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Abby McCree Mystery #2
Death by Jack-o'-Lantern
Overcommitted committee member Abby McCree gets in a patch of trouble trying to solve the murder of a pumpkin farmer …
The small town of Snowberry Creek, Washington, is gearing up for the Halloween Festival, and naturally Abby is on the planning committee. As part of her duties, she's picking up a pumpkin order from ornery farmer Ronald Minter. But what she finds instead is the farmer in the middle of his corn maze with a knife in his back.
The police suspect a homeless veteran named Kevin Montgomery, who was seen arguing with Minter when the farmer accused him of trespassing and stealing pumpkins. Abby's tenant Tripp Blackston, a veteran himself who’s been helping Kevin, is sure he’s innocent. Together, Abby and Tripp follow the twists and turns of the case to corner the corn maze killer—before someone else meets a dead end …
The small town of Snowberry Creek, Washington, is gearing up for the Halloween Festival, and naturally Abby is on the planning committee. As part of her duties, she's picking up a pumpkin order from ornery farmer Ronald Minter. But what she finds instead is the farmer in the middle of his corn maze with a knife in his back.
The police suspect a homeless veteran named Kevin Montgomery, who was seen arguing with Minter when the farmer accused him of trespassing and stealing pumpkins. Abby's tenant Tripp Blackston, a veteran himself who’s been helping Kevin, is sure he’s innocent. Together, Abby and Tripp follow the twists and turns of the case to corner the corn maze killer—before someone else meets a dead end …
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2019
110 people are currently reading
2857 people want to read
About the author
Alexis Morgan
97 books999 followersAlexis Morgan grew up near St. Louis and received a B.A. in English from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. She and her husband have made the Pacific Northwest their home for more than thirty years, where she launched her career as a writer. She is published in paranormal romance, fantasy romance, American West historicals, and most recently, contemporary romances with her new Snowberry Creek series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
October 2, 2019
Death by Jack-O'-Lantern by Alexis Morgan is a 2019 Kensington Books publication.
Snowberry Creek is gearing up for the annual Halloween festival and Abby McCree, the committee queen, is busy with the preparations. When she heads out to pick up an order of pumpkins from the least popular guy in town, Ronald Minter, she discovers his body in a corn maze with a knife in his back.
Abby gets sucked deeper into the investigation when her tenant, Tripp, volunteers her for yet another planning committee, a fundraiser for his veteran’s group. As it turns out, one Tripp’s buddy's, a homeless vet, named Kevin, has become suspect number one. Knowing Kevin is innocent, Abby sets out to find out who the real killer is.
I’m in a cozy mystery mood and in the mood for Halloween themed novels, too, which made this book an obvious choice. Although it is the second book in this new series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone, so if you are looking for a fall/Halloween mystery, just dive right in. But, if you are like me, you’ll want to go back and read the first installment and continue with the series from here.
While the characters are in the early stages of their developments, I can see a lot of potential and room for growth. The most intriguing character, for me, was Tripp. The mystery is very solid, with several likely suspects to keep one guessing. Abby’s amateur sleuthing is on the practical side, thankfully, avoiding any insult to my intelligence. I also liked her faithful dog companion, Zeke, as he plays a big role in the story and melted my heart more than once.
Overall, this book is very nice Halloween or fall themed novel, with a solid mystery that kept me guessing to the end, plus I found a new cozy series to follow!
4 stars
Snowberry Creek is gearing up for the annual Halloween festival and Abby McCree, the committee queen, is busy with the preparations. When she heads out to pick up an order of pumpkins from the least popular guy in town, Ronald Minter, she discovers his body in a corn maze with a knife in his back.
Abby gets sucked deeper into the investigation when her tenant, Tripp, volunteers her for yet another planning committee, a fundraiser for his veteran’s group. As it turns out, one Tripp’s buddy's, a homeless vet, named Kevin, has become suspect number one. Knowing Kevin is innocent, Abby sets out to find out who the real killer is.
I’m in a cozy mystery mood and in the mood for Halloween themed novels, too, which made this book an obvious choice. Although it is the second book in this new series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone, so if you are looking for a fall/Halloween mystery, just dive right in. But, if you are like me, you’ll want to go back and read the first installment and continue with the series from here.
While the characters are in the early stages of their developments, I can see a lot of potential and room for growth. The most intriguing character, for me, was Tripp. The mystery is very solid, with several likely suspects to keep one guessing. Abby’s amateur sleuthing is on the practical side, thankfully, avoiding any insult to my intelligence. I also liked her faithful dog companion, Zeke, as he plays a big role in the story and melted my heart more than once.
Overall, this book is very nice Halloween or fall themed novel, with a solid mystery that kept me guessing to the end, plus I found a new cozy series to follow!
4 stars
July 19, 2020
Death by Jack-o’-Lantern by Alexis Morgan is the second book in the cozy Abby McCree Mystery series. As with most cozy series each book in the Abby McCree Mystery series has it’s own mystery that is solved within the book so each can be read in any order or as a standalone if choosing to do so. Those that follow along from the beginning of the series will have some character development that carries over from book to book though.
This series introduces readers to Abby McCree who had just gotten divorced and had to sell her half of the business she shared with her husband over to him when she found out what her Aunt Sybil left her in her will. Needing a fresh start Abby decided to move into her Aunts former home and make it her own in small town Snowberry Creek, Washington. After arriving in the small town Abby found herself surrounded by her aunt’s old friends who are turning to her to fill the hole that her aunt had also left in their lives and trying to get Abby to volunteer for project after project.
Now Abby has again volunteered her time to help with the town Halloween festival and has joined the planning committee. One of the tasks Abby has to organize for the festival is picking up the pumpkin order from a local farmer, Ronald Minter. When Abby arrives at the pumpkin farm though she comes across the body of the farmer obviously having been murdered. The police have a suspect in mind but Abby finds herself again investigating the murder with her tenant Tripp Blackston.
The Abby McCree Mystery series is one that I found there’s some laughs, likable characters, a darling dog and even a bit of romance included in the stories. With Abby and Tripp working together in these a bit it almost has the feel of a touch of romantic suspense at times although a much cleaner cozy version. With another solid mystery with plenty of twists and suspects I’ll be happy to continue with this series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
This series introduces readers to Abby McCree who had just gotten divorced and had to sell her half of the business she shared with her husband over to him when she found out what her Aunt Sybil left her in her will. Needing a fresh start Abby decided to move into her Aunts former home and make it her own in small town Snowberry Creek, Washington. After arriving in the small town Abby found herself surrounded by her aunt’s old friends who are turning to her to fill the hole that her aunt had also left in their lives and trying to get Abby to volunteer for project after project.
Now Abby has again volunteered her time to help with the town Halloween festival and has joined the planning committee. One of the tasks Abby has to organize for the festival is picking up the pumpkin order from a local farmer, Ronald Minter. When Abby arrives at the pumpkin farm though she comes across the body of the farmer obviously having been murdered. The police have a suspect in mind but Abby finds herself again investigating the murder with her tenant Tripp Blackston.
The Abby McCree Mystery series is one that I found there’s some laughs, likable characters, a darling dog and even a bit of romance included in the stories. With Abby and Tripp working together in these a bit it almost has the feel of a touch of romantic suspense at times although a much cleaner cozy version. With another solid mystery with plenty of twists and suspects I’ll be happy to continue with this series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
August 27, 2019
Abby McCree has her hands full working on several committees and preparing for the Halloween festival. She goes on an errand to pick up pumpkins for the festival only to find the farmer killed in his corn maze. The police immediately suspect Tripp's friend, a homeless veteran named Kevin, who was seen arguing with the farmer. Tripp, convinced of his friend's innocence, goes to great lengths to protect him from the police, resulting in him being arrested. Abby is determined to find the real killer to get Tripp out of jail. I enjoyed this second installment in the series. The mystery was solid, and I was unable to guess the culprit. The pacing and writing were perfect. Abby is such a fun character. I found myself laughing out loud a couple of times during her conversations with the new detective and Tripp. There is a wonderful romance brewing between Abby and Tripp and I really look forward to their relationship developing. Overall I highly recommend this series. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with this advance copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 11, 2019
It's no secret that I love 𝕙𝕠𝕝𝕚𝕕𝕒𝕪 themed cozy mysteries. 🎃 It is also not a secret that I l♥o♥v♥e trying new authors. 🙌 This book 𝓯𝓲𝓽 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓫𝓲𝓵𝓵 on both counts. 👍 I'll start off my review by 🅐🅓🅜🅘🅣🅣🅘🅝🅖 I haven't read book one Dҽαƚԋ Ⴆყ Cσɱɱιƚƚҽҽ, however this book standups 🅿🅴🆁🅵🅴🅲🆃🅻🆈 as a standalone book. 📒 At no time was I 𝓵𝓸𝓼𝓽 𝓸𝓻 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓯𝓾𝓼𝓮𝓭. ☑ It was well 𝖜𝖗𝖎𝖙𝖙𝖊𝖓 and well 𝖕𝖆𝖈𝖊𝖉. 👍 The plot was έήģάģίήģ and suitably 🅕🅔🅢🅣🅘🅥🅔. 👻 Although, I will say that I figured out the "ƜнØ ÐØЛƐ ɪŤ" halfway through the book. 👀 All the ₵Ⱨ₳Ɽ₳₵₮ɆⱤ₴ were quite likable. 👤👤 I assume the author is setting 🆃🆁🅸🅿🅿 up as 🅰🅱🅱🆈'🆂 love interest. 💑 However, I found her and 🅶🅰🅶🅴 to have more 𝓬𝓱𝓮𝓶𝓲𝓼𝓽𝓻𝔂. 💞 This may be because of the predicament 🆃🆁🅸🅿🅿 finds himself in for the ᴇɴᴛɪʀᴇ book. 🏢 There was a d!sɔonnǝɔʇ there that didn't 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 for me. 👎 Overall, though this was a 🅥🅔🅡🅨 🅔🅝🅙🅞🅨🅐🅑🅛🅔 read that gets 𝕥𝕨𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕦𝕞𝕓𝕤 𝕦𝕡 from yours truly. 👍👍
September 28, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Abby McCree just doesn’t know how or get the chance to say “NO!”. Still filling in for her deceased Aunt Sybil, she is also part of the planning committee for the Halloween Festival and soon will be volunteered by her tenant Tripp to help with another event. With one of the Halloween committee down sick Abby is recruited to pick up the pumpkin order from Ronald Minter’s farm. While searching the farm for its owner she comes upon his corn maze. Thinking he must be in there getting ready for the expected crowds from the festival, she ventures in. She finds the man, but with that knife in his back, he will be of no help with those pumpkins. The prime suspect becomes Kevin Montgomery, a homeless vet that has been living in the woods. Tripp also a veteran has been trying to help the man acclimate and knows he didn’t kill Minter, in fact, he would stake his freedom on it.
There are also some unique creations showing up around town that may tie into the case. Abby along with her sidekick Zeke, for the most part, a Bull Mastiff, a gentle giant, at least most of the time set out to find the real killer. Her friend Police Chief Gage tries to keep her safe knowing she will not back down.
__________
I liked Abby right away in the first book of this series, Death by Committee, I love her now. Check out the way she takes a new detective down on notch with just her words.
Please let me finish. What I was going to say was that I really don’t care who you are, Detective Whatever-Your-Name-Is, or why you’re here. As I’m sure Deputy Chapin told you, I have permission to be here and to stay as long as I like. I’m sure if you want time to talk to Mr. Blackston, Chief Logan will be glad to schedule you an appointment. This particular time slot, however, is already taken.”
She wasn’t sure what her smile looked like at that moment, but Deputy Chapin backpedaled a few feet. “Now, if you’ll excuse us, Mr. Blackston and I were talking. I’m sure you can find something to occupy yourself until we’re done. I’m betting if you kick some money into the kitty in the bullpen, they’ll even let you have a cup of coffee. If not, there’s a nice coffee shop right down the street.” By that point, all three men were looking at her as if they hadn’t understood a single word she’d said. “I’m sorry, do you need me to repeat that, maybe slower this time?”
Strong, smart, sassy, I laughed out loud and gave Abby a “You Go Girl!” Now if only she could stand up to that group of her aunt’s friends that keep volunteering her for everything under the sun. She is getting there but her kind nature I believe she will always be a soft touch especially when she feels is honoring her aunt.
Ms. Morgan has surrounded Abby with a great supporting cast. We are getting to know Tripp Blackston a little better and the connection between him and Abby is getting stronger. He already has a big strong relationship with the lovable Zeke 🙂 Abby has a true friendship with Gage Logan and they are getting to understand each other. The ladies from the quilting group are always there to help, advise or butt in as needed.
The author has written a strong mystery too. I was pulled in many different directions over the course of the novel. I knew in my heart who it couldn’t be but I would be lying if I didn’t tell you I was totally surprised by the big reveal. Alexis Morgan expertly pens a slow build the rachets up at a delightful pace all leading up a dramatic ending. She describes everything so clearly readers can feel like they are right there on the spot.
I really have to applaud the author for the way she addressed homeless veterans and veterans, in general, dealing with veterans with PTSD and finding their way back in the world after surviving horrendous things can be a rough road. Many in Snowberry Creek were on the wrong side of this issue but thankfully there were those willing to help, some veterans themselves. Putting a hot topic issue like this into a work of fiction makes it more real and relevant.
Death by Jack-o’-Lantern is a marvelous addition to this series. I loved the Halloween theme and was totally entertained beginning to end. Bring on Book #3!
Abby McCree just doesn’t know how or get the chance to say “NO!”. Still filling in for her deceased Aunt Sybil, she is also part of the planning committee for the Halloween Festival and soon will be volunteered by her tenant Tripp to help with another event. With one of the Halloween committee down sick Abby is recruited to pick up the pumpkin order from Ronald Minter’s farm. While searching the farm for its owner she comes upon his corn maze. Thinking he must be in there getting ready for the expected crowds from the festival, she ventures in. She finds the man, but with that knife in his back, he will be of no help with those pumpkins. The prime suspect becomes Kevin Montgomery, a homeless vet that has been living in the woods. Tripp also a veteran has been trying to help the man acclimate and knows he didn’t kill Minter, in fact, he would stake his freedom on it.
There are also some unique creations showing up around town that may tie into the case. Abby along with her sidekick Zeke, for the most part, a Bull Mastiff, a gentle giant, at least most of the time set out to find the real killer. Her friend Police Chief Gage tries to keep her safe knowing she will not back down.
__________
I liked Abby right away in the first book of this series, Death by Committee, I love her now. Check out the way she takes a new detective down on notch with just her words.
Please let me finish. What I was going to say was that I really don’t care who you are, Detective Whatever-Your-Name-Is, or why you’re here. As I’m sure Deputy Chapin told you, I have permission to be here and to stay as long as I like. I’m sure if you want time to talk to Mr. Blackston, Chief Logan will be glad to schedule you an appointment. This particular time slot, however, is already taken.”
She wasn’t sure what her smile looked like at that moment, but Deputy Chapin backpedaled a few feet. “Now, if you’ll excuse us, Mr. Blackston and I were talking. I’m sure you can find something to occupy yourself until we’re done. I’m betting if you kick some money into the kitty in the bullpen, they’ll even let you have a cup of coffee. If not, there’s a nice coffee shop right down the street.” By that point, all three men were looking at her as if they hadn’t understood a single word she’d said. “I’m sorry, do you need me to repeat that, maybe slower this time?”
Strong, smart, sassy, I laughed out loud and gave Abby a “You Go Girl!” Now if only she could stand up to that group of her aunt’s friends that keep volunteering her for everything under the sun. She is getting there but her kind nature I believe she will always be a soft touch especially when she feels is honoring her aunt.
Ms. Morgan has surrounded Abby with a great supporting cast. We are getting to know Tripp Blackston a little better and the connection between him and Abby is getting stronger. He already has a big strong relationship with the lovable Zeke 🙂 Abby has a true friendship with Gage Logan and they are getting to understand each other. The ladies from the quilting group are always there to help, advise or butt in as needed.
The author has written a strong mystery too. I was pulled in many different directions over the course of the novel. I knew in my heart who it couldn’t be but I would be lying if I didn’t tell you I was totally surprised by the big reveal. Alexis Morgan expertly pens a slow build the rachets up at a delightful pace all leading up a dramatic ending. She describes everything so clearly readers can feel like they are right there on the spot.
I really have to applaud the author for the way she addressed homeless veterans and veterans, in general, dealing with veterans with PTSD and finding their way back in the world after surviving horrendous things can be a rough road. Many in Snowberry Creek were on the wrong side of this issue but thankfully there were those willing to help, some veterans themselves. Putting a hot topic issue like this into a work of fiction makes it more real and relevant.
Death by Jack-o’-Lantern is a marvelous addition to this series. I loved the Halloween theme and was totally entertained beginning to end. Bring on Book #3!
September 4, 2019
Amateur sleuth Abby McCree is back on the case. While prepping for the Halloween Festival in Snowberry Creek, Abby, on a mission for one her many local committees, heads off to pick up pumpkins from a grouchy farmer, Ronald Minter. Unfortunately, she finds him at the center of his corn maze— dead. Immediately, the police form a case against Kevin, a homeless veteran. But Tripp, who rents Abby’s guest house, knows Kevin isn’t the murderer, and soon he’s arrested while trying to shield him from the investigation. Abby must find the killer, free Tripp, and plan a festival … before anyone else gets hurt.
For fans of the first book in the Abby McCree Mystery series, Snowberry Creek proves just as charming the second time around. Abby, with her commitment to organizing social gatherings and baked goods, proves to also be a shrewd detective. Author Alexis Morgan has infused her with a careful investigative style— mostly keeping her away from unnecessary, ridiculously dangerous situations. And while this does cause the mystery to take its time ramping up, it’s done so in favor of solid world building that lays the groundwork for a seemingly realistic mystery.
Unlike in some cozies, Morgan’s characters and their relationships show some clear development. Abby and Tripp have a natural chemistry that Morgan deliciously plays with. Similarly, Abby’s banter with her friend and police chief, Gage, as well as her interactions with the ladies of the quilting guild provide for plenty of fun moments that build from the previous book. Though Death by Jack-o’-Lantern works completely as a stand alone novel, these characters and their exchanges build from the previous book— there are no cookie cutter scenes here.
Of course, the underlying buildup of tension hinges on the final reveal ending. As Abby doesn’t spend her time bouncing around crime scenes and bumbling through evidence, she relies on a healthy dose of local gossip and inferences. The result is a murderer who might seem obvious, but who is no less entertaining to uncover.
With a light touch and an impeccable attention to characters, Morgan has written a solid followup for Abby.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
For fans of the first book in the Abby McCree Mystery series, Snowberry Creek proves just as charming the second time around. Abby, with her commitment to organizing social gatherings and baked goods, proves to also be a shrewd detective. Author Alexis Morgan has infused her with a careful investigative style— mostly keeping her away from unnecessary, ridiculously dangerous situations. And while this does cause the mystery to take its time ramping up, it’s done so in favor of solid world building that lays the groundwork for a seemingly realistic mystery.
Unlike in some cozies, Morgan’s characters and their relationships show some clear development. Abby and Tripp have a natural chemistry that Morgan deliciously plays with. Similarly, Abby’s banter with her friend and police chief, Gage, as well as her interactions with the ladies of the quilting guild provide for plenty of fun moments that build from the previous book. Though Death by Jack-o’-Lantern works completely as a stand alone novel, these characters and their exchanges build from the previous book— there are no cookie cutter scenes here.
Of course, the underlying buildup of tension hinges on the final reveal ending. As Abby doesn’t spend her time bouncing around crime scenes and bumbling through evidence, she relies on a healthy dose of local gossip and inferences. The result is a murderer who might seem obvious, but who is no less entertaining to uncover.
With a light touch and an impeccable attention to characters, Morgan has written a solid followup for Abby.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
February 18, 2020
A Halloween cozy mystery that's great to read any time of year.
I really enjoyed reading the hijinks presented .
This is my first time reading this author, it was a quick read.
Nice, enjoyable plot .
Snowberry Creek, Washington, sounds like a nice town to visit or maybe even live in.
I enjoyed the Halloween themed mystery with pumpkins a plenty.
This won't be the last book I read by this author.
Pub Date: 27 Aug 2019
I was given a complimentary copy . Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I really enjoyed reading the hijinks presented .
This is my first time reading this author, it was a quick read.
Nice, enjoyable plot .
Snowberry Creek, Washington, sounds like a nice town to visit or maybe even live in.
I enjoyed the Halloween themed mystery with pumpkins a plenty.
This won't be the last book I read by this author.
Pub Date: 27 Aug 2019
I was given a complimentary copy . Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
September 25, 2020
My Rating: 4 Stars
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Death by Jack-O'-Lantern is the second book in the Abby McCree cozy mystery series. I read and loved the first one a while back and figured since this one has a fall theme to it that it was the perfect time to get reading. All in all, I enjoyed this one. I think it was the perfect addition to the series and it was fun to catch up with Abby, Zeke, Tripp, and the rest of the characters. However, there were a few things that got on my nerves which is why I rated this 4 out of 5 stars. More on that below.
The murder that takes place happens in a Corn Maze to the man who owns the property. As with any cozy, you know that the point of the story is for an amateur sleuth (Abby in this case) to solve the murder before the authorities. All of that is great and clearly why I love reading these novels- amateurs solving crimes before the seasoned pros? So fun! However, some of the things that took place in this book were wholly unbelievable. For one, Tripp was detained for a good amount of time because he wouldn’t tell the detectives where his friend was living (his friend was only a person of interest). That in the real world could never happen- you can’t hold people because they won’t tell you specific details, especially for that amount of time. I know this because my husband works in the field, so it was extremely noticeable to me throughout the book. That’s probably why it bothered me so much!
Another thing that got me feeling flustered was how hot and cold Abby could be. One minute she was the perfect hostess and the next she was taking back a dessert she freely gave someone because they made her mad. I guess for me, I would be uncomfortable doing this to someone no matter what they said/did, so it didn’t sit well with me. She’s certainly a fierce character with strong beliefs and gumption, but she way she bossed the men in her life around and did small things like that made me feel uncomfortable. Again, this is because I myself couldn’t do that!
Other than those two small things I really enjoyed this one. I can’t wait to see what happens next and look forward to seeing a possible love connection between Abby and Tripp. They seem like a match made in heaven even though they bump heads on a lot of issues!
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Death by Jack-O'-Lantern is the second book in the Abby McCree cozy mystery series. I read and loved the first one a while back and figured since this one has a fall theme to it that it was the perfect time to get reading. All in all, I enjoyed this one. I think it was the perfect addition to the series and it was fun to catch up with Abby, Zeke, Tripp, and the rest of the characters. However, there were a few things that got on my nerves which is why I rated this 4 out of 5 stars. More on that below.
The murder that takes place happens in a Corn Maze to the man who owns the property. As with any cozy, you know that the point of the story is for an amateur sleuth (Abby in this case) to solve the murder before the authorities. All of that is great and clearly why I love reading these novels- amateurs solving crimes before the seasoned pros? So fun! However, some of the things that took place in this book were wholly unbelievable. For one, Tripp was detained for a good amount of time because he wouldn’t tell the detectives where his friend was living (his friend was only a person of interest). That in the real world could never happen- you can’t hold people because they won’t tell you specific details, especially for that amount of time. I know this because my husband works in the field, so it was extremely noticeable to me throughout the book. That’s probably why it bothered me so much!
Another thing that got me feeling flustered was how hot and cold Abby could be. One minute she was the perfect hostess and the next she was taking back a dessert she freely gave someone because they made her mad. I guess for me, I would be uncomfortable doing this to someone no matter what they said/did, so it didn’t sit well with me. She’s certainly a fierce character with strong beliefs and gumption, but she way she bossed the men in her life around and did small things like that made me feel uncomfortable. Again, this is because I myself couldn’t do that!
Other than those two small things I really enjoyed this one. I can’t wait to see what happens next and look forward to seeing a possible love connection between Abby and Tripp. They seem like a match made in heaven even though they bump heads on a lot of issues!
September 25, 2019
Abby is on the planning committee for the Halloween festival, so she goes to pick out a pumpkin a cross farmer’s field. Instead she finds his body in the middle of the corn maze. A homeless veteran is blamed, Abby’s tenant a former veteran is blamed. Abby knows neither of them did it. She follows several clues to find out who did it.
October 19, 2019
Death by Jack-O’-Lantern by Alexis Morgan is the second An Abby McCree Mystery. It can be read as a standalone for those new to the series. Abby McCree has been “volunteered” to help with the planning of the Halloween Festival. When Glenda’s driver bails because of the pouring rain, Abby takes her neighbor out to Ronald Minter’s farm to pick up the pumpkins for the festival. Abby finds the cranky farmer dead in a shed in the middle of the corn maze. When Tripp and his friend, Kevin Montgomery find themselves afoul of the law, Abby begins searching for the guilty party. I thought Death by Jack-O’-Lantern was easy to read with a charming town and a variety of quirky characters. Abby keeps getting herself “volunteered” to committees and projects (I think gullible is written on her forehead). When Abby is not helping others, she is whipping up baked goods that come in handy for bribes and to offer to police when they inevitably end up at her house. Zeke, Abby’s dog, is my favorite character. He is such a lovable and smart fellow. Gage Logan, the chief of police, is a good guy. He is a fair minded individual who cares about his daughter. I wish Gage was Abby’s love interest. The murder of Ronald Minter provided a couple of suspects along with misdirection and direct clues. I would have liked the mystery to be more challenging. It seemed like the author was pointing a giant neon arrow at the culprit. I thought the reveal was interesting and entertaining. There were some appealing aspects to the crime, and I appreciated that it was completely resolved. The pumpkin carving sculptures were a delightful addition to the story especially Gage Logan’s. I would have liked less repetition of case details (I got it the first time). Death by Jack-O’-Lantern is a cute Halloween themed cozy mystery with purloined pumpkins, copious cookies, a humorous hound and a vigorous volunteer enforcer.
July 26, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
Ah, I was so very happy when I received the notification that I'd been approved for this book. I loved the romance in the first book, between Abby and Trip, and I loved her easy friendship with Gage. her love of baking; well that was another romance altogether! Basically I lived for Abby/Tripp moments, and with her working to clear his name we sure get plenty of those!
This is a two for one mystery, with not just the murder at play but the mystery of the Jack-o'-lantern's as well. Of course Abby ends up discovering all kinds of secrets and not just about the murder, but it was a fun journey to get there!
A really great cozy series, and it's only warming up if you catch my drift ;) Five stars!
Ah, I was so very happy when I received the notification that I'd been approved for this book. I loved the romance in the first book, between Abby and Trip, and I loved her easy friendship with Gage. her love of baking; well that was another romance altogether! Basically I lived for Abby/Tripp moments, and with her working to clear his name we sure get plenty of those!
This is a two for one mystery, with not just the murder at play but the mystery of the Jack-o'-lantern's as well. Of course Abby ends up discovering all kinds of secrets and not just about the murder, but it was a fun journey to get there!
A really great cozy series, and it's only warming up if you catch my drift ;) Five stars!
August 27, 2019
Death by Jack-o'Lantern by Alexis Morgan is the 2nd book in the Abbey McCree Mystery series, and a great addition. I really loved this book and can't wait for the next book in the series. Abby McCree moves to Snowberry Creek, after inheriting her Aunt Sybil home. Abby is ready to start a new life after a bad divorce, so she moved there with her dog, a Mastiff, named Zeke. Abby goes to the pumpkin patch to pick up pumpkins, and finds the owner, Ronald Minter, dead. Ronald was a grumpy man, who was not well liked. Tripp, her renter, is thrown into jail because he refuses to tell where a homeless veteran, accused of murder, is. Determined to help Tripp, Abby want to find the truth. This book is very well written full of great characters, and a well thought out plot. When I started this book, it kept me reading page after page. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, I strongly recommend this book.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington
August 11, 2021
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July 17, 2019
This is a fun cozy mystery that I really enjoyed.
I love cozies that take place in the Fall, especially with Halloween themes.
This book was definitely in my wheelhouse and I knew from the very beginning that I was going to love this book.
Abby is working on several committees and preparing for the Fall festival and Halloween is keeping her extremely busy.
When a simple errand leads to a full blown murder investigation, Abby turns to her neighbor and friend, Tripp, for help.
When circumstances take Tripp out of the picture, Abby still refuses to give up and goes in search of the answers.
This story is fast paced and will grab the reader's attention from the beginning.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
I love cozies that take place in the Fall, especially with Halloween themes.
This book was definitely in my wheelhouse and I knew from the very beginning that I was going to love this book.
Abby is working on several committees and preparing for the Fall festival and Halloween is keeping her extremely busy.
When a simple errand leads to a full blown murder investigation, Abby turns to her neighbor and friend, Tripp, for help.
When circumstances take Tripp out of the picture, Abby still refuses to give up and goes in search of the answers.
This story is fast paced and will grab the reader's attention from the beginning.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
Want to read
July 22, 2020This 2nd book in the Abby McCree mystery series was just as good as the first. Poor Abby is thrown into another "volunteer" position but she does her best to help out with the Halloween festival. Little did she know she'd come across another dead body! Sticking her nose into the mystery seems second nature to her even though she can't get help this time from Tripp who was thrown in jail for protecting the murder suspect. I loved the setting and the twists and turns kept me guessing until the very end. I love Abby and her little (BIG) dog too! I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
March 24, 2023
1.5
After finding the first book just ok and predictable, I still decided to give it a another chance. The characters didn’t really get any more likable and Trip was just annoying. So with me disliking Trip, the romance was not for me either. As soon as the Murderer was introduced I knew he was guilty. So I wasn’t surprised when it happened on page.
Something I actually liked, was the friendship between Abby and Gage.
After finding the first book just ok and predictable, I still decided to give it a another chance. The characters didn’t really get any more likable and Trip was just annoying. So with me disliking Trip, the romance was not for me either. As soon as the Murderer was introduced I knew he was guilty. So I wasn’t surprised when it happened on page.
Something I actually liked, was the friendship between Abby and Gage.
July 10, 2022
Unlikable characters make the book less enjoyable. The main character seemed to be young enough to not need a nap after attending planning meetings. The dog was the best part of the story.
August 23, 2019
4.5 Stars
This is the second book in the Abby McCree Mystery series by Alexis Morgan.
The book starts out with Abby’s neighbor Tripp offering her up as one of the heads of the Halloween Festival’s planning committee. She agrees only if Tripp co-chairs. She spies Tripp going out at night all dressed up in his combat fatigues and looking like he is ready to go out on patrol like he did when he was in the military. Abby follows him and gets the stuffing scared out of her when she is captured by one of his fellow Vietnam Vet guys (Kevin) who is living around a corn maze owned by curmudgeon Ron Minter. Tripp saves her from the misunderstanding. When Minter’s dead body is found at the center of his maze, they want to question Tripp’s friend Kevin. Tripp refuses to give away Kevin’s location since he has been having issues of PTSD and he didn’t want to spook the man. Tripp is put into jail. Abby makes it her job to discover the real killer before Tripp falls on his own sword and ruin’s his life.
I really enjoyed this book. The mystery was interesting. Not only the mystery of whodunit as far as the killing but who was carving all the very life-like pumpkins being left on people’s porches. The other thing I was digging was how well formed all the cast was. I could immediately tell who was who when they came onto the canvas. You don’t find that a lot with some cozy mysteries.
Abby has three possible love interests in this series and I find that fascinating: Detective Ben Earle, Police Chief Gage Logan, and of course, Tripp Blackston. She shares a kiss with Tripp at the end. And frankly, that is not enough PDA for me. I would have liked to see a tad more romance in this story, but it certainly didn’t lack in anyway without it. It is just a personal preference.
There are a couple of times in the story where you think they might have the culprit and then …. nope, it’s not them. Great red herrings. I like it when the plot surprises me. I wish there had been a bit of foreshadowing giving us that “ah ha” moment about the true killers and their motives. Maybe I just overlooked it when these people came on stage.
All in all it is a great cozy mystery that everyone should enjoy wrapping themselves up in for an afternoon. Definitely check this one out.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the second book in the Abby McCree Mystery series by Alexis Morgan.
The book starts out with Abby’s neighbor Tripp offering her up as one of the heads of the Halloween Festival’s planning committee. She agrees only if Tripp co-chairs. She spies Tripp going out at night all dressed up in his combat fatigues and looking like he is ready to go out on patrol like he did when he was in the military. Abby follows him and gets the stuffing scared out of her when she is captured by one of his fellow Vietnam Vet guys (Kevin) who is living around a corn maze owned by curmudgeon Ron Minter. Tripp saves her from the misunderstanding. When Minter’s dead body is found at the center of his maze, they want to question Tripp’s friend Kevin. Tripp refuses to give away Kevin’s location since he has been having issues of PTSD and he didn’t want to spook the man. Tripp is put into jail. Abby makes it her job to discover the real killer before Tripp falls on his own sword and ruin’s his life.
I really enjoyed this book. The mystery was interesting. Not only the mystery of whodunit as far as the killing but who was carving all the very life-like pumpkins being left on people’s porches. The other thing I was digging was how well formed all the cast was. I could immediately tell who was who when they came onto the canvas. You don’t find that a lot with some cozy mysteries.
Abby has three possible love interests in this series and I find that fascinating: Detective Ben Earle, Police Chief Gage Logan, and of course, Tripp Blackston. She shares a kiss with Tripp at the end. And frankly, that is not enough PDA for me. I would have liked to see a tad more romance in this story, but it certainly didn’t lack in anyway without it. It is just a personal preference.
There are a couple of times in the story where you think they might have the culprit and then …. nope, it’s not them. Great red herrings. I like it when the plot surprises me. I wish there had been a bit of foreshadowing giving us that “ah ha” moment about the true killers and their motives. Maybe I just overlooked it when these people came on stage.
All in all it is a great cozy mystery that everyone should enjoy wrapping themselves up in for an afternoon. Definitely check this one out.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
September 14, 2019
DEATH BY JACK-O'-LANTERN by Alexis Morgan
The Second Abby McCree Mystery
As Halloween looms ever closer Abby McCree once again finds herself working on a slew of committees and her tenant, Tripp, has just volunteered her for another one! But committee work is halted when instead of a bunch of pumpkins she finds the body of the town curmudgeon. When a homeless veteran who Tripp is mentoring is wanted for questioning, Tripp refuses to help law enforcement find him, and instead finds himself in trouble with the law. As Abby once again finds herself embroiled in another murder she'll have to help Tripp and Kevin all while preparing the town for its trick or treat event!
I absolutely love this smart sassy series. Endearing characters with strength of character, determination, and unwavering loyalty inhabit its pages. I admire Abby and her attitude. She's smart and able to give as good as she gets. I love how she denies people her baked goods when they make her mad. Her interactions with Detective Earle had my jaw dropping, then had me laughing out loud. Her relationship with Tripp is heartwarming and I look forward to them realizing they're more than just good friends, although their friendship is undeniable. I also like Abby's relationship with Gage, indeed with the whole police department. Of course, Zeke adds another layer of adorableness, as well as loyalty.
The second Abby McCree Mystery is a story about loyalty and facades. For better or worse, people aren't always what they seem. And sometimes you have to stand up for what you believe in, no matter the cost.
DEATH BY JACK-O'-LANTERN is a smart mystery with heart. The loyalty and good-natured bantering make me want to spend time with the people of Snowberry Creek...that and the baked goods. This book is an especially appealing autumnal read and I urge you to curl up with a copy.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
The Second Abby McCree Mystery
As Halloween looms ever closer Abby McCree once again finds herself working on a slew of committees and her tenant, Tripp, has just volunteered her for another one! But committee work is halted when instead of a bunch of pumpkins she finds the body of the town curmudgeon. When a homeless veteran who Tripp is mentoring is wanted for questioning, Tripp refuses to help law enforcement find him, and instead finds himself in trouble with the law. As Abby once again finds herself embroiled in another murder she'll have to help Tripp and Kevin all while preparing the town for its trick or treat event!
I absolutely love this smart sassy series. Endearing characters with strength of character, determination, and unwavering loyalty inhabit its pages. I admire Abby and her attitude. She's smart and able to give as good as she gets. I love how she denies people her baked goods when they make her mad. Her interactions with Detective Earle had my jaw dropping, then had me laughing out loud. Her relationship with Tripp is heartwarming and I look forward to them realizing they're more than just good friends, although their friendship is undeniable. I also like Abby's relationship with Gage, indeed with the whole police department. Of course, Zeke adds another layer of adorableness, as well as loyalty.
The second Abby McCree Mystery is a story about loyalty and facades. For better or worse, people aren't always what they seem. And sometimes you have to stand up for what you believe in, no matter the cost.
DEATH BY JACK-O'-LANTERN is a smart mystery with heart. The loyalty and good-natured bantering make me want to spend time with the people of Snowberry Creek...that and the baked goods. This book is an especially appealing autumnal read and I urge you to curl up with a copy.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
August 23, 2019
Series: An Abby McCree Mystery – Book 2
Author: Alexis Morgan
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Holiday
Publisher: Kensington Books
Page Count: 304
Publishing Date: August 27th, 2019
From Kensington Books comes the second cozy book in the Abby McCree Mystery series, Death by Jack-O-Lantern. This book is a great addition to this series. Although only the second book it is quickly becoming a favorite for cozy book fans everywhere.
Abby always has something to do, whether she likes it or not. She keeps getting volunteered for committees and other projects around town. She never seems able to say no to anyone who wants her help. This characteristic is what endears her to readers and keeps the book moving. Other characters are also becoming an intrinsic part of the series. All the characters are personable, entertaining and loveable. The slight romantic connection between Abby and Tripp continues to grow and leaves readers happily anticipating the next book to see if Abby will come to accept her real feelings for her renter.
The culprit will be a surprise to readers if they weren’t paying close attention to the clues presented. The unmasking of the killer is exactly what readers want in a cozy book, and leaves no questions unanswered. Death by Jack-O-Lantern is a thrill ride that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Ms. Morgan has crafted an electrifying adventure through small-town life, and relevant issues for Veterans of all wars. Her writing is impeccable, easy to follow and gives readers a sense of joy and peace. I highly recommend this cozy book and series to readers of all genres.
Author: Alexis Morgan
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Holiday
Publisher: Kensington Books
Page Count: 304
Publishing Date: August 27th, 2019
From Kensington Books comes the second cozy book in the Abby McCree Mystery series, Death by Jack-O-Lantern. This book is a great addition to this series. Although only the second book it is quickly becoming a favorite for cozy book fans everywhere.
Abby always has something to do, whether she likes it or not. She keeps getting volunteered for committees and other projects around town. She never seems able to say no to anyone who wants her help. This characteristic is what endears her to readers and keeps the book moving. Other characters are also becoming an intrinsic part of the series. All the characters are personable, entertaining and loveable. The slight romantic connection between Abby and Tripp continues to grow and leaves readers happily anticipating the next book to see if Abby will come to accept her real feelings for her renter.
The culprit will be a surprise to readers if they weren’t paying close attention to the clues presented. The unmasking of the killer is exactly what readers want in a cozy book, and leaves no questions unanswered. Death by Jack-O-Lantern is a thrill ride that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Ms. Morgan has crafted an electrifying adventure through small-town life, and relevant issues for Veterans of all wars. Her writing is impeccable, easy to follow and gives readers a sense of joy and peace. I highly recommend this cozy book and series to readers of all genres.
October 15, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up
I read the first book in this series last year and was left feeling so-so about it. I don't remember if it was the characters, the mystery or something else that was disappointing, so I decided to read book #2 to see if I want to keep the series on my list.
I'm not sure how I feel about Abby, the MC. She seems to run from one committee meeting to another, but she's apparently not able to say no when asked to help with yet another cause. I like most of the other characters, but I adore Zeke, Abby's mastiff-mix furrbaby.
The murder victim here was not a nice man, so there were a lot of suspects at first. As the police - and Abby - learned more about the circumstances, some of those names were crossed off the list, but the rest kept me guessing until just before it was revealed in the book. Given that person's identity, the motive made sense, but I wouldn't have figured it out on my own.
I have the next book in the series in my audiobook library, so I'll read at least that one before deciding whether to continue beyond that.
I read the first book in this series last year and was left feeling so-so about it. I don't remember if it was the characters, the mystery or something else that was disappointing, so I decided to read book #2 to see if I want to keep the series on my list.
I'm not sure how I feel about Abby, the MC. She seems to run from one committee meeting to another, but she's apparently not able to say no when asked to help with yet another cause. I like most of the other characters, but I adore Zeke, Abby's mastiff-mix furrbaby.
The murder victim here was not a nice man, so there were a lot of suspects at first. As the police - and Abby - learned more about the circumstances, some of those names were crossed off the list, but the rest kept me guessing until just before it was revealed in the book. Given that person's identity, the motive made sense, but I wouldn't have figured it out on my own.
I have the next book in the series in my audiobook library, so I'll read at least that one before deciding whether to continue beyond that.
September 22, 2020
Abby only wanted to help out a friend and pick up some pumpkins, but instead she finds the owner, murdered. She really doesn’t want to get involved trying to find the murderer, but she just can’t help herself. Her tenant and friend, Tripp, defends one of his friends, a homeless veteran who has become a person of interest in the crime. The murder victim was the town grump, and though many people disliked him, Abby wants to find out who hated him enough to kill him. The mystery is quite intriguing, and the characters, both the good and the bad, are delightful in their own way and well developed. The interaction between the characters was well written, and everything came together for an entertaining and interesting tale. Another positive aspect of the story was the careful and constructive way the author dealt with the problem of PTSD.
September 15, 2019
I am loving this new cozy series! In this second book in the series, Abby has a Halloween murder to solve. With her friend and tennant, Trip sitting in jail because he refuses to give up a friend’s(and a person of interest in the case) whereabouts, it’s up to Abby to do some sleuthing on her own, to get Trip out of jail. This is a fun mystery. I enjoyed the fall/Halloween time frame of the mystery and it had quite a few surprises along the way. I am definitely keeping this series on my must keep up with list.
I received this book from NetGalley and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received this book from NetGalley and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
October 6, 2019
Thank you to Kensington Books for picking me to win this in a goodreads giveaway, I truly appreciate it!!
This book was amazing, it had Thriller vibes to it with lots of Cozy Mystery in it as well. Abby is my fave character in this book/series. So many twists and turns made this book amazing!!
The Plot, Characters and Setting made for it an enjoyable read in October!! At first I thought it was the 1st person who killed Ronald but was shocked when it was revealed who really killed him which I didn't suspect at all.
I hope to read more book by Alexis in the future!! Can't wait to continue this series in the future!!
This book was amazing, it had Thriller vibes to it with lots of Cozy Mystery in it as well. Abby is my fave character in this book/series. So many twists and turns made this book amazing!!
The Plot, Characters and Setting made for it an enjoyable read in October!! At first I thought it was the 1st person who killed Ronald but was shocked when it was revealed who really killed him which I didn't suspect at all.
I hope to read more book by Alexis in the future!! Can't wait to continue this series in the future!!
August 20, 2021
Abby has been roped into being on the planning committee for Snowberry Creek's Harvest Festival. She heads to Minter's pumpkin patch to get a pumpkin and finds Minter dead in his corn maze. Meanwhile, her tenant and friend, Tripp has been acting strangely lately and she sneaks out late at night to follow him, only to find herself dragged off the road by Veteran Kevin Montgomery. She learns Tripp has been trying to help out some of the local Vets.
The police start to suspect that Kevin is the murderer after he was heard arguing with Minter. Tripp is adamant that his friend is innocent and refuses to give up his location, thus landing him in the slammer. Abby tries to help Tripp and Kevin, and finds herself in some pretty hot water.
I enjoy Zeke the giant mastiff as always, and learning more about the quirky characters of Snowberry. I also love all the talk about Washington!
October 30, 2024
This is book 2 in a series and I didn't realize that until I was part way through the book. I think it would have helped if I had read the first book before this one. The main plot was a pretty standard murder mystery where the wrong person is the main suspect throughout. I enjoyed the secondary plot of the mysterious carved pumpkins showing up around town. I figured that one out quicker than the murder plot, but then a crucial clue wasn't revealed until late in the story and it made all the pieces fall into place. It was a decent cozy mystery. I may pick up more in the series later on.
August 31, 2019
I enjoyed this cozy mystery and since some time had passed after finishing the first one, I did not mind the recap of the first book within the story. The characters are likable, the mystery interesting
And Zeke, the dog, is wonderful! An enjoyable read.
And Zeke, the dog, is wonderful! An enjoyable read.
October 8, 2020
Il libro fila che è un piacere e me lo sono proprio goduto, nonostante avessi capito subito chi fosse "lo scultore di zucche" e ben presto chi fosse l'assassino sebbene non fossi riuscita a ipotizzare il movente.
December 12, 2021
Loved that there were multiple mysteries and lots of red herrings to keep me guessing.
September 22, 2021
A really good book. Great characters. I had thought at one point who the killer was but was not sure, then found I was right.
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