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Golden Motel Mystery #3
All Aboard for Murder
It's October in Gold Rush country and all manner of tricks and treats are happening in the lead-up to Halloween. October also happens to be the birthday of Angus Sprockles, the man responsible for the town being designated a historic landmark, and the residents are celebrating his memory as well. His only living descendant, Moses Sprockles, runs the narrow-gauge railroad—once used to ferry lumber from the mountains to the sawmill, now a tourist attraction. The Sprockles Railroad is hosting a Halloween-themed fundraiser for the Historical Society.
But when a body is found on the tracks, it's not a Halloween prank. It's Moses himself, seemingly felled by a fallen tree branch. Dee's dad Sam is convinced his friend is the victim of foul play and urges his daughter to apply her sleuthing skills. Dee's train of thought leads her to suspects ranging from a former child star and one-hit wonder, the owner of a nail salon with her claws in everything, and even the mayor. When a self-proclaimed ghost hunter throws his hat in the ring and claims to know who did it, the investigation really goes off the rails. No matter how crazy things get, Dee is determined to blow the whistle on a runaway killer with a one-track mind.
But when a body is found on the tracks, it's not a Halloween prank. It's Moses himself, seemingly felled by a fallen tree branch. Dee's dad Sam is convinced his friend is the victim of foul play and urges his daughter to apply her sleuthing skills. Dee's train of thought leads her to suspects ranging from a former child star and one-hit wonder, the owner of a nail salon with her claws in everything, and even the mayor. When a self-proclaimed ghost hunter throws his hat in the ring and claims to know who did it, the investigation really goes off the rails. No matter how crazy things get, Dee is determined to blow the whistle on a runaway killer with a one-track mind.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published July 28, 2026
About the author
Ellen Byron
17 books1,688 followersEllen is the bestselling, Agatha and Lefty Award-winning author of the Cajun Country Mysteries, the Vintage Cookbook Mysteries, the Catering Hall Mystery series (which she writes under the name Maria DiRico), and the Golden Motel Mysteries.
Ellen is also award-winning playwright, and non-award-winning TV writer of comedies like WINGS, JUST SHOOT ME, and FAIRLY ODD PARENTS. She has written over two hundred articles for national magazines but considers her most impressive credit working as a cater-waiter for Martha Stewart.
She is a lifetime member of the Writers Guild of America.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
July 29, 2026
Every October, the community of Goldsgone, which is near Dee’s motel, celebrates the birthday of Angus Sprockles, the man who made sure they got designated a historic landmark. Of course, they are also celebrating Halloween. Among the events is a Halloween themed fundraiser for the historic society on the railroad that Angus’s only living heir runs. But the event ends with Moses Sprockles dead. It originally looks like an accident, but there are things that don’t add up. Dee’s father had become friends with Moses, and he asks Dee to poke around even though this murder doesn’t appear to have anything to do with her motel. Can Dee find the killer?
This series continues to be so much fun. The plot is strong, with several subplots strengthen the story. The California setting and the Hollywood elements add to the fun for me. I love the cast of characters no matter how much page time they get, and I appreciated how one relationship moved forward. Everything did reach a logical climax. And the story had appropriate autumn vibes with a fun Halloween element included as well. At the end, we get a road trip tip and a bonus recipe. I also smiled and laughed at the character’s antics and a few of the scenes. All told, this is another winner you’re sure to enjoy.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This series continues to be so much fun. The plot is strong, with several subplots strengthen the story. The California setting and the Hollywood elements add to the fun for me. I love the cast of characters no matter how much page time they get, and I appreciated how one relationship moved forward. Everything did reach a logical climax. And the story had appropriate autumn vibes with a fun Halloween element included as well. At the end, we get a road trip tip and a bonus recipe. I also smiled and laughed at the character’s antics and a few of the scenes. All told, this is another winner you’re sure to enjoy.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a wonderful cozy-mystery series, and I enjoy each new book. Set in Gold Rush Country, California the series is alive with history and details which, for the most part, are accurately described. Gold Country is one of my favorite get away places. Besties Dee and Jeff are LA transplants trying to make a go of the old Golden Motel and a new life for themselves. They also have a talent for solving the occasional murder, mostly out of self-defense to keep their business from being labeled the Murder Motel. The other supporting characters all chip in and provide a great cast. I look forward to many more adventures to come, especially since a recently retired 49er has moved to the area and caught Dee's eye.
In an area with such a rich history it is only natural that Halloween gets the grand treatment and the areas tourist attraction, narrow-gauge Sprockles Railroad, is celebrating the birthday of its founder, Angus Sprockles, too. The party is a Halloween-themed fundraiser for the Historical Society and Dee and her friend, Serena, are providing the appetizers. Unfortunately, also on the menu is the murder of Moses Sprockles, the only living descendent of Angus.
Lots of suspects for this one and the thief of a valuable historical artifact complicates things. Dee and Jeff have been so helpful in the past that Raul, the sheriff, has asked them to help out again. Dee's father, Sam, who was a good friend of Moses, also wants them to look into who killed him. But when the murderer sets a deadly trap for Dee, everyone tells her to back off. That is just not her style.
My thanks to the Publisher, and Author, for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
In an area with such a rich history it is only natural that Halloween gets the grand treatment and the areas tourist attraction, narrow-gauge Sprockles Railroad, is celebrating the birthday of its founder, Angus Sprockles, too. The party is a Halloween-themed fundraiser for the Historical Society and Dee and her friend, Serena, are providing the appetizers. Unfortunately, also on the menu is the murder of Moses Sprockles, the only living descendent of Angus.
Lots of suspects for this one and the thief of a valuable historical artifact complicates things. Dee and Jeff have been so helpful in the past that Raul, the sheriff, has asked them to help out again. Dee's father, Sam, who was a good friend of Moses, also wants them to look into who killed him. But when the murderer sets a deadly trap for Dee, everyone tells her to back off. That is just not her style.
My thanks to the Publisher, and Author, for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
August 1, 2026
Dollycas's Thoughts
All Aboard for Murder! We arrive in Gold Rush country just in time for Halloween and a birthday celebration honoring Angus Sprockles, the man responsible for securing the town’s historic landmark status. His only living descendant, Moses Sprockles, now runs the narrow-gauge railroad tourist attraction, which was originally built to haul lumber to the sawmills. The Sprockles Railroad celebration is also serving as a fundraiser for the Historical Society.
Sadly, the event takes a tragic turn when Moses is found dead, apparently struck by a tree branch. Except the branch did not fall from any nearby tree. Moses was murdered. Dee is asked to step back into amateur sleuth mode again. As she starts looking around, she quickly realizes there is no shortage of suspects. Can she get on the right track and catch the killer?
_____
This 3rd Golden Motel Mystery has Dee and Jeff still working hard to fill the cabins and rooms at their Golden Motel, so they are offering family packages for Halloween. Dee's dad, Sam, has really taken to his new role as Prospector Pete, the Man of a Million Voices, loves to entertain. Ma'am and Mister Ma'am are spending much more time out of the woods, helping Dee and Jeff with the hotel, and Ma'am has even taken over Dee's sewing machine to make winter attire and a quilt. Dee has teamed up with her friend Serena in a charcuterie board business. Meanwhile, the people at the Sprocket Valley Railroad are embracing the Halloween spirit while also celebrating the life of Angus Sprockles, a man who fought hard to preserve his little “piece of heaven.” Among the tourists, twin child stars Dougie and Danny Keefer arrive in town for very different reasons. Bud the Bear is back too, of course, and causing his own brand of mischief. I enjoy how Dee, Jeff, and Sam are settling in to Foundgold by getting involved in the community and making friends.
Ms. Byron has written a highly entertaining mystery that blends Gold Rush Country history with present-day small-town intrigue. The neighboring towns of Goldsgone and Foundgold try to work together, though Verity Donner Gillespie is determined to run the show. When Moses is found dead and a historic artifact is stolen, the list of potential suspects becomes impressively long. Sam is deeply affected by the death of his friend and asks Dee and Jeff to help with the investigation. Since they have assisted with previous cases, Deputy Sheriff Raul Aguilar is willing to let them be involved. With several twists and turns, including an attempted murder, everyone gets on board to arrest the guilty party and put the little towns back in tourist mode.
All Aboard For Murder is a fantastic whodunit with cleverly crafted core characters, an engaging supporting cast, and a tightly plotted mystery, all set against a historic backdrop with a fun Halloween theme. And, of course, there is Bud the Bear, who loves his snacks and the motel’s hot tub, along with Dee’s hound dog, Nugget, who faithfully “guards” both Dee and the motel. Ms. Byron has become one of my favorite authors. She has a wonderfully creative imagination, and she draws on her sitcom writing experience to create cozy mysteries that are almost impossible to put down. She also adds a little teaser at the end of this one, which has me very intrigued to see what she has planned next for these fabulous characters. Don't wait, snap this one up today!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
All Aboard for Murder! We arrive in Gold Rush country just in time for Halloween and a birthday celebration honoring Angus Sprockles, the man responsible for securing the town’s historic landmark status. His only living descendant, Moses Sprockles, now runs the narrow-gauge railroad tourist attraction, which was originally built to haul lumber to the sawmills. The Sprockles Railroad celebration is also serving as a fundraiser for the Historical Society.
Sadly, the event takes a tragic turn when Moses is found dead, apparently struck by a tree branch. Except the branch did not fall from any nearby tree. Moses was murdered. Dee is asked to step back into amateur sleuth mode again. As she starts looking around, she quickly realizes there is no shortage of suspects. Can she get on the right track and catch the killer?
_____
This 3rd Golden Motel Mystery has Dee and Jeff still working hard to fill the cabins and rooms at their Golden Motel, so they are offering family packages for Halloween. Dee's dad, Sam, has really taken to his new role as Prospector Pete, the Man of a Million Voices, loves to entertain. Ma'am and Mister Ma'am are spending much more time out of the woods, helping Dee and Jeff with the hotel, and Ma'am has even taken over Dee's sewing machine to make winter attire and a quilt. Dee has teamed up with her friend Serena in a charcuterie board business. Meanwhile, the people at the Sprocket Valley Railroad are embracing the Halloween spirit while also celebrating the life of Angus Sprockles, a man who fought hard to preserve his little “piece of heaven.” Among the tourists, twin child stars Dougie and Danny Keefer arrive in town for very different reasons. Bud the Bear is back too, of course, and causing his own brand of mischief. I enjoy how Dee, Jeff, and Sam are settling in to Foundgold by getting involved in the community and making friends.
Ms. Byron has written a highly entertaining mystery that blends Gold Rush Country history with present-day small-town intrigue. The neighboring towns of Goldsgone and Foundgold try to work together, though Verity Donner Gillespie is determined to run the show. When Moses is found dead and a historic artifact is stolen, the list of potential suspects becomes impressively long. Sam is deeply affected by the death of his friend and asks Dee and Jeff to help with the investigation. Since they have assisted with previous cases, Deputy Sheriff Raul Aguilar is willing to let them be involved. With several twists and turns, including an attempted murder, everyone gets on board to arrest the guilty party and put the little towns back in tourist mode.
All Aboard For Murder is a fantastic whodunit with cleverly crafted core characters, an engaging supporting cast, and a tightly plotted mystery, all set against a historic backdrop with a fun Halloween theme. And, of course, there is Bud the Bear, who loves his snacks and the motel’s hot tub, along with Dee’s hound dog, Nugget, who faithfully “guards” both Dee and the motel. Ms. Byron has become one of my favorite authors. She has a wonderfully creative imagination, and she draws on her sitcom writing experience to create cozy mysteries that are almost impossible to put down. She also adds a little teaser at the end of this one, which has me very intrigued to see what she has planned next for these fabulous characters. Don't wait, snap this one up today!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
#AllAboardforMurder #NetGalley
It's Fall and Halloween is approaching in Foundgold, and the Golden Motel.
Dee is still trying to grab more vacationers to her motel, especially since it's being called the murder motel by some locals.
When a former childhood actor is registered at the motel, Dee hopes for some positive news but unfortunately, it doesn't happen.
A local residents death causes a stir in the small community and Dee does her part in making sure the right person is brought to justice.
It's Fall and Halloween is approaching in Foundgold, and the Golden Motel.
Dee is still trying to grab more vacationers to her motel, especially since it's being called the murder motel by some locals.
When a former childhood actor is registered at the motel, Dee hopes for some positive news but unfortunately, it doesn't happen.
A local residents death causes a stir in the small community and Dee does her part in making sure the right person is brought to justice.
July 30, 2026
All Aboard for Murder is the 3rd book in the Golden Hotel Mystery series, set in the scenic mountain village of Goldsgone. It's October in Gold Rush country and it's time to open the time capsule on the birthday of Angus Sprockles, the man responsible for the town being designated a historic landmark. His only living descendant, Moses Sprockles, runs the narrow-gauge railroad, that used to be used to ferry lumber down the mountain, but is now a tourist attraction. Each year there is a Hallowe'en fundraiser at the Sprockles Railroad to raise money for the Historical Society. When the train is taking people for a ride, it has to stop when they see a body on the tracks. It's not a Hallowe'en prank, but Moses Sprockles dead on the tracks, killed by a tree branch. Dee's dad, Sam, a friend of Moses convinces Dee to investigate. There is also some historical items stolen from the Sprockles Museum and there is also a child actor and his twin brother in town. Throw in a ghost hunter who has a shady past, and there is a lot going on. Will Dee be able to sort through all of it to find a motive and the killer?
I like the blend of historic details, personal stories and mystery in this book. Dee is dealing with several things with her business, others in town and friendships. The characters in this series are varied yet all add something to the stories. Moses was a notary and privy to a lot of secrets, so there are any number of suspects. I like the setting of this series being in gold rush country. It is realistic with the narrow gauge railroad, the panning and the museum. Dee is a great protagonist with her fast-paced banter, sharp observational skills, and sense of humor. She has to put up with a lot, so those are necessary skills. The pace of the story was great and I wanted to know if the murder and the thefts were connected, or was it a theft of convenience. I was not able to figure out who the culprit was, which I like. It was twisty, well developed story, with wonderful, quirky characters that I definitely recommend. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, then the Golden Motel Mysteries is one you should pick up.
I like the blend of historic details, personal stories and mystery in this book. Dee is dealing with several things with her business, others in town and friendships. The characters in this series are varied yet all add something to the stories. Moses was a notary and privy to a lot of secrets, so there are any number of suspects. I like the setting of this series being in gold rush country. It is realistic with the narrow gauge railroad, the panning and the museum. Dee is a great protagonist with her fast-paced banter, sharp observational skills, and sense of humor. She has to put up with a lot, so those are necessary skills. The pace of the story was great and I wanted to know if the murder and the thefts were connected, or was it a theft of convenience. I was not able to figure out who the culprit was, which I like. It was twisty, well developed story, with wonderful, quirky characters that I definitely recommend. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, then the Golden Motel Mysteries is one you should pick up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.25⭐
Whatever series Ellen Byron writes, I am going to love. However, I am especially into this one. After a career as a sitcom writer, Dee teams up with her ex-husband to buy a rundown, but with potential, motel in California. There's Bud the Bear who keeps visiting the property along with the number of murders in the area to keep on their toes. This book has steam engines, child actors and influencers enlivening the plot. Great story, lots of fun. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Whatever series Ellen Byron writes, I am going to love. However, I am especially into this one. After a career as a sitcom writer, Dee teams up with her ex-husband to buy a rundown, but with potential, motel in California. There's Bud the Bear who keeps visiting the property along with the number of murders in the area to keep on their toes. This book has steam engines, child actors and influencers enlivening the plot. Great story, lots of fun. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
June 28, 2026
I thoroughly enjoy this series. Dee Stern, after leaving her struggling sitcom writing career in Los Angeles, decided to embark on a new chapter in her life as the owner (alongside her former husband, Jeff) of a quaint hotel nestled in the rural town of Foundgold, California. Dee and Jeff are witnessing the gradual success of their hotel, gradually shedding the ominous reputation associated with the Murder Hotel from the first two books in the series.
As October arrives, the town of Foundgold, along with its neighboring town of Lostgold, is abuzz with excitement as they commemorate the life of one of the area’s founding fathers, Angus Sprockles. Moses Sprockles, the ancestor of Angus, is the owner of the tourist railroad that will serve as the venue for the celebration. However, during the festivities, tragedy strikes when Moses is brutally murdered. Dee and her close friends find themselves drawn into the investigation, collaborating with the police to unravel the mystery behind this heinous crime.
This delightful cozy mystery is filled with captivating characters, witty humor, and an engaging plot. I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley and Kensington Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
As October arrives, the town of Foundgold, along with its neighboring town of Lostgold, is abuzz with excitement as they commemorate the life of one of the area’s founding fathers, Angus Sprockles. Moses Sprockles, the ancestor of Angus, is the owner of the tourist railroad that will serve as the venue for the celebration. However, during the festivities, tragedy strikes when Moses is brutally murdered. Dee and her close friends find themselves drawn into the investigation, collaborating with the police to unravel the mystery behind this heinous crime.
This delightful cozy mystery is filled with captivating characters, witty humor, and an engaging plot. I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley and Kensington Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
August 10, 2026
Thank you to Kensington Books for the gifted physical ARC!
Okay this one was a really fun time. I was catching up on a lot of the Kensington Cozies books I've been sent from Kensington (I fell so behind, thankfully they're all crazy short for the most part). But this one was really fun, under 300 pages, which I think is so appropriate for a cozy little mystery book. Cozy books really seem to stay around that benchmark and I love that it's the sweet spot of cute but not dragged out and overloaded. I'm going to give this a solid 3.5 stars, rounding up to 4 stars here on Goodreads.
This is the 3rd in a mystery series, but you can absolutely read it on its own, I haven't read the first two and was not lost at all. Dee is the main character of the read, she runs a touristy hotel in a Gold Rush historical town in California with her ex-husband Jeff. Her dad also makes a frequent appearance and I feel like he's like the perfect "cute old man" vibe but also being a pretty successful voice actor. It was a nice mix. There are characters that I really wanted to give some stink eye to, but I think that gives credit to the author for being able to squeeze in feelings for the characters in such a short page count.
The murder mystery aspect is satisfying, I was honestly bummed about who the victim ended up being. I had written in my reading journal literally a page before the reveal just how much I liked them so far in the read. So an immediate sad face was drawn. But, it fits the story and the ending is satisfying.
I would totally recommend this one for a good time, I will likely grab the first two based off this one!
*This ARC was given by Kensington Books, all opinions are my own.*
Okay this one was a really fun time. I was catching up on a lot of the Kensington Cozies books I've been sent from Kensington (I fell so behind, thankfully they're all crazy short for the most part). But this one was really fun, under 300 pages, which I think is so appropriate for a cozy little mystery book. Cozy books really seem to stay around that benchmark and I love that it's the sweet spot of cute but not dragged out and overloaded. I'm going to give this a solid 3.5 stars, rounding up to 4 stars here on Goodreads.
This is the 3rd in a mystery series, but you can absolutely read it on its own, I haven't read the first two and was not lost at all. Dee is the main character of the read, she runs a touristy hotel in a Gold Rush historical town in California with her ex-husband Jeff. Her dad also makes a frequent appearance and I feel like he's like the perfect "cute old man" vibe but also being a pretty successful voice actor. It was a nice mix. There are characters that I really wanted to give some stink eye to, but I think that gives credit to the author for being able to squeeze in feelings for the characters in such a short page count.
The murder mystery aspect is satisfying, I was honestly bummed about who the victim ended up being. I had written in my reading journal literally a page before the reveal just how much I liked them so far in the read. So an immediate sad face was drawn. But, it fits the story and the ending is satisfying.
I would totally recommend this one for a good time, I will likely grab the first two based off this one!
*This ARC was given by Kensington Books, all opinions are my own.*
August 3, 2026
All Aboard for Murder is another charming entry in Ellen Byron’s Golden Motel Mysteries. One of the things I’ve always appreciated about this series is its wonderfully original Gold Rush-themed motel setting. It gives the books a unique personality that helps them stand out in the cozy mystery genre. Ellen’s trademark humor keeps things light, and the quirky cast adds plenty of entertaining moments along the way.
The mystery itself is engaging, and longtime fans will enjoy another visit to the Golden Motel. As always, the audiobook is a fun way to experience the story, bringing the colorful characters and playful tone to life.
If you’re looking for a cozy mystery with an inventive setting, likable characters, and plenty of charm, this series is well worth the trip.
The mystery itself is engaging, and longtime fans will enjoy another visit to the Golden Motel. As always, the audiobook is a fun way to experience the story, bringing the colorful characters and playful tone to life.
If you’re looking for a cozy mystery with an inventive setting, likable characters, and plenty of charm, this series is well worth the trip.
August 5, 2026
Good addition to the series! As always, I love the setting of the motel set in Gold Country with bears and other inhabitants of the woods nearby coming for a visit. The history of the area always adds authenticity to the story and the mysteries are the focal point of every book. I did enjoy the look back at Dee’s past as a writer and how that played into the story. There is still a touch too much hokiness in this series for me but I do enjoy the mysteries.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the review copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the review copy.
August 2, 2026
Narrow gage train, railroad spikes, twins, and jumping the shark.
July 6, 2026
Interesting characters with a plot filled with suspense, humor, and some history. I really enjoyed the story being set around an old railroad and a dash of Hollywood. I appreciated the author including a section about the history in the book as well as a recipe.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
June 22, 2026
Ghosts, influencers, and bears…oh my! Dee and Jeff have their hands full in the latest installment of the Golden Motel Mysteries; a ghost hunter chasing a possible ghost haunting the Golden, an influencer determined to learn all Foundgold’s secrets, and a bear who just wants to relax in the hot tub. Ellen Byron weaves an intricate mystery that stumped through the end.
March 10, 2026
To celebrate both Halloween and the birthdate of the late Angus Sprockles, his only living descendent, Moses, is hosting a haunted ride and fundraiser at his narrow-gauge railroad attraction. After Moses is killed with a fallen tree branch during the fundraiser, Dee Stern becomes convinced that his death was not an accident. With a lengthy list of suspects, Dee has to unmask the killer before she becomes the next victim.
ALL ABOARD FOR MURDER is my favorite of the Golden Motel Mysteries—and not only because Halloween is involved. Much like A VERY WOODSY MURDER and SOLID GOLD MURDER, ALL ABOARD FOR MURDER is an entertaining and well-plotted book. There are plenty of twists, turns, and red herrings to keep the reader engaged. And with a handful of viable suspects, it kept me guessing until the end. Best of all is the setting . . . Dee’s Golden Motel allows for a new set of characters with each book while the neighboring Gold Rush towns are full of so much fun and potential for future books. I can’t wait to see what happens next at the “Murder Motel.”
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
ALL ABOARD FOR MURDER is my favorite of the Golden Motel Mysteries—and not only because Halloween is involved. Much like A VERY WOODSY MURDER and SOLID GOLD MURDER, ALL ABOARD FOR MURDER is an entertaining and well-plotted book. There are plenty of twists, turns, and red herrings to keep the reader engaged. And with a handful of viable suspects, it kept me guessing until the end. Best of all is the setting . . . Dee’s Golden Motel allows for a new set of characters with each book while the neighboring Gold Rush towns are full of so much fun and potential for future books. I can’t wait to see what happens next at the “Murder Motel.”
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dee is just out here trying to convince people that the Golden Motel is a charming place to stay and not a loyalty program for homicide. Every time it feels like the poor woman is finally getting ahead, somebody immediately drops dead within convenient driving distance of her front desk. At this point I'd ask if the complimentary breakfast is worth the risk.
I jumped into this series without reading the first two books, and I definitely had a few moments where everyone seemed to know everyone else's business except me. It felt like walking into a family reunion where people kept saying, "You remember Bob!" No... no I do not. But after a little while I settled in, mostly because these characters have the exact kind of small-town energy where they're impossible not to watch. Half of them are delightfully eccentric, the other half are convinced they're the only sensible person in town, and somehow they're all wrong.
The whole Halloween railroad fundraiser was such a fun excuse to gather every suspicious person in one place. You've got the last descendant of the town's founding family, former Hollywood personalities wandering around, a mayor, a nail salon owner who somehow seems plugged into everything, a ghost hunter who arrives with the confidence of someone who has absolutely never doubted a single thought in his life... honestly, if you announced there was a murder before the festivities even started, I'd have believed you immediately.
Dee has one of my favorite kinds of cozy mystery brains. The minute someone tells her to leave things alone, she mentally rolls up her sleeves. Her dad doesn't exactly discourage the behavior either. He's basically standing behind her saying, "Go on. Solve another murder. It'll be good for you." Meanwhile poor Jeff just keeps finding himself attached to yet another investigation when all the man probably wanted was a normal workweek.
And can we please talk about Bud the bear? Imagine living somewhere that everyone casually accepts there's a bear with a favorite hot tub. Nobody's screaming. Nobody's relocating. They're just mildly inconvenienced because the local wildlife has spa preferences. Honestly, Bud feels like the least dramatic resident in the entire town.
I also liked that underneath all the quirky chaos, Dee is still figuring out what her life looks like after leaving Hollywood behind. Every now and then something from her old career sneaks back into her new life, and you can feel that little sting of unfinished business. Those moments gave her more heart than I expected, especially because she never stopped moving forward even when the past tried to wave at her from across the room.
This ended up being a 3.5 star read for me. I think longtime readers will probably catch even more of the running jokes and returning friendships than I did, but I still had a good time riding along with this wonderfully weird little town. I'll happily come back... although if I ever book a room at the Golden Motel, I'm requesting one as far away from any future crime scene as humanly possible.
Whodunity Award: For Somehow Making a Murder, a Haunted Reputation, a Ghost Hunter, and a Hot Tub-Loving Bear Feel Like Perfect Halloween Vacation Plans
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. I checked in expecting a cozy train ride and checked out wondering whether the motel should start handing guests a room key and an alibi at the front desk.
I jumped into this series without reading the first two books, and I definitely had a few moments where everyone seemed to know everyone else's business except me. It felt like walking into a family reunion where people kept saying, "You remember Bob!" No... no I do not. But after a little while I settled in, mostly because these characters have the exact kind of small-town energy where they're impossible not to watch. Half of them are delightfully eccentric, the other half are convinced they're the only sensible person in town, and somehow they're all wrong.
The whole Halloween railroad fundraiser was such a fun excuse to gather every suspicious person in one place. You've got the last descendant of the town's founding family, former Hollywood personalities wandering around, a mayor, a nail salon owner who somehow seems plugged into everything, a ghost hunter who arrives with the confidence of someone who has absolutely never doubted a single thought in his life... honestly, if you announced there was a murder before the festivities even started, I'd have believed you immediately.
Dee has one of my favorite kinds of cozy mystery brains. The minute someone tells her to leave things alone, she mentally rolls up her sleeves. Her dad doesn't exactly discourage the behavior either. He's basically standing behind her saying, "Go on. Solve another murder. It'll be good for you." Meanwhile poor Jeff just keeps finding himself attached to yet another investigation when all the man probably wanted was a normal workweek.
And can we please talk about Bud the bear? Imagine living somewhere that everyone casually accepts there's a bear with a favorite hot tub. Nobody's screaming. Nobody's relocating. They're just mildly inconvenienced because the local wildlife has spa preferences. Honestly, Bud feels like the least dramatic resident in the entire town.
I also liked that underneath all the quirky chaos, Dee is still figuring out what her life looks like after leaving Hollywood behind. Every now and then something from her old career sneaks back into her new life, and you can feel that little sting of unfinished business. Those moments gave her more heart than I expected, especially because she never stopped moving forward even when the past tried to wave at her from across the room.
This ended up being a 3.5 star read for me. I think longtime readers will probably catch even more of the running jokes and returning friendships than I did, but I still had a good time riding along with this wonderfully weird little town. I'll happily come back... although if I ever book a room at the Golden Motel, I'm requesting one as far away from any future crime scene as humanly possible.
Whodunity Award: For Somehow Making a Murder, a Haunted Reputation, a Ghost Hunter, and a Hot Tub-Loving Bear Feel Like Perfect Halloween Vacation Plans
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. I checked in expecting a cozy train ride and checked out wondering whether the motel should start handing guests a room key and an alibi at the front desk.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5/5 stars: This is Byron's third entry in the Golden Motel Mystery series which is a B&B Cozy Mystery set in California during Halloween. Featuring a former TV sitcom writer turned motel owner, which she co-owns with her ex-husband, as she finds herself turning sleuth to investigate the death of the only living descendant of the man responsible for the town's historic landmark status, who she discovered on the tracks of the narrow-gauge railroad he ran as a tourist attraction seemingly felled by a fallen tree branch. Juggling the historic citizen's birthday celebrations and Halloween festivities with her various business responsibilities, she'll apply her sleuthing skills to sort through the suspects that range from a former child star and one-hit wonder, a nail salon owner with her claws in everything and even the mayor. When a self-proclaimed ghost hunter throws his hat in the ring and claims to know who did it, the investigation really goes off the rails. No matter how crazy things get, she's determined to blow the whistle on a runaway killer with a one-track mind.
With plenty of twists and turns, Byron has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Witty and tons of fun, Byron's writing and character work are stellar; the main characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced.
• For animal lovers: there's the MC's sweet hound and the town's resident wild bear.
• Includes road trip tips and a delicious sounding recipe.
• Holiday theme: Plenty of Halloween-themed activities and atmosphere.
While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, A Very Woodsy Murder.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
With plenty of twists and turns, Byron has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Witty and tons of fun, Byron's writing and character work are stellar; the main characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced.
• For animal lovers: there's the MC's sweet hound and the town's resident wild bear.
• Includes road trip tips and a delicious sounding recipe.
• Holiday theme: Plenty of Halloween-themed activities and atmosphere.
While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, A Very Woodsy Murder.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There’s something so comforting about returning to the Golden Motel and the charming mountain towns that surround it. Every time I pick up one of these books, it feels like coming home, and this installment reminded me exactly why I love this series so much.
One of my favorite aspects of the series continues to be the characters. Dee Stern and her partner have built something truly special out of almost nothing, creating a welcoming destination that feels as real as the people who visit it. Their journey from the beginning of the series to now has been incredibly rewarding to watch.
And then there’s the bear. The ongoing visits from the local bear never fail to make me laugh, and the way everyone interacts with him has become one of my favorite running jokes in the series.
The mystery itself was fantastic. The Halloween atmosphere added just the right amount of seasonal charm, while the railroad history and old train elements brought a wonderfully spooky edge to the story. I loved learning more about the area’s history while following a cleverly crafted mystery that kept me engaged from beginning to end.
Ellen Byron also continues to bring her entertainment industry experience into the series in such a natural way. This time, the story explores child stars and some of the stereotypes and challenges that surround them, adding another interesting layer to the plot.
As always, the setting is delightful, the cast is unforgettable, and the mystery is expertly woven together. Byron once again proves why this is one of my favorite cozy mystery series.
And that ending! The introduction of a certain new character has me absolutely intrigued. I have so many questions and cannot wait to see where the series goes next.
I’m so grateful to have received an ARC and the opportunity to experience this wonderful mystery before publication. Ellen Byron absolutely knocked it out of the park, and I’m already eagerly awaiting the next book.
One of my favorite aspects of the series continues to be the characters. Dee Stern and her partner have built something truly special out of almost nothing, creating a welcoming destination that feels as real as the people who visit it. Their journey from the beginning of the series to now has been incredibly rewarding to watch.
And then there’s the bear. The ongoing visits from the local bear never fail to make me laugh, and the way everyone interacts with him has become one of my favorite running jokes in the series.
The mystery itself was fantastic. The Halloween atmosphere added just the right amount of seasonal charm, while the railroad history and old train elements brought a wonderfully spooky edge to the story. I loved learning more about the area’s history while following a cleverly crafted mystery that kept me engaged from beginning to end.
Ellen Byron also continues to bring her entertainment industry experience into the series in such a natural way. This time, the story explores child stars and some of the stereotypes and challenges that surround them, adding another interesting layer to the plot.
As always, the setting is delightful, the cast is unforgettable, and the mystery is expertly woven together. Byron once again proves why this is one of my favorite cozy mystery series.
And that ending! The introduction of a certain new character has me absolutely intrigued. I have so many questions and cannot wait to see where the series goes next.
I’m so grateful to have received an ARC and the opportunity to experience this wonderful mystery before publication. Ellen Byron absolutely knocked it out of the park, and I’m already eagerly awaiting the next book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
All Aboard for Murder is a cozy mystery set at the Golden Motel, a renovated retro motel in California’s Gold Country. Dee Stern runs the motel with her ex-husband turned best friend, Jeff Cornetta. It’s Halloween and they are anticipating a big spooky season at the motel. They don’t anticipate murder though. Moses Sprockles, who runs the town’s old railroad, is discovered dead. Dee begins sleuthing, with a number of suspects, including a pair of spoiled former child stars who are staying at the motel.
I wanted to read All Aboard for Murder because I love this series. It’s one of my favorites! I really love the retro motel setting, and the California Gold Rush town is fun.
This is a fast paced mystery with a lot of characters. The author has included a Cast of Characters section listing all the characters and their place in this little corner of the world. It’s very helpful!
I like Dee as a sleuth. She’s smart and as she states herself, “I’m obsessed with people’s backstories. You know, people’s pasts.” (eBook location 2760)
Her coworker Ma’am adds, “That’s what makes you a good writer. And a good snoop.” (eBook location 2761).
I like the extended cast that recurs in this series, including Dee’s father Sam, who plays Prospector Pete for family groups visiting the motel; her folksy older coworkers Ma’am and Mister Ma’am; her hound dog Nugget; and of course Bud the Bear!
I enthusiastically recommend All Aboard for Murder for other cozy mystery fans. Anyone interested in Mid-Century motels or folksy American road trips will absolutely adore this mystery. Do yourself a favor and read the entire Golden Motel series - it is great fun, and you will enjoy seeing the characters interact over the different books.
I wanted to read All Aboard for Murder because I love this series. It’s one of my favorites! I really love the retro motel setting, and the California Gold Rush town is fun.
This is a fast paced mystery with a lot of characters. The author has included a Cast of Characters section listing all the characters and their place in this little corner of the world. It’s very helpful!
I like Dee as a sleuth. She’s smart and as she states herself, “I’m obsessed with people’s backstories. You know, people’s pasts.” (eBook location 2760)
Her coworker Ma’am adds, “That’s what makes you a good writer. And a good snoop.” (eBook location 2761).
I like the extended cast that recurs in this series, including Dee’s father Sam, who plays Prospector Pete for family groups visiting the motel; her folksy older coworkers Ma’am and Mister Ma’am; her hound dog Nugget; and of course Bud the Bear!
I enthusiastically recommend All Aboard for Murder for other cozy mystery fans. Anyone interested in Mid-Century motels or folksy American road trips will absolutely adore this mystery. Do yourself a favor and read the entire Golden Motel series - it is great fun, and you will enjoy seeing the characters interact over the different books.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Hop on board the Sprockles Railroad for a wild ride! Dee Stern and her best friend Jeff own The Golden Motel in Foundgold, a small village in California's gold country, abutting nearby Gonesgold. It is Halloween and the birthday of one of the man responsible for the area being designated an historic site, Angus Sprockles. Angus ran a narrow-gauge railroad that wound around the gold country and it is now in the able hands of his last descendent, Moses Sprockles. Moses is running a fundraiser for the Historical Society to commemorate the designation. When a body is found on the tracks during the celebration, Dee and Jeff get involved in the investigation. Given Dee's background as a screenwriter for sitcoms of the past, somehow washed up writers, producers, influencers and actors keep turning up to remind her of her failures in that arena.
This series just keeps getting better and better. Dee is solidifying her place in Foundgold, building relationships, learning how to manage the local wildlife, especially Bud the bear who happens to have a fondness for their hot tub! She is also something of a magnet for dead bodies and Verity, her Goldsgone nemesis has dubbed the Golden Motel, Murder Motel, much to Dee's chagrin. Somehow it does not seem to phase the guests though. Read this delightful book to find out how Dee manages to keep the Golden Motel running no matter what. This plot will keep you guessing right up to the end.
My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing and especially Ellen Byron for the opportunity to read an advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
This series just keeps getting better and better. Dee is solidifying her place in Foundgold, building relationships, learning how to manage the local wildlife, especially Bud the bear who happens to have a fondness for their hot tub! She is also something of a magnet for dead bodies and Verity, her Goldsgone nemesis has dubbed the Golden Motel, Murder Motel, much to Dee's chagrin. Somehow it does not seem to phase the guests though. Read this delightful book to find out how Dee manages to keep the Golden Motel running no matter what. This plot will keep you guessing right up to the end.
My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing and especially Ellen Byron for the opportunity to read an advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
All Aboard for Murder is the third book in the Golden Motel Mystery Series by Ellen Byron. The amateur sleuth is Dee, a former sitcom writer turned motelier who owns a retro motel in former Gold Rush country in rustic California.
In this installment of the Golden Motel Mysteries, Dee Stern and the rest of her quaint California community are celebrating Halloween and the birthday of Angus Sprockles, the man responsible for the town's designation as a historic landmark. Angus's descendant, Moses, is hosting a Halloween-themed fundraiser for the Historical Society. Things go off the tracks when someone finds a body. Dee, once again, finds herself in the middle of a mystery she can't help but try to solve.
What a ride! With a charming cast, spooky suspense, and laugh-out-loud humor, Aboard for Murder has everything I love in a Halloween mystery. Plus, there is a train! This brought back fond memories of the Halloween train I used to ride every year in my youth. What a fun memory!
This whole book had me smiling from the first page to the last. Ellen Byron never fails to craft an entertaining and twisty mystery. She is very good at inserting clues in all of the right places and always offers up a midpoint twist that changes everything.
This book was hard to put down. I highly recommend this to cozy lovers who are looking for a funny and clever mystery for Halloween.
Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for the ARC!
In this installment of the Golden Motel Mysteries, Dee Stern and the rest of her quaint California community are celebrating Halloween and the birthday of Angus Sprockles, the man responsible for the town's designation as a historic landmark. Angus's descendant, Moses, is hosting a Halloween-themed fundraiser for the Historical Society. Things go off the tracks when someone finds a body. Dee, once again, finds herself in the middle of a mystery she can't help but try to solve.
What a ride! With a charming cast, spooky suspense, and laugh-out-loud humor, Aboard for Murder has everything I love in a Halloween mystery. Plus, there is a train! This brought back fond memories of the Halloween train I used to ride every year in my youth. What a fun memory!
This whole book had me smiling from the first page to the last. Ellen Byron never fails to craft an entertaining and twisty mystery. She is very good at inserting clues in all of the right places and always offers up a midpoint twist that changes everything.
This book was hard to put down. I highly recommend this to cozy lovers who are looking for a funny and clever mystery for Halloween.
Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.25 stars
When you read a book by Ellen Byron (or books written under her pen name Maria DiRico), you know you're going to get great settings, interesting plots, memorable characters, and plenty of humor. This book doesn't disappoint on any of those. The premise of the Golden Motel series is that Dee Stern is a former sitcom writer who leaves Hollywood behind to run a retro motel in rural California. Her business partner is her best friend and ex-husband Jeff Cornetta.
This book specifically is about a celebration honoring the man who helped preserve the area's mining history. The highlight of the event is the unearthing of a time capsule from 75 years ago. The findings seem to lead to a suspicious death that Dee helps to investigate. A Halloween-themed fundraiser is also an important part of the story. Other characters in the story include twin brothers who had been child stars decades before, a popular ghost hunter, Dee's voice actor father. This is a fast-paced and fun mystery that has a lot going on with a few different amusing subplots, but definitely holds your attention. Dee even makes a short visit back to Hollywood which was very entertaining. There are a lot of interesting characters in the book, but Dee steals the show with her smarts, determination, and her humor. Here's hoping she and Jeff have more adventures in the tiny town of Foundgold.
I received an advance copy of this book from Kensington Books and NetGalley. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
When you read a book by Ellen Byron (or books written under her pen name Maria DiRico), you know you're going to get great settings, interesting plots, memorable characters, and plenty of humor. This book doesn't disappoint on any of those. The premise of the Golden Motel series is that Dee Stern is a former sitcom writer who leaves Hollywood behind to run a retro motel in rural California. Her business partner is her best friend and ex-husband Jeff Cornetta.
This book specifically is about a celebration honoring the man who helped preserve the area's mining history. The highlight of the event is the unearthing of a time capsule from 75 years ago. The findings seem to lead to a suspicious death that Dee helps to investigate. A Halloween-themed fundraiser is also an important part of the story. Other characters in the story include twin brothers who had been child stars decades before, a popular ghost hunter, Dee's voice actor father. This is a fast-paced and fun mystery that has a lot going on with a few different amusing subplots, but definitely holds your attention. Dee even makes a short visit back to Hollywood which was very entertaining. There are a lot of interesting characters in the book, but Dee steals the show with her smarts, determination, and her humor. Here's hoping she and Jeff have more adventures in the tiny town of Foundgold.
I received an advance copy of this book from Kensington Books and NetGalley. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
August 10, 2026
It's October in Gold Rush country and Halloween is just around the corner. It also happens to be the birthday of Angus Sprockles, the man responsible for the town being designated a historic landmark. His only living descendant, Moses Sprockles, runs a railroad that used to ferry lumber from the mountains to the sawmill. Now a tourist attraction, the Sprockles Railroad is hosting a Halloween-themed fundraiser for the Historical Society. Then Moses is found dead on the tracks, seemingly felled by a fallen tree branch. Dee's dad Sam is convinced its foul play and urges his daughter to apply her sleuthing skills. No matter how crazy things get, Dee is determined to blow the whistle on a runaway killer with a one-track mind.
This was a fantastic cozy mystery read. Ms. Byron has weaved a tale with great characters, an exciting setting filled with a festival atmosphere, and a plot that was just twisty enough to keep me guessing until the very end. I love how the main character and her best friend created a new life after being in different careers. I love the antics showing how they're getting used to their new environment, including the bear that keeps them on their toes going in and out of their hot tub. There are so many juicy side characters that I can't wait until the next installment. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
This was a fantastic cozy mystery read. Ms. Byron has weaved a tale with great characters, an exciting setting filled with a festival atmosphere, and a plot that was just twisty enough to keep me guessing until the very end. I love how the main character and her best friend created a new life after being in different careers. I love the antics showing how they're getting used to their new environment, including the bear that keeps them on their toes going in and out of their hot tub. There are so many juicy side characters that I can't wait until the next installment. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Dee Stern, joint owner of the Golden Motel in Foundgold, is helping with the catering at a local railway and Halloween themed fundraiser. The Sprockles Railroad was founded by Angus Sprockles whose memory is celebrated during the spooky season. When a body is discovered Dee once again finds herself looking for a killer while also pandering to a former child star guest, helping her dad grieve the loss of a friend, and trying to persuade her resident bear not to use the hot tub! As the number of possible suspects increases another victim is discovered, and the unwanted reputation of her motel and the surrounding area as murder central is once again on everyone's lips and Dee knows it's up to her to stop that continuing.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is the third book in Ellen Byron's new series and the main protagonists are great fun and a pleasure to return to. The guests once again are great, with the faded child actor and an influencer just the right type of characters for the humorous observations the author is so good at. I'm really enjoying this series, it's been a great reading experience so far.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is the third book in Ellen Byron's new series and the main protagonists are great fun and a pleasure to return to. The guests once again are great, with the faded child actor and an influencer just the right type of characters for the humorous observations the author is so good at. I'm really enjoying this series, it's been a great reading experience so far.
July 28, 2026
NEW RELEASE
Publisher Description
Dee Stern is starting to feel at home running her Golden Motel in the quaint California village she moved to, leaving behind her LA life as a sitcom writer. But a killer sees the town’s Halloween celebration as a golden opportunity to write a script for murder . . .
MY THOUGHTS:
All Aboard for Murder is the newest installment in Ellen Byron's terrific Golden Motel Mystery series. I have enjoyed all the books in this series, with the relatable characters and their relationships, interesting historic info, humor, and of course, the interesting mystery portion.
The renovated 1950's motel is gearing up for the Halloween season when they score a Hollywood guest. Mix in a murder, a ghosthunter, a load of suspense with a woman determined to find the killer and you have one great read.
I would recommend this book and the series to other mystery readers and cozy mystery readers. Thanks to #NetGalley #KensingtonPublishing #KensingtonCozies #EllenByron for an advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own,
#AllAboardforMurder #GoldenMotelMysteryseries
Publisher Description
Dee Stern is starting to feel at home running her Golden Motel in the quaint California village she moved to, leaving behind her LA life as a sitcom writer. But a killer sees the town’s Halloween celebration as a golden opportunity to write a script for murder . . .
MY THOUGHTS:
All Aboard for Murder is the newest installment in Ellen Byron's terrific Golden Motel Mystery series. I have enjoyed all the books in this series, with the relatable characters and their relationships, interesting historic info, humor, and of course, the interesting mystery portion.
The renovated 1950's motel is gearing up for the Halloween season when they score a Hollywood guest. Mix in a murder, a ghosthunter, a load of suspense with a woman determined to find the killer and you have one great read.
I would recommend this book and the series to other mystery readers and cozy mystery readers. Thanks to #NetGalley #KensingtonPublishing #KensingtonCozies #EllenByron for an advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own,
#AllAboardforMurder #GoldenMotelMysteryseries
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I jumped right on board without reading the first two in the series.
I loved the book’s setting in California’s Gold Country. The characters, many of them transplanted from the show business life in LA, are a colorful, quirky bunch. Motel owner Dee Stern is a former sitcom writer, who is haunted by having to quit her job after a “flop” of an episode she was set up to write, featuring the dreaded talent show trope. Now with her ex-husband and friend, she runs the retro Golden Motel, which caters to tourists visiting the small town of Foundgold.
When the body of Moses Sprockles, descendent of the town’s founder, ends up dead on the tracks of the historic railroad, Dee finds a mother lode of suspects. She’s an observant (and delightfully snarky) sleuth. The mystery is funny and well crafted and keeps you guessing right to the satisfying end. It also does a great job of weaving Dee’s past career in with the mystery.
My next stop—the first two books in the series!
Thank you to Net Galley for a free copy of All Aboard for Murder. This is a fair and honest review.
I loved the book’s setting in California’s Gold Country. The characters, many of them transplanted from the show business life in LA, are a colorful, quirky bunch. Motel owner Dee Stern is a former sitcom writer, who is haunted by having to quit her job after a “flop” of an episode she was set up to write, featuring the dreaded talent show trope. Now with her ex-husband and friend, she runs the retro Golden Motel, which caters to tourists visiting the small town of Foundgold.
When the body of Moses Sprockles, descendent of the town’s founder, ends up dead on the tracks of the historic railroad, Dee finds a mother lode of suspects. She’s an observant (and delightfully snarky) sleuth. The mystery is funny and well crafted and keeps you guessing right to the satisfying end. It also does a great job of weaving Dee’s past career in with the mystery.
My next stop—the first two books in the series!
Thank you to Net Galley for a free copy of All Aboard for Murder. This is a fair and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
All Aboard for Murder is the third book in Ellen Byron's stellar Golden Motel Mystery series. This book is set in the fall, around Halloween, and the towns of Found Gold and Goldsgone are celebrating with pumpkin crafts, Halloween treats, and a haunted train ride. But Moses Sprockles, last member of the legendary Sprockles family and owner of the historic narrow-gauge railroad, is found murdered on the train track. Ex-sitcom writer and current owner of the Golden Motel Dee Stern becomes involved in the investigation.
I loved the fall/Halloween fun in this book! The secondary characters are always one of my favorite parts of this series, and in this installment, I especially loved Dee's dad, a former Hollywood voice actor who now plays characters such as Prospector Pete to help Dee's motel. The mystery was interesting, and I enjoyed hanging out with the characters I've grown to love.
Thanks to NetGalley for the early copy of this book! Follow me at https://youtube.com/@whileireadwithka... for book reviews and recommendations!
I loved the fall/Halloween fun in this book! The secondary characters are always one of my favorite parts of this series, and in this installment, I especially loved Dee's dad, a former Hollywood voice actor who now plays characters such as Prospector Pete to help Dee's motel. The mystery was interesting, and I enjoyed hanging out with the characters I've grown to love.
Thanks to NetGalley for the early copy of this book! Follow me at https://youtube.com/@whileireadwithka... for book reviews and recommendations!
July 28, 2026
Dee Stern with ex-husband Jeff Cornetta is finally getting settled in at the Golden Motel when they attend the opening of the time capsule placed at the Goldsgone City Hall 75 years ago by Angus Sprockles. His great-nephew, Moses, is the guest of honor. The contents include the surprise of a silver railroad spike. Further festivities include a train ride on Moses' narrow gauge train with a has been child star as a sort of draw. Sadly, Moses is murdered and suspects are plentiful.
As Dee, Jeff, her dad, Sam, and all her friends and even enemies find the clues to the killer.
I love that Dee has a chance to confront the worst of her past a get a little of her own back on the person responsible.(And find a clue to the killer!) I am glad to see her give grace to others in her personal life. I like that with her quirky help (Ma'am and Mister Ma'am) she and Jeff are bringing the Golden back to its roots as a family motel.
Bud the bear is the best! (A little scary having a resident bear, but his antics are hilarious.)
As Dee, Jeff, her dad, Sam, and all her friends and even enemies find the clues to the killer.
I love that Dee has a chance to confront the worst of her past a get a little of her own back on the person responsible.(And find a clue to the killer!) I am glad to see her give grace to others in her personal life. I like that with her quirky help (Ma'am and Mister Ma'am) she and Jeff are bringing the Golden back to its roots as a family motel.
Bud the bear is the best! (A little scary having a resident bear, but his antics are hilarious.)
July 30, 2026
I just love the character of Dee’s dad who was a former cartoon voice personality and always breaking into funny voices. But he was one sad camper when a beloved member of Goldsgone was murdered and Sam aka Dad used to be his good friend.
Despite everyone liking the deceased, there were a number of those who’d’ve had a reason to off him, so Dee went into amateur sleuth mode along with Jeff again. There was one character I didn’t like at the beginning, but his transformation after he’d been in Goldsgone a while was pretty awesome as he found his true calling.
I always love the funny antics of Bud the resident bear—he was on his A-game this time lol. Something left me with the feeling this could be the last in series, but I really hope not! I’ve enjoyed it a lot so if it’s the last, it ended in a good place, although I’m always up for more adventures with Dee, Jeff and all their friends. Here’s hoping there’ll be more books coming!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book, and my opinions are my own.
Despite everyone liking the deceased, there were a number of those who’d’ve had a reason to off him, so Dee went into amateur sleuth mode along with Jeff again. There was one character I didn’t like at the beginning, but his transformation after he’d been in Goldsgone a while was pretty awesome as he found his true calling.
I always love the funny antics of Bud the resident bear—he was on his A-game this time lol. Something left me with the feeling this could be the last in series, but I really hope not! I’ve enjoyed it a lot so if it’s the last, it ended in a good place, although I’m always up for more adventures with Dee, Jeff and all their friends. Here’s hoping there’ll be more books coming!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book, and my opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another fun mystery in the Golden Motel series! Former sitcom script writer Dee and her best friend/ex-husband/business partner Jeff are finally doing better at their motel and hope they are finally getting rid of the "Murder Motel" nickname they've been stuck with. But no--yet another death near the motel turns out to be foul play!
The victim is the owner of the narrow gauge railroad that is a popular tourist attraction in the area. He's also a friend of Dee's father, who doesn't believe the death was an accident. Once Dee and Jeff start investigating, they uncover multiple suspects.
The characters in the series are wonderfully drawn, and the motel guests this time are great as suspects and/or comic relief. A cozy mystery with great characters, a great setting, interesting history, and a murder with many suspects--this is a fun read! And the first two books are also great!
I received an advance reader copy from NetGalley.
The victim is the owner of the narrow gauge railroad that is a popular tourist attraction in the area. He's also a friend of Dee's father, who doesn't believe the death was an accident. Once Dee and Jeff start investigating, they uncover multiple suspects.
The characters in the series are wonderfully drawn, and the motel guests this time are great as suspects and/or comic relief. A cozy mystery with great characters, a great setting, interesting history, and a murder with many suspects--this is a fun read! And the first two books are also great!
I received an advance reader copy from NetGalley.
July 29, 2026
Halloween, an old-fashioned railroad, murder and a possible ghost? Sounds like a winning combination, particularly when it is set in the Gold Country of California. Dee and her friend, both former participants in the making of sit-coms in Hollywood, now run a newly renovated motel in Gold Country and when the owner of railroad is found dead on the tracks, Dee's dad asks her to investigate. There are plenty of suspects from the mayor, to the local nail salon owner, and former child-stars.
A fun mystery with good characters. I guessed who the culprit was early on but there were plenty of red herrings to keep you guessing. There was a side arc of Dee confronting her past as a writer of sit-coms that ended badly. Nice to see her able to give a misogynist director a piece of her mind in public.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
A fun mystery with good characters. I guessed who the culprit was early on but there were plenty of red herrings to keep you guessing. There was a side arc of Dee confronting her past as a writer of sit-coms that ended badly. Nice to see her able to give a misogynist director a piece of her mind in public.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
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