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Golden Motel Mystery #2
Solid Gold Murder
Dee Stern’s Golden Motel-of-the-Mountains promises a tranquil getaway for outdoor lovers in the scenic Californian village of Foundgold. But when Dee accidentally triggers a modern goldrush, her peaceful retreat becomes a hotspot for mayhem and murder . . .
With the summer season looming, former Hollywood sitcom writer Dee Stern has one to scrub her motel’s unflattering moniker as the “Murder Motel.” Dee and ex-husband-turned-business-partner Jeff Cornetta are excited to introduce a family-friendly panning activity complete with fool’s gold just in time for the peak tourist months. Neither anticipated the discovery of a real gold nugget or the ensuing social media frenzy. The viral sensation soon draws grizzled prospectors, wide-eyed adventurers, and thrill seekers to the abandoned mines scattered around the woods . . .
The instant popularity proves great for business, but it also attracts a group of out-of-touch Silicon Valley techies with dreams of striking it rich—again. Dee finds herself particularly annoyed by smug Sylvan Burr, a retired CEO who sold his startup before age 30 and won’t let anyone forget it.
Then Sylvan meets a grim fate at the bottom of a mineshaft, leaving Dee at the center of a mystery that could end her days as a motelier—not to mention her life—unless she can unearth a minefield of suspects and outwit a greedy killer before she digs herself too deep . . .
With the summer season looming, former Hollywood sitcom writer Dee Stern has one to scrub her motel’s unflattering moniker as the “Murder Motel.” Dee and ex-husband-turned-business-partner Jeff Cornetta are excited to introduce a family-friendly panning activity complete with fool’s gold just in time for the peak tourist months. Neither anticipated the discovery of a real gold nugget or the ensuing social media frenzy. The viral sensation soon draws grizzled prospectors, wide-eyed adventurers, and thrill seekers to the abandoned mines scattered around the woods . . .
The instant popularity proves great for business, but it also attracts a group of out-of-touch Silicon Valley techies with dreams of striking it rich—again. Dee finds herself particularly annoyed by smug Sylvan Burr, a retired CEO who sold his startup before age 30 and won’t let anyone forget it.
Then Sylvan meets a grim fate at the bottom of a mineshaft, leaving Dee at the center of a mystery that could end her days as a motelier—not to mention her life—unless she can unearth a minefield of suspects and outwit a greedy killer before she digs herself too deep . . .
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 29, 2025
51 people are currently reading
4861 people want to read
About the author
Ellen Byron
20 books1,649 followersEllen is the bestselling, Agatha and Lefty Award-winning author of the Cajun Country Mysteries, the Vintage Cookbook Mysteries, the Catering Hall Mystery series (which she writes under the name Maria DiRico), and the Golden Motel Mysteries.
Ellen is also award-winning playwright, and non-award-winning TV writer of comedies like WINGS, JUST SHOOT ME, and FAIRLY ODD PARENTS. She has written over two hundred articles for national magazines but considers her most impressive credit working as a cater-waiter for Martha Stewart.
She is a lifetime member of the Writers Guild of America.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
April 14, 2025
Solid Gold Murder is the second book in Ellen Byron's Golden Motel Mysteries, and the sophomore installment cements character relationships, personalities, and sleuthing skills. Beginning with the gorgeous setting, it's easy to get lost in the beauty of the surrounding nature and vintage atmosphere, but the guests at the motel, ones with larger-than-life personalities, seamlessly pull you back to the forefront of the book - a mystery engulfed in past drama, financial motivations, and revenge.
Dee and Jeff, friends who run the hotel together, spar in a fun way but you clearly see the closeness of their bond, especially when they each potentially find romantic connections with someone else in town. The duo want nothing but happiness for each other while searching for potential love and building a business in a difficult world and environment. And who wouldn't adore the neighbors who occasionally pop up to help with interpreting local nuance or doing repairs on the motel? I hope they get more prominent roles as they steal the scenes with their quiet honesty and caretaker moments.
As for the plot, when you bring together friends / former lovers, business colleagues, and investors, someone is always scheming. Dee and Jeff have to figure it all out while being good hosts, hoping to stop anyone from thinking they've become the murder motel. Byron knows how to integrate side stories and nuggets of future storylines into her scenes, and I find myself constantly waffling from humor to poignancy. Another great installment and series from the author.
Dee and Jeff, friends who run the hotel together, spar in a fun way but you clearly see the closeness of their bond, especially when they each potentially find romantic connections with someone else in town. The duo want nothing but happiness for each other while searching for potential love and building a business in a difficult world and environment. And who wouldn't adore the neighbors who occasionally pop up to help with interpreting local nuance or doing repairs on the motel? I hope they get more prominent roles as they steal the scenes with their quiet honesty and caretaker moments.
As for the plot, when you bring together friends / former lovers, business colleagues, and investors, someone is always scheming. Dee and Jeff have to figure it all out while being good hosts, hoping to stop anyone from thinking they've become the murder motel. Byron knows how to integrate side stories and nuggets of future storylines into her scenes, and I find myself constantly waffling from humor to poignancy. Another great installment and series from the author.
July 29, 2025
This one sounds like such fun. My brother-in-law lives in the Gold Country in Northern California, and I've visited a few abandoned gold mines, in fact he has one in his backyard! This series is a lot of fun, and I love Dee and Jeff and how they are making a rundown motel their home and livelihood. Their adventures with the "Murder Motel" are fun to experience and Dee's ongoing feud with the "mayor" of Goldsgone is continuing and I can't wait to see who does what next.
It's summer and the Golden Motel in Foundgold is gearing up for the season with a lot of new and special activities to draw in families and introduce them to the wonders of the Northern California Gold Country. One of those activities is panning for gold, of course the mines have long been played out, but small flakes of gold can still be found in the streams and with the heavy rains of the past winter, a lot more gold is in the runoff. This kicks off a "Second Gold Rush" which brings to town a lot of people and a group of rich techies from Silicon Valley and their own problems. Sylvan Burr, a billionaire before he's 30, is not a nice dude. He is condescending to everyone around him, even his "friends". He has come to explore his family's history in the area, but that history was not a pretty one.
Dee is again in a standoff with the "mayor" of Goldsgone, Verity. Goldsgone has a crafts fair, and Dee wants a table, but Verity is doing everything she can to keep Dee from selling her merchandise there. When Sylvan Barr winds up at the bottom of a mine shaft, the fair takes second place because this is yet another murder that is going to be linked to the Golden Motel and Dee is determined to solve it.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
It's summer and the Golden Motel in Foundgold is gearing up for the season with a lot of new and special activities to draw in families and introduce them to the wonders of the Northern California Gold Country. One of those activities is panning for gold, of course the mines have long been played out, but small flakes of gold can still be found in the streams and with the heavy rains of the past winter, a lot more gold is in the runoff. This kicks off a "Second Gold Rush" which brings to town a lot of people and a group of rich techies from Silicon Valley and their own problems. Sylvan Burr, a billionaire before he's 30, is not a nice dude. He is condescending to everyone around him, even his "friends". He has come to explore his family's history in the area, but that history was not a pretty one.
Dee is again in a standoff with the "mayor" of Goldsgone, Verity. Goldsgone has a crafts fair, and Dee wants a table, but Verity is doing everything she can to keep Dee from selling her merchandise there. When Sylvan Barr winds up at the bottom of a mine shaft, the fair takes second place because this is yet another murder that is going to be linked to the Golden Motel and Dee is determined to solve it.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
August 9, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Trying to shed the nickname “Murder Motel,” bestowed on it by Verity Donner – Yes, that Donner Gillespie, Dee Stern, a former Hollywood sitcom writer, attempts to carve out a new path for the peaceful place to escape she and Jeff Cornetta, her ex-husband and now partner, have in created at the Golden Motel of the Mountains. Part of that new path includes bringing back a facsimile of an original Forty-Niners’ wooden contraption, a sluice, that uses water to separate gold from the sand. It will allow their guests to pan for “gold,” actually “fool’s gold”. What they didn’t plan on was the discovery of a real gold nugget and a viral video of the incident. A video that started Gold Rush 2.o! All their motel’s accommodations were fully booked within minutes, as were all the places to stay in the area. Everyone is ready for an adventure and interested in the abandoned mines in the area.
All the businesses in Foundgold and Goldsgone were happy to have a huge influx of tourists, but Gold Rush 2.0 attracted some unsavory characters from Silicon Valley who were sure they were going to hit a real gold mine and line their already overflowing pockets. The head of the Core Four immediately got on Dee’s last nerve, but she didn’t wish him dead. Sylvan Burr, a wealthy 30-year-old retired CEO, went missing, and soon his dead body was found at the bottom of an abandoned mineshaft. Another murder connected to Dee, Jeff, and their “Murder Motel”.
Dee’s livelihood was on the line. She was also dealing with Verity and her schemes. Burr had plenty of enemies. Dee hopes to turn the tables on Verity, putting her in a position to root out the killer without putting herself in too much danger. Heck, maybe Bud the Bear will do her a solid and help her get to the bottom of the murder and help her save the Golden.
I was thrilled to be back in Foundgold, population 68, and the Golden Motel-of-the-Mountains. Dee handles most of the hotel business while Jeff endeavors to find fun experiences for their guests to do. He isn’t usually successful, but it sure is funny to see him try a variety of things. Dee’s dad, Sam, has been staying at the Golden while work was being done on his Los Angeles home. He’s been having a good time and is in no hurry to head home. The voice actor has taken on the persona of Prospector Pete to assist motel guests panning at the sluice. The backwoods couple of Ma’am and Mister Ma’am are on hand to help Dee and Jeff with anything they need, including teaching them the true craft of panning for gold. Dee also adopted Nugget, a hound dog that belonged to the motel’s late owner. Jonas, Dee’s new boyfriend, had only a minor role this time, but the relationship is moving in the right direction. A variety of residents of Foundgold and Goldgone join this wonderful cast of core characters. I can’t forget Bud, the Bear, who could wander through at any time. I loved the bonus of Dee’s Bud the Bear cartoons and merchandise.
The guests at the Golden are a unique group. Some are there for the pure fun, while others could really use the money that any gold nuggets or flakes can bring. Then there are the techy folks from Silicon Valley. They are up to something.
This mystery was a fun one. Dee is in constant motion, trying to figure out who killed Sylvan Burr and why, all while jumping through the hoops Verity throws into her path. I had a fabulous time trekking around with her as she followed each clue wherever it led. She had many different theories from her eavesdropping and observations, and every twist and turn added something new. The final twist was a big surprise that confirmed an error I made in discarding a thought I had earlier in the book.
Solid Gold Murder is a solid gold addition to this series. Ms. Bryon has plotted this mystery so perfectly with a variety of subplots woven in seamlessly to keep the story moving at a brisk pace. She also fills the story with humor as only she can. The banter between Jeff and Dee is entertaining, and I love the setting of the old-fashioned motel and the woodsy area surrounding it. This book is another Perfect Escape from this wonderful author. I can’t wait to see what she has planned for Dee and Jeff next.
While this book can be read on its own, if you haven’t read the first book in this series, A Very Woodsy Murder, I recommend starting at the beginning to get to know these characters and Goldsgone and Foundgold from the start for maximum enjoyment.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Trying to shed the nickname “Murder Motel,” bestowed on it by Verity Donner – Yes, that Donner Gillespie, Dee Stern, a former Hollywood sitcom writer, attempts to carve out a new path for the peaceful place to escape she and Jeff Cornetta, her ex-husband and now partner, have in created at the Golden Motel of the Mountains. Part of that new path includes bringing back a facsimile of an original Forty-Niners’ wooden contraption, a sluice, that uses water to separate gold from the sand. It will allow their guests to pan for “gold,” actually “fool’s gold”. What they didn’t plan on was the discovery of a real gold nugget and a viral video of the incident. A video that started Gold Rush 2.o! All their motel’s accommodations were fully booked within minutes, as were all the places to stay in the area. Everyone is ready for an adventure and interested in the abandoned mines in the area.
All the businesses in Foundgold and Goldsgone were happy to have a huge influx of tourists, but Gold Rush 2.0 attracted some unsavory characters from Silicon Valley who were sure they were going to hit a real gold mine and line their already overflowing pockets. The head of the Core Four immediately got on Dee’s last nerve, but she didn’t wish him dead. Sylvan Burr, a wealthy 30-year-old retired CEO, went missing, and soon his dead body was found at the bottom of an abandoned mineshaft. Another murder connected to Dee, Jeff, and their “Murder Motel”.
Dee’s livelihood was on the line. She was also dealing with Verity and her schemes. Burr had plenty of enemies. Dee hopes to turn the tables on Verity, putting her in a position to root out the killer without putting herself in too much danger. Heck, maybe Bud the Bear will do her a solid and help her get to the bottom of the murder and help her save the Golden.
I was thrilled to be back in Foundgold, population 68, and the Golden Motel-of-the-Mountains. Dee handles most of the hotel business while Jeff endeavors to find fun experiences for their guests to do. He isn’t usually successful, but it sure is funny to see him try a variety of things. Dee’s dad, Sam, has been staying at the Golden while work was being done on his Los Angeles home. He’s been having a good time and is in no hurry to head home. The voice actor has taken on the persona of Prospector Pete to assist motel guests panning at the sluice. The backwoods couple of Ma’am and Mister Ma’am are on hand to help Dee and Jeff with anything they need, including teaching them the true craft of panning for gold. Dee also adopted Nugget, a hound dog that belonged to the motel’s late owner. Jonas, Dee’s new boyfriend, had only a minor role this time, but the relationship is moving in the right direction. A variety of residents of Foundgold and Goldgone join this wonderful cast of core characters. I can’t forget Bud, the Bear, who could wander through at any time. I loved the bonus of Dee’s Bud the Bear cartoons and merchandise.
The guests at the Golden are a unique group. Some are there for the pure fun, while others could really use the money that any gold nuggets or flakes can bring. Then there are the techy folks from Silicon Valley. They are up to something.
This mystery was a fun one. Dee is in constant motion, trying to figure out who killed Sylvan Burr and why, all while jumping through the hoops Verity throws into her path. I had a fabulous time trekking around with her as she followed each clue wherever it led. She had many different theories from her eavesdropping and observations, and every twist and turn added something new. The final twist was a big surprise that confirmed an error I made in discarding a thought I had earlier in the book.
Solid Gold Murder is a solid gold addition to this series. Ms. Bryon has plotted this mystery so perfectly with a variety of subplots woven in seamlessly to keep the story moving at a brisk pace. She also fills the story with humor as only she can. The banter between Jeff and Dee is entertaining, and I love the setting of the old-fashioned motel and the woodsy area surrounding it. This book is another Perfect Escape from this wonderful author. I can’t wait to see what she has planned for Dee and Jeff next.
While this book can be read on its own, if you haven’t read the first book in this series, A Very Woodsy Murder, I recommend starting at the beginning to get to know these characters and Goldsgone and Foundgold from the start for maximum enjoyment.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
July 12, 2025
I LOVED this book! I devoured it, I could not put it down. I love Dee and her sass and savvyness and also her passion for making her new dreams work. I would visit The Golden in a heartbeat and love the atmosphere with the trails, rivers, old mines, and two "rival" towns. I probably wouldn't camp because if the adorably named and honestly hilarious Bud the bear. This book had danger around each twist and turn and I was SHOCKED by the ending. I loved the mix of poignant moments where we learn about people's past and sometimes their struggles, the hilarious moments, and the drama. This is cozy with a kick and the only thing missing was a little more budding romance, though I kind of did not notice until the end. I love how Dee's dad helped investigate and all her interactions with her bestie Jeff had me smiling.
I already cannot wait for more!
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC; my thoughts and review are my own.
I already cannot wait for more!
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC; my thoughts and review are my own.
July 29, 2025
I am definitely happy I came back to book two in this series. After book one, I couldn't decide if it was too over the top for me but this second adventure was much more enjoyable even though I still think Dee pushes things a little too much at times, however the story definitely flows better in this tale! There are a lot of fun characters in this series, I was happy to see more of Dee's dad in this one, characters you can love and characters not so much but that's part of the charm! When Dee and Jeff set off a second Gold Rush by mistake, all heck breaks lose with all kinds of interesting folks showing up to try and take advantage, including some super rich tech geeks. When one is murdered through a fall into an old mine, can our friends figure out what happened before the motel is negatively affected? Come along for a wild ride through woods, mines, and streams looking for gold and the answer to an interesting mystery while avoiding bears and cross town rivalries. Thanks to #Netgally, #Kensingtonbooks, and the author for an opportunity to read! #SolidGoldMurder #GoldenMotelMysteries #EllenBryon #bookreviews #bookideas #retiredreaders
June 3, 2025
Ellen Byron is a must read author for me and I was excited to read book 2 in her new series set in Golden, California. I love how Ellen’s personal experience as a screenwriter brings Dee's character to life and her humor keeps us snickering.
This time around Dee finds real gold in her sluice, which starts a frenzy and billionaire tech Sylvan shows up and ends up at the bottom of a mine shaft. Now, with her life and the future of the Golden Motel hanging by a thread, Dee must unearth a minefield of suspects and outwit a greedy killer before she finally digs herself too deep . . .
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and there are plenty of twists and turns in this story, and I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. The story moves at a steady pace, and I had a hard time putting it down.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This time around Dee finds real gold in her sluice, which starts a frenzy and billionaire tech Sylvan shows up and ends up at the bottom of a mine shaft. Now, with her life and the future of the Golden Motel hanging by a thread, Dee must unearth a minefield of suspects and outwit a greedy killer before she finally digs herself too deep . . .
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and there are plenty of twists and turns in this story, and I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. The story moves at a steady pace, and I had a hard time putting it down.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 29, 2025
"Solid Gold Murder (Golden Motel #2)" by Ellen Byron has Deb and her business partner's motel fully up and operational. They're even pandering to the tourist trap money makers such as a faux gold panning sluice. Luckily, Dee's dad is sticking around and more than happy to get into character as an old timey miner for them. While helping their first guests with gold panning some real gold is found. This sets off a modern day gold rush.
The gold rush ends up bringing in some rich tech guys looking to re-connect with their leader's family history. Their leader is a real piece of work and manages to make just about everyone mad. Well, now we know what ends up happening to that kind of character in a cozy mystery. With so many possible suspects it seems almost impossible to narrow it down to one suspect. However, in the end it ended up being one of my top suspects but not quite for the reason I was expecting.
The gold rush ends up bringing in some rich tech guys looking to re-connect with their leader's family history. Their leader is a real piece of work and manages to make just about everyone mad. Well, now we know what ends up happening to that kind of character in a cozy mystery. With so many possible suspects it seems almost impossible to narrow it down to one suspect. However, in the end it ended up being one of my top suspects but not quite for the reason I was expecting.
May 7, 2025
Solid Gold Murder is the first book I've read by this author and I am sure to pick up others.The second installment of this series is engaging, I loved the California Gold Country setting. The motel owners Dee and Jeff are well developed and likable as are the large cast of residents of the charming town of Foundgold. The mystery was pretty basic but kept me interested. I hope to see more of this entertaining series.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance copy to review.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance copy to review.
September 9, 2025
Another fun mystery from Ellen Byron! I love the setting of this one and enjoyed this one just as much as the first. While some of the scenarios are a little campier than I like, the mystery itself had me guessing and I enjoyed following along with Dee as she tried to find the guilty party. The writing, as always, had me laughing, and I look forward to the next in the series.
August 5, 2025
Even though I had not read the first book in the series, I didn’t feel confused or lost reading the second book in the series. I love the character of Dee and her tribe including her ex-husband and father. Bud the bear generates cartoons throughout the book which are hilarious. The mystery was interesting, set around gold mining, and I didn’t see the end coming. As a bonus, the author includes some road trip tips as well as a recipe.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
March 29, 2025
Dee Stern and BFF ex-husband Jeff Cornetta are continuing to do whatever it takes keep their Golden Motel open and hopefully even make a profit. When gold flakes are found in the nearby creek, the news gets out on social media and it's a gold rush all over again. But when a multimillionaire come with his groupies he goes missing and is found murdered. Let the sleuthing begin! Situational and verbal humor are joined by cartoon drawings and plot twists to make for a fun read.
This is a biased review because I love the author's writing regardless of series or pseudonym.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected e-book proof from Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you! Pub Date Jul 29, 2025
#SolidGoldMurder by @llenbyronmariadirico #GoldenMotelMysteriesBk2 @kensingtonbooks
#Cozymystery #witty #suspense #mysterythriller #HumorousSuspense @goodreads @bookbub #murder @librarythingofficial #smalltown @barnesandnoble ***** Review @booksamillion @bookshop_org #retromotel #unputdownable @bookshop_org_uk #CozyCrime #oldgoldmines
#recipes #cartoondrawings #goodfun
This is a biased review because I love the author's writing regardless of series or pseudonym.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected e-book proof from Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you! Pub Date Jul 29, 2025
#SolidGoldMurder by @llenbyronmariadirico #GoldenMotelMysteriesBk2 @kensingtonbooks
#Cozymystery #witty #suspense #mysterythriller #HumorousSuspense @goodreads @bookbub #murder @librarythingofficial #smalltown @barnesandnoble ***** Review @booksamillion @bookshop_org #retromotel #unputdownable @bookshop_org_uk #CozyCrime #oldgoldmines
#recipes #cartoondrawings #goodfun
July 25, 2025
Changing your job can be a bit of a gamble. When it means moving location, renovating a small holiday village, and going into partnership with your ex-husband, that gamble is even greater! Add the recently aquired moniker of murder motel to the mix, following the death of a guest just after their grand reopening, and, as Dee Stern is finding out, things are even tougher! So, when the Golden Motel-of-the-Mountains' new panning activity finds real gold, the subsequent rush of bookings is very welcome. Less welcome is the discovery of another body, this time at one of the abandoned local gold mines, and the subsequent attention, once again, of the world's media! Dee is determined to discover the killer’s identity before her business and reputation disappear along with everything else she treasures about her new life, that is if the killer doesn't take that too!
The second book in Ellen Byron's new series is a delight. The humour is infectious, and Dee, once again, is a main protagonist it's easy to cheer for. The various storylines intertwine seamlessly, and red herrings hint at various suspects before the big reveal, which tied everything together extremely satisfactorily. I will definitely be on the lookout for book three in this new series, which has already found its place amongst the author’s other very popular cozy mysteries.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this, and the addition of Dee's dad to the main protagonists was a great move. This is easy to recommend.
The second book in Ellen Byron's new series is a delight. The humour is infectious, and Dee, once again, is a main protagonist it's easy to cheer for. The various storylines intertwine seamlessly, and red herrings hint at various suspects before the big reveal, which tied everything together extremely satisfactorily. I will definitely be on the lookout for book three in this new series, which has already found its place amongst the author’s other very popular cozy mysteries.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this, and the addition of Dee's dad to the main protagonists was a great move. This is easy to recommend.
August 12, 2025
Gosh, I read the first in this series a year or so ago and liked it. I don't know if I changed or the writing changed. This came so close to DNF so many times.
Can't really think of much that worked for me here. It was too soft, folksy, vanilla, unexciting. And the character of Jeff was silly to me, a doofus, maybe written as comic relief? But relief from what? I wasn't feeling any stress or worry. The author set up the victim to be so unlikeable, I didn't care who killed him.
This cozy mystery just didn't work for me. I wasn't cozy -- I didn't want to be at the motel or town. I don't want to go back there. And I was not engaged in the mystery.
Can't really think of much that worked for me here. It was too soft, folksy, vanilla, unexciting. And the character of Jeff was silly to me, a doofus, maybe written as comic relief? But relief from what? I wasn't feeling any stress or worry. The author set up the victim to be so unlikeable, I didn't care who killed him.
This cozy mystery just didn't work for me. I wasn't cozy -- I didn't want to be at the motel or town. I don't want to go back there. And I was not engaged in the mystery.
July 25, 2025
4.5 stars
The main character in this book, Dee Stern, was a sitcom writer who left the cutthroat entertainment industry to open a motel in the rural town of Foundgold, California. Her business partner is her ex-husband and current best friend, Jeff Cornetta. For fun, Dee has started creating fun cartoons starring the local bear, Bud. (I love that some of the cartoons are included in the book!) The suspicious death of a wealthy, high-profile motel guest puts the Golden Motel on the map for all the wrong reasons.
This humorous book is the second in a new series, but would also work as a standalone. I liked the first book, but I really loved this one. While Dee is trying to sell Bud-related merchandise at a neighboring town's flea market run by her nemesis, a modern-day gold rush comes to Foundgold after a viral video shows a discovery of gold. The victim is a jerk, so there's no shortage of suspects. Dee is a clever investigator, but has a knack for getting into awkward situations which is bad for her but fun for the reader. Even though they're no longer a couple, Dee and Jeff make a great team. Like Dee, the author has extensive experience in television, so the book gives an inside look at the industry. All in all, this is an entertaining book and I can't wait for Dee's next adventure.
I received an advance copy of this ebook for review purposes from Kensington Books, Kensington Cozies, and NetGalley. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
The main character in this book, Dee Stern, was a sitcom writer who left the cutthroat entertainment industry to open a motel in the rural town of Foundgold, California. Her business partner is her ex-husband and current best friend, Jeff Cornetta. For fun, Dee has started creating fun cartoons starring the local bear, Bud. (I love that some of the cartoons are included in the book!) The suspicious death of a wealthy, high-profile motel guest puts the Golden Motel on the map for all the wrong reasons.
This humorous book is the second in a new series, but would also work as a standalone. I liked the first book, but I really loved this one. While Dee is trying to sell Bud-related merchandise at a neighboring town's flea market run by her nemesis, a modern-day gold rush comes to Foundgold after a viral video shows a discovery of gold. The victim is a jerk, so there's no shortage of suspects. Dee is a clever investigator, but has a knack for getting into awkward situations which is bad for her but fun for the reader. Even though they're no longer a couple, Dee and Jeff make a great team. Like Dee, the author has extensive experience in television, so the book gives an inside look at the industry. All in all, this is an entertaining book and I can't wait for Dee's next adventure.
I received an advance copy of this ebook for review purposes from Kensington Books, Kensington Cozies, and NetGalley. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
July 28, 2025
When you think the second book cannot be better than the first, but then it is....
The setting and premise are so original, it's unlike any other Cozy Mystery out there. The characters have such chemistry and personality, you forget you are reading instead of hanging out with old friends. And when I say Dee IS Ellen, I mean the sass, humor, and determination is soooo Ellen!
Being dubbed "Murder Motel" isn't good for business and Bud the Bear merch isn't quite bringing in the revenue needed, a faux gold rush idea forms. When real gold is discovered, chaos ensues. When one of the guests turns up dead, Dee is ready to jump on the case to save the motel's reputation. With so many suspects, she has her work cut out for her.
The setting of these books is such a focal point, it's like a paid actor. The small-town vibes are so fun, and the characters are just phenomenal. I also really enjoy the history lessons thrown in there.
I have read every book that Ellen has written, and I really start running out of things to say. It's difficult and I have trouble coming up with words to express how truly amazing she and her books are!! Maybe my next book purchase should be a Thesaurus.
This woman is simply the best!!!
The setting and premise are so original, it's unlike any other Cozy Mystery out there. The characters have such chemistry and personality, you forget you are reading instead of hanging out with old friends. And when I say Dee IS Ellen, I mean the sass, humor, and determination is soooo Ellen!
Being dubbed "Murder Motel" isn't good for business and Bud the Bear merch isn't quite bringing in the revenue needed, a faux gold rush idea forms. When real gold is discovered, chaos ensues. When one of the guests turns up dead, Dee is ready to jump on the case to save the motel's reputation. With so many suspects, she has her work cut out for her.
The setting of these books is such a focal point, it's like a paid actor. The small-town vibes are so fun, and the characters are just phenomenal. I also really enjoy the history lessons thrown in there.
I have read every book that Ellen has written, and I really start running out of things to say. It's difficult and I have trouble coming up with words to express how truly amazing she and her books are!! Maybe my next book purchase should be a Thesaurus.
This woman is simply the best!!!
September 21, 2025
This book, the second installment of the series was just as good as the first one. I love all the twists and turns along with all the other stuff that is going on like with Verity. I think I hate her more than anyone in the book. I mean who makes someone sleep in a tent ⛺️ just so they can sell their wares at the craft fair? The one night after endless nights in the tent ⛺️ that she decides to go inside to sleep, Verity’s minions tell on her and Verity kicks her out of the craft fair. Talk about pettiness!
Oh and the baked goods, I am so glad the cat is out of the bag on that one! Poor Ed, with his heart attack. The bear stuck in the car, was simply the best and was a genius way to begin the ending of the story.
I never saw who the killer was until the very end when the clues started to come together.
All I’m saying is I could read this book for just the bits and pieces of the every day life. Those bits are just as interesting and important as the murder.
I do hope the author is able to come out with book #3!
Oh and the baked goods, I am so glad the cat is out of the bag on that one! Poor Ed, with his heart attack. The bear stuck in the car, was simply the best and was a genius way to begin the ending of the story.
I never saw who the killer was until the very end when the clues started to come together.
All I’m saying is I could read this book for just the bits and pieces of the every day life. Those bits are just as interesting and important as the murder.
I do hope the author is able to come out with book #3!
July 29, 2025
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Ellen Byron for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Solid Gold Murder coming out July 29, 2025. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I really love this author. I loved the first book in the series so I was excited to receive this book. I think it’s a really good addition. I’m loving the setting and the characters. I will definitely check out more books in the series.
I really love this author. I loved the first book in the series so I was excited to receive this book. I think it’s a really good addition. I’m loving the setting and the characters. I will definitely check out more books in the series.
October 4, 2025
I don't think I have read an Ellen Byron book I didn't like. I initally started on this book, but then realized I was missing out, and went back and read the first in the series. Both were fantastic, to the point where I was about to get on my gold digging clothes and head out into the woods!
Dee Stern has recently sunk her life savings in to renovating an old motel in Foundgold, CA. She is still trying to beat the name "Murder Motel" which she received after an unfortunate event occurred shortly after her grand opening. She and her ex-husband/best friend, Jeff are working hard on making the hotel a family friendly retreat.
The motel is not far from both bustling LA and the Silicon Valley, which attracts a certain clientele. Dee is not prepared for Sylvan Burr and his techie friends who arrive for vacation. Sylvan is a multi gazillionarie who sold his start up business and has more money than he knows what to do with.
When Sylvan ends up dead at the bottom of a mineshaft, Dee is determined to find the killer and save her motel.
The characters are fantastic. The community members of Foundgold are, well, pure gold. Dee has a bit of a rivalry going on with a neighboring town, Goldstone, which adds another layer of fun.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for an ARC of this book.
Dee Stern has recently sunk her life savings in to renovating an old motel in Foundgold, CA. She is still trying to beat the name "Murder Motel" which she received after an unfortunate event occurred shortly after her grand opening. She and her ex-husband/best friend, Jeff are working hard on making the hotel a family friendly retreat.
The motel is not far from both bustling LA and the Silicon Valley, which attracts a certain clientele. Dee is not prepared for Sylvan Burr and his techie friends who arrive for vacation. Sylvan is a multi gazillionarie who sold his start up business and has more money than he knows what to do with.
When Sylvan ends up dead at the bottom of a mineshaft, Dee is determined to find the killer and save her motel.
The characters are fantastic. The community members of Foundgold are, well, pure gold. Dee has a bit of a rivalry going on with a neighboring town, Goldstone, which adds another layer of fun.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for an ARC of this book.
January 13, 2026
I don't know how I missed this one, but I love this author. I just ordered the book. + Received book yesterday morning, sat down for a few minutes and the clock was literally striking midnight when I finished. I can feel for Dee and I totally understand about Bud the Squirrel, Bud the Bud, and Bud the Bear. Kudos, Ellen.
August 13, 2025
This is the second in the series. This one was a wonderful continuation. There is humor, drama, and intrigue. I can't wait to read book 3...upon it's publication!
October 27, 2025
Didn’t care for this book as much as the first one. For some reason it just didn’t hold my attention.
January 11, 2026
3.25 stars
July 2, 2025
I enjoyed this return trip to Foundsgold and the Golden Motel but unfortunately, I did not enjoy it as much as the first book. I did not find it as funny and I was a bit disappointed by that.
Dee Stern is determined to make the Golden Motel a success and so adds a sluice for panning for "gold" for her guests. When two actually find real gold and thanks to a social media blunder on Dee's part, she accidentally starts a second gold rush. Please that her motel is now full, even if it is for the wrong reasons, she gets a surprise visit from a tech genius young billionaire, who thinks he is untouchable. When he winds up dead at the bottom of a mine, Dee steps in to investigate and hopefully spare a reprisal of "The Murder Motel" label from the first book. She gets more than she bargained for in the adventure, including sleeping in a tent to participate in a craft fair hosted by her nemesis, Verity Yes-that-Donner Gillespie.
This book has great quirky characters (though the techies left something to be desired) and Bud the Bear is quite the star. I loved the addition of the Bud comics and illustrations in the story. To me, this plot seemed to go on a tad longer than needed but other than that I really liked the book.
My thanks to Kensington Cozies and Netgalley for this ARC.
Dee Stern is determined to make the Golden Motel a success and so adds a sluice for panning for "gold" for her guests. When two actually find real gold and thanks to a social media blunder on Dee's part, she accidentally starts a second gold rush. Please that her motel is now full, even if it is for the wrong reasons, she gets a surprise visit from a tech genius young billionaire, who thinks he is untouchable. When he winds up dead at the bottom of a mine, Dee steps in to investigate and hopefully spare a reprisal of "The Murder Motel" label from the first book. She gets more than she bargained for in the adventure, including sleeping in a tent to participate in a craft fair hosted by her nemesis, Verity Yes-that-Donner Gillespie.
This book has great quirky characters (though the techies left something to be desired) and Bud the Bear is quite the star. I loved the addition of the Bud comics and illustrations in the story. To me, this plot seemed to go on a tad longer than needed but other than that I really liked the book.
My thanks to Kensington Cozies and Netgalley for this ARC.
September 30, 2025
Another wonderful book by Ellen Byron.
September 13, 2025
3.5 stars
In this second book in the 'Golden Motel' series, a motel guest hoping to resurrect an old gold mine becomes a murder victim. The book works fine as a standalone since it has a "Who's Who" of all the old and new characters.
*****
Dee Stern was a Hollywood sitcom writer for fifteen years before she and her best friend (and former husband) Jeff Cornetta opened the Golden Motel in the foothills of California's Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Jeff, who's a freelance website designer, created a webpage to advertise the hostelry and describe things to do in the area.
The local attractions include the nearby Majestic National Park and two quaint towns: Foundgold, home to the Golden Motel and Williker's All-In-One General Store;
and Goldsgone, a historic re-creation town that looks almost exactly like it did 150 years ago. The Goldsgondians dress in period costumes; speak in Old West lingo; and maintain old timey facades for their stores and businesses.
Dee and Jeff are always looking for ways to attract guests, so they've renovated an old sluice - a facsimile of the original Forty-Niners' wooden contraption that separates gold from river bottom water.
The brook water used for the sluice is seeded with pyrite (fool's gold) to give guests an enjoyable 'panning for gold' experience, and Dee's father dresses up as Prospector Pete to add to the fun.
Shockingly, the first visitors to try the sluice find REAL gold nuggets, and a video posted to social media starts a gold rush. Online reservations for the Golden Motel ratchet up in minutes, and by the following day every hostelry in the area is booked up by prospectors, wannabes, families, and curiosity seekers.
Four young Silicon Valley techies arrive at the Golden Motel in a helicopter: Sylvan Burr, Austin Nguyen, Gracie Delacroix, and Gavin Walsh, a group that call themselves the 'Core Four.'
Sylvan created an app called Tax Hax, a virtual accountant that does tax returns better and cheaper than a real-life accountant. The app made Sylvan a billionaire, and his companions are very rich as well. Sylvan tells Dee his ancestors mined gold in the area, and he wants to reopen an old family mine and extract more gold.
Sylvan has an entitled attitude, and Dee learns he's been accused of racism and sexual harassment, and he once sent a box of poop to a journalist who annoyed him. Sylvan is also unpopular with real life accountants who lost business to his app. Sylvan makes himself unpopular locally as well, by telling general store owner Elmira that her baked goods are terrible; and by trying to buy all the businesses in Goldsgone, so he can own a whole town.
Before long Sylvan is found dead at the bottom of the abandoned 'Rich Diggins' mine, stabbed in the back. This revives the Golden's Motel's old nickname 'murder motel', acquired when a guest was killed in the past. Dee fears the moniker will drive away business.
To demonstrate that the motel is a safe place, Dee decides to help Deputy Sheriff Raul Aguilar find Sylvan's killer.
During her investigation, Dee delves into people's private lives; eavesdrops on conversations; searches people's rooms; asks intrusive questions; does computer searches; breaks and enters; and suspects EVERYONE in sight. Dee texts the deputy sheriff all her findings, but it's Dee who solves the crime in the end.
As all this is happening, Jeff tests recreational activities for motel guests, like electric bikes and canoes; Dee spars with her archenemy Verity Donner Gillespie, who thinks of herself as the queen of Goldsgone; Ice Cream Ida sells delicious pumpkin ice cream sandwiches; Ranger Tom makes sculptures with found objects from the park; charcuterie artist Serena assembles scrumptious breakfast boards; Dee and her hound Nugget camp out in a tent; and much more. These additional scenes provide a wonderful ambiance to the story, and make northern California seem like a great place to visit.
The book has a few of Dee's 'Bud the Bear' cartoons, that advertise her 'Bud the Bear' stuffed toys, which she sells for extra cash.
"Where's the mayo for my turkey leg?"
The book also has a recipe for Nutty Almond Date Bars, because California is the almond and date capital of America.
Nutty Almond Date Bars
I enjoyed this cozy mystery, especially the array of slightly wacky characters.
Thanks to Netgalley, Ellen Byron, and Kensington Cozies for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at http://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
August 5, 2025
4.25⭐
A video posted by accident from the Golden Motel triggered a current day gold rush in Foundgold, California. Completely booked for the first time since they bought the motel, Dee and her partner are happy and slightly nervous. A dead obnoxious tech bro has the appellation Murder Motel popping up. Desperate to squash the nickname, Dee investigates and attempts solving the murder. Filled with quirky and mainly loveable characters, bear puns and Bud the Bear, himself, it's a fun and twisty mystery.
A video posted by accident from the Golden Motel triggered a current day gold rush in Foundgold, California. Completely booked for the first time since they bought the motel, Dee and her partner are happy and slightly nervous. A dead obnoxious tech bro has the appellation Murder Motel popping up. Desperate to squash the nickname, Dee investigates and attempts solving the murder. Filled with quirky and mainly loveable characters, bear puns and Bud the Bear, himself, it's a fun and twisty mystery.
July 27, 2025
Solid Gold Murder is the second book in the Golden Motel Mystery Series by Ellen Byron. The amateur sleuth is Dee Stern a former sitcom writer who purchased a retro motel in the wilds of California.
In Solid Gold Murder, Dee is eager to shake the moniker of "Murder Motel." She comes up with a gold panning activity to draw tourists to the motel. However, when someone discovers a genuine gold nugget, it triggers a modern-day gold rush that attracts all kinds of people to Dee's motel and the local community. Things take a deadly and sinister turn, and Dee ends up with a new mystery on her hands.
Solid Gold Murder is a solid cozy mystery. The sleuth, Dee, and her best buddy/ex-husband make a great investigative team. There are lots of interesting characters that "guest star" in this installment, along with recurring characters like Serena and Elmira.
The mystery is well-plotted and contains enough twists and red herrings to keep you guessing throughout. Author Ellen Byron is an experienced cozy mystery writer, and as a former sitcom writer herself, knows how to interject enough good humor to keep things funny and lighthearted.
The gold country setting is the perfect backdrop for the storyline. I love the vintage motel concept. I also really enjoyed the Bud the Bear cartoons, which are new to this installment.
This book is the second in the series but could easily be read as a stand-alone book.
I am hoping this series keeps going for a long time to come. I am already looking forward to reading book three!
Thanks to Net Galley and Kensington Books for the ARC.
In Solid Gold Murder, Dee is eager to shake the moniker of "Murder Motel." She comes up with a gold panning activity to draw tourists to the motel. However, when someone discovers a genuine gold nugget, it triggers a modern-day gold rush that attracts all kinds of people to Dee's motel and the local community. Things take a deadly and sinister turn, and Dee ends up with a new mystery on her hands.
Solid Gold Murder is a solid cozy mystery. The sleuth, Dee, and her best buddy/ex-husband make a great investigative team. There are lots of interesting characters that "guest star" in this installment, along with recurring characters like Serena and Elmira.
The mystery is well-plotted and contains enough twists and red herrings to keep you guessing throughout. Author Ellen Byron is an experienced cozy mystery writer, and as a former sitcom writer herself, knows how to interject enough good humor to keep things funny and lighthearted.
The gold country setting is the perfect backdrop for the storyline. I love the vintage motel concept. I also really enjoyed the Bud the Bear cartoons, which are new to this installment.
This book is the second in the series but could easily be read as a stand-alone book.
I am hoping this series keeps going for a long time to come. I am already looking forward to reading book three!
Thanks to Net Galley and Kensington Books for the ARC.
August 3, 2025
All the memorable characters from Book 1 "A Very Woodsy Murder" are back. Yay! Hoteliers, Dee and Jeff are just starting to see their motel in the California Gold Country gain popularity, despite the unfortunate nickname of "Murder Motel." When an accidental social media post results in a fully booked motel, Dee and Jeff are optimistic about the Golden Motel's future. That is, until an obnoxious guest disappears. To add to Dee's troubles, she has a falling out with her best friend, and her arch nemesis, Verity "yes, that Donner" is making is nearly impossible for Dee to participate int he local fair.
It's a super fun romp that had me totally involved in the lives of the engaging characters and as anxious to solve the mystery as Dee and Jeff. I can't wait for my next visit to Goldgone and Foundgold.
It's a super fun romp that had me totally involved in the lives of the engaging characters and as anxious to solve the mystery as Dee and Jeff. I can't wait for my next visit to Goldgone and Foundgold.
August 10, 2025
Former sit-com writer turned author, Ellen Byron’s mysteries always have a personal link to something that she knows well. In Byron’s latest series, her protagonist, Dee Stern is also a former sit-com writer. But rather than jumping from writing TV scripts to writing cozy mysteries, Dee has to learn a whole new business when she and her business partner and former husband, Jeff Cornetta, purchase a run-down motel.
In SOLID GOLD MURDER, the second book in the series, Dee and Jeff are looking for more family friendly activities for hotel guests to help entice more guests to fill their rooms. Since this region experienced a gold rush in the mid 1800’s and much of the area’s history is steeped in that time, Jeff comes up with the idea of giving guests the opportunity to learn how to pan for gold using fool’s gold. But the spring rains have washed some real gold into the streams and that sets off a brand-new gold rush.
Now the motel’s rooms are full, but not all their guests are family friendly. When one of the most annoying of her guests is murdered, there are few who grieve and many more who could easily have done the deed. With the reputation of her motel on the line, Dee is determined to figure out who had it in for the brash young billionaire, but he has offended, cheated and betrayed so many that she has her work cut out for her.
Full of colorful characters and the wry humor expected of situation comedies, author Ellen Byron has created another memorable series.
i would like to thank Goodreads and Kensington Books for an advance copy of SOLID GOLD MURDER,
In SOLID GOLD MURDER, the second book in the series, Dee and Jeff are looking for more family friendly activities for hotel guests to help entice more guests to fill their rooms. Since this region experienced a gold rush in the mid 1800’s and much of the area’s history is steeped in that time, Jeff comes up with the idea of giving guests the opportunity to learn how to pan for gold using fool’s gold. But the spring rains have washed some real gold into the streams and that sets off a brand-new gold rush.
Now the motel’s rooms are full, but not all their guests are family friendly. When one of the most annoying of her guests is murdered, there are few who grieve and many more who could easily have done the deed. With the reputation of her motel on the line, Dee is determined to figure out who had it in for the brash young billionaire, but he has offended, cheated and betrayed so many that she has her work cut out for her.
Full of colorful characters and the wry humor expected of situation comedies, author Ellen Byron has created another memorable series.
i would like to thank Goodreads and Kensington Books for an advance copy of SOLID GOLD MURDER,
July 15, 2025
The author, Ellen Byron has got to quit doing this to me. I have always considered myself to be darn good at figuring out "who-dun-it" before I've finished half the book. This is the second time she has proven me wrong!! With both A Very Woodsy Murder, the first book in this series, and now this book, Solid Gold Murder, she completely fooled me! And neither murderous character had been absent from the book until the murder reveal. I hate authors who spring a new character into the narrative right before announcing that "this is the villain". Ellen doesn't do that, and the character development for her books is very detailed. I feel like I know Dee and Jeff and Sam better than I know my real neighbors. It's so easy to fall into the community of Foundgold and fall in love with the residents and Bud the bear.
If you enjoy figuring out the culprits, and want to spend time with an outstanding story and author, grab this series from Ellen Byron. You won't be disappointed.
I received an ARC copy of this book in an author's giveaway, but the opinions in this review are all mine!
If you enjoy figuring out the culprits, and want to spend time with an outstanding story and author, grab this series from Ellen Byron. You won't be disappointed.
I received an ARC copy of this book in an author's giveaway, but the opinions in this review are all mine!
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