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Paradise #14
Blownup in Paradise
I’ve come a long way since inheriting my Aunt Elizabeth’s Tarpon Cove house and her beach cottages full of quirky residents. I strap a Glock to my thigh as easily as I slip into flip-flops. Even Fab is going legit… mostly. When she’s hired to investigate some high-end boat thefts in Biscayne Bay, I go along to do what I do best. Chat up the help to get the real story. Neither of us expected the case to explode—literally—and take out one of Miami’s richest men. And possibly a mistress, though no one’s found her body floating among the bits and pieces. Somewhere in the Miami upper-crust’s phony smiles and even phonier alibis there’s someone who wanted to see Marshall Sacks dead. Someone willing to ruin Fab’s and my lives to keep their secret. It’ll take calling in every favor I’m owed to keep us out of trouble.
421 pages, Paperback
Published March 3, 2018
About the author
Deborah Brown
52 books1,449 followersDeborah Brown is the author of the Paradise series, Crazy, Deception and Trouble Florida Keys mysteries, which makes the reader laugh, cry and cheer...
My personal ad would read:
There's nothing a new pair of shoes can't cure.
Redhead. Long legs. There's nothing like a strawberry-lemonade in summer. Favorite activity: Filling my pockets with seashells. An avid rule follower when eating Animal Cookies: Broken ones get eaten first, match up the rest, duplicates next, line them up favorite to not, least favorite go first. South Florida is my home, with my ungrateful rescue cats, and where Mother Nature takes out her bad attitude in the form of hurricanes.
My personal ad would read:
There's nothing a new pair of shoes can't cure.
Redhead. Long legs. There's nothing like a strawberry-lemonade in summer. Favorite activity: Filling my pockets with seashells. An avid rule follower when eating Animal Cookies: Broken ones get eaten first, match up the rest, duplicates next, line them up favorite to not, least favorite go first. South Florida is my home, with my ungrateful rescue cats, and where Mother Nature takes out her bad attitude in the form of hurricanes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
May 8, 2018
I read only 5 per cent of this book before I shelved it. From that short sample it seems competently written enough and it was sowing the seeds of a story. But I felt a bit deceived. It was sent to me by a third-party asking me to review it because I had enjoyed another book of a similar genre. This book was nothing like that book! The first chapter had so many guns and car chases, I thought I was caught in a Starsky and Hutch time-warp. -- probably nothing wrong with it if you like guns and fast cars. I'm dirty on the third-party review seeker, not the author. Being an indie author myself, I value the reviews I get and I try to pay it back by reviewing other books IN MY GENRE. But I'd be annoyed if I paid money to a company who tried to solicit reviews from readers who probably WOULDN'T enjoy those books. Now that IS incompetent.
July 8, 2018
Even at book 14, I still want more Fab and Madison! As I recently told hubby; the Paradise series books are the perfect blend of comedy, mystery, and suspense.
It may be hard to imagine that even 14 books into a series, they can still grip your attention and keep you entertained but I am here to tell you that these books just get better and better!
The danger is less than usual because the girls are growing up, but there are still plenty of humor, mystery and suspense to keep you turning the pages.
The Paradise series books are books that I can always finish in just a few days and I am telling you; Blownup in Paradise was no different. A handful of mysteries to keep you involved with some more than usual backstabbing and crooked creatures.
There is even an extra touch of romance in this one and I promise, it won’t disappoint!
It may be hard to imagine that even 14 books into a series, they can still grip your attention and keep you entertained but I am here to tell you that these books just get better and better!
The danger is less than usual because the girls are growing up, but there are still plenty of humor, mystery and suspense to keep you turning the pages.
The Paradise series books are books that I can always finish in just a few days and I am telling you; Blownup in Paradise was no different. A handful of mysteries to keep you involved with some more than usual backstabbing and crooked creatures.
There is even an extra touch of romance in this one and I promise, it won’t disappoint!
July 9, 2018
Deborah Brown's books set in South Florida are some of my favorites. Do not ask me why as I have never in my life been to Florida, let alone the Keys, but I love the setting of this series.
I also love the characters. Madison and her best friend, Fab, are too funny to not like. Madison's entire family reminds me of just how dysfunctional all families are. Yet, they love each other and will always be there for one another.
This particular book finds Fab attempting to take her business to a more legit level. She has an office. She is trying to not take some of her previous clients who would always get her in trouble. She has an engagement ring on her finger. Then, she and Madison witness a boat explosion that was meant to get them in serious trouble.
Follow Madison and Fab through the trials of finding out why the explosion actually happened, who did it (maybe), and who was killed. Then, as the case is wrapped up, see what happens in Madison's life.
You'll definitely enjoy Blownup in Paradise. So pick up a copy today. I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
I also love the characters. Madison and her best friend, Fab, are too funny to not like. Madison's entire family reminds me of just how dysfunctional all families are. Yet, they love each other and will always be there for one another.
This particular book finds Fab attempting to take her business to a more legit level. She has an office. She is trying to not take some of her previous clients who would always get her in trouble. She has an engagement ring on her finger. Then, she and Madison witness a boat explosion that was meant to get them in serious trouble.
Follow Madison and Fab through the trials of finding out why the explosion actually happened, who did it (maybe), and who was killed. Then, as the case is wrapped up, see what happens in Madison's life.
You'll definitely enjoy Blownup in Paradise. So pick up a copy today. I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
July 10, 2018
(Singing in the tune of Thin Lizzy's "Boys Are Back In Town") My girls are back in Paradise! Each book brings a new aspect of the girls' personalities, hints at more of their backgrounds and family life, as well as a new hot situation that brings them near fatal danger. Their boyfriends aren't too keen on them jumping into the mystery behind the theft of high end boats but these ladies are strong, determined, and unstoppable when they have a goal in mind. Madison and Fab balance one another out to keep skirting the edges of the law without getting too deep that they can't recover. All of the secondary characters give the main story subplots that add a fun variety to the flow of action. There were moments that I found myself gasping at pieces of evidence that tied loose ends a little tighter but Deborah Brown always slips in a few more that make me want to come back for more. Madison's business skills give her a gut feeling about Brad's business partner - I felt it, too! Good ol' favorites, Didier and Creole, have their hands full with Madison and Fab (as usual!) and I can't wait to see their relationships expand (pretty sure I picked up hints about seeing more of them in the next installment!). If you haven't read this series - get to it! I highly recommend starting at the beginning to get each puzzle piece Ms. Brown lays out on these two!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
July 16, 2018
Disclaimer Here - I am a Deborah Brown Junkie and this woman can never write quick enough for me. From the very first book when I was introduced to Madison after she learned of her inheritance from her aunt, to this newest installment of the series, I have been waiting with bated breath for the next one to come and take me away to my home away from home in the Florida Keys.
Madison and Fab have always managed to get themselves involved in some sort of mystery. I love the way their boyfriends are never happy with their involvement but always help them out if they really need it. I do love that this book like the others is infused with wacky humor that only adds to the story and doesn’t just fall flat or come across as the author trying to distract you from the real storyline. Madison and Fabiana and their relationships with Creole and Didier respectively show how a dual friendship can take on an us v. them mentality but never crosses the line and always ends up in a good place.
Deborah also has the ability to send you on a journey throughout the books where you know the main mystery (in this case the blown up boat) but you also have so many other smaller storylines. You have the ever-present regulars who live in The Cottages and you get to learn about her brother Brad’s business venture and all of the complications there are with his girlfriend and also his business partner too.
All in all, this is another home run for my girl Deborah, and I am now going to go back to sitting here watching the clock while I wait on the next installment impatiently!
Madison and Fab have always managed to get themselves involved in some sort of mystery. I love the way their boyfriends are never happy with their involvement but always help them out if they really need it. I do love that this book like the others is infused with wacky humor that only adds to the story and doesn’t just fall flat or come across as the author trying to distract you from the real storyline. Madison and Fabiana and their relationships with Creole and Didier respectively show how a dual friendship can take on an us v. them mentality but never crosses the line and always ends up in a good place.
Deborah also has the ability to send you on a journey throughout the books where you know the main mystery (in this case the blown up boat) but you also have so many other smaller storylines. You have the ever-present regulars who live in The Cottages and you get to learn about her brother Brad’s business venture and all of the complications there are with his girlfriend and also his business partner too.
All in all, this is another home run for my girl Deborah, and I am now going to go back to sitting here watching the clock while I wait on the next installment impatiently!
July 3, 2018
Everything is being blown up in this one--boats--docks--tempers. Fab is up to her usual tricks--well not as much now that the boyfriends are watching them VERY closely and have decided to accompany them to keep them from getting hurt. And Madison's boyfriend decided to quit his job and become a PI----These two girls will not be getting away with too much anymore! Well--not as much as they used to anyway.
Meanwhile Brick is up to no good and Fab and Madison are trying to figure out exactly what--since he has set them up a couple of times. Finally Madison calls in one of the baddest guys she knows to stop her brother's partner from threatening them!!
Of course there is always trouble at the cottages which always seems to happen in the middle of the night--Creole manages to scare the trouble makers and get them to leave the premises!
At the very end there is a big surprise which is going to make Madison's Mom extremely happy!! I am pretty sure that she can handle it--and I suspect we will hear about it in the next of this wonderful and zany series!
Blownup in Paradise
Meanwhile Brick is up to no good and Fab and Madison are trying to figure out exactly what--since he has set them up a couple of times. Finally Madison calls in one of the baddest guys she knows to stop her brother's partner from threatening them!!
Of course there is always trouble at the cottages which always seems to happen in the middle of the night--Creole manages to scare the trouble makers and get them to leave the premises!
At the very end there is a big surprise which is going to make Madison's Mom extremely happy!! I am pretty sure that she can handle it--and I suspect we will hear about it in the next of this wonderful and zany series!
Blownup in Paradise
July 6, 2018
I chose to read this book after receiving a free copy. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
I love these characters! They’ve become like old friends and I’m always looking forward to the next book in the series. It amazes me how Deborah Brown can continue to come up with new and exciting adventures for Madison and Fab. They’re always getting into scrapes but somehow seem to be able to get themselves out of trouble. I like how both girls have grown as individuals and also in their relationships.
It’s obvious from the title of this book that something blew up…it was a boat and Madison and Fab happened to witness it from afar when they were on another case. There was one fatality and they’re going to find out who killed the victim. And is someone trying to set them up? At the same time, a neighbor’s dog has gone missing and Fab promises that they will find the dog. Both of these cases end up being bigger and more complicated than they expected. There’s also a twist or two which makes things interesting.
As usual, Madison and Fab and their boyfriends and a wide cast of quirky characters make Blownup in Paradise a fun read. And I loved the ending! I’m getting ready to start reading the next book in the series which I just got yesterday!
I love these characters! They’ve become like old friends and I’m always looking forward to the next book in the series. It amazes me how Deborah Brown can continue to come up with new and exciting adventures for Madison and Fab. They’re always getting into scrapes but somehow seem to be able to get themselves out of trouble. I like how both girls have grown as individuals and also in their relationships.
It’s obvious from the title of this book that something blew up…it was a boat and Madison and Fab happened to witness it from afar when they were on another case. There was one fatality and they’re going to find out who killed the victim. And is someone trying to set them up? At the same time, a neighbor’s dog has gone missing and Fab promises that they will find the dog. Both of these cases end up being bigger and more complicated than they expected. There’s also a twist or two which makes things interesting.
As usual, Madison and Fab and their boyfriends and a wide cast of quirky characters make Blownup in Paradise a fun read. And I loved the ending! I’m getting ready to start reading the next book in the series which I just got yesterday!
November 7, 2018
Blownup in Paradise by Deborah Brown (Paradise Series Book 14) I am loving the Paradise Series and when ever I pick up a new instalment I can only begin to wonder what mischief Madison and Fab are going to get up to or get involved in. Blownup in Paradise see the girls get involved in their most explosive adventure yet, both literally and figuratively – boats are blown up, dock are on fire and the girls must contend with being on the right side of the law now and not go rouge.
There is never a dull moment for Madison and Fab and the cottages with their host of eclectic residents has its own share of drama as usual. This series is filled with a host of characters that you have come to love as you would your own family and you just help but get involved with the antics they all get involved in. The little tid-bit at the end (not a cliffhanger) has left me patiently waiting for the next book to come out!
There is never a dull moment for Madison and Fab and the cottages with their host of eclectic residents has its own share of drama as usual. This series is filled with a host of characters that you have come to love as you would your own family and you just help but get involved with the antics they all get involved in. The little tid-bit at the end (not a cliffhanger) has left me patiently waiting for the next book to come out!
July 5, 2018
This is Madison and Fab's most explosive adventure, both literally and figuratively. Meanwhile, Creole is making plans for his future--will he return to the police force or try something new--and the girls are behaving more responsibly, for the most part, when it comes to their PI jobs. Once again, Brick is up to no good and dragging the girls along with him until they catch on. Life at The Cottages continues to be one misadventure after another--and it was great to see Creole step up and put the fear of God into a group of tourists!
The end of the book shares a very special secret, and I can't wait to read the next book to see what's going to happen next.
As usual, this is a very well written story. Ms. Brown has created characters that series readers can care about, who feel like family by this point. And her description of the Tarpon Cove area put you right in the thick of the Florida Keys...which is a great mini-vacation any time of year.
I will be anxiously awaiting the release of book #15, Psycho In Paradise.
The end of the book shares a very special secret, and I can't wait to read the next book to see what's going to happen next.
As usual, this is a very well written story. Ms. Brown has created characters that series readers can care about, who feel like family by this point. And her description of the Tarpon Cove area put you right in the thick of the Florida Keys...which is a great mini-vacation any time of year.
I will be anxiously awaiting the release of book #15, Psycho In Paradise.
July 11, 2018
This is one of my favorite books in the series! Madison and Fab are finally catching their stride, and Fab is testing the waters of being legal in her PI dealings. She's also working hard to find a balance where she won't upset Didier with her jobs.
The Cottages are still a source of tremendous humor, and the antics of the residents keep Madison and Mac busy.
This book is longer than the rest, and I think that has a lot to do with why it's my favorite. I love that we got to spend more time with this fabulous group of people, and I can't wait for the next book!
While this can definitely be read as a standalone book you'll find that you want to read them all, so be prepared to spend the summer catching up!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
The Cottages are still a source of tremendous humor, and the antics of the residents keep Madison and Mac busy.
This book is longer than the rest, and I think that has a lot to do with why it's my favorite. I love that we got to spend more time with this fabulous group of people, and I can't wait for the next book!
While this can definitely be read as a standalone book you'll find that you want to read them all, so be prepared to spend the summer catching up!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
July 2, 2018
* I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own *
This is the story of Madison and Fab who once again find them selves in a bit of a pickle, it seems that Brad (Maddies brother) has started a new business adventure but has partnered up with the crook of the town Bardello and it also seems he is dating Bardello’s sister.
And through it all Creole is getting back to work after his shooting while still trying to keep an eye on both Maddison and Fab with Fab’s boyfriend Didier.
This story will keep you on your toes with lots of mystery and suspense involved.
Great story by Deborah Brown and look forward to the next instalment in the “Paradise” series.
This is the story of Madison and Fab who once again find them selves in a bit of a pickle, it seems that Brad (Maddies brother) has started a new business adventure but has partnered up with the crook of the town Bardello and it also seems he is dating Bardello’s sister.
And through it all Creole is getting back to work after his shooting while still trying to keep an eye on both Maddison and Fab with Fab’s boyfriend Didier.
This story will keep you on your toes with lots of mystery and suspense involved.
Great story by Deborah Brown and look forward to the next instalment in the “Paradise” series.
July 12, 2018
Drama and mystery all mixed into one story!
Blownup in Paradise is a fast paced exciting and well-written story. You get a little bit of everything when reading this story – action, mystery, drama and humor. She definitely knows how to captures the reader's attention from the beginning to end. This is an easy to read story that will have you escaping for a few hours of pleasure.
This book is part of a series however, you do not have to read the prior books to understand and enjoy this book. I recommend reading the rest of the books in the series to get more of the quirky characters and mysterious adventures. I recommend Blownup in Paradise to anyone that enjoys reading amusing contemporary fiction stories with a twist of mystery, humor and action.
Blownup in Paradise is a fast paced exciting and well-written story. You get a little bit of everything when reading this story – action, mystery, drama and humor. She definitely knows how to captures the reader's attention from the beginning to end. This is an easy to read story that will have you escaping for a few hours of pleasure.
This book is part of a series however, you do not have to read the prior books to understand and enjoy this book. I recommend reading the rest of the books in the series to get more of the quirky characters and mysterious adventures. I recommend Blownup in Paradise to anyone that enjoys reading amusing contemporary fiction stories with a twist of mystery, humor and action.
February 20, 2020
Couldn't put it down!
I am obsessed with this series and this is another one I could not put down! After Fab and Didier got engaged I felt like it should have been Madison and Creole but I was still happy. There was plenty is this book to distract from thinking of that even though the books have changed somewhat over time from the non stop goofy kind of jobs and excitement to much more dangerous threats and excitement. The story is very well written and the characters are very well developed. I really loved this book and cannot wait to bein reading the next. I'm sad to think though that I am getting close to finishing all that have been written to date and I really want many more books in the series.
I am obsessed with this series and this is another one I could not put down! After Fab and Didier got engaged I felt like it should have been Madison and Creole but I was still happy. There was plenty is this book to distract from thinking of that even though the books have changed somewhat over time from the non stop goofy kind of jobs and excitement to much more dangerous threats and excitement. The story is very well written and the characters are very well developed. I really loved this book and cannot wait to bein reading the next. I'm sad to think though that I am getting close to finishing all that have been written to date and I really want many more books in the series.
May 26, 2018
Latest from one of my favorite series. A very good fast read, but this time it seems that: 1) a couple things were unresolved, and 2) something else was resolved too quickly after a lot of stakeouts and drama. Books in this series are not cliffhangers, but maybe there will mention of resolutions in the next one, just to tie up loose ends. Looking forward to next installment and hoping it'll come quickly!
July 5, 2018
I have absolutely fallen in love with Madison and Fab. Who knew that best friends who love what they do could get into so much trouble together? This latest installment has more guns and explosions than a Lethal Weapon movie. Even with their boyfriends riding shotgun, the Madison is quickly running low on favors during this high-profile case. Madison and Fab will have you wondering how they can possibly slip out of this one...
Received as a gift
Received as a gift
March 29, 2018
(Note: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
Generally, I don't like coming in the middle of a long-running series and frankly, noting that this was #14 in the series, I wasn't sure that I was going to enjoy the book.
Despite my initial trepidation, I enjoyed this book more than I had expected. I'm really not a big fan of Detective/PI mysteries but as Winter in Oregon showed no signs of abating, the promise of Miami sun and shine beckoned me.
I really enjoyed the characters and the mystery/plot was very well done. I liked the idea that the stories occurred over a contiguous period of time and there was more than one mystery to be solved.
Because this sub-genre of mysteries isn't quite my bag, I don't see myself reading any further in the series, but if sunshine, fast cars, private investigators are your kind of mysteries, most definitely, take advantage of this book.
I give this book a solid 4 paws -- well worth reading but give yourself plenty of time, this is a long book!
Generally, I don't like coming in the middle of a long-running series and frankly, noting that this was #14 in the series, I wasn't sure that I was going to enjoy the book.
Despite my initial trepidation, I enjoyed this book more than I had expected. I'm really not a big fan of Detective/PI mysteries but as Winter in Oregon showed no signs of abating, the promise of Miami sun and shine beckoned me.
I really enjoyed the characters and the mystery/plot was very well done. I liked the idea that the stories occurred over a contiguous period of time and there was more than one mystery to be solved.
Because this sub-genre of mysteries isn't quite my bag, I don't see myself reading any further in the series, but if sunshine, fast cars, private investigators are your kind of mysteries, most definitely, take advantage of this book.
I give this book a solid 4 paws -- well worth reading but give yourself plenty of time, this is a long book!
June 13, 2018
Madison and Fab are up to their eyeballs in investigations. Missing boats, missing dogs, missing people, it doesn’t matter. They can handle it all. I always enjoy the eclectic collection of mishaps and mayhem that befall them. That’s what makes this series a must read.
The author has added unique characters and situations that are descriptive and unforgettable in each one of the books of this series. I have a vision in my mind of how each character looks. Good or bad, they have all found a way into my heart. Needless to say, I could read this series forever.
The author has added unique characters and situations that are descriptive and unforgettable in each one of the books of this series. I have a vision in my mind of how each character looks. Good or bad, they have all found a way into my heart. Needless to say, I could read this series forever.
July 5, 2018
I am loving the Paradise Series and when ever I pick up a new instalment I can only begin to wonder what mischief Madison and Fab are going to get up to or get involved in. Blownup in Paradise see the girls get involved in their most explosive adventure yet, both literally and figuratively - boats are blown up, dock are on fire and the girls must contend with being on the right side of the law now and not go rouge.
There is never a dull moment for Madison and Fab and the cottages with their host of eclectic residents has its own share of drama as usual. This series is filled with a host of characters that you have come to love as you would your own family and you just help but get involved with the antics they all get involved in. The little tid-bit at the end (not a cliffhanger) has left me patiently waiting for the next book to come out!
There is never a dull moment for Madison and Fab and the cottages with their host of eclectic residents has its own share of drama as usual. This series is filled with a host of characters that you have come to love as you would your own family and you just help but get involved with the antics they all get involved in. The little tid-bit at the end (not a cliffhanger) has left me patiently waiting for the next book to come out!
December 10, 2019
4.5 stars
Another great cozy mystery set in paradise aka Florida! I really enjoy reading books that are set in the state I live in - so easy to relate to. Madison and Fab are so great and then you throw in their boyfriends for the cherry on top! Lots of twists and turns in this story so you never know who is the guilty party until the end and everything comes together. A great beach read!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
Another great cozy mystery set in paradise aka Florida! I really enjoy reading books that are set in the state I live in - so easy to relate to. Madison and Fab are so great and then you throw in their boyfriends for the cherry on top! Lots of twists and turns in this story so you never know who is the guilty party until the end and everything comes together. A great beach read!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
March 18, 2018
BLOWNUP IN PARADISE is the fourteenth book in the Paradise series. This is the first book I have read in the series. I was able to follow this case, but felt I was missing something in the relationships of the characters. While it mostly stands on its own, there is enough reference to past events that I know I’m missing something…. I suggest reading the previous books in the order of release.
One thing I liked about this book was that there was no swearing and the bedroom scenes were fade to black. That means this would be a book I would feel comfortable sharing with family or book club.
I’m a sucker for animals and children, so my favorite part of the book isn’t even mentioned in the blurb. It is the side story about the little lost/stolen Maltese and how Fab and Madison took care of a gang of dog fighters and rescued a teenager caught in the middle of it all.
As for the blown up boat (apart from the fact that blow up should be two words and the title has it as a single – ugh!), that bit of mystery kept me guessing and I love that in a mystery!
The two couples in the series – Madison and Creole and Fabiana and Didier –are wonderful. They are funny and loyal to each other as couples and as friends. I love that the ideas of trust and truthfulness are constantly being reinforced. That is what makes any relationship stronger.
This was the first book I have read from Deborah Brown. I look forward to reading more, especially since I also live in Florida and enjoy the warmth of the sun in real life and on the pages of a well written mystery set in my state.
Note: while I was given this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BLOWNUP IN PARADISE
Series: Paradise # 14
Category /Genre: Mystery
Recommended for: 14+ due to content
Grammar/editing: book received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Deborah Brown (as an ARC gifted copy)
One thing I liked about this book was that there was no swearing and the bedroom scenes were fade to black. That means this would be a book I would feel comfortable sharing with family or book club.
I’m a sucker for animals and children, so my favorite part of the book isn’t even mentioned in the blurb. It is the side story about the little lost/stolen Maltese and how Fab and Madison took care of a gang of dog fighters and rescued a teenager caught in the middle of it all.
As for the blown up boat (apart from the fact that blow up should be two words and the title has it as a single – ugh!), that bit of mystery kept me guessing and I love that in a mystery!
The two couples in the series – Madison and Creole and Fabiana and Didier –are wonderful. They are funny and loyal to each other as couples and as friends. I love that the ideas of trust and truthfulness are constantly being reinforced. That is what makes any relationship stronger.
This was the first book I have read from Deborah Brown. I look forward to reading more, especially since I also live in Florida and enjoy the warmth of the sun in real life and on the pages of a well written mystery set in my state.
Note: while I was given this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BLOWNUP IN PARADISE
Series: Paradise # 14
Category /Genre: Mystery
Recommended for: 14+ due to content
Grammar/editing: book received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Deborah Brown (as an ARC gifted copy)
July 18, 2018
I am loving this series. Even though I got in at book 12 and this
one is #14 the characters drew me and won't let go!
This is a great series to start. Don't worry if you can't start at book 1. Check this one out and then back track it's worth it.
There are a lot of sub characters in the story since Madison is the owner of a Cottage/Apartment Building she inherited from her aunt. The residents are quirky and funny. And then there are short term renters that add more quirkiness and cause trouble.
Her best friend and partner Fab who is a P.I. has lots of interesting
cases that have lots of crazy and sometime strange characters.
In Blown Up In Paradise Fab is called on to investigate the
death of a wealthy local. Madison as her assistant helps dig up the truth.
Along with Madison and Fab their boyfriends decide they have to help to keep the girls out of trouble and keep them safe.
They tend to break a few rules from time to time and make a few
people mad.
Jobs come if for Fab almost daily even while they are on one case another pops up. This time an elderly man living near them has lost his dog. Sadly as soon as they start investigating the find a dognapping ring located in the area. They waste no time shutting it down.
Madison and Fab are all about helping out the down trodden and making things right when the can.
Among the colorful characters are Madisons family. Her mom, step father, her brother Brad and a younger brother Liam. They are always into some kind of trouble as well and keep Madison on her toes.
The Paradise Cove is a great Cozy Series with some thrill and suspense and lots and lots of humor.
A great clean read. No language and no bedroom scenes.
Deborah Brown in just two books has become a favorite. I can't wait to read the next one!
I received a complimentary copy.
one is #14 the characters drew me and won't let go!
This is a great series to start. Don't worry if you can't start at book 1. Check this one out and then back track it's worth it.
There are a lot of sub characters in the story since Madison is the owner of a Cottage/Apartment Building she inherited from her aunt. The residents are quirky and funny. And then there are short term renters that add more quirkiness and cause trouble.
Her best friend and partner Fab who is a P.I. has lots of interesting
cases that have lots of crazy and sometime strange characters.
In Blown Up In Paradise Fab is called on to investigate the
death of a wealthy local. Madison as her assistant helps dig up the truth.
Along with Madison and Fab their boyfriends decide they have to help to keep the girls out of trouble and keep them safe.
They tend to break a few rules from time to time and make a few
people mad.
Jobs come if for Fab almost daily even while they are on one case another pops up. This time an elderly man living near them has lost his dog. Sadly as soon as they start investigating the find a dognapping ring located in the area. They waste no time shutting it down.
Madison and Fab are all about helping out the down trodden and making things right when the can.
Among the colorful characters are Madisons family. Her mom, step father, her brother Brad and a younger brother Liam. They are always into some kind of trouble as well and keep Madison on her toes.
The Paradise Cove is a great Cozy Series with some thrill and suspense and lots and lots of humor.
A great clean read. No language and no bedroom scenes.
Deborah Brown in just two books has become a favorite. I can't wait to read the next one!
I received a complimentary copy.
April 2, 2018
Madison and Fab are continually causing drama in this Florida Keys Mystery Series, Blownup in Paradise. As Madison is learning the Private Investigator profession from Fab, she finds their different skills complement each other, though one or the other are often pushing it a little too close to the illegal side. Madison is a business person in her own right, with owning a couple businesses and an inheritance from her aunt. This new business adventure her brother, Brad, is starting has her on her toes. She doesn’t trust his business partner Bardello; nor does understand why his girlfriend has kept it a secret she is Bardello’s sister. Madison and Fab only wish they could find evidence that Bardello is crook they know he is before it takes Brad down with him. Didier and Creole have their hands full as they try to keep tabs on these two high strung ladies.
Deborah Brown does an excellent job keeping these two ladies in hot water. Most of their escapades are humorous, but I would be exhausted if I had to keep up with these two in real life. I find this novel fascinating to read, but each book builds upon each other in this series. I will say, I like Liam; he is part of the family and he sits back and just watches knowing he will never be disappointed by the drama that always unfolds when they are all together.
Deborah Brown does an excellent job keeping these two ladies in hot water. Most of their escapades are humorous, but I would be exhausted if I had to keep up with these two in real life. I find this novel fascinating to read, but each book builds upon each other in this series. I will say, I like Liam; he is part of the family and he sits back and just watches knowing he will never be disappointed by the drama that always unfolds when they are all together.
July 20, 2018
If you have met our investigators before you are in for another rip roaring exciting ride through the trial and tribulations of their hectic lifestyle. If you have not experienced any of their previous exploits you are in for a real treat of humour, love and adventure.
Another crazy adventure for our favourite residents of Tarpon Cove, this time caught up in an explosion at a local dock yard leads our investigations down a path of peril. Alongside, trying to locate the perpetrator of the crime we again become embroiled in their complex life.
Praise for the author to keep the story line fresh and original, as well as creating new scenarios and characters which add credence and novelty to the plot. Again the text and language with the simplistic story line make for an easy read which keeps the reader enrapt.
Those readers who like to get to know characters in a series of storylines must read all of Deborah Brown's creations to fully appreciate what she has achieved in the Paradise series. Not many writers can keep story lines with the same characters interesting and having the reader wanting to have the next book on hand to enjoy straight away.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am a big fan of Deborah Brown, you can enjoy these stories anywhere.
Another crazy adventure for our favourite residents of Tarpon Cove, this time caught up in an explosion at a local dock yard leads our investigations down a path of peril. Alongside, trying to locate the perpetrator of the crime we again become embroiled in their complex life.
Praise for the author to keep the story line fresh and original, as well as creating new scenarios and characters which add credence and novelty to the plot. Again the text and language with the simplistic story line make for an easy read which keeps the reader enrapt.
Those readers who like to get to know characters in a series of storylines must read all of Deborah Brown's creations to fully appreciate what she has achieved in the Paradise series. Not many writers can keep story lines with the same characters interesting and having the reader wanting to have the next book on hand to enjoy straight away.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am a big fan of Deborah Brown, you can enjoy these stories anywhere.
April 12, 2018
I was asked by book funnel to review this book and give an honest review so here is my review. It was a cute book with beautiful people. It took place in South Florida so what would you expect. The two hot females work as PI’s and the lead, Fab, has a long history of working with unsavory characters. If not downright illegal, they are questionable. The other female, Madison, is from a wealthy family who must own half of South Florida because they know everyone. Their ‘boyfriends’ are Creole/Madison and Didier/Fab. Of course the men have hot bods as well. So, what do they do? The two women spend their time chasing down a possible murderer and saving kidnapped dogs from a fighting group. Both worthwhile activities. For some reason the book just didn’t resonate with me. It is a good summer read but if the first 13 books in the series are like this one, I can’t imagine spending the time it would take to read them. I gave the book 4 stars because it is a good read, has well developed characters, and a theme but it just didn’t grab me the way some other series that I have read did. But, it was a fun read.
March 29, 2018
I had bought two books of Deborah Brown and could clearly say that the author serves variety. Blown up in Paradise was totally different from her earlier book. The current book is a mystery no doubt but here the females keep an upper hand in solving it. The two heroines are active, chirpy, energetic and very well in tune with one another. They have the mind and personality of their own and go against the advice of their very caring and handsome boyfriends. This makes them all the more adorable and independent. The best part of Brown's writing style is that she infuses humor into all of her works and even while we are reading about a serious matter we cannot help but smile and chuckle now and again and enjoy the book as an overall entertainer rather than simply a mystery novel.
The drawback of the book is that the mystery angle is not well explored and as a reader looking for mystery I may be a little disappointed. Still the book is of average length and so satisfies the mystery urge without it being a drag.
The drawback of the book is that the mystery angle is not well explored and as a reader looking for mystery I may be a little disappointed. Still the book is of average length and so satisfies the mystery urge without it being a drag.
March 29, 2018
Madison Westin and Fabiana “Fab” Merceau are a couple of gal pals that are living in the Florida Keys. They also happen to be very handy with guns, smart as tacks and can sniff out the answers to the deepest mysteries. This book is # 14 in the series, but I did not read the others yet. After a run in with James Bordello on the highway that left more questions than answers, Madison an Fab are hired to solve a couple of boat thefts of higher end boats. Their boyfriends are not happy about them sleuthing around and sniffing out clues, but the girls are written as strong and confident characters and I really like this about them. The author does them justice by not letting them whimper and crumble at the first sign of trouble and they are tough to the end. They solve the mystery as well but there are enough plots within this book that it entices you to pick up the next to find out the results of the subplots. Writing style and editing was great, no grammatical errors that distract from the story.
March 25, 2018
A fun and exciting story as always!
Blown up in Paradise is the 24th book of the Florida Keys Mystery series by Deborah Brown. As usual Deborah Brown has done a wonderful job of writing the book so it could be a stand alone book or read in order for the series, though I love this series so much that I highly recommend starting with the first one to get the full benefit of getting to know the characters and their individual quirky personalities. Of course it wouldn’t be a Florida Keys mystery if the main case didn’t lead Madison and Fab on a deadly adventure. As usual the relationships with Creole, and Didier play a major role in the story and their intriguing family relationships add laugh out loud humor. I love all the characters in this series and always look forward to going on a wild ride with the crew!this seemed to be longer than the other books in the series but it still moved smoothly and I had to keep reading to see what was coming up next!
Blown up in Paradise is the 24th book of the Florida Keys Mystery series by Deborah Brown. As usual Deborah Brown has done a wonderful job of writing the book so it could be a stand alone book or read in order for the series, though I love this series so much that I highly recommend starting with the first one to get the full benefit of getting to know the characters and their individual quirky personalities. Of course it wouldn’t be a Florida Keys mystery if the main case didn’t lead Madison and Fab on a deadly adventure. As usual the relationships with Creole, and Didier play a major role in the story and their intriguing family relationships add laugh out loud humor. I love all the characters in this series and always look forward to going on a wild ride with the crew!this seemed to be longer than the other books in the series but it still moved smoothly and I had to keep reading to see what was coming up next!
March 28, 2018
“Blownup in Paradise (Florida Keys Mystery Series Book 14)” is Deborah Brown’s fourteenth novel in her collection that she has written. We get to see Madison, Creole, Fab, and Didier are back together in this installment and they are working hard together in yet another crazy mystery happening around them. While trying to find out who has been doing some expensive theft in the boating area, the group ends up getting involved in a giant explosion, leaving questionable murder and potential missing persons. Brown has written yet another great book that kept me hooked from start to finish. Thank god her books are a decent size because I am always looking for more to read and it satisfies that craving. I do highly recommend reading her prior novels in the series because I think it adds to the character development and interactions better, but you would still be able to keep up if you don’t have the time to read all of the stories.
March 6, 2018
Plenty of action and great ending
I really enjoyed this installment. About a quarter of the way in, it got a little disjointed and wordy, drug a little as far as moving along the main storyline. I'm used to all the sad stories in his books. I like the storyline on this one , and really love the ending of the book. I am looking forward to stories with the new informants and contacts . Some really interesting characters. Tell me things going on with this book. Brad and Madison come to a mutual understanding, bordello and Madison come to an understanding, brick and fab counter understanding , and a decision is made on Creole's future with the police dept. I love this series and highly recommend taking the journey with Madison and Fab.
I really enjoyed this installment. About a quarter of the way in, it got a little disjointed and wordy, drug a little as far as moving along the main storyline. I'm used to all the sad stories in his books. I like the storyline on this one , and really love the ending of the book. I am looking forward to stories with the new informants and contacts . Some really interesting characters. Tell me things going on with this book. Brad and Madison come to a mutual understanding, bordello and Madison come to an understanding, brick and fab counter understanding , and a decision is made on Creole's future with the police dept. I love this series and highly recommend taking the journey with Madison and Fab.
March 24, 2018
This was the first book I've read in the series, and I feel like I'm missing out on a few details in lives of the main characters. It could be read as a standalone, but I recommend that the reader start with the first book. With that being said, I was impressed! The plot was good, I really enjoy the main characters Madison and Fab and their shenanigans. Mad and Fab's significant others join the story, and the scenes with one or both couples really added flavor to the story. This is a clean, entertaining mystery that families would love. Swearing and explicit scenes are kept to a minimum, but the intrigue and suspense of a good mystery is there. Also, the ending was great! What a twist! I will be reading others in the series after this.
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