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Darling Investigations #2
Blazing Summer
Summer Butler is killing it in the ratings—and all of America is tuning in as New York Times bestselling author Denise Grover Swank greenlights a new season of TV’s hottest sleuth…
Summer Butler had no idea that Darling Investigations would be such a smash. But ratings don’t lie—fans love watching the former star solve real-life crimes in her hometown. With the first season wrapped, the reality-show PI is feeling the pressure to make the next one an even bigger success.
Though finding a new case won’t be easy—it’s not like another dead body will just fall in her lap—Summer’s willing to give it a try. Besides, reconciling with her family—not to mention her old flame, police chief Luke Montgomery—is a nice way to spend her downtime.
But Summer’s rekindled romance isn’t the only thing burning up Sweet Briar. It seems the town is harboring an arsonist, and all the smoldering signs point to the same her cousin Dixie. Although this case may be too close for comfort, it seems season two is already bringing the drama—and for Summer it could also be too hot to handle.
Summer Butler had no idea that Darling Investigations would be such a smash. But ratings don’t lie—fans love watching the former star solve real-life crimes in her hometown. With the first season wrapped, the reality-show PI is feeling the pressure to make the next one an even bigger success.
Though finding a new case won’t be easy—it’s not like another dead body will just fall in her lap—Summer’s willing to give it a try. Besides, reconciling with her family—not to mention her old flame, police chief Luke Montgomery—is a nice way to spend her downtime.
But Summer’s rekindled romance isn’t the only thing burning up Sweet Briar. It seems the town is harboring an arsonist, and all the smoldering signs point to the same her cousin Dixie. Although this case may be too close for comfort, it seems season two is already bringing the drama—and for Summer it could also be too hot to handle.
397 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2018
583 people are currently reading
1626 people want to read
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May 13, 2018
RATING 4.5 STARS
Blazing Summer is book two in the Darling Investigations series by Denise Grover Swank. I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Deadly Summer. But I have to say that this one really kicked it up a notch. It was really intense and although I had my hunches, I had no idea who the culprit was. Even though I knew going in to this series that it was classified as more of a “cozy mystery,” I still complained in the first book review that I wished there was a bit more of the romance aspect. That, too, was kicked up a notch in this book as things heat up between Luke and Summer.
Season One of Summer Butler’s reality show, Darling Investigations was a huge hit. She has signed a contract for three more seasons. They are filming in Summer’s childhood home town of Sweet Briar, Alabama. This is giving Summer a chance to rebuild her relationships with her family and with her high school sweetheart, now the town sheriff, Luke Montgomery. They have both agreed that they are going to give things a try. This season, the network has agreed that their cases will be real, not fabricated. Summer, though, is regretting not asking for a new producer. Lauren, who was also the producer last season, has it in big time for Summer. And this season, she has a surprise up her sleeve. She has come up with a new way to make Summer crazy and hopefully force her to leave. But it won’t work. This is Summer’s chance to both work and be at home where she belongs.
Even though Sweet Briar is a small town, they have plenty of bad guys. There seems to be an arsonist on the loose. It doesn’t take Summer and her camera crew long to become involved. Summer’s cousin, Dixie, has a history that again becomes the focus of both the town’s gossips and law enforcement. But Summer is not having it. She feels like she let her cousin down last time. She will not do it again. She will both prove that she is innocent now and in the past.
Dating a police officer gets complicated when you are investigating a crime. How much should she tell him? Is she putting Luke’s job in jeopardy by involving him? Not to mention the crazy schedules they are both keeping. Is there even a chance that this new relationship will work?
I really, really liked this book! Summer has had no private investigative training whatsoever, and gets herself into one predicament after another. But she seems to have a knack for finding the truth, not to mention that her cousin Teddy taught her some self defense moves that sure came in handy! There were quite a few nail biter moments that were so intense. And as I said before, the romance between Luke and Summer is a bit more predominant, which I really needed. I can’t help that I need my romance.
So, if you love an intense, action packed mystery with a very sexy police chief and a zany, reality star private investigator, than this series is for you. Don’t forget to check out the first book in the series, Deadly Summer.
Blazing Summer is book two in the Darling Investigations series by Denise Grover Swank. I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Deadly Summer. But I have to say that this one really kicked it up a notch. It was really intense and although I had my hunches, I had no idea who the culprit was. Even though I knew going in to this series that it was classified as more of a “cozy mystery,” I still complained in the first book review that I wished there was a bit more of the romance aspect. That, too, was kicked up a notch in this book as things heat up between Luke and Summer.
Season One of Summer Butler’s reality show, Darling Investigations was a huge hit. She has signed a contract for three more seasons. They are filming in Summer’s childhood home town of Sweet Briar, Alabama. This is giving Summer a chance to rebuild her relationships with her family and with her high school sweetheart, now the town sheriff, Luke Montgomery. They have both agreed that they are going to give things a try. This season, the network has agreed that their cases will be real, not fabricated. Summer, though, is regretting not asking for a new producer. Lauren, who was also the producer last season, has it in big time for Summer. And this season, she has a surprise up her sleeve. She has come up with a new way to make Summer crazy and hopefully force her to leave. But it won’t work. This is Summer’s chance to both work and be at home where she belongs.
Even though Sweet Briar is a small town, they have plenty of bad guys. There seems to be an arsonist on the loose. It doesn’t take Summer and her camera crew long to become involved. Summer’s cousin, Dixie, has a history that again becomes the focus of both the town’s gossips and law enforcement. But Summer is not having it. She feels like she let her cousin down last time. She will not do it again. She will both prove that she is innocent now and in the past.
Dating a police officer gets complicated when you are investigating a crime. How much should she tell him? Is she putting Luke’s job in jeopardy by involving him? Not to mention the crazy schedules they are both keeping. Is there even a chance that this new relationship will work?
I really, really liked this book! Summer has had no private investigative training whatsoever, and gets herself into one predicament after another. But she seems to have a knack for finding the truth, not to mention that her cousin Teddy taught her some self defense moves that sure came in handy! There were quite a few nail biter moments that were so intense. And as I said before, the romance between Luke and Summer is a bit more predominant, which I really needed. I can’t help that I need my romance.
So, if you love an intense, action packed mystery with a very sexy police chief and a zany, reality star private investigator, than this series is for you. Don’t forget to check out the first book in the series, Deadly Summer.
June 17, 2018
I've been putting off reading this book.
The whole premise just doesn't appeal to me.
The only thing I can think of that's more dull than reality TV is a book about a Reality TV program.
The basic premise is Summer Butler is a down on her luck Hollywood star. She's broke and about to lose her home so when she gets offered a part in a Reality TV program in which she returns to her home town and works as a PI she has little choice but to accept.
But the director has an axe to grind and would enjoy nothing more than ruining Summer's reputation. With a loyal cameraman and sound guy she needs to solve the crime and also thwart the directors attempts at ruining her career.
If that sounds boring to you, don't worry, I'm not offended. It sounds boring to me too.
And that's just it.
This isn't boring. It should be, but it isn't. It's great. It's even brilliant. I don't even know why but I loved it.
Many thanks to Montlake Romance and Netgalley for providing me with this review copy
The whole premise just doesn't appeal to me.
The only thing I can think of that's more dull than reality TV is a book about a Reality TV program.
The basic premise is Summer Butler is a down on her luck Hollywood star. She's broke and about to lose her home so when she gets offered a part in a Reality TV program in which she returns to her home town and works as a PI she has little choice but to accept.
But the director has an axe to grind and would enjoy nothing more than ruining Summer's reputation. With a loyal cameraman and sound guy she needs to solve the crime and also thwart the directors attempts at ruining her career.
If that sounds boring to you, don't worry, I'm not offended. It sounds boring to me too.
And that's just it.
This isn't boring. It should be, but it isn't. It's great. It's even brilliant. I don't even know why but I loved it.
Many thanks to Montlake Romance and Netgalley for providing me with this review copy
July 14, 2018
Blazing Summer – Darling Investigations 2 is the sizzling summer read – pun intended, of course. It’s hot, filled with tension and great for a quick read on a lazy summer afternoon. However….
Blazing Summer is the second book in the Darling Investigations series by Denise Grover Swank however it also works as a stand alone since the first chapter is devoted to catching you up with Summer Butler since the last book. Summer is a former actress from a police show, a former beauty queen who worked the pageant circuit, who now has her own reality television show featuring her investigations in her Alabama hometown. In the reality show she investigates interesting but small time crimes while in reality she is investigating, and often solving, bigger cases. The cast of characters is rather typical: her cousin, Dixie, (of course it’s Dixie, right?) her former boyfriend with whom Summer is in an on-again/off again relationship and also just happens to be the Police Chief in the small town, as well as a horrific, infuriating producer who, while female, should be sued for her sexist remarks. But then again, it is the south and that’s how they typically roll. In the second installment, Summer’s former television co-star has joined the reality show which leads to more drama, more angst and more sexist dialogue.
Blazing Summer is a good “cozy mystery.” If you like that genre then you will find this book enjoyable. Perhaps it is because of my dislike for typical southern anti-woman comments which I had to endure for most of my life, I found the book very irritating, especially considering that it is written by a woman. While Summer is portrayed as very strong and capable of handling herself, she rarely (never?) speaks up for herself when these verbal abuses are hurled her way. I get that this is supposed to be a “cute” book but messages repeated over and over soon become the norm and the manner in which Summer deals – or not – with the stereotypical southern sexist remarks left me cold.
Denise Grover Swank, who is a southerner herself, perfectly captures the atmosphere of the small southern town, stereotypically develops the personalities of these characters and adds the prerequisite sexual tension needed for a cozy southern tale. I think it is because of all of the above that it left me wanting a glass of hard lemonade to cool off my hot head.
I can neither recommend or not this book to you. I am sure that there are readers who will enjoy it. It is well written, just not something that I care to read.
Thank you to Goodreads Giveaway program for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Blazing Summer is the second book in the Darling Investigations series by Denise Grover Swank however it also works as a stand alone since the first chapter is devoted to catching you up with Summer Butler since the last book. Summer is a former actress from a police show, a former beauty queen who worked the pageant circuit, who now has her own reality television show featuring her investigations in her Alabama hometown. In the reality show she investigates interesting but small time crimes while in reality she is investigating, and often solving, bigger cases. The cast of characters is rather typical: her cousin, Dixie, (of course it’s Dixie, right?) her former boyfriend with whom Summer is in an on-again/off again relationship and also just happens to be the Police Chief in the small town, as well as a horrific, infuriating producer who, while female, should be sued for her sexist remarks. But then again, it is the south and that’s how they typically roll. In the second installment, Summer’s former television co-star has joined the reality show which leads to more drama, more angst and more sexist dialogue.
Blazing Summer is a good “cozy mystery.” If you like that genre then you will find this book enjoyable. Perhaps it is because of my dislike for typical southern anti-woman comments which I had to endure for most of my life, I found the book very irritating, especially considering that it is written by a woman. While Summer is portrayed as very strong and capable of handling herself, she rarely (never?) speaks up for herself when these verbal abuses are hurled her way. I get that this is supposed to be a “cute” book but messages repeated over and over soon become the norm and the manner in which Summer deals – or not – with the stereotypical southern sexist remarks left me cold.
Denise Grover Swank, who is a southerner herself, perfectly captures the atmosphere of the small southern town, stereotypically develops the personalities of these characters and adds the prerequisite sexual tension needed for a cozy southern tale. I think it is because of all of the above that it left me wanting a glass of hard lemonade to cool off my hot head.
I can neither recommend or not this book to you. I am sure that there are readers who will enjoy it. It is well written, just not something that I care to read.
Thank you to Goodreads Giveaway program for the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 11, 2018
The narrator was excellent; she gave each character their own voice. The story was convoluted, soap opera-ish, dragged a bit, and was a mix of twists and the expected.
June 5, 2018
Heart-pounding, hold-your-breath, edge-of-your-seat, action-packed... just awesome. Such an incredible book. I was drawn in on page one. DGS is definitely a master of her craft. I was honored to get an ARC of this book and devoured it. I really like Summer as a character and sincerely hope there are more books in the series.
Read
June 24, 2018Review available at Under the Pages.
July 5, 2018
3,5 stars, rounded up to 4 for the rating because I'm feeling generous today. Despite having "Blazing" right on the title, there is not a single weed joke in the book. Preposterous.
Jokes aside, this was a lovely book. Not as great as its predecessor Deadly Summer, but still firmly standing strong, on its own two feet. "Sequelitis" is definitely a thing (when the sequel isn't as great as the original), and this book both did and didn't dodge that bullet. The bullet kind of grazed it, but didn't injure it fatally.
What didn't work: some MAJOR suspension of disbelief was needed at times, things were often too convenient (), I didn't like the way Luke was written at all (he was basically written like female characters usually are; very one-note, unconditionally loving their other half no matter what, with an extra side of "super protective"), and it wasn't as witty/ funny as the first one.
Oh, and was shoe-horned in for basically no reason at all. He barely had any appearances or impact on the plot, he was just there to be a super minor antagonist and an excuse for Summer to fly solo without Lauren on her back.
What worked: everything else. I loved revisiting the setting and characters of this series, and there were some very intense scenes that I really, really enjoyed; the book had a lot of suspense that was very well written. I really did miss the witty banter though, this book made me realise that a big chunk of it in the first book came from )
All in all, I think it was a good sequel. Could have been even better, but I'll take it.
**Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book**
Jokes aside, this was a lovely book. Not as great as its predecessor Deadly Summer, but still firmly standing strong, on its own two feet. "Sequelitis" is definitely a thing (when the sequel isn't as great as the original), and this book both did and didn't dodge that bullet. The bullet kind of grazed it, but didn't injure it fatally.
What didn't work: some MAJOR suspension of disbelief was needed at times, things were often too convenient (), I didn't like the way Luke was written at all (he was basically written like female characters usually are; very one-note, unconditionally loving their other half no matter what, with an extra side of "super protective"), and it wasn't as witty/ funny as the first one.
Oh, and was shoe-horned in for basically no reason at all. He barely had any appearances or impact on the plot, he was just there to be a super minor antagonist and an excuse for Summer to fly solo without Lauren on her back.
What worked: everything else. I loved revisiting the setting and characters of this series, and there were some very intense scenes that I really, really enjoyed; the book had a lot of suspense that was very well written. I really did miss the witty banter though, this book made me realise that a big chunk of it in the first book came from )
All in all, I think it was a good sequel. Could have been even better, but I'll take it.
**Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book**
August 10, 2018
In this second book in the Darling Investigations series, Summer has just returned to Sweet Briar after a visit to California. The first season of her P.I. Investigations reality tv show went well. So they have been signed on for more seasons. But she’s hit with a big surprise on day one of filming- She’s got a little competition. Her snooty producer, Lauren has decided the two opponents will each get a number of specific cases and they will see who the fans like best.
But of course Lauren gave Summer all the dull cases. So Summer decides she needs to come up with a big case on her own. She had no idea how much it would involve those closest to her.
I am a huge fan of swank’s mystery series. In fact, i was curious, so i just checked my stats. This is the 17th mystery i've read by her. You would think i would get bored, but i haven't. She manages to make you connect to the characters. She makes family a priority. It's only the second in the series, but i already need more Summer, Daisy, Luke, & Bill.
thanks to netgalley & montlake for the ARC
But of course Lauren gave Summer all the dull cases. So Summer decides she needs to come up with a big case on her own. She had no idea how much it would involve those closest to her.
I am a huge fan of swank’s mystery series. In fact, i was curious, so i just checked my stats. This is the 17th mystery i've read by her. You would think i would get bored, but i haven't. She manages to make you connect to the characters. She makes family a priority. It's only the second in the series, but i already need more Summer, Daisy, Luke, & Bill.
thanks to netgalley & montlake for the ARC
June 11, 2018
It was sizzling!! I absolutely love this series!!!
It was muy caliente 🔥🔥(thinking of Luke) and it had me guessing who was behind the whole thing. It was like I was watching a show and it had me on the edge of my seat reading the story!! It was filled with some “gotcha”, laughter, and tears. Loved it.❤️❤️
It was muy caliente 🔥🔥(thinking of Luke) and it had me guessing who was behind the whole thing. It was like I was watching a show and it had me on the edge of my seat reading the story!! It was filled with some “gotcha”, laughter, and tears. Loved it.❤️❤️
March 22, 2018
I already love Summer and company so I was really excited to read Blazing Summer! I loved it! It was even better than the first book and I can't wait to read it again. The characters are so great! The kind you want to keep visiting, book after book. The story was excellent and entertaining! Blazing Summer was full of mystery, humor, and a little romance on the side. My favorite kind of book!
In this 2nd book of the Darling Investigations series Summer is back with her camera crew and her cousin Dixie. Dealing with an arsonist on the loose, belligerent cops, and an awful producer is not a piece of cake. But if anyone can handle it Summer can, with a little help from her crew and her maybe boyfriend. She never backs down and she will do whatever it takes to help her family.
Denise Grover Swank certainly knows what she is doing when it comes to mystery. It was exciting and I was totally wrong when guessing the "bad guy". If you like mysteries you will love Blazing Summer. And even if you don't normally read mysteries you will probably still love this entertaining book.
In this 2nd book of the Darling Investigations series Summer is back with her camera crew and her cousin Dixie. Dealing with an arsonist on the loose, belligerent cops, and an awful producer is not a piece of cake. But if anyone can handle it Summer can, with a little help from her crew and her maybe boyfriend. She never backs down and she will do whatever it takes to help her family.
Denise Grover Swank certainly knows what she is doing when it comes to mystery. It was exciting and I was totally wrong when guessing the "bad guy". If you like mysteries you will love Blazing Summer. And even if you don't normally read mysteries you will probably still love this entertaining book.
July 1, 2018
This one had a little bit of a shaky start for me, but after that I got totally drawn in. I loved seeing Luke and Summer's relationship continue to develop and the mystery, while dealing with a lot of characters at first which started to get confusing, got interesting once I got more into it.
I could seriously do without Lauren though and I was glad she wasn't in it more.
I could seriously do without Lauren though and I was glad she wasn't in it more.
February 3, 2021
Un début trop chick-lit qui a failli me faire abandonner. Heureusement cela s’améliore après malheureusement la crainte d’une mauvaise surprise a fait que je ne retournais pas vers mes chapitres de bon coeur. (Et malheureusement je crains que cela sera de nouveau le cas dans la prochain tome vu la fin)(mais qu’on nous débarrasse de Lauren qui en plus ne sert objectivement à rien)
January 31, 2024
4.5 Stars:)
March 24, 2018
LOVED this book!!! This is book two in the Darling Investigations series and it is even better than the first. This is fast paced, fun, and funny, and Summer investigates a series of crimes for her reality television series. While doing this with her cousin, Dixie, she stumbles across evidence in the crime that Dixie was convicted of years ago - then her investigation takes a very personal slant.
While learning how to investigate, Summer tries to make sense of her relationship with Luke, the police chief and her former boyfriend, who also wants to be her current boyfriend. However, with his role as the police chief and her bumbling investigations, they are frequently at cross purposes. Add in the (somewhat) evil Lauren and Summer's nemesis Connor, and you've got a great combination. This one is a must read.
This novel has it all - a compelling mystery, a romance, and a bit of humor. While this is part of a series, this is a stand alone novel. However, it's so good that you really owe it to yourself to read them all. Actually, if you haven't yet read a book by this author, you have been missing out as she is a master at her craft. She is on my must read authors' list and should probably be on yours as well.
While learning how to investigate, Summer tries to make sense of her relationship with Luke, the police chief and her former boyfriend, who also wants to be her current boyfriend. However, with his role as the police chief and her bumbling investigations, they are frequently at cross purposes. Add in the (somewhat) evil Lauren and Summer's nemesis Connor, and you've got a great combination. This one is a must read.
This novel has it all - a compelling mystery, a romance, and a bit of humor. While this is part of a series, this is a stand alone novel. However, it's so good that you really owe it to yourself to read them all. Actually, if you haven't yet read a book by this author, you have been missing out as she is a master at her craft. She is on my must read authors' list and should probably be on yours as well.
May 31, 2018
4.5 stars - I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is such a fun read! Summer Butler’s second adventure fully captured my imagination and made me smile. This time around, Summer is investigating a string of arson attack and her cousin Dixie is the main suspect.
This is a gentle read. I loved the careful and very funny observations of small town Southern life and the slightly satirical take on reality television. The characters in Sweet Briar really come to life in this story. I enjoyed the relationships and the conversations that the author captures - some of the dialogue is absolutely brilliant. There is probably even less romance in this story than there was in the first one but there is more action and excitement as Summer’s investigation heats up.
I like that I didn’t immediately guess the whodunnit. The mystery part of the story feels quite silly at times but there is actually quite a complex plot that Summer unravels. Everyone in town is a suspect at some point in the book and I really enjoyed the building tension.
This was a great read. I didn’t love the first book but this one really made me smile. I’m looking forward to Summer’s next adventure.
This is such a fun read! Summer Butler’s second adventure fully captured my imagination and made me smile. This time around, Summer is investigating a string of arson attack and her cousin Dixie is the main suspect.
This is a gentle read. I loved the careful and very funny observations of small town Southern life and the slightly satirical take on reality television. The characters in Sweet Briar really come to life in this story. I enjoyed the relationships and the conversations that the author captures - some of the dialogue is absolutely brilliant. There is probably even less romance in this story than there was in the first one but there is more action and excitement as Summer’s investigation heats up.
I like that I didn’t immediately guess the whodunnit. The mystery part of the story feels quite silly at times but there is actually quite a complex plot that Summer unravels. Everyone in town is a suspect at some point in the book and I really enjoyed the building tension.
This was a great read. I didn’t love the first book but this one really made me smile. I’m looking forward to Summer’s next adventure.
March 27, 2018
That was one phenomenal grandiose Blazing Summer! My emotions are still spinning! I loved Summer after first book but now I love her and her team even more! Such a breath holding, heart pounding read! Non stop action packed fast paced full of fun, laughter, love and terrified situations. Denise Grover Swank has a phenomenal talent of crafting mysteries and stories let alone creating fantastic characters! And this one proved it again! I need more of Summer! I keep hoping there will be more books in this amazing series!
I was one of few honored to get an ARC of this incredibly good book! Can't wait for you to read this Summer's story! You are going to love it!!!
I was one of few honored to get an ARC of this incredibly good book! Can't wait for you to read this Summer's story! You are going to love it!!!
June 5, 2018
Just as the title says, this book is blazing hot! While I enjoyed the first book in this series, I absolutely love this one. It is fast-paced and action packed with humor and a mystery that kept me guessing. As always, Denise pulls you into the story and makes you feel as though you are there. Luke is just yummy and had me swooning right along with Summer. I'm holding out hope that the series will continue after this book, as I am loving this group of characters.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
April 25, 2018
Loved Blazing Summer. Although I could do without Lauren, a little to close to local politics for me, love all the characters. Hope Summer moves on to her own business next. Denise always keeps you guessing whodunnit and who didn't. Denise captures small town politics well. Couldn't put it down. Left me wanting more.
May 18, 2018
Received from Netgalley for a honest review. Nobody writes a cozy mystery like Denise Grover Swank. Summer Baumgartner is the perfect heroine for this southern country setting. The story is cute, fun and even a little corny. You’ll fall in love with Sweet Briar Alabama and all its colorful characters.
March 29, 2018
I love this series. Summer is such a great character. She’s smart and funny but also doesn’t back down. Another great story line in the s cons book of the series. With twists and turns you don’t expect it’s a great read.
July 1, 2018
Summer a child actor took part in a reality show called Darling investigations and solved a real crime so her show is renewed and over the course of the new episodes solves another real crime. lots of danger and she rekindles with her old boyfriend.
June 10, 2018
More mystery
I couldn't stop reading! I love how the story picks up and dives right into controversy and arceny. It is so worth reading
I couldn't stop reading! I love how the story picks up and dives right into controversy and arceny. It is so worth reading
June 30, 2022
Darling Investigations has been renewed for a couple of seasons, and Summer finds herself working once again with Lauren, the director who dislikes her for some reason. This season, Lauren has brought in a co-star, another detective who works his own cases, out of his own office. This doesn't sound like a big deal, except it is Lauren's co-star from her Gotcha series, someone who also helped destroy her career, someone she dislikes immensely. Lauren feeds him the "good" cases while giving Summer and Dixie the ridiculous ones, like an alligator eating someone's chickens. Once again, there is family turmoil, Dixie being suspected of arson and murder, Luke and Summer trying to figure out where their relationship is going and one real case that Summer investigates on the side involving drugs, murder, arson and someone who is setting up Dixie due to her past. Will Summer be able to find out what is really going on to exonerate Dixie?
I enjoyed this book even more than the first one. Summer's cousins, Dixie and Teddy, play a large role in this story and I love how the family sticks together. The story starts with a couple of arsons that cause destruction of property, but when a third results in a dead body things get more serious. Summer once again uses her instincts, questioning ability, friendships, and flattery to suss out what is really going on. This small town is rife with suspects, drugs, and sketchy characters. Luke is a smart, honest police chief, but you can't say the same for all of them. When the mayor influences council to hire his son, who is arrogant and power hungry, you know there will be problems. There is more than one jurisdiction involved in the cases, so Luke has to stay out of some of it, but Summer doesn't. With the help of her trusty crew, she is able to get video taped confessions to various crimes. There is a bit more romance in this one and Summer and Luke are officially a couple, which I enjoyed. There is danger, humour, romance, family dramatics and some resolution of Dixie's past, all written into an entertaining and suspenseful murder mystery. I am worried this is the last of the series, but would love to see another Darling Investigations story. Once again, Megan Tusing does a nice job with the narration of the story. I love the voices she uses for Summer and Dixie. Her tone, expression and emotion are well done and added to my enjoyment of the story.
I enjoyed this book even more than the first one. Summer's cousins, Dixie and Teddy, play a large role in this story and I love how the family sticks together. The story starts with a couple of arsons that cause destruction of property, but when a third results in a dead body things get more serious. Summer once again uses her instincts, questioning ability, friendships, and flattery to suss out what is really going on. This small town is rife with suspects, drugs, and sketchy characters. Luke is a smart, honest police chief, but you can't say the same for all of them. When the mayor influences council to hire his son, who is arrogant and power hungry, you know there will be problems. There is more than one jurisdiction involved in the cases, so Luke has to stay out of some of it, but Summer doesn't. With the help of her trusty crew, she is able to get video taped confessions to various crimes. There is a bit more romance in this one and Summer and Luke are officially a couple, which I enjoyed. There is danger, humour, romance, family dramatics and some resolution of Dixie's past, all written into an entertaining and suspenseful murder mystery. I am worried this is the last of the series, but would love to see another Darling Investigations story. Once again, Megan Tusing does a nice job with the narration of the story. I love the voices she uses for Summer and Dixie. Her tone, expression and emotion are well done and added to my enjoyment of the story.
June 18, 2018
Rating 4.5 stars.
Blazing Summer is my first Denise Grover Swank book. It caught my attention because it's set in my current home state, Alabama. I worried about taking book two in a series since I've struggled with jumping into the middle of a series. Swank writes very well and I enjoyed this first, but definitely not last, story from her. Most of the time, the characters didn't talk like Alabamians but the average reader will probably appreciate that fact as southern dialog is more than just adding a y'all here and there. Swank did use one of my personal favorites perfectly- all y'all (for larger groups). I needn't worry about having missed the first book. Swank did an excellent job of introducing backstory from Deadly Summer (Darling Investigations, #1) without feeling like she was rehashing that book.
A reality show about a former child star, Summer, who's now a private detective is a unique premise. Add in real intrigue very personal to that star, a spoiled rich kid, rebuilding friendships and family relationships, a nasty producer and a Hollywood former co-star/nemesis and one hunky maybe not so "ex" boyfriend and there's plenty here for the reader to enjoy.
Summer is smart, likable and a pretty good investigator. She's not the snotty holier than thou person so many expect her to be. She cares for those around her. She's still mending bridges burned during her Hollywood days, many of which her mother damaged but she gets blamed for, is as much of a concern to her as figuring out who's lighting fires and killing people.
I always enjoy good suspense with some sweet romance and Blazing Summer had the perfect blend.
Blazing Summer is my first Denise Grover Swank book. It caught my attention because it's set in my current home state, Alabama. I worried about taking book two in a series since I've struggled with jumping into the middle of a series. Swank writes very well and I enjoyed this first, but definitely not last, story from her. Most of the time, the characters didn't talk like Alabamians but the average reader will probably appreciate that fact as southern dialog is more than just adding a y'all here and there. Swank did use one of my personal favorites perfectly- all y'all (for larger groups). I needn't worry about having missed the first book. Swank did an excellent job of introducing backstory from Deadly Summer (Darling Investigations, #1) without feeling like she was rehashing that book.
A reality show about a former child star, Summer, who's now a private detective is a unique premise. Add in real intrigue very personal to that star, a spoiled rich kid, rebuilding friendships and family relationships, a nasty producer and a Hollywood former co-star/nemesis and one hunky maybe not so "ex" boyfriend and there's plenty here for the reader to enjoy.
Summer is smart, likable and a pretty good investigator. She's not the snotty holier than thou person so many expect her to be. She cares for those around her. She's still mending bridges burned during her Hollywood days, many of which her mother damaged but she gets blamed for, is as much of a concern to her as figuring out who's lighting fires and killing people.
I always enjoy good suspense with some sweet romance and Blazing Summer had the perfect blend.
June 13, 2018
Book 2 of the Darling Investigations series is a rousing success! Summer Butler is really getting the hang of being a private investigator and things are moving along with police chief Luke Montgomery. I enjoyed the ups and downs in the story and had some laughs and tears along the way.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley.
July 10, 2018
Blazing Summer is a terrific addition to the Darling Investigations series. I really enjoyed book 1 and was incredibly curious about what Denise could top the big case from Deadly Summer with. This case for season 2 of Summer’s show is great and dredges up the past, which makes it even more interesting. The novel has a good combination of it all - mystery and suspense, humor, action, and romance. I was glad there was a little more romance added to this novel compared with the first of the series. (Luke is 🔥) I still absolutely love Summer and Dixie’s partnership. And Teddy and the rest of Summer’s crew are amazing as well. Hoping Denise continues to write more of Summer!
Thanks to NetGalley and Denise for the opportunity to receive an ARC of this novel. Definitely recommend Blazing Summer (and the first novel, Deadly Summer, if you haven’t read that) to everyone!
Thanks to NetGalley and Denise for the opportunity to receive an ARC of this novel. Definitely recommend Blazing Summer (and the first novel, Deadly Summer, if you haven’t read that) to everyone!
June 4, 2018
********4.5 Star Read********
Sometimes you find an author that makes you feel like you've come home every time you crack open a book. Denise is the writer for me. Her writing draws you into each book; you feel like every new character is a part of your family or inner circle and you laugh, cry and cheer with them through their journey.
Summer is a character you can easily relate to. Who hasn't had their life implode in some way and you felt like you burned bridges you can get back. Summer was able to mend some fences in the first book, but she still has some work to do, with herself and others, before all is forgiven. what I love about Summer is she has learned from her mistakes. She is not a perfect person and may make mistakes but she is quick to own up to them.
Summer, Teddy and Dixie are #squaregoals for me. they are like the three musketeers, they are all in for each other and it's nice to that family dynamic play out. They all have been through so much and each have hurt each other in the past, but they have worked there way through forgiveness and have started their journey towards healing together and it's great to see.
Luke is so swoony worthy. He is this strong male that is not afraid of strong women. He and Summer made youthful mistakes, but he is ready to fight for Summer and refuses to let her go, like he did when he was a teenage. He is so patient with Summer and truly has her back. He trust her completely and even if he get's mad or worried, he still comes back to work it out, rather then to let his anger consume him.
Besides an amazing journey of self-discovery, healing and forgiveness; Denise also interweaves an amazing mystery. Denise kept me guessing the whole time and had me on the edge of my set, wondering what would happen next. The tension was perfect and I couldn't turn the page fast enough to see how Summer would get out of a situation.
*******Publisher provided a review copy via NetGalley*****
Sometimes you find an author that makes you feel like you've come home every time you crack open a book. Denise is the writer for me. Her writing draws you into each book; you feel like every new character is a part of your family or inner circle and you laugh, cry and cheer with them through their journey.
Summer is a character you can easily relate to. Who hasn't had their life implode in some way and you felt like you burned bridges you can get back. Summer was able to mend some fences in the first book, but she still has some work to do, with herself and others, before all is forgiven. what I love about Summer is she has learned from her mistakes. She is not a perfect person and may make mistakes but she is quick to own up to them.
Summer, Teddy and Dixie are #squaregoals for me. they are like the three musketeers, they are all in for each other and it's nice to that family dynamic play out. They all have been through so much and each have hurt each other in the past, but they have worked there way through forgiveness and have started their journey towards healing together and it's great to see.
Luke is so swoony worthy. He is this strong male that is not afraid of strong women. He and Summer made youthful mistakes, but he is ready to fight for Summer and refuses to let her go, like he did when he was a teenage. He is so patient with Summer and truly has her back. He trust her completely and even if he get's mad or worried, he still comes back to work it out, rather then to let his anger consume him.
Besides an amazing journey of self-discovery, healing and forgiveness; Denise also interweaves an amazing mystery. Denise kept me guessing the whole time and had me on the edge of my set, wondering what would happen next. The tension was perfect and I couldn't turn the page fast enough to see how Summer would get out of a situation.
*******Publisher provided a review copy via NetGalley*****
June 10, 2018
Fun Read. Summer's P.I. reality show has been renewed for another season and this time her show's director is determined to take Summer down a notch and get back at her for humiliating her during the season 1 premiere. Summer, however, is determined to not sink to her level and even suggests that the two work separately during the season and see who comes up with the better show content. But, when Summer's cousin Dixie is suddenly framed for murder and arson, Summer doesn't know whether her show is to blame or if Dixie's past has come back to haunt her, either way she is determined to prove her cousin's innocent and hopefully make her director eat crow in the process. Lots of twists and turns along the way, and we cannot forget about the budding romance that is brewing between Summer and the chief of police. The is a great Summer Read.
December 10, 2018
I absolutely LOVED this book! I love Summer and her story. I’ve been thinking about this book since I read the last Summer Butler book. I hope it isn’t the last one in the series.
Summer is back in Sweet Briar and so is everyone else from the first book, plus we met a few new characters. The big mystery in this book was clearing Dixie’s name and it was a great one. I always thought there had to be more to the story, and I’m glad we learned everything in this book.
I couldn’t tell who the arsonist was for most of the book. I kept trying to guess, but really wasn’t sure. I will say the book started a little slow, but picked up soon. I can’t wait to reread and I really hope we get another book.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
Summer is back in Sweet Briar and so is everyone else from the first book, plus we met a few new characters. The big mystery in this book was clearing Dixie’s name and it was a great one. I always thought there had to be more to the story, and I’m glad we learned everything in this book.
I couldn’t tell who the arsonist was for most of the book. I kept trying to guess, but really wasn’t sure. I will say the book started a little slow, but picked up soon. I can’t wait to reread and I really hope we get another book.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
June 6, 2018
Deadly Summer was such an exciting debut that I had high hopes for Blazing Summer and the continuation of the Darling Investigations series. Denise Grover Swank certainly did not disappoint! Blazing Summer takes everything up a few notches from its impressive debut.
Summer Butler is fiery, protective, smart, and a heck of a lot of fun! Her reality television series as a private investigator brings so much chaos to the surface in her little hometown. I absolutely adore Dixie, and I hate how her past always unjustly comes back to haunt her. Summer and Luke are sizzling together. Lauren, Summer's producer, is absolutely infuriating.
Blazing Summer is a fast, action-packed, and fun read. I could not suggest the series more. *****Five stars!*****
Summer Butler is fiery, protective, smart, and a heck of a lot of fun! Her reality television series as a private investigator brings so much chaos to the surface in her little hometown. I absolutely adore Dixie, and I hate how her past always unjustly comes back to haunt her. Summer and Luke are sizzling together. Lauren, Summer's producer, is absolutely infuriating.
Blazing Summer is a fast, action-packed, and fun read. I could not suggest the series more. *****Five stars!*****
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