A Deadly Deed: A Page-Turning Small Town Cozy Mystery

Magnolia Manor #7

by Joy Patrick

A scandalous town secret brews. A mysterious bank-robbing duo evades the FBI cold case unit. If a wiley amateur sleuth can’t help, nobody can.

As Lilly is busy doing upgrades to Magnolia Manor, all focus is on customer satisfaction and getting those 5-star reviews.

Then crass guest Ethel Grimstone checks in, and all bets are off.

Meanwhile, head FBI agent Brock Armstrong continues to dismiss Lilly’s contribution to the cold case unit. So, when elusive, violent bank robbers continue to taunt the unit, what is she to do but take matters into her own hands?

As Lilly and friend Anne go undercover with the help of the new eccentric librarian, Penelope Quibblesworth, things get more than a little dicey...

But little does Lilly know the evil twist of events that awaits her as she uncovers a sinister town secret along the way that threatens not only Magnolia Manor but Lilly’s own life.

152 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 30, 2024

Reviews

[William · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entertaining mystery listening 🎶🔰

This kindle e-book novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account book nine

A woman 🚺 has come to the resort who is not very pleasant. She is killed by a car 🚗 bomb and the investigation begins. It all ends happily 😀 with arrests.

I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of romantic family and friends relationships mystery novels 👍🔰. 2024

[Emmalynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lilly was a pill in this book due to the way she treated Quigley. She either trusts him or she doesn’t !! I have to say I thought the new librarian would be the villain but I do love her quirkiness. The scene at her house was hilarious. The interconnecting mysteries were good, Joy’s mysteries are well plotted, I just wish Lilly had a bit more character growth.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lilly Livingstone is bus upgrading the Magnolia Manor , those five star reviews are her big news. But there’s a guest who is a right pest name of Ethel Grimstone and as the name suggests she wasn’t a happy soul ,Lord save us all. FBI agent Brock Armstrong is being his usual cock headed buffoon , not letting Lilly contribute to the cold cases. She’ll show him soon . When she decides to go under cover with the new librarian Penelope Quibblesworth things go a bit dicey. Quigley and she are they ever going to get any time together? He’s the handyman but she’s off solving cold cases with the crazy librarian who’s a little bit squiggly. There’s violent bank robberies that are happening right under their noses but the robbers elude capture . As Lilly delves into a sinister town secret little does she know what’s around the corner and not just the Magnolia Manor takes the hit. A veritable page turner and excitement abound it’s a good job they have Lilly to show what she’s found . Great writing Joy Patrick a job well done . I was nowhere near to getting this one. The characters are great especially the new cast member she’s a hoot . It’s fantastic writing , I know I’ve already said but it truly is great storytelling and the flow is like a stream . As the clues are bubbling along on the surface and deep inside where sinister resides the mystery is solved for all involved. Plot☑️ Storytelling ✔️ Immersive☑️ Cozy Mystery✔️ Sleuth ☑️Pageturner✔️ Scandalous Secrets☑️

[Angela Meehan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily is a little despondent about business at Magnolia Manor and has big plans to renovate and expand the building but no one else is keen on the idea. Her plans have to take a backseat though when she gets some odd and difficult guests, a shady character hanging around and is being harassed by realtors to sell her beloved Manor not to mention some relationship difficulties with Quigley.

This is another great story with a fab new character I'd like to read more about, Penelope Quibblesworth is opening a temporary library till the old building is repaired and she sounds just like someone I'd like to meet. She's a specialist in the Victorian era and is taking the lead in a Town project commemorating that and other era's. She has an amazing car called Raven, a house full of costumes, props and models from most historical periods and sounds an amazing person to be around.

Even though Lily doesn't want her Manor to be associated with múrders she gets herself far too involved in another FBI cold case, almost ruining what little credibility she's earned with Agent Armstrong and finds herself alone in a creepy derelict building with a criminal who wants to kill her, again! Great mystery and I loved trying to put all the pieces together to solve the mysteries with Lily.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lilly Livingstone is dead set on making Magnolia Manor into a five star hotel even though she is being pushed to sell the manor. With only one guest registered, Lilly feels it is the right time for Quigley to do some renovations in the rooms she set aside. Well the guest that shows up becomes a handful! And to make matters worse, although she is supposed to be a help to the FBI cold case unit, Agent Brock Armstrong doesn't give any credit or credence and not letting her contribute. But she will show him. With so much going on with so secrets the town holds and bank robbers, ala Bonnie and Clyde, wreaking havoc as it became a cold case. But are they at it again? What is going on? Not one to let it go, Lilly with her friend Anne and the help of the new quirky librarian, Penelope Quibblesworth, they decide to go under cover. What Lilly discovers could mean she can lose the manor and maybe her life. What secrets does the town hold? How do the bank robbers keep thumbing their noses at the FBI? It is up to Lilly to get to the bottom of it all. But can she this time? This is a great addition to the series that I completely recommend! I receive and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Ruth McDaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another great mystery by Joy Patrick. She has to be in my top 3 favorite writers for sure.
In this story, we find Lilly being pestered by someone who wants her to sell her inn, Magnolia Manor. A series of bizarre events happens that make Lilly question her ability to run her inn properly. And in other areas of her life, she is helping the FBI to catch a Bonnie and Clyde type couple who are robbing banks and trying to to "stick it to the man". She and her friend Anne go undercover and do some sleuthing and......
Meanwhile, another case from the past (a cold case) is brought to the fore that Lilly knows she can't leave alone. All in all, this is a great story with two really good mysteries going on. I think for anyone who reads Joy's books, this will be a welcome addition and for those who don't read her books, well.... What're you waiting for??
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my voluntary review.

[J Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another murder?

The timing is right for a renovation of the Magnolia Inn. Only one guest is scheduled for check-in and Lily has several rooms set aside for Quigley to start work on as soon as her loan is approved. It should be smooth sailing but then the guest arrives, things start to go wrong, and now there is another murder. What happened to all her carefully laid plans?

What a cast of characters! Poor Lily! This is a fun mystery full of chaos. The romance between Quigley and Lily always seems to be on the brink of disaster. I received an advance copy of the book but my review is honest and voluntary.

[Cat B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 7 in the Magnolia Manor Mystery series! Wow, already? Each one just as much fun as the last. This is a great cozy series. Terrific mysteries, strong quirky characters , with another unusual player added in the form of a very peculiar librarian (I hope she sticks around, I loved her). Another day, another murder, another mystery for Lilly to figure out. These books are pages turners and so very hard to put down. I open each new one with a little squeal of glee for what is to come. Whatever is next for the Magnolia Manor.
I received a free copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.

[CJ Earls · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the ninth novel in the Magnolia Manor series, Lilly, amateur sleuth inn owner, is considering renovations to her Inn despite the reservations of her boyfriend, handyman, Quigley. The inn has a couple of interesting guests and Lilly is still serving on the FBI cold case team that is currently investigating a series of bank robberies and associated murders that occurred between 2008-2010. Lilly and her band of eccentric friends and family investigate the cold case and Lilly finds herself and her inn at risk. I thoroughly enjoyed this cozy mystery with its unique characters and well written storyline. I look forward to the next installment.

[Kim Wilch · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happens when you want property and they won’t sell? Plot murder, of course! Lilly is our main character who owns an inn and doesn’t want to sell. When a guest uses Lilly’s van, they end up dead. Coincidence? I don’t think so. The plot of this story is wonderfully twisted and the characters are relatable and unique. What happens when the attempt on your life fails? Hunt down the culprit with undying persistence, of course! There’s a split storyline here as Lilly helps uncover the Bonnie and Clyde type pair robbing banks. This was such a great cozy murder mystery, I have to go back and read the other books in the series. Oh, this can be read as a standalone, but why?

[Tina Lincoln · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Again..?!
Lily is enjoying being a part of the FBI team in town, even though she is not an FBI agent or police officer, just the owner of Magnolia Manor who loves to sleuth.
This story is different than the previous ones, that were spectactular, but this one is one that goes back in time, well, not literally, just to a 1920's theme with Bonnie & Clyde.
If you love a great murder mystery and a whole lot of real history, this story and series is for you! This could be read as a standalone, but is so much better reading the entire series.

[ABurch74 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another charming story in the Magnolia Manor Mysteries series. In the vein of Murder She Wrote, Lilly uncovers clues to assist the local police and FBI to solve current mysteries and cold cases. The relationships between Lilly and her crew are a delight to follow. Each book can be read as a stand-alone; however, I recommend you start from the beginning to get the full backstory of the characters. This series is a good investment of your time if you are looking for good, light-hearted mysteries.

I received an advance copy. My review is left voluntarily and represents my honest opinion.

[Lizz Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily is looking forward to renovating the mansion to help increase her ratings. Unfortunately in trying to cater to some new guests, things tend to take a nose dive. Lily finds herself embroiled in a sinister plot that could lead to her demise. There is a lot that happens in this book that can be enjoyed as a standalone. It reflects small towns don't always have small problems. Also, there is a PSA, don't borrow anyone else's car without their permission!

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Lily and Quigley plan renovations for Magnolia Manor, quirky and demanding guests arrive. The cold case unit begins looking at bank robberies which remind Lily of Bonnie and Clyde. Add the new eccentric librarian, Penelope, and Lily’s mom. Drifter’s Cove bustles with activity! Another fun adventure with two mysteries and a bit of a history lesson, A Deadly Deed does not disappoint. I’m looking forward to the next in the series.

[Trina Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG this was a thriller of and story. It was a page turner and the suspense was totally insane. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t put it down. Lilly has to solve the mystery. Who was the culprit and will the FBI catch them in time before it is too late. Will her life be in danger? It was action packed of lies and corruption and drama.
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones

[MGB · Rating 3 out of 5]

Magnolia Manor tends to attract some unsavory characters. It's not Lilly's fault. She's doing her best but the appeal of the place attracts many she would prefer not to have.

Again Lilly is following her intuition. The result is to be expected - she finds herself in dangerous company, not just once but twice. However both events lead to crime resolution. She is berated for her unconventional, perhaps even illegal behavior. However the compliments for getting the job done are great.

[Sharmani Jayaram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lilly Livingstone owner of Magnolia Manor at Drifter's Cove is busy with renovations to her Inn. Bank robberies, a sudden death and a  difficult guest has her work cut out for her as she investigates the towns secrets. A intriguing read which is unputdownable. I received this ARC copy and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one was a very intriguing mystery. It kept me turning pages and guessing. The greed this person had was deadly!! And Lilly was the intended victim. There were a few suspicious characters, but I didn't even think about the right one, it seemed too obvious. This author knows how to entertain while she's teasing a great story. Check it out.

[Geraldine Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a delightful read with some really quirky characters
and a good dose of humour in it.
This however did not detract from the plot tension which made this story a very thrilling read.
I look forward to the next one in the series.
I received an advance review copy of this book and I am leaving a review voluntarily.

[Robyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily wants to renovate the inn, while dealing with a guest who is not very pleasant. Lily is helping the F.B.I. cold case unit try to figure out about bank robberies that happened and if there are any connections to the present day. A man from a real estate company keeps bothering Lily and others to sell their properties. This is a twisty thrill ride and I highly recommend this book and series!

[Lavender Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful book! The fast-moving plot offers plenty of enjoyment, the story is captivating, and the characters are wonderful (Penelope!).

A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.

[Antonia Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a roller coaster of events and emotions leading up to a cold case being solved and a current conundrum. No one seems to be who they say they are as a criminal mastermind pulls strings to ensure a diabolical plan. This is one book you can't put down until you finish it!!!

[Melissa Borsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily would love to begin renovating Magnolia Manor but first she has to deal with strange, grumpy, and demanding guests, a real estate man harassing her to sell, not to mention the car bomb! This book is jammed packed with excitement and I loved every page!

[Elva Cartwright · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Deadly Deed: (Magnolia Manor Mysteries.) Joy Patrick

This book was full of mysteries, murders and funa and laughter. Saving people and solving crimes. Can’t wait to read the next instalment. Can definitely recommend this series.

[Leslie Ferrari · Rating 4 out of 5]

This installment again has Lilly investigating a cold case along with a current murder. In this case, She was the intended murder victim. The roaring '20's and depression of the 30's play a part. Once again, Lilly uses poor judgement with regard to her personal safety.

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say? This was another in a series of great stories and entertaining reads. The newest character to the Manor is a great addition. I admit I had suspicions about the murderer for this one but it was still interesting to follow the steps to find them out. Another super read Ms. Patrick!

[Marie Connolly · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a Interesting Story

Two mysteries in one book. This story will keep you guessing. You'll know never what's going to happen next. I can't wait for the next book.

[Beth Helm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

I loved this book. A current case and a cold case both at the same time. Lilly and crew are up to their usual methods of solving crimes. Such a great fun read.

[Megan Olds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good & entertaining!

Madame Juju in particular was hilarious, and this was a great tie-in to the machinations of the series’ first book.