinner with free flowing cocktails,Gwen needs some relief. Nursing a hangover her second day on board, she decides to take advantage of a complimentary massage. Reveling in her trip of a lifetime,she is stunned when she happens upon a dead body in the spa. All at once,Gwen is the primary suspect but her friend Evelyn has other plans to find the true killer. Off we go following these older women(and of course Ginger)on an adventure as they investigate the murder. Will they figure it out or get into more trouble? Charming,witty,laugh out loud moments. Lots of possible suspects with crazy alibis, keep you guessing. Fabulous characters, both guests and crew. Ginger the dog is wonderful. Quick read, very fun whodunnit definitely recommend. I’m ready for the next mystery. I received a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions in this review are my own.
I particularly liked the fact that the protagonist was an older woman, though sometimes the author made her actions like those of someone in their 70s, not their 50s. There was a good cast of characters, some a little clichéd, but on the whole, well-rounded.
The actual crime was not massively gory and the reader only sees the body, not the act of the murder. There are plenty of suspects and it took me a long time to guess correctly who had committed the crime. That was partly because I was distracted by so many things that just didn’t seem right. There was a bartender who wore t-shirts with inappropriate slogans instead of a uniform, the captain who asks to be called by his abbreviated first name when he first meets our heroine, and no end of Americanisms attributed to English characters, which grated and just made it not ring true.
There were just too many things which took me out of the story, meaning it was a disappointing, if quick, read. One of the minor characters was only there to introduce the location for a sequel to be set in Tuscany. I hope that the author doesn’t spoil that too. I doubt I’ll read it to find out, which is a pity, because I think a good proofreader could have vastly improved what wasn’t a bad story.
Deadly Waves is the first cozy mystery in the new A Gwen Wells Cozy Mystery series. Ready to move on with her life after her divorce, Gwen Wells and her dog Ginger go on a cruise. Aboard Gwen meets her favorite mystery writer, Evelyn, and they quickly become friends. Not long into the trip Gwen discovers a dead body. With Gwen as one of the prime suspects, she and Evelyn team up to not so subtly look into the case.
I am always looking for new cozy mystery series to read and I came across a good one in this book. I loved the duo of Gwen and Evelyn working together to sleuth. They complimented each other perfectly and even though their sleuthing wasn’t exactly subtle it was perfect for this book. I quickly fell in love with Gwen and loved her and Ginger as the leads. This mystery was fun to follow and did keep me guessing the entire time. I thought I was on the right track a few times until the mystery took a twist or turn I wasn’t expecting. I didn’t want to put this book down once I started it and I definitely recommend it to any cozy mystery fan looking for a good, fun series to start. I’m excited to see what else will come from this series!
I finished my book by author Lily Voss last night and did enjoy the cozy mystery and meeting all the new characters: Gwen Wells, Ginger her dog & Evelyn Sinclair. The author made all her character so real that you could invision they do what they were up to. Gwen was trying to find herself after giving the last 30 year to a marriage that end in a divorce and raising two daughter who were now grown women. She decide to go on cruise and enjoy herself. Gwen had a hard time making friends but she was able to make at least two ladyfriends on her trip. But there were lots of twist and turns plus a murder on this cruise where Gwen had found the body and became the prime suspect. So she decide that she would have to clear her name before the cruise was over. So with her friend Evelyn Sinclair and her faithful dog Ginger she went about talking to everyone who new the victim and try to figure out who the murderer was but she keep getting herself in trouble with the head of security on the ship. It was very interesting to see how she went about trying to figure out who the murderer was. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoyed a good cozy mystery.
Not to mention being a suspect in that murder. Yikes! Gwen's treat to herself after her divorce is just not going to plan. But she does manage to have a good time with new friends while trying to get herself off the suspect list.
And I had a great time hanging out with her and her fluffy sidekick and "bad influence" author friend as they explored the ship, interrogated suspects, and generally made nuisances of themselves. The ship's security officer may not have thought they were smart and fun, but I sure did.
The long list of suspects with plenty of motive kept me guessing as the would-be sleuths made their own guesses. And I was rooting for Gwen in her struggle with confidence in her own investigative skills.
This story was fun and fast-paced and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I hope to get to join Gwen and Ginger on their next adventure, maybe with those new friends they made on their not-so-relaxing cruise.
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book from the author and this is my voluntary and enthusiastic review.
I really enjoyed this cozy mystery. Who doesn't like a story set aboard a cruise ship that will make you feel that you are whisked away on a vacation, much like the protagonist, Gwen? Gwen and her trusty pup, Ginger, are stepping away from her book shop to enjoy a much needed vacation after her divorce. While onboard, Gwen encounters a favorite mystery author, Evelyn Sinclair, and the two become fast friends. Due to a happy accident, Gwen has been upgraded to a VIP room, but, while taking advantage of her free massage, she stumbles across a dead body!
Evelyn and Gwen decide to assist the onboard investigator with finding the culprit, especially since Gwen is now the prime suspect. The deceased was not well liked, and there were numerous people onboard who may have wanted to see him dead. The reader will be delighted to join Evelyn, Gwen, and Ginger as they attempt to solve the mystery. The characters are very likable, there are a few twists, and a satisfying ending to the mystery. Fans of cozy mysteries on the seas will love this story!
"Deadly Waves" by Lily Voss is a great start to a new Cozy Mysteries series. This begins with an introduction to our protagonist, Gwen Wells, who is re-discovering life after divorce. Her children are grown and she finds herself with more time on her hands. Taking a break from running her bookshop, Gwen books herself (and her Golden Retriever, Ginger) on a cruise. Far from a restful break, Gwen befriends her favourite author who is also on the cruise and the two find themselves in the middle of a murder investigation with Gwen the prime suspect.
Overall, "Deadly Waves" is a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries. It's a perfect escape into a world of intrigue and humour, making it a perfect companion for a lazy weekend. With its well-crafted plot, charming characters, and a lovable canine sidekick, I can't wait to jump back into Gwen's world.
It’s a classic locked room situation with a murder on a cruise ship! I loved the characters, especially Ginger. They were quirky enough to be charming without being unbelievable. The anuthor’s approach in this regard reminded me of one of my favourite series - “The Cat Who…”. The humour in the book is spot on and I loved the language used to this effect, especially when the amateur sleuths were conducting their interrogations. The mystery itself was very satisfying because readers were taken on the journey with the characters, allowing the solution to evolve “as it happened.” Best of all, this is clearly the start of a series, with the scene already set for the next instalment in Tuscany.
Gwen and her loveable golden Retriever Ginger go on a cruise and due to a mistake they are given a VIP accommodation where they meet other VIP's like the famous author Evelyn Sinclair. The first supper is a mixed bag because one guest is behaving quite badly.
When Gwen finds him the next day murdered in the spa she becomes an instant suspect and her new found friend Evelyn plus Ginger of course are helping her to investigate the crime. That doesn't sit well with the security officer, a former police detective, and all the "suspects''. It takes threats from Alexander to leave it to the professionals and a reprimand from the captain till the ladies find the guilty person on the last day of the cruise.
Great cozy Mystery. The story begins as a delightful atmosphere immerses you in what would be a magnificent luxury cruise, introducing new characters that seem like the perfect addition to this great adventure. Our main character is trying to get some freedom from a long failed marriage, but what will wait for her could be more of what she bargained for. The crafting of each character is greatly achieved by the author and the plot is a whodunnit that will be difficult to resolve. Love the addition of a dog companion and the hopes of more instalments to come. Note: I Received an Arc for review purposes and an honest and unbiased opinion.
The story was good. I enjoyed that Gwen had a bookstore and a dog, plus she was able to go on a dream vacation with said doggy companion. Occasionally I felt that Gwen talked to herself too much and sounded really insecure, which was a drawback in my opinion.
There were plenty of red herrings (nicely done) and having Ginger be an integral member of the detecting team was a nice touch. The over-long looks between Gwen and Captain Harris came across as a bit silly to me - although, that could be partly due to my own recent divorce and reluctance to trust a man of new acquaintance.
A fun mystery set on a cruise ship in England where one of the passengers is murdered in the ship's spa. Gwen and her faithful Golden Retriever, Ginger or looking for some fun after going through a painful divorce. Gwen owns a bookstore outside of London. She meets one of her favorite mystery writers on the cruise, who is looking for inspiration for her next book. When Gwen finds the body in the ship's spa she becomes a primary suspect. Gwen and Evelyn decide they should perform their own investigation against the advice of the onboard security officer. It is a fun read with interesting characters and a surprise ending.
I just finished this and it’s a great cozy mystery with characters who you’ll want to meet again. A recently divorced woman, her dog Ginger, a world famous author, and a woman named Sofia become friends in the book and if we’re lucky will become friends with every reader who love a mystery series with recurring characters. This is one of those lovely reads you can read at night, yet pick up again the next night able to remember what you have already read. The author doesn’t try to dazzle with complicated patterns, but tells a lovely little yarn that entertains nicely.
Deadly Waves is a new novel by Lily Voss. Gwen is a divorced bookstore owner from London who decides to embark on a European cruise. She meets her favorite mystery author on her first day. They form a friendship. On her second day, she finds a dead body. Gwen becomes the prime suspect. Gwen and Evelyn decide to do their own investigation since it doesn’t look like the Captain or Head of Security believe her. Gwen is also accompanied by her Golden Retriever, Ginger. The threesome makes new friends and some enemies. The mystery is engaging. Many passengers and crew have motive and opportunity. Finding the killer turns out to be difficult and time consuming. I did not figure out the answer until the author revealed it.
Good solid first story, I enjoyed it and would like to read more. That is my definition of a good story--you want more when you're done with it. I'll have to admit I loved Ginger. I'm a sucker for goldens. I enjoyed the 'team investigation'; Evelyn and Sofia are great characters; I'm assuming that they will become more rounded in the next book, set in Italy, I'll venture a guess. I'd also like to see more background on Gwen. I was totally surprised by the identity of the killer--clues were dropped but even after all the books I've read I didn't see it coming! Recommended.
This was a fun read but if you've ever been a cruiser, you'll have to get over many inaccuracies about cruising, which you'll notice immediately once you start reading (hence the 4 stars). Otherwise a fun story about a first-time cruiser, Gwen, and her companion dog Ginger, who meet some fascinating and exotic people, and get involved in solving a murder in which Gwen is the prime suspect as she found the body. A fun cast of characters, some of whom you love to love and love to hate but all play integral roles in solving the mystery, which kept me guessing until the end.
I was given this book by the Author to read. But, the love of this book is my unbiased opinion! From the first page to the last, this book was so good. I can’t wait for the next in the series. The main character Gwynn and her trusted side kick Ginger the Golden retriever!!! The story was so believable and the characters were so well developed. I don’t want to ruin any of the story. But, the ending caught me off guard. This Author did a great job!
After an unexpected and difficult divorce Gwen embarks on a cruise to mark the start of a new chapter in life. Little did she foresee that she would be suspected of murder, would become best friend of a beloved crime mysteries author, and act as an sleuth in an endeavour to clear her name. Deadly waves is well-written, has charming and sometimes funny characters and makes a great read! I thank Ms. Voss for this ARC.
This is my first book with this author and it was fun. I like to try to figure who did it before the end, but this story wove so many possibilities into the plot that I missed the mark by a mile! Gwen and her favorite author, Evelyn; along with Ginger- the really cute dog, try to solve the murder before reaching land. Just the thought of being able to pal around with my favorite author was a treat for me. Looking forward to more!
This was an awesome cozy mystery! Kept me guessing! I loved the friendship between Gwen & Evelyn! My dream would be to be a bookstore owner & become friends with an author I loved! Solving a mystery together would be a bonus! Ginger is a wonderful dog! ❤️🐾 Anxious for a sequel with more adventures of this trio & possibly some future romance for Gwen! Loved it! ❤️😢
Interesting book, could be read in a few hours. Gwen, along with her dog Ginger go on a cruise There is mystery, crime and meeting new friends. Terrific characters and the places they travel.. I enjoyed reading this and look forward to more.