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Zoe Donovan Mystery #29
Firework Fiasco
Summer has come to Ashton Falls and with it a focus on the beach, the lake, and family time outdoors. School is out so Zak is holding down the fort at home, and Zoe and Charlie are working full time at the Zoo, while Tiffany is on her honeymoon and Jeremy is out on maternity leave. Life, it seems, is just about perfect. Or is it?
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2018
546 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
About the author
Kathi Daley
475 books1,785 followersKathi lives with her husband, kids, grandkids, and dogs in beautiful Lake Tahoe. When she isn't writing, Kathi likes to read (preferably at the beach or by the fire), cook (preferably something with chocolate or cheese,) and garden (planting and planning not weeding). She also enjoys spending time on the water when she's not hiking, biking, or snowshoeing, the miles of desolate trails surrounding her home.
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.
Join me on Facebook at Kathi Daley Books (www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks) for updates on my books, photos of life in Lake Tahoe, recipes, contests, and giveaways. For weekly updates and contests sign up for The Daley Weekly Newsletter (http://eepurl.com/NRPDf).
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.
Join me on Facebook at Kathi Daley Books (www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks) for updates on my books, photos of life in Lake Tahoe, recipes, contests, and giveaways. For weekly updates and contests sign up for The Daley Weekly Newsletter (http://eepurl.com/NRPDf).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
June 21, 2018
“Firework Fiasco” earns 5/5 Elvis Impersonators…Thank You, Thank You Very Much!
Ok…Slow down start from the beginning…you woke up next to a dead body? Zoe hopes it's all a bad dream. Nona is Zak’s grandmother, a “Harley-riding, free-loving, heavy-drinking grandma” who after a night of whiskey, fireworks, and a pack of Elvis impersonators winds up passed out next to Elvis #3 with a knife in his chest. Zoe’s gasp turns to a frown when she learns Nona hadn't called 911, and with sheriff/good friend Salinger out of town, they head over to the motel to check out her story. With a “Do Not Disturb” on the door and key in hand, they open the door to discover…nothing. No body. Room recently cleaned. No evidence. Are you sure what you saw?
Wow! With a missing body, Elvis impersonators running around town, the do you see what's in the photo? revelations, and some perilous predicaments the story was totally engaging and easily finished in one sitting…well, ‘edge of your seat’ sitting. Zoe made a promised not to go investigating now that the new baby is here, but with a new sheriff in town and her in-law questioning her sanity, Zoe can't let it go. Her investigative journey, often with Nona in tow, revealed intriguing motives, and a few twists and turns. Have you ever tried to interview an Elvis? Kathi also weaves everyday life with children, a business, and friends and family. We learn more about Zak’s grandmother Nona which has made her a favorite I hope continues to pop in. Kathi’s solutions are always rewarding, and this time I had a good idea about what was happening…my inner Sherlock was satisfied. So much has happened in Zoe’s life, but even a newbie can join the family and feel at home. I highly recommend the series, and “Firework Fiasco” is a great summer read!
My favorite words…Recipes included! Kathi never forgets to add several easy-to-follow recipes. It’s Kathi’s Favorite Summer Recipes with Easy Picnic Potato Salad, Strawberry Jello Salad, Hobo Packs for the Grill or Campfire, Fudge Sundae Pie, Mocha Ice Cream, Strawberry Angel Cake, and Strawberry Champagne Cheesecake. Come for the mystery, and get a cookbook, too!
Ok…Slow down start from the beginning…you woke up next to a dead body? Zoe hopes it's all a bad dream. Nona is Zak’s grandmother, a “Harley-riding, free-loving, heavy-drinking grandma” who after a night of whiskey, fireworks, and a pack of Elvis impersonators winds up passed out next to Elvis #3 with a knife in his chest. Zoe’s gasp turns to a frown when she learns Nona hadn't called 911, and with sheriff/good friend Salinger out of town, they head over to the motel to check out her story. With a “Do Not Disturb” on the door and key in hand, they open the door to discover…nothing. No body. Room recently cleaned. No evidence. Are you sure what you saw?
Wow! With a missing body, Elvis impersonators running around town, the do you see what's in the photo? revelations, and some perilous predicaments the story was totally engaging and easily finished in one sitting…well, ‘edge of your seat’ sitting. Zoe made a promised not to go investigating now that the new baby is here, but with a new sheriff in town and her in-law questioning her sanity, Zoe can't let it go. Her investigative journey, often with Nona in tow, revealed intriguing motives, and a few twists and turns. Have you ever tried to interview an Elvis? Kathi also weaves everyday life with children, a business, and friends and family. We learn more about Zak’s grandmother Nona which has made her a favorite I hope continues to pop in. Kathi’s solutions are always rewarding, and this time I had a good idea about what was happening…my inner Sherlock was satisfied. So much has happened in Zoe’s life, but even a newbie can join the family and feel at home. I highly recommend the series, and “Firework Fiasco” is a great summer read!
My favorite words…Recipes included! Kathi never forgets to add several easy-to-follow recipes. It’s Kathi’s Favorite Summer Recipes with Easy Picnic Potato Salad, Strawberry Jello Salad, Hobo Packs for the Grill or Campfire, Fudge Sundae Pie, Mocha Ice Cream, Strawberry Angel Cake, and Strawberry Champagne Cheesecake. Come for the mystery, and get a cookbook, too!
June 18, 2018
FIREWORK FIASCO, the 29th book in the Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery series, by Kathi Daley starts out with a bang, living up to its title, and left me with my mouth hanging wide open! I think this is the best book in the series so far, and that’s saying something because all of Ms. Daley’s books are enjoyable. Zoe Donovan Zimmerman is as kindhearted as protagonists come. While most people try to avoid her husband’s grandmother, Nona, Zoe embraces the pink Harley driving, whiskey drinking, wild, elderly woman. I found her to be a hoot and thoroughly enjoyed her antics. When Nona wakes up beside her date after a night of partying, she finds her Elvis impersonator is dead, stabbed to death. She begs Zoe to help her out but when they return to the scene of the crime, Elvis has left the building and there is no evidence of a murder. The rookie sheriff filling in for the town has Nona in his sights: either she’s crazy and needs serious help, or she’s covered up the murder and needs to be arrested. Zoe finds that despite having a six-month-old baby, she can’t give up her sleuthing until Nona is exonerated.
I found that the story alternated between humorous capers with Nona and the Elvis impersonators and sweet, sentimental interludes with the main cast of characters. I also liked learning a bit of backstory about Nona which gives her an added depth. Ms. Daley has done a wonderful job of developing both the protagonist and her supporting characters so that the reader feels like they are visiting family each time they pick up one of her books. The plot is well developed with several twists and it flows throughout the story and character development. The ending provides a satisfactory conclusion wrapping the threads up yet leaves you wanting to read the next book just as soon as possible.
I found that the story alternated between humorous capers with Nona and the Elvis impersonators and sweet, sentimental interludes with the main cast of characters. I also liked learning a bit of backstory about Nona which gives her an added depth. Ms. Daley has done a wonderful job of developing both the protagonist and her supporting characters so that the reader feels like they are visiting family each time they pick up one of her books. The plot is well developed with several twists and it flows throughout the story and character development. The ending provides a satisfactory conclusion wrapping the threads up yet leaves you wanting to read the next book just as soon as possible.
June 19, 2018
Fireworks Fiasco
Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery, Book #29
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Summer has come to Ashton Falls and with it a focus on the beach, the lake, and family time outdoors. School is out so Zak is holding down the fort at home, and Zoe and Charlie are working full time at the Zoo, while Tiffany is on her honeymoon and Jeremy is out on maternity leave. Life, it seems, is just about perfect. Or is it? (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Any time spent with Zoe and the gang is time that I greatly enjoy. And in this book, we got to spend time with Zak’s grandma, Nona. She is a real quirky woman who enjoys life to the fullest. She may have enjoyed it a little too much this time and she finds herself in a real predicament. Fortunately, Zoe is there to help her out. I like how everyone in Zoe’s family helps each other, pitching in without even having to be asked. And all of the animals are a real hit.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author excels in her character development, in creating small town settings and her descriptive writing. I am drawn right into the story and taken along on a wonderful journey. The mystery was well developed and had enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through. Solving it was not an easy task.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. And you can be sure that any book you pick up from this author will be great.
Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery, Book #29
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Summer has come to Ashton Falls and with it a focus on the beach, the lake, and family time outdoors. School is out so Zak is holding down the fort at home, and Zoe and Charlie are working full time at the Zoo, while Tiffany is on her honeymoon and Jeremy is out on maternity leave. Life, it seems, is just about perfect. Or is it? (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Any time spent with Zoe and the gang is time that I greatly enjoy. And in this book, we got to spend time with Zak’s grandma, Nona. She is a real quirky woman who enjoys life to the fullest. She may have enjoyed it a little too much this time and she finds herself in a real predicament. Fortunately, Zoe is there to help her out. I like how everyone in Zoe’s family helps each other, pitching in without even having to be asked. And all of the animals are a real hit.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author excels in her character development, in creating small town settings and her descriptive writing. I am drawn right into the story and taken along on a wonderful journey. The mystery was well developed and had enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through. Solving it was not an easy task.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. And you can be sure that any book you pick up from this author will be great.
June 19, 2018
Nona is in trouble maybe her wild ways have finally caught up to her. There's been a Murder with so many Elvis's in town. Zoe and Zack has to help her ASAP. This one made me laugh and yet tear up too. Very interesting and fun characters all around. The storyline will keep you hanging on till the end. Loved it !
June 12, 2018
Firework Fiasco is the 29th book in Kathi Daley’s Zoe Donovan Cozy Mystery series. This heartwarming story is well plotted, the characters well developed and affable, and the story flows at a steady pace. There’s an intriguing murder mystery, with lots of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged. Ms. Daley perfectly blended the mystery with just the right combination of family, friends, community, and romance. I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys reading well-crafted cozy mysteries.
Zoe’s scheduled to work at the Zoo, her domestic and wild animal rescue and rehabilitation center, while Jeremy Fisher’s on paternity leave and Tiffany’s on her honeymoon, but the newest employee, Aspen Wood but ends up holding down the fort when Zak Zimmerman’s distressed honorary grandmother, Nona, comes looking for Zoe. Zoe’s resolve to give up sleuthing is short lived when Nona tells her she woke up in a motel room to find Elvis dead, with a knife in his chest, next to her in bed. In a panic after finding the body, Nona rushes out of the room and goes to Zoe for help. When Zoe takes her back to the motel, the body is gone, the room thoroughly cleaned, his suitcases are gone, and there’s no evidence that anyone spent the night there. Nona explained that after attending the annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration, rode her pink Harley to her favorite bar, and met an Elvis impersonator who was in town with eleven others for Dirk Pendleton’s contest to choose the official Elvis impersonator for his casino, Shake Rattle and Roll. She ended up in his room, had a drink, felt dizzy, and woke up lying on top of the covers next to him. Looking at a poster for the competition, Nona identifies Elvis #3, Calvin Jobs, as the man she met. Zoe and Zak wonder if Nona’s story is true and if there was a body that disappeared, or if Calvin dropped out of the competition and left town and Nona’s imagination is running wild. Zoe, Zak, and Nona work with Deputy Buckner, who is filling in for Sheriff Salinger while he’s out of town. Zoe and Zak are worried about Nona and are determined to ferret out the truth.
Zoe’s scheduled to work at the Zoo, her domestic and wild animal rescue and rehabilitation center, while Jeremy Fisher’s on paternity leave and Tiffany’s on her honeymoon, but the newest employee, Aspen Wood but ends up holding down the fort when Zak Zimmerman’s distressed honorary grandmother, Nona, comes looking for Zoe. Zoe’s resolve to give up sleuthing is short lived when Nona tells her she woke up in a motel room to find Elvis dead, with a knife in his chest, next to her in bed. In a panic after finding the body, Nona rushes out of the room and goes to Zoe for help. When Zoe takes her back to the motel, the body is gone, the room thoroughly cleaned, his suitcases are gone, and there’s no evidence that anyone spent the night there. Nona explained that after attending the annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration, rode her pink Harley to her favorite bar, and met an Elvis impersonator who was in town with eleven others for Dirk Pendleton’s contest to choose the official Elvis impersonator for his casino, Shake Rattle and Roll. She ended up in his room, had a drink, felt dizzy, and woke up lying on top of the covers next to him. Looking at a poster for the competition, Nona identifies Elvis #3, Calvin Jobs, as the man she met. Zoe and Zak wonder if Nona’s story is true and if there was a body that disappeared, or if Calvin dropped out of the competition and left town and Nona’s imagination is running wild. Zoe, Zak, and Nona work with Deputy Buckner, who is filling in for Sheriff Salinger while he’s out of town. Zoe and Zak are worried about Nona and are determined to ferret out the truth.
June 15, 2018
Firework Fiasco is a super fun book.
From Elvis impersonators to criminal masterminds, Zak's wild and wonderful grandmother, Nona, is up to her eyeballs in mystery, and of course, try though she might to stay out of danger, Zoe is right there with her, making sure she doesn't get in over her head.
Thirteen year old Alex is helping Zoe take care of her new baby, Catherine, as well as a rescued litter of kittens, and with Salinger out of town, Zoe is working with a new deputy to solve the mysteries before someone gets away with the perfect murder.
Highly recommended.
From Elvis impersonators to criminal masterminds, Zak's wild and wonderful grandmother, Nona, is up to her eyeballs in mystery, and of course, try though she might to stay out of danger, Zoe is right there with her, making sure she doesn't get in over her head.
Thirteen year old Alex is helping Zoe take care of her new baby, Catherine, as well as a rescued litter of kittens, and with Salinger out of town, Zoe is working with a new deputy to solve the mysteries before someone gets away with the perfect murder.
Highly recommended.
June 17, 2018
Zak’s Nona is back in town and out celebrating on the Fourth of July. Nona is so full of life and manages to run into some trouble. This book is so well written and keeps you entertained to the point that you begin doubting what is actually going on. I loved the ending.
June 17, 2018
Zoe and Zak must help Nonna when she gets herself in trouble. Nonna falls ill, leaving Zoe and Zak to figure things out, amidst trying to care for an ever growing family.
July 9, 2018
Catherine is now six months old and Zoe has returned to work at Zoe’s Zoo. To Zoe’s surprise Zak Zimmerman’s honorary grandmother, Nona, appears at the Zoo on her pink Harley, with the statement “Elvis is dead.” Zoe knows Nona likes to tip the bottle but thought it to be a little too early for that. When Zoe lets Nona know she was aware of Elvis’s death, Nona relates not the real Elvis but an Elvis from the contest being held over a long weekend that also coincides with the annual Fourth of July celebration. Fear of being arrested, Nona turns to Zoe to help her figure out what took place. Firework Fiasco has provided us with a new character and as always, the love of family and friends. Will Zoe and Zak be able to clear Nona’s name and solve who killed Elvis?
June 14, 2018
When Zak's grandmother Nona wakes up next to a dead Elvis imperonator she doesn't call the police she runs straight to Zoe. After telling Zoe what happened the previous night and what she woke up to that morning they make their way back to the room to see if they can come up with any clues. When they get into the room not only is there no dead body but it is clean and it makes Zoe wonder if maybe Nona imagined the whole thing. Nona is sure of what she saw and begs Zoe to help her figure out just what happened and why. Zoe agrees but on the condition that they go to the police so they can also be looking into things, and Nona must let her tell Zak. Follow along as they talk to multiply Elvis's, some groupies, and other witnesses along the way. Meanwhile Zoe is back working at the Zoo so some of her workers can be on vacation and she realizes just how much she misses it. She also has to juggle taking care of her daughter, her other charges, and a menagerie of animals. Will she be able to find the time to help Nona and investigate without putting herself in danger? This was definitely a fun whodunit that had me guessing the whole way through. I had my suspicions but that didn't stop the author from taking me through a intricately woven path leading to the real killer and me finding out if I was correct on my assumptions. Dive in and see if you can figure it out before the end!!!
June 18, 2018
When twelve Elvis impersonators come to town for an event, Nona goes off to enjoy the prefestivities. But when she wakes up next to a dead Elvis, she takes off to find Zoe before calling the police. The missing body and clean motel room soon put a question mark on Nona's story and maybe even her sanity. Zoe is determined to help Nona find the truth, whether she wants her help or not. This series has come a long way from the early novels. Zoe is now the mother of active and adorable six month old baby Catherine, as well as foster mother to Alex and Scooter, in addition to managing Zoe's Zoo, the wild and domestic rescue and rehabilitation center. The series provides fleshed out characters with long-standing friendships and devotion to friends, family and community. I enjoy the characters respect for people, as well as animals. The mystery and clues were interesting and kept the reader guessing, although I did figure out one of the clues early on. However, I will say I was a little disappointed that Zoe wasn't as actively involved in the solution as she normally is in her books. Since motherhood, she has made a vow to Zak that she would try not to get involved in these mysteries because they represent a danger to her, but this took a tad bit excitement out of the story for me, the reader. That said, I am already looking forward to reading Book #30!
June 12, 2018
It is July and many people are enjoying taking time off. Just six months after having a baby, and after having experienced being kidnapped and tortured, Zoe and Zac also promised that they would enjoy a family centered summer with the kids and animals and no more snooping, err, sleuthing!
Well, as well intentioned as those sentiments may be, when a case comes knocking at Zoe's door, involving Zac's septuagenarian grandmother, there is no way she can be sidelined. Nona doesn't want to get Zac involved, because basically, the rest of her family has written her off as a crazy old coot. But when the body she found in a motel room bed isn't really there, when Nona and Zoe go back, and Zoe's trusty law officer has gone off to find himself, she has no choice but call in Zac and adopted daughter Alex for back-up.
Full of animal antics we look forward to in a Kathi Daley mystery, and with all the support and good will of the combined Donovan-Zimmerman extended families, this book has both the extreme ups and downs we've come to expect.
Twelve Elvis impersonators in town add to the insanity and confusion.
Is Nona having a health crisis or is there a secret plot in place behind the scenes of the Elvis competition?
A twisted and complex mystery to enjoy on a summer weekend.
Well, as well intentioned as those sentiments may be, when a case comes knocking at Zoe's door, involving Zac's septuagenarian grandmother, there is no way she can be sidelined. Nona doesn't want to get Zac involved, because basically, the rest of her family has written her off as a crazy old coot. But when the body she found in a motel room bed isn't really there, when Nona and Zoe go back, and Zoe's trusty law officer has gone off to find himself, she has no choice but call in Zac and adopted daughter Alex for back-up.
Full of animal antics we look forward to in a Kathi Daley mystery, and with all the support and good will of the combined Donovan-Zimmerman extended families, this book has both the extreme ups and downs we've come to expect.
Twelve Elvis impersonators in town add to the insanity and confusion.
Is Nona having a health crisis or is there a secret plot in place behind the scenes of the Elvis competition?
A twisted and complex mystery to enjoy on a summer weekend.
January 20, 2025
I just love Nona (Zak’s sorta-grandma) and I’m glad she was in this read so much. She’s a crazy nut case energized 70-something year old lady that runs circles around most 20-year-olds! I must say she’s one of my favorite persons in this series next to Alex, Aspen, Jeremy, and Phyllis. Oh ya, Zak is cool too!
Elvis ruled this book… well, Elvis impersonators anyway. Unfortunately, Nona woke up in a hotel room next to one of the Elvis’s (Elvis #3 to be exact) and he had a knife in his chest. She bolted! When she arrived at Zoe’s house to report what she’d seen, Zoe returned to the to the hotel with her and what she saw shocked her. It was a mystery that Zoe had to come out of her sleuthing retirement for in order to figure out what happened and who did it.
Nona is sure to be in many future books of this series due to her new closeness to Zoe and family. Can’t wait! Hopefully Nona will still be up to her wild antics. I don’t want what happened to her to change anything about her. She’d better keep the pink hog!
Next is Book 30 “Henderson House”. Oh, I bet that will be a good one based on what we’ve already read about that house. It’s the haunted one that has had at least 3 people get murdered in it. It’s a mysterious house, for sure.
Elvis ruled this book… well, Elvis impersonators anyway. Unfortunately, Nona woke up in a hotel room next to one of the Elvis’s (Elvis #3 to be exact) and he had a knife in his chest. She bolted! When she arrived at Zoe’s house to report what she’d seen, Zoe returned to the to the hotel with her and what she saw shocked her. It was a mystery that Zoe had to come out of her sleuthing retirement for in order to figure out what happened and who did it.
Nona is sure to be in many future books of this series due to her new closeness to Zoe and family. Can’t wait! Hopefully Nona will still be up to her wild antics. I don’t want what happened to her to change anything about her. She’d better keep the pink hog!
Next is Book 30 “Henderson House”. Oh, I bet that will be a good one based on what we’ve already read about that house. It’s the haunted one that has had at least 3 people get murdered in it. It’s a mysterious house, for sure.
June 16, 2018
Great cozy mystery
Zak, Zoe and the whole gang are back including Ellie, Levi, the kids and this time a bunch of Elvis impersonators. Zak's motorcycle riding, hard drinking, partying grandma, Nona is also back and she is in the middle of a possible murder. After a night of partying with the Elvis impersonators, Nona wakes up next to Elvis #3 who has apparently been stabbed to death. She runs to Zoe and after telling her about the body, Nona and Zoe go back to the motel but the body is missing. Zoe and Nona decide to investigate so they try to question some of the Elvis' but before too long, they realize it is time to bring in the police. Unfortunately Zoe's buddy Sheriff Salinger decided to take some time off so they are stuck with the new guy who thinks that Nona is just a crazy old drunk lady. Will Zoe, Nona, Zak and the gang be able to solve the case of will Elvis leave the building and never return? This is an awesome cozy mystery filled with lovable characters and a great plot line. I also loved the Elvis impersonators as I am a big Elvis fan. Another great book by Kathi Daley.
Zak, Zoe and the whole gang are back including Ellie, Levi, the kids and this time a bunch of Elvis impersonators. Zak's motorcycle riding, hard drinking, partying grandma, Nona is also back and she is in the middle of a possible murder. After a night of partying with the Elvis impersonators, Nona wakes up next to Elvis #3 who has apparently been stabbed to death. She runs to Zoe and after telling her about the body, Nona and Zoe go back to the motel but the body is missing. Zoe and Nona decide to investigate so they try to question some of the Elvis' but before too long, they realize it is time to bring in the police. Unfortunately Zoe's buddy Sheriff Salinger decided to take some time off so they are stuck with the new guy who thinks that Nona is just a crazy old drunk lady. Will Zoe, Nona, Zak and the gang be able to solve the case of will Elvis leave the building and never return? This is an awesome cozy mystery filled with lovable characters and a great plot line. I also loved the Elvis impersonators as I am a big Elvis fan. Another great book by Kathi Daley.
June 12, 2018
Kindle Copy for Review
Zak’s honor Nona is in town and Zoe is wondering if she might be seeing things ir going crazy.
Hog riding Nona comes to Zoe and tells her that she woke up to a stabbed Elvis in bed and she does not remember much after drinking whiskey the night before. Zoe thinks she might have imagined the whole thing as they go to the motel room and find no trace of a body or blood.
At first she tries to blow it off as an over active mind but Nona further investigates causing Zoe to get involve. Was it just her imagination or was there a body? Or was it a trick by someone to make her look insane? Who would have wanted him dead in the first place?
Enjoyable read in the series.
Zak’s honor Nona is in town and Zoe is wondering if she might be seeing things ir going crazy.
Hog riding Nona comes to Zoe and tells her that she woke up to a stabbed Elvis in bed and she does not remember much after drinking whiskey the night before. Zoe thinks she might have imagined the whole thing as they go to the motel room and find no trace of a body or blood.
At first she tries to blow it off as an over active mind but Nona further investigates causing Zoe to get involve. Was it just her imagination or was there a body? Or was it a trick by someone to make her look insane? Who would have wanted him dead in the first place?
Enjoyable read in the series.
June 14, 2018
Firework Fiasco ( A Zoe Donovan Mystery ) ( Vol. 29 )
By: Kathi Daley
Firework Fiasco is book twenty-nine in A Zoe Donovan Mystery Series by Kathi Daley. I really love these Stories about Zoe . This is a heartwarming story that touched my heart. One minute I was laughing my head off and the next I felt like crying . This story is about Zak’s grandmother, Nona. She is something else , but I love her. The story takes off at the start and flows smoothly. The characters were real like. There is a murder, or is there? After Zoe had her baby girl she was going to stop her sleuthing. Can she do this? There are lots of twist and turns and the author will keep you guessing till the end. Don’t forget to check the receipts out in the back of the book.
By: Kathi Daley
Firework Fiasco is book twenty-nine in A Zoe Donovan Mystery Series by Kathi Daley. I really love these Stories about Zoe . This is a heartwarming story that touched my heart. One minute I was laughing my head off and the next I felt like crying . This story is about Zak’s grandmother, Nona. She is something else , but I love her. The story takes off at the start and flows smoothly. The characters were real like. There is a murder, or is there? After Zoe had her baby girl she was going to stop her sleuthing. Can she do this? There are lots of twist and turns and the author will keep you guessing till the end. Don’t forget to check the receipts out in the back of the book.
September 1, 2020
About the book:
Summer has come to Ashton Falls and with it a focus on the beach, the lake, and family time outdoors. School is out so Zak is holding down the fort at home, and Zoe and Charlie are working full time at the Zoo, while Tiffany is on her honeymoon and Jeremy is out on maternity leave. Life, it seems, is just about perfect. Or is it?
I absolutely loved this book the characters were great! The setting was brilliant! I loved the Suspense part of the book. I love how this all turn out.
Summer has come to Ashton Falls and with it a focus on the beach, the lake, and family time outdoors. School is out so Zak is holding down the fort at home, and Zoe and Charlie are working full time at the Zoo, while Tiffany is on her honeymoon and Jeremy is out on maternity leave. Life, it seems, is just about perfect. Or is it?
I absolutely loved this book the characters were great! The setting was brilliant! I loved the Suspense part of the book. I love how this all turn out.
July 2, 2021
I loved this story! Nona, the feisty grandmother who rides a pink Harley. She gets involved with the Elvis impersonators. Ends up in a hotel room, passed out next to Elvis #3 and finds him with a knife sticking out of his chest when she wakes the following morning. She goes and gets her "granddaughter" Zoe , tells her what happened and they go back to the hotel and find no body. Zoe and her husband, Zak, help the local police find out what's going on. I never figured out who did the deed. It's not often that I don't solve a mystery, so applause 👏 for Ms. Daley.
February 19, 2022
Nona is back in Ashton Falls, bringing the fun and usual chaos with her! When an Elvis competition comes to town, and Nona finds a dead body, it's up to Zoe, who had decided to give up sleuthing after Catherine was born, and Zac to find the killer. With Sheriff Salinger out of town, the new deputy isn't keen on their help, at first!
A brilliant, well written cozy mystery series with great characters. I cannot put these books down, they're totally moreish!!! As with most of these series, the books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
A brilliant, well written cozy mystery series with great characters. I cannot put these books down, they're totally moreish!!! As with most of these series, the books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
June 16, 2018
Elvis really has left the building
An Elvis competition sets the stage for the latest Zoe & Zak mystery. One Elvis turns up dead (or is he?) and Zoe comes out of sleuthing retirement to solve the mystery for Nona, who was with Elvis #3 at the time of his demise. There are lots is suspects and a few theories about what happened. This is the latest gem in Kathi Daley's prolific writing crown.
An Elvis competition sets the stage for the latest Zoe & Zak mystery. One Elvis turns up dead (or is he?) and Zoe comes out of sleuthing retirement to solve the mystery for Nona, who was with Elvis #3 at the time of his demise. There are lots is suspects and a few theories about what happened. This is the latest gem in Kathi Daley's prolific writing crown.
June 19, 2018
This series just keeps getting better and better! I highly recommend this one - actually all of the books in Zoe Donovan Mystery Book series. Love the characters and their quirks, love the community spirit and family relationships, love the animals' involvement in the story and love trying to figure out the murder mystery. Kathi Daley knows how to weave a story to keep you totally immersed in the plot and the lives of the interesting and loveable characters.
June 20, 2018
Zoe has promised to cut down on her sleuthing now that she's a mom. Thats all well and fine until Zaks grandma comes to them with a situation. She woke up to a dead body and now he's gone. Zoe puts on her virtual deerstalker and starts asking questions. Needless to say this isn't in keeping with her promise to cut back but then it wouldn't be a Zoe Donovan Mystery would it. A fun quick read that kept me enthralled throughout the story.
June 27, 2018
Every visit to Ashton Falls is like going home, even after 29 mysteries with Zoe, Zac and all the gang I still love each and every book.
Nona cracks me up I hope I have as much gumption when I'm her age. Zac and Zoe are on a sleuthing hiatus!!! or are they well it really was just Zoe promising no more sleuthing now she is a Mom but it's harder to give up than she thought but with Zac helping her they will have the bad gay/girl in no time.
Nona cracks me up I hope I have as much gumption when I'm her age. Zac and Zoe are on a sleuthing hiatus!!! or are they well it really was just Zoe promising no more sleuthing now she is a Mom but it's harder to give up than she thought but with Zac helping her they will have the bad gay/girl in no time.
November 27, 2018
What could be better than Elvis, unless he's dead
Zoe and Zak have a dead Elvis impersonator mystery to solve for Nona. Sounds like a typical murder mystery right, except they can't find the body. Now the fun begins. I love Kathi Daley's books, they are never predictable. The chapter of Homecoming By The Sea at the end of this book has me hooked, so I think I'm going to have to read it next. I'll finish this series later, lol. As I've said before, so many books so little time.
Zoe and Zak have a dead Elvis impersonator mystery to solve for Nona. Sounds like a typical murder mystery right, except they can't find the body. Now the fun begins. I love Kathi Daley's books, they are never predictable. The chapter of Homecoming By The Sea at the end of this book has me hooked, so I think I'm going to have to read it next. I'll finish this series later, lol. As I've said before, so many books so little time.
February 9, 2021
Nona Brings Zoe and Zak Into the Investigation of the Death of an Elvis Impersonator
Zoe and Zak have decided not to get involved in any more murder investigation since Catherine was born. She is now about six months old. Nona is visiting and comes to Zoe at the Zoo, telling her that she had gone back to the motel with one of the Elvis impersonators she had met in the bar and he is dead. Naturally, Zak and Zoe do everything they can to help Nona.
Zoe and Zak have decided not to get involved in any more murder investigation since Catherine was born. She is now about six months old. Nona is visiting and comes to Zoe at the Zoo, telling her that she had gone back to the motel with one of the Elvis impersonators she had met in the bar and he is dead. Naturally, Zak and Zoe do everything they can to help Nona.
June 13, 2018
Great read
I have loved this series from book one it was one of the first cozy I read and now book 29 and I still can't wait till the next one I love Zoe and Zak and the whole gang if you haven't read Kathi Daley's books yet and you love a great cozy then you need to but be prepared to lose alot of sleep you won't be able to stop reading till you catch up
I have loved this series from book one it was one of the first cozy I read and now book 29 and I still can't wait till the next one I love Zoe and Zak and the whole gang if you haven't read Kathi Daley's books yet and you love a great cozy then you need to but be prepared to lose alot of sleep you won't be able to stop reading till you catch up
June 13, 2018
LOVED IT!
Every family should have a Nona. Mine did and I missed her every day until I aged enough and had my grandchildren grow up, now I'm the crazy old grandma who's young at heart. This book is definitely a winner and touches the very sensitive subject of how much the older generation still needs to feel needed. Nice going Kathi.
Every family should have a Nona. Mine did and I missed her every day until I aged enough and had my grandchildren grow up, now I'm the crazy old grandma who's young at heart. This book is definitely a winner and touches the very sensitive subject of how much the older generation still needs to feel needed. Nice going Kathi.
June 14, 2018
Love this series
Terrific book about zoe and zak Zimmerman,I can't get enough of this series, I hope Nona stays and is included in future books. I love that animals are always included in kathi daley's books .the only bad about this book is the end and I have to wait for another one to come out.
Terrific book about zoe and zak Zimmerman,I can't get enough of this series, I hope Nona stays and is included in future books. I love that animals are always included in kathi daley's books .the only bad about this book is the end and I have to wait for another one to come out.
September 6, 2018
Loved it
Nona, Zak's grandma, goes partyimg and wakes up next to a dead Elvis impersonator. She enlists the help of Zoe, and when they arrive back at the hotel, dead Elvis is gone. Zoe & Zak do some sleuthing to help prove Nona isn't imaging things and find the killer(s). As always a good mystery from Ms. Daley with just the right amount of twists and turns.
Nona, Zak's grandma, goes partyimg and wakes up next to a dead Elvis impersonator. She enlists the help of Zoe, and when they arrive back at the hotel, dead Elvis is gone. Zoe & Zak do some sleuthing to help prove Nona isn't imaging things and find the killer(s). As always a good mystery from Ms. Daley with just the right amount of twists and turns.
July 4, 2023
Another can not put down mystery.
Kathi Daley did it again with Firework Fiasco. Not sure why it was named that because it was really about Elvis impersonators. It does take place over a long 4th of July weekend. All of the little subplots were interesting. Kathi Daley never lets me down!
Kathi Daley did it again with Firework Fiasco. Not sure why it was named that because it was really about Elvis impersonators. It does take place over a long 4th of July weekend. All of the little subplots were interesting. Kathi Daley never lets me down!
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