What do you think?
Rate this book
Zoe Donovan Mystery #19
Shamrock Shenanigans
Zak and Zoe travel to Ireland for their first Valentines Day as husband and wife. They have been invited to attend a murder mystery weekend in a real haunted castle. During their first night at the castle, they find one of the guests dead. Really dead. As they delve into the murder they begin to see that not only are things not as they appear, but several of the other attendees are not who they claim to be. During the course of her investigation Zoe discovers a secret about herself that is more than just a little shocking.
229 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2015
337 people are currently reading
547 people want to read
About the author
Kathi Daley
326 books1,782 followersKathi lives with her husband, kids, grandkids, and dogs in beautiful Lake Tahoe. When she isn't writing, Kathi likes to read (preferably at the beach or by the fire), cook (preferably something with chocolate or cheese,) and garden (planting and planning not weeding). She also enjoys spending time on the water when she's not hiking, biking, or snowshoeing, the miles of desolate trails surrounding her home.
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.
Join me on Facebook at Kathi Daley Books (www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks) for updates on my books, photos of life in Lake Tahoe, recipes, contests, and giveaways. For weekly updates and contests sign up for The Daley Weekly Newsletter (http://eepurl.com/NRPDf).
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.
Join me on Facebook at Kathi Daley Books (www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks) for updates on my books, photos of life in Lake Tahoe, recipes, contests, and giveaways. For weekly updates and contests sign up for The Daley Weekly Newsletter (http://eepurl.com/NRPDf).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
January 2, 2016
SHAMROCK SHENANIGANS is one of the best Zoe Donovan mysteries to date!
Author Kathi Daley has brought a lot of fun to the cozy mystery world and its readers. Now she takes us to a haunted castle in Ireland for Valentine’s Day! See? Fun! Oh, and deadly. ;-)
I started SHAMROCK SHENANIGANS in the late morning and was finished by late afternoon. It was such a wonderfully written story that I just couldn’t put it down. The plot, as twisty as the roads of Ireland, was amazing, and led to an incredible ending that left me open mouthed in surprise.
I look forward to the next installment of the Zoe Donovan Mysteries. Long live Zoe & Zac!
Make sure to check out the back of the book for yummy recipes submitted by readers!
Author Kathi Daley has brought a lot of fun to the cozy mystery world and its readers. Now she takes us to a haunted castle in Ireland for Valentine’s Day! See? Fun! Oh, and deadly. ;-)
I started SHAMROCK SHENANIGANS in the late morning and was finished by late afternoon. It was such a wonderfully written story that I just couldn’t put it down. The plot, as twisty as the roads of Ireland, was amazing, and led to an incredible ending that left me open mouthed in surprise.
I look forward to the next installment of the Zoe Donovan Mysteries. Long live Zoe & Zac!
Make sure to check out the back of the book for yummy recipes submitted by readers!
January 9, 2016
This is the 19th book in the Zoe Donovan series, and it is just as entertaining as the first one. This time around, Zoe and Zak are attending a murder mystery weekend at a haunted castle in Ireland. Sounds like a great way to spend Valentine's Day, right? But, once an actual murder takes place, and everyone is trapped in the castle due to the inclement weather, romance is the last thing on anyone's mind.
As if discovering another dead body, and being suspected of the murder, isn't enough bad news, things don't seem to be going well back home in Ashton Falls (which I suppose we'll find more about in the next book). In the course of investigating the murder--and the now missing body--Zoe makes contact with one of the castle's ghosts and finds out something about herself that she, and I, never saw coming.
It seems to me that every book I read in this series becomes my new favorite. Ms. Daley does a great job of keeping the characters fun and personable, and coming up with new mysteries that are interesting and entertaining to solve. Can't wait to see what is next for the Donovan-Zimmerman clan!
As if discovering another dead body, and being suspected of the murder, isn't enough bad news, things don't seem to be going well back home in Ashton Falls (which I suppose we'll find more about in the next book). In the course of investigating the murder--and the now missing body--Zoe makes contact with one of the castle's ghosts and finds out something about herself that she, and I, never saw coming.
It seems to me that every book I read in this series becomes my new favorite. Ms. Daley does a great job of keeping the characters fun and personable, and coming up with new mysteries that are interesting and entertaining to solve. Can't wait to see what is next for the Donovan-Zimmerman clan!
January 21, 2017
Perfect read on a stormy day
Grab a cup of tea, your favorite chair and a warm blanket. Settle in and read this intriguing story about castles, murder, secrets and hidden truths.
Grab a cup of tea, your favorite chair and a warm blanket. Settle in and read this intriguing story about castles, murder, secrets and hidden truths.
January 3, 2016
Shamrock Shenanigans ( Zoe Donovan Mystery- volume 19 )
By: Kathi Daley
Daley weaves us volume 19 in The Zoe Donovan Mystery series. You would think that after so many they would start to get boring, but not Daley’s cozy mysteries, they just seen to keep getting better and better. I enjoyed the story and the characters . Daley had me hooked right from the start and did not let go till the end. Zoe and Zak are mature now and are married. They are invited to a haunted castle in Ireland for a Valentine mystery weekend. This turns out to be some weekend. Mystery people, and a haunted castle has to have ghost . I guess you know by now if you have read other books of Daley’s that dead bodies seems to follow Zoe. With everything that is going on , I don't think I would want to be there right now. On top of everything things don’t seem to be going to good back at home . Be sure and read all the way to the end , wonderful recipes and a surprise from Daley.
By: Kathi Daley
Daley weaves us volume 19 in The Zoe Donovan Mystery series. You would think that after so many they would start to get boring, but not Daley’s cozy mysteries, they just seen to keep getting better and better. I enjoyed the story and the characters . Daley had me hooked right from the start and did not let go till the end. Zoe and Zak are mature now and are married. They are invited to a haunted castle in Ireland for a Valentine mystery weekend. This turns out to be some weekend. Mystery people, and a haunted castle has to have ghost . I guess you know by now if you have read other books of Daley’s that dead bodies seems to follow Zoe. With everything that is going on , I don't think I would want to be there right now. On top of everything things don’t seem to be going to good back at home . Be sure and read all the way to the end , wonderful recipes and a surprise from Daley.
January 6, 2016
When Zak and Zoe are invited to spend Valentine's weekend at a haunted Irish castle for a murder mystery party, they didn't expect to stumble over a real corpse. But when the body disappears and no one believes them, they realize they have to investigate on their own. Trapped on the island by floods, with no access to phone or the Internet, will they be able to solve this mystery or will the ghosts stand in their way. Another delightful cozy mystery with Zoe and her new husband, containing enough clues and misdirection to keep the reader guessing until the end. Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 1, 2016
Kindle Copy for Review
Zak and Zoe are invited to a murder mystery in a haunted castle in Ireland around Valentine. But when it comes to Zoe dead bodies seem to follow her.
Even on their first night there is a discovery of a dead body. Stranded in a snowstorm Zoe finds herself in the middle of investigating the dead body. Will she be able to find the killer before they strike again?
This is another winner in the series featuring Zoe at her finest. A nice cozy read.
Zak and Zoe are invited to a murder mystery in a haunted castle in Ireland around Valentine. But when it comes to Zoe dead bodies seem to follow her.
Even on their first night there is a discovery of a dead body. Stranded in a snowstorm Zoe finds herself in the middle of investigating the dead body. Will she be able to find the killer before they strike again?
This is another winner in the series featuring Zoe at her finest. A nice cozy read.
January 2, 2016
Charming addition to this delightful series. What could go wrong during a mystery weekend in a castle in Ireland? Zoe and Zak find out.
January 9, 2016
My family hails from Ireland, the Northern region, so I am slightly obsessed with the subject. Okay, I am totally obsessed. So, when I saw the word, “Shamrock” in the title of Kathi Daley’s new release, “Shamrock Shenanigans”, I knew I had to read it. Okay, it was the photo of Charlie on the front in a leprechaun hat. Seriously, he’s adorable!
From a reader stand point who may not know anything about the series, this is not a problem. Ms. Daley gives us “cast” pages and names of the people in the book so the reader can reference it if they need to. So, if you’re like me and deal with 24/7 family life and are not able to get back to the book for a day or two, you can reacquaint yourself with no problem.
There was no traveling in this book. We get to start right at the beginning in Ireland, seated at the castle table, waiting for a Murder Mystery weekend to start. Zoe and Zack Zimmerman, the main characters in the story, were invited there and came to celebrate a fun Valentine weekend of sleuthing. We are introduced to the guests and are soon privy to the subtle quirky natures of some. What castle in Ireland would be complete without ghosts? As a storm moves in we are told about the family who once lived there (and some who still do), the ancestors of the current Lord of the castle, Lord Dumphy. The mood is set, yes?
Zoe and Zack quickly win the weekend when Charlie, their dog finds a dead body. Wait, what? A real dead body? Maybe that’s not part of the contest and they didn’t really win. While out after dinner to let Charlie do his doggie-business they find the rain-soaked body face down in a pool of blood that had not yet been washed away. Well, so much for a romantic Valentines weekend. To keep the body from washing into the sea, they take the body into a near by cabin and go to report it to Lord Dumphy.
As fate would have it, the bridge is flooded, internet is down and phone as well. There are no ways to communicate with the outside world from the tiny island and one or more of the guests have committed murder and not who they say they are. Zoe and Zack spend the rest of their Valentine week sneaking around the castle, carefully quizzing the other guests and staff as well as following ghosts until a starting discovery is made. I will stop there because I literally squealed out loud when this happened. I loved this twist more than Kathi could possibly know.
Even though this takes place in Ireland, not a lot of Ireland is referenced. Since I’ve been there and have seen castles like this on rocky cliffs, I totally got lost in the story as they explored, got lost, discovered secret passages, found lost treasures and got into trouble. I loved that a bit of paranormal was thrown in without it getting “silly.” It wasn’t overdone. I love it when ghosts and psychics are put in a story well. It was just enough to move the plot along and get the story to where it needed to be.
I did get a bit irritated with Zoe and Zack when they found the body. They just left it inside the cabin without looking around or even looking too closely at the body. I think that part was rushed. Even they think so later, but having them look a little wouldn’t have hurt the story.
I loved the action, the characters and the fact that I had no idea what was going on half the time because new things kept being revealed each and every chapter. And of course, that whammy of an ending will not soon be forgotten. Kathi, I hope you do something with that…..
I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review
Review By Booth Talks Books
boothtalksbooks.wordpress.com & facebook.com/boothtalksbooks
From a reader stand point who may not know anything about the series, this is not a problem. Ms. Daley gives us “cast” pages and names of the people in the book so the reader can reference it if they need to. So, if you’re like me and deal with 24/7 family life and are not able to get back to the book for a day or two, you can reacquaint yourself with no problem.
There was no traveling in this book. We get to start right at the beginning in Ireland, seated at the castle table, waiting for a Murder Mystery weekend to start. Zoe and Zack Zimmerman, the main characters in the story, were invited there and came to celebrate a fun Valentine weekend of sleuthing. We are introduced to the guests and are soon privy to the subtle quirky natures of some. What castle in Ireland would be complete without ghosts? As a storm moves in we are told about the family who once lived there (and some who still do), the ancestors of the current Lord of the castle, Lord Dumphy. The mood is set, yes?
Zoe and Zack quickly win the weekend when Charlie, their dog finds a dead body. Wait, what? A real dead body? Maybe that’s not part of the contest and they didn’t really win. While out after dinner to let Charlie do his doggie-business they find the rain-soaked body face down in a pool of blood that had not yet been washed away. Well, so much for a romantic Valentines weekend. To keep the body from washing into the sea, they take the body into a near by cabin and go to report it to Lord Dumphy.
As fate would have it, the bridge is flooded, internet is down and phone as well. There are no ways to communicate with the outside world from the tiny island and one or more of the guests have committed murder and not who they say they are. Zoe and Zack spend the rest of their Valentine week sneaking around the castle, carefully quizzing the other guests and staff as well as following ghosts until a starting discovery is made. I will stop there because I literally squealed out loud when this happened. I loved this twist more than Kathi could possibly know.
Even though this takes place in Ireland, not a lot of Ireland is referenced. Since I’ve been there and have seen castles like this on rocky cliffs, I totally got lost in the story as they explored, got lost, discovered secret passages, found lost treasures and got into trouble. I loved that a bit of paranormal was thrown in without it getting “silly.” It wasn’t overdone. I love it when ghosts and psychics are put in a story well. It was just enough to move the plot along and get the story to where it needed to be.
I did get a bit irritated with Zoe and Zack when they found the body. They just left it inside the cabin without looking around or even looking too closely at the body. I think that part was rushed. Even they think so later, but having them look a little wouldn’t have hurt the story.
I loved the action, the characters and the fact that I had no idea what was going on half the time because new things kept being revealed each and every chapter. And of course, that whammy of an ending will not soon be forgotten. Kathi, I hope you do something with that…..
I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review
Review By Booth Talks Books
boothtalksbooks.wordpress.com & facebook.com/boothtalksbooks
March 11, 2016
With St. Patrick’s Day fast approaching, I looked forward to reading SHAMROCK SHENANIGANS by Kathi Daley to get in the spirit of the Irish celebration…and it certainly did just that! Zoe Donavan and her husband, Zak Zimmerman, and their dog, Charlie, have traveled to Ireland so Zoe can participate in a murder mystery weekend at an ancient Irish castle that is supposedly haunted. Lord Fergus Dunphy’s family has owned the castle for centuries and rumor has it that some of the former residents have not moved on.
After settling in to their room, Zoe and Zak meet up with the other guests over dinner. They find out that they occupy the room that Catherine, wife of a former Lord Dunphy, occupied in the 1600’s and she’s supposedly still around. Only five of the twelve guests are competing in the mystery contest, the rest are guests, a reporter, and a movie star, Brent Silverwood, who asked to attend in order to “study” for an upcoming role. It has been raining non-stop since they arrived but as the evening progresses, the storm intensifies. Lord Dunphy announces that the bridge to the mainland has flooded and with the storm raging, they are completely stranded. To make matters worse, the storm has knocked out both the telephone service and cell service. Lord Dunphy assures the guests there is nothing to worry about…there is plenty of food and they are completely safe…. until Zoe and Zak stumble across the murdered body of Brent Silverwood late that night, hidden in the massive grounds.
Unfortunately the body disappears before anyone else sees it and some guests are either skeptical that a murder actually took place or think Zoe and Zak are killers. Without any way to contact authorities, Zoe decides she needs to find the real killer before another murder takes place on the isolated island.
In amongst a nicely written who-done-it in an exciting location, Kathi has included interesting sub-plots. Catherine, the 1600’s Lady of the castle, hasn’t passed on to the light and takes an interest in Zoe. When Catherine was alive, she bore the Lord twelve sons and upon each birth, she was given a precious jewel. No one knows what happened to the jewels and Zoe is intrigued so begins to search for them in addition to trying to figure out who the killer is. She is also challenged to think about having children of her own. Is she ready for that kind of commitment? She also believes that Catherine has stayed at the castle because she has a centuries old secret that needs discovery. Can Zoe figure out what the ghost is trying to communicate? The parade of characters in the story bring intrigue to the party. They all seem to be hiding something and some aren’t who they say they are. Zoe has her hands full in her latest adventure in the Emerald Isle and kept me entertained the entire book!
In addition to an entertaining read Kathi has included several recipes. The one that caught my eye immediately was the Triple Layer Pistachio Pie… oh yum! I'll be making this pie again and again!
After settling in to their room, Zoe and Zak meet up with the other guests over dinner. They find out that they occupy the room that Catherine, wife of a former Lord Dunphy, occupied in the 1600’s and she’s supposedly still around. Only five of the twelve guests are competing in the mystery contest, the rest are guests, a reporter, and a movie star, Brent Silverwood, who asked to attend in order to “study” for an upcoming role. It has been raining non-stop since they arrived but as the evening progresses, the storm intensifies. Lord Dunphy announces that the bridge to the mainland has flooded and with the storm raging, they are completely stranded. To make matters worse, the storm has knocked out both the telephone service and cell service. Lord Dunphy assures the guests there is nothing to worry about…there is plenty of food and they are completely safe…. until Zoe and Zak stumble across the murdered body of Brent Silverwood late that night, hidden in the massive grounds.
Unfortunately the body disappears before anyone else sees it and some guests are either skeptical that a murder actually took place or think Zoe and Zak are killers. Without any way to contact authorities, Zoe decides she needs to find the real killer before another murder takes place on the isolated island.
In amongst a nicely written who-done-it in an exciting location, Kathi has included interesting sub-plots. Catherine, the 1600’s Lady of the castle, hasn’t passed on to the light and takes an interest in Zoe. When Catherine was alive, she bore the Lord twelve sons and upon each birth, she was given a precious jewel. No one knows what happened to the jewels and Zoe is intrigued so begins to search for them in addition to trying to figure out who the killer is. She is also challenged to think about having children of her own. Is she ready for that kind of commitment? She also believes that Catherine has stayed at the castle because she has a centuries old secret that needs discovery. Can Zoe figure out what the ghost is trying to communicate? The parade of characters in the story bring intrigue to the party. They all seem to be hiding something and some aren’t who they say they are. Zoe has her hands full in her latest adventure in the Emerald Isle and kept me entertained the entire book!
In addition to an entertaining read Kathi has included several recipes. The one that caught my eye immediately was the Triple Layer Pistachio Pie… oh yum! I'll be making this pie again and again!
January 7, 2016
Shamrock Shenanigans
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Zak and Zoe are invited to spend a long weekend in a real haunted castle as part of a murder mystery celebrity event. When one of the guests turns up dead - really dead - on the first night of the event, Zoe shifts into sleuth mode to track down a killer.
Review:
In this latest installment of the Zoe Donovan Mystery series, (the 19th book in the series), Zak and Zoe have gone away for a Murder Mystery weekend. They have traveled to Ireland to attend the event in a haunted house, which Zoe is very excited about. When a dead body is found, that excitement turns into apprehension and forces Zoe to investigate the murder herself, The castle is isolated because of a fierce winter storm that closes all the roads and limits communication to the outside world. Hopefully the weather does not affect Zoe’s Zodar because with a limited list of suspects, this mystery may be the hardest of all to solve.
I have to say that I missed the hometown feel of Ashton Falls in this book. But the descriptions of the haunted castle and the blizzard were very detailed and made me feel like I was right there, watching the activity all around me. I really enjoy when that happens to me when I am reading. I also missed the usual characters from Ashton Falls, but I did enjoy the ghost encounter. I have always enjoyed a good ghost story and this one is definitely good. And it is always fun to spend time with Zak and Zoe and Charlie. The ending is a real shocker and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery is carried on well throughout the book and there are some twists and turns to keep the reader guessing, which is always a plus.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. And if you enjoy ghost cozies, you will enjoy this one very much. If you have not read any of the Zoe Donovan mystery series, I would suggest you make it your New Year’s resolution to do so.
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Zak and Zoe are invited to spend a long weekend in a real haunted castle as part of a murder mystery celebrity event. When one of the guests turns up dead - really dead - on the first night of the event, Zoe shifts into sleuth mode to track down a killer.
Review:
In this latest installment of the Zoe Donovan Mystery series, (the 19th book in the series), Zak and Zoe have gone away for a Murder Mystery weekend. They have traveled to Ireland to attend the event in a haunted house, which Zoe is very excited about. When a dead body is found, that excitement turns into apprehension and forces Zoe to investigate the murder herself, The castle is isolated because of a fierce winter storm that closes all the roads and limits communication to the outside world. Hopefully the weather does not affect Zoe’s Zodar because with a limited list of suspects, this mystery may be the hardest of all to solve.
I have to say that I missed the hometown feel of Ashton Falls in this book. But the descriptions of the haunted castle and the blizzard were very detailed and made me feel like I was right there, watching the activity all around me. I really enjoy when that happens to me when I am reading. I also missed the usual characters from Ashton Falls, but I did enjoy the ghost encounter. I have always enjoyed a good ghost story and this one is definitely good. And it is always fun to spend time with Zak and Zoe and Charlie. The ending is a real shocker and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery is carried on well throughout the book and there are some twists and turns to keep the reader guessing, which is always a plus.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. And if you enjoy ghost cozies, you will enjoy this one very much. If you have not read any of the Zoe Donovan mystery series, I would suggest you make it your New Year’s resolution to do so.
January 4, 2016
Why can't I give this more than five stars? It deserves at least eight!
If you are a cozy mystery reader and have not yet discovered this series you must be living under a rock, or in the abandoned dungeon under an Irish castle.
This Valentine's adventure will appeal to readers of Philippa Gregory, viewers of tv's Reign, Victoria Holt fans and Nancy Drew fans equally. Not to leave out fans of Murder She Wrote, both the books and television series. Zoe and Zak have not been married long but life doesn't afford them much alone time. With a houseful of kids, busy careers and zillions of community obligations, the chance to get away together is a welcome change. Add in the chance to perhaps meet ghosts in a real castle. This time murder IS on the schedule but it is supposed to be pretend.
I wanted to take my time reading this because I loved the idea so much. I had a difficult time pulling myself away because the story is so much better than I imagined. I already love the main couple and Charlie. The setting is described so enticingly that I could see it clearly. The tension building as clues were exposed and then twisted. A very thorough mystery but not too complicated for a cozy read.
I really want to spend more time with the psychic!
This can easily be enjoyed as a stand alone but for die hard series fans there is information connected to what is happening back home in Ashton Falls, or at least clues that something is up.
I look forward to reading more in this series and the spin-off.
I am glad I do not have to wait long. I appreciate growth in Zoe and in Kathi Daley as an author.
If you are a cozy mystery reader and have not yet discovered this series you must be living under a rock, or in the abandoned dungeon under an Irish castle.
This Valentine's adventure will appeal to readers of Philippa Gregory, viewers of tv's Reign, Victoria Holt fans and Nancy Drew fans equally. Not to leave out fans of Murder She Wrote, both the books and television series. Zoe and Zak have not been married long but life doesn't afford them much alone time. With a houseful of kids, busy careers and zillions of community obligations, the chance to get away together is a welcome change. Add in the chance to perhaps meet ghosts in a real castle. This time murder IS on the schedule but it is supposed to be pretend.
I wanted to take my time reading this because I loved the idea so much. I had a difficult time pulling myself away because the story is so much better than I imagined. I already love the main couple and Charlie. The setting is described so enticingly that I could see it clearly. The tension building as clues were exposed and then twisted. A very thorough mystery but not too complicated for a cozy read.
I really want to spend more time with the psychic!
This can easily be enjoyed as a stand alone but for die hard series fans there is information connected to what is happening back home in Ashton Falls, or at least clues that something is up.
I look forward to reading more in this series and the spin-off.
I am glad I do not have to wait long. I appreciate growth in Zoe and in Kathi Daley as an author.
January 9, 2016
Kathi Daley has done it again in Shamrock Shenanigans the 19th Zoe Donovan Mystery. I have loved this series from the beginning. It never gets old! Each and every book brings new mystery, adventure, suspense, and romance.
This book starts with Zak and Zoe on a murder mystery weekend in a real haunted Ireland castle. It is their first Valentine's Day as a married couple and away from Ashton Falls. Their host is Lord Dunphy whose ancestors have owned the castle for hundreds of years. I fell in love with the love story between Carrick and Catherine who lived in the castle hundreds of years ago and the mystery of her ghost.
Coming this weekend was supposed to be a romantic, fake murder mystery but ends up being a real murder! Oh and by the way they are all stuck on the island because of severe storms and flooding. Not exactly what they had planned but now they get to work together and try and solve this murder before someone else ends up dead and missing. They have some very interesting suspects from a reporter to a psychic. Zoe finds out something about herself on this trip that she didn't see coming and quite frankly I didn't either.
This was my favorite Zoe adventure. I can't wait to find out what happens with this new information and what has been going on in Ashton Falls.
This book starts with Zak and Zoe on a murder mystery weekend in a real haunted Ireland castle. It is their first Valentine's Day as a married couple and away from Ashton Falls. Their host is Lord Dunphy whose ancestors have owned the castle for hundreds of years. I fell in love with the love story between Carrick and Catherine who lived in the castle hundreds of years ago and the mystery of her ghost.
Coming this weekend was supposed to be a romantic, fake murder mystery but ends up being a real murder! Oh and by the way they are all stuck on the island because of severe storms and flooding. Not exactly what they had planned but now they get to work together and try and solve this murder before someone else ends up dead and missing. They have some very interesting suspects from a reporter to a psychic. Zoe finds out something about herself on this trip that she didn't see coming and quite frankly I didn't either.
This was my favorite Zoe adventure. I can't wait to find out what happens with this new information and what has been going on in Ashton Falls.
January 4, 2016
Zak and Zoe travel to Ireland and stay at a castle for a mystery weekend at their first Valentine’s Day as a married couple. Poor Zoe, they are in the middle of a storm with no outside communication and then they find one of the guests dead. The only inhabitants on the tiny isle, are the participants, Lord Dunphy, owner of the castle, and his staff. Include a few ghosts who inhabit the castle and you have an entertaining mystery
I received a copy of the book for an honest review on your hands. But will Zoe be able to solve it before leaving the island? There are enough twists and surprises along the way that make Shamrock Shenanigans deserving five stars. It kept me guessing until the end! Congratulations Kathi, you make each book fresh and exciting! Zoe fans are anxiously waiting for her next book!.
April 1, 2016
Well plotted murder, fascinating characters and a vacation in Ireland with ghosts! Zoe and Zack are spending Valentine's Day in a haunted castle in the Irish countryside. When a storm cuts off access and all communications with the outside world Zac and Zoe find a dead body. The weekend goes from a Murder Mystery Weekend to a real murder with a handful of suspects. Ghosts and family connections play important parts in the great mystery. This is a fun, fast paced series that continues to grow and expand the characters and background theme. A comfortable and highly enjoyable read that will delight all cozy fans.
I received this book as a birthday gift from the author. This is my honest opinion and fair review.
I received this book as a birthday gift from the author. This is my honest opinion and fair review.
January 3, 2016
Another great book from Kathi! Zak and Zoe are invited to Ireland to spend a few days in a haunted castle for Valentines Day. A murder mystery weekend of sorts. Much to their surprise, they stumble across a real body. Now Zak and Zoe are determined to solve the mystery, especially since the killer may be staying at the castle too! This is a fun book, lots of twists and turns. Taking place in a castle in a storm makes it even more fun. I loved the setting, and I always enjoy my time with Zoe and Zak. I look forward to the next book, as this one mentions some things may be happening back in Ashton Falls, and I can't wait to see what is going on!!
January 4, 2016
You are going to love this book and series -- I don't know how she does it but its just keeps getting better! Zoe, Zak, and Charlie are in Ireland at a haunted castle to participate in a murder mystery event when a real murder takes place. Through lots of twists and turns and lots of mystery and suspense, once again I found myself immersed and totally involved in the story. Loved the way the author keep you guessing and loved the side stories and I absolutely loved the way it ended -- so cool!!! Highly recommend this book and the whole series.
January 6, 2016
Romance and Mystery in Ireland - Another Win / Win for Kathi Daley!
A wonderful cozy mystery taking place in a real Irish castle complete with dungeons and a moat! I had a blast reading this story and trying to figure out 'whodunit'.
An arranged fake murder mystery weekend turns into a real murder weekend for Zoe and Zak as they spend their first Valentine's day as a married couple in an old castle in Ireland with a few other 'mystery solvers', a few mysterious people and the lord of the castle.
A fun and foine Irish adventure you won't want to miss.
A wonderful cozy mystery taking place in a real Irish castle complete with dungeons and a moat! I had a blast reading this story and trying to figure out 'whodunit'.
An arranged fake murder mystery weekend turns into a real murder weekend for Zoe and Zak as they spend their first Valentine's day as a married couple in an old castle in Ireland with a few other 'mystery solvers', a few mysterious people and the lord of the castle.
A fun and foine Irish adventure you won't want to miss.
January 6, 2016
I really enjoyed taking a mini vacation with Zoe and Zak to Ireland. An unexpected storm strands them in an old Irish castle, with a murder and multi suspects and the possibilities of a ghost or 2. After following one such ghost to the lower levels of the castle Zoe is bonked on the head and wakes up in the dungeons. A totally surprise ending of whodunit and just 1 more mysterious ending!
March 14, 2017
Kindle Unlimited liked it but didn't love it hence 4 stars. Wasn't anything stupid such as typos or anything like that, just didn't love this.
Halloween Hijinks Anniversary Edition (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 1) * - The Trouble with Turkeys (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 2) * - Christmas Crazy (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 3) * - Cupids Curse (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 4) - Big Bunny Bump Off (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 5) * - Beach Blanket Barbie (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 6) * Maui Madness (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 7) - Derby Divas (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 8) - Haunted Hamlet (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 9) - Turkeys, Tuxes, and Tabbies (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 10) - Christmas Cozy (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 11) - Alaskan Alliance (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 12) - Matrimony Meltdown (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 13) - Soul Surrender (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 14) - Heavenly Honeymoon (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 15) - Hopscotch Homicide (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 16) - Ghostly Graveyard (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 17) - Santa Sleuth (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 18) - Shamrock Shenanigans (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 19) - Kitten Kaboodle (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 20) - Costume Catastrophe (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 21) - Candy Cane Caper (Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery Book 22) - Holiday Hangover (Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery Book 23) - Easter Escapade (Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery 24) {pre-order at this time}
Spin off from Zoe Donovan series Zimmerman Academy. *means NOT ku
Whales and Tails Mystery
Romeow and Juliet (Whales and Tails Mystery Book 1) - The Mad Catter (Whales and Tails Mystery Book 2) - Grimm's Furry Tail (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 3) - Much Ado About Felines (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 4) - The Legend of Tabby Hollow (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 5) - The Cat of Christmas Past (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 6) - A Tale of Two Tabbies (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 7) - The Great Catsby (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 8) - Count Catula (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 9) - The Cat of Christmas Present (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 10) - A Winter's Tail (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 11)
Murder at Dolphin Bay (Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery Book 1) - Murder at Sunrise (A Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery Book 2) - Murder at the Witching Hour (Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery #3) - Murder at Christmas (Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery #4)
Zoe Donovan, Whales and Tails, Sand and Sea, others, check out amazon page
Halloween Hijinks Anniversary Edition (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 1) * - The Trouble with Turkeys (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 2) * - Christmas Crazy (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 3) * - Cupids Curse (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 4) - Big Bunny Bump Off (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 5) * - Beach Blanket Barbie (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 6) * Maui Madness (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 7) - Derby Divas (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 8) - Haunted Hamlet (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 9) - Turkeys, Tuxes, and Tabbies (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 10) - Christmas Cozy (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 11) - Alaskan Alliance (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 12) - Matrimony Meltdown (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 13) - Soul Surrender (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 14) - Heavenly Honeymoon (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 15) - Hopscotch Homicide (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 16) - Ghostly Graveyard (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 17) - Santa Sleuth (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 18) - Shamrock Shenanigans (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 19) - Kitten Kaboodle (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 20) - Costume Catastrophe (Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 21) - Candy Cane Caper (Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery Book 22) - Holiday Hangover (Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery Book 23) - Easter Escapade (Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery 24) {pre-order at this time}
Spin off from Zoe Donovan series Zimmerman Academy. *means NOT ku
Whales and Tails Mystery
Romeow and Juliet (Whales and Tails Mystery Book 1) - The Mad Catter (Whales and Tails Mystery Book 2) - Grimm's Furry Tail (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 3) - Much Ado About Felines (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 4) - The Legend of Tabby Hollow (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 5) - The Cat of Christmas Past (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 6) - A Tale of Two Tabbies (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 7) - The Great Catsby (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 8) - Count Catula (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 9) - The Cat of Christmas Present (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 10) - A Winter's Tail (Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Book 11)
Murder at Dolphin Bay (Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery Book 1) - Murder at Sunrise (A Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery Book 2) - Murder at the Witching Hour (Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery #3) - Murder at Christmas (Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mystery #4)
Zoe Donovan, Whales and Tails, Sand and Sea, others, check out amazon page
February 12, 2022
Zoe and Zac are in Ireland at a murder mystery weekend in a haunted castle, having left Ellie in charge of the children they are providing a home for, as well as their menagerie of pets.
When the body of one of the participants is found, by Zoe and Zac, it's soon apparent that this wasn't party of the weekend, and when the body goes missing, Zoe and Zac have to investigate
There's a great twist towards the end of the book, not to be missed! There's also a bonus story at the end, Ellie is helping out at home abd she picks up the new maths tutor for the academy, wil there be a happy ever after in her future? However, she had to help Levi and the Sheriff find who murdered Levi's new ex-girlfriend, yes, it's confusing!.
A great cozy mystery series by a brilliant cozy mystery author, if you like this series, try one the others by the same author, they're all great. I cannot put these down, easily read in a few hours but best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
When the body of one of the participants is found, by Zoe and Zac, it's soon apparent that this wasn't party of the weekend, and when the body goes missing, Zoe and Zac have to investigate
There's a great twist towards the end of the book, not to be missed! There's also a bonus story at the end, Ellie is helping out at home abd she picks up the new maths tutor for the academy, wil there be a happy ever after in her future? However, she had to help Levi and the Sheriff find who murdered Levi's new ex-girlfriend, yes, it's confusing!.
A great cozy mystery series by a brilliant cozy mystery author, if you like this series, try one the others by the same author, they're all great. I cannot put these down, easily read in a few hours but best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
February 1, 2021
I was looking for a short mystery for Valentine's Day and this title came up in the search. I'm so mixed with this -- if we could do half stars I'd go 3 1/2 -- loved the idea more than the execution but still enjoyed it. What I liked: this feels like a campy 70s movie with Madeleine Kahn and Eileen Brennan-- a group of sleuths at a remote castle for a murder weekend-- the water rises, they are trapped and a real body shows up. Oh, and the castle is haunted. Ding ding ding! All my fun favorites in one. It is short and has the feel of the movie Clue--much rushing about and no one is who they claim to be. On the down side: it feels rushed and manic-- kind of hard to get any sense of the characters or true motives. I'd have loved this to be longer and more detailed so I could linger with it and savor it. It almost feels like a plot synopsis more than the final story. Fun and quick.
March 20, 2023
Shamrock Shenanigans
Who'd'a'thunk that Shamrock Shenanigans would NOT be about St. Patrick's Day, but Valentines Day? This is the 2nd time I've been disappointed by a Zoe Donovan novel, & both along the same arc! That said, I DID enjoy this book anyway! There is whimsy & intrigue, whodunit & who didn't it! I tend to figure things out much too quickly, but not this time. Yeah, I did have a feeling about who the bad guys were...but they weren't the murderers! Except for my 1st Zoe book, read completely out of sequence, I have enjoyed the others I have read. I am planning to read them in sequence from now on no matter the holiday on my calendar!
Who'd'a'thunk that Shamrock Shenanigans would NOT be about St. Patrick's Day, but Valentines Day? This is the 2nd time I've been disappointed by a Zoe Donovan novel, & both along the same arc! That said, I DID enjoy this book anyway! There is whimsy & intrigue, whodunit & who didn't it! I tend to figure things out much too quickly, but not this time. Yeah, I did have a feeling about who the bad guys were...but they weren't the murderers! Except for my 1st Zoe book, read completely out of sequence, I have enjoyed the others I have read. I am planning to read them in sequence from now on no matter the holiday on my calendar!
November 25, 2017
Murder mystery weekend turns into murder?
Zoe and Zak's vacation takes a turn, who'd a thunk. Yeah, me too. I love it. In this book there seemed to be more twists and intrigue than meets the eye. Not everyone is who they appear to be and that's Kathi Daley's style, to keep us guessing right up to the end. As much as I love Zoe and Zak, I did at times miss the hometown characters, but now we have a whole new mystery to delve into, thanks to the surprise ending. Starting number 20 now.
Zoe and Zak's vacation takes a turn, who'd a thunk. Yeah, me too. I love it. In this book there seemed to be more twists and intrigue than meets the eye. Not everyone is who they appear to be and that's Kathi Daley's style, to keep us guessing right up to the end. As much as I love Zoe and Zak, I did at times miss the hometown characters, but now we have a whole new mystery to delve into, thanks to the surprise ending. Starting number 20 now.
March 14, 2022
Zoe in Ireland with mystery, murder, and ghosts
Not usually keen on ghosts and the supernatural but this was an enjoyable mystery as Zoe and Zack visit a castle in Ireland and deal with murder, lost treasure, and more skulduggery. The Kindle Brook has a reference to the Zimmerman Academy short stories but that volume does not seem to be available on Kindle. Can’t think why not as it leaves a hole in the Zoe stories especially as the stories seem to relate to her friend, Ellie.
Not usually keen on ghosts and the supernatural but this was an enjoyable mystery as Zoe and Zack visit a castle in Ireland and deal with murder, lost treasure, and more skulduggery. The Kindle Brook has a reference to the Zimmerman Academy short stories but that volume does not seem to be available on Kindle. Can’t think why not as it leaves a hole in the Zoe stories especially as the stories seem to relate to her friend, Ellie.
February 3, 2021
A Murder Mystery Week in an Irish Castle
Zak and Zoe travel to Ireland for a murder mystery weekend. The woman they met on their island honeymoon was responsible for getting them invited. The castle is haunted and one of the ghosts is Catherine, who married to the
Lord of the castle a the late 1600s. She has a treasure to be found and needs a live person to help her. This is a fascinating story. I truly believe Kathi Daley is the Queen of Cozy Mysteries.
Zak and Zoe travel to Ireland for a murder mystery weekend. The woman they met on their island honeymoon was responsible for getting them invited. The castle is haunted and one of the ghosts is Catherine, who married to the
Lord of the castle a the late 1600s. She has a treasure to be found and needs a live person to help her. This is a fascinating story. I truly believe Kathi Daley is the Queen of Cozy Mysteries.
January 13, 2025
Oh another mystery in this mystery!
I can't wait to read the next few books because it seems Zoe is possibly related to the lord of the Irish castle!
There was a murder, but also ghosts in this read. And if you like reading about castles and secret passageways, this is your book!
There is also something fishy going on with Ellie, but that'll either be unveiled in the second story of this book or in one of the next ones. Yep, this book is another two-in-one.
I can't wait to read the next few books because it seems Zoe is possibly related to the lord of the Irish castle!
There was a murder, but also ghosts in this read. And if you like reading about castles and secret passageways, this is your book!
There is also something fishy going on with Ellie, but that'll either be unveiled in the second story of this book or in one of the next ones. Yep, this book is another two-in-one.
March 18, 2023
Shamrock for St. Patrick's Day
I thought this would be a good book to read for St. Patrick's Day and I was right. Kathi Daley has once again knocked it out of the ball park. It doesn't matter what the subject is, it will be a fantastic book if Kathi writes it. She never disapoints and this book is not any different, it is thoroughly enjoyable!
I thought this would be a good book to read for St. Patrick's Day and I was right. Kathi Daley has once again knocked it out of the ball park. It doesn't matter what the subject is, it will be a fantastic book if Kathi writes it. She never disapoints and this book is not any different, it is thoroughly enjoyable!
June 17, 2017
I received a copy of this for free through Goodreads First Reads
This was only my second Kathi Daley book, but I absolutely loved it. She has such a great writing style that just flows really quick. This book was easy to follow, quick to read, and absolutely entertaining.
This was only my second Kathi Daley book, but I absolutely loved it. She has such a great writing style that just flows really quick. This book was easy to follow, quick to read, and absolutely entertaining.
December 24, 2017
Who can resists a murder mystery weekend? Not Zoe!! Although this turns out to be a real murder. (Of course, this is Zoe we are talking about!) This book had many twists and turns and kept me captivated throughout (as they always do). Highly recommend!
March 3, 2020
Murder mystery weekend turns real
Over all this is a great series, but I seem to remember reading a story that has a similar plot. Would have liked to have known if the owner got the jewels and was able to save his castle.
Over all this is a great series, but I seem to remember reading a story that has a similar plot. Would have liked to have known if the owner got the jewels and was able to save his castle.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews