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Will Travel for Trouble #1-3
Will Travel for Trouble Series #1-3
Boxed set of the Will Travel for Trouble series of short cozy mysteries, Books 1-3! Trouble at Happy Trails, Book 1: Minnie Crockwell, recreational vehicle enthusiast and traveler, checks into her allotted space at Happy Trails RV Park in Spokane, Washington, with hopes of a pleasant week of touring the area. By night’s end, a death in the park finds her consoling the deceased man’s widow...or his killer. Whether the dearly departed died by his own hand or whether someone murdered him remains to be seen. It seems the deceased had a lot of character flaws. A lot! Peregrine Ebenezer Alvord, otherwise known as Ben, is tagging along with Minnie on her travels. That he is an early 19th century ghost is only a minor complication. Ben has the ability to venture unseen where others cannot. Minnie never imagined herself as an amateur sleuth, but with Ben’s help, she might just be able to discover the source of the Trouble at Happy Trails! Trouble at Sunny Lake, Book 2: Minnie Crockwell, recreational vehicle enthusiast and traveler, is stressed out from the recent events at Happy Trails RV Park, and she looks forward to some relaxation at an RV park nestled on the shores of beautiful and serene Sunny Lake in Spokane County,Washington. Peregrine Ebenezer (Ben) Alvord, her 19th century ghost traveling companion, assures her that the murder at Happy Trails RV Park is a thing of the past, and that their sojourn at Sunny Lake promises to be a pleasant and peaceful interlude. Ben, however, cannot stop Minnie from investigating a mysterious young man who hides in one of the park cabins, nor can he prevent her from discovering a body at the foot of a lakeside cliff. All he can do is help Minnie as she embroils herself yet again in another murder mystery. Trouble at Glacier, Book 3: Minnie Crockwell, recreational vehicle enthusiast and traveler, lucks into a first come, first-served camping spot at Apgar campground in majestic Glacier National Park, Montana. After the stress over the past few months of finding herself involved in not one but two murders, she looks forward to the serenity of the mountains. She has sworn off sleuthing forever. Until her next-door neighbor is attacked and killed by a bear, that is. Minnie has the bad luck to be the first to discover the body. Not as bad of luck as the victim had, but bad luck nevertheless. So much for the serenity she thought she’d find at Glacier. Peregrine Ebenezer (Ben) Alvord, her 19th century ghost traveling companion, is not so easily convinced this was a mere bear attack, and he unwittingly reactivates Minnie’s sleuthing instincts with his musings of murder and mayhem. Minnie can’t help herself. She’s off and running—on the hunt for another kind of killer. Look for Book 7 soon! Book 1 - Trouble at Happy Trails Book 2 - Trouble at Sunny Lake Book 3 - Trouble at Glacier Boxed Set (Books 1-3) Will Travel for Trouble Book 4 - Trouble at Hungry Lake Book 5 – Trouble at Snake and Clearwater Book 6 – Trouble in Florence
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2015
61 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Minnie Crockwell
30 books39 followersMinnie Crockwell is the author of the "Will Travel for Trouble" series of short cozy mysteries featuring Minnie, recreational vehicle (RV) enthusiast and traveler, and her companion, Peregrine Ebenezer (Ben) Alvord, a 19th century cartographer with the Lewis and Clark expedition who just happens to be a ghost! The short cozy mysteries feature Ben and Minnie's adventures on the road as they discover that no one knows what goes on behind the closed doors of those happy campers. Join them for a bumpy ride!
Minnie lives, travels and writes full time in a Class A recreational vehicle. Although she owns a house in Washington State, she enjoys living in other towns and states which the RV allows her to do. She enjoys hearing from readers. You can contact her at minniecrockwell@gmail.com. Minnie also writes time travel romances as Bess McBride.
Book 1: Trouble at Happy Trails
Book 2: Trouble at Sunny Lake
Book 3: Trouble at Glacier
Book 4: Trouble at Hungry Horse
Book 5: Trouble at Snake and Clearwater
Book 6: Trouble in Florence
Book 7: Trouble in Tombstone Town
Book 8: Trouble in Cochise Stronghold
Minnie lives, travels and writes full time in a Class A recreational vehicle. Although she owns a house in Washington State, she enjoys living in other towns and states which the RV allows her to do. She enjoys hearing from readers. You can contact her at minniecrockwell@gmail.com. Minnie also writes time travel romances as Bess McBride.
Book 1: Trouble at Happy Trails
Book 2: Trouble at Sunny Lake
Book 3: Trouble at Glacier
Book 4: Trouble at Hungry Horse
Book 5: Trouble at Snake and Clearwater
Book 6: Trouble in Florence
Book 7: Trouble in Tombstone Town
Book 8: Trouble in Cochise Stronghold
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 27, 2019
Questo libro raccoglie i primi tre racconti (perché i tratta di racconti, non veri e propri romanzi) della serie e io speravo ardentemente che mi piacessero. In realtà, la parte in cui si parla dei vari parchi in cui la protagonista si ferma a campeggiare sono anche ben fatti, è il resto che mi convince poco. La protagonista passa il tempo a parlare con un fantasma. questo lo potrei anche accettare perché il fantasma è una persona interessante, alla fin fine. E' la protagonista che mi urta i nervi! E' super-curiosa, si caccia nelle situazioni più pericolose, anche se poi si lamenta di fare un balzo in aria al primo rumore e di soffrire di sindrome post-traumatica da stress dopo aver subito una rapina. Inoltre, flirta con tutti gli uomini della giusta età (oserei dire senza ritegno), col povero fantasma (che non può vedere e che è chiaramente innamorato di lei) e con l'ex-marito via mail (marito da cui ha divorziato una ventina di anni prima!). A me viene da definirla una farfallona...
Le tre stelle sono più per l'idea alla base della serie che per altro, lo confesso.
Le tre stelle sono più per l'idea alla base della serie che per altro, lo confesso.
February 20, 2019
This is a great collection of short, cozy mysteries. The characters of Minnie and Ben are so cute and the addition of a ghost helper is such a fun concept. There are no secondary story lines so the main mystery is concise and quick, but that's not a bad thing. The fact that each story takes place in a different location is also really clever.
Michelle Babb is the perfect voice for cozy mysteries. She brings you into the story quickly and her characters are always unique.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
Michelle Babb is the perfect voice for cozy mysteries. She brings you into the story quickly and her characters are always unique.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
August 24, 2019
Why the ghost?
I picked this boxed set out from Kindle Unlimited choices. I am not a huge fan of cosies, but enjoy them for light, quick reads on occasion.
I made it through book one, only because of how short it was. The ghost companion is just so...... contrived. I couldn't tell if she could see him or only hear him, would have liked to know how he ended up stuck to her, and why even bother with the ghost at all? Throwing out the info she had been beat up like it was just an afterthought to justify being jumpy was too ... too. Why not just jumpy because of a gunshot, screams then a blood covered woman?
Glad this was a loaner set. Won't bother reading on.
I picked this boxed set out from Kindle Unlimited choices. I am not a huge fan of cosies, but enjoy them for light, quick reads on occasion.
I made it through book one, only because of how short it was. The ghost companion is just so...... contrived. I couldn't tell if she could see him or only hear him, would have liked to know how he ended up stuck to her, and why even bother with the ghost at all? Throwing out the info she had been beat up like it was just an afterthought to justify being jumpy was too ... too. Why not just jumpy because of a gunshot, screams then a blood covered woman?
Glad this was a loaner set. Won't bother reading on.
September 15, 2019
4 stars:)
Ooo... quite addictive ... I'm loving every minute of it..especially when it's being narrated by the brilliant michelle babb:)
On to the next book!!
Ooo... quite addictive ... I'm loving every minute of it..especially when it's being narrated by the brilliant michelle babb:)
On to the next book!!
April 29, 2020
I am not normally a fan of short stories because they are over before they get anywhere but as this book contains three and they all follow on from each other, it seemed like just one book and you never noticed how long or short they were. So I enjoyed and they were the right length, long enough to meet the characters and still keep you interested but not too long that it seemed dragged out. I liked the idea of a ghost as a companion to a single woman as she travels around in her R.V and the fact he helps her solve mysteries while stopping at each camp site and I think it worked very well as a story. Each of the mysteries were different and contained a number of suspects. Looking forward starting the next set of books.
Book one Trouble at happy trails -four stars.
Minnie arrives at Happy trails and immediately walks in on the camp site caretakers arguing. Before the night is over she hears a scream and finds herself comforting the wife who is covered in the husbands blood. After yet another augment did he really commit suicide or did he have help? The man was a bully and a womanizer so there are a number of suspect's. Can Minnie and her friendly ghost find a happy ending by unmasking the killer.
Book two Trouble at sunny lake -five stars.
While spending time at Sunny lake camp ground Minnie decides to relax and enjoy the scenery by boat. Being a novice she makes sure Ben her ghostly companion joins her and watches the safety video, the last thing she wants to do is get stuck on the lake. But getting stuck is the last thing she needed to worry about when she stumbles over a body floating in the water. Did the man really from the cliff or was he pushed? By asking questions it is not long before Minnie finds out she is the only one on the campground that doesn't have a connection to the dead man or a reason to kill him. Does the murderer have something to do with his past life? As a war veteran he certainly made some enemies.
Book three Trouble at Glacier- five stars
While at Glacier National Park Minnie is warned about a bear that is hanging out at the site. Like everyone else the thought of seeing a bear and taking a photo is an exciting idea for Minnie. That is until she comes face to face with the bear and then stumbled over the mutilated body of the man staying in the next RV. It was scarey seeing the bear but it didn't look like it had just attacked a man. Could the bear be being framed? The park rangers soon think so and for the third time Minnie finds himself involved in a murder investigation. Minnie and her ghostly companion soon find connections between a number of people at the camp site and another bear attack, one that a lady died actually died in. Is that the connection between the killer and the victim? And if so who is the killer?
The reason I choose to give this series ago is because I like the narrator and know if she is reading the story then you are going to be in for a treat because she never puts in a bad performance.
Book one Trouble at happy trails -four stars.
Minnie arrives at Happy trails and immediately walks in on the camp site caretakers arguing. Before the night is over she hears a scream and finds herself comforting the wife who is covered in the husbands blood. After yet another augment did he really commit suicide or did he have help? The man was a bully and a womanizer so there are a number of suspect's. Can Minnie and her friendly ghost find a happy ending by unmasking the killer.
Book two Trouble at sunny lake -five stars.
While spending time at Sunny lake camp ground Minnie decides to relax and enjoy the scenery by boat. Being a novice she makes sure Ben her ghostly companion joins her and watches the safety video, the last thing she wants to do is get stuck on the lake. But getting stuck is the last thing she needed to worry about when she stumbles over a body floating in the water. Did the man really from the cliff or was he pushed? By asking questions it is not long before Minnie finds out she is the only one on the campground that doesn't have a connection to the dead man or a reason to kill him. Does the murderer have something to do with his past life? As a war veteran he certainly made some enemies.
Book three Trouble at Glacier- five stars
While at Glacier National Park Minnie is warned about a bear that is hanging out at the site. Like everyone else the thought of seeing a bear and taking a photo is an exciting idea for Minnie. That is until she comes face to face with the bear and then stumbled over the mutilated body of the man staying in the next RV. It was scarey seeing the bear but it didn't look like it had just attacked a man. Could the bear be being framed? The park rangers soon think so and for the third time Minnie finds himself involved in a murder investigation. Minnie and her ghostly companion soon find connections between a number of people at the camp site and another bear attack, one that a lady died actually died in. Is that the connection between the killer and the victim? And if so who is the killer?
The reason I choose to give this series ago is because I like the narrator and know if she is reading the story then you are going to be in for a treat because she never puts in a bad performance.
March 8, 2019
( Format : Audiobook )
"A magnet for death."
At twenty two, Minerva Crockwell divorced her husband of just one year and started saving. Twenty years later, she retired from her Federal service job, bought herself a Recreational vehicle and a little car, and took to the road, travelling alone between camping sites across America. Well, almost alone. Along the way she discovered she had an invisible companion, Ben, a British born navigator and cartographer from the early nineteenth century, now a ghost, as mystified as she as to how he came to be somehow linked to her. They had grown fond of each other, he gentlemanly protective, she falling just a little bit in love with the charming friend she could neither see or touch.
Minnie is a bit of a romantic. In her forties now, she is still attractive and enjoys the attention of the 'handsome and dashing' men in uniform she meets, as well as continuing to be a little bit in love with her ex, John, now a Chief of Police, whom she never sees but sometimes emaills. She's the sort of person to whom people naturally tell their problems, which is good because she is inquisitive, nosy even. And somehow, wherever she goes, she finds a body.
This box set, Will Travel for Trouble, features the first three of the the Minnie Crockwell stories, set at Happy Trails, Sunny Lake and Glacier, respectively. Each is a murder mystery in which, against her better judgement, Minnie gets involved and each is bursting with the sights and smells of the area in which she's camping as well as fun character development and the ongoing conversations and relationship between Ben and Millie. Funnily enough, it all feels very real. In part, this is down to the superb performance by Michelle Babb, who gives individual voice to all of the protagonists, even sustaining the gentle British accent of Ben the ghost throughout, as well as reading with enthusiastic warmth and great intonation.
For those unfamiliar with RVs, there is a glossary of terms at the beginning of the book.
My thanks to the rights holder of this delightful box set, who, at my request, freely gifted me with a complimentary copy. It is a deliciously vibrant easy read, fun, relaxing and very enjoyable. Recommended.
"A magnet for death."
At twenty two, Minerva Crockwell divorced her husband of just one year and started saving. Twenty years later, she retired from her Federal service job, bought herself a Recreational vehicle and a little car, and took to the road, travelling alone between camping sites across America. Well, almost alone. Along the way she discovered she had an invisible companion, Ben, a British born navigator and cartographer from the early nineteenth century, now a ghost, as mystified as she as to how he came to be somehow linked to her. They had grown fond of each other, he gentlemanly protective, she falling just a little bit in love with the charming friend she could neither see or touch.
Minnie is a bit of a romantic. In her forties now, she is still attractive and enjoys the attention of the 'handsome and dashing' men in uniform she meets, as well as continuing to be a little bit in love with her ex, John, now a Chief of Police, whom she never sees but sometimes emaills. She's the sort of person to whom people naturally tell their problems, which is good because she is inquisitive, nosy even. And somehow, wherever she goes, she finds a body.
This box set, Will Travel for Trouble, features the first three of the the Minnie Crockwell stories, set at Happy Trails, Sunny Lake and Glacier, respectively. Each is a murder mystery in which, against her better judgement, Minnie gets involved and each is bursting with the sights and smells of the area in which she's camping as well as fun character development and the ongoing conversations and relationship between Ben and Millie. Funnily enough, it all feels very real. In part, this is down to the superb performance by Michelle Babb, who gives individual voice to all of the protagonists, even sustaining the gentle British accent of Ben the ghost throughout, as well as reading with enthusiastic warmth and great intonation.
For those unfamiliar with RVs, there is a glossary of terms at the beginning of the book.
My thanks to the rights holder of this delightful box set, who, at my request, freely gifted me with a complimentary copy. It is a deliciously vibrant easy read, fun, relaxing and very enjoyable. Recommended.
February 17, 2019
This is a three-book boxed set of the trouble Minnie Crockwell gets into as she travels the US in her RV. A former federal employee, exact role, or even department, not revealed to the reader yet, she has through careful saving and having started young, been able to retire early. She's in her forties. She's also divorced from John, whom she is still friendly with, and truth be told in love with. He's now the chief of police in a town in Colorado.
Oh, and she also has a rather unusual traveling companion--the ghost of an officer in the Corps of Discovery, a.k.a. the Lewis and Clark expedition, who died of a fever on the westernmost point of their exploration. The ghost, Ben, thinks she would be well advised to stop stumbling over dead bodies, and failing that, to just leave the investigation to the police, but he can't help helping her when she ignores his advice.
These stories are just a lot of fun, especially as we get to know Minnie, Ben, their complicated relationship with each other, and Minnie's complicated relationship with ex-husband John, better.
Minnie is smart, funny, observant, nosy, not always as subtle or tactful as she thinks she is, and very kind and caring. How can she possibly not get involved in finding the answers to the murders she stumbles upon? Ben is originally English, but a proud American and (deceased) officer in the US Army. He's cultured, gracious, honorable, and very fond of Minnie. They "met" in Oregon when Minnie was visiting near the site of his death, and neither one of them really understands how they became linked, or why Ben can't stray too far from Minnie's presence. He respects her courage and intelligence, but thinks it is his responsibility to help protect her--which, as an incorporeal spirit, her really can't do. It's only been about three months since they became connected, and they're still figuring things out.
The stories are a lot of fun, and Michelle Babb as narrator enhances them with her voice, tone, and expression. Recommended.
I received this audiobook free from the narrator, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
Oh, and she also has a rather unusual traveling companion--the ghost of an officer in the Corps of Discovery, a.k.a. the Lewis and Clark expedition, who died of a fever on the westernmost point of their exploration. The ghost, Ben, thinks she would be well advised to stop stumbling over dead bodies, and failing that, to just leave the investigation to the police, but he can't help helping her when she ignores his advice.
These stories are just a lot of fun, especially as we get to know Minnie, Ben, their complicated relationship with each other, and Minnie's complicated relationship with ex-husband John, better.
Minnie is smart, funny, observant, nosy, not always as subtle or tactful as she thinks she is, and very kind and caring. How can she possibly not get involved in finding the answers to the murders she stumbles upon? Ben is originally English, but a proud American and (deceased) officer in the US Army. He's cultured, gracious, honorable, and very fond of Minnie. They "met" in Oregon when Minnie was visiting near the site of his death, and neither one of them really understands how they became linked, or why Ben can't stray too far from Minnie's presence. He respects her courage and intelligence, but thinks it is his responsibility to help protect her--which, as an incorporeal spirit, her really can't do. It's only been about three months since they became connected, and they're still figuring things out.
The stories are a lot of fun, and Michelle Babb as narrator enhances them with her voice, tone, and expression. Recommended.
I received this audiobook free from the narrator, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
May 1, 2019
Minnie Crockwell has retired from work at a young age and has hit the road in RV to see the world. However her traveling companion is a bit older, and a bit dead. Peregrine Ebenezer Alvord, Ben, was a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and one morning just didn't wake up. Somehow he has become attached to Minnie and the 2 are traveling state parks. Along the way the run into a few problems.
Book 1 - Trouble at Happy Trails
Minnie settles in to her place at Happy Trails RV Park but before the night is over she is consoling the new widow who also happens to the one of the park host. Did her husband meet a tragic accident or did someone kill him? Will Minnie and Ben figure out what happened before someone decides they are just too nosy?
Book 2 - Trouble at Sunny Lake
Ready for some relaxing time after their last ill-fated stop Minnie and Ben check in to a campground by a beautiful lake. Minnie signs out a pontoon boat to go relax and explore the lake. She sees something along the shoreline and decides to get closer to see if the flash of blue was bird. Sadly it was the body of a young man. As Minnie and Ben investigate they discover the young man had a long and troubled history with the people in the area and they have no shortage of suspects. Will they solve the mystery before someone decides what's one more murder?
Book 3 - Trouble at Glacier
Minnie and Ben head to a National Park to enjoy the scenery at the end of the season. They are hoping to drive across the edge of the glacier and enjoy the views. When they arrive at the National Park they are told there has been a bear sited in the area and they need to be extra cautious. Later that night Minnie hears a scream and finds the body of a fellow camper, apparently attacked by a bear. Will Minnie and Ben be able to relax and enjoy their time at Glacier? Does everyone in the park have a history? They all seem to know each other and have reasons to hate each other.
These books are a wonderful introduction to an unusual but very endearing pair of sleuths. I look forward to listening to many more.
I received this set from the narrator in exchange for my honest review.
Book 1 - Trouble at Happy Trails
Minnie settles in to her place at Happy Trails RV Park but before the night is over she is consoling the new widow who also happens to the one of the park host. Did her husband meet a tragic accident or did someone kill him? Will Minnie and Ben figure out what happened before someone decides they are just too nosy?
Book 2 - Trouble at Sunny Lake
Ready for some relaxing time after their last ill-fated stop Minnie and Ben check in to a campground by a beautiful lake. Minnie signs out a pontoon boat to go relax and explore the lake. She sees something along the shoreline and decides to get closer to see if the flash of blue was bird. Sadly it was the body of a young man. As Minnie and Ben investigate they discover the young man had a long and troubled history with the people in the area and they have no shortage of suspects. Will they solve the mystery before someone decides what's one more murder?
Book 3 - Trouble at Glacier
Minnie and Ben head to a National Park to enjoy the scenery at the end of the season. They are hoping to drive across the edge of the glacier and enjoy the views. When they arrive at the National Park they are told there has been a bear sited in the area and they need to be extra cautious. Later that night Minnie hears a scream and finds the body of a fellow camper, apparently attacked by a bear. Will Minnie and Ben be able to relax and enjoy their time at Glacier? Does everyone in the park have a history? They all seem to know each other and have reasons to hate each other.
These books are a wonderful introduction to an unusual but very endearing pair of sleuths. I look forward to listening to many more.
I received this set from the narrator in exchange for my honest review.
April 1, 2019
Review originally published at: https://www.lomeraniel.com/audiobookr...
Minnie Crockwell was able to retire at the age of 40 and decided to travel the world in her RV. She found an unusual companion on one of her first travels, and he will always be with her. Peregrine Ebenezer Alvord (Ben) is a stranded ghost from the 19th century. He represents the voice of reason and will warn Minnie of possible dangers down the road.
I’m always on the lookout for cozy mysteries, and if they are narrated by Michelle Babb, I’ll just plunge ahead without any trace of doubt that I will have a great time. This is a boxed set including the first three books in the series: TROUBLE AT HAPPY TRAILS, TROUBLE AT SUNNY LAKE and TROUBLE AT GLACIER. I thoroughly enjoyed them all. Cozy mysteries are one of my guilty pleasures, and these were ones of the best I had. The characters are quirky and interesting, and there is a spice of humor to lighten up the mood. Minnie finds herself in the middle of the investigation of three murders, and only her companion Ben can help her survive and even resolve them. The premises of the three stories caught my attention and had me guessing almost until the end. I just didn’t have enough of it and once I finished the audiobook I wanted more.
Michelle Babb makes these three stories shine, bringing the characters to live and creating different voices and styles for all of them. It is a pleasure to the ears! She also does a wonderful job transmitting the emotions of the characters and the humor in the story. The perfect narration!
I’m looking forward to the next books in the series, I just loved this one!
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Minnie Crockwell was able to retire at the age of 40 and decided to travel the world in her RV. She found an unusual companion on one of her first travels, and he will always be with her. Peregrine Ebenezer Alvord (Ben) is a stranded ghost from the 19th century. He represents the voice of reason and will warn Minnie of possible dangers down the road.
I’m always on the lookout for cozy mysteries, and if they are narrated by Michelle Babb, I’ll just plunge ahead without any trace of doubt that I will have a great time. This is a boxed set including the first three books in the series: TROUBLE AT HAPPY TRAILS, TROUBLE AT SUNNY LAKE and TROUBLE AT GLACIER. I thoroughly enjoyed them all. Cozy mysteries are one of my guilty pleasures, and these were ones of the best I had. The characters are quirky and interesting, and there is a spice of humor to lighten up the mood. Minnie finds herself in the middle of the investigation of three murders, and only her companion Ben can help her survive and even resolve them. The premises of the three stories caught my attention and had me guessing almost until the end. I just didn’t have enough of it and once I finished the audiobook I wanted more.
Michelle Babb makes these three stories shine, bringing the characters to live and creating different voices and styles for all of them. It is a pleasure to the ears! She also does a wonderful job transmitting the emotions of the characters and the humor in the story. The perfect narration!
I’m looking forward to the next books in the series, I just loved this one!
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
August 2, 2020
This was my first Minnie Crockwell's book, and definitely won't be my last! This first boxed set in the Will Travel for Trouble, includes three short cozy mysteries: Trouble at Happy Trails, Trouble at Sunny Lake, and Trouble at Glacier. This is one of the best cozy mystery Series I have listened to. Minerva (Minnie), and her ghost traveling companion, Peregrine Ebenezer (Ben) Alford, are wonderful characters. Minnie is a mature, and smart young retired woman. She is stubborn, and she likes to meddle in other people's affairs. Ben is a gentleman ghost, supportive, protective, and caring. I love their very special companionship! They are easy to love. Minnie's not so subtle sleuthing brings her in some dangerous situations. I like Ben's recommendations throughout the stories, attempting to avoid those situations. I LOVED to follow them in their fun, original, and captivating journey, filled with mystery, and intrigue. The stories are short, easy to follow, and each mystery unfolds at a great pace. The cast of supporting characters is impressive, and well developed. Minnie's virtual communications with her ex-husband are a great addition to the stories. Michelle Babb did an outstanding job with the narration. She has a beautiful voice, pleasant to listen to, and easy to understand. She has a great range of voices. The audio quality is excellent. This was definitely a refreshing and enjoyable listen, and I HIGHLY recommend it. I need more! Looking forward to listen to the next boxed set in the Series.
July 19, 2021
Inventive, quirky cozy mysteries with great narration
4 stars overall, 4 stars story, 5 stars narration
This is a 3-pack of the first three novellas in the “Will Travel for Trouble” series. They are solidly written and somewhat unpredictable in their plots. I liked that I didn’t have to place my entire attention on the audiobook and still be able to keep up with it, so it is great for listening while driving. There were no more than ten characters per novella, so it was easy to keep track of them.
While the heroine has a ghostly sidekick in her amateur crime-solving, the mysteries in each of these three novellas are mundane in nature. The murders involve regular people. Minnie’s best friend Ben is the only paranormal aspect of the book, and this works well. The stories are completely told in the perspective of Minnie Crockwell, the heroine who supposedly writes the books. It was fun traveling around America with Minnie and Ben, and I look forward to listening to further audiobooks in this series.
The narrator Michelle Babb did a great job performing this series. She is well versed in Midwest and Northwest American accents while also nailing the mostly British accent and courtly turns of phrase of Ben, the ghost who died in 1805 while a member of the Lewis and Clark expedition. The narrator enunciates everything clearly, has really good pacing, and is versatile in her male and female voices.
I received a free audiobook copy from the narrator, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
4 stars overall, 4 stars story, 5 stars narration
This is a 3-pack of the first three novellas in the “Will Travel for Trouble” series. They are solidly written and somewhat unpredictable in their plots. I liked that I didn’t have to place my entire attention on the audiobook and still be able to keep up with it, so it is great for listening while driving. There were no more than ten characters per novella, so it was easy to keep track of them.
While the heroine has a ghostly sidekick in her amateur crime-solving, the mysteries in each of these three novellas are mundane in nature. The murders involve regular people. Minnie’s best friend Ben is the only paranormal aspect of the book, and this works well. The stories are completely told in the perspective of Minnie Crockwell, the heroine who supposedly writes the books. It was fun traveling around America with Minnie and Ben, and I look forward to listening to further audiobooks in this series.
The narrator Michelle Babb did a great job performing this series. She is well versed in Midwest and Northwest American accents while also nailing the mostly British accent and courtly turns of phrase of Ben, the ghost who died in 1805 while a member of the Lewis and Clark expedition. The narrator enunciates everything clearly, has really good pacing, and is versatile in her male and female voices.
I received a free audiobook copy from the narrator, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
March 1, 2019
This three-book collection is the first three books in Minnie Crockwell's Will Travel For Trouble series. The books follow Minnie, a retired government worker and recreational vehicle enthusiast, as she begins her retirement adventures traveling from one RV park to another, hoping for a peaceful relaxing stay. The three novellas in this collection, Trouble at Happy Trails, Trouble at Sunny Lake, and Trouble at Glacier, each have Minnie coming across a dead body and getting embroiled smack dab in the investigation into the deaths. Another campground...another murder. The author keeps reader interest high with action, good characterization, and a fast pace to the stories. Minnie is curious, willful, and attracted to a man in uniform, and is often being warned by her ghostly companion, Ben, (I love this guy!) to back off and let the officials take care of finding the murderer. With some twists and turns to the plot, the author keeps you guessing to the end as to the culprit. Will Travel for Trouble is a fun set of books to read (or listen to as this reviewer did). The narrator, Michelle Babb, does a nice job of giving characters their unique voice, making for an enjoyable listening experience. I enjoyed this set of books and look forward to listening to the rest of the books in the series. I received a complimentary copy of the audiobook and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
February 27, 2019
“Will Travel for Trouble” by Minnie Crockwell is a fun, easy listen and a very enjoyable way to spend some time, especially for those who enjoy cozy mysteries. Minnie Crockwell, coincidentally the name of the main character, has the luxury of a very early retirement and travels around in her RV with “Ben,” a ghost, as her traveling companion. While this sounds silly, it is actually a cute plot device that enables Minnie to remain a solitary traveler to the world but have an intelligent being with whom to bounce off ideas and from whom to receive information. Each of these three novellas is set in a campground where Minnie becomes involved with solving a murder. While I enjoyed the three stories, I acknowledge that they are a bit formulaic.
Michelle Babb capably handles the narration, especially when it comes to Minnie and Ben, giving each of them a distinct voice.
I was given a free copy of this audio book by the narrator in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way nor was I required to write a positive review and the opinions stated are solely my own.
Michelle Babb capably handles the narration, especially when it comes to Minnie and Ben, giving each of them a distinct voice.
I was given a free copy of this audio book by the narrator in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way nor was I required to write a positive review and the opinions stated are solely my own.
January 25, 2021
Minnie Crockwell is new to being a full-fime RVer. She just wants to relax and enjoy her retirement. Instead, she keeps stumbling upon dead bodies everywhere she goes! And, of course, her curious nature demands that she try to find out who is responsible for these bodies!
I loved the inclusion of a ghostly companion in the form of Peregrine Ebenezer (Ben) Alvord, a man who was part of the Lewis and Clark expedition. After his untimely death in the 19th Century, he seems to have become bonded to MInnie and is her constant companion. Minnie enjoys his company and it does come in handy having someone who can search out clues as she tries to solve murders.
The narrator, Michelle Babb, does a great job and her voices and pacing are perfect for these stories. If you enjoy the cozy mystery genre, this series is a well-written and entertaining series. I look forward to more of Minnie's adventures and hope that someday she and Ben might actually become a couple! I was given the chance to listen to this audiobook by the narrator and chose to review it.
I loved the inclusion of a ghostly companion in the form of Peregrine Ebenezer (Ben) Alvord, a man who was part of the Lewis and Clark expedition. After his untimely death in the 19th Century, he seems to have become bonded to MInnie and is her constant companion. Minnie enjoys his company and it does come in handy having someone who can search out clues as she tries to solve murders.
The narrator, Michelle Babb, does a great job and her voices and pacing are perfect for these stories. If you enjoy the cozy mystery genre, this series is a well-written and entertaining series. I look forward to more of Minnie's adventures and hope that someday she and Ben might actually become a couple! I was given the chance to listen to this audiobook by the narrator and chose to review it.
February 28, 2019
This is a fun collection of short cozy mysteries. Minnie has recently retired and decided to start traveling by RV. Her traveling companion is a ghost, Ben, that has an attachment to Minnie, an attachment that Minnie nor Ben understand. The relationship between Minnie and Ben is unique in ways but their chemistry is wonderful. I like how the setting in each book changes to a new park. Each mystery has a quick pace but there are enough suspects and twist and turns to keep you engaged.
I listened to the audio version of these books. The narrator Michelle Babb brings Minnie and Ben to life. She has a wonderful tone, pace, accents, and timing. She is a wonderful asset to this series.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book supplied by the narrator. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
I listened to the audio version of these books. The narrator Michelle Babb brings Minnie and Ben to life. She has a wonderful tone, pace, accents, and timing. She is a wonderful asset to this series.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book supplied by the narrator. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
May 5, 2020
This is a super cute intro and progression of the sleuthing abilities of Minnie Crockwell and her ghostly companion Peregrine Ebenezer Alvord "Ben". This box contains 3 campsites that all manage to have Minnie stumbling upon dead bodies. There is a definite progression in these three with the first two Minnie is set on letting the authorities do their job's but in the last she admits to her sleuthing "loud and proud"! I am in love with Ben's character and the dynamic between Minnie and Ben. I hope in upcoming reads / listens we learn more about the bond that ties them together. The narration on these reads is spot on - smooth and easy to listen to and get enraptured with the easy flow of the storylines.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read
March 2, 2019
***** This is the perfect series to balance out life and serious reads! Minera and her ghostly companion are touring in an RV just for fun but somehow seem to be around when murders are committed. All of the characters are interesting and engaging even when some of them are decidedly irritating. The publisher's blurb covers a lot so there's no sense in repeating.
Michelle Babb as always is great at interpretive narration that really brings the people to life.
I requested and received a free audio copy and was delighted to be chosen.
Michelle Babb as always is great at interpretive narration that really brings the people to life.
I requested and received a free audio copy and was delighted to be chosen.
March 5, 2019
listened to the audio version of this set of cozy mysteries. The series is an easy, fast moving set of stories based around a woman who is traveling the country in her RV accompanied by a friendly (and very dignified) ghost who helps keep her safe after she runs across a murder in each of three camp sites. These are light and fun mysteries with a hint of romantic interest included. That's where the hunky policemen come in! I really enjoyed listening to this set of books!
The narration of Michelle Babb is perfect for these cozy mysteries.
The narration of Michelle Babb is perfect for these cozy mysteries.
March 27, 2019
Audible:These are the first 3 cozy campground mysteries in this series.I enjoyed them in a way that I enjoy sitcoms.They break up the monotomy of some of the other books I read.I find so much unbelievable,like the fact that the police give her so much information,that she is there for every murder,etc...and then there is the ghost.Where did he come from and when?
Michelle Babb did a good job narrating as usual. I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review.
Michelle Babb did a good job narrating as usual. I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review.
September 22, 2018
Cute idea. Love to travel in an RV but never had so much excitement. I found Ben more believable than three murders- happening in the first day she arrives- and the coincidence of so many suspects being there too! Since the point is to travel, she should weave local sightseeing in with the sleuthing. And hard to understand the immediate “friendships” with the victims’ wives. But that aside, she is funny and a bit bumbling. And love be the emails with her ex.
February 26, 2019
Will Travel for Trouble Series Boxed Set (Will Travel for Trouble #1-3) was a great read by Minnie Crockwell. This boxed set consisted of three short cozy mysteries that feature Minnie Crockwell. Minnie is a RV enthusiast who enjoys traveling across the country with her ghost companion, Ben. This boxed set consisted of; Trouble at Happy Trails, Trouble at Sunny Lake and Trouble at Glacier. I enjoyed reading this book and enjoyed this series.
November 17, 2020
An excellent set of three quirky murder mysteries with a really inventive and interesting twist, Well written, great characters especially Ben the ghost, the author keeps the number of characters small but the murderer is always a surprise. Michelle Babb does a wonderful job of bringing the stories to life, her performance as Ben is wonderful..
I received a complimentary copy of the audiobook from the narrator and and leaving an voluntary honest review
I received a complimentary copy of the audiobook from the narrator and and leaving an voluntary honest review
April 1, 2021
I could just listen to anything by Michelle Babb but is so much better when it is a fun story as well.
How did this story came about? Would never have thought about it but it is so clever and well written what an imagination by Minnie Crockwell. Just love it, listened to half an hour as part of my nighttime routine, great way to decompress.
I was given a free copy but the review is entirely my own.
How did this story came about? Would never have thought about it but it is so clever and well written what an imagination by Minnie Crockwell. Just love it, listened to half an hour as part of my nighttime routine, great way to decompress.
I was given a free copy but the review is entirely my own.
December 27, 2021
I listened to the books in audio format.
I enjoyed the stories. While, I am not typically a fan of cozy mysteries, these are pretty good, if a little short. Minnie and Ben are kind of cute together and the ghost helper is a decent way of getting around story limitations where the main character can't know something. The first story starts a little rough but gets better and more polished as you go on with the series.
One thing I would have liked to see more of more mention of the real RV experience. Not once did I hear anything about the joys of dumping your blackwater tanks :P
The narrator was great as well. Her voice was easy to listen to and really added to the story.
I enjoyed the stories. While, I am not typically a fan of cozy mysteries, these are pretty good, if a little short. Minnie and Ben are kind of cute together and the ghost helper is a decent way of getting around story limitations where the main character can't know something. The first story starts a little rough but gets better and more polished as you go on with the series.
One thing I would have liked to see more of more mention of the real RV experience. Not once did I hear anything about the joys of dumping your blackwater tanks :P
The narrator was great as well. Her voice was easy to listen to and really added to the story.
July 9, 2019
You like Minnie and her companion Ben,who was a trip. Ben needs a story of his own. He was an unexpected treat. The characters were quirky and delightful in their own way and you enjoyed the story and the way the narrator told the story. A good start to the series, so when you get a chance pick up a copy and enjoy.
September 2, 2020
Poor Minnie. She is just trying to enjoy retirement with her ghost friend Ben and yet she keep stumbling onto murders. I don’t know how she does it, but she finds the killers with all her nosiness. It is fun listening to Minnie and Ben converse together with such a closeness. I will be listening to the next Boxset now.
September 14, 2018
Good Box set.
I have read.tbree.of this author's books and will read others. The main character is a lady who tra esp across the country in her R.V. with a friendly ghost named Ben.
I have read.tbree.of this author's books and will read others. The main character is a lady who tra esp across the country in her R.V. with a friendly ghost named Ben.
October 16, 2019
Cute and quick
The first book is a little rough, but I eventually fell in love with Minnie and Ben and the formula mysteries they encounter. The mysteries aren't mind-benders, but the characters are sweet and funny and make for some good companions on a rainy afternoon.
The first book is a little rough, but I eventually fell in love with Minnie and Ben and the formula mysteries they encounter. The mysteries aren't mind-benders, but the characters are sweet and funny and make for some good companions on a rainy afternoon.
October 2, 2020
You are introduced to Minnie Crockwell, her ghost Ben and her RV. she investigates murders on their travels. The stories are well written with plenty of unexpected twists. Excellent narration. Give it a go!
March 15, 2021
Fun to read
I'm afraid the highest rating I (a certified Grammar Nazi) will give a fun, interesting, and charming book with some glaring grammar slips is 4.5 and they don't offer fractions here. 😉 Do read this series...especially if YOU enjoy a spot of trouble now and then!
I'm afraid the highest rating I (a certified Grammar Nazi) will give a fun, interesting, and charming book with some glaring grammar slips is 4.5 and they don't offer fractions here. 😉 Do read this series...especially if YOU enjoy a spot of trouble now and then!
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