The Lady Who Sang High

Reed Ferguson Mystery #7

by Renee Pawlish

Marijuana-store owner Jodie Lundgren suspects that someone is trying to steal her newly developed process for growing marijuana faster and cheaper. She hires Reed to see if this is true or part of her stoner imagination. Reed goes undercover as an employee in Jodie’s store, and he soon discovers that selling weed can be a dangerous business. It doesn't take long before Reed uncovers secrets and lies that lead to murder. But can he find the killer before his secret identity is discovered?

Along with the usual cast of characters – Reed’s girlfriend Willie, his tech-savvy best friend Cal, and the none-too-bright Goofballs Brothers – that readers have grown to love, The Lady Who Sang High is full of suspense and humor and cleverly pays homage to film noir.

Genres: Mystery, Fiction, Contemporary

246 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 26, 2014

About the author

From the time she was ten and tried to write her own detective series in the fashion of the Hardy Boys, Renée Pawlish has been developing her craft. Along with creative writing classes, Renée studied great writers like Dashiell Hammett, Rex Stout, Stephen King, Sue Grafton and many more. Once Renée graduated from college, she began her first novel. Now, all these years later, she has penned numerous books in a variety of genres.

Renée was born in California, but has lived most of her life in Colorado. When she's not hiking, cycling, or chasing ballplayers for autographs, she is writing mysteries and thrillers. She also has some middle grade novels waiting to be published.

Renée loves to travel and has visited numerous countries around the world. She has also spent many summer days at her parents' cabin in the hills outside of Boulder, which was the inspiration for the setting of Taylor Crossing in her novel Nephilim: Genesis of Evil.

The Reed Ferguson Mystery Series
This Doesn't Happen In The Movies
Reel Estate Rip-off

The Nephilim Trilogy
Nephilim Genesis of Evil
Books Two and Three soon to be released

The Noah Winter YA Adventure Series
The Emerald Quest

Take Five
A short story collection that includes a Reed Ferguson tale.

The Sallie House: Exposing the Beast Within
A non-fiction book about one of the most haunted houses in America.

To learn more you can follow her on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/reneepawlish....

on her blog:
http://tobecomeawriter.wordpress.com/

on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/reneepawlish

Reviews

[Stephanie Collier · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. Definitely a surprise ending!

[Mari-Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first Renee Pawlish book I have read. It had quite good reviews & it was a free download. I like mystery / thriller type books so it appealed.
However, the main character, Reed Fergusson, is more amateur sleuth than serious detective who bumbles his way through in a highly unlikely way to solve the case. He is a film noir buff & so there's a bit of Bogart retro speak thrown in. The dialogue & references to old movie posters & their stars, it reminded me of a long ago TV show called Dragnet.
If you're looking for an easy, light hearted, simplistic read then you won't be disappointed but if you want something with depth, intrigue & quality then this isn't it.

[Tulay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Couldn't put it down.

Cast of characters are so real, especially scene at the end will make you laugh out loud. Colorado and marijuana store and grow process. Brother and sister owners, couple invested in this business. Even the employees that work there. Reed has to figure out who is trying to steal the process how to grow fast and more efficient way to grow.

[Beverly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m on book eight of the series, so clearly I’m enjoying them enough to keep going, but they’re definitely starting to feel formulaic. On the positive side, I love the feel of the location - I’ve been to Denver and Colorado enough to appreciate what a good job the author has done with that, and the plots, especially this one, are actually tied to the location. Reed, the main character, is engaging and fun, and I get a kick out of all the old film noir references. The Goofball Brothers are a hoot, and Cal is okay. But...

Willie has absolutely no personality. She only seems to have two settings: bitching while she patches him up yet again, and available for sex. Spillman, the homicide cop, is a much more real character. Willie is just a faceless blur.

The mother/drugs thing got old four books ago.

And finally - stop beating Reed up so much! It’s lost any impact at this point, and become, “Ho hum, he’s going to get hit/punched/knocked out for the next page and a half, then will end up at the ER with Willie patching him up (again) and bitching at him (again). Might as well skip ahead.” I understand that the author is trying for a hard-boiled “Maltese Falcon/Big Sleep” feel, but Bogie wasn’t beat up in eighteen successive film noirs. Have pity on him, and on the reader.

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reed Ferguson’s mother is afraid of three things: that he will do drugs, that he will never marry and give her grandchildren and last that his procession of private detective is dangerous. In this installment, mother’s worst fear is realized…almost…when Reed takes a job at a marijuana dispensary. His simple task of finding out who is trying to steal the formula for a new process for growing the plants turns deadly when there is a murder. As usual the mystery is full of clues and ends with an unexpected twist. Reed relationship with his girlfriend develops as they prepare for a visit from his parents. The Goofball Brothers and computer genius Cal also make appearances. This was another enjoyable listen from Renee Pawlish.

Johnny Pepper’s narration was spot on as usual!

***I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for my own, unbiased, review.***

[Valorie Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Growing herb plants is serious!!!!

10 stars!!!!
Wow, did Reed get caught up in a great big mess.
So many suspects, and all had very good reasons for the murders. And on top of this case that is making him crazy, his parents are in town.
Willie his girlfriend is staying at Reed's house until her place gets fixed.
Reed even got Cal his go to guy out of his house for this case.
Willie, Reed, Cal, Ace, and Deuce all got shot at in the park by Mexican cartel goons.
This is the only way weed can be deadly!!!!
You got to read this book.

[Jeff Benham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jodie and her brother Jude own a business that produces medical marijuana. With new laws regarding its recreational use, they are gearing up to produce that. Who knew there were so many different strains? They are developing a process that will reduce the growing time and greatly increase profits. Jodie is sure that someone is going to try and steal the formula so she hires Reed to go undercover as an employee. One thing he finds out is that no one seems to like Jude. When he gets murdered there are a lot of suspects. When we lock on to one suspect, we get distracted by another one.

[Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good installment in the Reed Ferguson series

I have now read books one through eight in this series about a modern day private detective from Colorado who draws his inspiration from such characters as Phillip Marlowe and Sam Spade. This one, like previous books is a quick but engaging read with good characters and a fun plotline.

I can't wait to read number nine.

[Janet Wild · Rating 4 out of 5]

Drugs, science, secrets, guns and quirky characters make for a great read

Renee Pawlish is now on my favourite writers list, I throughly enjoyed reading this book. This story is full of quirkiness from the side characters to the main character Reed himself. Mix it all with drugs, science and secrets makes for a great read

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read over a dozen of the Reed Ferguson stories and this is in the top five of my faves. It's a really solid story and has some great twists and turns. The characters are very likable. If you're into 50's noir detective stories, you'll love this series.

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good storytelling

I really enjoyed reading this book. Some good description and I love the fact that I had no idea who had done it until right at the end. Fantastic piece of writing.

[Ellen White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brother and sister own the store, and the employees are like family. Still someone is stealing, the plants. Reed goes undercover, and the laughs begin, good noir plot to enjoy. Goiven audio for my voluntary review review and review review

[Becky Holder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like

Easy read per usual, she is always entertaining and characters are strong, comfortable and recognizable. Enjoyed it for sure... good series.

[Nini · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyable and easy read . Unusual backdrop but good mystery and interesting characters.

[Yvonne Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review

Another great read and full of excitement. Recommend it. Really enjoy how she spin a plot. Can’t wait to read her next boom.

[Matthew Murray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed

This book and your story line in this book was better than I have read from your previous books and I really enjoyed this book.

[Denise Kearney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kindle-Free. 3.5 stars

[Nora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun series, but I didn't like the subject matter of this story. I actually thought the story line was a snooze fest, but the writing saved the book.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always Renee Pawlish kept me guessing and chuckling right up to the last page.

[Tony Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Denver, CO. Starbuck. Reed Ferguson (PI), Jodie Lundgren (Colorado U CS, 9%), & Jude Lundgren (CEO, brother, Colorado U business, 51%) are part-owners of the Blue Light (medical marijuana dispensary) stores. She was a mgr. of 1 of the store/warehouse & growing facility.
She explained her situation/concern & what was troubling her. Jude was not to know she had hired a PI.

He agreed. Jodie also hired Reed to be an employee so he could snoop around undetected.
Wes Scobie (former oil business) & Heath Zimmerman (former NY stock trader) are 2 of the 20% investors/partners.
Employees: Carlo Lombardi (stoner, chemistry degree) & Pete Eastwood (male whore) are 2 of grower/researchers that were Jodie’s other concerns.
Wilhelmina “Willie” Rhoden (Reed’s GF, nurse St. Joseph’s Hospital) was quite amused at his new job.
Cal Whitmore (computer whiz, computer consulting firm) would do the background checks.
1st. day Reed meets sales clerks: Bill Vardin, & Ivy Ackerman (21+, Stanford, BS science, chemistry). The 2 gave him their viewpoint.
Reed had found Jude’s body in a dumpster, & called the police.
Detective Sarah Spillman (Denver PD) Detective Ernie Moore (Denver PD), & Detective Roland “Spats” Youngfield (Denver PD) had come to interview the employees.

Cal was later brought in to hack into the computer system.
Would the murderer be apprehended?

Who is Mandy Oneida?

Great beer; Fat Tire.

I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written crime thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.

Thank you for the free Llama Press; Amazon Digital Services LLC; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

[Nancy]

3.85 · Rating Details · 417 Ratings · 45 Reviews
Marijuana-store owner Jodie Lundgren suspects that someone is trying to steal her newly developed process for growing marijuana faster and cheaper. She hires Reed to see if this is true or part of her stoner imagination. Reed goes undercover as an employee in Jodie’s store, and he soon discovers that selling weed can be a dangerous business. It doesn't take long before Reed uncovers secrets and lies that lead to murder. But can he find the killer before his secret identity is discovered?

Along with the usual cast of characters – Reed’s girlfriend Willie, his tech-savvy best friend Cal, and the none-too-bright Goofballs Brothers – that readers have grown to love, The Lady Who Sang High is full of suspense and humor and cleverly pays homage to film noir. (less)

Didn't finish.

[Bonnie Dale Keck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kindle Unlimited or else was on a freebie day, yes another one of my going to go thru them all. Between that comment and the rating, might get hint.

Marijuana-store owner Jodie Lundgren suspects that someone is trying to steal her newly developed process for growing marijuana faster and cheaper. She hires Reed to see if this is true or part of her stoner imagination. Reed goes undercover as an employee in Jodie’s store, and he soon discovers that selling weed can be a dangerous business. It doesn't take long before Reed uncovers secrets and lies that lead to murder. But can he find the killer before his secret identity is discovered?

Along with the usual cast of characters – Reed’s girlfriend Willie, his tech-savvy best friend Cal, and the none-too-bright Goofballs Brothers – that readers have grown to love, The Lady Who Sang High is full of suspense and humor and cleverly pays homage to film noir


The Reed Ferguson Mystery Series
This Doesn't Happen In The Movies 1 - Reel Estate Rip-off 2 - The Maltese Felon 3 - Farewell, My Deuce - Elvis and the Sports Card Cheat 3.5 {SS} - 4 Out of the Past 5 - Torch Scene 6 - The Lady Who Sang High 7 - Sweet Smell of Sucrets 8 - The Third Fan 9 - Back Story 10 - Night of the Hunted 11 - The Postman Always Brings Dice 12 - Walk Softly, Danger 12.5 {N} - Road Blocked 13 - A Gun For Hire 13.5 {SS} - Small Town Focus 14 - Ace In the Hole 14.5 {N} - Nightmare Sally 15 - Cool Alibi 15.5 {SS} - The Damned Don't Die 16 - The Big Steal 16.5 {SS} - The Wrong Woman 16.6 {SS} - Double Iniquity 17

The Reed Ferguson Series: Box Set 1-3 {Elvis and the Sports Card Cheat in 1 version set & is 3.5}
The Reed Ferguson Series: Books 4-6 The Reed Ferguson Mystery Series Boxset

NOVELLA: Walk Softly, Danger {12.5}
NOVELLA: Ace in the Hole {14.5}

• short story: Elvis And The Sports Card Cheat {3.5}
• short story: A Gun For Hire {13.5}
• short story: Cool Alibi {15.5}
• short story: The Big Steal {16.5}
• short story: The Wrong Woman {16.6}
Reed Ferguson Stories: Five Mystery Short Tales (The Reed Ferguson Mystery Series)

[Charles Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jodie Lundgren, operator of a marijuana store in Denver, hires PI Reed Ferguson to try and find out who is trying to steal a new marijuana growing process being developed by her brother, Jude. She hires Reed to go undercover in the store, but his snooping becomes a matter of life and death when Jude is murdered.
The Lady Who Sang High by Renee Pawlish is another entertaining offering in the Reed Ferguson mystery series. Pawlish takes the reader inside the growing marijuana scene in Colorado since legalization, and once again demonstrates that Reed Ferguson is the new tough-guy detective on the noir scene. You’ll be glued to your seat as Reed, his girlfriend, Willie, computer wizard, Cal, and the inept Goofball Brothers team up to find a murderer before he or she strikes again. Crisp action scenes, retro dialogue, and detailed (but, not too detailed) descriptions of Denver, strike just the right note as Reed quips and fumbles his way to the solution of another mind-blowing case.
The author sets this mystery up nicely, feeding readers a jumble of clues, some false, some just tricky, and keeping readers and Reed guessing until the very end.

[Stanley McShane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glad I gave Renee Pawlish a second chance as the book I read by this author before didn't grab me all that much. This one? Interesting! And, keeps you reading. I enjoyed the Mary Jane lesson and learned a lot, apparently, a growing trend. (Huh Um! Pun intended.) Still, the plot was set intelligently, the characters rounded out and empathetic. The protagonist confused me at first thinking we were describing a woman, then discovered "she" had a girlfriend, Willie (huh?). So maybe just not your average testosterone-driven man's man, but PI Reed Ferguson can still find his way around a greenhouse murder mystery. Jodie, the owner of a weed store, is trying to safeguard the secret to their newly developed fast-growing plant. There are plot twists and some good-natured ribbing. Along with the protagonist and his cronies, the setting in Colorado is timely. The author has grown, developed her characters, and finely-tuned her plot. I downloaded this free offering from BookBub. Recommended.

[Roger · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know I've said it in reviews of Pawlish's earlier works, but Renée Pawlish just keeps getting better & better. Pawlish's continuing development of her lead character, Reed Ferguson makes for an entertaining read as this time she takes on the business of legalized marijuana in Colorado, educating & entertaining us. As a subplot, Reed's parents are coming to visit & meet Willie for the first time.

The Reed Ferguson mystery series:

• Book 1: This Doesn't Happen In The Movies
• Book 2: Reel Estate Rip-off
• Book 3: The Maltese Felon
• Book 4: Farewell, My Deuce
• Book 5: Out Of The Past
• Book 6: Torch Scene
• Book 7: The Lady Who Sang High
• Book 8: Sweet Smell Of Sucrets
• Book 9: The Third Fan
• short story: Elvis And The Sports Card Cheat
Coming Soon: Night of the Hunted!

[Regina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another fun read! This is the 7th book in the series, so we don't get very in-depth descriptions of the main cast of characters, but if you have read a some other Reed Ferguson books before, you are already familiar with them, anyway.

Although this isn't my favourite story in the series (of those I have read so far), both regarding plot and execution, and there were also some distracting proof-reading oversights, it was still entertaining. It also helped that I really like Reed, Willie and Cal as well as the supporting cast. :)
And even though I am no film noir buff, I enjoy the frequent nods to the classics.

I will definitely read more books in the series (there are already a couple on my "Stack of Unread Books").

[Paul Fussner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well-written story about the trials and tribulations of weed.

I really enjoyed this book it was a real page turner everything about it was interesting and the storyline mesmerized me from the first page to the last I don't smoke weed but this was a very interesting story about how dangerous it can be when one gets into the weed store business . If you've ever thought about how dangerous the druglords can really be you should read this book especially if you have kids that you suspect are using weed needless to say I'm impressed with the storyline obviously well written by someone very knowledgeable the suspense of the storyline was fabulous in addition to being very informative .

[Pam Balog · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Reed Ferguson series!

As Always, the Reed Ferguson series delivers a delightful read. I feel as if I am visiting with old friends, the goofball brothers, plus Cal and Willie all round out a wonderful group. Reed Ferguson needs their help and they provide whatever is needed. A great mystery plus a belly laugh here and there! Definitely a perfect afternoon's read! Many thanks to Renee Pawlish for writing such a great story! Already looking forward to the next one!!

[Randy Grossman · Rating 4 out of 5]

It might be legal, but.....

I recall being a little hesitant to read this when I first got it because of the marijuana leaves on the book cover. But it turned out to be a real interesting background due to the legalization of medicinal and recreational marijuana in Colorado. I thought Ms Pawlish handled it very well. I'm not one who will advocate using marijuana, but it was a good whodunit. I hope to read more Reed Ferguson mysteries in the future.

[Mary Rowe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting setting

Never having a thought about the marijuana business, this story was educational and different. Wasn't clear to me how so many folks knew about what was supposed to be a secret. Nor the identity of the stranger Jude was seen with a few times. But although I thought asking around the neighborhood was a "canvass" and not a "canvas", an okay and diverting read.