Zonked in the Zucchinis

Lovely Lethal Gardens Rewind #1

by Dale Mayer

Doreen is slowly recovering from the mad yet joyous ending to last year, as she faces the new year and what it might bring. Since she’s now engaged to Mack—and everyone around her is pressuring her to pick a wedding date and hopefully soon—she yearns for another case to keep her busy.

So, when an older gentleman calls and needs help fulfilling his wife’s last wish, Doreen is right there to help. The case is beyond cold, which means she gets free rein. However, when it starts to butt up against a new case Mack has, he’s quick to move her back into her lane—only he’s not quite quick enough.

Doreen and her trusty animal trio traverse the Joe Rich area to downtown Kelowna and back, as her cold case curls back around in on itself—and Mack’s current case. Solving these two cases will be worthy of a mention in the history books!

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery

296 pages, Paperback

First published March 4, 2025

About the author

Dale Mayer is a USA Today bestselling author best known for her Psychic Visions and Family Blood Ties series. Her contemporary romances are raw and full of passion and emotion (Second Chances, SKIN), her thrillers will keep you guessing (By Death series), and her romantic comedies will keep you giggling (It's a Dog's Life and Charmin Marvin Romantic Comedy series).

She honors the stories that come to her - and some of them are crazy and break all the rules and cross multiple genres!

To go with her fiction, she also writes nonfiction in many different fields with books available on resume writing, companion gardening and the US mortgage system. She has recently published her Career Essentials Series. All her books are available in print and ebook format.

To find out more about Dale and her books, visit her at http://www.dalemayer.com. Or connect with her online with Twitter at www.twitter.com/dalemayer and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dalemayer.author. If you like Dale Mayer's books and are interested in joining her street team, sign up here - https://www.facebook.com/groups/40238...

Books by Dale Mayer

Psychic Vision Series
Tuesday's Child
Hide'n Go Seek
Maddy's Floor
Garden of Sorrow
Knock, Knock...
Rare Find
Eyes to the Soul - fall/winter 2014

By Death Series
Touched by Death - Part 1 - Free
Touched by Death - Part 2
Touched by Death - Full book
Haunted by Death
Chilled by Death - fall/winter 2014

Second Chances...at Love Series
Second Chances - Part 1
Second Chances - Part 2
Second Chances - Full book

Novellas
It's a Dog's Life- romantic comedy

Charmin Marvin Romantic Comedy
Broken Protocols #1
Broken Protocols #2
Broken Protocols #3

New adult/adul crossover Books
In Cassie's Corner
Gem Stone (a Gemma Stone mystery)

Design Series
Dangerous Designs
Deadly Designs
Darkest Designs

Family Blood Ties Series
Vampire in Denial
Vampire in Distress
Vampire in Design
Vampire in Deceit
Vampire in Defiance

Non-Fiction Books
Career Essentials: The Resume
Career Essentials: The Cover Letter
Career Essentials: The Interview
Career Essentials: 3 in 1

Reviews

[Lala BooksandLala]

....what IS this help

[Emmalynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Doreen is at it again!!! I loved the original series so it’s nice to see it continuing. This was par for course with the mystery to solve.

[Trio · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've been looking for a new cozy mystery series and I stumbled on Zonked in the Zucchinis by Dale Mayer. The cover hooked me!

It was a cute mystery, filled with little twists and turns. Overall, it was enjoyable.

The audio version of Zonked in the Zucchinis is nicely performed by Mandy Kaplan.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even for Doreen this was a busy book. Cold cases (yes, plural) and her relationship with Mack. Still a book for all ages (this series always leave with warmth and book hugs). The animals -- still an important part of Team Doreen. Bravo!.

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

[Mandy (MP Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Doreen is recovering from a chaotic but happy end to the previous year as she navigates the pressures of her engagement to Mack, who is eager for her to set a wedding date. Seeking distraction, she eagerly takes on a cold case when an older man requests her help in fulfilling his late wife's last wish. However, as the case intertwines with Mack's current investigation, he tries to steer her back on track. Doreen, along with her animal companions, explores the Joe Rich area and downtown Kelowna, as the two cases begin to connect in unexpected ways, promising a significant resolution.

It was great to be back with Doreen as she faced one of her most challenging cases. As always, her insightful questions and sharp mind got to the bottom of everything. It was great to go through everything with her as she worked through everything. Easy to read and understand.

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

[Irene S · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great start to a rewind of Lovely Lethal Gardens. Doreen and Mac are happy and engaged. With Doreen's reputation for solving cold cases, she gets a call that starts her looking at the next unsolved mystery. Soon Doreen is on the hunt for missing people from decades past. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. I love this fresh rewind of the Lovely Lethal Gardens Rewind. Doreen is a master at getting people to talk and analyzing what they say to her to solve mysteries. I enjoy seeing Doreen's relationship continue to grow. This is more than a rewind. It reads fresh and I'm looking forward to the next in this series.

[TrishAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so glad that we get to read more of Doreen's exploits in "Lovely Lethal Gardens Rewind"
After Doreen's painful divorce from her wealthy, manipulative, cheating husband and his subsequent death, Doreen is now happily engaged to Corporal Mack Moreau a detective in the Kelowna PD.
Doreen has gained a reputation as a successful, amateur sleuth but she is only allowed to follow cold cases, when she is approached by a man living in the remote Joe Rich area of Kelowna Doreen is doubtful that she can help, the mystery is fifty years old, but Doreen, never to be deterred. is determined to try.
Long suffering Mack is happy for her to continue because it keeps her away from his current cases..........or does it ?
In true Doreen style, the cases become intrinsically entwined and as the case is fifty years old, Nan and her ever growing band of hilariously, unruly residents of the Rosemore retirement home are on hand to assist, complete with deerstalker hats and Sherlock Holmes capes.
This story follows Doreen's investigation into missing persons, as usual she is accompanied by her beloved animals and as usual managed to get herself into trouble much to Mack's despair.
All the while, Doreen is fending off attempts from everyone, except Mack, to name a wedding date but Doreen won't give in to pressure.
This is a lovely gentle mystery with both laughter and angst.

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

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zonked in the Zucchini by Dale Mayer
Lovely Lethal Garden Rewind Book One
Doreen is called out to hear about a cold case from an older man who lives in the boondocks. The story she hears leaves little to go on as it happened twenty-five years ago. And yet, it could be a cold case, so she jumps on it. Soon, she had three cold cases with little to go on. Meanwhile, Mack has a new case. As usual, it looks like they could all come together. That they are somehow connected.
Besides the cold cases, Doreen has everyone trying to get her to set a date now that Mack has asked her to marry him. Mack’s mom, Nan, and all the folks at Rosemoor. Letting her know they aren’t getting any younger, so she best hurry. Doreen refuses to be rushed or pressured into this.
Other funny happenings are in this story, too, but I’ll not spoil that for anyone. This is a continuation of the cozy mystery series Lovely Lethal Gardens. I always enjoy reading about Doreen and Mack, the animals, and the Rosemoor crew.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...

[JigsawGirl · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had been looking forward to this book. I listened to the audiobook and wondered if both a male and female narrator would enhance the experience. I struggled a bit staying engaged with the current narration.

This rewind was not my favorite. Somehow, I felt like Doreen's character became more arrogant and irritating in this book. It seemed to me like she thought Mack played second fiddle to her sleuthing skills, and she was being condescending by repeatedly reminding people that Mack was in charge of his case.

Seeing as how Doreen was supposedly so sheltered in her previous life, she was throwing out pearls of wisdom all over the place in this book. I spent a great deal of time rewinding because I could not hold on to my focus and interest in this book.

It was still the same slow burn between Mack and Doreen. The pace of their romance was plodding along as usual. Hopefully things for them will pick up a bit and Doreen's arrogance will be toned down in the next book.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Zonked in the Zucchinis . Amateur sleuth
Doreen and her furry and feather buddies find themselves looking into more cold cases to solve . What starts as one cold case turns into multiple cold cases and of course they tie into mac's new case . This story is a Sensational and delightful cozy mystery . I look forward to these stories they are truly entertaining . I highly recommend taking the time to read .

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

[Leanne ~ Tales From The Heart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series, well the prior one was my introduction to cozy mysteries. Over 2 dozen books later and I'm still hooked on Doreen and her menagerie.
Doreen is pulled into a cold case, it's 50 years old plus another connection of a missing person from around 20+ years. Her fiance Mack is working on a current case and they are becoming entwined.
Will Doreen be able to untangle the clues and put the crime together.
Of course the animals played their roles and did they save the day as usual...you'll have to read to find out.
Such a fun mystery to be solved.

[Eve Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is starting at Z and working it's way back to A 😀
In this series starter Doreen is still working on the cold cases.
But, she has also accepted Mack' hand in marriage. So you can imagine what gran is like 😂😂 wanting the wedding to take place yesterday 🤔
Make gets a new case, which you know will somehow tie in with Doreens 😊
Let the chaos begin, with all of the animals always along for the ride.
I for one would love to have the parrot 🦜
If you enjoyed the first series, then you will enjoy this series.

[Wendy Hodges · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so happy to have this couple doing another round. The relationship has settled nicely now they are engaged, happy for now to just enjoy being together. This plot was filled to the brim with cases and mischief, characters that needed help in one form or other. Nan, Richie and others recruiting themselves as part of the team. Even Mack's team were onside which was great. Twists a plenty but as always Doreen susses out clues to try and fit the mixed pieces together. A really enjoyable story.

[Meg Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Doreen might be engaged however she still has the time and desire to solve cases. Grandma Nan and her retirement home cohorts, who are wearing outfits now, are anxious to help knowing people don't feel comfortable talking to the police and gossip often opens doors giving hints to follow. Doreen's animals are as precious as always giving help and hints when needed. A fun mystery with many twists and turns.

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

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Doreen hit this story out of the park! yahoo!!

I love this series! I can’t wait until Doreens money starts coming in. I also, can’t wait for her to go back to the Mansion of her late husband to pick out the things she wants to keep or have the people that are selling her Nans stuff to help her I hope Mack goes with her or her lawyer. She needs all the help she can get. But, not until she solves the baby killer.

[Debbiebooknerdyoung · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that Doreen always has such an upbeat personality. After encountering a couple of mischievous youths, Doreen goes out of her way to help the boys out. The romance with Mack is progressing slower than Nan and Millicent would like. Wedding bells would make Nan and Millicent both very happy. This mystery had me guessing right up until Doreen shared her theory with everyone. Milford helped fill in the blanks. Another great story in the series!

[Dawn Cruikshank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zonked in the Zucchinis

Wow! Another FANTASTIC story by Dale! Gotta love how Doreen's mind work. Also gotta love her animals and how they protect her. This was and interesting case or should I say cases. Her Nan is hilarious, as always. I love that Doreen can be compassionate when it comes to kids and other animals. The captain is finally warming up to Doreen. Can't wait for the next cold case. FANTASTIC job Dale! I would highly recommend this book!

[Fleur · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always enjoy when there is a cross over in a cold case for Doreen and a new case for Mack and I liked seeing how Mack is coming to terms with Doreen doing what she does as well as their relationship continuing to progress.
As always we get mystery, some danger as well as a few laughs and smart animals!.

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

[Rachael Bromley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another caper to be had as we get together with characters old and new to see Doreen and her menagerie try to solve the new case. Mack as always is on hers as his case may be linked to hers. This is the start of the lovely lethal gardens rewind. Same exciting book with lots of twists and turns. Can’t wait for more.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4.5) Joyous cozy mystery. Doreen is becoming more confident in herself, in her life, and in her relationship with Mack. The cold case is soooo cold Doreen isn't sure she will resolve this one. There are the twists that we expect in a Dale Mayer book and surprises. Humor and family. Put your feet up, grab your coffee or tea and be entertained. #ZonkedintheZucchinis #LovelyLethalGardensRewind #DaleMayer #ValleyPublishing #Booksprout

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited when I heard that we are getting to read more about Doreen, Mack, Nan, the animals, and everyone else! Doreen is on the cold case and Nan and friends are getting more involved.

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

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so glad we are back with Doreen, the menagerie of animals and of course Mack and Nan. Doreen gets a new cold case which of course runs along side Mack's current case. All sorts of chaos and drama ensue as Nan and the rest of the crew attempt to help Doreen. Good Story, well-written.

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say that I am absolutely thrilled to be getting more of Doreen, Mack and the rest of the crew. The blend of mystery, humor, heart, action and twists is pure perfection, and it has you entertained, invested and avidly working the case.

[Rose Mcclarin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Doreen is working an old missing person's case but, in the process, she ends up researching 3 missing persons and Mack's current case of a woman searching for her father who is murdered. Things are so convoluted, and it only gets more complicated as Doreen works to find the answers. Great Read.

[Crystal L Archer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Doreen does it again

Missing persons and bodies pile up as Doreen and her animals investigate a 50 year old cold case. With lots of twists and turns, Doreen unearths mysteries to tie things up in a bundle. Very entertaining.

[Melissa Swafford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mack and Doreen are moving into a new area and I'm ready to enjoy every thing all over again. These books are fun, entertaining and fantastic read with great characters! Highly recommend!.

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

[Linda Smatzny · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read this book because the title fits a reading challenge. It is a cozy mystery that has characters from a long running series so was confusing to me at first. It is set in British Columbia, Canada and the main character solves cold cases. It was an easy read.

[Lisa Seely · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond excited that this series is continuing. Look forward to every book and I've already pre-ordered the next one.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars. The story is good -but I think the writing needs some work. I wonder if she’s churning them out too fast. This is a cozy mystery with a very comic undertone.

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This a fun series