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Pepper Martin #1
Don of the Dead
She sees dead people.
Beautiful, smart, and chic, Pepper Martin never had to work a day in her life — until her surgeon daddy was convicted of fraud, her wealthy fiancé took a powder, and the family fortune ran bone dry.
Suddenly desperate, the inexperienced ex-rich girl was forced to take the only job she could get: as a tour guide in a cemetery. But a grave situation took a turn for the worse when a head-on collision with a headstone left her with an unwanted ability to communicate with the disgruntled deceased... and now Pepper has a whacked Mafia don demanding that she hunt down his killers — and threatening to haunt her until she does.
Beautiful, smart, and chic, Pepper Martin never had to work a day in her life — until her surgeon daddy was convicted of fraud, her wealthy fiancé took a powder, and the family fortune ran bone dry.
Suddenly desperate, the inexperienced ex-rich girl was forced to take the only job she could get: as a tour guide in a cemetery. But a grave situation took a turn for the worse when a head-on collision with a headstone left her with an unwanted ability to communicate with the disgruntled deceased... and now Pepper has a whacked Mafia don demanding that she hunt down his killers — and threatening to haunt her until she does.
325 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 30, 2006
94 people are currently reading
3697 people want to read
About the author
Casey Daniels
14 books371 followersA pseudonym used by Connie Laux, A.K.A Miranda Bliss, Zoe Daniels, Connie Deka, Mimi Granger, Anastasia Hastings, Connie Laux, Constance Laux, Kylie Logan, Lucy Ness..
A couple years ago I applied for a part-time job as a tour guide at a historic cemetery not far from where I live. Why? Well, aside from the fact that the job would force me to step away from my computer and remind me that there was a life beyond writing (even in a place where just about everybody was dead), I love cemeteries.
No, really. I mean it. I really love cemeteries.
Think about it. A cemetery--I mean a really good old cemetery, not these new “memorial parks” where every headstone is flat to the ground and every one of them looks the same--is really a museum without walls. Take a peek into any cemetery that’s more than sixty or so years old and you’re bound to see interesting architecture, sculpture and art. There are stories, too, everywhere you look. One memorial can give you a glimpse into generations of a family’s history. Another might suggest tragedy. Still others speak of undying love and precious memories.
Is it any wonder that a writer’s imagination is bound to take flight in a cemetery?
That’s exactly what happened to me. I didn’t get the job, by the way, but as I drove home from the interview, I did get the idea for Pepper Martin, a cemetery tour guide whose enthusiasm for cemeteries does not rival my own. After all, what could be more perfect that an amateur sleuth surrounded by dead people? And if she just so happened to be able and see and talk to some of them, all the better!
I learned to love mysteries early thanks to my dad, a Cleveland Police detective who enjoyed the Sherlock Holmes stories and spent his days off searching for stolen cars. Often on those trips, I was in the back seat and to this day, I have Dad to thank for my knowledge of some less-than-savory parts of the city. Later, I read my way through every mystery story I could get my hands on. Agatha Christie and Conan Doyle are still among my favorites.
I have a degree in English, experience as a journalist and writing teacher, and lots of ideas for more Pepper Martin mysteries. When I’m not writing, I’m usually with my family and our two dogs, Ernie, an adorable Airedale pup, and Oscar, a rescued Jack Russell who spends far too much time watching TV. I enjoy knitting, gardening and of course, stomping through cemeteries in search of history, stories and inspiration.
A couple years ago I applied for a part-time job as a tour guide at a historic cemetery not far from where I live. Why? Well, aside from the fact that the job would force me to step away from my computer and remind me that there was a life beyond writing (even in a place where just about everybody was dead), I love cemeteries.
No, really. I mean it. I really love cemeteries.
Think about it. A cemetery--I mean a really good old cemetery, not these new “memorial parks” where every headstone is flat to the ground and every one of them looks the same--is really a museum without walls. Take a peek into any cemetery that’s more than sixty or so years old and you’re bound to see interesting architecture, sculpture and art. There are stories, too, everywhere you look. One memorial can give you a glimpse into generations of a family’s history. Another might suggest tragedy. Still others speak of undying love and precious memories.
Is it any wonder that a writer’s imagination is bound to take flight in a cemetery?
That’s exactly what happened to me. I didn’t get the job, by the way, but as I drove home from the interview, I did get the idea for Pepper Martin, a cemetery tour guide whose enthusiasm for cemeteries does not rival my own. After all, what could be more perfect that an amateur sleuth surrounded by dead people? And if she just so happened to be able and see and talk to some of them, all the better!
I learned to love mysteries early thanks to my dad, a Cleveland Police detective who enjoyed the Sherlock Holmes stories and spent his days off searching for stolen cars. Often on those trips, I was in the back seat and to this day, I have Dad to thank for my knowledge of some less-than-savory parts of the city. Later, I read my way through every mystery story I could get my hands on. Agatha Christie and Conan Doyle are still among my favorites.
I have a degree in English, experience as a journalist and writing teacher, and lots of ideas for more Pepper Martin mysteries. When I’m not writing, I’m usually with my family and our two dogs, Ernie, an adorable Airedale pup, and Oscar, a rescued Jack Russell who spends far too much time watching TV. I enjoy knitting, gardening and of course, stomping through cemeteries in search of history, stories and inspiration.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
August 18, 2017
Don of the Dead is the first book in cute, quirky cozy mystery series. At first I was a bit put off by the overly fluffy tone and how the main character and writer seems to take everything so lightly, but I soon fell into the story and ended up enjoying myself.
After Piper hits her head on a long-dead mobster's gravestone, she can now see and communicate with the ghost. The don wants her to solve his death because he's ready to move on, and there's a mystery in itself on the real reason behind that. As would be expected with the mobster type, he only reveals what he thinks he has to, keeping a lot of secrets close to his chest. Piper goes back and forth between freaking out she can see a ghost, doubting her sanity, and starting to get into the investigating.
The story was a good one - once you get past Piper's obsession with her looks and the fluffy writing style, it was interesting that she had to meet with some former mobster's, surviving children, interview people of a crime long past, and juggle between a suspicious scientist who is following her around and yummy but irritated cop who wonders where she's getting her information from.
I found Gus's character endearing, especially when he's protective over her with the men she dates. He's not a "good guy", but he's an enjoyable character. I've read four books of the series so far, and the first book and ghost remain my favorite of the lot, with the third coming in behind as a close tie.
If you like cute cozies, you'll probably enjoy this one as much as I did. Sometimes Piper comes across as borderline airheaded, but throwing in the contrast of her personality being gifted with this unusual talent makes satifsying, humorous clashes. The cemetary tour guide stuff and chipper boss who sees no wrong in her employee also paints a fun touch. The mystery itself is intriguing and the ending is excellent, wrapping it up with a few surprises that I wouldn't have previously guessed.
After Piper hits her head on a long-dead mobster's gravestone, she can now see and communicate with the ghost. The don wants her to solve his death because he's ready to move on, and there's a mystery in itself on the real reason behind that. As would be expected with the mobster type, he only reveals what he thinks he has to, keeping a lot of secrets close to his chest. Piper goes back and forth between freaking out she can see a ghost, doubting her sanity, and starting to get into the investigating.
The story was a good one - once you get past Piper's obsession with her looks and the fluffy writing style, it was interesting that she had to meet with some former mobster's, surviving children, interview people of a crime long past, and juggle between a suspicious scientist who is following her around and yummy but irritated cop who wonders where she's getting her information from.
I found Gus's character endearing, especially when he's protective over her with the men she dates. He's not a "good guy", but he's an enjoyable character. I've read four books of the series so far, and the first book and ghost remain my favorite of the lot, with the third coming in behind as a close tie.
If you like cute cozies, you'll probably enjoy this one as much as I did. Sometimes Piper comes across as borderline airheaded, but throwing in the contrast of her personality being gifted with this unusual talent makes satifsying, humorous clashes. The cemetary tour guide stuff and chipper boss who sees no wrong in her employee also paints a fun touch. The mystery itself is intriguing and the ending is excellent, wrapping it up with a few surprises that I wouldn't have previously guessed.
July 1, 2025
Think "Legally Blonde" meets "The Sixth Sense", and you have "Don of the Dead".
Funny, cute debut novel from Cleveland native Casey Daniels about a spoiled rich girl named Pepper Martin who is suddenly given the ability to communicate with dead people. Actually, only one dead person, Gus Scarpetti, a Cleveland mafia don who was killed thirty years ago.
He recruits her (unwillingly) to play detective and discover who ordered his "hit". To Gus's and her own surprise, it turns out she's actually good at playing detective.
It may seem like a silly premise, but Daniels turns what could have been a ridiculous story into a pretty good mystery thriller with well-developed characters and a clear respect for the genre. First in a series. Fans of Charlaine Harris and Christopher Moore will enjoy Daniels.
(I've already cast the movie: Amy Adams as Pepper Martin and Robert De Niro as Gus.)
Funny, cute debut novel from Cleveland native Casey Daniels about a spoiled rich girl named Pepper Martin who is suddenly given the ability to communicate with dead people. Actually, only one dead person, Gus Scarpetti, a Cleveland mafia don who was killed thirty years ago.
He recruits her (unwillingly) to play detective and discover who ordered his "hit". To Gus's and her own surprise, it turns out she's actually good at playing detective.
It may seem like a silly premise, but Daniels turns what could have been a ridiculous story into a pretty good mystery thriller with well-developed characters and a clear respect for the genre. First in a series. Fans of Charlaine Harris and Christopher Moore will enjoy Daniels.
(I've already cast the movie: Amy Adams as Pepper Martin and Robert De Niro as Gus.)
October 9, 2014
This book was a blend of the cozy mystery, chick lit and paranormal fantasy genres that showed occasional potential, but ultimately did not work for me. I picked it up at the library because the blurb said that Pepper Martin, the heroine, works as a cemetery tour guide and decides to solve a mystery on behalf of a ghost (a mafia don murdered decades earlier), and that sounded like a fun plot. I love cemeteries. And ghosts. Mafia dons, not so much.
As it turned out, the ghostly Gus Scarpetti was my favorite part of the story, entertaining and likable. I ended up finishing the book (and giving it a two, rather than one star rating) because I did enjoy that character, and because I had no issues with the actual writing, dialogue and pacing. Don was a smooth, quick read, and could have been rather good if the rest of the plot was a bit better, and--here's my real bone of contention--protagonist Pepper Martin hadn't been such an insufferable idiot.
What to say about Pepper? She is cute, has large breasts (this is mentioned on the very first page and referred to constantly for the rest of the story), and had once aspired to be a rich "country club wife" until her fiance dumped her after her father went to prison. That's about it. No other hobbies, interests, friendships, hang-ups or childhood memories are ever mentioned, so "jilted girl with large breasts" is all I can recall about her. Except that she is also as dumb as a box of rocks. Really annoyingly stupid from start to finish.
Let's just say that 80% of the "investigation" could have been lopped off if Pepper had bothered to do some basic research. Everything she learns is either by lucky coincidence or by one of the other characters spoon-feeding her information that she should have known to ask about from the get-go. She repeatedly puts her life in danger, despite being warned, by being stupid and/or careless, and then has to be rescued by one of the love interests or by a word from Gus every time. This got really, really annoying after a while, especially as all the other characters kept telling her how smart she is! Which would be like telling the Shopaholic of Sophie Kinsella's series that she's thrifty and good with money.
The mystery itself was OK, and I was curious about one of the other characters, who seems to have a weird interest in Pepper, although that part was left hanging, doubtless to be picked up again later in the series. While I did see some real potential for something better from this author, I don't feel tempted to continue with the series.
As it turned out, the ghostly Gus Scarpetti was my favorite part of the story, entertaining and likable. I ended up finishing the book (and giving it a two, rather than one star rating) because I did enjoy that character, and because I had no issues with the actual writing, dialogue and pacing. Don was a smooth, quick read, and could have been rather good if the rest of the plot was a bit better, and--here's my real bone of contention--protagonist Pepper Martin hadn't been such an insufferable idiot.
What to say about Pepper? She is cute, has large breasts (this is mentioned on the very first page and referred to constantly for the rest of the story), and had once aspired to be a rich "country club wife" until her fiance dumped her after her father went to prison. That's about it. No other hobbies, interests, friendships, hang-ups or childhood memories are ever mentioned, so "jilted girl with large breasts" is all I can recall about her. Except that she is also as dumb as a box of rocks. Really annoyingly stupid from start to finish.
Let's just say that 80% of the "investigation" could have been lopped off if Pepper had bothered to do some basic research. Everything she learns is either by lucky coincidence or by one of the other characters spoon-feeding her information that she should have known to ask about from the get-go. She repeatedly puts her life in danger, despite being warned, by being stupid and/or careless, and then has to be rescued by one of the love interests or by a word from Gus every time. This got really, really annoying after a while, especially as all the other characters kept telling her how smart she is! Which would be like telling the Shopaholic of Sophie Kinsella's series that she's thrifty and good with money.
The mystery itself was OK, and I was curious about one of the other characters, who seems to have a weird interest in Pepper, although that part was left hanging, doubtless to be picked up again later in the series. While I did see some real potential for something better from this author, I don't feel tempted to continue with the series.
February 26, 2023
First in a series of cozy mystery, paranormal, chick investigator series. This was quick and entertaining but ultimately it wasn’t anything special to separate itself from a myriad of similar books. Hopefully the series gets better as it definitely sets up future plot lines which could prove interesting.
July 20, 2022
A pleasant, quick read that seemed shorter than it actually is. It's a paranormal cozy mystery told in first person by the series namesake Pepper Martin. As the publisher's blurb, repeated at the top of this page, says, she
Long story short, it's not an impersonator, because no one else in the group can see him. For much, much longer than you might expect, Pepper tries to convince herself he's a hallucination, from that brain injury that doctors can't find. She even starts a possible romance with Dr. Dan, not a medical doctor but a psychologist with multiple Ph.D.s. (Always be suspicious of those.) Brains are his specialty, and he wants to use Pepper in his study.
But with the clearer part of her brain, which works a good deal of the time, Pepper accepts that this is Gus's ghost and--wait for it--she goes to work for him. He directs her to a stash of cash as her pay for finding out who murdered him so he can move on in peace.
Not a detective much, is Pepper (see blurb above), but she can't talk about ghosts to Quinn the cop, who takes a strong interest in her and is really much more suitable as a romantic lead. So her first strategy is to claim she's trying to learn more about the Scarpetti crime family for her tour talks. Eventually, though, she tangles with surviving members of that "family" and becomes the target for a hit. Oops.
A light-hearted, fairly humorous story becomes more serious toward the end, when Pepper realizes why she can't abandon this quest, and there are some very intense feelings in the final chapters. The solution to the mystery was a surprise to me, and there was something beautiful in the denouement. Overall, three stars meaning "I liked it."
never had to work a day in her life--until her surgeon daddy was convicted of fraud, her wealthy fiance took a powder, and the family fortune ran bone dry. Suddenly desperate, the inexperienced ex-rich girl was forced to take the only job she could get: as a tour guide in a cemetery.Pepper takes tourist groups past the burial places of famous individuals in the three hundred acres of Garden View Cemetery in Cleveland, Ohio's biggest city. Then one day at the mausoleum of Gus Scarpetti, Cleveland's most powerful gangster until his murder thirty years prior, Pepper trips and hits her head on a marble slab. At the ER they say she's fine. Three days later, Gus Scarpetti joins the tour group and starts a lively conversation with Pepper.
Long story short, it's not an impersonator, because no one else in the group can see him. For much, much longer than you might expect, Pepper tries to convince herself he's a hallucination, from that brain injury that doctors can't find. She even starts a possible romance with Dr. Dan, not a medical doctor but a psychologist with multiple Ph.D.s. (Always be suspicious of those.) Brains are his specialty, and he wants to use Pepper in his study.
But with the clearer part of her brain, which works a good deal of the time, Pepper accepts that this is Gus's ghost and--wait for it--she goes to work for him. He directs her to a stash of cash as her pay for finding out who murdered him so he can move on in peace.
Not a detective much, is Pepper (see blurb above), but she can't talk about ghosts to Quinn the cop, who takes a strong interest in her and is really much more suitable as a romantic lead. So her first strategy is to claim she's trying to learn more about the Scarpetti crime family for her tour talks. Eventually, though, she tangles with surviving members of that "family" and becomes the target for a hit. Oops.
A light-hearted, fairly humorous story becomes more serious toward the end, when Pepper realizes why she can't abandon this quest, and there are some very intense feelings in the final chapters. The solution to the mystery was a surprise to me, and there was something beautiful in the denouement. Overall, three stars meaning "I liked it."
April 17, 2018
3.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
Don of the Dead is the first volume of the Pepper Martin series. The basic idea is not necessarily original, thus putting in scene a woman who suddenly has the gift to see the dead. You surely suspect that now they want her to help them pass into the afterlife. Her first client is none other than a former godfather of the Mafia, murdered many years ago.
I loved the idea of solving the murder of a Mafia godfather. As I said the basic story is quite common but this framework allows us to think outside the box. Indeed, our heroine will mingle with colorful characters and her questions will put her in serious danger. It must be said that this environment does not like someone who puts her nose in their affairs. Yet Pepper is determined to find out what happened to Gus.
In addition to this investigation for which I confess, it took me the last moments to understand who the culprit was, we also follow the love interest of our young heroine. It must be said that the two men she crosses the path with are really intriguing. First, there is Dan, this shy man who wants Pepper to enter his clinical trial but seems to hide certain things. Quinn is another character we are interested in (Team Quinn!). He is a policeman who will help Pepper several times and I hope to see him again very soon I have to say!
It was a very nice volume to read and I had a good time with the story!
Mon avis en Français
My English review
Don of the Dead is the first volume of the Pepper Martin series. The basic idea is not necessarily original, thus putting in scene a woman who suddenly has the gift to see the dead. You surely suspect that now they want her to help them pass into the afterlife. Her first client is none other than a former godfather of the Mafia, murdered many years ago.
I loved the idea of solving the murder of a Mafia godfather. As I said the basic story is quite common but this framework allows us to think outside the box. Indeed, our heroine will mingle with colorful characters and her questions will put her in serious danger. It must be said that this environment does not like someone who puts her nose in their affairs. Yet Pepper is determined to find out what happened to Gus.
In addition to this investigation for which I confess, it took me the last moments to understand who the culprit was, we also follow the love interest of our young heroine. It must be said that the two men she crosses the path with are really intriguing. First, there is Dan, this shy man who wants Pepper to enter his clinical trial but seems to hide certain things. Quinn is another character we are interested in (Team Quinn!). He is a policeman who will help Pepper several times and I hope to see him again very soon I have to say!
It was a very nice volume to read and I had a good time with the story!
April 28, 2008
I'm not sure why I'm not overly crazy about this book. I think the main character bothers me because she still has that rich girl mentality who wants the best shoes to go along with her SAKS outfit; even though she is no longer rich. I don't know if she is because she is clinging onto any guy that is "hot" so that she can hop in the sack with him or get married. Pepper is written, to seem like she's a strong independent woman, but I'm just not feeling it. There is something missing to this story and I really do not have an urge to read any of the others. I might still read them though just to see if Pepper changes into a more interesting character; but I think I'll go to the other books on my list.
For wacky "girly" characters I like the Stephanie Plum books a lot more because Stephanie does really try to pretend to be anything but a lousey bounty hunter who is trying to pay her bills. While Pepper is just a boring woman who gets a head injury which makes her able to communicate with the dead...blah. I guess I'm not into the whole Country Club woman who lost everything and now has to work like the rest of us.
For wacky "girly" characters I like the Stephanie Plum books a lot more because Stephanie does really try to pretend to be anything but a lousey bounty hunter who is trying to pay her bills. While Pepper is just a boring woman who gets a head injury which makes her able to communicate with the dead...blah. I guess I'm not into the whole Country Club woman who lost everything and now has to work like the rest of us.
January 9, 2009
The first Pepper Martin mystery.
Pepper Martin is a tour guide at a cemetery in Cleveland. Shortly after taking the job she fell and hit her head on a tombstone. The doctors assured her everything was all right with her bruised up brain - so she was pretty surprised when during a tour Gus Scarpetti joined the group. Gus was the Al Capone of Cleveland and had been gunned down 30 years ago - in fact - he was on her tour of "Cleveland's Famous Dead". It quickly became clear that nobody else could see or hear Gus - was Pepper cracking up?
Pepper goes back to the doctor to make sure she isn't broken or crazy. The Doctor assures her she is fine - but she runs into yummy Dr. Dan on the way out of the ER who is very interested in her giant...... um...brains. Yeah. Brains.
So Pepper is finally convinced that Gus is a ghost and in true haunting/ghost fashion - Pepper has to settle the question of who murdered the Don before he will leave her in peace and fade into the light. Along the way she does a flirty dance with the hot cop Quinn, tangles with some goodfellows, and is Dan interested in her - or just her brain?
I thought this was a really enjoyable read. Pepper is not a strong woman but you can see some strength peeking out of her naive veneer and I have real hope for her to grow into a stronger character in future books. I liked the tension with cop Quinn and the annoyance I had with her being involved with Dan and not seeing his shenanigans flipped for me at the end.
I seriously had a hard time putting this down and I finished it in two sittings.
Pepper Martin is a tour guide at a cemetery in Cleveland. Shortly after taking the job she fell and hit her head on a tombstone. The doctors assured her everything was all right with her bruised up brain - so she was pretty surprised when during a tour Gus Scarpetti joined the group. Gus was the Al Capone of Cleveland and had been gunned down 30 years ago - in fact - he was on her tour of "Cleveland's Famous Dead". It quickly became clear that nobody else could see or hear Gus - was Pepper cracking up?
Pepper goes back to the doctor to make sure she isn't broken or crazy. The Doctor assures her she is fine - but she runs into yummy Dr. Dan on the way out of the ER who is very interested in her giant...... um...brains. Yeah. Brains.
So Pepper is finally convinced that Gus is a ghost and in true haunting/ghost fashion - Pepper has to settle the question of who murdered the Don before he will leave her in peace and fade into the light. Along the way she does a flirty dance with the hot cop Quinn, tangles with some goodfellows, and is Dan interested in her - or just her brain?
I thought this was a really enjoyable read. Pepper is not a strong woman but you can see some strength peeking out of her naive veneer and I have real hope for her to grow into a stronger character in future books. I liked the tension with cop Quinn and the annoyance I had with her being involved with Dan and not seeing his shenanigans flipped for me at the end.
I seriously had a hard time putting this down and I finished it in two sittings.
December 15, 2011
Chick-lit ain’t my bag, baby. Speaking of bags… Pepper Martin likes bags. And shoes. And clothes. And make-up. And men (okay, I agree with her on that one.)
As for mysteries, I don’t usually go for cozies. But I do enjoy a good paranormal. Mix in a little Mafia, and I was sold. Don of the Dead is book one in the Pepper Martin series. Pepper Martin is an ex-rich girl who due to a set of unfortunate situations ends up having to *gasp* work. The only job she manages to get is as a tour guide in a cemetery. One day she bonks her head on a headstone and starts seeing ghosts. Rather, she starts seeing one ghost: Mafia Don Gus Scarpetti, gunned down 30 years ago and insistent that Pepper find out who had him whacked.
Pepper is not the swiftest rabbit on the track. I was a little annoyed by her inner ‘am I crazy or not?’ struggle. I don’t know, maybe I’m too accepting of weird occurrences. I would have known right away that I wasn’t crazy and accepted my new “gift” a lot sooner. The good news is, after finishing Don of the Dead, I moved straight on to the second book in the series, The Chick and the Dead; Pepper does develop as a character and is a whole lot less infuriating.
The two love interests are Quinn the cop and doctor Dan the brain man. Gus ensures she gets off with neither one of them and readers are assured the two guys follow Pepper into the sequel. Personally, I didn’t care one way or the other who she ended up with.
As for the mystery, it ended up having more depth than I thought it would given the superficial nature of Pepper and her superficial life. As is usual for me with these types of books, I enjoyed the supporting characters more than the main character. I was satisfied with the mystery and didn’t mind the cliffhanger ending as I did like the book enough to read the sequels.
As for mysteries, I don’t usually go for cozies. But I do enjoy a good paranormal. Mix in a little Mafia, and I was sold. Don of the Dead is book one in the Pepper Martin series. Pepper Martin is an ex-rich girl who due to a set of unfortunate situations ends up having to *gasp* work. The only job she manages to get is as a tour guide in a cemetery. One day she bonks her head on a headstone and starts seeing ghosts. Rather, she starts seeing one ghost: Mafia Don Gus Scarpetti, gunned down 30 years ago and insistent that Pepper find out who had him whacked.
Pepper is not the swiftest rabbit on the track. I was a little annoyed by her inner ‘am I crazy or not?’ struggle. I don’t know, maybe I’m too accepting of weird occurrences. I would have known right away that I wasn’t crazy and accepted my new “gift” a lot sooner. The good news is, after finishing Don of the Dead, I moved straight on to the second book in the series, The Chick and the Dead; Pepper does develop as a character and is a whole lot less infuriating.
The two love interests are Quinn the cop and doctor Dan the brain man. Gus ensures she gets off with neither one of them and readers are assured the two guys follow Pepper into the sequel. Personally, I didn’t care one way or the other who she ended up with.
As for the mystery, it ended up having more depth than I thought it would given the superficial nature of Pepper and her superficial life. As is usual for me with these types of books, I enjoyed the supporting characters more than the main character. I was satisfied with the mystery and didn’t mind the cliffhanger ending as I did like the book enough to read the sequels.
June 4, 2018
Loved the first book of the Pepper Martin Series. Pepper, who is forced to get a job as a cemetary tour guide, trips and hits her head on the mausoleum of a famous Mafia Don - mobster Don Scarpetti. A short while after that, the deceased mobster begins to appear to Pepper, urging her to solve his murder. A fast paced, interesting cozy mystery. Fully enjoyed the story and can’t wait to read more in the series!
May 22, 2022
I have never read a book where the protagonist refers to her own tits as much as this one did, and "she boobed boobily" writing is usually more of a dude author thing, so... yay equality?
I talk about this book in this wrap up video.
I talk about this book in this wrap up video.
September 14, 2017
For complete review check out my blog at https://booksaplentybookreviews.blogs...
November 8, 2012
I like this author, pen-named 'Casey Daniels'. Amongst an array of series, often similar despite being numerous; this one is original. Even the theme of ghosts is approached in the delightfully bizarre setting of graveyard tourism! Casey created a lead character 'Pepper', who is uneducated about the afterlife. Readers learn as she does. She is a fashion-conscious daughter of a ritzy family, made relatable due to their fall from financial grace. More people see eye to eye with her struggle to support herself. The opening premise is that in her privileged upbringing, she didn't develop career skills with self-sufficiency in mind. Graveyard tourism was 'better than nothing' in her situation.
She suddenly finds herself able to communicate with an old time mobster ghost, who wants his murder figured out. The twists and second-guessing in this novel are fantastic and even when we know who is behind Gus's death; there is an emotional history that reaches several people. Poignancy was rare and the tale should have ended on that note, instead of introducing the next volume.
I find the protagonist's attraction to men exaggerated and shallow. I don't go nuts over accessories and clothes and thus, there are a few areas in which I don't relate to the heroine. I’d love to work in a historic location! However I appreciate enough about the character to care about the outcome of the plots. One often grows more attached after another book, in a setting with increasing familiarity as well. I don't find the paranormal atmosphere scary or enchanting enough, perhaps because it takes Pepper a long time to confirm she was seeing a ghost and isn't insane. I think the novels would be stronger with more mysticism and wonder and I look forward to seeing if Casey Daniels adds such a tone.
She suddenly finds herself able to communicate with an old time mobster ghost, who wants his murder figured out. The twists and second-guessing in this novel are fantastic and even when we know who is behind Gus's death; there is an emotional history that reaches several people. Poignancy was rare and the tale should have ended on that note, instead of introducing the next volume.
I find the protagonist's attraction to men exaggerated and shallow. I don't go nuts over accessories and clothes and thus, there are a few areas in which I don't relate to the heroine. I’d love to work in a historic location! However I appreciate enough about the character to care about the outcome of the plots. One often grows more attached after another book, in a setting with increasing familiarity as well. I don't find the paranormal atmosphere scary or enchanting enough, perhaps because it takes Pepper a long time to confirm she was seeing a ghost and isn't insane. I think the novels would be stronger with more mysticism and wonder and I look forward to seeing if Casey Daniels adds such a tone.
April 6, 2010
I really liked this book.
Reading over some of the reviews, I had to laugh, only because their take is a bit dramatic? She doesn't hop into bed with anyone..... yet..... she hasn't had feelings for anyone in a long time.... she has great assets, which she has learned to use! Jealous? Uhmmmm, oh, she is a rich snob and the best thing she says about herself is....
All because I never dreamed that someday I might have to take care of myself. I never knew I'd need it, so I'd never developed the self-confidence or the sense of self-worth that would make it possible for me to boldly go where I should haved known I'd have to go all along-- off on my own.
She has always only used her looks, she was filthy rich!! She is learning now otherwise, but, you can't give up some of those things you love!!
The writing flows so well, I was caught up in the beginning and swept away to the end. I think all questions that she needed to know were answered, and her promise was kept.
On to the next one!!!!
Reading over some of the reviews, I had to laugh, only because their take is a bit dramatic? She doesn't hop into bed with anyone..... yet..... she hasn't had feelings for anyone in a long time.... she has great assets, which she has learned to use! Jealous? Uhmmmm, oh, she is a rich snob and the best thing she says about herself is....
All because I never dreamed that someday I might have to take care of myself. I never knew I'd need it, so I'd never developed the self-confidence or the sense of self-worth that would make it possible for me to boldly go where I should haved known I'd have to go all along-- off on my own.
She has always only used her looks, she was filthy rich!! She is learning now otherwise, but, you can't give up some of those things you love!!
The writing flows so well, I was caught up in the beginning and swept away to the end. I think all questions that she needed to know were answered, and her promise was kept.
On to the next one!!!!
June 30, 2010
This book really reminded me of the Teagarden Mystery books by Charlaine Harris. Some sexual attraction, some humor, and some great characters. I got involved enought to read the rest of the series, there were enough unfinished things to keep me coming back. A fast read, I finished in one day...
November 2, 2016
Warning: Language
I received this book from SwapTree.com my favorite book trading website. This is the first in the Pepper Martin Mysterys.
Genre: Fiction |Paranormal | Ghost | Mystery & Detective | Historical | Suspense |
I began this book in the week and nver reassy seemed to have time to sit and read the book. So finally today after all the morning runs I got time to sit and read the book and to really focus on the book.
I am really understanding the women sleuth definition the more I leanr of these different womens mysteryies books. I love them!
This woman character “Pepper” was a bore. I was so tired of her referring to her large breast as the ultimate tool. I put them book down several times with no problem. I finally finished it today only because it finally picked up in pace in the middle. I have high expectations for the second book in the series.
I may wait til I read book 2 before I trade for book 3 – but then again… if you know me well enough you know if I like 2 I will have 3 before I’m done with it. lol
Now Pepper didn’t let her familys dark cloud or other negativity hold her back. She didn’t go on welfare or crawl in a box. Nope she went out and got a job to pay her bills.
She didn’t fall in love in the book or become dependant on a guy to save her or come sweep her off her feet.
The beginning was slow for me but once I reached the middle it started going at a good pace. There is some language in this book and more by her than i wanted to read. She refers to her breast alot and you want to pop them so they will go flat. lol
I loved that she run into different aquantices throughout the book and the men she meets makes for interesting reading. But again I was glad she didn’t become attached. Maybe I was silently jealous of her large breats and beautiful long hair and couldn’t handle it if she got the guy too. grrrrr
The mystery in the book is awesome, just like a nice “Murder She Wrote” episode. All wraped at the end of the hour. I was onto who it was but was a little slow on why. It was an awesome END.
So I must rate the book a 4star. I rate it 4 because the beginning was slow but the book lead upto the end. There was NOTHING to explain to me and I’m ready for book 2.
I received this book from SwapTree.com my favorite book trading website. This is the first in the Pepper Martin Mysterys.
Genre: Fiction |Paranormal | Ghost | Mystery & Detective | Historical | Suspense |
I began this book in the week and nver reassy seemed to have time to sit and read the book. So finally today after all the morning runs I got time to sit and read the book and to really focus on the book.
I am really understanding the women sleuth definition the more I leanr of these different womens mysteryies books. I love them!
This woman character “Pepper” was a bore. I was so tired of her referring to her large breast as the ultimate tool. I put them book down several times with no problem. I finally finished it today only because it finally picked up in pace in the middle. I have high expectations for the second book in the series.
I may wait til I read book 2 before I trade for book 3 – but then again… if you know me well enough you know if I like 2 I will have 3 before I’m done with it. lol
Now Pepper didn’t let her familys dark cloud or other negativity hold her back. She didn’t go on welfare or crawl in a box. Nope she went out and got a job to pay her bills.
She didn’t fall in love in the book or become dependant on a guy to save her or come sweep her off her feet.
The beginning was slow for me but once I reached the middle it started going at a good pace. There is some language in this book and more by her than i wanted to read. She refers to her breast alot and you want to pop them so they will go flat. lol
I loved that she run into different aquantices throughout the book and the men she meets makes for interesting reading. But again I was glad she didn’t become attached. Maybe I was silently jealous of her large breats and beautiful long hair and couldn’t handle it if she got the guy too. grrrrr
The mystery in the book is awesome, just like a nice “Murder She Wrote” episode. All wraped at the end of the hour. I was onto who it was but was a little slow on why. It was an awesome END.
So I must rate the book a 4star. I rate it 4 because the beginning was slow but the book lead upto the end. There was NOTHING to explain to me and I’m ready for book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2016
Für mich geht es sofort weiter ... :)
January 21, 2019
I'd forgotten I'd found this in the mystery section of the library.
It's a cool mystery, though Pepper is not my usual favorite protagonist, she works hard enough to get by and shines every now and again.
I'll probably read more of this series. . . eventually. Ghost mysteries have a history and perception that looks fun. Plus I'm interested in how things go forward with Dan the Brain Man and Quinn the Cop.
It's a cool mystery, though Pepper is not my usual favorite protagonist, she works hard enough to get by and shines every now and again.
I'll probably read more of this series. . . eventually. Ghost mysteries have a history and perception that looks fun. Plus I'm interested in how things go forward with Dan the Brain Man and Quinn the Cop.
April 1, 2024
I love that this is set in a cemetery in Ohio! Fun read- I read the ebook on my Kindle from the library. Two of my Agathas recommended this series to me, and I'm so glad I read it. A great spring break read- it is kinda cozy but more edgy I'd say- more in the paranormal mystery vein but with humor and some local history. I like that this sets up a series- Pepper ends one mystery with a ghost recommended by the previous ghost. I'll read more of the series!
January 29, 2018
Paranormal cozy mystery! Re-read, I enjoyed it!
February 1, 2012
I have read this novel multiple times since discovering the series back in 2009. Yet, every single time that I have read it, I remember the reason that this is one of my favorite series. This novel kept my attention from very beginning, to the very end of the novel. There is so much action in this novel, so much adventure. At each page, it kept me wondering what’s going to happen with Pepper next. I loved her attitude, her dedication to case, no matter what. This is type of mystery novel that keeps you guessing till the very end, I love those type of novels.
Don of the Dead is the first book in Pepper Martin Series. Pepper Martin is a tour guide in cemetery in Cleveland, having got a job after her father goes to jail for Medicare fraud, her mom goes to Florida and her fiancée dumps her. While one on one of her tours, Pepper trips and hits her head on tombstone. Not long after her incident while doing another tour does Pepper come across Gus Scarpetti who she knows for fact was shot over 30 years ago. Trying to convince herself that she’s just hallucinating, she goes back to ER and the doctor reassures her that she’s okay. That’s where Pepper meets Dan, another doctor who seems really fascinated with her brain.
When Pepper finally realized that Gus is real, she begins to investigate, in attempt to figure who shot Gus all those years ago so that Gus can rest in peace. It’s during those investigations that she meets a cop; Quinn who tells Pepper to mind her own business, dealing with this is dangerous. However, as always, Pepper doesn’t listen and begin interviewing people who were around the time that Gus was alive. However not everyone is happy with all these questions, putting Pepper in danger
I first came across this novel while volunteering at library in 2009. From the moment that I read the description, I knew that I would like this novel. I was right, I loved it. In beginning, I wasn’t sure if I really liked Pepper, she had that spoiled rich girl sort of attitude and she was pretty stubborn as well. I grew fond of her as the book progressed and I could tell that by end of the book, Pepper had changed, her attitude. Well maybe not towards the ghosts but in general, she seemed like a completely different person. Yet, I knew she was still stubborn, mostly because no matter how many times Quinn warned her, she still kept on going. Pepper seems the sort of girl who won’t let a guy tell her what to do and I like that about her. Even though Pepper complained a lot with Gus, I could tell that after time, she actually grew fond of him, even if he was from mob and a ghost.
Gus, now him I had mixed feelings about. I hated and loved him at same time. I hated him in beginning, in way that he treated and talk to Pepper and way he kept popping up at most unexpected times. I loved him, pretty much after he rescued Pepper, even though he didn’t do it for her, I knew that he did, I knew that he cared about her. That was confirmed in middle of book when he got upset, telling her that she wasn’t supposed get hurt, it was then I knew that he cared about her.
Quinn & Dan, I loved them both. Dan surprised more though, especially towards the end, I did not see him coming, I would never imagine him being able to do that. That was another thing that I loved about the book, there were a lot of unexpected twists. I loved the cliffhanger in the book, when I read the first time, it came as surprise because I had no idea it was series when I first read this novel. I couldn’t wait to read the next book. I would recommend this book to anyone who’s into ghosts and mysteries, it keep you guessing till very end. Pepper Martin is worth reading.
Don of the Dead is the first book in Pepper Martin Series. Pepper Martin is a tour guide in cemetery in Cleveland, having got a job after her father goes to jail for Medicare fraud, her mom goes to Florida and her fiancée dumps her. While one on one of her tours, Pepper trips and hits her head on tombstone. Not long after her incident while doing another tour does Pepper come across Gus Scarpetti who she knows for fact was shot over 30 years ago. Trying to convince herself that she’s just hallucinating, she goes back to ER and the doctor reassures her that she’s okay. That’s where Pepper meets Dan, another doctor who seems really fascinated with her brain.
When Pepper finally realized that Gus is real, she begins to investigate, in attempt to figure who shot Gus all those years ago so that Gus can rest in peace. It’s during those investigations that she meets a cop; Quinn who tells Pepper to mind her own business, dealing with this is dangerous. However, as always, Pepper doesn’t listen and begin interviewing people who were around the time that Gus was alive. However not everyone is happy with all these questions, putting Pepper in danger
I first came across this novel while volunteering at library in 2009. From the moment that I read the description, I knew that I would like this novel. I was right, I loved it. In beginning, I wasn’t sure if I really liked Pepper, she had that spoiled rich girl sort of attitude and she was pretty stubborn as well. I grew fond of her as the book progressed and I could tell that by end of the book, Pepper had changed, her attitude. Well maybe not towards the ghosts but in general, she seemed like a completely different person. Yet, I knew she was still stubborn, mostly because no matter how many times Quinn warned her, she still kept on going. Pepper seems the sort of girl who won’t let a guy tell her what to do and I like that about her. Even though Pepper complained a lot with Gus, I could tell that after time, she actually grew fond of him, even if he was from mob and a ghost.
Gus, now him I had mixed feelings about. I hated and loved him at same time. I hated him in beginning, in way that he treated and talk to Pepper and way he kept popping up at most unexpected times. I loved him, pretty much after he rescued Pepper, even though he didn’t do it for her, I knew that he did, I knew that he cared about her. That was confirmed in middle of book when he got upset, telling her that she wasn’t supposed get hurt, it was then I knew that he cared about her.
Quinn & Dan, I loved them both. Dan surprised more though, especially towards the end, I did not see him coming, I would never imagine him being able to do that. That was another thing that I loved about the book, there were a lot of unexpected twists. I loved the cliffhanger in the book, when I read the first time, it came as surprise because I had no idea it was series when I first read this novel. I couldn’t wait to read the next book. I would recommend this book to anyone who’s into ghosts and mysteries, it keep you guessing till very end. Pepper Martin is worth reading.
March 23, 2008
I received this book from my best friend who told me I HAD to read it. Reading the back cover I was not quite sure why she had such an urgency for me to read this novel, it sounded like your garden variety chick-lit/murder mystery to me, but I indulged her. Two pages in I realized why she needed me to read it as soon as possible. This book is set in Cleveland, where I lived for almost 8 years. More specifically it is set in the Garden View Cemetary and Little Italy which is right next to where the aprtament my best friend and I lived in together is located. Also, I lived in an apartment on my own directly across the street from the main entrance of the Garden View Cemetary and used to walk through it's silent avenues on nice days, soaking in the history of the outdoor museum of the famous dead of Cleveland. So this book was like stepping into a familar story told by a long lost friend.
While the tale itself did not intrigue me in the beginning (and the heroine got on my nerves a little bit as to how she always would use her "wares" to get what she wanted) I do admit I was hooked by the mysetry and wanted to find out the secret by the end. And the added bonus that both males she is interesting in romantically are not what they seem. A good first book in a series I will be sure to read the rest of, due to the fact I can literally picture all the places mentioned in the pages since I lived there myself. Besides, I want to find out if Pepper ends up with hunky cop Quinn or Brain doc Dan...and how she deals with yet another ghost asking for her help.
While the tale itself did not intrigue me in the beginning (and the heroine got on my nerves a little bit as to how she always would use her "wares" to get what she wanted) I do admit I was hooked by the mysetry and wanted to find out the secret by the end. And the added bonus that both males she is interesting in romantically are not what they seem. A good first book in a series I will be sure to read the rest of, due to the fact I can literally picture all the places mentioned in the pages since I lived there myself. Besides, I want to find out if Pepper ends up with hunky cop Quinn or Brain doc Dan...and how she deals with yet another ghost asking for her help.
August 23, 2008
Pepper Martin is a cemetery tour guide who fell and hit herself on the front step of dead mob boss Gus Scarpetti's mausoleum. Soon afterwards she begins to see Scarpetti himself, and he wants her to investigate his murder. Pepper is a rich middle class girl who has found herself without a fortune when her father was conviced of fraud, and has no idea how to solve a 30 year old murder. A fast read with a style that reminds me of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series. The writing flowed very well, and there were a lot of interesting side characters, but the mystery wasn't that griping (although it was hard to guess whodunit). I also found it hard to like Pepper for the first half of the book, mostly because she was rather ditzy. Still, she seemed to get smarter, and thusly more likeable towards the end. What really bothered me though was EVERY man Pepper meets (even men 30+ years her senior) leered at her breasts. What is that? I wasn't sure if I should be annoyed about the depiction of Pepper, because Pepper didn't seeme to mind, even puffing them out in certain scenes (even after arguing with Scarpetti about his chauvanism. Is she supposed to be feminist?), or annoyed at the depiction of men (in this century, I think most men know that's rude, or at least know not to be so obvious. At least don't make ALL the men in this book do that).
My review on my book blog (along with The Chick and the Dead) is here - http://janicu.livejournal.com/2469.html
My review on my book blog (along with The Chick and the Dead) is here - http://janicu.livejournal.com/2469.html
September 2, 2013
The only reason I picked up this book was because it took place in my hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. I was very excited to read but I ended up feeling just so so about it. Pepper was a bit annoying at times and I just wanted to slap her so she'd focus and just get the mystery solved already. It seriously annoyed me that literally every guy looks at her boobs. Sometimes its a good thing she loves puffing her chest but then 2 pages later she gets annoyed that (sometimes the same guy) is checking out her rack. Alright already, you've got big boobs! Get on with the story!
Dan and Quinn, her almost romance interests, just seemed like a waste of time to even bring them into the story-line.
The mystery of Gus's death was what kept me reading. Though I dont know why she just didnt claim to be a psychic when people started asking why she knew certain things, not that it truly matters. But it was fun to find the clues and put them together (though a bit predictable).
Also, there was a slight type-o when Pepper goes for her interview at SAKS. Its Beachwood rather Beechwood.
Anywho....Finishing this I couldnt really there being a series. I suppose we have to find out what is up Dan being so mysterious and stalkery, as well as whether Quinn will finally get to take her out. But honestly after awhile I didnt care all that much about them. I might read another one, cause it can only get better right?
Dan and Quinn, her almost romance interests, just seemed like a waste of time to even bring them into the story-line.
The mystery of Gus's death was what kept me reading. Though I dont know why she just didnt claim to be a psychic when people started asking why she knew certain things, not that it truly matters. But it was fun to find the clues and put them together (though a bit predictable).
Also, there was a slight type-o when Pepper goes for her interview at SAKS. Its Beachwood rather Beechwood.
Anywho....Finishing this I couldnt really there being a series. I suppose we have to find out what is up Dan being so mysterious and stalkery, as well as whether Quinn will finally get to take her out. But honestly after awhile I didnt care all that much about them. I might read another one, cause it can only get better right?
January 3, 2013
Paranormal, suspense, romance. Excellent writing. Love the characters, can't wait to find out what is going on with one of them. Really came to like Pepper. Hope Dan and Quinn are in future books.
Pepper Martin was raised wealthy and a little spoiled until her father got in trouble with the law. Pepper's skills are limited, so she takes the first job she can get as a tour guide in an old cemetery. As the result of a head injury, Pepper has developed a new skill, the ability to see ghosts, or as least one ghost. The Don of a Cleveland crime family has been dead for 30 years, and now he wants help finding out what happened. Gus was an old fashion mob boss; he had no problem having people killed, but he still can't stand to see a woman treated rudely. Despite frustration with Gus and danger from an unknown source, Pepper can't help trying to find the answer to Gus' murder even though it seems to be having a seriously adverse effect on her life, including her barely existent love life.
Pepper Martin was raised wealthy and a little spoiled until her father got in trouble with the law. Pepper's skills are limited, so she takes the first job she can get as a tour guide in an old cemetery. As the result of a head injury, Pepper has developed a new skill, the ability to see ghosts, or as least one ghost. The Don of a Cleveland crime family has been dead for 30 years, and now he wants help finding out what happened. Gus was an old fashion mob boss; he had no problem having people killed, but he still can't stand to see a woman treated rudely. Despite frustration with Gus and danger from an unknown source, Pepper can't help trying to find the answer to Gus' murder even though it seems to be having a seriously adverse effect on her life, including her barely existent love life.
October 19, 2011
I have been reading the Pepper Martin series for a couple of days now. I read the first one with no big pleasure. The premise is good, but the writing came across stale and the story seemed one dimensional. Read the second one- it had sporadic plot development and inconsistent shallow characters. Read the third- I didn't love it either. SO why would I keep reading? Why even give the fourth one a try you my ask? Well, there is a twofold answer. 1) I have a serious problem starting a series and not finishing it and 2) I had already bought all four books. So the fourth book in the series, Night of the Loving Dead was probably my least favorite. Pepper stumbled into every discovery she made, had no real personal growth and the plot was muddled and pointless. I will NOT be buying or read any more of this series.
February 29, 2012
I'm so glad I found this series. Why have I never heard of it?
I loved this book it kinda reminded me of Charlaine Harris' Aurora Teegarden series. Lots of laughs and a great mystery. I gotta tell you I couldn't figure out who dunnit until page 279, and I usually have the mystery figured out by page 70. Usually I need a book with alot of romance in it to be satisfied, but this was a great book that stood on it's own.
I loved Pepper she had some serious issues to work out that made her so human and endearing. I loved how she has accepted her lot in life, and is being an independant woman reguardless of her issues.
I really want to describe the whole plot of the book, I just want to show my appreciation to a book that is sure to turn inot a great series that I can't wait to read :)
I loved this book it kinda reminded me of Charlaine Harris' Aurora Teegarden series. Lots of laughs and a great mystery. I gotta tell you I couldn't figure out who dunnit until page 279, and I usually have the mystery figured out by page 70. Usually I need a book with alot of romance in it to be satisfied, but this was a great book that stood on it's own.
I loved Pepper she had some serious issues to work out that made her so human and endearing. I loved how she has accepted her lot in life, and is being an independant woman reguardless of her issues.
I really want to describe the whole plot of the book, I just want to show my appreciation to a book that is sure to turn inot a great series that I can't wait to read :)
October 19, 2011
Pepper Martin is a tour guide at a cemetery who has an accident with a tombstone. When she sees a long dead gangster called Gus wandering around behind her, she thinks she might have a serious brain injury. Her doctor Dan is interested in her case and asks her out to her delight-but Gus is determined to hang around under Pepper solves his murder.
I found this book pretty annoying. Pepper was the typical ditzy girlie obsessed with hair, make-up and Dr Dan, which quickly got on my nerves. It took an eternity to get into the story and I felt as if I'd been in the cemetery as long as Gus. All the descriptive stuff about her job and her dates were a bore! Gus was annoying, Dan was irritating and the whole plot was a waste of time. Very boring book.
I found this book pretty annoying. Pepper was the typical ditzy girlie obsessed with hair, make-up and Dr Dan, which quickly got on my nerves. It took an eternity to get into the story and I felt as if I'd been in the cemetery as long as Gus. All the descriptive stuff about her job and her dates were a bore! Gus was annoying, Dan was irritating and the whole plot was a waste of time. Very boring book.
May 28, 2012
This book was awful, but I was stuck on a weekend away with nothing else to read, so I finished it. The thing that I found most irritating is that supposed heroine Pepper's primary skill seems to be having "large" breasts. At the beginning of the book the author makes a point of stating that Pepper is a 36C and no man can help but succumb to the lure of her cleavage. First, how can I be expected to take a female character seriously who constantly flashes and mashes her breasts as an investigative technique. But second, it points to the author's complete inability to do even the most basic research as 36C is far from large. It is in fact smaller than average in the US.
January 1, 2015
It took me a while to get into this book. I think the problem is that I thought everyone was more interesting and likable than Pepper. There's just something about Pepper that rubs me the wrong way. I will say that she's not the sharpest tool in the shed, which doesn't exactly work to her advantage most of the time. I'm not really sure why the two love interests were brought in so early. Otherwise, they drifted in and out without much of a purpose. I will give the series another chance because I liked the side characters.
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