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A B&B Spirits Mystery #1
Better Dead
As the owner of a charming Louisiana bed and breakfast, Holly Davis believes in Southern hospitality--but she draws the line at welcoming the ghost of her cheating husband . . .
Burl Davis checked out of this life a little earlier than expected--before Holly could serve him with divorce papers over his extramarital flings. Unfortunately, it was not before he nearly bankrupted her beloved B&B, Holly Grove, a converted plantation that has been in her family for generations. Holly would never wish anyone dead, but three months later she's feeling a lot more relief than grief.
Until Burl's ghost appears as an unwelcome guest. Before his spirit can move on, her not-so-dearly departed needs Holly's human help to bust up the drug smuggling ring he was involved with. She has reservations, to say the least, but agrees to assist him if he'll make a show of haunting the B&B to draw in visitors. But when Holly's former love, Jack McCann, mysteriously resurfaces in town and checks in, she has to wonder if her B&B is big enough for the ghost of her husband and the very real physical presence of her old flame . . .
Burl Davis checked out of this life a little earlier than expected--before Holly could serve him with divorce papers over his extramarital flings. Unfortunately, it was not before he nearly bankrupted her beloved B&B, Holly Grove, a converted plantation that has been in her family for generations. Holly would never wish anyone dead, but three months later she's feeling a lot more relief than grief.
Until Burl's ghost appears as an unwelcome guest. Before his spirit can move on, her not-so-dearly departed needs Holly's human help to bust up the drug smuggling ring he was involved with. She has reservations, to say the least, but agrees to assist him if he'll make a show of haunting the B&B to draw in visitors. But when Holly's former love, Jack McCann, mysteriously resurfaces in town and checks in, she has to wonder if her B&B is big enough for the ghost of her husband and the very real physical presence of her old flame . . .
375 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 26, 2017
About the author
Pamela Kopfler
4 books237 followersPamela Kopfler is a novelist, Southern-fried and sassy. She writes award-winning humorous mysteries with a kick of Southern sass. Her debut novel, BETTER DEAD, is the first in her B & B Spirits mystery series, to be followed by DOWNRIGHT DEAD, and HOG WILD DEAD. (Kensington Books) She is a four-time Golden Heart® finalist and a Daphne du Maurier award winner.
She can stir up a roux, mix a cocktail, and loves swapping stories. Putting words on the page keeps her alligator mouth from overloading her hummingbird heinie in real life. She marks her time on earth by the lives of the dogs she has loved–who often show up in her stories.
Pamela lives in South Louisiana where the spirits are restless, the food is spicy, and the living is divine.
She'd love to hear from you!
Website: http://pamelakopfler.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pamelakopfle... Twitter: https://twitter.com/pamelakopfler
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamelakopfler/
Amazon: https://amazon.com/author/pamelakopfler
Newsletter coming soon! Lagniappe (a little something extra). Unique cocktail recipes, finger-licking-good Southern recipes, sassy short stories, and news about new books and sales.
Stay sassy, y’all!
She can stir up a roux, mix a cocktail, and loves swapping stories. Putting words on the page keeps her alligator mouth from overloading her hummingbird heinie in real life. She marks her time on earth by the lives of the dogs she has loved–who often show up in her stories.
Pamela lives in South Louisiana where the spirits are restless, the food is spicy, and the living is divine.
She'd love to hear from you!
Website: http://pamelakopfler.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pamelakopfle... Twitter: https://twitter.com/pamelakopfler
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamelakopfler/
Amazon: https://amazon.com/author/pamelakopfler
Newsletter coming soon! Lagniappe (a little something extra). Unique cocktail recipes, finger-licking-good Southern recipes, sassy short stories, and news about new books and sales.
Stay sassy, y’all!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
December 7, 2017
Better Dead by Pamela Kopfler is the first book in the new B&B Spirits Mystery series. The book would be best classified as a cozy mystery read but this one has touches of paranormal with a resident ghost and also felt a bit like a romantic suspense since the point of view does end up switching between Holly and Jake after the first few chapters with just Holly.
I did quite like the idea behind bringing in a ghost in this story. The book starts off with Holly toasting her late husband who was killed in a plane crash right before she was able to ask for a divorce after finding out he had been cheating. Needless to say Holly was not the grieving widow and quite happy to have him gone only to end up with his ghost showing up just after she’d said her final goodbyes. Then to rid herself of Burl completely she needs to help him solve a mystery that has prevented him from entering heaven and beginning his afterlife.
Now I would warn that one could say this one involves a bit of a love triangle if you count Holly’s ghost of an ex hanging around all the while Jake coming in to investigate the B&B who has a history with Holly. The book doesn’t concentrate too much on the romantic aspects though and more on solving Burl’s problems so it shouldn’t bother readers too much and I found it rather amusing myself.
Set in a lovely southern plantation turned into a B&B in Louisiana the author did a wonderful job bringing the setting to life during the story. There’s also a few recipes included at the end of the book for readers to enjoy. In the end this one is definitely starting off as quite a nice series and has me rather curious as to where the author will take the next book.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
I did quite like the idea behind bringing in a ghost in this story. The book starts off with Holly toasting her late husband who was killed in a plane crash right before she was able to ask for a divorce after finding out he had been cheating. Needless to say Holly was not the grieving widow and quite happy to have him gone only to end up with his ghost showing up just after she’d said her final goodbyes. Then to rid herself of Burl completely she needs to help him solve a mystery that has prevented him from entering heaven and beginning his afterlife.
Now I would warn that one could say this one involves a bit of a love triangle if you count Holly’s ghost of an ex hanging around all the while Jake coming in to investigate the B&B who has a history with Holly. The book doesn’t concentrate too much on the romantic aspects though and more on solving Burl’s problems so it shouldn’t bother readers too much and I found it rather amusing myself.
Set in a lovely southern plantation turned into a B&B in Louisiana the author did a wonderful job bringing the setting to life during the story. There’s also a few recipes included at the end of the book for readers to enjoy. In the end this one is definitely starting off as quite a nice series and has me rather curious as to where the author will take the next book.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
December 25, 2017
Even after his death, Holly Davis' cheating, philandering husband Burl won't get out of her life. Just as she is toasting his abrupt exit from her life following a plane crash, his ghost appears. Burl needs her help with some unfinished business so he can move on to the afterlife. St. Peter won't let him in the gate until he clears up his mess. She reluctantly agrees to investigate the drug smugglers her husband got involved with so that Burl can rest in peace and to save her beloved B&B from the damage he caused their finances. Holly is under the gun....she has 30 days to get Burl into heaven or be stuck with his ghost for the rest of her life. Throw in a touch of romance, some great one-liners and lots of zany antics, and you have a great start to a new cozy mystery series!
I like Holly as a main character. She is intelligent and driven. She loves her family's plantation home, Holly Grove, and is dedicated to keep it in the family by operating a B&B. She is intelligent, sarcastic and quirky...she can't cook, she's not above using feminine wiles to get her way and she's not about to take any more of Burl's crap, dead or alive. The banter between Holly and the ghost is cute, and added a lot of humor to the story. My favorite side character is Nelda, the B&B's housekeeper. I wish she had been developed a bit more, but I love her personality.
All in all, a great start to a new series. A second book, Downright Dead, will be out in September 2018. A third book, Hog Wild Dead, is in the works. I will definitely be reading more in this series!
For more information on the author and her books, check out her website: https://pamelakopfler.com/
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
I like Holly as a main character. She is intelligent and driven. She loves her family's plantation home, Holly Grove, and is dedicated to keep it in the family by operating a B&B. She is intelligent, sarcastic and quirky...she can't cook, she's not above using feminine wiles to get her way and she's not about to take any more of Burl's crap, dead or alive. The banter between Holly and the ghost is cute, and added a lot of humor to the story. My favorite side character is Nelda, the B&B's housekeeper. I wish she had been developed a bit more, but I love her personality.
All in all, a great start to a new series. A second book, Downright Dead, will be out in September 2018. A third book, Hog Wild Dead, is in the works. I will definitely be reading more in this series!
For more information on the author and her books, check out her website: https://pamelakopfler.com/
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
October 15, 2017
When I first read the description of this book, I thought it would be similar to Agnes and the Hitman by Jennifer Crusie and Bob Mayer, down to the dog named Rhett. I was pleasantly surprised at how much better Better Dead was than Agnes. The characters were well-rounded. The dialogue punchy and apt with some zingy one-liners. This is an all-round fun read.
Holly Davis, loves the plantation home, Holly Grove, that has been in her family since antebellum times. When the ghost of her drug-dealing husband, Burl Davis, appears, she doesn't exactly welcome him. She still resents him for dying in an airplane crash before she could divorce him. He robbed her, was unfaithful to her, and nearly cost her home, a near-failing bed and breakfast.
Burl needs her help to move on from the physical world into either heaven or hell. Holly needs his help in haunting Holly Grove for Halloween to spur interest in her bed and breakfast and save it from foreclosure.
Jake McCann, Holly’s old flame, reappears after leaving town—and Holly’s heart—in the lurch. He needs a place to stay and moves into Holly Grove.
The romantic triangle that develops between Holly, Burl, and Jake adds a different spark to this romantic suspense novel as does a drug-smuggling ring.
I received a copy of Better Dead in exchange for a fair review.
Holly Davis, loves the plantation home, Holly Grove, that has been in her family since antebellum times. When the ghost of her drug-dealing husband, Burl Davis, appears, she doesn't exactly welcome him. She still resents him for dying in an airplane crash before she could divorce him. He robbed her, was unfaithful to her, and nearly cost her home, a near-failing bed and breakfast.
Burl needs her help to move on from the physical world into either heaven or hell. Holly needs his help in haunting Holly Grove for Halloween to spur interest in her bed and breakfast and save it from foreclosure.
Jake McCann, Holly’s old flame, reappears after leaving town—and Holly’s heart—in the lurch. He needs a place to stay and moves into Holly Grove.
The romantic triangle that develops between Holly, Burl, and Jake adds a different spark to this romantic suspense novel as does a drug-smuggling ring.
I received a copy of Better Dead in exchange for a fair review.
December 5, 2017
Better Dead is a quirky cozy mystery
that you won't want to put down.
When a sudden death takes place before the divorce papers are served, Holly Davis is still stuck with her cheating ex, but now he is in ghost form.
Running her B & B is Holly's dream, but now her financial future might be in danger. Her ex, Burl, insists he's sorry for what he's done, but Holly doesn't want to hear it, she just wants him gone.
This is an entertaining addition to the cozy genre and will appeal to all fans.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book offered by the publisher and Netgalley.
that you won't want to put down.
When a sudden death takes place before the divorce papers are served, Holly Davis is still stuck with her cheating ex, but now he is in ghost form.
Running her B & B is Holly's dream, but now her financial future might be in danger. Her ex, Burl, insists he's sorry for what he's done, but Holly doesn't want to hear it, she just wants him gone.
This is an entertaining addition to the cozy genre and will appeal to all fans.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book offered by the publisher and Netgalley.
December 13, 2017
A fun cozy mystery with a paranormal twist. Holly Davis is a likable character who the reader will find him/herself rooting for. And the handsome, mysterious Jake provides the knight in shining armor that all women are secretly waiting for. The secondary characters are just as entertaining as the main characters. This book has a lot of twists and turns, as well as laughable moments, to keep the reader interested and guessing.
October 4, 2017
"Holly Davis wanted a divorce, not a funeral."
From this great opening sentence through the end of the story, Pamela Kopfler kept me engrossed, turning pages, and chuckling with her delightful debut mystery, Better Dead.
Holly Davis is struggling to keep an historic plantation alive as a Bed and Breakfast when the ghost of her philandering, drug smuggling husband arrives. He has to right some wrongs (bust up the drug ring) before he can cross over, and he needs Holly's help to do it.
This mystery is well plotted, fast paced, and full of Southern charm and wit! I can't wait for the next installment.
I obtained a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
From this great opening sentence through the end of the story, Pamela Kopfler kept me engrossed, turning pages, and chuckling with her delightful debut mystery, Better Dead.
Holly Davis is struggling to keep an historic plantation alive as a Bed and Breakfast when the ghost of her philandering, drug smuggling husband arrives. He has to right some wrongs (bust up the drug ring) before he can cross over, and he needs Holly's help to do it.
This mystery is well plotted, fast paced, and full of Southern charm and wit! I can't wait for the next installment.
I obtained a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 19, 2017
Charming first book with humor, colorful citizens and a female protagonist that just about any woman can related with on some level. The story grabs you from page one until the end and throws more red herrings faster than a barista mixing your favorite beverage. I finished the book in sitting yes it was that good. It was well written and stayed on course and thank you for no love triangle.
November 23, 2017
A very good mix of mystery, romance, small town life, family relationships and humor. I laughed a lot and appreciated the different personal story.
Well written, entertaining plot and a lot of laugh.
Hope to read soon the next instalment.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Books
Well written, entertaining plot and a lot of laugh.
Hope to read soon the next instalment.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Books
September 29, 2017
I loved it! A young widow who owns an historic Louisiana bed & breakfast must contend with the ghost of her philandering husband, a former (living) boyfriend who has mysteriously returned to town, and a drug smuggling ring that could jeopardize both the B&B and its owner. Oh, and there's also those nosy bridge club members from town. Equal parts mystery, cozy, romance, and downright fun, BETTER DEAD is a brilliant debut. I have high hopes for the rest of this series and Pamela Kopfler!
October 25, 2017
Burl was a rat for sure and even worse, he's now haunting Holly's bed and breakfast pestering her. Her old sweetie Jake is also back in town and he's staying at the B&B. There's bad guys, there's good guys, there's dogs- all in all elements of a good cozy. The ghosting is fun and quirky (although sometimes a bit much). I liked Holly a lot- she's no-nonsense- and I can see her as a character in future books. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is a fast, fun read.
February 21, 2018
Check out all of my reviews at: http://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
BETTER DEAD (A B&B Spirits Mystery #1) by Pamela Kopfler is the first book in a new cozy mystery series set in a Louisiana B&B. The spirit in this book adds a touch of the paranormal and I can only assume that since this series is called a B&B Spirits Mystery there will be others in future books.
Holly Davis owns Holly Grove plantation turned B&B. It has been in her family for several generations and she especially needs to make it a success and profitable now that her cheating husband is dead. Killed in a plane wreck before Holly could divorce him, Burl nearly bankrupt the B&B and was involved with drug smuggling on the property.
As Holly drinks to celebrate her untimely freedom, Burl shows up as a spirit with unfinished business. Burl needs Holly’s help to move on. Holly needs Burl’s help to make Holly Grove a truly haunted plantation that will draw in guests to pay the bills.
Jake McCann, Holly’s former high school sweetheart, returns to town to help with the town’s paper while the owner is on vacation. He works out an agreement with Holly to stay at the B&B, but is that the only reason he has returned?
This was a fast read and had some laugh out loud scenes especially when you read about Gold Member and some of Holly’s disasters. The interaction between Holly, her ex’s spirit and Jake was also well written.
I was disappointed that Holly made so many bad decisions that placed her in jeopardy. One or two is fine, but I prefer a smarter heroine. I am not sure if it was done for screwball comedy sake, but it was just too many times. For me, Holly’s long-time housekeeper and cook was more of a caricature than I was comfortable with. I also would have preferred Jake to become more romantically involved further into future books. It felt rushed at the end of this book.
Overall, this is an entertaining cozy, but not sure if I will continue with the series.
BETTER DEAD (A B&B Spirits Mystery #1) by Pamela Kopfler is the first book in a new cozy mystery series set in a Louisiana B&B. The spirit in this book adds a touch of the paranormal and I can only assume that since this series is called a B&B Spirits Mystery there will be others in future books.
Holly Davis owns Holly Grove plantation turned B&B. It has been in her family for several generations and she especially needs to make it a success and profitable now that her cheating husband is dead. Killed in a plane wreck before Holly could divorce him, Burl nearly bankrupt the B&B and was involved with drug smuggling on the property.
As Holly drinks to celebrate her untimely freedom, Burl shows up as a spirit with unfinished business. Burl needs Holly’s help to move on. Holly needs Burl’s help to make Holly Grove a truly haunted plantation that will draw in guests to pay the bills.
Jake McCann, Holly’s former high school sweetheart, returns to town to help with the town’s paper while the owner is on vacation. He works out an agreement with Holly to stay at the B&B, but is that the only reason he has returned?
This was a fast read and had some laugh out loud scenes especially when you read about Gold Member and some of Holly’s disasters. The interaction between Holly, her ex’s spirit and Jake was also well written.
I was disappointed that Holly made so many bad decisions that placed her in jeopardy. One or two is fine, but I prefer a smarter heroine. I am not sure if it was done for screwball comedy sake, but it was just too many times. For me, Holly’s long-time housekeeper and cook was more of a caricature than I was comfortable with. I also would have preferred Jake to become more romantically involved further into future books. It felt rushed at the end of this book.
Overall, this is an entertaining cozy, but not sure if I will continue with the series.
October 6, 2026
4.25 🌟
Mood/Seasonal Reading: Halloween
This has sat on my bookshelf asking to be read for a few years now so it felt like the perfect time to finally pick it up. I’m really glad I did.
I throughly enjoyed the set up and characters. The setting was fun, the plot was fast paced and romance was a nice touch (a tad too slow moving for me but at least it gets me to pick up the second book). It had some solid humour as well.
My only issue was in the final reveal as I had to go back and look into a few things I missed that confused me.
Overall, I recommend this for a fun southern read during spooky season.
Mood/Seasonal Reading: Halloween
This has sat on my bookshelf asking to be read for a few years now so it felt like the perfect time to finally pick it up. I’m really glad I did.
I throughly enjoyed the set up and characters. The setting was fun, the plot was fast paced and romance was a nice touch (a tad too slow moving for me but at least it gets me to pick up the second book). It had some solid humour as well.
My only issue was in the final reveal as I had to go back and look into a few things I missed that confused me.
Overall, I recommend this for a fun southern read during spooky season.
December 26, 2017
I give this book 5 out of 5 Fun-tastic Stars!Like most books I have read that have been published by Kensington Books this one was just awesome! I am so excited to see this author’s future works and just loved how fun and well written this book was. The author first pulled me into this book by the sweet and charming setting of a plantation B & B in Louisiana. There was even parts that described the different uses of different rooms and parts of the family owned plantation. The fictional history was fun and enticing. The plot of this story was solid and flowed perfectly together. I loved the characterisation in this book. Holly was a hot mess at times but so funny and relatable.
Her relationship and interactions with Burl were absolutely hilarious.
Even though he was a ghost it felt like a realistic relationship. Jake and Holly’s romance was sweet. I know the blurb says Jack but his name was Jake. That’s the only error and that was in the blurb so I don’t think that counts!😉 Nelda was my favorite! She was Laugh Out Loud hilarious. Her personality was original and just made Holly Grove that much better! Her reactions to Burl was just too funny!
The book focused more on the mystery of the story and the paranormal aspects.
This story surprised me when it kind of turned into a whodunit mystery and I just love a good whodunit. I mean a whodunit on a plantation and some supernatural fun involved! Heck yes!
Overall I couldn’t recommend this book enough if you’re looking for something fun or a nice cozy to cuddle up with this is the book for you. Better Dead had everything I was looking for plus more and can’t wait to find out what happens next!!!😄
To read more of this review and others please visit touchmyspinebookreviews.com
Her relationship and interactions with Burl were absolutely hilarious.
Even though he was a ghost it felt like a realistic relationship. Jake and Holly’s romance was sweet. I know the blurb says Jack but his name was Jake. That’s the only error and that was in the blurb so I don’t think that counts!😉 Nelda was my favorite! She was Laugh Out Loud hilarious. Her personality was original and just made Holly Grove that much better! Her reactions to Burl was just too funny!
The book focused more on the mystery of the story and the paranormal aspects.
This story surprised me when it kind of turned into a whodunit mystery and I just love a good whodunit. I mean a whodunit on a plantation and some supernatural fun involved! Heck yes!
Overall I couldn’t recommend this book enough if you’re looking for something fun or a nice cozy to cuddle up with this is the book for you. Better Dead had everything I was looking for plus more and can’t wait to find out what happens next!!!😄
To read more of this review and others please visit touchmyspinebookreviews.com
January 17, 2018
Wow! What a fantastic book! I loved every word, full of humor, mystery, romance. I cannot wait until the next one!!
March 7, 2018
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November 20, 2017
Better Dead is a quirky sometimes silly cozy mystery that will keep you guessing, laughing often and gritting your teeth on occasion. This is ultimately a story of second chances.
Holly is a young widow rather than divorcee because her despicable ex got himself blown up before she could serve him the papers. He was a lying, cheating scumbag and good riddance except he is still causing her problems even after death. He is back as a ghost and won’t leave Holly alone until she agrees to help him.
Holly's former love, Jack McCann, is back in town working at the newspaper such as it is. He has reparations to make with Holly and his father but that isn’t what brought him back.
I liked Holly, hated Burl her ex (what a slime job), and have reservations about Jack.
Can Holly help her ex move on, save her B&B, and heal old wounds? Read Better Dead and find out.
Holly is a young widow rather than divorcee because her despicable ex got himself blown up before she could serve him the papers. He was a lying, cheating scumbag and good riddance except he is still causing her problems even after death. He is back as a ghost and won’t leave Holly alone until she agrees to help him.
Holly's former love, Jack McCann, is back in town working at the newspaper such as it is. He has reparations to make with Holly and his father but that isn’t what brought him back.
I liked Holly, hated Burl her ex (what a slime job), and have reservations about Jack.
Can Holly help her ex move on, save her B&B, and heal old wounds? Read Better Dead and find out.
November 19, 2017
Received this book for review from netgalley Where do I begin wife dead husband ghost drugs and ex boyfriend and dogs this book was great from beginning to end I have never read a book from this author before but will definitely read her future books I recommend this book it's hard too put down
January 27, 2018
Holly's husband, Burl, has up and died. Holly is not exactly sad to see Burl go, after all, he was cheating on her and nearly bankrupted her B&B business. Just when she's ready to move on and get her life back together, Burl shows up. Now he is a ghost, and needs Holly's help so his spirit can move on. Turns out, Burl was involved in a drug smuggling ring, and he wants Holly's help to break it up. To complicate matters, Holly's old high school flame is back in town, and staying at her B&B.
A paranormal cozy mystery. The first in the B&B Spirits Mystery series. A fun and entertaining read. The characters were well-developed, with Holly being smart, determined, sarcastic, and likable. I'm originally from Louisiana, and a fan of cozy mysteries, so this was right up my alley. Looking forward to more of this series.
Mystery. ✓
Romance. ✓
Humor. ✓
Ghosts. ✓
Small town charm. ✓
Dog named Rhett. ✓
Mint julep recipe. ✓
I received a copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
A paranormal cozy mystery. The first in the B&B Spirits Mystery series. A fun and entertaining read. The characters were well-developed, with Holly being smart, determined, sarcastic, and likable. I'm originally from Louisiana, and a fan of cozy mysteries, so this was right up my alley. Looking forward to more of this series.
Mystery. ✓
Romance. ✓
Humor. ✓
Ghosts. ✓
Small town charm. ✓
Dog named Rhett. ✓
Mint julep recipe. ✓
I received a copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2017
This is the first novel in a new cozy mystery series. This book doesn't waste any time in the beginning, jumping right into the action. Holly is the owner of a struggling bed and breakfast. Then the ghost of her dead husband, Burl, shows up. This is both a blessing and a curse for her, as the popularity of her B&B soars amongst the ghost hunting set. Also in the mix is Jake, a former boyfriend, Jake's missing father, and a drug smuggling ring that Burl was a part of and that lead to his death.
I liked all of the characters except for Burl. I found him annoying and abrasive. Other than that, the characters were delightful and interesting. The plot moved along briskly and this was a quick read. I really hope that Burl does not return for subsequent books. That could be a deal breaker for me.
This has all the makings of a great series. It is off to a strong start, and I hope it continues. I would be happy to read the next book in the series.
I received an ARC from the Cozy Mystery Review Crew in exchange for my honest opinion.
I liked all of the characters except for Burl. I found him annoying and abrasive. Other than that, the characters were delightful and interesting. The plot moved along briskly and this was a quick read. I really hope that Burl does not return for subsequent books. That could be a deal breaker for me.
This has all the makings of a great series. It is off to a strong start, and I hope it continues. I would be happy to read the next book in the series.
I received an ARC from the Cozy Mystery Review Crew in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 25, 2017
Holly Davis owns a bed and breakfast in Delta Ridge LA. She'd just been getting ready to serve her husband with divorce papers when he was killed in a plane crash. Easy out? Think again. Burl appears to her now as a ghost with a favor. If she can't help him out then he's doomed to stay in the B&B forever.
Holly figures she should make the best of it while she tries to come up with a way to help Burl. He had been involved with drug smuggling and she figures if she can bust their operation, Burl will be free and clear to go to heaven like St. Peter had told him. She convinces Burl that if he learns how to haunt the house, her B&B will become popular and she'll get the reservations she needs to make ends meet.
In the meantime, Holly's former boyfriend, Jake McCann is in town working at the Gazette and he needs to stay at the B&B for awhile. This could get interesting with her dead husband's ghost and her very real current interest. As much as she doesn't want to admit it, Holly still has feelings for Jake. Can Jake help her help Burl without Holly having to tell her about Burl and risk Jake thinking she's nuts? Read it and find out!
Oh my goodness, I haven't read a good fun ghost story in awhile so this is just what I needed! It was funny, a little sad, very exciting and hard to put down. Once the action started I just kept on reading and boy what a good twist. This cozy was a little bit different in that there was no murder, well aside from Burl dying before his time. The main characters were all so real and likable and yes, even Burl grew on me. I can't wait to visit Delta Ridge again.
There was plenty of suspense and suspects, a very satisfying take down and ending that was a touch sad. I just about devoured the first chapter provided for the next book. I pre-ordered that book but yikes, I have to wait until September to read it!
This book was a paperback ARC provided by the author. I was thrilled to read and review, which I did voluntarily.
Holly figures she should make the best of it while she tries to come up with a way to help Burl. He had been involved with drug smuggling and she figures if she can bust their operation, Burl will be free and clear to go to heaven like St. Peter had told him. She convinces Burl that if he learns how to haunt the house, her B&B will become popular and she'll get the reservations she needs to make ends meet.
In the meantime, Holly's former boyfriend, Jake McCann is in town working at the Gazette and he needs to stay at the B&B for awhile. This could get interesting with her dead husband's ghost and her very real current interest. As much as she doesn't want to admit it, Holly still has feelings for Jake. Can Jake help her help Burl without Holly having to tell her about Burl and risk Jake thinking she's nuts? Read it and find out!
Oh my goodness, I haven't read a good fun ghost story in awhile so this is just what I needed! It was funny, a little sad, very exciting and hard to put down. Once the action started I just kept on reading and boy what a good twist. This cozy was a little bit different in that there was no murder, well aside from Burl dying before his time. The main characters were all so real and likable and yes, even Burl grew on me. I can't wait to visit Delta Ridge again.
There was plenty of suspense and suspects, a very satisfying take down and ending that was a touch sad. I just about devoured the first chapter provided for the next book. I pre-ordered that book but yikes, I have to wait until September to read it!
This book was a paperback ARC provided by the author. I was thrilled to read and review, which I did voluntarily.
November 22, 2017
Spunky characters and a story with laugh out loud scenes made this a delightful story. I'd recommend this book when you're looking for a light, easy read.
November 29, 2017
**I voluntarily read this ARC**
Oh my gosh, that was absolutely hilarious. The mystery was great, with a lot of humor thrown in. The setting was beautiful, and the B&B was written about so vividly it almost felt like a character rather than a place.
Oh my gosh, that was absolutely hilarious. The mystery was great, with a lot of humor thrown in. The setting was beautiful, and the B&B was written about so vividly it almost felt like a character rather than a place.
January 20, 2018
Typical. That is the first word that comes to mind when I go to describe Pamela Kopfler’s “Better Dead”. Now don’t get me wrong, overall, I liked the book. Actually, I loved the opening line, “Holly Davis wanted a divorce, not a funeral.” Not only was my attention grabbed, the first chapter had no frills and brought you right into the story, I loved that. Similarly, Kopfler’s writing style made it easy to read. The setting was great (small towns seem so much fun!), the characters were likeable (Nelda was the best, even if her character was underdeveloped) but the plot exhibited a few holes.
What is Holly’s ultimate goal? Don’t ask me, I haven’t the foggiest. It was constantly changing throughout the novel. Keep her B&B alive, get rid of her husband Burl’s ghost, fall back in love with Jake, bust the drug business operating out of her B&B or help her fellow town members? While I’m at it, the plot was often contradictory. Despite the fact that Holly wants Burl’s ghost gone, she relies on him solely for the impression that her B&B is haunted. If Burl leaves, the B&B is no longer haunted, people will stop coming and her business will fail. Keep Burl and her business thrives. Which is it?!
**Spoiler ** I think the biggest problem I had was that it was not explained why the Sheriff and Mr. Dunbar were involved in the drug business. It was revealed to be them and then that was it. Nothing. Notta. No explanation. Why them? I was left feeling underwhelmed and saying “who cares”.
Needless to say, I feel like Kopfler had so much she wanted to say it resulted in an overcrowded storyline. She should have saved some of the storylines for future installments. Will I read this again? Doubtful. Will I read the rest of the series? Probably. I am curious to see where the storyline will lead. In the meantime, you can find me attempting to make pralines and mint juleps.
** I received a copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway**
What is Holly’s ultimate goal? Don’t ask me, I haven’t the foggiest. It was constantly changing throughout the novel. Keep her B&B alive, get rid of her husband Burl’s ghost, fall back in love with Jake, bust the drug business operating out of her B&B or help her fellow town members? While I’m at it, the plot was often contradictory. Despite the fact that Holly wants Burl’s ghost gone, she relies on him solely for the impression that her B&B is haunted. If Burl leaves, the B&B is no longer haunted, people will stop coming and her business will fail. Keep Burl and her business thrives. Which is it?!
**Spoiler ** I think the biggest problem I had was that it was not explained why the Sheriff and Mr. Dunbar were involved in the drug business. It was revealed to be them and then that was it. Nothing. Notta. No explanation. Why them? I was left feeling underwhelmed and saying “who cares”.
Needless to say, I feel like Kopfler had so much she wanted to say it resulted in an overcrowded storyline. She should have saved some of the storylines for future installments. Will I read this again? Doubtful. Will I read the rest of the series? Probably. I am curious to see where the storyline will lead. In the meantime, you can find me attempting to make pralines and mint juleps.
** I received a copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway**
November 11, 2017
This book was highly entertaining. Great debut read! So fun to discover new authors.
October 11, 2018
Better Dead introduces me to Pamela Kopfler. At first, I thought the book was super silly, but as the story continues I found I was enjoying the story. Likable characters. Love the B&B aspect. Halloween theme was fun too. 3 stars
December 17, 2017
Better Dead by Pamela Koplfer was an interesting cozy read because it wasn't about murder but drug smuggling. I have mixed feelings about this book.
I liked Holly and how she was determined to keep Holly Grove. I also understood her angst and frustration when her almost ex-husband, Burl, showed up as a ghost and wouldn't leave. However, I was confused by her running a B & B that serves dinners. I have read other cozies where the owner didn't cook but never one that served the guests dinner. I also never felt that Nelda, the cook, was fully developed. She seemed to be more of a caricature of a southern African American domestic rather than a "real" person.
The plot moved quickly and Holly continued to get into many zany situations as she tried to help Jack uncover the drug smugglers on her beloved plantation. The resolution was quick and had quite a few twists. The ending wrapped up her and Burl's relationship nicely and kept the door open for her and Jack to have more mysteries to solve. All in all it was a good beginning to a new cozy series. My rating is 3.5 stars.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
I liked Holly and how she was determined to keep Holly Grove. I also understood her angst and frustration when her almost ex-husband, Burl, showed up as a ghost and wouldn't leave. However, I was confused by her running a B & B that serves dinners. I have read other cozies where the owner didn't cook but never one that served the guests dinner. I also never felt that Nelda, the cook, was fully developed. She seemed to be more of a caricature of a southern African American domestic rather than a "real" person.
The plot moved quickly and Holly continued to get into many zany situations as she tried to help Jack uncover the drug smugglers on her beloved plantation. The resolution was quick and had quite a few twists. The ending wrapped up her and Burl's relationship nicely and kept the door open for her and Jack to have more mysteries to solve. All in all it was a good beginning to a new cozy series. My rating is 3.5 stars.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
January 14, 2018
Better Dead is the first in a new series and is a delightfully funny cozy mystery filled with memorable main characters and some truly laugh-out-loud moments. After recently burying Burl, her philandering and nearly divorced husband, Holly is trying to put her Southern B&B back on the map. But then Burl’s ghost appears to her and confesses he was smuggling drugs to make money and must resolve this before moving on. And if having a ghost and an illegal drug ring wasn’t enough, Holly’s ex-boyfriend, Jack, shows up asking for a room while he temps at the local newspaper office. There are clues and suspects aplenty for Burl’s former drug partners, possibly even Jack, though it breaks Holly’s heart to think so. Can she solve this mystery and release the ghost of Burl? The paranormal element adds a bit of mystery as well as levity to this story. I will be interested to see where the story goes in the next story. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing this advance reading copy.
December 20, 2017
Better Dead by Pamela Kopfler is the first book in A B&B Spirits Mystery series, and I loved it. Holly is the owner of Holly Grove a converted plantation which has been in her family for generations. Holly was in the process of divorcing her cheating husband Burl when he died. Next thing Holly knows Burl has returned as a ghost, and need her help to move on. Once I started this book I kept reading until I was done. It had many laugh out loud moments, which I always enjoy. Looking forward to the next book in the series. I strongly recommend this book for anyone who enjoy funny cozy mysteries.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 22, 2017
Better Dead is a delightful book about a newly haunted Bed & Breakfast called Holly Grove, located in Southern Louisiana. Its owner, Holly Davis, is struggling to keep the B & B open and is using its ghost (who just happens to be the recently deceased and cheating husband she was planning to divorce before his untimely death), to draw in guests, both to stay at Holly Grove and to bring in tourists during its twice-daily haunted tours. This book had me chuckling from the very first page, and it was very entertaining throughout, with some intriguing mysteries thrown in as well. Holly has not had the best of luck in her life, earning her the nickname "hurricane Holly," and true to form, she has several mishaps throughout the book, but with the help of her friend and chef, Nelda, former nurse, Miss Julia, and even her late husband, Burl, she might still be able to make a go of the B & B. There's even a little bit of romance thrown in when Holly's old flame, Jake McCann, comes back to town after a long absence.
I think you will really enjoy this book with all of its hijinks and mysteries, and find it very hard to put down.
I received an ARC of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I think you will really enjoy this book with all of its hijinks and mysteries, and find it very hard to put down.
I received an ARC of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 8, 2017
Great start to a new series! Holly Davis is busy running her family's plantation home as a B&B, if she can keep the taxes paid. When her cheating husband is killed in a plane crash before she can divorce him. One night she drinks a bit and hears and sees her husband, in ghost form. Rumors get started, she runs into an old love, finds out all sorts of secrets, gets herself into tight spots and things work out in the end.
I really enjoyed the paranormal aspect along with Holly's personality. Looking forward to more in this series.
I was given an eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
I really enjoyed the paranormal aspect along with Holly's personality. Looking forward to more in this series.
I was given an eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
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