What do you think?
Rate this book
Elmo Simpson Mysteries #2
Murder Under the Marquee
Wild animal removal specialist Elmo Simpson has another murder on his hands. It’s starting to become a habit…
When a body is found on the beach near the Paradise Springs marina in the sleepy panhandle of Florida, Elmo’s disinclined to weigh in on it. But the victim is Desiree LaFontaine, former first mate of Elmo’s girlfriend, Nic, who apparently was the last person to see Desiree alive. Which makes Nicola suspect number one.
But there are other suspects. Like Craig Abbott, owner of Craig’s Cruises, who’s been taking a slice of Nic’s tour boat customers ever since he set up shop. Or could it be Desiree’s old boyfriend Bobby Darrin, who just plain doesn’t want to be found? And why is Drunk Paul, who’s rarely drunk but hangs around the marina, acting so squirrelly?
Elmo doesn’t believe for a minute Nic’s a murderer, so he dives headlong into the seamy underbelly of Paradise Springs’ tourism industry to try to clear her name. But time is short, and Elmo must reel the murderer in before Nic is put away and Elmo ends up under water–for good.
When a body is found on the beach near the Paradise Springs marina in the sleepy panhandle of Florida, Elmo’s disinclined to weigh in on it. But the victim is Desiree LaFontaine, former first mate of Elmo’s girlfriend, Nic, who apparently was the last person to see Desiree alive. Which makes Nicola suspect number one.
But there are other suspects. Like Craig Abbott, owner of Craig’s Cruises, who’s been taking a slice of Nic’s tour boat customers ever since he set up shop. Or could it be Desiree’s old boyfriend Bobby Darrin, who just plain doesn’t want to be found? And why is Drunk Paul, who’s rarely drunk but hangs around the marina, acting so squirrelly?
Elmo doesn’t believe for a minute Nic’s a murderer, so he dives headlong into the seamy underbelly of Paradise Springs’ tourism industry to try to clear her name. But time is short, and Elmo must reel the murderer in before Nic is put away and Elmo ends up under water–for good.
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2025
About the author
J.C. Kenney
17 books262 followersI write contemporary whodunnits set in oddball small towns. I live in Indianapolis with my wife, two adult children, and a kitty cat. I dream of one day retiring to a place where the water is warm and the beaches are soft. I'm a big fan of motor sports, so when I'm not writing, you'll likely find me following the latest IndyCar developments.
I'm the co-host of the It's Bookish Time TV webcasts, a member of Sisters in Crime, and the Mystery Writers of America.
I'm the co-host of the It's Bookish Time TV webcasts, a member of Sisters in Crime, and the Mystery Writers of America.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
February 7, 2025
J.C. Kenney’s "Murder Under the Marquee" wrangles up a thrilling cozy mystery that’s as unpredictable as a Florida town full of escaped iguanas! While the plot keeps you guessing, it’s the cast that really scurries away with the show.
At the center of it all is Elmo Simpson, a sleuth with a heart as big as the Sunshine State. He’s the kind of guy you want in your corner—loyal, kind, and always ready to lend a hand (or a clever quip) when the going gets tough. His warmth and charm shine through every page, making him the perfect lead for this delightful mystery. In this installment, we learn more about Elmo's intriguing backstory, and his wholesome, good-natured view of the world should make him a role model for men everywhere. When his girlfriend Nic is accused of murdering her former employee and friend, Elmo sets out to prove her innocent.
Kenney's supporting characters in Paradise Springs make this series so fun to return to, and newcomer Jordan is a standout—sharp, resourceful, and ready to wrestle any mystery into submission faster than a gator wrangler on a hot day. The dynamic duo is sure to become legendary, like Florida’s finest animal removal specialists, tackling chaos one case at a time.
With Kenney’s trademark wit and a mystery that keeps you on your toes, "Murder Under the Marquee" is a must-read. Grab your net (or at least your reading glasses) and dive into this wildly fun whodunit!
At the center of it all is Elmo Simpson, a sleuth with a heart as big as the Sunshine State. He’s the kind of guy you want in your corner—loyal, kind, and always ready to lend a hand (or a clever quip) when the going gets tough. His warmth and charm shine through every page, making him the perfect lead for this delightful mystery. In this installment, we learn more about Elmo's intriguing backstory, and his wholesome, good-natured view of the world should make him a role model for men everywhere. When his girlfriend Nic is accused of murdering her former employee and friend, Elmo sets out to prove her innocent.
Kenney's supporting characters in Paradise Springs make this series so fun to return to, and newcomer Jordan is a standout—sharp, resourceful, and ready to wrestle any mystery into submission faster than a gator wrangler on a hot day. The dynamic duo is sure to become legendary, like Florida’s finest animal removal specialists, tackling chaos one case at a time.
With Kenney’s trademark wit and a mystery that keeps you on your toes, "Murder Under the Marquee" is a must-read. Grab your net (or at least your reading glasses) and dive into this wildly fun whodunit!
January 26, 2025
Elmo is an exterminator with a talent of solving murders. Some might say it is bad luck, especially when his on again/off again girlfriend is on the top of the suspect list. He is secretly buying a resort hotel, he questions himself abut doing that. He has many beautiful women around him, bu his goal is to get Nic cleared of charges and to help hr boat cruise business succeed. It has been hard for her since her first mate left to work for the competition. Insult to injury when Desiree, the ex-first mate is found murdered, So many interesting characters and Sir. Kenney manages to weave them into the story bringing them all to life. I really enjoyed this book.
January 5, 2025
I am an ARC reader and this is my honest opinion. This is book 3 in the "Panhandle" series , featuring Elmo Simpson, long time resident of Paradise Springs in the Florida panhandle. I enjoyed this one as much the first two. Elmo runs his own Critter removal service and, as a side line, has managed to solve a murder and other crimes whilst happily letting the local police take all the credit. I really love the quirkiness of the books and the characters in Paradise Springs. Elmo mentions fairly often that the oddball nature of the community is its main attraction for him. I actually feel that I'd rather enjoy living there myself, if it existed as described by the author! Elmo's relationship with his on and off girlfriend and their group of friends is warm and endearing. Even his new employee is far from average. I have to say though, my favourite characters are Oscar, Elmo's demanding and discerning cat, and officer "Spock" Nimoy, who tries so very hard to be a good policeman. Easy to read and includes a laugh or two. I highly recommend
February 6, 2025
Murder Under the Marquee by J.C. Kenney is a captivating and wholly engaging addition to the Elmo Simpson Mysteries series, delivering a delightful mix of quirky characters, murder, and a healthy dose of small-town charm. If you love cozy mysteries with high stakes, suspense, and a hero who isn’t afraid to dive deep to clear his loved ones’ names, this book will have you hooked from start to finish.
Elmo Simpson, the wild animal removal specialist with a knack for getting tangled up in murder investigations, finds himself once again in the thick of things when a body turns up near the Paradise Springs marina. The victim? Desiree LaFontaine, a former first mate of Elmo’s girlfriend, Nic, who’s suddenly the prime suspect in her death. With a list of potential suspects including rival boat tour owner Craig Abbott and Desiree’s elusive ex-boyfriend Bobby Darrin, Elmo sets out to clear Nic’s name.
What I loved about this book is the balance of intrigue and humor—Elmo’s determination and his willingness to dive headfirst into danger, despite his reluctance, adds layers of depth to the mystery. The setting of Paradise Springs gives the book a cozy, almost nostalgic feeling, but the twisted undercurrents of the local tourism industry keep the plot fresh and exciting. And the supporting cast of characters—especially Drunk Paul, whose suspicious behavior adds some well-timed comic relief—make this mystery even more entertaining.
Kenney’s writing is sharp, with a natural flow that pulls you along, keeping you guessing with every clue. The twists and turns in the investigation were satisfying and kept me eagerly turning pages to see how it all played out.
If you enjoy a good old-fashioned cozy mystery with a touch of suspense, a quirky protagonist, and plenty of surprises, Murder Under the Marquee is a must-read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A delightful mystery with a well-crafted plot and plenty of intrigue to keep you guessing!.
Elmo Simpson, the wild animal removal specialist with a knack for getting tangled up in murder investigations, finds himself once again in the thick of things when a body turns up near the Paradise Springs marina. The victim? Desiree LaFontaine, a former first mate of Elmo’s girlfriend, Nic, who’s suddenly the prime suspect in her death. With a list of potential suspects including rival boat tour owner Craig Abbott and Desiree’s elusive ex-boyfriend Bobby Darrin, Elmo sets out to clear Nic’s name.
What I loved about this book is the balance of intrigue and humor—Elmo’s determination and his willingness to dive headfirst into danger, despite his reluctance, adds layers of depth to the mystery. The setting of Paradise Springs gives the book a cozy, almost nostalgic feeling, but the twisted undercurrents of the local tourism industry keep the plot fresh and exciting. And the supporting cast of characters—especially Drunk Paul, whose suspicious behavior adds some well-timed comic relief—make this mystery even more entertaining.
Kenney’s writing is sharp, with a natural flow that pulls you along, keeping you guessing with every clue. The twists and turns in the investigation were satisfying and kept me eagerly turning pages to see how it all played out.
If you enjoy a good old-fashioned cozy mystery with a touch of suspense, a quirky protagonist, and plenty of surprises, Murder Under the Marquee is a must-read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A delightful mystery with a well-crafted plot and plenty of intrigue to keep you guessing!.
February 5, 2025
Really great. I love this series. Elmo being from Indiana like me makes this great. He talks about things my midwestern heart understands. I enjoyed laughing at this book even though I looked mentally unstable to those around me, I'm sure. The mystery is well written and the characters are lifelike.; 2 absolute musts for a cozy mystery for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 31, 2025
Elmo Simpson critter removal extraordinaire has a new case to solve. When a young woman is murdered and his girlfriend is framed he decides there’s nothing he won’t do to clear her name. So he’s back in the investigation business. Along with a few other businesses. Life is changing for him and yet it’s also a lot of the same old same old Paradise Springs. If you’re looking for a quirky town, a secret millionaire who runs a critter removal business and solves crimes in his spare time and some wacky small town folks pick this one up and enjoy the ride!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2025
Murder Under The Marquee ~Elmo Simpson Mysteries#2 by J.C. Kenney
Publishers blurb:
Wild animal removal specialist Elmo Simpson has another murder on his hands. It’s starting to become a habit…
A well-written story, that kept me entertained and engaged from beginning to end. I loved the dynamic and enjoyed this book quite a bit. I thought the storyline was good and very interesting. The characters were very well developed and very important to the telling of the story.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Page-turner, and Wonderful characters
Publishers blurb:
Wild animal removal specialist Elmo Simpson has another murder on his hands. It’s starting to become a habit…
A well-written story, that kept me entertained and engaged from beginning to end. I loved the dynamic and enjoyed this book quite a bit. I thought the storyline was good and very interesting. The characters were very well developed and very important to the telling of the story.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Page-turner, and Wonderful characters
January 3, 2025
I loved the first book in this series and eagerly awaited the second. Although I did enjoy it, somehow the story didn't live up to my expectations. It felt like the author had a word count that he had to live up to, which meant a lot of words to say nothing, repeating himself or just going off on a tangent. Also what set him apart in the last book, the capturing of critters in this case the crocodile, wasn't present, there was a lot of talk about the day job (which had nothing to do with the investigation- more of the word count again?) but there was no funny escapades to make it entertaining. Which is a shame because I liked Elmo and the quirky gang of characters. The mystery took you down lots of twists which was fun as Elmo followed up on the clues, it sort of felt like a grown up Scooby doo type mystery with witches, vampires and vandals. Don't get me wrong it is not a super natural book, it's just a few of the quirky characters involved, despite all that it was still obvious who the killer would turn out to be. I will still be joining this series again but hope Elmo gets his mojo back.
When Elmo's girlfriends first mate quits on her to work for the competition, it leaves her high and dry. Struggling to cope with the competition stealing all of her tourists customers the last thing she needs is to be accused of her murder. With the police stretched to the limit with a string of petty vandalism, Elmo can't sit on the side lines and watch her to go jail. Can he still do his day job and find the killer?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Elmo's girlfriends first mate quits on her to work for the competition, it leaves her high and dry. Struggling to cope with the competition stealing all of her tourists customers the last thing she needs is to be accused of her murder. With the police stretched to the limit with a string of petty vandalism, Elmo can't sit on the side lines and watch her to go jail. Can he still do his day job and find the killer?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2025
The series gets better and better. I love the characters so much. They're a great bunch that makes a great family and friends. I love how they go to bat for each other. I knew dude was cringe from the get go and yay for Elmo for getting to the bottom of how bad. You don't mess with that community. I love his addition to Jordan as well. He seems like the perfect fit. I hope there's so more coming soon. I can't wait to see everyone again.
January 4, 2025
Murder Under the Marquee is Book 2 in the Elmo Simpson Mystery series by J.C. Kenney.
I loved the first book in this series Panic in the Panhandle!
Elmo Simpson is back and finds himself involved in another murder.
A body is found on the beach, none other than the first mate of Elmo's girlfriend.
There is no shortage of suspects, but his girlfriend Nicola is the prime suspect.
I really loved this mystery so much! The characters are charming, well written and fleshed out.
The mystery is complex and multi-layered!
I love Elmo and I look forward to the next book in the series.
I loved the first book in this series Panic in the Panhandle!
Elmo Simpson is back and finds himself involved in another murder.
A body is found on the beach, none other than the first mate of Elmo's girlfriend.
There is no shortage of suspects, but his girlfriend Nicola is the prime suspect.
I really loved this mystery so much! The characters are charming, well written and fleshed out.
The mystery is complex and multi-layered!
I love Elmo and I look forward to the next book in the series.
January 9, 2025
I received a ARC free from Book Sirens and this is my voluntary honest review.
Well written.
Quirky, flesh out characters.
Easy to read.
Well written.
Quirky, flesh out characters.
Easy to read.
November 19, 2024
I struggled reading this. There seemed to be an abundance of characters and their names were too cutsie and the one liners were very distracting to the point I couldn't keep track of all the characters. The local critter catcher turns into a detective while the cops seem to rest on their laurels. Famous line"I didn't mean to do it." I'm just not the target audience for this one. I voluntarily read a free copy of this and am giving an honest review .
January 28, 2025
Murder Under the Marquee is the second book in the Elmo Simpson Mysteries series by J.C. Kenney. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was well written with lots of funny moments. J.C. created some very unique characters with clever nicknames. I enjoyed reading the little comments Elmo provided to the reader about each person mentioned. The main character, Elmo Simpson has a business as an animal removal specialist in the town of Paradise Springs, Florida. We learn that he has also just purchased a resort in town that was in trouble to help out the people there. Prior to coming to Paradise Springs, he was in the tech industry and had left it behind. So he was fortunate to have a large nest egg set aside.
As the book opens, Elmo learns that his girlfriend Nic was involved in an argument with a competitor and Desiree the night before at the Magnificent Marlin bar. Craig had stolen her first mate, Desiree for his company a few months back. When Elmo goes to try and find out what happened he discovers that Nic’s friend and former employee Desiree was found dead the next morning on the beach. Nic was the last one known to have seen her alive. She had been stabbed. Nic becomes the prime suspect and Elmo is determined to clear her name. Other friends of theirs beg him to find the real killer.
Elmo goes about his business for his two companies as well as interviewing people he suspects could be the killer. He also talks to people he thinks could help him figure out who did it. He works with the police chief as well as Officer Nimoy who is called Spock. It is suggested Desiree’s ex, Bobby Darrin did it, or his 3 aunts that own the bar and had a grudge against the victim. People from the prior book, make an appearance as well to help him out. Then there is Craig and Desiree’s replacement, Oliver as well as Drunk Paul that are on Elmo’s list of suspects. His sleuthing methods are unique and the other characters quite eccentric. There are lots of surprises, suspense and fun in the book. I tried to solve the mystery along with Elmo but I wasn’t able to guess correctly. Elmo has a pet cat that adds a great touch to the book. I highly recommend reading this book as it is a wonderful and funny cozy mystery.
I was fortunate to receive this ARC from Tule Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
As the book opens, Elmo learns that his girlfriend Nic was involved in an argument with a competitor and Desiree the night before at the Magnificent Marlin bar. Craig had stolen her first mate, Desiree for his company a few months back. When Elmo goes to try and find out what happened he discovers that Nic’s friend and former employee Desiree was found dead the next morning on the beach. Nic was the last one known to have seen her alive. She had been stabbed. Nic becomes the prime suspect and Elmo is determined to clear her name. Other friends of theirs beg him to find the real killer.
Elmo goes about his business for his two companies as well as interviewing people he suspects could be the killer. He also talks to people he thinks could help him figure out who did it. He works with the police chief as well as Officer Nimoy who is called Spock. It is suggested Desiree’s ex, Bobby Darrin did it, or his 3 aunts that own the bar and had a grudge against the victim. People from the prior book, make an appearance as well to help him out. Then there is Craig and Desiree’s replacement, Oliver as well as Drunk Paul that are on Elmo’s list of suspects. His sleuthing methods are unique and the other characters quite eccentric. There are lots of surprises, suspense and fun in the book. I tried to solve the mystery along with Elmo but I wasn’t able to guess correctly. Elmo has a pet cat that adds a great touch to the book. I highly recommend reading this book as it is a wonderful and funny cozy mystery.
I was fortunate to receive this ARC from Tule Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
February 26, 2025
Desiree’s murder catches everyone by surprise, including Elmo. The police are zeroed in on Nic, Elmo’s girlfriend, as the number one suspect but Elmo knows she’s not a killer. He vows to track down the killer, but he’ll have to outthink the police or he might end up in a watery grave.
Murder Under the Marquee is a humorous cozy mystery set in Florida I couldn’t stop reading. I knew I was in for a wild ride when the opening scene involved the debate over Hawaiian pizza. Right then and there, I knew this was going to be a fantastic cozy mystery.
The wacky characters are truly what makes Murder Under the Marquee an unputdownable cozy mystery. Elmo is our amateur sleuth and has quite the view on life, love, and murder. His inner dialogue had me in stitches for most of the book. He’s got a keen eye for clues and an uncanny way of getting at the truth. I connected with him easily.
All of the characters are well-written and colorful. It’s a small town so there are plenty of quirky characters to interact with.
The mystery plot unfolded at a natural pace. The sprinkling of clues allowed me the pleasure of investigating right along with Elmo. It was entertaining and so much fun. I can’t wait for more adventures with Elmo.
If you’re a cozy mystery reader, this is your next book to dive into. Brilliant from start to finish.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Murder Under the Marquee is a humorous cozy mystery set in Florida I couldn’t stop reading. I knew I was in for a wild ride when the opening scene involved the debate over Hawaiian pizza. Right then and there, I knew this was going to be a fantastic cozy mystery.
The wacky characters are truly what makes Murder Under the Marquee an unputdownable cozy mystery. Elmo is our amateur sleuth and has quite the view on life, love, and murder. His inner dialogue had me in stitches for most of the book. He’s got a keen eye for clues and an uncanny way of getting at the truth. I connected with him easily.
All of the characters are well-written and colorful. It’s a small town so there are plenty of quirky characters to interact with.
The mystery plot unfolded at a natural pace. The sprinkling of clues allowed me the pleasure of investigating right along with Elmo. It was entertaining and so much fun. I can’t wait for more adventures with Elmo.
If you’re a cozy mystery reader, this is your next book to dive into. Brilliant from start to finish.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
January 30, 2025
So much fun!
I was pretty sure before even reading this that it would be a 5 star review, given how good book 1 was, and I wasn't wrong!
Great plot, mystery and characters, just well told without relying on catch words and fancy phrasing. As with the first book, the tale is told from Elmo's point of view, with a lot of humor. It has you laughing right from the start when Elmo has to *gasp* eat a particular food that you'd think was pretty much poisonous from his reaction. I won't spoil it by telling what it is, but it's something I personally love but I know others shudder at eating :).
When a former employee of Elmo's girlfriend Nicola is murdered, and something belonging to Nicola is found at the scene, Elmo gets involved to figure it out, all while running his critter-removal business and helping Nicola with her business and a new investment he's making. Lots going on.
I find Elmo an endearing character, and thoroughly enjoy his narrative in these books. Well done - ready for book 3!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was pretty sure before even reading this that it would be a 5 star review, given how good book 1 was, and I wasn't wrong!
Great plot, mystery and characters, just well told without relying on catch words and fancy phrasing. As with the first book, the tale is told from Elmo's point of view, with a lot of humor. It has you laughing right from the start when Elmo has to *gasp* eat a particular food that you'd think was pretty much poisonous from his reaction. I won't spoil it by telling what it is, but it's something I personally love but I know others shudder at eating :).
When a former employee of Elmo's girlfriend Nicola is murdered, and something belonging to Nicola is found at the scene, Elmo gets involved to figure it out, all while running his critter-removal business and helping Nicola with her business and a new investment he's making. Lots going on.
I find Elmo an endearing character, and thoroughly enjoy his narrative in these books. Well done - ready for book 3!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 27, 2025
J.C. Kenney’s style of tongue-in-cheek humor keeps you smiling even when the situation is one of murder. The second book in the Elmo Simpson Mysteries Series, Murder Under the Marquee has another friend of Elmo as the lead suspect in the murder of Desiree LaFontaine. Desiree once worked for Nic, Elmo’s on-again, off again girlfriend.
No way could Nic have killed her former employee, so Elmo, who is a wild animal removal specialist, decides o solve this case. Because humans can be the most dangerous of wild animals who need to be stopped, caught and removed. Never fear Elmo is on the case with no pineapple ham pizza allowed. Be prepared to solve it along with Elma, finding more than one reason to laugh as you do.
No way could Nic have killed her former employee, so Elmo, who is a wild animal removal specialist, decides o solve this case. Because humans can be the most dangerous of wild animals who need to be stopped, caught and removed. Never fear Elmo is on the case with no pineapple ham pizza allowed. Be prepared to solve it along with Elma, finding more than one reason to laugh as you do.
August 23, 2025
I enjoyed visiting Paradise Springs, Florida in Murder Under the Marquee. This book is filled with oddballs and outcasts. Elmo Simpson lives there as does his on-again off-again girlfriend Nicola Beecham. He owns a critter removal business while she owns/operates Paradise Springs Charters. Competing with her is Craig Abbott's of Craig's Cruises. He snagged Nic's employee, Desiree La Fontaine. When Desiree is found dead, Nic is a suspect, and Elmo is determined to solve the murder. I really liked the author's descriptions of the people of Paradise Springs! I also liked his references to t.v. shows: "a real life version of Shawn Spencer and Burton Guster from Psych." & "The legendary Jim Rockford from the Rockford Files could probably solve this mystery by dinnertime."
January 27, 2025
Elmo Simpson a critter removal expert, his Girlfriend Nicola ran a charter boat business. Desiree LaFontaine was murdered with whaling harpoon sticking out of her chest and a weapon that belonged to Nic. Nicola was witnessed arguing with the victim the night before. Desiree had left her job with Nic to go with her competition. Elmo has to solve the murder so Nic’s business does not suffer. This was a very good read with a great ending. I really enjoyed all the characters.
I received an advance review copy, ARC, for free and I am leaving an honest opinion and voluntary review
I received an advance review copy, ARC, for free and I am leaving an honest opinion and voluntary review
January 31, 2025
A body is found on the beach near the Paradise Springs marina. The victim is the former first mate of Elmo's girlfriend Nic. The prime suspect becomes Nic. Determined to clear her name, Elmo jumps into the investigation. Multiple suspects so it's not going to be easy! Plenty of animals since Elmo is a wild animal removal specialist. There's no shortage of laughs too! Not the usual scene or storyline so it was a fun read. First book I've read by this author so I've got to go back and read the first book in this series!
February 1, 2025
I love J.C. Kenney's mysteries and I've read them all since the first published. They're always been a pleasant and entertaining read that keeps me guessing and having fun.
Elmo is a great characters an I love the other characters in the story and the setting.
This is a good story and I enjoyed it, i had some doubt about the culprit but didn't know why.
It was a pleasant surprise and enjoyed the solution
Hope to read another Elmo's mystery soon
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Elmo is a great characters an I love the other characters in the story and the setting.
This is a good story and I enjoyed it, i had some doubt about the culprit but didn't know why.
It was a pleasant surprise and enjoyed the solution
Hope to read another Elmo's mystery soon
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Read
April 5, 2025I found this book to be a real page Turner for me. It kept me trying to figure out who the killer was and why. I did have the killer on my list but I will say at first they were not high on the list but did work their way up to the top 3.
It is a well written story. Has great characters and storyline. I wanted to go to Florida for a few days even.
I would recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is a well written story. Has great characters and storyline. I wanted to go to Florida for a few days even.
I would recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 11, 2025
A great cozy mystery with fun characters.
This is a fun story set in a beach town with lots of quirky and interesting characters. In this book, Elmo’s girlfriend’s former employee is murdered and all clues point to Nic. Elmo works hard to clear Nic’s name and find the real murderer. The story moved along at a quick pace. Just when I thought I knew who the killer was, my ideas went out the window. I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t wait to see how it ended.
This is a fun story set in a beach town with lots of quirky and interesting characters. In this book, Elmo’s girlfriend’s former employee is murdered and all clues point to Nic. Elmo works hard to clear Nic’s name and find the real murderer. The story moved along at a quick pace. Just when I thought I knew who the killer was, my ideas went out the window. I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t wait to see how it ended.
January 18, 2025
A light, entertaining, cozy mystery. It is so easy to make fun of the wide variety of characters in Florida. Other authors keep the crazy going. This is an enjoyable series that I hope continues for a few more books. Love the television show references. Thanks to Booksprout for providing a copy. My review is voluntary.
February 10, 2025
When Nicola's former first mate is found dead on the beach, she becomes the number one suspect. It's up to her boyfriend, Elmo, wildlife wrangler and amateur sleuth, to step up and save the day. This is an entertaining, cozy mystery with a healthy dose of humor and twists mixed together in a fun way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 15, 2026
Such a fun way to start off this book - non-monetary bets with Chief of Police Susan! It was great to get to know all of the Old Guard better, especially while reading along as Elmo figured out the murderer!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 27, 2025
Love this series,the storylines ,the characters.I had to admit it took some time getting through the craziness, quirky characters but once I did I honestly didn't want the book to end. Real page turner.
February 13, 2025
Another fun visit to Paradise Springs Florida where "things that didn't make sense were every bit as common as things that did". Elmo's girlfriend Nicola is the number one suspect in the death of her former first mate, Desiree. There are plenty suspects and diving into the cut throat tourism business, Elmo sets out to clear Nic’s name . It was a tad too long for my liking. At one point I just wanted to know who the culprit was all ready. However, I do enjoy the quirky characters, the punny one liners and the unique take of life in the panhandle. Elmo's critter removal business is an unconventional, interesting occupation for a lead character and the addition of his new "employee" Jordan promises a lot more fun to come! Highly recommend this cozy mystery series! I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 14, 2025
A fun story!
I was so excited when J.C. Kenney started the Elmo Simpson series. Two books in, I’m even more so. Paradise Springs has a hilarious range of residents, and you never know what’s going to happen or who it’s going to happen to! I can’t wait for the next book.
I was so excited when J.C. Kenney started the Elmo Simpson series. Two books in, I’m even more so. Paradise Springs has a hilarious range of residents, and you never know what’s going to happen or who it’s going to happen to! I can’t wait for the next book.
April 22, 2025
wildlife is lethal, but it's mostly about food and survival for the critters
motives for two leggeds might be more complex - or maybe not.
maybe it's just mindlessly beutal
intense action and drama
motives for two leggeds might be more complex - or maybe not.
maybe it's just mindlessly beutal
intense action and drama
April 24, 2025
Elmo is an animal removal specialist in Paradise Springs, Florida. When his girlfriend Nic is accused of the murder of her friends, he ends up with a lot more on his hands to deal with now that he has to also clear her name and find the real killer. Great story, lots of twists and turns.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews