Killer Vacation: A Paradise Cove Cozy Mystery Prequel

by S.C. Merritt

Kate Kennedy had no doubt that a relaxing week on San Cabela Island would be just what the doctor ordered after her recent brush with death. But when she gets pulled into a local murder investigation, can a new friend with "the gift" and a suspicious stray cat help lead her to the killer so she can get back to her killer vacation?

57 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 18, 2025

Reviews

[Short, Sweet and Cozy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dreaming of the Caribbean

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Killer Vacation is the 2nd prequel novella in S.C. Merritt’s Paradise Cove cozy mystery series. Kate Kennedy is in the Caribbean on vacation. San Cabela Island is paradise until she learns a local recently was found murdered. The large local contractor is sketchy and some of the locals are hiding things. Kate is thinking about a change and is looking into buying Paradise Cove where she is staying. The current owner Marie is psychic which just muddies the water but she helps Kate investigate. Kate meets Simon, who owns the dive shop and there is romance brewing. This is a
fun introduction to Kate and Paradise Cove and it is an enjoyable quick book. #BeforeParadise #ParadiseCoveCozyMysteries # KillerVacation

[Tari · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fun little story was out about three years ago on BookFunnel and I was bummed then that I couldn’t review it anywhere, but after a quick re-read now I can. I loved Marie’s character and when this becomes a series, I hope she’ll visit a lot. Simon and Kate together were too cute together.

Kate couldn’t help herself when Marie asked for help for her friend, so she sleuthed until she faced off with another killer like she did in Caramelized Casualty. Reinforcements came just in time, and an awesome ending was enjoyed by most. I’m glad this series is finally about to be a reality! Can’t wait to dig in.