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Secret Agent Granny #5
Granny Goes Hollywood
I’m Barbara Gold. 70. 5’5”. blue. gray. none of your business. Undercover surveillance, small arms, chemical weapons, Middle Eastern and Latin American politics. Current Retired widow and grandmother.
When a big Hollywood film production comes to Cheerville, the town goes into a tizzy over action star Cliff Armstrong. But when his stunt double is killed on set, Barbara quickly deduces it was no accident and Cliff was meant to be the target.
To hunt the killer, Barbara infiltrates the movie set as an extra, but she quickly lands a speaking role against the handsome Cliff Armstrong himself. Can she protect Cliff from a dangerous murderer lurking on set, prevent the town from going up in smoke, and star in Hollywood’s next blockbuster without blowing her cover?
When a big Hollywood film production comes to Cheerville, the town goes into a tizzy over action star Cliff Armstrong. But when his stunt double is killed on set, Barbara quickly deduces it was no accident and Cliff was meant to be the target.
To hunt the killer, Barbara infiltrates the movie set as an extra, but she quickly lands a speaking role against the handsome Cliff Armstrong himself. Can she protect Cliff from a dangerous murderer lurking on set, prevent the town from going up in smoke, and star in Hollywood’s next blockbuster without blowing her cover?
164 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 22, 2018
67 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
About the author
Harper Lin
89 books930 followersHarper Lin is the 3x USA Today Bestselling Author of several popular cozy mystery series—8 and counting!
When she’s not reading or writing mysteries, she loves going to yoga class, hiking, and baking with friends and family.
Be the first to hear about early bird discounts and new book releases by signing up for Harper's Newsletter: https://goo.gl/R7XmFR
www.harperlin.com
When she’s not reading or writing mysteries, she loves going to yoga class, hiking, and baking with friends and family.
Be the first to hear about early bird discounts and new book releases by signing up for Harper's Newsletter: https://goo.gl/R7XmFR
www.harperlin.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
August 20, 2022
I thought that this book was good
August 15, 2024
Leuk, origineel, sterk en o zo grappig!
December 10, 2018
There is excitement in Cheerville because a movie is being filmed with a hot leading actor in town. Barbara Gold is watching the filming when suddenly a stunt double is killed and it doesn't appear to be an accident! I really enjoyed this fast-paced, action-packed, story that was also quite humorous. A good series.
December 19, 2023
these are such fun! I like that an older main character is being depicted as able and capable. The Mysteries are enjoyable to try to figure out, and the action is delightful, and sometimes hilarious. glad that I have many more to go
July 21, 2024
Hilarious. So much fun. Barbara has a zest for life, humor and a zeal for justice, plus some unorthodox skills for a grandmother: undercover experience, small arms and chemical weapons. The narrator does a great job. The story moves along with funny situations and wry observations by Granny. In this latest installment Barbara goes star-eyed for a movie star filming in the area. She loses her usual sangfroid when she meets the heartthrob. Then there's murder, and...
I've complained before how most cozies are unrealistic about why and how amateurs get involved in police investigations but it works in this series. The town where many of these murders take place is a small suburb that hasn't seen much murder before (or at least wasn't acknowledged) so the police are not experienced in such investigations. Barbara is able to use some knowledge to get the police chief to work with her. But the story is realistic in that Barbara can't do what she used to physically because she is older: she can't really run and she needs her glasses to shoot at all accurately. She needs the police to get her information that she can't access and not all her plans come off as she plotted them. A certain amount of suspension of disbelief is needed but it is carried off here better than many series. Or maybe I'm laughing to much to mind some of the things that bother me in other series.
I've complained before how most cozies are unrealistic about why and how amateurs get involved in police investigations but it works in this series. The town where many of these murders take place is a small suburb that hasn't seen much murder before (or at least wasn't acknowledged) so the police are not experienced in such investigations. Barbara is able to use some knowledge to get the police chief to work with her. But the story is realistic in that Barbara can't do what she used to physically because she is older: she can't really run and she needs her glasses to shoot at all accurately. She needs the police to get her information that she can't access and not all her plans come off as she plotted them. A certain amount of suspension of disbelief is needed but it is carried off here better than many series. Or maybe I'm laughing to much to mind some of the things that bother me in other series.
November 27, 2023
These are so much fun, they just keep getting funnier! This one didn't have a whole lot to it, but it was a short fun ride!
December 4, 2018
Hollywood comes to Cheerville and everyone is going gaga over Cliff Armstrong. Then his stunt double is killed and Barbara thinks that Cliff was actually the target! Barbara starts out as an 'extra' then gets a speaking role, things then get complicated since she is trying to find a killer and not blow her cover! This is a another great story that you will truly enjoy! Who says there is no life after 50? I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of this book.
February 19, 2022
After finishing a difficult read I was so thankful I had Barbara waiting in the wings. These books are perfect when you need something fast, easy and entertaining. Hollywood didn’t give me the same humorous views as the nudist colony, however I picture Barbara as Betty White and get a chuckle every time.
Thanks Harper for providing a great, fun escape from reality.
Thanks Harper for providing a great, fun escape from reality.
March 25, 2022
I love this series! No matter how far fetched the plot may seem each one of these stories has been thrilling and I find myself gathering the clues too. Totally recommend these funny, light, who-done-it books.
May 6, 2020
Cute little cozy mystery. I love that the main character is not your average gorgeous young thing. It's fun to have an older, wiser character that is taken for granted.
February 16, 2024
Another funny, cozy mystery in this terrific series!
March 3, 2021
Have I mentioned recently that I love Granny? Barb is a cool lady and her adorable relationship with her grandson and cat is growing more since he believes that she has been deputized. And Dandelion, well, I don't even need much action to love a cat character. Plus, when Granny starts to swoon over a Robert Redford/Mel Gibson type actor, she's just plain sweet and real. Her friendship with Liz is developed a little further and I am looking forward to seeing where that goes.
May 14, 2023
It was sooo funny and I really enjoyed reading it .. I love the MC and it's a must read for those who love cozies
November 3, 2018
Once a CIA agent, always interested in any mystery that comes along. Granny (aka Barbara Gold) heard her favorite movie crush was coming to town to make a movie. When she and her boyfriend go to watch the filming, she actually gets to meet the actor Cliff of her dreams. Within in minutes the actor is almost killed during filming, and his understudy does die! While Barbara is pondering the ways she can access the movie and figure out what is happening, she comes across a notice that they are looking for local people to fill in some minor rolls. She lucks out and before long is on the set with Cliff and following clues to find out who is the inept killer who keeps getting the wrong person.
In past books there had been a strained relationship between Barbara and the police chief. This time she seemed to roll right over him and he was helpless to stop her. It felt like Ms Gold was in charge of this case. It was nice that she didn't rely on anyone else, and everything was done according to her CIA training and what was left of her body's willingness to cooperate! Although concern for other's safety was high on her list, she was more focused than in other books. The result was just as much bleeping fun as before, but with a whole lot more abandon and lack of hiding talents from family members.
I laughed so hard at certain characters and situations, and would have to say this book was probably the best in the series to date. Don't miss a chance to see what an aging ex-CIA agent can do to crime and criminals. Good clean fun, thanks to a lot of bleeping going on!
In past books there had been a strained relationship between Barbara and the police chief. This time she seemed to roll right over him and he was helpless to stop her. It felt like Ms Gold was in charge of this case. It was nice that she didn't rely on anyone else, and everything was done according to her CIA training and what was left of her body's willingness to cooperate! Although concern for other's safety was high on her list, she was more focused than in other books. The result was just as much bleeping fun as before, but with a whole lot more abandon and lack of hiding talents from family members.
I laughed so hard at certain characters and situations, and would have to say this book was probably the best in the series to date. Don't miss a chance to see what an aging ex-CIA agent can do to crime and criminals. Good clean fun, thanks to a lot of bleeping going on!
December 4, 2018
“Granny Goes Hollywood” earns 5/5 Take Twos…Exciting Fun!!
Who says retirement has to mean social security checks, senior citizen dances, and blue hair? Not Barbara Gold! Harper Lin has again brought, “out of retirement,” a former CIA agent matching wits with a variety of clever criminals. This time a Hollywood heartthrob comes to town with a big movie production, but when the understudy is killed, Barbara takes full charge even by-passing it seems official law enforcement channels. She becomes part of the cast and gets a real close up (Mr. DeMille!) of the man behind the tabloids…was it a tragic accident or attempted murder? Harper Lin’s penned a delightful first-person narrative sharing Barbara’s inner thoughts and delightful humor along with an entertaining banter that kept me totally engaged. It's a short read, but full of exciting predicaments, giggling humor, and an ending I didn't expect. I love Barbara! She's mature, not silly, and refreshing for this also retired person. Newbies don't shy away just because she's not a millennial! I highly recommend this fifth book!
"Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments."
Who says retirement has to mean social security checks, senior citizen dances, and blue hair? Not Barbara Gold! Harper Lin has again brought, “out of retirement,” a former CIA agent matching wits with a variety of clever criminals. This time a Hollywood heartthrob comes to town with a big movie production, but when the understudy is killed, Barbara takes full charge even by-passing it seems official law enforcement channels. She becomes part of the cast and gets a real close up (Mr. DeMille!) of the man behind the tabloids…was it a tragic accident or attempted murder? Harper Lin’s penned a delightful first-person narrative sharing Barbara’s inner thoughts and delightful humor along with an entertaining banter that kept me totally engaged. It's a short read, but full of exciting predicaments, giggling humor, and an ending I didn't expect. I love Barbara! She's mature, not silly, and refreshing for this also retired person. Newbies don't shy away just because she's not a millennial! I highly recommend this fifth book!
"Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments."
November 23, 2018
Barbara is in it again when a movie is being made in Cheerville with America's heart throb Cliff Armstrong. Even Barbara is googling over him. While watching a scene being made Cliff's stunt double is killed. Now was it an accident or an attempt on Cliff's life. Barbara thinks the latter. So she has to investigate. To get closer she signs up as an extra in the film. She finds out there could be a lot of suspects because the Cliff everyone sees isn't the person he shows his fans. Then it starts to get even more crazy when another murder happens. Barbara is finding it harder as she finds out more tidbits of Hollywood life.
This was an awesome and quick read. I loved it. Barbara shows she maybe old but she still has her kickass skills and can takedown any player.
I voluntarily agreed to review this book. My review is my own honest opinion.
This was an awesome and quick read. I loved it. Barbara shows she maybe old but she still has her kickass skills and can takedown any player.
I voluntarily agreed to review this book. My review is my own honest opinion.
November 27, 2018
Love this series. In this 5th book, Barbara finds herself once again, sleuthing to solve a murder in her new sleepy town of Cheerville. When a major movie decides that Cheerville is the perfect location to film, Barbara decides to stop by and take a peek at filming and with the hopes of catching her favorite action star. When an explosion goes awry and kills a stuntman, Barbara goes undercover as an extra on the set, but winds up with a bigger role than expected. Nothing scares this EX-CIA agent more than this role, but she is determined to find the killer as more bodies start to pile up. She soon finds herself one of the targets and begins to put together the clues. This book comes to conclusion that I didn't expect. Great book. Can't wait for the next one.
November 25, 2018
Hollywood has invaded the peaceful town of Cheerville and Barbara Gold, a retired CIA agent, is as giddy as a teenager. Her absolute favorite action hero actor is starting in Revolutionary era movie set in here home town. After witnessing the attempted murder of her crush, Barbara decides to in invade the set as a movie extra. She soon learns nothing in the business is as it seems. Can Barbara solved the mystery before the murderer succeeds?
This is by far my favorite book in the series. I am looking forward to joining Barbara's next adventure.
I received an ARC from the author for purposes of an unbiased review.
This is by far my favorite book in the series. I am looking forward to joining Barbara's next adventure.
I received an ARC from the author for purposes of an unbiased review.
November 15, 2018
I love these books.
What would you do if you could meet and then work with your favorite movie star? Yeah, that would be fun unless someone is trying to murder your favorite movie star. That is what happens to Granny this time. Barbara, as usual, is on the case. I really think you could read this as a stand alone as Harper sets things up nicely, but I really think you would have more fun if you read the whole Granny series.
I received an advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest (that I am glad to give) review.
What would you do if you could meet and then work with your favorite movie star? Yeah, that would be fun unless someone is trying to murder your favorite movie star. That is what happens to Granny this time. Barbara, as usual, is on the case. I really think you could read this as a stand alone as Harper sets things up nicely, but I really think you would have more fun if you read the whole Granny series.
I received an advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest (that I am glad to give) review.
November 27, 2018
Barbara Gold (our heroine) is at a movie lot to see a charismatic, hunky actor and maybe get to meet him. As she is watching the actors in a scene there is a loud explosion followed by an unexpected death. Barbara gets drawn into the mayhem when she tries to investigate on her own. She ends up with a leading part in a scene and is then able to check into the strange happenings going on at the set. Family members are in peril, more unfortunate accidents follow and her friend Liz comes to help. I love this series and it only gets better with each new story.
November 12, 2018
So, once again Barbara puts herself in the line of fire when she goes to investigate and became an extra in a movie to find out who wants to kill her Hollywood hero. I love these books I always look forward to the next one coming out as it's such an enjoyable read for me with a hint of humor these are great. A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
December 30, 2018
Granny gets a job as an extra on a movie being filmed in Cheerville as she was there when the lead's stuntman is killed. Realizing her favorite actor may be the target Granny knows she needs to solve the murder before anyone else is killed.
I love Barbara (Granny). She is full of aches and pains but that does not stop her, only slows her down. She manages to teach the leading man some manners while she is at it. It is fun. I enjoyed it and love that she is realistic and still kick-ass.
I love Barbara (Granny). She is full of aches and pains but that does not stop her, only slows her down. She manages to teach the leading man some manners while she is at it. It is fun. I enjoyed it and love that she is realistic and still kick-ass.
November 5, 2018
As a member of Harper Lin's review crew, I received this book in return for an honest review. This is more a 3.75 rating. I enjoy this series about an ex-CIA grandmother who plays at being a detective. At 70 she still has some agent skills, but humorously describes her limitations. Another nice, easy mystery from Harper Lin.
November 21, 2018
I enjoyed all 5 books, but I think this one is my favorite. There is a nice flow from book to book, so if you want all the character background, purchase all of them and read them in order. Books are well written, stories & characters are great. These books will have you laughing out loud. I can't wait to see what Granny's next adventure is.
December 4, 2018
Granny signs up as an extra in a movie being made in her town. But she ends up with a speaking part that puts her closer to the action than she had planned. This was a good story tho not my favorite in the series. It seemed a bit tamer or maybe it is that Granny was not as busy as she usually is. I did enjoy the book.
January 21, 2022
Barbara is star struck by Cliff Armstrong, but when he is 'killed' right in front of her, well his stunt double, she knows she has to save his life by going undercover as an actress. With her stopping another attempt on Cliff's life, her life is now on the line. Another great book in this sweet little grandma series.
June 5, 2024
Just because you’re a granny it doesn’t mean all you do is sit around and knit
I love that Granny is real about the things she can still do or do differently and keeps on keeping on. The “limitations” are not due to age (solely) but because of things she’s done in the past affecting things she can do now. With help from a friend or two she gets the job done.
Happy Reading!
I love that Granny is real about the things she can still do or do differently and keeps on keeping on. The “limitations” are not due to age (solely) but because of things she’s done in the past affecting things she can do now. With help from a friend or two she gets the job done.
Happy Reading!
November 10, 2018
Granny is once again in the middle of things. This time she's cast in a movie with a star who she swoones over. Trying to figure out who is trying to kill him. Grannies not physically what she used to be but she's got all her smart's. A really enjoyable quick read.
November 22, 2018
Yet again!
This is such a fun series....'specially for those of us of a certain age! Yet again, Barbara has won the day and caught the murderers. Please, may we have some more? Oh! And please, more of the Paris series!
This is such a fun series....'specially for those of us of a certain age! Yet again, Barbara has won the day and caught the murderers. Please, may we have some more? Oh! And please, more of the Paris series!
January 29, 2019
Granny Goes Hollywood
Barbara Gold, retired CIA operative, is causing a stir again. This time, she signs on as a 'extra' to find the killer on a movie set.
Great easy reading for a getaway!
Barbara Gold, retired CIA operative, is causing a stir again. This time, she signs on as a 'extra' to find the killer on a movie set.
Great easy reading for a getaway!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews