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Devereaux's Dime Store #6
Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My
From the New York Times bestselling author of Between a Book and a Hard Place comes the latest Devereaux's Dime Store Mystery--and it packs a bite.
Opening up a dime store in her hometown of Shadow Bend, Missouri, Devereaux "Dev" Sinclair thought she'd left the wilds of city life behind her. But she's about to discover that even rural life can be beastly. . .
Handsome private investigator Jake Del Vecchio has rented the office space on the second floor above Devereaux's dime store, and Dev now finds herself embroiled in his first case, which involves Gabriella Winston, the missing wife of wealthy philanthropist Elliot Winston.
Elliot is determined to open a wildlife park on the edge of town but is facing all sorts of angry opposition--including Gabriella. After the Winstons have a bitter fight, Gabriella disappears, and their house is ransacked. The authorities are quick to claim Elliot killed his wife, but Dev's not so sure. One thing is certain: Claws are out in Shadow Bend. . . .
Opening up a dime store in her hometown of Shadow Bend, Missouri, Devereaux "Dev" Sinclair thought she'd left the wilds of city life behind her. But she's about to discover that even rural life can be beastly. . .
Handsome private investigator Jake Del Vecchio has rented the office space on the second floor above Devereaux's dime store, and Dev now finds herself embroiled in his first case, which involves Gabriella Winston, the missing wife of wealthy philanthropist Elliot Winston.
Elliot is determined to open a wildlife park on the edge of town but is facing all sorts of angry opposition--including Gabriella. After the Winstons have a bitter fight, Gabriella disappears, and their house is ransacked. The authorities are quick to claim Elliot killed his wife, but Dev's not so sure. One thing is certain: Claws are out in Shadow Bend. . . .
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published July 4, 2017
47 people are currently reading
406 people want to read
About the author
Denise Swanson
69 books1,129 followersDenise Swanson lives in rural Illinois with her husband, classical composer David Stybr.
After 22 years as a practicing school psychologist, she's happiest sitting in her scree porch reading. However, when the weather turns too cold, she's willing to leave the Midwest to cruise the sunny Caribbean.
Denise is an animal lover, but her home is currently furless, since her kitty of 20 years passed away in August of 2016. Instead, she enjoys watching the wildlife out her office window.
After 22 years as a practicing school psychologist, she's happiest sitting in her scree porch reading. However, when the weather turns too cold, she's willing to leave the Midwest to cruise the sunny Caribbean.
Denise is an animal lover, but her home is currently furless, since her kitty of 20 years passed away in August of 2016. Instead, she enjoys watching the wildlife out her office window.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
March 28, 2024
Jake Del Vecchio’s first case as a private investigator is for looking for Gabriella. She is the missing wife of wealthy Elliot Winston who employs Jake to find her. Elliott is determined to open a wildlife park near the town but is striking opposition and that is coming from Gabriella among plenty of others. Is the disappearance of Gabriella linked to that opposition? Has she been abducted or is the chief of police right and Elliot has murdered his wife? Jake and his lady love Devereux , who he calls in to help investigate, are not sure. Meanwhile Dev has a decision to make. She has two men in love with her. Dr Noah Underwood, is a crush from her younger days and Jake who has rented the office space above Dev’s dime store . How can she decide between them?
This is book 6 in the Dime store mystery series but it reads fine as a stand alone.
This cosy mystery has a gently humorous tone and likeable main characters which makes for easy reading along with the mystery of what happened with Gabriella. A few interesting secondary characters as well with Boone, Poppy, and Dev’s father who has been in prison but is now working in her shop. And nice to see a police officer in Chief Kincaid, who is not antagonistic to a private investigator but can cooperate and work together.
This is a fun read and happy to read more by this author. Very enjoyable and recommended for cosy fans , just might have to investigate more in this series.
This is book 6 in the Dime store mystery series but it reads fine as a stand alone.
This cosy mystery has a gently humorous tone and likeable main characters which makes for easy reading along with the mystery of what happened with Gabriella. A few interesting secondary characters as well with Boone, Poppy, and Dev’s father who has been in prison but is now working in her shop. And nice to see a police officer in Chief Kincaid, who is not antagonistic to a private investigator but can cooperate and work together.
This is a fun read and happy to read more by this author. Very enjoyable and recommended for cosy fans , just might have to investigate more in this series.
August 31, 2017
This is a really fun series. It’s one that you can easily see yourself living in town and being friends with Dev and the rest of her friends. Denise Swanson has a spectacular way of writing. She makes her characters and their actions realistic. The characters are three-dimensional, and we know Dev the best as we see the world through her eyes. One thing I appreciate is the reality check – Dev sees herself with generous curves and Jake and Noah love her as she is. Thank you, Denise Swanson, for a character that many women, including myself, can identify with! The love triangle is Dev’s biggest challenge …which one is her Mr. Right? Hopefully she will decide soon. Her best friends Poppy and Boone are interesting supporting characters. The years of friendship between them complicated by secrets adds another level to the mystery. This book has plenty of suspense, a tricky mystery, a red herring or two, a bit of romance, quirky characters, and humor. I guarantee lots of laugh out loud moments. The ending is very satisfying with every loose end tied. I highly recommend Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My!
July 29, 2017
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Jake Del Vecchio has rented space above Devereaux “Dev” Sinclair’s store for his private eye business. He has even encouraged her to get her P.I. license because they work so well together. They also get along very well every other time they are together too and Jake hopes she will make up her mind soon on whether she wants to be with him or Dr. Noah Underwood. Jake plans to spend as much time as possible with Dev.
When Sheriff Kincade send him his first case he asks Dev to help with investigation. It is an interesting case, Elliot Winston has reported his wife missing but he seems ore concerned about his new wildlife park project. The police think he probably killed his wife or she just took off to get away from her husband because she opposed him spending money on such a pipe dream, Dev and Jake think there is more to the story.
Devereaux “Dev” Sinclair is a wonderful protagonist. A woman with “curves”, beautiful inside and out. She and her father are getting closer every day. I love that he works for her at the dime store and that he is getting more comfortable since his release from prison for a crime he didn’t commit. Her mother is off again trying to find yet another husband but Dev just wants to be sure to choose the right man this time. Is she ready to give her heart again?
Growing up in a small town with a dime store and a drug store with a soda fountain makes it super easy for me to picture Devereaux’s Dime Store and Gift Baskets. The author’s descriptions fill in all the blanks. I enjoy hearing about her gift baskets and laughed out load at her “Naughty” and “Nice” Halloween displays. My mouth waters when she describes all the treats Dev serves including the ones she brings in for the special group meetings. She has turned her store into a fantastic community gathering place, a place where she can listen and ask questions to help her learn interesting things about her current case.
The current case has many twists. I changed my mind more than twice on how I thought the story was going to play out and was not disappointed, it was one bizarre ending. I absolutely love it.
The mystery and the romance get equal time in the story and blend together perfectly. This is my favorite book in the series!!
Mystery, romance, drama and humor abroad within in these pages. Don’t miss out on the fun.
Jake Del Vecchio has rented space above Devereaux “Dev” Sinclair’s store for his private eye business. He has even encouraged her to get her P.I. license because they work so well together. They also get along very well every other time they are together too and Jake hopes she will make up her mind soon on whether she wants to be with him or Dr. Noah Underwood. Jake plans to spend as much time as possible with Dev.
When Sheriff Kincade send him his first case he asks Dev to help with investigation. It is an interesting case, Elliot Winston has reported his wife missing but he seems ore concerned about his new wildlife park project. The police think he probably killed his wife or she just took off to get away from her husband because she opposed him spending money on such a pipe dream, Dev and Jake think there is more to the story.
Devereaux “Dev” Sinclair is a wonderful protagonist. A woman with “curves”, beautiful inside and out. She and her father are getting closer every day. I love that he works for her at the dime store and that he is getting more comfortable since his release from prison for a crime he didn’t commit. Her mother is off again trying to find yet another husband but Dev just wants to be sure to choose the right man this time. Is she ready to give her heart again?
Growing up in a small town with a dime store and a drug store with a soda fountain makes it super easy for me to picture Devereaux’s Dime Store and Gift Baskets. The author’s descriptions fill in all the blanks. I enjoy hearing about her gift baskets and laughed out load at her “Naughty” and “Nice” Halloween displays. My mouth waters when she describes all the treats Dev serves including the ones she brings in for the special group meetings. She has turned her store into a fantastic community gathering place, a place where she can listen and ask questions to help her learn interesting things about her current case.
The current case has many twists. I changed my mind more than twice on how I thought the story was going to play out and was not disappointed, it was one bizarre ending. I absolutely love it.
The mystery and the romance get equal time in the story and blend together perfectly. This is my favorite book in the series!!
Mystery, romance, drama and humor abroad within in these pages. Don’t miss out on the fun.
July 4, 2017
Devereaux has let Jake rent a room above her store so he can open his private investigators office. When he gets his first case, a missing person, he asks Dev if she would like to help in the investigation. Now that her dad is working at the store she is able to leap in and help Jake solve the mystery. Noah is upset because of all the extra time Jake gets to spend with Dev now that his business is above her store and wonders if she is leaning toward choosing him. Meanwhile Dev continues to have inner conflict over which guy she should choose. She knows a choice needs to be made but who is the right one? Dev has so much going on: her friend Poppy is acting funny, her dad seems to be dating, and trying to decide between two guys is tough. With all this going on will she be able to help Jake find out what happened to Mrs. Winston? She so wants to find out what is wrong with Poppy and is it okay that her father dating? Dive in and find out!!! I was genuinely happy with this new book and would most definitely recommend it.
July 9, 2017
Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My by Denise Swanson is the sixth book in A Deveraux’s Dime Store Mystery series. Deveraux Sinclair lives in Shadow Bend, Missouri where she owns and runs Devereaux’s Dime Store and Gift Baskets. It is October and Deveraux is working on her Halloween display when a man comes into the store looking for Jake Del Vecchio who is renting office space above Deveraux’s store for his PI practice (and he can see more of Deveraux this way). Elliot Winston is looking for his missing wife, Gabriella. Gabriella disappeared leaving behind her wallet, cellphone, car and clothing. The police are not convinced it is a kidnapping and have referred Elliot to Jake. Elliot has heard about Deveraux’s sleuthing skills and wants to enlist her help as well. Elliot is trying to open a wildlife park on land he owns outside town and his wife (along with many townspeople) object to his venture. Then Elliot receives a ransom demand. Jake and Deveraux set out to catch the kidnapper and return Gabriella to her husband. Jake takes the case and is happy to be spending time with Deveraux. Dr. Noah Underwood, Deveraux’s other love interest, is less than thrilled. When Jake asks Deveraux to go on a weekend getaway, Deveraux knows it is time to make a choice between the two men in her life. Poppy Kincaid had another brouhaha with her father, Chief Eldridge Kincaid. It is time for the them to mend the fences, and Deveraux sets out to bring them together. She is the perfect mediator since she has a good relationship with both parties. Just another ordinary week for Deveraux Sinclair!
Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My contains well-developed characters. Deveraux is a unique woman who has intelligence, determination, loyalty, and good family values. I thought the novel contained good writing, had a nice pace and was easy to read. This cozy mystery is lively and absorbing. While Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My is the sixth book in this series, it can be read alone. All the background details are mixed in with the story. I do, though, recommend each book in the series. I am rating Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My 4 out of 5 stars. The romance element was more prevailing in this book than in others in the series. There are dinner dates and a couple of steamy make out sessions (along with lustful thoughts). I am happy that the love triangle is finally resolved (sorry I do not want to spoil it for you)! There is some mild foul language that I wish the author had no included (it is not needed). The mystery was not challenging. Most readers will solve it long before the reveal. Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My has all the cozy elements that make for an engaging cozy mystery novel. There is family, humor, friends, small town charm, romance, a mystery, and good characters. The story with a cliffhanger that has me looking forward to the next A Deveraux’s Dime Story Mystery tale.
Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My contains well-developed characters. Deveraux is a unique woman who has intelligence, determination, loyalty, and good family values. I thought the novel contained good writing, had a nice pace and was easy to read. This cozy mystery is lively and absorbing. While Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My is the sixth book in this series, it can be read alone. All the background details are mixed in with the story. I do, though, recommend each book in the series. I am rating Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My 4 out of 5 stars. The romance element was more prevailing in this book than in others in the series. There are dinner dates and a couple of steamy make out sessions (along with lustful thoughts). I am happy that the love triangle is finally resolved (sorry I do not want to spoil it for you)! There is some mild foul language that I wish the author had no included (it is not needed). The mystery was not challenging. Most readers will solve it long before the reveal. Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My has all the cozy elements that make for an engaging cozy mystery novel. There is family, humor, friends, small town charm, romance, a mystery, and good characters. The story with a cliffhanger that has me looking forward to the next A Deveraux’s Dime Story Mystery tale.
July 14, 2017
Another great addition to the series.
December 16, 2020
Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My by Denise Swanson is the 6th book in the Devereaux's Dime Store mystery series. Jake and Devereaux are hired to find the missing wife of wealthy philanthropist Eliot Winston. I enjoyed this book very much and especially that we finally reach the end of the love triangle. The mystery was interesting but rather predictable and Jake and Devereaux make a great sleuthing team. An enjoyable and engaging mystery.
July 7, 2017
This was a good book in the dime store series. There is finally an end to her trying to decide with boyfriend she picks which made the book a lot better. PI Jake has rented the apartment above the dime store and his latest case is trying to find a missing wife. The police think the husband did it but Jake isn't so sure. Jake and Dev work together to find out what happened. I look forward to the next in the series.
September 4, 2017
The Dime Store Mysteries are always great reads, and this installment was just as fun! I figured out the villain, but loved seeing the plot unfold. No spoiler here, but fans of the series will be very happy!
June 12, 2018
Book 6 is clever and perfectly named. I enjoy this series because of the people in it and the Dime store setting plus I like how Dev and Jake work as a team. I am hoping there will be another book in the series.
July 30, 2017
http://openbooksociety.com/article/li...
Lions and Tigers and Murders, Oh My
Devereaux’s Dime Store, Book #6
By Denise Swanson
ISBN 9780451477774
Author’s website: www.deniseswanson.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
From the New York Times bestselling author of Between a Book and a Hard Place comes the latest Devereaux’s Dime Store Mystery–and it packs a bite.
Opening up a dime store in her hometown of Shadow Bend, Missouri, Devereaux “Dev” Sinclair thought she’d left the wilds of city life behind her. But she’s about to discover that even rural life can be beastly. . .
Handsome private investigator Jake Del Vecchio has rented the office space on the second floor above Devereaux’s dime store, and Dev now finds herself embroiled in his first case, which involves Gabriella Winston, the missing wife of wealthy philanthropist Elliot Winston.
Elliot is determined to open a wildlife park on the edge of town but is facing all sorts of angry opposition–including Gabriella. After the Winstons have a bitter fight, Gabriella disappears, and their house is ransacked. The authorities are quick to claim Elliot killed his wife, but Dev’s not so sure. One thing is certain: Claws are out in Shadow Bend.
Review:
There is so much I look forward to when reading a new book in the Devereaux’s’ Dime Store Mystery series and was definitely not disappointed in Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My! It is sixth in the series, and the author invites readers in as if it were their first visit, effortlessly re-introducing characters with an even more delightful tale than last time.
When Dev’s beloved grandmother seemed to be losing her memory a couple years ago, she left her career as a financial advisor and returned to her hometown. Dev is now the proud owner of Devereaux’s Dime Store, a unique shop with a variety of appealing items, exciting gift baskets, and a soda fountain. She provides space for various craft and other meeting groups and teens in this early 20th century decor building.
One of the biggest challenges Dev faces is making a decision about which of the two guys she has been dating for several months she will continue to see. While it isn’t an easy choice, as both men have a place in her heart, it is necessary. One is Noah, the hometown doctor, who she had dated in high school until her family imploded and he broke up with her. The other is Jake, a now-retired US Marshall who just opened a PI firm. He lives and also works on his great uncle Tony’s family ranch. To stir up the pot, Gran – Birdie – is dating Tony and roots for Dev to choose Jake. Both men have strong, positive traits, but if she compares them to things that don’t fit her lifestyle, hopefully one will stand head and shoulders over the other.
Jake has his first official client as a PI, sent to him by Police Chief Kincaid. Elliot Winston to see someone work and get results, and feels the police aren’t doing right by him. The very wealthy man’s beautiful wife Gabriella has gone missing. He wasn’t home when she disappeared, and the vandalism in the luxurious home almost appears staged. Dev went with Jake to the Winston home and noted that since her cell phone and other personal items were left out in plain sight, Gabriella probably didn’t leave voluntarily.
Jake and Dev each take a role in the search. Jake does much of the field work and Dev asks questions of her friends and people she knows in the craft groups. They are almost certain Gabriella was kidnapped, not murdered and disposed of by her hubby. Elliot, however, continues his “business as usual” meetings and a fundraiser for the wildlife refuge he has built and is trying to get zoning approval for. It will house animals that are injured and in need of care or abandoned – anything from llamas to big cats. Elliot has funded much of the endeavor, and Gabriella has been concerned that he is spending their considerable fortune on the refuge.
I like Dev and her best friends Poppy and Boone. They have been friends for many years and know almost everything about the other. Poppy seems to be hiding something now, however, that she refuses to talk about. The characters are three-dimensional, and we know Dev the best as we see the world through her eyes. One thing I appreciate is the reality check – Dev sees herself with generous curves and Jake loves her as she is. Love it!
Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My! Suspense, a tricky mystery, a red herring or three, a bit of romance, quirky characters, and humor. Lots of humor! These are but some of the things this reader loves in this mystery.
At first there seems to be only one suspect, but as Jake and Dev look at the clues, there may be others, such as those who don’t want Elliot to proceed with the wildlife refuge. If Elliot is guilty, he is certainly a convincing actor regarding his love for Gabriella. When the ransom note appears, the threat is very real. Noah is not thrilled about Dev working a case, much less with Jake, but is trying to stand by quietly. Jake, having seen her skills is more than happy to have her input.
This reader admits to not knows who the real bad guy/ gal might be but there came a point (for me) where it was clear before the truth was uncovered. The ending is very satisfying with every loose end tied. I highly recommend Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My to fans of this series and author, and those who like to laugh out loud between moments of suspense and drama.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review as part of their ongoing blog tour*
Lions and Tigers and Murders, Oh My
Devereaux’s Dime Store, Book #6
By Denise Swanson
ISBN 9780451477774
Author’s website: www.deniseswanson.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
From the New York Times bestselling author of Between a Book and a Hard Place comes the latest Devereaux’s Dime Store Mystery–and it packs a bite.
Opening up a dime store in her hometown of Shadow Bend, Missouri, Devereaux “Dev” Sinclair thought she’d left the wilds of city life behind her. But she’s about to discover that even rural life can be beastly. . .
Handsome private investigator Jake Del Vecchio has rented the office space on the second floor above Devereaux’s dime store, and Dev now finds herself embroiled in his first case, which involves Gabriella Winston, the missing wife of wealthy philanthropist Elliot Winston.
Elliot is determined to open a wildlife park on the edge of town but is facing all sorts of angry opposition–including Gabriella. After the Winstons have a bitter fight, Gabriella disappears, and their house is ransacked. The authorities are quick to claim Elliot killed his wife, but Dev’s not so sure. One thing is certain: Claws are out in Shadow Bend.
Review:
There is so much I look forward to when reading a new book in the Devereaux’s’ Dime Store Mystery series and was definitely not disappointed in Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My! It is sixth in the series, and the author invites readers in as if it were their first visit, effortlessly re-introducing characters with an even more delightful tale than last time.
When Dev’s beloved grandmother seemed to be losing her memory a couple years ago, she left her career as a financial advisor and returned to her hometown. Dev is now the proud owner of Devereaux’s Dime Store, a unique shop with a variety of appealing items, exciting gift baskets, and a soda fountain. She provides space for various craft and other meeting groups and teens in this early 20th century decor building.
One of the biggest challenges Dev faces is making a decision about which of the two guys she has been dating for several months she will continue to see. While it isn’t an easy choice, as both men have a place in her heart, it is necessary. One is Noah, the hometown doctor, who she had dated in high school until her family imploded and he broke up with her. The other is Jake, a now-retired US Marshall who just opened a PI firm. He lives and also works on his great uncle Tony’s family ranch. To stir up the pot, Gran – Birdie – is dating Tony and roots for Dev to choose Jake. Both men have strong, positive traits, but if she compares them to things that don’t fit her lifestyle, hopefully one will stand head and shoulders over the other.
Jake has his first official client as a PI, sent to him by Police Chief Kincaid. Elliot Winston to see someone work and get results, and feels the police aren’t doing right by him. The very wealthy man’s beautiful wife Gabriella has gone missing. He wasn’t home when she disappeared, and the vandalism in the luxurious home almost appears staged. Dev went with Jake to the Winston home and noted that since her cell phone and other personal items were left out in plain sight, Gabriella probably didn’t leave voluntarily.
Jake and Dev each take a role in the search. Jake does much of the field work and Dev asks questions of her friends and people she knows in the craft groups. They are almost certain Gabriella was kidnapped, not murdered and disposed of by her hubby. Elliot, however, continues his “business as usual” meetings and a fundraiser for the wildlife refuge he has built and is trying to get zoning approval for. It will house animals that are injured and in need of care or abandoned – anything from llamas to big cats. Elliot has funded much of the endeavor, and Gabriella has been concerned that he is spending their considerable fortune on the refuge.
I like Dev and her best friends Poppy and Boone. They have been friends for many years and know almost everything about the other. Poppy seems to be hiding something now, however, that she refuses to talk about. The characters are three-dimensional, and we know Dev the best as we see the world through her eyes. One thing I appreciate is the reality check – Dev sees herself with generous curves and Jake loves her as she is. Love it!
Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My! Suspense, a tricky mystery, a red herring or three, a bit of romance, quirky characters, and humor. Lots of humor! These are but some of the things this reader loves in this mystery.
At first there seems to be only one suspect, but as Jake and Dev look at the clues, there may be others, such as those who don’t want Elliot to proceed with the wildlife refuge. If Elliot is guilty, he is certainly a convincing actor regarding his love for Gabriella. When the ransom note appears, the threat is very real. Noah is not thrilled about Dev working a case, much less with Jake, but is trying to stand by quietly. Jake, having seen her skills is more than happy to have her input.
This reader admits to not knows who the real bad guy/ gal might be but there came a point (for me) where it was clear before the truth was uncovered. The ending is very satisfying with every loose end tied. I highly recommend Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My to fans of this series and author, and those who like to laugh out loud between moments of suspense and drama.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review as part of their ongoing blog tour*
June 12, 2017
This is the first book in the Devereaux's Dime Store #6 series that I've read and I had no problems figuring out who's who and what was going on. Dev and Jake are hired to find a kidnapped wife but the who scenario seems phony. When it turns out the wife has a shady past and her rich husband is willing to pay anything to get her back Dev takes the angle that the wife did it. Then with a murder attached to the case the search is on. Denise Swanson has many series and books. This is her typical style of writing and it always produces a good cozy mystery to solve.
November 30, 2017
I almost didn't read this, so disappointed in the last one so took me a while to pick it up and really read it. So glad the love triangle is solved. Can't believe two grown men would be patient enough to let her decide. The outcome was very predictable. Knew what was going on before evening making it half way through.
July 22, 2017
Lions and Tigers and ... What? Murder? Oh my!
This is the best that I have read in this series so far, and Dev is probably more of a well-rounded person than in the past. She is happy to have her father in her life, even if her mother is off to find hubby #5...or 6. Something like that. And Dev is still being romanced by two very different men, each with positive traits. She has to make a decision which one to keep seeing, and the reader sees her hopes and dreams and her thinking process of which man she can have a positive, loving life with.
As happens frequently, there is a new mystery to be solved. Jake, former US Marshall and new Private Investigator has invited her to help him with his first case, the disappearance of a wealthy man's wife. Elliot is trying to get final approval and additional backers for a wildlife refuge that will house "big" animals either abandoned or in need of veterinary care. There are those who protest the refuge completely - could any of them have kidnapped the woman whose phone, purse, and other personal belongings are still in the house? Or is there something more sinister going on that he is unaware of? Finally, a ransom demand comes in for Gabriella, and Elliot is scrambling to get the $1 million in cash.
Noah tries to stay quiet about Dev's role in helping Jake while taking care of business at Devereaux's Dime Store. Jake and Dev are trying to beat the clock to reunite Elliot and Gabriella while there is still time.
I love this series! Quirky, yes, but one thing I especially noticed this time is how Dev talks about her generous curves, as she describes herself, and Jake is happy with her entire package - outside as well as inside. Thank you, Denise Swanson, for a character that many women can identify with!
I admit to figuring out most of the mystery, but only a few steps ahead of Dev. In spite of the "aha" moment, the story was still exciting, still held surprises, and at the end of the day, I was happy with the ending. Nothing was left unresolved, with the possible exception of best friend Poppy's challenge. I highly recommend this to everyone who appreciates well-written, suspenseful yet funny cozy mysteries - not to be missed!
I received a copy of this from the publisher and was under no requirement to provide a review.
This is the best that I have read in this series so far, and Dev is probably more of a well-rounded person than in the past. She is happy to have her father in her life, even if her mother is off to find hubby #5...or 6. Something like that. And Dev is still being romanced by two very different men, each with positive traits. She has to make a decision which one to keep seeing, and the reader sees her hopes and dreams and her thinking process of which man she can have a positive, loving life with.
As happens frequently, there is a new mystery to be solved. Jake, former US Marshall and new Private Investigator has invited her to help him with his first case, the disappearance of a wealthy man's wife. Elliot is trying to get final approval and additional backers for a wildlife refuge that will house "big" animals either abandoned or in need of veterinary care. There are those who protest the refuge completely - could any of them have kidnapped the woman whose phone, purse, and other personal belongings are still in the house? Or is there something more sinister going on that he is unaware of? Finally, a ransom demand comes in for Gabriella, and Elliot is scrambling to get the $1 million in cash.
Noah tries to stay quiet about Dev's role in helping Jake while taking care of business at Devereaux's Dime Store. Jake and Dev are trying to beat the clock to reunite Elliot and Gabriella while there is still time.
I love this series! Quirky, yes, but one thing I especially noticed this time is how Dev talks about her generous curves, as she describes herself, and Jake is happy with her entire package - outside as well as inside. Thank you, Denise Swanson, for a character that many women can identify with!
I admit to figuring out most of the mystery, but only a few steps ahead of Dev. In spite of the "aha" moment, the story was still exciting, still held surprises, and at the end of the day, I was happy with the ending. Nothing was left unresolved, with the possible exception of best friend Poppy's challenge. I highly recommend this to everyone who appreciates well-written, suspenseful yet funny cozy mysteries - not to be missed!
I received a copy of this from the publisher and was under no requirement to provide a review.
October 15, 2017
3.75 Stars
Reviewed by Wendy
Sexual Content: None
Language Content: None
Violent Content: Minimal
Devereaux Sinclair has opened a dime store in her hometown of Shadow Bend, Missouri. Jake Delvecchio rents the space above her store and has just gotten his first case as a private investigator. When a wealthy man’s wife goes missing, Jake asks Devereaux to help him with case. Elliott Winston has hired Jake to find his missing wife, Gabriella because the police think that Gabriella is dead and that Winston murdered her. Jake is not so sure about that and takes the case.
Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My, is a pleasant mystery. I enjoyed how the plot was a little different than most mysteries, since the reader does not know if a murder has actually taken place until well into the book. The characters are well developed and the book works fine as a stand alone novel. It’s very easy to pick up the dynamics between the characters and it’s not really necessary to read the other five previous books.
A side story is the romantic entanglement between Devereaux, Jake and the local doctor, Noah. Fans of the series will see progress in the romance department, as Devereaux makes a decision between the two men in her life.
The mystery is engaging, but readers may be able to figure out what is going on. That said, the story is full of small town charm, mystery and a little romantic competition which is sure to please.
-- WENDY
Reviewed by Wendy
Sexual Content: None
Language Content: None
Violent Content: Minimal
Devereaux Sinclair has opened a dime store in her hometown of Shadow Bend, Missouri. Jake Delvecchio rents the space above her store and has just gotten his first case as a private investigator. When a wealthy man’s wife goes missing, Jake asks Devereaux to help him with case. Elliott Winston has hired Jake to find his missing wife, Gabriella because the police think that Gabriella is dead and that Winston murdered her. Jake is not so sure about that and takes the case.
Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My, is a pleasant mystery. I enjoyed how the plot was a little different than most mysteries, since the reader does not know if a murder has actually taken place until well into the book. The characters are well developed and the book works fine as a stand alone novel. It’s very easy to pick up the dynamics between the characters and it’s not really necessary to read the other five previous books.
A side story is the romantic entanglement between Devereaux, Jake and the local doctor, Noah. Fans of the series will see progress in the romance department, as Devereaux makes a decision between the two men in her life.
The mystery is engaging, but readers may be able to figure out what is going on. That said, the story is full of small town charm, mystery and a little romantic competition which is sure to please.
-- WENDY
November 18, 2023
I’m very glad the triangle is over. There were a lot of things repeated (almost verbatim I think) from previous books. This is too far into the series to have to go so in-depth on backstories. It felt like she cut-and-paste entire paragraphs. If someone is starting the series at this book, they can read previous books to get details. Repeating them in every book gets tiring. I noticed it in previous books, but it seemed extra annoying in this one. The characters are pretty much their same immature selves. The scene with Meg and Noah was so utterly ridiculous it was painful. No one would act like that or talk to their boss that way. It just went to show how much of a wet noodle Noah was. He should have fired her immediately! And what’s up with her “I don’t want him anymore but I hope to ruin his future relationships”. Why? She left him, not the other way around. Plus he went out of his way to help her. What did she have to hate him for? I feel like the resolution of one of the relationships was a bit to contrived. I lost respect for both of them when they allowed her to lead them around like dogs for so long.
May 27, 2021
I started this series in the middle, so my review won’t comment on any long narrative arcs. What I will say is this is more of a romance novel with a mystery thrown in to keep the characters busy and distracted. The love triangle is your standard Team Edward vs. Team Jacob mess, with a lawman and a doctor instead of a vampire and a werewolf! At least you can tell what our heroine sees in each (and if you can’t tell, don’t worry, she tells you).
I thought of giving this only two stars based on the fact that the police chief is so bad at interrogation and our heroine thinks he’s so good, and that his clueless questioning elicits a confession anyway. But I had to move it back up to three because I like the main character. Besides, it is a dime store mystery, not a pure gold classic cozy. You get what you pay for.
I thought of giving this only two stars based on the fact that the police chief is so bad at interrogation and our heroine thinks he’s so good, and that his clueless questioning elicits a confession anyway. But I had to move it back up to three because I like the main character. Besides, it is a dime store mystery, not a pure gold classic cozy. You get what you pay for.
August 19, 2017
I have been a big fan of Denise Swanson's Scumble River Mystery series for years, and although the Devereaux Dime Story mysteries have been okay it has taken until now to get to the point where I really enjoy the characters in this series, as well as the mystery that each book revolves around. I loved the way in this story that each of the three main characters were given their own voice to share insights into each one's thoughts and feelings. It leaves me anxious to read the next entry in this series and see how things progress, not just between Dev and Jake, but with Noah, Poppy, Dev's Dad, and the secret behind the breakup of Dev's Grandmother and Jake's Uncle Tony.
September 8, 2017
Note to new reader of this series: It may be best if you don't read them back to back. If you do, you'll see the repetition of general information an=bout characters, locations, and events that often use similar phrases. If you separate the books with other reading material, it's less likely that will impact your enjoyment. With that caveat,
I enjoyed this book a lot. A very good mystery, with hints revealed at just the right time. While I expected the result, the clues were stretched out enough and there were enough other possibilities that I stayed interested. The two love interests were handled extremely well--and much to my personal liking. :-)
I enjoyed this book a lot. A very good mystery, with hints revealed at just the right time. While I expected the result, the clues were stretched out enough and there were enough other possibilities that I stayed interested. The two love interests were handled extremely well--and much to my personal liking. :-)
July 16, 2019
This was a chore to read. I kept counting the pages to see how much further I had to go until the end. The mystery was ok although I figured it out half way through the book but what really grated were all the characters, particularly the heroine and the main male character.
For a bunch of 30 somethings, they had the maturity level of immature, sex starved, 15 year olds. The way they thought, the way they spoke. Ugh. I know characters in cozies tend to lean on the callow side but it's for comedic effect. In this case, the author's being sincere making it unintentionally, embarrassingly funny. I can tolerate a bit of romance & silliness (seems like in cozies, it's par for the course) but only if it's zany, not if it's cheesy.
Also, the fact that two grown men are jumping through hoops to win over the heroine. I wonder if the author is being a bit vain, identifying herself as the heroine? Picture it if it was the reverse, two grown women waiting and pining for the man to make up his mind which one would be worthy of his "love". That's corny.
For a bunch of 30 somethings, they had the maturity level of immature, sex starved, 15 year olds. The way they thought, the way they spoke. Ugh. I know characters in cozies tend to lean on the callow side but it's for comedic effect. In this case, the author's being sincere making it unintentionally, embarrassingly funny. I can tolerate a bit of romance & silliness (seems like in cozies, it's par for the course) but only if it's zany, not if it's cheesy.
Also, the fact that two grown men are jumping through hoops to win over the heroine. I wonder if the author is being a bit vain, identifying herself as the heroine? Picture it if it was the reverse, two grown women waiting and pining for the man to make up his mind which one would be worthy of his "love". That's corny.
August 5, 2022
A trust fund baby has decided to set up an endangered species wildlife sanctuary just outside of Slumber Bend. It’s nearly Halloween and Boone is trying to get an abandoned house added to the ghost tour but it might not really be abandoned. Dev has decided that she has been stringing along her two boyfriends long enough and has announced that she is about to reveal who her true Love is. How will he take the news? What will the loser do? Throw in a kidnapping, and a murder or two and things really get convoluted.
I was glad to see Dev make up her mind, I really didn’t want this to drag out another 20 or so books before she made up her mind. I hope she made the right choice.
I was glad to see Dev make up her mind, I really didn’t want this to drag out another 20 or so books before she made up her mind. I hope she made the right choice.
July 17, 2017
Best story yet.
Dev is between a rock and a hard place She knows she needs to decide between Jake Delveccio and Dr Noah Underwood. It's time. Both of them are trying to win her final decision and are trying their best. Meanwhile a kidnapping keep her and Jake busy and her friends are trying to help also. This story will keep you guessing, I could not put it down until I knew the outcome.
Dev is between a rock and a hard place She knows she needs to decide between Jake Delveccio and Dr Noah Underwood. It's time. Both of them are trying to win her final decision and are trying their best. Meanwhile a kidnapping keep her and Jake busy and her friends are trying to help also. This story will keep you guessing, I could not put it down until I knew the outcome.
September 22, 2017
LIONS AND TIGERS AND MURDER, OH MY is a slightly different cozy in a refreshing way. Most of the story is trying to find the missing Gabrielle. Swanson gives Jake and Gabrielle some terrific detecting scenes that kept me absorbed from beginning to end. I kind of had a feeling how things were going to end up and it turned out I was right, but really enjoyed reading how Swanson got Dev and Jake there.
September 22, 2018
Great mystery series! I really enjoy reading about Devereaux and the small town of Shadow Bend, Missouri. In this 6th installment, Dev is having a hated time choosing which guy to love and it has the added allure of impending Halloween creepiness. The dead body doesn't appear right away, but there is a kidnapping case to help solve... Lots of snappy one liners, dysfunctional families and good ol' down home fun & frolic! Very twisty with many red herrings. I want to read them all!
August 13, 2019
A local man who plans to open a wildlife park to save animals that have been abandoned or poorly treated hires Jake to find his wife who has been kidnapped. The police believe she may have been murdered by her husband and that he is claiming she was kidnapped to cover his crime. Apparently she was known to be having an affair with the golf pro from the country club. Elliot Winston admits they had an argument about the money he was spending on his wildlife park just before she disappeared.
May 14, 2021
I liked this one. Even if the murder happened in last few chapters, the kidnapping kept me amused. I do think that Dev is a bit of a tart, playing off Jake and Noah and not making a decision between the two. Can’t say I’d stand for that kind of sharing crap. Her dime store seems like an interesting place as well. I wish we had something like that in our town. I’d spend a lot of money there. And, oh yes, I knew the end a short time into the book but didn’t make it any less enjoyable.
July 7, 2017
A Fun Mystery!
This is an awesome cozy mystery with sweet romance & plenty of action. It was well plotted with quite a few unexpected twists! I was hooked the minute I picked it up. The ending was delightful with just a little cliff hanger to tantalize the reader while waiting for the next adventure.
This is an awesome cozy mystery with sweet romance & plenty of action. It was well plotted with quite a few unexpected twists! I was hooked the minute I picked it up. The ending was delightful with just a little cliff hanger to tantalize the reader while waiting for the next adventure.
August 9, 2017
Took my a while to get into this book because of all the personal drama, but in the end I enjoyed the book. The mystery portion was not as surprising as in other books Denise has written. So glad Dev finally made the big decision. The next book should be interesting to see how all the new relationships develop.
November 23, 2017
Finally, Devereaux makes her choice! (which I will not tell who but it is who I thought she should choose) She and hunky BF # 2 get caught up in a kidnapping gone bad. Devereaux's BFF Poppy suddenly realizes she is in love and wait until you guess who and Dev's other BFF is just watching the fun. All in all a wonder quirky cozy mystery!
November 29, 2017
This was an interesting one. Our crime is either a kidnapping or a murder, depends on who you believe. For good measure we have an actual death. When all is settled the motive was one I have not come across before. The characters were an intriguing group as well. A few personal issues are settled, but others are opened up. All in all a fun read.
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