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Burnt Ends
Murder is juicier with a side of barbecue sauce.
Private Investigator Tori Swenson gets a strange accidental death case that looks like murder at one of her uncle’s drive-ins and decides it’s time to get revenge on her estranged family.
Pretending to want a reunion, she appears at her uncle’s party to secretly investigate them. When her uncle suddenly dies, Tori’s case takes a sinister turn that makes her a suspect in her uncle’s death and the killer’s next target. To uncover who dethroned the barbecue king, Tori will have to face her own fiery demons while pursuing a killer who wants to make dead meat out of her.
Private Investigator Tori Swenson gets a strange accidental death case that looks like murder at one of her uncle’s drive-ins and decides it’s time to get revenge on her estranged family.
Pretending to want a reunion, she appears at her uncle’s party to secretly investigate them. When her uncle suddenly dies, Tori’s case takes a sinister turn that makes her a suspect in her uncle’s death and the killer’s next target. To uncover who dethroned the barbecue king, Tori will have to face her own fiery demons while pursuing a killer who wants to make dead meat out of her.
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Published September 24, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
August 6, 2024
Thank you to Book Sirens for ARC to Burnt Ends by Laura Wetsel!
A murder set in the BBQ joint in the sweletering heat of summer Kansas was a promising set up. The main character, struggling through a childhood trauma and a relapse in addiction, was facing serious obstacles in her investigation. Her extended family, a part of the investigation, proved to be a bunch of unsavory and strange (to say the least) characters. It was a curious book. And then it just became too much.
Too much struggle eating meat, too much struggle with addiction, too outlandish the behavior of the relatives. And on top of that, several characters ended up spilling the beans in their cheesy villain-like monologues.
I don't like being harsh on the debuts, and I really wanted to like this one, I really did. I liked the premise and sympathized with Tori. It just all became too much and not Ina good way 🤷♀️
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 and hoping the author continues to polish their craft. Looking forward to more books!
A murder set in the BBQ joint in the sweletering heat of summer Kansas was a promising set up. The main character, struggling through a childhood trauma and a relapse in addiction, was facing serious obstacles in her investigation. Her extended family, a part of the investigation, proved to be a bunch of unsavory and strange (to say the least) characters. It was a curious book. And then it just became too much.
Too much struggle eating meat, too much struggle with addiction, too outlandish the behavior of the relatives. And on top of that, several characters ended up spilling the beans in their cheesy villain-like monologues.
I don't like being harsh on the debuts, and I really wanted to like this one, I really did. I liked the premise and sympathized with Tori. It just all became too much and not Ina good way 🤷♀️
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 and hoping the author continues to polish their craft. Looking forward to more books!
September 12, 2024
First, the good: the plot was really compelling, and I found myself wanting to know who the killer was throughout. I also thought the premise of the book was intriguing. And, let’s be honest, this author wrote a book and it’s been published!
Unfortunately, there are a few things about the book that I didn’t care for. First, I wasn’t sure what this book was trying to be. Is it a campy mystery? A dramatic thriller? Not sure. I also feel that there was a lot of strange detail. For example, the author uses the brand name “Topo Chico” so many times that I honestly found myself wondering two things: one, if it would turn out to be an integral part of the plot (murder weapon or something) or if Topo Chico was sponsoring the novel in some way. It was almost like someone read this novel while in draft form, told the author it needed more colorful detail, so she changed every “water” or “drink” to “Topo Chico.” It was strange. The main character being a serious drug addict was also really weird. I get that it becomes important to part of the plot later, and maybe I just don’t understand addiction thoroughly, but it seemed a bit farfetched that someone in serious active addiction could do this much work, basically solving a murder. Also, I kept wondering how she had all this money for pills and where she got them all. She seemed to have an endless supply.
Overall, I am definitely willing to try another book from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to BookSirens.
Unfortunately, there are a few things about the book that I didn’t care for. First, I wasn’t sure what this book was trying to be. Is it a campy mystery? A dramatic thriller? Not sure. I also feel that there was a lot of strange detail. For example, the author uses the brand name “Topo Chico” so many times that I honestly found myself wondering two things: one, if it would turn out to be an integral part of the plot (murder weapon or something) or if Topo Chico was sponsoring the novel in some way. It was almost like someone read this novel while in draft form, told the author it needed more colorful detail, so she changed every “water” or “drink” to “Topo Chico.” It was strange. The main character being a serious drug addict was also really weird. I get that it becomes important to part of the plot later, and maybe I just don’t understand addiction thoroughly, but it seemed a bit farfetched that someone in serious active addiction could do this much work, basically solving a murder. Also, I kept wondering how she had all this money for pills and where she got them all. She seemed to have an endless supply.
Overall, I am definitely willing to try another book from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to BookSirens.
September 23, 2024
The cover art caught my eye, and although this isn't my usual type of book, I did enjoy it! You can read my full review on my blog here https://tcl-bookreviews.com/2024/09/2...
June 14, 2024
Ok. I stayed up til 2 am, reading this in one go. It was FUN, and HEARTBREAKING, and CLEVER.
Our main character Tori is hilarious. Her witty thoughts and observations come through her POV and begin immediately.
I love a good mystery, and this is one where we start with one body and add a few more before Tori’s done with her investigation.
While most of the supporting characters feel like shallow, over-sized personalities on the page—in the best way—Tori is written with great care and complexity as we see a recovering addict relapse and lie to herself about her addiction. It’s a very humanizing, compassionate, but unglamorous take on an opioid problem that much of the nation has rubbed elbows with. I rooted for Tori in all ways.
The best part of Burnt Ends was that there were clever twists! I know that’s supposed to be a feature for any mystery book, but more often than not, I find the “twists” unbelievable, dumb, or predictable. I’m telling you I was *grinning* when some of the plot twists were revealed.
This is a fantastic book to grab and cozy up with on a rainy day!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Our main character Tori is hilarious. Her witty thoughts and observations come through her POV and begin immediately.
I love a good mystery, and this is one where we start with one body and add a few more before Tori’s done with her investigation.
While most of the supporting characters feel like shallow, over-sized personalities on the page—in the best way—Tori is written with great care and complexity as we see a recovering addict relapse and lie to herself about her addiction. It’s a very humanizing, compassionate, but unglamorous take on an opioid problem that much of the nation has rubbed elbows with. I rooted for Tori in all ways.
The best part of Burnt Ends was that there were clever twists! I know that’s supposed to be a feature for any mystery book, but more often than not, I find the “twists” unbelievable, dumb, or predictable. I’m telling you I was *grinning* when some of the plot twists were revealed.
This is a fantastic book to grab and cozy up with on a rainy day!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2024
And I thought I had a crazy family! This one has you cheering for Teeny Tori from beginning to end. Tori is a unique protagonist, an opioid addict looking for a killer and pushing for revenge against those who stripped her of inheriting a barbecue empire. Despite Tori's relapses, the reader truly wants her to succeed. The barbecue industry is not something I knew much about before reading this, although I certainly knew what burnt ends are. The author carries that theme throughout very skillfully. I also learned a lot about opioid addiction. The author handles this with just the right tone. Characters are believable with a host of suspects and guilty parties and all flavors of scandal in the family. I read it in two days. It's a page turner with enough twists to keep you craving more barbecue brisket. There is humor in the family struggles as well as irony. A very accomplished first novel.
September 24, 2024
Laura Wetsel’s Burnt Ends transports readers into the smoky, drama-filled world of Kansas City’s iconic barbecue scene. The protagonist, Tori Swenson, is a private investigator grappling with her personal demons, particularly addiction, while unraveling a murder mystery that hits close to home. Set against a backdrop of familial tensions, addiction recovery, and Kansas City’s famed barbecue culture, Burnt Ends keeps the reader on edge from start to finish.
Positives:
Complex Protagonist: Tori is a layered and well-developed character. Her battle with addiction, guilt over her father’s death, and the complexities of family ties create a compelling internal struggle that complements the external mystery.
Atmospheric Writing: Wetsel does a fantastic job immersing the reader in Kansas City, particularly the BBQ culture. The vivid descriptions of food, locations, and family tension pull readers deeper into the story.
Fast-Paced Mystery: The investigation into the death of a worker at Uncle Charlie’s drive-in is well-paced. Tori's stake in the case heightens the tension and emotional involvement.
Negatives:
Repetitive Internal Monologue: At times, Tori’s ongoing reflection on her addiction and family drama feels repetitive, slowing down the otherwise fast-moving plot. This emotional rehashing occasionally detracts from the action.
Supporting Characters: While Tori is deeply explored, some secondary characters (like her cousin Emma or her uncle Charlie) could have used more depth to feel fully rounded.
Themes: Addiction, family loyalty, betrayal, and redemption play heavily in Burnt Ends. The exploration of Tori’s internal fight against her addiction is raw and unflinching, adding layers of personal stakes to the crime investigation. The tension between Tori and her family—particularly her cousins—adds complexity to the central mystery.
Burnt Ends delivers a solid mystery with a protagonist whose flaws make her both relatable and deeply human. Wetsel’s ability to blend the charm of Kansas City’s BBQ culture with a gritty investigation into murder and betrayal results in a unique and engaging thriller. Despite some pacing issues due to internal monologues, Burnt Ends is a worthwhile read for fans of mystery thrillers that delve deep into personal stakes.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Positives:
Complex Protagonist: Tori is a layered and well-developed character. Her battle with addiction, guilt over her father’s death, and the complexities of family ties create a compelling internal struggle that complements the external mystery.
Atmospheric Writing: Wetsel does a fantastic job immersing the reader in Kansas City, particularly the BBQ culture. The vivid descriptions of food, locations, and family tension pull readers deeper into the story.
Fast-Paced Mystery: The investigation into the death of a worker at Uncle Charlie’s drive-in is well-paced. Tori's stake in the case heightens the tension and emotional involvement.
Negatives:
Repetitive Internal Monologue: At times, Tori’s ongoing reflection on her addiction and family drama feels repetitive, slowing down the otherwise fast-moving plot. This emotional rehashing occasionally detracts from the action.
Supporting Characters: While Tori is deeply explored, some secondary characters (like her cousin Emma or her uncle Charlie) could have used more depth to feel fully rounded.
Themes: Addiction, family loyalty, betrayal, and redemption play heavily in Burnt Ends. The exploration of Tori’s internal fight against her addiction is raw and unflinching, adding layers of personal stakes to the crime investigation. The tension between Tori and her family—particularly her cousins—adds complexity to the central mystery.
Burnt Ends delivers a solid mystery with a protagonist whose flaws make her both relatable and deeply human. Wetsel’s ability to blend the charm of Kansas City’s BBQ culture with a gritty investigation into murder and betrayal results in a unique and engaging thriller. Despite some pacing issues due to internal monologues, Burnt Ends is a worthwhile read for fans of mystery thrillers that delve deep into personal stakes.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
September 28, 2024
Fascinating debut!
Burnt Ends is a fascinating new mystery by debut author Laura Wetsel and introduces readers to a female gumshoe with characteristics reminiscent of a damaged and troubled old-school private eye. With its intriguing premise, complex plot, and surprising resolution, I was glued to this story from start to finish.
Victoria “Tori” Swenson is the aforementioned protagonist: a private investigator with a drug problem and a long-simmering desire for revenge against the uncle and cousins who may have caused her father’s death and then taken his successful BBQ business for their own. Having recently gone through another stint in rehab to clean up, the story unfolds from Tori’s OxyContin-impaired viewpoint as she quickly relapsed. Driven by her rage, Tori investigates the suspicious death of a cook at one of Uncle Charlie’s restaurants, hoping to parlay her findings into destroying their business and grand lifestyles that should have been hers. She continually lies to herself and others that she will stop using as soon as the case is completed. The subterfuge, the lies, the fixation and substitution of Topo Chico for what she craves all ring true, making her actions almost painful to watch at times. I wondered throughout the book whether she would be able to hold it together long enough to achieve her goals.
The fast-paced story involves multiple deaths, intense family drama, jealousy – personal and professional, and, of course, drug addiction. Each time Tori gets close to discovering a piece of the puzzle, a surprising plot twists alters the course of the investigation. Consequently, I didn’t guess the ending ahead of the reveal. In addition, the descriptions of the Kansas City, Missouri setting, renowned for its barbeque, were vivid and tempting.
I recommend BURNT ENDS to traditional private eye mystery readers.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
Burnt Ends is a fascinating new mystery by debut author Laura Wetsel and introduces readers to a female gumshoe with characteristics reminiscent of a damaged and troubled old-school private eye. With its intriguing premise, complex plot, and surprising resolution, I was glued to this story from start to finish.
Victoria “Tori” Swenson is the aforementioned protagonist: a private investigator with a drug problem and a long-simmering desire for revenge against the uncle and cousins who may have caused her father’s death and then taken his successful BBQ business for their own. Having recently gone through another stint in rehab to clean up, the story unfolds from Tori’s OxyContin-impaired viewpoint as she quickly relapsed. Driven by her rage, Tori investigates the suspicious death of a cook at one of Uncle Charlie’s restaurants, hoping to parlay her findings into destroying their business and grand lifestyles that should have been hers. She continually lies to herself and others that she will stop using as soon as the case is completed. The subterfuge, the lies, the fixation and substitution of Topo Chico for what she craves all ring true, making her actions almost painful to watch at times. I wondered throughout the book whether she would be able to hold it together long enough to achieve her goals.
The fast-paced story involves multiple deaths, intense family drama, jealousy – personal and professional, and, of course, drug addiction. Each time Tori gets close to discovering a piece of the puzzle, a surprising plot twists alters the course of the investigation. Consequently, I didn’t guess the ending ahead of the reveal. In addition, the descriptions of the Kansas City, Missouri setting, renowned for its barbeque, were vivid and tempting.
I recommend BURNT ENDS to traditional private eye mystery readers.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
October 15, 2024
The premise of this book was pretty unique. The characters, their backstories, and the mysterious clues they revealed along the way only got more interesting and bizarre as the pages turned.
While she was well written and interesting, I had a hard time connecting with Private Investigator Tori Swenson. All characters have flaws, that’s what makes them relatable and even endearing at times, but to me, Tori’s battle with addiction and history of loss and trauma only seemed to detach her from reality giving her many opportunities to hurt loved ones around her. Which she did. Frequently. I wanted to have more empathy for her, but I found myself consistently disappointed in her.
Is this a flaw in the author’s work? Absolutely not! It was because I was so emotionally invested in our main character that I found myself disappointed in her choices. To write a character that you don’t love but still invokes emotion in the reader, that’s a mark of great writing.
The mystery itself was crazy and out in left field while still being rooted in enough reality that somehow it was actually plausible! I love how unpredictable this storyline was, I was definitely stumped until all was revealed in the end. I found myself second-guessing everyone who was lying, who was genuine. There were laughs, there were gasps, there were “aha!”s and “no way!”s. All in all, it's an interesting murder mystery!
*Trigger warning* for my fellow food allergy families. If anaphylaxis is hard for you to read about, maybe skip this one. It caught me off guard, and I had to put the book down to collect myself.
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this virtual book tour, Partners In Crime Tours
While she was well written and interesting, I had a hard time connecting with Private Investigator Tori Swenson. All characters have flaws, that’s what makes them relatable and even endearing at times, but to me, Tori’s battle with addiction and history of loss and trauma only seemed to detach her from reality giving her many opportunities to hurt loved ones around her. Which she did. Frequently. I wanted to have more empathy for her, but I found myself consistently disappointed in her.
Is this a flaw in the author’s work? Absolutely not! It was because I was so emotionally invested in our main character that I found myself disappointed in her choices. To write a character that you don’t love but still invokes emotion in the reader, that’s a mark of great writing.
The mystery itself was crazy and out in left field while still being rooted in enough reality that somehow it was actually plausible! I love how unpredictable this storyline was, I was definitely stumped until all was revealed in the end. I found myself second-guessing everyone who was lying, who was genuine. There were laughs, there were gasps, there were “aha!”s and “no way!”s. All in all, it's an interesting murder mystery!
*Trigger warning* for my fellow food allergy families. If anaphylaxis is hard for you to read about, maybe skip this one. It caught me off guard, and I had to put the book down to collect myself.
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this virtual book tour, Partners In Crime Tours
August 8, 2024
Neither Fish nor Fowl…. and it's not about the BBQ
A reasonably enjoyable book, interesting characters, clever plot, good dialog.
But… in the end, I'm not sure what type of mystery this is supposed to be. The cover certainly suggested a cozy/wacky food-oriented mystery infused with a love of BBQ. Totally not that! In fact, any meat-oriented business would have served the plot just as well. I expected to smell and taste the barbecue, and I just didn’t. For crying out loud, the narrator doesn't even like barbecue!
The drug-addicted PI narrator with an ugly past falls more into the classic noir mystery slot, but the plot and characters are far too wacky for noir, especially in the second half of the book.
The sheer craziness of the plot, and the more grotesque elements, strongly lean into a classic Carl Hiassen-esque comic crime romp. But that style doesn't work with the noir narrator.
Being a big Hiassen fan, if I were rewriting this book, I'd lighten it up and ditch the drug addiction angle, and keep all the silly and grotesque bits. And being a fan of food-oriented mysteries, I really wish the barbecue had been more than a plot device.
As things stand, the book was decent but extremely frustrating to read.
Full disclosure: I received a free ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily, and all opinions here are my own.
A reasonably enjoyable book, interesting characters, clever plot, good dialog.
But… in the end, I'm not sure what type of mystery this is supposed to be. The cover certainly suggested a cozy/wacky food-oriented mystery infused with a love of BBQ. Totally not that! In fact, any meat-oriented business would have served the plot just as well. I expected to smell and taste the barbecue, and I just didn’t. For crying out loud, the narrator doesn't even like barbecue!
The drug-addicted PI narrator with an ugly past falls more into the classic noir mystery slot, but the plot and characters are far too wacky for noir, especially in the second half of the book.
The sheer craziness of the plot, and the more grotesque elements, strongly lean into a classic Carl Hiassen-esque comic crime romp. But that style doesn't work with the noir narrator.
Being a big Hiassen fan, if I were rewriting this book, I'd lighten it up and ditch the drug addiction angle, and keep all the silly and grotesque bits. And being a fan of food-oriented mysteries, I really wish the barbecue had been more than a plot device.
As things stand, the book was decent but extremely frustrating to read.
Full disclosure: I received a free ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily, and all opinions here are my own.
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October 18, 2024Burnt Ends by Laura Wetsel and narrated by Alyssa Appleton is the ideal combination of flawed antihero/ FMC (Tori Swenson P.I and "recovering" narcotics addict) and a thriller/ mystery.
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@camcat_books
The mystery is comprised of "accidental" death, toxic family history and the war between the traditional mom and pop BBQ joint in Kansas and the financial temptation of the countrywide commercial conglomerate buyout ("how can you have a drive-thru at an airport?" Seriously this quote had me howling with laughter
Oho, but, that is not all. What if you reappear after time away from your hometown, only to be under suspicion of your uncles death? Can life get any more complicated? Yes, yes it can, by trying to hide the narcotics relapse in order to keep your job and home
There is a lot to enjoy in this novel, not least the character development and relatable nature of the cast as well as the skillful narration by Alyssa Appleton. There is such an easy flow to this novel that kept me intrigued, curious to see what would happen next, which way each character would go. A fantastic listen and I am looking forward toseeing more from Laura Wetsel
Thank you to Partners in Crime Tours, Camcat Publishing, the awesome Laura Wetsel and narrator Alyssa Appleton for this fantastic ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
@laurawetselbooks
@partnersincrimevbt
@camcat_books
The mystery is comprised of "accidental" death, toxic family history and the war between the traditional mom and pop BBQ joint in Kansas and the financial temptation of the countrywide commercial conglomerate buyout ("how can you have a drive-thru at an airport?" Seriously this quote had me howling with laughter
Oho, but, that is not all. What if you reappear after time away from your hometown, only to be under suspicion of your uncles death? Can life get any more complicated? Yes, yes it can, by trying to hide the narcotics relapse in order to keep your job and home
There is a lot to enjoy in this novel, not least the character development and relatable nature of the cast as well as the skillful narration by Alyssa Appleton. There is such an easy flow to this novel that kept me intrigued, curious to see what would happen next, which way each character would go. A fantastic listen and I am looking forward toseeing more from Laura Wetsel
Thank you to Partners in Crime Tours, Camcat Publishing, the awesome Laura Wetsel and narrator Alyssa Appleton for this fantastic ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
September 26, 2024
1 and a half stars.
I think the author has invented a new sub-genre: the controlled substance mystery.
Our plucky private eye is an opioid addict on her 4th relapse. Her best friend is a dedicated nicotine fiend. Her aunt grows her own weed, of which she partakes daily, and is fond of alcohol as well. We watch a third character inhale a line of cocaine, and a 4th character’s absolute saintliness was proven by the fact that he never had more than 3 beers during a visit to the bar. A woman is found to have dosed her partner with PCP. Last, but certainly not least, this book features more heroin overdoses than all 4 seasons of Starsky and Hutch combined.
But I guess all this can be expected on the mean streets of (checks notes)... Kansas City.
I was ignoring all the pill-popping as best I could, when our heroine Tori decides she has no choice but to use her professional-grade stun gun on… a chihuahua. Against all reason, I kept listening as the audio reader repeatedly pronounced “withdrawal” as “with drawer al”.
In the end, the only character I found to be even slightly sympathetic ends up in jail, and Tori gets a much, much happier ending than I thought she deserved. Hurrah.
I think the author has invented a new sub-genre: the controlled substance mystery.
Our plucky private eye is an opioid addict on her 4th relapse. Her best friend is a dedicated nicotine fiend. Her aunt grows her own weed, of which she partakes daily, and is fond of alcohol as well. We watch a third character inhale a line of cocaine, and a 4th character’s absolute saintliness was proven by the fact that he never had more than 3 beers during a visit to the bar. A woman is found to have dosed her partner with PCP. Last, but certainly not least, this book features more heroin overdoses than all 4 seasons of Starsky and Hutch combined.
But I guess all this can be expected on the mean streets of (checks notes)... Kansas City.
I was ignoring all the pill-popping as best I could, when our heroine Tori decides she has no choice but to use her professional-grade stun gun on… a chihuahua. Against all reason, I kept listening as the audio reader repeatedly pronounced “withdrawal” as “with drawer al”.
In the end, the only character I found to be even slightly sympathetic ends up in jail, and Tori gets a much, much happier ending than I thought she deserved. Hurrah.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2024
Burnt Ends is written by Laura Weasel. This is the first book that I have read by this author, and it will not be my last. The story drew me in within the first few pages. The characters are well written and the story line is well developed. I love that our main character, Tori is flawed. She has some issues and family drama that she has had to deal with. She has recently fell off the sober wagon and was kicked out of her sober house.
She catches a case that looks like murder at her uncle's drive in. However, she is estranged from them, since she feels that they had something to do with her father's death. She has to be careful as she investigates. She pretends to want to do a family reunion. However, then her uncle is the next victim.
I loved Tori. Her thoughts, her wit, and how she has been dealing with demons. She is realistic. I loved following the clues with Tori and trying to sort the multiple deaths out. I loved that some of the characters were very over the top.
This is a brilliant debut by the author. I can't wait to see what she produces next.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Partners in Crime Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book, all thoughts are my own.
She catches a case that looks like murder at her uncle's drive in. However, she is estranged from them, since she feels that they had something to do with her father's death. She has to be careful as she investigates. She pretends to want to do a family reunion. However, then her uncle is the next victim.
I loved Tori. Her thoughts, her wit, and how she has been dealing with demons. She is realistic. I loved following the clues with Tori and trying to sort the multiple deaths out. I loved that some of the characters were very over the top.
This is a brilliant debut by the author. I can't wait to see what she produces next.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Partners in Crime Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book, all thoughts are my own.
September 24, 2024
Can you spell dysfunction?
I am not sure what made me want to read this book but it was certainly a surprise to me. Tori was just thrown out of Victory House where she was rehabbing from an opioid addiction. She fell off the wagon AGAIN! She is telling friends and family that she is cured so the facility let her go while she is sneaking the pills with every opportunity. A suspicious death at one of her uncle Charlie’s drive-ins gives her an idea. She has been looking for revenge for years since her uncle stole her dad’s business and probably killed him too. Her opportunity is here. Can she handle all the dysfunction of Uncle Charlie’s children, her cousins? She will need her meds to deal with all their craziness as well as to protect Aunt Kat and herself.
This is strictly a mystery with some crazy overtones; no romance. It was well-written albeit far out in left field for me. This book is definitely not my choice of reading material with all its bizarreness. The book was unique in its handling of addiction and murder; in my mind dealt with very cavalierly. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.
I am not sure what made me want to read this book but it was certainly a surprise to me. Tori was just thrown out of Victory House where she was rehabbing from an opioid addiction. She fell off the wagon AGAIN! She is telling friends and family that she is cured so the facility let her go while she is sneaking the pills with every opportunity. A suspicious death at one of her uncle Charlie’s drive-ins gives her an idea. She has been looking for revenge for years since her uncle stole her dad’s business and probably killed him too. Her opportunity is here. Can she handle all the dysfunction of Uncle Charlie’s children, her cousins? She will need her meds to deal with all their craziness as well as to protect Aunt Kat and herself.
This is strictly a mystery with some crazy overtones; no romance. It was well-written albeit far out in left field for me. This book is definitely not my choice of reading material with all its bizarreness. The book was unique in its handling of addiction and murder; in my mind dealt with very cavalierly. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.
September 24, 2024
I REALLY wanted to love this book. Really. But in the final analysis, I find that it's just a bit over the top, in almost all respects. Tori, the PI investigating her own family on several fronts, is an opioid addict and that gets old. Hard to fathom she can get out of bed with all of the drugs in her system. Her family is over the top with their internal battles and their foolish mistakes. While human frailty and faults are no stranger to any of us, I don't see why they all have to concentrate in one small woman. I anticipated that at any moment Tori would simply collapse. The story is not without merit and I'd say it kept my interest throughout. And it's fun, although at times nerve wracking, and I did appreciate the end. But in the overall picture, I think this could have been better.
This ARC was provided by the publisher and BookSirens, the opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
This ARC was provided by the publisher and BookSirens, the opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
September 25, 2024
It’s hard to write this without spoilers but I’m going to give it a shot.
The MC, Tori, is a mess. She just finished rehab for the 3d time and is working as a PI. Her family is huge in Kansas City barbecue and she starts investigating a potential murder at one of the restaurants.
During the course of this book I liked Tori, then I hated her, then I liked her, then I got fed up with her and yeah, it was a bit of a roller coaster. Tori, unfortunately, is human and makes mistakes. And what seemed straightforward at the beginning of the book turned into a jumbled mess by the end. There was a lot more going on than I expected. I did like the ending. I wouldn’t mind a follow up book if Tori has her crap together now.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The MC, Tori, is a mess. She just finished rehab for the 3d time and is working as a PI. Her family is huge in Kansas City barbecue and she starts investigating a potential murder at one of the restaurants.
During the course of this book I liked Tori, then I hated her, then I liked her, then I got fed up with her and yeah, it was a bit of a roller coaster. Tori, unfortunately, is human and makes mistakes. And what seemed straightforward at the beginning of the book turned into a jumbled mess by the end. There was a lot more going on than I expected. I did like the ending. I wouldn’t mind a follow up book if Tori has her crap together now.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 26, 2024
This is the first book by Ms. Wetsel that I have read, but I hope it is not the last. Her characters are wonderful, realistic, and relatable, there's plenty of action and unexpected twists and turns The story is very engaging from the first pages and this reader didn't like interruptions that required me to stop reading. The family dynamics give new meaning to the term dysfunctional! But the best thing was that I didn't figure out who the "bad guy" was. I had my suspicions but was never convinced I was right. The mark of a talented author, in my opinion. BookSirens indicates the book is not part of a series, but I would love to see Ms. Wetsel change her mind. I think this would make a terrific PI series and I would be first in line to read it.
I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens and this review is my honest opinion.
I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens and this review is my honest opinion.
September 18, 2024
This was a 5 star read for me! From what I can tell, this is the author's debut novel and she knocked it out of the park! Who doesn't love barbeque with a side of murder? I've never been to Kansas City (I don't think) but I do know how serious they are about their BBQ and, in my opinion, I prefer KC BBQ over every other region with Texas a close 2nd.
Anyway, the story flows wonderfully and the characters are colorful. Just when I thought where part of the story was going, a twist came. There were twists and turns left and right! I highly recommend this book!
Full review coming to my website on 9.24.24.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Anyway, the story flows wonderfully and the characters are colorful. Just when I thought where part of the story was going, a twist came. There were twists and turns left and right! I highly recommend this book!
Full review coming to my website on 9.24.24.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 9, 2024
I was excited to read this, but it was disappointing in the end. I'm someone who likes cozy mysteries well enough, but it's always been a hit or miss when I read a cozy mystery. I've never been able to find a happy medium in between with my like or dislike of the cozy mystery.
This story, unfortunately, fell into the miss category for me. It's got the normal expected story as a cozy mystery with characters and all, but it just didn't hold my attention well at all. I could barely finish this story because I struggled with it holding my interest.
I know others will love and enjoy this, but it's not for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story, unfortunately, fell into the miss category for me. It's got the normal expected story as a cozy mystery with characters and all, but it just didn't hold my attention well at all. I could barely finish this story because I struggled with it holding my interest.
I know others will love and enjoy this, but it's not for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 23, 2025
2.5 stars, I really wanted to like this book. I saw an ad for it in one of the free magazines around KC and thought it would be interesting since it’s based here. It was cool that it had a lot of KC landmarks and knowing exactly where the author was talking about but it was just okay. The twist at the end was pretty good which is why it wasn’t a 1. But my god was this book sponsored by Topo Chico or something because I’ve never seen that much mention of a product in one book. Also, in the audio book I COULD NOT get over the person reading pronouncing withdrawals as with-drawrl-rells it was awful. This book has a lot of potential but just needed to be cleaned up or a little tighter in the story line.
September 10, 2024
"Murder is juicier with a side of barbecue sauce."
Burnt Ends is about Tori Swenson who is a private investigator that gets a strange accidental death case which looks like murder at one of her uncle's drive ins. She decides that it is time to get revenge on her estranged family. This one was set in Kanas during the summer and it has to do with BBQ. The characters were good in it and I liked Tori a lot. The book was written well and it kept me guessing until the end. I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend this one to any reader who likes mysteries. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Burnt Ends is about Tori Swenson who is a private investigator that gets a strange accidental death case which looks like murder at one of her uncle's drive ins. She decides that it is time to get revenge on her estranged family. This one was set in Kanas during the summer and it has to do with BBQ. The characters were good in it and I liked Tori a lot. The book was written well and it kept me guessing until the end. I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend this one to any reader who likes mysteries. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 9, 2024
I received a free ARC copy for an honest review.
Tori is an PI with a drug problem. She is trying to solve a case involving her family that no one else believes is a case. She is strong willed and luckily to have a small but strong support system.
This book was well written and characters interesting. Through the story and the characters you get to understand more about the main character and how she got to be who she is.
I did find that the book had some parts in the middle of the book where the book slowed down a bit but then it picked back up at the end.
Tori is an PI with a drug problem. She is trying to solve a case involving her family that no one else believes is a case. She is strong willed and luckily to have a small but strong support system.
This book was well written and characters interesting. Through the story and the characters you get to understand more about the main character and how she got to be who she is.
I did find that the book had some parts in the middle of the book where the book slowed down a bit but then it picked back up at the end.
July 5, 2024
I received this book from Book Sirens. It's my first arc from them.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and without giving out any spoilers I was surprised with the plot twist.
I thought the book was well written, with excellent character development and an interesting story. The main character, Tori, is battling many demons while trying to solve a murder. While I do enjoy a good BBQ, Burnt Ends is making me want some amazing burnt ends.
Thank you to Book Sirens for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and without giving out any spoilers I was surprised with the plot twist.
I thought the book was well written, with excellent character development and an interesting story. The main character, Tori, is battling many demons while trying to solve a murder. While I do enjoy a good BBQ, Burnt Ends is making me want some amazing burnt ends.
Thank you to Book Sirens for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion.
July 7, 2024
It was quite unusual to have such a flawed main character with Tori in the midst of a drug relapse whilst investigating her awful family but it worked and added another layer to this twisting and turning story. It kept me guessing throughout and I found it entertaining enough to finish it within 3 days (which is quick for me with work and kids). It’s not my usual type of book but I would definitely read another from this author based on this one. I received an advance review copy for free and I am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
August 25, 2024
Burnt Ends - nothing like brisket seasoned with murder.
A thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed - A journey of an addict seeking to justify their need to spiral “one more pill” as they come face to face with the demons and trauma of their past.
I could not help connect and fee connect to Tori as she tried to solve the crimes that eventuated.
This book rewards your efforts with a thrilling conclusion.
I’ve received a complementary copy from the author via booksirens and post this review by my own decision. Just read the book - you can thank me later
A thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed - A journey of an addict seeking to justify their need to spiral “one more pill” as they come face to face with the demons and trauma of their past.
I could not help connect and fee connect to Tori as she tried to solve the crimes that eventuated.
This book rewards your efforts with a thrilling conclusion.
I’ve received a complementary copy from the author via booksirens and post this review by my own decision. Just read the book - you can thank me later
August 30, 2024
Great mystery story of family feud following Private Investigator Tori Swenson who gets a strange accidental death case that looks like murder at one of her uncle’s drive-ins and decides it’s time to get revenge on her estranged family.
Loved the twists and turns as the family fights with one another.
Really enjoyed the story and kept me entertained and wanting to read more.
Would highly recommend for a mystery thriller with a few laughs as well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Loved the twists and turns as the family fights with one another.
Really enjoyed the story and kept me entertained and wanting to read more.
Would highly recommend for a mystery thriller with a few laughs as well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 23, 2024
If you enjoy the bizarre you are going to be delighted by this murder mystery including the most dysfunctional family in Kansas. The characters are vibrant, chaotic, emotionally challenged, psychotic, inventive, cruel, misogynistic and cookoo like cocoa puffs. Of course this wouldn't be a murder mystery without a deadly schemer hidden in plain sight causing mayhem and trouble at will. I was completely engaged unaware of time passing until I had reached its unexpected and climatic conclusion. Acquire " Burnt Ends " for hours of intriguing and enjoyable entertainment. Kat
September 29, 2024
I was very interested in the whodunit aspect of this book that kept the drive to keep reading it. Who doesn’t love a little family drama with a mystery. However, the repetitive/lack of versatility in the writing was a struggle to keep going that made me shut the book more often than making it a page-turner. I have read books with characters that struggle with addiction before and that wasn’t an issue, but we didn’t need to know every time she took a pill or popped her favorite beverage.
Thank you Book Sirens for the free ARC for my honest review.
Thank you Book Sirens for the free ARC for my honest review.
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September 29, 2024I was very interested in the whodunit aspect of this book that kept the drive to keep reading it. Who doesn’t love a little family drama with a mystery. However, the repetitive/lack of versatility in the writing was a struggle to keep going that made me shut the book more often than making it a page-turner. I have read books with characters that struggle with addiction before and that wasn’t an issue, but we didn’t need to know every time she took a pill or popped her favorite beverage.
Thank you Book Sirens for the free ARC for my honest review.
Thank you Book Sirens for the free ARC for my honest review.
October 1, 2024
The book was so twisty and suspenseful. The story is multilayered and characters wear facades. They were extremely deceiving. You can expect unexpected twists, unthinkable murders and investigation bringing everyone’s life at stake. This book is a perfect example of things are not how they appear to be and don’t believe everything you see or hear. Twists at the end shook me. It has so many layers of secrets, mystery and suspense. It was unputdownable.
I received an advance readers copy and I’m leaving my review voluntarily. Thanks to Booksirens
I received an advance readers copy and I’m leaving my review voluntarily. Thanks to Booksirens
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