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Fiona Fleming #3
Fame and Fortune and Murder
An Insulting Kind of Day
I skipped around a small stack of pylons while my deputy cousin unloaded more of the same from the back of the sheriff’s pickup. I beamed at Robert Carlisle, not because I adored him. Quite the opposite. I couldn’t stand the wretched little piece of loathing with his seventies-esque bush of a black mustache or his pompous superiority that he got to be a cop and I didn’t or his growing beer belly and hideous leer he liked to aim at any woman under the age of fifty.
No, I grinned and waved out of sheer delight at his less than enthusiastic expression as he grunted his way through hefting a rather heavy looking barricade onto the sidewalk.
“Exercise is good for you,” I said as I kept going without offering to help.
“Your ass could use some lately, Fanny,” he shot after me.
He did not just call me fat and Fanny in the same sentence.
Fiona Fleming has no intention of getting involved when Mayor Olivia Walker hosts a parade for the celebrity couple whose fame she’s been using to promote their town. But when the local ski lodge can’t accommodate and Willow Pink and Skip Anderson end up staying at Petunia’s, Fee is not only front row center to a murder, she’s trapped in her own bed and breakfast with the suspects when the frenzied media descends on Reading looking for the story of a lifetime.
I skipped around a small stack of pylons while my deputy cousin unloaded more of the same from the back of the sheriff’s pickup. I beamed at Robert Carlisle, not because I adored him. Quite the opposite. I couldn’t stand the wretched little piece of loathing with his seventies-esque bush of a black mustache or his pompous superiority that he got to be a cop and I didn’t or his growing beer belly and hideous leer he liked to aim at any woman under the age of fifty.
No, I grinned and waved out of sheer delight at his less than enthusiastic expression as he grunted his way through hefting a rather heavy looking barricade onto the sidewalk.
“Exercise is good for you,” I said as I kept going without offering to help.
“Your ass could use some lately, Fanny,” he shot after me.
He did not just call me fat and Fanny in the same sentence.
Fiona Fleming has no intention of getting involved when Mayor Olivia Walker hosts a parade for the celebrity couple whose fame she’s been using to promote their town. But when the local ski lodge can’t accommodate and Willow Pink and Skip Anderson end up staying at Petunia’s, Fee is not only front row center to a murder, she’s trapped in her own bed and breakfast with the suspects when the frenzied media descends on Reading looking for the story of a lifetime.
- GenresCozy MysteryMysteryCozy
345 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2017
233 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
About the author
Patti Larsen
307 books549 followersI write a lot of paranormal books for someone who is afraid of the dark. And I wonder why I have to sleep with the lights on. Sometimes life is a teenaged B horror movie and I'm the one who investigates when the scary music is playing. But the voices are calling and resistance is… Yes. I am a Star Trek geek, too. And a fan of RPG’s. With a slight coolness factor since I've been told I'm allowed to join the pops.
Naw. I like being a nerdy girl :)
Naw. I like being a nerdy girl :)
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
September 20, 2023
I can't stop reading these. They're so fun & cozy. The killer was easy to spot in this one, but I don't care.
December 13, 2020
I normally don't write reviews, but I had issues with this book. Not with the storyline. That was fine (even though I picked out who did it quite early).
My issue is with the sentences. Too many times I had to reread a sentence before it made sense (and there was one sentence I completely gave up on). The author needs to read her sentences out loud and work out where to take a breath.
And also learn which homophone to use - "throws of guilt"? Really?
The most glaring one? Using the wrong they're/their/there - "They're stuff is already moved in".
I know it's now frowned upon to pick on someone's grammar, but when that someone is publishing books for the world to read then they've got to be able to deal with the criticism.
I have book four ready to go. If it doesn't get any better then book four will probably be my last one.
My issue is with the sentences. Too many times I had to reread a sentence before it made sense (and there was one sentence I completely gave up on). The author needs to read her sentences out loud and work out where to take a breath.
And also learn which homophone to use - "throws of guilt"? Really?
The most glaring one? Using the wrong they're/their/there - "They're stuff is already moved in".
I know it's now frowned upon to pick on someone's grammar, but when that someone is publishing books for the world to read then they've got to be able to deal with the criticism.
I have book four ready to go. If it doesn't get any better then book four will probably be my last one.
July 11, 2025
The third volume in the Fiona Fleming series brought back all our favorites. Poor Fiona thought she would get some quiet time at the B&B to fix some things up before the surge of new guests came in, but that, of course, would have been too easy. She shows up to find the fair mayor, Oliva, on her front porch, making an announcement to a film crew that this will be their new accommodations! Reading’s rich and famous have come into town for a publicity shoot, but due to issues at the lodge, they now must stay at the B&B. Of course, it’s not long before one of the guests kicks the bucket, and this time right on top of Fi! She is not on the hunt to help Crew find who has ruined her peaceful plans, and she is out for revenge. I have to say that this third installment did have a bit of a better writing style. There were still some moments where I found myself not quite feeling right about the internal monologue and felt it was forced in a few places, but Pattie did tone down the repetition a bit. I did enjoy it, but I needed more Petunia for this one. I also felt as though the killer fell into her lap rather than her doing any real investigative work on this one, and that bummed me out. I still recommend it as a light read. There is no heavy lifting of brain cells on this one, and Pattie Larson does have a subtle humor I enjoy.
December 17, 2019
It was pure fun to read this new story of Fiona Flemming, although I did suspect pretty fast who had done it, but the why was eluding me till the end.
This story, can be read in a stand alone, but there are elements in this book that connects it with the rest, so because of that, it is better to read it as a series, one book after another and not as a stand alone. It will make more sense that way.
From all the books I have read from Patti so far, Fiona is the character that I see most in Patti, although she does tell me that Fiona is a lot more courageous than herself. Her love of her pugs, as much in real life as in her book is evident. And who could not love such a delightful face on such a cute dog. Even if it farts at the most awkward times, or eats like ten, everybody falls in love with Petunia.
Once again, this book is full of action, questions, intrigue and love. The characters in the book and in the series are relatable and endearing. One cannot stop but want to go live in Reading. I know I would love to live in such a quaint and lovely town. The ending will make you wonder what the next book of the series will be like.
So, why don’t you get it and start reading it. I know I will. Happy reading!
This story, can be read in a stand alone, but there are elements in this book that connects it with the rest, so because of that, it is better to read it as a series, one book after another and not as a stand alone. It will make more sense that way.
From all the books I have read from Patti so far, Fiona is the character that I see most in Patti, although she does tell me that Fiona is a lot more courageous than herself. Her love of her pugs, as much in real life as in her book is evident. And who could not love such a delightful face on such a cute dog. Even if it farts at the most awkward times, or eats like ten, everybody falls in love with Petunia.
Once again, this book is full of action, questions, intrigue and love. The characters in the book and in the series are relatable and endearing. One cannot stop but want to go live in Reading. I know I would love to live in such a quaint and lovely town. The ending will make you wonder what the next book of the series will be like.
So, why don’t you get it and start reading it. I know I will. Happy reading!
December 8, 2019
When power couple Skip Anderson and Willow Pink come to Reading, Vermont to help promote the small town. She's a famous and popular movie star and he's pro footballer on the downside of his career.
Fee Fleming wants nothing to do with them or the parade that Mayor Walker is planning to help her promotion of the town to attract tourist.
When the lodge the couple were staying at has to close for repairs, Fee comes home to find that the mayor has invited them to take over her B&B for the duration of their stay.
All of a sudden Fee is in the lead carriage with Skip, who is drunk, and is being rude and obnoxious to everyone he can see.
When they reach the end of the parade, Skip collapses literally pinning Fee down with a now dead body on top of her.
The Coroner determines that he did not die of an "accidental" overdose. He was murdered.
This is another fun addition to this series, and has some interesting surprises in it.
Fee Fleming wants nothing to do with them or the parade that Mayor Walker is planning to help her promotion of the town to attract tourist.
When the lodge the couple were staying at has to close for repairs, Fee comes home to find that the mayor has invited them to take over her B&B for the duration of their stay.
All of a sudden Fee is in the lead carriage with Skip, who is drunk, and is being rude and obnoxious to everyone he can see.
When they reach the end of the parade, Skip collapses literally pinning Fee down with a now dead body on top of her.
The Coroner determines that he did not die of an "accidental" overdose. He was murdered.
This is another fun addition to this series, and has some interesting surprises in it.
February 6, 2020
It was a bit of a rough start with the writing. I was a bit disappointed that we had backpedaled to the overly wordy descriptions and too long sentences again. It seemed that the author had lost her stride from the previous book, but thankfully we got back on track soon after. Once again, it was easy to pinpoint who the culprit was and as more information was given, easy to find a motive as well. It took our characters a bit longer to put two and two together.
Fiona seems to really have a penchant for getting into deadly situations, and lady luck is still by her side to get her out of it. Hopefully that luck doesn't run out.
We also finally get some backstory on our dear Sheriff, Crew Turner! I hope that we can continue to flesh out the other characters in the coming novels since we don't have much to go on so far.
I've got my hands on the next book, let's start our new adventure!
Fiona seems to really have a penchant for getting into deadly situations, and lady luck is still by her side to get her out of it. Hopefully that luck doesn't run out.
We also finally get some backstory on our dear Sheriff, Crew Turner! I hope that we can continue to flesh out the other characters in the coming novels since we don't have much to go on so far.
I've got my hands on the next book, let's start our new adventure!
May 10, 2020
I am loving getting to know Ms. Fiona Fleming. This mystery kept me wondering. It is delightful to read how she thinks when solving a mystery. Willow and Skip former Reading residents coming home to visit to promote the town made for a great story. The murder of Skip and finding out about his true character and how he impacted the town allowed for us to get to know the townspeople better. I was surprised by who the murderer was. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
November 17, 2020
Another great installment for this series. Better than the last one with Fee and co being back in her B&B and even more important a lot more of character deepening happening, giving us a lot new information on them. Also, on the romantic side, there was at least some progress, much too my pleasure, although it’s still going slow. But all in all, a great book and hey, there are still ten books to go and then there is a new series based on the same characters waiting.
Can’t wait to read them all!
Can’t wait to read them all!
July 4, 2023
“But when I finally decided to look past his mistakes and the words and actions that he’d been raised by, I instead saw the intent behind everything. And his intentions were always the best”
“Big girl panties were a bit snug, but they offered awesome support.”
is any part of this story realistic? probably not. was I still hanging on every word? yes! I’m starting to like the main character more with each book although the amount she mentions her dogs farts is not normal. On to the next one!
“Big girl panties were a bit snug, but they offered awesome support.”
is any part of this story realistic? probably not. was I still hanging on every word? yes! I’m starting to like the main character more with each book although the amount she mentions her dogs farts is not normal. On to the next one!
June 28, 2018
Past wrongs come back into play
Awesome! Celebrity killings are never easy to keep quiet and this is proved when a death occurs during a parade. Can she narrow down the suspect list? Can she keep the wife out of jail? Will she pay the ultimate price for her snooping? A great read and the romantic angle is played well. Another terrific read in the series.
Awesome! Celebrity killings are never easy to keep quiet and this is proved when a death occurs during a parade. Can she narrow down the suspect list? Can she keep the wife out of jail? Will she pay the ultimate price for her snooping? A great read and the romantic angle is played well. Another terrific read in the series.
February 27, 2020
I am truly enjoying this series. They’re interesting and fun. They are not gory or gross but are still engrossing. I love that they have made the dog, petunia into a fully realized character. I work third shift in a call center so I am flying through these books. I hope she can write fast enough to stay in front of me.
December 13, 2023
Fee gets a sudden influx of customers at Petunia’s B&B. The Mayor wants a famous actress and football playing husband to make a film supporting their home town. Too bad the football player dies of an overdose during the welcoming parade. Can the police figure out what’s going on? How much can Fee be? A fun little read.
February 25, 2018
WOW Spectacular
I loved this book. The whole series was great & I can't wait to read the next book in the series. But. I highly recomend this one. It had it all and. I love the closeness to her parents. I highly recommend it.
I loved this book. The whole series was great & I can't wait to read the next book in the series. But. I highly recomend this one. It had it all and. I love the closeness to her parents. I highly recommend it.
November 13, 2018
I REALLY LIKE THIS AUTHOR...
Fiona Fleming series. I am on to book four and will be looking for a witch series. These stories are well thought out and just when I have the mystery solved, she flips the script and surprises me. Onward to more. TA TA
Fiona Fleming series. I am on to book four and will be looking for a witch series. These stories are well thought out and just when I have the mystery solved, she flips the script and surprises me. Onward to more. TA TA
September 21, 2023
What can I say? Definitely enjoying her series. Well worth the time to read. I’ll be honest. My draw to her first in series was the pug on her cover. And I enjoy when she does involve Petunia. But the writing keeps me coming whether Petunias mentioned or not.
January 31, 2024
Wonderful
I absolutely love the Cozy Mysteries. They all are entertaining and satisfy my craving for a good thriller mystery. It’s easy to connect with Fiona’s character and love her pug Petunia. You’ll get hooked and have to read more of Patti’s books.
I absolutely love the Cozy Mysteries. They all are entertaining and satisfy my craving for a good thriller mystery. It’s easy to connect with Fiona’s character and love her pug Petunia. You’ll get hooked and have to read more of Patti’s books.
August 9, 2017
Love Fiona, just read the first one and you will be hooked.
September 15, 2017
Next one please
Love these books. Have the next one ready to read. Like to try and figure out "who done it" before it's revealed.
Love these books. Have the next one ready to read. Like to try and figure out "who done it" before it's revealed.
October 10, 2017
This series is always mysterious, funny, tragic and all about a good mystery with lots of twists and turns to make it good reading and entertainment.
May 29, 2019
Good Stuff
Finally romance is looking looks to b blossoming between Fee an Crew, about time, romance murders, a dog like petunia and greet friends, a great entertaining read.👍👍
Finally romance is looking looks to b blossoming between Fee an Crew, about time, romance murders, a dog like petunia and greet friends, a great entertaining read.👍👍
June 15, 2019
Got to love the pug lol
May 18, 2020
fun who dun it read. I enjoy all her books.
June 13, 2020
Fiona is a likeable, engaging character and these books are fun to read.
July 9, 2022
This was another good read, I was on the edge of my seat at times.
December 31, 2023
Ill never get enough of Fiona Fleming
June 14, 2025
Funny action packed series
Love this book. My third in the series so far, super loveable or interesting characters. I will most definitely read the other books in this series.
Love this book. My third in the series so far, super loveable or interesting characters. I will most definitely read the other books in this series.
April 3, 2025
This cozy has it all! Terrific humor, at times laugh out loud and dare I say…. side splitting. Action, drama, murder all tied together with friendship, love and family. Highly enjoyable.
September 30, 2018
Fantastic! Fiona does it again! I love this series, and this one had lots of action, and I love her adorable Pug. Can't wait to read the next one!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews