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A Trash 'n' Treasures Mystery #9
Antiques Swap
It happened at Serenity's swap meet, right after Brandy Borne and her ever-more-eccentric mother Vivian finished shooting the pilot for their very own TV show, Antiques Sleuths. Brandy just, well, lost her balance and fell . . . into the helpful arms of an old flame, local tycoon Wesley Sinclair III. But did Brandy's innocent slip lead to the murder of Wesley's wife, Vanessa?
Sure, Vanessa was furious that she caught Brandy in Wesley's embrace. And she did storm off threatening dire consequences for her humbled husband. So when Vanessa turns up very dead, the local tongue-wag is that Wesley may have permanently dethroned the queen of his castle. But Brandy--along with her notoriously nosy mother and their sleuthing shih tzu Sushi--is determined to dig for the whole truth.
Each new clue points in a different direction. What about this suspicious Club of Eight, a super-secret high-society bridge group that supposedly has very liberal rules about "partners"? When a key witness joins the dead list, Brandy and Vivian know they've got to crack this case before the remorseless killer puts an end to their antiquing days--forever!
Sure, Vanessa was furious that she caught Brandy in Wesley's embrace. And she did storm off threatening dire consequences for her humbled husband. So when Vanessa turns up very dead, the local tongue-wag is that Wesley may have permanently dethroned the queen of his castle. But Brandy--along with her notoriously nosy mother and their sleuthing shih tzu Sushi--is determined to dig for the whole truth.
Each new clue points in a different direction. What about this suspicious Club of Eight, a super-secret high-society bridge group that supposedly has very liberal rules about "partners"? When a key witness joins the dead list, Brandy and Vivian know they've got to crack this case before the remorseless killer puts an end to their antiquing days--forever!
256 pages, Hardcover
First published April 28, 2015
108 people are currently reading
378 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Allan
54 books187 followersBarbara Allan is a pseudonym used by Barbara Collins and Max Allan Collins
Max Allan Collins is a writer of mystery novels, screenplays, comics and historical fiction. Collins has collaborated on numerous short stories with his wife writer Barbara Collins. Together they also write the successful “Trash ‘n’ Treasures” mysteries – their Antiques Flee Market (2008) won the Romantic Times Best Humorous Mystery Novel award in 2009.
There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Max Allan Collins is a writer of mystery novels, screenplays, comics and historical fiction. Collins has collaborated on numerous short stories with his wife writer Barbara Collins. Together they also write the successful “Trash ‘n’ Treasures” mysteries – their Antiques Flee Market (2008) won the Romantic Times Best Humorous Mystery Novel award in 2009.
There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
December 13, 2017
This series is one of my comfort reads, my "familiar and fun" type of read. While not every book is a big winner I still enjoy the antics of 70-something Vivian and her oh-so-patient thirty-something daughter, Brandy, as they go about sleuthing in their small Iowa town. Vivian is a hoot in this one, as usual, as she doggedly pursues the solution to the latest murders. Looking forward to reading the holiday short stories already downloaded on the Kindle.
December 8, 2018
doggie is no longer blind, he had surgery!
April 28, 2015
I just finished Antiques Swap by Barbara Allan. It is the ninth book in A Trash 'n' Treasures Mystery. It is different from other cozies because the book is written from the characters point-of-view. It is like Vivian and Brandy are talking to you. There is also a cute little dog named Sushi. She is a diabetic and recently had her sight restored through cataract surgery.
Vivian and Brandy Borne are mother and daughter. Brandy has to keep a close eye on her bipolar mother. They run an antiques store called Trash ‘n’ Treasures and are working on a television pilot called Antiques Sleuths. Vivian is a very outgoing and over the top person who loves solving mysteries. Vivian likes to be the center of attention and have all the latest gossip. Brandy tries to reign in her mother, but has no luck. Brandy is divorced and her son, Jake, lives with her ex-husband. They are filming the last of the show at an antiques swap. When they are done filming, Brandy sneaks off to eat Fried Butter (a stick of butter is dipped in funnel cake batter and deep fried) and encounters Wesley “Wes” Sinclair III. He had also sneaked away for some fried butter (it sounds disgusting). After they finish eating, Brandy trips and Wes catches her. Wes’ wife finds Brandy in Wes’ arms and starts yelling. Vanessa Sinclair is not the nicest person nor is she well liked about town.
Later that day Brandy receives a call from Vanessa. She has some old beer signs that she wishes to sell and wants Brandy to look at them. Brandy evaluates them (and takes pictures) and promises to return with a quote after 5 p.m. The signs belong to Wes but Vanessa said Wes agreed to sell them (sounds like a set up to me). When Brandy and Vivian (who has never been able to wheedle herself inside the house) return, they find Vanessa dead.
Brandy’s boyfriend (and cop), Tony Cassato, asks her to not get involved in the investigation. Brandy agrees and tries to comply. However, Vivian made no such promise. Soon Brand is looking into the investigation as well and Tony is helping them. They find out that Wes and Vanessa Sinclair have one big skeleton in their closet.
To find out who killed Vanessa and the big secret, read Antiques Swap. I give Antiques Swap 4.5 out of 5 stars. There is a lot of humor in the story (sometimes a little too much) and the characters are quirky. I found the mystery very easy to solve. I have to say that this is the first book I have read in this series. I own the first book in the series, but have never read it (it is a paperback version and the print is so tiny). I think I will have to go and read all the book in A Trash ‘n’ Treasures Mystery series. If you have not read the previous books, you can read Antiques Swap.
I have received a complimentary copy of this novel from NetGalley (and Kensington Books) in exchange for an honest review.
Vivian and Brandy Borne are mother and daughter. Brandy has to keep a close eye on her bipolar mother. They run an antiques store called Trash ‘n’ Treasures and are working on a television pilot called Antiques Sleuths. Vivian is a very outgoing and over the top person who loves solving mysteries. Vivian likes to be the center of attention and have all the latest gossip. Brandy tries to reign in her mother, but has no luck. Brandy is divorced and her son, Jake, lives with her ex-husband. They are filming the last of the show at an antiques swap. When they are done filming, Brandy sneaks off to eat Fried Butter (a stick of butter is dipped in funnel cake batter and deep fried) and encounters Wesley “Wes” Sinclair III. He had also sneaked away for some fried butter (it sounds disgusting). After they finish eating, Brandy trips and Wes catches her. Wes’ wife finds Brandy in Wes’ arms and starts yelling. Vanessa Sinclair is not the nicest person nor is she well liked about town.
Later that day Brandy receives a call from Vanessa. She has some old beer signs that she wishes to sell and wants Brandy to look at them. Brandy evaluates them (and takes pictures) and promises to return with a quote after 5 p.m. The signs belong to Wes but Vanessa said Wes agreed to sell them (sounds like a set up to me). When Brandy and Vivian (who has never been able to wheedle herself inside the house) return, they find Vanessa dead.
Brandy’s boyfriend (and cop), Tony Cassato, asks her to not get involved in the investigation. Brandy agrees and tries to comply. However, Vivian made no such promise. Soon Brand is looking into the investigation as well and Tony is helping them. They find out that Wes and Vanessa Sinclair have one big skeleton in their closet.
To find out who killed Vanessa and the big secret, read Antiques Swap. I give Antiques Swap 4.5 out of 5 stars. There is a lot of humor in the story (sometimes a little too much) and the characters are quirky. I found the mystery very easy to solve. I have to say that this is the first book I have read in this series. I own the first book in the series, but have never read it (it is a paperback version and the print is so tiny). I think I will have to go and read all the book in A Trash ‘n’ Treasures Mystery series. If you have not read the previous books, you can read Antiques Swap.
I have received a complimentary copy of this novel from NetGalley (and Kensington Books) in exchange for an honest review.
March 6, 2023
The book was only 230 pages (which is fine) but the authors seemed to struggle to come up with even that amount of plot so it was full of distractions like recipes, trash n treasures tips, transcripts, ads for previous books (puzzling), breaks in the fourth wall that were supposed to be humour and meticulous descriptions of what ever single person wore.
I try to avoid lifestyle magazines so I was UGH at most of that. There was some mild fatphobia and some even milder (but well-intentioned) feminism. The private detective is shagging the cop trope is overdone IMO but I guess it helps explain how people know things. The humour was boomer-humour, the noone is laughing except the person who said it type. The voice of Vivian was particulary grating (and why does she need to be labelled "bipolar"?) but Brandy's whipped attitude toward her mum was also not much fun. There's a scene where Vivian is being "nice" to a bus driver who happens to be Black and it's awfully stereotyped and patronising and I was cringing though I think the authors expected us to laugh...there's another benevolent-racist bit later.
Guys it's 2015 can we just not?????
The ending was predictable, confirmed as soon as....[I guess that would be a spoiler] and yeah I am sadly learning I don't like "cosy mysteries" as much as I would have hoped to.
I try to avoid lifestyle magazines so I was UGH at most of that. There was some mild fatphobia and some even milder (but well-intentioned) feminism. The private detective is shagging the cop trope is overdone IMO but I guess it helps explain how people know things. The humour was boomer-humour, the noone is laughing except the person who said it type. The voice of Vivian was particulary grating (and why does she need to be labelled "bipolar"?) but Brandy's whipped attitude toward her mum was also not much fun. There's a scene where Vivian is being "nice" to a bus driver who happens to be Black and it's awfully stereotyped and patronising and I was cringing though I think the authors expected us to laugh...there's another benevolent-racist bit later.
Guys it's 2015 can we just not?????
The ending was predictable, confirmed as soon as....[I guess that would be a spoiler] and yeah I am sadly learning I don't like "cosy mysteries" as much as I would have hoped to.
October 25, 2017
A nice cozy, but a new reader should definitely read the series in order. I have the feeling I missed something obvious to someone who had read them.
Still, a good afternoon book or one to read when the rain has you 'trapped' over a weekend.
Read it.
Still, a good afternoon book or one to read when the rain has you 'trapped' over a weekend.
Read it.
June 9, 2022
So far, I have not finished the book, I am frustrated with the inconsistency. On page 211 of antiques knock off, Tony states he is divorced from his wife. And she has their daughter. However, in antiques swap Tony is saying that he is a married man and that is hanging over his and Brandy’s relationship.
Brian Lawson is the one who is separated, we learned that when he told Brandy his daughter is doing better with her eating disorder and he and his wife are going to try their marriage again. (Again an earlier book)
So this inconsistency is actually causing a problem in the current book for Tony to become chief…when this should be quite the opposite.
To pull a move from Vivian
—excuse me editors, where are you? And why are you allowing these travesties to occur? Also, stop leaving the other dogs in the stories out. Just because there is an underlying current of not liking large breed dogs, does not mean you have to ignore their relevance. Ex: Brandy and Vivian go to NYC and rocky house sits in Iowa for 2 weeks? Did he go to Tina’s house? Did Joe watch him? Did he have to fend for himself? Did he go to the shelter? And then you bring us into a new book and there is nothing about Rocky? Did he go home to Tony’s? Did Sushi get upset and miss him? Did Rocky miss Sushi? These mistakes are not acceptable—
Brian Lawson is the one who is separated, we learned that when he told Brandy his daughter is doing better with her eating disorder and he and his wife are going to try their marriage again. (Again an earlier book)
So this inconsistency is actually causing a problem in the current book for Tony to become chief…when this should be quite the opposite.
To pull a move from Vivian
—excuse me editors, where are you? And why are you allowing these travesties to occur? Also, stop leaving the other dogs in the stories out. Just because there is an underlying current of not liking large breed dogs, does not mean you have to ignore their relevance. Ex: Brandy and Vivian go to NYC and rocky house sits in Iowa for 2 weeks? Did he go to Tina’s house? Did Joe watch him? Did he have to fend for himself? Did he go to the shelter? And then you bring us into a new book and there is nothing about Rocky? Did he go home to Tony’s? Did Sushi get upset and miss him? Did Rocky miss Sushi? These mistakes are not acceptable—
March 7, 2015
This book was a lot of fun. The characters were enjoyable and the mystery was great. The bonus was the recipes strewn throughout the book. I can't wait to read more.
July 28, 2016
Definitely my new fav series!!
November 20, 2025
The Borne ladies are ready to reopen their Trash to Treasures Antique store in the old mansion where two murders took place. One was recent and the other long ago. The local new age guru and Catholic priest did cleansings and blessings.
Brandy goes to a street fair for the local presentation of fried butter and encounters the priest eating his share as well. She also runs into an old college friend who happens to be very wealthy and married. His name is Wesley Sinclair, CEO of the corn processing plant. He is married to Vanessa. Because of the fried butter Brandy's hands are slippery and almost ends up in a compromising position with Wesley and his wife is very loud and vocally upset. Brandy is presently seeing the local law enforcement officer Tony Cassato who recently returned to town and hopes to return to his former job as Chief. The job is now held by another former boyfriend of Brandy's.
Asa an apology for yelling at Brandy for their misunderstanding, Vanessa invites her over to look at old signs that she wants to get rid of and Brandy is happy to go for possible inventory for their store.
A dead body and murder investigation is under way and Tony pleads with Brandy not to interfere. She agrees but her mother has her own agenda.
Fun cozy mystery that continues to amuse the readers.
Brandy goes to a street fair for the local presentation of fried butter and encounters the priest eating his share as well. She also runs into an old college friend who happens to be very wealthy and married. His name is Wesley Sinclair, CEO of the corn processing plant. He is married to Vanessa. Because of the fried butter Brandy's hands are slippery and almost ends up in a compromising position with Wesley and his wife is very loud and vocally upset. Brandy is presently seeing the local law enforcement officer Tony Cassato who recently returned to town and hopes to return to his former job as Chief. The job is now held by another former boyfriend of Brandy's.
Asa an apology for yelling at Brandy for their misunderstanding, Vanessa invites her over to look at old signs that she wants to get rid of and Brandy is happy to go for possible inventory for their store.
A dead body and murder investigation is under way and Tony pleads with Brandy not to interfere. She agrees but her mother has her own agenda.
Fun cozy mystery that continues to amuse the readers.
March 9, 2020
Brandy Borne and her dramatic, eccentric mother, Vivian, are scouting the local swap meet for some good finds for their antique shop, Trash 'N' Treasures, in their small home town of Serenity, Iowa. When Brandy accidentally falls into the arms of an old friend, Wes Sinclair, his wife, Vanessa, causes quite a scene loudly accusing them of inappropriate behavior. When Vanessa is later found murdered, things do not look good for Wes, who asks Brandy for help, and since Vivian never needs to be, or waits to be asked to help solve a crime, the amateur sleuths are at it again.
This series is so much fun to read. Although Vivian's antics are completely ridiculous, she's usually pretty much on track in getting the crimes solved. Brandy definitely has her hands full keeping up with her mom!
This series is so much fun to read. Although Vivian's antics are completely ridiculous, she's usually pretty much on track in getting the crimes solved. Brandy definitely has her hands full keeping up with her mom!
March 12, 2023
I read a library book.
This is another book in the series I had read, but I'd forgotten enough of it to enjoy it all over again!
Brandy and Viv take on a case with Brandy's fella, Tony, now back in town but as a patrolman. He has his own line to tow, so the lady's are off and running mostly solo. Well, is it ever any other way, especially with Vivian? It's fun Soosh can see now, and the side-comments in the narrative are still funny to me.
If you haven't given this series a shot, and you like humorous cozies, I suggest you try it. The books can be stand-alone, but I had begun the series from the beginning. I don't know how I got so far behind, but I am enjoying catching up before I read the completely new-to-me titles.
This is another book in the series I had read, but I'd forgotten enough of it to enjoy it all over again!
Brandy and Viv take on a case with Brandy's fella, Tony, now back in town but as a patrolman. He has his own line to tow, so the lady's are off and running mostly solo. Well, is it ever any other way, especially with Vivian? It's fun Soosh can see now, and the side-comments in the narrative are still funny to me.
If you haven't given this series a shot, and you like humorous cozies, I suggest you try it. The books can be stand-alone, but I had begun the series from the beginning. I don't know how I got so far behind, but I am enjoying catching up before I read the completely new-to-me titles.
January 23, 2018
Vivian has always annoyed me, but I didn't find her too awful this time. Either she's mellowed or the rest of the story was just too.... something. I couldn't put this book down, but honestly, what was the point of this story? If they were trying to make a social justice statement, it missed the mark. What was the point of the story? Why did the murderer do it?
Also, the whole Brandy-Vivian dynamic is so unhealthy. Brandy will never have her own life.
Also, the whole Brandy-Vivian dynamic is so unhealthy. Brandy will never have her own life.
January 26, 2019
I haven't enjoyed a mystery this much in awhile. To know how much I liked it, I went and entered the rest of the titles in the series into my bookmooch account (karma points request system).
Mother and Daughter team, formerly blind sleuthing shiz szhuh (I have no idea how to spell that, sorry). Small town Iowa. Bi-polar, theater-obsessed mother. Romance interest of the daughter happens to be on the police force. Fun who-dunnit.
Mother and Daughter team, formerly blind sleuthing shiz szhuh (I have no idea how to spell that, sorry). Small town Iowa. Bi-polar, theater-obsessed mother. Romance interest of the daughter happens to be on the police force. Fun who-dunnit.
September 29, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. It is a really good Cozy Mystery Read.
I give this Book 5/5 Stars here on Goodreads.
I highly recommend this book to anybody that loves to read Cozy Mysteries or just Mysteries.
Happy Reading Everyone!
I give this Book 5/5 Stars here on Goodreads.
I highly recommend this book to anybody that loves to read Cozy Mysteries or just Mysteries.
Happy Reading Everyone!
November 16, 2019
Love the family lawyer(of Vivian and Brandy Borne) 90 year old Mr. Ekhardt. For an old man who nods off a lot he knows how question a witness. Of course, this time he is not defending the Bournes which is a surprise in it's self. And the fact neither of the Borne's went to jail was a surprise.
Read
November 28, 2016Fun book to read. Main character has a mother who keeps inserting herself into the investigation. She also has a shih tzu named Sushi who is a real character too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2017
These are kind of silly but also good fun!
February 17, 2018
Enjoyed it ! Can't wait to read the rest of the series! ♥
January 23, 2019
A cute start with Brandy sneaking off with her fried butter--becomes the great start to this twisted plotted story.
June 28, 2019
Whatever
This one struck me as kind of weird. But it was a fine mystery even if some of the characters were not very interesting.
This one struck me as kind of weird. But it was a fine mystery even if some of the characters were not very interesting.
May 3, 2020
Curiouser and curiouser..... interesting book. Quick read. I'm glad to see Tony.
March 30, 2021
Too much pushing previous books in the series.
June 17, 2023
Next installment of Brandy and Vivian Borne. Good plot.
June 2, 2025
Much better than the previous one, fun plot and the mother's character has a great role this time. Really enjoyed it.
June 30, 2015
** Minor Spoilers Ahead!**
On a nice summer day Brandy Borne and her mother Vivian are attending a local swap meet, wrapping up the final taping of their proposed television pilot for Antiques Sleuths. With Vivian off on a jaunt, Brandy indulges in a local treat under the shade of a tree, and is soon joined by an old boyfriend, Wesley Sinclair III. After eating, they both stand, and Brandy takes a misstep, falling into Wesley. However, it is just at this moment that Mrs. Sinclair, Vanessa, spies them and creates a scene, accusing Brandy and Wesley of having a tryst. While Wes tells her not to worry about it and he will sort it out, Brandy still feels bad that she caused trouble.
But the next day Brandy is confused when Vanessa calls her to apologize - and ask her to come over because Wes has a beer sign collection he wants to get rid of and thinks Brandy and her mother could buy them for their shop. So Brandy dutifully complies; leaves shortly after with a promise to return after checking the value online (in order to make a qualified offer), and returns with Vivian in tow - only to find Vanessa dead.
When Wes denies to the police that he wanted to sell his sign collection, it appears Brandy is the logical suspect, having been seen arguing with Vanessa. But Brandy is cleared shortly after, and the next logical suspect is Wes himself. Yet Brandy isn't sure Wes murdered his wife, and Vivian, of course, wants to find out the truth, even as Brandy has promised her boyfriend, Tony, a local cop, that she will stay out of the investigation.
But when Vivian is attacked, Brandy makes it her personal mission to find out the truth. A truth that will bring her to see that there is more than meets the eye, that Wes and Vanessa were involved in a bridge club that may not have the members playing bridge at all: that all eight members have a lot to hide and a lot to lose if the truth comes out.
Ms. Allen never disappoints, and this newest is no different. This latest entry in the Trash 'n Treasures mysteries is done very well indeed. Brandy is her usual voice of reason, and Vivian is her usual over-the-top drama queen (but I think Vivian may be getting a tad forgetful - it was Bugs Bunny, not Daffy Duck, who said "He don't know me very well, do he?") who definitely needs not a caregiver, but a keeper.
And when the answer does finally come, it comes from an unlikely source, which allows Brandy and Vivian to put the pieces together so the puzzle can be complete. Although I had my suspicions all along, the way each piece is connected to the other makes perfect sense in the end. What pleases me most is that although this is a book series, you do not have to read the previous one; it can be read as a stand-alone (although it is such fun to read that you might want to pick up any previous ones you've missed). Highly recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review but this in no way influenced my decision.
On a nice summer day Brandy Borne and her mother Vivian are attending a local swap meet, wrapping up the final taping of their proposed television pilot for Antiques Sleuths. With Vivian off on a jaunt, Brandy indulges in a local treat under the shade of a tree, and is soon joined by an old boyfriend, Wesley Sinclair III. After eating, they both stand, and Brandy takes a misstep, falling into Wesley. However, it is just at this moment that Mrs. Sinclair, Vanessa, spies them and creates a scene, accusing Brandy and Wesley of having a tryst. While Wes tells her not to worry about it and he will sort it out, Brandy still feels bad that she caused trouble.
But the next day Brandy is confused when Vanessa calls her to apologize - and ask her to come over because Wes has a beer sign collection he wants to get rid of and thinks Brandy and her mother could buy them for their shop. So Brandy dutifully complies; leaves shortly after with a promise to return after checking the value online (in order to make a qualified offer), and returns with Vivian in tow - only to find Vanessa dead.
When Wes denies to the police that he wanted to sell his sign collection, it appears Brandy is the logical suspect, having been seen arguing with Vanessa. But Brandy is cleared shortly after, and the next logical suspect is Wes himself. Yet Brandy isn't sure Wes murdered his wife, and Vivian, of course, wants to find out the truth, even as Brandy has promised her boyfriend, Tony, a local cop, that she will stay out of the investigation.
But when Vivian is attacked, Brandy makes it her personal mission to find out the truth. A truth that will bring her to see that there is more than meets the eye, that Wes and Vanessa were involved in a bridge club that may not have the members playing bridge at all: that all eight members have a lot to hide and a lot to lose if the truth comes out.
Ms. Allen never disappoints, and this newest is no different. This latest entry in the Trash 'n Treasures mysteries is done very well indeed. Brandy is her usual voice of reason, and Vivian is her usual over-the-top drama queen (but I think Vivian may be getting a tad forgetful - it was Bugs Bunny, not Daffy Duck, who said "He don't know me very well, do he?") who definitely needs not a caregiver, but a keeper.
And when the answer does finally come, it comes from an unlikely source, which allows Brandy and Vivian to put the pieces together so the puzzle can be complete. Although I had my suspicions all along, the way each piece is connected to the other makes perfect sense in the end. What pleases me most is that although this is a book series, you do not have to read the previous one; it can be read as a stand-alone (although it is such fun to read that you might want to pick up any previous ones you've missed). Highly recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review but this in no way influenced my decision.
March 10, 2015
Antiques Swap is the newest installment in Barbara Allan's delightfully quirky Trash 'n' Treasures mystery series. These cozies combine laugh-out-loud humor with engaging characters and a clever plot.
Brandy is used to being the steadfast and practical partner, reigning in her extremely eccentric mother. This is particularly necessary since they have just finished to filming the pilot of "Antiques Detectives", a show that if successful will put their antiques store on the map.
When Brandy slips and falls into the arms of an old flame, Wes, in front of his wife at a local swap meet, the accident causes a massive misunderstanding. A few days later, Vanessa is found dead and Wes is arrested for his wife's murder. Convinced of his innocence, and encouraged by their past record of solving crimes, Vivian and Brandy start their own investigation.
Vivian is a vibrant character with a flair for the dramatic. Her antics kept me smiling throughout. Brandy is her "straight man", the Abbot to Vivian's Costello. Together they make an incredible team.
The plot has twists that will please even the most jaded mystery lover. Antiques Swap is a fast-paced cozy mystery that is fun to read. The tips for getting the most out of a swap meet placed at the end of each chapter are a neat addition. By the end of the book, I was anxious to read more of the Trash 'n' Treasures series and eager to make a visit to our local flea market.
I received a copy of Antiques Swap from the publisher and netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
Brandy is used to being the steadfast and practical partner, reigning in her extremely eccentric mother. This is particularly necessary since they have just finished to filming the pilot of "Antiques Detectives", a show that if successful will put their antiques store on the map.
When Brandy slips and falls into the arms of an old flame, Wes, in front of his wife at a local swap meet, the accident causes a massive misunderstanding. A few days later, Vanessa is found dead and Wes is arrested for his wife's murder. Convinced of his innocence, and encouraged by their past record of solving crimes, Vivian and Brandy start their own investigation.
Vivian is a vibrant character with a flair for the dramatic. Her antics kept me smiling throughout. Brandy is her "straight man", the Abbot to Vivian's Costello. Together they make an incredible team.
The plot has twists that will please even the most jaded mystery lover. Antiques Swap is a fast-paced cozy mystery that is fun to read. The tips for getting the most out of a swap meet placed at the end of each chapter are a neat addition. By the end of the book, I was anxious to read more of the Trash 'n' Treasures series and eager to make a visit to our local flea market.
I received a copy of Antiques Swap from the publisher and netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
March 13, 2015
Brandy and her Mom, Vivian are back. The wife of Brandy's youthful crush and now the richest man in town is killed and Brandy tops the suspect list. While this story continues some threads and mentions past events/murders, I think new readers could easily pick up the story.
This series isn't a must read for me, though I think I have read most, if not all the books to date. Occasionally, Vivian and Brandy can get on my nerves because the author can bring on their eccentricities too strongly, I didn't have that problem in Antiques Swap (but they are still their unique selves).
The story this time primarily focuses on the murder and less on their private lives. Brandy's son is with his father, there's just a couple brief references to Vivian's current theater work and we get just one brief but important scene with Brandy's BFF. Three of Brandy's ex and possibly current boyfriends play roles, but despite two being the current police chief and one an officer the romantic aspect is also toned down (never a strong suit in this series for me).
I found Antiques Swap a quick, light cozy. Who dunnit and why made sense though I beat Brandy to the punch.
A special treat in this book was my introduction to fried butter. I had to google it because I couldn't believe someone would really eat a batter dipped and fried stick of butter. It does exist. OMG, I'd probably do what Brandy does after finishing it.
I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
This series isn't a must read for me, though I think I have read most, if not all the books to date. Occasionally, Vivian and Brandy can get on my nerves because the author can bring on their eccentricities too strongly, I didn't have that problem in Antiques Swap (but they are still their unique selves).
The story this time primarily focuses on the murder and less on their private lives. Brandy's son is with his father, there's just a couple brief references to Vivian's current theater work and we get just one brief but important scene with Brandy's BFF. Three of Brandy's ex and possibly current boyfriends play roles, but despite two being the current police chief and one an officer the romantic aspect is also toned down (never a strong suit in this series for me).
I found Antiques Swap a quick, light cozy. Who dunnit and why made sense though I beat Brandy to the punch.
A special treat in this book was my introduction to fried butter. I had to google it because I couldn't believe someone would really eat a batter dipped and fried stick of butter. It does exist. OMG, I'd probably do what Brandy does after finishing it.
I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 30, 2015
Antiques Swap is the first book I've read by Barbara Allan (the writing team of Barbara and Max Allan Collins), and is also the ninth book in the Trash 'n' Treasures Mystery Series. The series follows the misadventures of the sleuthing mother and daughter team as they investigate one murder after another. In Antiques Swap, the investigation hits a little too close to home when the daughter, Brandy, is accused of murder. Not one to allow the police to have all the fun, Vivian swings into high gear and begins investigating much to the chagrin of Brandy.
I have often found cozy mysteries to be a bit predictable and this one was no exception. That doesn't spoil the fun, however, if the narration is strong and the characters likeable. The book is written from both character's viewpoints and I have to say that Brandy's narration is by far the strongest and best. Vivian's was certainly used more for a comedic relief however it tended to fall a bit flat. Her eccentricity was better portrayed through her daughter's eyes (though I will say I believe the author's had more fun poking at their critics through Vivian's viewpoint than they did at sustaining the narration throughout).
Overall I did like the story and may actually pick up the first book one of these days to start from the beginning.
I have often found cozy mysteries to be a bit predictable and this one was no exception. That doesn't spoil the fun, however, if the narration is strong and the characters likeable. The book is written from both character's viewpoints and I have to say that Brandy's narration is by far the strongest and best. Vivian's was certainly used more for a comedic relief however it tended to fall a bit flat. Her eccentricity was better portrayed through her daughter's eyes (though I will say I believe the author's had more fun poking at their critics through Vivian's viewpoint than they did at sustaining the narration throughout).
Overall I did like the story and may actually pick up the first book one of these days to start from the beginning.
August 23, 2016
This is such a fun series – Brandi and her diabetic dog Sushi are forever running into messes with her rather flamboyant mother, Vivian. All set in a small town, the intricacies of the relationship with Brandi and Vivian, combined with all of the small town machinations
Add to those fun moments and bits are even more intriguing pieces are enhanced with the whole antiques vibe: searching for, murders around, swap meets and the like. Allen keeps the humor in the story too – with a telephone call from an unlikely (and highly dislikable) woman regarding some bar signs, a potential lucrative find if the signs are right.
But, when the caller turns up dead the chase is on – both to find the real killer and discover just what could be the motive.
A wonderful story full of twists and turns, completely designed to delight the cozy mystery fan. Characters are easy to relate to, if often wholly eccentric which only adds to the fun. Allan shares her knowledge of the characters she’s created, and invites you in to the middle of the story. Told mostly in Brandi’s perspective, the story moves forward nicely, being the perfect read with a cup of tea.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for his review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Add to those fun moments and bits are even more intriguing pieces are enhanced with the whole antiques vibe: searching for, murders around, swap meets and the like. Allen keeps the humor in the story too – with a telephone call from an unlikely (and highly dislikable) woman regarding some bar signs, a potential lucrative find if the signs are right.
But, when the caller turns up dead the chase is on – both to find the real killer and discover just what could be the motive.
A wonderful story full of twists and turns, completely designed to delight the cozy mystery fan. Characters are easy to relate to, if often wholly eccentric which only adds to the fun. Allan shares her knowledge of the characters she’s created, and invites you in to the middle of the story. Told mostly in Brandi’s perspective, the story moves forward nicely, being the perfect read with a cup of tea.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for his review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
July 20, 2015
Available now
The mother & daughter sleuthing team from Iowa is back in the 9th tale (11th if you count the e-books) which not only has a murder but also explains what the rich, young, beautiful people of Serenity, IA do in the free time. Brandy & Vivian are as funny as ever but Vivian's hijinks in this tale aren't as crazy as they usually are - she must have started to feel her age. There are nice visits from quite a few re-occurring characters (Tina, Kevin, Joe and Jake) but the plot focuses more on Brandy's old community college boyfriend, his wife, and their friends. Quick (at only 232 pages!) and easy to read, this latest edition holds true to the characters and is a welcome chapter in the series.
What I loved: Vivian is up to her old tricks as she takes over a few chapters in the novel to provide some background sleuthing as Brandy is the main narrator. She is so completely over the top - how could you not adore her?
What I didn't love: It was almost too quick of a read! Another red herring would have been a nice addition and maybe stretched out the story for another 50 pages or so..
What I learned: I'm glad I don't play bridge.
Overall Grade: B
www.fsam15.wix.com/fluffsmutandmurder
The mother & daughter sleuthing team from Iowa is back in the 9th tale (11th if you count the e-books) which not only has a murder but also explains what the rich, young, beautiful people of Serenity, IA do in the free time. Brandy & Vivian are as funny as ever but Vivian's hijinks in this tale aren't as crazy as they usually are - she must have started to feel her age. There are nice visits from quite a few re-occurring characters (Tina, Kevin, Joe and Jake) but the plot focuses more on Brandy's old community college boyfriend, his wife, and their friends. Quick (at only 232 pages!) and easy to read, this latest edition holds true to the characters and is a welcome chapter in the series.
What I loved: Vivian is up to her old tricks as she takes over a few chapters in the novel to provide some background sleuthing as Brandy is the main narrator. She is so completely over the top - how could you not adore her?
What I didn't love: It was almost too quick of a read! Another red herring would have been a nice addition and maybe stretched out the story for another 50 pages or so..
What I learned: I'm glad I don't play bridge.
Overall Grade: B
www.fsam15.wix.com/fluffsmutandmurder
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