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Tess and Tilly #5
The Thanksgiving Trip
The entire Thomas family takes a Thanksgiving trip to a mountain cabin after Tess learns that her father visited the area every autumn to hunt and fish before his supposed death in a fiery truck accident. After arriving at the cabin, Tess and Tony, along with Mike and Bree, team up to investigate a suspicious death, while Tess and Tony secretly talk to people who live in the area and once knew her father. Hoping to finally find answers for her unanswered questions regarding her father's current whereabouts, Tess widens her search which lead her to a startling realization. Meanwhile, a stray dog seems intent on adopting Mike in spite of Mike's insistence that there is no way he has room in his life for an energetic and mischievous puppy.
132 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 23, 2018
1038 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
Kathi Daley
357 books1,788 followersKathi lives with her husband, kids, grandkids, and dogs in beautiful Lake Tahoe. When she isn't writing, Kathi likes to read (preferably at the beach or by the fire), cook (preferably something with chocolate or cheese,) and garden (planting and planning not weeding). She also enjoys spending time on the water when she's not hiking, biking, or snowshoeing, the miles of desolate trails surrounding her home.
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.
Join me on Facebook at Kathi Daley Books (www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks) for updates on my books, photos of life in Lake Tahoe, recipes, contests, and giveaways. For weekly updates and contests sign up for The Daley Weekly Newsletter (http://eepurl.com/NRPDf).
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.
Join me on Facebook at Kathi Daley Books (www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks) for updates on my books, photos of life in Lake Tahoe, recipes, contests, and giveaways. For weekly updates and contests sign up for The Daley Weekly Newsletter (http://eepurl.com/NRPDf).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
November 2, 2018
“The Thanksgiving Trip earns 5/5 Cups of Gravy…Engaging, Clever!
Released 10/—/18; Posted 10/31/18
Tess Thomas delivers all kinds of mail sticking around to enjoy a bit of gossip and maybe, as circumstances arise, hone her amateur sleuthing by performing a few informal interrogations. Her brother Mike is the local sheriff, so Tess has always been compelled to offer her assistance when a suspicious death appears. Tess has discovered that her father long thought dead may very well be alive. She’s enlisted her boyfriend Tony to do a bit of investigating, and although more curious evidence is discovered, no real answers...just more questions. So it is curious that Tess’s mom, unaware of Tess’s discoveries, decides to have the family spend the Thanksgiving holidays at Timberland Lake, the exact place her father would go every fall to fish…alone. More evidence, answers, insights? That's what Tess is hoping. Of course, the uninvited body floating in the lake puts everyone on alert.
I really enjoy Kathi Daley’s Tess and Tilly Mystery series: a unique career for a cozy main character, “fur” friends galore, quirky residents of a small town, endearing romances, and mysteries of all sorts. Kathi always devises an engaging crime unfolding clues and evidence with a final, sometimes perilous, reveal, but she has added to this series the mystery about Tess’s father. It is fascinating to follow, weaving through the five books, the discoveries of an old letter, photographs, and news articles along with search results from facial recognition programs. This series is always engaging, but it is Kathi’s writing style, descriptive first-person narrative, and entertaining banter that makes it a favorite. Newbies can start here; you'll love it. The unfolding secondary mystery is revisited laying out all that has already been discovered. And animal lovers will delight in all the animals that interact as family…and possibly as a witness! Recipes! Yeah…add these to your own Thanksgiving weekend menu: Leftover Turkey Sandwiches, Turkey Soup, and Turkey Stew. You’ll feel it necessary to roast two turkeys to make sure you have plenty of leftovers.
Released 10/—/18; Posted 10/31/18
Tess Thomas delivers all kinds of mail sticking around to enjoy a bit of gossip and maybe, as circumstances arise, hone her amateur sleuthing by performing a few informal interrogations. Her brother Mike is the local sheriff, so Tess has always been compelled to offer her assistance when a suspicious death appears. Tess has discovered that her father long thought dead may very well be alive. She’s enlisted her boyfriend Tony to do a bit of investigating, and although more curious evidence is discovered, no real answers...just more questions. So it is curious that Tess’s mom, unaware of Tess’s discoveries, decides to have the family spend the Thanksgiving holidays at Timberland Lake, the exact place her father would go every fall to fish…alone. More evidence, answers, insights? That's what Tess is hoping. Of course, the uninvited body floating in the lake puts everyone on alert.
I really enjoy Kathi Daley’s Tess and Tilly Mystery series: a unique career for a cozy main character, “fur” friends galore, quirky residents of a small town, endearing romances, and mysteries of all sorts. Kathi always devises an engaging crime unfolding clues and evidence with a final, sometimes perilous, reveal, but she has added to this series the mystery about Tess’s father. It is fascinating to follow, weaving through the five books, the discoveries of an old letter, photographs, and news articles along with search results from facial recognition programs. This series is always engaging, but it is Kathi’s writing style, descriptive first-person narrative, and entertaining banter that makes it a favorite. Newbies can start here; you'll love it. The unfolding secondary mystery is revisited laying out all that has already been discovered. And animal lovers will delight in all the animals that interact as family…and possibly as a witness! Recipes! Yeah…add these to your own Thanksgiving weekend menu: Leftover Turkey Sandwiches, Turkey Soup, and Turkey Stew. You’ll feel it necessary to roast two turkeys to make sure you have plenty of leftovers.
November 13, 2018
Fun series! I am enjoying the characters and the mystery as well as the other mystery that is ongoing throughout the series which keeps me guessing!
November 5, 2018
Wow Such a great read ! The characters were quirky and interesting from the very first start. I love all the characters getting to go out of town for the holidays. The storyline will grip you and pull you in as you read it. Couldn't put it down.
October 25, 2018
The Thanksgiving Trip
A Tess and Tilly Cozy Mystery, Book #5
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
The entire Thomas family takes a Thanksgiving trip to a mountain cabin after Tess learns that her father visited the area every autumn to hunt and fish before his supposed death in a fiery truck accident. After arriving at the cabin, Tess and Tony, along with Mike and Bree, team up to investigate a suspicious death, while Tess and Tony secretly talk to people who live in the area and once knew her father. Hoping to finally find answers for her unanswered questions regarding her father's current whereabouts, Tess widens her search which lead her to a startling realization.
Meanwhile, a stray dog seems intent on adopting Mike in spite of Mike's insistence that there is no way he has room in his life for an energetic and mischievous puppy. (Goodreads)
Review:
There are a couple mysteries in this book. The first is who killed the person that was found and the second is what happened to Tess’s dad and is he still alive? Both of these mysteries are carried on well throughout the entire book and there are plenty of clues to help any armchair detective solve these puzzles. We learn more about Tess’s dad and who he was and come closer to finding the answers.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read. I was pulled right into the story from the very beginning and carried along for a mysterious ride. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I could feel the cold and see the snow falling at the cabin. I really liked that this book took place elsewhere, it brought a different feeling to this book.
I would recommend this book (and series) to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. If you like wonderful characters, a great setting and intriguing mysteries, pick up a copy of this book.
A Tess and Tilly Cozy Mystery, Book #5
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
The entire Thomas family takes a Thanksgiving trip to a mountain cabin after Tess learns that her father visited the area every autumn to hunt and fish before his supposed death in a fiery truck accident. After arriving at the cabin, Tess and Tony, along with Mike and Bree, team up to investigate a suspicious death, while Tess and Tony secretly talk to people who live in the area and once knew her father. Hoping to finally find answers for her unanswered questions regarding her father's current whereabouts, Tess widens her search which lead her to a startling realization.
Meanwhile, a stray dog seems intent on adopting Mike in spite of Mike's insistence that there is no way he has room in his life for an energetic and mischievous puppy. (Goodreads)
Review:
There are a couple mysteries in this book. The first is who killed the person that was found and the second is what happened to Tess’s dad and is he still alive? Both of these mysteries are carried on well throughout the entire book and there are plenty of clues to help any armchair detective solve these puzzles. We learn more about Tess’s dad and who he was and come closer to finding the answers.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read. I was pulled right into the story from the very beginning and carried along for a mysterious ride. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I could feel the cold and see the snow falling at the cabin. I really liked that this book took place elsewhere, it brought a different feeling to this book.
I would recommend this book (and series) to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. If you like wonderful characters, a great setting and intriguing mysteries, pick up a copy of this book.
October 24, 2018
4 stelle e mezza
Un'altra bella storia e un'adorabile ambientazione in una cabina sulle rive di un lago, con la neve tutta intorno. Tenuto conto che la protagonista vi si trova con le persone cui è più affezionata, l'ho invidiata molto...
Non vedo l'ora di leggere il successivo per scoprire qualcos'altro sul padre di Tess: questa indagine fa da sottofondo a tutta la serie ed è sempre lì intrigante.
Un'altra bella storia e un'adorabile ambientazione in una cabina sulle rive di un lago, con la neve tutta intorno. Tenuto conto che la protagonista vi si trova con le persone cui è più affezionata, l'ho invidiata molto...
Non vedo l'ora di leggere il successivo per scoprire qualcos'altro sul padre di Tess: questa indagine fa da sottofondo a tutta la serie ed è sempre lì intrigante.
October 24, 2018
Tess, Mike, their mom and their significant others head to the mountains for the week of Thanksgiving and find a dead body not long after their arrival. I enjoyed learning a bit more about Tess and Mike’s father and the dog that shows up on the scene. This is a wonderful story and I highly recommend it.
September 12, 2021
This one was just...okay. The plot didn't really grab me and for a lot of the book, they were just spinning their wheels until Tess got her aha! moment.
August 18, 2019
The Thanksgiving Trip is the fifth book in Kathi Daley’s Tess and Tilly Cozy Mystery series, and it’s an awesome read. The smooth writing style flows at a steady pace, the characters are well rounded and affable, and the mysteries are well plotted and interesting. As with all her books, Ms. Daley has provided readers with a clean, fun read, with caring and compassionate characters, an intriguing mystery to try to solve, and adorable dogs and cats. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading well-crafted cozy mysteries.
Tess Thomas is surprised when her mother, Lucy, suggests the family spend a week vacationing in a cabin at Timberland Lake for Thanksgiving. Neither Lucy or Tess, or Mike, her brother, has ever been there, but their dad, who may or may not be deceased, always spent time there in the fall. Tony Marconi, Tess’s boyfriend, and her best friend, Bree Price, who is Mike’s girlfriend, will be joining them, along with two dogs and two cats. On the drive to the lake, Mike spots and rescues a puppy. Tony has been helping Tess try to solve the mystery surrounding her father who reportedly died in an accident when she was a teenager, but whom she believes may still be alive, so they planned to do a little sleuthing while there, hoping someone might remember her dad. Since Lucy and Mike don’t know they’ve been looking into this, they have to do their snooping on the down low. While walking the dogs, Tess and Tony discover a man’s body floating in the lake. Officer Holderman is in charge of the investigation, and when he learns Mike is a member of the White Eagle Police Department, he enlists his help. Tess, Tony, Mike, and Bree make the rounds of the cabins to see if anyone knows who the puppy’s owner is and ask questions about the victim, Doug Peterman, a local maintenance man, and cleans the cabins, along with his wife.
Tess Thomas is surprised when her mother, Lucy, suggests the family spend a week vacationing in a cabin at Timberland Lake for Thanksgiving. Neither Lucy or Tess, or Mike, her brother, has ever been there, but their dad, who may or may not be deceased, always spent time there in the fall. Tony Marconi, Tess’s boyfriend, and her best friend, Bree Price, who is Mike’s girlfriend, will be joining them, along with two dogs and two cats. On the drive to the lake, Mike spots and rescues a puppy. Tony has been helping Tess try to solve the mystery surrounding her father who reportedly died in an accident when she was a teenager, but whom she believes may still be alive, so they planned to do a little sleuthing while there, hoping someone might remember her dad. Since Lucy and Mike don’t know they’ve been looking into this, they have to do their snooping on the down low. While walking the dogs, Tess and Tony discover a man’s body floating in the lake. Officer Holderman is in charge of the investigation, and when he learns Mike is a member of the White Eagle Police Department, he enlists his help. Tess, Tony, Mike, and Bree make the rounds of the cabins to see if anyone knows who the puppy’s owner is and ask questions about the victim, Doug Peterman, a local maintenance man, and cleans the cabins, along with his wife.
November 23, 2018
Meet Tess Thomas and her dog Tilly as they investigate murder in White Eagle, Montana. Tess is the local mail carrier who is caught up with investigating the supposed death of her father a few years earlier while solving murders and mysteries in the local area. When the Thomas family and friends go to Timberland Lake for a vacation at Thanksgiving, she and her boyfriend Tony find a body at the lake shore while out walking their dogs. As the clues come along with the body so does facts about her father who visited this lake once a year.
This is an enthralling series that will keep you turning the pages. The characters are heart warming and lovable. The murders twist and turn until the final surprise ending. A must read series for any cozy fan!
This is an enthralling series that will keep you turning the pages. The characters are heart warming and lovable. The murders twist and turn until the final surprise ending. A must read series for any cozy fan!
November 1, 2018
The Thanksgiving Trip is the fifth book in the Tess and Tilly Cozy Mystery series by Kathi Daley. Once again, this creative, prolific author has done the impossible... come up with a story that is sad and sweet and packed FULL of emotions and intrigue. This mystery series demonstrates how Tess works hard to balance family and career and still finds time to solve mysteries the family issues...rehome pets, interpersonal relationships, etc. ring true to life. Small towns and large cities alike often encompass families that have unknown dynamics or unresolved issues that are rarely discussed, this story sadly draws attention to the similar situations that tend to be closer in thought during the holiday season. Many families travel to spend time together over the holidays. Tess, her mom, brother, as well as her boyfriend and her brother's girlfriend take a vacation to a place that Tess's father used to visit. Shortly after they arrive Tess and Tony find the body of the property caretaker floating in the lake. They are drawn to investigate which leads to them to stumble upon information related to Tess’s father. As their investigation deepens more questions arise. Is Tess’s father still alive? Where did a stray puppy come from? Who killed the caretaker? This plot has a numerous interwoven mysterious situation to resolve. Possibly, the greatest question may be is the family safe at this cabin get-away? Set during the Thanksgiving season readers will recognize the importance of giving thanks for thankful for family and friends. The story is plausible, and the well-developed characters are perfect in the roles they portray. Ms. Daley’s cozy mysteries are always solid. Each book can be read as a stand-alone although I do suggest readers start with book one as the book each lay more of a foundation and character development which makes the stories more enjoyable. This book is well written with a plot woven to hold the readers attention. It is quick read. I recommend it especially if you like holiday themed books. I recommend this book and believe readers who appreciate a good cozy mystery will enjoy this book.
December 7, 2019
I loved this book, you get a double mystery going on.
Tess, family and friends head to a cabin that her father used to go to every year. Her mother decides that she wants to celebrate Thanksgiving there, and at the same time, Tess decides if she can find out more about her father. Add a dead body and Tess is kept busy looking for answers.
I love the characters in this book, they are real and it makes it easy to get involved in the story. The mystery keeps you guessing, plus there are some great sounding recipes in the back. I will definitely continue on with this series.
Tess, family and friends head to a cabin that her father used to go to every year. Her mother decides that she wants to celebrate Thanksgiving there, and at the same time, Tess decides if she can find out more about her father. Add a dead body and Tess is kept busy looking for answers.
I love the characters in this book, they are real and it makes it easy to get involved in the story. The mystery keeps you guessing, plus there are some great sounding recipes in the back. I will definitely continue on with this series.
July 19, 2022
I've been enjoying this series -- loving that there's a dog rescue in every book and that it follows a holiday theme. The mystery definitely takes backseat to Tess's day to day life which includes a cast of interesting townsfolk...and a romantic interest. There is also an over-arcing mystery developing through each book and that's what is keeping me reading. The mystery unique to this third book was almost an afterthought to the other one. In fact most of the 'investigation' was Tess and Tony volley back possible scenarios for the murder and when they come up with one they like, they call the sheriff to go arrest the guy. Case closed. No evidence, no questioning, just Tess and her 'aha' moment so it must be true. So the mystery was a bit of a let down, but the coziness is sooo much fun...and that long, drawn out mystery has me hooked.
August 14, 2019
Perfect holiday book
Tess and Tilly are back again in this holiday novel by Kathi Daley.
The entire family takes a trip for Thanksgiving and the last thing they expect to find is a dead body.
Leave it to Tess and Tony to ask questions until the truth is revealed. Each book brings us closer to finding out the truth about Tess and Mike's father, and for what it's worth, I hope they can finally out the past to rest
Tess and Tilly are back again in this holiday novel by Kathi Daley.
The entire family takes a trip for Thanksgiving and the last thing they expect to find is a dead body.
Leave it to Tess and Tony to ask questions until the truth is revealed. Each book brings us closer to finding out the truth about Tess and Mike's father, and for what it's worth, I hope they can finally out the past to rest
April 30, 2020
More is Revealed
Each book leads us closer to the answer regarding Tess’ father. Just enough revelation to keep me interested and curious. The settings for this series create a sense of comfort and yet, the tension of the mysteries remind me that life is unpredictable. I’m glad to leave the solving to Tess and Tony.
Each book leads us closer to the answer regarding Tess’ father. Just enough revelation to keep me interested and curious. The settings for this series create a sense of comfort and yet, the tension of the mysteries remind me that life is unpredictable. I’m glad to leave the solving to Tess and Tony.
September 11, 2020
The Thanksgiving Trip by Kathi Daley was another cute cozy mystery with the characters from White Eagle, Tess, Tony, Mike, Bree and Mrs. Thomas, all spending a week at a large cabin near a lake for Thanksgiving. There's a murder to solve and more investigation into Tess and Mike's missing father. Engaging afternoon read.
October 27, 2018
I read this on the kindle
This was the 5th book in this series while it was okay not the best one the family go to the lake where Tess's father went they were in a cabin
While out Tess & Tony find a dead body a man who has been murdered so while trying to help solve the murder plus finding out more about her father
The murder & the solving of it wasn't that great & nothing to much further with her father well nothing she hadn't suspected
I hate the way these books end yes it gets picked up in the next book but would like to finish better
I am hoping that the next book (if there is one) will be the last as I feel that it is dragging on now
This was the 5th book in this series while it was okay not the best one the family go to the lake where Tess's father went they were in a cabin
While out Tess & Tony find a dead body a man who has been murdered so while trying to help solve the murder plus finding out more about her father
The murder & the solving of it wasn't that great & nothing to much further with her father well nothing she hadn't suspected
I hate the way these books end yes it gets picked up in the next book but would like to finish better
I am hoping that the next book (if there is one) will be the last as I feel that it is dragging on now
April 24, 2021
The mystery was interesting although it didn't engage me as much as book #4 did. I found myself getting bored in places and mentally drifting off. It also took me much longer to read this short novel than it normally does. Instead of a couple of hours, it took a couple of days. Normally, I devour a book and don't put it down till I'm done. I didn't connect to this one and it was easy to get distracted and do something else (like watch Hallmark Mystery reruns!).
I am still finding the relationships and the friendships in this series charming. They are the best part of the books. The friendships between Tess, Tony, Bree, and Mike keep me coming back to these books. Tess and Mike are siblings. Tess and Bree are best friends. Tess and Tony are dating. Mike and Bree are dating. They've all known each other since they were young (Tony came into the group later). In spite of there being tons of characters, the author is able to write about them in a way that I never felt overwhelmed or lost. It takes a ton of planning on the part of the author to accomplish this so kudos to her for that.
I do wish that the pets had more personality. They just feel like decoration. They're sweet as can be and I was charmed (seems to be my word of the day!) by the newest pet, Leonard. What a sweetie! However, I never feel connected to any of them because they're rather flat and don't seem to play a big part in the stories.
As usual, there is more than one mystery in this book. I was thrilled that there was some momentum to the overarching one. However, it didn't feel right. I suspect that this is a red herring. I found it odd that
The mystery for this book turned out to be mundane. It started out with so much potential, I thought that for once some real sleuthing and action would occur. Nope. Once again it is neatly resolved off-page and via a massive data dump.
SIGH.
It's a good thing that I don't read these books for the mystery aspect!
Overall, it's a good book but it didn't leave me happy at the end like the last one did, I also got bored. So, it's a 4-star rating from me.
I am still finding the relationships and the friendships in this series charming. They are the best part of the books. The friendships between Tess, Tony, Bree, and Mike keep me coming back to these books. Tess and Mike are siblings. Tess and Bree are best friends. Tess and Tony are dating. Mike and Bree are dating. They've all known each other since they were young (Tony came into the group later). In spite of there being tons of characters, the author is able to write about them in a way that I never felt overwhelmed or lost. It takes a ton of planning on the part of the author to accomplish this so kudos to her for that.
I do wish that the pets had more personality. They just feel like decoration. They're sweet as can be and I was charmed (seems to be my word of the day!) by the newest pet, Leonard. What a sweetie! However, I never feel connected to any of them because they're rather flat and don't seem to play a big part in the stories.
As usual, there is more than one mystery in this book. I was thrilled that there was some momentum to the overarching one. However, it didn't feel right. I suspect that this is a red herring. I found it odd that
The mystery for this book turned out to be mundane. It started out with so much potential, I thought that for once some real sleuthing and action would occur. Nope. Once again it is neatly resolved off-page and via a massive data dump.
SIGH.
It's a good thing that I don't read these books for the mystery aspect!
Overall, it's a good book but it didn't leave me happy at the end like the last one did, I also got bored. So, it's a 4-star rating from me.
November 16, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for family and when Tess's mother plots a trip up to the lake where her father used to vacation, she can't say no. However, what starts out as a fun way to reconnect and explore possible clues to her father's past ends up as a murder mystery when Tess and Tony stumble upon a body dumped in the lake.
I'm always a sucker for a story with puppies. Can't help it, especially as our lives have recently been enriched with a stray puppy joining our clan too.
Once I settled into the swing of the story, it was a fun, quick read and although I picked the murderer as soon as they were introduced, it was still interesting to see how it played out. Getting into the story was a bit rough though as the first chapter is an insane amount of exposition through conversation and there are so many names just dropped that it's overwhelming. The dialogue continues to be a bit unnatural throughout the entire book but it gets easier to work through.
I am curious to find out what happened to Tess's dad but otherwise, the mystery of the murder is wrapped up and explained at the end of the book. Even though it's the 5th in a series, there's enough explanation through the book that you don't seem to be missing anything from previous reads.
This was a book club read for me and I'm not sure I'd pursue the rest of the series due to how clunked up the first part was, but my curiosity about Tess's dad and the completionist side of me may decide that later on.
I'm always a sucker for a story with puppies. Can't help it, especially as our lives have recently been enriched with a stray puppy joining our clan too.
Once I settled into the swing of the story, it was a fun, quick read and although I picked the murderer as soon as they were introduced, it was still interesting to see how it played out. Getting into the story was a bit rough though as the first chapter is an insane amount of exposition through conversation and there are so many names just dropped that it's overwhelming. The dialogue continues to be a bit unnatural throughout the entire book but it gets easier to work through.
I am curious to find out what happened to Tess's dad but otherwise, the mystery of the murder is wrapped up and explained at the end of the book. Even though it's the 5th in a series, there's enough explanation through the book that you don't seem to be missing anything from previous reads.
This was a book club read for me and I'm not sure I'd pursue the rest of the series due to how clunked up the first part was, but my curiosity about Tess's dad and the completionist side of me may decide that later on.
October 24, 2018
Some people just can not go on vacation, even if they take their family and closest friends with them.
Not only is this the first Thanksgiving that Tess's mother and aunt are not hosting Thanksgiving at home, but it is also the first holiday gathering to include Mike and Tess's potential future life partners. Even if the two "plus ones" have been long time friends of the family, the status has changed. We all know about Thanksgiving dinner stress.
That won't be an issue once a body is found, floating in the water at the get-away location Tess's mother has chosen. Why this particular lake, when there is history there even if the family has never visited before?
Tess and Tony have been trying to discover more about her presumed dead father, who may not have died in a fiery road crash. It is time to fill in brother, Mike, who happens to be a cop.
Lots of history and additional questions surface as they question the longterm residents of this lake community. What harm can come of adding in questions about her father?
This book is a thinker. Will they get answers they have been waiting over a decade for? Will they decide to be satisfied and put the search aside? Are they in danger just by being in this cabin?
Another deep puzzle to be waded through and untangled. To lighten the mood, an adorable pup decides to adopt the family.
Not only is this the first Thanksgiving that Tess's mother and aunt are not hosting Thanksgiving at home, but it is also the first holiday gathering to include Mike and Tess's potential future life partners. Even if the two "plus ones" have been long time friends of the family, the status has changed. We all know about Thanksgiving dinner stress.
That won't be an issue once a body is found, floating in the water at the get-away location Tess's mother has chosen. Why this particular lake, when there is history there even if the family has never visited before?
Tess and Tony have been trying to discover more about her presumed dead father, who may not have died in a fiery road crash. It is time to fill in brother, Mike, who happens to be a cop.
Lots of history and additional questions surface as they question the longterm residents of this lake community. What harm can come of adding in questions about her father?
This book is a thinker. Will they get answers they have been waiting over a decade for? Will they decide to be satisfied and put the search aside? Are they in danger just by being in this cabin?
Another deep puzzle to be waded through and untangled. To lighten the mood, an adorable pup decides to adopt the family.
October 31, 2018
Tess is excited that her family will celebrating Thanksgiving at a cabin her mother rented for everyone. Her father use to visit the remote area and she hopes that while there she might learn something new about him. Maybe someone will be able to tell her something that will lead to why he seems to still be alive. While enjoying a walk with Tony they come across a dead body, it turns out to be the caretaker of the cabin they are staying in. The last anyone saw him he was cleaning the cabin they are now in, a big Tech company had been there for a month. Not being able to just sit back and relax Tess decides that maybe they should ask some questions while she is trying to see if anyone remembers her father. She also thinks it's a good time to fill her brother in on the fact that their dad might just be alive. Follow along as the gang asks questions, rescues a stray puppy, and looks further into Tess's dads life. Will they be able to figure who killed the caretaker and why? Is someone missing a puppy or will Mike end up with the little guy? Can they find any new answers to the questions Tess has about her father. Follow along and find out the answer to those questions and more. I enjoyed Tess's quest to find out more about her father and look forward to seeing where the author takes her next.
November 29, 2020
About the book:
The entire Thomas family takes a Thanksgiving trip to a mountain cabin after Tess learns that her father visited the area every autumn to hunt and fish before his supposed death in a fiery truck accident. After arriving at the cabin, Tess and Tony, along with Mike and Bree, team up to investigate a suspicious death, while Tess and Tony secretly talk to people who live in the area and once knew her father. Hoping to finally find answers for her unanswered questions regarding her father's current whereabouts, Tess widens her search which lead her to a startling realization.
Meanwhile, a stray dog seems intent on adopting Mike in spite of Mike's insistence that there is no way he has room in his life for an energetic and mischievous puppy.
Another great story to this series.I loved the characters! I love how it all turn out, the setting is brilliant! I loved the mystery in it I'm looking forward to the next one in this series.
The entire Thomas family takes a Thanksgiving trip to a mountain cabin after Tess learns that her father visited the area every autumn to hunt and fish before his supposed death in a fiery truck accident. After arriving at the cabin, Tess and Tony, along with Mike and Bree, team up to investigate a suspicious death, while Tess and Tony secretly talk to people who live in the area and once knew her father. Hoping to finally find answers for her unanswered questions regarding her father's current whereabouts, Tess widens her search which lead her to a startling realization.
Meanwhile, a stray dog seems intent on adopting Mike in spite of Mike's insistence that there is no way he has room in his life for an energetic and mischievous puppy.
Another great story to this series.I loved the characters! I love how it all turn out, the setting is brilliant! I loved the mystery in it I'm looking forward to the next one in this series.
February 23, 2019
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
December 29, 2021
It's Thanksgiving and the whole family (Tess and Tony, Mike and Bree, Mum and the dogs ands cats) decamp to a cabin on a lake where Tess and Mike's Dad used to go fishing.
Of course, it can't be a normal holiday, when Tess's and Tony find a body in the lake. Whilst they're getting drawn into that mystery, they are also asking people about Tess's Dad, are they're people there who knew him? Then there's the stray dog found as they arrive, wil they're be another member of the team?
Easy to read cozy mysteries with romance and every day life thrown in, set in the small town of White Eagle. Underlying each story is the ongoing mystery of Tess's Father's disappearance, will they get closer this time and will she have to come clean to Mike?
These books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
Of course, it can't be a normal holiday, when Tess's and Tony find a body in the lake. Whilst they're getting drawn into that mystery, they are also asking people about Tess's Dad, are they're people there who knew him? Then there's the stray dog found as they arrive, wil they're be another member of the team?
Easy to read cozy mysteries with romance and every day life thrown in, set in the small town of White Eagle. Underlying each story is the ongoing mystery of Tess's Father's disappearance, will they get closer this time and will she have to come clean to Mike?
These books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
October 25, 2018
Another great book in this cozy mystery series. This story is set against the backdrop of a road trip for the family to a lake that has a greater meaning than just a Thanksgiving celebration - great move on the part of the author to keep the series fresh. Poor Tess barely gets out of the car when she and Tony find a body - I found it very interesting how the author weaves this discovery in with the greater mystery thread that has run throughout the series, that of Tess's father and his mysterious "death". On a lighter note, it is great to see how everyone's relationships are progressing and, as always, the animals have their parts as well. A well-written and easy read.
October 26, 2018
Tess, Tilly, and the cats are on vacation along with her mom and the entire family including Tony, Mike, and Bree. They're renting a cabin at a lake where Tess' father used to go fishing so she's hoping to get some final answers about her dad. On their way to the cabin, Mike sees a wandering puppy who seems intent on adopting him and on their first walk they discover a body. Tess and Tony are soon embroiled in both mysteries.
The Tess and Tilly series is really coming along and each book brings us deeper in the life of Tess and her family, both animal and human. I highly recommend to Kathi Daley fans who haven't read this series yet and anyone who loves a good cozy mystery.
The Tess and Tilly series is really coming along and each book brings us deeper in the life of Tess and her family, both animal and human. I highly recommend to Kathi Daley fans who haven't read this series yet and anyone who loves a good cozy mystery.
November 25, 2018
A Great Family Mystery for Thanksgiving
The whole family travels to a remote camp for Thanksgiving only to have Tess and Tony find a body right after arriving. The camp was where Tess's dad used to stay for a week every year. Now they need to unravel information about her dad and the victim during their week's stay yet not spoil the trip or Thanksgiving. Read realizes she loves Tony and is ready to settle down with him. Her brother Mike and his girlfriend realize they are a true match. Mike adopts a stray puppy they found on the way to the camp. They have a true family Thanksgiving in a huge home surrounded by mountains, trees, a lake, and snow.
The whole family travels to a remote camp for Thanksgiving only to have Tess and Tony find a body right after arriving. The camp was where Tess's dad used to stay for a week every year. Now they need to unravel information about her dad and the victim during their week's stay yet not spoil the trip or Thanksgiving. Read realizes she loves Tony and is ready to settle down with him. Her brother Mike and his girlfriend realize they are a true match. Mike adopts a stray puppy they found on the way to the camp. They have a true family Thanksgiving in a huge home surrounded by mountains, trees, a lake, and snow.
March 18, 2019
I love the Tess and Tilly mysteries. They were going to the lake that their Dad used to go to. Mom, Tess, Mike, Tony and Bree. When arriving at the lake what do they find but a body in the lake. Since they found the body they had to report it. Mike as a police chief got involved as well as Tess, Mike and Bree. During this vacation Tess tells Mike about looking for their Dad and have evidence of him still
being alive. They have not told their Mom. Anyway they get started on helping to solve the mystery.
being alive. They have not told their Mom. Anyway they get started on helping to solve the mystery.
August 3, 2020
Anticipating a Thanksgiving getaway at a lake at a lovely house on a beautiful lake in a wintery setting has everyone in a good mood. But find the floating corpse in the lake some 20 minutes after their arrival is a surprise to everyone
This book has several clues, red herrings and lasting relationships. While this adds up to excitement, it lacked, for me, the intensity of the author’s other novels. Questions are answered in timely fashion, options proposed and more information gained about our main character’s dead/missing father.
Wonder what our next book will reveal?
This book has several clues, red herrings and lasting relationships. While this adds up to excitement, it lacked, for me, the intensity of the author’s other novels. Questions are answered in timely fashion, options proposed and more information gained about our main character’s dead/missing father.
Wonder what our next book will reveal?
November 10, 2024
This was a very thrilling cozy mystery, with more than one mystery at the same time. It kept me guessing, Tess and her family going on a family vacation for thanksgiving when her dog finds a hat that belongs to a man who had been left in the lake shot. This was a very quick read, but a little confusing due to my own doing since it is book 5 in a series i was lead to believe it could be read as a standalone when it was recommended to me, however it ties into the previous books. I will definitely be going back to read the 1st few books.
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