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Redondo and Rose Neighbors in Crime #4
Class Dismissed
Pacific Book Award Finalist (2025)
International Firebird Award for Excellence in Writing
"...defies genre expectations." Nicki Flowers, Indie Today Review
Viv and Rex's plans to return to community college and get their PI license hit an unexpected snag when their instructor, a seasoned private investigator, winds up dead the first day. Now, instead of studying for midterms, they’re cramming to crack the case.
With a college full of suspects, secrets buried in the desert, and a professor who may have been hiding more than just test answers, Redondo and Rose are once again in the thick of a mystery. Will their investigative skills (and undeniable chemistry) be enough to uncover the truth before the next body drops?
A fresh, modern take on the cozy mystery, Redondo and Neighbors in Crime delivers fast-paced whodunits, witty banter, and a pair of sleuths proving that retirement is anything but boring.
International Firebird Award for Excellence in Writing
"...defies genre expectations." Nicki Flowers, Indie Today Review
Viv and Rex's plans to return to community college and get their PI license hit an unexpected snag when their instructor, a seasoned private investigator, winds up dead the first day. Now, instead of studying for midterms, they’re cramming to crack the case.
With a college full of suspects, secrets buried in the desert, and a professor who may have been hiding more than just test answers, Redondo and Rose are once again in the thick of a mystery. Will their investigative skills (and undeniable chemistry) be enough to uncover the truth before the next body drops?
A fresh, modern take on the cozy mystery, Redondo and Neighbors in Crime delivers fast-paced whodunits, witty banter, and a pair of sleuths proving that retirement is anything but boring.
- GenresCozyCozy MysteryMystery
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2025
About the author
Bonnie Hardy
18 books62 followersBonnie Hardy, a retired professional turned author, is celebrated for her two enthralling cozy mystery series. The first, set in the picturesque mountain town of Lily Rock, features amateur sleuth Olivia Greer, known for her uncanny ability to draw out confessions from the most unlikely people.
The second series, set in Palm Desert, features the mid-life duo mentalist Rex Redondo and his down to earth next door neighbor doula Vivienne Rose.
Inspired by Agatha Christie, Bonnie's captivating tales of mystery and community masterfully blend fast-paced whodunits with clever sleuthing.
The second series, set in Palm Desert, features the mid-life duo mentalist Rex Redondo and his down to earth next door neighbor doula Vivienne Rose.
Inspired by Agatha Christie, Bonnie's captivating tales of mystery and community masterfully blend fast-paced whodunits with clever sleuthing.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
June 10, 2025
Neighbors in Crime amateur detectives Rex Redondo and Vivienne Rose find their next case when they sign up for a PI class at the college. Arriving for their first lesson they instead find the professor, retired police officer Wally Walker, dead. While Wally had a history of health problems, Viv and Rex pick up a number of clues that have them wondering if the death was natural or not. Rex is particularly drawn to a pocket watch owned by Wally. Risking stealing it twice, is it a clue or not? Fellow student, Brad May of the Lily Rock Constabulary, shares information and joins the investigation. Meanwhile, Rex still trying to adjust to semi retirement has a falling out with his assistant, Sutton, and slowly realizes that Viv is not going to coddle him when his over dependence on Sutton is exposed.
Told from the dual POV of Viv and Rex, Class Dismissed builds a compelling mystery that keeps you guessing. Ms. Hardy’s technique of using her characters’ introspective thoughts throughout the narrative is a unique way to help connect to the characters. Rex’s over reliance on his charm and storytelling is shown as his way of detaching from unpleasant realities. Viv proves to be a strong match for him as she doesn’t let him get away with it. Truly lost without Sutton’s assistance, Rex is having to finally grow up. The inclusion of Brad from the Lily Rock series is a nice touch as well, and I enjoyed his interactions with Viv. The historical events woven into the mystery were heartbreaking and sadly far too common in our society.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Told from the dual POV of Viv and Rex, Class Dismissed builds a compelling mystery that keeps you guessing. Ms. Hardy’s technique of using her characters’ introspective thoughts throughout the narrative is a unique way to help connect to the characters. Rex’s over reliance on his charm and storytelling is shown as his way of detaching from unpleasant realities. Viv proves to be a strong match for him as she doesn’t let him get away with it. Truly lost without Sutton’s assistance, Rex is having to finally grow up. The inclusion of Brad from the Lily Rock series is a nice touch as well, and I enjoyed his interactions with Viv. The historical events woven into the mystery were heartbreaking and sadly far too common in our society.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2025
Such unique characters!
Rex & Viv are going to take a course at a community college to help them get their PI license, but the teacher is found dead in his office the day the class should have started. Was it murder, suicide, accident, or something else? Rex and Rose, of course, set out to solve it.
There are a number of suspects, and there were some surprises at the end.
As with the earlier books in the series, the book is written mostly from the point of view of either Viv or Rex in each chapter. I LOVE the italics where you "hear" what they're thinking. It tells so much about them. They are both really unique characters with their specific quirks.
In those italic thoughts, the author beautifully captures, and explains to the reader, the personalities of the characters. Viv- both loving and aloof, Rex -endearing, yet very arrogant, always justifying and rationalizing his actions to himself.
This book really delved into Rex's character a lot, which was fascinating. Lots of flaws. Also, there were, shall we say, interesting interactions with his employee/friend/roommate Sutton.
The books are well written and hold your attention throughout.
You should read the earlier books for the best understanding of the people and past events, but this can be read as a stand alone.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rex & Viv are going to take a course at a community college to help them get their PI license, but the teacher is found dead in his office the day the class should have started. Was it murder, suicide, accident, or something else? Rex and Rose, of course, set out to solve it.
There are a number of suspects, and there were some surprises at the end.
As with the earlier books in the series, the book is written mostly from the point of view of either Viv or Rex in each chapter. I LOVE the italics where you "hear" what they're thinking. It tells so much about them. They are both really unique characters with their specific quirks.
In those italic thoughts, the author beautifully captures, and explains to the reader, the personalities of the characters. Viv- both loving and aloof, Rex -endearing, yet very arrogant, always justifying and rationalizing his actions to himself.
This book really delved into Rex's character a lot, which was fascinating. Lots of flaws. Also, there were, shall we say, interesting interactions with his employee/friend/roommate Sutton.
The books are well written and hold your attention throughout.
You should read the earlier books for the best understanding of the people and past events, but this can be read as a stand alone.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 19, 2025
Echoes in time - I thoroughly enjoyed reading this cozy mystery with just a hint of romance. Rex and Viv make a great crime solving team, even as they tap-dance in their relationship. He's got a larger than life personality that helps him distract people as he talks his way in and out of situations. Her calm forthrightness helps her get to the heart of a matter without delay. Skills that are definitely needed as they investigate the cause of death of their elderly instructor for a PI course they planned to take. Suspects stack up quickly, from the principal who wanted Wally to retire to his estranged grandson / heir. Even his favorite waitress at a local eatery is under the microscope. With the help of an eager young mind, the two tirelessly seek the truth behind Wally's demise and grow closer in the doing.
A great story with likeable characters, down to the furry friends who give their owners love and attitude in equal measure. Sutton is a force to be reckoned with, as Rex remembered too late. His relationship with his friend is forever changed, but maybe that's a good thing. The silver fox needed to get that hen out of his house. A first read from this author, but certainly not the last.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A great story with likeable characters, down to the furry friends who give their owners love and attitude in equal measure. Sutton is a force to be reckoned with, as Rex remembered too late. His relationship with his friend is forever changed, but maybe that's a good thing. The silver fox needed to get that hen out of his house. A first read from this author, but certainly not the last.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 20, 2025
Very enjoyable, cozy mystery. Rex and Vivienne are neighbors, Neighbors in Crime.
To become private investigators, Rex and Vivienne are taking a course at the community college, Mojave Mesa. When Rex and Vivienne, along with a fellow classmate, locate their classroom the door is locked. Peering through the glass door they see the professor is bent over as if working or taking a nap. This is when the mystery (fun) begins.
This is the fourth book in the series. The author does a good job recapping information needed for the current story. The author cleverly uses a historical event with in the current timeline. I'm trying not give anything away. The book is equal parts mystery and along with character building and interactions. I look forward to reading more of Rex and Vivienne's adventures.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
To become private investigators, Rex and Vivienne are taking a course at the community college, Mojave Mesa. When Rex and Vivienne, along with a fellow classmate, locate their classroom the door is locked. Peering through the glass door they see the professor is bent over as if working or taking a nap. This is when the mystery (fun) begins.
This is the fourth book in the series. The author does a good job recapping information needed for the current story. The author cleverly uses a historical event with in the current timeline. I'm trying not give anything away. The book is equal parts mystery and along with character building and interactions. I look forward to reading more of Rex and Vivienne's adventures.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
August 4, 2025
Class Dismissed by Bonnie Hardy
Crime: Murder
Detectives: Rex Redondo and Vivienne Rose, retirees (Neighbors in Crime)
Sidekick: Brad May (from the author’s Lily Rock series)
Victim: Wally Walker, Retired Police Officer and adjunct professor
Premise: Rex and Viv, amateur detectives, decide to go to community college to learn how to become Private Investigators. They find their professor dead of what could be natural causes, but clues indicate otherwise.
My thoughts: I found the dual narrative very effective. I like when there is more than one POV. The characters are relatable and fun. This mystery is not perfect, but it’s an enjoyable read and I would certainly read more of the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Crime: Murder
Detectives: Rex Redondo and Vivienne Rose, retirees (Neighbors in Crime)
Sidekick: Brad May (from the author’s Lily Rock series)
Victim: Wally Walker, Retired Police Officer and adjunct professor
Premise: Rex and Viv, amateur detectives, decide to go to community college to learn how to become Private Investigators. They find their professor dead of what could be natural causes, but clues indicate otherwise.
My thoughts: I found the dual narrative very effective. I like when there is more than one POV. The characters are relatable and fun. This mystery is not perfect, but it’s an enjoyable read and I would certainly read more of the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2025
A Back to School Murder!
I enjoyed revisiting the relationship between Rex Redondo and Vivienne Rose, and seeing them back in action as they work towards opening their own detective agency. Viv's boundaries are tested (as always) by Rex, and I have to admit that I was pretty happy to see him get some comeuppance partway through the book! But he seems willing to learn and try new things, and so I was willing to stay with the story. The mystery was intriguing, with plenty of suspects to choose from, and I admit to getting tricked by a red herring on this one! If you are looking for a mystery with mature detectives, a hint of closed door romance, and interesting characters, I highly recommend this book. I received a free copy of this book, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed revisiting the relationship between Rex Redondo and Vivienne Rose, and seeing them back in action as they work towards opening their own detective agency. Viv's boundaries are tested (as always) by Rex, and I have to admit that I was pretty happy to see him get some comeuppance partway through the book! But he seems willing to learn and try new things, and so I was willing to stay with the story. The mystery was intriguing, with plenty of suspects to choose from, and I admit to getting tricked by a red herring on this one! If you are looking for a mystery with mature detectives, a hint of closed door romance, and interesting characters, I highly recommend this book. I received a free copy of this book, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 18, 2025
I really enjoyed this latest in the series. Viv and Rex are two great quirky characters and I read this with a smile on my face. The duo are on the case when their private investigation course tutor is found dead at his desk.
I love how both manage to charm their way to gain information or even in this case, cross the line to temporarily steal a family heirloom. There is plenty of misdirection here too, but I didn't know which part was part of the misdirection. I recommend this if you want a fun cozy read and I look forward to reading more in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love how both manage to charm their way to gain information or even in this case, cross the line to temporarily steal a family heirloom. There is plenty of misdirection here too, but I didn't know which part was part of the misdirection. I recommend this if you want a fun cozy read and I look forward to reading more in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 8, 2025
This book reminds me of the TV series The Mentalist. Rex and Viv enrol in a class at the local college. On the first day, they find the professor dead. And of course, they decided to investigate. Their first suspect is the grandson, Jack. With many questions asked of different suspects, they uncover clues and maybe catch the killer. The book is entertaining, with wonderful characters, full of mystery, and great world-building. I enjoyed it, and to me it was worth the time reading it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2025
A story of historical wrongs brought to light in a thoughtful whodunit page turner. Rex and Viv head back to school for private eye training, the problem is they find their instructor dead at his desk before class begins. Natural causes or foul play? Rex follows his instincts while Viv searches for facts the old fashioned way, by asking questions.
Hardy captures a little known history of Palm Springs, weaving it into a smart and sassy present day whodunit. The series captures a mid life romance with purpose, passion and laugh out loud humor.
Hardy captures a little known history of Palm Springs, weaving it into a smart and sassy present day whodunit. The series captures a mid life romance with purpose, passion and laugh out loud humor.
June 10, 2025
Vivienne Rose and Rex Redondo . . .
Viv and Rex decide to go to community college for their PI license. But finding their instructor dead on the first day of class gives them a new assignment as they work together to solve the murder! Lots of suspects turn up as they begin their investigation. Rex is following his instincts; Viv’s approach is to look at the facts and use her skills in questioning suspects. Will they discover what happened and why?
Viv and Rex decide to go to community college for their PI license. But finding their instructor dead on the first day of class gives them a new assignment as they work together to solve the murder! Lots of suspects turn up as they begin their investigation. Rex is following his instincts; Viv’s approach is to look at the facts and use her skills in questioning suspects. Will they discover what happened and why?
May 20, 2025
Murder on campus!
Viv and Rex investigate another murder with Viv's intellectual skills and Rex's special mind gift. Clever clues with lots of twists and turns make this a fun and enjoyable book that I can easily recommend.
I read this book as part of an advance reader team. I am voluntarily writing this review.
Viv and Rex investigate another murder with Viv's intellectual skills and Rex's special mind gift. Clever clues with lots of twists and turns make this a fun and enjoyable book that I can easily recommend.
I read this book as part of an advance reader team. I am voluntarily writing this review.
May 24, 2025
A Must Read
Bonnie Hardy has done it again. Another “Can’t put it down” mystery. Her perceptions on life, love, relationships, and aging gracefully are insightful and thought provoking. Redondo and Rose are a sparkling pair of amateur investigators ala the Harts in Hart to Hart and Nick and Nora for the Thin Man. Love this series.
Bonnie Hardy has done it again. Another “Can’t put it down” mystery. Her perceptions on life, love, relationships, and aging gracefully are insightful and thought provoking. Redondo and Rose are a sparkling pair of amateur investigators ala the Harts in Hart to Hart and Nick and Nora for the Thin Man. Love this series.
June 29, 2025
Even though a teacher (be kind to us, we're working with so little here!!) is knocked off, this was a fun read and another successful story lead by Viv and Rex and crew.
Even though you could read these as stand alone books, they are better read as a series as the character development is interesting and good to follow.
This series is a good fun cozy read.
Even though you could read these as stand alone books, they are better read as a series as the character development is interesting and good to follow.
This series is a good fun cozy read.
August 11, 2025
Class Dismissed is a good mystery: the story has surprises, and the flesheout characters are relatable and fleshed out.
Some parts are a bit slow, but the emotion and suspense are strong. The characters are interesting, and the ending is satisfying.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Some parts are a bit slow, but the emotion and suspense are strong. The characters are interesting, and the ending is satisfying.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
May 22, 2025
What a way to start a new class: your teacher is dead. But it's a good way to put your detective skills to the test! Interesting book with plenty of suspects, and a piece of history that I didn't know about. I received an advanced copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 24, 2025
The fourth book in the Redondo and Rose Neighbors in Crime, is another engrossing mystery about two mid-life amateur detectives. It's page turning whodunit with humor and heart. I would also recommend Bonnie Hardy's Lily Rock Series.
June 8, 2025
Redondo and Rose seem to stumble and tumble into crime and chaos wherever they go, and whatever their plans.
lots of chaos, and great reading, bubbling up- chaotuc fun and mayhem.
lots of chaos, and great reading, bubbling up- chaotuc fun and mayhem.
May 30, 2026
There was a lot of humor in this cozy. The character of Rex is so funny to me. Enjoyed it immensely
January 7, 2026
No class today!
Rex and Viv are enrolled in Introduction to Private Investigation 101 at the local community college. Their first class is cancelled when they find their professor dead in the classroom. Based on the age of the deceased, it could be from natural causes, but Rex’s psychic sense is telling him differently. The more they investigate, the more motives and suspects they uncover.
I like the characters, although sometimes Redondo’s ego gets a bit much. There is always a good mystery plot and lots of twists to keep the reader guessing. I received a free copy, but my review is honest and voluntary.
Rex and Viv are enrolled in Introduction to Private Investigation 101 at the local community college. Their first class is cancelled when they find their professor dead in the classroom. Based on the age of the deceased, it could be from natural causes, but Rex’s psychic sense is telling him differently. The more they investigate, the more motives and suspects they uncover.
I like the characters, although sometimes Redondo’s ego gets a bit much. There is always a good mystery plot and lots of twists to keep the reader guessing. I received a free copy, but my review is honest and voluntary.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews