Cut to the Chaise

Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery #8

by Karen Rose Smith

From USA TODAY Bestselling author KAREN ROSE SMITH... Blood red is the season's hottest color . 
 
With her wedding day mere weeks away, home stager Caprice De Luca is busy arranging every last detail for the reception at Rambling Vines Winery--a stylish venue she redecorated two years earlier. But the closer the bride-to-be gets to saying, "I do," the more a celebration at Rambling Vines seems like a terrible mistake. As financial mishaps and unhappy customers put the winery in the red, an unidentified criminal plots to sour the business's already ailing reputation. Worst of all, a romance from co-owner Michelle Dodd's past could leave a permanent stain on Caprice's best friend's current love life. When Michelle's aloof husband is found stabbed to death on a chaise lounge in the tasting room, Caprice vows to name the calculating culprit and set things right before her dream nuptials dissolve into a deadly nightmare . . .

Genres: Cozy Mystery, Mystery, Cozy, Family, Adult, Romance, Fiction

336 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published November 27, 2018

About the author

Award-winning author Karen Rose Smith was born in Pennsylvania. Although she was an only child, she remembers the bonds of an extended family. Family is a strong theme in her books and she suspects her childhood memories are the reason.

In college, Karen began writing poetry and also met her husband to be. They both began married life as teachers, but when their son was born, Karen decided to try her hand at a home-decorating business.

She returned to teaching for a while but changes in her life led her to writing relationship novels. Now she writes romances as well as mysteries full time. Her first book was published in 1992; her 110th novel will be published in 2024. A winner of New Jersey's Golden Leaf Award in Short Contemporary Romance, Colorado Romance Writers Award Of Excellence for short contemporary, as well as the Phoenix Desert Rose Chapter's Golden Quill for Traditional Romance, she has also been honored with Cataromance.com's award for Best Special Edition and Washington Romance Writers Career Achievement Award. Her romances have made both the USA TODAY list and the Amazon Romance and Contemporary Romance Bestseller lists. Her mysteries have made the USA TODAY and Barnes and Noble bestseller lists.

She has written for Meteor/Kismet, Kensington, Silhouette and Harlequin. Readers can contact Karen through her website, on Facebook (Karen Rose Smith Author) and on Twitter @ Karenrosesmith, on TIKTOK at karenrosesmithauthor and on Instagram. They can also follow her monthly e-zine IN TOUCH with KAREN ROSE SMITH which has the latest news about her books, recipes and contests.

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cut to the Chaise by Karen Rose Smith is a 2018 Kensington Publication.

A fun, fast paced, and very special addition to the Caprice De Luca Mystery Series!

I have been eagerly anticipating this installment, knowing that finally Caprice will tie the knot with the love of her life. But, of course, as with any wedding, there is bound to be a last- minute snafu or two. But, for Caprice, a murder investigation could put a serious damper on all her wedding plans.

Caprice is planning to have her wedding reception at the Rambling Vines Winery, but when one of the owners is found murdered, it looks as though all her carefully laid plans were for naught. To make matters worse, the widow of the murdered man, who once had a dalliance with Caprice’s brother Vince, asks him to represent her, should she need legal counsel.

This puts a strain on Vince’s relationship with Roz, one of Caprice’s best friends. In order to save her wedding plans and to help ease tensions between Vince and Roz, Caprice steps in to help investigate the murder, hoping to find the killer before her big day.

I read this book in one sitting! I really did want to savor it a bit longer, but I couldn’t put it down!!

As always, the adorable pets featured in previous installments make an appearance, and they deserve an honorable mention, especially since they add so much charm to this wonderful series.

However, the mystery and family drama is what we came for, and Smith delivers a slam dunk. I was riveted to the pages, caught up in the emotions the featured couples were experiencing. Pre-wedding stress led to flared tempers and second thoughts. The mystery kept me on my toes, with several clever red herrings tossed in. I never came close to figuring out whodunit.

Overall, this is a well- constructed cozy mystery, is fast paced, will real depth. This is a wonderful and fun series, filled with love, family, and adorable fur babies. Caprice is a terrific character!! With each new chapter in this series, I feel like I’m visiting old friends I’ve really come to care about. So, what’s not to love?
4.5 stars

[Cozybooklady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cut to the Chaise is a fantastic addition to the series. I read this book in 3 hours, I just could not put it down until the very end.
As Caprice and Grant get ready to say I Do, Caprice is dealing with wedding day jitters, in-laws, and now, murder!
With her wedding venue at risk, Caprice has no choice but to investigate, which causes some concern for those involved.
There is so much going on in the story, I was engaged from the beginning and before I knew it, I had finished.
I am excitedly waiting to see what adventures await Caprice in the next book.

I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Longtime readers of this series will be pleased as Caprice and Grant are getting married as his annulment had arrived. They were to be married in the Catholic church and the reception was to be at Rambling Vines Winery. After the fact, rumors began to circulate that the winery was having financial problems. Other minor happenings were causing Caprice stress until the major one the owner being murder on the property. His wife, Michelle became a viable suspect in the murder. Caprice needs answers to the questions so her dream wedding can go on as plan. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Recipes are included.

Disclosure: Many thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another enjoyable installment in this terrific series. Now that we've had a wedding, I look forward to seeing what the future holds!

[JoAnne McMaster (Any Good Book) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Caprice De Luca is finally getting married to the love of her life, Grant Weatherford. She's got everything arranged - or at least think she does - when one of the owners of the winery where she's going to have her reception is murdered. Now she wonders if his wife killed him, and if not, who did. If she doesn't figure it out in a few short days, not only will her wedding be a disaster, but the wrong person might be arrested for the crime...

I used to love this series so much, and I hate to say that in this last book, which I am guessing is an end to the series since another hasn't been written since last year and the author is carrying on with a new one, had a disappointing finale. So much so, I couldn't even read it all the way through and wound up skimming the pages.

I've listed many of the things that bothered me in a spoiler below for those who haven't as yet read the book.

The plot was weak. There is a scene where a teenager is about to pour something into a vat of wine (that will obviously taint it) but when he is caught, states he didn't know he was doing anything wrong. And for this he was going to get $500. Right. A teenager is offered $500 to pour something into a vat of wine, and he thinks it's on the up-and-up? Is he the dumbest kid in this city?

Then, when Vince received the phone call about Travis's murder, he would have stated that he was going to act as Michelle's attorney, not as her lawyer. Attorneys do not refer to themselves as lawyers. Lay people refer to them as that. Vince also should have found her another attorney immediately since he was once involved with her and that could give the prosecutor ammunition in the case (even if he didn't think it would go to trial). If you've dated or are dating a client, you should never be the one to defend them as it's a conflict of interest. I would think even this author would know that.

Roz was acting like a 16-year-old with a new boyfriend who found out another high school girl was making a play for him. Doesn't she believe that Vince loves her? Has he given any indication that he was still interested in the ex-girlfriend? I don't think so, considering that Roz never knew Michelle existed. Which tells me that Vince has never even mentioned her. Which says that Vince hasn't thought about her since they broke up. So why is Roz in a panic? Doesn't she trust Vince? Maybe Roz should have just walked away from Vince right then and there if she didn't trust him. You can't have a decent relationship without trust. But then I soon began to realize the reason there was distrust. It was the main plot of the story, not the murder. It was here the book lost me.

Not a moment too soon, either. Caprice is way too dependent on her family and what they think. She even states that she wants a 'perfect' marriage like her parents or grandparents. Really? So her parents have never had a single argument? Have always acted like roses and sunshine around each other? No marriage is perfect, and I think Caprice needs to get the blinders removed from her eyes. She's also 'breathless' over Grant like a teenager (maybe that's why she likes Roz so much). She's an adult and is mooning over him.

She also didn't want to sell her small home and move into a bigger one with Grant so he could have room for a home office, so what does she do? He's going to build an addition to the house. His office will be...behind the garage. Not an additional room onto the house itself, but behind it. He doesn't even rate having an office in the main part of the house. She thinks this is a compromise (!) for them. No; no it's not. It's Caprice getting her way again, as in all things. I would have liked to have seen them start their new life together in a new home. Selling both their places could have given them enough to do so. After all, I'm guessing Grant has furniture, too. Is he going to sell all his stuff? Because it won't all fit in one room, and Caprice's house isn't that big. (Whatever are they going to do if they have children? Just keep on adding additions?)

I'm also slightly suspicious about her family and wondering if her sisters are going along with them on their honeymoon, since she does everything she can with her family. One sister is even making her dress because she couldn't find a vintage gown. I guess she never heard of the Internet. Out of curiosity, I searched and even found ones near my home. I'm even wondering if Bella has had 'the talk' with her about her wedding night. It's just so weird that she won't make a move without them, and I've noticed this in other books but always let it pass. I had to laugh out loud when I read about her gown, "the sweetheart neckline did not show cleavage." Really? (I'm saying that a lot here). She's afraid to let anyone know she possesses breasts? That will make her wedding night interesting. Caprice is a prude!

Unfortunately, I think I've given enough of my opinions of this book, which is corn on the cob of the worst kind. The mystery wasn't enough to hold the book together - it was more of a device to further solidify the relationship between Roz and Vince. Caprice is childish, boring, selfish, and self-centered. Grant is practically non-existent unless he’s fawning over Caprice and doing everything she wants. It’s like he’s got no mind of his own.

This series used to be so good but I'm guessing this is the last one; it just became so saccharine that it was difficult to read. It was a sad ending to what once was a good series. If it does by any chance continue, I will not read another.

[Kirsti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!

I have to say, after reading the previous book in this series I wasn't really digging the idea of this one, but I decided to give the author another chance. Then, to my surprise, the things that annoyed me in the last book were massively toned down in this one! Perhaps the Christmas theme didn't work for me last time, and the wedding theme was better. While I still don't like Caprice as a character, she was better this time around too. Even the dogs and cats make more of an appearance!

A definite improvement, I'm even looking forward to another book. Four stars.

[Sandy Bartles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caprice De Luca and her fiancé Grant Weatherford are in the midst of planning their wedding when a murder occurs at one of their venues. This is an exciting book with in-laws, Caprice’s cats Sophia and Mirabelle and Caprice’s cocker spaniel, Lady, and Grant’s cocker spaniel, Patches. I love the way the author threads all the aspects of the book together and keeps it exciting and brings it all to a wonderful conclusion.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Taryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this next book of the series Caprice is gearing up for her wedding. She is trying to take of all the last minute details and hopes that everything will go off without a hitch. While visiting the venue for her reception, Rambling Vine Winery's, she gets the feeling that not is okay with the business. It's to late to change the reception location so she prays that the winery's issues won't touch her special day. When the owner of the winery is found murdered Caprice knows that she must do everything she can to find the culprit to take the taint away from her reception venue. Who would have wanted to murder the man and why? The police are looking at his wife who happens to have dated Caprice's brother at one time. Michelle asks Caprice for her help in clearing her name and also retains her brother as her lawyer. Caprice begins to worry because it looks like her brother taking Michelle's case is putting a strain on his relationship with her best friend. She knows that she will have to everything she can to not only find a murderer but keep her brothers relationship from imploding. Can she do all this before her big day? Will she be able to help her brother before it's to late? The whole business is also putting a damper on her own relationship. With the upcoming wedding her fiance and herself are having issues with each others families. Will they be able to communicate their feelings or will they remain stubborn in how they view the situation? Follow along as you find the answers to these questions and more. This is such a fun series, I love Caprice's quirkiness and appreciate how she lives to be the person that she is most comfortable being. I'm happy that throughout the series she hasn't let anyone change who she is, and have enjoyed her growth throughout the series. I look forward to seeing not only what happens next, but what fun and creative decorating ideas go into her next job!


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

[RO G'ma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cut to the Chaise is the eighth book in Karen Rose Smith’s Caprice De Luca Mystery series. The storyline is well plotted, the characters well developed, and the story moves at a steady pace. There’s a perfect mix of the importance of family, friendship, caring and compassion, romance, and mystery, along with lots of twists and turns and red herrings to keep the reader engaged. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading clean, well-crafted cozy mysteries.

Caprice De Luca, who owns a thriving redesign and home staging business, and Grant Weatherford, a local attorney, are getting ready to say their wedding vows. Their wedding will take place in St. Francis of Assisi church and the reception at Rambling Vines Winery. Caprice learns the winery is having financial problems and some dissatisfied event customers but decides not to move to a different venue. Weddings can be stressful, but when you add in a stray dog, opinionated future in-laws, home renovations, family and friends having relationship troubles, plus a murder at Rambling Vines Winery, the stress level increases exponentially for the couple. When Rambling Vines Winery’s owner, Travis Dodd, is found murdered in the tasting room at the winery, his wife, Michelle, becomes a suspect and asks Caprice’s brother, Vince to represent her even though he isn’t a criminal lawyer and has a romantic history with her. Michelle asks Caprice to help find the killer and prove her innocence, and even though the timing is terrible, she agrees and finds herself in a dangerous situation.

I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Kathleen Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woohoo! Caprice and Grant are finally getting married! But not so fast- not all will go smoothly! Darn it. The wedding venue, Rambling Vines Winery, seems perfect, especially since Cat was involved with it. Then, the owner Travis is murdered and his wife Michelle has fallen under suspicion. She asks Caprice's brother Vince for help, which annoys Caprice's best friend and Vince's girlfriend Roz. So of course, Caprice has to sort things out asap. This is a delightful addition to the series. The characters, including all the various pets, are fun and believable. Thanks to net galley for the ARC. Anyone who thinks they've had a glitch with their wedding planning should talk to Caprice! A fun and happy read in the end.

[Amelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Karen Rose Smith kept me mystified throughout her riveting Caprice De Luca mystery, where clues are sprinkled in yet offer no final conclusion. As the list of possible suspects for a puzzling murder grows longer, so do the questions that must be answered in order to locate the responsible culprit. The author knows exactly how to increase the intrigue with crafty details, which makes my deductions change along with motives for the killing. In the eighth story of the series, there is lots of drama taking place as Caprice is about to get married, plus her family and friends are also going through some difficult times in their lives. Ms. Smith cleverly interweaves a whodunit with personal issues to create a story that continuously entertains.

Since Caprice De Luca used her talent as a home stager to make all the features wanted by the Dodds for their winery come true, she knows it is the perfect place for her wedding reception to be held. The date for her to marry Grant Weatherford will soon arrive, so she is carefully going over all the arrangements to make certain there will be no hitches on her special day. As the time draws near, everything seems in order with no complications arising. When she hears about problems related to past functions at the winery, she decides to not cancel yet will closely monitor any connected plans. But when the owner of the business is killed in one of its rooms, Caprice becomes caught up in a murder that she wants solved for several personal reasons.

CUT TO THE CHAISE is overflowing with uncertainties and colorful characters. I never knew who might end up being a suspect, and any promising evidence against someone could be proven false after Caprice uncovered a fact. Karen Rose Smith takes readers on an adventurous journey, where there are no guarantees until the truth is finally revealed. Along the way, Caprice meets some interesting people, and I enjoyed trying to decide whether they were innocent or perhaps guilty.

With this story featuring the wedding of a beloved couple, I was excited to learn how they would celebrate the occasion. The festivities are well described so I could easily visualize all the events. Caprice and Grant are made more realistic as they experience good times and some troubling incidents. Their families play a big part in the story, as well as some close friends. There are also many adorable dogs and cats in the story, and their antics had me chuckling more than once. I especially loved the dog that Caprice rescued this time, as Schnauzers are so loyal. CUT TO THE CHAISE is an engaging addition to this enthralling cozy mystery series.

I voluntarily reviewed the book, and all comments are my honest opinion

[Jeanie Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a wonderful book, especially for those who already love Caprice! While anyone can read the book as a stand alone and thoroughly appreciate the way Karen Rose Smith creates a whole life for Caprice and her family, she allows her characters and their relationships to develop over time so there are advantages to reading the series in order. As always, the mystery is well developed and intriguing but for my, not matter how excellent the mystery may be, the story is in the people. The novel begins three weeks before Caprice's wedding so we get to see the pre-wedding excitement and stresses added to the hunt for a murderer. Whether the reader wants and enticing mystery or a heart-warming novel Cut to the Chaise is a great read.

My thanks to NetGalley for approving my ARC request. Waiting for release date on a series I love as much as I love this one is a terrible thing, and I always tell all my friends about the books that I love so having to review is not problem.

[Patricia Romero · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery

Grant's annulment is finally done. With just a few weeks until they are man and wife, Caprice De Luca is up to her ears in wedding plans. The reception to be held at Rambling Vines Winery, which she decorated a couple of years ago.

When rumors start circulating about money woes at the winery, things get a little tense. Also tense due to the fact that Roz had a relationship with the owner who now has a wife. Someone is trying to sabotage the winery and Caprice isn't going to let that someone ruin her day. So before she walks down the aisle she is going to find out who is spreading rumors but before she can begin the owner turns up dead.

Now along with all the details of a wedding, she needs to find a killer and put everything to rights.

This is a really good addition. Great characters, good pace. I read this in one sitting.

Nice work!

Netgalley/November 27th 2018 by Kensington Publishing Corporation

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Caprice De Luca mystery has been well worth waiting for; I loved it! Caprice is joyfully planning her wedding. This is a relationship novel on many levels, from Caprice with her family, to her fiancé, friends, pets, and soon-to-be in-laws. The mystery is a tough one, especially the location. For those who read earlier mysteries in the series, it is a treat to see the pets that Caprice has rescued and found homes for.
Caprice and her fiancé contracted with Rambling Vines Winery for their wedding reception. Caprice redecorated parts of the winery and part of the main house in which the owners live, so she is familiar with the owners and facility. Caprice’s best friend, Roz, who lives with Vince De Luca, is uncomfortable when she learns that Vince used to date Michelle Dodd, who owns the winery with her husband Travis.
Caprice begins to hear less-than-favorable gossip about the Winery, including possible financial problems and how recent weddings were not done as contracted for. Her sister Bella will help by making sure the decorations and flowers are what she orders, and Bella, an accomplished chef, is catering this very special event. New rumors about staff being let go as the winery couldn’t make payroll arise. Against everyone’s advice to move to another venue, Caprice chooses to stay with the Dodd’s.
After a day out of town to plan staging for a contractor’s model homes, Caprice returns to a crisis. Travis Dodd had been found murdered in the tasting room at the winery. Michelle was at the police station for questioning, so Vince went to the station to help her. Roz flounders at this turn of events, with Vince’s ex-girlfriend calling him frequently about the case.
Caprice and her fiancé are experiencing growing pains while preparing to live in the same home, in this case Caprice’s home to which they are adding an office so her hubby can work from home. They also are struggling with his parents’ perception of her and whether they will accept her. Caprice is determined to ask questions to see if she can help solve the murder so Roz and Vince can go forward and so her reception doesn’t have to be moved, and learns more than anticipated.
The characters are very well-drawn and three-dimensional, most of whom are strong and self-confident. Caprice makes new friends every time, this time befriending a couple who didn’t want to talk with her at first. Her cocker spaniel, Lady, frequently helps pave the way. She and her fiancé have made a special choice while dating that I respect, especially in today’s culture. I enjoy how most of the characters relate to each other; dialog is realistic and has depth.
I appreciate the antics of the pets of Caprice and others, including the Schnoodle who has made himself comfortable at the Winery. Plot twists serve to add or remove suspects from Caprice’s list, especially as she learns more about Travis’ family and business dealings. As the wedding day nears, the murderer is no closer to being found. When the killer is ready to show off, it is loud and potentially deadly. I was stunned at who the murderer is! I had not even considered the person in passing. There are many surprises to be had as the novel ends, making it a delightful read. I highly recommend this cozy mystery, filled with good friends, close family, suspense, and romance, and can’t wait to for the next one!

From a grateful heart: I received a copy of this e-Arc from the publisher through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cut to the Chaise is the eighth installment in the Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery series set in quaint town of Kismet, PA and featuring home stager, Caprice De Luca. Caprice's attorney fiance, Grant Weatherford has finally gotten the long awaited annulment from his previous marriage and the two are just days away from their long awaited nuptials. The plans are to marry in the local Catholic Church with the reception to follow at the luxurious Rambling Vines Winery.

Caprice had the pleasure of designing the upgrades at the winery for Michelle and Travis Dodd, and knows that the beautiful setting is just the spot to celebrate her wedding to Grant. When rumors begin to fly that the winery owners are in financial trouble, Caprice begins to have second thoughts and when Travis is found murdered her anxiety ramps up.

Michelle is being considered the prime suspect in the murder and she turns to Caprice's brother Vince to act as her legal representative. The two have a past romantic history and Vince's current girlfriend and Caprice's best friend, Roz is not happy that he's chosen to be involved with his ex.
Determined to clear Michelle's name, repair the damaged relationship between Vince and Roz, and save her dream wedding Caprice sets out to find a killer.

A fast paced plot that weaves a well developed mystery in with strained family dynamics and a wonderful group of pets. Caprice once again rescues a delightful pup and places him in a perfect home. Readers of the series will be delighted with the return of many series regulars including rock star Ace Richland who ultimately saves the day.

I received an advanced copy of Cut to the Chaise from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.

[Barbara Tobey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Caprice isn't a bridezilla during the weeks prior to her wedding, but she certainly has issues with which to contend. Family and friends and a murder all cause her problems. A sweet story with some touching moments. A little too much detail now and then. I suppose I was eager to discover the culprit, which came as a surprise. Hadn't given that person much thought. This is a nice series. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy this series.

Grant and Caprice are about to get married. There are major issues on the in-laws side. Grant and his brother have a distance between them based on sibling resentment of how the parents treated each of them – that’s the case in many families. His parents are not overly thrilled with Grant’s divorce and therefore not thrilled with his new choice for a life partner. At this venture, I would bet no one would be the right one for Grant.

Then there is the murder at the venue before the event. Caprice gets involved in resolving it so she can have her reception in the events center at the winery.

To add to the stress there is a problem between Roz and Vince.

Without giving anything away, you’ll have to read it for yourself to see the outcome.
This is a standalone story but I enjoyed knowing the backgrounds more than was provided. They are like family. I enjoyed the characters, the plot and the resolution.
This is the seventh in the series.

Looking forward to another installment.

I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by Kensington and NetGalley.

[Alisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sweet throwback cozy

This series is completely wholesome! Too-good characters with caring families. Saccharine even. And in this day and age, it is a delightful escape. The mystery is secondary to the characters lives, the reason you'll continue to read. The series is the equivalent to a written visit to a Mayberry-like setting. And there's nothing wrong with that at all.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This wasn't the strongest book in this series, but I did enjoy it. The Bad guy came out of nowhere. I would have never guessed who it was. It was quite the shock. I am glad that Caprice and Grant are finally getting married and starting their life together. Overall a good addition to this series, but not the strongest book in the series.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

You will appreciate this book best if you are familiar with the De Luca family, especially Caprice and her sister Nikki, and the struggles Caprice and Grant have had in their romantic relationship. It can be read as a stand alone for the murder mystery aspect.
Karen Rose Smith writes wonderful characters and situations. Her descriptions of houses and decor are fantastic. You may get the temptation to redo your own spaces after reading her novels.

Grant and Caprice are steps away from their wedding day. They have decided that they will take all the inevitable glitches and hiccups in stride. Unfortunately, a murder at the winery hosting their reception is a bit more than the usual obstacle. Family strife runs rampant and Caprice can not idly stand by when her brother and her best friend are pulled apart by his helping the widow.

So much is going on in all aspects of Caprice's life, will she make it down the aisle?

I am grateful to the author and Netgalley for my chance to read this wonderful addition to the Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery series.

[Janilyn Kocher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cut to the Chaise was a fun read. Initially, it was difficult to keep all the characters and pets straight. Also, this cast certainly are nosy and in each other's business. Caprice is preparing for her wedding to Grant and obstacles occur: family feuds, misunderstandings, and a dead body at the reception venue. Caprice races around investigating while putting out personal fires as the wedding approaches. Finally, the night before the wedding, the murder mystery is solved. I think this was the weakest aspect of the story; it just seemed too contrived and lame. I liked the cover and all the colorful descriptions of the clothing and home decor. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

[Jeannie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book brings an event I have eagerly been awaiting, the wedding of Caprice and Grant. Wedding day jitters, her in laws and now murder throws a kink in Caprice's planning. The story was so exciting and so much going on, but the author expertly weaves everything together to keep you turning the page. I seriously could not put it down. This is such a great series. I love the fact that Caprice is family oriented. She has a large Italian family for support. It is also refreshing that she is a home stager. Rose's descriptive writing style helps you to visualize the rooms and all the glorious food for family Sunday dinner. Great series, if you haven't picked it up, you should. I voluntarily reviewed a book I received from NetGalley.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Preparing for your wedding can be stressful, even for someone as organized as Caprice DeLuca. But when the owner of the winery scheduled to hold her reception is found murdered, this puts added stress on Caprice. The murdered man's wife becomes the prime suspect, but she wants Caprice to help solve this and prove her innocent. Can Caprice help or will all the stress derail her wedding? This is a fun series with great characters that continue to develop over the course of the stories. I enjoy the family connections, and the realistic way that they fight with each other and learn to work out their problems. And of course, the animals are more than precious. Each story has one animal that Caprice helps rescue, and this story is no exception. This time it is an adorable Schnoodle (Schnauzer and Poodle) that catches her eye and heart. I can't wait for the next story to see what's next in store for Caprice and Grant. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing this book.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this series back-to-back has been such a fun experience. Cleverly woven mysteries, endearing characters, a loving supportive family with a sweet little romance thrown in was more than entertaining. I found myself finishing one book and eagerly picking up the next. I loved that the main character rescued animals in need wherever she happened upon one. The recipes to all the different, traditional little meals the family members made that was added at the end of the books was a fun little extra. Actually, I found these books refreshing and thoroughly enjoyable. I hope there will be more to come in this adventures of Caprice De Luca, Grant, Lady, Patches, Sophie, Mirabella and the whole De Luca clan. ;)

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cut to the Chaise by Karen Rose Smith takes readers to Kismet, Pennsylvania. Caprice DeLuca is finalizing the plans for her wedding to Grant Weatherford now that his annulment has finally come through from the Catholic Church. They are having their reception at Rambling Vines Winery who happened to have a last minute cancelation and Caprice had redecorated their tasting room for Travis and Michelle Dodd who own the winery. The wedding is coming together with Bella making her dress, a last minute opening at St. Francis Catholic Church and Nikki agreeing to cater the reception. When Caprice starts hearing rumors about Rambling Vines having financial problems and unhappy clients, she wonders if they made the right choice for their reception. It does not help matters that Michelle Dodd once dated Vince and he failed to tell Roz about the relationship (awkward). Then Travis Dodd is found stabbed in the neck with a cheese knife on the teal chaise in the tasting room. Michelle is the prime suspect and requests Vince represent her. Caprice sets out to identify the culprit, so she can prove Michelle’s innocence, get Vince away from Michelle before his relationship with Roz implodes and clear the bad karma from Rambling Vines. Time is of the essence with her wedding just around the corner. Can Caprice wrap up the case before she walks down the aisle?

Cut to the Chaise is the eight A Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery and it cannot be read alone. This is one series that you need to read in order. Each book builds upon the previous one. Caprice’s business is successful, she has a wonderful relationship with her family, and is marrying the man she has loved since the moment she met him. Caprice and Grant were waiting for the annulment from the church before planning their wedding. Now that the annulment has come through, they are wasting no time in getting married. A Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery series is a character driven series. There is Caprice’s large family which includes Vince, Nikki and Bella along with their wide circle of friends. Unfortunately, Grant’s family is not as warm and friendly as Caprice’s which creates tension. I like the author’s conversational writing style. It has an ease to it which makes Cut to the Chaise easy to read and enjoy. The mystery is not the focus of the book, but it was intriguing. The fast paced mystery has a couple of suspects along with misdirection to throw you off the track of the real killer. There are many lovely cozy and romantic moments in Cut to the Chaise and fans of the series will be thrilled with the wedding. Caprice helps a sweet dog find a forever home plus Grant’s and Caprice’s dogs are featured along with the families’ other pets. I am giving Cut to the Chaise 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). There are recipes at the end for the enticing dishes featured in the story.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first Caprice De Luca book and I picked it up from NetGalley as I was in the mood for cosy mysteries and it definitely won’t be my last.

In this book in the series, Caprice is organising her wedding reception at Rambling Vines Winery, as well as trying to help her friend out with her relationship and try to juggle her and Grant’s families throughout it all. And then a murder happens and Caprice is drawn into it through several connections.

I really enjoyed this book. This was the first one in the series I’m reading but I didn’t feel lost when it came to understanding what had happened in the last seven books, it was all explained clearly and concisely whenever something came up. I am curious to read the other books which came before this one but I’m wasn’t lost through Cut to the Chaise due to not reading the previous books. It took a little while for the murder to happen, so the first third of the book was focused on Caprice’s upcoming wedding, her in-law troubles and what was going on with her brother, but when the murder did happen, I liked how it was carried out.

There were a variety of different suspects, Caprice approached them all with questions people could get away with answering and when the ending did come about, it’s not because she had figured out something the police had missed. The plot was well-paced, though I do wish the murder had happened a little earlier in the book, and I read this in two sittings.

I did like Caprice as a main character, as well as all the supporting characters and the love interest. It was good to see conflict arise in a relationship where it wasn’t based on a big misunderstanding, though I did find Caprice’s reaction to it a little over the top. I found the variety of side characters interesting, though when it got to the end I found myself wishing the list of possible suspects was slightly less long because it took me a good few pages to realise who Leon was and I had to go and double check it wasn’t the guy Michelle was having an affair with.

All in all, I found I liked pretty much all the characters, as well as the animals which kept coming up over the course of the book. It would definitely be a book I would recommend and a cosy mystery series that I hope to check out more in the future.

4 stars!

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cut to the Chaise is the 8th book in the Caprice De Luca Mystery series by Karen Rose Smith. Cozy mystery readers who appreciate this series will be delighted as Caprice and Grant are getting married as his annulment has finally been received. As with so many facets in life, at times it seems if something can go wrong it will! Caprice and Grant’s wedding plans seem to fall into this type of situation. Caprice De Luca is overwhelmed with wedding plans. Their reception will be held at Rambling Vines Winery, a property she decorated a several years ago. Local gossip indicates that the winery is having financial troubles. To make matters worse it appears that someone is attempting to sabotage the winery. Before Caprice can stop the rumors, the owner turns up dead. Caprice and Grant are ready to “tie the knot”. Caprice must contend with normal wedding anxiety, interfering future in-laws, and a murder! Ms. Smith crafted a tightly woven plot with multiple twists, turns and red herrings. Add to that well-developed characters: family, friends and pets who bring the story to life. Ms. Smith skillfully intertwines relationship themes experienced by many throughout this story. Everyone is impacted by attitudes, perceptions and expectations. In life, some people can’t seem to be happy at any time or during any situation. Cut to the Chaise is an entertaining cozy mystery which can be read as a stand-alone book, but I suggest readers consider reading the series from the beginning as the strength of the characters and development of the relationships of the characters (family and friends) add to the readers enjoyment. This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I hope readers will select Cut to the Chaise for hours of reading enjoyment.

Disclosure: I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by #Kensington Publishing Corporation and #NetGalley, all comments express my honest opinion.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

by Karen Rose Smith is the eight installment in this series but can be read as a standalone. However as with every series it is always better to read in order so readers can follow character development.
Still I had no trouble getting into the story even though I haven't read any previous books.

Caprice is home stagger who is getting married in just a few weeks to the love of her life. She is in a rush to organize every detail of her wedding and choose a winery she decorated some ago for her wedding reception. Almost immediately rumors start flying that winery is in some serious trouble but worse is yet to come when the owner is found dead. She has no choice but to find out the culprit so her wedding goes as perfect.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Many suspects, plenty of twists and turns and a clever story make this such a fine cozy. Yet a realistic portray of before the wedding stress and inner family relations, as well as many charming yet mischievous pets add to its charm and make it impossible to put down.
Ms.Smith is a masterful storyteller.

I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley and Kensington Books in exchange for an honest review.

[Rosemary K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caprice is preparing for her wedding. When she goes to the winery to finalize the details for her reception, she can tell that something is wrong. The couple who own the venue are on edge. When Travis is murdered, Caprice knows that she must help Michelle prove her innocence. Can she do this with her wedding rapidly approaching? Caprice is a charismatic character. Her love of animals shines through. It's perfect that her fiancé and family share her passion. She has her own unique style and works hard with her home staging business. I enjoy a fearless, capable woman. Grant is a understanding man who supports Caprice. I love that he has her back. I felt right at home with the De Lucas, their friends and pets. It's nice to catch up with familiar characters. Their interaction adds so much to the story. Karen Rose Smith has written a suspenseful mystery. I was on the edge of my seat. There were so people who had a reason to murder Travis Dodd. I was in the dark. I couldn't guess who the killer was until the very end. I thoroughly enjoyed Cut To The Chaise. With Caprice and Grant's wedding and a murder there is plenty of action in this cozy. Karen Rose Smith has done herself proud.

[Lorraine Kraft · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book everyone has been waiting for: Caprice and Grant get married-- but not before someone is murdered.

Caprice, sister Nikki and friend Roz are at the Rambling Vine Winery to check out the events room for Caprice's wedding reception. Everything looks in order but shortly thereafter, Caprice starts hearing rumors that the winery is in trouble. When she learns employees had to be let go and she was asked to pay in full instead of the half before and rest after the event, rumors turn into reality. Caprice's concerns about her wedding reception being held at the winery intensifies when the owner of the winery is found murdered.

When the widow of the owner appears to be the primary suspect, Caprice does her own investigation but will her investigation lead to the killer or will the killer make sure Caprice doesn't live long enough to have a wedding?

This is another great book in this wonderful series. With wonderful characters, well written stories, this is one series you don't want to miss!

Note: I was given a copy of this book by the publisher.