Murder on the Retro Rewind Cruise: Olivia Ocean Cruise Ship Mysteries

Olivia Ocean Cruise Ship Mysteries #5

by Denise Jaden

Big Hair, Bigger Secrets... and a Killer on Board.

When cruise ship photographer Olivia Ocean is assigned to capture the neon thrills of the Retro Rewind Cruise, she expects leg warmers, lip-sync battles, and a splash of Aqua Net—not murder.

But when an '80s rock band announces their retirement while at sea and the lead singer's brand-new bride ends up dead, Olivia finds herself tangled in a mystery more twisted than a cassette tape. With her trusty feline sidekick, Pickle, and brooding ship Security Manager Miles Blackwell at her side, Olivia must navigate a ship full of suspects—from obsessed super fans to jealous bandmates.

As the cruise ship sails closer to port and the clues pile up faster than Olivia’s photo backlog, she’ll need to solve the case before the killer strikes again… or before she becomes the next throwback tragedy.

Lights. Camera. Murder. Welcome aboard.

406 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 31, 2025

About the author

Bestselling author Denise Jaden loves cozy socks, cozy cats, and cozy mysteries. She’s the author of several young adult novels, nonfiction books for writers, and cozy mysteries that will make you laugh out loud while dangling at the edge of your seat.

Prior to becoming an author, Denise worked at everything from mushroom farming to acting and Polynesian dancing. Now she does most of her writing in a holding tent in the background of one of the many film sets in and around Vancouver. Sign up for updates, exclusive bonuses, and find out more about Denise, her books, and her crazy cat at DeniseJaden.com

Reviews

[Chad Barrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and even though I wasn’t required to post a review, after reading it I felt I had to offer my honest, voluntary impression I had while enjoying this latest cozy mystery with Miles, Olivia and the one and only Pickle!

This is the fifth book in this series and I am happy to say that I have read every book in this series starting with a new hire to take photographs on her first cruise ship assignment and rescuing a little kitten about to be thrown overboard and the bond that developed between them along with her meeting the handsome head of security on the ship and the murders they solve together including the one both Pickle and Olivia discover on her first day on the ship!

This is a wonderful series and I urge everyone to read this book and seriously think about getting all of the other four books so you can enjoy this little four footed sleuth who comes up with the critical clues to solve the murders- which Olivia and Miles add to their own investigations to solve those crimes!

In this one bands from the 1980’s board the cruise ship to perform concerts on board but the next night the new wife of the lead singer dies after eating a wedding cake in a reenactment of their wedding a month earlier. Turns out she was murdered as it was laced with a substance she was allergic to.

As the investigation proceeds it centers around a passenger on board and the band mates and those associated with the band besides trying to clear the staff of the ship who made the cake.

Pickle as usual has his paws and nose on the case and comes up with the critical clues leaving Olivia and Miles to figure out who did the deed.

I really enjoyed this book and wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend it to one and all! If you love good cozy mysteries with an adorable little kitten who knows what and where to uncover the clues to the latest mystery this book is definitely for you!

There is deception on board so come along and see if you can solve the mystery as Pickle, Olivia and Miles once again team up to solve the latest murder!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

An 80s themed cruise with famous bands scheduled to appear sets the stage for Olivia’s next mystery. The popular lead singer of Crimson Valley, Nathaniel Ashton, is mobbed with fans much to the disgruntlement of his new and much younger wife Charlotte. She reports a stalker on board and later approaches Miles with an injury she claims came from an altercation with the stalker. At the band’s first performance, Nate surprises everyone with a major announcement that will impact the band’s future. He brings Charlotte onstage to celebrate their wedding with cake, but when she fails to reappear for the rest of the news, tragedy is discovered. Charlotte, dead backstage, from an anaphylactic reaction. Did the cruise line err in keeping the cake allergen free, or was there a more nefarious cause? Olivia with her clue finding kitty, Pickle, is on the case.

Neon overload, big hair, and bigger personalities. Ms. Jaden accurately captures the feel of the 80s in this retro themed mystery. There’s a cute visual of Becky creating a rocker costume for Pickle, as well. The mystery is well plotted with plenty of suspects and surprising turns. I was fooled by the true perpetrator until the end. For readers of the previous books, there is a sweet payoff to the budding relationship between Miles and Olivia. New readers to the series shouldn’t feel confused as the mystery works as a stand alone and background is given. Olivia is genuinely likeable and an asset in the investigations. Miles takes her suggestions to heart, which shows in the changes among the security staff.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Julie Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. Cozy mysteries set on ships are very popular at the moment and are getting a bit predictable, which is why I like the fact that this author has shaken things up. Instead of dropping dead at the dinner table, the victim dies after eating wedding cake while on stage and so begins an investigation into how the murder could happen with most of the suspects already on the stage and there was a lot of suspects. Of course it wouldn't be a cozy mystery without the clever pet detective to lend a hand, in this case it's a cute cat that I had fun imagining all dressed up to the nine's in 80's fashion. of course it's not just the cat I like, as Olivia and Miles make a cute couple and work well together. I look forward to there next investigation.

The Moonlit Majesty is set to relive the 80's with a number of hands joining them on the cruise, by providing the entertainment. One band in particular is providing more attention than most with the announcement that the lead singer with be retiring after the last show to concentrate on his new bride. However the bride suddenly drops dead after eating a piece of the wedding cake fed to her by her new husband while on stage. A peanut allergy is quickly discovered as the culprit but how is that possible? It's up to Miles and Olivia to find out if the ship could be held responsible by accident or if the peanuts was deliberately added and if so who could be responsible for the murder.
I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

[Grinning Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder on the Retro Rewind Cruise
Setting: Cruise ship, ‘80s revival cruise
Time era: contemporary
Detective: Olivia Ocean. Ship photographer.
Furry Sidekick: Pickle the Cat
Love Interest (also Law Enforcement): Miles Blackwell, Chief of Security
Crime: Murder
Victim: Charlotte Ashton, wife of lead singer of a popular 1980s band
Apparent COD: Anaphylactic shock (peanut allergy)
Thoughts: I really feel that Jaden has hit her stride with this one. Perfect hook of an ‘80s revival cruise. Really well-plotted mystery. Characters who are familiar, but not boring. Progression of the love story subplot (this book really is focused on character development and crime solving, not romance ). The nostalgia was really fun, until I calculated how long ago the 80s (and my preteen years) were. It was neat “seeing” the crew and guests getting into it. Add a cat dressed in little leather vest and teeny-tiny little leg warmers, and in my opinion, the book automatically earns that extra star.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Maria · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although I've never been on a cruise (or wanted to go, tbh), I was interested in the '80s nostalgia aspect. Sadly, this was underplayed apart from frequent references to hairspray, neon, and legwarmers. Where the story really started to lose me, though, was with the whole cat detective schtick. Sorry, but the cat not only being able to detect trace amounts of the lethal substance, but knowing it was significant, was just too far-fetched for me.

Also, I felt the motive was weak. In order to strengthen the case, it would be helpful to provide additional details about exactly what secrets were being kept. At the very least, some hints. The whole "I killed her because she was controlling me by threatening to blab my dark secrets" thing doesn't really wash when this is the first (and last) we hear of said secrets.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anne Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This cruise is taking people back to the 80’s. Several of the famous bands from the are on board. One band is a bit stressed as their leader has recently married someone they all heartily dislike. This new wife tells security she’s scared of one of the passengers, but, it is taken “with a inch of salt”. During the stage act the lead singer says they are having a wedding reenactment so the Wie come in dressed in a wedding dress. A cake is brought on stage & the couple eat a bit each. The wife rushes off & is later found dead. An anaphylactic shock. A severe allergy to peanuts. Somehow peanut powder has been put on the cake. Miles the security chief along with the Olivia, the cruise photographer, plus her very helpful cat set out to track down the clues that eventually lead them to the truth. Another interesting read of life on a cruise ship, with a side of murder thrown in!

[Bart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder on the Retro Rewind Cruise is a quirky, nostalgic ride with a killer twist! Denise Jaden nails the vibe of a themed cruise packed with retro tunes, neon outfits, and plenty of drama. The setting feels like stepping into a time capsule—until someone turns up dead and the fun takes a dark turn. The amateur sleuthing is lighthearted but clever, and the cast of characters is colorful enough to keep you entertained (and guessing). The mystery isn’t overly complex, but the charm and humor make up for it. I loved the cruise details—they made me want to book a trip myself, minus the murder, of course! A few scenes felt a little rushed, but overall, it’s a breezy, fun read with just enough suspense to keep you hooked. Perfect for fans of cozy mysteries with a retro twist.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh dear what dread when a lead singer of an 80s rock band’s new wife turns up dead onboard It’s bad timing since they’ve just announced their retirement and thus doesn’t strike a right chord with Olivia Ocean and she has her hands full with it all and no mistake . Good job she has her feline Pickle and ship security Miles Blackwell to help out what with further cruises of the ilk at stake .Is it publicity or just being in the wrong vicinity that did for her . Does anybody care besides hubby dearest? Does he? Well it’s all at sea and a mystery to be solved before anyone’s absolved of blame . She’d reported a stalker and was aggrieved with her husband’s fans wanting a piece of him ,has one of them done her in? It’s a sorry state at any rate . Denise Jaden ,this was great storytelling and quite compelling too.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s the 80’s again!

Theme week has come in with a slew of spandex, sparkles, bangles and teased hair. That’s right it’s an 80’s themed cruise week. Nostalgia, excitement and unfortunately murder fill the air. A famous band, a shrew of a new bride and a surprise for all including the ones who planned it lead Miles and Olivia back into investigation mode. With the able assistance of Pickle of course.
Loved the theme, the extra brand of crazy that comes with it and all the fans who brought it. I loved the mystery plot I thought I had it was absolutely positive I knew who did it and was just waiting on Miles and Olivia to catch up and I was totally wrong lol. Great fun! Love the personal development and dare I say I ship it? lol sorry couldn’t help myself. Delightfully fun read full of shenanigans at sea!

[Bob Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Photographer Olivia Ocean is the official cruise photographer and unofficial on board sleuth, helping Miles head of security - along with her clever cat Pickle - determine the perpetrator of a crime onboard the cruise ship.
The 80's rewind cruise, has a great world creation, it was descriptive and easy to imagine being a guest on board the cruise ship and how fun it would be to dress up and dance to 80s bands.
I enjoyed the writing style and pace of the book too.
I recommend reading the other books in this series first, to get a better idea of who the characters are and how they interact with the narrative.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series!!

There's a theme to the latest cruise - the 80s. There are several rock bands who were popular in that era, and the bride of one band member is found dead. Olivia joins forces with Miles and her kitty Pickle to figure out if it's murder and if so, who did it.

Many potential suspects and twists and turns as they figure this out, and the resolution was a surprise to me.

I'd love to see the relationship between Miles & Olivia deepen even more - I like those two! The ending of the book had me smiling and ready for the next book in the series.

The book is well written, with fun characters and a good story-line. It's easy to read, and very enjoyable!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nadine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't miss out on this series! I love the 80s and this retro cruise was perfect for me! I can't help but still love some of the music from back then. So I really liked the theme! The story itself was well done. I really like Olivia which is always important to me. Cat Pickle is - of course! - my favorite! I just love that sort of thing. The mystery was done is such a way that I couldn't guess whodunit - and I read a LOT of mysteries. Well done, and I'm looking forward to the next! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Moonlit Majesty rewinds to the 80s and the passengers board in 80s outfits anxious to see their favorite 80s bands. Becky even dresses Pickle for the occasion. Olivia and Pickle work with Miles to find who killed a popular musician’s new wife. Since so many people didn’t like the nasty possessive wife, there is no shortage of suspects. Intertwined with the mystery is Miles and Olivia’s sweet growing relationship. Another fun adventure that will keep you guessing.

[J Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rock till you drop!

An 80s era retro cruise on the Moonlit Majesty comes complete with Rock bands, glitzy costumes, big hair, and murder. Miles and Olivia suss out a trail of clues to uncover the truth with the help of her super sleuthing kitten Pickle.

This is an exciting cruise ship cozy mystery. I enjoyed the descriptions of all the costumes and settings. Pickles should be hired by the ship's security team! I received an advance copy, but my review is honest and voluntary.

[Robert Foland · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Murder on the Retro Rewind Cruise: Book 5 of the Olivia Ocean Cruise Ship Mysteries" is another fantastic addition to the series. Denise Jaden once again serves up a captivating mystery for Olivia Ocean and her cat Pickles to unravel. The characters are well-developed, the suspects are plentiful, and the story is intriguing, skillfully crafted, and a lot of fun.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[MK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another cruise, another murder. The suspects are falling into place. The only thing is who has anything to gain from the death? Olivia along with Pickles will see through it. Not to mention her friend and Security Manager Miles Blackwell.
When they get every one and the same room it becomes apparent. But one fesses up immediately.
So good. My favorite one. Not that the others aren’t, but this one I didn’t see coming.

[Martine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia and Pickles once again help Miles solve a murder. The story is engaging, with well-developed characters and a strong plot. I love this series, it's a nice mixture of mystery and a touch of romance. Definitely recommended.
I received an advance review copy via Booksprout and I’m leaving a voluntary and honest review.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is a very public murder on board of a cruise ship. The controlling wife of a band's lead singer is killed by a peanut allergy. Who is responsible for her death?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cyndi Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. This series is fun. Almost a closed door mystery since everyone is on a cruise ship. The writing is excellent and I enjoyed the cat sleuthing.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be delightful. I am a fan of cruise cozies, and I have read each of the books from this series and have enjoyed them all. I thought the mystery was well written and the characters interesting. Loved Pickle. Strongly recommend both the series and this book.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book five of the series. This time we find Olivia, Matt ,and Olivia's cat Pickles investigating the murder of an 80's bands lead singers wife. Lots of suspects. Lots of clues to keep you guessing. Loved it!

[Mark Menard · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was an okay story with a good concept. I guess my problem is with Olivia not actually doing her job. The way she drops everything to help solve the murder would get her fired. It just isn’t realistic.