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A Tourist Trap Mystery #9
Killer Party
For a gang of old college buddies, the quaint resort town of South Cove, California, is the perfect spot for a no-holds-barred bachelor party. But for Jill Gardner—owner of Coffee, Books and More—this stag party is going to be murder . . .
After a few months of living with her boyfriend Greg, Jill is still getting used to sharing such close quarters, but she’s got no hesitation about joining him for a weekend at South Cove’s most luxurious resort. While Greg and his college pals celebrate their buddy’s upcoming wedding, Jill intends to pamper herself in style. But when the groom is found floating facedown in the pool, Jill must find the killer fast, or she might not have a boyfriend to come home to any more . . .
After a few months of living with her boyfriend Greg, Jill is still getting used to sharing such close quarters, but she’s got no hesitation about joining him for a weekend at South Cove’s most luxurious resort. While Greg and his college pals celebrate their buddy’s upcoming wedding, Jill intends to pamper herself in style. But when the groom is found floating facedown in the pool, Jill must find the killer fast, or she might not have a boyfriend to come home to any more . . .
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2017
419 people are currently reading
1631 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Cahoon
105 books2,370 followersNYT and USA Today bestselling author, Lynn Cahoon, writes the Tourist Trap, Cat Latimer, Farm-to-Fork, Kitchen Witch, Survivors' Book Club, the Haunted Life, and the Bainbridge Island cozy mystery series. No matter where the mystery is set, readers can expect a fun ride Sign up for her newsletter at www.lynncahoon.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
July 24, 2025
When Greg's friends from Iowa visit for their annual group vacation, Jill gets to meet a piece of her boyfriend's past. Although they've been together for two years, he was hesitant to introduce her too quickly given what had happened in the past with his ex-wife. But in Lynn Cahoon's latest Tourist Trap Mystery, Killer Party, readers will be glad this trip happened. I enjoyed the various strange relationships between the friends, husbands, wives, and significant others. Woven together with a side story focused on a Russian immigrant, I knew the stories would eventually connect but not in the way they did. Pleasantly surprised. I smiled the entire time I read this book and realized how much the characters have grown on me throughout the last year. Almost three years have taken place in the nine installments so far, and so much seems to have happened already. Toss in a shocking ending about a supporting character and the book leaves you thirsting for more. Good thing I already have a copy of #10 to read later this week.
June 16, 2017
Lynn Cahoon notches up another Tourist Trap Mystery winner in Book 9. I always enjoy visiting the South Cove, California beach setting where Jill Gardner has made a rousing success of Coffee, Books and More. Her boyfriend, Greg is in the spotlight as he and a group of college buddies gather with their wives and/or significant others at a local historical hotel/museum--The Castle--for a bachelors party. Things quickly turn sour when the groom-to-be, Levi, is discovered floating facedown in the pool. Greg is sidelined in his detective duties as his fellow officers search for leads. Jill and their friends have his back and I quickly recognized familiar faces as they network behind the scenes to slot all the mystery pieces into place. I also found the secondary mystery concerning the new business owner in town interesting. Ms. Cahoon highlights various ongoing relationships between characters this time, and I admit I was pretty shocked by one couple at the end of this book and can hardly wait to find out what's going to happen in book 10.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book for NetGalley and the publisher, Kensington.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book for NetGalley and the publisher, Kensington.
July 19, 2017
KILLER PARTY is a killer read!
How does author Lynn Cahoon continuously write book after book in this series, but always make them feel new, fresh, and intriguing? There are of course other authors who pull it off as well, but Ms. Cahoon truly has the gift for it. Honestly, I don’t care how she does it, because as long as she does, I’ll keep reading them!
Book nine (Wow! Already?) in the Tourist Trap Mysteries, KILLER PARTY, is another mind blowing whodunit that had me alternating between smiling, and having my jaw dropped throughout the entire book. There was so much going on in this story at any given time, and that made it very hard for me to put it down!
It has been really interesting to see how series lead, Jill Gardner and Greg King have grown throughout their relationship. Now living together, they seem to be on the right track for a very happy future. As for Lynn and her Aunt Jackie, I sometimes wonder how their relationship will be in upcoming books. I know they love each other, but I can’t help but feel author Cahoon has something unexpected on the way for those two. Hmmm.
Each time I finish a book in the Tourist Trap Mysteries, I’m both sad and excited. Sad of course because the book is over. And excited because I know a new one is out there on it’s to us! Hopefully we don’t have to wait too long! Do you hear me, Lynn? ;-)
How does author Lynn Cahoon continuously write book after book in this series, but always make them feel new, fresh, and intriguing? There are of course other authors who pull it off as well, but Ms. Cahoon truly has the gift for it. Honestly, I don’t care how she does it, because as long as she does, I’ll keep reading them!
Book nine (Wow! Already?) in the Tourist Trap Mysteries, KILLER PARTY, is another mind blowing whodunit that had me alternating between smiling, and having my jaw dropped throughout the entire book. There was so much going on in this story at any given time, and that made it very hard for me to put it down!
It has been really interesting to see how series lead, Jill Gardner and Greg King have grown throughout their relationship. Now living together, they seem to be on the right track for a very happy future. As for Lynn and her Aunt Jackie, I sometimes wonder how their relationship will be in upcoming books. I know they love each other, but I can’t help but feel author Cahoon has something unexpected on the way for those two. Hmmm.
Each time I finish a book in the Tourist Trap Mysteries, I’m both sad and excited. Sad of course because the book is over. And excited because I know a new one is out there on it’s to us! Hopefully we don’t have to wait too long! Do you hear me, Lynn? ;-)
June 17, 2017
Jill Gardiner and her boy friend Greg have moved in together and are adjusting to joint habitation. Greg's high school friends invite them to the bachelor party for Levi Walters. The party is held at the Castle in South Cove.The first night champagne flow like water. The next morning Levi is from dead in the pool. Since Greg knew the victim the neighboring police department is called in to investigate the case. Greg gives Jill the green-light to examine the crime. The ending ends with a cliff hanger. I high!y recommend the book and series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Lyrical Underground through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Lyrical Underground through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
January 28, 2020
A good, quick, easy read. It was fun to 'visit with' the regular cast of characters again. It could have used a little editing, especially where commas are concerned, but I barreled through it. On to the next!
August 18, 2017
This was a fun summer read!
I love our main characters, Jill & Greg. :) They're likeable and well-rounded. I've enjoyed watching their relationship grow over the last eight books. In this ninth one, they have recently moved in together and are both getting used to that new dynamic in their relationship.
The side characters in this installment were something else. Zany, crazy, and wild for sure. Thank goodness Jill has lots of experience in dealing with over-the-top personalities and good old-fashioned vanity because she's got her hands full of them this weekend!
There aren't a lot of setting descriptions here (partially because it IS the 9th book in the series and we've had lots of descriptions of the town up until now), but what are there are enough. They're not too wordy and flowery, but they aren't stark either. They provide enough information for you to be able to imagine the setting well.
The plot line was interesting and moved along steadily. I did have an idea of who the killer was but was never sure until it was revealed. There were definitely a lot of suspects who could have done it and the author kept me guessing until just before the ending.
All in all, a great addition to the series!
I love our main characters, Jill & Greg. :) They're likeable and well-rounded. I've enjoyed watching their relationship grow over the last eight books. In this ninth one, they have recently moved in together and are both getting used to that new dynamic in their relationship.
The side characters in this installment were something else. Zany, crazy, and wild for sure. Thank goodness Jill has lots of experience in dealing with over-the-top personalities and good old-fashioned vanity because she's got her hands full of them this weekend!
There aren't a lot of setting descriptions here (partially because it IS the 9th book in the series and we've had lots of descriptions of the town up until now), but what are there are enough. They're not too wordy and flowery, but they aren't stark either. They provide enough information for you to be able to imagine the setting well.
The plot line was interesting and moved along steadily. I did have an idea of who the killer was but was never sure until it was revealed. There were definitely a lot of suspects who could have done it and the author kept me guessing until just before the ending.
All in all, a great addition to the series!
June 21, 2017
Late last night I finished Killer Party by Lynn Cahoon. This long running series is a favorite of mine and this one did not disappoint. Great friction, mystery and compelling relationships in this cozy mystery. I loved the setting, a grand Castle and the idea of the hotel attached to it and in it. Easy to picture the setting and I liked the way Lynn wrote about her character's relationships and town happenings. This town gets more interesting by the book!
July 16, 2017
I always look forward to a new Tourist Trap Mystery, this one does not disappoint. The story quickly drew me in and had me wanting to know what was going to happen next. The characters feel like old friends, they grow and evolve with each new story lending to their realism and believability. I look forward to reading what happens next.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review has been voluntarily submitted.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review has been voluntarily submitted.
June 20, 2017
I can't believe that this is the ninth book in the Tourist Trap series. I have read and enjoyed all of the books. It is always fun to visit the residents of South Cove, CA especially to see what Jill Gardner is involved in. She has the best job as the owner of Coffee, Books and More. She always has some wonderful sounding sweet treats that her friend Sadie makes to sell in her shop and other places. Her boyfriend and police detective, Greg King, has moved in with Jill and Emma, her golden retriever. At first, she wasn't sure she was ready for that next step but is beginning to enjoy sharing chores and expenses. Weddings are in the air in South Cove as Aunt Jackie and Harrold are to be married the next summer. Aunt Jackie is already hard at work making plans. Jill's BFF, Amy and her boyfriend, Justin just got engaged. As the story begins, Greg and Jill are attending an engagement weekend party for Greg's friend Levi and his bride to be, Jessica. The gathering includes friends from Greg's childhood and their spouses or better halves all set for a fun weekend.
With all that going on, there is always a murder and Jill always puts on her sleuth hat to investigate. She can't help it. Greg usually tells her to stay out of it but this time, it strikes close to home and Greg is left out of the investigation and encourages Jill to find out what she can and she always finds out what is going.
This is another fun read by Lynn Cahoon. I hope that she continues turning out the Tourist Trap series especially as this one ended in a little cliff hanger.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and give an honest review.
With all that going on, there is always a murder and Jill always puts on her sleuth hat to investigate. She can't help it. Greg usually tells her to stay out of it but this time, it strikes close to home and Greg is left out of the investigation and encourages Jill to find out what she can and she always finds out what is going.
This is another fun read by Lynn Cahoon. I hope that she continues turning out the Tourist Trap series especially as this one ended in a little cliff hanger.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and give an honest review.
July 19, 2017
Jill Gardner returns in Killer Party, the 9th book in the Tourist Trap Mystery series. Jill is settling into her relationship with live-in boyfriend, Greg, while juggling her college classes and her business, Coffee, Books & More. Greg invites her to spend the weekend at local luxury hotel, The Castle, to join him for the annual reunion weekend with his best college buddies. Jill looks forward to meeting his old friends, relaxing by the pool and reading. Her plans change abruptly when one of Greg's friends is found dead, floating in the hotel pool. Could one of Greg's friends be a murderer?
As usual, Lynn Cahoon delivers a great cozy mystery with this new Tourist Trap book. The mystery is well-paced, with lots of possible suspects and unexpected twists and turns. I enjoy Jill as a main character. She is intelligent, independent, and a skilled amateur detective. I like how she works together with Greg (a local police officer) to gather clues. The side characters -- Aunt Jackie, Brenda, Deek, Toby, Amy, etc -- add a nice depth to the story. This latest installment in the series kept me guessing until the end. Every time I thought I had it figured out, the story took a turn in another direction. The ending is great -- believable and surprising! Loved it!
Lynn Cahoon is also the author of the Cat Latimer Mysteries series. For more information on the author and her books, check out her website: http://www.lynncahoon.com/
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.**
As usual, Lynn Cahoon delivers a great cozy mystery with this new Tourist Trap book. The mystery is well-paced, with lots of possible suspects and unexpected twists and turns. I enjoy Jill as a main character. She is intelligent, independent, and a skilled amateur detective. I like how she works together with Greg (a local police officer) to gather clues. The side characters -- Aunt Jackie, Brenda, Deek, Toby, Amy, etc -- add a nice depth to the story. This latest installment in the series kept me guessing until the end. Every time I thought I had it figured out, the story took a turn in another direction. The ending is great -- believable and surprising! Loved it!
Lynn Cahoon is also the author of the Cat Latimer Mysteries series. For more information on the author and her books, check out her website: http://www.lynncahoon.com/
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.**
July 19, 2017
A Blast from the Past!
Jill & boyfriend Greg are spending the weekend at The Castle with a group of Greg's old high school friends & their wives. The main event is a celebration of the upcoming wedding of Levi & Jessica. Unfortunately all goes awry when the groom-to- be's body is found floating in the pool. Jill, of course, finds herself investigating the crime. There are so many suspects with numerous reasons for wanting Levi dead. Greg & Jill's relationship is challenged as secrets swirl. Jill, finds herself stretched as she investigates, runs her shop, deals with Aunt Jackie's upcoming nuptials, & strengthening her bond with Greg. I found this to be a very entertaining whodunnit with lots of plot twists & a bit of a cliff hanger to tantalize the reader for the next adventure.
Jill & boyfriend Greg are spending the weekend at The Castle with a group of Greg's old high school friends & their wives. The main event is a celebration of the upcoming wedding of Levi & Jessica. Unfortunately all goes awry when the groom-to- be's body is found floating in the pool. Jill, of course, finds herself investigating the crime. There are so many suspects with numerous reasons for wanting Levi dead. Greg & Jill's relationship is challenged as secrets swirl. Jill, finds herself stretched as she investigates, runs her shop, deals with Aunt Jackie's upcoming nuptials, & strengthening her bond with Greg. I found this to be a very entertaining whodunnit with lots of plot twists & a bit of a cliff hanger to tantalize the reader for the next adventure.
July 19, 2017
Number nine in the series does not disappoint! I think this series just keeps getting better!
The series is engaging and I couldn't put this book down!
I love the setting of South Cove and Coffee, Books and More.
The characters are realistic and well written, especially Jill.
The whodunit kept me guessing right until the conclusion.
I highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
The series is engaging and I couldn't put this book down!
I love the setting of South Cove and Coffee, Books and More.
The characters are realistic and well written, especially Jill.
The whodunit kept me guessing right until the conclusion.
I highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
July 26, 2017
Love this series. The characters are very likable. Need more than 2 books a year :)
July 18, 2017
KILLER PARTY, the ninth book in the Tourist Trap Mystery series by Lynn Cahoon, is a delightful summer read! It starts by inviting you in with its colorful poolside party cover… you can almost smell the Coppertone and feel the warm California sun on your skin. From there the story unfolds for an entertaining read as the protagonist, Jill Gardner, attends a weekend-long bachelor/bachelorette party with her boyfriend and the Chief Detective of South Cove, Greg. It’s the first chance she’s had to meet his old school friends and it gives readers the opportunity to get to know Greg better as we glimpse moments of his younger years. Jill is the outsider of the group and at times feels awkward around the other women. She would rather be back home tending to her shop, Coffee, Books and More. The author captures that feeling and makes me believe I’m not the only one to have that reaction to potentially uncomfortable social situations. When the groom-to-be is found murdered at “The Castle” where the group is staying, Jill finds that Greg and his friends seem to have a secret from their youth that they try to keep hidden.
Since the victim was one of Greg’s friends, he’s not allowed to investigate so he conspires to have Jill do some digging around… something she would do anyway. But he still refuses to share the secret that haunts the friends. The twists and turns that form the plot kept me turning pages as Jill uncovers several suspects from the wedding party who might have wanted the groom-to-be dead. I was totally unprepared for the exciting reveal and conclusion! Lynn introduces some charming new characters that I hope will have a continued presence in future books. She has also developed several relationships that are growing and changing as any real relationship would and left me anxious to read the next book just as soon as possible!
I received an advance copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Since the victim was one of Greg’s friends, he’s not allowed to investigate so he conspires to have Jill do some digging around… something she would do anyway. But he still refuses to share the secret that haunts the friends. The twists and turns that form the plot kept me turning pages as Jill uncovers several suspects from the wedding party who might have wanted the groom-to-be dead. I was totally unprepared for the exciting reveal and conclusion! Lynn introduces some charming new characters that I hope will have a continued presence in future books. She has also developed several relationships that are growing and changing as any real relationship would and left me anxious to read the next book just as soon as possible!
I received an advance copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 21, 2017
I'm not sure what it is with mysteries that I have read lately...but I never see the killer coming! With this book I'm trying to figure out who was involved and why, however I never figured this one out. The author does a great job of hiding clues (and there are some looking back) and throwing many red herrings in your path.
And of course I love seeing Jill and Greg's relationship grow now that they have moved in together. There are a few moments where Jill continues to question the relationship, but she is coming along and accepting it more and more.
And it looks like there will be some new residents to South Cove.
And of course I love seeing Jill and Greg's relationship grow now that they have moved in together. There are a few moments where Jill continues to question the relationship, but she is coming along and accepting it more and more.
And it looks like there will be some new residents to South Cove.
July 31, 2017
I love the Tourist Trap Mystery series from Lynn Cahoon, and it just gets better with each new book. Jill is one of my fave amateur sleuths because a) she owns a bookstore, b) she reads books I recognize, and c) she is the kind of person I would want as a friend. She’s witty, kind, and intelligent – and she loves her friends, family, and her golden retriever Emma.
The town of South Cove is another favorite element of the series for me, and in Killer Party we meet some new people and revisit familiar faces. Each book works fine as a standalone but you’ll have a better idea of who everyone is and the dynamics in play if you’ve read at least one or two other books in the Tourist Trap Mystery series. Despite the frequent murders and mayhem that seem to fall on South Cove, this is one cozy-mystery town that I would happily visit for a vacation. You’ll find me hanging out in Jill’s coffee shop/bookstore, in case there was any question.
The mystery in Killer Party kept me guessing at every turn – as well as a couple of subplots that kept me on my toes. One in particular takes a doozy of a twist at the end of the book, leaving me frantically stalking the interwebs for word on the next book in the series. (Don’t worry, fellow cliffhanger loathers – the main mystery is solved and neatly tucked away.)
Bottom Line: I want to be Jill. Perhaps minus the murders she seems to encounter. Ok, so I really just want to own a bookstore. Since that’s not likely to happen, I’m going to continue to live vicariously through her and her adventures in South Cove, California. The characters in Killer Party are layered as well as relatable, and the mystery is well-plotted and nicely paced. If you’re a cozy mystery fan and you haven’t yet discovered the Tourist Trap Mystery series by Lynn Cahoon, you’re really missing out!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
The town of South Cove is another favorite element of the series for me, and in Killer Party we meet some new people and revisit familiar faces. Each book works fine as a standalone but you’ll have a better idea of who everyone is and the dynamics in play if you’ve read at least one or two other books in the Tourist Trap Mystery series. Despite the frequent murders and mayhem that seem to fall on South Cove, this is one cozy-mystery town that I would happily visit for a vacation. You’ll find me hanging out in Jill’s coffee shop/bookstore, in case there was any question.
The mystery in Killer Party kept me guessing at every turn – as well as a couple of subplots that kept me on my toes. One in particular takes a doozy of a twist at the end of the book, leaving me frantically stalking the interwebs for word on the next book in the series. (Don’t worry, fellow cliffhanger loathers – the main mystery is solved and neatly tucked away.)
Bottom Line: I want to be Jill. Perhaps minus the murders she seems to encounter. Ok, so I really just want to own a bookstore. Since that’s not likely to happen, I’m going to continue to live vicariously through her and her adventures in South Cove, California. The characters in Killer Party are layered as well as relatable, and the mystery is well-plotted and nicely paced. If you’re a cozy mystery fan and you haven’t yet discovered the Tourist Trap Mystery series by Lynn Cahoon, you’re really missing out!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
June 8, 2017
This is only the second book that I have read in this series but I have quickly become hooked on the characters and mysteries. This installment is a fast paced who-dun-it that will have the readers guessing and flying through the pages to find out the identity of the murder. I love the characters in this book. They are well developed, complex multi-dimensional characters but there is still much to learn about them and plenty of growth for each of them. I thought the mystery was well done. The suspects were plentiful and plausible and I really didn't guess the identity of the killer. This person was no where on my radar.
I can't wait for more books in this series, but until the next one I will attempt to catch up on the books I have missed. If you are fan of this series, I don't think you are going to want to miss this one - especially with how it ended.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
I can't wait for more books in this series, but until the next one I will attempt to catch up on the books I have missed. If you are fan of this series, I don't think you are going to want to miss this one - especially with how it ended.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
July 17, 2017
When a group of old friends, who grew up together, went to high school and college together, and shared one major secret come to town for a reunion, Jill is the new kid in the crowd, thanks to her relationship with live-in boyfriend (and cop) Greg. when the seeming leader of this friends group, and the soon to be groom ends up dead in the pool, Greg can not investigate officially. He is too close to the case. Usually he wants Jill to keep her nose out of things that might result in her being put in a dangerous situation, but he knows she won't sit quietly and let another detective run the show. He agrees that they can quietly look for clues together. The trouble is, when Jill discovers what she considers interesting information, Greg doesn't seem to care.
The victim, Levi, is soon to be married to a mysterious girl with an unusual accent.
Levi is a multimillionaire and something of a bully and manipulator. Did one of the friends have more than enough or was it a business deal gone wrong? The motives seem many and far ranged.
Besides Jill looking into clues, she has a business to run, civic duties she is involved in, and is starting classes at the local college, all while adjusting to having Greg living with her full time.
This plot includes learning about Jill's relationships with her friends and community, along with getting to know Greg's friends. A dysfunctional bunch with many layers but no one seems to have the big three - motive means and opportunity. Nothing sinister is lining up clearly.
The dangerous conclusion comes as a surprise both to the reader and to Jill.
When the dust settles, she is back in the mix preparing for whatever challenges will be thrown at her next.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book for NetGalley and the publisher, Kensington
The victim, Levi, is soon to be married to a mysterious girl with an unusual accent.
Levi is a multimillionaire and something of a bully and manipulator. Did one of the friends have more than enough or was it a business deal gone wrong? The motives seem many and far ranged.
Besides Jill looking into clues, she has a business to run, civic duties she is involved in, and is starting classes at the local college, all while adjusting to having Greg living with her full time.
This plot includes learning about Jill's relationships with her friends and community, along with getting to know Greg's friends. A dysfunctional bunch with many layers but no one seems to have the big three - motive means and opportunity. Nothing sinister is lining up clearly.
The dangerous conclusion comes as a surprise both to the reader and to Jill.
When the dust settles, she is back in the mix preparing for whatever challenges will be thrown at her next.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book for NetGalley and the publisher, Kensington
May 14, 2018
Another visit to South Cove, California finds our protagonist Jill Gardner adjusting to life having recently begun living with her boyfriend, police detective Greg. She had an extremely busy life with her recent life change, juggling college classes, her business and her aunt, who is planning her upcoming nuptials. Even with all she has on her plate, she makes time to spend a weekend at "The Castle" to celebrate the engagement of Greg's best friend as well as meeting all the guys and their wives that Greg grew up with. When the guest of honor, Levi, is found dead floating in the pool, the party quickly becomes a group of people that are all considered suspects. When Greg is taken off the case because he was present at the party, he asks Jill to help him investigate. He feels responsible for Levi's death due to the fact that he was killed in his town. Jill does ask some questions and do some research, but she is careful not to put herself in danger. Will they be able to find the killer without The Castle becoming a victim as well? Will Greg find out that one of his friends is a murderer?
I enjoyed this story very much. It was as much about relationships as the mystery itself. What are the implications when an engaged couple has one of them die? Will Greg and Jill be able to survive Greg's previous relationships? What will Greg find out about himself? There is a lot of soul searching going on as this mystery gets solved. The thing that knocked my rating down to 4 stars was the reveal at the end of the book. It seemed to come out of left field although it is explained at that time in the story. There is a bit of a suspenseful cliffhanger at the end involving one of the relationships in the story that I really want to find out what happened. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via netgalley.
I enjoyed this story very much. It was as much about relationships as the mystery itself. What are the implications when an engaged couple has one of them die? Will Greg and Jill be able to survive Greg's previous relationships? What will Greg find out about himself? There is a lot of soul searching going on as this mystery gets solved. The thing that knocked my rating down to 4 stars was the reveal at the end of the book. It seemed to come out of left field although it is explained at that time in the story. There is a bit of a suspenseful cliffhanger at the end involving one of the relationships in the story that I really want to find out what happened. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via netgalley.
September 29, 2017
4 stelle e mezza
Bella storia e il colpevole mi ha stupito, non ci avevo proprio pensato a lui! L'unico neo è l'evidente cliffhanger verso il prossimo libro: è una cosa che odio...
Bella storia e il colpevole mi ha stupito, non ci avevo proprio pensato a lui! L'unico neo è l'evidente cliffhanger verso il prossimo libro: è una cosa che odio...
July 1, 2021
I enjoyed this entry in the Tourist Trap Mystery, and especially like some new residents to the town. However, I really wish we would figure out what's going on with Aunt Jackie!
June 16, 2017
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
Killer Party is the 9th book in Lynn Cahoon’s excellent Tourist Trap Mystery series. I love this series and am so glad I found it. In my opinion, there aren't a lot of really good cozies around these days. Having said that, I haven't seen any hints of future books for this series and can only hope there will be more tales in this great cozy series.
I highly recommend this book for any one who likes a well-written cozy.
Killer Party is the 9th book in Lynn Cahoon’s excellent Tourist Trap Mystery series. I love this series and am so glad I found it. In my opinion, there aren't a lot of really good cozies around these days. Having said that, I haven't seen any hints of future books for this series and can only hope there will be more tales in this great cozy series.
I highly recommend this book for any one who likes a well-written cozy.
May 22, 2017
First I want to thank Netgalley and Kensington Books for allowing me to read this story.
I fell in love with Jill and South Cove California years ago when I picked up the first book in this series while on vacation. I can say the books have not disappointed me and in my opinion get better.
In this story weddings are in the air. Jill's aunt Jackie is turning into Bridezilla, Amy is planning her wedding and Jill is meeting Greg's old school friends. Jill and Greg are staying at The Castle for the weekend while Greg gets together with old friends during a stag party. When one of the old friends shows up dead, and Greg is shut out of the investigation he sanctions Jill's snooping to figure out who did it. Of course in typical Lynn Cahoon fashion she leaves me hanging and now I have to wait for the next book to get some very important answers!
I fell in love with Jill and South Cove California years ago when I picked up the first book in this series while on vacation. I can say the books have not disappointed me and in my opinion get better.
In this story weddings are in the air. Jill's aunt Jackie is turning into Bridezilla, Amy is planning her wedding and Jill is meeting Greg's old school friends. Jill and Greg are staying at The Castle for the weekend while Greg gets together with old friends during a stag party. When one of the old friends shows up dead, and Greg is shut out of the investigation he sanctions Jill's snooping to figure out who did it. Of course in typical Lynn Cahoon fashion she leaves me hanging and now I have to wait for the next book to get some very important answers!
May 17, 2017
A weekend reunion of high school friends turns tragic when one of them winds up dead.
Jill Gardner and Greg King are beginning to adjust to living together. A weekend filled with friends and fun should be appealing to Jill, but this group of friends seems a bit bizarre. Tension between the couples is evident and adding alcohol to this bunch is not a good mix.
Finding his best friend dead is more than Greg can take and it's up to Jill to help him.
Finding time to investigate is not easy as Jill's coffee and book shop is busy and her Aunt Jackie is determined to have the wedding of the century.
Jill won't give up until she finds the answers and digging into the backgrounds of Greg's friends is more than she bargained for. Cheating, backstabbing and secrets will cause your mind to spin as you get caught up in Killer Party, another fantastic book by the talented Lynn Cahoon.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Jill Gardner and Greg King are beginning to adjust to living together. A weekend filled with friends and fun should be appealing to Jill, but this group of friends seems a bit bizarre. Tension between the couples is evident and adding alcohol to this bunch is not a good mix.
Finding his best friend dead is more than Greg can take and it's up to Jill to help him.
Finding time to investigate is not easy as Jill's coffee and book shop is busy and her Aunt Jackie is determined to have the wedding of the century.
Jill won't give up until she finds the answers and digging into the backgrounds of Greg's friends is more than she bargained for. Cheating, backstabbing and secrets will cause your mind to spin as you get caught up in Killer Party, another fantastic book by the talented Lynn Cahoon.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
June 19, 2017
This is the ninth book in Lynn's Tourist Trap Series. With a weekend of luxury at The Castle, rented out by the groom, what more could a girl want? Especially when her hot cop boyfriend is part of the package.
On the first day Jill senses something is off with this group of Greg's old high school buddies and their wives. So when the groom turns up facedown in the pool, even Greg is on the sidelines.
Jill's suspect list is pretty long with everyone from the party as well as the new Russian Doll Shop owner. Who seems to know the bride-to-be.
Lynn's characters have come a long way from the first book. They are well-developed and very loveable. They have become like good book friends. I love Deek and while Aunt Jackie wasn't my favorite character, this time I really felt her presence and there was a secondary mystery going on with her.
Can't wait for the next one, See you soon South Cove!
On the first day Jill senses something is off with this group of Greg's old high school buddies and their wives. So when the groom turns up facedown in the pool, even Greg is on the sidelines.
Jill's suspect list is pretty long with everyone from the party as well as the new Russian Doll Shop owner. Who seems to know the bride-to-be.
Lynn's characters have come a long way from the first book. They are well-developed and very loveable. They have become like good book friends. I love Deek and while Aunt Jackie wasn't my favorite character, this time I really felt her presence and there was a secondary mystery going on with her.
Can't wait for the next one, See you soon South Cove!
May 22, 2017
Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books and More, is just getting used to living with her boyfriend, Greg. They are meeting his college friends at the local resort, The Castle, for a bachelor party. When the groom is found floating in the pool, Jill needs to investigate Greg’s friends to find the culprit before someone else lies dead.
I loved this cozy mystery. The plot was exciting and suspenseful, and I was surprised who the culprit was in the end. The setting reminds me of times at the beach, and I could envision a shop like Coffee, Books and More open near the shore. An Advanced Reading Copy was received in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this cozy mystery. The plot was exciting and suspenseful, and I was surprised who the culprit was in the end. The setting reminds me of times at the beach, and I could envision a shop like Coffee, Books and More open near the shore. An Advanced Reading Copy was received in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2017
A who-done-it with a stable base of interesting characters and new ones for episode 6 in the Tourist Trap Mystery series.
Jill Gardner's Coffee, Books and More is running smoothly. Her boyfriend Greg's childhood friends are all in South Cove at The Castle to celebrate Levi & Jessica's wedding. When someone ends up dead in the pool Greg has to step aside and let another county investigate. Greg's permission to Jill to look into the murder for him makes her happy but juggling everything in her life and finding time to connect with Greg is difficult.
The ending left us hanging for the next episode in Jill's personal life.
Jill Gardner's Coffee, Books and More is running smoothly. Her boyfriend Greg's childhood friends are all in South Cove at The Castle to celebrate Levi & Jessica's wedding. When someone ends up dead in the pool Greg has to step aside and let another county investigate. Greg's permission to Jill to look into the murder for him makes her happy but juggling everything in her life and finding time to connect with Greg is difficult.
The ending left us hanging for the next episode in Jill's personal life.
February 3, 2019
I seriously just love this series! Although, I felt like Jill and Greg were a little distant and I hope that doesn't mean unhappy things for the future. The murder mystery was great but I figured it out earlier than usual which was a bit of a bummer. This a fabulous installment and I will forever recommend this series. On to the next one now!
July 18, 2017
Killer Party by Lynn Cahoon is the ninth book in A Tourist Trap Mystery series. Jill Gardner is packing for a weekend getaway with her boyfriend, Greg King and his friends. Greg’s childhood friend, Levi Walker is getting married, and he is holding a stag party weekend in South Cove at The Castle. Jill is looking forward to enjoying the spa services and escaping Aunt Jackie’s wedding planning while Greg reconnects with his friends. On Saturday, the men go on a boat excursion to “fish” (ingest alcohol) while Jill shows the ladies around South Cove (it seems that Greg “volunteered” Jill for the task). It gives Jill an opportunity to introduce herself to newcomer, Vladimir Petrov who opened a Russian collectibles shop. Early the next morning (around 4 a.m.), Greg and Jill are awakened by Brenda Morgan, manager of The Castle. A dead man has been found in the pool. Greg runs downstairs and discovers it is his friend, Levi. Because of Greg’s close connection with the victim, he is not allowed to investigate the crime. Mayor Baylor asks Bakerstown PD to step in. This does not stop Greg and Jill from conducting their own inquiry into Levi’s murder especially when the detectives focus on Greg. Could one of Greg’s friends committed this homicide? Tag along with Jill on her latest adventure in Killer Party.
Killer Party is easy to read, has good writing and has a nice steady pace. Each book in A Tourist Trap Mystery series builds upon the previous (they are not stand alone books). We get to know a little more about the characters and see them change/grow. Killer Party focuses more on the cozy element (food galore, Jill adjusting to living with Greg, Jill out jogging, Emma, shopping, Toby getting over Sasha, Aunt Jackie planning her wedding, Aunt Jackie annoying the employees of the coffee shop, Jill spends a lot of time reading, Jill getting ready for a new class at college, and Aunt Jackie going to the doctor). It is an easy, breezy type of book that is perfect to read while lounging by the pool or at the beach. My rating for Killer Party is 3.5 out of 5 stars. The mystery is made to seem complex. Unfortunately, I identified the killer before Levi (I just knew he would end up belly up) turned up dead in the pool. There are a limited number of suspects (one really stands out). The characters in Killer Party seemed grumpy (especially Aunt Jackie). I liked how Lynn Cahoon found a way to work Cat Latimer into the story (from Ms. Cahoon’s A Cat Latimer Mystery series). I believe, though, that Greg and Jill may be moving too fast. There are still many details they do not know about each other (they really need to talk more). Killer Party ends with a cliffhanger. Readers will have to wait until the next A Tourist Trap Mystery to find out what is going on with Aunt Jackie.
Killer Party is easy to read, has good writing and has a nice steady pace. Each book in A Tourist Trap Mystery series builds upon the previous (they are not stand alone books). We get to know a little more about the characters and see them change/grow. Killer Party focuses more on the cozy element (food galore, Jill adjusting to living with Greg, Jill out jogging, Emma, shopping, Toby getting over Sasha, Aunt Jackie planning her wedding, Aunt Jackie annoying the employees of the coffee shop, Jill spends a lot of time reading, Jill getting ready for a new class at college, and Aunt Jackie going to the doctor). It is an easy, breezy type of book that is perfect to read while lounging by the pool or at the beach. My rating for Killer Party is 3.5 out of 5 stars. The mystery is made to seem complex. Unfortunately, I identified the killer before Levi (I just knew he would end up belly up) turned up dead in the pool. There are a limited number of suspects (one really stands out). The characters in Killer Party seemed grumpy (especially Aunt Jackie). I liked how Lynn Cahoon found a way to work Cat Latimer into the story (from Ms. Cahoon’s A Cat Latimer Mystery series). I believe, though, that Greg and Jill may be moving too fast. There are still many details they do not know about each other (they really need to talk more). Killer Party ends with a cliffhanger. Readers will have to wait until the next A Tourist Trap Mystery to find out what is going on with Aunt Jackie.
June 3, 2017
Killer Party is the ninth book in Lynn Cahoon’s wonderful Tourist Trap Mystery series and is a well-written story, with well-developed and affable characters, that moves along at a steady pace. Ms. Cahoon’s writing style flows smoothly, the engaging characters and interesting plot drew me right into the story, and the twists and turns held my interest throughout the book. I highly recommend all the books in the Tourist Trap Mystery series to anyone who enjoys reading well-crafted cozy mysteries.
Jill Gardner is the owner of Coffee, Books, and More in the small coastal town of South Cove, California. Coffee, Books, and More is a coffee bar and bookstore. Jill has overcome some of her commitment issues and her boyfriend, South Cove Detective Greg King, recently moved in with her. Jackie, Jill’s aunt, is preparing for her marriage to Harrold Snider and has quickly turned into a bridezilla and Jill’s best friend, Amy Newman, is engaged to Justin and planning their wedding. One of Greg’s old school friends, Levi Walker and his fiancée, Jessica Cole, arranged a weekend bachelor and pre-wedding party at The Castle, an exclusive hotel/museum. Even though The Castle is less than ten miles from Jill’s house, she is looking forward to a weekend of luxury. Jill meets Greg’s old friends and their wives for the first time and while the men go out fishing the next day, she reluctantly gives the wives a tour of South Cove. After Levi’s body is discovered floating in the swimming pool, South Cove’s Mayor, Marvin Baylor, requests the Bakerstown PD handle the investigation and Bakerstown Police Chief Terrance Duskant is in charge because Greg is too close to the case to be involved. Since Greg can’t be involved, he uncharacteristically encourages Jill to investigate.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Jill Gardner is the owner of Coffee, Books, and More in the small coastal town of South Cove, California. Coffee, Books, and More is a coffee bar and bookstore. Jill has overcome some of her commitment issues and her boyfriend, South Cove Detective Greg King, recently moved in with her. Jackie, Jill’s aunt, is preparing for her marriage to Harrold Snider and has quickly turned into a bridezilla and Jill’s best friend, Amy Newman, is engaged to Justin and planning their wedding. One of Greg’s old school friends, Levi Walker and his fiancée, Jessica Cole, arranged a weekend bachelor and pre-wedding party at The Castle, an exclusive hotel/museum. Even though The Castle is less than ten miles from Jill’s house, she is looking forward to a weekend of luxury. Jill meets Greg’s old friends and their wives for the first time and while the men go out fishing the next day, she reluctantly gives the wives a tour of South Cove. After Levi’s body is discovered floating in the swimming pool, South Cove’s Mayor, Marvin Baylor, requests the Bakerstown PD handle the investigation and Bakerstown Police Chief Terrance Duskant is in charge because Greg is too close to the case to be involved. Since Greg can’t be involved, he uncharacteristically encourages Jill to investigate.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
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