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Val Fremden Mysteries #7
Seven Daze: Redneck Rendezvous
You can’t fix stupid with duct tape. But you can muffle the sound.
When Val tries to revive her old writing career, story ideas prove as elusive as a moment alone without her boyfriend Tom breathing down her neck.
Tom’s moved in, and Val’s itching to move out – at least temporarily.
A last-minute getaway to the country seems like the perfect solution for dissolving her writer’s block. But a fateful fish fry ends up inspiring a whole different kind of dead end.
With an angry horde of RVers pointing the finger at Val, she’s got to out-smart Bigfoot, out-do a seedy crafter, out-wit a psycho killer, and just plain “out” whoever in blue blazes keeps scaring the daylights out of her with those hideous shrunken heads!
Whether Val gets out of this alive or not, one thing’s for sure -- she’ll never trust the internet again….
When Val tries to revive her old writing career, story ideas prove as elusive as a moment alone without her boyfriend Tom breathing down her neck.
Tom’s moved in, and Val’s itching to move out – at least temporarily.
A last-minute getaway to the country seems like the perfect solution for dissolving her writer’s block. But a fateful fish fry ends up inspiring a whole different kind of dead end.
With an angry horde of RVers pointing the finger at Val, she’s got to out-smart Bigfoot, out-do a seedy crafter, out-wit a psycho killer, and just plain “out” whoever in blue blazes keeps scaring the daylights out of her with those hideous shrunken heads!
Whether Val gets out of this alive or not, one thing’s for sure -- she’ll never trust the internet again….
- GenresMystery
214 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2018
582 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Lashley
51 books264 followersWhy do I love underdogs? Well, it takes one to know one.
Like the main characters in my novels, I haven’t lead a life of wealth or luxury. In fact, as it stands now, I’m set to inherit a half-eaten jar of Cheez Whiz…if my siblings don’t beat me to it.
During my illustrious career, I’ve been a roller-skating waitress, an actuarial assistant, an advertising copywriter, a real estate agent, a house flipper, an organic farmer, and a traveling vagabond/truth seeker. But no matter where I’ve gone or what I’ve done, I’ve always felt like a weirdo.
I’ve learned a heck of a lot in my life. But getting to know myself has been my greatest journey. Today, I know I’m smart. I’m direct. I’m jaded. I’m hopeful. I’m funny. I’m fierce. I’m a pushover. And I have a laugh that lures strangers over, wanting to join in the fun.
In other words, I’m a jumble of opposing talents and flaws and emotions. And it’s all good.
I enjoy underdogs because we’ve got spunk. And hope. And secrets that drive us to be different from the rest.
So dare to be different. It's the only way to be!
Happy reading!
Like the main characters in my novels, I haven’t lead a life of wealth or luxury. In fact, as it stands now, I’m set to inherit a half-eaten jar of Cheez Whiz…if my siblings don’t beat me to it.
During my illustrious career, I’ve been a roller-skating waitress, an actuarial assistant, an advertising copywriter, a real estate agent, a house flipper, an organic farmer, and a traveling vagabond/truth seeker. But no matter where I’ve gone or what I’ve done, I’ve always felt like a weirdo.
I’ve learned a heck of a lot in my life. But getting to know myself has been my greatest journey. Today, I know I’m smart. I’m direct. I’m jaded. I’m hopeful. I’m funny. I’m fierce. I’m a pushover. And I have a laugh that lures strangers over, wanting to join in the fun.
In other words, I’m a jumble of opposing talents and flaws and emotions. And it’s all good.
I enjoy underdogs because we’ve got spunk. And hope. And secrets that drive us to be different from the rest.
So dare to be different. It's the only way to be!
Happy reading!
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 21, 2018
Val is having problems having Tom around..ALL THE TIME! She needs some breathing room, she also is trying her hand at writing a book. Problem is she can't because the story ideas are not there. She decides a few days in the country is just what she needs to get her writing juices flowing....and without Tom. That's when things all go so, so wrong for Val! She ends up with a lot of RVers mad at her when a fish fry ends up with a dead body. Then there is Bigfoot, a seedy crafter, psycho killer, some odd ball scaring the daylights out of her with those darn shrunken heads! Can Val solve the murder and prove she is a 'good gal' before she ends up another dead fish in the sea? The characters and interaction in this book is totally 'wet your pants laughing' funny!! Don't believe me? Grab a copy for yourself and see. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. The review is my own opinion and unbiased.
October 26, 2020
More fun from Val and her pals. This time, Val promises herself she will start what she came to do - write! But when her friend Winky lets Val stay in his beach retreat, the neighbours are a bit of a nightmare. For lovers of cosy mystery and humour.
May 22, 2018
Val's writer's retreat turns into one zany adventure!😱
May 20, 2018
Format: Paperback
:-) 4 and a bit stars
Totally madcap and zany is how I'd describe this novel. This is a biting satire of the rural "redneck" way of life in the back of nowhere Florida, from the kitsch of Winky's interior decorating efforts in his new double trailer to the campsite Val visits to get her writing mojo back, to the eccentricity of just about every character, including incorrigible and feared baker Laverne!
Val is a loveable but spacey heroine who seems to attract disaster and mayhem. I was totally surprised, after many twists and false clues, by the ultimate killer of Wonky, a fellow camper with a bit of a raccoon fetish. I like murder mysteries that, like I found this one, are not easily solved, And Val's constant run-ins with the local police and her fellow campers are crazy, humorous, or both.
I read the first Val novel (Absolute Zero), which was not a murder mystery, where she met and wed the fabulous and fickle Herr Fremden, and I really loved Val's joie de vivre and strength in that book. She's very different in this one (a bit unhinged, actually) and I think I preferred the earlier, more serious story, but, if you are in the mood for a cozy mystery with some unforgettable eccentrics, you should enjoy this one as I did.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 20, 2018
Format: Paperback
:-) 4 and a bit stars
Totally madcap and zany is how I'd describe this novel. This is a biting satire of the rural "redneck" way of life in the back of nowhere Florida, from the kitsch of Winky's interior decorating efforts in his new double trailer to the campsite Val visits to get her writing mojo back, to the eccentricity of just about every character, including incorrigible and feared baker Laverne!
Val is a loveable but spacey heroine who seems to attract disaster and mayhem. I was totally surprised, after many twists and false clues, by the ultimate killer of Wonky, a fellow camper with a bit of a raccoon fetish. I like murder mysteries that, like I found this one, are not easily solved, And Val's constant run-ins with the local police and her fellow campers are crazy, humorous, or both.
I read the first Val novel (Absolute Zero), which was not a murder mystery, where she met and wed the fabulous and fickle Herr Fremden, and I really loved Val's joie de vivre and strength in that book. She's very different in this one (a bit unhinged, actually) and I think I preferred the earlier, more serious story, but, if you are in the mood for a cozy mystery with some unforgettable eccentrics, you should enjoy this one as I did.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 25, 2018
Having lived in St. Pete for many years before moving to Houston, I just love riding around town in Maggie with Val.. Val has left her job. Tom's moving in and life will never be the same. Val's going to write the next great American novel or eat herself to death, which ever games first. When nothing is working she decides to take a class in writing a "mystery for fun and profit". Nothing seems to be going right so Val decides to go away on retreat to try and write. When she gets there, she's entered the country of "deliverance". All you need is a river and dueling banjo's. She doesn't have that but, she does have a pickup bed being used as a pool inside an empty swimming pool. She's staying in a popup camper in a dilapidated trailer park. The residents are certified rednecks and really, really creepy. Then of course this wouldn't be a Val adventure if she wasn't accused of murder. You have to read this book to find out who's dead and how Val clears herself.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2018
I never laugh as much as I do when I am reading a Val book. They are hysterical from beginning to end. Val has a crazy life, crazy friends, and always ends up in a crazy situation. However, I always find something to relate to about the situations, or the relationships, she finds herself in. Margaret Lashley has created a character that is believable in her insanity. I spent the whole book laughing until tears were running down my cheeks, but there was also a part of me that recognized parts of myself, and people I know, in the characters. That is why this series has brought me so much joy. I feel like I am looking at a slightly exaggerated version of my life and being able to laugh at it makes me able to laugh about my own life. I can't recommend these books enough. Read them for the laughs, read them for the fun, twisty-turny mystery, just READ THEM!
June 13, 2018
This book is the 7th in the series and I didn't think it was possible for this series to get better, but every book is better than the last! I absolutely love the "characters" in between the pages and I can see them coming to my house for a cup of coffee. There were so many twists and turns and surprises in this book,and it will keep you guessing all the way to the end. I grew up in the area that this series takes place so that makes it even funnier.At one point I laughed so loud I woke up the fur-babies and they literally glared at me, Thank you Margaret Lashley for the great writing. The situations that Val and her pals get into are so hilarious because they are so real.
July 6, 2025
All that over cookies... or was it apples?
I tend to hang onto the last paragraphs I read when I write my reviews, or maybe they're more like blogs?
I dunno, but a pit in my stomach formed when Val received that postcard. It made me sad in a happy sort of way. I really hope the character is doing well and living out his dreams.
This series is ridiculous and funny. I like it because is so out there and Val has the.worst.luck!
Of course she gets arrested for murder while on vacation. If she'd just shut her trap she'd be fine more than half the time. Oh well, I suppose that's what makes her red neck charming.
I tend to hang onto the last paragraphs I read when I write my reviews, or maybe they're more like blogs?
I dunno, but a pit in my stomach formed when Val received that postcard. It made me sad in a happy sort of way. I really hope the character is doing well and living out his dreams.
This series is ridiculous and funny. I like it because is so out there and Val has the.worst.luck!
Of course she gets arrested for murder while on vacation. If she'd just shut her trap she'd be fine more than half the time. Oh well, I suppose that's what makes her red neck charming.
May 25, 2018
Val Embraces Her Inner Redneck
In this episode, Val faces more personal demons to find inner strengths she forgot she had. She embraces her inner redneck to find the true meaning of family. The book is hilarious fun in a very redneck sort of way. The crazy friends become even closer as more friends join the group. Each book of this series is better than the last!I received this book for free and voluntarily chose to post my honest review.
In this episode, Val faces more personal demons to find inner strengths she forgot she had. She embraces her inner redneck to find the true meaning of family. The book is hilarious fun in a very redneck sort of way. The crazy friends become even closer as more friends join the group. Each book of this series is better than the last!I received this book for free and voluntarily chose to post my honest review.
September 2, 2018
Tom has moved in with Val; JD has moved in with Laverne; the ladies are thinking about moving out! Val has a serious case of writer's block. She escapes to Shell Hammock (aka Hell-ammo) in hopes of finding her muse. Val's usual friends are not the most sane people but next to the rest of the RVers in Shell Hammock, Winky, Jorge and Goober start to look sane. Of course, Val ends up as a suspect in a murder and Tom is not there to have her back. Come along for another episode of Val's crazy life!
October 22, 2019
Not as humorous as her previous work
For some reason, I didn’t find this book to be quite as funny as the previous books in the series. Perhaps it’s because Val has ventured off on her own for an adventure, meaning there was less of her usual cast of crazies in this book?
There are some new & unusual characters, but somehow they didn’t measure up …
I DID appreciate that this book was well proofread, unlike the prior book in the series!
For some reason, I didn’t find this book to be quite as funny as the previous books in the series. Perhaps it’s because Val has ventured off on her own for an adventure, meaning there was less of her usual cast of crazies in this book?
There are some new & unusual characters, but somehow they didn’t measure up …
I DID appreciate that this book was well proofread, unlike the prior book in the series!
December 26, 2019
The best Val Fremden yet
If you thought Val and her friends were redneck, prepare yourself for the crew she meets when she goes on a "writer's retreat" in a remote area. While fighting writer's block and trying to avoid being poisoned by her best friend, she meets some characters who fuel her imagination and get her fingers finally typing on her keyboard. Funny, irreverent, and a joy to read, I definitely recommend this one.
If you thought Val and her friends were redneck, prepare yourself for the crew she meets when she goes on a "writer's retreat" in a remote area. While fighting writer's block and trying to avoid being poisoned by her best friend, she meets some characters who fuel her imagination and get her fingers finally typing on her keyboard. Funny, irreverent, and a joy to read, I definitely recommend this one.
March 18, 2021
Family Affair
Although a week consists of seven days, Ms. Lashley’s book can be completed in much less time. As always, spending time with Val and her pals should last for a week because once finished, I am avidly seeking the next romp with my adopted family. I fear, as time flies, I will come to an end with current books, left longing for a future installment. Keep them coming as I inevitably surfaced dazed and confusedly seeking more.
Although a week consists of seven days, Ms. Lashley’s book can be completed in much less time. As always, spending time with Val and her pals should last for a week because once finished, I am avidly seeking the next romp with my adopted family. I fear, as time flies, I will come to an end with current books, left longing for a future installment. Keep them coming as I inevitably surfaced dazed and confusedly seeking more.
November 11, 2024
The place looks amazing!
How was Seven Daze? Well in the words of Goober “if I tell you, then I’ll have to disappear.”
So I won’t go into all the details but what I can tell you is this one will keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat! The descriptions used to tell the story put you right in the thick of it all you can almost smell the raccoons! Val’s adventures this time well keep you, guessing, praying and hoping Tom will understand.
How was Seven Daze? Well in the words of Goober “if I tell you, then I’ll have to disappear.”
So I won’t go into all the details but what I can tell you is this one will keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat! The descriptions used to tell the story put you right in the thick of it all you can almost smell the raccoons! Val’s adventures this time well keep you, guessing, praying and hoping Tom will understand.
May 21, 2021
Am I a red neck?
I loved this book and all 6 of the previous ones. I grew up in south Georgia and spent my childhood vacations visiting relatives in northern Florida. I swear some of the characters in this book just might be my relations. You will enjoy these books --- can't wait for the next one.
I loved this book and all 6 of the previous ones. I grew up in south Georgia and spent my childhood vacations visiting relatives in northern Florida. I swear some of the characters in this book just might be my relations. You will enjoy these books --- can't wait for the next one.
November 12, 2018
the usual fun with Val.....
I love these books, nobody can get into the strange adventures that Val, without even trying, can get herself into. Always fun and good for a laugh. Can't wait for #8!
I love these books, nobody can get into the strange adventures that Val, without even trying, can get herself into. Always fun and good for a laugh. Can't wait for #8!
July 26, 2019
Funny cozy mystery
Val and her friends are so funny. There is plenty of humour, farts, a little romance and of course a death. I do love these books and can't wait to read the next book.
Val and her friends are so funny. There is plenty of humour, farts, a little romance and of course a death. I do love these books and can't wait to read the next book.
May 16, 2020
I love this series, however, I found in Seven Daze, it wasn't as funny or keep my interest as the other ones did. The set up and ending kept my interest, but I felt the middle sagged, very slow moving. I do plan on reading the rest of the books in the series.
July 23, 2021
Low Rent Rendevouz. Loved the Redneck humor and can’t wait to read the next Val Frenden adventure.
Low rent Rendevouz great story. Loved the red neck humor. Anxious to read the next Val Fremden adventure. Where did Goober go?
Low rent Rendevouz great story. Loved the red neck humor. Anxious to read the next Val Fremden adventure. Where did Goober go?
April 18, 2022
SevenDaze: Book 7 is full of fun reading
This book by Margaret Lashley is chock full with redneck humor. There is some mystery with a crime to be solved in Val Framden's bad luck ways.
This book by Margaret Lashley is chock full with redneck humor. There is some mystery with a crime to be solved in Val Framden's bad luck ways.
November 5, 2022
Daze
Seven Daze was another good read. A departure from the "norm" that is Val Fremden's life. I always enjoy het escapades and this wasno.exception! Can't wait for the next one
Seven Daze was another good read. A departure from the "norm" that is Val Fremden's life. I always enjoy het escapades and this wasno.exception! Can't wait for the next one
February 13, 2023
funny as all hell
One wacky thing after another in the outback of fl. Lived there for years. I’m glad Tom tossed that ring in the gulf a while back so we can continue to enjoy the normally not normal Val.
One wacky thing after another in the outback of fl. Lived there for years. I’m glad Tom tossed that ring in the gulf a while back so we can continue to enjoy the normally not normal Val.
August 6, 2023
Val Fremden never disappoints!
I love the way that Val and her friends always make me laugh. She's always getting herself into hilarious situations. She's someone that would be fun to be around. I look forward to the next book in the series!
I love the way that Val and her friends always make me laugh. She's always getting herself into hilarious situations. She's someone that would be fun to be around. I look forward to the next book in the series!
November 27, 2023
Midlife Mysteries #7
7 has always been a good number for me, and this did not disappoint! I have been binge reading since book 1 and have started having funny dreams that have some of the hilarious moments form this book!
So much better than the 11 o’clock news!
7 has always been a good number for me, and this did not disappoint! I have been binge reading since book 1 and have started having funny dreams that have some of the hilarious moments form this book!
So much better than the 11 o’clock news!
June 23, 2018
Seven Daze
This is one fun book to read. I had a hard time in putting it down. I highly recommend this book and all the others in this series. You will not be disappointed.
This is one fun book to read. I had a hard time in putting it down. I highly recommend this book and all the others in this series. You will not be disappointed.
September 22, 2018
Great read
I laughed a lot reading this one sometimes I need to laugh. I'm gonna make like a tree and leaf!
I laughed a lot reading this one sometimes I need to laugh. I'm gonna make like a tree and leaf!
January 11, 2019
really like all her books
March 6, 2019
Funny mishaps.
I love these books! They are wacky but resonate with my inner child who lived in a mobile home when young.
I love these books! They are wacky but resonate with my inner child who lived in a mobile home when young.
March 8, 2019
I just love Val and the friends. Such a fun book and loved every page.
October 22, 2019
Easy read
Not as exciting or funny as books 1-6, but still good. This book focussed a lot on Gobber, which I liked.
Not as exciting or funny as books 1-6, but still good. This book focussed a lot on Gobber, which I liked.
October 13, 2021
What Fun!!! Val is at her best
Book is fun = ending is not tight but still enjoyable. As a Lashley fan it is a must
Reading
Book is fun = ending is not tight but still enjoyable. As a Lashley fan it is a must
Reading
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews