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Tara Holloway #12
Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding
LOVE BEGINS―AND ENDS―WITH A BANG.
For IRS Special Agent Tara Holloway, this case is personal…
Wedding bells are ringing as Tara and her soon-to-be-husband Nick prepare for their big day. But along with all the RSVP cards are a series of death threats from an unknown source. The culprit must be someone from an earlier investigation―a white-collar criminal with a red-hot grudge―but Tara has run across too many lawbreakers to narrow down the search. And time, like her biological clock, is ticking. Now, while dodging attempts on her life, Tara also finds herself embroiled in a rental scam in which a heartless crook is ripping people off left and right. Will she be able to track down the con artist and make it down the aisle in one piece? Or will “til death do us part” come before Tara can even say “I do”?
For IRS Special Agent Tara Holloway, this case is personal…
Wedding bells are ringing as Tara and her soon-to-be-husband Nick prepare for their big day. But along with all the RSVP cards are a series of death threats from an unknown source. The culprit must be someone from an earlier investigation―a white-collar criminal with a red-hot grudge―but Tara has run across too many lawbreakers to narrow down the search. And time, like her biological clock, is ticking. Now, while dodging attempts on her life, Tara also finds herself embroiled in a rental scam in which a heartless crook is ripping people off left and right. Will she be able to track down the con artist and make it down the aisle in one piece? Or will “til death do us part” come before Tara can even say “I do”?
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 31, 2017
76 people are currently reading
667 people want to read
About the author
Diane Kelly
69 books1,227 followersAward-winning author Diane Kelly writes romance and romantic mysteries featuring feisty heroines, quirky sidekicks, and sexy leading men, with humor that leaves readers laughing out loud.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
November 6, 2017
With the twelfth book in the Tara Holloway series, Diane Kelly is looking to close out the series with a wedding between Nick and Tara. But before that can happen, they need to figure out who is trying to get Tara killed. After nearly being run over by a pickup truck, Tara is doing everything she can to stay alive. With such a long list of enemies, they have a lot of work to do. It’s a good thing she has a hottie in the form of her soon-to-be husband to protect her.
I was really happy with out this book turned out. There’s lots of fun to be had if you pick up this book. It’s funny yet action-packed. The narration doesn’t ever get boring and if you’re a Romance fan like me, you can appreciate the happily ever after that happens in this book. So really, I have no complaints other than the fact that I’ll be sad that this is the end. I don’t know if there will be future stories for Tara, but this book definitely feels like the close of at least one storyline.
That being said, I think it’s a good idea to read this series from the beginning. At least that way you’ll come to appreciate the romance that finally happens in this book. And if you haven’t read the Tara Holloway series yet, you definitely need to. When it comes to kicking ass, no one does it better than Tara Holloway.
November 1, 2017
With the twelfth book in the Tara Holloway series, Diane Kelly is looking to close out the series with a wedding between Nick and Tara. But before that can happen, they need to figure out who is trying to get Tara killed. After nearly being run over by a pickup truck, Tara is doing everything she can to stay alive. With such a long list of enemies, they have a lot of work to do. It’s a good thing she has a hottie in the form of her soon-to-be husband to protect her.I was really happy with out this book turned out. There’s lots of fun to be had if you pick up this book. It’s funny yet action-packed. The narration doesn’t ever get boring and if you’re a Romance fan like me, you can appreciate the happily ever after that happens in this book. So really, I have no complaints other than the fact that I’ll be sad that this is the end. I don’t know if there will be future stories for Tara, but this book definitely feels like the close of at least one storyline.
That being said, I think it’s a good idea to read this series from the beginning. At least that way you’ll come to appreciate the romance that finally happens in this book. And if you haven’t read the Tara Holloway series yet, you definitely need to. When it comes to kicking ass, no one does it better than Tara Holloway.
*ARC provided by publisher
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February 8, 2018
Anything enjoyable book in the IRS special agent series. Tara and Nick are planning their wedding but Tara is getting death threats in the mail. They aren’t sure who is sending the threats since Tara has put so many white collar criminals behind bars. Tara is also trying to figure out who is behind a rental property scam. Very sad to hear that this is the last in the series.
February 6, 2022
I loved this entire series! Great ending to a fantastic set of characters. I love the flashbacks with old clients.
October 9, 2017
I have to admit I got misty at the end of this book because I knew it is the last one in this series and I didn't want it to end! Thankfully the author does an excellent job of wrapping up the series with no loose ends. There is an epilogue that fills us in down the road and what our favorite IRS agents are up to, as they all are a family and not just co-workers.
There is a mystery to solve - is someone trying to kill Tara? This book takes us through all of her previous cases to try and determine who might be after her. I'll admit that i didn't figure it out or anywhere close to guessing! But in the process it was nice to take a look back at the previous cases and how she almost died many times. I have always thought that Tara was much like Stephanie Plum, making me laugh and getting into tight spots...so I enjoyed remembering those times in this book.
There is also a new scam she is trying to help the Dallas PD solve in regards to rental scams. I appreciated the way the author always included relevant situations to make the books interesting but also educate us a bit. There was even a reference to the shooting and loss of 5 Dallas police officers during a peaceful riot in the last year.
This book kept me engaged and it was hard to put down, but I thought this of all of the books. I laughed a lot and was on the edge of my seat during some of the tense moments.
If you have not read this series, start with book 1. You will be glad you did!
There is a mystery to solve - is someone trying to kill Tara? This book takes us through all of her previous cases to try and determine who might be after her. I'll admit that i didn't figure it out or anywhere close to guessing! But in the process it was nice to take a look back at the previous cases and how she almost died many times. I have always thought that Tara was much like Stephanie Plum, making me laugh and getting into tight spots...so I enjoyed remembering those times in this book.
There is also a new scam she is trying to help the Dallas PD solve in regards to rental scams. I appreciated the way the author always included relevant situations to make the books interesting but also educate us a bit. There was even a reference to the shooting and loss of 5 Dallas police officers during a peaceful riot in the last year.
This book kept me engaged and it was hard to put down, but I thought this of all of the books. I laughed a lot and was on the edge of my seat during some of the tense moments.
If you have not read this series, start with book 1. You will be glad you did!
October 6, 2017
Death, Taxes and a Shotgun Wedding by Diane Kelly is the final book in the Tara Holloway series and was a perfect ending to this series.
Ms. Kelly's descriptive writing had me riding along with Tara as she has two cases to solve in this final book. She is helping the Dallas police department to track down a rental scammer and she's been receiving death threats. Taking it all in stride Tara does what she does best by tracking down the scammer and her friends at the IRS watch her back as she chases down the clues. The plot is quickly paced and the twists allowed the reader to remember her previous cases as she is trying to figure out who wants to kill her before her wedding. I will miss Tara, Nick, Lu, Eddie and all of the other characters that were such an integral part of Tara's books. I would like to thank Ms. Kelly for the epilogue so that I could see how Tara, Nick and the rest of the characters had progressed five years after the wedding. This book was a pure delight with laughter, a few tears over past relationship memories and a mystery that had me baffled until the reveal.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Ms. Kelly's descriptive writing had me riding along with Tara as she has two cases to solve in this final book. She is helping the Dallas police department to track down a rental scammer and she's been receiving death threats. Taking it all in stride Tara does what she does best by tracking down the scammer and her friends at the IRS watch her back as she chases down the clues. The plot is quickly paced and the twists allowed the reader to remember her previous cases as she is trying to figure out who wants to kill her before her wedding. I will miss Tara, Nick, Lu, Eddie and all of the other characters that were such an integral part of Tara's books. I would like to thank Ms. Kelly for the epilogue so that I could see how Tara, Nick and the rest of the characters had progressed five years after the wedding. This book was a pure delight with laughter, a few tears over past relationship memories and a mystery that had me baffled until the reveal.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
April 24, 2022
The BEST FINISH EVER to a beloved series!
I am sad to have finally finished the Tara Holloway audiobooks, but the series finale was soo abt with enough thrills, mayhem and revisits to old case capers to make it both nostalgic and entertaining!
I waited as long as possible to finally finish the audio series, and have loved the bumpy, winding and joyous journey in EVERY book.
KUDOS and HEARTFELT Thank you’s to series author Diane Kelly AND narrator Wendy Tremont King! You’ve brought me so much entertainment during the past years and especially during the dark days of Covid. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!! I’m a loyal fan girl for life!
I am sad to have finally finished the Tara Holloway audiobooks, but the series finale was soo abt with enough thrills, mayhem and revisits to old case capers to make it both nostalgic and entertaining!
I waited as long as possible to finally finish the audio series, and have loved the bumpy, winding and joyous journey in EVERY book.
KUDOS and HEARTFELT Thank you’s to series author Diane Kelly AND narrator Wendy Tremont King! You’ve brought me so much entertainment during the past years and especially during the dark days of Covid. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!! I’m a loyal fan girl for life!
November 19, 2017
Another in the Tara Holloway series, this story takes place as Tara and her fiancé Nick are finishing up their wedding plans and getting ready for their big day. But some criminals have other ideas, and one especially is determined that Tara will not live to see her wedding day. It takes Tara, Nick, and all their friends and family to protect her this time.
November 16, 2017
Oh what an absolutely fantastic finish, I have loved this series from the beginning so it was fitting that the ending was an Blast to lol.
Tara and Nick are at their very best in this story going after tax evaders, dodging bullets because Tara tends to have a kill me sign on her forehead lol and planning their wedding.
Funniest part well there was so many but seriously Henry's hiding place because he didn't want to go in his cat crate was a classic lol.
Great story, wonderful characters brilliantly written.
Tara and Nick are at their very best in this story going after tax evaders, dodging bullets because Tara tends to have a kill me sign on her forehead lol and planning their wedding.
Funniest part well there was so many but seriously Henry's hiding place because he didn't want to go in his cat crate was a classic lol.
Great story, wonderful characters brilliantly written.
January 27, 2018
From beginning to end this book held my interest. Tara is a beautiful bride to be wrapped up in wedding preparation. She is also a kick-ass IRS cop who takes great joy in her gun collection and taking down those bad guys. There are rich details about a rental scam case she is working on but someone is also trying to kill her. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
April 21, 2022
The perfect ending to the series. Only Tara Holloway could have so much trouble getting married but it makes for a fun-filled adventure before the ceremony. I will definitely miss this series. I learned so much about tax law and how dangerous it can be. Highly recommended for people looking for humor and good stories.
December 20, 2017
Diane Kelly’s Death and Taxes series comes to an end with Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding, the twelfth adventure of Tara Holloway, gun-toting IRS Special Agent. I’m sure it’s no spoiler to admit that Tara and Nick do manage to get married by the end of the book, or that shotguns actually are present at the wedding.
Before they make it to the altar, though, Tara tackles a home rental scam, pursuing the fake property manager through an undercover job with Backseat Driver, and all her colleagues lend their talents to track down whoever is sending Tara death threats. That search serves as a trip down memory lane, as Tara and her friends check in with folks they’ve met—and some they’ve arrested—over Tara’s relatively brief career as an agent. (She’s sure packed a lot of action into less than two years on the job!) If you’ve been following the series you’ll enjoy catching up with all the characters.
I’m glad to see Tara’s Happily Ever After (complete with a five-years-later epilogue), but sorry to see the series end. Never fear, though—Kelly’s Paw and Order K9 team of Megan and Brigit will continue, and rumor has it Kelly has a new series in the works.
Before they make it to the altar, though, Tara tackles a home rental scam, pursuing the fake property manager through an undercover job with Backseat Driver, and all her colleagues lend their talents to track down whoever is sending Tara death threats. That search serves as a trip down memory lane, as Tara and her friends check in with folks they’ve met—and some they’ve arrested—over Tara’s relatively brief career as an agent. (She’s sure packed a lot of action into less than two years on the job!) If you’ve been following the series you’ll enjoy catching up with all the characters.
I’m glad to see Tara’s Happily Ever After (complete with a five-years-later epilogue), but sorry to see the series end. Never fear, though—Kelly’s Paw and Order K9 team of Megan and Brigit will continue, and rumor has it Kelly has a new series in the works.
January 24, 2019
It was a good ending to the series. Many happy returns Tara!
November 22, 2017
**I voluntarily read this ARC**
Nooooo! Why did the series have to end? OK, now that I got that out of me... I honestly could not put the book down. The humor, the mystery, everything was just so well done. I was laughing so much throughout this book.
Nooooo! Why did the series have to end? OK, now that I got that out of me... I honestly could not put the book down. The humor, the mystery, everything was just so well done. I was laughing so much throughout this book.
August 26, 2017
LOVED this book! This is one of my favorite series of all time, and, while I'm sorry to see it end, this is a well written and satisfying conclusion to the series.
Tara is a feisty Special Agent for the IRS and is well known for her firearm skill. Nick is her hunky fiance that she can't wait to marry. They've planned a lovely wedding, but then someone keeps threatening to kill her, which would really ruin her day.
This novel has it all - from laugh out loud humor, to poignant moments that brought a tear to my eye, to a wonderful revisiting of her most memorable encounters, both victim and criminal.
If you've read any part of this series, this book is a must read. While this is a stand alone novel, you really should have read at least one prior book in the series to really appreciate this novel. I hate saying goodbye to Tara, Nick, and the rest of the characters, but love the way the author crafted their farewell story.
Tara is a feisty Special Agent for the IRS and is well known for her firearm skill. Nick is her hunky fiance that she can't wait to marry. They've planned a lovely wedding, but then someone keeps threatening to kill her, which would really ruin her day.
This novel has it all - from laugh out loud humor, to poignant moments that brought a tear to my eye, to a wonderful revisiting of her most memorable encounters, both victim and criminal.
If you've read any part of this series, this book is a must read. While this is a stand alone novel, you really should have read at least one prior book in the series to really appreciate this novel. I hate saying goodbye to Tara, Nick, and the rest of the characters, but love the way the author crafted their farewell story.
November 3, 2017
Tara is a Special Agent with the IRS. She has recently gotten engaged to fellow Special Agent, Nick, and they are planning their wedding. While mailing their wedding invitations, someone tries to run Tara over. She doesn't initially take it personally until she starts getting death threats. Then she starts digging into her past to see who would be seeking revenge ... and that list is long.
In the meantime, Tara is looking for a scammer who is renting out apartments ... but doesn't actually own the apartments. He's collecting the down payments and then disappearing. The renters doesn't realize this until they go to get the keys and move in.
I've read many books by this author and I thought this one was just okay. I liked the writing style ... it was funny and sarcastic at times. It is written in first person perspective from Tara's point of view. As a head's up, there is some swearing.
It is the twelfth and final book in the Tara Holloway series (I've read them all and like this series). Though it is part of a series, it works as a stand alone and you don't have to read the others to know what's going on but it helps, especially this one since it's the last one and there are lots of references to cases in the past. I thought the "whodunnit" was a let down and was a bit disappointed that it ended that way. And the escapade just before the wedding was ridiculous. While I'm going to miss this series, yes, it was time for it to end.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2017/11...
August 27, 2017
Title: Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding - Tara Halloway Mystery Book 12
Author: Diane Kelly
Publisher: St Martin's Press
Published: 10-31-2017
Pages: 352
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Sub-Genre: Amateur Sleuths, Cozy Mystery, Humor, Romance, Suspense
ISBN: 9781250094902
ASIN: B06Y5S12TF
Reviewed For NetGalley and St Martin's Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
Tara Halloway Mysteries
1. Death, Texas and a French Manicure
2. Death, Texas and a Skinny No-Whip Latte
3. Death, Texas and Extra-Hold Hairspray
3a. Death, Texas and a Sequined Clutch (Novella)
4. Death, Texas and Peach Sangria
5. Death, Texas and Hot Pink Leg Warmers
6. Death, Texas and Green Tea Ice Cream
6a. Death, Texas and Mistletoe Mayhem (Novella)
7. Death, Texas and Silver Spurs
8. Death, Texas and Cheap Sunglasses
9. Death, Texas and Chocolate Cannoli
10. Death, Texas and Satin Garter
11. Death, Texas and Sweet Potato Fries
12. Death, Texas and a Satin Garter
13. Death, Taxes and Pecan Pie
LOVE BEGINS―AND ENDS―WITH A BANG.
For IRS Special Agent Tara Holloway, this case is personal…
Wedding bells are ringing as Tara and her soon-to-be-husband Nick prepare for their big day. But along with all the RSVP cards are a series of death threats from an unknown source. The culprit must be someone from an earlier investigation―a white-collar criminal with a red-hot grudge―but Tara has run across too many lawbreakers to narrow down the search. And time, like her biological clock, is ticking. Now, while dodging attempts on her life, Tara also finds herself embroiled in a rental scam in which a heartless crook is ripping people off left and right. Will she be able to track down the con artist and make it down the aisle in one piece? Or will “til death do us part” come before Tara can even say “I do”?
The wedding is just around the corner and the excitement is crackling in the air as is the oppression of death threats that continue to arrive. It was fun to see her and Nick again waffling between joy and determined anger at finding who is behind them. Add in a con artist and trying to stay alive for the wedding and the suspense keeps rising. Enjoy an afternoon lazing away while reading the time in a hammock on a hazy summer day.
My rating of "Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding - Tara Halloway Mystery Book 12" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y5S12TF/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/deat...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Death-...
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/deat...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Diane Kelly
Publisher: St Martin's Press
Published: 10-31-2017
Pages: 352
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Sub-Genre: Amateur Sleuths, Cozy Mystery, Humor, Romance, Suspense
ISBN: 9781250094902
ASIN: B06Y5S12TF
Reviewed For NetGalley and St Martin's Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
Tara Halloway Mysteries
1. Death, Texas and a French Manicure
2. Death, Texas and a Skinny No-Whip Latte
3. Death, Texas and Extra-Hold Hairspray
3a. Death, Texas and a Sequined Clutch (Novella)
4. Death, Texas and Peach Sangria
5. Death, Texas and Hot Pink Leg Warmers
6. Death, Texas and Green Tea Ice Cream
6a. Death, Texas and Mistletoe Mayhem (Novella)
7. Death, Texas and Silver Spurs
8. Death, Texas and Cheap Sunglasses
9. Death, Texas and Chocolate Cannoli
10. Death, Texas and Satin Garter
11. Death, Texas and Sweet Potato Fries
12. Death, Texas and a Satin Garter
13. Death, Taxes and Pecan Pie
LOVE BEGINS―AND ENDS―WITH A BANG.
For IRS Special Agent Tara Holloway, this case is personal…
Wedding bells are ringing as Tara and her soon-to-be-husband Nick prepare for their big day. But along with all the RSVP cards are a series of death threats from an unknown source. The culprit must be someone from an earlier investigation―a white-collar criminal with a red-hot grudge―but Tara has run across too many lawbreakers to narrow down the search. And time, like her biological clock, is ticking. Now, while dodging attempts on her life, Tara also finds herself embroiled in a rental scam in which a heartless crook is ripping people off left and right. Will she be able to track down the con artist and make it down the aisle in one piece? Or will “til death do us part” come before Tara can even say “I do”?
The wedding is just around the corner and the excitement is crackling in the air as is the oppression of death threats that continue to arrive. It was fun to see her and Nick again waffling between joy and determined anger at finding who is behind them. Add in a con artist and trying to stay alive for the wedding and the suspense keeps rising. Enjoy an afternoon lazing away while reading the time in a hammock on a hazy summer day.
My rating of "Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding - Tara Halloway Mystery Book 12" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y5S12TF/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/deat...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Death-...
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/deat...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
February 20, 2025
Tara Holloway’s wedding day should be all about love, but when you’ve spent years as an IRS special agent putting dangerous criminals behind bars, sometimes the past comes knocking. And by knocking, I mean sending death threats. With a mystery enemy out to ruin her big day and a rental scam investigation that keeps getting messier, Tara finds herself juggling cake tastings, dress fittings, and trying not to get murdered. It’s safe to say this is not your typical wedding prep.
Diane Kelly delivers a fast-paced, action-packed, and laugh-out-loud finale to the Tara Holloway series, blending mystery, humor, and romance in just the right amounts. Tara is as sharp and determined as ever, and her chemistry with Nick is peak partners-in-crime-solving (and life) energy. The mix of high-stakes danger and wedding chaos keeps things entertaining, and the return of familiar faces makes it all feel like one last wild ride with old friends. While the mystery itself has plenty of twists, the emotional weight of this being the series finale gives it extra depth—because after so many cases, close calls, and clever quips, saying goodbye to Tara’s world isn’t easy.
A solid 4 out of 5 stars! While Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding wraps up Tara’s story beautifully, it’s definitely best read after the rest of the series to fully appreciate the relationships, ongoing arcs, and satisfying payoffs. If you love snarky heroines, action-packed mysteries, and a wedding where dodging bullets is just as important as dodging bad centerpieces, this finale is worth the read. And honestly, if Tara can survive a literal threat to her life while planning a wedding, no one else has an excuse to complain about wedding stress.
Diane Kelly delivers a fast-paced, action-packed, and laugh-out-loud finale to the Tara Holloway series, blending mystery, humor, and romance in just the right amounts. Tara is as sharp and determined as ever, and her chemistry with Nick is peak partners-in-crime-solving (and life) energy. The mix of high-stakes danger and wedding chaos keeps things entertaining, and the return of familiar faces makes it all feel like one last wild ride with old friends. While the mystery itself has plenty of twists, the emotional weight of this being the series finale gives it extra depth—because after so many cases, close calls, and clever quips, saying goodbye to Tara’s world isn’t easy.
A solid 4 out of 5 stars! While Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding wraps up Tara’s story beautifully, it’s definitely best read after the rest of the series to fully appreciate the relationships, ongoing arcs, and satisfying payoffs. If you love snarky heroines, action-packed mysteries, and a wedding where dodging bullets is just as important as dodging bad centerpieces, this finale is worth the read. And honestly, if Tara can survive a literal threat to her life while planning a wedding, no one else has an excuse to complain about wedding stress.
October 20, 2017
** ARC provided by the author for an honest review **
Diane Kelly consistently gives us romantic mysteries with feisty women and sexy men. Oh and let’s not forget the humor. Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding, the twelfth and final Tara Holloway novel, is no exception.
Tara and her fiancé, Nick, are preparing for their wedding when Tara begins to receive death threats. The two of them work as Special Agents for the IRS and even with receiving death threats Tara is on a case. She is determined to solve a case involving a real estate scam for the Dallas Police Department and death threats and wedding planning are not going to stop her.
I enjoyed getting to follow how Tara juggles the death threats, her case, and the planning of the wedding. It was a lot of fun. The frustration of the case combined with the frustration of wedding planning made for some great hilarity. Then there is the added suspense of who is threatening Tara. As with many of Diane’s books, this was a suspense and rom-com in one.
This is the last book in the series and I recommend reading the entire series in order. You may be a little lost at times if you don’t, but it is still a great read even if you haven’t read the others. The author had me laughing out loud at times and there were enough twists and turns for me to be invested in how it would end for Tara and Nick.
Well written, descriptive, and nicely paced. This is a perfect ending for the series and great for a fun escape read. Four stars.
Diane Kelly consistently gives us romantic mysteries with feisty women and sexy men. Oh and let’s not forget the humor. Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding, the twelfth and final Tara Holloway novel, is no exception.
Tara and her fiancé, Nick, are preparing for their wedding when Tara begins to receive death threats. The two of them work as Special Agents for the IRS and even with receiving death threats Tara is on a case. She is determined to solve a case involving a real estate scam for the Dallas Police Department and death threats and wedding planning are not going to stop her.
I enjoyed getting to follow how Tara juggles the death threats, her case, and the planning of the wedding. It was a lot of fun. The frustration of the case combined with the frustration of wedding planning made for some great hilarity. Then there is the added suspense of who is threatening Tara. As with many of Diane’s books, this was a suspense and rom-com in one.
This is the last book in the series and I recommend reading the entire series in order. You may be a little lost at times if you don’t, but it is still a great read even if you haven’t read the others. The author had me laughing out loud at times and there were enough twists and turns for me to be invested in how it would end for Tara and Nick.
Well written, descriptive, and nicely paced. This is a perfect ending for the series and great for a fun escape read. Four stars.
October 31, 2017
This was a very enjoyable read. I had no idea that it was a series when I started, and admittedly (obviously) I had not read the previous books. The author did a great job of filling in the backstory of the characters so I didn’t feel lost.
The story is about Tara Holloway, an IRS special agent. She is getting married, and starts receiving death threats. During all of this, she is also trying to solve a case and figure out who sending the threats.
The story was interesting and I wanted to know what happened all the way along. I actually pretty much read it in one day. (It was a rainy Saturday, but still!)
I was sad to see that this is the last in the series. I think the author does a good job in wrapping it up. I will be interested to read how followers of the series feel about the conclusion.
One thing I did find interesting was around how guns were portrayed in the book. The story takes place in Texas and the main character, when packing up her home to move talks about her gun rack (that her soon-to-be husband bought her). I was like…..whaaaat? Living in Toronto, that is so far outside my wheelhouse that I found it very fascinating. The theme is repeated throughout the book, referring to a conceal and carry pouch in her purse, and talking about different gun laws. For me, that added an interesting element to the overall story.
I would highly recommend this book as a stand-alone. But I would also say you might want to check out the series. Based on the backstory of the main character, it sounds like she had some very interesting adventures.
Full disclosure: I received this eARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review. (Thanks NetGalley!)
The story is about Tara Holloway, an IRS special agent. She is getting married, and starts receiving death threats. During all of this, she is also trying to solve a case and figure out who sending the threats.
The story was interesting and I wanted to know what happened all the way along. I actually pretty much read it in one day. (It was a rainy Saturday, but still!)
I was sad to see that this is the last in the series. I think the author does a good job in wrapping it up. I will be interested to read how followers of the series feel about the conclusion.
One thing I did find interesting was around how guns were portrayed in the book. The story takes place in Texas and the main character, when packing up her home to move talks about her gun rack (that her soon-to-be husband bought her). I was like…..whaaaat? Living in Toronto, that is so far outside my wheelhouse that I found it very fascinating. The theme is repeated throughout the book, referring to a conceal and carry pouch in her purse, and talking about different gun laws. For me, that added an interesting element to the overall story.
I would highly recommend this book as a stand-alone. But I would also say you might want to check out the series. Based on the backstory of the main character, it sounds like she had some very interesting adventures.
Full disclosure: I received this eARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review. (Thanks NetGalley!)
October 30, 2017
Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding is the final installment in the Tara Holloway series. Federal Agent Tara Holloway is gearing up for her wedding to her hunky co-worker Nick Pratt, but of course, with Tara, nothing ever goes smoothly. She's just dropped their wedding invitations in the mail when someone tries to run her down; the next day, she begins receiving death threats. Tara is working with Dallas PD on a rent fraud case and their profiler says that the person threatening Tara is likely a woman with a vendetta against her.
The Tara Holloway series has been a fun, light, brain candy series with a kind-hearted and spunky heroine. This book stayed true to format and was a fun way to wrap up the series - in the course of investigating who might be threatening her, Tara revisits a lot of people involved in her cases from the series. The book was a charming, amusing way to wrap up Tara's story and fans of the series won't be disappointed with this installment.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
The Tara Holloway series has been a fun, light, brain candy series with a kind-hearted and spunky heroine. This book stayed true to format and was a fun way to wrap up the series - in the course of investigating who might be threatening her, Tara revisits a lot of people involved in her cases from the series. The book was a charming, amusing way to wrap up Tara's story and fans of the series won't be disappointed with this installment.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
October 31, 2017
This is a great book; this is the twelfth book in the Tara Holloway Series written by Diane Kelly. Wedding bells are ringing as Tara and her soon-to-be-husband Nick prepare for their big day. But along with all the RSVP cards are a series of death threats from an unknown source. The culprit must be someone from an earlier investigation--a white-collar criminal with a red-hot grudge--but Tara has run across too many lawbreakers to narrow down the search. And time, like her biological clock, is ticking. Now, while dodging attempts on her life, Tara also finds herself embroiled in a rental scam in which a heartless crook is ripping people off left and right. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. If you are looking for a great book, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
September 7, 2017
“Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding” is the first book I have read by Diane Kelly and I laughed my way throughout the entirety of the novel. Tara Hollaway is a Special Investigator with the criminal division of the IRS and she seems to find herself often mixed up in hilarious situations as she prevents tax evasion. Tara is engaged to Nick Pratt who is also with the IRS and they are on the verge of saying “I do” when Tara begins to receive death threats along with an attempt or two on her life. Tara is also helping the Dallas Police Department solve a rental scam that has been plaguing the area by going undercover as a driver for a car service. Diane Kelly is a fantastic writer that keeps the reader engaged by using wit and intrigued. I highly recommend this book because you will not be disappointed. I was given an advanced copy of this book, and all of the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 1, 2017
I didn't know this was the last book in the series until I started reading the acknowledgements. I felt that there was definitely room for more, but the author does a great job of wrapping things up including a satisfying epilogue.
There are two story lines, one with Tara getting death threats and her latest case involving a real estate scam. I give the book 4.5 stars because I felt the real estate scam didn't have the depth and detail as the cases in other books. Mostly because the author spent so much page space on the other story line.
It was novel how the author used the death threats as a way for us to get caught up with and say good bye to former bad guys and victims/friends Tara made in her cases (many of whom I didn't remember).
The story lines, the wedding and the epilogue were all well done.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
There are two story lines, one with Tara getting death threats and her latest case involving a real estate scam. I give the book 4.5 stars because I felt the real estate scam didn't have the depth and detail as the cases in other books. Mostly because the author spent so much page space on the other story line.
It was novel how the author used the death threats as a way for us to get caught up with and say good bye to former bad guys and victims/friends Tara made in her cases (many of whom I didn't remember).
The story lines, the wedding and the epilogue were all well done.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
November 1, 2017
Tara and Nick are finally tying the knot! Of course, crime and mayhem never cease for our fearless IRS Special Agents. There is a rental scam that Tara has to deal with as well as some pesky death threats to worry about. In an effort to sort out the death threats, Tara revisits a variety of people from past cases. I loved all the call-backs to past books, especially the sweet bakery couple.
This is the last book in a long-running series and a fitting end to these characters. Having read a number of books in this series, I've learned far more about the IRS, taxes, and crime than I ever thought I would. Thanks, Diane Kelly!
*Note: you could read this as a standalone, but the experience would be better if you have already read a few prior entries in the series, especially the first few where Nick and Tara get together.
This is the last book in a long-running series and a fitting end to these characters. Having read a number of books in this series, I've learned far more about the IRS, taxes, and crime than I ever thought I would. Thanks, Diane Kelly!
*Note: you could read this as a standalone, but the experience would be better if you have already read a few prior entries in the series, especially the first few where Nick and Tara get together.
October 22, 2017
Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding is the 12th book in the Tara Holloway mystery series by Diane Kelly. I don't know why I have not found this series before. This is the first book in the series that I have read.
Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding follows the adventures of IRS Special Agent Tara Holoway. As Tara is preparing for her upcoming wedding, she is almost run down while mailing her invitations. Is someone from her past dealing in the IRS gunning for her? And will she be able to finish investigating a rental scam before someone tries to kill her? And what about her wedding?
Death, Taxes and a Shotgun Wedding is a fun cozy mystery that all cozy fans will enjoy!
Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding follows the adventures of IRS Special Agent Tara Holoway. As Tara is preparing for her upcoming wedding, she is almost run down while mailing her invitations. Is someone from her past dealing in the IRS gunning for her? And will she be able to finish investigating a rental scam before someone tries to kill her? And what about her wedding?
Death, Taxes and a Shotgun Wedding is a fun cozy mystery that all cozy fans will enjoy!
November 6, 2017
I came late to this series but really enjoyed it once I found it. People don’t usually think of IRS Special Agents as heroes but in this series IRS Special Agents Tara & Nick show us that even the IRS has a heart.
Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding is the bittersweet ending to this series but the author does them justice and doesn’t make it easy on either her characters or her readers. Tara and Nick’s wedding date is approaching and Tara has a death threat hanging over her head. Which of her past cases has come back to steal her happiness? Read this and find out. I will miss Tara & Nick but I really enjoyed their exit.
Death, Taxes, and a Shotgun Wedding is the bittersweet ending to this series but the author does them justice and doesn’t make it easy on either her characters or her readers. Tara and Nick’s wedding date is approaching and Tara has a death threat hanging over her head. Which of her past cases has come back to steal her happiness? Read this and find out. I will miss Tara & Nick but I really enjoyed their exit.
January 30, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. I could not put it down. I am definitely sad that one of my favorite book series has come to an end. have completely enjoyed every single adventure Tara Holloway has been on. I have laughed and cried, mostly laughed, through this whole series. I feel like Tara, Nick and all the characters in the book are friends. I recommend this series too anyone who wants to go on a wild ride and enjoys on the edge of your seat excitement and a lot of laughs and wonderful romance and friendships. Tara has also helped me get through some challenges in my own life and it's not that often that a book or a series like this comes along and can do that, so thank you!
March 7, 2023
Nothing like coming in at the end. I had no idea this was the last in a series when I read it. If ever I thought about going backwards in a series I might have found the one with Tara Holloway series.
I enjoyed this book all on it's own, but I can tell I have missed a great deal in Tara's story. Strong woman that loves her job, even when it tries to kill her, maybe loves it more then. Also loves her man and many around her. Such a smart woman that just a few times I shook my head at her actions, but it was all good, that is what makes this a cozy mystery...those fun little things we all know we shouldn't do.
Glad I found the series and the author.
I enjoyed this book all on it's own, but I can tell I have missed a great deal in Tara's story. Strong woman that loves her job, even when it tries to kill her, maybe loves it more then. Also loves her man and many around her. Such a smart woman that just a few times I shook my head at her actions, but it was all good, that is what makes this a cozy mystery...those fun little things we all know we shouldn't do.
Glad I found the series and the author.
December 20, 2017
In the final book of this series, Tara and Nick are about to get married. First, Tara helps the Dallas Police try to find a real estate scam con man. She also starts receiving death threats and the whole IRS gang steps up to help protect her. Will Tara live long enough to say "I do"? This was a great last book and I loved the jump to the future at the end so we get to see what happens to the gang. Will miss this series greatly. It brought me a lot of laughter. Fans of this series definitely won't want to miss out on reading this final book!
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