What do you think?
Rate this book
Writer's Retreat Mystery #3
Third Strike
In this third book in the Writer's Retreat Mystery Series set on fictional Gull Island, a sports related death is explored when Trey Alderman, Gull Island’s most important claim to sport fame, is murdered. Trey was the starting pitcher for the Gull Island Seagulls who went on to stand out nationally amongst college players while attending The University of South Carolina. It was assumed by most that he would be a top draft pick a year and a half ago and it seemed at the time that the sky was the limit in terms of his career. Trey came home for spring break during his senior year and while on the island he agreed to play in a charity event held in Charleston. The game, which featured other draft hopefuls, was a one run game. It was the bottom of the ninth, tying run on third, bases loaded, two outs, full count, and the tension was high. The pitch was thrown, everyone in the crowd held their breath. Trey lined up with the pitcher and swung the bat with all his might before falling to the ground. He was pronounced dead at the scene. It was later determined that he died of a heart attack. He was twenty-two, healthy, and, as far as anyone knew, he had no preexisting heart condition. It was later determined that he had a drug mixture in his system that could lead to a heart attack when combined with extreme stress. The local investigator determined that he had most likely engaged in recreational drug use at the party he attended the previous evening.
Alex Cole, a twenty-eight-year-old, fun and flirty millennial who made his first million writing science fiction when he was just twenty-two decided to write a book about Trey’s life and death so he brought the mystery of Trey’s death to the Mystery Mastermind group who live and work at the Gull Island Writers Retreat. The eight members of the colony have all agreed to dig into the facts surrounding the death and help Alex find the answers he seeks.
Alex Cole, a twenty-eight-year-old, fun and flirty millennial who made his first million writing science fiction when he was just twenty-two decided to write a book about Trey’s life and death so he brought the mystery of Trey’s death to the Mystery Mastermind group who live and work at the Gull Island Writers Retreat. The eight members of the colony have all agreed to dig into the facts surrounding the death and help Alex find the answers he seeks.
- GenresMysteryCozy MysteryCozy
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2017
551 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Kathi Daley
357 books1,788 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).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 10, 2017
In this 3rd book of the series Alex needs the writing groups help in finding out what happened to a young baseball player who died at the plate. Trey was an up and coming player who was headed for the major league until he died of a heart attack while playing for his college's team. Alex wants to write a book about the young mans life and thinks that he was given a cocktail of drugs that caused his death not a preexisting condition. With a ton of suspects to choose from the gang gets started on finding out what happened on that faithful day. Could it have been his ex-girlfriend, or was it his new one that he was getting ready to dump? Was it his high school coach that helped him succeed or his nerdy friend from high school? The options are many and the group must figure out who actually had it out for Trey or did he take the drugs on his own. Kathi delivers a wonderfully written mystery that will keep you guessing the whole way through. I read the book in one sitting because I couldn't wait to figure out what really happened and was totally surprised. I also loved the addition of another mystery that leads you into the next book. I'm excited to find out what is going on there and if the group will be able to solve it.
August 9, 2017
Questa serie mi sta piacendo sempre di più. Mi sto davvero affezionando ai vari personaggi e mi piace il fatto che indaghino dei cold cases. Non male l'idea di un ritiro per scrittori: mi piacerebbe andarci e, forse, sarebbe la volta buona che mi metta a scrivere per davvero un libro!
July 8, 2018
I loved this book as I do all Ms. Daley's books. She has an interesting way of weaving a story within a story. Alex is writing a book about Trey, a baseball player who died of a heart attack at a young age. Something doesn't ring true and all the writers join together to figure out more about his life. When it is found that he was poisoned, we find a whole list of characters who are suspects who keep us guessing until the end.
At the same time a bundle of letters is found in the wall with a possible love triangle from the past, I believe this is leading into the next book, I could be wrong but I love how Ms. Daley hints at something and then it appears in another book as a story.
I love the characters, they are real and people I would love to hang around with.I definitely will continue on with this series.
At the same time a bundle of letters is found in the wall with a possible love triangle from the past, I believe this is leading into the next book, I could be wrong but I love how Ms. Daley hints at something and then it appears in another book as a story.
I love the characters, they are real and people I would love to hang around with.I definitely will continue on with this series.
August 13, 2017
Third Strike
Writer’s Retreat Mystery, Book ##
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
In this third book in the Writer's Retreat Mystery Series set on fictional Gull Island, a sports related death is explored when Trey Alderman, Gull Island’s most important claim to sport fame, is murdered. Trey was the starting pitcher for the Gull Island Seagulls who went on to stand out nationally amongst college players while attending The University of South Carolina. It was assumed by most that he would be a top draft pick a year and a half ago and it seemed at the time that the sky was the limit in terms of his career. Trey came home for spring break during his senior year and while on the island he agreed to play in a charity event held in Charleston. The game, which featured other draft hopefuls, was a one run game. It was the bottom of the ninth, tying run on third, bases loaded, two outs, full count, and the tension was high. The pitch was thrown, everyone in the crowd held their breath. Trey lined up with the pitcher and swung the bat with all his might before falling to the ground. He was pronounced dead at the scene. It was later determined that he died of a heart attack. He was twenty-two, healthy, and, as far as anyone knew, he had no preexisting heart condition. It was later determined that he had a drug mixture in his system that could lead to a heart attack when combined with extreme stress. The local investigator determined that he had most likely engaged in recreational drug use at the party he attended the previous evening.
Alex Cole, a twenty-eight-year-old, fun and flirty millennial who made his first million writing science fiction when he was just twenty-two decided to write a book about Trey’s life and death so he brought the mystery of Trey’s death to the Mystery Mastermind group who live and work at the Gull Island Writers Retreat. The eight members of the colony have all agreed to dig into the facts surrounding the death and help Alex find the answers he seeks. (Goodreads)
Review:
I really love the premise of this series, solving cold cases. I have always enjoyed cold case shows and this series reminds me of those shows.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I always enjoy spending time with these characters and seeing how clever and smart they are. I love how their friendships are growing and some relationships are developing. The author always creates characters that you can like and care about, I think it is one of her strongest talents. I like that she includes a list of characters at the beginning of the book, it helps the reader keep everyone straight in their mind.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there, being privy to all of the discussions and fact sharing that was taking place. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. As usual, the mystery was well developed and complex and not easily solved. The reader will have to be at the top of their game to solve this one.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. If you have not read this series (or any of the author’s other series), what are you waiting for?
Writer’s Retreat Mystery, Book ##
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
In this third book in the Writer's Retreat Mystery Series set on fictional Gull Island, a sports related death is explored when Trey Alderman, Gull Island’s most important claim to sport fame, is murdered. Trey was the starting pitcher for the Gull Island Seagulls who went on to stand out nationally amongst college players while attending The University of South Carolina. It was assumed by most that he would be a top draft pick a year and a half ago and it seemed at the time that the sky was the limit in terms of his career. Trey came home for spring break during his senior year and while on the island he agreed to play in a charity event held in Charleston. The game, which featured other draft hopefuls, was a one run game. It was the bottom of the ninth, tying run on third, bases loaded, two outs, full count, and the tension was high. The pitch was thrown, everyone in the crowd held their breath. Trey lined up with the pitcher and swung the bat with all his might before falling to the ground. He was pronounced dead at the scene. It was later determined that he died of a heart attack. He was twenty-two, healthy, and, as far as anyone knew, he had no preexisting heart condition. It was later determined that he had a drug mixture in his system that could lead to a heart attack when combined with extreme stress. The local investigator determined that he had most likely engaged in recreational drug use at the party he attended the previous evening.
Alex Cole, a twenty-eight-year-old, fun and flirty millennial who made his first million writing science fiction when he was just twenty-two decided to write a book about Trey’s life and death so he brought the mystery of Trey’s death to the Mystery Mastermind group who live and work at the Gull Island Writers Retreat. The eight members of the colony have all agreed to dig into the facts surrounding the death and help Alex find the answers he seeks. (Goodreads)
Review:
I really love the premise of this series, solving cold cases. I have always enjoyed cold case shows and this series reminds me of those shows.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I always enjoy spending time with these characters and seeing how clever and smart they are. I love how their friendships are growing and some relationships are developing. The author always creates characters that you can like and care about, I think it is one of her strongest talents. I like that she includes a list of characters at the beginning of the book, it helps the reader keep everyone straight in their mind.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there, being privy to all of the discussions and fact sharing that was taking place. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. As usual, the mystery was well developed and complex and not easily solved. The reader will have to be at the top of their game to solve this one.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. If you have not read this series (or any of the author’s other series), what are you waiting for?
February 15, 2018
Third Strike by Kathi Daley was another great addition to this series. I love Ms. Daley's voice in this series as it is completely different from her other series. The mystery this time for the Mystery Mastermind group revolves around a young baseball star from Gull Island who died at an exhibition game. They want to determine if it was murder or just poor choices made before the game. The plot is quickly paced with several suspects, high emotions including jealousy, heartaches, and rivalry kept the story moving until the reveal.
August 11, 2017
Wow , talk about a exciting book definitely this one is it. They had so many quirky wild individual characters that you really wanted to figure out yourself who it was , but you couldn't till the very end. I love this book because of how it showed so many new unique characters with a great storyline.
July 18, 2018
Love
Another great, fast paced read. I love that this is an easy read but one that you don’t get bored reading. I enjoy getting to know the characters more and more. I can’t wait to jump into the next one.
Another great, fast paced read. I love that this is an easy read but one that you don’t get bored reading. I enjoy getting to know the characters more and more. I can’t wait to jump into the next one.
February 11, 2018
This is the third in the Southern Writers Retreat mysteries. The residents of the retreat have formed a group called the Mystery Mastermind where they try to solve a mystery of the past. You don't have to read these in order but it helps.
Trey Alderman, a baseball player headed to the big leagues, played in a charity baseball game on Gull Island and dropped dead when he swung at a pitch. His death was originally thought to be a natural death but the group has reason to believe that he was given drugs at a party the night before the game and the group are on the trail to find out what really happened.
Trey Alderman, a baseball player headed to the big leagues, played in a charity baseball game on Gull Island and dropped dead when he swung at a pitch. His death was originally thought to be a natural death but the group has reason to believe that he was given drugs at a party the night before the game and the group are on the trail to find out what really happened.
August 9, 2017
Third Strike is a fabulous book by a fabulous author. I love reading about cold cases. This cold case isn't very old, but the steps taken by the Mystery Mastermind group at the Gull Island Writers Retreat to figure out whether the death of a top pitcher for the University of South Carolina was an accident or murder kept this book just flying along. This series is pure genius!
October 13, 2018
I received this book in a FB giveaway, I have never really read what is called Cozy mysteries. This was a well written book. Was a really slow read for me, only because this isn't my normal type of book, but for those that love Cozy mysteries I am sure they would really enjoy the book.
October 15, 2017
Third Strike is the third book 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, the characters are well rounded and affable, and the mysteries are well plotted. Ms. Daley has provided readers with a clean read, filled with caring and compassionate characters, two intriguing mysteries to try to solve, and a touch of romance. There are lots of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged and guessing; and the final reveal came as 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, by overseeing the scheduled renovations at his resort on Gull Island, a small island off the South Carolina coast. Jill turned the resort into a writers’ retreat and in addition to being a sounding board for each other, the group enjoys working together to solve real life cold case mysteries. Alex Cole, one of the authors living at Gull Island Writers’ Retreat, wants to venture out of the science fiction genre by writing a book about the life and death of Trey Alderman and enlists the help of the Mystery Masterminds. Trey had been the starting pitcher for the Gull Island Seagulls, was his college team’s MVP and was looking forward to a successful pro career. About a year and a half ago, he returned home to play in a charity event in Charleston but collapsed and died while up to bat at a critical point in the game. Even though he was a healthy twenty-two year old, the cause of death was determined a heart attack, but the autopsy revealed he had a drug mixture in his system that could have led to a heart attack. Trey’s parents and his friends didn’t believe he would knowingly consume drugs, especially not before an important game, and Alex wanted to dig into the twenty-four hours leading up to his death to try to determine if it was an accident or murder. The group’s investigation revealed that many people held grudges against him because he was selfishly looking out for himself and didn’t treat others respectfully. Jason Silverman, the general contractor Garrett hired to renovate the cabins, gives Jill a box he found inside the wall of one of the cabins and when she opens it, finds a bundle of letters written over fifty years ago, a photograph of a young couple, and a locket. Jill wants to solve the mystery of whose box it is so she can return it. Jill decides she wants to host a Thanksgiving dinner party but has no experience so she asks Gertie Newsome, the owner of Gertie’s on the Wharf, to help her.
Jillian ‘Jill’ Hanford, a former New York newspaper reporter, is helping her half-brother, Garrett Hanford, who recently suffered a stroke, by overseeing the scheduled renovations at his resort on Gull Island, a small island off the South Carolina coast. Jill turned the resort into a writers’ retreat and in addition to being a sounding board for each other, the group enjoys working together to solve real life cold case mysteries. Alex Cole, one of the authors living at Gull Island Writers’ Retreat, wants to venture out of the science fiction genre by writing a book about the life and death of Trey Alderman and enlists the help of the Mystery Masterminds. Trey had been the starting pitcher for the Gull Island Seagulls, was his college team’s MVP and was looking forward to a successful pro career. About a year and a half ago, he returned home to play in a charity event in Charleston but collapsed and died while up to bat at a critical point in the game. Even though he was a healthy twenty-two year old, the cause of death was determined a heart attack, but the autopsy revealed he had a drug mixture in his system that could have led to a heart attack. Trey’s parents and his friends didn’t believe he would knowingly consume drugs, especially not before an important game, and Alex wanted to dig into the twenty-four hours leading up to his death to try to determine if it was an accident or murder. The group’s investigation revealed that many people held grudges against him because he was selfishly looking out for himself and didn’t treat others respectfully. Jason Silverman, the general contractor Garrett hired to renovate the cabins, gives Jill a box he found inside the wall of one of the cabins and when she opens it, finds a bundle of letters written over fifty years ago, a photograph of a young couple, and a locket. Jill wants to solve the mystery of whose box it is so she can return it. Jill decides she wants to host a Thanksgiving dinner party but has no experience so she asks Gertie Newsome, the owner of Gertie’s on the Wharf, to help her.
August 8, 2017
Third Strike is the 3rd book in A Writers Retreat Southern Seashore Mystery by Kathi Daley. I believe this series is headed toward the “major league” in cozy mysteries with a greater emphasis in the mystery! Unlike many mysteries, this one is crafted around a cold case and ultimately questions if this case was a murder or an individual who elected to make poor personal decisions. I appreciate the opening list of characters which truly allows readers to enjoy this work as a stand-alone or as a part of a series (I do suggest starting at the beginning to appreciate the depth of character development). Jill Hanford is helping her half-brother, Garrett Hanson, oversee renovations at his resort on Gull Island off the South Carolina coast. Jill has developed a writers’ retreat encompassing the residents of the resort who enjoy working together to solve real life cold case mysteries. A local celebrity ball player, Trey Alderman, who was positioned for a career in the major leagues died during a televised game. There were many witnesses and a long list of suspects who had reason to want Trey eliminated. Alex Cole, one of the authors living at Gull Island Writers’ Retreat, is writing a book about the life and death of Trey Alderman and enlists the help of the other sleuthing resident authors. Throughout the story renovations continue at the resort. Jason Silverman, the contractor finds a “treasure” hinting at another mystery to be investigated. Kathi Daley delivers everything a cozy mystery reader hopes for in exceptional book: realistic characters, strong family, friendship and community values, a believable tightly woven plot with unexpected twists and turns, and an excellent story with an unexpected ending. The moral of the story, in reality, sometimes good people do bad things, and the outcome isn't always as predicted or planned. Ms. Daley has penned a complex, clean mystery, with well-developed, caring, compassionate characters celebrating Thanksgiving together, after solving a compelling, fascinating mystery with a hint of sweet romance. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading well-crafted cozy mysteries. I’m looking forward to the next mystery which I anticipate will be far more menacing.
August 12, 2017
“Third Strike: A Writer’s Retreat” earns 5/5 Walk-off Home Runs!
Jillian Hanford manages Turtle Cove Resort, a Writer’s Retreat on Gull Island, for her half brother, Garrett, who is dealing with several medical issues. She and seven other authors of varying ages and literary notoriety collaborate closely to explore and resolve a variety of cold case mysteries that often, well always, involve suspicious deaths. Alex Cole, a millennial who at twenty-two made his first million writing science fiction, has brought the group together; he is eager to write a book about Trey Alderman, a local baseball hero, who at the dawn of his dreams coming true dies of a heart attack. It is known he attended a big party the night before his death, and the ME reports Trey had a dangerous mixture of drugs in his system that linked with “extreme stress” could cause a heart attack. Enthusiastic to get on board with Alex’s investigation, the “Mystery Mastermind” group sets up an avenue of inquiry for their list of witnesses and suspects. Even this early in the investigation, it seems many have motives to ‘mess’ with Trey and upset his plans to be drafted #1…but murder?
“Third Strike,” the third book in Kathi Daley’s Writer’s Retreat series, is a home run! The story is an engaging page turner with Kathi’s signature clever twists that fans enjoy: Women scorned? Teammates’ jealousies? Promises broken? Friendships blossom? All leading to a “Wow, I didn’t see that coming!” ending. She starts with a clever gathering of the writers to set up the details of the cold case and background into the witness and suspects, so newbies can start with this book and not feel out of the loop. For us fans, we see the continued evolution of ‘family’ as these writing sleuths interact, interrupt, and include their own opinions no matter who has taken the lead. It’s always fun to pop in and see how Blackbeard the bird’s squawking and Gertie’s ghost Mortie's pronouncements add to the final conclusion. The small town nuances of Gull Island, renovations at the Turtle Cove resort, appearance of a new resident, contents of a mysterious metal box, and the romantic interactions between “Jackson and Jillian” play out delightfully in the background. This has become one of my ‘Top Ten’ series of the year!
Jillian Hanford manages Turtle Cove Resort, a Writer’s Retreat on Gull Island, for her half brother, Garrett, who is dealing with several medical issues. She and seven other authors of varying ages and literary notoriety collaborate closely to explore and resolve a variety of cold case mysteries that often, well always, involve suspicious deaths. Alex Cole, a millennial who at twenty-two made his first million writing science fiction, has brought the group together; he is eager to write a book about Trey Alderman, a local baseball hero, who at the dawn of his dreams coming true dies of a heart attack. It is known he attended a big party the night before his death, and the ME reports Trey had a dangerous mixture of drugs in his system that linked with “extreme stress” could cause a heart attack. Enthusiastic to get on board with Alex’s investigation, the “Mystery Mastermind” group sets up an avenue of inquiry for their list of witnesses and suspects. Even this early in the investigation, it seems many have motives to ‘mess’ with Trey and upset his plans to be drafted #1…but murder?
“Third Strike,” the third book in Kathi Daley’s Writer’s Retreat series, is a home run! The story is an engaging page turner with Kathi’s signature clever twists that fans enjoy: Women scorned? Teammates’ jealousies? Promises broken? Friendships blossom? All leading to a “Wow, I didn’t see that coming!” ending. She starts with a clever gathering of the writers to set up the details of the cold case and background into the witness and suspects, so newbies can start with this book and not feel out of the loop. For us fans, we see the continued evolution of ‘family’ as these writing sleuths interact, interrupt, and include their own opinions no matter who has taken the lead. It’s always fun to pop in and see how Blackbeard the bird’s squawking and Gertie’s ghost Mortie's pronouncements add to the final conclusion. The small town nuances of Gull Island, renovations at the Turtle Cove resort, appearance of a new resident, contents of a mysterious metal box, and the romantic interactions between “Jackson and Jillian” play out delightfully in the background. This has become one of my ‘Top Ten’ series of the year!
August 18, 2017
Jill Hanford and the six friends who inhabit her family owned Writer's Retreat Resort on Gull Island, South Carolina are going to investigate the death of up and coming baseball star, Trey Alderman. After being a top high school and college player, Trey was poised to be drafted into the major leagues, when he dropped dead while batting in a charity baseball game. It was determined to be a heart attack that was brought on by a mix of recreational drugs and high stress levels. Alex Cole, writer and resident at Jill's resort has decided to write an autobiography about Trey and his untimely death. Trey's family and close friends were adamant that he would never knowingly use drugs for any reason. Trey had been home on Spring Break and the night before the charity event, he had attended a party with old high school friends and new college ones including current and ex-girlfriends, other leading draft contenders, a former coach and other friends who Trey had betrayed in one way or another. Alex and the group are determined to find out what really happened the night of the party and who had fed Trey the fatal mix of drugs. The third book in this series continues to deliver unsolved crimes from the past with the perfect balance of suspects, motives and twisted plots. The solution is always unique! Cozy and traditional mystery buffs will both enjoy this series!
April 22, 2020
The third entry into the Writer's Retreat Mystery Series doesn't disappoint. The writers living at the Gull Island Resort team up to solve yet another murder. Only a year and a half ago, the island's star baseball player, set to move on to the Majors, dies suddenly during a game showcasing draft hopefuls, at the age of 22. When one of the resort's novelists decides to write about it, the gang pitches in to help, and they soon discover the death may not be accidental.
I'm really enjoying this series. Each book is fun, and low on graphic violence, sex and language. If you're looking for a cozy, light read that won't take a lot of time (it's only 197 pages long), check out this series.
Populated by a cast of authors of varying genres, and set on an island full of Southern charm, the authors bring their talents together to solve local cases, both recent, and cold. Side characters are warm and friendly, and do what they can to help our author friends with their investigations. There's also a dash of romance. If like me, you're not a fan of romance, know that it's only a dash and doesn't overwhelm the mystery. As it takes place in the South, food features in the stories, so I recommend grabbing some snacks before setting down on the couch and enjoying this easy read.
I'm really enjoying this series. Each book is fun, and low on graphic violence, sex and language. If you're looking for a cozy, light read that won't take a lot of time (it's only 197 pages long), check out this series.
Populated by a cast of authors of varying genres, and set on an island full of Southern charm, the authors bring their talents together to solve local cases, both recent, and cold. Side characters are warm and friendly, and do what they can to help our author friends with their investigations. There's also a dash of romance. If like me, you're not a fan of romance, know that it's only a dash and doesn't overwhelm the mystery. As it takes place in the South, food features in the stories, so I recommend grabbing some snacks before setting down on the couch and enjoying this easy read.
August 6, 2017
Once again a group of writers who have become as close as family band together to solve a mystery. This is a cold case, but no one is sure if it was murder or the consequences of poor decisions.
A local celebrity ball player who was up for real fame in the major leagues died during a televised game. There are many witnesses and more than enough suspects who had reason to want Trey out of the way.
We also are updated on the renovations to the resort. A discovery in a wall of a cabin being prepared for upgrades hints at another mystery to be investigated. This is keeping everyone extra busy during the week leading up to Thanksgiving yet several find time for thoughts of romance.
This is a well rounded visit to Gull Island and characters who easily become reader favorites.
While Blackbeard seems uncharacteristically quite this time, he adds to the conversation when he has important information to share, as do Agatha and Morty.
This book has a slower, less intense, pace than previous books in the series but comes to a satisfactory conclusion while setting up expectations of a more sinister case to come.
A local celebrity ball player who was up for real fame in the major leagues died during a televised game. There are many witnesses and more than enough suspects who had reason to want Trey out of the way.
We also are updated on the renovations to the resort. A discovery in a wall of a cabin being prepared for upgrades hints at another mystery to be investigated. This is keeping everyone extra busy during the week leading up to Thanksgiving yet several find time for thoughts of romance.
This is a well rounded visit to Gull Island and characters who easily become reader favorites.
While Blackbeard seems uncharacteristically quite this time, he adds to the conversation when he has important information to share, as do Agatha and Morty.
This book has a slower, less intense, pace than previous books in the series but comes to a satisfactory conclusion while setting up expectations of a more sinister case to come.
January 3, 2022
The 3rd book in this cozy mystery series set on Gull Island at a Writers Retreat sees the writers work together to help Alex, one of the residents there, research his latest book. A local baseball player and star dies unexpectedly at a charity game some months earlier, and it seems the people who knew him are keeping some secrets.
Part way through the book, the premise for book 4 becomes apparent, a cache of hidden letters found in one of the cabins being renovated. Each book leads onto the next book, with the same main characters; because of this, these books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
This author writes excellent cozy mysteries, I've read several of the series she's written and have loved then all. If you like easy to read, cozy mystery based in small communities, with a touch of romance included; written with great 2 legged, as well as 4 legged and feathered wing characters, then these are the books for you.
Part way through the book, the premise for book 4 becomes apparent, a cache of hidden letters found in one of the cabins being renovated. Each book leads onto the next book, with the same main characters; because of this, these books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
This author writes excellent cozy mysteries, I've read several of the series she's written and have loved then all. If you like easy to read, cozy mystery based in small communities, with a touch of romance included; written with great 2 legged, as well as 4 legged and feathered wing characters, then these are the books for you.
August 7, 2017
Third Strike ( Writers Retreat Mystery #3 )
By: Kathi Daley
Third Strike is book three in Writers Retreat Mystery Series. This series is set on Fictional Gull Island. Kathi Daley has another winner. Third Strike has lots of writers and characters , and Daley has put a description of each one in the front of the book which is very helpful. The writers gang all come together again to help solve a cold case. It was ruled that he had a heart attack , but some has other ideas. There are many suspects in this case. Trey , a hometown baseball playgoing pro, fell dead at the plate. Was it natural , or murder? Can They find out the truth on this cold case? There is another mystery behind a box that is found . It was good to hear from Blackbeard, the Parrot , again. There is also a little romance that is developing in Third Strike.
By: Kathi Daley
Third Strike is book three in Writers Retreat Mystery Series. This series is set on Fictional Gull Island. Kathi Daley has another winner. Third Strike has lots of writers and characters , and Daley has put a description of each one in the front of the book which is very helpful. The writers gang all come together again to help solve a cold case. It was ruled that he had a heart attack , but some has other ideas. There are many suspects in this case. Trey , a hometown baseball playgoing pro, fell dead at the plate. Was it natural , or murder? Can They find out the truth on this cold case? There is another mystery behind a box that is found . It was good to hear from Blackbeard, the Parrot , again. There is also a little romance that is developing in Third Strike.
March 17, 2018
Cozy Mystery readers will find everything they love in Kathi Daley's novel Third Strike: A Writer's Retreat Mystery. The returning cast of characters are not only fun, but also, as they are comprised of several writers of different genres, very unique as a group. When together they explore an old mystery, their individual perspectives contribute in interesting ways. Cozy readers will also love the setting, a writers' retreat on Gull Island, and the curious characters from town. The whodunit is complex, with many suspects and motives, keeping readers rapidly turning pages. The author provides a list of characters with brief descriptions to assist those readers who enjoy attempting to solve the puzzle before the denouement.
Cozy Mystery fans will happily give three cheers for Third Strike by Kathi Daley.
Cozy Mystery fans will happily give three cheers for Third Strike by Kathi Daley.
August 8, 2017
#C. Menow a stalker or killer?
Another intriguing book.
This time Alex has asked for help in researching a book he wants to write about a local sports hero who died at the plate.
Since this happened within the last few years finding witnesses was easy. And the conclusion was sad.
There is also going to be a new addition to the group. And I wonder how the dynamics will change.
Also Garrett may be coming home, but here again Kathi may have a twist.
I always like to think ahead.
What I liked about this book was the new mystery that was found. And I can't wait to start that one.
I feel like this series gives a glimpse into what it would be like living in a writers' community and having the advantage to bounce thought off like minds.
Another intriguing book.
This time Alex has asked for help in researching a book he wants to write about a local sports hero who died at the plate.
Since this happened within the last few years finding witnesses was easy. And the conclusion was sad.
There is also going to be a new addition to the group. And I wonder how the dynamics will change.
Also Garrett may be coming home, but here again Kathi may have a twist.
I always like to think ahead.
What I liked about this book was the new mystery that was found. And I can't wait to start that one.
I feel like this series gives a glimpse into what it would be like living in a writers' community and having the advantage to bounce thought off like minds.
October 17, 2017
Another exciting cozy mystery!
This is book #3 in the Writer's Retreat series and it is as good as the others - maybe slightly less exciting but more romance. It is still a great cozy mystery with all the things I love - twists and excitement in the mystery but not graphic or intense, interesting and enjoyable characters, and romance. There is finally some actual romance! Again, not graphic or erotic or anything. This book was hard to put down. Alex is writing a book about local baseball sensation Trey who had a heart attack while playing in a charity game. Jill Jack & friends all help with the details. As usual nothing is as it appears! So what happened to Trey? Another awesome book by Kathi Daley!
This is book #3 in the Writer's Retreat series and it is as good as the others - maybe slightly less exciting but more romance. It is still a great cozy mystery with all the things I love - twists and excitement in the mystery but not graphic or intense, interesting and enjoyable characters, and romance. There is finally some actual romance! Again, not graphic or erotic or anything. This book was hard to put down. Alex is writing a book about local baseball sensation Trey who had a heart attack while playing in a charity game. Jill Jack & friends all help with the details. As usual nothing is as it appears! So what happened to Trey? Another awesome book by Kathi Daley!
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.
August 8, 2017
I am so loving this series and getting to know the interesting characters a little bit more with each new book - Third Strike is the third book in the series and you will find yourself totally immersed in the murder mystery of a cold case as the writers' group go about solving it but also will get an introduction to what case the writers' group will be looking to solve in the upcoming fourth book. Not only will you find yourself in the middle of a murder mystery, you will also find yourself totally immersed int the interactions of friendships and the romantic beginnings budding in this awesome group of people. A great story and series and looking forward to next book.
August 15, 2017
In the third book of this series, the writers' group is investigating a sports-related death/murder (part of the investigation is figuring out which it was). We get to know more about the characters, and we get an introduction to a new writer who is moving in and may or may not become part of the group. We also learn about some changes in Garrett's condition and life, which is exciting.
I am quickly becoming very invested in the main characters of this series, and the series is one of my three favorites by this author (the other two being Zoe Donovan and Whales and Tails). The friendships and romances are developing in a realistic manner, and everything is described in such a way as to make the reader feel right in the middle of the action.
The mystery is extremely well written and keeps readers guessing until the very end. I also love the way that animals and a ghost help to solve the mysteries each time. And we get a peek into the next mystery the group will be working to solve as well, when the next book, Fourth Victim, is released in October. I am already looking forward to that visit to Gull Island!
I am quickly becoming very invested in the main characters of this series, and the series is one of my three favorites by this author (the other two being Zoe Donovan and Whales and Tails). The friendships and romances are developing in a realistic manner, and everything is described in such a way as to make the reader feel right in the middle of the action.
The mystery is extremely well written and keeps readers guessing until the very end. I also love the way that animals and a ghost help to solve the mysteries each time. And we get a peek into the next mystery the group will be working to solve as well, when the next book, Fourth Victim, is released in October. I am already looking forward to that visit to Gull Island!
December 30, 2018
Each book that I have read in this series so far has drawn me in and I don't want to put it down until I see how the mystery turns out. This book is focused on the death of a local man who was getting ready to graduate from college and enter into the baseball draft. I love the way that the members of the Writer's Retreat all support each other and divide the tasks up to help solve the mystery in each book. The characters have continued to develop and the relationships are evolving in a way that seems natural. Also, a new writer will be moving in and I am looking forward to see how she fits in with the group. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
April 18, 2022
The writers at the Gull Island Writers Retreat are ready for a new mystery to investigate. It is an old case that had been dismissed by the Police as accidental, but there are those who question if it was. Jill & the writers in residence at the Resort that her brother Garrett inherited decide to look into the case of a hometown hero's death. Each writer brings their own expertise to the table to find out what really happened so many years ago. There are plenty of potential suspects for the team to talk to in order to find the actual murderer, and some of the team will be in danger because of their sleuthing.
August 4, 2017
Kindle Copy for Review
This time around the writing gang finds them investigating a case revolving baseball when one o the members bring the story to their attention.
Local sports hero comes home for the summer before his senior year to play a charity game. Heis up to bat when he suddenly keels over and dies. It is rule a heart attack but is it more than it seems as he was destined to be a major league pick. Rumours of recreational drugs use might be a cause of death.
Another interesting case by the author.
This time around the writing gang finds them investigating a case revolving baseball when one o the members bring the story to their attention.
Local sports hero comes home for the summer before his senior year to play a charity game. Heis up to bat when he suddenly keels over and dies. It is rule a heart attack but is it more than it seems as he was destined to be a major league pick. Rumours of recreational drugs use might be a cause of death.
Another interesting case by the author.
August 5, 2017
Once again I enjoyed my visit to Gull Island. The writers retreat takes on a cold case to solve. It also stumbles across another one which will lead to book four. As hinted it by the title, this murder revolves around baseball. The various writer characters are interesting. The parrot and romances add to the fun. This is an intriguing change of format for a cozy. Rather than finding a dead body and having to find out who really was killer because one of the friends is a person of interest, this one uses a cold case. I look forward to reading #4.
August 9, 2017
Third Strike is the third book in the Writers Retreat Southern Seashore Mystery series. Trey is about to put Gull Island on the map, by being a draft hopeful. Suddenly without cause, he dies at the plate. There was some speculation to the cause, but this has become a cold case. No one is sure if it was murder or the consequence of poor decisions. Now the Gull island writer group has come together to review the clues and see if they can figure out which it was. I really enjoyed this book, and I highly recommend it.
August 9, 2017
Third Strike is a Definite Home Run!
Jill, Jack and the other "Mystery Masterminds", who either live at the writers retreat or hang out there are working hard to help their member, Alex, discover the truth to a fifty year old death of a local baseball hero who died under odd circumstances.
Meanwhile, Jill and Jack are doing some discovering of their own, as their relationship evolves from friendship and attraction into a full blown romance.
The third book in the Writers Retreat series combines a great mystery with a healthy splash of romance to create a really addicting read.
Jill, Jack and the other "Mystery Masterminds", who either live at the writers retreat or hang out there are working hard to help their member, Alex, discover the truth to a fifty year old death of a local baseball hero who died under odd circumstances.
Meanwhile, Jill and Jack are doing some discovering of their own, as their relationship evolves from friendship and attraction into a full blown romance.
The third book in the Writers Retreat series combines a great mystery with a healthy splash of romance to create a really addicting read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews