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The Last Owners
Missing persons and half a million dollars in jewelry…
When Courtney purchases a quaint house in the countryside, her dreams of transforming it into a cozy, inviting inn appear within reach. But beneath the charming exterior lurks a tangle of dark secrets. The previous owners vanished without a trace—eight years ago. Their story is anything but forgotten.
Driven by curiosity and a sense of justice, Courtney and her husband Alex team up with Gary, the desperate son of the missing couple, to unravel the chilling mystery. The clock is ticking—rumors swirl of a stolen half a million dollars in glittering jewelry, lost the very night Gary's parents disappeared. Now, with the promise of treasure drawing fortune hunters to dig up the tranquil backyard, danger is never far away. And when a fresh murder shatters the peace, Courtney realizes that the truth might be buried even deeper than she feared.
Renovating the inn becomes a race against time, with secrets lurking in every floorboard and every person walking through the door. As the stakes rise and the body count grows, Courtney must decide how much she’s willing to risk to bring the truth to light—and whether some dreams are worth dying for.
When Courtney purchases a quaint house in the countryside, her dreams of transforming it into a cozy, inviting inn appear within reach. But beneath the charming exterior lurks a tangle of dark secrets. The previous owners vanished without a trace—eight years ago. Their story is anything but forgotten.
Driven by curiosity and a sense of justice, Courtney and her husband Alex team up with Gary, the desperate son of the missing couple, to unravel the chilling mystery. The clock is ticking—rumors swirl of a stolen half a million dollars in glittering jewelry, lost the very night Gary's parents disappeared. Now, with the promise of treasure drawing fortune hunters to dig up the tranquil backyard, danger is never far away. And when a fresh murder shatters the peace, Courtney realizes that the truth might be buried even deeper than she feared.
Renovating the inn becomes a race against time, with secrets lurking in every floorboard and every person walking through the door. As the stakes rise and the body count grows, Courtney must decide how much she’s willing to risk to bring the truth to light—and whether some dreams are worth dying for.
301 pages, Paperback
Published September 18, 2025
About the author
Jean Rezab
16 books250 followersJean Rezab writes from her home in North Dakota. Having grown up on a farm, she enjoys all things country, especially wildflowers, wheat fields, and winding lanes.
An excerpt of her writing has appeared in Humanities of ND Magazine. She likes to entertain her readers with mysteries and women’s fiction containing messages of love and forgiveness.
Her favorite authors while growing up were Mary Higgins Clark, Agatha Christie, and Debbie Macomber.
An excerpt of her writing has appeared in Humanities of ND Magazine. She likes to entertain her readers with mysteries and women’s fiction containing messages of love and forgiveness.
Her favorite authors while growing up were Mary Higgins Clark, Agatha Christie, and Debbie Macomber.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 14, 2026
Alex and Courtney are renovating a farmhouse to transform into an inn. Thrilled with the idea of capturing their dream, they never expect for the secrets held there. When one of the workers they hired is murdered, paired with the unusual circumstances happening around the property. Courtney works with Gary, the son of the pervious owners who went missing, to find out what truly happened to his parents.
Clever mystery that kept me captivated. I liked all the details about the farmhouse. It was easy to capture the spirit of what Alex and Courtney were trying to achieve. Had a lot of surprises through out the book. I look forward to more in this series, several characters I found curious to read more about.
Clever mystery that kept me captivated. I liked all the details about the farmhouse. It was easy to capture the spirit of what Alex and Courtney were trying to achieve. Had a lot of surprises through out the book. I look forward to more in this series, several characters I found curious to read more about.
May 11, 2026
The Millers' house has a sad history: on the day the owners were to leave and begin a new life in Virginia, they went missing. Their son, Gary, now a Deputy Sheriff, has sold the property to Alex and Courtney who plan to turn it into an inn. When one of the workers is murdered, it's obvious that the mystery still haunts the place . Courtney sets out to solve the mysteries and bring peace to Gary.
Non-Christians may find the religious references off-putting, but to me the problem was that the pacing in this story felt slow. I'm afraid I sighed when the story didn't end with the resolution. Though the plot was a fantastic premise, I wasn't enthralled.
Non-Christians may find the religious references off-putting, but to me the problem was that the pacing in this story felt slow. I'm afraid I sighed when the story didn't end with the resolution. Though the plot was a fantastic premise, I wasn't enthralled.
April 29, 2026
The Last Owners — Jean Rezab (aka: “I bought a dream farmhouse and it came with miss-ing people, half a million in jewellery, and a murder. Love that for me.”)
This one is a 3 to 3.5 star small town mystery with a killer setup and a softer punch than you wanted. It’s got all the ingredients: a dream farmhouse, a cold case, a missing couple, and a new owner who walks straight into a decades old secret like she’s tripping over a loose floorboard.
Courtney just wants to turn her cute countryside house into an inn — adorable, wholesome, HGTV energy — except the previous owners vanished eight years ago along with a mountain of jewellery. And suddenly she’s teaming up with her husband Alex and Gary, the missing couple’s son, to unravel what happened. It’s very “accidental amateur sleuthing with emotional baggage.”
The atmosphere works. Southwestern North Dakota feels quiet, wide open, and just eerie enough to hold a secret that refuses to stay buried. The mystery itself is twisty in that classic whodunit way — not flashy, not high octane, but steady and intriguing.
Where it wobbles is the emotional impact. You wanted more tension, more stakes, more oomph. The pacing drifts at times, and even when a fresh murder hits, the story stays in cozy traditional territory instead of leaning into the darker potential it hints at. It’s enjoyable, but not the kind of mystery that grabs you by the throat.
Still, the core mystery is satisfying, the unraveling is fun, and the premise is strong enough to keep you turning pages. It’s the kind of book you read with mild curiosity rather than white knuckled urgency — a solid, quietly twisty mystery with a great setup and a gentle payoff.
This one is a 3 to 3.5 star small town mystery with a killer setup and a softer punch than you wanted. It’s got all the ingredients: a dream farmhouse, a cold case, a missing couple, and a new owner who walks straight into a decades old secret like she’s tripping over a loose floorboard.
Courtney just wants to turn her cute countryside house into an inn — adorable, wholesome, HGTV energy — except the previous owners vanished eight years ago along with a mountain of jewellery. And suddenly she’s teaming up with her husband Alex and Gary, the missing couple’s son, to unravel what happened. It’s very “accidental amateur sleuthing with emotional baggage.”
The atmosphere works. Southwestern North Dakota feels quiet, wide open, and just eerie enough to hold a secret that refuses to stay buried. The mystery itself is twisty in that classic whodunit way — not flashy, not high octane, but steady and intriguing.
Where it wobbles is the emotional impact. You wanted more tension, more stakes, more oomph. The pacing drifts at times, and even when a fresh murder hits, the story stays in cozy traditional territory instead of leaning into the darker potential it hints at. It’s enjoyable, but not the kind of mystery that grabs you by the throat.
Still, the core mystery is satisfying, the unraveling is fun, and the premise is strong enough to keep you turning pages. It’s the kind of book you read with mild curiosity rather than white knuckled urgency — a solid, quietly twisty mystery with a great setup and a gentle payoff.
May 27, 2026
Enjoyable story, but a bit on the “sappy” side. Seemed to me like a Hallmark Special, if you like that sort of thing. I can read Hallmark stories, but only in small doses.
April 28, 2026
The Last Owners (Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries Book 1)
By Jean Rezab
After reading The Last Owners, I found myself thoroughly enjoying the experience and am now eagerly awaiting the next instalment in the Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries series. The storyline in this first book was engaging, and I hope the author maintains moving forward. If you’re a fan of a well-crafted murder mystery, this book is definitely worth picking up. It’s a great read that will keep you entertained and guessing throughout. I highly recommend grabbing a copy if you enjoy stories filled with intrigue and suspense. The characters, particularly Courtney and Alex, stood out to me. Their development over the course of the story was impressive, making them both relatable and memorable. Their journeys added depth to the narrative and contributed significantly to my enjoyment of the book.
From start to finish, the book is filled with twists and turns that keep you on your toes. The plot is unpredictable, ensuring that you’re constantly guessing what might happen next. The author’s storytelling style draws you in from the very beginning and holds your attention until the very end. Although Jean Rezab is a relatively new author to me, I was impressed by how quickly I was drawn into the story and how well-developed the plot was. The compelling characters, engaging mystery, and strong pacing all combined to make this an enjoyable read. I look forward to seeing what the next book in the series will bring.
By Jean Rezab
After reading The Last Owners, I found myself thoroughly enjoying the experience and am now eagerly awaiting the next instalment in the Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries series. The storyline in this first book was engaging, and I hope the author maintains moving forward. If you’re a fan of a well-crafted murder mystery, this book is definitely worth picking up. It’s a great read that will keep you entertained and guessing throughout. I highly recommend grabbing a copy if you enjoy stories filled with intrigue and suspense. The characters, particularly Courtney and Alex, stood out to me. Their development over the course of the story was impressive, making them both relatable and memorable. Their journeys added depth to the narrative and contributed significantly to my enjoyment of the book.
From start to finish, the book is filled with twists and turns that keep you on your toes. The plot is unpredictable, ensuring that you’re constantly guessing what might happen next. The author’s storytelling style draws you in from the very beginning and holds your attention until the very end. Although Jean Rezab is a relatively new author to me, I was impressed by how quickly I was drawn into the story and how well-developed the plot was. The compelling characters, engaging mystery, and strong pacing all combined to make this an enjoyable read. I look forward to seeing what the next book in the series will bring.
May 31, 2026
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I wasn't disappointed. She has a good way of developing the characters so the reader gets to know them, their quirks and strengths. Courtney Richmond is the lead character who keeps the story moving. She and her husband, Alex, have purchased a grande old house in a small town are turning it into a country inn, which is a very big project. Courtney has special plans for it and detailed ideas for how it should look.
This project becomes a side story when the bodies of the former owners are discovered buried behind the house. And the surprising thing is that they have been missing for 8 years. Their son, Gary, is the one who inherited the house and decided to sell it to the Richmonds. Courtney, being the always curious one, is determined to find out what happened. You can probably guess that she makes this her priority, not only for herself and Alex, but maybe more importantly for Gary, to give him closure.
Because this is not a very long book, I won't disclose any more details, but suffice it to say that there are many twists and turns that keep the reader guessing what will happen next!
This project becomes a side story when the bodies of the former owners are discovered buried behind the house. And the surprising thing is that they have been missing for 8 years. Their son, Gary, is the one who inherited the house and decided to sell it to the Richmonds. Courtney, being the always curious one, is determined to find out what happened. You can probably guess that she makes this her priority, not only for herself and Alex, but maybe more importantly for Gary, to give him closure.
Because this is not a very long book, I won't disclose any more details, but suffice it to say that there are many twists and turns that keep the reader guessing what will happen next!
January 2, 2026
The Last Owners by Jean Rezab is a delightful cozy murder mystery with an intriguing plot and engaging characters.
Courtney and Alex are desperate for a fresh start. After Alex's release from prison and his ongoing exoneration for a crime he didn’t commit, the couple purchases a charming country house with plans to renovate it into Courtney’s dream inn. But the property comes with a mysterious past—the previous owners vanished eight years earlier.
Often labeled a “busybody,” though she prefers the term "curious", Courtney can't resist asking questions. As she settles into the small-town community, she uncovers secrets tied to the property's past—secrets that threaten both their plans and their peace of mind.
With mounting obstacles, financial pressure, and a growing sense that something isn't quite right, Courtney must decide how far to allow her curiosity to take her.
Packed with small-town charm and gentle suspense this cozy mystery will keep you turning pages. You’ll have fun seeing if you can solve the mystery before Courtney does.
Courtney and Alex are desperate for a fresh start. After Alex's release from prison and his ongoing exoneration for a crime he didn’t commit, the couple purchases a charming country house with plans to renovate it into Courtney’s dream inn. But the property comes with a mysterious past—the previous owners vanished eight years earlier.
Often labeled a “busybody,” though she prefers the term "curious", Courtney can't resist asking questions. As she settles into the small-town community, she uncovers secrets tied to the property's past—secrets that threaten both their plans and their peace of mind.
With mounting obstacles, financial pressure, and a growing sense that something isn't quite right, Courtney must decide how far to allow her curiosity to take her.
Packed with small-town charm and gentle suspense this cozy mystery will keep you turning pages. You’ll have fun seeing if you can solve the mystery before Courtney does.
April 27, 2026
I enjoyed reading this cozy mystery story. This is a newer author for me in which I not only enjoyed their writing skills but also their attention to details. I enjoyed the author’s ability to pull me into the story from the start and keep me engaged to the end. This is a well developed story about what happens when you buy a country home and the previous owner has disappeared. Courtney and her husband buy a home in the country. The previous owners have disappeared. Courtney is now determined to figure out what happened to them. Will she figure out this mystery or will the secrets stay buried? I enjoyed Courtney and what she brought to the story. She is a strong, determined character. I also enjoyed how well developed all the characters are in the story and how they made me want to know more. I enjoyed watching the growth of the story which made it easy and entertaining to read. This is a fast paced, hard to put down story and one you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend this story.
May 13, 2026
The Last Owners (Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries Book 1) by Jean Rezab, I loved this first installment in the Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries and can't wait to read the next one. This is the story of Courtney & Alex who are looking for a brand new start. Alex has just been exonerated from prison for a crime he didn't commit. They decide to buy a old historic home to refurbish it and give them time to heal and find a new home and community. Courtney has always dreamed of having an Inn and this house could be the answers to that dream. Courtney is very curious about the house so she asks all the questions about it. She finds out that the man who sold it to them once lived there with his parents and his parents disappeared and were never found. Courtney and her son are even more determined to find out what happened to them. Once they begin to investigate they find all kinds of mysteries and even a new murder occurs they begin to wonder if this mystery is really worth trying to solve. Will they stay alive long enough to find out what truly happened?
April 29, 2026
3 Stars
The Last Owners by Jean Rezab is a cozy mystery that blends small-town warmth with an undercurrent of intrigue. It’s the first book in the Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries series, and it sets the stage for what feels like a promising blend of character-driven storytelling and puzzling whodunits.
We follow Courtney and Alex, a couple seeking a fresh start by purchasing the Crocus Hill Inn …. But their dream begins to tarnish when a chilling twist comes to light, discovering that the previous owners had mysteriously vanished eight years earlier. And so the story begins as our MC/s can’t resist digging into the mystery and the inn’s shadowy past. As the mystery unravels and clues are unearthed, things take an intriguing turn.
Although was not the high-octane ‘thriller’ I might have expected, I did enjoy this slow-burn mystery wrapped in the comfort of a small-town setting.
Looking forward to seeing what comes next in the Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries.
Happy Reading…
The Last Owners by Jean Rezab is a cozy mystery that blends small-town warmth with an undercurrent of intrigue. It’s the first book in the Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries series, and it sets the stage for what feels like a promising blend of character-driven storytelling and puzzling whodunits.
We follow Courtney and Alex, a couple seeking a fresh start by purchasing the Crocus Hill Inn …. But their dream begins to tarnish when a chilling twist comes to light, discovering that the previous owners had mysteriously vanished eight years earlier. And so the story begins as our MC/s can’t resist digging into the mystery and the inn’s shadowy past. As the mystery unravels and clues are unearthed, things take an intriguing turn.
Although was not the high-octane ‘thriller’ I might have expected, I did enjoy this slow-burn mystery wrapped in the comfort of a small-town setting.
Looking forward to seeing what comes next in the Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries.
Happy Reading…
May 3, 2026
This was honestly the perfect book to read on vacation. This was a new author for me and I will definitely be looking into other works by her. I was immediately drawn into the story with the last owners' dinner party and I had to know what was going on and what would happen next and boom I was right into the thick of this mystery. I was pleasantly surprised with the small Christian elements such as Courtney mentioning prayer and talking to God to Eric. I can appreciate the message and the fact that it did not come across as preachy or in your face so those readers who do not practice that same faith practices aren't going to feel pressured. It is just a part of the character development, but not one that makes the reader feel uncomfortable. It is fast paced, hard to put down. Thank goodness for mommy down time by the pool while the kids played with the husband because I was obsessed with this book.
May 12, 2026
The Last Owners by Jean Rezab is the first book in the Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries Series. This is the first book I've read by this author, but it will not be the last. The Last Owners is a cozy mystery that pulled me in from the very beginning. I couldn't help but attempt to unravel the mystery of the disappearance of the previous owners right along with Courtney and Alex. The world-building is detailed, transporting me to the small-town life of Elm City; I could feel the anxiety behind Courtney's calm façade, see the holes made in the inn's backyard, and feel the shock and understanding as the mystery starts to unfold. The characters are realistic and believable, flawed like the rest of us but still lovable. While I was hoping for a more intense, in-your-face experience, this mystery unfolds slowly and subtly, but with no less impact. I cannot wait to read more in this series and more books by Jean Rezab.
May 12, 2026
Eight years ago, Valerie and Simon Miller left Elm City, seemingly falling off the edge of the earth – well, at least a ravine in South Dakota. After the requisite amount of time, their only son, Gary has them declared dead and proceeds to sell the place that the Millers called home for two years. Courtney and Alex Richmond fall in love with the property, purchase it, and are in the process of renovating it into a wholistic care center. As renovation proceeds, the Miller’s secrets are about to be uncovered.
With a richly imagined cast of characters, Rezab brings to life the type of cozy murder mystery reminiscent of Jessica Fletcher and Cabot Cove. They are richly drawn and varied in their personalities, so who should the Richmond’s trust? The book is fast paced and thrilling. The couple at the center of the novel are deeply Christian, and it makes for a refreshing change from many fiction books currently on the shelves. 5 Stars
With a richly imagined cast of characters, Rezab brings to life the type of cozy murder mystery reminiscent of Jessica Fletcher and Cabot Cove. They are richly drawn and varied in their personalities, so who should the Richmond’s trust? The book is fast paced and thrilling. The couple at the center of the novel are deeply Christian, and it makes for a refreshing change from many fiction books currently on the shelves. 5 Stars
May 15, 2026
The Last Owners (Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries Book 1) by Jean Rezab.
4 of 5 Stars.
An enjoyable and engaging cozy mystery which kept me happily turning the pages. Courtney and her husband Alex buy a charming country home in southwestern North Dakota, with plans to turn it into a cozy inn. They soon discover that their dream farmhouse comes with its own mystery, and the couple are determined to solve it. The farmhouse belonged to a couple, who along with their small fortune in jewellery, disappeared eight years ago. Courtney and the missing couple’s son search for the truth as new clues emerge and they discover long-buried secrets. The intriguing storyline and plot twists kept me hooked throughout, and I enjoyed working out the mystery element along with the characters. Both the characters and the small town setting were brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative, making me feel fully immersed in the story. I look forward to the next book in this new mystery series.
4 of 5 Stars.
An enjoyable and engaging cozy mystery which kept me happily turning the pages. Courtney and her husband Alex buy a charming country home in southwestern North Dakota, with plans to turn it into a cozy inn. They soon discover that their dream farmhouse comes with its own mystery, and the couple are determined to solve it. The farmhouse belonged to a couple, who along with their small fortune in jewellery, disappeared eight years ago. Courtney and the missing couple’s son search for the truth as new clues emerge and they discover long-buried secrets. The intriguing storyline and plot twists kept me hooked throughout, and I enjoyed working out the mystery element along with the characters. Both the characters and the small town setting were brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative, making me feel fully immersed in the story. I look forward to the next book in this new mystery series.
May 16, 2026
The cover looks so inviting , you just want to climb in and take occupation of that beautiful home ( that is until I knew its history )
When Gary left for service 8 years ago people assumed his parents moved away , he’s home again and he sells the home to a couple , Courtney and Alex , that have dreams of turning it into an Inn .
Repairs and renovations starts , the Millers turn up , deceased so it’s not that they moved away as everyone assumed 🤷♀️who killed them and why is the question on everyone’s lips …..
Now Courtney isn’t afraid to ask questions , let’s say she has an enquiring mind 😉things definitely are not what they seem and they’re quite a few secrets being uncovered …
I was kept on my toes , just as I think I’ve solved it another turn in the story proves me wrong and there’s just something about small towns that gives me the happy fuzzies 🙃so it was a “chill “combo 😂
Looking forward to the rest of the series 🥰📚
When Gary left for service 8 years ago people assumed his parents moved away , he’s home again and he sells the home to a couple , Courtney and Alex , that have dreams of turning it into an Inn .
Repairs and renovations starts , the Millers turn up , deceased so it’s not that they moved away as everyone assumed 🤷♀️who killed them and why is the question on everyone’s lips …..
Now Courtney isn’t afraid to ask questions , let’s say she has an enquiring mind 😉things definitely are not what they seem and they’re quite a few secrets being uncovered …
I was kept on my toes , just as I think I’ve solved it another turn in the story proves me wrong and there’s just something about small towns that gives me the happy fuzzies 🙃so it was a “chill “combo 😂
Looking forward to the rest of the series 🥰📚
May 2, 2026
I really enjoyed The Last Owners by Jean Rezab. This cozy mystery had such a charming small-town atmosphere, and the Crocus Hill Inn setting immediately pulled me in. I loved how the story balanced mystery, family dynamics, and a touch of humor without ever losing momentum.
The characters felt genuine and relatable, especially the main character, whose determination and curiosity kept me invested from beginning to end. The mystery itself was well-paced, with enough twists and surprises to keep me guessing while still feeling believable.
What I appreciated most was the warm, inviting writing style. It made the book easy to settle into, and I found myself wanting to spend more time in this world long after I finished. This was a strong start to the Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries series, and I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next book.
The characters felt genuine and relatable, especially the main character, whose determination and curiosity kept me invested from beginning to end. The mystery itself was well-paced, with enough twists and surprises to keep me guessing while still feeling believable.
What I appreciated most was the warm, inviting writing style. It made the book easy to settle into, and I found myself wanting to spend more time in this world long after I finished. This was a strong start to the Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries series, and I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next book.
May 5, 2026
This was such an enjoyable read! It is the first in the series, and first I've read by this author, but at times it felt like there was a backstory that I wasn't privy to. I had to double check that it was indeed the first and I hadn't accidentally started in the middle of an established series.
Aside from that, the characters were well-written, the story line was unique and I thoroughly enjoyed it! It is a religious book in that it mentions God and the main characters are Christian and will readily admit that/witness to those around them, but it does not come off as preachy or disingenuous. I do love that the ending was wrapped up in a realistic way and didn't leave off on a cliff hanger or any unanswered questions. Easy read, clean, slightly romantic in how the husband and wife duo are towards each other. Will definitely read more.
Aside from that, the characters were well-written, the story line was unique and I thoroughly enjoyed it! It is a religious book in that it mentions God and the main characters are Christian and will readily admit that/witness to those around them, but it does not come off as preachy or disingenuous. I do love that the ending was wrapped up in a realistic way and didn't leave off on a cliff hanger or any unanswered questions. Easy read, clean, slightly romantic in how the husband and wife duo are towards each other. Will definitely read more.
May 6, 2026
This story follows Courtney and her husband Alex, who buy a countryside home to turn into an inn. But the previous owners disappeared years ago, and Courtney can’t help but dig into the mystery.
With help from the missing couple’s son, she starts uncovering secrets that were meant to stay hidden. The setting has a nice small town feel, and the mystery is steady and interesting with a few twists.
I liked the characters, especially Courtney. She’s curious and determined, and her relationship with Alex adds a nice touch. That said, I wanted a bit more tension. Some parts felt slow, and even the bigger moments didn’t hit as hard as they could have. I was expecting a lot more action to the novel but it just kind of fizzled out. Regardless it’s a cozy, easy read with a good mystery and a strong setup, even if it stays on the lighter side.
With help from the missing couple’s son, she starts uncovering secrets that were meant to stay hidden. The setting has a nice small town feel, and the mystery is steady and interesting with a few twists.
I liked the characters, especially Courtney. She’s curious and determined, and her relationship with Alex adds a nice touch. That said, I wanted a bit more tension. Some parts felt slow, and even the bigger moments didn’t hit as hard as they could have. I was expecting a lot more action to the novel but it just kind of fizzled out. Regardless it’s a cozy, easy read with a good mystery and a strong setup, even if it stays on the lighter side.
May 10, 2026
This book was really good. I usually like to try and solve the murders as I read the story but this one was a little hard for me. I kept thinking maybe it was this person and then I wasn't sure.
The story starts with Courtney and Alex buying a house from Gary, whose parents came up missing, a long time ago. People thought they had moved while Gary was in the service. Now Gary is home and no one has seen or heard from them in over 8 years.
While Courtney and Alex are starting to have repairs done on the house to have it transformed into the Inn that Courtney always wanted, someone digs holes in the backyard and uncovers the bodies of the Millers. Now they have to find out who murdered them.
If you want a book that will keep you on your toes trying to figure out who killed them then this book is for you. I think you will enjoy it as much as I did.
The story starts with Courtney and Alex buying a house from Gary, whose parents came up missing, a long time ago. People thought they had moved while Gary was in the service. Now Gary is home and no one has seen or heard from them in over 8 years.
While Courtney and Alex are starting to have repairs done on the house to have it transformed into the Inn that Courtney always wanted, someone digs holes in the backyard and uncovers the bodies of the Millers. Now they have to find out who murdered them.
If you want a book that will keep you on your toes trying to figure out who killed them then this book is for you. I think you will enjoy it as much as I did.
May 14, 2026
It's a fixer upper house and Courtney and Alex are ready to tackle it. There's just a few issues, the main one being the last owners are missing, along with a sizeable amount of jewelry. The couple decides to help out the son of the previous owners who is now a police officer. At what expense will each of them go to solve this?
I love that this is a "clean" book to read first of all. There are some who may not appreciate the religious undertones in the book. It's hard to find great reads that are not full of unnecessary junk. The mystery and suspense of this is not the high excitement that I am used reading. It's a more calm, slow scenario. It's a very enjoyable read though with relatable characters. I am one who enjoys a resolve to an issue and that didn't come with this story. I do look forward to the next book in this series.
I love that this is a "clean" book to read first of all. There are some who may not appreciate the religious undertones in the book. It's hard to find great reads that are not full of unnecessary junk. The mystery and suspense of this is not the high excitement that I am used reading. It's a more calm, slow scenario. It's a very enjoyable read though with relatable characters. I am one who enjoys a resolve to an issue and that didn't come with this story. I do look forward to the next book in this series.
April 28, 2026
The Last Owners by Jean Razab is book one of the Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries. When Courtney and her husband buy a house that they want to convert into an inn, they learn that the previous owners had disappeared. Courtney’s curiosity finds her teaming up with the missing couple’s son to find out what happened. I love the characters. They are well written, and I like the fact that Courtney’s husband, Alex, has a difficult past. He was recently released from prison for a crime that he didn’t commit, and he’s still trying to prove his innocence. The story is written with all the small-town charm you expect, with mystery and suspense thrown in. This is a great foundational book for the series to build upon.
May 15, 2026
This is the first book in the Crocus Hill Inn Mystery series. This was an interesting small town cosy mystery story with intrigue, danger and twists and turns that kept me guessing.
When we meet Courtney and Alex they are in the process of making their dream to own and run an inn a reality. Things seem to be going perfect however there is a mystery about the house. The previous owners just disappeared one night and haven’t been seen since.
When strange things start happening at the house and one of the workers they hire ends up dead Courtney, Alex and the previous owners son Gary team up to get to the bottom of what really happened to Gray’s parents. But what danger are they placing themselves in trying to dig up the past?
When we meet Courtney and Alex they are in the process of making their dream to own and run an inn a reality. Things seem to be going perfect however there is a mystery about the house. The previous owners just disappeared one night and haven’t been seen since.
When strange things start happening at the house and one of the workers they hire ends up dead Courtney, Alex and the previous owners son Gary team up to get to the bottom of what really happened to Gray’s parents. But what danger are they placing themselves in trying to dig up the past?
May 1, 2026
The Last Owners (Crocus Hill Inn Mysteries Book 1) by Jean Rezab
5 Star Review
Buying your dream farmhouse could turn into a nightmare before you even know it. The house you cannot wait to make your own has come with a terrible secret. The previous owners disappears without a trace eight years previous and now you are in the middle of an investigation, which is killing your renovation.
This is a cozy murder mystery with well detailed plot twists. The characters Courtney and Alex are realistic and relatable. This author can tell an easy to read story without bogging down the reader with unnecessary side plots and detours. Great read.
5 Star Review
Buying your dream farmhouse could turn into a nightmare before you even know it. The house you cannot wait to make your own has come with a terrible secret. The previous owners disappears without a trace eight years previous and now you are in the middle of an investigation, which is killing your renovation.
This is a cozy murder mystery with well detailed plot twists. The characters Courtney and Alex are realistic and relatable. This author can tell an easy to read story without bogging down the reader with unnecessary side plots and detours. Great read.
May 12, 2026
Courtney and Alex have just bought a home that they want to turn into an Inn. The guy they bought it from, Gary, was the son of the last owners. His parents had mysteriously disappeared eight years prior along with some jewelry. Gary was in the service at the time and nobody in their town had seen them in a while. Where did they go? Courtney and the last owners son are determined to find out.
I haven't read anything by this author before but I really enjoyed this book. I will definitely be reading the other books in this series. Just when I thought I had figured everything out a little twist was thrown in there. It definitely kept me turning the pages.
I haven't read anything by this author before but I really enjoyed this book. I will definitely be reading the other books in this series. Just when I thought I had figured everything out a little twist was thrown in there. It definitely kept me turning the pages.
May 16, 2026
What a great book, interesting and intriguing the entire way through. I really enjoyed the characters and their relationships to one another.
Alex and Courtney recently bought Gary’s parent’s house and are turning it into an inn. The inn has its own mysteries, like the fact that Gary’s parents have been missing for 8 years.
Courtney is naturally inquisitive and wants to help as much as she can. She’s also a big dreamer and wants to finally have an Inn. Alex is trying to balance being supportive and caring with protective and cautious.
I honestly enjoyed this and will continue reading the series.
Alex and Courtney recently bought Gary’s parent’s house and are turning it into an inn. The inn has its own mysteries, like the fact that Gary’s parents have been missing for 8 years.
Courtney is naturally inquisitive and wants to help as much as she can. She’s also a big dreamer and wants to finally have an Inn. Alex is trying to balance being supportive and caring with protective and cautious.
I honestly enjoyed this and will continue reading the series.
May 16, 2026
Courtney and her husband Alex have plans to open her dream Inn in the small town of Elm City. They bought the house they are renovating from the son of the previous owners. But seems that the last owners disappeared and the mystery of it has been unsolved for eight years. As Courtney starts asking around about who the owners were, she and her husband seem to get more than they bargained for. As more and more things start to unravel, answers are finally answered. Just not by the ones you think could be behind what really happened. Enjoy this mystery of trying to figure out who is truly to blame and if Courtney can get the answers before it’s too late.
May 4, 2026
This cozy small-town murder mystery was an absolute delight! It has that perfect, charming atmosphere, but still manages to keep you on your toes with some great twists and just enough suspense to keep things interesting.
I was hooked immediately—it’s definitely one of those "hard to put down" books. The writing is super clear and engaging, making the story flow, yet it never gets bogged down in unnecessary details. The author did a fantastic job with those little, thoughtful touches that make the setting and characters feel totally real right from the start.
I was hooked immediately—it’s definitely one of those "hard to put down" books. The writing is super clear and engaging, making the story flow, yet it never gets bogged down in unnecessary details. The author did a fantastic job with those little, thoughtful touches that make the setting and characters feel totally real right from the start.
May 7, 2026
This is an interesting and well thought out cozy mystery story that pulls you in right from the first page. The book is a great mystery story that really makes you want to know what happened to the previous owners. I thought there was a great mix of characters in the book and each added something to the overall storyline.
When is started reading I had expected the book to be a bit more fast paced and thrilling, but what the author delivered was still an overall enjoyable read. It is a great start to a new series and I am looking forward to seeing what is next to come.
When is started reading I had expected the book to be a bit more fast paced and thrilling, but what the author delivered was still an overall enjoyable read. It is a great start to a new series and I am looking forward to seeing what is next to come.
May 15, 2026
This story was a fresh and fun read. As a cozy, small town mystery, Courtney and her husband Alex have purchased the old Miller home and are working on turning it into an inn. In the small town of Elm City, everyone knows the lore behind the disappearance of the Millers. But what no one truly knows is who did it. Courtney and Alex, along with the Miller's only son, Gary, navigate secrecy, a covered up murder, and ever increasing suspicion in their neighbors. This mystery is not one easily solved and will keep you guessing right up until the end.
May 8, 2026
A great cozy mystery to keep you entertained on a quiet day. This book is very well written, and the twists and turns will actually keep you guessing. I am really bad about figuring out who done it before it's time and this time, I was wrong a couple times. The main characters Courtney and Alex are very well written and relatable. I will be picking up the next in the series as soon as I can. I really enjoyed the little hints at Christianity; they were subtle and not in your face.
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