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The Cycle Path Mysteries #2
Braking for Bodies
Evie Bloomfield puts the pedal to the metal—in the latest Cycle Path mystery from the national bestselling author of Geared for the Grave.
Moving from Los Angeles to small, picturesque Mackinac Island to work in a bike shop might seem crazy, but Evie knows it’s the best decision she’s ever made. That’s not to say she’s gotten rid of all her stress; after all, the upcoming Lilac Festival has everyone in town riding in circles.
But things really go downhill when a ferry full of tourists—including Evie’s friend Fiona’s former boss, the editor of a sleazy rag in LA—arrives on the island. No one knows why Peephole Perry came all the way to Mackinac, but things aren’t looking good for Fiona when Peep is found dead. Now Evie has to gear up and get a grip on the truth if she wants to clear her friend’s name...
Moving from Los Angeles to small, picturesque Mackinac Island to work in a bike shop might seem crazy, but Evie knows it’s the best decision she’s ever made. That’s not to say she’s gotten rid of all her stress; after all, the upcoming Lilac Festival has everyone in town riding in circles.
But things really go downhill when a ferry full of tourists—including Evie’s friend Fiona’s former boss, the editor of a sleazy rag in LA—arrives on the island. No one knows why Peephole Perry came all the way to Mackinac, but things aren’t looking good for Fiona when Peep is found dead. Now Evie has to gear up and get a grip on the truth if she wants to clear her friend’s name...
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 5, 2016
45 people are currently reading
1067 people want to read
About the author
Duffy Brown
13 books731 followersDuffy Brown loves anything with a mystery. While others girls dreamed of dating Brad Pitt, Duffy longed to take Sherlock Holmes to the prom. She has two cats, Spooky and Dr. Watson, her license plate is Sherlok and she conjures up who-done-it stories of her very own for Berkley Prime Crime. Duffy’s national bestselling Consignment Shop Mystery series is set in Savannah and the Cycle Path Mysteries are set on Mackinac Island.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
March 30, 2016
This is by far one of my favorite books of the year! I loved every word, and as good as the first book in the series is, this one is even better! I cannot believe one person, and I mean our heroine, Evie, can get herself into so much trouble. Between the wedding planning, her trying to ride a bike, her friend Fiona accused of murder, losing a wedding dress, falling off of bike, and add to that the very handsome sheriff Sutter, wow, she keeps us on our toes! I also can't forget to mention the "murder mystery weekend" at the Grand Hotel. I was laughing so hard all the way through this book, starting with page 2. So how do all these things tie together? You will have to read the book to find out. And trust me, you will not want to miss this book. I hope there are many more coming in this series, I absolutely will be waiting impatiently for Evies next adventure!
July 9, 2017
Hilarious and full of surprises
Just when I thought nothing could be funnier than the first book, this one proved me wrong and I had a great time reading about Evie and her friends solving another murder. All I can say is, Duffy I hope book 3 is coming soon!
Just when I thought nothing could be funnier than the first book, this one proved me wrong and I had a great time reading about Evie and her friends solving another murder. All I can say is, Duffy I hope book 3 is coming soon!
August 12, 2016
Braking for Bodies by Duffy Brown.
Evie has relocated from the stress of L.A. to the beautiful get away from it all Mackinac Island. That is until Peephole Perry and his long time mistress, Zo, get off the ferry. Peep is about the last person on earth Evie wanted to see. The editor of a sleaze rag of a newspaper that her bff Fiona used to work for.
It seems that Peep has something trashy he's been holding over the heads of quite a few people and making money in the process. Then lo and behold Evie goes sailing through the air while bike riding after bumping into the body of Peep. Who did it and ran is the question of the day as the list of suspects keeps getting bigger.
This was so much fun to read. I loved it and it was the perfect change of pace to the many murder mysteries I am used to. I only hope this talented writer can keep up the great work. Treat yourself to a really fun adventure with Evie at Mackinac Island.
Evie has relocated from the stress of L.A. to the beautiful get away from it all Mackinac Island. That is until Peephole Perry and his long time mistress, Zo, get off the ferry. Peep is about the last person on earth Evie wanted to see. The editor of a sleaze rag of a newspaper that her bff Fiona used to work for.
It seems that Peep has something trashy he's been holding over the heads of quite a few people and making money in the process. Then lo and behold Evie goes sailing through the air while bike riding after bumping into the body of Peep. Who did it and ran is the question of the day as the list of suspects keeps getting bigger.
This was so much fun to read. I loved it and it was the perfect change of pace to the many murder mysteries I am used to. I only hope this talented writer can keep up the great work. Treat yourself to a really fun adventure with Evie at Mackinac Island.
September 25, 2016
Oh, wow, this book went from good to bad to okay to horrible to okay. I have no idea how to even rate it. Evie was so annoying during most of the book, yet she had (a couple) redeemable moments. Overall nowhere near as good as the first one.
June 12, 2021
I love this series! I listened to this one and the narrator was fantastic. I was laughing at every turn of events. Definitely check this one out.
March 26, 2016
I cycled through this fabulous mystery at record speed. What a fun ride it was!
Cozy mystery readers were given a marvelous gift when author Duffy Brown came on the scene. All you have to do is read BRAKING FOR BODIES to see just how blessed we are.
Set on real life Mackinac Island (Have you ever seen Somewhere In Time?), the Cycle Path mystery series will pull you in with Ms. Brown’s descriptions of this beautiful setting. It’s clear she has a real love for, and vast knowledge of Mackinac. The Grand Hotel is featured in this story, and it has strengthened my resolve to get there one day.
With a fantastic plot that had me from page one, BRAKING FOR BODIES as a fast, funny mystery that had me on the edge of my seat with anticipation as well as laughing practically through the entire book! Duffy Brown knows just the right combination of mystery, intrigue, and humor to make up the perfect cozy mystery.
If you’re thinking of getting BRAKING FOR BODIES, stop back peddling. Throw yourself in gear, and race to get your copy!
Cozy mystery readers were given a marvelous gift when author Duffy Brown came on the scene. All you have to do is read BRAKING FOR BODIES to see just how blessed we are.
Set on real life Mackinac Island (Have you ever seen Somewhere In Time?), the Cycle Path mystery series will pull you in with Ms. Brown’s descriptions of this beautiful setting. It’s clear she has a real love for, and vast knowledge of Mackinac. The Grand Hotel is featured in this story, and it has strengthened my resolve to get there one day.
With a fantastic plot that had me from page one, BRAKING FOR BODIES as a fast, funny mystery that had me on the edge of my seat with anticipation as well as laughing practically through the entire book! Duffy Brown knows just the right combination of mystery, intrigue, and humor to make up the perfect cozy mystery.
If you’re thinking of getting BRAKING FOR BODIES, stop back peddling. Throw yourself in gear, and race to get your copy!
April 5, 2016
When I got the chance to read this book I was thrilled. Ms. Brown's books are always such an enjoyable read and this book is no different. I cannot begin to say enough about her characters, normally too many quirky characters annoy me but she makes it work so that you hope that you can jump right in with them. Evie is a strong woman, running a bike shop and helping friends and nobody is going to slow her down. When Fiona's ex boss arrives on the island trouble begins. Fiona is prime suspect and Evie is out to clear her name. This mystery kept me guessing until the end with plenty of twists and turns that never slowed down. I look for laugh out loud moments and Ms. Brown always delivers, the word play between Sutter and Evie especially had me laughing. The drawback? I now have to wait for the next in this series.
*I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review and this is my honest opinion.
*I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review and this is my honest opinion.
March 31, 2016
I loved this book!! What a madcap murder investigation!! :)
Besides taking place on gorgeous Mackinac Island, the characters and storyline, make for an entertaining read.
Evie Bloomfield is the maid of honor for the upcoming wedding of her rent-a-bicycle shop co-owner, Rudy, and fudge shop owner, Irma. Evie should've known that things weren't going to go smoothly for her when she discovers that the wedding dress Isn't the one that Irma ordered. Bicycling up to the Grand Hotel to retrieve the right dress, Evie accidentally wrecks her bike--over a dead body!! That's when the real madcap fun begins.
Evie must find the real killer and prove her friend, Fiona, innocent, make sure that the almost called off wedding happens, and keep herself alive. Really fun cozy mystery!! Well, not very fun for the dead Peephole Perry. :)
This is the second book in the Cycle Path Mystery series by Duffy Brown, and I can't wait to read more in this series.
Besides taking place on gorgeous Mackinac Island, the characters and storyline, make for an entertaining read.
Evie Bloomfield is the maid of honor for the upcoming wedding of her rent-a-bicycle shop co-owner, Rudy, and fudge shop owner, Irma. Evie should've known that things weren't going to go smoothly for her when she discovers that the wedding dress Isn't the one that Irma ordered. Bicycling up to the Grand Hotel to retrieve the right dress, Evie accidentally wrecks her bike--over a dead body!! That's when the real madcap fun begins.
Evie must find the real killer and prove her friend, Fiona, innocent, make sure that the almost called off wedding happens, and keep herself alive. Really fun cozy mystery!! Well, not very fun for the dead Peephole Perry. :)
This is the second book in the Cycle Path Mystery series by Duffy Brown, and I can't wait to read more in this series.
April 9, 2016
An exciting entry in the Cycle Path mysteries, Braking for Bodies is a fast paced book that is difficult to step away from. Evie is enjoying her bicycle shop and her friends on Mackinac Island when a sleazy former boss of local reporter, Fiona, comes to town. After his untimely murder, a madcap race to find the killer and exonerate Fiona begins. Along with the mystery to solve, Evie is also charged with planning a wedding and finding a romance for herself with the chief of police.
A great read that will have you laughing out loud. Thanks, Duffy, for a wonderful book. I can't wait to read more from this series!
A great read that will have you laughing out loud. Thanks, Duffy, for a wonderful book. I can't wait to read more from this series!
March 23, 2016
Vacation farther north than Cleveland?? NEVER says my husband--so I savored the newest book "Braking for Bodies" a Cycle Path mystery by Duffy Brown set on Mackinac Island MI. Face paced plot, colorful memorable...did I say COLORFUL...characters and clever dialogue...everything you'd want in a "Take me away" cozy mystery. Thanks Duffy...you did it again! And trust me, her books are even better reread...whenever you need an Island fix!
February 15, 2021
Book number 2 in this series that has Mackinac Island as its setting. Quirky characters, but a fun read!
"Moving from Los Angeles to small, picturesque Mackinac Island to work in a bike shop might seem crazy, but Evie knows it’s the best decision she’s ever made. That’s not to say she’s gotten rid of all her stress; after all, the upcoming Lilac Festival has everyone in town riding in circles. But things really go downhill when a ferry full of tourists—including Evie’s friend Fiona’s former boss, the editor of a sleazy rag in LA—arrives on the island. No one knows why Peephole Perry came all the way to Mackinac, but things aren’t looking good for Fiona when Peep is found dead. Now Evie has to gear up and get a grip on the truth if she wants to clear her friend’s name."
"Moving from Los Angeles to small, picturesque Mackinac Island to work in a bike shop might seem crazy, but Evie knows it’s the best decision she’s ever made. That’s not to say she’s gotten rid of all her stress; after all, the upcoming Lilac Festival has everyone in town riding in circles. But things really go downhill when a ferry full of tourists—including Evie’s friend Fiona’s former boss, the editor of a sleazy rag in LA—arrives on the island. No one knows why Peephole Perry came all the way to Mackinac, but things aren’t looking good for Fiona when Peep is found dead. Now Evie has to gear up and get a grip on the truth if she wants to clear her friend’s name."
February 11, 2020
Evie is helping to plan Rudy and Irma's wedding along with Nate but what can go wrong does. From signing for the wrong wedding dress to losing the caterer to losing the venue, nothing is going right and then Evie trips over a dead body of Fiona's ex-boss outside the Grand Hotel. With Fiona being the prime suspect, Evie must find out the real murderer.
This series is laugh-out-loud funny. Not only is the wedding going downhill but a bunch of murder mystery fans think this is a week-end of murder games with a free weekend at the Grand Hotel for solving the murder. They are a riot and Nate's patience is running out fast. I love this group of people and look forward to the third book.
This series is laugh-out-loud funny. Not only is the wedding going downhill but a bunch of murder mystery fans think this is a week-end of murder games with a free weekend at the Grand Hotel for solving the murder. They are a riot and Nate's patience is running out fast. I love this group of people and look forward to the third book.
May 4, 2016
http://openbooksociety.com/article/br...
Braking for Bodies
The Cycle Path Mysteries, Book #2
By Duffy Brown
ISBN: 9780425268957
Author website: http://duffybrown.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kayt
Synopsis:
Evie Bloomfield puts the pedal to the metal—in the latest Cycle Path mystery from the national bestselling author of Geared for the Grave.
Moving from Los Angeles to small, picturesque Mackinac Island to work in a bike shop might seem crazy, but Evie knows it’s the best decision she’s ever made. That’s not to say she’s gotten rid of all her stress; after all, the upcoming Lilac Festival has everyone in town riding in circles.
But things really go downhill when a ferry full of tourists—including Evie’s friend Fiona’s former boss, the editor of a sleazy rag in LA—arrives on the island. No one knows why Peephole Perry came all the way to Mackinac, but things aren’t looking good for Fiona when Peep is found dead. Now Evie has to gear up and get a grip on the truth if she wants to clear her friend’s name..
Review:
I enjoy visiting Mackinac Island and the wonderful characters that inhabit Duffy Brown’s “The Cycle Path Mystery” series. Braking for Bodies is the second in the series and I enjoyed it even more than the first. Evie Bloomfield is a fun and entertaining protagonist. When her friend Fiona is faced with the appearance of her over the top former boss’ arrival on the island, things go from bad to worse. Evie is so busy with the upcoming Lilac Festival, a wedding and now the death of Fiona’s sleazy old boss Peephole Perry. Why he even came to their little piece of paradise Mackinac Island no one knows, but it can only mean trouble. His death could mean a lot of lost revenue for the Island and this is the worst time for that. The citizens only have so much time to make money and this is it. Luckily for everyone, one of the hotel guests thinks the dead body of Peephole is the beginning of a murder mystery weekend. Evie and Police Chief Sutter decide to go with the flow and hope for the best. Evie is swamped with so much, including losing the bride’s wedding gown, but she has to help keep Fiona out of jail when she becomes the prime suspect in the horrible man’s murder.
The fun and antics have just begun with the death of ole Peephole. Two women claim to be his true love, he could have been hiding from death threats, he may have wanted to blackmail Fiona and mixed in is the groups of hotel guests trying to win a non-existent prize for figuring out the fake murder mystery weekend. Author Duffy Brown fills this fabulous cozy with laughter, intrigue, humor, fabulous characters and even more laughter. This is truly a wonderful read that kept me amused throughout and all the way till the end. Evie and her bike riding is one of the highlights, take my word for it. Her shop rents one of a kind bikes for visitors to the island. She paints them in themes and they are always a big hit. Now her mother has moved to the island to open her law office across the street. Now if only Evie can help get the wedding back on track. Rudy and Irma had their wedding planned out, but nothing is going right. Everything is falling apart and the murder is still unsolved and there are crazy guests running around finding “clues”. How will Evie and Chief Sutter get to the bottom of things?
This is truly a wonderfully entertaining mystery. Colorful and eclectic characters abound. The townsfolk are not only amusing but they care for each other. Evie finally is starting to feel at home in her new town. She is determined to help the business owners not lose money with the fear of another murder on their island. The humor and mayhem filling this book work to bring the reader a fabulous fun filled whodunit. I could not figure out who the real killer was until Evie and Chief Sutter did. The pace and storyline are perfect. The writing is descriptive and superb. The characters are well developed and always interesting. Author Duffy Brown writes with such panache and humor.
Braking for Bodies is a stellar second installment in one of the best cozy series out these days. Always humorous and filled with intelligent wit, this is a fabulous mystery. The characters are wonderful and their interaction is great. Even with the addition of the crazy guests and the loves of Peephole Pete, the characters’ banter is always amusing. If you have not read the first in this series, you will still be able to follow and enjoy this one. Do yourself a favor though and read the first. Duffy Brown has a writing style that grabs hold and never let’s go. A wonderfully well written whodunit that is full of laughter and intrigue. If only I would have had some Mackinac Fudge, it would have been a perfect night’s read. Even without it though, the visit to the island was well worth it and one I cannot wait to do again very soon.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review
Braking for Bodies
The Cycle Path Mysteries, Book #2
By Duffy Brown
ISBN: 9780425268957
Author website: http://duffybrown.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kayt
Synopsis:
Evie Bloomfield puts the pedal to the metal—in the latest Cycle Path mystery from the national bestselling author of Geared for the Grave.
Moving from Los Angeles to small, picturesque Mackinac Island to work in a bike shop might seem crazy, but Evie knows it’s the best decision she’s ever made. That’s not to say she’s gotten rid of all her stress; after all, the upcoming Lilac Festival has everyone in town riding in circles.
But things really go downhill when a ferry full of tourists—including Evie’s friend Fiona’s former boss, the editor of a sleazy rag in LA—arrives on the island. No one knows why Peephole Perry came all the way to Mackinac, but things aren’t looking good for Fiona when Peep is found dead. Now Evie has to gear up and get a grip on the truth if she wants to clear her friend’s name..
Review:
I enjoy visiting Mackinac Island and the wonderful characters that inhabit Duffy Brown’s “The Cycle Path Mystery” series. Braking for Bodies is the second in the series and I enjoyed it even more than the first. Evie Bloomfield is a fun and entertaining protagonist. When her friend Fiona is faced with the appearance of her over the top former boss’ arrival on the island, things go from bad to worse. Evie is so busy with the upcoming Lilac Festival, a wedding and now the death of Fiona’s sleazy old boss Peephole Perry. Why he even came to their little piece of paradise Mackinac Island no one knows, but it can only mean trouble. His death could mean a lot of lost revenue for the Island and this is the worst time for that. The citizens only have so much time to make money and this is it. Luckily for everyone, one of the hotel guests thinks the dead body of Peephole is the beginning of a murder mystery weekend. Evie and Police Chief Sutter decide to go with the flow and hope for the best. Evie is swamped with so much, including losing the bride’s wedding gown, but she has to help keep Fiona out of jail when she becomes the prime suspect in the horrible man’s murder.
The fun and antics have just begun with the death of ole Peephole. Two women claim to be his true love, he could have been hiding from death threats, he may have wanted to blackmail Fiona and mixed in is the groups of hotel guests trying to win a non-existent prize for figuring out the fake murder mystery weekend. Author Duffy Brown fills this fabulous cozy with laughter, intrigue, humor, fabulous characters and even more laughter. This is truly a wonderful read that kept me amused throughout and all the way till the end. Evie and her bike riding is one of the highlights, take my word for it. Her shop rents one of a kind bikes for visitors to the island. She paints them in themes and they are always a big hit. Now her mother has moved to the island to open her law office across the street. Now if only Evie can help get the wedding back on track. Rudy and Irma had their wedding planned out, but nothing is going right. Everything is falling apart and the murder is still unsolved and there are crazy guests running around finding “clues”. How will Evie and Chief Sutter get to the bottom of things?
This is truly a wonderfully entertaining mystery. Colorful and eclectic characters abound. The townsfolk are not only amusing but they care for each other. Evie finally is starting to feel at home in her new town. She is determined to help the business owners not lose money with the fear of another murder on their island. The humor and mayhem filling this book work to bring the reader a fabulous fun filled whodunit. I could not figure out who the real killer was until Evie and Chief Sutter did. The pace and storyline are perfect. The writing is descriptive and superb. The characters are well developed and always interesting. Author Duffy Brown writes with such panache and humor.
Braking for Bodies is a stellar second installment in one of the best cozy series out these days. Always humorous and filled with intelligent wit, this is a fabulous mystery. The characters are wonderful and their interaction is great. Even with the addition of the crazy guests and the loves of Peephole Pete, the characters’ banter is always amusing. If you have not read the first in this series, you will still be able to follow and enjoy this one. Do yourself a favor though and read the first. Duffy Brown has a writing style that grabs hold and never let’s go. A wonderfully well written whodunit that is full of laughter and intrigue. If only I would have had some Mackinac Fudge, it would have been a perfect night’s read. Even without it though, the visit to the island was well worth it and one I cannot wait to do again very soon.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review
May 25, 2019
Altro bel libro, ma trovo che le scene esileranti sono troppe. E da italiana trovo impossibile che un padrino mafioso vada in pensione e sia annoverabile fra i buoni...
January 17, 2021
This series is fun to read. I need laughter! Evie continues to stumble upon mysteries.
April 10, 2016
Not having read any books in this series, I’m jumping in mid stream. That didn’t stop me from enjoying this book. Sure, it would be better to meet the characters from the beginning. I’ll fix that when I grab the first book.
Wow. This book takes off and never slows down. Evie Bloomfield rushes from one thing to the next, trying to clear her friend’s name after she’s accused of murdering Peep. He’s the scum bag who came to Mackinac Island to blackmail Fiona. No surprise he’s found dead, killed by a bottle of virgin olive oil, no less. Said bottle last seen in Fiona’s hand.
From here on, things take a turn for the hilarious. The Corpse Crusaders, a group of guests at The Grand Hotel, think this is a parlor game and they are all up in the investigation, seeking clues, tampering with crime scenes, and generally making a nuisance of themselves. Evie and sexy local policeman Nate Sutter let them believe this, figuring to solve the murder with none the wiser, and they don’t want something like murder to ruin the upcoming Lilac Festival, a big draw for the island.
There’s a couple of scenes where Evie needs to get rid of the Corpse Crusader’s so she drops hints that Nate has the answers. I can just imagine his face when they start pestering him. She’s such a pistol.
I tell ya, following Evie around the island was exhausting. She’s either pedaling a bike all over the place or stealing Nate’s horse. And she’s not the best at sleuthing. From braking into and out of jail, to destruction of property and aiding and abetting a fugitive, my head was spinning. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with this much mayhem. And so many laughs.
About stealing Nate’s horse. I’ve been to Mackinac Island a few times, and cars aren’t allowed there. You can walk, rent a bike, or ride a horse or in a carriage. It’s such a difference from the traffic noise. And the cafes and shops are delightful.
I kind of felt for the poor girl. Evie is so busy running the bike shop, helping to pull together Nate’s mothers wedding after everything falls apart, and saving her best friend from spending the rest of her life in jail, she doesn’t even have time to do her laundry. She’s running around the island in dirty clothes and her hair, well, you can imagine. Yet, she never flinches. Never loses her sense of humor. I’d “kill” for a friend like her.
An island community is a lot like a small town. Most people know each other, at least by sight. The islanders are taking bets on when Nate and Evie will hook up. It added one more fun plot to this book. I placed my own bet. Now to see if I’m a winner.
A laugh riot from beginning to end. This is a cozy series you won’t want to miss.
I received this book for my honest review.
April 8, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Pack your bags we are headed for Mackinac Island for the Lilac Festival!!
There are tourists everywhere and even a few people posing as tourists. Evie’s friend Fiona is shocked when her former boss, Peephole Perry, gets off the ferry. This can’t be good. His trip is cut short when he is found dead outside of The Grand Hotel. This isn’t good for Peep or the island. A dead body could mean cancelled reservations and a mass exodus of the guests that have already arrived. When one of the hotel’s guests thinks it is a murder mystery game, Evie convinces Police Chief Sutter that this is a great cover so he (with her help) can catch the killer. Unfortunately all the evidence points at Fiona so Evie needs to catch a “brake” to prove her innocence.
I have to start by saying if you need a pick me up pick up this book! I was laughing, giggling, and almost rolling on the floor laughing throughout the entire book. I know murder is a serious thing but poor Evie, she has so many things to do and so many things go wrong, she has to find the humor or she would spend the whole book in tears. From a missing wedding dress, to a mistress, and a few near misses that may have been attempts on her life, Evie treks back and forth around the island trying to do everything asked of her and more.
Duffy Brown brings us back to this idyllic island to follow around Evie Bloomfield. Evie is a smart woman with a very unique business, renting one of a kind bicycles that she has painted herself. You can rent the music bike, or the Sherlock bike, one of the many lilac bikes or any other of the very imaginatively themed bicycles. Evie’s mother has returned to the island and has opened her law office behind bike shop. There is a fudge shop right next door and Rudy, the original owner of the bike shop, splits his time between the 2 places. His thoughts are more on keeping his bride to be happy than anything else.
I am totally in awe of the way Ms. Brown writes. I was grabbed from the first page. My attention was completely held until the last word. To be truthful I didn’t want the story to end. The whole murder mystery game just had me in stitches. At least 4 teams of people were tracking down “clues” and creating theories to catch the culprit. The way the main characters dealt with them all while really trying to solve the mystery itself was truly a unique plot idea.
A great addition to this series. Murder and yes, mayhem along with wonderful characters shine in this Cycle Path Mystery. I have already been to Rudy’s Rides and reserved the Nancy Drew bike for our next excursion to this wonderful place!
Pack your bags we are headed for Mackinac Island for the Lilac Festival!!
There are tourists everywhere and even a few people posing as tourists. Evie’s friend Fiona is shocked when her former boss, Peephole Perry, gets off the ferry. This can’t be good. His trip is cut short when he is found dead outside of The Grand Hotel. This isn’t good for Peep or the island. A dead body could mean cancelled reservations and a mass exodus of the guests that have already arrived. When one of the hotel’s guests thinks it is a murder mystery game, Evie convinces Police Chief Sutter that this is a great cover so he (with her help) can catch the killer. Unfortunately all the evidence points at Fiona so Evie needs to catch a “brake” to prove her innocence.
I have to start by saying if you need a pick me up pick up this book! I was laughing, giggling, and almost rolling on the floor laughing throughout the entire book. I know murder is a serious thing but poor Evie, she has so many things to do and so many things go wrong, she has to find the humor or she would spend the whole book in tears. From a missing wedding dress, to a mistress, and a few near misses that may have been attempts on her life, Evie treks back and forth around the island trying to do everything asked of her and more.
Duffy Brown brings us back to this idyllic island to follow around Evie Bloomfield. Evie is a smart woman with a very unique business, renting one of a kind bicycles that she has painted herself. You can rent the music bike, or the Sherlock bike, one of the many lilac bikes or any other of the very imaginatively themed bicycles. Evie’s mother has returned to the island and has opened her law office behind bike shop. There is a fudge shop right next door and Rudy, the original owner of the bike shop, splits his time between the 2 places. His thoughts are more on keeping his bride to be happy than anything else.
I am totally in awe of the way Ms. Brown writes. I was grabbed from the first page. My attention was completely held until the last word. To be truthful I didn’t want the story to end. The whole murder mystery game just had me in stitches. At least 4 teams of people were tracking down “clues” and creating theories to catch the culprit. The way the main characters dealt with them all while really trying to solve the mystery itself was truly a unique plot idea.
A great addition to this series. Murder and yes, mayhem along with wonderful characters shine in this Cycle Path Mystery. I have already been to Rudy’s Rides and reserved the Nancy Drew bike for our next excursion to this wonderful place!
April 9, 2016
Welcome to Mackinac Island. You will arrive to the Island
by ferry boat.
Once here, you travel by horse-drawn taxis, bikes,
horse-drawn carriages, horseback or foot. Automobiles have
been banned which resulted in noise-free, clean air with a
quaint village ambiance.
The stunning imagery and vivid sense of setting add
dimension to the story.
Every year there is a Lilac Festival on the Island. You can
smell the lilac trees due to the figurative description given by
the author.
The story is so well written and contains such vivid detail
that you feel like you are right there and all the drama is
happening right around you.
Our main character, Evie Bloomfield, is a transport to the
Island from Chicago for close to a year. She is co-owner of
Rudy’s Rides, a bicycle rental shop. This is also where she
lives with her two cate as Rudy has moved into Irma’s Fudge
Shop awaiting their wedding. Evie is in her wedding and
needs to get Irma’s wedding dress from the incoming ferry.
Whoa…what’s wrong with her best friend Fiona??? Turns
out Fiona’s former boss nicknamed “Peephole Perry’’ from
LA has arrived on the island with his mistress.
What is going on?? Why is Fiona upset?
Then on the next ferry, Mrs. “ Peephole Perry” arrives and
the action begins……
Riding her bike up to the Grand Hotel, Evie goes head first
over the handle bars landing on a body…a dead body.
The guests at the hotel think that this is one of those
Murder Weekend Plays which adds to the turmoil!!!
The book totters between the present and past. This makes
the mystery explainable as the reader learns the facts.
Blending just the right combination of the ingredients:
murder, mystery, mayhem, a engaging plot, unbelievable
shenanigans, twists and turns plus humor and a touch of
romance.
The author has creatively drawn up a wonderful cast
full of great people readers will love plus plenty of
suspects who they will love to dislike. You will feel as
if you are part of the family. Plus you will find plenty
of colorful suspects to be investigated.
This cozy is witty, clever, surprising and unpredictable!!!
It is the second book in The Cycle Path Mystery series. It can
be read as a stand alone.
Enjoy!!!
Thanks to the author via Facebook’s Cozy Mystery Review for
the book. My opinion is my own.
by ferry boat.
Once here, you travel by horse-drawn taxis, bikes,
horse-drawn carriages, horseback or foot. Automobiles have
been banned which resulted in noise-free, clean air with a
quaint village ambiance.
The stunning imagery and vivid sense of setting add
dimension to the story.
Every year there is a Lilac Festival on the Island. You can
smell the lilac trees due to the figurative description given by
the author.
The story is so well written and contains such vivid detail
that you feel like you are right there and all the drama is
happening right around you.
Our main character, Evie Bloomfield, is a transport to the
Island from Chicago for close to a year. She is co-owner of
Rudy’s Rides, a bicycle rental shop. This is also where she
lives with her two cate as Rudy has moved into Irma’s Fudge
Shop awaiting their wedding. Evie is in her wedding and
needs to get Irma’s wedding dress from the incoming ferry.
Whoa…what’s wrong with her best friend Fiona??? Turns
out Fiona’s former boss nicknamed “Peephole Perry’’ from
LA has arrived on the island with his mistress.
What is going on?? Why is Fiona upset?
Then on the next ferry, Mrs. “ Peephole Perry” arrives and
the action begins……
Riding her bike up to the Grand Hotel, Evie goes head first
over the handle bars landing on a body…a dead body.
The guests at the hotel think that this is one of those
Murder Weekend Plays which adds to the turmoil!!!
The book totters between the present and past. This makes
the mystery explainable as the reader learns the facts.
Blending just the right combination of the ingredients:
murder, mystery, mayhem, a engaging plot, unbelievable
shenanigans, twists and turns plus humor and a touch of
romance.
The author has creatively drawn up a wonderful cast
full of great people readers will love plus plenty of
suspects who they will love to dislike. You will feel as
if you are part of the family. Plus you will find plenty
of colorful suspects to be investigated.
This cozy is witty, clever, surprising and unpredictable!!!
It is the second book in The Cycle Path Mystery series. It can
be read as a stand alone.
Enjoy!!!
Thanks to the author via Facebook’s Cozy Mystery Review for
the book. My opinion is my own.
March 30, 2016
It's been 10 months since her move to Mackinac Island became permanent & Evie has settled in nicely. No longer a "fudgie" as locals call the tourists, she's living alone at Rudy's Rides these days & is now a partner with him in the bike rental shop. Rudy has moved in with Irma at her Fudge Shop while they get ready to tie the knot.
Poor Evie can't stay out of trouble though or away from dead bodies & on the way to straighten out her latest mess, she runs right into another one. Peephole Perry, as he's known back in L.A., is the unlucky victim this time. He used to be the boss of her newly adopted bestie, Fiona, who had a public row with him as soon as he got to the island. Now Evie is doing all she can to keep suspicion away from Fiona while still providing maid of honor duties to Irma.
I love the characters in this series. Each one is unique & funny in their own way. I like that their relationships with each other have grown since the last book. Being as loyal as they are in defending each other has some very comedic moments while the veil of suspicion visits more than just Fiona. The plot was pure genius.
Duffy writes a great mystery & has a true talent for laugh out loud dialogue. More than ever, I'd love to visit Mackinac Island. My only disappointment would be if Evie & the gang weren't there to meet me at the ferry!
This series is great fun & isn't to be missed.
**Disclosure: I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts & comments included in this review are entirely my own.
Poor Evie can't stay out of trouble though or away from dead bodies & on the way to straighten out her latest mess, she runs right into another one. Peephole Perry, as he's known back in L.A., is the unlucky victim this time. He used to be the boss of her newly adopted bestie, Fiona, who had a public row with him as soon as he got to the island. Now Evie is doing all she can to keep suspicion away from Fiona while still providing maid of honor duties to Irma.
I love the characters in this series. Each one is unique & funny in their own way. I like that their relationships with each other have grown since the last book. Being as loyal as they are in defending each other has some very comedic moments while the veil of suspicion visits more than just Fiona. The plot was pure genius.
Duffy writes a great mystery & has a true talent for laugh out loud dialogue. More than ever, I'd love to visit Mackinac Island. My only disappointment would be if Evie & the gang weren't there to meet me at the ferry!
This series is great fun & isn't to be missed.
**Disclosure: I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts & comments included in this review are entirely my own.
March 31, 2016
I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars!! I received this book for an honest review, and loved it from the first page to the last. This book had me giggling out loud.
That Evie Bloomfield is a hoot. Along with her friend Fiona they have a way of finding trouble.
When Fiona's old boss, Peephole Perry comes to Mackinac Island with his mistress he is out to blackmail her to go back to L.A. to work for his paper again. His wife Madonna shows up on the island, then Evie stumbles across Peeps dead body with all the clues leading to Fiona.
Seems there should be tons of suspects since it seems Peep was out to blackmail everyone.
His mistress Zo is fighting with his wife Madonna, all the people staying at the hotel have split into
groups, The Crusaders, the Body Baggers, and The Murder Marauders thinking this whole murder is just part of the murder weekend, the winning group gets their weekend stay for free.
Rudy and Irma are trying to get married, and everything that could go wrong went wrong. Putting their heads together can Sutter and Evie make things right so this happy couple can say I DO?
There is so much going on in this book, and it was the most fun to read!! I am already excited for the next book....
That Evie Bloomfield is a hoot. Along with her friend Fiona they have a way of finding trouble.
When Fiona's old boss, Peephole Perry comes to Mackinac Island with his mistress he is out to blackmail her to go back to L.A. to work for his paper again. His wife Madonna shows up on the island, then Evie stumbles across Peeps dead body with all the clues leading to Fiona.
Seems there should be tons of suspects since it seems Peep was out to blackmail everyone.
His mistress Zo is fighting with his wife Madonna, all the people staying at the hotel have split into
groups, The Crusaders, the Body Baggers, and The Murder Marauders thinking this whole murder is just part of the murder weekend, the winning group gets their weekend stay for free.
Rudy and Irma are trying to get married, and everything that could go wrong went wrong. Putting their heads together can Sutter and Evie make things right so this happy couple can say I DO?
There is so much going on in this book, and it was the most fun to read!! I am already excited for the next book....
March 31, 2016
Braking for Bodies is the first book that I have read in the Cycle Path Mysteries.
I enjoyed this book and it's setting on Mackinac Island. I've been to Mackinaw City, but not the Island, so I was excited to learn that there is a cozy mystery series set on the Island!
This is a great story. The main character, Evie Bloomfield, is in the process of helping her friend, Fiona, get ready for her wedding during the Lilac Festival. In the meanwhile, Fiona's ex-boss comes over to the Island. Fiona has words with her ex-boss, and he is later found dead. Fiona becomes the prime suspect.
This story has plenty of twists and turns!
I will be getting Geared for the Grave so I can catch up on this series.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed this book and it's setting on Mackinac Island. I've been to Mackinaw City, but not the Island, so I was excited to learn that there is a cozy mystery series set on the Island!
This is a great story. The main character, Evie Bloomfield, is in the process of helping her friend, Fiona, get ready for her wedding during the Lilac Festival. In the meanwhile, Fiona's ex-boss comes over to the Island. Fiona has words with her ex-boss, and he is later found dead. Fiona becomes the prime suspect.
This story has plenty of twists and turns!
I will be getting Geared for the Grave so I can catch up on this series.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
April 6, 2016
I love this series and "Braking for Bodies" is even better than the first. I laughed, I tried to figure out the mystery and then I laughed some more. I dreamed of being there on Mackinac Island and was able to picture it with the wonderful descriptive writing style of Duffy Brown. Evie Bloomfield is a great protagonist and her fellow characters are diverse and entertaining. When a murder occurs, Evie quickly turns things around and the islands guests think it is a murder mystery weekend. I love the setting, the flow and especially the characters. There is no braking for Duffy Brown, she is in gear for another hit!
I was given a copy in exchange for my honest opinion
I was given a copy in exchange for my honest opinion
May 30, 2016
Loved and thoroughly enjoyed Braking For Bodies by Duffy Brown. Ten stars! Mystery, intrigue, comedy in a perfect setting!! Friends Evie and Fiona are trying to solve the mysterious death of a not so gallant patron at The Grand Hotel. This is the Lilac Festival weekend and the hotel is full. From one mysterious turn to another these two are determined to save Fiona from being framed for this murder. Perfect setting, a wonderfully written storyline and what more could you ask for. Loved it!!!!!
I cannot wait for the next installment.
I cannot wait for the next installment.
Read
April 6, 2016Duffy Brown takes us back to visit Mackinac Island where the Lilac Festival is soon to start. Evie is busier than her normal day so when the murder of Peep Perry takes place, Evie wants to do what she can to help solve the case and get things moving for the festival. This fast-paced charming whodunit is sure to get you into the spring mode. The cast of characters are so welcoming and the story keeps you interested from the very first page.You won't want to stop reading this one once you pick it up.
June 16, 2016
I really enjoyed this cozy mystery. I received it free through Goodreads in return for a honest review. I've given it a 4.5* rating. I was hooked almost from the first of the story. I could almost see the black cloud hovering over the heroine of this book. I really look forward to Duffy Brown's books and this did not disappoint. Let's just say that what can possibly go wrong, does.
June 19, 2019
Another Winner
After reading the first book, I had to read this one.
I just love this series and Evie is a great character. She brings lots of laugh out loud moments to the story and I love reading about all the cool bikes she creates.
I'm so glad I gave this series a try, I was not disappointed at all.
After reading the first book, I had to read this one.
I just love this series and Evie is a great character. She brings lots of laugh out loud moments to the story and I love reading about all the cool bikes she creates.
I'm so glad I gave this series a try, I was not disappointed at all.
July 13, 2016
A fun and fast paced ride that got me chuckling quite a dew times. I think it is even better than the 1st one.
June 28, 2019
2019 bk 201. Loved the sequel almost as much as the first in the series. This screwball mystery continues the pattern with the black cloud still hovering, the characters of Mackinaw Island still being characters, and wedding plans are thwarted. Visitors to the island mistake a real murder for a mystery murder week at the Island and things go even more haywire from there... Enjoyed the book through the last page and have now acquired the third of the series.
February 22, 2024
I enjoyed the first book in this series, but unfortunately for me this sequel was a miss. If it wasn’t my #readforkimberly selection, I honestly wouldn't have completed it.
The author has a quick, lighthearted, humorous writing style similar to Maddy Hunter.
What worked:
Mackinac Island setting.
Theme painted bicycles.
Shakespeare, the sheriff’s horse.
Mistaken murder mystery weekend that threw off visitors.
Evie’s mother.
What didn’t:
Humor felt forced and childish.
Huge cast making it challenging to remember them all.
Busy side-stories.
Abrupt ending.
I just didn’t feel invested in the protagonist, her love interest or the mystery by the time it was all wrapped up. I very rarely dish out low ratings so this was a frustrated surprise and disappointment.
The author has a quick, lighthearted, humorous writing style similar to Maddy Hunter.
What worked:
Mackinac Island setting.
Theme painted bicycles.
Shakespeare, the sheriff’s horse.
Mistaken murder mystery weekend that threw off visitors.
Evie’s mother.
What didn’t:
Humor felt forced and childish.
Huge cast making it challenging to remember them all.
Busy side-stories.
Abrupt ending.
I just didn’t feel invested in the protagonist, her love interest or the mystery by the time it was all wrapped up. I very rarely dish out low ratings so this was a frustrated surprise and disappointment.
December 19, 2025
This cozy mystery was a little too over the top. It was cute that it was written and based on Mackinac Island but everything that happened was much too unbelievable. Maybe a little less action and craziness and it would have been ok.
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