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Writer's Retreat Mystery #2
Second Look
Jack and Jill and the entire gang from the writers retreat agree to take a second look at a five year old murder investigation.
Five years ago award winning actor Rhett Crawford threw a Halloween party for a group of family members and friends. The party, which actually took place over a four day weekend, was held at his beachfront estate on Gull Island. On the third night of the party the groundskeeper, Wylie Slater, found the body of one of the guests, Georgia Darcy, bludgeoned and left in the toolshed beyond the garden. The authorities were notified immediately and interviews of all guests on the property were conducted. It was eventually determined that the victim’s date, a man named Dru Breland, had most likely killed the woman before fleeing the scene of the crime.
According to witness statements, Georgia and her date had been bickering constantly during the course of their stay, and more than one witness had seen Dru slap Georgia before stomping off on the night she died. The authorities conducted an exhaustive search but were unable to locate Mr. Breland. As far as anyone associated with the investigation could find out, he was never seen again. Dru was a wealthy man with a depth of resources. It was assumed by most that he had fled the country and started a new life elsewhere under an assumed name.
Then five days ago, the oceanfront estate, once owned by Rhett Crawford but now owned by an out of state developer, had been scheduled for demolition. During the destruction of the house a human skeleton was found in a hidden room off the wine cellar. After a thorough investigation by the medical examiner and his team, it was determined that the body in the hidden room was in fact the decomposed remains of murder suspect, Dru Breland. My friend Jackson Jones, owner of the fledging Gull Island News, latched onto the story and seems determined to find out who killed Georgia Darcy five years ago, and how her date, Dru Breland, ended up in the secret room.
Jack knew that the five year old mystery would be a complicated one to unravel, so he asked me, Jillian Hanford, if I would be willing to present the mystery to the writers group I currently lived and sleuthed with. I agreed to Jack’s request which brings us to the regular Monday meeting of the eclectic group of writers I call friend but consider family.
Five years ago award winning actor Rhett Crawford threw a Halloween party for a group of family members and friends. The party, which actually took place over a four day weekend, was held at his beachfront estate on Gull Island. On the third night of the party the groundskeeper, Wylie Slater, found the body of one of the guests, Georgia Darcy, bludgeoned and left in the toolshed beyond the garden. The authorities were notified immediately and interviews of all guests on the property were conducted. It was eventually determined that the victim’s date, a man named Dru Breland, had most likely killed the woman before fleeing the scene of the crime.
According to witness statements, Georgia and her date had been bickering constantly during the course of their stay, and more than one witness had seen Dru slap Georgia before stomping off on the night she died. The authorities conducted an exhaustive search but were unable to locate Mr. Breland. As far as anyone associated with the investigation could find out, he was never seen again. Dru was a wealthy man with a depth of resources. It was assumed by most that he had fled the country and started a new life elsewhere under an assumed name.
Then five days ago, the oceanfront estate, once owned by Rhett Crawford but now owned by an out of state developer, had been scheduled for demolition. During the destruction of the house a human skeleton was found in a hidden room off the wine cellar. After a thorough investigation by the medical examiner and his team, it was determined that the body in the hidden room was in fact the decomposed remains of murder suspect, Dru Breland. My friend Jackson Jones, owner of the fledging Gull Island News, latched onto the story and seems determined to find out who killed Georgia Darcy five years ago, and how her date, Dru Breland, ended up in the secret room.
Jack knew that the five year old mystery would be a complicated one to unravel, so he asked me, Jillian Hanford, if I would be willing to present the mystery to the writers group I currently lived and sleuthed with. I agreed to Jack’s request which brings us to the regular Monday meeting of the eclectic group of writers I call friend but consider family.
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 4, 2017
791 people are currently reading
556 people want to read
About the author
Kathi Daley
327 books1,782 followersKathi lives with her husband, kids, grandkids, and dogs in beautiful Lake Tahoe. When she isn't writing, Kathi likes to read (preferably at the beach or by the fire), cook (preferably something with chocolate or cheese,) and garden (planting and planning not weeding). She also enjoys spending time on the water when she's not hiking, biking, or snowshoeing, the miles of desolate trails surrounding her home.
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.
Join me on Facebook at Kathi Daley Books (www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks) for updates on my books, photos of life in Lake Tahoe, recipes, contests, and giveaways. For weekly updates and contests sign up for The Daley Weekly Newsletter (http://eepurl.com/NRPDf).
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.
Join me on Facebook at Kathi Daley Books (www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks) for updates on my books, photos of life in Lake Tahoe, recipes, contests, and giveaways. For weekly updates and contests sign up for The Daley Weekly Newsletter (http://eepurl.com/NRPDf).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
July 8, 2017
Kathi Daley has presented us with the second book in the Writers Retreat Southern Seashore Mystery series. When a body is discovered in a house that has been almost completely demolished, Jack, Jill and the rest of the gang at the Writers Retreat decide to take a second look into a mystery that began five years ago. With around 12 different suspects, Daley takes us through many different scenarios as to who the killer or killers might be. This is an absolutely fabulous book that kept me in the dark as to who the murder might be and why. Mystery and friendship abound with a little bit of romance intertwined. Thank you, Kathi, for another wonderful book.
August 2, 2017
When Jack asks Jill and her writer friends to help look into a 5 year old cold case of a woman murdered at a party, it becomes a story of many twists and turns that keeps you guessing. I love the characters in this series, it is a mix of writers of different genres with unique personalities, Jill who runs the writers retreat is a strong likable woman, Jack a newspaper man who is curious about this story especially when the suspect is found dead, is also likable a possible romance for Jill. Blackbeard the parrot who always has his two cents to put in is a fun addition.
The mystery really did keep me guessing with each piece uncovered I kept changing my mind and the reason for the murder. I guessed who before Jill but did not have the why which was a twist I didn't see coming. I will definitely be continuing on with this series and eagerly await the next.
The mystery really did keep me guessing with each piece uncovered I kept changing my mind and the reason for the murder. I guessed who before Jill but did not have the why which was a twist I didn't see coming. I will definitely be continuing on with this series and eagerly await the next.
July 14, 2017
Meet Jill Hanford who has recently moved to Gull Island to oversee the renovations at her half-brother's inherited family resort. With Garrett Hanford unable to return to overseeing daily operations following a stroke, he and Jill decide to turn the resort into a year round writer's resort with self-contained cabins or suites in the main house. Jill continues working her newspaper reporter background by freelancing for several national news outlets. Her group of writers have become more family than just friends and they have taken on the investigation of local cold cases of unsolved murders. Jack Jackson is a famous author of mysteries and thrillers. He has bought the local Gull Island News to live his dream of being a newspaper reporter. The seven friends make for a diverse and entertaining group. Jack's newest cold case involves the murder of Georgia, the sister-in-law of Rhett Crawford, a famous movie star, at his Gull Island estate. The murderer was presumed to be Rhett's brother, Dru Breland, who was the murdered woman's date, but he disappeared after leaving the party early and hadn't been seen since. Rhett has sold the estate to a developer and as demolition proceeds, a body is found in a hidden room off the wine cellar. When forensics finds that the body is that of Dru, the writer's group know that they now have two murders to solve! Did Dru really murder Georgia or were they murdered by the same undiscovered person or were there two murderers? The characters in the second book in this new series are very realistic and ready to step right off the page into your living room. The story line is very focused and tightly woven, keeping you guessing right to the surprising and totally unexpected conclusion! I really enjoyed how the story line and the characters blended together for another thrilling adventure!
July 10, 2017
Mi sento di manica larga, oggi, quindi, visto che il mio voto sarebbe stato un 4 stelle e mezza abbondanti, arrivo fino a dare il massimo.
Bella storia, con un bel gruppo di personaggi. Questa serie ha varie cose simili all'altra di questa autrice che sto leggendo: un gruppo di amici che indaga, una piccola isola, il poliziotto locale che collabora con loro, un pizzico di paranormale, un animale che porta indizi... In questo caso mi piace l'idea del resort riservato agli scrittori e le indagini su cold cases. Mi domando solo come possa essere che in un'isola così piccola che ha un solo poliziotto ci siano così tanti casi irrisolti... Anche se il prossimo, che è stato lanciato nell'ultimo capitolo di questo libro, è passato come una morte accidentale.
Per quanto riguarda questo libro, non ho indovinato il colpevole e, visto che dopo 2-3 anni passati a leggere cozy mysteries sono diventata piuttosto brava a risolvere i gialli, posso dire che questo fatto è un ulteriore merito per l'autrice.
Bella storia, con un bel gruppo di personaggi. Questa serie ha varie cose simili all'altra di questa autrice che sto leggendo: un gruppo di amici che indaga, una piccola isola, il poliziotto locale che collabora con loro, un pizzico di paranormale, un animale che porta indizi... In questo caso mi piace l'idea del resort riservato agli scrittori e le indagini su cold cases. Mi domando solo come possa essere che in un'isola così piccola che ha un solo poliziotto ci siano così tanti casi irrisolti... Anche se il prossimo, che è stato lanciato nell'ultimo capitolo di questo libro, è passato come una morte accidentale.
Per quanto riguarda questo libro, non ho indovinato il colpevole e, visto che dopo 2-3 anni passati a leggere cozy mysteries sono diventata piuttosto brava a risolvere i gialli, posso dire che questo fatto è un ulteriore merito per l'autrice.
July 10, 2017
Second Look
Writers Retreat Mystery, Book #2
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Jack and Jill and the entire gang from the writers retreat agree to take a second look at a five year old murder investigation.
Five years ago award winning actor Rhett Crawford threw a Halloween party for a group of family members and friends. The party, which actually took place over a four day weekend, was held at his beachfront estate on Gull Island. On the third night of the party the groundskeeper, Wylie Slater, found the body of one of the guests, Georgia Darcy, bludgeoned and left in the toolshed beyond the garden. The authorities were notified immediately and interviews of all guests on the property were conducted. It was eventually determined that the victim’s date, a man named Dru Breland, had most likely killed the woman before fleeing the scene of the crime.
According to witness statements, Georgia and her date had been bickering constantly during the course of their stay, and more than one witness had seen Dru slap Georgia before stomping off on the night she died. The authorities conducted an exhaustive search but were unable to locate Mr. Breland. As far as anyone associated with the investigation could find out, he was never seen again. Dru was a wealthy man with a depth of resources. It was assumed by most that he had fled the country and started a new life elsewhere under an assumed name.
Then five days ago, the oceanfront estate, once owned by Rhett Crawford but now owned by an out of state developer, had been scheduled for demolition. During the destruction of the house a human skeleton was found in a hidden room off the wine cellar. After a thorough investigation by the medical examiner and his team, it was determined that the body in the hidden room was in fact the decomposed remains of murder suspect, Dru Breland. My friend Jackson Jones, owner of the fledging Gull Island News, latched onto the story and seems determined to find out who killed Georgia Darcy five years ago, and how her date, Dru Breland, ended up in the secret room.
Jack knew that the five year old mystery would be a complicated one to unravel, so he asked me, Jillian Hanford, if I would be willing to present the mystery to the writers group I currently lived and sleuthed with. I agreed to Jack’s request which brings us to the regular Monday meeting of the eclectic group of writers I call friend but consider family. (Goodreads)
Review:
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I was drawn in right away to the setting, the action, the mystery and the characters. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. But I must warn you, once you start reading you will not want to stop, so be prepared to be in it for the long haul.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I enjoyed spending more time with all writers and getting to know them a little better. I liked seeing all of their quirks and personalities come through even more. The author includes a list of characters at the beginning of the book that came in very handy.
The mystery is carried on well throughout the entire book. There are a lot of suspects to consider and enough clues to sift through that solving this one will keep even the best armchair detective second guessing themselves. Add in Blackbeard, a parrot (and one of my favorite characters) and Mortie, a ghost, and you have an intriguing fun mystery to solve.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series, whenever it is released.
Writers Retreat Mystery, Book #2
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Jack and Jill and the entire gang from the writers retreat agree to take a second look at a five year old murder investigation.
Five years ago award winning actor Rhett Crawford threw a Halloween party for a group of family members and friends. The party, which actually took place over a four day weekend, was held at his beachfront estate on Gull Island. On the third night of the party the groundskeeper, Wylie Slater, found the body of one of the guests, Georgia Darcy, bludgeoned and left in the toolshed beyond the garden. The authorities were notified immediately and interviews of all guests on the property were conducted. It was eventually determined that the victim’s date, a man named Dru Breland, had most likely killed the woman before fleeing the scene of the crime.
According to witness statements, Georgia and her date had been bickering constantly during the course of their stay, and more than one witness had seen Dru slap Georgia before stomping off on the night she died. The authorities conducted an exhaustive search but were unable to locate Mr. Breland. As far as anyone associated with the investigation could find out, he was never seen again. Dru was a wealthy man with a depth of resources. It was assumed by most that he had fled the country and started a new life elsewhere under an assumed name.
Then five days ago, the oceanfront estate, once owned by Rhett Crawford but now owned by an out of state developer, had been scheduled for demolition. During the destruction of the house a human skeleton was found in a hidden room off the wine cellar. After a thorough investigation by the medical examiner and his team, it was determined that the body in the hidden room was in fact the decomposed remains of murder suspect, Dru Breland. My friend Jackson Jones, owner of the fledging Gull Island News, latched onto the story and seems determined to find out who killed Georgia Darcy five years ago, and how her date, Dru Breland, ended up in the secret room.
Jack knew that the five year old mystery would be a complicated one to unravel, so he asked me, Jillian Hanford, if I would be willing to present the mystery to the writers group I currently lived and sleuthed with. I agreed to Jack’s request which brings us to the regular Monday meeting of the eclectic group of writers I call friend but consider family. (Goodreads)
Review:
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I was drawn in right away to the setting, the action, the mystery and the characters. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. But I must warn you, once you start reading you will not want to stop, so be prepared to be in it for the long haul.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I enjoyed spending more time with all writers and getting to know them a little better. I liked seeing all of their quirks and personalities come through even more. The author includes a list of characters at the beginning of the book that came in very handy.
The mystery is carried on well throughout the entire book. There are a lot of suspects to consider and enough clues to sift through that solving this one will keep even the best armchair detective second guessing themselves. Add in Blackbeard, a parrot (and one of my favorite characters) and Mortie, a ghost, and you have an intriguing fun mystery to solve.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series, whenever it is released.
February 1, 2018
This is the second book in Kathi Daley's Writers Retreat Mysteries and although I haven't read all of Daley's series, I think this is my favorite.
Jack brings a mystery to the writers' group to try to solve. A house is being demolished and there is a mystery about a murder that occurred at a party held there five years ago. All of the writers have something to contribute to the investigation which is one of the ones things I like about this series. Of course Jack and Jill are the main investigators and the end up discovering that there were actually three murders, bodies discovered at the house. Each is it's own mystery : whodunnit, how and why? As the story develops Jill realizes that this group on Gull Island has become her family. There is a little romance but it doesn't take away from the main point of the novel. Although Jill is the main character, my favorite character is probably Blackbeard the Parrot who is intelligent and provides clues although some might seem obscure. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series. You don't have to read the books in order to enjoy them, but it does help you to see the relationships developing in the team.
Jack brings a mystery to the writers' group to try to solve. A house is being demolished and there is a mystery about a murder that occurred at a party held there five years ago. All of the writers have something to contribute to the investigation which is one of the ones things I like about this series. Of course Jack and Jill are the main investigators and the end up discovering that there were actually three murders, bodies discovered at the house. Each is it's own mystery : whodunnit, how and why? As the story develops Jill realizes that this group on Gull Island has become her family. There is a little romance but it doesn't take away from the main point of the novel. Although Jill is the main character, my favorite character is probably Blackbeard the Parrot who is intelligent and provides clues although some might seem obscure. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series. You don't have to read the books in order to enjoy them, but it does help you to see the relationships developing in the team.
January 10, 2019
**** cozy stars.
Jill took over running a resort at Gull Island from her half-brother. She has turned it into a writer's retreat. The group of writers take on cold cases. In this story, five years ago, a woman was killed at a party given by a Hollywood couple. At the time, everyone assumed the boyfriend killed her since he disappeared. However, his body has recently been found buried in a secret room so the case is re-opened.
This is my favorite of all the cozy mystery series that Kathi Daley writes. Her writing is simple and easy to read. I like the descriptions of the 10 bedroom mansion and 30 cabins that are being renovated for writers to rent. The group of writers meet, share ideas, work with the local police, and delegate interviewing witnesses.
In the front of the book, the author provides 3 lists of the writers, the townsfolk, and the people who were at the party five years ago. I referenced these lists numerous times to keep all the characters straight. I think this series would be a good one to get teens started out reading light mysteries since there's no sexual scenes, no bad language and no graphic violence.
Jill took over running a resort at Gull Island from her half-brother. She has turned it into a writer's retreat. The group of writers take on cold cases. In this story, five years ago, a woman was killed at a party given by a Hollywood couple. At the time, everyone assumed the boyfriend killed her since he disappeared. However, his body has recently been found buried in a secret room so the case is re-opened.
This is my favorite of all the cozy mystery series that Kathi Daley writes. Her writing is simple and easy to read. I like the descriptions of the 10 bedroom mansion and 30 cabins that are being renovated for writers to rent. The group of writers meet, share ideas, work with the local police, and delegate interviewing witnesses.
In the front of the book, the author provides 3 lists of the writers, the townsfolk, and the people who were at the party five years ago. I referenced these lists numerous times to keep all the characters straight. I think this series would be a good one to get teens started out reading light mysteries since there's no sexual scenes, no bad language and no graphic violence.
July 20, 2017
Second Case
A Writer’s Retreat Mystery
Kathi Daley
I love this series and find when I begin to read these books that time flies by before I know it. The Second Look is a continuation of a fairly new series, A Writer’s Retreat Mystery, by Kathi Daley. The tiny town of Gull Island is once again the scene of a murder and also the mystery within a cold case that occurred more than five years ago. When the estate owned by actor Rhett Crawford is sold and demolished the body of Rhett’s brother, Dru Breland is found. When Jillian Hanford is contacted by her friend, Jackson Jones, owner of the Gull Island News and also a novelist, to help him try to solve the cold case from five years ago which may be tied to the body found in a hidden room. With the help of the members of the writer’s group living at Jillian’s uncle’s cottages and the main house are presented the case, each using their specialty go to work to solve the murders. This can be read as a stand-alone since Ms. Daley provides her readers an introduction to the characters in her book.
A Writer’s Retreat Mystery
Kathi Daley
I love this series and find when I begin to read these books that time flies by before I know it. The Second Look is a continuation of a fairly new series, A Writer’s Retreat Mystery, by Kathi Daley. The tiny town of Gull Island is once again the scene of a murder and also the mystery within a cold case that occurred more than five years ago. When the estate owned by actor Rhett Crawford is sold and demolished the body of Rhett’s brother, Dru Breland is found. When Jillian Hanford is contacted by her friend, Jackson Jones, owner of the Gull Island News and also a novelist, to help him try to solve the cold case from five years ago which may be tied to the body found in a hidden room. With the help of the members of the writer’s group living at Jillian’s uncle’s cottages and the main house are presented the case, each using their specialty go to work to solve the murders. This can be read as a stand-alone since Ms. Daley provides her readers an introduction to the characters in her book.
July 5, 2017
The Mystery Mastermind group gathers again at Jillian Hanford's writers' retreat when a body is discovered in a house that is being demolished. Not only has the man been missing for several years, but he had been implicated in a murder at the same house five years prior. And if that is not interesting enough, wait until you hear all the connections this group of amateur sleuths digs up between the people present at the party the night of the first murder. Or was it the first murder?
As the gang gathers facts, they come across information that may lead them to investigate several more murders which may or may not be connected to the two they must focus on in the moment.
Toss in a few odd occurrences and red herrings for good measure and this is a whodunnit that will keep you scratching your head until all is revealed. Using your own whiteboard as you read may not be a bad idea.
Kathi Daley's strength is not only in writing a satisfying mystery that keeps the reader guessing but also in creating community amongst characters we come to care about. Jill took on the job of overseeing the renovations of her half-brother's resort, but didn't think she would feel at home there. In each book we see Jill becoming more attached to this island and the family she is creating there.
I can't wait to see what they investigate next.
As the gang gathers facts, they come across information that may lead them to investigate several more murders which may or may not be connected to the two they must focus on in the moment.
Toss in a few odd occurrences and red herrings for good measure and this is a whodunnit that will keep you scratching your head until all is revealed. Using your own whiteboard as you read may not be a bad idea.
Kathi Daley's strength is not only in writing a satisfying mystery that keeps the reader guessing but also in creating community amongst characters we come to care about. Jill took on the job of overseeing the renovations of her half-brother's resort, but didn't think she would feel at home there. In each book we see Jill becoming more attached to this island and the family she is creating there.
I can't wait to see what they investigate next.
July 4, 2017
Kindle Copy for Review
Jill and Jack along with the writer’s retreat gang find themselves investigating a case from five years ago.
A famous couple throws a small dnner party five years ago and the wife’s sister body is later found murdered. One of the suspect goes missing and is consider the main suspect but his body is found a couple years later when the house is sold to a developer.
Secrets will be unravel as we will find all is not quite what it seems. Another interesting read by the author.
Jill and Jack along with the writer’s retreat gang find themselves investigating a case from five years ago.
A famous couple throws a small dnner party five years ago and the wife’s sister body is later found murdered. One of the suspect goes missing and is consider the main suspect but his body is found a couple years later when the house is sold to a developer.
Secrets will be unravel as we will find all is not quite what it seems. Another interesting read by the author.
July 8, 2017
I loved it! This series is another winner from one of my favorite cozy mystery authors and the second book, Second Look, didn't disappoint at all!
Jack and Jill and their writers group are a fun and diverse bunch and they tackle any mystery they stumble into with gusto and determination.
Ms Daley has produced another winner and I highly recommend it to cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Jack and Jill and their writers group are a fun and diverse bunch and they tackle any mystery they stumble into with gusto and determination.
Ms Daley has produced another winner and I highly recommend it to cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
July 11, 2017
Wonderful read. All the characters are very interesting and strange, with so many quirks. The storyline will keep you wondering all the way to the end who was the murder. It will totally surprising you.
February 15, 2018
Second Look by Kathi Daley was a captivating and easy read. The characters are now developing into their unique personalities which add so much to this twisty tale involving "secret kisses", murders and a little Hollywood glamour. I am enjoying this new style of writing from this author and will be reading more in this series.
August 11, 2017
“Second Look: A Writer’s Retreat Mystery” earns 5/5 Puzzling Parrot Pronouncements!
Jillian Hanford manages a writers retreat at Turtle Cove Resort on Gull Island, where several established and budding writers live, write, and sleuth. This eclectic group gathers at their Monday night mystery group to discuss, research, and with skill and some luck, solve murder mysteries. Jackson ‘Jack’ Jones, a nationally acclaimed author and recent owner of the Gull Island News, has approached the group with an interesting cold case that has just become relevant. The five-year old case involves a young woman, Georgia Darcy, found dead at the estate of award winning actor and brother-in-law Rhett Crawford. Her date Dru Breland was considered the prime suspect, but he went missing never again to be seen…no suspect, no solution. Moving forward to five days ago, the Crawford estate has been sold and demolition set, but a body found in a secret room of the wine cellar has put this cold case back in the news. The body? Dru Breland. That sure changed things…Sleuthers start your engines!
This is the second book in Kathi Daley’s newest Writer’s Retreat series, and fans like me are ecstatic. But, newbies need not shy away since the description of main and reoccurring ‘Cast of Characters’ is provided along with enough background to make this a standalone read, but reading book one, “First Case,” is very entertaining and can’t be missed no matter what order. The story is very engaging weaving events of the cold case with present events throwing several twists, turns, and ‘Oh my!’ revelations. Kathi Daley’s characters are entertaining and clever. My favorite, of course, is Jillian written as a strong female with the nose of a reporter, which fits well with any budding relationship with Jones, who himself is a keen reporter, and in spite of the humorous dilemma with “Jack and Jill.” I can’t ignore the unique twists with Blackbeard, Jillian’s inherited parrot, squawking his puzzling clues, Mortie, the ghost who has lived in Gertie’s house for the last thirty years, sending his messages from the beyond, and Clara’s psychic visions that seem to be spot on. It’s not ‘weird,’ just a fun and creative way of presenting all the clues. The island’s setting and the issues Jillian has with managing the writer’s retreat plays out in the background along with her preparations for a Halloween party. This is a great series with all of Kathi Daley’s signature fun, mystery, and cleverness.
Jillian Hanford manages a writers retreat at Turtle Cove Resort on Gull Island, where several established and budding writers live, write, and sleuth. This eclectic group gathers at their Monday night mystery group to discuss, research, and with skill and some luck, solve murder mysteries. Jackson ‘Jack’ Jones, a nationally acclaimed author and recent owner of the Gull Island News, has approached the group with an interesting cold case that has just become relevant. The five-year old case involves a young woman, Georgia Darcy, found dead at the estate of award winning actor and brother-in-law Rhett Crawford. Her date Dru Breland was considered the prime suspect, but he went missing never again to be seen…no suspect, no solution. Moving forward to five days ago, the Crawford estate has been sold and demolition set, but a body found in a secret room of the wine cellar has put this cold case back in the news. The body? Dru Breland. That sure changed things…Sleuthers start your engines!
This is the second book in Kathi Daley’s newest Writer’s Retreat series, and fans like me are ecstatic. But, newbies need not shy away since the description of main and reoccurring ‘Cast of Characters’ is provided along with enough background to make this a standalone read, but reading book one, “First Case,” is very entertaining and can’t be missed no matter what order. The story is very engaging weaving events of the cold case with present events throwing several twists, turns, and ‘Oh my!’ revelations. Kathi Daley’s characters are entertaining and clever. My favorite, of course, is Jillian written as a strong female with the nose of a reporter, which fits well with any budding relationship with Jones, who himself is a keen reporter, and in spite of the humorous dilemma with “Jack and Jill.” I can’t ignore the unique twists with Blackbeard, Jillian’s inherited parrot, squawking his puzzling clues, Mortie, the ghost who has lived in Gertie’s house for the last thirty years, sending his messages from the beyond, and Clara’s psychic visions that seem to be spot on. It’s not ‘weird,’ just a fun and creative way of presenting all the clues. The island’s setting and the issues Jillian has with managing the writer’s retreat plays out in the background along with her preparations for a Halloween party. This is a great series with all of Kathi Daley’s signature fun, mystery, and cleverness.
October 15, 2017
Second Look is the second novel in Kathi Daley’s A Writer’s Retreat Southern Mystery series and it’s an awesome and delightful read. Ms. Daley’s writing style flows smoothly and she provides great background information about the characters and town. The characters are well rounded and affable and the mystery well plotted. Once again, Ms. Daley has provided readers with a clean read, filled with caring and compassionate characters, an intriguing mystery to try to solve, a touch of sweet romance. There are lots of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged and guessing; and the final reveal came as quite a surprise to me. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading well-crafted cozy mysteries.
Jillian ‘Jill’ Hanford, a former New York newspaper reporter, is helping her half-brother, Garrett Hanford, who recently suffered a stroke, to oversee scheduled renovations at his resort on Gull Island, a small island off the South Carolina coast. Jill has turned the resort into a writers’ retreat. In addition to being a sounding board for each other, the group enjoys working together to solve real life mysteries. Jill’s friend, Jackson ‘Jack’ Jones, is a well-known author who recently moved to the island and fulfilled his lifelong dream of writing for a newspaper by purchasing the Gull Island News. Jack comes to the group, which he calls the Mystery Masterminds and asks if they would be interested in helping him look into the five-year-old murder of Georgia Darcy that he’s writing an article on for his newspaper and they jump at the chance. Georgia’s murder has resurfaced because during the demolition of a mansion, the skeletal remains of Dru Breland, the person everyone believed murdered her, is discovered in a hidden room. Georgia was murdered during a four-day weekend Halloween party hosted by Rhett and Hillary Crawford, that she and her date Dru attended, along with six other guests; the groundskeeper and a cook were also present. Forensics determined Dru was murdered about four years after Georgia’s murder. The group interviews people and research everyone’s backgrounds to determine who killed Georgia Darcy five years ago, how Dru ended up in the secret room, and who murdered him. Deputy Rick Savage is coming around to accepting help from the group and sharing information with Jill and Jack, with the caveat that everything is to be kept ‘off record’ and everything they learn is to be shared with him. Jill finally agrees to go on a date with Jack. During the course of the investigation, Jill realizes how important the group is to her and that they are the family she never had.
Jillian ‘Jill’ Hanford, a former New York newspaper reporter, is helping her half-brother, Garrett Hanford, who recently suffered a stroke, to oversee scheduled renovations at his resort on Gull Island, a small island off the South Carolina coast. Jill has turned the resort into a writers’ retreat. In addition to being a sounding board for each other, the group enjoys working together to solve real life mysteries. Jill’s friend, Jackson ‘Jack’ Jones, is a well-known author who recently moved to the island and fulfilled his lifelong dream of writing for a newspaper by purchasing the Gull Island News. Jack comes to the group, which he calls the Mystery Masterminds and asks if they would be interested in helping him look into the five-year-old murder of Georgia Darcy that he’s writing an article on for his newspaper and they jump at the chance. Georgia’s murder has resurfaced because during the demolition of a mansion, the skeletal remains of Dru Breland, the person everyone believed murdered her, is discovered in a hidden room. Georgia was murdered during a four-day weekend Halloween party hosted by Rhett and Hillary Crawford, that she and her date Dru attended, along with six other guests; the groundskeeper and a cook were also present. Forensics determined Dru was murdered about four years after Georgia’s murder. The group interviews people and research everyone’s backgrounds to determine who killed Georgia Darcy five years ago, how Dru ended up in the secret room, and who murdered him. Deputy Rick Savage is coming around to accepting help from the group and sharing information with Jill and Jack, with the caveat that everything is to be kept ‘off record’ and everything they learn is to be shared with him. Jill finally agrees to go on a date with Jack. During the course of the investigation, Jill realizes how important the group is to her and that they are the family she never had.
February 15, 2018
Kathi Daley has written several different mystery series, including “Tess and Tilly Cozy Mystery”, “Whales and Tales Cozy Mystery”, and “Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery”. This is the second in her “Writers Retreat” series, and the first of her books that I have read. I found the book to be well written, easy to follow, with twists at every turn! We find the protagonist, Jillian (Jill) Hanford running a writers retreat on Gull Island – not by choice, but by chance. A former investigative reporter, she was at a very bad time in her life when her step-brother, the owner of the property, has a heart attack and can no longer run it. She is in the process of renovating the property, and has several writers living there – three in renovated cabins, the rest in the main house.
The group includes individuals from different backgrounds that write in several different genres. They gather together to investigate unsolved mysteries, with the help of her brother’s talking parrot, Blackbeard. (He is adorable, with opinions all his own!) Then there is Clara, an older writer who resides in the main house with her cat Agatha. Clara has psychic visions that provide clues to the mystery.
The current mystery is presented to the group by the owner/editor of the Gull Island News, Jackson “Jack” Jones, who is also a nationally acclaimed writer. The case involves the five year old murder of a young woman by the name of Georgia Darcy, at the estate of her sister and brother-in-law, Hillary and Rhett Crawford, wealthy and renowned actors. Dru Breland, Georgia’s date, was the prime suspect, but he disappeared right after Georgia’s body was found. The estate has recently been sold, and Dru’s body was found in a secret room. But his estimated time of death is only a year ago!
I thoroughly enjoyed the interplay between the characters, the “mystery within the mystery” involving the local sheriff, and the growing relationship between Jack and Jill. Then there are the preparations for Halloween (which Jill has never celebrated before), a newly opened bake shop, and Clara’s cooking.
This is a great read, and promises to be a wonderful series.
The group includes individuals from different backgrounds that write in several different genres. They gather together to investigate unsolved mysteries, with the help of her brother’s talking parrot, Blackbeard. (He is adorable, with opinions all his own!) Then there is Clara, an older writer who resides in the main house with her cat Agatha. Clara has psychic visions that provide clues to the mystery.
The current mystery is presented to the group by the owner/editor of the Gull Island News, Jackson “Jack” Jones, who is also a nationally acclaimed writer. The case involves the five year old murder of a young woman by the name of Georgia Darcy, at the estate of her sister and brother-in-law, Hillary and Rhett Crawford, wealthy and renowned actors. Dru Breland, Georgia’s date, was the prime suspect, but he disappeared right after Georgia’s body was found. The estate has recently been sold, and Dru’s body was found in a secret room. But his estimated time of death is only a year ago!
I thoroughly enjoyed the interplay between the characters, the “mystery within the mystery” involving the local sheriff, and the growing relationship between Jack and Jill. Then there are the preparations for Halloween (which Jill has never celebrated before), a newly opened bake shop, and Clara’s cooking.
This is a great read, and promises to be a wonderful series.
September 15, 2017
This is a new series for me, I really enjoyed this one and will get the 1st one in this series, I loved the characters and loved the suspense am looking forward to the next. About the book,
Five years ago award winning actor Rhett Crawford threw a Halloween party for a group of family members and friends. The party, which actually took place over a four day weekend, was held at his beachfront estate on Gull Island. On the third night of the party the groundskeeper, Wylie Slater, found the body of one of the guests, Georgia Darcy, bludgeoned and left in the toolshed beyond the garden. The authorities were notified immediately and interviews of all guests on the property were conducted. It was eventually determined that the victim’s date, a man named Dru Breland, had most likely killed the woman before fleeing the scene of the crime.
According to witness statements, Georgia and her date had been bickering constantly during the course of their stay, and more than one witness had seen Dru slap Georgia before stomping off on the night she died. The authorities conducted an exhaustive search but were unable to locate Mr. Breland. As far as anyone associated with the investigation could find out, he was never seen again. Dru was a wealthy man with a depth of resources. It was assumed by most that he had fled the country and started a new life elsewhere under an assumed name.
Then five days ago, the oceanfront estate, once owned by Rhett Crawford but now owned by an out of state developer, had been scheduled for demolition. During the destruction of the house a human skeleton was found in a hidden room off the wine cellar. After a thorough investigation by the medical examiner and his team, it was determined that the body in the hidden room was in fact the decomposed remains of murder suspect, Dru Breland. My friend Jackson Jones, owner of the fledging Gull Island News, latched onto the story and seems determined to find out who killed Georgia Darcy five years ago, and how her date, Dru Breland, ended up in the secret room.
Five years ago award winning actor Rhett Crawford threw a Halloween party for a group of family members and friends. The party, which actually took place over a four day weekend, was held at his beachfront estate on Gull Island. On the third night of the party the groundskeeper, Wylie Slater, found the body of one of the guests, Georgia Darcy, bludgeoned and left in the toolshed beyond the garden. The authorities were notified immediately and interviews of all guests on the property were conducted. It was eventually determined that the victim’s date, a man named Dru Breland, had most likely killed the woman before fleeing the scene of the crime.
According to witness statements, Georgia and her date had been bickering constantly during the course of their stay, and more than one witness had seen Dru slap Georgia before stomping off on the night she died. The authorities conducted an exhaustive search but were unable to locate Mr. Breland. As far as anyone associated with the investigation could find out, he was never seen again. Dru was a wealthy man with a depth of resources. It was assumed by most that he had fled the country and started a new life elsewhere under an assumed name.
Then five days ago, the oceanfront estate, once owned by Rhett Crawford but now owned by an out of state developer, had been scheduled for demolition. During the destruction of the house a human skeleton was found in a hidden room off the wine cellar. After a thorough investigation by the medical examiner and his team, it was determined that the body in the hidden room was in fact the decomposed remains of murder suspect, Dru Breland. My friend Jackson Jones, owner of the fledging Gull Island News, latched onto the story and seems determined to find out who killed Georgia Darcy five years ago, and how her date, Dru Breland, ended up in the secret room.
July 10, 2017
Second Look is the second book in the Writers Retreat Southern Seashore Mystery series by Kathi Daley. I greatly appreciated a list of the characters and their roles in the beginning of this book. It serves to enhance the opportunity to read this book as a concise stand-alone novel. Set at a resort on Gull Island, a small island off the South Carolina coast the assembled writers at the retreat lodge are determined to unravel a 5-year-old mystery. With at least a dozen potential suspects and as many possible case scenarios, the plot twists and turns capture the reader’s attention immediately. My favorite character is Blackbeard, Jillian’s inherited parrot, squawking to reveal clues. Include Mortie, a ghost who has lived in Gertie’s house for the last thirty years, who adds clues from the beyond, and Clara, a psychic with visions and the reader is taken on an adventure filled with unanticipated twists and turns. Ms. Daley has penned a complex, clean mystery, with well-developed, caring, compassionate characters, a compelling, fascinating mystery to solve and a hint of sweet romance. The final revelation of historical events was a complete surprise. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading a well-crafted cozy mystery. I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in this series.
July 12, 2017
Jack has a new murder mystery that needs solving so that he can write an in depth story on it for his newspaper. He knows he will need help so he goes to Jillian and asks her to present the case to the writer's group she is involved in, hoping they will be able to come up with some new answers. Georgia Darcy was murdered at a Halloween party thrown by actor Rhett Crawford 5 years earlier and the police suspected her date that night Dru Breland. The police hunted for Dru but were never able to find him to ask him just what went on that night. When a developer that purchased the house from Rhett finds a body during the demolition process it leads to more questions. When the police discover that the body is none other than Dru the writer's group wonders if he was just another victim of what went on that night 5 years before. Will the group find the answers they are looking for? Are they putting their lives in danger looking into these murders? Will a bird and a local ghost help in solving this new mystery? Read and find out!!! Kathi has an intricate way of putting a mystery together and keeping you on your toes the whole way through. I like the group dynamic that is shown throughout the book and appreciate the quality it brings to the read. Would definitely recommend this series for cozy lovers.
July 6, 2017
Second Look ( Writer’s Retreat Southern Seashore Mystery-Book 2 )
BY: Kathi Daley
Second Look is book two in Writer’s Retreat Southern Seashore Mystery Series. Daley has penned another awesome and delightful murder mystery. She grabbed me right at the start and I was hooked. She did not disappoint . She gives you information on all the character and writers at the first of the book, which is very helpful. A house is being demolished where a dead body was found five years ago . There is also some things that are being found in the demolished area. Five years ago a party was held at this house by a couple , a dead body was found , and a person went missing. The case was never solved. Jill , Jack , and the writer’s retreat gang all now has their hands full on this five year old case. There were several people at the party and they have several suspects. Daley kept me guessing till the end on this one. Why is the house being demolished after five years? Bodies turning up, missing people and why? Who is behind all of this ? I also loved Blackbeard, a bird, who seems to have lots of answers.
BY: Kathi Daley
Second Look is book two in Writer’s Retreat Southern Seashore Mystery Series. Daley has penned another awesome and delightful murder mystery. She grabbed me right at the start and I was hooked. She did not disappoint . She gives you information on all the character and writers at the first of the book, which is very helpful. A house is being demolished where a dead body was found five years ago . There is also some things that are being found in the demolished area. Five years ago a party was held at this house by a couple , a dead body was found , and a person went missing. The case was never solved. Jill , Jack , and the writer’s retreat gang all now has their hands full on this five year old case. There were several people at the party and they have several suspects. Daley kept me guessing till the end on this one. Why is the house being demolished after five years? Bodies turning up, missing people and why? Who is behind all of this ? I also loved Blackbeard, a bird, who seems to have lots of answers.
July 8, 2017
Second Look is the second of three books in the the Writers Retreat Southern Seashore Mystery series. Kathi has written us an intense murder mystery ( actually 3 murders to solve). Jill and her friend Jack, maybe soon to be boyfriend join with the rest of the writers gang and Blackbeard the bird, a enchanted cat named Agatha , and a ghost named Mortie to combine their talents to solve these complicated murders. Jill moved to South Carolina to run Writer's Retreat for her half brother. She is remodeling the retreat for writers to live and write. They have become friends and joined together to solve mysteries. This book has lots of characters with the writers, local town folks, and people involved in the murders. Now keep in mind, these murders occurred in the past and not all at the same time. And may or may not be related. Do I have your attention now? I don't like to give too much away in my reviews. Trust me Kathi Daley has out done herself o this one. Read book one and this one and get ready from the final I one. I can't wait!
July 19, 2017
Kathi Daley has a new hit series on her hands. The characters are well written and the detail of the environment is outstanding . I'd love to visit the resort.
This series is on Gull Island where Jill Hanford has moved to help her half brother after a stroke. Jack Jackson bought the local newspaper and is a famous author living out a dream. Guess what he writes??? Yep, mysteries! This brings Jill and Jack as well as other friends to form a group solving cold cases. Their newest cold case is the death of a famous movie stars sister in law, Georgia.
It was during a party and her date disappeared right after her murder and party. The estate where all of this occurred years ago has been sold and is due to be demolished. When they start digging the construction team ends up finding a body in a secret room! Now the group has not one but two murders to solve.
Great book that keeps you thinking and looking around every corner. Full of adventure and surprises. Looking forward to book three.
I recieved this book from the author for an honest review.
This series is on Gull Island where Jill Hanford has moved to help her half brother after a stroke. Jack Jackson bought the local newspaper and is a famous author living out a dream. Guess what he writes??? Yep, mysteries! This brings Jill and Jack as well as other friends to form a group solving cold cases. Their newest cold case is the death of a famous movie stars sister in law, Georgia.
It was during a party and her date disappeared right after her murder and party. The estate where all of this occurred years ago has been sold and is due to be demolished. When they start digging the construction team ends up finding a body in a secret room! Now the group has not one but two murders to solve.
Great book that keeps you thinking and looking around every corner. Full of adventure and surprises. Looking forward to book three.
I recieved this book from the author for an honest review.
July 8, 2017
Another winner from Kathi Daley. This is the second book in the writer's retreat series and it is an awesome, intriguing mystery right from the first page. The characters are introduced to you at the beginning of the book so you are well informed about them. Jillian Handford, a.k.a. Jill runs the retreat for her older brother who had a stroke. She and newspaper owner/author Jack take on another cold case and present it to the gang at the writer's retreat. Each member takes on a part of the case and they along with the Sheriff and some of the locals actually solve the old case. There are many twists and turns and even a talking parrot named Blackbeard who also gets involved. I love this series and Can't wait for the next book.
July 10, 2017
This is the second book in the Writers Retreat Mystery series and what a great series it is! Although they are standalone, I highly recommend you read both books as they are both awesome mysteries. The book has a list of its interesting characters and their part in the book is which gives you a heads up on what to look for and tidbits about each. The story line of this book and series is a group of mystery writers put their talents together and investigate an unsolved case while living at Jillian's Writers Retreat Lodge on Gull Island. You will find a well developed and fascinating plot, lots of mystery and intrigue, some romance, and a parrot who is a mystery sleuth in his own right. You are going to love Blackbeard!
December 4, 2017
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
November 11, 2018
I am really enjoying this series so far. They are quick reads that I don't want to put down. I love the characters and can't wait to see how the relationships continue to grow and change over the course of the series. In this book, the characters are looking into a murder that happened five years ago at an estate on the island. I like how each character has their own strengths and helps with the mystery by using it. I love the setting of Gull Island of the coast of Charleston, so it has the small-town feel. I am looking forward to the other books in this series and reading more from this author.
January 2, 2022
The 2nd book in this cozy mystery series looks at a murder which happened years ago, and another which happened recently, seemingly connected.
Set on Gull Island at a resort which is being renovated by the narrator of these books, Jill. She has assembled a group of writers who use the renovated cottages as a writers retreat, and they all get together to solve the mysteries which land in their lap, ably assisted by Jack, a writer but also owner and editor of the local newspaper.
Cozy mystery with romance thrown in, and a parrot called Blackbeard and a cat called Agatha.
These books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
Set on Gull Island at a resort which is being renovated by the narrator of these books, Jill. She has assembled a group of writers who use the renovated cottages as a writers retreat, and they all get together to solve the mysteries which land in their lap, ably assisted by Jack, a writer but also owner and editor of the local newspaper.
Cozy mystery with romance thrown in, and a parrot called Blackbeard and a cat called Agatha.
These books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
July 29, 2017
Another Wonderful Read
This is quickly becoming my favorite series by Kathi Daley.
The gang looks into a mysterious death that happened 5 years ago when a body is found in a secret room while an estate is being demolished.
With Blackbeards help another body is discovered in a trunk and with Clara's insight the truth must come out.
I think the way the characters and settings are written put me on the island off S. Carolina and seems so peaceful.
Can't wait to see what developes between Jill and Jack
This is quickly becoming my favorite series by Kathi Daley.
The gang looks into a mysterious death that happened 5 years ago when a body is found in a secret room while an estate is being demolished.
With Blackbeards help another body is discovered in a trunk and with Clara's insight the truth must come out.
I think the way the characters and settings are written put me on the island off S. Carolina and seems so peaceful.
Can't wait to see what developes between Jill and Jack
October 15, 2017
Exciting cozy mystery
I have really enjoyed Kathi Daley ' s books but this series is my favorite! This has everything I love about cozy mysteries - an exciting mystery but not intense or graphic, likeable interesting characters, and of course a little romance (very little so far). Jill chases her parrot Blackbeard around town and discovers some secrets which leads to a murder investigation which leads to a lot more! The writers group is a wonderful addition. Totally enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one!
I have really enjoyed Kathi Daley ' s books but this series is my favorite! This has everything I love about cozy mysteries - an exciting mystery but not intense or graphic, likeable interesting characters, and of course a little romance (very little so far). Jill chases her parrot Blackbeard around town and discovers some secrets which leads to a murder investigation which leads to a lot more! The writers group is a wonderful addition. Totally enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one!
June 25, 2021
A Great Mystery Series
This is the second book of the series and is better than the first, in my opinion. Book One we got to know and love all of the main characters. Each of the writers in the group seem to have their own unique perspective in helping to solve the case. Blackbeard the bird has some insight of his own and is surprisingly helpful. This book is a very entertaining and enjoyable mystery that kept me guessing until the end. And the end was very exciting, with a splash of romance.
This is the second book of the series and is better than the first, in my opinion. Book One we got to know and love all of the main characters. Each of the writers in the group seem to have their own unique perspective in helping to solve the case. Blackbeard the bird has some insight of his own and is surprisingly helpful. This book is a very entertaining and enjoyable mystery that kept me guessing until the end. And the end was very exciting, with a splash of romance.
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