Father’s Day Fugitive

Holiday Cozy Mystery #12

by Tonya Kappes

Father’s Day in Holiday Junction is smokin'—and not just at the BBQ contest!

When celebrity chef Ted Monroe is found dead on his yacht, throat slashed with his own knife, Violet Rhinehammer’s sizzling interview turns stone-cold. With suspects piling up faster than ribs on the grill—including Ted’s bitter ex-wife, his scorned fiancée, and a town full of secrets. Violet must turn up the heat to catch a killer.

As tempers flare and family feuds ignite, can Violet smoke out the truth before the killer strikes again?

Get ready for a finger-lickin’ mystery packed with Southern charm, small-town secrets, and a killer who won’t stop until they’ve burned all the evidence!

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Summer

184 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 25, 2025

About the author

Beloved cozy mystery author Tonya Kappes is bringing her charming world to the screen!

The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.

A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.

Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.

Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...

Webpage
tonyakappes.com

Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

Twitter
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11

Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/

For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,

Reviews

[Tonya Kappes]

READ TODAY!

[William · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entertaining mystery listening 😮😁🎵

This kindle book novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book twelve of twelve

This is one of my favorite series by Tonya Kappes. They are having Fathers Day BBQ festival. She goes to interview the judge and find him dead. Why? Who? She keeps asking questions which leads to the killer and arrest.

I would highly recommend this series and author to readers of romantic family and friends relationship adventure mystery novels 😉😏 2025 🎉🎇

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s time to celebrate Father’s Day in Holiday Junction with a BBQ cook off contest. One of the judges is a celebrity chef that doesn’t seem to be everyone’s favorite person. When Violet goes to find him to conduct their interview for the newspaper she find his body.

This is an entertaining cozy mystery. Holiday Junction is a fun setting. The characters are quirky and have wonderful chemistry. There is a touch of romance and plenty of small town charm. There is no shortage of suspects and plenty of red herrings to keep you guessing who is the murderer. I never suspected the killer until the big reveal.

All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Father’s Day Fugitive is the twelfth cozy mystery in the Holiday Cozy Mystery series. It’s Father’s Day in Holiday Junction and there is a BBQ contest being held in town. Ted Monroe, a celebrity judge and Holiday Junction native, is the guest judge, but when he turns up murdered Violet Rhinehammer is on the case. Violet is willing to stop at nothing to uncover the murderers identity even if it puts her in danger. Will she be able to solve the crime or will the killer get to her first.

I have enjoyed this series from the beginning and always love another trip to Holiday Junction. The fast pace to these mysteries makes them so easy to get through. The characters and setting are great and like visiting an old friend every time I pick up one of these books. The mystery pulled me in from the beginning and was full of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. I definitely didn’t see the ending coming! I really enjoyed this cozy mystery and can’t wait to see what comes next for Violet!

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This time it's June, and there's a BBQ competition. The Merry Maker is back, and the humor and mischief that comes with it. There is also yachts and murder and a troubled past and a celebrity chef that no one really likes. It makes for a fun and interesting mystery.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Violet, the editor in chief of the Junction Journal and an investigative reporter, brings high energy to every event in Holiday Junction. The village loves to celebrate every holiday, and has prepared for the annual Father’s Day festival with a BBQ Contest. The village council accepted Violet’s mother, Millie Kaye, to host the contest at her Leisure Center. Millie Kaye is a combination Southern wife and mama with the grit of the Steel Magnolias. With the precision of a fine Swiss timepiece, she planned the festival down to the minute.

The celebrity chef who will judge the contest is Ted Monroe, who grew up in Holiday Junction. Most locals were not happy Ted returned to town, as he left years ago under a cloud of lies and alcoholism. He went to rehab, turned his life around, became a well-known television chef with his own signature sauce, and was engaged to a much younger, gorgeous, model.

Millie Kaye was proud to get a celebrity chef to judge the first major event she was hosting. Violet and her parents were transplants from Normal, Kentucky and unaware of the negative feelings about Ted Monroe. He was, however, a no-show for his confirmed interview with Violet for the Junction Journal, nor did he appear for the first round of judging.

Violet hurried to the marina. When boarding the deck of the beautifully cared for the watercraft, she stepped in a puddle of blood, then saw Ted lying inside the cabin. He had been murdered, and it wasn’t pretty.

As an investigative reporter, Violet and her assistant, Radley, research as much as necessary to publish the truth. Since moving to Holiday Junction, Violet has helped solve several murders while pursuing the news. It got sticky at times as she was dating Darren, the son of Police Chief Matthew Strickland. Darren recently obtained his law degree and was working for the local attorney.

Before they began dating, Violet and Darren became the Merry Maker, a unique, under cover character who has been in the village for generations. The Merry Maker’s identity is top secret, is usually only one person, and chooses where the Last Hurrah of holiday celebrations will be held.

Violet and Radley identified several potential suspects. Violet talked with Ophelia, the model, Claire, Tom’s assistant, and Isla, Ted’s ex-wife. Of particular interest was the belief that Ted began his career with stolen recipes, especially that the recipe for his signature barbecue sauce had been in Isla’s family for generations.

I appreciate how the author paints elegant, life-like scenes filled with visuals, scents, sounds, and people, especially children, as she brings them to life. Each person is defined beautifully through realistic conversations and actions.

I had no idea who the killer was. My pet suspects had alibis. Violet is working with her former nemesis Fern, a local beauty queen turned serious police officer. They persisted, sharing clues and ideas. Violet found the last piece of the puzzle, and completely surprised me with her plan and with whodunit. Once again, the author startled me with the resolution! I highly recommend this Southern cozy mystery and the rest of the series. Settle in with a favorite beverage, enjoy the mystery, and savor the atmosphere!

From a thankful heart: I have read an uncorrected, prepublication copy of this book, and this is my honest review.

[Tami · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Father's Day Fugitive," the twelfth installment in the "Holiday Cozy Mystery" series, delivers exactly what fans of the genre and this series have come to expect: a charming small-town setting, a quirky protagonist, and a perplexing murder mystery seasoned with local flavor. Set against the backdrop of a Father's Day BBQ contest in the aptly named Holiday Junction, this book kicks off with a bang – or rather, a chilling discovery.

Violet Rhinehammer, our intrepid interviewer and likely amateur sleuth, finds her anticipated chat with celebrity chef Ted Monroe cut short by his rather permanent absence, courtesy of a slashed throat and his own knife. Author [You would insert the author's name here if you provided it] skillfully sets the stage for a classic whodunit, immediately presenting a buffet of potential suspects. From the bitter ex-wife to the scorned fiancée, and a town simmering with long-held secrets, the list of those who might have wanted Ted Monroe silenced grows faster than you can say "pulled pork."

What makes this cozy mystery particularly engaging is the way the Father's Day festivities are woven into the narrative. The BBQ contest provides a vibrant backdrop, adding a layer of Southern charm and local color to the unfolding drama. The descriptions of the food and the small-town atmosphere are sure to leave readers feeling like they've taken a virtual trip to Holiday Junction.

Violet, as the central character, is appealing and relatable. Her transition from interviewer to amateur detective feels natural within the cozy mystery framework. While the synopsis doesn't delve deeply into her personality, the implication is that she possesses the requisite curiosity and determination to untangle the web of secrets surrounding Ted's death.

The promise of "tempers flaring and family feuds igniting" suggests that the mystery will be more than just a simple case of identifying a killer. It hints at deeper interpersonal conflicts and hidden resentments within the community, adding layers of intrigue to the investigation. The challenge for Violet will not only be to identify the culprit but also to navigate the complex relationships and simmering tensions within Holiday Junction.

For readers who enjoy their mysteries light on the gore and heavy on the atmosphere, "Father's Day Fugitive" appears to be a perfect fit. It promises a satisfying puzzle, a delightful setting, and a protagonist you'll likely root for. If you're a fan of cozy mysteries with a holiday twist and small-town charm, this twelfth book in the series sounds like a finger-lickin' good read. Just be prepared to crave some barbecue while you're trying to solve the crime!

[Roberta (Always Behind) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Violet is a reporter in the small town of Holiday Junction. Her mother is helping bring tourists to town for a special Father's Day BBQ contest. There will be plenty of other fun activities. Violet wants to interview the celebrity judge who is coming to town. Ted Monroe is from Holiday Junction originally and has made it big as a famous chef. His delicious sauce is very popular and helped him make his mark in the culinary world.
Ted is supposed to meet Violet in the area where the festival has been set up. When his tardiness becomes overwhelming, Violet goes to the marina to seek him out. She is shocked when he is dead on a yacht with his throat slashed with one of his own knives
Even though the police are on the case right away, Violet feels compelled to find the killer. The most likely suspects are Ted's ex-wife and the fiancee' who broke off the engagement with him after a verbal battle. The town has plenty of secrets that have been hidden. Will Violet be able to catch a killer without putting her own life at risk?
I loved the trolley system in the small town and wished they were available in my suburb that has no public transportation. I could almost smell and taste the barbecue that was part of the plot. This novel brings Southern small towns to life when so many are disappearing.
You have to admire Violet's dogged determination to find out facts even though she's just an amateur sleuth. She is a very likable character. I have more of the Holiday Junctions in my TBR. I need to get to them soon. I love all of author Tonya Kappes' novels and will continue to try to catch up and read new ones as they come out. Escape your everyday worries by visiting this small town.

[Theresa A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Violet returns for another exciting adventure, this time centered around the Father's Day Barbecue Contest. The whole town is thrilled to welcome back Ted Monroe, a celebrated chef and hometown hero, to judge the competition. Ted's success as a chef brings great publicity to both the town and the Leisure Center in Holiday Junction. However, not everyone is excited about his return. Violet receives an anonymous letter warning her that Ted may not be a good representative for the town. The letter hints that his celebrity status might be fraudulent and his rise to fame possibly built on shady dealings. Intrigued, Violet begins to uncover juicy secrets, including the surprising revelation that Ted had once been married to someone in town. But before Ted can judge the contest, he meets an untimely end, leaving Violet with a murder to solve. Was he killed by his fiancée—or perhaps his ex-fiancée? Could his ex-wife be involved? Or was it an act of revenge from a competitor in the culinary world? As Violet digs deeper, she must also determine if Ted’s dubious reputation played a role in his death, as the truth may be intertwined with the murder itself. This thrilling read transports you straight into the heart of Violet’s investigation. The vivid descriptions of Holiday Junction make you feel as though you’re walking its streets and exploring its corners. With a captivating storyline and an unforgettable ending, this book is impossible to put down until you’ve savored the very last page!

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is always exciting to visit Holiday Junction. The descriptions of this little seaside town, which boasts a trolley system for transportation, an art district, colorful cottages and so much more, make this little slice of heaven sound so enticing. This town and community love to celebrate holidays. No holiday goes by without a big celebration, which includes Father's Day. What better way to celebrate Father's Day than a cookoff.

Violent has an interview with the celebrity chef who will be the judge of the barbecue. When he does not show up for the interview, Violet goes looking for him and finds him lying in a pool of blood on his yacht. Violet Rhinehammer is an excellent journalist, but she is also an amateur detective with extraordinary skills of observation and making people talk. Needless to say, she will not let this opportunity pass her by without sticking her nose in the investigation. This one got a little interesting because there is a new fiancee and an ex-wife in the mix. But you better never assume you have the puzzle all figured out because this author knows how to fool the reader into believing one thing, while ignoring another.

This fun Holiday Cozy mystery series is full of colorful characters, great mysteries, a dog for a mayor, a rooster for airport security and scenery that will make you want to jump in the book and escape for a little while. This is not your average cozy mystery. It is so much better.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mary Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Father’s Day Fugitive
Holiday Cozy Mystery, Book #12
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars

Synopsis:

Father’s Day in Holiday Junction is smokin'—and not just at the BBQ contest!
When celebrity chef Ted Monroe is found dead on his yacht, throat slashed with his own knife, Violet Rhinehammer’s sizzling interview turns stone-cold. With suspects piling up faster than ribs on the grill—including Ted’s bitter ex-wife, his scorned fiancée, and a town full of secrets. Violet must turn up the heat to catch a killer.
As tempers flare and family feuds ignite, can Violet smoke out the truth before the killer strikes again?
Get ready for a finger-lickin’ mystery packed with Southern charm, small-town secrets, and a killer who won’t stop until they’ve burned all the evidence!

Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Holiday Junction is having a barbeque contest and the people are very excited for the barbeque. But when a celebrity chef is murdered things go downhill. Now Violet will have to figure out who killed him and why. She will have her work cut out for her.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery is well plotted and I am surprised at the culprit.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. It was a good book and I enjoyed it alot.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Father’s Day Fugitive is another entertaining installment in Kappes' holiday cozy mystery series. I always look forward to each new installment in this series, and this latest definitely didn't disappoint. Holiday Junction plans to celebrate Father's Day by holding a barbeque contest featuring a celebrity chef. Violet is excited to have set up an interview before the contest. When the celebrity chef doesn't show up, Violet goes to find him wanting that promised interview. When she finds him dead, Violet finds herself in the middle of another murder investigation.

Kappes sets up an entertaining holiday read that captures the reader's attention from the beginning and doesn't let go. Violet finds herself trying to juggle writing her story, making time for her relationship, and keeping her mama happy. This case also brings a relative of friend of hers to the suspect list. The book's mystery is well done and is full of enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. Overall Father’s Day Fugitive proved to be a great read, and I look forward to reading Violet's next adventure.

Received a copy of Father’s Day Fugitive from the author.

[Lilpep · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Holiday Junction, any holiday is an excuse to celebrate. Father's Day is no exception with the BBQ Cookoff competition the highlight of the festivities.  Things go terribly awry when intrepid local journalist, Violet Rhinehammer, stumbles across the body of the guest judge, hometown celebrity Ted Monroe, on his yacht. Entreaties by the sheriff, her beau Darren and others to let law enforcement handle things, as usual, fall on deaf ears. Suspects are plentiful, and old and new secrets abound. Violet, of course, nearly manages to get herself  “smoked” following the clues.


Another enjoyable mystery in the Holiday series. The author delves deeper into the lives of the eclectic residents of the unusual town. Plenty of red herrings to keep you guessing. The Violet character, as usual, is totally immersed in her investigation. In that light, I do have to admit that I am a bit miffed at her cavalier treatment of Darren’s feelings. Doesn't mean I won't snatch up the next installment, but lighten up girl!

[Kara Marks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 12th book in this fun series; I’ve read all of the previous books, but this book could stand alone well. I love this series set in Holiday Junction, a small American town that celebrates each holiday, major or minor, in big ways, drawing tourists from all over to join the villagers at the many local events for each holiday. Violet is a distinctive main character, the editor of the local newspaper and therefore quite an amateur sleuth, coming naturally to her as she pursues each story. This book is celebrating Father’s Day, so there are lots of barbecue competitions involving smoking and grilling. A famous chef who used to be a local is going to judge a competition, so Violet has an interview lined up, but when she arrives, he’s been murdered. There are plenty of suspects and the whole mystery is extremely well-written, with some interesting twists and red herrings. There’s a bit of romance, and also some danger and suspense. I can definitely recommend this book and series; I received an ARC, which I appreciate, but these opinions are my own.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 12th book in a fantastic series that keeps you hooked from the beginning in each book. Holiday Junction is a wonderful town that celebrates every single holiday with gusto! In this book, Father's Day is the celebration with of course, a BBQ competition. The judge for the competition is a native of Holiday Junction, Ted Monroe, and Violet Rhinehammer, the editor in chief of the Junction Journal and an investigative reporter, has set up an interview with him on his Yacht. But when she gets there for the interview, she finds him dead-stabbed with his own knife. So Violet will let no stone unturned as she dives into the investigation of his murder even as it could lead her into danger. With so many twists and turns and red- herrings, and so many possible suspects, we are taken to the surprise end. This book is a great addition to the series and not only do I recommend this book, but I highly recommend the entire series. I receive an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Sapphyria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Father’s Day Fugitive is the 12th book in the Holiday Cozy Mystery series, a spin-off of the Camper and Criminals series. The spin-off is headlined by Normal's ace reporter Violet Rhinehammer. She exits Normal to move onto greener pastures and finds herself in a different small town.

It’s Father’s Day in Holiday Junction and there’s a BBQ contest going on at the Leisure Center. Celebrity chef Ted Monroe, a former resident of Holiday Junction, is all set to be the judge. When Violet seeks Ted out when he doesn’t show up for his interview, she gets more than she bargained for, and now there’s another murder to investigate.

Father’s Day Fugitive is a quick read, filled with excitement. I love how Violet and Darren’s relationship continues to slowly unfold. Theirs is a cute and sweet romance that doesn’t overshadow the mystery. Father’s Day Fugitive has several suspects, including a local, and Violet does a great job trying to unravel what happened and why. The mystery is full of suspense and contains red herrings.

[Deb Spalding · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tonya Kappes keeps knocking it out of the park with another holiday cozy mystery. This is the twelfth book in this series. Violet Rhinehammer, journalist and amateur detective, is the main character in this series. She has a long list of colorful supporting characters who help in her investigations. Holiday Junction is just the place to live for seasonal celebrations, entertainment, and mysteries. Celebrity chef, Ted Monroe, is invited to town to help judge a barbecue contest. When late for an appointment with Violet she goes looking for him. This hometown hero is found by Violet lying in a pool of blood on Ted's yacht. While investigating Ted's death Violet receives a letter from an unknown person. It states the chef is a fraud and not at all who he says he is. Did Ted's fraudulent ways catch up with him? Read this book full of twists and turns and see is you can divulge the culprit before the end of the book. Happy reading and good luck!

[Michelle Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its time for the Father's Day Festival in Holiday Junction and things are in full swing. Violet's mom is so excited because she is hosting the town's Bar B Que cookoff at the senior center and she's secured the celebrity chef Ted Monroe to judge the event and Violet has a big interview scheduled with him for the newspaper. Things heat up fast when Ted doesn't appear for the interview so Violet goes looking for him and finds more than she wants....Ted is dead. Violet jumps into her own secret investigation and of course Darren, her boyfriend tags along because we all know that Violet has a penchant for getting in trouble. Oh and don't forget since it's Father's Day the Merry Maker has duties to take care of also. This book has all of the twists and turns that you expect from a Tonya Kappes story and I loved every minute of it. I just wish one of these days I would pick the murderer correctly.

[Judy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tonya Kappes is a master at creating stories that are super enjoyable and suitable for everyone. She is an expert in crafting just the right mix of mayhem, mystery, and murder, laugh-out-loud moments, and snarky and quirky characters in books that are just plain fun to read.
This episode takes us to the Father's Day Barbeque contest set to be judged by a hometown celebrity. 'So what,' you say? Well, he's not the most popular figure in town with secrets abound, and ends up the murder victim!
Violet is on the job with plenty of suspects, and even though you think you know the killer, you will be surprised by the great ending that will tie everything up nicely.
One other thing, may be read as a standalone, but if this is your first Holiday Cozy, you will certainly want to go back and read the rest. I highly recommend this book. Get it now!

[Michele Coen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Father's Day is no exception to fun filled festivities in Holiday Junction. They are having a BBQ contest and Ted Monroe famous chef, is going to be the judge. As a former resident of Holiday Junction it seems fitting for him to judge.
Violet can't wait to interview him but when he doesn't show, she wonders if he's back to his old habits!
When he's found dead on his boat by a knife, Violet needs to work fast to find the killer. There's so many secrets and suspects. Who could have done this ex wife, ex fiancé, some one in town?
The ending will surprise you!

Tonya Knappes did an excellent job on this book. Just as I thought I was getting close to who dunnit there's more twists and turns. I feel like I'm right there in Holiday Junction. The description of the town and all the details are so descriptive.

As an ARC reader this review I give voluntarily.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Father’s Day Fugitive is the twelfth cozy mystery in the Holiday Cozy Mystery series. It’s Father’s Day in Holiday Junction and chef Ted Monroe, a local boy, is on tap to judge the BBQ contest that Violet’s mother has set up via the Leisure Center.
Ted has been accused of jump starting his current career by stealing a recipe. He is engaged, and possibly trying to make amends with his ex-wife. Unfortunately, he winds up dead. There are plenty of suspects, twists, and turns throughout the story.

I was amazed that Violet’s mother threatened to expose the Merry Maker when her chef judge was found dead.

This book was worth the read. I enjoyed it and recommend reading the series in order not to miss the nuances of the characters.

I was given an advanced readers copy (ARC) and these are my opinions.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Celebrity chef and former Holiday Junction resident, Ted Monroe, is in town to judge the local barbecue contest. Violet’s plan to interview him backfires when she finds him dead on his yacht. Determined to solve the crime, Violet uncovers plenty of suspects and a few secrets. There are few clues as to how the murderer gained access to the yacht when there were cameras at the marina and a security touchpad at the locked gate. Things go downhill when Violet decides to test a theory of her own out, which lands her in deep trouble.

Another fun whodunit for the Holiday Junction series with an ending that I did not see coming at all!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Yaritza · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Father's Day BBQ contest turns to a murder mystery right before you get a chance to try the BBQ. A celebrity chef, Ted Monroe, is found murdered in his yacht by Violet Rhinehammer. Can Violet decipher the murder mystery before she herself walks right into the murderer?

Ted Monroe was disliked by many people. The list of suspects continues adding up as Violet tries to solve this murder. I was impressed that Violet will test any lead she gets, even if that means swimming to a boat in the middle of the night. The twisted ending will smoke you unexpectedly. You won't smell or taste that murderer until you are caught red-handed. Great character creation and different plot setting, and unforseen murderer.

[Helen Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m enjoying this series more with each book. I really liked the way the mystery was developed. Of course there were several red herrings. I was surprised by who the killer was and why. It was a unique approach that I hadn’t seen before.

In this one it’s more about possible suspects and less about ongoing characters except Violet and Darren. Fern also has a larger role now that she works for the police department. It was also nice to learn more about Goldie, the trolley driver and her family.

The descriptions of the town including the art district with some of the shops had me drooling over the clever and beautiful bakery items. The descriptions of the barbecue were making me hungry.

I can’t wait to see what happens next in Holiday Junction.

[G. Lynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a read, Tonya Kappes keeps you on your toes to solve books she writes. If you have not read any of her Holiday Cozy Mystery, then you should check them out. This is the 12th book Father's Day Murder, and it was quite a book. Vi had lots of running around to do and to keep digging until all the pieces fit and to also keep her mother happy. In one part she had a clue and she had to prove that is was possible to do, so she dove into the cold ocean water at night just to prove it could be done. Made it to where she was going, only to be found out and also be found by the actual murderer. As well she had to get herself out of his reach and to safety. To find out if she made it, check out the book, it was a really good read. Happy reading.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

“sometimes the pieces you’re missing aren’t the ones you think they are”

“Anyone could get in the ocean and swim around to the marina.”

Father’s Day in Holiday Junction is celebrated with a BBQ Cook off Competition as well as other festivities.
When hometown Chef Ted Monroe never arrives at the Leisure Center to judge, Violet takes it upon herself to seek him out. Well, she definitely got more than she wanted to see when she found Ted Monroe dead.
Violet has her work cut out for her, and ex wife, a now ex fiancé and secrets.
Twists and turns, fast paced, enough red herrings to keep you guessing in the southern small town of Holiday Junction as you go along with Violet to solve a murder.

I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really quick weekend read. Violet is always getting herself into positions where she really shouldn't be, but it makes for a very entertaining read! A former resident chef comes to town to judge the Father's Day BBQ event and ends up dead on his boat. Having found him, Violet is determined to solve the mystery, but runs into so issues along the way. I don't want to spoil it, you'll have to read it for yourself! I love seeing what issues Violet gets herself into, but she needs to remember that Darren might not stay around if she keeps forgetting about him!

I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Father’s Day Fugitive has everything I love in a cozy mystery—small-town drama, quirky characters, and a main character who’s not afraid to get into a little trouble. Violet was hilarious and is very relatable as she tried to figure out who murdered the local celebrity chef.
The whole town feels like a place you’d want to visit and the twists kept things interesting without getting too heavy. It’s got that perfect balance of mystery and charm with a sprinkle of Southern sass.
If you’re looking for something light and entertaining to breeze through on a weekend, this one totally hits the spot.

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Father’s Day Fugitive is book #12 in the Holiday Cozy Mystery series by Tonya Kappes.

Holiday Junction is preparing for Father’s Day with a BBQ contest. They have arranged for a celebrity chef to be the judge. Ted Monroe was from Holiday Junction. When he was a no-show for his interview with Violet, she went to the marina to track him down. You can guess what she discovered. There are several suspects that Violet is investigating. I figured out who the killer was at the same time Violet did. I was not expecting the ending.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Debbi · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s time for celebrating Father’s Day in Holiday Junction. There’s a BBQ competition which is supposed to be judge by a celebrity chef. But Violet finds that chef dead when he doesn’t appear for an interview. Sounds like there are quite a few possible suspects. Can Violet and her journalistic instinct figure it out and find someone else to do the judging? I know I didn’t see the twist coming. This was another enjoyable tale of a town and its colorful characters that celebrates holidays in a big way along with a murder thrown in. Looking forward to future books in this Holiday Cozy Mystery series.