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Secrets of the South Mysteries #1
Midnight on the Mississippi
Midnight on the Mississippi begins the new Secrets of the South Mysteries from bestselling author Mary Ellis. These complex crime dramas follow an investigator's quest to make the world a better place...solving one case at a time.
New Orleans--Hunter Galen, a stock and securities broker, suspects his business partner, James Nowak, may be involved in embezzling their clients' money, but he's reluctant to jeopardize their friendship based on suspicion alone. After James turns up dead, Hunter realizes his unwillingness to confront a problem may have cost James his life.
Nicki Price, a newly minted PI, intends to solve the stockbroker's murder, recover the missing millions from the client accounts, and establish herself in the career she adores. As she ferrets out fraud and deception at Galen Investments, Hunter's fiancee, Ashley Menard, rubs Nicki the wrong way. Nicki doesn't trust the ostentatious woman with an agenda longer than the Mississippi River. Ashley seems to be hiding something, but is Nicki's growing attraction to Hunter--a suspected murderer--her true reason for disliking Ashley?
As they encounter sophisticated shell games, blackmail, and murder, Nicki and Hunter's only option is to turn to God as they search for answers, elude lethal danger, and perhaps discover love along the way.
New Orleans--Hunter Galen, a stock and securities broker, suspects his business partner, James Nowak, may be involved in embezzling their clients' money, but he's reluctant to jeopardize their friendship based on suspicion alone. After James turns up dead, Hunter realizes his unwillingness to confront a problem may have cost James his life.
Nicki Price, a newly minted PI, intends to solve the stockbroker's murder, recover the missing millions from the client accounts, and establish herself in the career she adores. As she ferrets out fraud and deception at Galen Investments, Hunter's fiancee, Ashley Menard, rubs Nicki the wrong way. Nicki doesn't trust the ostentatious woman with an agenda longer than the Mississippi River. Ashley seems to be hiding something, but is Nicki's growing attraction to Hunter--a suspected murderer--her true reason for disliking Ashley?
As they encounter sophisticated shell games, blackmail, and murder, Nicki and Hunter's only option is to turn to God as they search for answers, elude lethal danger, and perhaps discover love along the way.
352 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2015
124 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Mary Ellis
36 books271 followersMary Ellis is a former schoolteacher turned USA Today bestselling author who’s written twenty-six novels including Amish fiction, historical romance, and suspense. Her first mystery, Midnight on the Mississippi, was a finalist for the RT Magazine’s Reviewer’s Choice Award and a finalist for the Daphne du Maurier Award. Her latest book is One for the Road from the Bourbon Tour Mysteries from Severn House. One Hundred Proof Murder releases August 31, 2021. Her latest Amish novella is Missing at Amazon Kindle. She enjoys gardening and bicycling and lives in Ohio with her husband and dog. www.maryellis.net or www.facebook.com/Mary.Ellis.Author
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
September 4, 2015
Hunter Galen, a high flying stockbroker, finds his business partner, James Nowak, dead in their office and he’s the number one suspect. Hunter hires family friend and PI, Nathan Price, to clear his name. However when Nathan’s licence is suspended for impeding an investigation it is up to Nicolette Price, Nathan’s cousin, a rookie PI fresh out of college to prove Hunter’s innocence.
Hunter takes an instant liking to Nicki’s straight forward manner and can’t help comparing her to his spoilt up market girlfriend, Ashley.
During their investigations Hunter and Nicki will uncover much more than they expected about James and also learn a few things about their own weaknesses.
A humorous, suspenseful romance set in the backwaters of Mississippi and post Katrina New Orleans. I must admit this Aussie girl knows nothing about these places but the vivid descriptions of the ramshackle fishing shack and the boat ride made me feel the fear and the beauty of the bayou.
The story concentrates on two separate mysteries that Nicki is trying to solve. Solving who killed James Nowak would definitely raise her PI status and the more personal, how her father died would give her peace of mind.
I originally went into this story thinking it was a murder mystery but when I changed my thinking to read it as a romance I fell into the story easier. This clean romance/mystery/suspense had me hooked. It was filled with salt of the earth characters such as Nicki’s grandparents, Hunter’s Aunt Donna and the wise old Jeanette Peteriere. It held lessons on judging people by their appearance and roots and believing in yourself.
The mystery kept me guessing, the suspense had me turning pages and the humour had me laughing. All wrapped in a romance that will have you yearning for a happy ever after.
I would recommend this book to all lovers of romance.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my copy to read and review.
Hunter takes an instant liking to Nicki’s straight forward manner and can’t help comparing her to his spoilt up market girlfriend, Ashley.
During their investigations Hunter and Nicki will uncover much more than they expected about James and also learn a few things about their own weaknesses.
A humorous, suspenseful romance set in the backwaters of Mississippi and post Katrina New Orleans. I must admit this Aussie girl knows nothing about these places but the vivid descriptions of the ramshackle fishing shack and the boat ride made me feel the fear and the beauty of the bayou.
The story concentrates on two separate mysteries that Nicki is trying to solve. Solving who killed James Nowak would definitely raise her PI status and the more personal, how her father died would give her peace of mind.
I originally went into this story thinking it was a murder mystery but when I changed my thinking to read it as a romance I fell into the story easier. This clean romance/mystery/suspense had me hooked. It was filled with salt of the earth characters such as Nicki’s grandparents, Hunter’s Aunt Donna and the wise old Jeanette Peteriere. It held lessons on judging people by their appearance and roots and believing in yourself.
The mystery kept me guessing, the suspense had me turning pages and the humour had me laughing. All wrapped in a romance that will have you yearning for a happy ever after.
I would recommend this book to all lovers of romance.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my copy to read and review.
October 14, 2019
This book was fantastic! I love anything by Mary Ellis! Her writing style is unique.
This is sure to be a geat series! I'm looking forward to it!
She has added just the right amount of everything to make an awesome story!
I really recommend this book
You'll not be disappointed and the book cover tells a lot too!
My thanks to Netgalley NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own
This is sure to be a geat series! I'm looking forward to it!
She has added just the right amount of everything to make an awesome story!
I really recommend this book
You'll not be disappointed and the book cover tells a lot too!
My thanks to Netgalley NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own
September 3, 2017
2.5 stars
A light read about heavy subjects. I tend to like my mysteries to be strong on the mystery, and this one kept getting sidetracked by romance (biceps! Muscles!) and tourism (French Quarter! Plantation homes!). There were some pretty fabulous descriptions of food, too!
While not exactly a secular novel, it has no big emphasis on faith. The biggest thing is that Nicki's beliefs have kept her from making some bad choices, but it doesn't seem to be a Christian novel aside from that. Hunter is Catholic and they at one point go into his church to light a candle, and attend for a funeral. I don't think someone who isn't a believer would have any problem reading this book. While it comes from a faith-based publisher, the library classification is simply for mystery with no mention of Christian.
Anyway, while the tale stays clean in the sense of not showing explicit description, the subjects are very heavy: an investigator who loves innuendo, a fiancée who is double-dealing with another man on the side (not even sleeping with her fiancé, but sleeping with his friend??), a business partner who gambles and cheats on money, and VERY heavy drinking. Lots of drinking (if you are in AA do not read this book.)
The mystery did keep me engaged, and I kept hoping my initial guess was wrong and I'd be thrown a curveball, because there were plenty of red herrings...and nope. I pretty much guessed the whole thing from the first few chapters. (You might be surprised, though, because I do read a boatload of mystery every year and have seen a lot of plot twists.)
I may pick up other books from the series when I need a lighter read to pass the time, but it won't be high on my list.
*Content: drinking, mentions of drunkenness, mentions of affairs, repeated sexual innuendo, French cursing, etc
A light read about heavy subjects. I tend to like my mysteries to be strong on the mystery, and this one kept getting sidetracked by romance (biceps! Muscles!) and tourism (French Quarter! Plantation homes!). There were some pretty fabulous descriptions of food, too!
While not exactly a secular novel, it has no big emphasis on faith. The biggest thing is that Nicki's beliefs have kept her from making some bad choices, but it doesn't seem to be a Christian novel aside from that. Hunter is Catholic and they at one point go into his church to light a candle, and attend for a funeral. I don't think someone who isn't a believer would have any problem reading this book. While it comes from a faith-based publisher, the library classification is simply for mystery with no mention of Christian.
Anyway, while the tale stays clean in the sense of not showing explicit description, the subjects are very heavy: an investigator who loves innuendo, a fiancée who is double-dealing with another man on the side (not even sleeping with her fiancé, but sleeping with his friend??), a business partner who gambles and cheats on money, and VERY heavy drinking. Lots of drinking (if you are in AA do not read this book.)
The mystery did keep me engaged, and I kept hoping my initial guess was wrong and I'd be thrown a curveball, because there were plenty of red herrings...and nope. I pretty much guessed the whole thing from the first few chapters. (You might be surprised, though, because I do read a boatload of mystery every year and have seen a lot of plot twists.)
I may pick up other books from the series when I need a lighter read to pass the time, but it won't be high on my list.
*Content: drinking, mentions of drunkenness, mentions of affairs, repeated sexual innuendo, French cursing, etc
January 21, 2016
Midnight on the Mississippi is the first book in a stand alone romantic suspense series that has everything I need to make it a must read series for me. Southern Belles, high risk investments, murder and mysteries abound. And then there is Nikki Price. I love her!
She is a badass chic who doesn’t take no for an answer and wants some for herself… from the Bayou.
It was so hard to put down the book, but it is 2am and I find myself losing my place because I keep nodding off.
The characters are rich and complex with the storylines to match. Sometimes I didn’t know whether to love or hate them. To me, that is a sign of great writing!
Midnight on the Mississippi is my first novel from Mary Ellis but it won’t be my last.
To see more visit http://www.fundinmental.com
She is a badass chic who doesn’t take no for an answer and wants some for herself… from the Bayou.
It was so hard to put down the book, but it is 2am and I find myself losing my place because I keep nodding off.
The characters are rich and complex with the storylines to match. Sometimes I didn’t know whether to love or hate them. To me, that is a sign of great writing!
Midnight on the Mississippi is my first novel from Mary Ellis but it won’t be my last.
To see more visit http://www.fundinmental.com
November 7, 2015
This review contains many, many spoilers. This review had to happen because I made an unwise decision a while ago.
I didn't like this book. I requested it back in the summer knowing it would be a light read. The plot on the book's back cover sums up the whole book: Nicki Price, a young investigator, comes to New Orleans to find her big case to solve. Luckily, her cousin - Nathan/Nate, has a Private Investigations company and she decides that's where she'll start because her cousin "owes" her after all his teasing when they were kids. Really? As luck and cliché would have it, Nate and Nicki's client is a rich, handsome, and god-looking man named Hunter Galen. Nicki, despite telling herself and anyone interested in listening to her that she's a professional and competent PI, spends more time fantasizing about her client. For more than half of the book we see Hunter and Nicki act not very stressed out that Hunter is accused of murdering James, his friend and business partner, or that his business might end; they act like two love birds which is plain annoying.
The professional PI, instead of looking for evidence and trying to save her client, goes on to complain about her poor background and bringing up, compares herself to the rich people she encounters while working hired on the case, and is more interested in socializing, bonding, and falling in love with Hunter, Hunter who seems to consider Nicki a diva in disguise, and has no problem kissing her and falling in love, although he has a steady relationship with another woman. Of course he breaks up with her and Nicki takes her place in the blink of an eye, because with Nicki "what you see is what you get" and who needs more reasons than that to fall in love?
Of course, we are not surprised to learn that the ex-girlfriend/fiancée is an evil, spoiled brat, who had an affair with James, and her daddy was the one to kill James to save his sweet spoiled daughter of the shame James would have brought upon her if he revealed her shocking secrets of the past. We only learn all these in a rushed manner towards the end of the book, after we've seen Nicki and Hunter play lovers. It was Nicki who gets all the praise, because she "has a suspicion all along" who the murderer was (but for reasons we don’t know, she doesn’t say a thing, and she even hides information from Hunter because “she doesn’t want him to think she’s jealous or has anything against Ashley”), although she has a hard time figuring out who attacked her, although on the night of the attack she was told that "she should learn to leave other woman's man alone". Such PI!
In the end, after Nicki becomes a successful PI overnight, engaged to be married to the rich and fabulous Hunter, we are given hints that she has a successful career ahead of her. I wonder if she'll fantasize and fall in love with other clients....
The writing of this book is not bad, but the clichés are too much. I was interested in who murdered James, and it would have been nice if clues were given along the way, but no, we are left with Nicki and Hunter. The ending was rushed, and not a big surprise. The author made observations at some point that gave away the whole ending, for example saying that Ashley surely didn't work alone and she couldn't have murdered someone, it had to be someone with money, and so her dad's name comes up. Maybe the reader shouldn't have known that, instead it would have been more fun to guess who was guilty. The same goes for the scene with Nicki's attack: it was intense, and I was curious who did it and why, but when the phrase "to leave other woman's man alone" was said, it was clear; it just became tiresome to see Hunter and Nicki try to guess who it might have been when we the readers knew all along.
As mentioned, a light read. This is the first book in the Secrets of the South series, but I don't think I'm interested in the other ones. Unless I forget about this one and I fancy a light read again.
I received an ebook version of this book via Net Galley. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
I didn't like this book. I requested it back in the summer knowing it would be a light read. The plot on the book's back cover sums up the whole book: Nicki Price, a young investigator, comes to New Orleans to find her big case to solve. Luckily, her cousin - Nathan/Nate, has a Private Investigations company and she decides that's where she'll start because her cousin "owes" her after all his teasing when they were kids. Really? As luck and cliché would have it, Nate and Nicki's client is a rich, handsome, and god-looking man named Hunter Galen. Nicki, despite telling herself and anyone interested in listening to her that she's a professional and competent PI, spends more time fantasizing about her client. For more than half of the book we see Hunter and Nicki act not very stressed out that Hunter is accused of murdering James, his friend and business partner, or that his business might end; they act like two love birds which is plain annoying.
The professional PI, instead of looking for evidence and trying to save her client, goes on to complain about her poor background and bringing up, compares herself to the rich people she encounters while working hired on the case, and is more interested in socializing, bonding, and falling in love with Hunter, Hunter who seems to consider Nicki a diva in disguise, and has no problem kissing her and falling in love, although he has a steady relationship with another woman. Of course he breaks up with her and Nicki takes her place in the blink of an eye, because with Nicki "what you see is what you get" and who needs more reasons than that to fall in love?
Of course, we are not surprised to learn that the ex-girlfriend/fiancée is an evil, spoiled brat, who had an affair with James, and her daddy was the one to kill James to save his sweet spoiled daughter of the shame James would have brought upon her if he revealed her shocking secrets of the past. We only learn all these in a rushed manner towards the end of the book, after we've seen Nicki and Hunter play lovers. It was Nicki who gets all the praise, because she "has a suspicion all along" who the murderer was (but for reasons we don’t know, she doesn’t say a thing, and she even hides information from Hunter because “she doesn’t want him to think she’s jealous or has anything against Ashley”), although she has a hard time figuring out who attacked her, although on the night of the attack she was told that "she should learn to leave other woman's man alone". Such PI!
In the end, after Nicki becomes a successful PI overnight, engaged to be married to the rich and fabulous Hunter, we are given hints that she has a successful career ahead of her. I wonder if she'll fantasize and fall in love with other clients....
The writing of this book is not bad, but the clichés are too much. I was interested in who murdered James, and it would have been nice if clues were given along the way, but no, we are left with Nicki and Hunter. The ending was rushed, and not a big surprise. The author made observations at some point that gave away the whole ending, for example saying that Ashley surely didn't work alone and she couldn't have murdered someone, it had to be someone with money, and so her dad's name comes up. Maybe the reader shouldn't have known that, instead it would have been more fun to guess who was guilty. The same goes for the scene with Nicki's attack: it was intense, and I was curious who did it and why, but when the phrase "to leave other woman's man alone" was said, it was clear; it just became tiresome to see Hunter and Nicki try to guess who it might have been when we the readers knew all along.
As mentioned, a light read. This is the first book in the Secrets of the South series, but I don't think I'm interested in the other ones. Unless I forget about this one and I fancy a light read again.
I received an ebook version of this book via Net Galley. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
August 24, 2015
3.5 stars. This is a mystery set in New Orleans and the bayous and I found the rich descriptions to be one of its strongest points. The plot was satisfying and complex, with enough twists to keep me guessing--and turning pages! The book is listed as Christian fiction and I appreciate that it wasn't at all preachy or heavy-handed. The main character is just a regular, imperfect but decent, human being trying to do the right thing. However, the dialogue seemed clunky and the characters never came alive for me.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me a copy of this book.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me a copy of this book.
August 6, 2022
Wow!! This was a gripping, fast-paced read that kept me guessing to the end. It really brought New Orleans (and Louisiana in general) to life in vivid color.
Can’t wait to read more in the series.
Can’t wait to read more in the series.
July 28, 2015
Nicolette "Nicki" Price is eager to try out her new Private Investigator license, and arrives at her cousin's agency just in time to take on a murder investigation. She has quite an adventure in store as she tries to solve the client's case, as well as a 17 year old cold case involving her dad. Will she work it all out in time to keep her client out of jail?
Nicki is a fun character, although awkward at times. I loved her openly honest, sweet-natured, curious personality and how Hunter, her client, grew to appreciate her over time. It was inspiring how determined she was to keep at her work despite the many setbacks and dangers thrown at her. Most people would have given up! Hope to see her in more books in this new series, a departure from the author's usual genre of historical or Amish stories.
The detailed descriptions of places and the culture of the New Orleans area, including the wonderful sounding food, made it feel very authentic, and like I'd been to visit. Some of the people were so real, like lively Jeanette, and her clever way of passing on bits of wisdom to Nicki, and Hunter's gracious aunt Donna. The prejudice between classes seemed to be a big influence on the characters, both rich and poor, affecting their thinking and behavior, making me wonder if this was impacted by the Katrina disaster. The main mystery seemed to slowly reveal itself, but was quite action packed later, with a twist and a satisfying ending.
Overall quite an entertaining story! Recommend for anyone looking for a clean cozy mystery with some romance in the mix. 4.5 stars
(Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ebook provided in exchange for my unsolicited, honest review.)
Nicki is a fun character, although awkward at times. I loved her openly honest, sweet-natured, curious personality and how Hunter, her client, grew to appreciate her over time. It was inspiring how determined she was to keep at her work despite the many setbacks and dangers thrown at her. Most people would have given up! Hope to see her in more books in this new series, a departure from the author's usual genre of historical or Amish stories.
The detailed descriptions of places and the culture of the New Orleans area, including the wonderful sounding food, made it feel very authentic, and like I'd been to visit. Some of the people were so real, like lively Jeanette, and her clever way of passing on bits of wisdom to Nicki, and Hunter's gracious aunt Donna. The prejudice between classes seemed to be a big influence on the characters, both rich and poor, affecting their thinking and behavior, making me wonder if this was impacted by the Katrina disaster. The main mystery seemed to slowly reveal itself, but was quite action packed later, with a twist and a satisfying ending.
Overall quite an entertaining story! Recommend for anyone looking for a clean cozy mystery with some romance in the mix. 4.5 stars
(Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ebook provided in exchange for my unsolicited, honest review.)
June 28, 2015
Hunter Galen is charged with the murder of his friend and business partner and nothing is as cut and dried as it seems. There was much more to James' schemes than a little skimming off the accounts of his clients.
Miss Price (Nicolette) is determined to find the real killer. Niki Price is a certified private investigator and the ink has just dried on her newly issues certification.
Hunter's fiancee does not welcome Nikki's interference in the least and does not hide her displeasure at Nikki snooping around and interfering with Hunter's plans to tie the knot.
As Hunter and Nikki spend time together digging for the truth about James' murder they uncover the truth about themselves. As the story unravels Nikki is also looking for the truth about what happened to her father who was murdered in the Bayou years before. Will Hunter and Nikki find the answers they are looking for, and with what cost?
I enjoyed this book from the first page. It was like a tour of hurricane ravaged New Orleans and a murder mystery or two rolled up into one. Lies and secrets abound and right up until the nail biting finish you are rooting for the "good guys".
Miss Price (Nicolette) is determined to find the real killer. Niki Price is a certified private investigator and the ink has just dried on her newly issues certification.
Hunter's fiancee does not welcome Nikki's interference in the least and does not hide her displeasure at Nikki snooping around and interfering with Hunter's plans to tie the knot.
As Hunter and Nikki spend time together digging for the truth about James' murder they uncover the truth about themselves. As the story unravels Nikki is also looking for the truth about what happened to her father who was murdered in the Bayou years before. Will Hunter and Nikki find the answers they are looking for, and with what cost?
I enjoyed this book from the first page. It was like a tour of hurricane ravaged New Orleans and a murder mystery or two rolled up into one. Lies and secrets abound and right up until the nail biting finish you are rooting for the "good guys".
July 10, 2015
Nicki Price is backwoods white trash in the eyes of Ashley Menard, who embodies everything wrong with Southern aristocracy. Nicki, however, is the true Southern belle, with no artificial posturing. She’s a rookie private investigator who says what she thinks and acts on her convictions, which can land her in hot water or, more accurately, a swamp.
Hunter Galen hates confrontation. I can identify with that. But his reluctance to face up to problems lands him in legal trouble. His best friend/stockbroker business partner was up to no good when he got himself murdered, and Hunter is blamed. Hunter’s girlfriend Ashley isn’t who he thinks she is, and really, does he even like her? He’s a charmer in need of a stronger backbone.
Midnight on the Mississippi serves up a bowl of Louisiana gumbo filled with a sleazy detective, catty society girl, hard-drinking father, and meddling brother to keep Nicki and Hunter hopping as they try to figure out who killed Hunter’s partner and why his investment brokerage is in such a mess. A post-Katrina look at New Orleans runs throughout the rollicking tale. You won’t guess who-dun-it until the end.
June 14, 2017
I made the mistake of reading the third book in this series first, and liked it so much that I bought the other 4 books. Starting at book 1 after reading book 3 gave me a bit of a disadvantage, but I will thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author has created some great characters, plot, and setting in this series, and this is the book that sets it all up. I of course loved the suspense and though I tried to figure out the guilty party, didn't figure it out til pretty late in the book.
For this being Christian fiction, there isn't a lot of Christian content and I was bothered by all of the alcohol consumption, but it was still a great read.
For this being Christian fiction, there isn't a lot of Christian content and I was bothered by all of the alcohol consumption, but it was still a great read.
August 10, 2019
The reasons I gave this book three stars were the following:
I knew who was behind the murder half way through the book.
It wasn’t completely clean. Nothing was detailed, but mentions of hookers and more. There relationship also seemed to come out of nowhere.
I knew who was behind the murder half way through the book.
It wasn’t completely clean. Nothing was detailed, but mentions of hookers and more. There relationship also seemed to come out of nowhere.
March 15, 2020
This was good. Not great, but good. I'm intrigued enough to pick up the next book when I can. It did its thing and kicked me out of my reading slump, and that's what I needed. 3 stars from me.
August 10, 2015
Midnight on the Mississippi starts right in with no preamble. I like that. Right away, we meet Hunter Galen who's shouting into his cellphone in the grand salon of the SV Queen Antoinette in the middle of Lake Pontchartrain in Southeastern Louisiana where family and friends are celebrating his mother's 60th birthday. His partner, James Nowak, is on the other end of the call but reception is bad. The party includes the wealthiest society people in New Orleans, many of them clients of Hunter and James' investment firm. Galen and his brother Ethan, and sister Chloe, have given the sailing yacht they are on to Mama for her birthday. We are talking WEALTHY!
Still unable to hear James because of the poor reception, but aware that he's upset, Hunter takes a tender ashore and races to the office, only to find James dead, a pistol beside his hand, and the police sirens wailing closer and closer. Yep, he picks up the gun and is holding it when they arrived.
Hunter's old college roommate, Nathan Price, will be on the case, but just as he's getting ready to head out to meet Hunter, his cousin Nicolette Price shows up complete with P.I. License, license to practice in Louisiana, and a permit to carry expected any day. She wants in on the case to gain experience. (Also, to have a decent pay cheque to send money home to her ill mother in Natchez.) In a bold move, Nicki tails Nathan to the meeting, gets spotted, hits it off with Hunter, and gets hired. When cousin Nate gets arrested on a trumped up charge of interfering with an investigation, it's up to Nicki to help clear Hunter of fraud and murder charges, and to tiptoe around Hunter's high fashion, soon-to-be fiancé who is making jealous noises.
This is a complicated mystery involving forgery, double company books, misadventures in swamps, and attempts on Nicki's life. In her spare time, straightforward Nicki wants to be a tourist in New Orleans, but she also wants to use her newly acquired credentials to look into the 17-year-old murder of her father who went to a cabin in the bayou with his brother, his two brothers-in-law, and three shady characters he'd "met in a bar in Clay Creek". He disappeared under suspicious circumstances, and was found five days later, partially eaten by fish and alligators. Despite the fact that Nicki had always been told it was an accidental death, when she finally sees the official file, it's classed as a 'cold case'.
As Nicki begins proving her competence to Hunter, he begins to appreciate her refreshing "honesty and lack of artifice almost as appealing as her great legs and stunning smile". In addition, Hunter begins to learn new, unappetizing things about both his partner and his fiancé. When he's arrested by feds for fraud, Nicki moves heaven and earth to prove his innocence.
There are lots of twists in this plot, and lots of soul searching for both Hunter and Nicki, before the murderers are apprehended, and both characters figure out what the future might hold. This novel was lots of fun to try to figure out — lots of suspects because of the fraud, and lots of possible motives from the various lines of inquiry. I thoroughly enjoyed the colour added by the French Quarter of New Orleans, Bourbon St., and the various settings in the swamps and bayous around the city. A very fast read. I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Still unable to hear James because of the poor reception, but aware that he's upset, Hunter takes a tender ashore and races to the office, only to find James dead, a pistol beside his hand, and the police sirens wailing closer and closer. Yep, he picks up the gun and is holding it when they arrived.
Hunter's old college roommate, Nathan Price, will be on the case, but just as he's getting ready to head out to meet Hunter, his cousin Nicolette Price shows up complete with P.I. License, license to practice in Louisiana, and a permit to carry expected any day. She wants in on the case to gain experience. (Also, to have a decent pay cheque to send money home to her ill mother in Natchez.) In a bold move, Nicki tails Nathan to the meeting, gets spotted, hits it off with Hunter, and gets hired. When cousin Nate gets arrested on a trumped up charge of interfering with an investigation, it's up to Nicki to help clear Hunter of fraud and murder charges, and to tiptoe around Hunter's high fashion, soon-to-be fiancé who is making jealous noises.
This is a complicated mystery involving forgery, double company books, misadventures in swamps, and attempts on Nicki's life. In her spare time, straightforward Nicki wants to be a tourist in New Orleans, but she also wants to use her newly acquired credentials to look into the 17-year-old murder of her father who went to a cabin in the bayou with his brother, his two brothers-in-law, and three shady characters he'd "met in a bar in Clay Creek". He disappeared under suspicious circumstances, and was found five days later, partially eaten by fish and alligators. Despite the fact that Nicki had always been told it was an accidental death, when she finally sees the official file, it's classed as a 'cold case'.
As Nicki begins proving her competence to Hunter, he begins to appreciate her refreshing "honesty and lack of artifice almost as appealing as her great legs and stunning smile". In addition, Hunter begins to learn new, unappetizing things about both his partner and his fiancé. When he's arrested by feds for fraud, Nicki moves heaven and earth to prove his innocence.
There are lots of twists in this plot, and lots of soul searching for both Hunter and Nicki, before the murderers are apprehended, and both characters figure out what the future might hold. This novel was lots of fun to try to figure out — lots of suspects because of the fraud, and lots of possible motives from the various lines of inquiry. I thoroughly enjoyed the colour added by the French Quarter of New Orleans, Bourbon St., and the various settings in the swamps and bayous around the city. A very fast read. I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2015
Midnight on the Mississippi (Secrets of the South Mysteries) By Mary Ellis
*ARC provided for honest review: 5 Stars*
This is categorized as a Christian Suspense/Mystery. I however think it should be categorized as just regular Suspense/Mystery as the religious theme was very, very light. With passing mention of the characters’ particular faith, by not much other than that, I think this story will have appeal for many readers. For me, the sucker I am for a good mystery, was glued from page one.
The mystery began with Hunter, a securities broker from New Orleans, at his Mother’s birthday celebration. With calls coming from his irate and freaked out business partners he leaves his Mothers party to talk to his wayward friend and partner. Chaos ensues, and Hunter is blamed for the murder. Hunter Galen, the younger son of three children, was raised by one of the most influential families of the Garden District going back many generations. Which in my opinion is why Hunter is such a people pleaser and what I call a yes man, basically a man who goes along life agreeing with everyone even in matters that he clearly doesn’t agree with just to satisfy others will, I think that was his biggest flaw. I was very pleased when his character grew into the young man I think he was made to be written as.
With this mystery and charges being brought up against Hunter his need to prove his innocence was never greater. Enter longtime friend of his elder Brother, Nate price private investigator. Nate’s cousin Nikki Price, a new private investigator, finds herself needing to help her ailing Mother. What’s a small town girl to do, but go pester her cousin for a job in the bigger city? Arranging to stay with a friend from her home town who’s already living in New Orleans, she sets out to prove her worth to everyone. While I liked how confident and easy going Nikki was, I thought she could have used more development when telling of her family dynamics. I had many questions of the relationship with other family members who were casually mentioned by not really developed into the story line. I would have liked more development of her character other than her not feeling good enough, pretty enough, or rich enough. I had to wait until the very end to get that satisfaction of discovery of self-worth. I do love the mentoring the wise Ms. Jeanette Peteriere gave O’lette. Nikki went thru many different struggles in this book, and I liked that she didn’t falter or turn into a crumbling mess. She didn’t even take a lot of verbal abuse from Ashley, the blond scarecrow as named such from Jeanette.
I think Ashley’s character was the most diversely written. She was not a nice person who manipulated many people over a lot of time. Sad to say, I was greatly happy when she was revealed to be the insincere person with a hidden agenda all her own to everyone.
In conclusion, I didn’t figure out the murderer until it was unfolded before my eyes. I didn’t like the characters I wasn’t supposed to like. I did like those that I was meant to. It did leave me with a few questions. Like what happened to all the money? Will we ever find out what happened to the other relatives of James? All in all I think this is a very well rounded mystery with a dash of romance and a hint of greater things to come with future books in this series.
*ARC provided for honest review: 5 Stars*
This is categorized as a Christian Suspense/Mystery. I however think it should be categorized as just regular Suspense/Mystery as the religious theme was very, very light. With passing mention of the characters’ particular faith, by not much other than that, I think this story will have appeal for many readers. For me, the sucker I am for a good mystery, was glued from page one.
The mystery began with Hunter, a securities broker from New Orleans, at his Mother’s birthday celebration. With calls coming from his irate and freaked out business partners he leaves his Mothers party to talk to his wayward friend and partner. Chaos ensues, and Hunter is blamed for the murder. Hunter Galen, the younger son of three children, was raised by one of the most influential families of the Garden District going back many generations. Which in my opinion is why Hunter is such a people pleaser and what I call a yes man, basically a man who goes along life agreeing with everyone even in matters that he clearly doesn’t agree with just to satisfy others will, I think that was his biggest flaw. I was very pleased when his character grew into the young man I think he was made to be written as.
With this mystery and charges being brought up against Hunter his need to prove his innocence was never greater. Enter longtime friend of his elder Brother, Nate price private investigator. Nate’s cousin Nikki Price, a new private investigator, finds herself needing to help her ailing Mother. What’s a small town girl to do, but go pester her cousin for a job in the bigger city? Arranging to stay with a friend from her home town who’s already living in New Orleans, she sets out to prove her worth to everyone. While I liked how confident and easy going Nikki was, I thought she could have used more development when telling of her family dynamics. I had many questions of the relationship with other family members who were casually mentioned by not really developed into the story line. I would have liked more development of her character other than her not feeling good enough, pretty enough, or rich enough. I had to wait until the very end to get that satisfaction of discovery of self-worth. I do love the mentoring the wise Ms. Jeanette Peteriere gave O’lette. Nikki went thru many different struggles in this book, and I liked that she didn’t falter or turn into a crumbling mess. She didn’t even take a lot of verbal abuse from Ashley, the blond scarecrow as named such from Jeanette.
I think Ashley’s character was the most diversely written. She was not a nice person who manipulated many people over a lot of time. Sad to say, I was greatly happy when she was revealed to be the insincere person with a hidden agenda all her own to everyone.
In conclusion, I didn’t figure out the murderer until it was unfolded before my eyes. I didn’t like the characters I wasn’t supposed to like. I did like those that I was meant to. It did leave me with a few questions. Like what happened to all the money? Will we ever find out what happened to the other relatives of James? All in all I think this is a very well rounded mystery with a dash of romance and a hint of greater things to come with future books in this series.
September 23, 2015
Mary Ellis in her new book, “Midnight on the Mississippi” Book One in the Secrets of the South Mysteries published by Harvest House Publishers takes us into the lives of Hunter Galen and Nicki Price.
From the back cover: What lies beneath the black waters of the Bayou?
New Orleans–Hunter Galen, a stock and securities broker, suspects his business partner, James Nowak, may be involved in embezzling their clients’ money, but he’s reluctant to jeopardize their friendship based on suspicion alone. After James turns up dead, Hunter realizes his unwillingness to confront a problem may have cost James his life.
Nicki Price, a newly minted PI, intends to solve the stockbroker’s murder as she establishes herself in the career she adores. As she ferrets out fraud and deception at Galen-Nowak Investments, Hunter’s fiancée, Ashley Menard, rubs Nicki the wrong way. Nicki doesn’t trust the ostentatious woman who seems to be hiding something, but is the PI’s growing attraction to Hunter–the police’s only suspect–her true reason for disliking Ashley?
As Hunter and Nicki encounter sophisticated shell games, blackmail, and death threats both subtle and overt, danger swirls around them like the mysterious dark waters of the Bayou. Only their reliance on faith and fearless determination gives them hope they will live to see another day.
I like New Orleans. It is a city I have not visited (yet) though by reading this book Not only do I desire to visit it more I learned more things about the city and feel as if I have been there, at least in spirit. I have never read of a Just Beginning Private Investigator. Shows there is a first time for everything. Nicki is a wonderful character, who represents the poorer side of town while Hunter represents Upper Society. Obviously these two clash at the beginning as Nicki actually thinks Hunter killed his partner. So do the police which presents a problem. Eventually Nicki comes around to see that Hunter is innocent and then the fun really begins. This is an exciting story as Nicki tries to solve her first case with everything working against her. Nicki and Hunter are terrific characters that Ms. Ellis has breathed life into and that we root for them to succeed. And did I mention that there is a romance also? “Midnight on the Mississippi” is a lot of fun and it entertains you as you keep flipping pages as you try to find out what is going to happen next. Ms. Ellis has a great way of telling the story and moving it along at a nice pace. A really enjoyable read.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: What lies beneath the black waters of the Bayou?
New Orleans–Hunter Galen, a stock and securities broker, suspects his business partner, James Nowak, may be involved in embezzling their clients’ money, but he’s reluctant to jeopardize their friendship based on suspicion alone. After James turns up dead, Hunter realizes his unwillingness to confront a problem may have cost James his life.
Nicki Price, a newly minted PI, intends to solve the stockbroker’s murder as she establishes herself in the career she adores. As she ferrets out fraud and deception at Galen-Nowak Investments, Hunter’s fiancée, Ashley Menard, rubs Nicki the wrong way. Nicki doesn’t trust the ostentatious woman who seems to be hiding something, but is the PI’s growing attraction to Hunter–the police’s only suspect–her true reason for disliking Ashley?
As Hunter and Nicki encounter sophisticated shell games, blackmail, and death threats both subtle and overt, danger swirls around them like the mysterious dark waters of the Bayou. Only their reliance on faith and fearless determination gives them hope they will live to see another day.
I like New Orleans. It is a city I have not visited (yet) though by reading this book Not only do I desire to visit it more I learned more things about the city and feel as if I have been there, at least in spirit. I have never read of a Just Beginning Private Investigator. Shows there is a first time for everything. Nicki is a wonderful character, who represents the poorer side of town while Hunter represents Upper Society. Obviously these two clash at the beginning as Nicki actually thinks Hunter killed his partner. So do the police which presents a problem. Eventually Nicki comes around to see that Hunter is innocent and then the fun really begins. This is an exciting story as Nicki tries to solve her first case with everything working against her. Nicki and Hunter are terrific characters that Ms. Ellis has breathed life into and that we root for them to succeed. And did I mention that there is a romance also? “Midnight on the Mississippi” is a lot of fun and it entertains you as you keep flipping pages as you try to find out what is going to happen next. Ms. Ellis has a great way of telling the story and moving it along at a nice pace. A really enjoyable read.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 27, 2015
Until now, the Mary Ellis books I've read were historical and one Amish. With her current release, she's entered the contemporary mystery genre with the first book of her Secrets of the South Mysteries, Midnight on the Mississippi.
Nicki Price is a newly-minted PI from Mississippi determined to boost her economic circumstances by working for her cousin in his New Orleans private investigative business. She comes from a poor, backwater family in Mississippi, certainly not the type to attract the romantic attention of Hunter Galen, a member of New Orleans' financial and social royalty.
Hunter is a securities broker suspected of killing his partner. All his life, he's avoided confrontation, allowing people to do what they want, rather than standing up for his own interests. His growth centers around learning there can be a cost for taking the easy route around a problem.
There's a cute scene near the beginning where Nicki, wanting to prove her worth and make a name for herself, pushes her way into the death investigation convinced that the rich guy Hunter is guilty. As the story unfolds, we also learn that she seeks the truth behind her father's death when she was a child. So, we get a second mystery as a subplot.
As the story proceeded, for me, Nicki grew from a bit of an annoying tagalong out to prove she can play with the big kids into a confident and competent young woman. In the beginning, we see Hunter as the good-looking rich guy from a powerful family. But soon, we see his down-to-earth side.
I've never been to New Orleans where the story is set, never really wanted to go, truthfully. However, in this story, we get more of a tour of the historical and G-rated locations than the party sections. Ms. Ellis takes the reader to outlying areas post-Katrina, and gives us a glimpse of a once thriving body, wounded and still recovering. I cringed at the thought of Nicki entering the swamp with its snakes and alligators. **shiver**
There's a nice twist to the "who-done-it" at the end, though I would have liked to have seen a couple more suspects to choose from. Overall, it's a quick read and a good start to the series. So if you're looking to sink into a cozy mystery, check out Midnight on the Mississippi.
Disclosure of Material Connection: This book came to me free from the publisher, Harvest House, with the hope that I would mention it on this blog. There was no requirement for me to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Nicki Price is a newly-minted PI from Mississippi determined to boost her economic circumstances by working for her cousin in his New Orleans private investigative business. She comes from a poor, backwater family in Mississippi, certainly not the type to attract the romantic attention of Hunter Galen, a member of New Orleans' financial and social royalty.
Hunter is a securities broker suspected of killing his partner. All his life, he's avoided confrontation, allowing people to do what they want, rather than standing up for his own interests. His growth centers around learning there can be a cost for taking the easy route around a problem.
There's a cute scene near the beginning where Nicki, wanting to prove her worth and make a name for herself, pushes her way into the death investigation convinced that the rich guy Hunter is guilty. As the story unfolds, we also learn that she seeks the truth behind her father's death when she was a child. So, we get a second mystery as a subplot.
As the story proceeded, for me, Nicki grew from a bit of an annoying tagalong out to prove she can play with the big kids into a confident and competent young woman. In the beginning, we see Hunter as the good-looking rich guy from a powerful family. But soon, we see his down-to-earth side.
I've never been to New Orleans where the story is set, never really wanted to go, truthfully. However, in this story, we get more of a tour of the historical and G-rated locations than the party sections. Ms. Ellis takes the reader to outlying areas post-Katrina, and gives us a glimpse of a once thriving body, wounded and still recovering. I cringed at the thought of Nicki entering the swamp with its snakes and alligators. **shiver**
There's a nice twist to the "who-done-it" at the end, though I would have liked to have seen a couple more suspects to choose from. Overall, it's a quick read and a good start to the series. So if you're looking to sink into a cozy mystery, check out Midnight on the Mississippi.
Disclosure of Material Connection: This book came to me free from the publisher, Harvest House, with the hope that I would mention it on this blog. There was no requirement for me to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
February 3, 2016
When Hunter Galen's best friend and business partner, James Nowak, is murdered, all the evidence points to him as the one behind it. Newly licensed private investigator Nicolette Price convinces Galen to allow her to work on the case and soon finds herself a target herself. Digging through the evidence, someone definitely thinks the two are getting to close to the truth.
Who could it be? One of the investment clients who was scammed by Nowak? Galen's fiancee, who said Nowak knew some things about her past? The New Orleans Police Department detective who clearly has an agenda of his own and is willing to use any tactic he can to pin the crime on Galen? Someone else?
Midnight on the Mississippi is the first of author Mary Ellis's novels I've read and it is a great start to her "Secrets of the South" series. As a reader I found myself immediately immersed in the story, eagerly following the clues and trying to figure out who did what to whom and when. Galen and Price are well-developed as characters. Both have some character flaws that keep them from being perfect. Their family ties remind the readers that there is always someone who remembers you when and still loves you regardless of the baggage you carry. In other words, they felt like real people.
However, as someone who has done editing in the past I found myself totally annoyed in one aspect of Ellis's otherwise excellent story, and it involves the passage of time.
Usually, an author will use transitions to note the passing of time. "After about a week, the results of the . . . " -- or something like that -- is used to let the reader know how much time has passed since the last scene. I'm not sure if it was a deliberate choice to avoid clear time transitions, but I found it awkward as a reader to finish a chapter with a cliffhanger and start the next one with "Now that I had . . ."
When did your character get it? That morning? After waiting days, weeks, months, or years? The answer is usually found somewhere in the next page or two, but as I read the book I found myself thinking all the action was crammed into days when I knew logically it had to take place over weeks (which it did). As in writing for newspapers, it is important to answer the major questions -- Who? What? Where? When? Why? and How? -- clearly.
Still, there is much to like about Midnight on the Mississippi, and I highly recommend it and look forward to the second book in the series, What Happened on Beale Street, which will be published soon.
Who could it be? One of the investment clients who was scammed by Nowak? Galen's fiancee, who said Nowak knew some things about her past? The New Orleans Police Department detective who clearly has an agenda of his own and is willing to use any tactic he can to pin the crime on Galen? Someone else?
Midnight on the Mississippi is the first of author Mary Ellis's novels I've read and it is a great start to her "Secrets of the South" series. As a reader I found myself immediately immersed in the story, eagerly following the clues and trying to figure out who did what to whom and when. Galen and Price are well-developed as characters. Both have some character flaws that keep them from being perfect. Their family ties remind the readers that there is always someone who remembers you when and still loves you regardless of the baggage you carry. In other words, they felt like real people.
However, as someone who has done editing in the past I found myself totally annoyed in one aspect of Ellis's otherwise excellent story, and it involves the passage of time.
Usually, an author will use transitions to note the passing of time. "After about a week, the results of the . . . " -- or something like that -- is used to let the reader know how much time has passed since the last scene. I'm not sure if it was a deliberate choice to avoid clear time transitions, but I found it awkward as a reader to finish a chapter with a cliffhanger and start the next one with "Now that I had . . ."
When did your character get it? That morning? After waiting days, weeks, months, or years? The answer is usually found somewhere in the next page or two, but as I read the book I found myself thinking all the action was crammed into days when I knew logically it had to take place over weeks (which it did). As in writing for newspapers, it is important to answer the major questions -- Who? What? Where? When? Why? and How? -- clearly.
Still, there is much to like about Midnight on the Mississippi, and I highly recommend it and look forward to the second book in the series, What Happened on Beale Street, which will be published soon.
September 26, 2015
Nicki Price arrives in New Orleans, Louisiana from Natchez, Mississippi with her newly-earned private investigator license in hand and an eagerness to get started. Her plan is to join her cousin Nate’s PI firm and prove to him that she’s more than the annoying little kid he and her other boy cousins were always trying to ditch. Her agenda is two-fold – land a job with Nate and solve the 17-year-old murder of her father.
Hunter Galen is a securities broker in New Orleans. His firm, Galen-Nowak Investments, is known for taking high risks with big pay-offs. When he begins to suspect his partner, James Nowak, of illegal dealings, Hunter leaves his grandmother’s birthday party to confront him. He arrives to find his partner murdered and soon finds himself the leading suspect in the crime. He hires Nate to investigate his partner’s less than ethical dealings but soon finds himself “stuck” with the rookie investigator, Nicki.
As Nicki proves to be a crack accounting investigator, Hunter finds himself more and more intrigued by the woman. He’s semi-engaged to Ashley Menard, a woman from much the same social class he is from but poor-girl Nicki is the one who fascinates him. As the two work together to solve the mystery of his partner’s death, danger stalks them taking Nicki into the bayou, a place she fears ever since her father was killed there.
Can Hunter and Nicki find the truth when those who know it are working just as hard to hide it? Even law enforcement seems to be working against them. Can they prove Hunter’s innocence in both his partner’s death and Nowak’s scheme to defraud the firm’s investment customers? And, in the middle of all this, will Nicki find the clue that puts her father’s killer behind bars without getting herself killed in the process?
Once this book gets rolling, hang on, it’s quite a ride! My only complaint was that I wished Hunter was more assertive. He let his partner get away with too much unsupervised activity at work which eventually led to Nowak’s murder. Then he allowed himself to be railroaded into an engagement with Ashley, even though he already suspected he had stronger feelings for Nicki. Great story, though! I would recommend this to readers who love mystery and suspense because there’s plenty of both in this book.
Hunter Galen is a securities broker in New Orleans. His firm, Galen-Nowak Investments, is known for taking high risks with big pay-offs. When he begins to suspect his partner, James Nowak, of illegal dealings, Hunter leaves his grandmother’s birthday party to confront him. He arrives to find his partner murdered and soon finds himself the leading suspect in the crime. He hires Nate to investigate his partner’s less than ethical dealings but soon finds himself “stuck” with the rookie investigator, Nicki.
As Nicki proves to be a crack accounting investigator, Hunter finds himself more and more intrigued by the woman. He’s semi-engaged to Ashley Menard, a woman from much the same social class he is from but poor-girl Nicki is the one who fascinates him. As the two work together to solve the mystery of his partner’s death, danger stalks them taking Nicki into the bayou, a place she fears ever since her father was killed there.
Can Hunter and Nicki find the truth when those who know it are working just as hard to hide it? Even law enforcement seems to be working against them. Can they prove Hunter’s innocence in both his partner’s death and Nowak’s scheme to defraud the firm’s investment customers? And, in the middle of all this, will Nicki find the clue that puts her father’s killer behind bars without getting herself killed in the process?
Once this book gets rolling, hang on, it’s quite a ride! My only complaint was that I wished Hunter was more assertive. He let his partner get away with too much unsupervised activity at work which eventually led to Nowak’s murder. Then he allowed himself to be railroaded into an engagement with Ashley, even though he already suspected he had stronger feelings for Nicki. Great story, though! I would recommend this to readers who love mystery and suspense because there’s plenty of both in this book.
May 26, 2016
Midnight on the Mississippi
Mary Ellis
Book Summary: Hunter Galen, a stock and securities broker, suspects his business partner, James Nowak, may be involved in embezzling their clients' money, but he's reluctant to jeopardize their friendship based on suspicion alone. After James turns up dead, Hunter realizes his unwillingness to confront a problem may have cost James his life. Nicki Price, a newly minted PI, intends to solve the stockbroker's murder, recover the missing millions from the client accounts, and establish herself in the career she adores. As she ferrets out fraud and deception at Galen Investments, Hunter's fiancée, Ashley Menard, rubs Nicki the wrong way. Nicki doesn't trust the ostentatious woman with an agenda longer than the Mississippi River. Ashley seems to be hiding something, but is Nicki's growing attraction to Hunter—a suspected murderer—her true reason for disliking Ashley? As they encounter sophisticated shell games, blackmail, and murder, Nicki and Hunter's only option is to turn to God as they search for answers, elude lethal danger, and perhaps discover love along the way.
Review: Great start to a new series!!! Doesn't take to long to get into the murder. It made me think that about coming upon something illegal and even though you report it does no mean that person doesn't get pegged for it. I really enjoyed Nikki and some of the other underlying events that were going on. For me that kept the suspense going without it being too intense. I always like to be kept waiting for the who did it and this one did not disappoint. I really am hooked on this series. Looking forward to finishing the second book and to start the third book!!!
I would like to thank Net Galley and Harvest House Publishers for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Mary Ellis
Book Summary: Hunter Galen, a stock and securities broker, suspects his business partner, James Nowak, may be involved in embezzling their clients' money, but he's reluctant to jeopardize their friendship based on suspicion alone. After James turns up dead, Hunter realizes his unwillingness to confront a problem may have cost James his life. Nicki Price, a newly minted PI, intends to solve the stockbroker's murder, recover the missing millions from the client accounts, and establish herself in the career she adores. As she ferrets out fraud and deception at Galen Investments, Hunter's fiancée, Ashley Menard, rubs Nicki the wrong way. Nicki doesn't trust the ostentatious woman with an agenda longer than the Mississippi River. Ashley seems to be hiding something, but is Nicki's growing attraction to Hunter—a suspected murderer—her true reason for disliking Ashley? As they encounter sophisticated shell games, blackmail, and murder, Nicki and Hunter's only option is to turn to God as they search for answers, elude lethal danger, and perhaps discover love along the way.
Review: Great start to a new series!!! Doesn't take to long to get into the murder. It made me think that about coming upon something illegal and even though you report it does no mean that person doesn't get pegged for it. I really enjoyed Nikki and some of the other underlying events that were going on. For me that kept the suspense going without it being too intense. I always like to be kept waiting for the who did it and this one did not disappoint. I really am hooked on this series. Looking forward to finishing the second book and to start the third book!!!
I would like to thank Net Galley and Harvest House Publishers for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
September 3, 2015
On a boat out on Lake Pontchartrain is a 60th birthday party for one of New Orleans wealthiest women. But her younger son is missing out on much of the fun; he’s battling technology to have a conversation with his business partner. He can’t understand much of what his partner’s saying, but the man sounds frantic. By the end of the evening, the partner will be dead and the son will be settling into a jail cell for the night. He’s certain he’ll be charged with murder, unless he can discover the identity of the real killer. Fortunately for him, there’s a private investigator willing to help him out and it doesn’t hurt that she just happens to be beautiful.
Are Hunter and Nicki the only two people looking to solve the case? It seems like it because the only law enforcement officer to make regular appearances is a stereotypical sleazy cop who hates rich people and wants to pin the crime on Hunter. I think Hunter has a pretty good alibi, seeing as how he was seen by many at his mother’s party, but no one mentions alibis or the short time that he was on his own en-route to his office. Hunter seldom talks to his lawyer, who would probably advise him to sit back and let the police do their job. The media doesn’t seem to be after him either.
So, okay, I thought the plot was a little unrealistic. And, at times, I felt I was reading a treatise on the differences between rich and poor in Louisiana. There’s also a side plot involving Nicki’s deceased father that I didn’t think was needed. But there is some great detail about New Orleans in a post-Katrina setting. Then, of course, there’s the whodunit aspect. Who did kill Hunter’s partner? Will the killer come after Hunter and Nicki next? That’s the reason I kept reading. I wanted to get to the answers and, in the end, I got them.
Thank you to Harvest House Publishers for my complimentary Advanced Review Copy of Midnight on the Mississippi, which I received in exchange for my honest review.
Are Hunter and Nicki the only two people looking to solve the case? It seems like it because the only law enforcement officer to make regular appearances is a stereotypical sleazy cop who hates rich people and wants to pin the crime on Hunter. I think Hunter has a pretty good alibi, seeing as how he was seen by many at his mother’s party, but no one mentions alibis or the short time that he was on his own en-route to his office. Hunter seldom talks to his lawyer, who would probably advise him to sit back and let the police do their job. The media doesn’t seem to be after him either.
So, okay, I thought the plot was a little unrealistic. And, at times, I felt I was reading a treatise on the differences between rich and poor in Louisiana. There’s also a side plot involving Nicki’s deceased father that I didn’t think was needed. But there is some great detail about New Orleans in a post-Katrina setting. Then, of course, there’s the whodunit aspect. Who did kill Hunter’s partner? Will the killer come after Hunter and Nicki next? That’s the reason I kept reading. I wanted to get to the answers and, in the end, I got them.
Thank you to Harvest House Publishers for my complimentary Advanced Review Copy of Midnight on the Mississippi, which I received in exchange for my honest review.
April 15, 2016
Midnight on the Mississippi was a clean, suspenseful romance, listed as Christian fiction. Nicolette (Nicki) Price has come to New Orleans from her country home in Mississippi, fresh out of private investigation training and looking to make her way in the big city. When her cousin has his PI license suspended, Nicki seizes the opportunity to single-handedly solve her first big case--the murder of Hunter Galen's partner, James Nowak.
I like that Nicki, while very naïve (lack of life experience), has lots enthusiasm and grit that will allow her to succeed by sheer force of will. She is not sophisticated and smooth, like her clients, the wealthy Hunter Galen and his family. But, she is determined to live life her own way and to the fullest, and this zest for living covers over her lack of experience and her humble beginnings.
However, youthful zest and enthusiasm can also be trouble, if you jump in without backup plans. Nicki finds herself in a life threatening situation because she took information at face value, rather than consider it within the scope of a larger perception. Of course, these wayward moments add to the tension of the story when Nicki is reluctantly rescued by those whom she is supposed to save.
The plot is interesting enough that I enjoyed the entire book. However, the overall characters are a little lacking in depth and development. The conversation seems somewhat stilted and hesitant--perhaps formulaic. The romantic complications are predictable. The descriptions of New Orleans and the surrounding bayous and swamp areas is realistic and interesting. I like that the author mentioned the rebuilding process subsequent to Hurricane Katrina's onslaught--a good plug for this area that depends on tourism. Overall, a good first story in a clean, contemporary mystery series. I will eagerly be reading the next book in the series.
I like that Nicki, while very naïve (lack of life experience), has lots enthusiasm and grit that will allow her to succeed by sheer force of will. She is not sophisticated and smooth, like her clients, the wealthy Hunter Galen and his family. But, she is determined to live life her own way and to the fullest, and this zest for living covers over her lack of experience and her humble beginnings.
However, youthful zest and enthusiasm can also be trouble, if you jump in without backup plans. Nicki finds herself in a life threatening situation because she took information at face value, rather than consider it within the scope of a larger perception. Of course, these wayward moments add to the tension of the story when Nicki is reluctantly rescued by those whom she is supposed to save.
The plot is interesting enough that I enjoyed the entire book. However, the overall characters are a little lacking in depth and development. The conversation seems somewhat stilted and hesitant--perhaps formulaic. The romantic complications are predictable. The descriptions of New Orleans and the surrounding bayous and swamp areas is realistic and interesting. I like that the author mentioned the rebuilding process subsequent to Hurricane Katrina's onslaught--a good plug for this area that depends on tourism. Overall, a good first story in a clean, contemporary mystery series. I will eagerly be reading the next book in the series.
October 27, 2016
My book club, By The Book, loves a good mystery, and Midnight on The Mississippi by Mary Ellis provided just that. We loved the characters, the setting and the twisting plot. It also produced some very lively conversation and a desire to take a book field trip. All around, this book gets a thumbs up!
Nicki Price is a newly minted PI determined to leave her poor, rural roots behind. But can you really go forward without dealing with the past first? With perseverance, a bit of luck and a little swamp time, Nicki will find out just who killed Hunter Galen’s partner — hopefully before Hunter lands in jail and she ends up dead!
Let me say first that we loved, loved, loved the setting. New Orleans is one of my favorite places to visit and Ellis did a good job of bringing it and its environs to life. Her characters were fun, with many endearing and more that we loved to hate. The plot was a bit predictable and in some cases stretched credibility, but we decided to suspend disbelief and join in the fun.
There was only one thing that I took issue with. Nicki is a Mississippi girl and is often referred to by the author as a “delta” girl. Um, no. Nicki was from Natchez; the Delta (notice the capitalization) is located in the north western part of the state. It’s own distinctive region, the Delta has a rich culture and heritage, as rich as its black earth. While this discrepancy was a bit of an irritant for me, I decided to over look it. Regional details are difficult to get 100% right when you are not from the area. And if you are wondering how I know about such things, I lived in Mississippi for 8 years, married a Mississippi boy and had a true Delta Girl as a college roommate.
Minor issues aside, we loved this novel and will be reading book #2, What Happened on Beale Street, in 2017. We give it a highly recommended rating.
Highly recommended.
Audience: adults.
Nicki Price is a newly minted PI determined to leave her poor, rural roots behind. But can you really go forward without dealing with the past first? With perseverance, a bit of luck and a little swamp time, Nicki will find out just who killed Hunter Galen’s partner — hopefully before Hunter lands in jail and she ends up dead!
Let me say first that we loved, loved, loved the setting. New Orleans is one of my favorite places to visit and Ellis did a good job of bringing it and its environs to life. Her characters were fun, with many endearing and more that we loved to hate. The plot was a bit predictable and in some cases stretched credibility, but we decided to suspend disbelief and join in the fun.
There was only one thing that I took issue with. Nicki is a Mississippi girl and is often referred to by the author as a “delta” girl. Um, no. Nicki was from Natchez; the Delta (notice the capitalization) is located in the north western part of the state. It’s own distinctive region, the Delta has a rich culture and heritage, as rich as its black earth. While this discrepancy was a bit of an irritant for me, I decided to over look it. Regional details are difficult to get 100% right when you are not from the area. And if you are wondering how I know about such things, I lived in Mississippi for 8 years, married a Mississippi boy and had a true Delta Girl as a college roommate.
Minor issues aside, we loved this novel and will be reading book #2, What Happened on Beale Street, in 2017. We give it a highly recommended rating.
Highly recommended.
Audience: adults.
July 21, 2015
While this novel marks a change in the books previously written by Mary Ellis, this is not a bad thing. It shows how Ms. Ellis is growing and stretching her wings as an author. As you expect from Christian mystery novels, this is a good read with twists and suspense without blood, gore and extreme violence. "Midnight on the Mississippi" actually involves several mysteries...a cold case, a contemporary death of a business partner, some vicious pranks and an accidental death of a friend too. I had a hard time putting this book down to get anything done.
The characters are imperfect but human. As in other books by Mary Ellis, you get to know the characters and their surroundings, as if you are an active bystander. This is because the author takes pains to learn about the area she uses as the background so even dialogue, music and foods served are pitch-perfect. Flawed or not, many characters are the sort you would not mind calling friend-like the heroine and new P.I. Nicolette (Nikki, O'Lette) Price, Hunter Galen's Aunt Donna, and Nikki's maternal grandparents.
Southern life, post-Katrina New Orleans is where we spend most of our time in this novel. We experience the highs and lows of the Big Easy as we read. We get the jaded wealthy points of view through Ashley Menard and the Galen family who have lived there for centuries but see the sparkly possibility and exciting sides through the heroine's eyes. That point is not lost to Hunter Galen, murder suspect.
This novel is about more than mystery-solving. Second chances and hard work leading to success are also front and center. It is perfect for book groups and discussion question suggestions are included in the back of the book.
This review was not, in any way, effected by my having received a copy of the book from the publisher.
The characters are imperfect but human. As in other books by Mary Ellis, you get to know the characters and their surroundings, as if you are an active bystander. This is because the author takes pains to learn about the area she uses as the background so even dialogue, music and foods served are pitch-perfect. Flawed or not, many characters are the sort you would not mind calling friend-like the heroine and new P.I. Nicolette (Nikki, O'Lette) Price, Hunter Galen's Aunt Donna, and Nikki's maternal grandparents.
Southern life, post-Katrina New Orleans is where we spend most of our time in this novel. We experience the highs and lows of the Big Easy as we read. We get the jaded wealthy points of view through Ashley Menard and the Galen family who have lived there for centuries but see the sparkly possibility and exciting sides through the heroine's eyes. That point is not lost to Hunter Galen, murder suspect.
This novel is about more than mystery-solving. Second chances and hard work leading to success are also front and center. It is perfect for book groups and discussion question suggestions are included in the back of the book.
This review was not, in any way, effected by my having received a copy of the book from the publisher.
August 25, 2015
This is the first book in a new series for Mary Ellis. Since I have read her before I wanted to check this one out, and I was not disappointed. What a captivating on the edge of your seat thriller. I could not put this one down. It was full of twists and turns, and at the end when I thought I had an idea of who the killer was um not a chance! I was way off. I love books that keep me guessing and throw all kinds of curve balls. Just when I thought all is well, something else would happen. It really had my emotions riled up. I was glad to see the main characters praying and asking for God's guidance in their lives even though they were going through some rough stuff emotionally and physically.
I felt the heat of the south in this one, from the swamps of Louisiana, to the languid Mississippi river, Midnight on the Mississippi is one fast paced read. I was captured right from the beginning. The scenery was so realistic and the characters so lifelike it was like I was actually there. I do have to say I am not into swamps so reading about them kind of gave me the goose bumps, but in another aspect they sounded beautiful.
This novel deals with the rich and the poor. It is a shame how some people are treated just because of the side of the tracks they live on. I was glad to see Nicki facing her fears and overcoming them so that she was able to go back and shove it in Ashley's face. Let me tell you that character really grated my nerves. This one could become a movie for sure! I even found myself caught up in the romance between Nicki and Hunter. I was rooting for them all the way to the end! I would recommend this one to all my friends who enjoy a good romantic thriller. This one is definitely worth the investment and I highly recommend it!
I felt the heat of the south in this one, from the swamps of Louisiana, to the languid Mississippi river, Midnight on the Mississippi is one fast paced read. I was captured right from the beginning. The scenery was so realistic and the characters so lifelike it was like I was actually there. I do have to say I am not into swamps so reading about them kind of gave me the goose bumps, but in another aspect they sounded beautiful.
This novel deals with the rich and the poor. It is a shame how some people are treated just because of the side of the tracks they live on. I was glad to see Nicki facing her fears and overcoming them so that she was able to go back and shove it in Ashley's face. Let me tell you that character really grated my nerves. This one could become a movie for sure! I even found myself caught up in the romance between Nicki and Hunter. I was rooting for them all the way to the end! I would recommend this one to all my friends who enjoy a good romantic thriller. This one is definitely worth the investment and I highly recommend it!
January 8, 2016
Thrilling, nerve-racking, often intense, are just a few of the words I am using to describe this novel. Hunter Galen, a well-known business man, high society name in New Orleans, finds his partner dead. And to top it off, guess who is being accused of committing the crime. Even after suspecting that his partner, James, may have been up to know good, Hunter tried to ignore it, until now. James was his friend - or was he?
Nicki Price, country gal from Mississippi, is direly in need of a job. With her recently acquired PI license, and hopefully soon to be acquired carrying permit, she barges her way into her cousin's New Orleans office demanding to be hired. When her plans go a bit amiss, she weasels her way into her cousins newest case - Hunter's murder of his friend James- using her PI skills or ... something like that. To the amazement of both Hunter and her cousin, she is actually pretty good at investigating. So good, she is rubbing people the wrong way, and finds herself in danger numerous times.
Will they discover who the real killer is before someone else gets killed? Full of twists and turns, surprises, and a few narrow escapes, Mary Ellis takes you on a thrilling roller coaster ride of adventure. This is my first Mary Ellis book. For me it was a quick read, once I got started. Honestly, I had a hard time putting it down, and found myself often reading when I really should have been doing other "more important" things. I totally enjoyed this book. The plot, as well as, the subplot were extremely well written. And I was somewhat surprised at the end result. Mary definitely kept me guessing.
I was blessed with this book by the Harvest House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. I am not required to review the book in a positive manner.
Nicki Price, country gal from Mississippi, is direly in need of a job. With her recently acquired PI license, and hopefully soon to be acquired carrying permit, she barges her way into her cousin's New Orleans office demanding to be hired. When her plans go a bit amiss, she weasels her way into her cousins newest case - Hunter's murder of his friend James- using her PI skills or ... something like that. To the amazement of both Hunter and her cousin, she is actually pretty good at investigating. So good, she is rubbing people the wrong way, and finds herself in danger numerous times.
Will they discover who the real killer is before someone else gets killed? Full of twists and turns, surprises, and a few narrow escapes, Mary Ellis takes you on a thrilling roller coaster ride of adventure. This is my first Mary Ellis book. For me it was a quick read, once I got started. Honestly, I had a hard time putting it down, and found myself often reading when I really should have been doing other "more important" things. I totally enjoyed this book. The plot, as well as, the subplot were extremely well written. And I was somewhat surprised at the end result. Mary definitely kept me guessing.
I was blessed with this book by the Harvest House Publishers in exchange for my honest review. I am not required to review the book in a positive manner.
July 21, 2015
Nicki Price is 25 years old, and comes from a poor country family; freshly graduated from IP school and ready to help her cousin Nate with his IP business. She presents a case for her services to Nate; he's not buying, that is, until his client over rules him. Nate has a rich society client charged with murdering his partner and doesn't want Nicki in the way. Nicki is attracted to said accused murderer, Hunter Galen and ready to ply her trade of investigating. Hunter is not just a privileged society boy, he is a hard working, hard playing high powered stock trader that loves the risk, and it doesn't hurt that he is as handsome as sin in the Big Easy. He is prime suspect number one in the murder of his crooked partner. He also has a spoiled society almost fiancee. The dance of attraction and love between Hunter and Nicki begins. It is will not be without twists and turns, then more turns, nor is it a smooth ride, mysteries, murders new and old, blackmail, vengeful almost fiancees, and the games people play. We watch Hunter learn to see the world through Nicki's eyes and Nicki learns to let go of old preconceived notions about the wealthy as she sees Hunter's world thru the good he does with his wealth. This is a fast paced story, which does not lag for the reader, and the plots keep coming, it will hold your interest to the last page. I didn't want to put it down; I just had to know whom, what and when.
I recommend this book to anyone that loves a good clean Christian love story with a strong hero and heroine.
I received this book from the publisher and Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I recommend this book to anyone that loves a good clean Christian love story with a strong hero and heroine.
I received this book from the publisher and Netgalley in return for an honest review.
June 28, 2016
I received this book as an ARC through Netgalley and will in return give my honest opinion.
I adored this book! I love how the rich boy falls for the backwoods girl. I love how the bad guys all got what was coming to them!
I could "hear" the southern drawl in the dialog and it was all so authentic. There was no sex and naughty in this book and you know what?!?! I loved it. I was so worried it would bore me but it made me smile and want more. If I didn't have to work I would have read this book in one sitting.
Character development was as good as it gets. I feel like I know everyone of them on a personal level. There was mystery, suspense, lies, murder, pranks, laughter, love, a look into the world of shady business, and so much more.
The only negative I would want to point out is I just didn't feel that Nikki really was affected by the death of her friend because really it was because of her. I feel that was rushed. But then again knowing her I believe that is how she copes. And if I were in trouble just let me say I would have her on my payroll.
And Hunter is the most admirable, charming, adorable, and just downright lovely man. And last but not least this book makes you want to call your family and tell them you love them. Nikki's upbringing may have not been rich by all means but she had something so much better then money. She had love. I just can't get enough of her grandparents. And Hunter's love for his family is just down right touching.
So if you want a book full of mystery, love, laughter, vengeance, murder and a just damn good book...this is a must read.
I adored this book! I love how the rich boy falls for the backwoods girl. I love how the bad guys all got what was coming to them!
I could "hear" the southern drawl in the dialog and it was all so authentic. There was no sex and naughty in this book and you know what?!?! I loved it. I was so worried it would bore me but it made me smile and want more. If I didn't have to work I would have read this book in one sitting.
Character development was as good as it gets. I feel like I know everyone of them on a personal level. There was mystery, suspense, lies, murder, pranks, laughter, love, a look into the world of shady business, and so much more.
The only negative I would want to point out is I just didn't feel that Nikki really was affected by the death of her friend because really it was because of her. I feel that was rushed. But then again knowing her I believe that is how she copes. And if I were in trouble just let me say I would have her on my payroll.
And Hunter is the most admirable, charming, adorable, and just downright lovely man. And last but not least this book makes you want to call your family and tell them you love them. Nikki's upbringing may have not been rich by all means but she had something so much better then money. She had love. I just can't get enough of her grandparents. And Hunter's love for his family is just down right touching.
So if you want a book full of mystery, love, laughter, vengeance, murder and a just damn good book...this is a must read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2015
This is the first book in the Secrets of the South Mysteries series and a departure from the previous books that I’ve read by this author. It wasn’t what I expected but I really enjoyed it. I thought it would be gritty and dark (just based on the cover, I guess) but it was actually a not-too-edgy and at times, humorous, story. I really rooted for the main character, Nicki. She grew up in poor circumstances but was trying to improve her lot in life by becoming a private investigator with her cousin Nate’s agency in New Orleans. To Nate’s chagrin, Nicki invites herself on a murder case involving affluent Hunter Galen. Nicki is tenacious, funny, resourceful, and says what she is thinking---a heroine you can really root for. She has shades of Stephanie Plum’s character (from a general market fiction series). Hunter was a likable, if sometimes naïve, guy. He was letting everyone dictate his life but he does eventually grow a backbone. Their interactions were pretty entertaining. The mystery was interesting although I would have liked the solving of the mystery to happen earlier, the story seemed more focused on Nicki and Hunter in the first half of the book. The action and twists ramp up in the second half, including a secondary mystery surrounding the death of Nicki’s father when she was a child. I appreciated the author’s description of the New Orleans setting and the swamps and bayous in the area, I could picture them in my mind’s eye while reading. The story is light in overt spiritual content. Overall, I enjoyed this story and recommend it to readers who like romantic suspense with doses of humor.
* I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
* I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this suspenseful mystery by Mary Ellis. She keeps the reader guessing and turning the pages. I will definitely want to read the next book in this series.
Hunter Galen's partner is found murdered. Hunter was getting calls from him all day and even during a large family party and now he's dead. Of course, he is at the top of the list of suspects. As he searches for clues to who did the crime and why his partner would be murdered he discovers shady dealings he knew nothing about. Enter Nikki Price, a novice private detective who convinces Hunter to let her take the case. As she looks for evidence to prove Hunter innocent someone doesn't want her snooping around. You will need to read this adeptly written novel to see for yourself how this murder is solved.
I highly recommend Midnight on the Mississippi the first of the South Mysteries.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and I gladly have given my honest review.
Hunter Galen's partner is found murdered. Hunter was getting calls from him all day and even during a large family party and now he's dead. Of course, he is at the top of the list of suspects. As he searches for clues to who did the crime and why his partner would be murdered he discovers shady dealings he knew nothing about. Enter Nikki Price, a novice private detective who convinces Hunter to let her take the case. As she looks for evidence to prove Hunter innocent someone doesn't want her snooping around. You will need to read this adeptly written novel to see for yourself how this murder is solved.
I highly recommend Midnight on the Mississippi the first of the South Mysteries.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and I gladly have given my honest review.
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