What do you think?
Rate this book
Tallie Graver Mystery #4
Carpet Diem
Live and let dust . . .
Now that Tallie Graver’s cleaning business is starting to shine, she’s ready to go squeegee to squeegee against Audra McNeal for a major contract at the Astercromb mansion. Tallie’s not afraid of a little friendly competition from the new cleaner in town. In fact, Tallie likes Audra, though she wonders how her glamorous rival manages to clean house and maintain her fancy manicure. Tallie has her rubber-gloves full staying one step ahead of her nemesis. Until she finds a well-polished hand poking out of a rolled-up carpet, rendering her competition . . . dead.
Though it lands Tallie the big job, there’s nothing tidy about Audra’s death. So
between polishing and scrubbing, Tallie’s determined to find the killer. Hopefully the police chief doesn’t mind her cluttering up his investigation with the filthy dealings she discovers. Turns out Audra was not as squeaky clean as she appeared. And confronting her killer could bring Tallie to a very foul end indeed . . .
Now that Tallie Graver’s cleaning business is starting to shine, she’s ready to go squeegee to squeegee against Audra McNeal for a major contract at the Astercromb mansion. Tallie’s not afraid of a little friendly competition from the new cleaner in town. In fact, Tallie likes Audra, though she wonders how her glamorous rival manages to clean house and maintain her fancy manicure. Tallie has her rubber-gloves full staying one step ahead of her nemesis. Until she finds a well-polished hand poking out of a rolled-up carpet, rendering her competition . . . dead.
Though it lands Tallie the big job, there’s nothing tidy about Audra’s death. So
between polishing and scrubbing, Tallie’s determined to find the killer. Hopefully the police chief doesn’t mind her cluttering up his investigation with the filthy dealings she discovers. Turns out Audra was not as squeaky clean as she appeared. And confronting her killer could bring Tallie to a very foul end indeed . . .
- GenresCozy MysteryMysteryCozy
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published September 24, 2019
16 people are currently reading
188 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
October 23, 2019
Carpet Diem by Misty Simon is the fourth book in the cozy A Tallie Graver Mystery series. Each book in the series features it’s own mystery to be solved so they can be read and understood as a standalone if choosing to do so or in any order. Of course though there are details to the story and characters that carry over book to book so it’s always best to enjoy the series from the beginning.
Tallulah Graver never wanted to go into the family business of running the Graver Funeral Home. Instead Tallie choose to marry a wealthy man and was living rather well until her marriage fell apart. Picking herself up after the divorce Tallie moved in the apartment above the funeral home and found in order to avoid working full time in the family business and still pay her bills she started a business cleaning the homes of the same wealthy people that she once called friends.
Now that Tallie’s cleaning business is really taking off and she’s added some employees Tallie wants nothing more than to gain some bigger clients. Chasing those new contracts is how Tallie ended up in a competition cleaning the Astercromb mansion against her biggest business rival, Audra McNeal. Tallie didn’t mind the competition until it seemed it was rigged in favor of Audra but after losing Tallie returns to pick up her supplies only to find Audra’s body.
A Tallie Graver Mystery series is one I’ve followed from the beginning and continue to enjoy with each installment. This series is always good for a few laughs and a solid mystery while Tallie has a unique way of getting close to get answers to her questions not only by being behind the scenes at the funeral but also cleaning her clients homes. With Tallie again digging up suspects and suspicion the story was another fun one to follow and I’ll definitely look forward to book five of the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Tallulah Graver never wanted to go into the family business of running the Graver Funeral Home. Instead Tallie choose to marry a wealthy man and was living rather well until her marriage fell apart. Picking herself up after the divorce Tallie moved in the apartment above the funeral home and found in order to avoid working full time in the family business and still pay her bills she started a business cleaning the homes of the same wealthy people that she once called friends.
Now that Tallie’s cleaning business is really taking off and she’s added some employees Tallie wants nothing more than to gain some bigger clients. Chasing those new contracts is how Tallie ended up in a competition cleaning the Astercromb mansion against her biggest business rival, Audra McNeal. Tallie didn’t mind the competition until it seemed it was rigged in favor of Audra but after losing Tallie returns to pick up her supplies only to find Audra’s body.
A Tallie Graver Mystery series is one I’ve followed from the beginning and continue to enjoy with each installment. This series is always good for a few laughs and a solid mystery while Tallie has a unique way of getting close to get answers to her questions not only by being behind the scenes at the funeral but also cleaning her clients homes. With Tallie again digging up suspects and suspicion the story was another fun one to follow and I’ll definitely look forward to book five of the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
August 20, 2019
This is a great cozy. There are likable characters, realistic dialogue and an fun plot with twists and turns. When the book ended found myself wanting more of the Tallie Graver mysteries. I am looking forward to the next in the series.
September 23, 2019
Who knew vying for a cleaning contract could lead to murder? Tallie Graver is on the hunt for a murderer without being the next victim! When a cleaning competitor is murdered, the one-time society wife is determined to bring the killer to justice.
Tallie, one my favorite down to earth and practical sleuths, has her hands full - vying for a contract, deciding whether or not to follow her dream of opening a tea shop and the wonderful opportunity of having Max spend a whole month with her, Mr. Fleefers and Peanut before heading back to D.C.
I love main characters who are complex and relatable. Tallie has changed her life and fights not only for herself but those who need help. The development of the character, over the books, has been entertaining to read and inspirational. Tallie's written in an honest (warts and all!) way that makes the reader root for her to succeed. I also enjoy the interaction between her friends, colleagues and, of course the supportive & handsome Max. I love the twists and turns Tallie's life is in for at the end of the book!
I'm impatiently waiting for the next book, Varnished Without a Trace!
I received an ARC from the author for a fair and honest review of this book.
Tallie, one my favorite down to earth and practical sleuths, has her hands full - vying for a contract, deciding whether or not to follow her dream of opening a tea shop and the wonderful opportunity of having Max spend a whole month with her, Mr. Fleefers and Peanut before heading back to D.C.
I love main characters who are complex and relatable. Tallie has changed her life and fights not only for herself but those who need help. The development of the character, over the books, has been entertaining to read and inspirational. Tallie's written in an honest (warts and all!) way that makes the reader root for her to succeed. I also enjoy the interaction between her friends, colleagues and, of course the supportive & handsome Max. I love the twists and turns Tallie's life is in for at the end of the book!
I'm impatiently waiting for the next book, Varnished Without a Trace!
I received an ARC from the author for a fair and honest review of this book.
August 18, 2019
Misty Simon has crafted a very enjoyable cozy mystery series and this 4th book continues that tradition. Tallie Graver is a fun character. She is easily likable and the author has done a great job in 4 books of growing and developing Tallie on a personal level. She is surrounded by a wonderful cast of secondary characters that include her parents, brother, best friend and her mother, the town sheriff and her boyfriend, Max. I like how Ms. Simon has also developed and grown the relationship between Tallie and Sheriff Burton. In book 4, they have come to something of a truce and it should make things interesting going forward. I also like the natural progression of her relationship with Max. He is supportive but also at the same time concerned for her welfare without stifling her investigations.
The mystery was well crafted and the author provides plenty of suspects and motives. She lays of a trail of clues and adds some twists and turns that kept the mystery engaging and interesting. I was surprised by the identity of the killer and the motive behind the crimes. I think this author has crafted a series that contains fun and engaging characters, strong solid mysteries that keep me guessing, and plots that have a great pace and move the story along. I will definitely be back for more in this series.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
The mystery was well crafted and the author provides plenty of suspects and motives. She lays of a trail of clues and adds some twists and turns that kept the mystery engaging and interesting. I was surprised by the identity of the killer and the motive behind the crimes. I think this author has crafted a series that contains fun and engaging characters, strong solid mysteries that keep me guessing, and plots that have a great pace and move the story along. I will definitely be back for more in this series.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
November 21, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Tallie Graver is vying for a big cleaning contract for Mrs. Petrovski at her Astercromb mansion. She is competing against Audra McNeal and they have each been assigned a room to clean to the owner’s specifications. Tallie and Audra have become friends but she is going to fight hard for this job so she has plenty of work for the women that work for her.
Tallie does get the contact but it isn’t because of her cleaning expertise. It is because she found her competitor dead, rolled up in a carpet, and tossed in a dumpster. Thankfully the police chief doesn’t have her as number 1 on his suspect list but that doesn’t mean she isn’t going dust and sweep together every clue to find out who killed Audra. She has to be careful though or she may end up using her family’s services instead of just helping with the family business.
Ms. Simon has really written a wonderful mystery. Twists and turns plus a red herring or two. I dove right into this story and didn’t look back. I read the book in two evenings but would have read it all in one if my eyes and brain would have cooperated. The ending was unexpected and satisfying too.
While a great mystery is important, this series shines because of its strong characters. Tallie has changed so much since book 1, Cremains of the Day. Her relationship with Max is getting more serious and she is pulling away from her ex-Mrs. Waldo status. Her relationship with the sheriff is evolving as well in an interesting way. I liked Tallie right away but it is great to see a character grow realistically as Tallie has. Making the story even more enjoyable is that the regular supporting cast is developing nicely too. Add to that the unique characters we meet like Mrs. Petrovski and her nephew and you have a story that is extremely hard to put down.
Wonderful characters and compelling mysteries keep me coming back for more of this series. Misty Simon is such a fine storyteller, she never disappoints. She entertains and tests my brain. Carpet Diem is a Perfect Escape and I recommend it highly.
Tallie Graver is vying for a big cleaning contract for Mrs. Petrovski at her Astercromb mansion. She is competing against Audra McNeal and they have each been assigned a room to clean to the owner’s specifications. Tallie and Audra have become friends but she is going to fight hard for this job so she has plenty of work for the women that work for her.
Tallie does get the contact but it isn’t because of her cleaning expertise. It is because she found her competitor dead, rolled up in a carpet, and tossed in a dumpster. Thankfully the police chief doesn’t have her as number 1 on his suspect list but that doesn’t mean she isn’t going dust and sweep together every clue to find out who killed Audra. She has to be careful though or she may end up using her family’s services instead of just helping with the family business.
Ms. Simon has really written a wonderful mystery. Twists and turns plus a red herring or two. I dove right into this story and didn’t look back. I read the book in two evenings but would have read it all in one if my eyes and brain would have cooperated. The ending was unexpected and satisfying too.
While a great mystery is important, this series shines because of its strong characters. Tallie has changed so much since book 1, Cremains of the Day. Her relationship with Max is getting more serious and she is pulling away from her ex-Mrs. Waldo status. Her relationship with the sheriff is evolving as well in an interesting way. I liked Tallie right away but it is great to see a character grow realistically as Tallie has. Making the story even more enjoyable is that the regular supporting cast is developing nicely too. Add to that the unique characters we meet like Mrs. Petrovski and her nephew and you have a story that is extremely hard to put down.
Wonderful characters and compelling mysteries keep me coming back for more of this series. Misty Simon is such a fine storyteller, she never disappoints. She entertains and tests my brain. Carpet Diem is a Perfect Escape and I recommend it highly.
August 8, 2019
This series is so much fun, and I think this book was the best one yet! I adore Tallie, she is all over the place yet grounded. The fact that the author can depict her like that speaks volume for the writing. I love how everything has progressed character wise as well. The mystery was perfectly done, with just enough of a curve ball at the end to make you scratch your head. A wonderful series and an awesome new part of it!
August 9, 2019
This was a great read. I could never guess who the killer was until the very end. Well-crafted mystery, engaging storyline and wonderful characters. I enjoyed the banter between the main character Tallie Graver and Burton, Chief of police. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Highly recommend.
Thank you to Misty Simon, NetGalley, and Kensington for an ARC of this book.
Thank you to Misty Simon, NetGalley, and Kensington for an ARC of this book.
November 9, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book.
Now I read a whole heap of cozy, but there is always something inherently easy about them; they are easy to fall into, easy to like characters, and we always get a resolution. There are no cliffhangers in cozy. I like to think I'm a good judge of them too, with at least experience. What makes this book fall down slightly is the extremely complicated plot, with Tallie dashing this way and that and constantly changing her mind about what's she's doing and then overthinking some of the simplest things. At first it was helter skelter around the murder, but I thought it might calm down when she actually investigated and we could see some suspects in the making. Instead it got worse until everything was a hot mess, and I couldn't look away.
I liked the characters and the small town feel. The plot could have been polished and maybe it was before it was published. Perhaps now some of the things Tallie is chasing have been sorted the next book won't be so hectic. I can definitely see the potential in this book and in these characters, I just felt like this had teething problems. Three stars.
Now I read a whole heap of cozy, but there is always something inherently easy about them; they are easy to fall into, easy to like characters, and we always get a resolution. There are no cliffhangers in cozy. I like to think I'm a good judge of them too, with at least experience. What makes this book fall down slightly is the extremely complicated plot, with Tallie dashing this way and that and constantly changing her mind about what's she's doing and then overthinking some of the simplest things. At first it was helter skelter around the murder, but I thought it might calm down when she actually investigated and we could see some suspects in the making. Instead it got worse until everything was a hot mess, and I couldn't look away.
I liked the characters and the small town feel. The plot could have been polished and maybe it was before it was published. Perhaps now some of the things Tallie is chasing have been sorted the next book won't be so hectic. I can definitely see the potential in this book and in these characters, I just felt like this had teething problems. Three stars.
July 30, 2020
Carpet Diem is the fourth book in the Tallie Graver Mystery series! We meet up again with Tallie who is going head to head with a rival for a cleaning contract. But of course, that rival winds up dead...
The major flaw I see in a lot of cozies is the lack of character development. As the series goes on, the character doesn’t grow, but that’s not something I find in this series. With each book, I see Tallie growing as a character and I love that. It makes her feel very well-developed and real.
I also love the other characters as well! I think that’s my favorite thing about this particular cozy series. The characters are delightfully entertaining and warm. They feel like real, everyday people.
Overall, this is another great addition to a very suspenseful and addicting series! I can’t get enough of Tallie and her friends! XD
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review**
The major flaw I see in a lot of cozies is the lack of character development. As the series goes on, the character doesn’t grow, but that’s not something I find in this series. With each book, I see Tallie growing as a character and I love that. It makes her feel very well-developed and real.
I also love the other characters as well! I think that’s my favorite thing about this particular cozy series. The characters are delightfully entertaining and warm. They feel like real, everyday people.
Overall, this is another great addition to a very suspenseful and addicting series! I can’t get enough of Tallie and her friends! XD
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review**
June 28, 2019
Tallie Graver has done it again. Okay, for those of you who are not familiar with the Tallie Graver cozy mysteries, Tallie is a 30-something woman who was once rich and now works as a cleaning lady for the same rich folks she used to pal around with. She lives in a tiny studio apartment over the funeral home her family owns—along with a St. Bernard, an uppity cat, and, on occasion, her boyfriend Max. When Tallie divorced her rich husband, she took on the role of squeegee queen. She now has built a reputation as an honest—and good—cleaner and has a crew of women working for her. She is quirky and fun and adding a little bit of romance to the mystery only ups the intrigue.
Like most cozy mysteries, this one is set in a small town where everyone knows everyone and think they know everything. But it is really Tallie who has all the info. Well, almost. In this one, she relies on Max to help her dig up the dirt on the possible perpetrators. That, in addition to the gossip queen (friend Gina’s mother!) and other sources, Tallie starts putting together the pieces of this puzzle.
In this one, Tallie is helping the local chief of police, Burton, figure out who killed the woman rolled up in the carpet in the dumpster. But nothing is coming together. There are too many clues—and not enough. Both Burton and Tallie are frustrated. But things do come together in the end.
I love these stories, but the end of this one felt a little rushed to me. I couldn’t figure a couple things out (like how everyone knew Tallie was in trouble and how they all got to where she was). That’s the only reason for the half-sparkler off. But you have to try the recipe for snickerdoodles that is included. Yummy cookies!
If you’re a cozy-mystery lover, take a look at the Tallie Graver mysteries. Each book is a stand-alone, but I’d start with the first one (Deceased and Desist) just so you know what’s going on in Tallie’s life and the background on some of the people. It’s not absolutely necessary, but it is a good idea.
I definitely recommend these books.
Note: I received this ARC free from the author for a true and honest review.
Also noted: Misty is a friend of mine, but the review is honest and I still recommend the books.
Vicky 6/26/19
Like most cozy mysteries, this one is set in a small town where everyone knows everyone and think they know everything. But it is really Tallie who has all the info. Well, almost. In this one, she relies on Max to help her dig up the dirt on the possible perpetrators. That, in addition to the gossip queen (friend Gina’s mother!) and other sources, Tallie starts putting together the pieces of this puzzle.
In this one, Tallie is helping the local chief of police, Burton, figure out who killed the woman rolled up in the carpet in the dumpster. But nothing is coming together. There are too many clues—and not enough. Both Burton and Tallie are frustrated. But things do come together in the end.
I love these stories, but the end of this one felt a little rushed to me. I couldn’t figure a couple things out (like how everyone knew Tallie was in trouble and how they all got to where she was). That’s the only reason for the half-sparkler off. But you have to try the recipe for snickerdoodles that is included. Yummy cookies!
If you’re a cozy-mystery lover, take a look at the Tallie Graver mysteries. Each book is a stand-alone, but I’d start with the first one (Deceased and Desist) just so you know what’s going on in Tallie’s life and the background on some of the people. It’s not absolutely necessary, but it is a good idea.
I definitely recommend these books.
Note: I received this ARC free from the author for a true and honest review.
Also noted: Misty is a friend of mine, but the review is honest and I still recommend the books.
Vicky 6/26/19
September 11, 2019
Tallie Graver runs a cleaning business in town and solves mysteries in her spare time. When she is up against a friend for a big job cleaning a bnch of old houses the owner is looking to sell, she and her rival each need to clean a room in the old Astercromb mansion to see who will win the business. Quickly Tallie realizes the cards have been stacked against her and the owner tells her that she has lost the opportunity. Fuming, Tallie leaves the house and her tools behind.
Going back to the mansion later to pick up her tools, Tallie looks out the window and spots her vacuum in the trash bin that was brought to the site. Climbing in to retrieve her vacuum, Tallie finds a hand and recognizes the manicure as that of her rival. Promising that she will be a concerned citizen and not a vigilante, Tallie can’t help but get herself involved in solving the murder. But will Tallie figure it out or be the next victim?
This fun series is set in Central Pennsylvania and is a typical small town. Looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Tallie and Max.
Going back to the mansion later to pick up her tools, Tallie looks out the window and spots her vacuum in the trash bin that was brought to the site. Climbing in to retrieve her vacuum, Tallie finds a hand and recognizes the manicure as that of her rival. Promising that she will be a concerned citizen and not a vigilante, Tallie can’t help but get herself involved in solving the murder. But will Tallie figure it out or be the next victim?
This fun series is set in Central Pennsylvania and is a typical small town. Looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Tallie and Max.
November 16, 2020
MIND BLOWN !!! Sometimes readers wonder if an author can continue to amaze them with their series when they are a few books in.....well I am here to tell you that not only does Misty Simon keep the readers attention in her Tallie Graver Mystery series but she will have you on the edge of your seat with every new book and I highly warn you to be firmly sitting when you read Carpet Diem, the fourth book, because you may just end up on the floor !!!
If you have read the previous books in this series, you are a fan and feel like you are a part of the family or the town as you are now invested in it all. If you are on the fence, Carpet Diem will put you over and in the yard !!
In Carpet Diem Tallie and a new friend, Audra, are going against each other for a huge cleaning contract. If Tallie wins this contract her and her cleaning girls will be set for a while and maybe Tallie can convince her parents that she can do more than work for the family business, Graver's Funeral Home. On the night before they are to compete for the contract, the Astercomb mansion is opened for them to walk through. Unfortunately Tallie has a big date with Max who is in town for the weekend so she sends one of her employees, Bethany, in her place. By the time they are scheduled to meet Tallie is going in blind because the files that Bethany sent are still downloading. And that's not all ... when she gets to the property Preston Prescott a thorn from her past is there to torment her. Of course he would be there as the owner is his aunt, Mrs. Petrovski, and for some reason she does not like Tallie. While Tallie and Audra set off to each clean a room in the mansion to showcase their skills, Preston lingers near Tallie to ensure she loses.
After Preston succeeds in sabotaging the job securing it for Audra, Tallie leaves in a huff forgetting some of her supplies. When she returns later to get them, she finds Audra''s body wrapped up in a rug in the dumpster. Even though Max is now going to be staying for a whole month and she should focus on him and her cleaning company, she feels she has to find out what happened to Audra. Max being the great man that he is offers to help with looking into Audra's life and the people in it while Tallie tries to convince Police Chief Burton to let her help in the case. And with him also dealing with a drug bust case he could use her help.....
In Carpet Diem, as with previous books in this series, there is no shortage of suspects for Tallie to look into but readers will not be prepared for who ends up being the culprit !! This person will not even be on our radar !!
Simon has such a way with her writing that readers can sit back and enjoy the story and get lost in Tallie's life and fall in love with her and her friends and family more and more with each book. However she also has a knack of getting readers minds going so that they can play along with Tallie and her investigative skills and try to solve the case ..... if they choose to. Either way Simon has your best interest in mind.
August 11, 2019
Misty Simon has done it again with her newest book, Carpet Diem.
Tallie Gravers is a fun, exuberant character, who is very easy to love.
Tallie is still putting her life back together after a disastrous first marriage. Working at her family's funeral home isn't really her ideal job, but she isn't sure of exactly what she wants to do.
Her boyfriend Max is extremely supportive and is willing to do most anything to keep her happy.
When she has the opportunity to land a big job cleaning houses, she is eager to to get her hands dirty. Unfortunately, there is some competition, and Tallie has to go up against a new friend in order to secure the job.
As we all know, nothing ever goes well for Tallie, and her knack for finding dead bodies doesn't disappoint in this phenomenal addition to the series.
Carpet Diem kept me guessing until the very end. I was shocked at the reveal, certain I had finally identified the murderer.
I can't wait for more in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
Tallie Gravers is a fun, exuberant character, who is very easy to love.
Tallie is still putting her life back together after a disastrous first marriage. Working at her family's funeral home isn't really her ideal job, but she isn't sure of exactly what she wants to do.
Her boyfriend Max is extremely supportive and is willing to do most anything to keep her happy.
When she has the opportunity to land a big job cleaning houses, she is eager to to get her hands dirty. Unfortunately, there is some competition, and Tallie has to go up against a new friend in order to secure the job.
As we all know, nothing ever goes well for Tallie, and her knack for finding dead bodies doesn't disappoint in this phenomenal addition to the series.
Carpet Diem kept me guessing until the very end. I was shocked at the reveal, certain I had finally identified the murderer.
I can't wait for more in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
November 26, 2019
Can I start a review by stating how much I love really well written characters? Cause I love the character writing in this book. The mystery is good but man characterization take front stage. I really enjoyed getting to know them all even though this is a book in the middle of a series and I just started reading it. I have already picked up the others in the series. Thank you so much.
August 20, 2024
It's a cozy, what's not to love!?
Honestly, this one almost felt predictable, then that final chapter just hits you in the face!
Honestly, this one almost felt predictable, then that final chapter just hits you in the face!
April 9, 2022
Definitely one to keep you guessing. Great characters and plot. I found this to be a fun read
September 25, 2019
Tallie goes head to head with cleaning rival, Audra McNeal, for a job, but it’s clear right away the odds aren’t in Tallie’s favour...until the competition turns up dead. Tallie once again struggles to stay out of the investigation, and fails...again!
Misty Simon has delivered a wonderfully complex and enjoyable cozy mystery for this reader’s delight. I didn’t think she could top the first Tallie book I read, yet she has, further developing each character so they feel so real and relatable, they could be your neighbour. And maybe your friend. Except Preston Prescott. Nobody likes Preston.
The intrigue, red herrings and clues woven into the story kept me engaged and frantically flipping pages so I could find out the who, why and how of the murder.
I enjoyed the continued development of Tallie’s current relationship, but I also get a Tallie-Burton vibe. Just me? I’d love to see that hater to lover trope, but I might be alone in this. I found the ending quite enjoyable and satisfying and would recommend this to any lover of cozy mysteries.
I received an ARC to review.
Misty Simon has delivered a wonderfully complex and enjoyable cozy mystery for this reader’s delight. I didn’t think she could top the first Tallie book I read, yet she has, further developing each character so they feel so real and relatable, they could be your neighbour. And maybe your friend. Except Preston Prescott. Nobody likes Preston.
The intrigue, red herrings and clues woven into the story kept me engaged and frantically flipping pages so I could find out the who, why and how of the murder.
I enjoyed the continued development of Tallie’s current relationship, but I also get a Tallie-Burton vibe. Just me? I’d love to see that hater to lover trope, but I might be alone in this. I found the ending quite enjoyable and satisfying and would recommend this to any lover of cozy mysteries.
I received an ARC to review.
September 6, 2019
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This was a cracking good mystery! I appreciated the characters and the mystery.
I'm looking forward to reading this series from the beginning.
This was a cracking good mystery! I appreciated the characters and the mystery.
I'm looking forward to reading this series from the beginning.
June 9, 2020
Trying to get her cleaning company off the ground, Tallie Graver agrees to a completion with the prize being the contract to clean out a mansion. Her competition ended up dead, wrapped in a carpet. Fearing that her company's reputation may be at stake, she starts to look into the murder. It took me about a third of the book to earn up to Tallie, but I'm glad I stuck with the book and her. Plot was fair and I failed to guess the correct villian. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2019
Wow, what a story. Very unique storyline. the characters, jobs and living arrangements are interesting and make this book very different from most cozy mysteries. I can't wait to read more. #CarpetDiem #NetGalley
November 10, 2024
So sorry haven’t reviewed. I read this one quite a while ago.
Fantastic romp into a new series by Ms. Simon.
Love the snarky heroine in this.
Reads so much like someone I know.
Fun and surely I will read more in this series.
Write on, Misty!
Fantastic romp into a new series by Ms. Simon.
Love the snarky heroine in this.
Reads so much like someone I know.
Fun and surely I will read more in this series.
Write on, Misty!
January 1, 2020
Carpet Diem by Misty Simon
Book #4: Tallie Graver Mystery Series
Source: NetGalley and Kensington Publishing
Rating: 4½/5 stars
Tallie Graver never thought her life would be fulfilled by cleaning toilets, dusting bunnies, and vacuuming with a perfect top of the line vacuum. Tallie loves her vacuum, her clients are generally quite lovely, and Tallie’s business, thanks to those lovely clients, has grown to include an actual crew of cleaners. Yeah, when you throw in her awesome boyfriend, Taliie’s life is quite fulfilled.
And then . . . .
Feeling feisty and all kinds of confident, Tallie decides to throw her hat in the ring for a HUGE local cleaning contract. Once upon a time, Tallie and her ladies were the only game in town, but now she has some friendly competition. Tallie totally knows her crew are the best in the business and a little friendly competition never hurt anyone . . . . except the actual competition. Shortly after the maid service auditions, Tallie finds the body of her only competition, her precious vacuum is caught up in the fray, and the sheriff is once again very displeased. Very. Displeased.
Being sucked into another investigation means less time with her handsome boyfriend, grief from her family over her involvement and the possible danger, and the incredible displeasure of the sheriff. To be fair, Tallie didn’t go looking for a new investigation, only her vacuum! What’s more, even with the sheriff’s great displeasure, even he has to admit, people will talk to Tallie and reveal things they simply won’t say or reveal to the police. As Tallie begins to poke around and aske questions, she uncovers on inconsistency and lie after the next leading her to believe, her friendly competition wasn’t as friendly as she initially believed.
In the midst of all her investigating, Tallie also has to deal with the fallout from her family and the ever-evolving nature of her relationship. Her family is, yet again distraught over Tallie’s investigative inclinations, the funeral home is in desperate need of Tallie’s help (UGH!), and her boyfriend is contemplating some big life changes that will absolutely impact Tallie and their future together. Juggling forty-two balls at the same time isn’t easy and if Tallie drops even one, her very fulfilled life may just come crashing down all around her.
The Bottom Line: I truly believe this series is picking up steam with each new installment. Tallie is becoming not just a character I like, but a beloved character whose world I very much enjoy returning to time and again. There’s no stagnancy in this series; in fact, every aspect of this series is evolving, and this is something I find I must have in my reads. Tallie’s personal life takes a significant turn in this book, her business is becoming a small empire, and her relationship with the sheriff and involvement in murder investigations is changing too. The evolution I’m seeing in this book/series is making it stronger and creating a real connection to the characters for me. I want to know more about these people, the town, and the next investigation Tallie is going to find herself a part of. In all, the Tallie Graver Mystery series may be one of my favorite cozy mystery series.
Book #4: Tallie Graver Mystery Series
Source: NetGalley and Kensington Publishing
Rating: 4½/5 stars
Tallie Graver never thought her life would be fulfilled by cleaning toilets, dusting bunnies, and vacuuming with a perfect top of the line vacuum. Tallie loves her vacuum, her clients are generally quite lovely, and Tallie’s business, thanks to those lovely clients, has grown to include an actual crew of cleaners. Yeah, when you throw in her awesome boyfriend, Taliie’s life is quite fulfilled.
And then . . . .
Feeling feisty and all kinds of confident, Tallie decides to throw her hat in the ring for a HUGE local cleaning contract. Once upon a time, Tallie and her ladies were the only game in town, but now she has some friendly competition. Tallie totally knows her crew are the best in the business and a little friendly competition never hurt anyone . . . . except the actual competition. Shortly after the maid service auditions, Tallie finds the body of her only competition, her precious vacuum is caught up in the fray, and the sheriff is once again very displeased. Very. Displeased.
Being sucked into another investigation means less time with her handsome boyfriend, grief from her family over her involvement and the possible danger, and the incredible displeasure of the sheriff. To be fair, Tallie didn’t go looking for a new investigation, only her vacuum! What’s more, even with the sheriff’s great displeasure, even he has to admit, people will talk to Tallie and reveal things they simply won’t say or reveal to the police. As Tallie begins to poke around and aske questions, she uncovers on inconsistency and lie after the next leading her to believe, her friendly competition wasn’t as friendly as she initially believed.
In the midst of all her investigating, Tallie also has to deal with the fallout from her family and the ever-evolving nature of her relationship. Her family is, yet again distraught over Tallie’s investigative inclinations, the funeral home is in desperate need of Tallie’s help (UGH!), and her boyfriend is contemplating some big life changes that will absolutely impact Tallie and their future together. Juggling forty-two balls at the same time isn’t easy and if Tallie drops even one, her very fulfilled life may just come crashing down all around her.
The Bottom Line: I truly believe this series is picking up steam with each new installment. Tallie is becoming not just a character I like, but a beloved character whose world I very much enjoy returning to time and again. There’s no stagnancy in this series; in fact, every aspect of this series is evolving, and this is something I find I must have in my reads. Tallie’s personal life takes a significant turn in this book, her business is becoming a small empire, and her relationship with the sheriff and involvement in murder investigations is changing too. The evolution I’m seeing in this book/series is making it stronger and creating a real connection to the characters for me. I want to know more about these people, the town, and the next investigation Tallie is going to find herself a part of. In all, the Tallie Graver Mystery series may be one of my favorite cozy mystery series.
October 6, 2019
Tallie Graver is at it again in this 4th installment of this mystery series. Max (her boyfriend who lives in DC) is in town and they are on the town to see a play (which she won tickets for) when she runs into Preston a member of her ex-husbands uppity circle who never liked Tallie. He is rude and condescending, however, Tallie needs to play nice as his Aunt is currently bidding out the cleaning for her mansion and a couple of other properties she is selling. Audra who is new to town and someone Tallie thinks she can be friends with and is the other cleaner bidding on the jobs. Tallie was given access to take pictures but since she is at the play she sends one of her employees but the pictures don't come thru. So the next day Tallie and Audra are basically in a clean-off for the job and Tallie is doing a great job when she sees cobwebs and runs out to get her feather duster. When she returns the room in shambles and Preston is there with his Aunt and Tallie is sent packing. Furious that she lost due to sabotage she returns to the mansion to get her cleaning supplies and vacuum. The vacuum has been thrown in the dumpster and when Tallie is inside the dumpster she finds the body of Audra rolled up in carpet. Just as she is calling the police someone comes to take the dumpster and she has to stop them. Burton (the chief of police) and her cousin Matt arrive on the scene and they tell Tallie to butt out of the investigation. Max is assigned a job nearby and will be with Tallie for the next month so she does not want to investigate but she was beginning to think of Audra as a friend and wants justice for her. Burton and his team are overworked and understaffed so she does some sleuthing while she is helping out at the funeral home etc. She finds out Audra has been bad mouthing her around town and trying to steal her clients and it appears she has some connection to Preston as well. This was a good solid cozy and I do like Tallie and her friends. Her sleuthing this time really was not outrageous and she was sharing all her info with Burton. Looking forward to the next in this series. Definitely recommend.
September 30, 2019
Just one more chapter and I will go to bed......and I didn't take my own advice. I kept on reading way past my bed time. I have read the previous three books in this series and I should know better than to limit my reading time that way. Tallie is one of my favorite characters. She is divorced and her life style has gone from high society to making a new start in the house cleaning business. Now, in the fourth mystery Tallie gets mixed up in, her life is progressing pretty well. Her business is doing well, she has a very nice boyfriend and she is thinking of starting another business. She gets along with her family who own the Graver Funeral Home. Living over the shop and driving a hearse part time helps with the expenses. Now the chance comes to bid on a big cleaning contract for the Astercomb mansion and there are only two in competition for the job. The other woman vying for the gig is Audra and Tallie likes her - until she realizes that the playing field isn't level and Audra is the winner. The 'contest' was for each woman to clean a room and then be judged on the results. Tallie leaves in haste, leaving her tools behind so she has to return for them. She sure didn't think she'd find Audra dead and rolled up in a carpet, tossed in the dumpster.
One thing leads to another as Tallie sets out to find out who would want such a nice person dead...but was Audra as nice as Tallie thought? Not at all and, joining with Burton, the chief of police, she starts investigating. Fortunately her boyfriend Max is back in town and he lends a hand to her search for the killer. Family and friends all add their help in one way or the other. They are people I would love to hang out with.
Each book in the series stands alone but if they are read in order Tallie's recovery from her divorce and the reinventing of herself has more impact. As for the mystery, the clues are there as are the twists and red herrings. I guessed wrong.
My thanks to the publisher, Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
One thing leads to another as Tallie sets out to find out who would want such a nice person dead...but was Audra as nice as Tallie thought? Not at all and, joining with Burton, the chief of police, she starts investigating. Fortunately her boyfriend Max is back in town and he lends a hand to her search for the killer. Family and friends all add their help in one way or the other. They are people I would love to hang out with.
Each book in the series stands alone but if they are read in order Tallie's recovery from her divorce and the reinventing of herself has more impact. As for the mystery, the clues are there as are the twists and red herrings. I guessed wrong.
My thanks to the publisher, Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 25, 2019
This is the 4th Tallie Graver Mystery by author Misty Simon. I enjoy this series and have read it since the beginning. I recommend this cozy series for your reading enjoyment. This is a fun series that is written very smart with well crafted sleuths and likable charcters I enjoy knowing about. I love the protagnist Tallie who is smart, hard working and has a great sense of humor.
Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the ARC. My review opinions are my own.
Tallie Garver has a cleaning business that has taken her a while to get off the ground. She dislikes her regular job which is working at her families funeral home and wants to go full time with her own business. I appreciate how the author portrays her as hard working and dedicated to her business. In this book Tallie has decided to go against her rival cleaning company run by her nemesis Audra. Audra is always one step ahead of Tallie with jobs and Tallie wants to beat her out for a job at a fancy mansion. When she finds Audra dead she realizes that Audra has secrets and she needs to investigate to determine the truth behind her murder. Soon Audra's past is proving to Tallie that her nemesis was not a nice person and many may have wanted her dead for various reasons some shocking to Tallie. When she runs up against the true killer she may be in terrible danger herself !
This was a fun addition to this series. I loved the well crafted sleuth that kept me guessing throughout. Tallie is a fun humorous personality .. The supporting charcters are likable and add depth to the series and fun. I look forward to the next in series.
Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the ARC. My review opinions are my own.
Tallie Garver has a cleaning business that has taken her a while to get off the ground. She dislikes her regular job which is working at her families funeral home and wants to go full time with her own business. I appreciate how the author portrays her as hard working and dedicated to her business. In this book Tallie has decided to go against her rival cleaning company run by her nemesis Audra. Audra is always one step ahead of Tallie with jobs and Tallie wants to beat her out for a job at a fancy mansion. When she finds Audra dead she realizes that Audra has secrets and she needs to investigate to determine the truth behind her murder. Soon Audra's past is proving to Tallie that her nemesis was not a nice person and many may have wanted her dead for various reasons some shocking to Tallie. When she runs up against the true killer she may be in terrible danger herself !
This was a fun addition to this series. I loved the well crafted sleuth that kept me guessing throughout. Tallie is a fun humorous personality .. The supporting charcters are likable and add depth to the series and fun. I look forward to the next in series.
October 13, 2019
Princess Fuzzypants here: Tallie Graver’s cleaning business is booming, her love life is going well and she is up for a big contract that could mean more growth. That is unless one of her nemesis from her days in the Social Register does not torpedo her chances with his aunt for the contract. He not only doesn’t want to help her, he is determined to see the contract goes to her competitor. When said competitor ends up dead in a dumpster the contract goes to Tallie. While she is not a suspect and the police are asking for her help this time, she still has serious reservations about the jobs.
It turns out none of the parties are who they professed to be and there is a lot more dirt underneath than what is there to be cleaned up in the houses. Betrayal is the name of the game and Tallie is an innocent with these pros. Luckily she has a fantastic team and a great guy and a ton of support. Things are going to get very dicey and she will need all the help she can get.
This is a great series as we watch Tallie reinvent herself from the useless and shallow Socialite to a successful and decent business woman. The road has been anything but easy. In spite of the challenges, Tallie realizes she is in a much better place and likes herself and her life much better than when she was one of the beautiful people. The supporting characters add much to the stories and her involvement in police matters is handled in a believable and satisfying manner. It makes for a good mystery and an enjoyable read.
Five purrs and two paws up.
It turns out none of the parties are who they professed to be and there is a lot more dirt underneath than what is there to be cleaned up in the houses. Betrayal is the name of the game and Tallie is an innocent with these pros. Luckily she has a fantastic team and a great guy and a ton of support. Things are going to get very dicey and she will need all the help she can get.
This is a great series as we watch Tallie reinvent herself from the useless and shallow Socialite to a successful and decent business woman. The road has been anything but easy. In spite of the challenges, Tallie realizes she is in a much better place and likes herself and her life much better than when she was one of the beautiful people. The supporting characters add much to the stories and her involvement in police matters is handled in a believable and satisfying manner. It makes for a good mystery and an enjoyable read.
Five purrs and two paws up.
September 23, 2019
Carpet Diem by Misty Simon is the fourth installment in A Tallie Graver Mystery series.
Ms. Simon has managed to create a likable, fun and completely relatable heroine. Tallie is an average woman fallen on hard times after her divorce and she has opened up cleaning service while somehow managing to stumble on dead bodies.
In this particular book, Tallie is doing good, she is even competing for a very lucrative cleaning job, she is surrounded by her loving family and friend and even her love life is blossoming.
Unfortunately something always happens to ruin the bliss. She finds the body of her competitor rolled up in a carpet. Even though she has won the job, she simply can't let go. She need to find out what really happened to the new woman in town, who after looking into doesn't appear to be so squeaky clean after all.
I like this series as it is completely realistic. Both main and side characters are likable yet fun and engaging. I appreciate the natural progression of relationships between the characters.
Mystery is well crafted with enough red herrings to try to deceive the readers. The book is steady paced and it has a nice flow.
Easy to read and highly entertaining it is the perfect choice for cozy readers.
Ms. Simon has managed to create a likable, fun and completely relatable heroine. Tallie is an average woman fallen on hard times after her divorce and she has opened up cleaning service while somehow managing to stumble on dead bodies.
In this particular book, Tallie is doing good, she is even competing for a very lucrative cleaning job, she is surrounded by her loving family and friend and even her love life is blossoming.
Unfortunately something always happens to ruin the bliss. She finds the body of her competitor rolled up in a carpet. Even though she has won the job, she simply can't let go. She need to find out what really happened to the new woman in town, who after looking into doesn't appear to be so squeaky clean after all.
I like this series as it is completely realistic. Both main and side characters are likable yet fun and engaging. I appreciate the natural progression of relationships between the characters.
Mystery is well crafted with enough red herrings to try to deceive the readers. The book is steady paced and it has a nice flow.
Easy to read and highly entertaining it is the perfect choice for cozy readers.
October 21, 2019
4 Stars
This is the fourth book in the Tallie Graver mystery series by Misty Simon. This is my first foray into this cleaner mystery series and I am sure it will not be my last. I am continually amazed at how many avenues there are in the cozy mystery genre. Your character can have any job and you can make it all seem so plausible and wonderful.
I felt bad for Tallie when she was vying for the cleaning job of a big mansion but it seemed everyone was against her and even sabotaged her efforts. Later when she marched back to the large estate to gather her tools and precious vacuum cleaner she discovers the dead body of none other than the cleaning lady who had won the contract.
This book really kept me on my toes and I related to the main character as she went through all her troubles. So related in fact I found it gave me a bit of stress reading it. I was glad when everything was resolved at the end. The back and forth between Tallie and her romantic interest was nice but I can see how it can come off as formulaic and boring. Since I am a new reader it all seemed pretty fresh and inspiring to me. I definitely look forward to checking out more of the books in this series.
If you love a good cozy mystery, pick this one up. You won’t be disappointed.
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 fourth book in the Tallie Graver mystery series by Misty Simon. This is my first foray into this cleaner mystery series and I am sure it will not be my last. I am continually amazed at how many avenues there are in the cozy mystery genre. Your character can have any job and you can make it all seem so plausible and wonderful.
I felt bad for Tallie when she was vying for the cleaning job of a big mansion but it seemed everyone was against her and even sabotaged her efforts. Later when she marched back to the large estate to gather her tools and precious vacuum cleaner she discovers the dead body of none other than the cleaning lady who had won the contract.
This book really kept me on my toes and I related to the main character as she went through all her troubles. So related in fact I found it gave me a bit of stress reading it. I was glad when everything was resolved at the end. The back and forth between Tallie and her romantic interest was nice but I can see how it can come off as formulaic and boring. Since I am a new reader it all seemed pretty fresh and inspiring to me. I definitely look forward to checking out more of the books in this series.
If you love a good cozy mystery, pick this one up. You won’t be disappointed.
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.
August 15, 2019
Tallie Graver is making a new life after divorcing her ex-husband, back in her hometown. Driving a hearse in the family business and starting up her own cleaning company keeps her busy, but not too busy for her boyfriend Max.
Unhappy about running into the nasty friend of her ex, Preston, she's even more unhappy when he intrudes upon the job she's trying to bid....and ruins her cleaned room, one that was to determine who got the contract.
When she finds the body of her winning competitor for the job, dead in a dumpster at the site, she wants to help the police find the killer. As she finds out more about the deceased, she realizes she never knew her at all. She has suspects, digs for motives, but doesn't see who it really is until the end, when the motive is determined.
There are plenty of possible suspects, some she didn't believe did it, but the fact that they lied to the police didn't bode well. Some she was on the fence about, until a gossiping friend gave her more information.
I requested and received a NetGalley ARC because it sounded intriguing...and it was. I recommend it as an enjoyable way to pass some time.
Unhappy about running into the nasty friend of her ex, Preston, she's even more unhappy when he intrudes upon the job she's trying to bid....and ruins her cleaned room, one that was to determine who got the contract.
When she finds the body of her winning competitor for the job, dead in a dumpster at the site, she wants to help the police find the killer. As she finds out more about the deceased, she realizes she never knew her at all. She has suspects, digs for motives, but doesn't see who it really is until the end, when the motive is determined.
There are plenty of possible suspects, some she didn't believe did it, but the fact that they lied to the police didn't bode well. Some she was on the fence about, until a gossiping friend gave her more information.
I requested and received a NetGalley ARC because it sounded intriguing...and it was. I recommend it as an enjoyable way to pass some time.
September 13, 2019
“Carpet Diem” is the 4th entry in the “Tallie Graver Mysteries” by Misty Simon. Even though this is the first book I have read in the series I was able to follow along easily so it can be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed it and practically read in one sitting and have since purchased the other books in the series.
Live and let dust . . .
Now that Tallie Graver’s cleaning business is starting to shine, she’s ready to go squeegee to squeegee against Audra McNeal for a major contract at the Astercromb mansion. Tallie’s not afraid of a little friendly competition from the new cleaner in town. In fact, Tallie likes Audra, though she wonders how her glamorous rival manages to clean house and maintain her fancy manicure. Tallie has her rubber-gloves full staying one step ahead of her nemesis. Until she finds a well-polished hand poking out of a rolled-up carpet, rendering her competition . . . dead.
Though it lands Tallie the big job, there’s nothing tidy about Audra’s death. So
between polishing and scrubbing, Tallie’s determined to find the killer. Hopefully the police chief doesn’t mind her cluttering up his investigation with the filthy dealings she discovers. Turns out Audra was not as squeaky clean as she appeared. And confronting her killer could bring Tallie to a very foul end indeed . . .
The mystery is interesting and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. The story moves at a steady pace, and I had a hard time putting it down.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Reader Copy from the publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Live and let dust . . .
Now that Tallie Graver’s cleaning business is starting to shine, she’s ready to go squeegee to squeegee against Audra McNeal for a major contract at the Astercromb mansion. Tallie’s not afraid of a little friendly competition from the new cleaner in town. In fact, Tallie likes Audra, though she wonders how her glamorous rival manages to clean house and maintain her fancy manicure. Tallie has her rubber-gloves full staying one step ahead of her nemesis. Until she finds a well-polished hand poking out of a rolled-up carpet, rendering her competition . . . dead.
Though it lands Tallie the big job, there’s nothing tidy about Audra’s death. So
between polishing and scrubbing, Tallie’s determined to find the killer. Hopefully the police chief doesn’t mind her cluttering up his investigation with the filthy dealings she discovers. Turns out Audra was not as squeaky clean as she appeared. And confronting her killer could bring Tallie to a very foul end indeed . . .
The mystery is interesting and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. The story moves at a steady pace, and I had a hard time putting it down.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Reader Copy from the publisher and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews