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Rose Gardner Investigations #3
Hell in a Handbasket
Third book in the New York Times bestselling Rose Gardner Investigations series.
They say the road to hell is paved in good intentions, and Rose Gardner can't shake the notion she's headed there in a handbasket. She feels responsible for the death of a woman she tried-and failed-to save with her visions, and though she intends to do the "right" thing and tell James Malcolm she can't possibly accept his offer of a relationship, she hasn't yet mustered the strength. Worst of all, her sister is terminally ill, and there isn't a thing she can do to save her.
When a new case falls into Rose's lap, she eagerly shifts her attention to someone else's problems-except it's Henryetta, and every person, and problem, is somehow connected. The case will bring her back into contact with James, whom she still hasn't answered, and force her to confront her past in other unexpected ways.
Meanwhile, Rose and Neely Kate find themselves playing host to an unlikely house guest. Helping the stranger may require them to become more entangled with the crime world, something Rose knows she should avoid. She and Neely Kate have the very best of intentions, but are those intentions ushering them down a path they can't easily leave?
Rose Gardner Investigations Series
Family Jewels
For the Birds
Hell in a Handbasket
Up Shute Creek (Fall 2018)
Neely Kate Mystery
Trailer Trash
In High Cotton (July 31, 2018)
They say the road to hell is paved in good intentions, and Rose Gardner can't shake the notion she's headed there in a handbasket. She feels responsible for the death of a woman she tried-and failed-to save with her visions, and though she intends to do the "right" thing and tell James Malcolm she can't possibly accept his offer of a relationship, she hasn't yet mustered the strength. Worst of all, her sister is terminally ill, and there isn't a thing she can do to save her.
When a new case falls into Rose's lap, she eagerly shifts her attention to someone else's problems-except it's Henryetta, and every person, and problem, is somehow connected. The case will bring her back into contact with James, whom she still hasn't answered, and force her to confront her past in other unexpected ways.
Meanwhile, Rose and Neely Kate find themselves playing host to an unlikely house guest. Helping the stranger may require them to become more entangled with the crime world, something Rose knows she should avoid. She and Neely Kate have the very best of intentions, but are those intentions ushering them down a path they can't easily leave?
Rose Gardner Investigations Series
Family Jewels
For the Birds
Hell in a Handbasket
Up Shute Creek (Fall 2018)
Neely Kate Mystery
Trailer Trash
In High Cotton (July 31, 2018)
394 pages, Paperback
First published April 13, 2018
950 people are currently reading
898 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
April 9, 2018
I received this ARC for a honest review. I am having problems putting my feelings into words with this book. I feel that over the years Rose has became a friend. You know you are reading a good book when you are in the book. I don't see the words I see what is happening. This book has all the emotions covered. I Laughed. I cried, I got so mad I could have reached in the book and hit someone upside the head. I felt the torn love Rose has to put herself through to find a life that makes her happy. I think the investigation firm is working for them. Rose and NK are both learning a lot more about solving cases and more people are trusting them. The new Rose with neutral ground is going to be interesting. She has so much going on that the next book is going to be a emotional flood.
April 12, 2018
This book....wow. All I can say is it was 100% worth the $45 I dropped on coffee today Dunkin Donuts because I couldn't put this book down.
Exciting, emotional, suspenseful and a whole lot of twists and turns. Denise's writing has a way of pulling you into her reality, and forgetting your own.
Exciting, emotional, suspenseful and a whole lot of twists and turns. Denise's writing has a way of pulling you into her reality, and forgetting your own.
July 7, 2018
Rose & Neely Kate are asked to investigate a murder by the prime suspect to clear her name. As they investigate Rose is pulled back into the Fenton County Underworld and forced to once again become the Lady in Black to prevent a war between rival gangs.
August 2, 2018
4.5/5.0
I’ve decided Ms. Swank can do no wrong where Rose Gardner and her world are concerned. Each book is fresh, fun and completely addictive! I’m not usually a big mystery fan but every single book in this world is on auto-buy-pre-order-I-can’t-wait-any-longer status. They really are that fun to read!
I’ve decided Ms. Swank can do no wrong where Rose Gardner and her world are concerned. Each book is fresh, fun and completely addictive! I’m not usually a big mystery fan but every single book in this world is on auto-buy-pre-order-I-can’t-wait-any-longer status. They really are that fun to read!
April 12, 2018
Wow Oh Wow Oh Wow!!!
So much happens in this book it kept me glued till I finished. Some I loved, some not so much. But what I loved the most was getting back to catching up with these guys and seeing what they have been up to. Denise has characters that make you think they are real, and you want to be apart of their world. I'm not sure I like the path Rose is taking, but I really enjoy solving the mystery with her and Neely Kate. There are some twists and turns, and just when you think you know who did it, you are taken to another realm to uncover. I was so happy to hear that Mason was making an appearance in this book and my money is on him for a number of reasons. He is a good man trying to do a respectable job but keeps getting accused of being a bad person. If I had my druthers, I would choose him to be with Rose. I am over the bad boy image being portrayed as a hero. If you are a fan of this new series, or even of the first series, you are definitely going to be love this edition.
So much happens in this book it kept me glued till I finished. Some I loved, some not so much. But what I loved the most was getting back to catching up with these guys and seeing what they have been up to. Denise has characters that make you think they are real, and you want to be apart of their world. I'm not sure I like the path Rose is taking, but I really enjoy solving the mystery with her and Neely Kate. There are some twists and turns, and just when you think you know who did it, you are taken to another realm to uncover. I was so happy to hear that Mason was making an appearance in this book and my money is on him for a number of reasons. He is a good man trying to do a respectable job but keeps getting accused of being a bad person. If I had my druthers, I would choose him to be with Rose. I am over the bad boy image being portrayed as a hero. If you are a fan of this new series, or even of the first series, you are definitely going to be love this edition.
April 19, 2018
Rose and Neely Kate are back and, as usual, trouble follows close behind. This time they’re drawn in when asked to help solve the murder of a woman who had been publicly feuding with their client the day before. The different factions of the crime world still are jockeying for position, Rose thinks about continuing her now exposed role as the Lady in Black, and she struggles to decide how to respond to James’ proposed relationship. Meanwhile, she and Neely Kate deal with other personal issues, not the least of which is Rose’s sister’s imminent death from cancer.
This is another really enjoyable book from Denise Grover Swank. I’ve been following these characters since Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes and they all have become real to me. I haven’t always liked what Swank does with their actions and decisions, but she has a knack for making the emotions evoked poignant and genuine. I can’t wait for the next book to come out.
This is another really enjoyable book from Denise Grover Swank. I’ve been following these characters since Twenty-Eight and a Half Wishes and they all have become real to me. I haven’t always liked what Swank does with their actions and decisions, but she has a knack for making the emotions evoked poignant and genuine. I can’t wait for the next book to come out.
April 9, 2018
You know I’ve said it so many times before... ‘This Rose book was the best one ever’ lol but I do love that I get to keep saying that I really do I mean who doesn’t love a series that just keeps getting better and better.
Rose and Neely Kate have a new investigation or maybe a couple of investigations or maybe they overlap or maybe they don’t lol it’s all a bit of a jumble of who is working for who, who is after who and who is related to who or who is sleeping with who....lol it’s just the who’s who.
With Rose also dealing with Violet’s illness and imminent death she is diving into the investigations to keep her mind off her sister, she really is not ready to lose yet another loved one, it’s just to much.
I have to say in this whole story what I loved the most was Rose’s growth in personal strength again honestly I think if most woman would crumble after living though half of what Rose has but she has such strength and determination to never give up no matter how many times her heart gets crushed and boy does it tale another knock yet again but I’m not giving spoilers I actually think what happened here was a good thing for Rose to truly let go and move forward.
So now go forth and read, embrace and fall head over heels for Rose and Neely Kate like so many others have.
Rose and Neely Kate have a new investigation or maybe a couple of investigations or maybe they overlap or maybe they don’t lol it’s all a bit of a jumble of who is working for who, who is after who and who is related to who or who is sleeping with who....lol it’s just the who’s who.
With Rose also dealing with Violet’s illness and imminent death she is diving into the investigations to keep her mind off her sister, she really is not ready to lose yet another loved one, it’s just to much.
I have to say in this whole story what I loved the most was Rose’s growth in personal strength again honestly I think if most woman would crumble after living though half of what Rose has but she has such strength and determination to never give up no matter how many times her heart gets crushed and boy does it tale another knock yet again but I’m not giving spoilers I actually think what happened here was a good thing for Rose to truly let go and move forward.
So now go forth and read, embrace and fall head over heels for Rose and Neely Kate like so many others have.
May 22, 2018
This is one of those books that leaves you speechless, with your jaw laying slack on the floor. To say this book is an emotional roller coaster is an understatement. There were so many emotions that I still can’t adequately explain how good this book is. Although I did not like everything that happened in this installment of the Rose Gardner Investigation series, I loved the book.
DGS has a way of crafting characters and events in such a way that the reader cannot help but become completely immersed in their world. The characters aren’t merely fictitious creations; they are real people that just happen to live within the pages of the book. Simply put, DGS has an incredible talent for crafting realistic characters and stories that leave her readers wanting more. I highly recommend this book, this series, and everything written by DGS.
DGS has a way of crafting characters and events in such a way that the reader cannot help but become completely immersed in their world. The characters aren’t merely fictitious creations; they are real people that just happen to live within the pages of the book. Simply put, DGS has an incredible talent for crafting realistic characters and stories that leave her readers wanting more. I highly recommend this book, this series, and everything written by DGS.
April 10, 2018
I was so excited to read this book so I had big expectations. And it completely blew me away! I love every Rose Gardner book but this one is officially my favorite! I refused to put this book down and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. I laughed, I cried, and even squealed a few times.
Rose and Neely Kate working together on a case is always entertaining but this book pushes it even further with Rose using her Lady in Black neutrality to do good. There is a bit if a surprise from Mason and from Rose's visions. And of course Rose finally gives James an answer to his offer. I loved every bit of this book and I cannot wait to see what happens next!
Rose and Neely Kate working together on a case is always entertaining but this book pushes it even further with Rose using her Lady in Black neutrality to do good. There is a bit if a surprise from Mason and from Rose's visions. And of course Rose finally gives James an answer to his offer. I loved every bit of this book and I cannot wait to see what happens next!
April 28, 2018
Series Reading Order, per author:This isn't my favorite book in the Rose Gardner world. The action and exposition felt really unbalanced; the first 60% of the book felt like an ETERNITY. Not to mention that I felt like I had read this before in the previous Rose series (putting this rant under a spoiler).
1. Family Jewels, ★★★★☆
2. Trailer Trash, ★★★★☆
3. For the Birds, ★★★★☆
4. Hell in a Handbasket, ★★★☆☆
This was what I’d wanted, right? To be a mediator in the turbulent crime world and help achieve the kind of lasting peace that would keep Fenton County citizens safe.
The best part about these books are the characters and their development. I like the positive effect that Rose has on those around her, and she cares deeply about those in her life - something that I didn't see in this book; she isn't selfish and I don't know that I buy the arc for her that has developed for her. Rose has gone through so much in the past year (yes, all the books span a year in her life!) and she has deeply fallen in love three times in that time; it was uncomfortable when she jumped from Joe to Mason in like 2 weeks and she spent six months alone after her relationship with Mason. While Rose is a person that loves deeply about those in her life, friends included, I am starting to question the depth of her feelings for the men in her life.
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April 8, 2018
What can I say.... This was a perfect book. I love Rose, this series, and Denise’s writing style. This book brought many emotions about the characters that you forget they are fictional. You want to swear at them, cry with them, laugh and go on questionable activities with them.
Anyone who read “For the Birds” is dying to read this book. If you haven’t then you pick up “Family Jewels” and start Rose Gardener investigation Series or go all the way back to “Twenty-Eight and Half Wishes” Rose’s first series. You will not regret it!
Anyone who read “For the Birds” is dying to read this book. If you haven’t then you pick up “Family Jewels” and start Rose Gardener investigation Series or go all the way back to “Twenty-Eight and Half Wishes” Rose’s first series. You will not regret it!
March 31, 2021
It just keeps getting better!
So this book came out at the perfect time. I'm sitting here home from work sick, pick up my Kindle and see this nugget on there since I preordered it a million years ago. Once I started, I didn't put it down until I finished it!
This book was the one where you get a whole lot of answers and sets up a trajectory for Rose that may end in ruin or, even though it's hard to see how, a truly happy ending.
James, Mason, Joe, Neely Kate, Violet - all these subplots from earlier books are addressed in this book. Frankly, this is one of the best Rose Gardner books to date. She's really coming into her own and making decisions in her life which are based on her own desires and needs instead of everyone else. She's always put everyone else's needs before her own and it's deeply satisfying to see Rose stand up and decide she's worthy enough to get her own tiny piece of happy.
There was, of course, another mystery in this book. One she and Neely Kate jumped into with both feet. Not quite as madcap as previous ones but it makes sense because they're getting better at this. DGS does an excellent job of making you actually interested in the mystery. It's not simply a vehicle to propel Rose's own plot line forward.
So all around an excellent installment in the Rose Gardner series. I can't wait to see what happens next!
So this book came out at the perfect time. I'm sitting here home from work sick, pick up my Kindle and see this nugget on there since I preordered it a million years ago. Once I started, I didn't put it down until I finished it!
This book was the one where you get a whole lot of answers and sets up a trajectory for Rose that may end in ruin or, even though it's hard to see how, a truly happy ending.
James, Mason, Joe, Neely Kate, Violet - all these subplots from earlier books are addressed in this book. Frankly, this is one of the best Rose Gardner books to date. She's really coming into her own and making decisions in her life which are based on her own desires and needs instead of everyone else. She's always put everyone else's needs before her own and it's deeply satisfying to see Rose stand up and decide she's worthy enough to get her own tiny piece of happy.
There was, of course, another mystery in this book. One she and Neely Kate jumped into with both feet. Not quite as madcap as previous ones but it makes sense because they're getting better at this. DGS does an excellent job of making you actually interested in the mystery. It's not simply a vehicle to propel Rose's own plot line forward.
So all around an excellent installment in the Rose Gardner series. I can't wait to see what happens next!
August 20, 2018
OMG this book was something I thought I was ready for but Denise had proved me wrong!!! I wasn't! I've been pulled into whirling maelstrom of events and emotions. All kinds of emotions. There were moments in tears then laughter and love and then straight to terrific heart pounding heartbreaking moments. My head is still spinning and I have huge book hangover now. The only thing I'm able to say is I loved this amazing book, another great Rose's story! There is no need to tell how much I love those characters - they are real to me! That's because Denise is so talented to make them real. We've got some questions answered and more questions produced to be answered in the future books which makes my impatient waiting for next to impossible!
You are going to love this book!!!
You are going to love this book!!!
July 10, 2024
Holy Hell is all I kept repeating as I read this book. Add to that the Holy Hotness factor and I'm suffering a major book hangover that is going to last for quite some time. I laughed, cried and screamed at characters. That's how it is when you read one of Denise's books. She pulls you into the story and you become so engrossed, you feel like you are right there living it.
It was emotional, suspenseful and kept me guessing about everything until the end. I just love Rose and am excited to continue her adventure in future books (hopefully many, many more of them),
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
It was emotional, suspenseful and kept me guessing about everything until the end. I just love Rose and am excited to continue her adventure in future books (hopefully many, many more of them),
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book.
November 8, 2018
Oh my gosh. This series (original and spin offs) are all so dang good. Hell in a Handbasket was full of mystery, turmoil, heartbreak, an impossible romance. It kept me riveted and sad to see it end.
The Gist: Rose's world is not simple. From an ill family member to loving the wrong man, keeping up with work and a new case to investigate-- a lady from church being framed for her cousin's murder-- it keeps her busy. And trying to decide what to do next with so many areas of her life.
I continue to adore Rose. She's sweet, caring, has a bit of a badass side when pushed. She's tenacious and just easy to love and sympathize with.
And James. It's crazy to love a crime boss but I surely do. This man may not always be on the right side of the law but he has an honorable streak and is always there for Rose. He's sexy as all get out and just a little dangerous.
While the romance takes a backseat to the mysteries in this series I love the bits and tastes of it along the way. Seeing the two try to figure things out and such. A bit of steam and a lot of heart. I like getting other bits of Rose's life, too. With her best friends, work, her family. It brings such a rich element to the series.
The mystery was top notch as always. So many hidden secrets, bad choices, etc. It kept me guessing how everything would eventually tie together.
All in all, another knockout read from Denise Grover Swank. She continues to impress.
The Gist: Rose's world is not simple. From an ill family member to loving the wrong man, keeping up with work and a new case to investigate-- a lady from church being framed for her cousin's murder-- it keeps her busy. And trying to decide what to do next with so many areas of her life.
I continue to adore Rose. She's sweet, caring, has a bit of a badass side when pushed. She's tenacious and just easy to love and sympathize with.
And James. It's crazy to love a crime boss but I surely do. This man may not always be on the right side of the law but he has an honorable streak and is always there for Rose. He's sexy as all get out and just a little dangerous.
While the romance takes a backseat to the mysteries in this series I love the bits and tastes of it along the way. Seeing the two try to figure things out and such. A bit of steam and a lot of heart. I like getting other bits of Rose's life, too. With her best friends, work, her family. It brings such a rich element to the series.
The mystery was top notch as always. So many hidden secrets, bad choices, etc. It kept me guessing how everything would eventually tie together.
All in all, another knockout read from Denise Grover Swank. She continues to impress.
April 18, 2018
Denise never ceases to amaze me with this series! every time I read a new book in this series it's like returning home for a visit. I have fallen in love with these cast of characters and can't help but laugh, cry and cheer with them as they make there way through their crazy lives.
Hell in a Handbasket had it all! From shocking revelations, controversial decisions and tragic loss, made for one heck of a read. This series always keeps me on my toes and I never know what to expect from one page to the next.
Rose has grown up so much over the course of this series. From a shy sheltered girl to a women he can stand against some of the biggest criminals in her state. She refuses to be controlled and will do anything to protect those she loves. Rose is really coming into her own and finally beginning to understand what she wants for her life.
One thing I love about this series is the Rose and Neely Kate's friendship. There bond is so strong and love how they love each other unconditionally. I also love how they challenge each other to be better and to not settle for less then what they deserve. There is no jealousy or bitterness with these two. they are closer then sisters and i love watching their friendship deepen and grow.
Denise knows how to pull at your heartstrings in this book as well. There was many times I cried along with Rose. From her sister's illness, to Neely Kate's hurt feelings over Joe and Rose's battle with her love for both Mason and James. There are no easy path for Rose in her world and every decision she makes will result in some difficult consequences she will have to face but the beauty of this series is Rose will face them with her head held high.
Another amazing installment in this series and I can't wait to see where Roses adventures take her next!
***********Author provided me a review copy***********
Hell in a Handbasket had it all! From shocking revelations, controversial decisions and tragic loss, made for one heck of a read. This series always keeps me on my toes and I never know what to expect from one page to the next.
Rose has grown up so much over the course of this series. From a shy sheltered girl to a women he can stand against some of the biggest criminals in her state. She refuses to be controlled and will do anything to protect those she loves. Rose is really coming into her own and finally beginning to understand what she wants for her life.
One thing I love about this series is the Rose and Neely Kate's friendship. There bond is so strong and love how they love each other unconditionally. I also love how they challenge each other to be better and to not settle for less then what they deserve. There is no jealousy or bitterness with these two. they are closer then sisters and i love watching their friendship deepen and grow.
Denise knows how to pull at your heartstrings in this book as well. There was many times I cried along with Rose. From her sister's illness, to Neely Kate's hurt feelings over Joe and Rose's battle with her love for both Mason and James. There are no easy path for Rose in her world and every decision she makes will result in some difficult consequences she will have to face but the beauty of this series is Rose will face them with her head held high.
Another amazing installment in this series and I can't wait to see where Roses adventures take her next!
***********Author provided me a review copy***********
April 21, 2018
This book is SO MUCH MORE than I had hoped for !!! Rose Gardner has grown so much from the shy, backward girl in 28 1/2 Wishes. Rose is strong, independent and fearless, yet sometimes reckless to a fault. What a gift to watch this metamorphosis and take this ride along side her. Nothing is easy for Rose as she tries to be the neutral zone in the Henrietta crime world. There are so many twists and turns. So many emotions, both good and bad. When some one from Rose's past comes back to town, it rocks her world. There are so many uncertainties in her life. Is their really someone she can she grab on to who will be everything she needs? This is truly an AMAZING book and an Absolute Must Read !!!
July 20, 2018
5 Stars... Rose and the gang embark on another mystery leading them into the heart of the criminal world and to a host of unsavory entanglements... We continue to witness an empowered Rose as she walks the fine line between her dualing selves and learns to embrace her true self and the man she loves... The chemistry between Rose and Malcolm is a great mix of passion and sweetness; two people who balance one another and at the same time challenge one another’s patience... I simply love immersing myself into the world of Henryetta, Arkansas with this crazy but lovable cast of characters:)
April 18, 2018
Did not disappoint!
I had so many emotions swirling around before I even began this latest installment. I was excited, nervous and worried all wrapped in just the anticipation stemming from the last book. This book did give the most sought after answer to the main question from the previous book, which surprised me. That was one of the things that had me nervous, her answer, but also if it would even get answered yet. I feel like this book is a building block for even better and more mysterious things to come. It has its share of surprises and action, but it mainly answers questions and starts a new twist that I feel will be a main topic in the next book. So far, I LOVE the direction of it and can not wait for the next release!!
I had so many emotions swirling around before I even began this latest installment. I was excited, nervous and worried all wrapped in just the anticipation stemming from the last book. This book did give the most sought after answer to the main question from the previous book, which surprised me. That was one of the things that had me nervous, her answer, but also if it would even get answered yet. I feel like this book is a building block for even better and more mysterious things to come. It has its share of surprises and action, but it mainly answers questions and starts a new twist that I feel will be a main topic in the next book. So far, I LOVE the direction of it and can not wait for the next release!!
April 23, 2018
Gah! SO GOOD! I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE!
April 15, 2018
I have never ever been so worked up after a Rose book. NEVER EVER...and come on we have had some crazy cliffhangers.
I continue to pray Denise never tires of writing about Rose and her wild adventures in life.
This build up with James has shocked me...I really never saw myself cheering for him and Rose. BUT the Rose in this book is so far from our first book it is almost scary. And I like it. And after this book I am now their biggest cheerleader. She needs a man to like him for so many reason and you have to love a love story with all the world against the two love birds!
I continue to pray Denise never tires of writing about Rose and her wild adventures in life.
This build up with James has shocked me...I really never saw myself cheering for him and Rose. BUT the Rose in this book is so far from our first book it is almost scary. And I like it. And after this book I am now their biggest cheerleader. She needs a man to like him for so many reason and you have to love a love story with all the world against the two love birds!
April 18, 2018
I devoured this book from the beginning. I cannot form words to say how bloody awesome this books is!! I’m still blown away by everything that transpired.
Trust me, you do not want to hold off on reading this book. It is that GOOD!!
Trust me, you do not want to hold off on reading this book. It is that GOOD!!
April 21, 2018
Is there such a thing as a 10 star review? This book deserves double the stars! So much wonderful.... I’m not sure what to say that could convey how hot, amazing, thrill ride, edge of your seat.... I may need a cigarette... or vodka...without it containing major spoilers! Read. This. Book!
April 9, 2018
Holy crap. Talk about a whirlwind of emotions with this book. Rose and Neely Kate are hired to investigate a murder. But that leads Rose once again to the seedier side of Henryetta. She has to make some pretty big decisions about what she wants to do with her life and who she’s meant to be with. With nonstop action and some pretty deep emotions this is another great book.
April 9, 2018
Denise surpasses expectations once again with Hell in a Handbasket. This new addition to the series was non stop edge of the seat excitement. I devoured every single page. I am in awe of this ladies imagination and I am in love with Rose Gardner’s world!!
April 21, 2018
Amazing. I laughed, I cried, I got mad, I got happy...my heart was in a flutter from start to finish. Once I started I literally didnt stop until I completed the book. Denise is amazing at making these characters come to life and writing in a way that you feel you're right in the action and guessing until the end!
April 21, 2018
I say this almost every Rose Gardner book I read, but this is my new favorite book in the series! The action was amazing, the writing is amazing, the story line is amazing, and there were so many twists and turns in this book that I just did not see coming but I absolutely loved!! There is absolutely nothing that I disliked even a little bit in this book. Not one page, not one sentence, and not one word. It was phenomenal and had everything I hoped for and more. And the emotions! I was not just reading the emotions in this book, I was feeling each and every one of them. I was yelling my enthusiasm while Rose stood up for herself. I was smiling at jokes and sarcastic parts. I was bawling like a baby when I felt the emotion of Rose and other characters with both happy and sad tears. I feel emotionally attached to this character and feel invested in her future and even if something were to happen in the books that I didn’t like, I know I am in Rose’s life for the long run. Hell in a Handbasket is just as good, if not better, than the books that got me hooked back in the Rose Gardner Mystery series. There are no dull moments or repetitive parts in the book whatsoever. Denise Grover Swank keeps me amazed at how well she keeps the story going, while being realistic and entertaining, book after book, and how obsessively I wait for the next book to come out each time. I hope this series never ends because I will never be ready to say “Goodbye” to Rose Gardner.
April 18, 2018
Oh how I've missed the world of Rose Gardner. The series just keeps getting better and better. "Hell in a Handbasket" finds Rose trying to sort out what to do with her feelings for James. Additionally, Rose is dealing with her sister's terminal illness causing her to agree to attend a church picnic after she swore she would never step foot in those premises again. If course it's pretty hysterical when two women break out into a good fight when one wins the best chicken contest.
When one of the women ends up murdered Rose is hired by the other to prove she didn't do it. Joe is none to pleased that Rose is involved in another mess but he finds himself under scrutiny when he cancels time with his sister, Neely Kate, to be with his new girlfriend, Dena. Neely Kate gives him hell and he is now in the doghouse.
Meanwhile, Rose has to bring the lady back when a teen whose been shot shows up on her doorstep seeking asylum. As she tries to figure out whose out to get him, keep him alive, and how she can avoid the repercussions she discovers Mason is back in town and he is up to something. It seems he still lives her and wants her back but at what cost?
With all that is going on it is no wonder Rose is emotionally fragile but that doesn't stop her from running her business, helping her sister and friends, and just trying to find some semblance of happiness. I really enjoyed this installment. Denise Grover Drank is a master at reeling the reader right in the middle of the emotional frey. My only complaint is she doesn't publish a new installment each week (LOL). Oh well, you can't have everything!
When one of the women ends up murdered Rose is hired by the other to prove she didn't do it. Joe is none to pleased that Rose is involved in another mess but he finds himself under scrutiny when he cancels time with his sister, Neely Kate, to be with his new girlfriend, Dena. Neely Kate gives him hell and he is now in the doghouse.
Meanwhile, Rose has to bring the lady back when a teen whose been shot shows up on her doorstep seeking asylum. As she tries to figure out whose out to get him, keep him alive, and how she can avoid the repercussions she discovers Mason is back in town and he is up to something. It seems he still lives her and wants her back but at what cost?
With all that is going on it is no wonder Rose is emotionally fragile but that doesn't stop her from running her business, helping her sister and friends, and just trying to find some semblance of happiness. I really enjoyed this installment. Denise Grover Drank is a master at reeling the reader right in the middle of the emotional frey. My only complaint is she doesn't publish a new installment each week (LOL). Oh well, you can't have everything!
April 19, 2018
I do not preorder books.
I do not pause reading one book when another that I'm excited for comes out.
I do not reread books.
I do not stay up late reading and want to block out the rest of the word for the whole book.
Denise Grover Swank's Rose Gardner books are the exception to all of this.
It's been almost four years and over a dozen books since I got involved in Rose's world and I was hooked from the first book. Now, this gang feels like people I know and I'm so excited to check in with them every six months (or more). This book lived up to everything I wanted it to be and more! Denise is so good at vividly creating a world and realistic, multi-dimensional characters, and bringing in great twists and turns. I'm impressed with how she manages to weave detailed stories over so many books and sometimes brings back moments and events from earlier to give them more meaning over time.
"Hell in a Handbasket" brings back old favorites (for some) but with new, unexpected twists. I loved everything about this book and agree with the others who say this just might be the best RG book yet. I don't think I've ever had so many facial reactions, out-loud reactions and "oh my stars and garters!" feelings while reading a book. Brb, time to reread RG Investigations 1-3.
I do not pause reading one book when another that I'm excited for comes out.
I do not reread books.
I do not stay up late reading and want to block out the rest of the word for the whole book.
Denise Grover Swank's Rose Gardner books are the exception to all of this.
It's been almost four years and over a dozen books since I got involved in Rose's world and I was hooked from the first book. Now, this gang feels like people I know and I'm so excited to check in with them every six months (or more). This book lived up to everything I wanted it to be and more! Denise is so good at vividly creating a world and realistic, multi-dimensional characters, and bringing in great twists and turns. I'm impressed with how she manages to weave detailed stories over so many books and sometimes brings back moments and events from earlier to give them more meaning over time.
"Hell in a Handbasket" brings back old favorites (for some) but with new, unexpected twists. I loved everything about this book and agree with the others who say this just might be the best RG book yet. I don't think I've ever had so many facial reactions, out-loud reactions and "oh my stars and garters!" feelings while reading a book. Brb, time to reread RG Investigations 1-3.
April 21, 2018
AMAZING..
As much as i read, as many authors as I've read. Rose Gardner is the favorite by far. What is not to love? She has come from nothing. Her words. She has visions. She been used for the visions . She has fallen in love with three different men. But the most amazing thing with this book here. Is the fact she has finally seen she truly loves James and deserves to be with him. It starts out like ever other story of hers. There's a murder. Two cousins fighting at a church picnic. Over fried chicken none the less. Then one ends up dead. Of course you know Nealy Kate is gone get involved. She is hooked on becoming a PI. TWIST AND TURNS and crime bosses galore. Brings everything to a head. You'll never believe who killed who to get secrets everyone wants. But in the end, dead crime boss, many dead bodies. But in the end. Rose says yes..I cannot wait for the next book. I'll be going through rose withdrawals before the next one is due out. Keep up the great story lines, but could you release them sooner? I can't get enough!!!
As much as i read, as many authors as I've read. Rose Gardner is the favorite by far. What is not to love? She has come from nothing. Her words. She has visions. She been used for the visions . She has fallen in love with three different men. But the most amazing thing with this book here. Is the fact she has finally seen she truly loves James and deserves to be with him. It starts out like ever other story of hers. There's a murder. Two cousins fighting at a church picnic. Over fried chicken none the less. Then one ends up dead. Of course you know Nealy Kate is gone get involved. She is hooked on becoming a PI. TWIST AND TURNS and crime bosses galore. Brings everything to a head. You'll never believe who killed who to get secrets everyone wants. But in the end, dead crime boss, many dead bodies. But in the end. Rose says yes..I cannot wait for the next book. I'll be going through rose withdrawals before the next one is due out. Keep up the great story lines, but could you release them sooner? I can't get enough!!!
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