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Rose Gardner Mystery #4-6
Rose Gardner Mystery Box Set #2
Box set of the second Rose Gardner Mystery trilogy, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling series by Denise Grover Swank.
The box set includes:
THIRTY-ONE AND A HALF REGRETS (#4) When Daniel Crocker escapes from prison, he has one thing in mind: revenge. Mason Deveraux, Fenton County ADA is determined to protect Rose, at any cost.
THIRTY-TWO AND A HALF COMPLICATIONS (#5) Rose's nursery is about to fold after a huge cash deposit is stolen in a bank robbery. When the investigation by Joe, her ex-boyfriend and new chief deputy sheriff, hits a dead end, Rose decides to take matters into her own hands.
PICKING UP THE PIECES (novella #5.5) Rose is reeling from news from Joe's ex-girlfriend, she's busy putting her business back together while dealing with the fallout from the Lady in Black. ncludes POVs from Joe, Mason, Violet, and Bruce Wayne.
THIRTY-THREE AND A HALF SHENANIGANS (#6) When Neely Kate's cousin goes missing, she convinces Rose to help find her. In the meantime, Rose is dealing with her agreement with the new Fenton County crime lord, all while keeping it from her ADA boyfriend.
While each book can be read as a standalone, it is recommended that you read the first three Rose Gardner Mysteries before beginning the second box set.
The box set includes:
THIRTY-ONE AND A HALF REGRETS (#4) When Daniel Crocker escapes from prison, he has one thing in mind: revenge. Mason Deveraux, Fenton County ADA is determined to protect Rose, at any cost.
THIRTY-TWO AND A HALF COMPLICATIONS (#5) Rose's nursery is about to fold after a huge cash deposit is stolen in a bank robbery. When the investigation by Joe, her ex-boyfriend and new chief deputy sheriff, hits a dead end, Rose decides to take matters into her own hands.
PICKING UP THE PIECES (novella #5.5) Rose is reeling from news from Joe's ex-girlfriend, she's busy putting her business back together while dealing with the fallout from the Lady in Black. ncludes POVs from Joe, Mason, Violet, and Bruce Wayne.
THIRTY-THREE AND A HALF SHENANIGANS (#6) When Neely Kate's cousin goes missing, she convinces Rose to help find her. In the meantime, Rose is dealing with her agreement with the new Fenton County crime lord, all while keeping it from her ADA boyfriend.
While each book can be read as a standalone, it is recommended that you read the first three Rose Gardner Mysteries before beginning the second box set.
1220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 19, 2015
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September 17, 2021
Love
Love, love, love, love every book in this series! Each story is a continuation of the story before it so be prepared to get the entire series which is a no brainer after reading book one.
Love, love, love, love every book in this series! Each story is a continuation of the story before it so be prepared to get the entire series which is a no brainer after reading book one.
July 9, 2016
Rose Gardner Mystery Box Set #2
I’ll recap up here and give a brief description after each book. Overall rating is at the end.
Book 4: Thirty-One and a Half Regrets. Another list in this one is about regrets Rose has comes in the last third of the end of the book. In this one, Mason starts to be the character I can’t stand, but Rose is not as fun to read anymore either. She becomes a rather shallow character in this book, and the author has re-written all the characters to being so completely different than the characters I fell in love with in book one that I’m not sure how I am going to get through the next books. Rose finally gets out to the farm she inherited, (though not the way she’d like,) and Bruce Wayne falls to the background (although I end up wishing this reader saw more of his side of the story because he is such an interesting character and ends up being the real hero in the end.) There is a lot going on in this book, although if the author would have cut out a lot of the useless chatter (including hanky-panky,) and focused on the actual mystery, I would have appreciated it so much more. As it was, the actually mystery was a little more intense than I would have liked it to be, with anger and violence. And the ending left a lot to be desired. There were too many loose ends, and the climax was actually more of a letdown than I thought it would be. I’m worried how the rest of the books are going to proceed. Two stars. (6/29-7/2)
Book 5: Thirty-Two and a Half Complications. This story started with an awesome hook, but both of the men in Rose’s life seem suffocating to me, and yet to Rose, somehow Mason is better for it than Joe? And Joe has turned a corner here, but Rose is very down on him, no matter what he does. I mean, honestly…I’m starting to feel like I’m reading soap opera and not a cozy here! And Violet: the author makes us think she’s turning the corner and then turns around and makes her evil again. I so hate that! Make her one way or another, but don’t keep confusing this reader about her true nature. Like I said, I liked her so much better in book one. Her and Mike was a constant that this reader really appreciated. And Neely Kate has slowly been pushed to the back of the story, which isn’t good either. This author has a core set of characters that should be the support that Rose needs. I understand the need for a bad person to balance the good out, but please don’t keep changing this character as it suits the author’s need! Which is another thing that annoys this reader. Things constantly happen in this series that allow the author to make liberties with the story. Especially when the author uses it more than once. More than twice. The authenticity of the story takes a hit each time that is used. [I’m waiting for Rose to “jump the shark,” already!] Also, the story, starting with book four is really taking a dark turn. I don’t read books that have those elements. (And certainly, this series didn’t start out that way!) I like my cozys to be light and airy. And I like my cozys to have a strong, supportive family….not a dysfunctional one as this series is becoming. So very disappointing. However, as I stated earlier, the story rebounds two-thirds of the way through and the real story starts, with Bruce Wayne, Neely Kate, and even Joe making strong, supporting stands. Despite all these disappointments, this is by far the best book in this second set. The story ends up being a low three stars. (7/2-7/4)
Book 5.5: Picking up the Pieces. This is a between story that takes place right after book five and rotates in voices between Rose, Joe, Violet, Bruce Wayne, and Mason. It really is a decent sub story, and makes me realize that this author is very good when she writes compact stories. Solid three stars. (7/4-7/5)
Book 6: Thirty-Three and a Half Shenanigans When I started reading this book, I almost threw my Kindle again the wall. I thought it would truly be the last book I would ever read in this series. That’s how bad it started in an eye-rolling sort of way. I have begun to really I didn’t think I would ever feel that way about him, but I found myself thinking: the story couldn't end soon enough. The author has taken one character and turned him into the other with his over-protected nature, and yet Rose is OK with this? WTF? It's just a rehash of Rose's first relationship from a few books back, only with the latest being the one she wants to love forever: sorry, not sorry!: that dude grates on me more than the first one ever did. I was so glad that this is the last book of this set. What started out pretty decent in book one and turned into a flip-flopping soap opera. I suppose if you like more sexy than mystery with your cozy, you'll be fine, but I was starting to hardly stand it by the end of the first third of the book. There is no growth with Rose and Mason, but the supporting characters (and the only reason I kept reading this series,) continue to grow and learn from their experiences. Rose and Mason?--> Still whiny, spoiled babies. I mean it's terrible when I like the enemy more in this book series than the protagonist, but that is exactly what happened. There truly is a lot of good in this book with those supporting characters, but the leads made it mostly unbearable to read. Even Muffy was more intelligent than these two. (And one of the reason I like the first few books--Muffy actually added to the mysteries. The author kind of just sidelines the dog for the last few books.) Really, totally disappointing. Same old, same old formula the author uses. Hook; mush (which doesn't add to the story;) and then I was waiting for the last few chapters are golden. Then…imagine my surprise! I started to fall back in love with Rose. Her and Nealy Kate work so well together in this story. There is very little drama (still too much hanky-panky though: I again skimmed over those parts,) but I found myself in awe of the brilliant story the author has crafted here in the two-thirds of the book. It’s like a light bulb went off in her head. She finally realized that too much smut was destroying the story. Going forward, she wrote that part much more subtly (until the end...bummer....but still better.) I still don’t like , and I love the Reintroduction of Skeeter. Awesome, awesome character. And a great balance to Rose. The list in this story was vague and not very defined. While I started out thinking as I read this book that this one would be the last book I read, I hope the author puts the third set up for sale at some point, so I can finish this series. I really want to know what happens next. If I just ignored the first part of this book, it would definitely be a low four star book. But, I can’t ignore that part that almost did me in. High three stars.(7/5-7/6)
Starting with book five, the story starts get a lot more firmer. I still liked book one the best, and the subsequent stories are a far cry from book one, but this set is loads better than set one. When taken as all together, this set is a high three star.
I’ll recap up here and give a brief description after each book. Overall rating is at the end.
Book 4: Thirty-One and a Half Regrets. Another list in this one is about regrets Rose has comes in the last third of the end of the book. In this one, Mason starts to be the character I can’t stand, but Rose is not as fun to read anymore either. She becomes a rather shallow character in this book, and the author has re-written all the characters to being so completely different than the characters I fell in love with in book one that I’m not sure how I am going to get through the next books. Rose finally gets out to the farm she inherited, (though not the way she’d like,) and Bruce Wayne falls to the background (although I end up wishing this reader saw more of his side of the story because he is such an interesting character and ends up being the real hero in the end.) There is a lot going on in this book, although if the author would have cut out a lot of the useless chatter (including hanky-panky,) and focused on the actual mystery, I would have appreciated it so much more. As it was, the actually mystery was a little more intense than I would have liked it to be, with anger and violence. And the ending left a lot to be desired. There were too many loose ends, and the climax was actually more of a letdown than I thought it would be. I’m worried how the rest of the books are going to proceed. Two stars. (6/29-7/2)
Book 5: Thirty-Two and a Half Complications. This story started with an awesome hook, but both of the men in Rose’s life seem suffocating to me, and yet to Rose, somehow Mason is better for it than Joe? And Joe has turned a corner here, but Rose is very down on him, no matter what he does. I mean, honestly…I’m starting to feel like I’m reading soap opera and not a cozy here! And Violet: the author makes us think she’s turning the corner and then turns around and makes her evil again. I so hate that! Make her one way or another, but don’t keep confusing this reader about her true nature. Like I said, I liked her so much better in book one. Her and Mike was a constant that this reader really appreciated. And Neely Kate has slowly been pushed to the back of the story, which isn’t good either. This author has a core set of characters that should be the support that Rose needs. I understand the need for a bad person to balance the good out, but please don’t keep changing this character as it suits the author’s need! Which is another thing that annoys this reader. Things constantly happen in this series that allow the author to make liberties with the story. Especially when the author uses it more than once. More than twice. The authenticity of the story takes a hit each time that is used. [I’m waiting for Rose to “jump the shark,” already!] Also, the story, starting with book four is really taking a dark turn. I don’t read books that have those elements. (And certainly, this series didn’t start out that way!) I like my cozys to be light and airy. And I like my cozys to have a strong, supportive family….not a dysfunctional one as this series is becoming. So very disappointing. However, as I stated earlier, the story rebounds two-thirds of the way through and the real story starts, with Bruce Wayne, Neely Kate, and even Joe making strong, supporting stands. Despite all these disappointments, this is by far the best book in this second set. The story ends up being a low three stars. (7/2-7/4)
Book 5.5: Picking up the Pieces. This is a between story that takes place right after book five and rotates in voices between Rose, Joe, Violet, Bruce Wayne, and Mason. It really is a decent sub story, and makes me realize that this author is very good when she writes compact stories. Solid three stars. (7/4-7/5)
Book 6: Thirty-Three and a Half Shenanigans When I started reading this book, I almost threw my Kindle again the wall. I thought it would truly be the last book I would ever read in this series. That’s how bad it started in an eye-rolling sort of way. I have begun to really I didn’t think I would ever feel that way about him, but I found myself thinking: the story couldn't end soon enough. The author has taken one character and turned him into the other with his over-protected nature, and yet Rose is OK with this? WTF? It's just a rehash of Rose's first relationship from a few books back, only with the latest being the one she wants to love forever: sorry, not sorry!: that dude grates on me more than the first one ever did. I was so glad that this is the last book of this set. What started out pretty decent in book one and turned into a flip-flopping soap opera. I suppose if you like more sexy than mystery with your cozy, you'll be fine, but I was starting to hardly stand it by the end of the first third of the book. There is no growth with Rose and Mason, but the supporting characters (and the only reason I kept reading this series,) continue to grow and learn from their experiences. Rose and Mason?--> Still whiny, spoiled babies. I mean it's terrible when I like the enemy more in this book series than the protagonist, but that is exactly what happened. There truly is a lot of good in this book with those supporting characters, but the leads made it mostly unbearable to read. Even Muffy was more intelligent than these two. (And one of the reason I like the first few books--Muffy actually added to the mysteries. The author kind of just sidelines the dog for the last few books.) Really, totally disappointing. Same old, same old formula the author uses. Hook; mush (which doesn't add to the story;) and then I was waiting for the last few chapters are golden. Then…imagine my surprise! I started to fall back in love with Rose. Her and Nealy Kate work so well together in this story. There is very little drama (still too much hanky-panky though: I again skimmed over those parts,) but I found myself in awe of the brilliant story the author has crafted here in the two-thirds of the book. It’s like a light bulb went off in her head. She finally realized that too much smut was destroying the story. Going forward, she wrote that part much more subtly (until the end...bummer....but still better.) I still don’t like , and I love the Reintroduction of Skeeter. Awesome, awesome character. And a great balance to Rose. The list in this story was vague and not very defined. While I started out thinking as I read this book that this one would be the last book I read, I hope the author puts the third set up for sale at some point, so I can finish this series. I really want to know what happens next. If I just ignored the first part of this book, it would definitely be a low four star book. But, I can’t ignore that part that almost did me in. High three stars.(7/5-7/6)
Starting with book five, the story starts get a lot more firmer. I still liked book one the best, and the subsequent stories are a far cry from book one, but this set is loads better than set one. When taken as all together, this set is a high three star.
March 23, 2015
Finally... the second volume is here! I have reviewed each of the titles individually and I've listed those below. I'm so glad this is available in a collection! The most recent novella "Ripple of Secrets" is not included.
THIRTY-ONE AND A HALF REGRETS:
** spoiler alert ** Rose's life is a little chaotic, don't you think?! Would you have it any other way? I LOVE this book (yeah, it didn't take a vision from Rose to figure that one out.)
1) Pruitt, you're still a good guy. Let's be friends.
2) Is it just me or does Violet keep getting more intolerable with each installment of the series? I am the oldest of three girls and I would never treat my sisters the way she treats Rose. Shame on her.
3) A lot of drama could have been avoided had Bruce Wayne divulged what he knew early on. A LOT. Like the manhunt for Crocker, and the corruption of Henryetta's not-so finest. I saw that coming miles way, but I didn't mind it. Mason seems to be a smart guy though, why didn't he?!
4) Mason, you're a knight in shining arm and as such I still don't trust you. You're too perfect. And you were TOO ready to walk away from Rose after the dust settled and suggested she go back to Joe. Not cool, dude, not cool.
5) Joe. Darn it, Joe. Darn you! He left Rose and became an insufferable, drunkard, hopeless mess of jerk. Treating EVERYONE like crap. Yelling at Rose... ROSE! Not cool, dude. All you had to do was fight for her and you likely WOULD NOT be so stuck. At this point you deserve your misery. However, I adore his tenacity at the end. THAT is the spirit I've been looking for. Maybe Crocker and his men knocked some sense into him after all. A little too late though. And the idea of Joe in a sheriff's deputy uniform? Yes, please! I could date that version of him, without the Simmons Family/Hilary baggage.
6) Die, Hilary, die.
Finally, I want to know so much more about Dora and what led to her demise. I'm so devastated for Rose, and I'm sure Violet will have some kind of falling out in the future. I think she's jealous, but she needs to deal with it differently. Lie in the bed you make, woman!
This installment of the series was wholly satisfying. I feel like the final chapter could have been rearranged into a series ending, but I'm glad it's not! The Rose Gardner Mysteries are just so much fun!
THIRTY-TWO AND A HALF COMPLICATIONS:
This is my favorite book of the Rose Gardner Mysteries so far! Once again Denise has written an intriguing tale that never disappoints. There's a fair share of humor, suspense, and drama to go around. There's even an unlikely partnership that I never saw coming. There's also a tantalising revelation that will come right out of left field and back you in the face with a baseball bat. You'll have to read the book to learn about that one!
The most startling revelation to come out of these 101,000 words is the continued downward spiral of Violet, Rose's half sister. I could not be much more disappointed with her, but I don't believe she's hit rock bottom yet.
Joe's presence just cannot be avoided. I like him. I want to slap some sense into him. I want to marry him! He's a hopeless puppy of a man. I'm not sure what Denise has in store for him after this book, but I am enjoying watching his progression. Above all I want him to get past his troubles and find happiness. I'd rather than happy ending be with Rose, but only time will tell.
Mason is still a conundrum to me. I'm not at all sure about him. I want him to be as wonderfully perfect as he seems. I want his own sad past to heal and fade. I just don't trust him. He's just a little too passive and hell bent on destroying Joe and his family. I also think there's a scary type of volatility just bursting under his surface. I don't want him to hurt Rose.
Neely Kate, Bruce Wayne, and Jonah Pruitt are still there. And they're still wonderfully supportive of Rose!
This fifth installment has earned a solid five out of give stars from this happy reader!
PICKING UP THE PIECES:
I know the pieces fit!
*spoilers may lie ahead if you have not yet read the novella!*
Picking Up the Pieces is a great novella installment that gives you a little taste of everyone!
The first thing you should know, which should come as no surprise if you’ve read everything in the series so far, is that Hilary is the devil. Bruce Wayne’s POV was charming only made me want to see MORE of him! He is a magnificent fella. Violet has turned out to be quite the complicated character. On one hand and I want to be on her side, but she’s been so incredibly selfish and manipulative that I have a hard time feeling bad for her when it’s all said and done.
Most of all I LOVED seeing a glimpse Mason’s past with his sister. Her story is tragic and I would really love to learn more about her. Speaking of sisters, I am still waiting to meet Joe’s phantom sister!!! Maeve talking with Joe, and Joe finally standing up to face his past was the cherry on top of a perfect installment. I am hoping that we will get to see Joe talking with Jonah in the future… he could use a therapist of sorts. As always, Rose is quite the firecracker and it is always fun to see where she goes next.
Five stars from this happy reader. Thank goodness Thirty-Three and a Half Shenanigans will be released in TWO DAYS!
THIRTY-THREE AND A HALF SHENANIGANS:
Shenanigans!
Thirty-Three and a Half Shenanigans was such a fast read for me! I enjoyed the pacing among all of the shenanigans involving Rose and Neely Kate. Two plots converged into one and were wrapped up in a nice bow very quickly at the end. However, the story was so laser-focused on the mystery at hand that much of the over-arching mysteries of the series took a back seat. I really want to see much more about Rose’s relationship with Violet, Rose’s mother’s history, Joe’s true intentions, and the mess with JR Simmons.
At one point Denise had me convinced that Mason had gone dark side. I enjoyed seeing Joe in action as the chief deputy, but wish there was more about his ‘partnership’ with Mason in taking down JR Simmons. I thoroughly enjoy Joe and Mason and their budding friendship. It’s begrudging right now, but there’s potential. They’ll be besties soon enough!! Meanwhile, Skeeter’s life on the darkside is quite topsy-turvy! I really feel like I have to root for that fella… he’s got flair. I’m sure Rose’s role as the Lady in Black will bite her in the behind soon enough. I really want to know who will find out first… Mason or Joe?! I’m not sure who would be more furious either, but I feel like it’ll be Joe.
I’m starting to feel there’s some ginger-hate going on given that TWO gingers (Hilary and Deputy Hoffstetter) have a major grudge for all things concerning Rose. Respect the red-heads! Unless they’re evil… which these two clearly are. ;)
I want to say that Maeve is my MVP of this installment. She's sweet, she's observant, she's caring, and she's honest (as far as I can tell.) I love her!!
I’m still very satisfied with this installment of the Rose Gardner Mysteries! I’ll be eagerly waiting for the next novella and book! *****Five stars*****
THIRTY-ONE AND A HALF REGRETS:
** spoiler alert ** Rose's life is a little chaotic, don't you think?! Would you have it any other way? I LOVE this book (yeah, it didn't take a vision from Rose to figure that one out.)
1) Pruitt, you're still a good guy. Let's be friends.
2) Is it just me or does Violet keep getting more intolerable with each installment of the series? I am the oldest of three girls and I would never treat my sisters the way she treats Rose. Shame on her.
3) A lot of drama could have been avoided had Bruce Wayne divulged what he knew early on. A LOT. Like the manhunt for Crocker, and the corruption of Henryetta's not-so finest. I saw that coming miles way, but I didn't mind it. Mason seems to be a smart guy though, why didn't he?!
4) Mason, you're a knight in shining arm and as such I still don't trust you. You're too perfect. And you were TOO ready to walk away from Rose after the dust settled and suggested she go back to Joe. Not cool, dude, not cool.
5) Joe. Darn it, Joe. Darn you! He left Rose and became an insufferable, drunkard, hopeless mess of jerk. Treating EVERYONE like crap. Yelling at Rose... ROSE! Not cool, dude. All you had to do was fight for her and you likely WOULD NOT be so stuck. At this point you deserve your misery. However, I adore his tenacity at the end. THAT is the spirit I've been looking for. Maybe Crocker and his men knocked some sense into him after all. A little too late though. And the idea of Joe in a sheriff's deputy uniform? Yes, please! I could date that version of him, without the Simmons Family/Hilary baggage.
6) Die, Hilary, die.
Finally, I want to know so much more about Dora and what led to her demise. I'm so devastated for Rose, and I'm sure Violet will have some kind of falling out in the future. I think she's jealous, but she needs to deal with it differently. Lie in the bed you make, woman!
This installment of the series was wholly satisfying. I feel like the final chapter could have been rearranged into a series ending, but I'm glad it's not! The Rose Gardner Mysteries are just so much fun!
THIRTY-TWO AND A HALF COMPLICATIONS:
This is my favorite book of the Rose Gardner Mysteries so far! Once again Denise has written an intriguing tale that never disappoints. There's a fair share of humor, suspense, and drama to go around. There's even an unlikely partnership that I never saw coming. There's also a tantalising revelation that will come right out of left field and back you in the face with a baseball bat. You'll have to read the book to learn about that one!
The most startling revelation to come out of these 101,000 words is the continued downward spiral of Violet, Rose's half sister. I could not be much more disappointed with her, but I don't believe she's hit rock bottom yet.
Joe's presence just cannot be avoided. I like him. I want to slap some sense into him. I want to marry him! He's a hopeless puppy of a man. I'm not sure what Denise has in store for him after this book, but I am enjoying watching his progression. Above all I want him to get past his troubles and find happiness. I'd rather than happy ending be with Rose, but only time will tell.
Mason is still a conundrum to me. I'm not at all sure about him. I want him to be as wonderfully perfect as he seems. I want his own sad past to heal and fade. I just don't trust him. He's just a little too passive and hell bent on destroying Joe and his family. I also think there's a scary type of volatility just bursting under his surface. I don't want him to hurt Rose.
Neely Kate, Bruce Wayne, and Jonah Pruitt are still there. And they're still wonderfully supportive of Rose!
This fifth installment has earned a solid five out of give stars from this happy reader!
PICKING UP THE PIECES:
I know the pieces fit!
*spoilers may lie ahead if you have not yet read the novella!*
Picking Up the Pieces is a great novella installment that gives you a little taste of everyone!
The first thing you should know, which should come as no surprise if you’ve read everything in the series so far, is that Hilary is the devil. Bruce Wayne’s POV was charming only made me want to see MORE of him! He is a magnificent fella. Violet has turned out to be quite the complicated character. On one hand and I want to be on her side, but she’s been so incredibly selfish and manipulative that I have a hard time feeling bad for her when it’s all said and done.
Most of all I LOVED seeing a glimpse Mason’s past with his sister. Her story is tragic and I would really love to learn more about her. Speaking of sisters, I am still waiting to meet Joe’s phantom sister!!! Maeve talking with Joe, and Joe finally standing up to face his past was the cherry on top of a perfect installment. I am hoping that we will get to see Joe talking with Jonah in the future… he could use a therapist of sorts. As always, Rose is quite the firecracker and it is always fun to see where she goes next.
Five stars from this happy reader. Thank goodness Thirty-Three and a Half Shenanigans will be released in TWO DAYS!
THIRTY-THREE AND A HALF SHENANIGANS:
Shenanigans!
Thirty-Three and a Half Shenanigans was such a fast read for me! I enjoyed the pacing among all of the shenanigans involving Rose and Neely Kate. Two plots converged into one and were wrapped up in a nice bow very quickly at the end. However, the story was so laser-focused on the mystery at hand that much of the over-arching mysteries of the series took a back seat. I really want to see much more about Rose’s relationship with Violet, Rose’s mother’s history, Joe’s true intentions, and the mess with JR Simmons.
At one point Denise had me convinced that Mason had gone dark side. I enjoyed seeing Joe in action as the chief deputy, but wish there was more about his ‘partnership’ with Mason in taking down JR Simmons. I thoroughly enjoy Joe and Mason and their budding friendship. It’s begrudging right now, but there’s potential. They’ll be besties soon enough!! Meanwhile, Skeeter’s life on the darkside is quite topsy-turvy! I really feel like I have to root for that fella… he’s got flair. I’m sure Rose’s role as the Lady in Black will bite her in the behind soon enough. I really want to know who will find out first… Mason or Joe?! I’m not sure who would be more furious either, but I feel like it’ll be Joe.
I’m starting to feel there’s some ginger-hate going on given that TWO gingers (Hilary and Deputy Hoffstetter) have a major grudge for all things concerning Rose. Respect the red-heads! Unless they’re evil… which these two clearly are. ;)
I want to say that Maeve is my MVP of this installment. She's sweet, she's observant, she's caring, and she's honest (as far as I can tell.) I love her!!
I’m still very satisfied with this installment of the Rose Gardner Mysteries! I’ll be eagerly waiting for the next novella and book! *****Five stars*****
September 20, 2017
Everyone who's anyone needs this series in their life! I mean c'mon the first book is free so no loss if for whatever reason it's not for you (but who are we kidding) and then when you're pulled in by the mayhem that is Henryetta you can pick up the rest of the series! It has it all, a little romance, a lot of comedy, some mystery and suspense too! This is an awesome book series! I flew right through them because I could not put them down. Pick them up if you love a good crime partner series that will leave you laughing!
First book in the series is FREE! Yes, you read that right! Now go! Stop what your doing and go out and get this series! Like, right now! Don't miss out! #WhyAreYouStillHere #ThreeDaysOnly #TickTock
First book in the series is FREE! Yes, you read that right! Now go! Stop what your doing and go out and get this series! Like, right now! Don't miss out! #WhyAreYouStillHere #ThreeDaysOnly #TickTock
March 7, 2018
The second Rose Gardner Mystery box set includes 3 full length novels and 1 novella.
First Rose is in danger when Daniel Crocker breaks out of prison. Mason does everything he can to keep her safe even as they run for their lives.
Then Rose tries to save her business after her money is stolen in a bank robbery. She makes a deal with criminal Skeeter Malcom to help him and get her money back.
In the novella we get to see the povs from different characters and see how Joe is dealing with the news from his ex Hilary.
And then in the last book Rose helps Neely Kate look for her missing cousin. And ends up tangled back up in the crime world when she finds out someone is after Mason. She will do anything to save him.
First Rose is in danger when Daniel Crocker breaks out of prison. Mason does everything he can to keep her safe even as they run for their lives.
Then Rose tries to save her business after her money is stolen in a bank robbery. She makes a deal with criminal Skeeter Malcom to help him and get her money back.
In the novella we get to see the povs from different characters and see how Joe is dealing with the news from his ex Hilary.
And then in the last book Rose helps Neely Kate look for her missing cousin. And ends up tangled back up in the crime world when she finds out someone is after Mason. She will do anything to save him.
July 2, 2017
Loved every book. Very addictive.
January 15, 2018
Awesome Books
I love Rose and Neely Kate. They are different but work together so well as best friends. Each have different skills that compliment their ability to solve mysteries. And each of the ladies are so much more than they appear to be on the surface. The mysteries are getting more complex and challenge the team on a personal and professional basis. Great series.
I love Rose and Neely Kate. They are different but work together so well as best friends. Each have different skills that compliment their ability to solve mysteries. And each of the ladies are so much more than they appear to be on the surface. The mysteries are getting more complex and challenge the team on a personal and professional basis. Great series.
July 12, 2018
Again, you’re going to want to continue this series and now this box set will continue the story for you when you are done with the first box set.
May 9, 2019
Love them all!
April 6, 2020
Have read them all and simply adore Rose and the Gang!
April 29, 2020
All of the Rose books are page-turners!
June 22, 2022
Great
Really good. I enjoyed them all. And plan to read the next set. Keep the good ones coming. Thank you.
Really good. I enjoyed them all. And plan to read the next set. Keep the good ones coming. Thank you.
October 9, 2023
Rose Gardner mystery
These are very entertaining books and good stories! I recommend them very highly!
Can't wait to read the next set.
These are very entertaining books and good stories! I recommend them very highly!
Can't wait to read the next set.
November 17, 2015
31.5 Regrets - The newest instalment for Rose and her endearing life in Arkansas. As her and Mason' s relationship develops along comes Joe to shake it all up again with a peppering of mystery to solve along the way. Bring on book #5 for the complications!
32.5 Complications - This is the 5th book in the series and once again I couldn't put the book down once starting! The story continues with Rose and Mason together as a strong unit with Joe Simmons living and working in Henryetta and trying with all his might to win Rose back. The storyline was quick, fast paced and had a little murder, mystery and lots of humour thrown into it for good measure. Bring on Nov 2014 for the next one!
Picking up the pieces - a novella filling in some gaps and expanding on the story line
33.5 Shenanigans - I love Rose and the shannigans that follow her around. In this book we saw the realtionship develop whether she likes it or not (although i think secretly she does)with Skeeter Malcom. Rose and Mason's relationship has been tested again but at least Joe is backing off for a while and the three of them have an unwritten truce for now!
Neeley Kate is also in the full flow of action as the two of thing become a crime busting duo to find Neeley Kates cousin Dolly Parton!
Neeley Kate also had me laughing when she cried fake Ebola lol!!
32.5 Complications - This is the 5th book in the series and once again I couldn't put the book down once starting! The story continues with Rose and Mason together as a strong unit with Joe Simmons living and working in Henryetta and trying with all his might to win Rose back. The storyline was quick, fast paced and had a little murder, mystery and lots of humour thrown into it for good measure. Bring on Nov 2014 for the next one!
Picking up the pieces - a novella filling in some gaps and expanding on the story line
33.5 Shenanigans - I love Rose and the shannigans that follow her around. In this book we saw the realtionship develop whether she likes it or not (although i think secretly she does)with Skeeter Malcom. Rose and Mason's relationship has been tested again but at least Joe is backing off for a while and the three of them have an unwritten truce for now!
Neeley Kate is also in the full flow of action as the two of thing become a crime busting duo to find Neeley Kates cousin Dolly Parton!
Neeley Kate also had me laughing when she cried fake Ebola lol!!
Read
May 10, 2016Rose Gardner may not be the smartest, the toughest, or the most beautiful literary heroine, but she has an amazing attitude and outlook on life when she's given the sh*t end of the stick. The Rose Gardner that starts out in 28 and a Half Wishes is not the same Rose Gardner that is portrayed in Thirty Three and a Half Shenanigans. She grows, matures, and comes into her own over the course of these books. She learns a lot about life and death and uncovers many secrets along the way. She is a great person with a large heart and can't help but root for the underdog.
Denise Grover Swank has put so much love, energy, and emotion into these Rose Gardner stories because you can feel it when you read them. You can tell that these are all characters that she cares deeply about and is passionate about. It is evident in the writing and the story telling. This is not only one of my favorite Denise Grover Swank series, but it is also one of my favorite series ever. You laugh, you cry, you scream at the characters....you get emotional when you read about their lives. I just love this series and I hope that Denise never, ever stops writing about Rose Gardner. I want to hear about all of her shenanigans, even when she is old and gray!
Denise Grover Swank has put so much love, energy, and emotion into these Rose Gardner stories because you can feel it when you read them. You can tell that these are all characters that she cares deeply about and is passionate about. It is evident in the writing and the story telling. This is not only one of my favorite Denise Grover Swank series, but it is also one of my favorite series ever. You laugh, you cry, you scream at the characters....you get emotional when you read about their lives. I just love this series and I hope that Denise never, ever stops writing about Rose Gardner. I want to hear about all of her shenanigans, even when she is old and gray!
March 31, 2015
The Rose Gardner Mysteries are my favourite all time series. Besides the fact that Denise Grover Swank is my go to author when I need a great book, this series picks me up, makes me laugh, at times a little cry and more importantly makes me so happy!
Rose is not your typical mystery solver, she isn't a cop or detective or even a P.I., but solve mysteries she does. Even when she is not expecting it. She has some great friends to help her along the way and a very helpful ADA with Mason and Sheriff with Joe. What more can you ask for!
In this Volume Box Set, with 3 full books and 1 novella, Rose will have you on the edge of your seat as she finds herself more, develops her relationship with her best friend Neely-Kate, and her boyfriend Mason, and gets herself out of some series trouble.
You can not go wrong with any DGS book, especially Rose.
Rose is not your typical mystery solver, she isn't a cop or detective or even a P.I., but solve mysteries she does. Even when she is not expecting it. She has some great friends to help her along the way and a very helpful ADA with Mason and Sheriff with Joe. What more can you ask for!
In this Volume Box Set, with 3 full books and 1 novella, Rose will have you on the edge of your seat as she finds herself more, develops her relationship with her best friend Neely-Kate, and her boyfriend Mason, and gets herself out of some series trouble.
You can not go wrong with any DGS book, especially Rose.
April 5, 2016
Box sets for the win! This box set picks up where box set #1 ends. Having books 4 – 6 together is a great way to continue with the series. To me, box set #1 was a great first chapter in Rose’s life story. This box set is a new chapter and new direction for her life. Life does not move in a straight line. There are many zigs, zags, forwards, backwards and just plain stoppage. The books in this set allows us to see the many twists and turns in Rose’s life and in the lives of her friends and enemies. Each of the 4 books carry on some of the storylines from the previous 4 books, but they each have their own plots and mysteries, too. Each book builds on the foundation that originated in 28 ½ and continues to grow in each subsequent book and novella. Having it back to back (to back to back) in one place makes it easy to read and to see how everything truly comes together.
April 28, 2016
These are the 4th, 5th, and 6th book in the Rose Gardner Mystery series written by Denise Grover Swank. I wouldn’t read these before reading the books in box set 1. This series continues to warm our hearts as we fall in love with Rose. Rose does a lot of growing in these books, and does whatever she can to protect the ones she loves – even her sister who has been less than pleasant for the past couple of months. In addition to everything going on, Rose does a lot of exploring of her biological mother’s past in these books. There’s not much I can say without giving too much away, but I can say that I highly recommend this series! It’s so adorable and I love watching Rose become a strong woman that was hiding and being suppressed by her mother, really a great read that will have you laughing out loud and actually crying at some points!
February 9, 2017
Outstanding
This book was amazing. I did not want to put it down. It was catchy and suspenseful. Loved it so much!
This book was amazing. I did not want to put it down. It was catchy and suspenseful. Loved it so much!
August 12, 2017
This is my all time favorite series! I've got the first book free without reading any sinopsis or reviews and I didn't know what to expect.. I'm so glad I did it because I fell in love with Rose and I fell in love with author!
In every book of this series, Rose’s life has been full of love, friendship ,laughter ,loss, chaos, danger. In every book the situation becomes more intense, dangerous, it kept me captured from first page. All I can say is AMAZING! I've got to love and hate characters which are so real and very alive they seem to live just next door and became my friends!!! I loved and still love this series. Phenomenal job done Denise Grover Swank! Thank you!
Don't hesitate, just buy this collection and enjoy! You will love this great series!
In every book of this series, Rose’s life has been full of love, friendship ,laughter ,loss, chaos, danger. In every book the situation becomes more intense, dangerous, it kept me captured from first page. All I can say is AMAZING! I've got to love and hate characters which are so real and very alive they seem to live just next door and became my friends!!! I loved and still love this series. Phenomenal job done Denise Grover Swank! Thank you!
Don't hesitate, just buy this collection and enjoy! You will love this great series!
January 26, 2016
I am telling you, this serious only gets better. I have read so many series where by book 3 I am just begging the author to end it. This is not the case! I will actually be really sad when this all ends.
Rose continues to try and figure out how to manage her love life, the continued pressures of being the Lady in Black, being under the thumb and threat of her ex-boyfriends father, and trying to solve the mystery of her own past....all while dealing with the murder, mayhem and chaos that is Fenton County.
And each time, Rose comes out a little stronger. You will be cheering, crying, yelling, and then begging for more.
Rose continues to try and figure out how to manage her love life, the continued pressures of being the Lady in Black, being under the thumb and threat of her ex-boyfriends father, and trying to solve the mystery of her own past....all while dealing with the murder, mayhem and chaos that is Fenton County.
And each time, Rose comes out a little stronger. You will be cheering, crying, yelling, and then begging for more.
February 13, 2016
This is one of the best series out there! This box sets continues Rose's life journey that was started in Box Set #1. Each book sees Rose get into trouble, but it is this trouble that slowly but surely changes her life. Each issue and problem leads her to discovering who she is and what she really wants out of life.
You will have enjoy watching Rose navigate the minefield that is her love life. You will enjoy the blossoming friendship she has with Neely Kate and you will love as Rose collects more and more outcast and misfits to add to her ever growing family.
This is a great series and one that is not to be missed.
You will have enjoy watching Rose navigate the minefield that is her love life. You will enjoy the blossoming friendship she has with Neely Kate and you will love as Rose collects more and more outcast and misfits to add to her ever growing family.
This is a great series and one that is not to be missed.
August 30, 2018
I am still loving this series but I am not sure if I love the direction Rose is moving into. She is keeping secrets from just about everyone important to her and leaning more and more on Skeeter and Jed, who are both killers (she has witnessed this).
I have a feeling Mason will soon be history to be replaced by Skeeter. I hope not, but it's pointing that what. Plus, not enough Joe for me. I love Joe, but the Joe we got to know and love seems to be changing too. Violet is almost non existent in the last two books in the series, so I am not sure how that will turn out.
I can't wait to continue reading the series, though and see how it all turns out.
I have a feeling Mason will soon be history to be replaced by Skeeter. I hope not, but it's pointing that what. Plus, not enough Joe for me. I love Joe, but the Joe we got to know and love seems to be changing too. Violet is almost non existent in the last two books in the series, so I am not sure how that will turn out.
I can't wait to continue reading the series, though and see how it all turns out.
April 2, 2015
Boxed Set #2 is finally here! If you love a good mystery you will be sure to find it with the Rose Gardner Mysteries. This set continues to follow the crazy life of Rose Gardner and her relationships with those that come and go in her life. Some are good and some are bad. Denise Grover Swank weaves a tale that will have you laughing Rose's adventures and crying in yet another passage in her books. You never know what you will get. With this series you can read it again and again and still find something that you missed before.
November 17, 2015
This is the 2nd box set for Rose, so before you start it make sure you read box set 1 first! This box set starts off with Rose trying to work through her heart break, and she's find a lot of support along the way. Life is not easy for Rose! The man who murdered her Mama escape from prison and his coming for her. Then she sister makes bad business choices, but it's Rose who must save her business. Let's not forget Joe and the trouble he's causing her! Is Rose strong enough to endure it all? These books hold all the answers, you know want to read them!!
November 17, 2015
I love this series so much. Denise is an amazing author and really knows how to pull you into every single book she writes. I downloaded these books on my kindle app but had to get them all in paperback as well because I loved them so much. If you need a new book series to read I definitely recommend these books. I reread these books more than I try to read new books because they are so good. Every time I read again I find little details that I missed the last time and I end up getting so much more from the story. This series is a MUST READ!
February 29, 2016
My all time favorite series!! I can't get enough of Rose!!! This series will draw you in from book one and keep you turning the page until your caught up with the series. Then you will be in withdrawal waiting for the next book to be released. The series is humorous, heartwarming and emotional. Denise is an excellent writer and has a way of have making the characters real to you. You will obsess over this series, trust me I know from experience. I highly recommend her books to everyone. Make sure you start with book one in the series "Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes".
October 31, 2017
The second Rose Gardner Mystery Box Set is a great deal and a great way to read books 4, 5, 5.5, and 6. I absolutely love this series and each book just gets better and better. I find myself growing to like some of the characters while increasingly disliking other characters. I also like this box set so that I can see the continuous growth of Rose and read about her becoming a stronger and more independent woman. I love the mystery in each story and the romance and humor just add to each of the books in this box set.
January 22, 2020
I absolutely love all things Rose Gardner!!! I started this series late, as I had just discovered it about a year ago. Once I started reading it thought I couldn't put it down. I found myself immersed into Rose's life and all the shenanigans she seems to get herself into. This box set is amazing, and if you haven't read any of these books yet you really should. There are parts where you laugh, parts where you might cry, or parts where you might fear for Rose's life. DGS did an amazing job on these books and I hope they never stop.
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