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A B&B Spirits Mystery #2
Downright Dead
When Louisiana's most haunted B&B opens its doors to a debunker, a mysterious murderer settled the dispute in this paranormal cozy mystery.
When Holly Davis converted a historic plantation house into a charming bed and breakfast, she had no idea that its most popular feature would be the resident ghost. But after the TV show Inquiring Minds airs its indisputably haunting footage, the reservation line is ringing off the hook. There's only one small problem: the ghost of her not-so-dearly-departed husband Burl appears to have . . . departed.
Holly is willing to keep up a spooky pretense for the sake of business, but after an outspoken debunker challenges the show's credibility, Holly is sure she'll be exposed as a charlatan. Surprisingly, the debunker suddenly becomes a believer—after he's pushed off the widow's walk to his death and rises as a ghost.
Now his inquiring mind wants to know who murdered him. When he asks for Holly's help, she can't say no. But this time it's her turn to watch her step, because if the killer gets spooked, the next ghost haunting the B&B may be its owner . . .
When Holly Davis converted a historic plantation house into a charming bed and breakfast, she had no idea that its most popular feature would be the resident ghost. But after the TV show Inquiring Minds airs its indisputably haunting footage, the reservation line is ringing off the hook. There's only one small problem: the ghost of her not-so-dearly-departed husband Burl appears to have . . . departed.
Holly is willing to keep up a spooky pretense for the sake of business, but after an outspoken debunker challenges the show's credibility, Holly is sure she'll be exposed as a charlatan. Surprisingly, the debunker suddenly becomes a believer—after he's pushed off the widow's walk to his death and rises as a ghost.
Now his inquiring mind wants to know who murdered him. When he asks for Holly's help, she can't say no. But this time it's her turn to watch her step, because if the killer gets spooked, the next ghost haunting the B&B may be its owner . . .
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published September 25, 2018
38 people are currently reading
223 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Kopfler
4 books237 followersPamela Kopfler is a novelist, Southern-fried and sassy. She writes award-winning humorous mysteries with a kick of Southern sass. Her debut novel, BETTER DEAD, is the first in her B & B Spirits mystery series, to be followed by DOWNRIGHT DEAD, and HOG WILD DEAD. (Kensington Books) She is a four-time Golden Heart® finalist and a Daphne du Maurier award winner.
She can stir up a roux, mix a cocktail, and loves swapping stories. Putting words on the page keeps her alligator mouth from overloading her hummingbird heinie in real life. She marks her time on earth by the lives of the dogs she has loved–who often show up in her stories.
Pamela lives in South Louisiana where the spirits are restless, the food is spicy, and the living is divine.
She'd love to hear from you!
Website: http://pamelakopfler.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pamelakopfle... Twitter: https://twitter.com/pamelakopfler
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamelakopfler/
Amazon: https://amazon.com/author/pamelakopfler
Newsletter coming soon! Lagniappe (a little something extra). Unique cocktail recipes, finger-licking-good Southern recipes, sassy short stories, and news about new books and sales.
Stay sassy, y’all!
She can stir up a roux, mix a cocktail, and loves swapping stories. Putting words on the page keeps her alligator mouth from overloading her hummingbird heinie in real life. She marks her time on earth by the lives of the dogs she has loved–who often show up in her stories.
Pamela lives in South Louisiana where the spirits are restless, the food is spicy, and the living is divine.
She'd love to hear from you!
Website: http://pamelakopfler.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pamelakopfle... Twitter: https://twitter.com/pamelakopfler
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamelakopfler/
Amazon: https://amazon.com/author/pamelakopfler
Newsletter coming soon! Lagniappe (a little something extra). Unique cocktail recipes, finger-licking-good Southern recipes, sassy short stories, and news about new books and sales.
Stay sassy, y’all!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 22, 2018
Downright Dead by Pamela Kopfler is the second book of the A B&B Spirits Mystery series. This series is a paranormal cozy mystery series with a main character determined to solve crime with the help of a resident ghost in her B&B.
Holly Davis wasn’t too happy when her ex husband Burl began to haunt her B&B after his death but who knew that a ghost was just what business needed. A ghost chasing TV crew did a show on the B&B and business was booming but unfortunately for Holly Burl crossed over after his death was solved.
Now Holly is doing whatever she can to pretend there’s still a ghost at Holly Grove to keep the business coming in. The last thing Holly needed however was the television crew to want to come back when a debunker makes the claim they faked the show but with a clause in her contract Holly can’t do anything but invite them all back to film again and finds herself yet again trying to solve a murder when things get out of hand.
Downright Dead was a great follow up to the first book in the series as far as bringing back the likable characters with a bit of humor mixed into a mystery. I would say this one was rather slow going though in getting to the mystery side but the haunted/unhaunted B&B story line was plenty to stay entertained with until the murder came along. I’ll definitely be looking forward to more spooky hijinks to come from the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Holly Davis wasn’t too happy when her ex husband Burl began to haunt her B&B after his death but who knew that a ghost was just what business needed. A ghost chasing TV crew did a show on the B&B and business was booming but unfortunately for Holly Burl crossed over after his death was solved.
Now Holly is doing whatever she can to pretend there’s still a ghost at Holly Grove to keep the business coming in. The last thing Holly needed however was the television crew to want to come back when a debunker makes the claim they faked the show but with a clause in her contract Holly can’t do anything but invite them all back to film again and finds herself yet again trying to solve a murder when things get out of hand.
Downright Dead was a great follow up to the first book in the series as far as bringing back the likable characters with a bit of humor mixed into a mystery. I would say this one was rather slow going though in getting to the mystery side but the haunted/unhaunted B&B story line was plenty to stay entertained with until the murder came along. I’ll definitely be looking forward to more spooky hijinks to come from the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
September 27, 2018
Downright Dead is the second book in the B&B Spirits Mystery series. I really love the humor and the characters in this series. The stories never fail to have me laughing out loud. I can't imagine the annoyance of having a supremely irritating ex-husband come back as a ghost....and in this newest book, Holly Davis has to contend with two spirits. Twice the irritation! :)
While it isn't necessary to read the first book before reading Downright Dead, the first book is a great read and I highly recommend it.
Holly Davis turned the family home, Holly Grove, into a B&B so that she could afford to keep it. Soon after opening her B&B, the ghost of her ex-husband Burl showed up and caused quite a stir. The B&B was featured on a television show, Inquiring Minds, where footage clearly proved that that the haunting was real. But then Burl moved on....ascended....joined the choir invisible...whatever you want to call it. The ghost is gone. Holly is relieved....and then horrified. Sylvia Martin, host of Inquiring Minds, uses a sneaky clause in the contract Holly signed to demand a follow-up visit. Not only is she bringing the film crew back to Holly Grove.....but she's also dared a snarky internet sensation to come de-bunk the haunting. Holly is unsure what to do......since the ghost is gone. Just as the follow-up production is hitting an all time embarrassing low, one of the guests is pushed off the widow's walk, crashing to the ground below. That solves the ghost problem...but the even bigger question is which person is a murderer? And why?
I am definitely going to continue reading this cozy mystery series. Holly and her staff are such a hoot. And the ghost(s) never fail to be entertaining. The mystery in this newest book clipped right along at a nice pace. I love the mix of humor and mystery. The B&B/ghost background theme didn't over power the mystery but added to it. This is just an all-around fun, entertaining cozy!
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
While it isn't necessary to read the first book before reading Downright Dead, the first book is a great read and I highly recommend it.
Holly Davis turned the family home, Holly Grove, into a B&B so that she could afford to keep it. Soon after opening her B&B, the ghost of her ex-husband Burl showed up and caused quite a stir. The B&B was featured on a television show, Inquiring Minds, where footage clearly proved that that the haunting was real. But then Burl moved on....ascended....joined the choir invisible...whatever you want to call it. The ghost is gone. Holly is relieved....and then horrified. Sylvia Martin, host of Inquiring Minds, uses a sneaky clause in the contract Holly signed to demand a follow-up visit. Not only is she bringing the film crew back to Holly Grove.....but she's also dared a snarky internet sensation to come de-bunk the haunting. Holly is unsure what to do......since the ghost is gone. Just as the follow-up production is hitting an all time embarrassing low, one of the guests is pushed off the widow's walk, crashing to the ground below. That solves the ghost problem...but the even bigger question is which person is a murderer? And why?
I am definitely going to continue reading this cozy mystery series. Holly and her staff are such a hoot. And the ghost(s) never fail to be entertaining. The mystery in this newest book clipped right along at a nice pace. I love the mix of humor and mystery. The B&B/ghost background theme didn't over power the mystery but added to it. This is just an all-around fun, entertaining cozy!
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
October 11, 2018
Downright Dead
A B&B Spirits Mystery, Book #2
Pamela Kopfler
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Holly Davis never imagined having a haunted bed and breakfast would be the secret to her success—or that a secret might leave her B&B DOA . . .
After the syndicated TV show, Inquiring Minds, airs footage of their resident ghost at Holly Grove, a converted antebellum plantation house, it seems like half the state of Louisiana wants to book a room. There’s only one small problem: the ghost of her not-so-dearly-departed ex Burl has . . . departed. For the sake of business, Holly’s willing to keep up the pretense of still being haunted. But after an outspoken debunker challenges the show’s credibility, the TV crew returns to Holly Grove to prove the ghost is real.
Following a disastrous séance, Holly is sure she’ll be exposed as a charlatan. Surprisingly, the debunker suddenly becomes a believer—after he’s pushed off the Widow's Walk to his death and rises as a ghost. Now his inquiring mind wants to know—who murdered him? When he asks for Holly’s help, she can’t say no. But this time it’s her turn to watch her step, because if the killer gets spooked, the next ghost haunting the B&B may well be its owner . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
I love the characters in this book. Holly is willing to do almost anything to save her Bed and Breakfast from going under. She is even willing to fabricate a ghost. She had a real ghost (her ex, Burl) but he has passed on, thank to help from her. When a ghost debunker dies, and comes back as a ghost, she does not have to pretend anymore. I really like the characters, they are well developed and well rounded. Nelda and Miss Alice are very funny and added a lot to the story. And I liked the personal change to Holly’s life.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I felt like I was walking the halls of the Bed and Breakfast, watching all of the scariness taking place. The mystery was well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. I thought I had it figured out a couple of times but I was wrong.
I would recommend this book, and series, to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am already looking forward to the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
A B&B Spirits Mystery, Book #2
Pamela Kopfler
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Holly Davis never imagined having a haunted bed and breakfast would be the secret to her success—or that a secret might leave her B&B DOA . . .
After the syndicated TV show, Inquiring Minds, airs footage of their resident ghost at Holly Grove, a converted antebellum plantation house, it seems like half the state of Louisiana wants to book a room. There’s only one small problem: the ghost of her not-so-dearly-departed ex Burl has . . . departed. For the sake of business, Holly’s willing to keep up the pretense of still being haunted. But after an outspoken debunker challenges the show’s credibility, the TV crew returns to Holly Grove to prove the ghost is real.
Following a disastrous séance, Holly is sure she’ll be exposed as a charlatan. Surprisingly, the debunker suddenly becomes a believer—after he’s pushed off the Widow's Walk to his death and rises as a ghost. Now his inquiring mind wants to know—who murdered him? When he asks for Holly’s help, she can’t say no. But this time it’s her turn to watch her step, because if the killer gets spooked, the next ghost haunting the B&B may well be its owner . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
I love the characters in this book. Holly is willing to do almost anything to save her Bed and Breakfast from going under. She is even willing to fabricate a ghost. She had a real ghost (her ex, Burl) but he has passed on, thank to help from her. When a ghost debunker dies, and comes back as a ghost, she does not have to pretend anymore. I really like the characters, they are well developed and well rounded. Nelda and Miss Alice are very funny and added a lot to the story. And I liked the personal change to Holly’s life.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I felt like I was walking the halls of the Bed and Breakfast, watching all of the scariness taking place. The mystery was well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. I thought I had it figured out a couple of times but I was wrong.
I would recommend this book, and series, to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am already looking forward to the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
November 6, 2018
It's been awhile since I read the first book, but I quickly felt at home at Holly Grove B&B with the awesome main characters of Holly, Nelda, Sam, Miss Alice and Mackie...and of course, Jake!
When Holly's dead husband Burl entered the pearly gates, Holly Grove's resident ghost was gone. But the TV show that had filmed a segment about Burl's haunting that made the B&B wildly popular returned to film some more, Holly panicked. If that wasn't enough, a ghost debunker named Tru Stalwort, who regularly followed/harrassed the show and its star, Sylvia Martin, showed up early. He was just as obnoxious and nasty as Sylvia and Holly's friend Liz (the producer) had described him. When he was found dead at foot of the widow's walk, evidence pointed to Holly herself. Another body turned up later which really made Holly worry about the B&B's reputation, but at least no one could blame her for that death. I loved how she and Jake sleuthed together. Even Miss Alice and Nelda got in on the action.
I liked the side story with Thomas Sinclair too. I thought it was odd that Nelda and Miss Alice seemed to know who he was, but wouldn't comment on why. I can't really tell more without spoiling this. Let's just say this book was funny and cry-worthy--and at times I felt like punching Tru (when he was still alive and debunking, that is). I never suspected the awesome twist towards the end that concerned Holly. I had also not guessed the killer.
Even though everything was wrapped up well with a heart-warming ending, I'm definitely ready for another book in the series. It looks like Jake and Holly are back at a fairly good place. His being an ICE agent isn't easy on their relationship, if they even have one, and I'm hoping they can work things out in future books.
I highly recommend this book if you're cool with paranormal cozies. It can easily stand alone, but if you want to enjoy it to its fullest, I would suggest reading the first book, so you can get to know Burl better. He was so funny in the first book, and it's really worth reading it to have all that back story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance e-copy of this book provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
When Holly's dead husband Burl entered the pearly gates, Holly Grove's resident ghost was gone. But the TV show that had filmed a segment about Burl's haunting that made the B&B wildly popular returned to film some more, Holly panicked. If that wasn't enough, a ghost debunker named Tru Stalwort, who regularly followed/harrassed the show and its star, Sylvia Martin, showed up early. He was just as obnoxious and nasty as Sylvia and Holly's friend Liz (the producer) had described him. When he was found dead at foot of the widow's walk, evidence pointed to Holly herself. Another body turned up later which really made Holly worry about the B&B's reputation, but at least no one could blame her for that death. I loved how she and Jake sleuthed together. Even Miss Alice and Nelda got in on the action.
I liked the side story with Thomas Sinclair too. I thought it was odd that Nelda and Miss Alice seemed to know who he was, but wouldn't comment on why. I can't really tell more without spoiling this. Let's just say this book was funny and cry-worthy--and at times I felt like punching Tru (when he was still alive and debunking, that is). I never suspected the awesome twist towards the end that concerned Holly. I had also not guessed the killer.
Even though everything was wrapped up well with a heart-warming ending, I'm definitely ready for another book in the series. It looks like Jake and Holly are back at a fairly good place. His being an ICE agent isn't easy on their relationship, if they even have one, and I'm hoping they can work things out in future books.
I highly recommend this book if you're cool with paranormal cozies. It can easily stand alone, but if you want to enjoy it to its fullest, I would suggest reading the first book, so you can get to know Burl better. He was so funny in the first book, and it's really worth reading it to have all that back story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance e-copy of this book provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
September 23, 2018
Downright Dead by Pamela Kopfler is the 2nd book in A B&B Spirits Mystery series, and I loved it. Holly is the owner of Holly Grove a converted plantation which has been in her family for generations. Holly once more has to put up with the television show Inquiring Minds, coming to the B&B to film for ghosts. Since her husband's ghost has moved on, there are no ghost now. On top of that a debunker is challenging there is or ever was a ghost. Once I started this book I kept reading until I was done. It had many laugh out loud moments, which I always enjoy. Looking forward to the next book in the series. I recommend this book/series for anyone who enjoy funny cozy mysteries.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 19, 2022
A solid follow up to book 1. Holly is back enjoying the fruits of the haunting from book 1 but not for long. Jake is off in a mission and Holly’s pretty sure he’s abandoned her … again 😩😩 the TV show now wants to enforce a little read clause for a follow up and Holly is panicking because not only is Burl gone, there’s a ghost buster determined to prove Holly and the show are frauds.
With Sylvia trying to rescue her show, Angel trying to do a seance, Tru determined to bust them all, Thomas being kind, and Jake on the outs, Holly is still shocked, shocked I tell you when Tru is murdered and who shows up???? BURL!! Didn’t we just get rid of him??? Wanting another favor. Holly now needs to solve Tru’s murder before another body drops or the bungling Chief Deputy puts her in the slammer. Thankfully, Jake shows up in time to help investigate.
Between storms, ghosts, and a surprise for Holly that’s truly heartwarming, this was a funny, witty, sold, sequel. There was character growth from some of the characters in book 1, which was great to see, and it will be interesting how the romance between Holly and Jake progresses, especially given his career.
With Sylvia trying to rescue her show, Angel trying to do a seance, Tru determined to bust them all, Thomas being kind, and Jake on the outs, Holly is still shocked, shocked I tell you when Tru is murdered and who shows up???? BURL!! Didn’t we just get rid of him??? Wanting another favor. Holly now needs to solve Tru’s murder before another body drops or the bungling Chief Deputy puts her in the slammer. Thankfully, Jake shows up in time to help investigate.
Between storms, ghosts, and a surprise for Holly that’s truly heartwarming, this was a funny, witty, sold, sequel. There was character growth from some of the characters in book 1, which was great to see, and it will be interesting how the romance between Holly and Jake progresses, especially given his career.
September 25, 2018
Holly Davis is back again, and she's preparing to reap the benefits of the ghostly reality show filmed at her B & B when she learns that there's going to be a follow-up show. There's only one glaring problem - her ghost has departed! With no Burl, and dreamy Jake still stuck in Central America, Holly must fend off a determined ghost debunker on her own, which is proving to be difficult until he's found dead and she's accused of his murder. Downright Dead is Pamela Kopfler's second B&B Spirits Mystery, and is just the right mixture of cozy, funny, ghostly, and delicious (note to self: must learn to make the perfect Sazerac!). A fun read for lovers of cozy mysteries!
October 18, 2018
Thanks to #NetGalley & Kensington Book for the opportunity to read an eBook ARC of this title. That said, I won't be reading any more books in this series. The first one was kinda cute, with the almost ex-husband being the ghost, but this ghost wasn't cute.....mostly just incredibly annoying. Add in the near constant "you need a man" schtick and this one was sometimes hard to get through. Too many others awaiting my attention!
December 2, 2018
This is the second book in the B&B Spirits Mystery series, but I read it without having read the first one. While the story does continue, there’s enough background given to catch you up and I didn’t feel lost.
I really enjoyed this trip to Holly Grove, an aging old plantation house that rose to fame as a haunted house on national television, but is now no longer haunted, since Burl the ghost crossed into the light. Holly, the B&B’s owner, figures she can keep guests looking for a ghostly encounter at bay, but when the show decides to return to Holly Grove, Holly knows she’s going to be exposed - especially since part of the new show will feature a ghost debunker. But when the debunker finds out there are indeed ghosts by becoming one, Holly has a new problem: to figure out which of her guests may be a murderer.
This was such a great atmospheric cozy mystery, I was sucked into the world of Holly Grove right away. The characters were a little over the top, which made it fun.
The mystery was great, though it comes into play about halfway through the book (the first half setting up all the reasons people would want to kill the absolutely awful Tru), and the romance between Jake and Holly was soooo cute!
I will definitely be returning to Holly Grove with the next installment to keep up with these characters - if you love cozies, you should too!
I really enjoyed this trip to Holly Grove, an aging old plantation house that rose to fame as a haunted house on national television, but is now no longer haunted, since Burl the ghost crossed into the light. Holly, the B&B’s owner, figures she can keep guests looking for a ghostly encounter at bay, but when the show decides to return to Holly Grove, Holly knows she’s going to be exposed - especially since part of the new show will feature a ghost debunker. But when the debunker finds out there are indeed ghosts by becoming one, Holly has a new problem: to figure out which of her guests may be a murderer.
This was such a great atmospheric cozy mystery, I was sucked into the world of Holly Grove right away. The characters were a little over the top, which made it fun.
The mystery was great, though it comes into play about halfway through the book (the first half setting up all the reasons people would want to kill the absolutely awful Tru), and the romance between Jake and Holly was soooo cute!
I will definitely be returning to Holly Grove with the next installment to keep up with these characters - if you love cozies, you should too!
September 30, 2018
In Better Dead, the first in Pamela Kopfler’s B&B Spirits Mystery series, Holly Davis helped the ghost of her late (and largely unlamented) husband move on. But with Burl’s departure, her haunted B&B and ancestral home, Holly Grove, is no longer haunted. Or is it?
As Downright Dead opens, the reality show producer who made Holly Grove famous is demanding a sequel episode, spurred on by a dedicated debunker who plans to expose the whole story as a fake. The original haunting was real, but with the ghost gone, Holly does feel like a fake, and has no idea how to honor her option contract without destroying her business.
And that’s not Holly’s only problem. Her handyman has an accident, her ICE agent boyfriend is AWOL, and her cook has taken an inexplicable dislike to a perfectly inoffensive guest. The portrait of the Unknown Ancestor keeps jumping off the wall, a visiting psychic predicts a dire future for the debunker, and Bayou St. Agnes rises, cutting Holly Grove off from any way out.
And then there’s a murder. Or two.
What’s a girl to do? Holly deals with it all with charm and aplomb, and help from her band of loyal friends—and a ghost or two.
As Downright Dead opens, the reality show producer who made Holly Grove famous is demanding a sequel episode, spurred on by a dedicated debunker who plans to expose the whole story as a fake. The original haunting was real, but with the ghost gone, Holly does feel like a fake, and has no idea how to honor her option contract without destroying her business.
And that’s not Holly’s only problem. Her handyman has an accident, her ICE agent boyfriend is AWOL, and her cook has taken an inexplicable dislike to a perfectly inoffensive guest. The portrait of the Unknown Ancestor keeps jumping off the wall, a visiting psychic predicts a dire future for the debunker, and Bayou St. Agnes rises, cutting Holly Grove off from any way out.
And then there’s a murder. Or two.
What’s a girl to do? Holly deals with it all with charm and aplomb, and help from her band of loyal friends—and a ghost or two.
September 25, 2018
Downright Dead by Pamela Kopfler is one of the best paranormal cozy mysteries I have read. Its style is similar to Angie Fox's paranormal 1920's ghost solving mysteries. There's plenty of humor, action, and suspects to explore. Just like one of my other favorite sleuthing heroines, the business owner in this novel, is believed to be a suspect. Her slipper was found where the dead man was pushed. But the police still haven't decided if it is murder or a suicide yet. However, Holly sees the ghost of the newest victim. He was her worst critic and now, even in ghost form he doesn't want to believe. But if he wants to stay away from hell, they have to work together to solve his murder. Plenty of interesting scenes and funny moments. Overall, I highly recommend this story and the rest of the series to readers everywhere.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
September 3, 2018
Funny and engaging from the start!
The characters are well developed, and the main characters have that Southern Charm that makes it so quaint and delightful.
Holly Grove is a B&B in Louisiana, that has become famous for being haunted. When a debunker challenges the paranormal investigators that aired the show, Holly must accommodate the TV crew, a medium and said debunker, to tape the paranormal activity in the property.
Holly has a huge problem, her not-so -dearly departed has moved on and is a no-show. Reputations are a stake and none of them like the outcome, except Mr. Tru, who has proved a point that there is no ghosts in the premises.
Things will end up badly for the guests, when an unexpected accident/ possible murder occurs, and everyone is a suspect.
Note: I received an ARC for review purposes and an honest and unbiased opinion.
The characters are well developed, and the main characters have that Southern Charm that makes it so quaint and delightful.
Holly Grove is a B&B in Louisiana, that has become famous for being haunted. When a debunker challenges the paranormal investigators that aired the show, Holly must accommodate the TV crew, a medium and said debunker, to tape the paranormal activity in the property.
Holly has a huge problem, her not-so -dearly departed has moved on and is a no-show. Reputations are a stake and none of them like the outcome, except Mr. Tru, who has proved a point that there is no ghosts in the premises.
Things will end up badly for the guests, when an unexpected accident/ possible murder occurs, and everyone is a suspect.
Note: I received an ARC for review purposes and an honest and unbiased opinion.
September 25, 2018
This book is the second in the series, and I think a very worthy addition. As was the first one, this one was fun, well-written, and a good who-done-it. Oddly enough, I think Nelda is my favorite character over the main character Holly. Not that I don’t like Holly, because I really do, but at times I do find her a bit…hmm, I’m not sure. Flighty maybe. That aside, I really did enjoy this latest addition to the series, and the end surprise really threw me in a good way! I’m hoping that in the next book we explore that surprise. And, to be honest, I hope we get to see what the moving pictures were all about, and we have another great big ghostly mystery! If you like light paranormal cozies, you need to give this great book (and series) a try! Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
August 5, 2018
Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for the ARC.
In DOWNRIGHT DEAD (September 25th 2018 by Kensington Publishing Corporation) by Pamela Kopfler, the ghost of Holly Davis’s not-so-dearly-departed husband has vacated her plantation house turned B&B, but that doesn’t stop Holly from keeping up the pretense that the place is haunted. And it doesn’t hurt that the B&B was featured on the TV show Inquiring Minds. The problems arise when the cast and crew of Inquiring Minds forces their way back into Holly Grove to do a follow-up show. This time the show brings along a skeptic who is determined to prove that Holly Grove is not – and never has been – haunted. Since her husband’s ghost is no longer lingering, Holly is forced to fake ghostly encounters. Tru, the skeptic, has just declared he has proof that she is a charlatan when someone pushes him off the widow’s walk to his death. The skeptic becomes a believer in the afterlife when he comes back as a ghost to ask Holly to help him find his killer. Unfortunately, for Holly, the local lawmen have decided that she is the killer. To help Tru and save herself, Holly needs to find the real killer.
DOWNRIGHT DEAD is a strong follow-up to BETTER DEAD, and I thoroughly enjoyed catching up with Holly and the other main characters. The two books should definitely be read together as DOWNRIGHT DEAD continues the main storyline of BETTER DEAD and reads as Part 2.
It does take a little while to get to the murder in DOWNRIGHT DEAD – but it works because Kopfler spends the first half of the novel setting up the murder and establishing motives for why Holly and the others at the B&B had motive to kill the victim. Once the victim was killed, there were a number of twists and turns in determining the killer. The killer wasn’t obvious as there were multiple characters with solid motives. The novel is exciting, a bit quirky, and it oozes southern charm.
https://www.randeegreen.com/blog/2018...
In DOWNRIGHT DEAD (September 25th 2018 by Kensington Publishing Corporation) by Pamela Kopfler, the ghost of Holly Davis’s not-so-dearly-departed husband has vacated her plantation house turned B&B, but that doesn’t stop Holly from keeping up the pretense that the place is haunted. And it doesn’t hurt that the B&B was featured on the TV show Inquiring Minds. The problems arise when the cast and crew of Inquiring Minds forces their way back into Holly Grove to do a follow-up show. This time the show brings along a skeptic who is determined to prove that Holly Grove is not – and never has been – haunted. Since her husband’s ghost is no longer lingering, Holly is forced to fake ghostly encounters. Tru, the skeptic, has just declared he has proof that she is a charlatan when someone pushes him off the widow’s walk to his death. The skeptic becomes a believer in the afterlife when he comes back as a ghost to ask Holly to help him find his killer. Unfortunately, for Holly, the local lawmen have decided that she is the killer. To help Tru and save herself, Holly needs to find the real killer.
DOWNRIGHT DEAD is a strong follow-up to BETTER DEAD, and I thoroughly enjoyed catching up with Holly and the other main characters. The two books should definitely be read together as DOWNRIGHT DEAD continues the main storyline of BETTER DEAD and reads as Part 2.
It does take a little while to get to the murder in DOWNRIGHT DEAD – but it works because Kopfler spends the first half of the novel setting up the murder and establishing motives for why Holly and the others at the B&B had motive to kill the victim. Once the victim was killed, there were a number of twists and turns in determining the killer. The killer wasn’t obvious as there were multiple characters with solid motives. The novel is exciting, a bit quirky, and it oozes southern charm.
https://www.randeegreen.com/blog/2018...
January 12, 2019
After a TV show was filmed at her B&B, showcasing the haunting by Holly's deceased, cheating husband, Burl, reservations are up, and she may be able to keep Holly Grove in the black. When the star of the show, Sylvia Martin, contacts Holly to do a follow-up, Holly tries to put her off. Sylvia isn't having it. Her nemesis, Tru Stalwort, skeptic, professional debunker, and all around jerk, has challenged her to prove that Holly's bed and breakfast really is haunted. The problem is, Burl has moved on.
With no way to gracefully dodge the follow up show, Holly is left wondering if Tru's debunking will ruin Holly Grove. Not helping is that Tru immediately accuses Holly of being a charlatan. How can she explain that she used to have a ghost? Holly is convinced she's about to be exposed as a fraud, until someone sends Tru over the edge of Holly Grove's widow's walk. Imagine his surprise when he rises as a ghost. Now it's up to Holly to find out who hated Tru enough to kill him. In this case, it may be easier to figure out who hated him the least and work back from there.
For the record, I just have to say that at the time Tru met his untimely demise, I could have been considered a suspect. What a foul, loathsome, evil little cockroach! I was ready to shove him off the widow's walk, myself. Kudos to the author for creating such an obnoxious, odious character. All of her characterizations were done well, from Holly to the guests to her kinda-sorta boyfriend, Jake, and even to her dog, Rhett. The action moved along quickly, and by the time it wrapped up, I was left feeling a bit sorry for Tru.
With no way to gracefully dodge the follow up show, Holly is left wondering if Tru's debunking will ruin Holly Grove. Not helping is that Tru immediately accuses Holly of being a charlatan. How can she explain that she used to have a ghost? Holly is convinced she's about to be exposed as a fraud, until someone sends Tru over the edge of Holly Grove's widow's walk. Imagine his surprise when he rises as a ghost. Now it's up to Holly to find out who hated Tru enough to kill him. In this case, it may be easier to figure out who hated him the least and work back from there.
For the record, I just have to say that at the time Tru met his untimely demise, I could have been considered a suspect. What a foul, loathsome, evil little cockroach! I was ready to shove him off the widow's walk, myself. Kudos to the author for creating such an obnoxious, odious character. All of her characterizations were done well, from Holly to the guests to her kinda-sorta boyfriend, Jake, and even to her dog, Rhett. The action moved along quickly, and by the time it wrapped up, I was left feeling a bit sorry for Tru.
October 26, 2018
Princess Fuzzypants here: Holly Davis is back but unfortunately for her, her late husband Burl is not. Not that she is not glad he is gone. In fact, she is delighted but when the crew of the paranormal tv show wants to do a return show, she wishes her ghost had not vacated the premises.
What makes matters worse is the hostess of the show has accepted a challenge from a naysayer whose purpose in life is to debunk the supernatural. Holly knows that it could be the end of her newly booming business if he is successful.
She tries everything at hand to stop the event but as all the participants descend on her, she feels doomed. The medium brought in to make the seance possible is not assuaging Holly’s dread. Both of them have good reason. Not only is the seance a bust, the tv hostess has clearly faked the proceedings and the debunker has some footage that is damning at best. Holly figures it could not get worse.
How wrong she is. The debunker is dead and her nemesis the local Deputy Sheriff is determined to hang the wrap on Holly. Then things get worse from there. Holly must help the debunker who is now a ghost, finally realizing such things exist. If she is unsuccessful, not only does prison loom for her but he faces a fate worse than mere death.
I enjoyed the first book but I loved this one even more. Holly is a great character. It is impossible not to like. Her cast of characters is rich with quirkiness and heart. It was a fun ride from beginning to end. I look forward to more adventures.
I give it five purrs and two paws up.
What makes matters worse is the hostess of the show has accepted a challenge from a naysayer whose purpose in life is to debunk the supernatural. Holly knows that it could be the end of her newly booming business if he is successful.
She tries everything at hand to stop the event but as all the participants descend on her, she feels doomed. The medium brought in to make the seance possible is not assuaging Holly’s dread. Both of them have good reason. Not only is the seance a bust, the tv hostess has clearly faked the proceedings and the debunker has some footage that is damning at best. Holly figures it could not get worse.
How wrong she is. The debunker is dead and her nemesis the local Deputy Sheriff is determined to hang the wrap on Holly. Then things get worse from there. Holly must help the debunker who is now a ghost, finally realizing such things exist. If she is unsuccessful, not only does prison loom for her but he faces a fate worse than mere death.
I enjoyed the first book but I loved this one even more. Holly is a great character. It is impossible not to like. Her cast of characters is rich with quirkiness and heart. It was a fun ride from beginning to end. I look forward to more adventures.
I give it five purrs and two paws up.
March 24, 2019
I thought the first book in the serious was wild,crazy and entertaining but this one does become its rival. We have the stuck up producer back for round two and being more obnoxious than ever, Holly trying to keep her business alive and also not be charged with murder, Holly with a hot and cold relationship with the jake due to his job and here they team together to keep her from being charged. A seance that didn’t go over well and started the mess of murder in the first place. A man that no one knew what to think of and gives us a happy surprise at the end.
The story is a fun cozy mystery with returning characters we love in Miss Alice and Nelda. A sweet romance with Jake and we see this take on some more complexity. You can see Jake is in love with Holly she is just being more stubborn. Thomas the mystery side story that has you smile. The murder that has twists and turns.
The story flowed well and was heart warming and fun. Entertaining and nutty at the same time. We have the personalities of Jake and Holly shine through and so does how much they care for one another. Nelda and her love of Jake and how she is about ghosts is a hoot. The inquiring minds angle that adds intrigue to the story and more entertainment. A story that you just sit back and enjoy as it puts a smile on your face and has you laugh and feel warm and fuzzy by the end.
The story is a fun cozy mystery with returning characters we love in Miss Alice and Nelda. A sweet romance with Jake and we see this take on some more complexity. You can see Jake is in love with Holly she is just being more stubborn. Thomas the mystery side story that has you smile. The murder that has twists and turns.
The story flowed well and was heart warming and fun. Entertaining and nutty at the same time. We have the personalities of Jake and Holly shine through and so does how much they care for one another. Nelda and her love of Jake and how she is about ghosts is a hoot. The inquiring minds angle that adds intrigue to the story and more entertainment. A story that you just sit back and enjoy as it puts a smile on your face and has you laugh and feel warm and fuzzy by the end.
August 22, 2018
Holly Lane Davis is back, and so are Jake, Nelda and the cast and crew of Inquiring Minds!
Inquiring Minds filmed the story of the ghost of Holly's ex husband, Burl, who was haunting the family B&B, Holly Grove, and now they are back and ready to prove a ghost debunker that ghosts really do exist. Just one problem...Burl crossed over after the show was filmed. Holly doesn't want that to get out as she is counting on the story of the haunting to drive business to her B&B. There's not much Holly can do short of faking it like the debunker already claims they are. Her family's business is at stake.
But when the debunker is murdered, who had both means and motive to shut down the story once and for all?
This is a fun Southern mystery and I truly enjoy this well written series!
Inquiring Minds filmed the story of the ghost of Holly's ex husband, Burl, who was haunting the family B&B, Holly Grove, and now they are back and ready to prove a ghost debunker that ghosts really do exist. Just one problem...Burl crossed over after the show was filmed. Holly doesn't want that to get out as she is counting on the story of the haunting to drive business to her B&B. There's not much Holly can do short of faking it like the debunker already claims they are. Her family's business is at stake.
But when the debunker is murdered, who had both means and motive to shut down the story once and for all?
This is a fun Southern mystery and I truly enjoy this well written series!
September 16, 2018
Holly's ex-husband Burl was a rat when he was alive and now that he's a ghost- he's not much better! Just as things are starting to tick along at the B&B, Tru, a debunker shows up to prove Holly doesn't have ghosts. Of course, Burl being Burl even though he's a ghost now, has to put a wrench in things for her and he disappears. And then Tru ends up murdered and- last thing she expected- his ghost asks Holly for help. Whew. The paranormal part of this never gets too woowoo, the setting is fun, the characters well done, and the writing is fine. I enjoyed the first book in this series but you would be fine reading this one as a standalone if you haven't. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A good cozy read.
November 24, 2018
Ghost Burl, Holly's ex, had departed and Holly is about to be exposed as a fraud on national television.
An obnoxious guest name Tru is out to prove that everything that happened on the first show about Holly's haunted guest home was faked. He seems to have found his proof until he is pushed off the widow's walk and becomes the newest resident ghost.
Another guest, a sweet and helpful older man named Thomas, confesses to the murders in order to protect Holly. We eventually find out why. :)
A very nice, feel-good story with a beautiful southern setting, a haunted mansion, and a darling protagonist in Holly. Her relationship with former teen sweetheart Jake is slowly developing again, but he is frequently away on undercover law enforcement business.
An obnoxious guest name Tru is out to prove that everything that happened on the first show about Holly's haunted guest home was faked. He seems to have found his proof until he is pushed off the widow's walk and becomes the newest resident ghost.
Another guest, a sweet and helpful older man named Thomas, confesses to the murders in order to protect Holly. We eventually find out why. :)
A very nice, feel-good story with a beautiful southern setting, a haunted mansion, and a darling protagonist in Holly. Her relationship with former teen sweetheart Jake is slowly developing again, but he is frequently away on undercover law enforcement business.
May 11, 2020
Quaint cozy mystery complete with ghosts!
This was an enjoyable read for me. One really neat bit was how the victim was first set up to be very unlikeable, but then redeems himself; by the end of the book, I felt almost sympathy for him after hearing his back ground. I liked the romance element and how we got to hear both parties' thoughts. I also thought the use of the storm and being cut off from the mainland was a neat twist on the isolated group idea (like in Christie's And Then There Were None). One negative: it took me a few pages to get used to the protagonists thoughts that showed up as italics and her use of 'holy moly' was a bit juvenile I thought.
But overall enjoyable. Recommended.
This was an enjoyable read for me. One really neat bit was how the victim was first set up to be very unlikeable, but then redeems himself; by the end of the book, I felt almost sympathy for him after hearing his back ground. I liked the romance element and how we got to hear both parties' thoughts. I also thought the use of the storm and being cut off from the mainland was a neat twist on the isolated group idea (like in Christie's And Then There Were None). One negative: it took me a few pages to get used to the protagonists thoughts that showed up as italics and her use of 'holy moly' was a bit juvenile I thought.
But overall enjoyable. Recommended.
December 12, 2018
The second book in the series and the one I was looking forward to reading, after enjoying the first book and giving it five stars, is not as good as the first one, especially the first part of the book that has a weak plot with the main character and the famous TV personality constantly bickering and exchanging threats with the visitor who came to debunk the existence of ghosts and hardly any character development or any focus on interpersonal relationships. The second part of the book gets better with a couple of mysteries to solve. I didn’t care for the character who runs for sheriff and hope he won’t be in the future books. Three and a half stars.
November 27, 2018
Around the Year in 52 Books 2018 Reading Challenge. A book published in 2018.
Holly Davis lives in a haunted antebellum mansion which she has turned in a B&B in an attempt to keep the place in the family. And now her home is being featured on national television. One problem. The TV show wants to return to her home for an update because a man who debunks paranormal events has challenged the host of the show. Holly would like to decline since her ghost has actually left the house, but her contract won't allow this. What to do? And then someone is killed.
Holly Davis lives in a haunted antebellum mansion which she has turned in a B&B in an attempt to keep the place in the family. And now her home is being featured on national television. One problem. The TV show wants to return to her home for an update because a man who debunks paranormal events has challenged the host of the show. Holly would like to decline since her ghost has actually left the house, but her contract won't allow this. What to do? And then someone is killed.
July 29, 2020
This is the second in the A B&B Spirits Mystery series. I had not read book one, but it is early in the series so I did not feel lost. Holly Davis runs a haunted B&B called Holly Grove. The problem is her haunt, her ex-husband Burl, has left the B&B. That does not hinder a murder from happening. Is this another haunt in the making? The main character is of course our protagonist, Holly, but her staff adds humor and enjoyment to the story line. I plan to get book one and continue reading this series. I gave this a solid 4 star review
April 12, 2021
Ended up deserving the 5 stars.
Very slow at the beginning. About page 100 I was
almost ready to stop. But low and behold it came
to the seance. It began getting interesting and
the story line picked up immensely. A bit more into
it that's when it became hard to put down. After I
powered through the beginning I'm glad I kept
reading until the end. The ending was wonderful!
I'm glad Tru became a nice person/ghost! Great
book, but need to start out with ghosts and a bang
right from the beginning! Very good, though!!!!
Very slow at the beginning. About page 100 I was
almost ready to stop. But low and behold it came
to the seance. It began getting interesting and
the story line picked up immensely. A bit more into
it that's when it became hard to put down. After I
powered through the beginning I'm glad I kept
reading until the end. The ending was wonderful!
I'm glad Tru became a nice person/ghost! Great
book, but need to start out with ghosts and a bang
right from the beginning! Very good, though!!!!
October 15, 2018
Holly Grove is in trouble. Her house is being featured on the TV show, Inquiring Minds, which is fine in and of itself but now the TV show is coming back with a skeptic. But Holly's ghost is gone. He went to... well, she thinks Heaven, at the end of the first book in the series. So now there's no ghost for them to find, even if she wanted them to. But she can't be "debunked." That would send away all of the people who have made reservations for her haunted B&B.
February 9, 2019
Holly Davis has a haunted B&B and the tv special has people wanting to visit. But ghost Burl, her ex-husband has left the building. A famous ghost debunker shows up and is killed on her balcony. Now she has a new ghost and he demands she help find his killer. This is book 2 in the B&B Spirit's mystery series and it's funny and an easy read. Can be read as a stand alone. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 28, 2019
Really, really fun and in the end sweet book. For this genre of book, it gets a solid 5 stars. Great quirky and funny characters, (Actually laughed out loud here and there). Very well woven mystery (I did not guess). And I can’t wait to read the next book which comes out in September. Pamela Kopfler is a very talented weaver of stories and I just love her stuff!
November 24, 2018
The first book in the series was great. I really enjoyed the characters and settings. This book, however, I couldn’t even finish. I gave up 1/4 way in as it didn’t hold my attention and the plot is weak.
June 1, 2020
Second book in the series, a cozy read Holly has a ghost or does she? The film company comes in to follow up their last story but Burl the ghost has disappeared , a debunker Tru is going to prove they are all fakes but he takes a tumble off the widow walk , A fast and funny mystery
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