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Secrets of the South Mysteries #3
Magnolia Moonlight
After being jilted by his fiancee, Michael Preston, a former accountant, pursues a new job as a private investigator. And, what better place to work than the new office of Price Investigations in Natchez, Mississippi? Unfortunately, Michael's partner, Elizabeth Kirby--a crack shot ex-cop with a past she wants to escape--resents having to work with someone whose only surveillance experience comes from television and video games. Their boss and his wife, Nate and Isabelle, are two insanely busy newlyweds who are "forced" by their friends to finally take their honeymoon. However, their romantic trip to Alabama turns into an investigation when they bump into Izzy's ex-husband, Craig, who seems to have taken up his gambling addiction once again. In an attempt to save Craig, Izzy discovers her ex doesn't hold all the cards. Back in Mississippi, Michael and Beth are left to take on their first case when a preacher allegedly commits suicide. His widow suspects foul play, but things look grim when Michael discovers the Reverend may have been stealing from his congregation. Will Nate, his wife, and his employees be able to uncover the true face of deceit behind the masks that surround them?
352 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2016
29 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
Mary Ellis
36 books271 followersMary Ellis is a former schoolteacher turned USA Today bestselling author who’s written twenty-six novels including Amish fiction, historical romance, and suspense. Her first mystery, Midnight on the Mississippi, was a finalist for the RT Magazine’s Reviewer’s Choice Award and a finalist for the Daphne du Maurier Award. Her latest book is One for the Road from the Bourbon Tour Mysteries from Severn House. One Hundred Proof Murder releases August 31, 2021. Her latest Amish novella is Missing at Amazon Kindle. She enjoys gardening and bicycling and lives in Ohio with her husband and dog. www.maryellis.net or www.facebook.com/Mary.Ellis.Author
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
July 20, 2016
Murder and mayhem continue in book three of this fun series!
Another client engages the services of Price Investigations just as Nate Price and his wife Isabelle are leaving town for a long awaited honeymoon. Nate's assistant Elizabeth Kirby, a former detective, is left to handle the case, as well as train newly hired Michael Preston, a forensic accountant, who is eager to learn the ropes. Meanwhile, the Prices find their vacation interrupted by someone from their past needing help, involving them in the dark side of the gambling scene. The two stories are going on simultaneously in different locales--one in Natchez and another on the Gulf Coast--separate investigations, but both connected by the destructiveness of greed and deception. "The love of money is the root of all evil" seemed to be the underlying theme in both scenarios.
At home base in Natchez, the focus is on Elizabeth, or Beth, a character I found hard to like at first, but she seems more genuine as she lightens up on Michael, and they begin to work better as a team. Her snarls and cynicism just seem to make him more determined to be helpful. He is the positive to her negative. Both have to overcome failures in past relationships to start over in their jobs and personal lives. I really liked Mike! Such a sincerely nice guy, trying to not let things drag him down, moving on with an upbeat attitude. Nate and Isabelle have their struggles too, learning to put their relationship first, not focusing on money or other problems that could divide them. The situation they get involved in made me cringe a lot, as Isabelle seemed so determined to fix it alone; it was a good example of the importance of honest communication in marriage. They were so much more effective when they worked as a team! The author must have researched the gaming industry well, as the scenes in the casino seemed quite realistic.
Fans of clean cozy mysteries, with a little romance, will enjoy this book. It can be read as a standalone, but I'd recommend reading book 2 at least to fill in the backstory of Nate and Isabelle. I hope to see the series continue, as I've enjoyed each book in it so far!
(Book provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest, unsolicited review.)
Another client engages the services of Price Investigations just as Nate Price and his wife Isabelle are leaving town for a long awaited honeymoon. Nate's assistant Elizabeth Kirby, a former detective, is left to handle the case, as well as train newly hired Michael Preston, a forensic accountant, who is eager to learn the ropes. Meanwhile, the Prices find their vacation interrupted by someone from their past needing help, involving them in the dark side of the gambling scene. The two stories are going on simultaneously in different locales--one in Natchez and another on the Gulf Coast--separate investigations, but both connected by the destructiveness of greed and deception. "The love of money is the root of all evil" seemed to be the underlying theme in both scenarios.
At home base in Natchez, the focus is on Elizabeth, or Beth, a character I found hard to like at first, but she seems more genuine as she lightens up on Michael, and they begin to work better as a team. Her snarls and cynicism just seem to make him more determined to be helpful. He is the positive to her negative. Both have to overcome failures in past relationships to start over in their jobs and personal lives. I really liked Mike! Such a sincerely nice guy, trying to not let things drag him down, moving on with an upbeat attitude. Nate and Isabelle have their struggles too, learning to put their relationship first, not focusing on money or other problems that could divide them. The situation they get involved in made me cringe a lot, as Isabelle seemed so determined to fix it alone; it was a good example of the importance of honest communication in marriage. They were so much more effective when they worked as a team! The author must have researched the gaming industry well, as the scenes in the casino seemed quite realistic.
Fans of clean cozy mysteries, with a little romance, will enjoy this book. It can be read as a standalone, but I'd recommend reading book 2 at least to fill in the backstory of Nate and Isabelle. I hope to see the series continue, as I've enjoyed each book in it so far!
(Book provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest, unsolicited review.)
August 21, 2022
I read the next/last book in the series before reading this one, and am glad I went back and read this. It fills in a lot of blanks, lol! (Fancy that!)
I do recommend reading them in order, as book 4 builds on events and characters started in this one. Enjoyable and entertaining; I’d really say the two books are linked and this one sets up some things that won’t resolve until the next one.
I do recommend reading them in order, as book 4 builds on events and characters started in this one. Enjoyable and entertaining; I’d really say the two books are linked and this one sets up some things that won’t resolve until the next one.
June 21, 2016
Magnolia Moonlight by Mary Ellis is a Christian romantic suspense novel and part of the Secrets Of The South series. It can be read as a stand-alone.
This was my first novel by Mary Ellis and I really enjoyed it. The novel is centred around a P.I. company and had two parallel stories running throughout. It was not confusing as the action alternated between the two locations.
The novel showed that being a Christian does not make one immune to hardship. "Knowing scripture does not guarantee anyone a bed of roses." The P.I's searched for the truth surrounding the Rev. Paul's death as his widow wanted the truth to come out.
Both cases concerned monetary fraud. Mary Ellis had clearly researched this area as the details were comprehensive. She set out the cases in such a way that it was easy for the reader to follow.
The novel also dealt with the topic of gambling. It showed how addictive it can be and how lives can be ripped apart through this addiction.
Within the novel there was the theme of the value of good friendship and good partners. When dealing with tough cases, it is important to know that your partner has your back. Also one needs to be able to relax at the end of the day. There was a lovely relationship between Beth and newbie Michael. They had a chemistry and their dialogue just bounced off each other. It was a pleasure to read.
Moonlight Magnolia also dealt with the theme of new beginnings. Michael and Beth had both escaped disastrous relationships to begin life again in Natchez. They were both well rounded and realistic characters who were lacking in confidence due to the knocks they had received in life. Michael's car was a motif for how he was feeling.
The other pair of P.I's were husband and wife team Nate and Isabelle. They had big hearts for all around them.
I thoroughly enjoyed Moonlight Magnolia. It was a meaty read with two excellent cases. I shall definitely be reading more by Mary Ellis.
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
This was my first novel by Mary Ellis and I really enjoyed it. The novel is centred around a P.I. company and had two parallel stories running throughout. It was not confusing as the action alternated between the two locations.
The novel showed that being a Christian does not make one immune to hardship. "Knowing scripture does not guarantee anyone a bed of roses." The P.I's searched for the truth surrounding the Rev. Paul's death as his widow wanted the truth to come out.
Both cases concerned monetary fraud. Mary Ellis had clearly researched this area as the details were comprehensive. She set out the cases in such a way that it was easy for the reader to follow.
The novel also dealt with the topic of gambling. It showed how addictive it can be and how lives can be ripped apart through this addiction.
Within the novel there was the theme of the value of good friendship and good partners. When dealing with tough cases, it is important to know that your partner has your back. Also one needs to be able to relax at the end of the day. There was a lovely relationship between Beth and newbie Michael. They had a chemistry and their dialogue just bounced off each other. It was a pleasure to read.
Moonlight Magnolia also dealt with the theme of new beginnings. Michael and Beth had both escaped disastrous relationships to begin life again in Natchez. They were both well rounded and realistic characters who were lacking in confidence due to the knocks they had received in life. Michael's car was a motif for how he was feeling.
The other pair of P.I's were husband and wife team Nate and Isabelle. They had big hearts for all around them.
I thoroughly enjoyed Moonlight Magnolia. It was a meaty read with two excellent cases. I shall definitely be reading more by Mary Ellis.
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
June 4, 2017
I have never read anything by Mary Ellis until I read this book. It is #3 in a series, but I had found it for $5 on special, and bought it on a whim. I had it for a few months before I read it on vacation, and I loved it. The setting, the characters, the plot and suspense.... they were all very well done, and I found myself enjoying the book even more than I expected that I would. In fact, I just ordered the other 3 books in the series from Amazon and look forward to reading more of these characters in the Secrets of the South Mysteries.
July 22, 2016
This book has not one but two mysteries, and Nick and Isabelle are now married, two years, and are finally going on a honeymoon, courtesy of their friends. While Nick is on his trip Beth is going to be taking over the Natchez Office, and mentoring their new forensic accountant, Michael Preston, and taking on a new case, that is rather personal.
Beth and Michael are about to deal with the death of her Pastor, and missing money, while Nick and Isabelle are innocently heading to their own case in Bay, St. Louis, of course, mystery follows them.
Beth and Michael are helping a grieving widow prove that her loving husband would never have committed suicide, and they are on an uphill battle to do that, along with a lot of missing church money.
Nick and Isabelle end up with mob gamblers and try to help her x-husband, huh, and even his new wife is turning to them, rather complicated.
This is a page turning read that you won’t be able to put down until you know all of the answers. I want more!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harvest House, and was not required to give a positive review.
Beth and Michael are about to deal with the death of her Pastor, and missing money, while Nick and Isabelle are innocently heading to their own case in Bay, St. Louis, of course, mystery follows them.
Beth and Michael are helping a grieving widow prove that her loving husband would never have committed suicide, and they are on an uphill battle to do that, along with a lot of missing church money.
Nick and Isabelle end up with mob gamblers and try to help her x-husband, huh, and even his new wife is turning to them, rather complicated.
This is a page turning read that you won’t be able to put down until you know all of the answers. I want more!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Harvest House, and was not required to give a positive review.
June 6, 2016
I just finished reading Magnolia Moonlight by Mary Ellis, the third in the Secrets of the South Mysteries series. I love this author’s books, whether she writes Amish, mystery or historical. She has a way of capturing a reader and drawing her in with the first in the series, having her fall in love with the characters and the culture and becoming part of the community and then continuing that sense of family throughout the whole series. This series was no exception.
I was able to follow along with Nickie and her new husband as well as get to know Nathan and Isabelle better from the last book. No matter how many months have passed between books, I can pick right up where I left off because I am part of the community… part of the family.
I loved getting to know better both Beth and Michael. And while Ms. Ellis doesn’t preach in these books, they have truths woven throughout that speak to the reader’s heart.
Wonderful book, wonderful series. I’m sad that it’s over but can’t wait to see what new adventure Ms. Ellis has for me to go on next.
I was able to follow along with Nickie and her new husband as well as get to know Nathan and Isabelle better from the last book. No matter how many months have passed between books, I can pick right up where I left off because I am part of the community… part of the family.
I loved getting to know better both Beth and Michael. And while Ms. Ellis doesn’t preach in these books, they have truths woven throughout that speak to the reader’s heart.
Wonderful book, wonderful series. I’m sad that it’s over but can’t wait to see what new adventure Ms. Ellis has for me to go on next.
May 30, 2016
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
This book was very enjoyable. There are two stories going on and it kept it interesting as the stories kept changing.
In one story, Michael is a newbie private investigator and he is training with Beth, another investigator working for Price Investigation. They've been hired by the wife of a local pastor, who refuses to believe her husband took his own life. The story is very believable and the characters are great. It was very easy to relate to both Michael and Beth.
The other story features Nate Price and his wife Izzy. They are finally on their honeymoon after being married for two years. Instead of enjoying each others company, they become embroiled in a wild investigation surrounding Izzy's ex husband.
This really was an interesting story and I would love to read more in this series.
This book was very enjoyable. There are two stories going on and it kept it interesting as the stories kept changing.
In one story, Michael is a newbie private investigator and he is training with Beth, another investigator working for Price Investigation. They've been hired by the wife of a local pastor, who refuses to believe her husband took his own life. The story is very believable and the characters are great. It was very easy to relate to both Michael and Beth.
The other story features Nate Price and his wife Izzy. They are finally on their honeymoon after being married for two years. Instead of enjoying each others company, they become embroiled in a wild investigation surrounding Izzy's ex husband.
This really was an interesting story and I would love to read more in this series.
July 19, 2016
Mary is such a awesome writer. I just love her books. This is book 3 in " Secrets of the South Mysteries. I love this series! So well written I don't figure it out who done it. Twists and turns in her writing that will keep you flipping those pages. You like a good mystery you will love this series.
Nate's investigating team is left to help solve a murder case. Nate and his new bride are away on their honeymoon. Well sorta they walk into a case while there also. What is Isabella's x up too? Craig had a gambling problem before is he back into it While back home Michael and Beth are working on was the pastor murder or suicide? Awesome story you are just going to love. If you haven't read this series please do you will not regret reading it. 5 star!!!
Nate's investigating team is left to help solve a murder case. Nate and his new bride are away on their honeymoon. Well sorta they walk into a case while there also. What is Isabella's x up too? Craig had a gambling problem before is he back into it While back home Michael and Beth are working on was the pastor murder or suicide? Awesome story you are just going to love. If you haven't read this series please do you will not regret reading it. 5 star!!!
May 26, 2016
I received this book to read through NetGalley. I really enjoyed the story line of this book. The characters were intriguing, and I was kept guessing throughout the mystery which is always a big plus. I really liked Beth's character and liked that even though the book flopped back and forth, it was never confusing. I felt like the editing could use some work though, as there were words missing and things misspelle
July 31, 2016
This is my first book of this series but I did not feel I missed anything by read book # 3 first. Nate and Isabelle are about to leave town for their “friends and family” encouraged honeymoon when they become involved in a new case. On their honeymoon they become involved in another case. Great writing and a good mystery. I would like to thank the Publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read this ARC.
August 30, 2017
I've enjoyed following along as Price Investigations solve their mysteries. The twists and turns kept me turning the pages. I've come to love these characters.
February 6, 2017
Mary Ellis’ Secrets of the South Series is fantastic and I am happy to share another book from the series, Magnolia Moonlight, and travel the south with some familiar characters. Each book of the Secrets of the South series targets one of the couples. Their characters grow and develop as they learn to work together and get to know each other.
Beth and Michael work for Private Investigations and they have some issues with each other. Issues they will need to resolve in order to solve the mystery surrounding the suicide of the preacher.
Maybe the issues are more Beth’s than Michael’s. She holds a lot of resentment towards her mother. Is it because she only she’s her as her mom and not a person? Do you have that problem?
Beth had left Natchez under a cloud, but she had done nothing wrong. Would her investigation be stymied because of it?
When Mary mentions Castle, the TV show, the pieces fall into place. Beth and Michael could be Kate and Castle, especially with their verbal ‘foreplay’.
Mary Ellis has one of the characters asking themselves, ” Was guilt genetically hardwired into female DNA?” Food for thought, don’t you think?
Mary does a wonderful job of bringing her characters to life on the pages, making them believable and easy to relate to, though their work may be more glamorous than that of an assembly line worker or a waitress.
Beth and Michael both change and develop into deeper, more interesting characters.
WHOA, I’m on page 256, just reading along, thinking I know everything….then the story takes a wild twist. I think to myself, good one Mary, as I grin ear to ear. I love a surprise…in my books.
Murder, embezzlement, gambling, loan sharks…I am a bit of a gambler myself and love Texas Hold ’em, so Magnolia Moonlight has an extra element that sets it apart from other mysteries. And the mysteries do run rampant, as I twist and turn my way through the pages.
I love Mary Ellis’ stories because there is so much going on that, even though I don’t feel a sense of urgency and lurking danger, the writing keeps me going, wanting me to sate my curiosity of WHODUNIT.
I think I see the beginning of a new adventure for Price Investigations…
Coming soon…Sunset in Old Savannah.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Magnolia Moonlight by Mary Ellis.
To see more visit fundinmental
Beth and Michael work for Private Investigations and they have some issues with each other. Issues they will need to resolve in order to solve the mystery surrounding the suicide of the preacher.
Maybe the issues are more Beth’s than Michael’s. She holds a lot of resentment towards her mother. Is it because she only she’s her as her mom and not a person? Do you have that problem?
Beth had left Natchez under a cloud, but she had done nothing wrong. Would her investigation be stymied because of it?
When Mary mentions Castle, the TV show, the pieces fall into place. Beth and Michael could be Kate and Castle, especially with their verbal ‘foreplay’.
Mary Ellis has one of the characters asking themselves, ” Was guilt genetically hardwired into female DNA?” Food for thought, don’t you think?
Mary does a wonderful job of bringing her characters to life on the pages, making them believable and easy to relate to, though their work may be more glamorous than that of an assembly line worker or a waitress.
Beth and Michael both change and develop into deeper, more interesting characters.
WHOA, I’m on page 256, just reading along, thinking I know everything….then the story takes a wild twist. I think to myself, good one Mary, as I grin ear to ear. I love a surprise…in my books.
Murder, embezzlement, gambling, loan sharks…I am a bit of a gambler myself and love Texas Hold ’em, so Magnolia Moonlight has an extra element that sets it apart from other mysteries. And the mysteries do run rampant, as I twist and turn my way through the pages.
I love Mary Ellis’ stories because there is so much going on that, even though I don’t feel a sense of urgency and lurking danger, the writing keeps me going, wanting me to sate my curiosity of WHODUNIT.
I think I see the beginning of a new adventure for Price Investigations…
Coming soon…Sunset in Old Savannah.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Magnolia Moonlight by Mary Ellis.
To see more visit fundinmental
October 17, 2017
I really enjoyed the first two books in this series. To be honest, though, this one fell a little flat.
Nate and Isabelle are on their honeymoon in Bay St. Louis when they see Izzy's ex-husband Craig coming out of a casino. He had a gambling problem in the past, so Izzy decides she needs to contact Craig's new wife, Cassie. Thus begins one somewhat flat "mystery" plotline as they try to figure out why Craig is back to gambling. Also, in the lamest foreshadowing possible, Izzy is having trouble keeping food down. Guess why.
Meanwhile, back in Natchez, Beth and Mike have been asked to prove that a pastor's death was not, in fact, a suicide. The pastor just happens to have been Beth's minister ... so there's a personal angle in it. Throw in a jealous former partner from her days on the police force ... and that Mike used to be an accountant, so when they follow the money he finds things, and that's the other plot.
The Beth and Mike pairing fell a little flat for me ... and the "why" and "how" of the whodunnit were resolved in a rushed and somewhat pat fashion. I have great hopes for the fourth and most recent book in the series, but this one just didn't hit the high marks I'd expected.
Nate and Isabelle are on their honeymoon in Bay St. Louis when they see Izzy's ex-husband Craig coming out of a casino. He had a gambling problem in the past, so Izzy decides she needs to contact Craig's new wife, Cassie. Thus begins one somewhat flat "mystery" plotline as they try to figure out why Craig is back to gambling. Also, in the lamest foreshadowing possible, Izzy is having trouble keeping food down. Guess why.
Meanwhile, back in Natchez, Beth and Mike have been asked to prove that a pastor's death was not, in fact, a suicide. The pastor just happens to have been Beth's minister ... so there's a personal angle in it. Throw in a jealous former partner from her days on the police force ... and that Mike used to be an accountant, so when they follow the money he finds things, and that's the other plot.
The Beth and Mike pairing fell a little flat for me ... and the "why" and "how" of the whodunnit were resolved in a rushed and somewhat pat fashion. I have great hopes for the fourth and most recent book in the series, but this one just didn't hit the high marks I'd expected.
May 20, 2017
As I finished reading this book, I was looking forward to the next one. Mary Ellis again brings a lot of suspense, mystery, faith, and romance into the story to make for an interesting read. When I started this series, I thought it was going to feature Nicki and anticipated more of her bluntness and bull in a china shop approach but Nate has come to the forefront in this story along with Isabelle and two new additions to his PI firm, Elizabeth and Michael. Besides the factors mentioned, I especially enjoyed when Elizabeth took Michael to her aunt and uncle’s to teach him to shoot a firearm. Her warnings to him about what would happen if she took him there more than three times was hilarious. Although the main characters do not flaunt their faith, the reader senses an undercurrent that reflects a depth to their faith that gets them through some difficult situations while searching for the truth, chasing down perpetrators, and helping folks find closure. The messages are subtle but nonetheless present as an encouragement to readers to live their faith.
May 18, 2018
Funny and witty Christian mystery about the one murder in disguise and one ex-husband in trouble.
I seriously like how Ms Ellis writes. She is capable to enter the both banks of the river and throw in some cozy for these who like the bloody stuff less - but also something for these who like the murderous stuff, too. Never scary and always compassionate, she penned up the two mysteries here (as is her good habit within this series).
Nate and Isabelle are finally going for their honeymoon - but meeting the Isabelle´s first husband might look like a bad omen. But the poor guy might be in trouble, and Isabelle has heart enough to be concerned.
While the Natchez P.I. office is let in the capable hands of Beth Kirby, the former police officer with a heartbreak in her tow, and a newbie Michael, who might be just the right guy for the job...and more.
I enjoyed the book and have re-educated myself on the subject of compassion, too!
I seriously like how Ms Ellis writes. She is capable to enter the both banks of the river and throw in some cozy for these who like the bloody stuff less - but also something for these who like the murderous stuff, too. Never scary and always compassionate, she penned up the two mysteries here (as is her good habit within this series).
Nate and Isabelle are finally going for their honeymoon - but meeting the Isabelle´s first husband might look like a bad omen. But the poor guy might be in trouble, and Isabelle has heart enough to be concerned.
While the Natchez P.I. office is let in the capable hands of Beth Kirby, the former police officer with a heartbreak in her tow, and a newbie Michael, who might be just the right guy for the job...and more.
I enjoyed the book and have re-educated myself on the subject of compassion, too!
July 14, 2017
From Harvest House I received a copy of Magnolia Moonlight to review honestly, and it was a great book to read. I liked the main characters for their kindness, generosity, and ability to forgive. I appreciated the way that the author handled the social problem of gambling addiction. The people in this book intrigued me so much that I bought the first two books in her Secrets of the South Mysteries.
August 17, 2017
I've read many Amish books by Author Mary Ellis, but Magnolia Moonlight is the first mystery novel. It's one of the most amazing mystery novels I'd ever read. It had surprising events, twists and turns, and unique characters. This is one of the books of the Secrets of the South Mysteries series and I will read another one. Definitely recommend Magnolia Moonlight by Author Mary Ellis.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. This review is one hundred percent my opinion.
December 10, 2024
I usually enjoy her books and this series in particular. This, however, is a tale of two books. One storyline is strong and interesting, involving a case in Natchez. The other is a honeymoon gone awry and, inexplicably, taken over by concern over an ex-husband. I became so disinterested in it that I skipped the final chapters focusing on that story. I never do this, but it was nonsensical. It's unfortunate because the other story was quite good.
July 15, 2020
Oh, my! I love this author. Magnolia Moonlight is the first book I've read by Mary Ellis. This murder mystery takes place in Natchez, Mississippi right across the river from where I lived for twelve years. I'm thankful to say I have Sunset in Savannah waiting for me in my TBR list. Yay! Who doesn't enjoy a fascinating tale from Secrets of the South Mysteries.
October 3, 2018
Loved the characters and even more surprised by the double plot. Ms. Ellis did a good job with the twists and turns that got me guessing who was going to be the culprit. The humor in this book was good.
October 4, 2016
Magnolia Moonlight
Mary Ellis
Summary: What Sinister Secrets Lurk in the Shadows of Yesterday? Natchez, Mississippi—Private Investigator Nate Price and his new wife, Isabelle, need a vacation. Their coworkers generously team up to surprise them with a belated honeymoon...but the happy trip turns sour when Izzy spies her ex-husband, who appears to have taken up his gambling addiction once again. While the boss is away, Price Investigations remains in the hands of Beth Kirby, a former police officer, and Michael Preston, a former forensic accountant. Hardly a dream team, as Beth resents working with a man who has no experience in his new job. But Beth and Michael must move past their differences if they hope to uncover the truth behind a beloved Southern preacher's demise. The preacher's widow suspects foul play, despite the evidence indicating suicide. With tension escalating between these investigators and local law enforcement—and new threats arising on all sides—how will Beth, Michael, and Nate hold on to faith and bring the truth to light?
Review: Enjoyed the book overall. I had trouble at the start because Beth was just plain stuck up. I was glad that she came down to earth half way through. Isabella was starting to go back to the less than gracious woman from the previous book. It was a little slower than the first and second book. I liked that there were 2 mysteries going on at once. It was an easy read, although it took me till almost half way to really get into the book. I did like Mike and Nate. Nate’s character was the most constant of all the characters.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Harvest House for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Mary Ellis
Summary: What Sinister Secrets Lurk in the Shadows of Yesterday? Natchez, Mississippi—Private Investigator Nate Price and his new wife, Isabelle, need a vacation. Their coworkers generously team up to surprise them with a belated honeymoon...but the happy trip turns sour when Izzy spies her ex-husband, who appears to have taken up his gambling addiction once again. While the boss is away, Price Investigations remains in the hands of Beth Kirby, a former police officer, and Michael Preston, a former forensic accountant. Hardly a dream team, as Beth resents working with a man who has no experience in his new job. But Beth and Michael must move past their differences if they hope to uncover the truth behind a beloved Southern preacher's demise. The preacher's widow suspects foul play, despite the evidence indicating suicide. With tension escalating between these investigators and local law enforcement—and new threats arising on all sides—how will Beth, Michael, and Nate hold on to faith and bring the truth to light?
Review: Enjoyed the book overall. I had trouble at the start because Beth was just plain stuck up. I was glad that she came down to earth half way through. Isabella was starting to go back to the less than gracious woman from the previous book. It was a little slower than the first and second book. I liked that there were 2 mysteries going on at once. It was an easy read, although it took me till almost half way to really get into the book. I did like Mike and Nate. Nate’s character was the most constant of all the characters.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Harvest House for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
June 11, 2017
Another great read in this series. Would love to read more from this group of inspiring down-to-earth characters.
April 9, 2021
Cute, light hearted murder mystery. Clean writing without profanity.
July 8, 2023
A classic murder mystery. This book was very enjoyable read but nothing about it stood out as spectacular.
July 22, 2023
a great lake read! a good mystery novel and drama included. might be reading more from this author!!
May 19, 2024
Great read. Fast paced!
November 9, 2024
A good book to read. I really like it because it doesn't give you the idea about the murderer. You will keep on guessing who is the suspect, and I was surprised at the ending. Giving it a total of 5
March 14, 2017
Magnolia Moonlight by Mary Ellis drew me in so gently I believed I could take it to bed, read awhile, then put it down and sleep. Ha! Didn't work that way. I was still reading at midnight. She weaves a magic that holds one's attention. If you are tired of the usual blood and gore, do allow Mary Ellis to entertain you with her characters and her soft but clever plotting and especially, the intricate way she pulls all of the loose strings together for a brilliant ending.
I received this book from Goodreads.
I received this book from Goodreads.
February 16, 2017
Nate is happily married to Isabelle in Natchez, about to start on their honeymoon, a trip they put off for two long years. Nick’s PI business is growing with two new hires, ex-police detective Beth Kirby and forensic accountant Michael Preston. Michael and Beth investigate the apparent suicide of Reverend Dean, who’s been accused of embezzling church school funds, while Nate and Nicki head off to Bay St. Louis for some R&R. Little do they know that there’s trouble brewing at home and away.
Isabelle and Nate aren't your typical honeymooners, they get embroiled in Izzy's ex-husband, addicted gambler, Craig's plight. Off to the rescue they to.
In the meantime, back in Natchez, Beth and Michael, in between squabbles and personal friction, investigate embezzlement claims against Reverend Dean along with his apparent suicide. It won’t surprise readers to learn that while cooperating with the local police, they also irritate and aggravate each another. It’s hurt feelings and miscommunication all around.
After a convoluted investigation, Beth and Michael are finally getting along, maybe a little too well. They have only good news to report to Nate and Isabelle who have news of their own.
These mysteries are just tight enough to intrigue fans of modern potboilers and cozies and just steamy enough to entice romance readers. There’s more fun in store for Price Investigations when Mary Ellis releases her next mystery. Read them in order or you won’t know who’s in love with whom.
Isabelle and Nate aren't your typical honeymooners, they get embroiled in Izzy's ex-husband, addicted gambler, Craig's plight. Off to the rescue they to.
In the meantime, back in Natchez, Beth and Michael, in between squabbles and personal friction, investigate embezzlement claims against Reverend Dean along with his apparent suicide. It won’t surprise readers to learn that while cooperating with the local police, they also irritate and aggravate each another. It’s hurt feelings and miscommunication all around.
After a convoluted investigation, Beth and Michael are finally getting along, maybe a little too well. They have only good news to report to Nate and Isabelle who have news of their own.
These mysteries are just tight enough to intrigue fans of modern potboilers and cozies and just steamy enough to entice romance readers. There’s more fun in store for Price Investigations when Mary Ellis releases her next mystery. Read them in order or you won’t know who’s in love with whom.
August 12, 2016
4.5 Stars. I’d like to first think NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
This is the first book I’ve read by Mary Ellis, and I will say I do enjoy discovering new authors. After reading Magnolia Moonlight, I will be reading more from this author. The title of this book is what drew me to it. I felt that it was fate that I should read this book because one of my dogs’ registered name is Lavender Moonlight & Magnolia, although the title is reversed from her name I took it as a good sign that I needed to read this book, and boy was I right.
Apparently, this book is part of a series, but I didn’t feel lost or confused because the book seemed like it could be read as a stand-alone. One thing that is important to me when reading a book is how the characters are develop, will I like them, Mary Ellis did exactly that by creating entertaining, relatable, down to earth characters. They could be seen as friends, co-workers, neighbors, acquaintances from your neighborhood or local grocery store. The plot was pretty good, the story moved along at a steady pace, one that you didn’t feel that you had to rush through but could sit and enjoy as you forgot about the day’s events that happened in your life that day and just needed to escape reality for a few hours.
Nate Price and his wife, Isabelle, have been married for two years and they are just now taking their honeymoon. While Nate and his wife are away, Natchez will be in the capable hands of Beth Kirby, a former police officer and Michael Preston, the newest person to come aboard. Beth has had some bad luck in the past, which in return made her life miserable, which you can see in her character, which at first I didn’t think I would like her, but by the end I was able to understand why she is the way she is and saw some changes in her.
The wife of Beth’s pastor has hired the P.I.’s to help prove her husband’s innocents. The pastor has been accused of stealing money from one of the church’s funds and commits suicide. Both Beth and Michael go to work to help figure this out. While they look into the church’s accounts, check emails, and talk to people they soon discover the pastor didn’t commit suicide at all, but he was murdered.
Meanwhile, Nate and Isabelle are off on their honeymoon when Isabelle sees her ex-husband, who has a gambling problem. When Isabelle calls his second wife, she learns that her ex-husband has left his second wife and she is devastated by this. Isabelle decides to find out what is going on in her ex-husbands life that he would do this again to another.
I did enjoy this book and I hope other’s will give it chance.
This is the first book I’ve read by Mary Ellis, and I will say I do enjoy discovering new authors. After reading Magnolia Moonlight, I will be reading more from this author. The title of this book is what drew me to it. I felt that it was fate that I should read this book because one of my dogs’ registered name is Lavender Moonlight & Magnolia, although the title is reversed from her name I took it as a good sign that I needed to read this book, and boy was I right.
Apparently, this book is part of a series, but I didn’t feel lost or confused because the book seemed like it could be read as a stand-alone. One thing that is important to me when reading a book is how the characters are develop, will I like them, Mary Ellis did exactly that by creating entertaining, relatable, down to earth characters. They could be seen as friends, co-workers, neighbors, acquaintances from your neighborhood or local grocery store. The plot was pretty good, the story moved along at a steady pace, one that you didn’t feel that you had to rush through but could sit and enjoy as you forgot about the day’s events that happened in your life that day and just needed to escape reality for a few hours.
Nate Price and his wife, Isabelle, have been married for two years and they are just now taking their honeymoon. While Nate and his wife are away, Natchez will be in the capable hands of Beth Kirby, a former police officer and Michael Preston, the newest person to come aboard. Beth has had some bad luck in the past, which in return made her life miserable, which you can see in her character, which at first I didn’t think I would like her, but by the end I was able to understand why she is the way she is and saw some changes in her.
The wife of Beth’s pastor has hired the P.I.’s to help prove her husband’s innocents. The pastor has been accused of stealing money from one of the church’s funds and commits suicide. Both Beth and Michael go to work to help figure this out. While they look into the church’s accounts, check emails, and talk to people they soon discover the pastor didn’t commit suicide at all, but he was murdered.
Meanwhile, Nate and Isabelle are off on their honeymoon when Isabelle sees her ex-husband, who has a gambling problem. When Isabelle calls his second wife, she learns that her ex-husband has left his second wife and she is devastated by this. Isabelle decides to find out what is going on in her ex-husbands life that he would do this again to another.
I did enjoy this book and I hope other’s will give it chance.
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