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The Frannie Shoemaker Campground Mysteries #2
The Blue Coyote
Frannie and Larry Shoemaker love taking their grandchildren, Sabet and Joe, camping with them. But at Bluffs State Park, Frannie finds herself worrying more than usual about their safety, and when another young girl disappears from the campground in broad daylight, her fears increase. The fun of a bike ride, a flea market, marshmallow guns, and a storyteller is quickly overshadowed. Accusations against Larry and her add to the cloud over their heads. Frannie begins to puzzle out the mystery: Are the itinerant road workers as much of a threat as Frannie thinks? What about the lone woman camper who also disappears? Or is the girl's deadbeat dad behind it all?
4 hours and 55 minutes
4 hours and 55 minutes
Audible Audio
First published March 28, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
July 16, 2013
I absolutely loved this book. After reading Bats and Bones, the first campground mystery, I couldn't wait for the second installment! Frannie and her husband, Larry, are well-developed, very likeable characters who soon feel like friends. The plot is believable with enough twists to keep you guessing. I also enjoyed the camping tips that the author includes in her books. I haven't been camping in years, but after reading this book I am ready to rent a pop-up trailer and hit the road!
February 2, 2015
The Shoemakers are again camping with friends. They have their grandchildren along. They are staying at a park in central Iowa. At nights are wildlife programs. Bicycle rides provide activities. Larry is upset by a girl riding with training wheels. She later disappears and Larry is accused. Someone files an abuse charge against them. Frannie has some thoughts that helps clears them. I like this book even better than Bats And Bones
August 20, 2013
Frannie and Larry Shoemaker were heading to their camping site at Bluffs State Park with their two grandchildren, Sarabeth and Joe, when they became lost. A carelessly placed detour sign had them heading down a pot-hole ridden dirt road which ended at a junk yard for old and abandoned vehicles. The turning in the gateway proved difficult, but eventually they found themselves back on the correct road and shortly arriving at their destination.
Sarabeth was called Sabet and had been since younger brother Joe could only pronounce her name as Sabet – the shortened version had stuck. They were being picked up by their father on Sunday morning, but in the meantime they had fun to attend to. There was entertainment in the evening – a storyteller for the children with his magic and mysteries; there was the campsite to investigate; trails to ride on – the excitement was endless.
Larry was finding himself irritated by a young girl riding her bike up and back on the path in front of their camper; she had training wheels which squeaked terribly and he was getting more and more irate. The rest of their group knew what he was like and tried to calm him down, but eventually he stood on the track and spoke to the young girl. When she disappeared a few hours later, problems suddenly mounted – Larry was accused and Frannie tried her best to defend him.
When the police began their investigation, Frannie realized she needed to clear her husband as well as find the young girl – hopefully before it was too late. She was frantic about her grandchildren and wouldn't let them out of her sight. But who could be responsible? There were strange events occurring, with danger escalating for the friends… then another person disappeared? What was happening?
I enjoyed this mystery, the second in the Frannie Shoemaker series. The characters were very likeable and down-to-earth plus the plot flowed well and the conclusion was satisfying. I have no hesitation in recommending this to all cosy mystery lovers.
Sarabeth was called Sabet and had been since younger brother Joe could only pronounce her name as Sabet – the shortened version had stuck. They were being picked up by their father on Sunday morning, but in the meantime they had fun to attend to. There was entertainment in the evening – a storyteller for the children with his magic and mysteries; there was the campsite to investigate; trails to ride on – the excitement was endless.
Larry was finding himself irritated by a young girl riding her bike up and back on the path in front of their camper; she had training wheels which squeaked terribly and he was getting more and more irate. The rest of their group knew what he was like and tried to calm him down, but eventually he stood on the track and spoke to the young girl. When she disappeared a few hours later, problems suddenly mounted – Larry was accused and Frannie tried her best to defend him.
When the police began their investigation, Frannie realized she needed to clear her husband as well as find the young girl – hopefully before it was too late. She was frantic about her grandchildren and wouldn't let them out of her sight. But who could be responsible? There were strange events occurring, with danger escalating for the friends… then another person disappeared? What was happening?
I enjoyed this mystery, the second in the Frannie Shoemaker series. The characters were very likeable and down-to-earth plus the plot flowed well and the conclusion was satisfying. I have no hesitation in recommending this to all cosy mystery lovers.
June 28, 2013
The Blue Coyote was the second book in the series of Frannie Shoemaker. This is a fun cozy mystery about the campground adventures of Frannie, her husband and their camping friends. Since this book is meant to be a stand alone, you won't feel like you have missed anything in the previous volume. But for me, it was like meeting old friends once again since I had read the first one.
Cozy mysteries are meant to be fun and free of gore. Although this one dealt with a child being abducted from the campground, the author dealt with it in such a way you completely understood the seriousness of it without it being it a nightmare causing, heart wrenching book.
This was a well written cozy with likable characters. Frannie and friends get along together with lots of fun that it almost makes me want to go camping. Note: I said almost! :) You will find camp fire recipes at the end of some chapters which sound delicious!
I would recommend this to anyone looking for a fun, feel good, all around great read. Especially fans of cozy mysteries and camping!
Cozy mysteries are meant to be fun and free of gore. Although this one dealt with a child being abducted from the campground, the author dealt with it in such a way you completely understood the seriousness of it without it being it a nightmare causing, heart wrenching book.
This was a well written cozy with likable characters. Frannie and friends get along together with lots of fun that it almost makes me want to go camping. Note: I said almost! :) You will find camp fire recipes at the end of some chapters which sound delicious!
I would recommend this to anyone looking for a fun, feel good, all around great read. Especially fans of cozy mysteries and camping!
August 20, 2023
The Blue Coyote By Karen Musser Nortman is the 2nd book in the Frannie Shoemaker Campground mysteries series. Frannie and Larry Shoemaker have taken their grandchildren Sabet and Joe camping in the Bluffs State Park, but become entangled in the disappearance of a young girl from a nearby campsite. An enjoyable and captivating mystery. I loved hearing about the various camping activities and explorations and the various friendships and sense of community amongst the campers. The mystery only seemed to play a peripheral role with the focus mainly on the camping. An enjoyable, light cozy mystery.
October 28, 2017
The hills rolled out in front of them, alternating dead brown stubble in the harvested fields and emerging vibrant color in the tree rows, muted by a fine dust in the air.
Frannie and Larry Shoemaker are headed out in their thirty foot travel trailer with grandkids, Sabet (SaraBeth) and Joe. They meet up at Bluffs State Park with Larry's sister, Jane Ann and her husband Mickey. Good friends, Nancy and Ben are also along for the adventure. Soon after set up, a young girl rides in continuous circles near the campsites on a bicycle with training wheels. This annoying sound puts Larry on edge and he attempts to speak with the little girl about removing them. She of course goes into "Stranger Danger" mode and reports him. Larry becomes a prime suspect when the little girl goes missing the next day.
I enjoy catching up with Frannie and company on their excursions. I somehow skipped over this book and I'm glad I came back to it. The story is well told and introduces new characters with ease. I'm always fascinated by the sense of community in the camping world.
The plot with the storyteller is very good. I feel that I am actually watching the shows with the children (and adults). Frannie's daily activities make me feel like I am with her on her bike rides or visits to the nearby small town.
Having the grandchildren along brings up a lot of good points about watching after children in a world that has become far too dangerous. I would want grandparents like Frannie and Larry that know how to have fun even with rules and restrictions.
I had a pretty good idea who the kidnappers were fairly early on but it in no way distracted from the story. These books flow well and give great tips about camping.
I look forward to following Frannie through more adventures.
3.5 stars
Frannie and Larry Shoemaker are headed out in their thirty foot travel trailer with grandkids, Sabet (SaraBeth) and Joe. They meet up at Bluffs State Park with Larry's sister, Jane Ann and her husband Mickey. Good friends, Nancy and Ben are also along for the adventure. Soon after set up, a young girl rides in continuous circles near the campsites on a bicycle with training wheels. This annoying sound puts Larry on edge and he attempts to speak with the little girl about removing them. She of course goes into "Stranger Danger" mode and reports him. Larry becomes a prime suspect when the little girl goes missing the next day.
I enjoy catching up with Frannie and company on their excursions. I somehow skipped over this book and I'm glad I came back to it. The story is well told and introduces new characters with ease. I'm always fascinated by the sense of community in the camping world.
The plot with the storyteller is very good. I feel that I am actually watching the shows with the children (and adults). Frannie's daily activities make me feel like I am with her on her bike rides or visits to the nearby small town.
Having the grandchildren along brings up a lot of good points about watching after children in a world that has become far too dangerous. I would want grandparents like Frannie and Larry that know how to have fun even with rules and restrictions.
I had a pretty good idea who the kidnappers were fairly early on but it in no way distracted from the story. These books flow well and give great tips about camping.
I look forward to following Frannie through more adventures.
3.5 stars
January 17, 2022
I received a free electronic copy of this family drama from TheFussyLibrarain and Karen Musser Nortman. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. I have read this novel of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. This is the second of a full series, but completely stand-alone, one I am happy to recommend to friends and family.
I found 'The Blue Coyote' an especially refreshing and welcome journey into the printed word. Karen Musser Nortman includes us on a fall trip in their 30-foot camp trailer with retired Iowans Frannie and Larry Shoemaker and their two grandchildren, 9-year-old Sarabeth, better known as "Sabet", 7-year-old Joe, and their canine golden oldie, Cuba. They travel to nearby Bluff States National Park, where they will meet four other members of their various retired friends and relatives. The grandkid's father, Sam Shoemaker, will pick them up early on Monday morning to get them to school, and the older campers will stay a couple more days to take in local color and just mess around, as is their wont.
Lifetime campers, the Shoemakers have perfected the art of packing and managed to make several trips a season to nearby Iowan and other not-so-near National Parks, traveling as far as Missouri and Illinois. And scattered throughout the tale are basic and not-so-basic tips for making camping excursions user-friendly. This would be a novel after my own heart for the tips and recipes alone but the mystery is timely and involved as well. It is a book and a series that I will add to my must-read now that I'm retired list. Books I must read in the Gila National Wilderness or the Lincoln National forest or 7 miles down the road at White Sands National Park.
On a personal note, our old greyhound, a rescue years ago from the Tucson racetrack, just went to the land of three-legged rabbits where she can again run like the wind. We won't know how to travel without her.
Reviewed on January 17, 2022, at Goodreads, Barnes&Noble, and BookBub. Not available for review on Amazon, Kobo (though they have other Nortman books!) or GooglePlay.
I found 'The Blue Coyote' an especially refreshing and welcome journey into the printed word. Karen Musser Nortman includes us on a fall trip in their 30-foot camp trailer with retired Iowans Frannie and Larry Shoemaker and their two grandchildren, 9-year-old Sarabeth, better known as "Sabet", 7-year-old Joe, and their canine golden oldie, Cuba. They travel to nearby Bluff States National Park, where they will meet four other members of their various retired friends and relatives. The grandkid's father, Sam Shoemaker, will pick them up early on Monday morning to get them to school, and the older campers will stay a couple more days to take in local color and just mess around, as is their wont.
Lifetime campers, the Shoemakers have perfected the art of packing and managed to make several trips a season to nearby Iowan and other not-so-near National Parks, traveling as far as Missouri and Illinois. And scattered throughout the tale are basic and not-so-basic tips for making camping excursions user-friendly. This would be a novel after my own heart for the tips and recipes alone but the mystery is timely and involved as well. It is a book and a series that I will add to my must-read now that I'm retired list. Books I must read in the Gila National Wilderness or the Lincoln National forest or 7 miles down the road at White Sands National Park.
On a personal note, our old greyhound, a rescue years ago from the Tucson racetrack, just went to the land of three-legged rabbits where she can again run like the wind. We won't know how to travel without her.
Reviewed on January 17, 2022, at Goodreads, Barnes&Noble, and BookBub. Not available for review on Amazon, Kobo (though they have other Nortman books!) or GooglePlay.
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February 7, 2017Larry and Frannie Shoemaker are off on another of their camping adventures with friends, and their two grandchildren, Sabet and Joe, are with them. All seems well except for a little girl who rides her bicycle with very noisy training wheels that drive Larry crazy--until that very girl disappears, right after complaining to another camper that Larry frightened her.
Suddenly Larry, a grandfather and retired police officer, is in the minds of many of their fellow campers the prime suspect in a child's disappearance.
Frannie just can't leave the investigation to the police, and soon she has their friends, Mickey and Jane-Ann, involved in the search as well. With clues pointing in several directions, and the missing girl's frightened mother having latched onto Larry as, at least, her prime suspect, it's only a partial comfort when a familiar face from a previous adventure turns up to lead the official investigation.
Overall, this is a good, strong mystery, with nicely developed characters who are likable and engaging. There's some reference to past events, but that acts to give the characters more depth without making it necessary to read the previous book first. It is unfortunate that, early on, a critical event depends on one character acting decidedly out of character. It's commented on at the time, and never really accounted for. Regardless, though, it's still an excellent story. The icing on the cake for this audio version is the narrator; Michelle Babb has a voice that's both pleasant and strong, capable of cutting through road noise effectively for those of us who listen to books in our cars!
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this audiobook and am reviewing it voluntarily.
Suddenly Larry, a grandfather and retired police officer, is in the minds of many of their fellow campers the prime suspect in a child's disappearance.
Frannie just can't leave the investigation to the police, and soon she has their friends, Mickey and Jane-Ann, involved in the search as well. With clues pointing in several directions, and the missing girl's frightened mother having latched onto Larry as, at least, her prime suspect, it's only a partial comfort when a familiar face from a previous adventure turns up to lead the official investigation.
Overall, this is a good, strong mystery, with nicely developed characters who are likable and engaging. There's some reference to past events, but that acts to give the characters more depth without making it necessary to read the previous book first. It is unfortunate that, early on, a critical event depends on one character acting decidedly out of character. It's commented on at the time, and never really accounted for. Regardless, though, it's still an excellent story. The icing on the cake for this audio version is the narrator; Michelle Babb has a voice that's both pleasant and strong, capable of cutting through road noise effectively for those of us who listen to books in our cars!
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this audiobook and am reviewing it voluntarily.
May 24, 2014
Once again Nortman has hit a homerun with "The Blue Coyote." The story line is plausible - in fact reading the day's news headlines extremely possibly, and every parent and grandparent's nightmare. Despite trials and ails, the main characters come out ok, albeit slightly worse for the wear, and the book has a 'happy ending,' as it should. Nortman's works are a pleasure to read. Quick and easy, well written, enjoyable mysteries. Once again, while well-suited for any age reader or a read-aloud, with active, mature main characters, this book and its predecessor are especially appealing to the baby boomer generation. Although I expect any child would gladly curl up next to a grandparent and listen to this story of a grandparent in peril, then ultimately saving the day - reassuring the listening child that grandparents truly do rock and rule. Makes me want to be right out there in the woods camping alongside Frannie and Larry and their gang. I would like to know what happened to the road crew, and if Larry and Frannie were 'saved' from being put on some government list for child abuse. Can't wait for Nortman's next book.
August 13, 2016
This is the second book I have read in this series and I have enjoyed them both. I like the characters. They observe the other people in the campgrounds. Sometimes they comment on unusual things they may be wearing or doing but nobody is written in an outrageous quirky manner. I really dislike "quirky" characters that are annoying but everyone puts up with them. I like the camping theme but not the camping tips. They might be better placed at the end of the book. I read the Kindle version and it was annoying to jump from a tense scene in the book to a couple of pages about organizing your camper.
September 18, 2018
I really enjoyed this one, maybe even more than the first. The writing flows well and I can just picture everyone sitting around the fire at the campground. Despite the dangerous things that seem to keep happening, this series really makes me want to grab me tent and go camping immediately. I really like these characters and their friendship dynamic always makes me chuckle. I had a feeling about the kidnapping culprit pretty early on, but like Frannie I couldn't figure out how it was pulled off. I liked that everyone was involved in this one so I got to know them better. The grandkids were too cute and added an extra fun element. I'm really looking forward to the next one.
November 4, 2014
I'm in love with the Frannie Shoemaker Campground Mysteries series!
Karen Musser Nortman's writing style takes you along with her and her friends' adventures in camping. She paints a picture, draws you in and you cannot put the books down!
I love everything about these books, from the feel of the smooth matte covers, the chapters laid out in 'time-line' style to the wonderful Happy Camper Tips!
Win, win!
Karen Musser Nortman's writing style takes you along with her and her friends' adventures in camping. She paints a picture, draws you in and you cannot put the books down!
I love everything about these books, from the feel of the smooth matte covers, the chapters laid out in 'time-line' style to the wonderful Happy Camper Tips!
Win, win!
June 8, 2016
“This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.”
This was a quick fascinating listen. You never know what might happen on a camping trip. Make sure you know what is happening around you, because Frannie probably won't be close by to solve any crime.I hope there will be more adventures.
The narration was well done.Michelle Babb brings the characters to life.
This was a quick fascinating listen. You never know what might happen on a camping trip. Make sure you know what is happening around you, because Frannie probably won't be close by to solve any crime.I hope there will be more adventures.
The narration was well done.Michelle Babb brings the characters to life.
August 21, 2013
Tuck this delightful cozy into your camping gear this summer. You'll find Frannie and friends' latest escapade just the thing for those rainy evenings spent inside. But be warned ... if you sample all the delicious recipes in the book, you won't be able to do enough biking, hiking and swimming to work them off! And most of all, stay away from Blue Coyotes!
May 22, 2017
Once again Frannie and Larry Shoemaker are camping with their friends. This time their grandchildren are along for the weekend. The trip starts out with the Shoemakers getting lost on their way to Bluffs State Park because a detour sign has gotten turned sending them in the wrong direction. Finally arriving at the park they start getting settled in when all of a sudden this very loud unpleasant screeching sound. This sound is being made by a little girl on a bicycle with training wheels. The sound sends Larry, uncharacteristically, over the edge. Larry approaches the girl and offers to remove the training wheels, she runs away frightened. After the group settles in and Frannie takes her granddaughter and another little girl that is staying across the road on a bike ride. The two girls get ahead of Frannie and they stop to wait for her to catch up. Before Frannie can catch up she notices a man talking to the two girls and this make Frannie very uneasy. The girls and Frannie get back to the cabin and they find out the camp is offering a puppet show for children that evening and the group decides to attend. Later on that weekend a little girl goes missing after last seen near the Shoemaker’s camper. Larry quickly becomes a person of interest and the group is asked not the leave their camp site. Frannie is determined to clear them of all suspicion. Did the little girl just wonder off and get lost? Did someone take her? Are the Shoemaker's grandchildren safe? Can Frannie clear Larry from suspicion and help find the little girl before she becomes harmed?
I loved this book. As a parent it just sucked me in and I felt for the mother of the little girl, could relate to her fear and anger. The author Karen Musser Nortman writes her characters with such realism. I could see myself reacting the same way, if I were in Frannie’s situation. She didn’t want to let her grandchildren out of her sight and she was upset at the allegations made of Larry. This story is well written, steady paced, and the action will keep you glued to the book to see if the little girl was found unharmed and who had her.
I loved how the narrator Michelle Babb brings the story to life. She has a flair for storytelling and you can clearly distinguish between each character’s voice. This is the first book in this series that Mrs. Babb narrated. I really enjoy her vision of the characters accents and personalities.
I would recommend this book. No bad language, sex or graphic violence.
I voluntarily reviewed this book provided by the narrator for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
I loved this book. As a parent it just sucked me in and I felt for the mother of the little girl, could relate to her fear and anger. The author Karen Musser Nortman writes her characters with such realism. I could see myself reacting the same way, if I were in Frannie’s situation. She didn’t want to let her grandchildren out of her sight and she was upset at the allegations made of Larry. This story is well written, steady paced, and the action will keep you glued to the book to see if the little girl was found unharmed and who had her.
I loved how the narrator Michelle Babb brings the story to life. She has a flair for storytelling and you can clearly distinguish between each character’s voice. This is the first book in this series that Mrs. Babb narrated. I really enjoy her vision of the characters accents and personalities.
I would recommend this book. No bad language, sex or graphic violence.
I voluntarily reviewed this book provided by the narrator for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
April 19, 2020
I enjoyed this book. It was a bit slow getting to the mystery but I enjoyed the addition of the children to the group of campers and the fun they had until the disappearance, marshmallow guns sounds so cool if you have an uncle Mickey. The camaraderie and teasing between the friends is humorous, especially some of the one lines.The mystery was good and I liked it the way each of the campers had a part in finding clues and eventually solving the mystery. There is a darker side to this story or meaning (child trafficking) but I think the author covered it very well and left you with something to think about. This is the third book in this series I have listened to and I can say you don't need to listen to them in order because they are stand alone books and each book is just as good as the last.
Frannie and Larry have there two grand children with them on this camping trip. With a warning from there over protective son to keep a close eye on them, Frannie is hyper vigilante and nervous of every stranger they speak to but she had no idea that the strange that could pose the most threat to a child was here own husband, Larry. That is exactly what the mother of a missing girl thinks and with the cops breathing down his neck, Frannie starts investigating. Could it simply be a custody battle gone wrong? What about the three workmen that keep finding reasons to be around children? One thing for sure is she knows Larry would never hurt a child not even his own grand children. Frannie just has to convince everybody else.
I think the narrator is a good choice for this series of stories and think her pleasant voice helps make it a must listen.
Frannie and Larry have there two grand children with them on this camping trip. With a warning from there over protective son to keep a close eye on them, Frannie is hyper vigilante and nervous of every stranger they speak to but she had no idea that the strange that could pose the most threat to a child was here own husband, Larry. That is exactly what the mother of a missing girl thinks and with the cops breathing down his neck, Frannie starts investigating. Could it simply be a custody battle gone wrong? What about the three workmen that keep finding reasons to be around children? One thing for sure is she knows Larry would never hurt a child not even his own grand children. Frannie just has to convince everybody else.
I think the narrator is a good choice for this series of stories and think her pleasant voice helps make it a must listen.
May 11, 2017
( Format : Audiobook )
"... when it hits closer to home."
Larry and Frannie love camping, a chance for all the family to spend time together and friends to join them, too. But amidst the bustle of intergenerational chaos there is one sound which Larry cannot abide - the clack, clack of trainer wheels on bicycles being ridden back and forth. It is this obsession to end his irritation which gets Larry into prime suspect position when a little girl goes missing.
Although the storyline itself is pretty weak and predictable despite the introduction of various red herrings, the strength of this book lies in it's portrayal of the group's interaction, young and old, enjoying time together away from the mundane everyday life. With numerous people and much conversation, Michelle Babb is excellent at giving individual voice to each as well as maintaining a well paced reading of the text. Her narration is warm, perfect for the family experience, and very pleasant to hear. But not even she is able to counteract the frequently repeated, "he said ...", "she said ...", "someone replied..." so often recurring during conversational periods - not really noticeable in print but unmissable when read aloud.
This is a fun to read/hear book which gives a great sense of the bustle of families enjoying precious time together with all of the pranks and easy going irritability of people who love each other.And there's a lightweight mystery thrown in as well.
"... when it hits closer to home."
Larry and Frannie love camping, a chance for all the family to spend time together and friends to join them, too. But amidst the bustle of intergenerational chaos there is one sound which Larry cannot abide - the clack, clack of trainer wheels on bicycles being ridden back and forth. It is this obsession to end his irritation which gets Larry into prime suspect position when a little girl goes missing.
Although the storyline itself is pretty weak and predictable despite the introduction of various red herrings, the strength of this book lies in it's portrayal of the group's interaction, young and old, enjoying time together away from the mundane everyday life. With numerous people and much conversation, Michelle Babb is excellent at giving individual voice to each as well as maintaining a well paced reading of the text. Her narration is warm, perfect for the family experience, and very pleasant to hear. But not even she is able to counteract the frequently repeated, "he said ...", "she said ...", "someone replied..." so often recurring during conversational periods - not really noticeable in print but unmissable when read aloud.
This is a fun to read/hear book which gives a great sense of the bustle of families enjoying precious time together with all of the pranks and easy going irritability of people who love each other.And there's a lightweight mystery thrown in as well.
February 15, 2018
After reading The Blue Coyote, another Frannie Shoemaker Campground Mystery and the second in the Camping Can Be Murder Boxed Set, I feel like I know the Shoemakers, their grandchildren, and their friends personally. That’s why I was so incensed when Larry became the prime suspect in a campground kidnapping. Frannie was even more infuriated, though, as the authorities seemed to focus on her husband while the missing child and her own grandchildren remained in danger and the real culprit remained at large. In spite of many warnings to stay out of it, she put on her amateur sleuth hat and went to work.
Even for the reader who is not a regular cozy mystery fan, Frannie’s adventures are lively and exciting enough for an enjoyable weekend in the recliner or maybe even in a camp chair around the fire pit. Karen Nortman’s descriptions of the camping experience and the surrounding countryside are realistic enough to make the reader want to pack the RV and hit the open road - as long as there are no villains waiting at the campground. An added bonus is the vivid description of the sumptuous meals she and her friends share around the campfire and the recipes and camping tips at the end of each book. As for me, two Frannie Shoemaker stories were enough to make me a fan, and I can’t wait to begin reading the next one.
Even for the reader who is not a regular cozy mystery fan, Frannie’s adventures are lively and exciting enough for an enjoyable weekend in the recliner or maybe even in a camp chair around the fire pit. Karen Nortman’s descriptions of the camping experience and the surrounding countryside are realistic enough to make the reader want to pack the RV and hit the open road - as long as there are no villains waiting at the campground. An added bonus is the vivid description of the sumptuous meals she and her friends share around the campfire and the recipes and camping tips at the end of each book. As for me, two Frannie Shoemaker stories were enough to make me a fan, and I can’t wait to begin reading the next one.
April 7, 2018
Review originally published at: http://www.lomeraniel.com/audiobookre...
Frannie and Larry Shoemaker are camping with their grandchildren and some friends, when something makes Frannie suspicious and overprotective of her granddaughter. Not long after that a girl disappears from the camp, and Larry is wrongly accused by the girl’s mother.
I love a good cozy mystery, and this one had all the ingredients to make me happy. And there is no romance whatsoever which is a plus for me.
This is the second book in a series but it can be read as a stand alone. The characters are likable and easily recognizable, and despite not being action packed, it was really entertaining.
Michelle Babb’s narration was amazing, as always. Babb has a special talent to tell stories, bring cahracters to life and get you hooked to any story. I would definitely listen to anything she narrates.
I am looking forward to the next books in the series.
I received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
Frannie and Larry Shoemaker are camping with their grandchildren and some friends, when something makes Frannie suspicious and overprotective of her granddaughter. Not long after that a girl disappears from the camp, and Larry is wrongly accused by the girl’s mother.
I love a good cozy mystery, and this one had all the ingredients to make me happy. And there is no romance whatsoever which is a plus for me.
This is the second book in a series but it can be read as a stand alone. The characters are likable and easily recognizable, and despite not being action packed, it was really entertaining.
Michelle Babb’s narration was amazing, as always. Babb has a special talent to tell stories, bring cahracters to life and get you hooked to any story. I would definitely listen to anything she narrates.
I am looking forward to the next books in the series.
I received a copy of this book in audio format from the narrator in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2018
Frannie and Larry Shoemaker are happy to be camping with their grandchildren and several friends again. All is going well and everyone is settling into their adjoining campsites. Then a little girl goes past on her bike with her training wheels squeaking. So much for a quiet weekend. Larry stops the little girl and offers to take her training wheels of her bike. The girl is frightened and takes off without taking Larry up on his offer. Later that day the little girls goes missing. Somehow Larry becomes suspect number 1 to the little girls mother. Eventually they are able to convince the police and park rangers that Larry did not kidnap anyone. Will Frannie be able to find the little girl? When anymore children be kidnapped? Frannie has no shortage of suspects among the people staying in the campground.
Wonderful book that keeps you interested, laughing and worried about the safety of the people in the campground all at the same time.
I received this audio-book from the narrator in exchange for my honest review.
Wonderful book that keeps you interested, laughing and worried about the safety of the people in the campground all at the same time.
I received this audio-book from the narrator in exchange for my honest review.
June 16, 2021
This is a fun cozy mystery featuring Frannie Shoemaker and her friends. The group is enjoying a weekend RV camping trip when the unthinkable happens: a young girl is abducted from the park. Frannie's husband, Larry, a retired policeman, is suspected because of his recent encounter with the young girl. Frannie can't sit by and not get involved, so she goes sleuthing!
If you enjoy reading cozy mysteries, this is a good one. The book has enough humor to keep the reader's interest, several predicaments that put the group in danger, and lots of sneaky suspects to keep them busy looking for clues. The addition of camping makes the book different than a lot of cozies. The author has created a group of fun characters and their interactions really bring the book to life.
The narrator does a great job and adds a lot to the audiobook. Her packing is perfect and her voices are just right for the different characters. I was given the chance to listen to this book by the author/narrator/publisher and chose to review it.
If you enjoy reading cozy mysteries, this is a good one. The book has enough humor to keep the reader's interest, several predicaments that put the group in danger, and lots of sneaky suspects to keep them busy looking for clues. The addition of camping makes the book different than a lot of cozies. The author has created a group of fun characters and their interactions really bring the book to life.
The narrator does a great job and adds a lot to the audiobook. Her packing is perfect and her voices are just right for the different characters. I was given the chance to listen to this book by the author/narrator/publisher and chose to review it.
March 6, 2022
With their grandchildren, Frannie and Larry are joining friends and family for a weekend of camping at a state Park. Amid all of the fun a child camping nearby with her mother disappears. Frannie puts on her sleuthing cap to piece together what could have become of the young girl, while keeping her grandchildren in sight at all times.
This is the second book in the Frannie Shoemaker Campground Mysteries. I love reading books that take place in my home state. I really love knowing some of the characters are from my hometown of Cedar Rapids. The main characters are a retired couple, a former teacher and police officer. All of the characters are realistic and nicely developed. Except for solving a mystery, the book is filled with normal camping activities and I enjoy that. I look forward to reading the next book.
This is the second book in the Frannie Shoemaker Campground Mysteries. I love reading books that take place in my home state. I really love knowing some of the characters are from my hometown of Cedar Rapids. The main characters are a retired couple, a former teacher and police officer. All of the characters are realistic and nicely developed. Except for solving a mystery, the book is filled with normal camping activities and I enjoy that. I look forward to reading the next book.
July 30, 2021
Frannie and Larry take their grand-kids with them on their camping trip. But things go crazy a child is missing and Larry has been turned in to social services. All they can think is will their grand-kids be next and will they ever be able be alone with their grand-kids again. But Frannie starts to think out the problems logically but will she solve it before it is too late for the little girl?
These books are tons of fun and if you are lucky enough to get the audios narrated by Michelle Babb than you are really in for a treat. These are wonderful fun quick mysteries, with great characters, I love the regulars but the new people they meet at the campsite are so true if you have gone camping, but some of the situations are funny. I hope you love this series as much as I am.
These books are tons of fun and if you are lucky enough to get the audios narrated by Michelle Babb than you are really in for a treat. These are wonderful fun quick mysteries, with great characters, I love the regulars but the new people they meet at the campsite are so true if you have gone camping, but some of the situations are funny. I hope you love this series as much as I am.
November 23, 2016
This is the second book in the Frannie Shoemaker Campground Mystery series. It’s the first book I’ve read by this author and I’m already hooked.
The main characters are likeable and well-written. The plot intrigued me and kept me guessing. It is fast-paced.
I listened to the audio version. The narrator, Michelle Babb, always draws me into the stories she narrates. Her voice is perfect for story telling. She does a great job with it.
I’m adding this series to my list of cozies I want to read.
FTC Disclosure: The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The main characters are likeable and well-written. The plot intrigued me and kept me guessing. It is fast-paced.
I listened to the audio version. The narrator, Michelle Babb, always draws me into the stories she narrates. Her voice is perfect for story telling. She does a great job with it.
I’m adding this series to my list of cozies I want to read.
FTC Disclosure: The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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January 1, 2021Enjoyable camping cozy mystery
Trigger warning:child abduction
Quick cozy mystery that was articulated so well you can almost smell the campfire and feel the chill you get in the morning when camping. Narrator has clean, easy to listen to voice and I had no issues with knowing which character was 'talking' Near the end of the story for about 1 min there is a section where the 'voice' for the character was incorrect, but this did not take away from the story or enjoyment of the book.
This book was good enough that I will seek out more books in this series and see where it takes me.
Trigger warning:child abduction
Quick cozy mystery that was articulated so well you can almost smell the campfire and feel the chill you get in the morning when camping. Narrator has clean, easy to listen to voice and I had no issues with knowing which character was 'talking' Near the end of the story for about 1 min there is a section where the 'voice' for the character was incorrect, but this did not take away from the story or enjoyment of the book.
This book was good enough that I will seek out more books in this series and see where it takes me.
October 31, 2021
A child is missing!
Camping trips with their friends and grandchildren are usually fun affairs but Frannie and Larry Shoemaker are more watchful after their last campground adventure. When a young girl turns up missing and Larry becomes a suspect, Frannie is determined to find the girl and the real perpetrator. Hopefully it isn’t too late!
This is the first book I have read in this cozy series. This is a good mystery plot and in todays world it was very relatable. I really enjoyed the camping tips and recipes in the back of the book.
Camping trips with their friends and grandchildren are usually fun affairs but Frannie and Larry Shoemaker are more watchful after their last campground adventure. When a young girl turns up missing and Larry becomes a suspect, Frannie is determined to find the girl and the real perpetrator. Hopefully it isn’t too late!
This is the first book I have read in this cozy series. This is a good mystery plot and in todays world it was very relatable. I really enjoyed the camping tips and recipes in the back of the book.
February 14, 2022
Format: audiobook
Narrator: Michelle Babb
While camping with their grandchildren Frannie and Larry Shoemaker find themselves dragged into a child abduction incident with the finger of suspicion pointing at Larry!
Cosy mysteries are not usually my favourite genre but this is the second Frannie Shoemaker story I’ve listened to and I find myself enjoying not only the mystery but the banter and relationships between Frannie, Larry and their group of friends.
Good narration and a good story, what more do you need.
Narrator: Michelle Babb
While camping with their grandchildren Frannie and Larry Shoemaker find themselves dragged into a child abduction incident with the finger of suspicion pointing at Larry!
Cosy mysteries are not usually my favourite genre but this is the second Frannie Shoemaker story I’ve listened to and I find myself enjoying not only the mystery but the banter and relationships between Frannie, Larry and their group of friends.
Good narration and a good story, what more do you need.
April 18, 2022
New for me series.
Loved! Kept me guessing all the way through. Even the ending in the junkyard was different.
Frannie is just one of those people who just turns events, comments from others, etc. over in their minds. It gets her in trouble, but things turn out well, though not as she expects them to.
I also really enjoy this series because my husband and I enjoyed traveling the U.S. in a motorhome before he passed away. The characters are our age, too, so it's comfortable reading.
Loved! Kept me guessing all the way through. Even the ending in the junkyard was different.
Frannie is just one of those people who just turns events, comments from others, etc. over in their minds. It gets her in trouble, but things turn out well, though not as she expects them to.
I also really enjoy this series because my husband and I enjoyed traveling the U.S. in a motorhome before he passed away. The characters are our age, too, so it's comfortable reading.
November 20, 2018
This is the second in the series and another great story. Frannie and hubby Larry with friends and 2 of her grandchildren are camping when a little girl goes missing at their campground. Larry had been seen talking to the little girl and was suspected of taking her. When grandson Joe ends up with a few scrapes from a fall in the river, they are also suspected of abuse to their grandchildren. Frannie finally figures it out but what a camping trip !!!
June 24, 2020
Great story! Grandparents Frannie and Larry take their grandkids on a camping trip and meet up with friends. Then a girl from the campsite disappears. When Frannie and Larry come under suspicion, she decides to investigate. One thing’s for sure, Frannie is not your run-of-the-mill grandmas! This grandma is a super sleuth and will leave no stone unturned. and start to investigate. Really enjoyed it.
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