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Zoe Donovan Mystery #26
Trick or Treason
As is his tradition, Zak has gone Halloween Crazy, while Zoe is trying to overcome the baby bump blues and harness some enthusiasm for the annual Haunted Hamlet. Things seem to be on track for a Spooktacular good time until Zoe stumbles onto a Halloween mystery even she didn't see coming.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2017
503 people are currently reading
210 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 58 reviews
September 28, 2017
Zoe is at it again and this time she's pregnant! While out to eat with her friend Ellie she makes a trip to the bathroom at the store next door via the back alley and trips over a blanket wrapped body. Everyone is shocked when they realize its Willa, the local tax woman. With Zac and Salinger not wanting Zoe to investigate in her condition she has to come up with ways to help without putting herself in danger. After going around town talking to people she comes to realize that Willa may have had more enemies than she thought. Will Zoe be able to keep up with her home life, the Zoo, and investigating under the radar? Who killed Willa, was it an angry neighbor, business owner, or a random stranger. Follow along as Zoe tries to flush out the killer while keeping herself out of harms way. As always Kathi Daley does a wonderful job of blending the characters, their everyday lives, and the mystery into one cohesive read. I look forward to Zoe having her baby and continuing to solve mysteries.
September 27, 2017
Trick or Treason is the 26th book in Kathi Daley’s delightful Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery series. Halloween is Zak and Zoe’s favorite holiday and the Haunted Hamlet has become one of Ashton Falls most treasured events. To add to the excitement Zak is decorating to the extreme, Zoe is dealing with third trimester pregnancy blues, Scooter has a major soccer game, Alex is attending her first dance, Ellie and Levi are settling in with their 6-month-old son, Eli and Zoe stumbles over a dead body! In a superbly crafted, tightly woven plot, 4 murders emerge and Zoe knows they must be connected. The plot has a theoretical wild ride across the country as the sleuths seek to piece the twisted puzzle together. The characters are well developed. When blended with the plot there is a strong sense of family, friends, community, hope and just the right amount of sweet romance. Kathi Daley has delivered everything a cozy mystery reader hopes for in exceptional book including an unexpected ending and delicious recipes! This is one Halloween themed cozy you don’t want to miss! I’m excited to read what happens as Zak and Zoe prepare for Christmas and their baby’s arrival. Coming December 15th, Reindeer Roundup!!
Disclaimer: I received a Kindle copy for review. The opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
Disclaimer: I received a Kindle copy for review. The opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
November 14, 2017
This was a fun Halloween themed cozy...
** Thanks to Ms. Dailey for the complimentary copy. I won it in one of her author contests..
** Thanks to Ms. Dailey for the complimentary copy. I won it in one of her author contests..
September 27, 2017
The author definitely outdid herself this time. The characters are entertaining, the animals enjoyable. It is almost Halloween, Zoe and Zak's baby, Catherine, is due in January and, shocker of all shockers, Zoe finds another dead body, this time a friend. This book is highly entertaining. I love the series so much that I almost wish a new book would come out each month.
October 6, 2017
“Trick or Treason” earns 5/5 Masked Murderers!
Zoe finds dealing with her pregnancy not one with which she has much control: crazy dreams, frustration with her mother-in-law over ‘pink,’ and tears coming at the drop of the hat. But relaxing over a lite dinner with BFF Ellie and putting some things into perspective eases Zoe’s mind and helps her look forward to a quiet Halloween. But, she hoped too soon: Zoe takes a side trip to use the bathroom for the umpteenth time and trips over a body wrapped in a blanket dead from blunt force trauma… Willa Walton had been the town clerk forever, and chaired the events committee, but she was considered strict, maybe even rigid, but to those who looked beyond that she was a warm person. Now she’s dead, and the investigation is having its challenges including weeding through motives that just don’t seem to rise to the level warranting murder. Halloween just can’t catch a break in Ashton Falls…murder always seems to find a way to say, ‘Trick or Treat!’
This Zoe Donovan Mystery series is the one that first introduced me to Kathi Daley and making me a big fan. Over twenty-six stories I have been extremely entertained by clever murder mysteries, occasional change of setting and crossover episodes, and the evolving relationships between Zoe and Zak and their group of friends and family. Kathi Daley’s books define the ‘cozy mystery’ genre with its light treatment of murder and mayhem and its focus on character development, realistic interactions, and clever mixture of intrigue and mystery often with an action-packed ending that puts Zoe in harm’s way to catch the killer. “Trick or Treason” didn’t disappoint. Along with a very clever mystery that challenged my inner “Sherlock” all the way to the end when the last clue was revealed, the pregnancy quirks added a layer of frustration to Zoe’s typical hands-on investigative style. You can’t just go willy-nilly running after suspects in the third trimester! And again playing out in the background and adding entertaining elements of realism are the issues with being surrogate parents to thirteen-year-olds and prepping for the town’s Halloween festivities. And let’s not forget Kathi Daley’s signature fan-submitted recipes, too! Everything makes for an excellent book for your holiday enjoyment…
Zoe finds dealing with her pregnancy not one with which she has much control: crazy dreams, frustration with her mother-in-law over ‘pink,’ and tears coming at the drop of the hat. But relaxing over a lite dinner with BFF Ellie and putting some things into perspective eases Zoe’s mind and helps her look forward to a quiet Halloween. But, she hoped too soon: Zoe takes a side trip to use the bathroom for the umpteenth time and trips over a body wrapped in a blanket dead from blunt force trauma… Willa Walton had been the town clerk forever, and chaired the events committee, but she was considered strict, maybe even rigid, but to those who looked beyond that she was a warm person. Now she’s dead, and the investigation is having its challenges including weeding through motives that just don’t seem to rise to the level warranting murder. Halloween just can’t catch a break in Ashton Falls…murder always seems to find a way to say, ‘Trick or Treat!’
This Zoe Donovan Mystery series is the one that first introduced me to Kathi Daley and making me a big fan. Over twenty-six stories I have been extremely entertained by clever murder mysteries, occasional change of setting and crossover episodes, and the evolving relationships between Zoe and Zak and their group of friends and family. Kathi Daley’s books define the ‘cozy mystery’ genre with its light treatment of murder and mayhem and its focus on character development, realistic interactions, and clever mixture of intrigue and mystery often with an action-packed ending that puts Zoe in harm’s way to catch the killer. “Trick or Treason” didn’t disappoint. Along with a very clever mystery that challenged my inner “Sherlock” all the way to the end when the last clue was revealed, the pregnancy quirks added a layer of frustration to Zoe’s typical hands-on investigative style. You can’t just go willy-nilly running after suspects in the third trimester! And again playing out in the background and adding entertaining elements of realism are the issues with being surrogate parents to thirteen-year-olds and prepping for the town’s Halloween festivities. And let’s not forget Kathi Daley’s signature fan-submitted recipes, too! Everything makes for an excellent book for your holiday enjoyment…
September 26, 2017
Trick or Treason is the 26th book in Kathi Daley’s wonderful Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery series. The story is well plotted, the characters are well developed and affable, and the story flows at a steady pace. Once again, Ms. Daley has provided readers with an intriguing murder mystery, with twists and turns and enough potential suspects to keep the reader engaged. The mystery is perfectly blended with just the right touch of romance, family, friends, and community. I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys reading a well-crafted cozy mystery.
Zak is busy decorating for Halloween, going overboard as usual while Zoe, who is in the third trimester of her pregnancy, Ellie, her best friend, and Ellie’s six-month-old son, Eli, are shopping for Halloween costumes and decorations. The remodel of the Zoe’s boathouse has been completed and Ellie, Levi, and Eli have moved in. Everyone is looking forward to Ashland Falls’ annual Haunted Hamlet and Zak and Zoe are preparing for a tournament Scooter’s soccer team is participating in and Zimmerman Academy’s Halloween dance on Friday, which Alex hopes to attend. Zoe has a knack for stumbling on bodies and almost trips over a body wrapped in a blanket at the back door of Rosie’s, a popular restaurant. The victim is identified as Willa Walton, the chairperson for Ashton Falls’ events committee and the town clerk. Given her condition, Sheriff Salinger and Zak insist that Zoe takes a backseat on this investigation and she reluctantly agrees to stick to research and not go out on any interviews or investigating by herself.
Zak is busy decorating for Halloween, going overboard as usual while Zoe, who is in the third trimester of her pregnancy, Ellie, her best friend, and Ellie’s six-month-old son, Eli, are shopping for Halloween costumes and decorations. The remodel of the Zoe’s boathouse has been completed and Ellie, Levi, and Eli have moved in. Everyone is looking forward to Ashland Falls’ annual Haunted Hamlet and Zak and Zoe are preparing for a tournament Scooter’s soccer team is participating in and Zimmerman Academy’s Halloween dance on Friday, which Alex hopes to attend. Zoe has a knack for stumbling on bodies and almost trips over a body wrapped in a blanket at the back door of Rosie’s, a popular restaurant. The victim is identified as Willa Walton, the chairperson for Ashton Falls’ events committee and the town clerk. Given her condition, Sheriff Salinger and Zak insist that Zoe takes a backseat on this investigation and she reluctantly agrees to stick to research and not go out on any interviews or investigating by herself.
October 23, 2017
Trick or Treason is the 26th book in the Zoe Donovan Mystery series by Kathi Daley. As the title provides it revolves around Zoe and Zak Zimmerman’s preparation for the Halloween holiday as well as the up-coming birth of their first child. Zoe is a couple of weeks into her third trimester foand has had some amusing pregnancy symptoms that have led to dreams of marshmallow ghosts and Milky Way king and a sea of chocolate. When Zoe becomes overwhelmed while talking about the color for the nursery, Ellie, Zoe’s best friend, removes Zoe from the Halloween superstore to a nearby restaurant named Rose’s for a cup of soup. As Zoe finally relaxes and the stresses ease away, she realizes she needs to use the lady’s room. A line at the bathroom door due to two teenage girls in there and two women ahead of her, Zoe decides to go out the backdoor of Rosie’s and use the bathroom at her friend, Gilda Reynolds, store, Bears and Beavers. As she steps out the kitchen door and into the alley, Zoe almost trips over something laying just past the threshold. As Zoe checks out the item, she realizes it is a human body and send out a call to Sheriff Salinger. Zoe’s hopes for a murder-free holiday isn’t going to hold true this year.
I always enjoy Kathi Daley’s books and especially her character, Zoe Donovan – Zimmerman. The plots are well prepared to keep the reader interested and wanting to know more. When you get the end of the book be ready for an unexpected event.
I always enjoy Kathi Daley’s books and especially her character, Zoe Donovan – Zimmerman. The plots are well prepared to keep the reader interested and wanting to know more. When you get the end of the book be ready for an unexpected event.
September 28, 2017
Back Home in Ashton Falls. Yay!
As always Zoe seems to find herself in the middle of a murder.
This time though she doesn't do anything crazy while trying to solve the murder of her friend. And I have to admit I found this refreshing. It's about time Zoe grows up.
I enjoyed the story line and was surprised that I didn't know, or even have an idea who the murderer was until the major clue was revealed.
Can't wait for the next one and Zak's Christmas display and will the baby come early and will it be a girl?
I don't like anything that is a given, especially in a mystery book.
As always Zoe seems to find herself in the middle of a murder.
This time though she doesn't do anything crazy while trying to solve the murder of her friend. And I have to admit I found this refreshing. It's about time Zoe grows up.
I enjoyed the story line and was surprised that I didn't know, or even have an idea who the murderer was until the major clue was revealed.
Can't wait for the next one and Zak's Christmas display and will the baby come early and will it be a girl?
I don't like anything that is a given, especially in a mystery book.
November 11, 2017
Zoe finds the body of someone she knows and the town is in shock. Zoe and the gang start asking questions and come up with some surprising information that leads them to more surprises.
I love revisiting these characters and love all the side stories, it keeps things real. The mystery was excellent and leads you on at a nice pace. I thought I had it figured out but as usual Ms. Daley throws an extra twist to prove me wrong. I eagerly await the next in this series.
I love revisiting these characters and love all the side stories, it keeps things real. The mystery was excellent and leads you on at a nice pace. I thought I had it figured out but as usual Ms. Daley throws an extra twist to prove me wrong. I eagerly await the next in this series.
September 28, 2017
Trick or Treason is yet another winner by the talented Ms Daley! I loved every minute of reading this book and just can't get enough of the Zoe Donovan Zimmerman series. It keeps getting better and better.
October 27, 2017
One of the things I love about Kathi Daley’s Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery series is the holiday themes she often weaves into her stories. Such is the case with TRICK OR TREASON, the 26th book in this series which finds Zak and Zoe preparing for Halloween and Ashland Falls’ annual Haunted Hamlet. I love the setting of Ashland Falls and the close-knit community. Zoe and Zak are surrounded by loving, caring friends who lend support to each other and to the town. In addition to well-written cozy mysteries, Kathi Daley’s strength is creating wonderful characters that make you want to get to know them and continue to want to find out what happens to them. The central characters are kind and compassionate people and just the sort of individuals I would be happy to call my friends if they existed in real life.
Zoe, who is pregnant with their first child and experiencing the baby blues, definitely has her hands full in this newest installment! In addition to the Haunted Hamlet, she has the Zimmerman Academy Halloween dance, a soccer tournament for their foster son, a remodel finishing up at her wild and domestic rescue center, and an overbearing mother-in-law breathing down her neck. The last thing Zoe needs is a dead body showing up, but a murder happens and she is once again pulled into trying to find the killer since the victim is the town’s events’ chairperson.
However this time, Zoe tries to take a back seat to the investigation to protect her unborn child. She promises both her husband and Sheriff Salinger to do research only and not go off on her own investigating. I appreciate that Zoe has a good relationship with the Sheriff, who respects her opinions and insight and in fact, seeks her help in the murder cases. It’s refreshing to not have an egotistical, drama-filled authority figure try to take center stage. The author deftly weaves a variety of viable suspects that kept me guessing with some twists to the plot that I didn’t see coming. The suspenseful conclusion ties the threads together into another delightful treat of a read!
Zoe, who is pregnant with their first child and experiencing the baby blues, definitely has her hands full in this newest installment! In addition to the Haunted Hamlet, she has the Zimmerman Academy Halloween dance, a soccer tournament for their foster son, a remodel finishing up at her wild and domestic rescue center, and an overbearing mother-in-law breathing down her neck. The last thing Zoe needs is a dead body showing up, but a murder happens and she is once again pulled into trying to find the killer since the victim is the town’s events’ chairperson.
However this time, Zoe tries to take a back seat to the investigation to protect her unborn child. She promises both her husband and Sheriff Salinger to do research only and not go off on her own investigating. I appreciate that Zoe has a good relationship with the Sheriff, who respects her opinions and insight and in fact, seeks her help in the murder cases. It’s refreshing to not have an egotistical, drama-filled authority figure try to take center stage. The author deftly weaves a variety of viable suspects that kept me guessing with some twists to the plot that I didn’t see coming. The suspenseful conclusion ties the threads together into another delightful treat of a read!
September 30, 2017
Spoiler Free Review:
Hard to believe this is Zoe Donovan #26. I found this series very shortly after it started and have hooked not only my wife on it but a number of friends. Zoe incurably curious (ok nosy) and surrounded by her friends and family and pets dismantles every mystery that comes her way. The books are set in Ashton Falls which is loosely based on the Lake Tahoe area. These are very traditional cozies and include quite a few subplots that make them not only entertaining but also leave you looking forward to the next to find out how the subplots play out. Each book is a standalone and enough background is included to enjoy the book but most will find that it is more interesting to read in order and watch the characters grow. Kathi has made that easier as she regularly puts out boxed sets of the earlier books
I tend to avoid reviews that summarize books. There are plenty of those. I am more interested in how the author writes. Kathi has a clean writing style in that her book are both clean reads and well edited and paced. I seldom see an error in one of her books and that is rare in this day and age of rapid electronic publishing. Her characters are relatable and likeable. These are people you would want to spend time with. No excessive blood or gore and no graphic descriptions of the murders that are solved. All of her books could be handed to a mature teen or YA without concern.
FYI Kathi is prolific and writes a number of series all of which have a loyal following.
Hard to believe this is Zoe Donovan #26. I found this series very shortly after it started and have hooked not only my wife on it but a number of friends. Zoe incurably curious (ok nosy) and surrounded by her friends and family and pets dismantles every mystery that comes her way. The books are set in Ashton Falls which is loosely based on the Lake Tahoe area. These are very traditional cozies and include quite a few subplots that make them not only entertaining but also leave you looking forward to the next to find out how the subplots play out. Each book is a standalone and enough background is included to enjoy the book but most will find that it is more interesting to read in order and watch the characters grow. Kathi has made that easier as she regularly puts out boxed sets of the earlier books
I tend to avoid reviews that summarize books. There are plenty of those. I am more interested in how the author writes. Kathi has a clean writing style in that her book are both clean reads and well edited and paced. I seldom see an error in one of her books and that is rare in this day and age of rapid electronic publishing. Her characters are relatable and likeable. These are people you would want to spend time with. No excessive blood or gore and no graphic descriptions of the murders that are solved. All of her books could be handed to a mature teen or YA without concern.
FYI Kathi is prolific and writes a number of series all of which have a loyal following.
September 26, 2017
Kindle Copy for Review
Halloween time and Zak has gone decorating crazy once again while Zoe is suffering from baby blues.
Once again she stumbles across a body of a friend. Promising that she would leave the sleuthing to the police and all she will do is research. But Zoe finds herself once again in the middle of tings and secrets tat involving other murders.
Another winner in the series.
Halloween time and Zak has gone decorating crazy once again while Zoe is suffering from baby blues.
Once again she stumbles across a body of a friend. Promising that she would leave the sleuthing to the police and all she will do is research. But Zoe finds herself once again in the middle of tings and secrets tat involving other murders.
Another winner in the series.
October 3, 2017
Another successful novel from Ms. Daley. This is one of my two favorite series from her (be watching next week for my review of the latest release in the other one!).
In the midst of preparing for Halloween, Zoe discovers another dead body and is determined to discover whodunnit before the holiday. Due to her pregnancy, she is a little more subdued in her sleuthing this time around, which I found to be realistic and a relief--I was concerned that she might continue to be reckless and I'd get frustrated with her!
This mystery is filled with twist after twist. Every time I thought I had it solved, there were clues to point me in a completely different direction. The reveal was a surprise but in the end, the motive made sense.
I'm already looking forward to Zoe's Christmas adventure!!
In the midst of preparing for Halloween, Zoe discovers another dead body and is determined to discover whodunnit before the holiday. Due to her pregnancy, she is a little more subdued in her sleuthing this time around, which I found to be realistic and a relief--I was concerned that she might continue to be reckless and I'd get frustrated with her!
This mystery is filled with twist after twist. Every time I thought I had it solved, there were clues to point me in a completely different direction. The reveal was a surprise but in the end, the motive made sense.
I'm already looking forward to Zoe's Christmas adventure!!
October 11, 2020
Very good I am loving this series
November 9, 2017
I enjoyed this story a lot. Kathi Daley keeps each mystery fresh and leaving us guessing. This cozy mystery is one of my favorites of hers so far. Sometimes I catch myself saying that about each book she puts out but it's always true. There were many surprises that shocked me. Great last line of the book- it makes me ready for the next one. Bring on Christmas cozy!
September 27, 2017
There is nothing like a Kathi Daley book to get you into a holiday mood. When Zak starts decorating you know he'll keep at it until the holiday ends. The same goes for Zoe on a murder investigation. Being pregnant with her first child is not going to sideline her when a friend is murdered.
Life is changing for Zoe Donovan-Zimmerman. Her pregnancy has her feeling a bit down and a whole lot reflective. Her wards are getting older and into more social situations. However when a body is literally dropped at her feet, and turns out to be someone Zoe has known and worked alongside, she will not rest until justice is served. She can connect the bits and bobs of evidence like none other - working alongside her assorted group of friends and amateur investigators.
We get a lot of family and friends in this series, all of which Kathi's readers enjoy and look forward to. We worry that Zoe will not be able to take a back seat in a murder investigation because we know how in the past her meddling has endangered her. We can see she has matured. She really tries this time to protect her unborn child and her best friend's baby. Some things just have a way of being inevitable.
I figured out one clue relatively early on, but did not see how it all came together until it was too late for Zoe. There was nothing to explain motive until one last deep secret was revealed. In fact, it seemed many people could have had motivation. Like many readers I enjoy thinking I am putting the clues together along with the main sleuth, using my deductive reasoning, to then have something shocking change our assumptions. Kathi Daley gives us fresh scenarios in every book.
I look foward to each new addition to Zoe's life and adventures. With the arrival of a baby AND her mother-in-law getting closer, the next book could be explosive.
Life is changing for Zoe Donovan-Zimmerman. Her pregnancy has her feeling a bit down and a whole lot reflective. Her wards are getting older and into more social situations. However when a body is literally dropped at her feet, and turns out to be someone Zoe has known and worked alongside, she will not rest until justice is served. She can connect the bits and bobs of evidence like none other - working alongside her assorted group of friends and amateur investigators.
We get a lot of family and friends in this series, all of which Kathi's readers enjoy and look forward to. We worry that Zoe will not be able to take a back seat in a murder investigation because we know how in the past her meddling has endangered her. We can see she has matured. She really tries this time to protect her unborn child and her best friend's baby. Some things just have a way of being inevitable.
I figured out one clue relatively early on, but did not see how it all came together until it was too late for Zoe. There was nothing to explain motive until one last deep secret was revealed. In fact, it seemed many people could have had motivation. Like many readers I enjoy thinking I am putting the clues together along with the main sleuth, using my deductive reasoning, to then have something shocking change our assumptions. Kathi Daley gives us fresh scenarios in every book.
I look foward to each new addition to Zoe's life and adventures. With the arrival of a baby AND her mother-in-law getting closer, the next book could be explosive.
September 27, 2017
Love Zoe Donovan
The newest book in the Zoe Donovan series is another winner for Kathi Daley. Set during my favorite season of Halloween, Zoe is now in her third trimester of pregnancy expecting a little girl who has already been named Catherine. Zoe is at dinner with her best friend Ellie and her baby Eli when Zoe discovers another body outside Rosies Restaurant. She realizes that it is town clerk and head of the holiday committee, Willa Walton who has obviously been murdered. Zoe contacts Sheriff Salinger and Zak who come to the scene. They convince Zoe that she has to leave the investigating to the Sheriff because she has to protect her unborn baby. Well Zoe can only stay out of the investigation for a day and then she begins to look into it. She promises to have Zak of the Sheriff with her at all times. Zoe comes up with a list of people that weren't find of Willa and this leads to her involving her friends, her parents and the book club into helping her research into four seemingly uninvolved deaths that Willa had been concerned about. This book is well plotted, has excellent characters and it comes to a surprising ending with Zoe once more right in the thick of things. I love this series and I love all of Kathi Daleys books. I highly recommend this book and this while series as you Will love the small town atmosphere and the intermingled characters who are delightful to follow.
The newest book in the Zoe Donovan series is another winner for Kathi Daley. Set during my favorite season of Halloween, Zoe is now in her third trimester of pregnancy expecting a little girl who has already been named Catherine. Zoe is at dinner with her best friend Ellie and her baby Eli when Zoe discovers another body outside Rosies Restaurant. She realizes that it is town clerk and head of the holiday committee, Willa Walton who has obviously been murdered. Zoe contacts Sheriff Salinger and Zak who come to the scene. They convince Zoe that she has to leave the investigating to the Sheriff because she has to protect her unborn baby. Well Zoe can only stay out of the investigation for a day and then she begins to look into it. She promises to have Zak of the Sheriff with her at all times. Zoe comes up with a list of people that weren't find of Willa and this leads to her involving her friends, her parents and the book club into helping her research into four seemingly uninvolved deaths that Willa had been concerned about. This book is well plotted, has excellent characters and it comes to a surprising ending with Zoe once more right in the thick of things. I love this series and I love all of Kathi Daleys books. I highly recommend this book and this while series as you Will love the small town atmosphere and the intermingled characters who are delightful to follow.
October 1, 2017
Trick Or Treason
Zoe Donovan Mystery, Book #26
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
As is his tradition, Zak has gone Halloween Crazy, while Zoe is trying to overcome the baby bump blues and harness some enthusiasm for the annual Haunted Hamlet. Things seem to be on track for a Spooktacular good time until Zoe stumbles onto a Halloween mystery even she didn't see coming. (Goodreads)
Review:
I have to say that I really enjoy all of this author’s series. I find them all very entertaining and they are able to offer me an escape into the worlds that she creates. The Zoe Donovan series is my favorite of all. Any time I get to spend time with Zoe, Zak, Ellie and Levi, I am one happy camper. They really do feel like friends that I get to visit every so often and I greatly enjoy those visits. I also like that throughout the series the reader can see the growth and development of all the characters.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The small town setting is homey and cozy and and welcoming. The mystery is well developed and there are enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through that even the best armchair detective will have trouble solving it on their own.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. Be sure to check out this book, this series and all of the other series written by this author. You will be very glad you did.
Zoe Donovan Mystery, Book #26
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
As is his tradition, Zak has gone Halloween Crazy, while Zoe is trying to overcome the baby bump blues and harness some enthusiasm for the annual Haunted Hamlet. Things seem to be on track for a Spooktacular good time until Zoe stumbles onto a Halloween mystery even she didn't see coming. (Goodreads)
Review:
I have to say that I really enjoy all of this author’s series. I find them all very entertaining and they are able to offer me an escape into the worlds that she creates. The Zoe Donovan series is my favorite of all. Any time I get to spend time with Zoe, Zak, Ellie and Levi, I am one happy camper. They really do feel like friends that I get to visit every so often and I greatly enjoy those visits. I also like that throughout the series the reader can see the growth and development of all the characters.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The small town setting is homey and cozy and and welcoming. The mystery is well developed and there are enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through that even the best armchair detective will have trouble solving it on their own.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. Be sure to check out this book, this series and all of the other series written by this author. You will be very glad you did.
October 5, 2017
Kathi Daley wrote yet another fabulous episode in the Zoe Donovan cozy mystery series, filled with all the elements of a cozy mystery including suspense, romance, humor, love, friends and family, and a sense of community.
In this story, Zoe, the owner and operator of a wild and domestic animal control and rehabilitation shelter, is preparing for Ashton Falls’ annual Haunted Hamlet and other Halloween festivities. While having dinner with her best friend, Ellie, at Rosie’s, a popular restaurant, Zoe finds the body of a prominent member of the community, dead in the alley outside the restaurant, from blunt force trauma to the head. A slew of suspects quickly emerge and secrets from the past are revealed. Despite numerous distractions that occupy her time, Zoe is able to work with Zak, Ellie, Levi, Sheriff Salinger, and other friends to uncover the murderer.
This book is filled with the sights and sounds of Halloween. The fall season and fabulous Halloween decorations: with red and orange leaves covering the sidewalk, colorful lights, bells and whistles from the games, and Zak’s fog and sound machine make for a festive and spooky atmosphere. As always, Ms. Daley’s writing flows smoothly, and her setting and relatable characters make for an extremely enjoyable and quick read.
In this story, Zoe, the owner and operator of a wild and domestic animal control and rehabilitation shelter, is preparing for Ashton Falls’ annual Haunted Hamlet and other Halloween festivities. While having dinner with her best friend, Ellie, at Rosie’s, a popular restaurant, Zoe finds the body of a prominent member of the community, dead in the alley outside the restaurant, from blunt force trauma to the head. A slew of suspects quickly emerge and secrets from the past are revealed. Despite numerous distractions that occupy her time, Zoe is able to work with Zak, Ellie, Levi, Sheriff Salinger, and other friends to uncover the murderer.
This book is filled with the sights and sounds of Halloween. The fall season and fabulous Halloween decorations: with red and orange leaves covering the sidewalk, colorful lights, bells and whistles from the games, and Zak’s fog and sound machine make for a festive and spooky atmosphere. As always, Ms. Daley’s writing flows smoothly, and her setting and relatable characters make for an extremely enjoyable and quick read.
September 28, 2017
Trick or Treason is the 26th book in everyone's favorite Kathi Daley’s Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery series. I read the first book in this series in 2014 and haven,t missed one since. The first book in this series is titled Halloween Hijinks another book set during the Halloween season. My point being that if you have not read this series, now is a great time to start.
In Trick or Treason the main character Zoe is experience the aches and pains of being pregnant. Her husband and friends are asking her to slow down. She doesn't see how she can with all the Halloween activities scheduled. So next comes the murder. Zoe finds a body wrapped in a blanket behind Rosie's restaurant. The victim is a lady Zoe knows well and is a well know although somewhat hard to get along with resident of Ashton Falls. Zoe feels she has to "research" the murder. He husband Zac promises to help her. I did not guess the murderer at all in the book.
I love this series and it continues strong for 26 books. May there be 26 more! Start with book 1 and read them all. But read this one for sure! A super talented author continues to entertain us...
In Trick or Treason the main character Zoe is experience the aches and pains of being pregnant. Her husband and friends are asking her to slow down. She doesn't see how she can with all the Halloween activities scheduled. So next comes the murder. Zoe finds a body wrapped in a blanket behind Rosie's restaurant. The victim is a lady Zoe knows well and is a well know although somewhat hard to get along with resident of Ashton Falls. Zoe feels she has to "research" the murder. He husband Zac promises to help her. I did not guess the murderer at all in the book.
I love this series and it continues strong for 26 books. May there be 26 more! Start with book 1 and read them all. But read this one for sure! A super talented author continues to entertain us...
September 28, 2017
Trick Or Treason ( Zoe Donovan Mystery Book 26 )
By: Kathi Daley
Trick Or Treason is book twenty-six in Zoe Donovan Mystery Series. Wow, it is Halloween again and Kathi Daley weaves a cozy mystery that will have you guessing till the end. The story and the characters both are well developed. I love this cozy Halloween mystery and could not put it down. Daley writes a mystery that is funny, it includes family, friends, murder, and Zoe and Zac. Zac is going all out for Halloween, and Zoe is trying to overcome her baby blues. While Zoe is out with a friend she stumbles over a dead body, and she is suppose to take it easy. How is she going to take it easy when the dead body is a friend? There is lots of character and suspects in this cozy mystery. It seems that someone had it in for this friend. Who would go so far as murder ? Don’t forget the recipes n the back. Kathi Daley has also gave us a sample chapter of Finding Justice , a new series set in Alaska. Cant wait for this one.
By: Kathi Daley
Trick Or Treason is book twenty-six in Zoe Donovan Mystery Series. Wow, it is Halloween again and Kathi Daley weaves a cozy mystery that will have you guessing till the end. The story and the characters both are well developed. I love this cozy Halloween mystery and could not put it down. Daley writes a mystery that is funny, it includes family, friends, murder, and Zoe and Zac. Zac is going all out for Halloween, and Zoe is trying to overcome her baby blues. While Zoe is out with a friend she stumbles over a dead body, and she is suppose to take it easy. How is she going to take it easy when the dead body is a friend? There is lots of character and suspects in this cozy mystery. It seems that someone had it in for this friend. Who would go so far as murder ? Don’t forget the recipes n the back. Kathi Daley has also gave us a sample chapter of Finding Justice , a new series set in Alaska. Cant wait for this one.
September 28, 2017
It could only happen to Zoe! While sneaking out the back door of Rosie's Cafe to find a free bathroom next door, Zoe stumbles over the dead body of Willa Walton, the town clerk. Everyone tells Zoe that she cannot investigate this murder, now that she is pregnant. But will she listen or will she poke around as usual and put her and her unborn baby "Catherine" in danger. As always, this mystery presents the reader with a winding trail of suspects and motives until the final reveal. I love how the characters have matured throughout this series...from Zak and Zoe's fostering of Alex and Scooter in their education and social developments to baby pros and cons from Ellie to Zoe's growing relationship with her mother. And let's not forget Zak's delightful over-the-top Halloween decorations! Fun read. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing this book.
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.
February 16, 2022
It's Halloween once again in Ashton Falls, one of the highlights of the year, and Zac goes all out creating the perfect display at the house. Zoe is feeling the pressure of being pregnant, and Zac is treating her like glass, something she finds difficult to deal with. When Zoe finds the body of a much loved town member, she has to solve the case, but with Zak and Sheriff Salinger earning to her keep safe, will she do it?
During the choose of solving the murder, the team find out more about the person than they ever knew.
A great cozy mystery series which is easy to read in a few hours. If you like this series, try one Kathi Daley's other cozy mystery series, they're all as good! The books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
During the choose of solving the murder, the team find out more about the person than they ever knew.
A great cozy mystery series which is easy to read in a few hours. If you like this series, try one Kathi Daley's other cozy mystery series, they're all as good! The books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
October 2, 2017
Trick or Treason
Zoe and the gang are planning the Haunted Hamlet, and enjoying that Zoe is having a baby. Zoe and Ellie are shopping when Zoe has a mommy moment in the store and Ellie takes her to the restaurant next door. After Zoe calms down, she needs the powder room, there's a waiting line for the one in the restaurant, so she slips out the backdoor and stumbles over a body. It's a prominent member of the town and the head of the Haunted Hamlet committee.
This story is intriguing and has twist and turns that will keep you on your toes until the very end. Kathi Daley writes the best mysteries and anyone can enjoy them.
Zoe and the gang are planning the Haunted Hamlet, and enjoying that Zoe is having a baby. Zoe and Ellie are shopping when Zoe has a mommy moment in the store and Ellie takes her to the restaurant next door. After Zoe calms down, she needs the powder room, there's a waiting line for the one in the restaurant, so she slips out the backdoor and stumbles over a body. It's a prominent member of the town and the head of the Haunted Hamlet committee.
This story is intriguing and has twist and turns that will keep you on your toes until the very end. Kathi Daley writes the best mysteries and anyone can enjoy them.
November 3, 2018
One murder leads to another, than another...
I always enjoy Kathi Daley's books because there is never a dull moment. Just because there is more than one death doesn't mean they are connected or maybe they are. With Zoe and her friends investigating there is no doubt that it's going to be exciting. Zak had to take some time off from sleuthing to get ready for Halloween. His usual over the top decorating and adventure for the kids. With Zoe being pregnant, she tried to keep a low profile, but guess what, she didn't. I love this series, don't miss it. I'm on to the next book.
I always enjoy Kathi Daley's books because there is never a dull moment. Just because there is more than one death doesn't mean they are connected or maybe they are. With Zoe and her friends investigating there is no doubt that it's going to be exciting. Zak had to take some time off from sleuthing to get ready for Halloween. His usual over the top decorating and adventure for the kids. With Zoe being pregnant, she tried to keep a low profile, but guess what, she didn't. I love this series, don't miss it. I'm on to the next book.
September 27, 2017
Oh my oh my it's Halloween time and the Halloween decorations are flowing. The main characters are as usual intriguing and fun , because they're all family. Of course pregnancy doesn't stop Zoe from investigating who might have been the murderer.
This time unbelievably it is mind twisting and hard to figure out. I thought I knew who it was. Then other clues arise and I had to start guessing again. Awesome job by the Author kathi Daley !
This time unbelievably it is mind twisting and hard to figure out. I thought I knew who it was. Then other clues arise and I had to start guessing again. Awesome job by the Author kathi Daley !
September 29, 2017
Another Halloween Mystery
Of course it's Halloween...and what would the holiday be without a mystery to solve? Not a good one, that's for sure. This is a friend of the town, even though she's overly gruff with the townsfolk. Her death is suspicious, and Zoe wants to help, but takes a half-hearted back seat. Then danger hits close to home...Will all be well? Read to find out! You won't be sorry!
Of course it's Halloween...and what would the holiday be without a mystery to solve? Not a good one, that's for sure. This is a friend of the town, even though she's overly gruff with the townsfolk. Her death is suspicious, and Zoe wants to help, but takes a half-hearted back seat. Then danger hits close to home...Will all be well? Read to find out! You won't be sorry!
October 8, 2017
I love all of Kathi Daley's books, and thoroughly enjoyed this one also. Zoe is pregnant and as usual is going full out with activities surrounding Halloween, Alex, Scooter and her hubby when she trips over a dead body. Promising not to actively investigate by herself is tough and the resultant story involves her family and friends assisting her. It's an interesting story that kept me reading until I had finished. Can't wait until Christmas and the next book. Five stars...
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