Revenge in Paradise

Paradise #6

by Deborah Brown

When a man of questionable character’s corpse is found at The Cottages, beaten to death with Madison’s own gardening tools, she and her partner, Fab, set out to prove that the man’s abused girlfriend did not kill him. Along the way, Madison finds herself behind bars twice, held hostage in a mansion, and running from flying bullets. There is no shortage of action, suspense, comedy, or romance in this edge-of-your-seat story of two friends with a knack for getting into—and somehow out of—trouble. This time they must answer one question: Who is responsible for getting their Revenge in Paradise?

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Chick Lit, Cozy, Crime

363 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 11, 2014

About the author

Deborah Brown is the author of the Paradise series, Crazy, Deception and Trouble Florida Keys mysteries, which makes the reader laugh, cry and cheer...

My personal ad would read:

There's nothing a new pair of shoes can't cure.

Redhead. Long legs. There's nothing like a strawberry-lemonade in summer. Favorite activity: Filling my pockets with seashells. An avid rule follower when eating Animal Cookies: Broken ones get eaten first, match up the rest, duplicates next, line them up favorite to not, least favorite go first. South Florida is my home, with my ungrateful rescue cats, and where Mother Nature takes out her bad attitude in the form of hurricanes.

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Revenge in Paradise by Deborah Brown is a 2014 Paradise Books publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This latest book in the series was one of the lightest installments to this point with Madison really feeling her oats as she leaves the uncertainty about her personal and romantic life in the past, and moves forward into a very stable, at least by Madison's standards, relationship with her mother, her best friend and her new lover. But, as usual there is still a lot of trouble in Paradise and Madison and Fab at the center of all the action.

When there is a death involving residents of the Cottages, a woman is falsely accused of murder. Fab and Madison are on the case determined to find out what really happened. Along the way the dynamic duo do a few jobs for Brick, and lands a more legitimate case too, which I think means the ladies are starting to build up a reputable clientele. But, before they can get too spit and polished, Madison spends some time in jail, has a few tense run ins with her ex-boyfriend, goes on drunken binge which was out right hilarious, and endures a few family dramas. Business as usual in paradise.

I loved how Madison's character has grown over the course of this series. Thank goodness Zach is out of her life, and she has Creole. I agree with Fab about being on “Team Creole”... In fact, I think the sexy Creole makes a pretty good book boyfriend. The murder mystery was puzzling and the conclusion was tense and shocking.

Overall, this was a super fun and humorous addition to the series with a genuine whodunit mystery, and sizzling hot romance. It's always a pleasure to touch base with these characters but I was especially satisfied with the way things went in this latest caper. This one earns 5 stars!

[Julia B. · Rating 1 out of 5]

Revenge in Paradise may actually be the worst murder mystery I've ever seen published. I can't—I'm suffering—I literally have no energy for this review

[Meg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great addition to the Paradise Florida Keys series!

[Veritas Vincit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think it's official - Deborah Brown has become my go-to guilty pleasure for lighthearted, but not poorly written fare. I've read 5 or 6 of her books now, and I'll likely continue reading them too. Brown doesn't seem to run out of hijinks and intense situations for poor Madison and Fab to find themselves in. Usually, it seems like Fab is in trouble, but this time, with Madison on the hook for murder, she has to solve the crime, avoid any more run-ins with the local police, and manage to stay fashionable, witty, charming, and sexy throughout. There are certain elements to these books that I don't always enjoy; some of the gender representations are a bit skewed, even though the two main leads are, in fact, women. However, I think Brown's writing has improved as the series has progressed, and I have more often found myself reading unconsciously, impressed by the flow of language and ideas, which is far smoother and more enjoyable than in some of the earliest in the series. Perhaps the author is just getting more comfortable with the characters and is subsequently letting them breathe a bit more, which makes them seem organic and believable, despite the ludicrous situations they once more get into. I'm intrigued to see where the Creole angle goes in the future books, as it took somewhat of a backseat in this novel, but I'm sure Brown has something planned.....another successful summer diversion.

[Shecki B · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're not familiar with this playful series by Deborah Brown, you're missing out! Set in Florida, these make great summer reading. --Or even I-wish-it-were-summer reading! I've read all of them, and I really enjoy the fast paced and amusing action in these stories. You'll want to start with book 1, Crazy in Paradise, which you can download free with Kindle Unlimited. The other books are Deception in Paradise, Trouble in Paradise, Murder in Paradise, and Greed in Paradise.

The newest book, Revenge in Paradise, does not disappoint. Madison and Fab engage in their usual crazy capers and have close calls, but somehow manage to save the day for Jami, the gardener at The Cottages, the property Madison inherited, which seems to attract colorful residents and the occasional criminal element. Jami is the prime suspect when her bad-news boyfriend turns up dead. By the time Madison and Fab find the real killer, they're in her cross hairs.

One of my favorite lines is when Fab breezes in and announces, "We didn't get arrested today." This is actually more of an accomplishment than one might guess for the incident prone duo! I'm super excited that Revenge in Paradise is not the end of the series. Book 7, Kidnapped in Paradise, has just been released! I can't wait to add it to my collection.

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 6th book in the Paradise series… and I’ve read all 6 now. I keep thinking that eventually Deborah Brown’s world revolving around Madison will get a little old… but each book keeps me reading. I just can’t say enough about how entertaining the characters are (both the main characters and all of the people around them). I can’t get enough of Madison and Fab: best friends and partners… they are constantly in the middle of chaos.

Once again the main mystery (of the dead man in the gardening shed) kept me guessing. But, it was almost secondary to the rest of the crazy things that Madison found herself in the middle of. I don’t know how she keeps her head on straight. Her cottages, a car wash, a bar, a trailer park… how many places can one girl handle??? (I can’t even manage to get a book review done on time!!!)

I know I previously said that I would have a hard time if I were Madison and had to choose between Zach and Creole… but I’ve decided it’s no contest. I’m team Creole all the way. The more time I read about Madison and Creole together (either as friends, or a couple… or with the family) the more I love him (and them together). While Madison’s relationship with Zach was exciting and all over the place… her relationship with Creole is almost comfortable, while still being hot. Yep… team Creole all the way.

[Leila · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Paradise series! I can’t get enough of it and hate when they end – Revenge in Paradise was no exception!

Madison and Fab are great together, but I felt a lot of tension during this book and Fab actually got on my nerves. Her insensitive nature is wearing on me, but we did get a very sentimental moment from her at one point.

I am beyond ecstatic that we no longer have to deal with Zach (which is funny because at the beginning of the series I absolutely loved him.)

I felt Revenge in Paradise had quite a bit more suspense than the previous books in this series and a lot, lot more trouble for the girls than usual too (you would think they would re-evaluate their connections!)

I love Creole and Madison together and hope this continues on the same path – the same for Fab and Didier. The men are just so yummy in this series!

Glad to see what got rid of one yucky officer, but now Kevin needs an attitude adjustment (there’s always someone isn’t there!?)

Revenge in Paradise rates up along with the rest of the series and I can’t wait to read the next one. I seriously cannot get enough of these books!

I cannot wait to see what is in store next for the girls – their escapades, the suspense, the humor, and the steamy romances keep me turning the page!

[Leslie OBrien · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. It’s humorous, sexy, fun, intriguing, laugh out loud good fun. Madison and Fabiana are best friends and constantly in trouble. It seems as if all they have to do is blink and there’s a dead body, arrest warrant, drunken brawl or any one of a number of potentially hair raising problems usually involving guns and boy is it fun. They’re the type of characters that if they were real, you’d want a front seat and lots of popcorn. Book 6 in the Paradise Series, these stories can be read separately, but to get the full effect and be a member of the in-crowd, I do recommend starting at book one. But if you can’t, for whatever reason, these books can be read separately without losing its pace or comedic timing. If you are looking for something fun to read, this book was pure entertainment from start to finish. Brown is amazing at creating three-dimensional characters that lift off the page. Seriously, I want to vacation in the Keys and hope I meet people like this. Brown sets the pace for action-packed entertainment, lots of good food, typical family angst, romance and a cast of quirky characters in a book series that will become a guilty pleasure.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

God do I love these books! Such an amazing series and the story keeps going on and on but what I love most is that you can read these books alone if you haven't read 1-5 yet OR you can binge read them and still never get tired of the characters and stories!

This installment of Madison Westin's life takes a bit of a different turn focusing more on Fabiana, Madison's crazy best friend, for a good bit and it isn't as sweet and funny as the others. It has more of a mystery feel to it than the others and honestly it was on point! Also the storyline that had started a couple of books before with Creole as Madison's love interest is getting better and hotter if that is even possible! I don't find myself pining for Zach at all.

There was a death and of course some how Madison became the prime suspect but hey, what can you do? Deborah Brown has to make sure Madison spends some time behind bars or on the other side of the law. How else would we get the awesome stories we do?

I definitely think that this one is the best story yet BUT I do get to review Kidnapped in Paradise next so I am sure that it will beat this one with a bat! Go and pick it up! You won't be sorry!

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Crazy in Paradise and Greed in Paradise and I was looking forward to reading this book. The Paradise books are quick, fun reads.

Madison Westin and her best friend, Fabiana, are constantly getting into trouble. Madison’s boyfriend, Creole, has to get them out of scrapes and near misses, over and over. Not only do they have a murder mystery to solve, but even a simple job, like dropping off an expensive car to its new owner, turns into an adventure.

Now that Madison and Fab both have boyfriends, they make a great foursome, and two great couples. I really like the relationship that Madison has with Creole.

Deborah Brown’s writing flows well and is easy to read. This book is full of action and suspense as well as romance and humor. A typical quote: "I settled back in a chair, careful to make sure I sat on my skirt; otherwise, the backs of my legs stuck to the plastic and made an unfortunate sucking noise when I stood."

Anyone who likes women’s fiction or mystery will like Revenge in Paradise. I highly recommend it and I hope there will be more of these books in the future.

I received a free ecopy of this book for an honest review.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

REVENGE IN PARADISE by Deborah Brown is a light-hearted Contemporary Romance. Compared has compared this funny satire to a Cozy Mystery. #6 in the "Paradise Florida Keys Mystery Series" and it can be read as a stand alone. Of course, I would suggest reading the others in this unique, quirky, humorous satire. With all serious, "Revenge in Paradise" does have a serious side, with a murder, family angst, mayhem, mystery, sexy characters, and romance.
Ms. Brown has a unique writing style all of her own, while writing about a dysfunctional family, best friends and romance. A thoroughly enjoyable read with a satisfying and surprising ending.
Fans of Cozy Mysteries, and Contemporary Romance both will enjoy this hilarious, laugh-out loud tale of murder, mayhem and romance.

*I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.*

**Cross-posted on My Book Addiction Reviews dot com**

RATING: 4
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More

[Elizabeth Towns · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a fan of Deborah Brown. There it is – I’ve cemented it in print! With Revenge in Paradise, the 6th novel in the Paradise series, Brown ramps up the comedy and sexy with Madison, owner of The Cottages. Her run in’s with local law, her partner – Fabiola, and her mom; plus a penchant for getting locked up in this one, keep Madison on her toes. It’s no wonder there is so much going on!

Fab takes a front seat in this Paradise ride, since she is the suspect in a murder where her tools were used. The somewhat humorous, definitely sexy and action packed tale is at least 100 pages longer than the past 5 Brown novels, which should make fans excited!

I personally believe each novel is more enticing than the previous and hooks me into Madison, Fab & the gang at Paradise that much further. Each one can stand alone or as a series read, and takes about 1-2 settings to read. Great vacation reading, too, just in time for summer travel plans!

**This book was provided to me free of charge in return for my honest review.

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read Greed in Paradise (book 5 in the series), I continued on with this sixth book hoping to learn more about the characters. It didn’t disappoint. The best part is we learn much more about Creole as his relationship with Madison Westin grows.

All the quirky and somewhat shady characters are back having read the other book, they kind of grow on you. This isn’t a picturesque, vacation type Florida novel. These books are about real, cash strapped tough locals trying to blend in with the hardworking, law-abiding citizens.

In this book a body is found beaten to death on the rental property that Madison manages. Madison is no stranger to the local police thanks to the clients she deals with. Luckily, Madison has plenty of questionable but well meaning support around her as she navigates her way around these situations.

This is light entertainment that provides a nice break from real life.

[Julie Baswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Madison and Creole sneak out and have a weekend rendezvous, they return just in time to see her mother and her best friend Fab being arrested. Of course, once they get past that, the next thing you know, another dead body appears on Madison’s Cottages property. But when Jami, the gardener, is arrested for murder, and there’s evidence to prove it, Madison knows she’s innocent and it’s up to her to find the killer.

Arrest, body, murder, chaos... So what’s new in the life of Madison Westin? This has become everyday routine, it seems. It’s so much fun following Madison and Fab through their escapades and near death experiences. This time though, reality caught up with Madison and made her rethink some of her activities and business dealings. I’m glad more of Mother and Brad’s personalities were highlighted. And I must say, Svetlana has become a bit more respectable, don’t you think? (You’ve got to read the book to understand that!)

[Melissa Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read every book in this series thus far, so of course I was eager to pick up where all of the characters had left off. Especially Madison & Creole!

I'll be honest, by the title alone, I was a little nervous as to what kind revenge was going to take place. Little did I know that the whole story was going to be twists & turns from one scenario of revenge to another. But my little heart was content that Madison & Creole made it through the story unscathed as a couple. Well, there was that one incident at Jake's...but that's another story so to speak.

Revenge in Paradise could definitely be read as a stand alone book, but is far better after reading the others in the series because you learn so much about the characters & their backgrounds. Either way, I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves a fast paced crime novel with a twist of romance, a little grit & a bevy of "colorful" characters.

[Sonya Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series! Madison and Fab are an amazing pair of women, and the situations that they get themselves in are laugh out loud outrageous!

The plotline starts out simple enough, the abusive boyfriend of Madison's gardener shows up dead in the gardening shed at The Cottages, and their gardener is accused of murder. Of course Madison sets out to prove that she's innocent and pulls Fab along with her.

Like any good Paradise story, Deborah Brown soon has multiple small story lines going at the same time, with lots of action, jail time and hostages.

I'm so happy that Madison and Creole are spicing up their relationship and that Zach is off the radar, because the sparks between these two are off the charts.

This book is a fast paced, fun read that makes you long for the next one!

I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much. It is hard to put it down. It took me a day to finished reading the entire book. It is so good. I highly recommend it to everybody who loves romance the most and mixed with adventure. I am hook with the Paradise series. The Westin family of mother and her kids will keep you entertain with troubles they made. They are lucky that they have connections.

I loved Madison and Fabiana and their boyfriends too. I admit Madison and Creole is my favorite. I am glad that I can more of them from this book. Thank you Ms. Deborah Brown for making a fan happy. I cannot wait for their next adventure. I am sure it is another amazing book to read.

Are you looking for a fun, full of adventure and romance book? Revenge In Paradise by Deborah Brown is the perfect book for you. This is one of the best series from her Paradise that I loved. You will also love the other books from the Paradise series as well. Please do not forget to check that out as well.

[Jan Woodruff dobbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've said it before and I’ll say it again. This series just gets better and better.
If you've already started reading this series you won’t need me to tell you how good this author is. But, if you are new and want to decide if you want to invest your time and money it’s my humble opinion that you cannot go wrong with this.
Madison and her best friend Fab get into a lot of fabulous trouble and their family, friends and boyfriends are so good in the mix.
With a lot of series when the author rehashes what has happened in the books before it can be very boring and makes the story drag. Not so with Deborah Brown. She keeps the back story interesting and it pops up as needed. I tend to skip over a lot if a book doesn't hold my interest but I don’t have that problem with this author. I hope this helps you with your decision to buy this book and any others she writes.

[Laura Frost · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brown hits a home run again for me. I really like reading about Madison's antics. Although, I'm not sure about her taste in men. This is book 6 in a hopefully long running series and poor Madison is technically on husband/boyfriend number three. I've got to say I've got my favorite of the trio, do you?

Madison's gardener has even worst taste in men than Madison does. The poor girl not only has a loser boyfriend, but is then arrested for his murder. Fab and Madison are 100% sure she is innocent, at least Madison is, Fab is a tad skeptical as usual when in comes to trusting people. The DA thinks she has a slam dunk case. Cue in Madison's protective instincts for the down-trodden members of society.

[Victoria Brinius · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Revenge in Paradise" is part of The "Paradise Series" of books by author Deborah Brown. This is another great addition to these series of novels. This time Madison has to help a girl who is abused prove that she did not kill her boyfriend. Someone has killed him with the tools that Madison uses in her yard. This is a mystery with a great story line, great characters, action and even some romance. How does she always get into trouble? Will she be able to find the real killer in time? I give this book a 4/5. I was given this book for the purpose of a review and all opinions are my own.
- See more at: http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/2...

[Sharon Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The sixth book and adventure of Madison and Fab and again the reader is definitely not left disappointed.

Fab and Madison are drawn into a murder case and in their madcap world all things are equal, to get to the truth favours have to be paid and owed. As usual Madison ends up behind bars twice. The love life of the characters is as mad as their hectic lifestyle and adds spice to a very good read. The characters and their roles are growing and becoming more endearing in every storyline we read about them.

Another fun filled story based around Tarpon Grove and what is defined as paradise to one person is different to another and obviously to Madison and Fab paradise is one of adventure and living close to the edge, making for another great read.

[Janel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's just say that Deborah Brown's Paradise Florida Keys Mystery Series is a great series of books. I have really enjoyed them all. That being said you really do not need to read them all to enjoy it, each book can be read stand alone or as a series. I am really hooked on the series and love all of the quirky characters. The author has done an outstanding job in creating and bringing the characters to life in this series, great characters really do make for a great book. Although I do tend to read more paranormal romance then this type, I picked this one up on the suggestion of a friend and have since went back and read the entire series.

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Revenge in Paradise is the second book that I have read in Deborah Brown’s Paradise series and I enjoyed it every bit as much as the first. This is a quirky and fun series with characters that are simply fun to read and are certainly unforgettable. The story is a lighthearted read and perfect for taking a break from real life and engaging in something entertaining that doesn’t involve a whole lot of thinking. I would recommend this book and this series to anyone wanting something light and fun. The books can be read out of order (as I have), but reading the series in order is probably the best choice of all.

[Angela McKinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really gotten in to this series. Deborah Brown really knows how to hook a reader in and keep them. Fab and Madison are not lacking in the love or adventure department. This book gets them into some really tough spots but they do come out unscathed. I was on the edge of my seat (ok my bed where I read) when I was reading this book. I was able to finish it really fast just like the rest in the series because I want to know what will happen next. I really like that Madison and Fab have found love in their crazy adventurous lives because it makes the series better. I cant wait to crack open the next book in the series!

[Daydreaming Dee · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I go on holiday I just have to have a good range of books ready to go my kindle, if you're the same, then you need to add this book to your virtual shelf!

I really want to be friends with Madison and Fab...although I think I could do without getting into trouble with them! I'll meet them at the bar later with a cocktail or two!

Set in Florida, we follow the two women try to find the real murderer and get a good dose of romance (Deborah Brown knows how to write sexy men!!), suspense and drama along the way!

I haven't read the other books in this series but I definitely want to get started on them...right now!

4/5 (but only because I haven't read the others)

[Silvie Armas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read a few books from this series and I have never been let down. This is a book that’s filled with suspense and action. But it also has a heck of a lot of romance and passion. I don't want to say much, because I wouldn't want to spoil it. But I will tell you that it is an excellent beach read that’s fun, and exciting with romance, murder and mayhem.

[Bill Hooten · Rating 2 out of 5]

Well, in my opinion (for whatever that is worth), the series took a step back with this volume. To me, the story, and investigation, took a second place to the affair between Madison and Creole. Now, I realize that some may read these stories for that, but I don't. I will read one or two more, and if the same emphasis continues (in my opinion), I will move on to something else.

[Monique · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun...but...

What happened to the Hummer window? Madison never took it anywhere nor did one of Spoon's employees ever get dispatched to pick it up. And yes, that bothered me thru the entire book! Does Madison EVER have sex in which she doesn't wrap her legs around her partner's waist? Find a new position. Get a new euphemism! The loose ends are just piling up in the corner.

[Kim Cano · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I loved the quirky characters, my favorite a drunken lush named Miss January. Suspense, romance, and humor all rolled into one creating a fast, fun read! Can’t wait for the next one.

[Michele · Rating 2 out of 5]

No plot

I don't recommend buying it. There's no plot at all. Not well written not much character build up The previous books were much better