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Madigan Amos Zoo Mystery #5
The Peacock's Poison
Jenna Leary, Avery Zoo’s resident ‘proud peacock’, is found murdered.
Unfortunately, her flirtatious lifestyle leaves more than a few suspects.
Madi knows whose feathers Jenna has been ruffling.
That knowledge could make Madi the next person to die…
Pick up this festive mystery today and see if you can crack the case!
Unfortunately, her flirtatious lifestyle leaves more than a few suspects.
Madi knows whose feathers Jenna has been ruffling.
That knowledge could make Madi the next person to die…
Pick up this festive mystery today and see if you can crack the case!
230 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 18, 2017
About the author
Ruby Loren
98 books123 followersRuby Loren was born and raised in East Sussex, England. She writes cozy mysteries, paranormal mysteries, and stories about rockstars. Her books are designed to take you away to a little slice of a different world, often set in a rural corner of South East England. Full of ideas, she is always busy writing her next bestseller!
Ruby is the author of the Madigan Amos cozy mysteries, a funny, twisty series that stars zookeeper, Madigan Amos, and is set in Sussex. She has many other cozy mystery series under her belt, including the Blooming series, the Emily Haversson Mysteries, the Hayley Argent Mysteries, and the Holly Winter Mysteries, all set in England.
The themes of her books range from cunning, twisty plots, to slightly silly, humorous mysteries, designed to make you laugh. Her books are perfect for readers, who love to get a know a character, and like to look on the lighter side of life.
Ruby still lives near Brighton, in East Sussex, with her fox-fighting, bird-murdering cat, Jasper. When she’s not writing, she’s travelling the world with her musical duo, Rumours, playing electric guitar and singing lead vocals.
To find out more about Ruby and pick up 3 free books, visit her website: www.rubyloren.com
Ruby is the author of the Madigan Amos cozy mysteries, a funny, twisty series that stars zookeeper, Madigan Amos, and is set in Sussex. She has many other cozy mystery series under her belt, including the Blooming series, the Emily Haversson Mysteries, the Hayley Argent Mysteries, and the Holly Winter Mysteries, all set in England.
The themes of her books range from cunning, twisty plots, to slightly silly, humorous mysteries, designed to make you laugh. Her books are perfect for readers, who love to get a know a character, and like to look on the lighter side of life.
Ruby still lives near Brighton, in East Sussex, with her fox-fighting, bird-murdering cat, Jasper. When she’s not writing, she’s travelling the world with her musical duo, Rumours, playing electric guitar and singing lead vocals.
To find out more about Ruby and pick up 3 free books, visit her website: www.rubyloren.com
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
October 6, 2018
Another good addition to this series. The editing could have been a bit better, but overall an easy, quick read.
February 26, 2021
Another fun, entertaining read featuring Madi's return to the Zoo and her eagerness to solve the murder of one of her colleagues. A wonderfully light read with a few giggles and a reveal of the culprit/s that I totally did not see coming.
December 29, 2017
Absolutely adorable mystery that is impossible to put down. Love anything by this author.
December 10, 2017
Review: THE PEACOCK' S POISON by Ruby Loren (A Madigan Amos Zoo Mystery)
This lovable series continues to utterly delight and never disappoint. Zookeeper and animal welfare consultant Madigan (Madi) Amos is a warmhearted character who easily elicits both empathy and respect. She totally cares for all animals (and her rescue kitten) but she also cares for people as well, desiring and encouraging their best.
Back at Avery Zoo in Southeast England, after travels to France and Cornwall to consult, Madi is separated from mysterious and secretive boyfriend Lowell (temporarily? She doesn't know). A zookeeper for the nonce, Madi is supporting the new zoo owner, Auryn Avery, in the wake of his grandfather's passing. After a celebratory gathering, a death occurs, and the suspect list quickly stretches farther than an anaconda, as the deceased was prone to "love 'em and leave 'em." Madi is right in the center, as always.
This lovable series continues to utterly delight and never disappoint. Zookeeper and animal welfare consultant Madigan (Madi) Amos is a warmhearted character who easily elicits both empathy and respect. She totally cares for all animals (and her rescue kitten) but she also cares for people as well, desiring and encouraging their best.
Back at Avery Zoo in Southeast England, after travels to France and Cornwall to consult, Madi is separated from mysterious and secretive boyfriend Lowell (temporarily? She doesn't know). A zookeeper for the nonce, Madi is supporting the new zoo owner, Auryn Avery, in the wake of his grandfather's passing. After a celebratory gathering, a death occurs, and the suspect list quickly stretches farther than an anaconda, as the deceased was prone to "love 'em and leave 'em." Madi is right in the center, as always.
December 12, 2018
Such a unique series! I love all the animals in the zoo and the hilarious situations they create. I also like the characters and mysteries. I do wish it was better edited.
December 16, 2017
“The Peacock’s Poison” earns 5/5 Plumes of Murderous Fun!
It's nearing Christmas, and Madi, taking a bit of a break from her consulting job and her relationship with boyfriend Lowell, is back at the Avery Zoo revisiting old friends, meeting new ones, and once again getting tangled up in murder. After a holiday party, Jenna Leary, zoo employee and known flirt, is found dead, and with several people with motive, the suspect pool is deep making it a delightful challenge for my inner detective. Madi tries to leave the investigation to local law enforcement, but of course, circumstances arise that make it difficult for her to stay on the sidelines. Then the drama heats up when someone makes a claim to half of the zoo. Another delightful and well written story from Ruby Loren that doe not leave out a bit of humor. The clues are revealed slowly and her characters are entertaining. Even though Madi seemed realistically distracted by several turning heads, it is all part of the engaging journey. Well worth the time!
“Disclosure: I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, however these are my honest opinions.”
It's nearing Christmas, and Madi, taking a bit of a break from her consulting job and her relationship with boyfriend Lowell, is back at the Avery Zoo revisiting old friends, meeting new ones, and once again getting tangled up in murder. After a holiday party, Jenna Leary, zoo employee and known flirt, is found dead, and with several people with motive, the suspect pool is deep making it a delightful challenge for my inner detective. Madi tries to leave the investigation to local law enforcement, but of course, circumstances arise that make it difficult for her to stay on the sidelines. Then the drama heats up when someone makes a claim to half of the zoo. Another delightful and well written story from Ruby Loren that doe not leave out a bit of humor. The clues are revealed slowly and her characters are entertaining. Even though Madi seemed realistically distracted by several turning heads, it is all part of the engaging journey. Well worth the time!
“Disclosure: I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, however these are my honest opinions.”
December 27, 2017
Madi spents Christmas time at home - at the zoo she started, Avery Zoo. For the readers it also is a kind of homecoming, with familiar characters, even the penguins are back! But, sadly, one of Madi's friends gets murdered and her other friends are prime suspects. Even Madi!
Another great book in this wonderful series!
I received a copy and chose to review it.
Another great book in this wonderful series!
I received a copy and chose to review it.
December 11, 2017
This is a page turner you can't put down until the end!
The fifth book in a fun and well written series you can't put down the minute you start each book! This book in the series is another homerun for Ruby. Madi, a zoo consultant is back at the Avery Zoo where her career began and where her best friend works. One of the workers at the zoo, Jenna Leary, the company flirt attends the holiday party in the barn and is found dead the next morning. Madi finds her body and the investigation begins. There is no loss of potential suspects and the police are having a hard time with this case! It seems every male at the zoo and in the town had some interaction with Jenna. Madi is letting the police handle this case and doesn't get involved until things get too close. There is a little romance, a crush taken to another level, another past boyfriend problem and a woman who claims half the zoo is hers! Wow so much intertwining, twists, turns and red-herrings to wade through you don't know who the murderer is until the end! This is a great cozy series and I highly recommend it to any cozy mystery lover! I received an ARC from the author, but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
February 11, 2018
Another entertaining entry in this enjoyable cozy mystery series. I was a bit apprehensive about Madigan’s return to Avery Zoo, the scene of the first book, Penguins and Mortal Peril – I feared that romantic matters might get... complicated. And so indeed they do. For me this business takes up too much of the book, but I will say it isn't either steamy or sappy. But looking back on the book there are a lot of other things going on – so many that the murder actually gets rather cursory treatment. Between the discovery in Chapter 2 and the very satisfactory wrap-up in the last chapter, the mystery is left pretty much to the off-stage police interviewing of all and sundry. But if you keep it in mind there is certainly no shortage of red herrings!
The story is set in the month before Christmas when the zoo has a Winter Wonderland; I found the behind-the-scenes perspective interesting. The zoo animals – mostly birds of various kinds this time – aren't closely connected with the mystery, but there are some delightful moments and the secret behind the peacocks' antics casts one of the characters in an amusing – or is that shocking? – new light.
The story is set in the month before Christmas when the zoo has a Winter Wonderland; I found the behind-the-scenes perspective interesting. The zoo animals – mostly birds of various kinds this time – aren't closely connected with the mystery, but there are some delightful moments and the secret behind the peacocks' antics casts one of the characters in an amusing – or is that shocking? – new light.
December 26, 2017
If you've been following Madigan Amos you'll want to find out how her life is going in this installment. She and her boyfriend Lowell have taken a time out, she finished her consulting job, and she is back at Avery Zoo where the series started. She's glad to be back with her friends, Tiffany and Auryn, but she struggles with a bit of a love triangle on this front. Add the rest of the personal drama at the zoo and somebody's gonna get hurt... or dead. I'm finally getting the hang of the author's British writing and vocabulary and learning to enjoy it. This is a mystery series and the author is quite creative about the means of demise but this far in the series I'm looking for a bit more bite which I know she is capable of. I am surprised that Madi's love life has become of more interest to me because I'm generally not a chick flick reader, but each book we delve more into her love and friendships and I really like that. There's reference to sex but no hot and heavy burning pages. Another good story Ms. Loren!
October 20, 2024
The Christmas season is coming upon Madi
and her cat, Lucky. Madi is taking a break
from her consulting job. Plus Madi and her
boyfriend Lowell have taken a break from
each other.
Madi is back at the Avery Zoo. She is visiting
with her old friends, making new acquaintances
and getting dragged into solving the murder
of the receptionist.
A slew of suspects keep Madi busy. Shifting
through clues and eliminating who is not
being truthful.
Will Madi discover the culprit before the
culprit eliminates her??
and her cat, Lucky. Madi is taking a break
from her consulting job. Plus Madi and her
boyfriend Lowell have taken a break from
each other.
Madi is back at the Avery Zoo. She is visiting
with her old friends, making new acquaintances
and getting dragged into solving the murder
of the receptionist.
A slew of suspects keep Madi busy. Shifting
through clues and eliminating who is not
being truthful.
Will Madi discover the culprit before the
culprit eliminates her??
July 15, 2018
Parrots and Payback (a prequel) - A cute, little prequel about another day at the zoo with some of our favorite characters. A quick read where readers familiar with Mad's zoo will know what's going on. I personally would read this after The Peacock's Poison, but that's how I did it. LOL. 5*
Penguins and Mortal Peril #1 - A good thriller. A well written, intriguing suspense with a well thought out, twisting plot and believable characters. There's interesting information about the zoo and its animals. Madi is an intelligent, caring person, especially with the animals, and takes loving care of the zoo. There's also humor; beware of furry pyschos. The animals are a good part of the story and some even have their own personalities. I finished the book in one sitting, immersed in the mystery. If you liked Blooming, you'll like this book, too. 5*
The Silence of the Snakes #2 - Spellbinding! Ruby just gets better with each book she writes. A well written, intriguing suspense with believable characters and a plot that doesn't let the reader put down the book until the last page. This is a substantial story, not a weak cozy, that would make Christie proud to write. Don't let this series pass you by, they're must reads. 5*
Murder is a Monkey's Game #3 - Another well written, intriguing suspense this time set in France. There's an interesting plot that holds the reader's attention, although a bit slower when compared to the previous two books. The characters are still interesting and the relationships between the characters are realistic and entertaining. While not necessary since each book is a standalone, I would recommend reading the books in order. Madi's story is continuously evolving and her growth as a character, too. I contacted the author to review her work many books ago. 5*
Lions and the Living Dead #4 - Her best book yet! This is a substantial and intriguing suspense with a well written, fast paced plot and believable characters. The main characters continue to evolve and the new characters are developed enough to have weight. The descriptions and storylines are vivid and full. The dialog realistic. The story flows from page to page making it difficult to put the book down. I stayed up late to finish it. 5*
The Peacock's Poison #5 - Another well written, well thought out story with our Madi and her crew. A longer book than usual, but just as substantial, that keeps the reader immersed in the pages until the end. Someone did their homework and makes it look bad for Madi. Poor dummy, bad move. Each book in the series gets better and the books always have you thinking. I watched this author mature as an author and her work doesn't disappoint. I have to recommend this series as must reads. Start with Penguins #1 to meet Madi and finish with Lions. If these are the only two books of the series you read, you picked well. But don't miss out on Silence and Monkey's Game. Sequentially is how they should be read, but it's not necessary, they're all standalones. 5*
A Memory for Murder #6 - Oh my gosh! This book has it all: intrigue; romance; subterfuge; romance; stings; murders; and the list goes on. Every book in this series gets better and better, and this is the "betterest". The amazing plot swings the reader in every direction; yah, some things are figured out, but there are some characters that are questionable. The characters, old and new, are interesting, have grown or have enough background where needed. Their dialog is realistic and there's no stupidity in second guessing or questioning everything - just straight thoughts and actions. I couldn't put this book down until I had finished it. The is the most substantial book by Ms. Loren and I'm looking forward to #7. I'm happy I volunteered to review her work. She has immense growth as an author since the first book I read by her, Snowed In With Death. 5*
Whales and a Watery Grave #7 – What what a way to die! Sorry, but the murder of this victim is extremely different from the usual murders found in other mystery books, which complicates the investigation. Ms. Loren does another fabulous job with this book, its characters and the murder itself. Well written, intriguing and suspenseful, the story line holds the reader glued to the pages, which zip by quickly. There’s continued growth with our favorite characters and the new characters are developed enough to either like or dislike them. The animal characters always add something to the stories. A simple, relaxing holiday in Mallorca isn’t in the cards for Madi and Auryn with the complex, intriguing murder, there’s suspects everywhere. 5*
Foxes and Fatal Attraction #9 - I just love the expressions of the fox and the hound, such a funny cover; it makes you wonder what has the clever fox happy and the hound worried. Well the story does give you that info. Another intriguing, substantial murder mystery with all of our favorite characters and the return of an old favorite or two, of which one brings even more secrets and subterfuge to Madi's present and future. The animals still play a large part in the story and add to the humor, which blends in well with the drama and intrigue. Another wonderful addition to a great series. 5*
Penguins and Mortal Peril #1 - A good thriller. A well written, intriguing suspense with a well thought out, twisting plot and believable characters. There's interesting information about the zoo and its animals. Madi is an intelligent, caring person, especially with the animals, and takes loving care of the zoo. There's also humor; beware of furry pyschos. The animals are a good part of the story and some even have their own personalities. I finished the book in one sitting, immersed in the mystery. If you liked Blooming, you'll like this book, too. 5*
The Silence of the Snakes #2 - Spellbinding! Ruby just gets better with each book she writes. A well written, intriguing suspense with believable characters and a plot that doesn't let the reader put down the book until the last page. This is a substantial story, not a weak cozy, that would make Christie proud to write. Don't let this series pass you by, they're must reads. 5*
Murder is a Monkey's Game #3 - Another well written, intriguing suspense this time set in France. There's an interesting plot that holds the reader's attention, although a bit slower when compared to the previous two books. The characters are still interesting and the relationships between the characters are realistic and entertaining. While not necessary since each book is a standalone, I would recommend reading the books in order. Madi's story is continuously evolving and her growth as a character, too. I contacted the author to review her work many books ago. 5*
Lions and the Living Dead #4 - Her best book yet! This is a substantial and intriguing suspense with a well written, fast paced plot and believable characters. The main characters continue to evolve and the new characters are developed enough to have weight. The descriptions and storylines are vivid and full. The dialog realistic. The story flows from page to page making it difficult to put the book down. I stayed up late to finish it. 5*
The Peacock's Poison #5 - Another well written, well thought out story with our Madi and her crew. A longer book than usual, but just as substantial, that keeps the reader immersed in the pages until the end. Someone did their homework and makes it look bad for Madi. Poor dummy, bad move. Each book in the series gets better and the books always have you thinking. I watched this author mature as an author and her work doesn't disappoint. I have to recommend this series as must reads. Start with Penguins #1 to meet Madi and finish with Lions. If these are the only two books of the series you read, you picked well. But don't miss out on Silence and Monkey's Game. Sequentially is how they should be read, but it's not necessary, they're all standalones. 5*
A Memory for Murder #6 - Oh my gosh! This book has it all: intrigue; romance; subterfuge; romance; stings; murders; and the list goes on. Every book in this series gets better and better, and this is the "betterest". The amazing plot swings the reader in every direction; yah, some things are figured out, but there are some characters that are questionable. The characters, old and new, are interesting, have grown or have enough background where needed. Their dialog is realistic and there's no stupidity in second guessing or questioning everything - just straight thoughts and actions. I couldn't put this book down until I had finished it. The is the most substantial book by Ms. Loren and I'm looking forward to #7. I'm happy I volunteered to review her work. She has immense growth as an author since the first book I read by her, Snowed In With Death. 5*
Whales and a Watery Grave #7 – What what a way to die! Sorry, but the murder of this victim is extremely different from the usual murders found in other mystery books, which complicates the investigation. Ms. Loren does another fabulous job with this book, its characters and the murder itself. Well written, intriguing and suspenseful, the story line holds the reader glued to the pages, which zip by quickly. There’s continued growth with our favorite characters and the new characters are developed enough to either like or dislike them. The animal characters always add something to the stories. A simple, relaxing holiday in Mallorca isn’t in the cards for Madi and Auryn with the complex, intriguing murder, there’s suspects everywhere. 5*
Foxes and Fatal Attraction #9 - I just love the expressions of the fox and the hound, such a funny cover; it makes you wonder what has the clever fox happy and the hound worried. Well the story does give you that info. Another intriguing, substantial murder mystery with all of our favorite characters and the return of an old favorite or two, of which one brings even more secrets and subterfuge to Madi's present and future. The animals still play a large part in the story and add to the humor, which blends in well with the drama and intrigue. Another wonderful addition to a great series. 5*
December 19, 2017
Another great story about Madi and the zoo she is working at-which is back at the Avery Zoo. She isn't a zookeeper this time, but more of a position that oversees the entire zoo. And when I say entire zoo I mean solving the murder that happened after a zoo party.
It is nearing Christmas and a special fundraiser (being run by a professional fundraising business) adds to the zoo's success as well as problems. Since Madi and Lowell are "taking a break" she notices the head of the fundraiser (Barnaby)
and realizes there is a spark there. But will she remain loyal to Lowell or pursue Barnaby?
Once again, author Ruby Loren has shown us how a zoo is run and interesting animal facts. (Turkeys and Peacocks are not on my favorite list after this book!)
Her interaction with fellow workers is also engaging and interesting. Best friend Tiff is interested in the boss, Auryn, and Madi isn't sure if she is or not. Makes for some fun possibilities! Best of all, each book focuses on different animals and aspects of running a zoo. I love learning about this and now I am trying to visit zoos whenever I get the chance. I have a greater appreciation for the zoo and workers thanks to this fiction series!
It is nearing Christmas and a special fundraiser (being run by a professional fundraising business) adds to the zoo's success as well as problems. Since Madi and Lowell are "taking a break" she notices the head of the fundraiser (Barnaby)
and realizes there is a spark there. But will she remain loyal to Lowell or pursue Barnaby?
Once again, author Ruby Loren has shown us how a zoo is run and interesting animal facts. (Turkeys and Peacocks are not on my favorite list after this book!)
Her interaction with fellow workers is also engaging and interesting. Best friend Tiff is interested in the boss, Auryn, and Madi isn't sure if she is or not. Makes for some fun possibilities! Best of all, each book focuses on different animals and aspects of running a zoo. I love learning about this and now I am trying to visit zoos whenever I get the chance. I have a greater appreciation for the zoo and workers thanks to this fiction series!
December 14, 2017
Book five in the series sees Madi back at Avery Zoo, not as a consultant but as a "helper"
Madi is finding it hard to fit in, and this only worsens when she finds the body of Jenna Leary in the play barn, the day after a staff party. Murder does follow her around! And this makes her a suspect to the police.
The main thread of the story is the Christmas Wonderland that Auryn has planned, with the help of an Event Organising company.
Could Jenna's death be linked to this?
The plot moves along swiftly for most of the time, and we revisit old characters, and meet new ones, and there are the usual humourous moments that make it into Madi's online comic.
Madi is distracted for much of the story, which slows the pace. She tends to overthink things, which is frankly becoming annoying. This time she's waffling about what to do about her comics being printed, and, her love life. Thinking things are over between Lowell and herself, Madi suddenly finds herself with several admirers, including Auryn. I really wish she would make her mind up once and for all!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Madi is finding it hard to fit in, and this only worsens when she finds the body of Jenna Leary in the play barn, the day after a staff party. Murder does follow her around! And this makes her a suspect to the police.
The main thread of the story is the Christmas Wonderland that Auryn has planned, with the help of an Event Organising company.
Could Jenna's death be linked to this?
The plot moves along swiftly for most of the time, and we revisit old characters, and meet new ones, and there are the usual humourous moments that make it into Madi's online comic.
Madi is distracted for much of the story, which slows the pace. She tends to overthink things, which is frankly becoming annoying. This time she's waffling about what to do about her comics being printed, and, her love life. Thinking things are over between Lowell and herself, Madi suddenly finds herself with several admirers, including Auryn. I really wish she would make her mind up once and for all!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
December 16, 2017
This is another wonderful book following on from the other books with the characters at Avery Zoo and the problems that zookeeper (now consultant) Madi seems to get herself mixed up in.
This time Madi has returned to Avery zoo to help out after being away consulting at other zoos and a death occurs at their staff Christmas party.
Of course Madi is front and centre at this discovery and the police don’t take kindly to that. Lots of subterfuge is going on around them and it isn’t an easy case to solve.
The story follows what happens to everyone at the zoo as the investigations unfold and other events take place. Are these in reaction to what has already happened or are they separate incidents altogether ?
This is what makes these books keep your attention and make you want to keep reading and not put them down. Having read Penguins and Mortal Peril, this follows along with the same lovable main characters and the zoo at the centre of the action.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above. I would recommend this series to all who like a bit of mystery and tales of animal antics.
This time Madi has returned to Avery zoo to help out after being away consulting at other zoos and a death occurs at their staff Christmas party.
Of course Madi is front and centre at this discovery and the police don’t take kindly to that. Lots of subterfuge is going on around them and it isn’t an easy case to solve.
The story follows what happens to everyone at the zoo as the investigations unfold and other events take place. Are these in reaction to what has already happened or are they separate incidents altogether ?
This is what makes these books keep your attention and make you want to keep reading and not put them down. Having read Penguins and Mortal Peril, this follows along with the same lovable main characters and the zoo at the centre of the action.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above. I would recommend this series to all who like a bit of mystery and tales of animal antics.
December 14, 2017
In The Peacock's Poison, book 5 of 5 in Ruby Loren's Madigan Amos Zoo Mystery series, Madi returns to Avery Zoo.
I love this series - I really do - BUT I struggle with the author's inclusion of a "love interest" for Madi. Overall I find Madi very likeable but when the story strays from the zoo into Madi's personal relationships with the opposite sex I mostly want to gag! The boy/girl drama inserted into Loren's stories doesn't fit with the level of maturity you would expect to witness in Loren's characters. These are full time employees working at a zoo not high school students.
Was the book good? Absolutely, however, I believe the book would have been a lot better (and worthy of a 5 star rating) if the author left out all the boy/girl drama which I truly believe added nothing to the story.
I love this series - I really do - BUT I struggle with the author's inclusion of a "love interest" for Madi. Overall I find Madi very likeable but when the story strays from the zoo into Madi's personal relationships with the opposite sex I mostly want to gag! The boy/girl drama inserted into Loren's stories doesn't fit with the level of maturity you would expect to witness in Loren's characters. These are full time employees working at a zoo not high school students.
Was the book good? Absolutely, however, I believe the book would have been a lot better (and worthy of a 5 star rating) if the author left out all the boy/girl drama which I truly believe added nothing to the story.
April 11, 2018
Every book is better than the one before. I can't imagine what could possibly beat this one. A complex plot. And Madi has made some personal decisions. There are a few new people at Avery Zoo. A company has been called in to set up the Christmas Wonderland. Everything seems to be underway for the zoo's fundraiser. Zookeepers are hard at work taking care of their animals. All seems to be going well when an employee is found dead. Who killed Jenna? Why? It is a puzzler. And why are the peacock's given the run of the zoo? They like to chase people and try to bite and not just the employees. But zoo goers too. And who let that turkey out to run with the peacocks? Grab up a copy of this book and come along on this ride. Can you figure out this puzzle? I recommend this book.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
December 12, 2017
Madi is back at Avery zoo. When she goes to clean up the barn after a party, she discovers the Jenna's body which had been left in a compromising position. Was she killed by a jealous boyfriend, or possibly one of their girlfriends? Or, is there a more sinister reason someone wants Jenna out of the way.
Auryn has hired an event company to host a Christmas themed event. Madison thinks the company's promises are too good to be true.
This is another fun story, Ruby has well developed characters and solid plot lines. I was personally disappointed in a couple of decisions Madi made about her personal life. One of her decisions will also affect her friendship with Tiff. Her comic agent also has news for her.
Auryn has hired an event company to host a Christmas themed event. Madison thinks the company's promises are too good to be true.
This is another fun story, Ruby has well developed characters and solid plot lines. I was personally disappointed in a couple of decisions Madi made about her personal life. One of her decisions will also affect her friendship with Tiff. Her comic agent also has news for her.
December 29, 2017
Madi has returned to the Avery Zoo near Christmas to help with the Winter Wonderland. The morning after a staff party Madi finds the HR head Jenna dead. Jenna moves through men rather quickly and has had a romantic fling with most of the male zoo employees. The police are unsuccessfully looking for the murderer. In the meantime, the Winter Wonderland is a great success. It is being handled by an outside event team. Barnaby seems to be very hands on. Several potential love triangles go on throughout this book between Auryn- the zoo owner, Tiff, Madi, Christi, and Barnaby.
This is the second of the Madigan Amos books I have read and I have thoroughly enjoyed both. I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, however these are my honest opinions.
This is the second of the Madigan Amos books I have read and I have thoroughly enjoyed both. I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, however these are my honest opinions.
December 24, 2017
I definitely had a lot of fun with “The Peacock’s Poison,” Madi’s fifth book. This one was a great book that may not have had action like lion chases, but had plenty of better moments. The only things that made me sad were the deaths and Lowell. Whyyyyyyy?!?!?? I LOVE Lowell!!! But, at the same time, I’m very happy for Madi(if you want to know why, read the book!).
This fifth installment in the series was very funny. I LOVED the peacocks and Bernard the turkey. Even more, I loved the Christmasy feeling. These books are so awesome. I cannot wait for book #6!!!!! That’s all I have to say for now, other than,
MERRY CHRISTMAS🎄🎄🎄
This fifth installment in the series was very funny. I LOVED the peacocks and Bernard the turkey. Even more, I loved the Christmasy feeling. These books are so awesome. I cannot wait for book #6!!!!! That’s all I have to say for now, other than,
MERRY CHRISTMAS🎄🎄🎄
April 7, 2018
This is the 5th book in the Madigan Amos Zoo Mystery series. It is fun to read about a zoo and Ruby adds some facts about animals, habitats, and preservation which are interesting and well done. Madi returns to Avery Zoo after "taking a break" and helps Auryn after his grandfather passes away. The zoo flirt is found dead after a zoo party. There are a lot of suspects and clues which makes the book hard to put down. The love triangle doesn't appeal to me. It is no surprise what happens and it is done with out too much drama which helps. This is a great cozy mystery with interesting characters, an intriguing mystery and of course some romance.
July 2, 2018
Christmas events should not include a dead body.
Awesome. She's back at her home base and everyone is gearing up for Christmas. That is until the body of the receptionist is found. Who killed her and why? The list of suspects and motives keep growing and with looking after the animals, aiding the event team, hired to put the Zoo on the map, and her increased feelings for the owner she has a hard job to find the culprit. Nice tight plot with an extra twist at the end. Well written and making you feel as if you are revisiting old friends. The characters just get better and better with the romantic angle as an extra bonus. Great series.
I received an ARC copy for a honest review
Awesome. She's back at her home base and everyone is gearing up for Christmas. That is until the body of the receptionist is found. Who killed her and why? The list of suspects and motives keep growing and with looking after the animals, aiding the event team, hired to put the Zoo on the map, and her increased feelings for the owner she has a hard job to find the culprit. Nice tight plot with an extra twist at the end. Well written and making you feel as if you are revisiting old friends. The characters just get better and better with the romantic angle as an extra bonus. Great series.
I received an ARC copy for a honest review
December 2, 2018
I picked this up because of the Christmas theme - and I wasn't disappointed! Full festive cheer and fun amidst many humorous animal capers, I did enjoy the read. I loved the guard-peacocks! As for the mystery itself, there were no noticeable red-herrings littering the path. The police were not too incompetent (but the blame-the-protagonist-for-everything trope is wearing thin now) The ending was not too obvious because the Madi didn't really spend too much effort into investigating. I kind of liked that in the sense that she was just an observer and not trying to crack the case. Definitely worth reading if you are a fan of animals.
December 10, 2017
Oh, Madi is back at the Avery Zoo for Christmas! And yes, of course there is a murder, and Madi is not only the one finding the body but one of the suspects, too. And there is the Christmas Wonderland coming, planned by Auryn who, now that Madi seems to have broken with Lowell for good is pursuing her... romantically.
With old and new characters, an irascible bunch of peacocks, and the usual humour this is also a pretty good mystery, which would keep you entertained until the end.
A really amusing and enjoyable read.
With old and new characters, an irascible bunch of peacocks, and the usual humour this is also a pretty good mystery, which would keep you entertained until the end.
A really amusing and enjoyable read.
December 18, 2017
In my opinion. this series is rapidly becoming one of the best cosy mystery series available, and this is the best book in the series so far.
I really like the character of Madigan, a zookeeper/animal welfare consultant, she is believable and likeable, and best of all she actually has some common sense, admittedly she does procrastinate but so do a lot of real people and this just adds to her realism.
The plot is clever and original and has everything that you could want from a good cosy mystery, a lot of red herrings, some excellent action passages, a bit of romance and some humour thrown in to spice things up (guard peacocks anyone?) I also like that this story has a Christmas feel to it, which is very appropriate for it's release date.
I did receive a complimentary copy of the book from the author, but I have voluntarily written this review based on my own opinions.
I really like the character of Madigan, a zookeeper/animal welfare consultant, she is believable and likeable, and best of all she actually has some common sense, admittedly she does procrastinate but so do a lot of real people and this just adds to her realism.
The plot is clever and original and has everything that you could want from a good cosy mystery, a lot of red herrings, some excellent action passages, a bit of romance and some humour thrown in to spice things up (guard peacocks anyone?) I also like that this story has a Christmas feel to it, which is very appropriate for it's release date.
I did receive a complimentary copy of the book from the author, but I have voluntarily written this review based on my own opinions.
December 24, 2017
Ruby Loren is one fantastic Author! If you want an entertaining delightful read this is it!
It has a great cast of characters plus all the quirkiness of the animals in a zoo. It has murder, mystery and romance - all the things needed for a good storyline.
The Author has done a wonderful job of keeping the reader glued to the mystery until a solution is found to it all. This is a fun cozy mystery which I enjoyed reading and can totally recommend.
I was gifted with an advance readers copy and voluntarily reviewed it.
It has a great cast of characters plus all the quirkiness of the animals in a zoo. It has murder, mystery and romance - all the things needed for a good storyline.
The Author has done a wonderful job of keeping the reader glued to the mystery until a solution is found to it all. This is a fun cozy mystery which I enjoyed reading and can totally recommend.
I was gifted with an advance readers copy and voluntarily reviewed it.
November 29, 2018
It was essentially a good story, but not worthy of the time it took to tell it. It just dragged on, and on and on. I couldn't wait for it to end.
It is a shame, because the solution was great and the book would have been a great read if it concentrated on the mystery and shortened all of the other superfluous happenings that took up so much time.
Therefore, although I feel that Ruby has it in her to write a really great book, I am quite sure that the other books in this series will be he same as this one and, therefore, I will have to pass on reading any of them.
It is a shame, because the solution was great and the book would have been a great read if it concentrated on the mystery and shortened all of the other superfluous happenings that took up so much time.
Therefore, although I feel that Ruby has it in her to write a really great book, I am quite sure that the other books in this series will be he same as this one and, therefore, I will have to pass on reading any of them.
November 30, 2018
4 1\2 stars
So far, I've enjoyed the series. The back story is cute, and Madi's travels make the many murders she encounters more plausible. I'm a fan of cozy mysteries and an animal lover, so these books suit me perfectly.
I'm knocking off half a point because the author doesn't punctuate correctly and its irksome.
Ms. Loren, don't treat a clause beginning with "THAT" as nonrestrictive. No comma before THAT, please!!!! And one more minor annoyance: dependant? Why?! That spelling is archaic.
So far, I've enjoyed the series. The back story is cute, and Madi's travels make the many murders she encounters more plausible. I'm a fan of cozy mysteries and an animal lover, so these books suit me perfectly.
I'm knocking off half a point because the author doesn't punctuate correctly and its irksome.
Ms. Loren, don't treat a clause beginning with "THAT" as nonrestrictive. No comma before THAT, please!!!! And one more minor annoyance: dependant? Why?! That spelling is archaic.
December 5, 2017
I read this book in a matter of hours (work got in the way or I'd have taken less time)! Yeah, it is that good! I've lost track of how many Ruby Loren books I've read. This is an enjoyable, well-written mystery (maybe the best mystery of this series to date) and since the primary characters are already familiar if you read the other Madigan Amos Zoo Mysteries this is like a visit with an old friend.
December 19, 2017
Another Wonderful Zoo Mystery! Cozy and Twisted!
I have really enjoyed this series. From the animal antics to the intricate plot, this is the best so far. I have come to expect excellence from this writer and this book does not disappoint! The plot is great and the execution is perfection. While I had some ideas of the outcome, there was no way I could guess the twisted details. Already, I can’t wait for the next one!
I have really enjoyed this series. From the animal antics to the intricate plot, this is the best so far. I have come to expect excellence from this writer and this book does not disappoint! The plot is great and the execution is perfection. While I had some ideas of the outcome, there was no way I could guess the twisted details. Already, I can’t wait for the next one!
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