A Wrench in the Works

Fixer-Upper Mystery #6

by Kate Carlisle

Contractor Shannon Hammer has to dig through murder suspects in the latest Fixer-Upper Mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of Eaves of Destruction and Once Upon a Spine.

Don't miss the Hallmark Movies & Mystery Originals starring Jewel, based on the Fixer-Upper Mystery series!

Shannon Hammer's younger sister Chloe left Lighthouse Cove after high school to make it big in Hollywood. And she did it! For several years now, Chloe has been the co-host of a popular home repair show on the Do-It-Yourself Network. Now, after ten years, Chloe returns to Lighthouse Cove with her crew and co-host to film several shows featuring her sister Shannon, along with some special mini-segments on Victorian style and design.

But Shannon realizes quickly that things are not exactly blissful in TV land. Her sister's handsome co-host is being stalked by someone who turns out to be his estranged wife, Erica--who also happens to be the executive producer of the show. Erica's got a knack for stirring up sticky situations and when she's found dead, Chloe and the entire crew are under suspicion.

Shannon soon discovers the real reason why Chloe was so eager to move away from Lighthouse Cove all those years ago. Can Shannon figure out if that ten-year-old secret is connected to Erica's death? And can she track down the real killer before her beloved sister becomes the next victim?

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Cozy, Audiobook, Romance, Mystery Thriller

213 pages, ebook

First published November 6, 2018

About the author

Golden Heart and Daphne du Maurier Award winning author Kate Carlisle spent over twenty years working in television production as an Associate Director for game and variety shows, including The Midnight Special, Solid Gold and The Gong Show. She traveled the world as a Dating Game chaperone and performed strange acts of silliness on The Gong Show. She also studied acting and singing, toiled in vineyards, collected books, joined a commune, sold fried chicken, modeled spring fashions and worked for a cruise ship line, but it was the year she spent in law school that finally drove her to begin writing fiction. It seemed the safest way to kill off her professors. Those professors are breathing easier now that Kate spends most of her time writing near the beach in Southern California where she lives with her perfect husband.

A lifelong love of old books and an appreciation of the art of bookbinding led Kate to create the Bibliophile Mysteries, featuring rare book expert Brooklyn Wainwright, whose bookbinding and restoration skills invariably uncover old secrets, treachery and murder. Kate is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers and Romance Writers of America. She loves to drink good wine and watch other people cook.

Despite the appearance of overnight success, Kate's dream of publication took many, many years to fulfill.

Reviews

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the sixth 'Fixer-Upper' cozy mystery by Kate Carlisle, A Wrench in the Works, readers are introduced to Shannon's celebrity sister, Chloe. Chloe left their small California seaside town after high school to make it big in Hollywood, but she ended up getting her own home improvement show rather than become an actress. After returning home to right a wrong, her tv crew follows along to film a few new episodes. Unfortunately, one of them ends up dead, and the body count keeps on rising. There are numerous connections to people within Shannon's and Chloe's town, so they feel obligated to solve the murder, much to the Chief of Police's chagrin. Except... do I smell potential romance blooming down the line between him and someone? Let's not forget Mac and Shannon, as they continue building on their new relationship. In the end, the culprit is discovered, but not before Shannon almost ends up his/her final victim.

I really enjoyed this book, and it was a stand-out in the series. While shorter than the others, it was packed full of strong plot and fun new characters. I liked seeing Shannon's familial relationships explored further, and the ongoing feud with Whitney creates some fun moments. I'm hopeful that we find out more on her father, as he flits in and out so much, we don't have a full picture of his life when Shannon was younger. I also want to explore her group of friends to see which one might be hiding a secret (just speculating!) By finishing this one, I am now current on the series (yay!) and anxiously awaiting the seventh one when it releases later this year. Now, I can check out the Hallmark movies to compare and contrast the styles.

[Darinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shannon Hammer's sister Chloe is back in town, and they're getting to work together. The sisters both work in home improvement. Shannon's specialty is Victorian houses and Chloe works on a home makeover show. Chloe's show is scheduled to renovate a house in her hometown of Lighthouse Cove, and Shannon is excited to help her sister work on a local Victorian house. Shannon is proud of her sister for doing so well with her show, but soon realizes not all is great in the entertainment business. For one thing, the executive producer is a bit of a nightmare to work with. When the executive producer of the show is found dead, the crew, including Chloe, are all under suspicion. While in town, Chloe also reveals part of the reason she left town right after high school, and why she rarely visits.

A wonderful light read. The characters are entertaining, though sometimes a little immature. Shannon and Chloe are both likable. It is refreshing to read a story where the sisters get along and there is not a lot of family drama. The mystery is well plotted. Good for fans of cozies. I have some of Kate Carlisle's books on my TBR, and I plan to read some of the earlier books in this series.

This is the sixth book in the Fixer-Upper mystery series by Kate Carlisle. I haven't read the previous books in the series, but this one was easily read as a standalone. I don't think Chloe was in the previous books, so she was introduced in this one.

A fun cozy mystery that combines home improvement and a television show. Delightful and charming.

I received a free eARC of this book from Penguin's First to Read in exchange for an honest review.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found A Wrench in the Works to be a fun and flirty murder mystery all based around a home improvement tv show. Marvelously executed, fantastic premise and completely engaging, Carlisle six book in the Fixer-Upper Mystery made me want to back read this series from the beginning. That being said, A Wrench in the Works also read well as a stand-a-lone.

The cast of characters were delightful but Shannon steals the show.

I received this ARC copy of A Wrench in the Works from Berkley Publishing Group. This is my honest and voluntary review. A Wrench in the Works is set for publication Nov. 6, 2018.

My Rating: 4 stars
Written by: Kate Carlisle
Series: A Fixer-Upper Mystery
Sequence in Series: Book 6
Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Berkley
Publication Date: November 6, 2018
ISBN-10: 0399586482
ISBN-13: 978-0399586484
Genre: Suspense | Mystery

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Wrench-Works-F...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-wr...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/a-wr...

[LORI CASWELL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dollycas’s Thoughts

The television cameras have arrived in Lighthouse Cove along with Shannon’s sister Chloe. She is the co-host of a home renovating show, Makeover Madness, and is thrilled to be taping back in her hometown. Shannon also gets in on the fun by making some guest appearances. The hammer comes down on all the fun though before they even start filming. Executive producer Bree is found dead in the house chosen for the big makeover and the whole crew including Chloe are now suspects. Even Shannon saw with her own eyes the way Bree always through a major wrench in the productions. But then a real estate agent from Lighthouse Cove is found dead, again at the makeover house and the suspect pool widens. What is really scary is that Chloe could be the next victim. Shannon, Mac, and their friends are nailing down every clue to keep her safe and catch the killer.

The author has created characters that are very likable and realistic. Both Shannon and Chloe grew up working construction with their dad and know their way around a job site and every tool in the box. Determined women but Chloe hasn’t been back to Lighthouse Cove since she left for Hollywood. We learn along with Shannon the secret that has kept Chloe away all these years. I really enjoyed this subplot woven throughout the mystery as we see so much evolve for Chloe. Shannon is so proud of her sister and her accomplishments. Their strong bond is heartwarming. The relationship between Mac and Shannon is getting more comfortable too. He really is a great boyfriend. He understands Shannon and her need to jump into these murder mysteries and is happy to help her in any way he can. The supporting cast is captivating too and made me feel like I was visiting old friends.

The backdrop of Lighthouse Cove, oceanside and all the old Victorian homes is a perfect setting for this series. Big enough to handle all the dead bodies, small enough to allow our amateur sleuth to nose her way into the investigation. I truly enjoy all the descriptions of the homes. The makeover house had so much wrong with it, novices would think the only answer would be to tear it down, but in the hands of Shannon, Chloe, and their teams you know they are going to turn it into a real jewel.

The mystery is well plotted and written. All the drama brought by the television people along with the added drama of some current Lighthouse Cove residents flows together to bring a story that sets a very nimble pace. There is always something happening, a twist, a turn, a curve, that diverts attention or sends everything in another direction. It is impossible not to totally be pulled into this story. I did solve the mystery just a little bit before Shannon but the entire story was totally entertaining.

This story does read well on its own. I always recommend reading the series in order for maximum enjoyment. The movies are great too but could never replace these wonderful stories.

Picturesque setting, terrific characters, and a delightful mystery. A Perfect Escape for all cozy lovers.

[Taryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this next book of the series we are introduced to Shannon's sister Chloe, who is coming to town to shoot her very popular DIY show and Shannon can't wait to catch up. Excited about having the chance to work with her sister in their chosen fields Shannon isn't sure how she'll do with actually being a part of the show. Shannon soon learns that things aren’t all they are cracked up to be when it comes to being on a hit show. There seems to be a lot of behind the scenes fighting and most of it is due to executive producer Bree. Bree enjoys firing people left and right and has no qualms about telling people what she thinks. She's the boss and wants everyone to know it. So its no surprise when Shannon and Chloe go to look over the house they will be working on and discover Bree dead. Who killed her and why? She seemed to have had plenty of enemies but who was angry enough to kill her. Shannon is worried because Bree and her sister didn't get along, she even fired her before they started taping. Shannon knows that she will have to do everything she can to keep her sister out of range of the police. When it looks like someone has it out for Chloe, Shannon is determined to uncover the truth and keep her sister out of harms way. This is such a terrific series filled with a great cast of characters and the lead one, Shannon, truly shines throughout the read. The premise is great and I love the strong women that the author portrays throughout the book. I can't wait to see what Shannon gets into next!


I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Anastasia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Wrench in the Works by Kate carlisle is the 6th book in the Fixer Upper Mystery series. Shannon Hammer's younger sister, Chloe, is co-hosting a home repair show and returns to Lighthouse Cove to film a series of shows featuring her sister, only for her executive producer to be murdered and the sisters are caught in the middle of the investigation. An interesting, fun book with a lot of information on home repairs and Victorian houses. Chloe makes a nice addition and hopefully we will see more of her. It is good to see Shannon's and Mac's relationship progress and that he is always ready to help her. An enjoyable and engaging cozy mystery.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all the books by this author and like them very much. This book # 6 in the Fix-Up series and it does not disappoint. Shannon Hammer is very pleased her Chloe will be back as her Reality show and will film an
episode on one of the Victorian House that Shannon is working Chloe has become the star of the show. The producer of the show selected 2 houses to rehab and doesn't let the owner of the houses know which is selected so she can film their reactions for the show. Chloe and the producer have a shouting argument the day before the Producer is murder at the site Chile and she becomes a person of interest so Shannon works to clear her name. Several attempts are made to hurt or kill Chloe are made and Shannon fears that one of them will succeed. Will Shannon be able to save Chole's life. I highly recommend this book and series.

Disclosure:_Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Monnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not a huge fan of cozy mysteries, but I warmed up to this one almost from the first page. By the time I finished, I was positively toasty!

This is the sixth in the author's "Fixer-Upper" mystery series, and since I've not read any of the other five, I went in with a bit of trepidation. But at no time did I feel at the slightest disadvantage; this one stands on its own beautifully (although finishing it did make me wish I'd read the rest - yes, it's that good). The author does an outstanding job of filling in background from the previous books - which should make series fans who may have forgotten a detail or two happy as well as those of us new to the game.

Part of the reason I enjoyed this so much is because I saw a bit of myself in lead character Shannon Hammer, who BTW has the perfect last name for a building contractor, which she is. I, too, fondly remember childhood years following my father around as he pounded nails, screwed screws and tackled home remodeling projects (once in a while letting me help). Unlike Shannon and her younger TV-star sister Chloe, though, I forgot everything I ever learned from dear old dad once I left home for college.

As this story begins, Chloe is returning home to Lighthouse Cove for the first time in a while, bringing with her the cast and crew of her very popular home improvement show. The intent is that Chloe and her co-star, Blake Bennett, will film their restoration of one of the elegant Victorian homes for which Lighthouse Cove is known. Included in the cast of characters is the show's particularly nasty producer - who "fires" cast and crew members with regularity, Chloe and her husband- the latter of whom just happens to be her husband.

Because of Shannon's building expertise, she'll be working alongside her sister on the show. Just before starting to film the first segment in which one of two homes will be selected for a redo, the sisters go for an inside look at the one they're hoping will be chosen and find something that can't be repaired: A dead body. Someone, it seems, had it in for producer Bree. But who? After all, virtually no one involved in the production liked her, except possibly her husband.

But the show must go on - and so it does, as does the investigation led by the local police chief, who seems to have put Chloe on his list of prime suspects. As filming begins, though, still another murder victim turns up and an extension ladder suddenly collapses with Chloe at the top. Clearly, someone's ratcheted up the action in Lighthouse Cove - and it's up to the police, with help from Shannon (who, for the record, has found several dead bodies over the course of the series), to identify the perpetrator before someone else bites the sawdust.

I especially enjoyed the details involved in filming the TV show as well as the strong characters like Shannon, Chloe and Shannon's handsome, ex-Navy SEAL boyfriend, Mac Sullivan. One of my objections to cozies is the headstrong, overbearing females who can't keep their noses where they belong and run off willy-nilly despite protests and outright warnings from law enforcement. There's almost none of that here; Shannon respects the police chief (a childhood friend), is quite capable and always does her "thing," but she does it sensibly without alienating everyone around her. That alone, I hasten to add, makes me eager to read more in this series. Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review an advance copy of this one.

[Fred · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Wrench In The Works is the sixth book in the A Fixer-Upper Mystery series.

Shannon Hammer is very excited as her sister, Chole, co-star of the reality TV show, Makeover Madness is coming home and will be filming the restoration one of the many Victorian homes in Lighthouse Cove. Shannon was asked to find two homes from which the producer of the show, Bree. On the first day of filming Shannon and Chole arrive early to do a walk-thru, but what they don’t expect to find is the dead body of Bree lying by a fireplace hearth. The police arrive and begin their investigation when they go to look for Bree’s husband Blake, co-star of the show, to let him know of his wife passing and find him apparently having been drugged. As police chief, Eric Jensen, is returning to the house he has to break up a fight between Rolly Watkins, owner of the house that isn’t being made over and Richie Rich, who sold the Watkins’ the home and allegedly promised the house would be selected for restoration. The next day when Shannon arrives for work she finds the body of Richie Rich, dead on the front porch.

Shannon had learned when Chole when she first arrived in town that Bree was not particularly well-liked. Bree’s method of management is my way or the highway. In fact, she had fired Chole as they were about to leave for Lighthouse Cove. In fact, she had also fired Blake a number of times. What with Chole having had a loud argument with Bree that was heard by several people, she becomes a person of interest.

But then an extension ladder Chole is climbing on mysteriously collapses and she gets ill after having her make-up applied by her make-up person, Shannon knows she has to really apply herself to find the killer, to not only keep Chole from being charged but to also save her life. So with help of her boyfriend, Max Sullivan commit themselves to find the killer

It’s always nice to stop in Lighthouse Cover for a visit with Shannon, Robbie the Westie, and its nice residents. I have learned to count on a well-written and plotted story with an enjoyable and interesting cast of characters from Kate Carlisle and A Wrench In The Works is no exception.

I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this exciting series.

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a series I have enjoyed from the very beginning and found myself instantly engaged in this sixth installment. Shannon Hammer is one of my favorite cozy characters. She is smart, independent, confident and I love that she is in a profession that is typically dominated by males. In this book, we get to meet her sister Chloe, who is just as skilled as Shannon having both grown up on their father's job sites, but she uses her talents in Hollywood on a reality fixer upper type show. The sister have a warm, loving relationship that comes across the page. There is that bit of sibling rivalry but they genuinely have each other's back.

I thought the mystery was well done. It seems like finding dead bodies is something both Hammer sisters have in common. This time it's Chloe who finds not one but two dead bodies. Unfortunately, she has a connection to both and some run ins with each that make her a plausible suspect. Once again, Shannon and Mac work to solve the case and find the killer before Chloe is the next target. There was a nice does of twist and turns throughout the story. The author did a good job of laying the ground work for multiple suspects giving them plausible motives. In the end, I was surprised but not surprise if that make any sense.

This is a terrific series written by a talented author who has crafted characters that keep me returning to Lighthouse Cove. I like the way this book ended and am hoping it means we might get to see more of Chloe and watch her and Shannon in action.

[Lisa Ks Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sixth book in the Fixer-Upper Mysteries is a wonderful installment to the series. Up to author Kate Carlisle’s expected writing standards, A WRENCH IN THE WORKS was a well written story, with an intriguing mystery.

It was good being back in Lighthouse Cove with Shannon Hammer and the rest of the cast of characters. It’s been interesting watching the characters’ growth as Ms. Carlisle has fleshed them out.

A whodunit that kept me on my toes, A WRENCH IN THE WORKS flowed at a steady pace, building to a reveal that I wasn’t expecting. Fans of the series are going to mark this as one of their favorites.

If you haven’t read the series but have been wanting to check it out, the author did a great job of giving this story a stand alone feel.

[JoAn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Wrench in the Works by Kate Carlisle was an engaging story that kept me turning the pages. I was thrilled to finally meet Shannon's sister, Chloe. I also loved the dialogue between the sisters. It was down to earth and showed the love and respect that they had for each other. A quickly paced plot, two murders, only a few suspects and Chloe being threatened kept the tension high until the dramatic reveal. I've enjoyed every one of the books in this series; and I'm already looking forward to the next one.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shannon’s younger sister, Chloe, left home years ago and became the star of a TV star on a home repair show. Chloe is coming back to town to film a show fixing up a local house. Shannon’s construction company will be part of the show. The wife of the production head is an awful woman who fires people regularly. She is found dead in the house Chloe plans on restoring. Later an man that had blackmailed Chloe is found dead, then she has 3 near death accidents. Shannon sets out to find who really did the murders and who is trying to kill her sister.

[Toni (T.C.) LoTempio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beleive it or not, this is the first book in this series that I've read! I've seen the Hallmark movies and enjoyed them, which prompted me to read this book when I got it for review. Now I'm going to pick up the other five LOL. Kate knows how to weave a good mystery, and the character development is good too.

[nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Wrench in the Works is the sixth book in the Fixer-Upper Mystery series, but the first I've read for it. I normally don't start a series in the middle of it, but I received a free Advanced Reader Copy from the First to Read Program by Penguin Random House. What surprised me the most about it is that despite it being the sixth in a series, it reads extremely well as a stand-alone. I was never lost or confused, but reading how Shannon Hammer has a "knack" for finding dead bodies did entice and intrigue me to want to read the rest of the series.

This book was a great mystery read, and while I was leaning toward the correct suspect the entire time, the book doesn't easily give the killer's identity away and it really builds up the mystery as to who it is. There were maybe two or three scenes in the book before the mystery actually begins where I found the dialogue to be unnecessary and useless, and I didn't see the point for it because it was just mindless chatter that doesn't add anything to the story or characters or plot. But besides that, I really enjoyed and loved A Wrench in the Works. It definitely opened my eyes to see that a fixer-upper setting can be equally enjoyable and work just as well as other mystery sub-genres do.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided an ARC from First to Read and Penguin Books for my honest review.
This was my first Fixer-Upper mystery, but it won't be my last. Kate Carlisle did a wonderful job creating characters that are relateable and likeable. The plot moved along nicely and the mystery was just enough that it wasn't clear who the bad guy was.
I did think the cat fighting between Shannon and Whitney was a bit ridiculous and kinda dumb for two grown women to do. There are definitely more mature ways to have shown their disdain for each other than to have them screaming at each other for all the world to see.
I enjoyed the quick pace and cozy mystery feel of this book. I will definitely be reading more Fixer-Upper mysteries, as well as more from Kate Carlisle.

[Sarah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series that I have read and it is way better than the first! The first one I read actually takes place after this one so I did not read them in chronological order. But that didn't stop me from enjoying this one. The story just flowed so smoothly! And that is a big plus here if you ask me. There is nothing worse than a story that doesn't do that.

This was an excellent mystery that involves a TV show coming to town to film and of course there are a few deaths. There are numerous suspects of course including a few rather sleazy or suspicious characters. But who is the killer and why? What is the motive? I suppose a big plus in here is Chloe who is the famous sister of the main character, Shannon. And if she's not careful she - or both of them - could end up dead!

While I was reading this I didn't really try to guess who the killer was. Although I did know who it wasn't! Sometimes the red herrings in these stories can be pretty obvious. But there were still so many suspects! Basically I just enjoyed reading this for fun and it was fun all right. A few chapters before the end I did have an idea who it could be and that did prove right but it had just been an idea that fluttered through my head. I hadn't tried to solve it on purpose like I sometimes do.

Is it odd I had liked the earlier book better than the newer one in this series?? I have no idea.

I do find it a tad weird that Shannon's two pets are always featured on the covers but they really don't have any part in the actual plot? I mean they are mentioned a few times but they don't play big roles. They are not central characters at all. It's not like they help her solve the crime or anything.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kate Carlisle returns with book six in the Fixer-Upper series. A WRENCH IN THE WORKS is another great installment to the series. This time, Shannon’s sister, Chloe, makes an appearance with her popular home repair show. It was the perfect way to bring her into the series. Super fun and a little dramatic, this book definitely brought something new to the series that was refreshing.

But as always, there’s quite a bit of sketchy things that are happening in this book. With some stalking and other sticky situations, this book quickly heats up and soon, Shannon must solve the secret before the killer can strike again.

Just to make sure everyone is on the right page here… I had someone comment that the books by this are not gory or funny. They’re not really supposed to be. They have their own charm that Carlisle puts into her writing but with Cozy Mysteries, it’s really more laid back and all about putting the clues together. You won’t find overt humor or the gory details in any of the author’s work so just be warned about that if you’re expecting something like that.

Nevertheless, I really enjoyed this book. With excellent pacing and a fun, fresh character, this series really is one of my favorites from this author.

[Lisa Malmquist · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great cozy. Lots of interesting characters.
Shannon Hammer lives in Lighthouse Cove. She is a home renovator from a family of renovations experts. Her sister, Chloe, is coming back after having made it big on her own reality renovations show.
However, the executive producer is found murdered in the victorian home they are about to renovate for the show.
Shannon and her friends, have to solve the mystery and get Chloe off the hook. Entertaining and fun! Nice break from some of the heavier subjects in other books.

[Meagan Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rated 4.25

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Wrench in the Works by Kate Carlisle takes us back to Lighthouse Cove. Shannon Hammer is looking forward to her sister, Chloe coming to town. Chloe is the co-star of Makeover Madness, a rehab and design show on the Home Builders Network. Chloe has not been home for five years and the family is looking forward to catching up with her. Chloe along with the crew from Makeover Madness are coming to town to do a feature on the Victorian homes in Lighthouse Cove. Shannon has helped locate properties to showcase, and she will be on the show as well helping rehab a Victorian home in need. Shannon quickly learns that television life is not glamorous and Chloe’s executive producer, Bree Bennett is a terror. The day before filming begins, Shannon overhears an argument between Bree and Chloe and notices an eavesdropper in the form of the slimy Richard Stoddard. The next morning, Chloe and Shannon arrive early at the Bloom house for the first day of filming. They are exploring the first floor to see what work needs to be accomplished when they find Bree leaning against the tiles on the fireplace. Chief Eric Jensen quickly arrives to take charge of the scene. With everyone on the crew a suspect, Shannon and Chloe begin chiseling away at the suspects in the hopes of exposing a killer.

A Wrench in the Works is a lively cozy mystery with engaging characters, beautiful Victorian homes, a charming town, and a murder mystery. I thought the book was well-written and it gallops along at a snappy pace. Kate Carlisle has a writing style that allowed me to be drawn into the story. The dialogue is realistic, and the book has a good flow (I just kept reading until I finished). Shannon is a strong female character in an unusual occupation for a woman. I like her relationship with Mac (though he does seem a little too perfect). Shannon has a loving family and good friends. It was lovely to find out more about Chloe. She has a secret that has been bothering her for ten years which has kept her from coming home. There are sparks between Chloe and a certain police chief. I am curious to see what happens next with them. The mystery was intriguing with several suspects and misdirection. Cozy mystery sleuths, though, will have no problem identifying the killer. There are descriptions of beautiful Victorian homes in the book with their unique architectural details (I want to live in one). I can see why Shannon loves her job restoring these beauties. If you have not read the previous books in A Fixer-Upper Mystery series (or watched the movies), you will not be lost. I am giving A Wrench in the Works 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). A Wrench in the Works is a peppy and warm cozy mystery. I look forward to returning to Lighthouse Cove in the next A Fixer-Upper Mystery.

[K.A. Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A WRENCH IN THE WORKS, the sixth book in the Fixer-Upper Mysteries by Kate Carlisle, is an entertaining addition to a delightful series! Protagonist Shannon Hammer’s sister, Chloe, is the co-star of Make-Over Madness on the Home Builders Network. Chloe has brought the show to Lighthouse Cove for a feature on Victorian houses (something Lighthouse Cove is famous for) and has talked Shannon into being on the program renovating a decrepit home. I loved the “behind-the-scenes” tricks on the do-it-yourself home renovation television show and the author has cleverly woven her plot into the filming of the segments. The reader is also introduced to words and techniques used to restore the historical homes. I enjoyed learning about the various tools, Victorian styles, and repairs that are used without it detracting from the story.

The book has everything you might think a reality tv program might have from a tyrannical producer to jealousy over stardom to flirtations to comradery between the staff. When the producer is found murdered, Chloe is immediately a suspect since she had been fired and was heard loudly arguing with the victim. Shannon wants to help but finds her sister has been harboring a long-time secret. It doesn’t help that Chloe had been on the wrong side of the law in her youth and has a strong mistrust of authority. Ms. Carlisle weaves in family relationships and I loved seeing Shannon and her sister learn to overcome the past and the secrets that kept them apart. This subplot adds an emotional depth to the story. There are enough suspects to keep it interesting and the pace of the plot moves quickly, keeping the storyline flowing. I had a hard time putting the book down when it was time to tend to other responsibilities and I found myself trying to find time to squeeze in ‘just one more chapter’. I am counting down the days until the next installment in the Fixer-Upper Mystery series!

I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Under the Covers Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.


Kate Carlisle returns with book six in the Fixer-Upper series. A WRENCH IN THE WORKS is another great installment to the series. This time, Shannon’s sister, Chloe, makes an appearance with her popular home repair show. It was the perfect way to bring her into the series. Super fun and a little dramatic, this book definitely brought something new to the series that was refreshing.

But as always, there’s quite a bit of sketchy things that are happening in this book. With some stalking and other sticky situations, this book quickly heats up and soon, Shannon must solve the secret before the killer can strike again.

Just to make sure everyone is on the right page here… I had someone comment that the books by this are not gory or funny. They’re not really supposed to be. They have their own charm that Carlisle puts into her writing but with Cozy Mysteries, it’s really more laid back and all about putting the clues together. You won’t find overt humor or the gory details in any of the author’s work so just be warned about that if you’re expecting something like that.

Nevertheless, I really enjoyed this book. With excellent pacing and a fun, fresh character, this series really is one of my favorites from this author.

*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Ann❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shannon Hammer's younger sister Chloe left Lighthouse Cove after high school to make it big in Hollywood. Now, Chloe is the co-host of a popular home repair show. She and her crew are returning to film in Lighthouse Cove, and Shannon will be taking part in the filming as they rehab a Victorian house in the city.

But things are tense with the crew. Chloe’s co-host is at odds with the show’s executive producer, who happens to be his estranged wife, Erica. When Erica is found dead on the first morning of filming it makes for a very sticky situation.

Shannon soon discovers the real reason why Chloe was so eager to move away from Lighthouse Cove all those years ago. Can Shannon figure out if that ten-year-old secret is connected to Erica's death? And can she track down the real killer before her beloved sister becomes the next victim?

I have a love/hate relationship with this series, and for A Wrench in the Works the needle is definitely turned to love. This is one of those books where you feel as if you are going down one path, and then the story takes a curve and you’re scratching your head. The scenes were they were filming the show, and talking about houses and how they are built and rescued, were great to read.

Shannon has grown on me. At first, for reasons I never really figured out, I didn’t care for her. But with each book I find I like her, and this one reinforced that fact. I love her relationship with Mac, and hope at some point to see them get married. I also love watching her face down her high school nemesis. To me that sort of thing adds color to the story.

I also through the addition of Chloe was entertaining. She is a strong character, and I hope to see more of her in future books.

All in all, this series has built itself into one of my favorites. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next in Lighthouse Cove.

I read a digital ARC of this book through Penguin’s First To Read program.

[Mona Garg · Rating 4 out of 5]

As one of Kate’s Raters, I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

It’s a family reunion in this sixth installment of Carlisle’s Fixer-Upper cozy mystery series. Chloe Hammer, Shannon’s younger sister is back in Lighthouse Cove after leaving ten years ago under a shroud of secrecy. Now the star of a hit TV show, Makeover Madness, and a bestselling author, she is visiting with the cast and crew to film some episodes for her show.

Executive producer Bree is a thorn in everyone’s side. Beautiful, aggressive, difficult, and temperamental, she makes her presence known. She is well aware that on-air drama ratchets up ratings. A common tactic of hers is to mislead guests and broadcast their emotional reactions live. No surprise then that she pays a heavy price for rubbing people the wrong way...with her life.

Shannon is beyond thrilled to have her baby sister back. She is so proud and in awe of her. Although at times, over-protective, she knows that Chloe is more than capable of taking care of herself and knows her way around a toolbox. Both sisters grew up joining their father on construction sites. She can’t wait to give Chloe a glimpse into her life and introduce her around. Chloe, in turn, immerses Shannon into her world.

As always, this was an enjoyable fast read with its engrossing plot, humor, romance, and fun characters. Given that the theme of this series is fixer-upper, there are vivid descriptions, jargon, and techniques to that effect. Even though this book is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone. Carlisle does a good job of seamlessly providing brief intros to the characters, their histories, and references to past events. I look forward to re-visiting Shannon again.

[Miss W Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is for the Audiobook of A Wrench in the Works narrated by Eileen Stevens

A Wrench in the Works is Book 6 in the Fixer-Upper Mystery Series. Having said that, this is a stand alone book and one does not have had to read the previous books to enjoy this fantastic story.

Shannon Hammer's younger sister, Chloe, returns to town to film a series of home repair shows. The return is spoiled by murders at a Victorian mansion. A fun cozy mystery with like-able, characters. The plot was very well thought out and I did not guess who the murderer was at all!

Eileen Stevens did an EXCELLENT job narrating this book. I really enjoyed her style and she brought a lot to the characters. Will definitely listen to the next book on Audio.

[Dawn Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I guessed who the murderer was BEFORE there was even a murder [sigh], and then wasn't sure of the why until the second murder victim showed up and then I knew. And the book felt tremendously slow because of that.
I like the dynamic between Chloe and Shannon and I do hope we see more of Chloe because she and Shannon work well together, but I did miss the rest of Shannon's crew of girlfriends because the focus was more on the sisters. I hope that if Chloe makes a return appearance, that Ms. Carlisle can find a way to make a good mix of everyone.
I liked the book for the most part - guessing things early IS a bummer though and really does throw off the whole rest of the book. I sure hope it doesn't happen again.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed this story!

[Patrizia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Direi che con questo libro, visto il finale, si è aggiunto un altro personaggio al cast: la sorella della protagonista. Mi piace come le due interagiscono e tutte le notizie che vengono date sui restauri di una casa vittoriana. Per quanto riguarda il mistero, non avevo un colpevole ben chiaro in mente, quindi sono stata un po' sorpresa dalla scoperta su chi fosse, visto che avevo puntato altrove.

[OpenBookSociety.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

http://openbooksociety.com/article/a-...

A Wrench in the Works
Fixer-Upper Mystery #6
By Kate Carlisle
ISBN13: 9780399586484
Author website: katecarlisle.com
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kayt

Synopsis:

Contractor Shannon Hammer has to dig through murder suspects in the latest Fixer-Upper Mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of Eaves of Destruction and Once Upon a Spine.

Don’t miss the Hallmark Movies & Mystery Originals starring Jewel, based on the Fixer-Upper Mystery series!

Shannon Hammer’s younger sister Chloe left Lighthouse Cove after high school to make it big in Hollywood. And she did it! For several years now, Chloe has been the co-host of a popular home repair show on the Do-It-Yourself Network. Now, after ten years, Chloe returns to Lighthouse Cove with her crew and co-host to film several shows featuring her sister Shannon, along with some special mini-segments on Victorian style and design.

But Shannon realizes quickly that things are not exactly blissful in TV land. Her sister’s handsome co-host is being stalked by someone who turns out to be his estranged wife, Erica–who also happens to be the executive producer of the show. Erica’s got a knack for stirring up sticky situations and when she’s found dead, Chloe and the entire crew are under suspicion.

Shannon soon discovers the real reason why Chloe was so eager to move away from Lighthouse Cove all those years ago. Can Shannon figure out if that ten-year-old secret is connected to Erica’s death? And can she track down the real killer before her beloved sister becomes the next victim?

Review:

I really enjoy this series. I am a big fan of home and garden networks and shows and “The Fixer-Upper Mystery” series is just perfect for me and I am sure others that enjoy these shows. Author Kate Carlisle once again brings the mystery and the fun of home repair and refurbishing to life in her latest installment of the series A Wrench in the Works. This one has an added benefit, Shannon Hammer’s famous sister appears. Shannon is just a very cool, composed and intelligent protagonist. Her sister Chloe left Lighthouse Cove as soon as she could and went to Hollywood. While there she has built a huge following for her Do-It-Yourself Network home repair show. Now she is bringing the show to her hometown. Not only will they be working on local homes, but Shannon and her crew will be participating. Shannon does a great job by the way.

Unfortunately, Chloe does not just bring the excitement and work of her show, but also her obsessed and cruel executive producer Erica and Erica’s husband who happens to be the costar on the series. Erica seems to have a habit of firing her employees. That includes her own husband and Chloe. They seem to act like it is normal, but Shannon just cannot understand how this woman works. Not only is she horrible to work for, but she also puts the recipients up against each other. Shannon is against that as well. Chloe reveals the reason she left town in such a hurry and that puts a damper on things as well. The only good thing to come of the show being filmed in Lighthouse Cove, the sisters get to work together again and are doing a great job.

Of course, when Erica winds up dead, things start to fall apart. When that death is followed up by the murder of the person behind Chloe’s early departure from town, things really do not look good. Shannon will not let her sister become a suspect. Along with her boyfriend, yummy Mac and the local authorities, Shannon and Chloe search for answers. The mystery is well written and full of intrigue. Who could have done this and why?

I really enjoyed A Wrench in the Works. I would love to see more of Chloe and Shannon working together. And since Shannon did such a great job on camera, maybe she will get a show as well. Wouldn’t it be nice if the two of them could work together on camera. Well, just my dreaming. I find the characters of this series very likeable and real. I love visiting Lighthouse Cove and can picture all the homes and work being done thanks to the wonderful writing style of author Kate Carlisle. Another hit for sure. I recommend this one to anyone who is a fan of home repair shows, cozies that fulfill all your cozy needs. You do not have to read the others in order to enjoy this one, but it does help.

*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*