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Welcome Back to Scumble River #2
Die Me a River: A Cozy Mystery
The chips are down in Scumble River
School psychologist Skye Denison-Boyd had hoped that her maternity leave would be at least a little relaxing, but when she and her husband, Wally, meet with the priest to discuss their newborn twins' christening, an explosion at the nearby bowling alley rocks the rectory. And although the business was closed at the time of the blast, there's a body inside.
As police chief, Wally is inevitably drawn into the investigation, which seems to indicate that foul play is afoot again in Scumble River, and Skye can't help but do a bit of her own sleuthing. But the clues come fast and furious, ranging from an odd new stranger in town to animosity toward the gambling machines that had recently been installed at the bowling alley, and Skye finds herself wondering if this could be the puzzle that stumps her for good.
New York Times bestselling author Denise Swanson has penned another hit for cozy fans with Die Me a River, the latest installment in her beloved Welcome Back to Scumble River mystery series.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2018
188 people are currently reading
463 people want to read
About the author
Denise Swanson
69 books1,128 followersDenise Swanson lives in rural Illinois with her husband, classical composer David Stybr.
After 22 years as a practicing school psychologist, she's happiest sitting in her scree porch reading. However, when the weather turns too cold, she's willing to leave the Midwest to cruise the sunny Caribbean.
Denise is an animal lover, but her home is currently furless, since her kitty of 20 years passed away in August of 2016. Instead, she enjoys watching the wildlife out her office window.
After 22 years as a practicing school psychologist, she's happiest sitting in her scree porch reading. However, when the weather turns too cold, she's willing to leave the Midwest to cruise the sunny Caribbean.
Denise is an animal lover, but her home is currently furless, since her kitty of 20 years passed away in August of 2016. Instead, she enjoys watching the wildlife out her office window.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
September 16, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Their twins have been born and their house is being rebuilt after the tornado, Skye, Wally, and the babies are leaving in a fabulous RV. Life is good. Then the new parents are meeting with the priest to go over details for the babies’ christening when a loud explosion rocks them and the building. They run outside to see that the explosion occurred at the bowling alley. The bowling alley where Skye’s former boyfriend’s mother lives. Police chief Wally and Skye take in the scene and after the firemen rescue those that were trapped in the building they are both rocked again by one of the people coming out of the building. But there was someone that didn’t make it out. A body is found in the debris.
Was the bowling alley targeted because of the flak about the gambling machines? Or is there some other reason a bomb was placed in the building? Wally is right in the thick of the investigation but Skye is doing some investigating of her own. She is also handling some things at school for the intern filling in for her while she is on maternity leave. And then there are the twins, the christening, the baby shower where her mother has invited over 150 people, and decisions that need to be made regarding their new home. To say Skye and Wally have a lot on their plate in an understatement of epic proportions.
Whether this is your first book in this series you have picked up or if you are a long time fan you are in for a wonderful treat!
Ms. Swanson has taken Syke through thick and thin over the now 23 Scumble River and Welcome Back to Scumble River series’. I was a little nervous about how these babies may slow her down, but we saw in this story that that is not the case. Skye has really matured over the course of the series. She and Wally make a great team both as parents and investigators. With all their friends and extended family, there is never a dull moment in Scumble River.
This story was incredibly easy to escape into. The characters are likable, believable, and engaging. The dialogue is spot on too. I was surprised that the new babies remain unnamed until the christening when the names are revealed. There is no way my family or my husband’s family would have let us get away with that. But it did make the moment very special.
Now the mystery starts out with several potential suspects, the victim was not an easy person to like and they were doing anything to advance their career on the backs of others. With a little digging, the list of suspects was pared down quickly. The author throws several red herrings along the path to distract us too. Everything comes to a surprising end in totally the wrong place. Yes, I was on edge until it all played out.
Caution – there are a few curse words in the story, but the new parents are working on that 🙂
Superb characters in some crazy situations come together in the well-written mystery. I would have finished the whole thing all in one evening if only my eyeballs would have cooperated.
This was a fun read!
Their twins have been born and their house is being rebuilt after the tornado, Skye, Wally, and the babies are leaving in a fabulous RV. Life is good. Then the new parents are meeting with the priest to go over details for the babies’ christening when a loud explosion rocks them and the building. They run outside to see that the explosion occurred at the bowling alley. The bowling alley where Skye’s former boyfriend’s mother lives. Police chief Wally and Skye take in the scene and after the firemen rescue those that were trapped in the building they are both rocked again by one of the people coming out of the building. But there was someone that didn’t make it out. A body is found in the debris.
Was the bowling alley targeted because of the flak about the gambling machines? Or is there some other reason a bomb was placed in the building? Wally is right in the thick of the investigation but Skye is doing some investigating of her own. She is also handling some things at school for the intern filling in for her while she is on maternity leave. And then there are the twins, the christening, the baby shower where her mother has invited over 150 people, and decisions that need to be made regarding their new home. To say Skye and Wally have a lot on their plate in an understatement of epic proportions.
Whether this is your first book in this series you have picked up or if you are a long time fan you are in for a wonderful treat!
Ms. Swanson has taken Syke through thick and thin over the now 23 Scumble River and Welcome Back to Scumble River series’. I was a little nervous about how these babies may slow her down, but we saw in this story that that is not the case. Skye has really matured over the course of the series. She and Wally make a great team both as parents and investigators. With all their friends and extended family, there is never a dull moment in Scumble River.
This story was incredibly easy to escape into. The characters are likable, believable, and engaging. The dialogue is spot on too. I was surprised that the new babies remain unnamed until the christening when the names are revealed. There is no way my family or my husband’s family would have let us get away with that. But it did make the moment very special.
Now the mystery starts out with several potential suspects, the victim was not an easy person to like and they were doing anything to advance their career on the backs of others. With a little digging, the list of suspects was pared down quickly. The author throws several red herrings along the path to distract us too. Everything comes to a surprising end in totally the wrong place. Yes, I was on edge until it all played out.
Caution – there are a few curse words in the story, but the new parents are working on that 🙂
Superb characters in some crazy situations come together in the well-written mystery. I would have finished the whole thing all in one evening if only my eyeballs would have cooperated.
This was a fun read!
September 23, 2023
I love this series.
August 13, 2024
Die me a River by Denise Swanson is the 2nd book in the Return to Scumble River Mystery series. Scumble River is recovering from the aftermath of the tornado and Skye is busy preparing for her twins christening, when a bomb explodes in the bowling alley and an insurance assessor is killed. I love this series and it is nice catching up with all the characters who we've come to know well and are like family. The magical element was a bit farfetched though. The Doosiers are always entertaining and always seem to come up with new schemes. A quick and entertaining, light cozy mystery.
September 15, 2018
Skye Denison-Boyd is still on maternity leave, but it doesn’t mean she is totally stepping away from her job. Besides caring for her twins, she’s also trying to help her temporary replacement. To add to her already full plate, there is an explosion at a.a local bowling alley leaving one person dead.
Skye can’t help but jump into the investigation with her police chief husband, Wally. Things take a dangerous turn when most of the small town is on the suspect list.
A little Scumble River background - it’s one of the first cozy mystery series I read before I knew they were called cozy mysteries. There are 19 books in the original series, but I still need to catch up. I was delighted to see the author created a sequel series called “Welcome Back to Scumble River. I read the first book in the new series and loved it. This is the second book. The author provides background information throughout this book so if you are a new reader, you won’t miss a thing. The mystery itself is contained in this book - no cliffhangers.
Die Me a River brings Skye and her family and friends right into the middle of joy and danger. The joy is the celebration of Skye and Wally’s twin babies. The danger is another murder in Scumble River.
The characters are a lively, quirky group. I’m so happy Skye finally found the happiness she deserves with Wally and their children. Of course that doesn’t mean the murders and mystery are coming to an end. Not by a long shot.
Denise Swanson always does a wonderful job of creating a clever, suspenseful murder mystery. This book is no exception. We are given a wide array of suspects in this fast-paced visit back to Scumble River. I couldn’t stop reading until I knew who the culprit was and I was surprised at how it all wrapped up. I’m so looking forward to the next book in this fun series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Skye can’t help but jump into the investigation with her police chief husband, Wally. Things take a dangerous turn when most of the small town is on the suspect list.
A little Scumble River background - it’s one of the first cozy mystery series I read before I knew they were called cozy mysteries. There are 19 books in the original series, but I still need to catch up. I was delighted to see the author created a sequel series called “Welcome Back to Scumble River. I read the first book in the new series and loved it. This is the second book. The author provides background information throughout this book so if you are a new reader, you won’t miss a thing. The mystery itself is contained in this book - no cliffhangers.
Die Me a River brings Skye and her family and friends right into the middle of joy and danger. The joy is the celebration of Skye and Wally’s twin babies. The danger is another murder in Scumble River.
The characters are a lively, quirky group. I’m so happy Skye finally found the happiness she deserves with Wally and their children. Of course that doesn’t mean the murders and mystery are coming to an end. Not by a long shot.
Denise Swanson always does a wonderful job of creating a clever, suspenseful murder mystery. This book is no exception. We are given a wide array of suspects in this fast-paced visit back to Scumble River. I couldn’t stop reading until I knew who the culprit was and I was surprised at how it all wrapped up. I’m so looking forward to the next book in this fun series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 2, 2019
I have not read previous books by Denise Swanson, and probably won't. This was cute-ish in places, but PLEASE don't tell me again how handsome and well built Wally is, or how wonderful and beautiful and smart his wife is -- enough is enough, and sometimes way too much. And silly characters? Bunny, the Fairy Godmother, Trixie, the Dooziers -- was there no end? Apparently not. And the murder was another oddity, along with Bunny's ex-lover. Too sum up all this foolishness -- it was just too silly. Stop now, Denise.
September 29, 2018
Another great book in the Scumble River series. I love seeing how Skye’s life changes as she is growing. Also good to see how becoming a mom doesn’t stop her from solving crime. This one kept me guessing and the ending was really good. Already looking forward to the next one.
August 16, 2018
Amazing how, after so many Scumble River mysteries, each is fresh and unique! Even after giving birth to twins as a first time mom and losing the beautiful home she inherited and loved, Skye's still got it. The characters are delightful and mostly likable, while the setting is still the aftermath of a tornado that swept through town. The mystery is twofold, making the resolution challenging.
The explosion occurred while Skye and Wally were being instructed in infant baptism and Skye's brother Vincent and his wife Loretta in the responsibilities of godparents. Running out to see what happened, they learn that the bowling alley is on fire, the same bowling alley where Bunny, mom of one of Skye's ex-boyfriends, manages it and lives in the attached one bedroom apartment. When Bunny and a surprise guest are released from the apartment, Wally and Skye are relieved at the thought there were no casualties since it is the bowling alleys' one night closed per week even as they are stunned to see who Bunny's guest is.
The fire department brings bad and worse news. It was a bomb, tucked inside one of the new casino gaming machines, that caused the fire. Worse, they found a body inside. A body that shouldn't have been there when the place was closed. The good news? Well...it could all be repaired, maybe, after the bomb squad is done.
There are so many potential suspects - people in town who are against the gaming machines, perhaps connections who felt their machines should be in there, anyone who might have a grudge against Bunny or her son. The person who died also could have enemies within the community or the homeowner's insurance company she works for. There is so little time! They want to have it wrapped up by the twins' baptism, as a woman claiming to be a fairy godmother claims that evil is raging in the town and it will come to a head when the twins are baptized.
Skye is such a delight, with sharp wit and imagination. She is still in the phase of not wanting to leave her babies alone with anyone, whether it be Wally's dad, Carson or her own mother, May. I can't wait to see this new helicopter mom as the twins begin to crawl, then toddle. Most of the town, it seems, is planning to be at the party and baby shower May and Wally are planning. I like Skye and her grandmother Cora, in spite of some of Bunny's behaviors, think I could like her. Even the Dooziers have a certain charm if one is on their good side.
I was not prepared for who the killer really was. It took some brilliant work for Wally and Skye (as a consultant to the PD) to figure out who the bad guy/ gal really is, much less get to the right place at what could be the wrong time. I was pretty sure one of the strong red herrings was not it, but couldn't come up with the right person. The end held several surprises, and all loose ends were tied up. I am looking for the next book in the series, and highly recommend this cozy mystery.
The explosion occurred while Skye and Wally were being instructed in infant baptism and Skye's brother Vincent and his wife Loretta in the responsibilities of godparents. Running out to see what happened, they learn that the bowling alley is on fire, the same bowling alley where Bunny, mom of one of Skye's ex-boyfriends, manages it and lives in the attached one bedroom apartment. When Bunny and a surprise guest are released from the apartment, Wally and Skye are relieved at the thought there were no casualties since it is the bowling alleys' one night closed per week even as they are stunned to see who Bunny's guest is.
The fire department brings bad and worse news. It was a bomb, tucked inside one of the new casino gaming machines, that caused the fire. Worse, they found a body inside. A body that shouldn't have been there when the place was closed. The good news? Well...it could all be repaired, maybe, after the bomb squad is done.
There are so many potential suspects - people in town who are against the gaming machines, perhaps connections who felt their machines should be in there, anyone who might have a grudge against Bunny or her son. The person who died also could have enemies within the community or the homeowner's insurance company she works for. There is so little time! They want to have it wrapped up by the twins' baptism, as a woman claiming to be a fairy godmother claims that evil is raging in the town and it will come to a head when the twins are baptized.
Skye is such a delight, with sharp wit and imagination. She is still in the phase of not wanting to leave her babies alone with anyone, whether it be Wally's dad, Carson or her own mother, May. I can't wait to see this new helicopter mom as the twins begin to crawl, then toddle. Most of the town, it seems, is planning to be at the party and baby shower May and Wally are planning. I like Skye and her grandmother Cora, in spite of some of Bunny's behaviors, think I could like her. Even the Dooziers have a certain charm if one is on their good side.
I was not prepared for who the killer really was. It took some brilliant work for Wally and Skye (as a consultant to the PD) to figure out who the bad guy/ gal really is, much less get to the right place at what could be the wrong time. I was pretty sure one of the strong red herrings was not it, but couldn't come up with the right person. The end held several surprises, and all loose ends were tied up. I am looking for the next book in the series, and highly recommend this cozy mystery.
July 24, 2018
This is the second book in the welcome back to scumble river series. Skye Dennison Boyd is a new mother and is in the midst of planning her twins baptism. On the night that she and her husband, Wally are meeting with the priest there is an explosion at the nearby bowling alley. When they body of an insurance adjuster is found amongst the wreckage there are no shortage of suspects since the adjuster had denied numerous claims around town in regards to the recent tornado the town had suffered. But was the adjuster the intended target. It is possible that the owner of the bowling alley was the intended target or someone who wanted the business's new gambling machines shut down.
I always love visiting scumble river. The characters have become family to me and I look forward to reading about them. Wally and Skye are new parents and are learning to balance work and parenthood. Skye 's mother is still as overbearing as ever and I loved every second of it. The mystery was well done and very enjoyable.
I always love visiting scumble river. The characters have become family to me and I look forward to reading about them. Wally and Skye are new parents and are learning to balance work and parenthood. Skye 's mother is still as overbearing as ever and I loved every second of it. The mystery was well done and very enjoyable.
September 4, 2018
In this next book of the series people are still reeling from the storm that hit the town in the previous book. Everyone is trying to get back to normal but quite a few people in town are having issues with a certain insurance company re-fusing claims. Things were going well with the original adjuster but he was removed and someone new sent in. While Skye and Boyd are with their priest discussing the twins christening they hear an explosion that sounds relatively close. It ends up being the bowling alley and when the fire fighters discover the body of a certain claims adjuster dead there are more than a few suspects to be had. Skye is trying to enjoy her leave but with Wally being the head of the investigation she can't help but be pulled in. Being bombarded with clues is a good thing right, it's not when there are no answers to be had when it comes to said clues. Skye really can't seem to get a hold onto this mystery and wonders if it will ever get solved. In the meantime she is still working on figuring out what to name the twins, rebuilding her home, and getting into a new normal with two babies. Follow along as Skye tries to make sense of all the she has learned and be a great mom in the process. I'm enjoying where this series is going and love the transition the main character has made from being single to married and from being childless to a new mother of twins. I can't wait to see what she comes up against next.
August 10, 2020
Die Me A River
Welcome Back To Scumble River, Book #2
Denise Swanson
5 Stars
Synopsis:
The chips are down in Scumble River
School psychologist Skye Denison-Boyd had hoped that her maternity leave would be at least a little relaxing, but when she and her husband, Wally, meet with the priest to discuss their newborn twins' christening, an explosion at the nearby bowling alley rocks the rectory. And although the business was closed at the time of the blast, there's a body inside.
As police chief, Wally is inevitably drawn into the investigation, which seems to indicate that foul play is afoot again in Scumble River, and Skye can't help but do a bit of her own sleuthing. But the clues come fast and furious, ranging from an odd new stranger in town to animosity toward the gambling machines that had recently been installed at the bowling alley, and Skye finds herself wondering if this could be the puzzle that stumps her for good.
New York Times bestselling author Denise Swanson has penned another hit for cozy fans with Die Me a River, the latest installment in her beloved Welcome Back to Scumble River mystery series. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I like how strong and independent Skye is, but she still has insecurities, and that makes her seem more realistic to me. I really enjoy reading about the relationship between Wally and Skye, they are such a great couple. You can tell how much love and respect they have for each other, it is so refreshing. The secondary characters added a lot to the story and I really enjoyed spending with all of them.
The writing style flows smoothly and defined the characters very clearly by their words and actions. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and this pulled me into the story from the very beginning of the book. The mystery was well plotted and not easily solved. I would not have even cared if there was no mystery to solve, I was enjoying spending time with Wally, Skye and the twins, but the mystery added to the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. Both of the books in this series were really great, as were the older books written in this series, from many years ago.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Sourcebooks Landmark, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
Welcome Back To Scumble River, Book #2
Denise Swanson
5 Stars
Synopsis:
The chips are down in Scumble River
School psychologist Skye Denison-Boyd had hoped that her maternity leave would be at least a little relaxing, but when she and her husband, Wally, meet with the priest to discuss their newborn twins' christening, an explosion at the nearby bowling alley rocks the rectory. And although the business was closed at the time of the blast, there's a body inside.
As police chief, Wally is inevitably drawn into the investigation, which seems to indicate that foul play is afoot again in Scumble River, and Skye can't help but do a bit of her own sleuthing. But the clues come fast and furious, ranging from an odd new stranger in town to animosity toward the gambling machines that had recently been installed at the bowling alley, and Skye finds herself wondering if this could be the puzzle that stumps her for good.
New York Times bestselling author Denise Swanson has penned another hit for cozy fans with Die Me a River, the latest installment in her beloved Welcome Back to Scumble River mystery series. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I like how strong and independent Skye is, but she still has insecurities, and that makes her seem more realistic to me. I really enjoy reading about the relationship between Wally and Skye, they are such a great couple. You can tell how much love and respect they have for each other, it is so refreshing. The secondary characters added a lot to the story and I really enjoyed spending with all of them.
The writing style flows smoothly and defined the characters very clearly by their words and actions. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and this pulled me into the story from the very beginning of the book. The mystery was well plotted and not easily solved. I would not have even cared if there was no mystery to solve, I was enjoying spending time with Wally, Skye and the twins, but the mystery added to the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. Both of the books in this series were really great, as were the older books written in this series, from many years ago.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Sourcebooks Landmark, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
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February 8, 2019I don't know what's happened with Denise Swanson's books lately...maybe it's the change to the new publisher or maybe she wants to write more romance. This wasn't a bad story....but it took a long time to get to the mystery and when the killer was revealed it seemed to almost come out of nowhere...there weren't any solid hints. In earlier books she brought her readers along for the ride. After reading that Wally was her gorgeous husband or handsome husband the first 15 times I didn't need to read it the next 30.
And the Dooziers...I know a lot of readers like them....I'm done with them. And even worse, what was that about the fairy godmother? Where is the Skye whose adventures and sleuthing I looked forward to reading?
And the Dooziers...I know a lot of readers like them....I'm done with them. And even worse, what was that about the fairy godmother? Where is the Skye whose adventures and sleuthing I looked forward to reading?
July 24, 2020
Die Me a River by Denise Swanson is the 2nd book in the Welcome Back to Scumble River series, and another exciting addition. Skye and Wally are busy taking care of their twins, they make it sound so easy ha ha. There is so much going on in their lives, it's non stop action. Skye and Wally are busy meeting with the priest arranging the babies christening when the bowling alley across the street rocked the rectory. The bowling alley was closed, but they discover a body in there. When the body was determined to be murder, they are determined to find the killer. I highly recommend this book/series to all cozy mystery lovers, weather your new to the series, or a long time follower.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 11, 2019
I've read the whole series, but with Skye all grown up and settled, I feel it's time to move on. There was just too much filler about what she's wearing and the contents of her grocery cart. I'm glad she has a handsome husband, beautiful babies, a custom home, a luxury car, and oodles of money. Hey, if I had all that, I'd get out of Special Education for sure!
July 12, 2019
I used to love reading about scumble River. This book in the last one have made me decide I am done reading anything in the series. I just got tired of their lovey-dovey nonsense. There is no way a mom of twins is doing everything that she would be doing only 5 weeks after delivery. I know it's fiction and I should suspend to some belief but not when it's that ridiculous.
September 15, 2018
Die Me a River is the second book in Denise Swanson’s Welcome Back to Scumble River series. The storyline is well plotted and the well-developed characters are relatable. The story moves along at a steady pace, with lots of things taking place.
Skye and Wally Boyd live in Scumble River, Illinois, where Skye is a school psychologist and a psych consultant to the police department and Wally is the police chief, and they are the proud parents of newborn twins. Scumble River and the surrounding area were recently devastated by a tornado; repairing and rebuilding damaged or destroyed buildings have hit a roadblock, especially for those insured by Homestead Insurance. Skye has two months of maternity leave left, but when she receives a plea from her intern, Piper Townsend, and a call from Homer Knapik, the high school principal, she agrees to come to the school for a meeting and to try to fix the problem. Skye, Wally, Vince, and Loretta (Skye's brother and his wife) are meeting with Father Burns in the rectory office in preparation of the twins’ christening when an explosion at Bunny Lanes. Bunny Lanes is owned by Skye’s ex-boyfriend, Simon Reid, and managed by his mother, Bunny, who lives above it. The explosion took place in the bowling alley’s gaming room and one person, Paige Myler, perished during the explosion and it’s determined that she was murdered. Paige was the special investigator for Homestead Insurance, and the person who was denying most of the claims. Wally has no shortage of potential suspects – many people in town are against the gaming machines, it might be someone wanting one of the few gaming machines permits, someone with a grudge against Simon or Bunny, one of the citizens who were unhappy with the way their claim was being handled, or the odd stranger in town.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Skye and Wally Boyd live in Scumble River, Illinois, where Skye is a school psychologist and a psych consultant to the police department and Wally is the police chief, and they are the proud parents of newborn twins. Scumble River and the surrounding area were recently devastated by a tornado; repairing and rebuilding damaged or destroyed buildings have hit a roadblock, especially for those insured by Homestead Insurance. Skye has two months of maternity leave left, but when she receives a plea from her intern, Piper Townsend, and a call from Homer Knapik, the high school principal, she agrees to come to the school for a meeting and to try to fix the problem. Skye, Wally, Vince, and Loretta (Skye's brother and his wife) are meeting with Father Burns in the rectory office in preparation of the twins’ christening when an explosion at Bunny Lanes. Bunny Lanes is owned by Skye’s ex-boyfriend, Simon Reid, and managed by his mother, Bunny, who lives above it. The explosion took place in the bowling alley’s gaming room and one person, Paige Myler, perished during the explosion and it’s determined that she was murdered. Paige was the special investigator for Homestead Insurance, and the person who was denying most of the claims. Wally has no shortage of potential suspects – many people in town are against the gaming machines, it might be someone wanting one of the few gaming machines permits, someone with a grudge against Simon or Bunny, one of the citizens who were unhappy with the way their claim was being handled, or the odd stranger in town.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
September 4, 2018
In Die Me a River, the small rural town of Scumble River is still recovering from the tornado in the last book in this cozy mystery series.
The town is abuzz with complaints about the shady practices of Homestead Insurance. Claims are being reduced, denied and seldom paid timely. When their insurance inspector turns up dead in a bombing, Police Chief Wally must investigate a plethora of suspects. Wally would much rather be at home with his school psychologist wife, Skye, and their still unnamed newborn twins. Skye is on maternity leave. She is seemingly being stalked by a new town resident, Millicent Rose, who just wants to go the twins’ baptism. According to their priest, Millicent has gone to both of the other baptisms since she arrived in town and gave each baby some type of verbal gift.
Die Me a River is the second in the rebooted Scumble River series. However, there were nineteen books in the original series too. Despite never reading any of those books, I had no trouble catching up with the character’s backstories. This works well as a stand-alone.
Most readers, and I include myself, read cozies more for the ambience and characters than for the puzzle. This book does a great job pulling the reader into small town Illinois life. While there are a lot of characters here, each has such a diverse personality it is is easy to keep them separated.
The two mysteries are well-presented. I actually liked the fairy godmother sub-plot better than the insurance main plot but that was just personal preference. I enjoyed the minor mystery around the naming of the babies too.
Die Me a River is a great, relaxing cozy mystery. It is recommended for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in someone else’s life for a day. 4 stars!
Thanks to the publisher, Sourcebooks Landmark, and NetGalley for an advance copy.
The town is abuzz with complaints about the shady practices of Homestead Insurance. Claims are being reduced, denied and seldom paid timely. When their insurance inspector turns up dead in a bombing, Police Chief Wally must investigate a plethora of suspects. Wally would much rather be at home with his school psychologist wife, Skye, and their still unnamed newborn twins. Skye is on maternity leave. She is seemingly being stalked by a new town resident, Millicent Rose, who just wants to go the twins’ baptism. According to their priest, Millicent has gone to both of the other baptisms since she arrived in town and gave each baby some type of verbal gift.
Die Me a River is the second in the rebooted Scumble River series. However, there were nineteen books in the original series too. Despite never reading any of those books, I had no trouble catching up with the character’s backstories. This works well as a stand-alone.
Most readers, and I include myself, read cozies more for the ambience and characters than for the puzzle. This book does a great job pulling the reader into small town Illinois life. While there are a lot of characters here, each has such a diverse personality it is is easy to keep them separated.
The two mysteries are well-presented. I actually liked the fairy godmother sub-plot better than the insurance main plot but that was just personal preference. I enjoyed the minor mystery around the naming of the babies too.
Die Me a River is a great, relaxing cozy mystery. It is recommended for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in someone else’s life for a day. 4 stars!
Thanks to the publisher, Sourcebooks Landmark, and NetGalley for an advance copy.
October 25, 2018
The whole town now knows that Wally's family is rich, so when Wally and Sky baptize the twins, Skye's mother, May, has deep pockets to dig into when the babies are baptized. She rents a huge tent with cathedral ceilings and crystal chandeliers that will make her sisters green with envy.
Also, because of the family wealth, Wally's father Carson has hired security guards and exhausted new mother Skye is interviewing nannies. Skye doesn't like Carson spending so lavishly on them, but she is certainly reaping the benefits.
The bowling alley that Bunny (mother of Skye's ex boyfriend, Simon, now dating Wally's father) manages is blown up and a body is found under a video gambling machine. The victim was a much hated insurance claims adjuster who was denying claims on everyone's tornado damage.
Although the trailer home Carson bought for them to live in while their house is rebuilt is quite luxurious, Sky's family is crowded with all the baby paraphernalia and they are anxiously watching their new home being completed. Not all Scumble River is so fortunate in the aftermath of the tornadoes.
Also, because of the family wealth, Wally's father Carson has hired security guards and exhausted new mother Skye is interviewing nannies. Skye doesn't like Carson spending so lavishly on them, but she is certainly reaping the benefits.
The bowling alley that Bunny (mother of Skye's ex boyfriend, Simon, now dating Wally's father) manages is blown up and a body is found under a video gambling machine. The victim was a much hated insurance claims adjuster who was denying claims on everyone's tornado damage.
Although the trailer home Carson bought for them to live in while their house is rebuilt is quite luxurious, Sky's family is crowded with all the baby paraphernalia and they are anxiously watching their new home being completed. Not all Scumble River is so fortunate in the aftermath of the tornadoes.
January 23, 2020
Die Me a River by Denise Swanson was a page turner just don’t want to put the book down read for me. The problems of juggling work and family while assisting in a murder investigation were believably portrayed by the author. The setting of Scumble River might be an interesting place to visit if it existed in reality. Readers who enjoy reading the adventures of a strong female protagonist should check out this book.
Read
November 2, 2018This is one of my favorite series. Skye and Wally are parents now and they are also solving a case of a bombing at the bowling alley. I love all the characters in this series and the scrapes that they get into. This is a good one.
December 28, 2019
Lots of changes taking place in Skye and Wally's lives but all for the good!! loved this title
April 30, 2024
I love these fun little mystery books!
October 11, 2018
This book had me hooked from the start. The main character is one hundred percent relatable, and the book was fun to read.
September 25, 2019
Skye and her police chief husband Wally are conferring with their pastor about christening the twins when there's an explosion in the bowling alley and a woman is killed. At first, Wally and his overstretched staff think that the target was the new gaming machines in the bowling alley, or possibly the manager, but all the suspects with motives are eliminated, and Wally comes around to thinking that the crime must have been aimed at the dead woman, a stranger in town. The twins get christened, and the bad guy caught. This is the second volume in the series' reboot, and I'm not really loving it.
September 30, 2021
Time: Twins baptism/christening, Halloween. They are finally named .. weeks after their birth !
Skye is still on maternity leave.
Carson & Bunny (shocker).
Skye is still on maternity leave.
Carson & Bunny (shocker).
September 9, 2018
http://openbooksociety.com/article/di...
Die Me a River
Welcome Back to Scumble River #2
By Denise Swanson
ISBN 9781492648352
www.deniseswanson.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
The chips are down in Scumble River
School psychologist Skye Denison-Boyd had hoped that her maternity leave would be at least a little relaxing, but when she and her husband, Wally, meet with the priest to discuss their newborn twins’ christening, an explosion at the nearby bowling alley rocks the rectory. And although the business was closed at the time of the blast, there’s a body inside.
As police chief, Wally is inevitably drawn into the investigation, which seems to indicate that foul play is afoot again in Scumble River, and Skye can’t help but do a bit of her own sleuthing. But the clues come fast and furious, ranging from an odd new stranger in town to animosity toward the gambling machines that had recently been installed at the bowling alley, and Skye finds herself wondering if this could be the puzzle that stumps her for good.
New York Times bestselling author Denise Swanson has penned another hit for cozy fans with Die Me a River, the latest installment in her beloved Welcome Back to Scumble River mystery series. (From Goodreads)
Review:
Scumble River, Illinois is still recovering from the tornado that ripped through town, and one insurance company has begun to refuse or severely limit payouts for its faithful policyholders. Skye and her husband Wally are luckier than most folks who lost their homes, as Wally’s father has brought a 45’ luxury RV for them to live in until their home is rebuilt. It does get crowded in there with their twin infants, and Skye is going through the new mom challenges of leaving them, even with her mother, for an hour or two.
They have a date set for the twins’ baptisms, but haven’t yet named the precious boy and girl. Skye and Wally are almost done meeting with the priest to discuss the celebration when a nearby explosion sends them out to find the source. It is at the bowling lanes, fortunately on the one night they are closed. The owner of the bowling lanes is none other than one of Skye’s ex-boyfriends, Simon. His mother, Bunny, who manages it, lives in the one-bedroom apartment on site. When firemen are able to free the apartment door, Bunny runs out…along with…it can’t be. One of the last people Wally would ever anticipate seeing with her!
The firemen inspect inside, and not only have to await a bomb squad to arrive to determine the kind of bomb that went off, but they also find a body inside the closed business. They do not know whether the woman was in the wrong place at the wrong time, or if someone planned to murder her. Other leads could be anyone that Bunny had dated in the past, or even someone protesting the new gambling machines that have come to Scumble River, of which several more are planned to be located around town.
Adding to the crazy is a new shop has opened near the bowling lanes. Enchanted Garden is owned by Millicent Rose, who claims to be a fairy godmother, who wears a blue cape and pointy hat fastened with a pink bow. She claims to grant wishes for free. She has serious concerns for Skye and her babies, saying that evil would take place on the day of the twins’ baptism. For a new mom with her hands full of baby, this potentially deadly turn of events is horrifying.
From Skye, her mother May, Wally and his father Carson to the Dooziers, many of our favorite Scumble River residents are front and center in Die Me A River. We also see ex-boyfriend Simon, who seems to be still in a tree-marking tree mode with Wally. New and short-term people in town include the self-proclaimed fairy godmother and the various insurance people, one of whom was the dead woman. Every character, from old to new, is well-defined, Skye has a unique, wicked sense of humor that is evident throughout, and high school principal Homer Knapik is as cantankerous as ever.
Due to the perceived threat to their twins and a murderer still on the loose, Wally Boyd adds a security detail to the party celebrating their babies’ baptism and a belated baby shower. This Scumble River fan is happy to watch how the mystery plays out, as there are so many possible suspects and so little time. I did not suspect the real killer, so it was quite the surprise to find who the real bad guy/ gal is. Heightening the suspense are plot twists and turns that only this author can pull of. The mysteries coupled with behaviors of new and familiar characters make this a not-to-be-missed addition to the new Scumble River series. I highly recommend this witty, unpredictable, suspenseful, and laugh-out-loud cozy mystery!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Die Me a River
Welcome Back to Scumble River #2
By Denise Swanson
ISBN 9781492648352
www.deniseswanson.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
The chips are down in Scumble River
School psychologist Skye Denison-Boyd had hoped that her maternity leave would be at least a little relaxing, but when she and her husband, Wally, meet with the priest to discuss their newborn twins’ christening, an explosion at the nearby bowling alley rocks the rectory. And although the business was closed at the time of the blast, there’s a body inside.
As police chief, Wally is inevitably drawn into the investigation, which seems to indicate that foul play is afoot again in Scumble River, and Skye can’t help but do a bit of her own sleuthing. But the clues come fast and furious, ranging from an odd new stranger in town to animosity toward the gambling machines that had recently been installed at the bowling alley, and Skye finds herself wondering if this could be the puzzle that stumps her for good.
New York Times bestselling author Denise Swanson has penned another hit for cozy fans with Die Me a River, the latest installment in her beloved Welcome Back to Scumble River mystery series. (From Goodreads)
Review:
Scumble River, Illinois is still recovering from the tornado that ripped through town, and one insurance company has begun to refuse or severely limit payouts for its faithful policyholders. Skye and her husband Wally are luckier than most folks who lost their homes, as Wally’s father has brought a 45’ luxury RV for them to live in until their home is rebuilt. It does get crowded in there with their twin infants, and Skye is going through the new mom challenges of leaving them, even with her mother, for an hour or two.
They have a date set for the twins’ baptisms, but haven’t yet named the precious boy and girl. Skye and Wally are almost done meeting with the priest to discuss the celebration when a nearby explosion sends them out to find the source. It is at the bowling lanes, fortunately on the one night they are closed. The owner of the bowling lanes is none other than one of Skye’s ex-boyfriends, Simon. His mother, Bunny, who manages it, lives in the one-bedroom apartment on site. When firemen are able to free the apartment door, Bunny runs out…along with…it can’t be. One of the last people Wally would ever anticipate seeing with her!
The firemen inspect inside, and not only have to await a bomb squad to arrive to determine the kind of bomb that went off, but they also find a body inside the closed business. They do not know whether the woman was in the wrong place at the wrong time, or if someone planned to murder her. Other leads could be anyone that Bunny had dated in the past, or even someone protesting the new gambling machines that have come to Scumble River, of which several more are planned to be located around town.
Adding to the crazy is a new shop has opened near the bowling lanes. Enchanted Garden is owned by Millicent Rose, who claims to be a fairy godmother, who wears a blue cape and pointy hat fastened with a pink bow. She claims to grant wishes for free. She has serious concerns for Skye and her babies, saying that evil would take place on the day of the twins’ baptism. For a new mom with her hands full of baby, this potentially deadly turn of events is horrifying.
From Skye, her mother May, Wally and his father Carson to the Dooziers, many of our favorite Scumble River residents are front and center in Die Me A River. We also see ex-boyfriend Simon, who seems to be still in a tree-marking tree mode with Wally. New and short-term people in town include the self-proclaimed fairy godmother and the various insurance people, one of whom was the dead woman. Every character, from old to new, is well-defined, Skye has a unique, wicked sense of humor that is evident throughout, and high school principal Homer Knapik is as cantankerous as ever.
Due to the perceived threat to their twins and a murderer still on the loose, Wally Boyd adds a security detail to the party celebrating their babies’ baptism and a belated baby shower. This Scumble River fan is happy to watch how the mystery plays out, as there are so many possible suspects and so little time. I did not suspect the real killer, so it was quite the surprise to find who the real bad guy/ gal is. Heightening the suspense are plot twists and turns that only this author can pull of. The mysteries coupled with behaviors of new and familiar characters make this a not-to-be-missed addition to the new Scumble River series. I highly recommend this witty, unpredictable, suspenseful, and laugh-out-loud cozy mystery!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
September 10, 2018
Die Me A River by Denise Swanson is the second installment in Welcome Back to Scumble River series. Skye Denison-Boyd is on maternity leave after giving birth to twins. It has been three months since tornadoes rocked the area and destroyed their home. Wally, Skye and the twins have been staying in a luxury RV in their driveway while a new home is being built. They are preparing for the twins christening as well as the party afterward. If only Wally and Skye could agree on names for their babies (it has only been five weeks). Skye and Wally are meeting with Father Burns to go over the baptism when they hear a loud boom and the building quakes. The explosion came from Bunny Lanes, the local bowling alley run by Bunny Reid. She had recently renovated the facility and added video gambling machines to the bar. While the bowling alley had been closed for the day, the firefighters find the body of Paige Myler inside. Paige was a representative for Homestead Insurance who insured many of the citizens in Scumble River, and she had been denying their claims which had upset the policy owners. Wally must first figure out if the gambling machines, Bunny or Paige were the bombers target and then he can start assembling a list of suspects. He must also deal with a home under construction, a fairy godmother running around town, the christening, the party, newborn twins, an understaffed police department and a hormonal wife. Skye, though, is always eager to help Wally with his cases and it does give them time together. Come along to Scumble River where you will be welcomed with open arms and your secrets will spread faster than you can say Die Me a River.
Die Me A River may be the second book in the Welcome Back to Scumble River series, but it is a continuation of A Scumble River Mystery series. If you are new to this series of books, begin with Dead in the Water. If you are up for a challenge, pick up Murder of a Small-Town Honey (go all the way back to the beginning). I thought Die Me A River was easy to read with eccentric characters and a quirky small town. Denise Swanson has an engaging writing style that draws the reader into the Scumble River world. It can be hard, though, to keep track of the all extraneous characters especially in the beginning. Skye has an extended family and many close friends along with co-workers, Wally’s family, Wally’s co-workers, the townspeople (you get the picture). There is plenty of humor in the story as Skye learns to deal with the twins, Carson’s new girlfriend (and how they learn who it is will have you chuckling), the fairy godmother (her outfit alone will cause you to snicker), May’s over-the-top plans for the party, and the incident at the party are just a few examples. While Die Me A River has a delightful homey feel to it, the mystery was lacking. There is misdirection as the author tries to steer readers away from the real killer, but there are a limited number of suspects. Readers will have no problem solving this whodunit. I would like to suggest the author consider Homer as a victim in a future story (he is an obnoxious ignoramus). I could have done with fewer lovey dovey moments between Wally and Skye (they are sweet, but this is not a romance novel), references to Skye’s weight (which is normal after having a baby), and less focus on how much money Carson has at his disposable (and is spending on Wally, Skye and the babies). I am glad that the new parents are trying to eliminate vulgar swear words from their vocabulary (I dislike seeing them in my cozy mysteries), and they are coming up with some creative alternatives. It was lovely to finally find out the names that Skye and Wally had picked out for the twins. Die Me A River is an enticing cozy mystery with peculiar characters and an appealing small town.
Die Me A River may be the second book in the Welcome Back to Scumble River series, but it is a continuation of A Scumble River Mystery series. If you are new to this series of books, begin with Dead in the Water. If you are up for a challenge, pick up Murder of a Small-Town Honey (go all the way back to the beginning). I thought Die Me A River was easy to read with eccentric characters and a quirky small town. Denise Swanson has an engaging writing style that draws the reader into the Scumble River world. It can be hard, though, to keep track of the all extraneous characters especially in the beginning. Skye has an extended family and many close friends along with co-workers, Wally’s family, Wally’s co-workers, the townspeople (you get the picture). There is plenty of humor in the story as Skye learns to deal with the twins, Carson’s new girlfriend (and how they learn who it is will have you chuckling), the fairy godmother (her outfit alone will cause you to snicker), May’s over-the-top plans for the party, and the incident at the party are just a few examples. While Die Me A River has a delightful homey feel to it, the mystery was lacking. There is misdirection as the author tries to steer readers away from the real killer, but there are a limited number of suspects. Readers will have no problem solving this whodunit. I would like to suggest the author consider Homer as a victim in a future story (he is an obnoxious ignoramus). I could have done with fewer lovey dovey moments between Wally and Skye (they are sweet, but this is not a romance novel), references to Skye’s weight (which is normal after having a baby), and less focus on how much money Carson has at his disposable (and is spending on Wally, Skye and the babies). I am glad that the new parents are trying to eliminate vulgar swear words from their vocabulary (I dislike seeing them in my cozy mysteries), and they are coming up with some creative alternatives. It was lovely to finally find out the names that Skye and Wally had picked out for the twins. Die Me A River is an enticing cozy mystery with peculiar characters and an appealing small town.
June 3, 2022
This is an ok book. My favorite parts are those in which the author describes her work as a physician on the Navajo reservation in New Mexico. That’s how the book begins. You get an electrifying opening as she describes her first night doing emergency medicine with third-world tools and under third-world circumstances. Had she focused more on those parts of her life, this would have been a better book. Still, it’s worth your time.
From that night in that clinic, the author flashes you back to the early ‘70s when she enthusiastically accepted a job as a schoolteacher. The Bureau of Indian Affairs employed her to work at a boarding school on a reservation in super-isolated Arizona.
She catalogues her mistakes upon arrival there and her crashes against a culture she neither understood nor could interpret.
Days in, she phones home and insists she needs to leave. Her dad encouraged her to give it three months; then, if she felt the same way, she could pack her car and head back to New England and home. She stayed.
She began learning the language; the students began to warm up to her. Well before the three months ended, her love for the culture, those students, and even the stark isolation of her life was in full bloom.
There are supernatural-like scenes here. She goes to a peyote ceremony during which she claims to fluently speak Navajo while under the influence. Sure. We’ve all known plenty of drunks who thought they could croon like Being Crosby and trip the light fantastic like Fred Astair. It’s amazing how talented you get while dealing with a mind-altering substance.
You get a glimpse into the remarkable nature of this woman. She thinks nothing of hiking barefoot through the desert. She lives in rat and mice-infested dwellings, and eats animal parts with her Navajo hosts that you and I might not touch even if we were starving.
There are two chapters on her life as a sheep herder and as someone who sheered and butchered sheep under the instruction of her Navajo hosts. There’s a chapter on her two-year stint with the Peace Corps among indigenous people in South America.
On balance, this is short, and the writing will keep you involved to the back cover.
The residents of Scumble River are reeling from a tornado as the book opens. They're trying to get claims paid, and they have a recalcitrant insurance company whose representative is in town and denying most of the claims the residents file.
One day, while discussing the pending baptism of the Boyd twins with the priest, the church rocks as an explosion destroys part of the bowling alley next door. The only person who died in the explosion is the nasty merciless insurance adjuster.
It's up to Skye Denison-Boyd and her husband, top cop Wally, to figure out who killed the woman and why.
From that night in that clinic, the author flashes you back to the early ‘70s when she enthusiastically accepted a job as a schoolteacher. The Bureau of Indian Affairs employed her to work at a boarding school on a reservation in super-isolated Arizona.
She catalogues her mistakes upon arrival there and her crashes against a culture she neither understood nor could interpret.
Days in, she phones home and insists she needs to leave. Her dad encouraged her to give it three months; then, if she felt the same way, she could pack her car and head back to New England and home. She stayed.
She began learning the language; the students began to warm up to her. Well before the three months ended, her love for the culture, those students, and even the stark isolation of her life was in full bloom.
There are supernatural-like scenes here. She goes to a peyote ceremony during which she claims to fluently speak Navajo while under the influence. Sure. We’ve all known plenty of drunks who thought they could croon like Being Crosby and trip the light fantastic like Fred Astair. It’s amazing how talented you get while dealing with a mind-altering substance.
You get a glimpse into the remarkable nature of this woman. She thinks nothing of hiking barefoot through the desert. She lives in rat and mice-infested dwellings, and eats animal parts with her Navajo hosts that you and I might not touch even if we were starving.
There are two chapters on her life as a sheep herder and as someone who sheered and butchered sheep under the instruction of her Navajo hosts. There’s a chapter on her two-year stint with the Peace Corps among indigenous people in South America.
On balance, this is short, and the writing will keep you involved to the back cover.
The residents of Scumble River are reeling from a tornado as the book opens. They're trying to get claims paid, and they have a recalcitrant insurance company whose representative is in town and denying most of the claims the residents file.
One day, while discussing the pending baptism of the Boyd twins with the priest, the church rocks as an explosion destroys part of the bowling alley next door. The only person who died in the explosion is the nasty merciless insurance adjuster.
It's up to Skye Denison-Boyd and her husband, top cop Wally, to figure out who killed the woman and why.
September 20, 2018
School psychologist and police consultant Skye Denison-Boyd and her police chief husband, Wally, are meeting with the parish priest regarding baptizing their newborn twins when an explosion at the nearby bowling alley puts a cramp in their discussion. Police find the body of a hated insurance adjuster, and the line of suspects (and possible motives) for the killing is long, including at least one of Skye’s relatives.
This book is No. 2 in the Welcome Back series, but the twenty-third one, I think, set in Scumble River. The author changed publishers, hence the “reboot.” This is one of my favorite series, and stands the test of time. I was worried when Skye got pregnant, because I tend to lose interest when babies come on the scene; it’s just a bias I have. One of the things I enjoyed with this story, however, is Sky retains her sense of self while learning to be a mom and juggle their complicated lives.
I am more interested in character-driven mysteries, rather than sussing out the bad guy before anyone else does. I like to be carried along by the interaction with the characters and figure out whodunnit when the main character does. This book was satisfying on both counts. I was kept guessing about who the “bad guy” was until the end. I enjoyed the subplots about recovering from a tornado, the effects of gaming on a town, Skye’s battle with her odious boss, her standing up to her mother, her relationship with Wally, as well as the appearance of my favorite supporting characters.
I find these books best read in order. You could just start with Book 1 in the Welcome Back series; the author does a great job of filling in the backstories while carrying along the new mystery. Being a longtime reader of this series, tho’, I find my enjoyment in these new books deepened because I have seen Skye grow from the first day she slunk back into town after famously telling everyone off at graduation. By now, Skye and her crew are like old friends, ones I am always happy to visit with. Each books builds on the previous one and just increased my affection for Skye, Wally, their friends, and now their babies. Each visit to Scumble River is a treat - I hope this rebooted series continues for a long time.
This book is No. 2 in the Welcome Back series, but the twenty-third one, I think, set in Scumble River. The author changed publishers, hence the “reboot.” This is one of my favorite series, and stands the test of time. I was worried when Skye got pregnant, because I tend to lose interest when babies come on the scene; it’s just a bias I have. One of the things I enjoyed with this story, however, is Sky retains her sense of self while learning to be a mom and juggle their complicated lives.
I am more interested in character-driven mysteries, rather than sussing out the bad guy before anyone else does. I like to be carried along by the interaction with the characters and figure out whodunnit when the main character does. This book was satisfying on both counts. I was kept guessing about who the “bad guy” was until the end. I enjoyed the subplots about recovering from a tornado, the effects of gaming on a town, Skye’s battle with her odious boss, her standing up to her mother, her relationship with Wally, as well as the appearance of my favorite supporting characters.
I find these books best read in order. You could just start with Book 1 in the Welcome Back series; the author does a great job of filling in the backstories while carrying along the new mystery. Being a longtime reader of this series, tho’, I find my enjoyment in these new books deepened because I have seen Skye grow from the first day she slunk back into town after famously telling everyone off at graduation. By now, Skye and her crew are like old friends, ones I am always happy to visit with. Each books builds on the previous one and just increased my affection for Skye, Wally, their friends, and now their babies. Each visit to Scumble River is a treat - I hope this rebooted series continues for a long time.
February 21, 2023
The second installment of the popular Welcome Back to Scumble River series, Die Me A River finds Skye Dennison-Boyd on maternity leave after giving birth to twins. A hurricane has recently devastated the small town of Scumble River, and most are living in trailers or other unsuitable places until their homes can be rebuilt. Skye and her husband, Wally, who is Chief of Police, are planning the christening of their babies and while meeting with the Father at the church, hear and feel an explosion. As they rush to see what has happened, they see that the bowling alley is burning and both firefighters and police are at the scene. Unfortunately, there is a dead body from the explosion. The body belongs to an insurance adjuster who is hated in the town because she has been denying valid claims due to the tornado. Wally isn’t sure, however, that the bowling alley was actually the target after putting in gambling machines which are highly unpopular with many of the residents. There are several suspects, and readers will be unsure just who the murderer is throughout the entire novel.
Skye, the protagonist and her husband are well-developed characters, as well as the supporting characters like Carter, Wally’s Dad, Bunny, who runs the bowling alley, and May, Skye’s mother. Skye’s boss, who is the principal at her school, has a claim for tornado damage and is so awful as a person, that he is also a viable suspect. The story, while a bit wordy, is fun, and has ups and downs; it is easy to follow and the scenarios are believable.
This is a fun series, and it is suggested that readers start with the previous novel and then read this one and the subsequent novels. Light and fun, this is a good series for cozy lovers.
Special thanks to NetGalley for supplying a review copy of this book.
Skye, the protagonist and her husband are well-developed characters, as well as the supporting characters like Carter, Wally’s Dad, Bunny, who runs the bowling alley, and May, Skye’s mother. Skye’s boss, who is the principal at her school, has a claim for tornado damage and is so awful as a person, that he is also a viable suspect. The story, while a bit wordy, is fun, and has ups and downs; it is easy to follow and the scenarios are believable.
This is a fun series, and it is suggested that readers start with the previous novel and then read this one and the subsequent novels. Light and fun, this is a good series for cozy lovers.
Special thanks to NetGalley for supplying a review copy of this book.
July 26, 2018
Loving how all the chapters are named after BABY songs, or songs which include the word baby. Authors go to so much trouble to entertain us readers. I admit I was not familiar with "My Baby Must Be a Magician" so I did look it up. I have heard of the Marvelettes and love that musical era.
Still dealing with the aftermath of tornadoes, Scumble River is susceptible to conmen and ruses.
Skye and Wally had tried to keep the family wealth a secret, but now, having to rebuild, along with the rest of the town, and deciding to go big with their new home and expanded family, judiciously it is revealed that they can afford something more than expected on their combined salaries. This brings its own difficulties.
They don't have time to worry about that, as their twins are now over a month old, still without names. Baptism day is coming and Skye's mother can't contain her enthusiasm, especially now that budget is not a problem.
Obstacles seem to roll out from every direction and odd things happen as well.
Does magic really exist? Is something paranormal going on in rural Illinois?
With all of the zany, quirky characters we've come to love from Denise Swanson (and at one point all under one tent) and the building tension of protecting the children while answering unusual questions and solving an explosive murder, we watch as Skye must move forward with decisions and learning to balance motherhood, work, even if part time, and rebuilding.
This can be read as a stand alone but I think you will enjoy it best if you are familiar with at least some of the main characters by reading several previous books. You'll be hooked and want to read the entire series.
Still dealing with the aftermath of tornadoes, Scumble River is susceptible to conmen and ruses.
Skye and Wally had tried to keep the family wealth a secret, but now, having to rebuild, along with the rest of the town, and deciding to go big with their new home and expanded family, judiciously it is revealed that they can afford something more than expected on their combined salaries. This brings its own difficulties.
They don't have time to worry about that, as their twins are now over a month old, still without names. Baptism day is coming and Skye's mother can't contain her enthusiasm, especially now that budget is not a problem.
Obstacles seem to roll out from every direction and odd things happen as well.
Does magic really exist? Is something paranormal going on in rural Illinois?
With all of the zany, quirky characters we've come to love from Denise Swanson (and at one point all under one tent) and the building tension of protecting the children while answering unusual questions and solving an explosive murder, we watch as Skye must move forward with decisions and learning to balance motherhood, work, even if part time, and rebuilding.
This can be read as a stand alone but I think you will enjoy it best if you are familiar with at least some of the main characters by reading several previous books. You'll be hooked and want to read the entire series.
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