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A Dodie O'Dell Mystery #2
Time Out
KNISH OF DEATH The amateur actors at the Etonville Little Theatre may be known for chewing the scenery, but restaurant manager Dodie O’Dell has something more appetizing for them to sink their teeth into. She’s been taking bows in her small New Jersey town for her theme menus, designed to complement the local productions. This fall, the community theatre is staging Arsenic and Old Lace, set in 1940s Brooklyn, so Dodie is serving up hot dogs, Italian ices, egg creams, and knishes at the weekend food festival. All is going well until Antonio Digenza, the ex-Off-Off-Broadway director of the show, dies dramatically while noshing on a knish. As rumors of food poisoning quickly spread, Dodie scrambles to rescue the Windjammer restaurant’s reputation. But when clues point to foul play, she’s faced with a cast of suspects all auditioning for the part of DiGenza’s murderer. She’ll need to act fast to shine a spotlight on the killer—before it’s curtains for another victim . . .
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2017
38 people are currently reading
626 people want to read
About the author
Suzanne M. Trauth
10 books272 followersSuzanne Trauth is a novelist, playwright, and nonfiction writer. Her novels include The First to Die, What Remains of Love (a first place winner in Women's Fiction, Firebird Book Awards; a finalist in General Fiction, American Book Festival; and a finalist for the Hemingway Prize) and the Dodie O'Dell mystery series--Show Time, Time Out, Running out of Time, Just in Time, No More Time, and Killing Time.
Her plays include Françoise, Midwives, Rehearsing Desire, La Fonda, Three Sisters Under the Hood, Laws of the Universe, iDream, supported by the National Science Foundation’s STEM initiative on science and technology, and Katrina: the K Word, based on interviews with New Orleans’ survivors of Hurricane Katrina, and produced in over a dozen venues throughout the United States.
Her screenplays have won awards in competition and she has co-authored Sonia Moore and American Acting Training and co-edited Katrina on Stage: Five Plays. Suzanne is a member of Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, the Dramatists Guild, and the League of Professional Theatre Women.
Her plays include Françoise, Midwives, Rehearsing Desire, La Fonda, Three Sisters Under the Hood, Laws of the Universe, iDream, supported by the National Science Foundation’s STEM initiative on science and technology, and Katrina: the K Word, based on interviews with New Orleans’ survivors of Hurricane Katrina, and produced in over a dozen venues throughout the United States.
Her screenplays have won awards in competition and she has co-authored Sonia Moore and American Acting Training and co-edited Katrina on Stage: Five Plays. Suzanne is a member of Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, the Dramatists Guild, and the League of Professional Theatre Women.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 6, 2017
I highly recommend this second book in the series. I enjoyed the small town amateur theatre, the Windjammer restaurant, along with the interesting and well written characters. The whodunit was well paced and kept me guessing.
March 27, 2020
An entertaining read. I did find Dodie a bit too interfering at some points in this one, but I continue to enjoy the zany town. I also enjoy the early stages of Dodie and Bill's relationship.
March 9, 2017
Another entertaining installment in the Dodie O'Dell Mysteries!
Once again, author Suzanne Trauth shows small towns, rather they be in the deep south or New Jersey, are hot beds of gossip, and murder (Okay, not all are full of murder, but in cozies they are!).
TIME OUT was a good mystery, with enough suspects to keep me guessing until the end. Some of the main characters have been a bit more fleshed out. I enjoy seeing characters grown through a series.
If you're looking for a new cozy mystery, take some time out and read TIME OUT!
Once again, author Suzanne Trauth shows small towns, rather they be in the deep south or New Jersey, are hot beds of gossip, and murder (Okay, not all are full of murder, but in cozies they are!).
TIME OUT was a good mystery, with enough suspects to keep me guessing until the end. Some of the main characters have been a bit more fleshed out. I enjoy seeing characters grown through a series.
If you're looking for a new cozy mystery, take some time out and read TIME OUT!
February 7, 2017
**I voluntarily reviewed this ARC**
Overall this was a decent book, but it didn't hold my attention the entire time. I had part of it figured out by a third of the way through, which made parts of the book a bit tedious. One of the main reasons I wanted to read this book is because I love the movie version of Arsenic and Old Lace, so I was a little disappointed when it didn't play much of a part in the plot.
Overall this was a decent book, but it didn't hold my attention the entire time. I had part of it figured out by a third of the way through, which made parts of the book a bit tedious. One of the main reasons I wanted to read this book is because I love the movie version of Arsenic and Old Lace, so I was a little disappointed when it didn't play much of a part in the plot.
February 22, 2017
Time Out is a solid mystery with a few issues that kept me from truly loving it. The main characters are interesting and fairly well developed (I did feel I was maybe missing some things because this is the second in a series, and I have not read the first). The town felt real, and there is a nice touch of humor in the writing.
I did, however, get off to a poor start with a dump of too much information about the town, the theater, and the people in the first few pages. Once I got that straightened out, the story moved along well. My deeper criticism is a common one for cozy mysteries: I didn't feel that Dodie's motivation for running her own investigation was adequate. At first it was justifiable--she needed to clear the restaurant of any culpability in Digenza's death, and the police chief was a little too willing to accept the man's death at face value--but later, I felt that the effort to make Dodie's failure to share information with the police was a bit contrived.
I also fully expected the worst, as she kept insisting on doing things like searching the theater on her own, even after she'd been attacked twice. That was a bit too much like the horror movies where the heroine insists on entering the dark room alone...
With all that out of my system, I have to say that the mystery was well-constructed. I didn't figure it all out, and yet didn't feel that I'd been cheated of information that I should have been given. In the end, despite my frustrations, I have to say I generally enjoyed the book, and it was certainly no chore to read it. In fact, once past the first few pages, where I did have to do some flipping back and forth (most annoying with an e-book), I zipped through it quickly.
If you enjoy cozies with a decent touch of romance, and especially if you have any interest in theater (I've done just enough to get a kick out of the theater group's antics), you'll probably enjoy this.
I did, however, get off to a poor start with a dump of too much information about the town, the theater, and the people in the first few pages. Once I got that straightened out, the story moved along well. My deeper criticism is a common one for cozy mysteries: I didn't feel that Dodie's motivation for running her own investigation was adequate. At first it was justifiable--she needed to clear the restaurant of any culpability in Digenza's death, and the police chief was a little too willing to accept the man's death at face value--but later, I felt that the effort to make Dodie's failure to share information with the police was a bit contrived.
I also fully expected the worst, as she kept insisting on doing things like searching the theater on her own, even after she'd been attacked twice. That was a bit too much like the horror movies where the heroine insists on entering the dark room alone...
With all that out of my system, I have to say that the mystery was well-constructed. I didn't figure it all out, and yet didn't feel that I'd been cheated of information that I should have been given. In the end, despite my frustrations, I have to say I generally enjoyed the book, and it was certainly no chore to read it. In fact, once past the first few pages, where I did have to do some flipping back and forth (most annoying with an e-book), I zipped through it quickly.
If you enjoy cozies with a decent touch of romance, and especially if you have any interest in theater (I've done just enough to get a kick out of the theater group's antics), you'll probably enjoy this.
March 1, 2017
I enjoyed this mystery. It didn't grab my attention like other books. Part of this may have been the format (pdf). I did confuse characters, Lola, Carol, who did Pauli belong to, etc. The characters are fun, but nothing memorable. Could be because I haven't read the first book. Maybe each book in the series will reveal more about the people of the town. When the murder was revealed I was surprised. Perhaps the "clues" weren't obvious like in other books. It was fun and enjoyable and I would read another by this author.
I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review.
I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review.
February 5, 2017
Time Out by Suzanne Trauth is the second book in A Dodie O’Dell Mystery series. Dodie O’Dell is the manager of the Windjammer in Etonville, New Jersey. She has arranged a two-day food festival with 1940 Brooklyn themed food items in conjunction with the ELT (Etonville Little Theatre) production of Arsenic and Old Lace. Antonio Digenza, the guest director, joins the festival and is soon enjoying a knish (and “elderberry wine”). Dodie hears choking and sees Antonio collapse (his face ends up in his plate of food). Antonio is dead and people are blaming his death on the Windjammer’s food. The Windjammer’s business takes an instant decline and Henry, Dodie’s boss, is less than thrilled with Dodie. Dodie knows there was nothing wrong with the food since no one else fell ill (dozens of people attended the festival). Dodie needs to restore the reputation of the Windjammer. She starts investigating Antonio to find out who wanted him dead. In the short time Antonio was in town, he managed to alienate the entire cast of Arsenic and Old Lace. Someone is not happy with Dodie investigation. She receives a threatening note telling her to back off. This just spurs Dodie on to find the truth.
Time Out is easy to read and nicely written. I thought there were a few too many quirky characters. One per town should be the quota. I quickly tired of Honey (Henry’s niece who is majoring in packaging in college) and her use of the word “like” (she talked like an 80s valley girl). I am amazed that Dodie has a job with how little time she spends working. When she starts an investigation, she seems to spend the majority of her time questioning people (and running around town). Dodie is prone to jumping to conclusions about her investigation and Bill Thompson (the guy she is interested in). I did get tired of the frequent mentions about Bill’s physique (makes me want to tell the writer that we get it. He is well built and Dodie is attracted to him.) I give Time Out 3 out of 5 stars (it is okay). I did not find the mystery puzzling. It is easy to figure out (very early in the book) how Antonio was killed and by whom. The secondary mystery (I only talked about the main one) was equally simple (burglaries in the next town that Bill Thompson is helping to solve). Some information is mentioned more than once especially information about the crime (filler). I am not sure how many more murders can occur at the Etonville Little Theatre. There have already been two. It can only go on so long without being farfetched. Time Out may be the second book in the series, but it can be a stand-alone. The background information on Dodie and the first book (Show Time) are included in Time Out.
Time Out is easy to read and nicely written. I thought there were a few too many quirky characters. One per town should be the quota. I quickly tired of Honey (Henry’s niece who is majoring in packaging in college) and her use of the word “like” (she talked like an 80s valley girl). I am amazed that Dodie has a job with how little time she spends working. When she starts an investigation, she seems to spend the majority of her time questioning people (and running around town). Dodie is prone to jumping to conclusions about her investigation and Bill Thompson (the guy she is interested in). I did get tired of the frequent mentions about Bill’s physique (makes me want to tell the writer that we get it. He is well built and Dodie is attracted to him.) I give Time Out 3 out of 5 stars (it is okay). I did not find the mystery puzzling. It is easy to figure out (very early in the book) how Antonio was killed and by whom. The secondary mystery (I only talked about the main one) was equally simple (burglaries in the next town that Bill Thompson is helping to solve). Some information is mentioned more than once especially information about the crime (filler). I am not sure how many more murders can occur at the Etonville Little Theatre. There have already been two. It can only go on so long without being farfetched. Time Out may be the second book in the series, but it can be a stand-alone. The background information on Dodie and the first book (Show Time) are included in Time Out.
February 6, 2017
Restaurant manager Dodie wants to put The Windjammer on the map with her themed menus, designed to coordinate with the plays put on by the Etonville Little Theatre. When the director of the show dies while at the food festival launching this season's production, however, The Windjammer may be closing its doors for good. When foul play is suspected, Dodie is determined to find the cause -- and the reason -- for his death to save the restaurant's reputation.
Once again, I was disappointed to learn that this is *not the first book in the series, as I am a read-in-order person, and nothing was posted to indicate that this is the second in a series. There were a lot of references to what I suspect are events from the first book in the series, which were confusing and left holes in the story.
That said, once I filled in the gaps with my own backstory, I liked the book, despite the presence of several of my pet peeves. How often can Dodie disappear from the restaurant she's supposed to be managing before it starts to affect her work? Why does she jump to so many conclusions about so many things? And how long will this series last if she continues to exhibit so many TSTL characteristics? I will probably read the next book in the series, but unless Dodie starts to behave more sensibly and responsibly, I will most likely not continue beyond that.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Once again, I was disappointed to learn that this is *not the first book in the series, as I am a read-in-order person, and nothing was posted to indicate that this is the second in a series. There were a lot of references to what I suspect are events from the first book in the series, which were confusing and left holes in the story.
That said, once I filled in the gaps with my own backstory, I liked the book, despite the presence of several of my pet peeves. How often can Dodie disappear from the restaurant she's supposed to be managing before it starts to affect her work? Why does she jump to so many conclusions about so many things? And how long will this series last if she continues to exhibit so many TSTL characteristics? I will probably read the next book in the series, but unless Dodie starts to behave more sensibly and responsibly, I will most likely not continue beyond that.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 13, 2016
Time Out is the second book in Suzanne Trauth’s Dodie O'Dell Mystery series. This book is fast paced and the characters are well developed. Ms. Trauth has succeeded in writing a wonderfully crafted whodunit that became a page-turner. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick, easy read. This is a clean cozy mystery featuring no gratuitous sex, violence, or foul language. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well-crafted cozy mystery.
Dodie O’Dell is lives in the quaint community of Etonville and is the manager of Windjammer, a local restaurant, and helps her friends at the Etonville Little Theater. Dodie has created theme menus that complement the plays that are performed at the community theater. The theater has hired a guest director, Antonio Digenza, and the cast will be performing Arsenic and Old Lace. On the first day of the weekend food festival, Antonio drops dead and rumors start flying that he died from food poisoning from Windjammer’s food. Dodie knows their food wasn’t tainted but fears the restaurant’s reputation will be irreparably damaged and, much to Police Chief, Bill Thompson’s displeasure she starts asking questions and investigating on her own. Dodie discovers secrets and uncovers a lot of clues.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Dodie O’Dell is lives in the quaint community of Etonville and is the manager of Windjammer, a local restaurant, and helps her friends at the Etonville Little Theater. Dodie has created theme menus that complement the plays that are performed at the community theater. The theater has hired a guest director, Antonio Digenza, and the cast will be performing Arsenic and Old Lace. On the first day of the weekend food festival, Antonio drops dead and rumors start flying that he died from food poisoning from Windjammer’s food. Dodie knows their food wasn’t tainted but fears the restaurant’s reputation will be irreparably damaged and, much to Police Chief, Bill Thompson’s displeasure she starts asking questions and investigating on her own. Dodie discovers secrets and uncovers a lot of clues.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
November 16, 2016
This is an interesting series. The main character is likeable and the story is well written. There isn't one specific part of the story that I enjoy, I think it's more of the book as a whole. It weaves a fun story about life in a small town, a comical cast of amateur sleuths and of course, Murder!
Dodie is the manager of a local restaurant and she seems to always find herself in the thick of things.
When a guest director drops dead, Dodie is in fear of the restaurant's reputation being damaged. She investigates and finds herself in some wild predicaments.
I think most cozy fans will enjoy this series. It is fast paced and the characters make this an entertaining story.
I read an ARC of this book voluntarily. I was provided a copy of the book by the publisher via NetGalley.
Dodie is the manager of a local restaurant and she seems to always find herself in the thick of things.
When a guest director drops dead, Dodie is in fear of the restaurant's reputation being damaged. She investigates and finds herself in some wild predicaments.
I think most cozy fans will enjoy this series. It is fast paced and the characters make this an entertaining story.
I read an ARC of this book voluntarily. I was provided a copy of the book by the publisher via NetGalley.
January 30, 2017
Dodie, oh my new dear friend. You got yourself in a humdinger this time. She is seriously one of the best cozy characters I have come across. She has a sass and at the same time charm that will make the readers fall in love with her. Her friends, and the secondary characters add to her charm, I love when I read a book that gives such support to the primary sleuth in the book. Suzanne, you wrote her well. I think that theater mysteries are the crimes for 2017. And I am not complaining, the scene and the crime were delightful, I really enjoyed it. This book was fun, and so enjoyable that I can’t wait to read Suzanne’s next book. And I can’t wait to be partner in crime with Dodie.
December 21, 2017
For complete review check out my blog at https://booksaplentybookreviews.blogs...
August 23, 2017
Title: Time Out - Dodie O'Dell Mystery Book 2
Author: Suzanne Trauth
Publisher: Kensington Books
Published: 1-17-2017
Pages: 242
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Sub-Genre: Suspense, Women's Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Women's Fiction, Amateur Sleuths, Culinary Mystery
ISBN: 9781601837219
ASIN: B01DDEQ2N1W6
Reviewed For NetGalley and Kensington Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.25 Stars
The amateur actors at the Etonville Little Theatre may be known for chewing the scenery, but restaurant manager Dodie O’Dell has something more appetizing for them to sink their teeth into. She’s been taking bows in her small New Jersey town for her theme menus, designed to complement the local productions. This fall, the community theatre is staging Arsenic and Old Lace, set in 1940s Brooklyn, so Dodie is serving up hot dogs, Italian ices, egg creams, and knishes at the weekend food festival.
All is going well until Antonio Digenza, the ex-Off-Off-Broadway director of the show, dies dramatically while noshing on a knish. As rumors of food poisoning quickly spread, Dodie scrambles to rescue the Windjammer restaurant’s reputation. But when clues point to foul play, she’s faced with a cast of suspects all auditioning for the part of DiGenza’s murderer. She’ll need to act fast to shine a spotlight on the killer—before it’s curtains for another victim . .
Once Again Dodie is on the case showing her wit, intelligence and humor. The director's death while eating Dodie's food put a shadow on her and her restaurant gets her dander up. Checking out suspects place her in sights of a killer. The race is on to identify the killer before the final curtain is called on Dodie.
Well written story, that moves quickly and smoothly. Characters that multidimensional and interesting. A great way to spend an lazy afternoon.
My rating of "Time Out - Dodie O'Dell Mystery Book 2" is 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/time...
B&N Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EQ2N1W6/...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Time-O...
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/time...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Suzanne Trauth
Publisher: Kensington Books
Published: 1-17-2017
Pages: 242
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Sub-Genre: Suspense, Women's Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Women's Fiction, Amateur Sleuths, Culinary Mystery
ISBN: 9781601837219
ASIN: B01DDEQ2N1W6
Reviewed For NetGalley and Kensington Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.25 Stars
The amateur actors at the Etonville Little Theatre may be known for chewing the scenery, but restaurant manager Dodie O’Dell has something more appetizing for them to sink their teeth into. She’s been taking bows in her small New Jersey town for her theme menus, designed to complement the local productions. This fall, the community theatre is staging Arsenic and Old Lace, set in 1940s Brooklyn, so Dodie is serving up hot dogs, Italian ices, egg creams, and knishes at the weekend food festival.
All is going well until Antonio Digenza, the ex-Off-Off-Broadway director of the show, dies dramatically while noshing on a knish. As rumors of food poisoning quickly spread, Dodie scrambles to rescue the Windjammer restaurant’s reputation. But when clues point to foul play, she’s faced with a cast of suspects all auditioning for the part of DiGenza’s murderer. She’ll need to act fast to shine a spotlight on the killer—before it’s curtains for another victim . .
Once Again Dodie is on the case showing her wit, intelligence and humor. The director's death while eating Dodie's food put a shadow on her and her restaurant gets her dander up. Checking out suspects place her in sights of a killer. The race is on to identify the killer before the final curtain is called on Dodie.
Well written story, that moves quickly and smoothly. Characters that multidimensional and interesting. A great way to spend an lazy afternoon.
My rating of "Time Out - Dodie O'Dell Mystery Book 2" is 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/time...
B&N Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EQ2N1W6/...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Time-O...
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/time...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
February 6, 2017
Time Out is the second book in a new series. I absolutely loved it. Dodie is a wonderful cozy mystery heroine and her other cast of characters make the book a super fun read.
I read a lot of cozy mysteries, and I always look for something new and different when it comes to our amateur sleuths and Dodie is really different. She's a restaurant manager for her uncle's restaurant the Windjammer.
The death in this book doesn't really totally affect Dodie either, though at the beginning it looked like the victim might have suffered from food poisoning. What really surprised me was that it wasn't until the book was all but over that Bill, the police chief learns that there was more to Antonio's death than just a heart attack.
Antonio's the director of the community theater that is putting on Arsenic and Old Lace. He also has enough people that might want him dead and includes a couple of ex wives. His death has the whole community theater in an uproar to the point where they might not put the show on.
It was a fun story, and Dodie is one of the smarter cozy heroines that I've encountered, though I had a hard time figuring out why she involved herself so much in mystery, that wasn't a mystery, to the point where she was leaving her job at all times. Unlike most cozies, she doesn't own the Windjammer, her uncle does and he's the cook, and for someone that is crabby most of the time, I couldn't figure out why he didn't get on her case at all.
Honey was another strange character. She's another niece of Henry's and she sometimes seems to be muscling in on Dodie's job, but then she wants to go back to school too. She's an odd young woman.
When Dodie starts uncovering things in Antonio's past, that's when the story really gets interesting. Antonio definitely isn't a guy that you could like.
I definitely want to go back and read the first book in the series, because I'd like learn more about some of the secondary characters, and I definitely want to see what happens to Dodie and Bill.
I read a lot of cozy mysteries, and I always look for something new and different when it comes to our amateur sleuths and Dodie is really different. She's a restaurant manager for her uncle's restaurant the Windjammer.
The death in this book doesn't really totally affect Dodie either, though at the beginning it looked like the victim might have suffered from food poisoning. What really surprised me was that it wasn't until the book was all but over that Bill, the police chief learns that there was more to Antonio's death than just a heart attack.
Antonio's the director of the community theater that is putting on Arsenic and Old Lace. He also has enough people that might want him dead and includes a couple of ex wives. His death has the whole community theater in an uproar to the point where they might not put the show on.
It was a fun story, and Dodie is one of the smarter cozy heroines that I've encountered, though I had a hard time figuring out why she involved herself so much in mystery, that wasn't a mystery, to the point where she was leaving her job at all times. Unlike most cozies, she doesn't own the Windjammer, her uncle does and he's the cook, and for someone that is crabby most of the time, I couldn't figure out why he didn't get on her case at all.
Honey was another strange character. She's another niece of Henry's and she sometimes seems to be muscling in on Dodie's job, but then she wants to go back to school too. She's an odd young woman.
When Dodie starts uncovering things in Antonio's past, that's when the story really gets interesting. Antonio definitely isn't a guy that you could like.
I definitely want to go back and read the first book in the series, because I'd like learn more about some of the secondary characters, and I definitely want to see what happens to Dodie and Bill.
February 2, 2017
TIME OUT by Suzanne Trauth
The Second Dodie O'Dell Mystery
With a continued partnership with the Etonville Little Theatre Dodie O'Dell's latest idea is an outdoor food festival with a 1940s Brooklyn theme to correspond with the play, Arsenic and Old Lace. As usual, the theatre is having its own issues, especially with guest director, Antonio Digenza, and his young wife, Tiffany. Dodie is having issues of her own between Henry's niece, Honey "helping" at the restaurant and wondering if she has a relationship with the Chief of Police or not. But when Antonio drops dead after eating a plateful of festival food, both restaurant and theatrical production may be kaput, even if it wasn't the knishes that did him in!
When the hairs on the back of her neck stand up Dodie O'Dell knows that something's wrong. Those hairs stood up a few times in this second Dodie O'Dell Mystery. TIME OUT is a story and a mystery about relationships. Dodie's new relationship with Henry's niece, Honey, is one frustrating affiliation as is the confusing relationship she has with Etonville's busy Chief of Police. There's also the relationship between the Windjammer restaurant and the Etonville Little Theatre (ELT), Dodie's relationship with the theatre members, and their relationships with each other. Trauth brings in new blood to the ELT in the form of guest director, Antonio Digenza, and his young wife. Antonio's relationships are key to the mystery itself!
TIME OUT provides a satisfying second act to the Dodie O'Dell Mystery series. Well rounded characters, plenty of humor, and an intimate look at community theatre and family restaurants enhance the mystery. So grab a black and white cookie, but perhaps pass on the elderberry wine, and take your own time out to enjoy this delightful mystery.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
The Second Dodie O'Dell Mystery
With a continued partnership with the Etonville Little Theatre Dodie O'Dell's latest idea is an outdoor food festival with a 1940s Brooklyn theme to correspond with the play, Arsenic and Old Lace. As usual, the theatre is having its own issues, especially with guest director, Antonio Digenza, and his young wife, Tiffany. Dodie is having issues of her own between Henry's niece, Honey "helping" at the restaurant and wondering if she has a relationship with the Chief of Police or not. But when Antonio drops dead after eating a plateful of festival food, both restaurant and theatrical production may be kaput, even if it wasn't the knishes that did him in!
When the hairs on the back of her neck stand up Dodie O'Dell knows that something's wrong. Those hairs stood up a few times in this second Dodie O'Dell Mystery. TIME OUT is a story and a mystery about relationships. Dodie's new relationship with Henry's niece, Honey, is one frustrating affiliation as is the confusing relationship she has with Etonville's busy Chief of Police. There's also the relationship between the Windjammer restaurant and the Etonville Little Theatre (ELT), Dodie's relationship with the theatre members, and their relationships with each other. Trauth brings in new blood to the ELT in the form of guest director, Antonio Digenza, and his young wife. Antonio's relationships are key to the mystery itself!
TIME OUT provides a satisfying second act to the Dodie O'Dell Mystery series. Well rounded characters, plenty of humor, and an intimate look at community theatre and family restaurants enhance the mystery. So grab a black and white cookie, but perhaps pass on the elderberry wine, and take your own time out to enjoy this delightful mystery.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
October 1, 2017
"Time Out" was my first book by Suzanne Trauth.
This cozy murder mystery is about restaurant manager and amateur detective Dodie O'Dell. Dodie's character is likable enough for you to keep reading, she's funny and inquisitive. Most of her escapades are questionable but you keep reading to see where she is heading even when little reality checks click in your head telling you that no one would do some of the things she does.
Maybe because I didn't read the first book, I don't have a true feel for all of the towns cast of characters, from Dodie's best friend Lola to her love interest, Bill, the chief of police. I sometimes felt that there might be some background I'm missing that might may have been introduced in the first book.
I can't say that this was a cozy mystery that I just couldn't put down, but it was enjoyable enough for me to keep picking it up throughout my week to find out how things in Etonville turned out. I am sure I'll pick up another Dodie O'Dell Mystery to see where Dodie and Bill find themselves next.
This cozy murder mystery is about restaurant manager and amateur detective Dodie O'Dell. Dodie's character is likable enough for you to keep reading, she's funny and inquisitive. Most of her escapades are questionable but you keep reading to see where she is heading even when little reality checks click in your head telling you that no one would do some of the things she does.
Maybe because I didn't read the first book, I don't have a true feel for all of the towns cast of characters, from Dodie's best friend Lola to her love interest, Bill, the chief of police. I sometimes felt that there might be some background I'm missing that might may have been introduced in the first book.
I can't say that this was a cozy mystery that I just couldn't put down, but it was enjoyable enough for me to keep picking it up throughout my week to find out how things in Etonville turned out. I am sure I'll pick up another Dodie O'Dell Mystery to see where Dodie and Bill find themselves next.
December 1, 2016
From reading this story I noticed lots of mentions to a previous case and other things so I'm guessing it's not the first in the series. But enough information is given that it makes this story work without reading anything more than this book as a stand alone. The cast of characters are real characters! I don't know which one was my favorite quirky character. But that's a good thing. It keeps things entertaining. There was enough going on that it kept you guessing.
February 8, 2020
I was left with a huge smile 😃 on my face at the end. It was intense😧 at times and I couldn't wait to breath again when they were over but I wouldn't change a single word. I loved 💖 that the second book was as good as the first.
November 12, 2021
Another cosy mystery featuring a female entrepreneur. This one involves a restaurant catering to an amateur theatre event. When the director dies dramatically of apparent food poisoning chaos ensues
May 10, 2017
A fun read with well developed characters.
Lots of believable individuals. And enough possible suslects to keep me guessing. A good book to curl up with on a cold night.
Lots of believable individuals. And enough possible suslects to keep me guessing. A good book to curl up with on a cold night.
August 8, 2017
Great book
April 16, 2023
Just as good, if not better than the first one! Really like all the characters and the plot twists.
I always try to read mysteries that take place in a theater. This is a great series.
I always try to read mysteries that take place in a theater. This is a great series.
November 22, 2024
DNF at 10%. Just ugh.
December 12, 2016
Time Out is the second installment in the Dodie O'Dell Mystery series featuring Dorothy "Dodie" O'Dell set in the small town of Etonville, New Jersey. Dodie has settled into her job managing the popular Windjammer eatery, calming owner Henry's frazzled nerves and spending time with the Etonville Little Theater actors.
As the Theater cast prepares for the opening of Arsenic and Old Lace, Dodie has organized the weekend food festival to correspond with the play and is offering up old style Brooklyn foods including Italian ices and knishes. When guest director Antonio Digenza suddenly drops dead after eating a knish suspicions swirl that food poisoning was the cause. In an effort to save the Windjammer's reputation Dodie sets out to not only find out what killed the director but who was responsible.
A rash of burglaries in the next town of Creston has Police Chief Bill Thompson too busy to listen to Dodie's theories so, with the help of best friend and artistic director of the theater Lola Tripper, Dodie soon discovers that Antonio had a shady past that included 3 wives and a long rap sheet for scamming the elderly. Between trying to find Antonio's killer and keeping the theater cast from fighting, Dodie also has her hands full with Henry's niece Honey who has come to intern at the restaurant for the semester.
An interesting cast of characters, a tight knit small community and a touch of romance keep the storyline moving. I'm not sure how many more murders the author can get away with committing at the theatre, nor how Dodie can manage to keep her job at the Windjammer as she is hardly ever there working, so I hope that Dodie and her friends will branch out in the future.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley via Lyrical Underground (a division of Kensington Publishing). While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
As the Theater cast prepares for the opening of Arsenic and Old Lace, Dodie has organized the weekend food festival to correspond with the play and is offering up old style Brooklyn foods including Italian ices and knishes. When guest director Antonio Digenza suddenly drops dead after eating a knish suspicions swirl that food poisoning was the cause. In an effort to save the Windjammer's reputation Dodie sets out to not only find out what killed the director but who was responsible.
A rash of burglaries in the next town of Creston has Police Chief Bill Thompson too busy to listen to Dodie's theories so, with the help of best friend and artistic director of the theater Lola Tripper, Dodie soon discovers that Antonio had a shady past that included 3 wives and a long rap sheet for scamming the elderly. Between trying to find Antonio's killer and keeping the theater cast from fighting, Dodie also has her hands full with Henry's niece Honey who has come to intern at the restaurant for the semester.
An interesting cast of characters, a tight knit small community and a touch of romance keep the storyline moving. I'm not sure how many more murders the author can get away with committing at the theatre, nor how Dodie can manage to keep her job at the Windjammer as she is hardly ever there working, so I hope that Dodie and her friends will branch out in the future.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley via Lyrical Underground (a division of Kensington Publishing). While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
February 7, 2017
In Time Out, the second book in the Dodie O'Dell Mystery series, author Suzanne Trauth weaves an intriguing cozy mystery tale that easily draws the reader into following Windjammer restaurant manager Dodie O'Dell's latest amateur sleuth adventure. Dodie and best friend Lola Tripper, artistic director of the Etonville Little Theatre, try to uncover who murdered Antonio Digenza, visiting theater director, who died after eating a knish prepared by Windjammer restaurant. With rumors of food poisoning swirling around the town, Dodie is determined to find the killer and save the restaurant's reputation.
Rich in detail and vivid descriptions, the story takes place in the quaint small northern New Jersey town of Etonville, nestled in the shadow of New York City. This entertaining and fast-paced whodunit tale will keep you engaged as you turn the pages following along with Dodie's latest investigative adventure. You can't help but get caught up in the drama and calamity that ensues as Dodie and Lola try to solve the murder, while dealing with a zany mixture of restaurant, community theatre, and romance drama.
Time Out has a quirky cast of characters, and a wonderful balance of comedy, drama, secrets, intriguing twists and turns, clues, conspiracy theories, and a growing list of suspects that will keep you guessing and wanting more.
Time Out is an entertaining cozy murder mystery that will engage you to join in the crazy adventures and trials and tribulations that occur, while providing you with an intriguing mystery to solve.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Great Escapes Virtual Book Tour.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Rich in detail and vivid descriptions, the story takes place in the quaint small northern New Jersey town of Etonville, nestled in the shadow of New York City. This entertaining and fast-paced whodunit tale will keep you engaged as you turn the pages following along with Dodie's latest investigative adventure. You can't help but get caught up in the drama and calamity that ensues as Dodie and Lola try to solve the murder, while dealing with a zany mixture of restaurant, community theatre, and romance drama.
Time Out has a quirky cast of characters, and a wonderful balance of comedy, drama, secrets, intriguing twists and turns, clues, conspiracy theories, and a growing list of suspects that will keep you guessing and wanting more.
Time Out is an entertaining cozy murder mystery that will engage you to join in the crazy adventures and trials and tribulations that occur, while providing you with an intriguing mystery to solve.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Great Escapes Virtual Book Tour.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
February 11, 2017
I did find it easier to follow who is or was who and certain relationships between them because I had read the previous book in this series. I have a soft spot for community theatre and the off-beat, quirky kind of personalities that tend to gather there. It is a continuous love-hate family sort of feel.
As in the previous book, the production has not even opened before tragedy strikes.
This time the crime and resultant rumor tries to ruin not only the production but also the diner by association. Dodie can't help herself and finds her imagination running away with itself as she digs for clues. Some things she uncovers she wishes she never learned and naturally puts herself in danger.
It is not a complicated mystery but a comfortable diversionary read with romantic conflict included.
As in the previous book, the production has not even opened before tragedy strikes.
This time the crime and resultant rumor tries to ruin not only the production but also the diner by association. Dodie can't help herself and finds her imagination running away with itself as she digs for clues. Some things she uncovers she wishes she never learned and naturally puts herself in danger.
It is not a complicated mystery but a comfortable diversionary read with romantic conflict included.
February 5, 2017
This is a great book; this is the second book in the Dodie O’Dell Mystery series written by Suzanne Trauth. The amateur actors at the Etonville Little Theatre may be known for chewing the scenery, but restaurant manager Dodie O’Dell has something more appetizing for them to sink their teeth into. She’s been taking bows in her small New Jersey town for her theme menus, designed to complement the local productions. This fall, the community theatre is staging Arsenic and Old Lace, set in 1940s Brooklyn, so Dodie is serving up hot dogs, Italian ices, egg creams, and knishes at the weekend food festival. All is going well until Antonio Digenza, the ex-Off-Off-Broadway director of the show, dies dramatically while noshing on a knish. As rumors of food poisoning quickly spread, Dodie scrambles to rescue the Windjammer restaurant’s reputation. But when clues point to foul play, she’s faced with a cast of suspects all auditioning for the part of DiGenza’s murderer.This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. If you are looking for a great book, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
February 5, 2017
Time Out is the second book in the Dodie O'Dell Mystery series. This book was a slow starter but once you hang in you will not be disappointed. The characters are well developed and the story line, once it starts to move, is beautifully written and executed throughout the story. I love a good mystery, especially one that centers around a strong group of harriers and this book does that in spades. What is great about this book is that the author wasn't rushed, there is not a lot of jumping from one sub mystery to the next as you often find. If you are looking for a good, easy read, look no further.
February 6, 2017
Dodie O'dell works at her uncle Henry's restaurant Windjammer and when the director of the new play in town dies, everyone suspects of food poisoning. She will do everything in her hands to recover the restaurant's good name, even if she has to put her life in danger!
While we discover the inhabitants of this small village, we start to meet Dodie's friends and neighbours, while she tries to discover the killer of the famous director. Sadly no one believes that Antonio has been killed, so Dodie will have to investigate this mystery on her own, facing some dangerous situations an a few threats to her life...
It's quite a mystery the one we have in this book, but the most important thing is if Dodie has any chances with the handsome chief Bill... we can see some sparks between them, but of course we want more!
I enjoyed this book, but I would love to learn some of the few recipes they made in the restaurant, they seem delicious!
Ready for Arsenic and Old Lace?
While we discover the inhabitants of this small village, we start to meet Dodie's friends and neighbours, while she tries to discover the killer of the famous director. Sadly no one believes that Antonio has been killed, so Dodie will have to investigate this mystery on her own, facing some dangerous situations an a few threats to her life...
It's quite a mystery the one we have in this book, but the most important thing is if Dodie has any chances with the handsome chief Bill... we can see some sparks between them, but of course we want more!
I enjoyed this book, but I would love to learn some of the few recipes they made in the restaurant, they seem delicious!
Ready for Arsenic and Old Lace?
February 4, 2017
Book 2 in the series.
I like Dodie, and the way the restaurant she runs does a "dinner and a show" along with the local theater group. But I felt a little disappointed in this book. Dodie's "love interest," police chief Bill, is busy with a rash of burglaries, and doesn't seem too interested in a suspicious death (?! I would have thought a death would take priority, but what do I know?) or Dodie, for that matter.
All in all, I enjoyed this book, but felt there was a bit more filler than needed, which made the story drag a little at times. I still like the quirky characters and look forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I like Dodie, and the way the restaurant she runs does a "dinner and a show" along with the local theater group. But I felt a little disappointed in this book. Dodie's "love interest," police chief Bill, is busy with a rash of burglaries, and doesn't seem too interested in a suspicious death (?! I would have thought a death would take priority, but what do I know?) or Dodie, for that matter.
All in all, I enjoyed this book, but felt there was a bit more filler than needed, which made the story drag a little at times. I still like the quirky characters and look forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
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