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Lovely Lethal Gardens #3
Corpse in the Carnations
Riches to rags. … Chaos calms. … Crime quiets. … But does it really?
After getting involved in two murder cases in the short time she’s lived in picturesque Kelowna, divorcee and gardener Doreen Montgomery has developed a reputation almost as notorious as her Nan’s. The only way to stop people from speculating, is to live a life of unrelieved boredom until the media and the neighbors forget about her. And Doreen aims to do just that with a tour of Kelowna’s famed Carnation Gardens. Plants, more plants, and nothing whatsoever that anyone could object to.
But when she sees a fight between a beautiful young woman and her boyfriend, she can’t help but be concerned. Concerned enough that she follows the couple out of the parking lot and through town. And when gunshots interrupt the placid afternoon, it’s too late to worry about how her nemesis, Corporal Mack Moreau, will feel about her getting involved in yet another of his cases.
With bodies turning up in the carnations, and a connection to a cold case of a missing child from long ago, Doreen has her hands full, not least with trying to keep her involvement in the investigations a secret from her Nan, Mack Moreau, and especially the media. But someone’s keeping up with Doreen’s doings… and that someone can’t afford for her to find the answers to the questions she’s asking.
After getting involved in two murder cases in the short time she’s lived in picturesque Kelowna, divorcee and gardener Doreen Montgomery has developed a reputation almost as notorious as her Nan’s. The only way to stop people from speculating, is to live a life of unrelieved boredom until the media and the neighbors forget about her. And Doreen aims to do just that with a tour of Kelowna’s famed Carnation Gardens. Plants, more plants, and nothing whatsoever that anyone could object to.
But when she sees a fight between a beautiful young woman and her boyfriend, she can’t help but be concerned. Concerned enough that she follows the couple out of the parking lot and through town. And when gunshots interrupt the placid afternoon, it’s too late to worry about how her nemesis, Corporal Mack Moreau, will feel about her getting involved in yet another of his cases.
With bodies turning up in the carnations, and a connection to a cold case of a missing child from long ago, Doreen has her hands full, not least with trying to keep her involvement in the investigations a secret from her Nan, Mack Moreau, and especially the media. But someone’s keeping up with Doreen’s doings… and that someone can’t afford for her to find the answers to the questions she’s asking.
280 pages, Paperback
First published January 22, 2019
490 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
About the author
Dale Mayer
1,184 books1,649 followersDale Mayer is a USA Today bestselling author best known for her Psychic Visions and Family Blood Ties series. Her contemporary romances are raw and full of passion and emotion (Second Chances, SKIN), her thrillers will keep you guessing (By Death series), and her romantic comedies will keep you giggling (It's a Dog's Life and Charmin Marvin Romantic Comedy series).
She honors the stories that come to her - and some of them are crazy and break all the rules and cross multiple genres!
To go with her fiction, she also writes nonfiction in many different fields with books available on resume writing, companion gardening and the US mortgage system. She has recently published her Career Essentials Series. All her books are available in print and ebook format.
To find out more about Dale and her books, visit her at http://www.dalemayer.com. Or connect with her online with Twitter at www.twitter.com/dalemayer and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dalemayer.author. If you like Dale Mayer's books and are interested in joining her street team, sign up here - https://www.facebook.com/groups/40238...
Books by Dale Mayer
Psychic Vision Series
Tuesday's Child
Hide'n Go Seek
Maddy's Floor
Garden of Sorrow
Knock, Knock...
Rare Find
Eyes to the Soul - fall/winter 2014
By Death Series
Touched by Death - Part 1 - Free
Touched by Death - Part 2
Touched by Death - Full book
Haunted by Death
Chilled by Death - fall/winter 2014
Second Chances...at Love Series
Second Chances - Part 1
Second Chances - Part 2
Second Chances - Full book
Novellas
It's a Dog's Life- romantic comedy
Charmin Marvin Romantic Comedy
Broken Protocols #1
Broken Protocols #2
Broken Protocols #3
New adult/adul crossover Books
In Cassie's Corner
Gem Stone (a Gemma Stone mystery)
Design Series
Dangerous Designs
Deadly Designs
Darkest Designs
Family Blood Ties Series
Vampire in Denial
Vampire in Distress
Vampire in Design
Vampire in Deceit
Vampire in Defiance
Non-Fiction Books
Career Essentials: The Resume
Career Essentials: The Cover Letter
Career Essentials: The Interview
Career Essentials: 3 in 1
She honors the stories that come to her - and some of them are crazy and break all the rules and cross multiple genres!
To go with her fiction, she also writes nonfiction in many different fields with books available on resume writing, companion gardening and the US mortgage system. She has recently published her Career Essentials Series. All her books are available in print and ebook format.
To find out more about Dale and her books, visit her at http://www.dalemayer.com. Or connect with her online with Twitter at www.twitter.com/dalemayer and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dalemayer.author. If you like Dale Mayer's books and are interested in joining her street team, sign up here - https://www.facebook.com/groups/40238...
Books by Dale Mayer
Psychic Vision Series
Tuesday's Child
Hide'n Go Seek
Maddy's Floor
Garden of Sorrow
Knock, Knock...
Rare Find
Eyes to the Soul - fall/winter 2014
By Death Series
Touched by Death - Part 1 - Free
Touched by Death - Part 2
Touched by Death - Full book
Haunted by Death
Chilled by Death - fall/winter 2014
Second Chances...at Love Series
Second Chances - Part 1
Second Chances - Part 2
Second Chances - Full book
Novellas
It's a Dog's Life- romantic comedy
Charmin Marvin Romantic Comedy
Broken Protocols #1
Broken Protocols #2
Broken Protocols #3
New adult/adul crossover Books
In Cassie's Corner
Gem Stone (a Gemma Stone mystery)
Design Series
Dangerous Designs
Deadly Designs
Darkest Designs
Family Blood Ties Series
Vampire in Denial
Vampire in Distress
Vampire in Design
Vampire in Deceit
Vampire in Defiance
Non-Fiction Books
Career Essentials: The Resume
Career Essentials: The Cover Letter
Career Essentials: The Interview
Career Essentials: 3 in 1
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
July 15, 2022
Alright, these books are slooooowly growing on me. Doreen just can’t help herself, she has a talent for finding dead bodies and solving cold cases. Together with her menagerie of trusty animal sidekicks, who also have a penchant of getting her mixed up in these murderous case, Thaddeus I’m looking at you! Her grandmother Nan who running an illegal betting ring in the retirement home, and Cpl Mack Moreau who wants Doreen to stay out of his investigations but is becoming a solid “friend” life is getting more interesting by the day.
Now what to do with all these antiques?
Now what to do with all these antiques?
February 16, 2019
The third book of the Lovely Lethal Gardens series is more of the same as the previous books. One thing I admire about Doreen is her POSITIVE attitude as thing go wrong and causes her more troubles. Doreen is looking for ideas to add to her beginning garden business. She learned the tho town of Kelowna is asking for bids on it carnations plantings. Doreen is checking the ability of carnations and prices when she overheard an argument between two people. Her curiosity is strong enough for her to get involved in the situation. She found the girl dead in a carnations planting and becomes a nemesis to Mack investigation. She leans the Man's is full of antique of value and as rumors spread someone is trying to break into her home. Mack comes to aid and places a temporary securities measures. The animals and the situation provided a lot of humor and I found myself laughing. I ready to read the book that will be published in April.
February 15, 2022
I am loving this series. Doreen might have the worst luck in the world by always finding dead people...or parts, but she is very good at putting together the clues, with the reluctant help of the local police, to figure out who the killer is.
February 8, 2019
This series gets better with each book!
I love Doreen's personality and how she has become attached to her menagerie although she had Mugs when she inherited the other two. I think they are as adept at finding clues as she is, maybe moreso.
I often feel sorry for Doreen but then I remember she has Mack and I think he will always be there to take care of her.
This series is an absolute awesome mystery from the first book and each one gets better. I find these books a little different because there is an obvious attraction between Doreen and Mack but it's only noticeable in the bickering they do and I think it's sweet.
I realized yesterday there are 6 books in this series and I'm excited to read the next three. I already added to my TBR list so you may want to do the same.
I love Doreen's personality and how she has become attached to her menagerie although she had Mugs when she inherited the other two. I think they are as adept at finding clues as she is, maybe moreso.
I often feel sorry for Doreen but then I remember she has Mack and I think he will always be there to take care of her.
This series is an absolute awesome mystery from the first book and each one gets better. I find these books a little different because there is an obvious attraction between Doreen and Mack but it's only noticeable in the bickering they do and I think it's sweet.
I realized yesterday there are 6 books in this series and I'm excited to read the next three. I already added to my TBR list so you may want to do the same.
December 18, 2023
I am really enjoying this audiobook series.
" Body in the truck. Body in the truck. -Thaddeus "
Thaddeus, Mugs and Goliath. Doreen little family. Crack me up and warm my heart.
Now Doreen and Mac I just know they would make a cute couple.
" Body in the truck. Body in the truck. -Thaddeus "
Thaddeus, Mugs and Goliath. Doreen little family. Crack me up and warm my heart.
Now Doreen and Mac I just know they would make a cute couple.
February 6, 2019
This one definitely my fav so far from this Lovely Lethal Gardens series.
More mystery and it feels more emotional somehow.
By now I can't not rooting for Doreen's happiness, the more I know her the more I became a big fan, I getting used to her antics, her quirkiness is what makes her Doreen.
I Love to see the sparks between Doreen and Mack that getting deeper and deeper (I loveeee those flirting moments) and those furry pets, they're a big part of the story, Doreen's antics mix with freakish cat, dog and parrot solving cold case, the outcome is a very captivating story.
Amazing characters and page turner mystery, oh yes I love this book.
If you're a cozy mystery fan, I think you'll love this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
More mystery and it feels more emotional somehow.
By now I can't not rooting for Doreen's happiness, the more I know her the more I became a big fan, I getting used to her antics, her quirkiness is what makes her Doreen.
I Love to see the sparks between Doreen and Mack that getting deeper and deeper (I loveeee those flirting moments) and those furry pets, they're a big part of the story, Doreen's antics mix with freakish cat, dog and parrot solving cold case, the outcome is a very captivating story.
Amazing characters and page turner mystery, oh yes I love this book.
If you're a cozy mystery fan, I think you'll love this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2019
After the first two books where bones were found buried in gardens, I started to wonder how so many bones could be found buried in the gardens of one town. This book changed it up a bit. Mack starts out thinking about having Doreen help with a cold case, but before they can focus on the cold case, Doreen discovers the body of a murdered women whose body was dumped in a bed of carnations. Like in the other books in the series the recent murder and cold case tie together. This is another hit I enjoyed reading.
July 8, 2024
Predecible.
August 27, 2024
Je ship Mack et Doreen tellement fort !!!
Et j’ai TROP hâte de voir Doreen prendre sa revanche sur ses malheurs purée
Et j’ai TROP hâte de voir Doreen prendre sa revanche sur ses malheurs purée
November 12, 2024
3.25 stars
February 5, 2019
Corpse in the Carnations is the third episode of the Lovely Lethal Gardens series. In this new instalment, the story picks up rhythm and the characters’ personas deepen, as if the author became progressively more familiar with the story and and the cast of characters.
Doreen’s personality emerges in all its peculiar traits. She is intelligent, caring, taking life with a positive attitude, always moving forward; facing challenges with stride and refusing to be discouraged by her failures.
Her animals, a dog, a cat and a parrot, play an ever growing role in her investigations.
Her relationship with Mack, a local detective and the co-protagonist, is the source of continuous banter, with him offering cooking lessons and convincing his brother, a lawyer, to help Doreen upturn her unjust divorce settlement.
In the meanwhile, Doreen is continuously involved, even involuntarily, in his assigned cases, contributing with brilliant ideas and more than a few unofficial investigation activities.
Her caring, generous and unconventional grandmother, Nan, is a constant presence, and a very enjoyable character.
The story flows easily, punctuated with witty dialogues and cameo episodes that provide lively and warm touches to the narration. The plot is rich, with plenty of twists and turns, populated by a slate of skilfully depicted secondary characters.
Overall, Corpse in the Carnations is a book that fully delivers on the reader’s expectations while hinting at more intriguing and entertaining episodes in the (hopefully near) future
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Opinions and comments are solely my own.
Doreen’s personality emerges in all its peculiar traits. She is intelligent, caring, taking life with a positive attitude, always moving forward; facing challenges with stride and refusing to be discouraged by her failures.
Her animals, a dog, a cat and a parrot, play an ever growing role in her investigations.
Her relationship with Mack, a local detective and the co-protagonist, is the source of continuous banter, with him offering cooking lessons and convincing his brother, a lawyer, to help Doreen upturn her unjust divorce settlement.
In the meanwhile, Doreen is continuously involved, even involuntarily, in his assigned cases, contributing with brilliant ideas and more than a few unofficial investigation activities.
Her caring, generous and unconventional grandmother, Nan, is a constant presence, and a very enjoyable character.
The story flows easily, punctuated with witty dialogues and cameo episodes that provide lively and warm touches to the narration. The plot is rich, with plenty of twists and turns, populated by a slate of skilfully depicted secondary characters.
Overall, Corpse in the Carnations is a book that fully delivers on the reader’s expectations while hinting at more intriguing and entertaining episodes in the (hopefully near) future
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Opinions and comments are solely my own.
February 1, 2019
I was kindly provided this book as an ARC; in exchange for my honest review. If you’re a loyal reader of this authors books; I feel I must warn you that this book (the third in her new series) is VERY different from anything else she’s written before. It’s not a bad thing; there is zero romance/heat, minimal curse words (I’d allow my young teen/pre-teen) to read this book.
Some may find it to be a little “young,” but as with most of Ms. Dale’s work, it is well written and a fast, easy read.
Doreen Montgomery moves to Kelowna (BC) to live in her Grandma Nan’s home after a nasty split from her husband of 14 years.
Her her first week in her new home she “discovered “ a few dead bodies (with the assistance of her new family; her Basset Hound Mugs, her Grandmas pets a cat named Goliath and a vocal African Grey Parrot named Thaddeus).
Doreen has somehow gotten involved in two murder cases in the time she’s lived in Kelowna, BC. During a tour of the “famed” Kelowna carnation gardens she witnesses a fight between a young woman and her boyfriend, she can’t help but be concerned. Doreen follows them and believes she’s overheard a murder... More mayhem and adventure ensues for Doreen, Mac, and Doreen’s pets. The bird is a crack up and Grandma Nan is a hoot.
This is an entertaining and somewhat silly story. The ending was quasi expected, but entertaining all the same. I’m amazed at the quality and quantity of works that Ms. Dale puts out!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Some may find it to be a little “young,” but as with most of Ms. Dale’s work, it is well written and a fast, easy read.
Doreen Montgomery moves to Kelowna (BC) to live in her Grandma Nan’s home after a nasty split from her husband of 14 years.
Her her first week in her new home she “discovered “ a few dead bodies (with the assistance of her new family; her Basset Hound Mugs, her Grandmas pets a cat named Goliath and a vocal African Grey Parrot named Thaddeus).
Doreen has somehow gotten involved in two murder cases in the time she’s lived in Kelowna, BC. During a tour of the “famed” Kelowna carnation gardens she witnesses a fight between a young woman and her boyfriend, she can’t help but be concerned. Doreen follows them and believes she’s overheard a murder... More mayhem and adventure ensues for Doreen, Mac, and Doreen’s pets. The bird is a crack up and Grandma Nan is a hoot.
This is an entertaining and somewhat silly story. The ending was quasi expected, but entertaining all the same. I’m amazed at the quality and quantity of works that Ms. Dale puts out!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 10, 2019
Doreen is a most curious soul at heart…
With Mack’s willingness to help her find avenues to earn a living, while trying to keep her out of serious strife… Doreen finds herself researching the local council’s gardening competition for gardening idea’s and inspiration to further her plans as a professional garden landscaper… oh boy does she find more than she could ever imagine.
Doreen… our intrepid, wanna be? amateur sleuth is at it again in CORPSE IN THE CARNATIONS - Lovely Lethal Gardens - Bk 3. It all it takes is a harmless research trip for gardening inspiration, to find herself in all sorts of bother that will have bullets flying and more mystery to solve. Don’t forget that body you find amongst the carnations.
After a prolonged time of being subjected to her ex-husbands control… this lady is growing her wings, setting down roots, and learning to fly. She is a most curious soul at heart.
And you thought her darling menagerie of animals could behave themselves for just a moment? No… they are back finding more in this creek. The creek that’s holding a wealth of secrets.
Dale Mayer continues to weave her magic with this series and her wonderful cast of quirky characters. Readers are afforded heart breaking cases, solving a mystery or two amid but fun, quirky banter and hilarity at the same time. They are a wonderful, page-turning escape to brighten your day, Doreen style. I highly recommend this new series. If you love mysteries and humour this book delivers… I’m looking forward to what await’s Doreen.
Doreen… our intrepid, wanna be? amateur sleuth is at it again in CORPSE IN THE CARNATIONS - Lovely Lethal Gardens - Bk 3. It all it takes is a harmless research trip for gardening inspiration, to find herself in all sorts of bother that will have bullets flying and more mystery to solve. Don’t forget that body you find amongst the carnations.
After a prolonged time of being subjected to her ex-husbands control… this lady is growing her wings, setting down roots, and learning to fly. She is a most curious soul at heart.
And you thought her darling menagerie of animals could behave themselves for just a moment? No… they are back finding more in this creek. The creek that’s holding a wealth of secrets.
Dale Mayer continues to weave her magic with this series and her wonderful cast of quirky characters. Readers are afforded heart breaking cases, solving a mystery or two amid but fun, quirky banter and hilarity at the same time. They are a wonderful, page-turning escape to brighten your day, Doreen style. I highly recommend this new series. If you love mysteries and humour this book delivers… I’m looking forward to what await’s Doreen.
February 6, 2019
These books just get better and better! Mack has been visiting more and more, whether to try to keep Doreen in line or just because is still in question.
Doreen has been getting by with the money she's found stashed in pockets and pinned in the clothing her Nan left behind when she moved to assisted living. She really wants a job, and she really wants to clear some addition space in the home. So much furniture is cluttering the space, some antiques, so she needs to get someone to appraise the items.
Mack does have an idea for her to make money though and that is to bid on the flower bed around the town sign. The Town Council is taking bids as they prepare to replace the current sign.
Of course this wouldn't be a murder mystery without a body so, yes she does manage to find one of those in a display of carnations by the Family Planning Center that was currently closed.
However, I found her other little investigation just as interesting and heartrending. That starts when Thaddeus finds a license plate buried by the creek.
Antiques, murder, a cold case, a break-in or two, her animals, her Nan, Mack and his team all will have you turning the pages.
I really think Mack is interested, we get a little clue in this one and he does give Doreen a kiss on the forehead.
Laughing, crying and holding my breath seem to be things I do while reading this series.
I wish it was April, because that's when the next book in this series is scheduled to be released.
Doreen has been getting by with the money she's found stashed in pockets and pinned in the clothing her Nan left behind when she moved to assisted living. She really wants a job, and she really wants to clear some addition space in the home. So much furniture is cluttering the space, some antiques, so she needs to get someone to appraise the items.
Mack does have an idea for her to make money though and that is to bid on the flower bed around the town sign. The Town Council is taking bids as they prepare to replace the current sign.
Of course this wouldn't be a murder mystery without a body so, yes she does manage to find one of those in a display of carnations by the Family Planning Center that was currently closed.
However, I found her other little investigation just as interesting and heartrending. That starts when Thaddeus finds a license plate buried by the creek.
Antiques, murder, a cold case, a break-in or two, her animals, her Nan, Mack and his team all will have you turning the pages.
I really think Mack is interested, we get a little clue in this one and he does give Doreen a kiss on the forehead.
Laughing, crying and holding my breath seem to be things I do while reading this series.
I wish it was April, because that's when the next book in this series is scheduled to be released.
January 31, 2019
Doreen Montgomery is a gardener and amateur sleuth who lives with her menagerie of animals (cat, dog and parrot) in the picturesque Kelowna, British Columbia. After being involved in two cold cases soon after she arrives in the area she is hoping to lie low until it is all forgotten by doing a tour of Carnation Gardens. However after witnessing a fight between a woman and her boyfriend she follows them out of concern and then hears gunshots. Can she solve the mystery of the body in the carnations and a very cold case of a missing boy which is connected to it? Can she solve them both while hiding what she is doing from neighbours, the media, Corporal Mack Moreau and her grandmother Nan?
I loved this story which was a little more edgier as she gained in confidence both with her new start in life and the skills she needed to solve a murder mystery. It gave a lovely insight into small town relationships and politics and how that can affect investigating something after a number of years have passed. I loved the cooking descriptions and the potential issues that she faced. A fun read that had me gripped as Doreen tried to solve the crimes, handle more in her new life and develop her friendship with Mack. Nan was just priceless naughty old lady with deep down a heart of gold. Well written, everything was easy to read and understand.
I loved this story which was a little more edgier as she gained in confidence both with her new start in life and the skills she needed to solve a murder mystery. It gave a lovely insight into small town relationships and politics and how that can affect investigating something after a number of years have passed. I loved the cooking descriptions and the potential issues that she faced. A fun read that had me gripped as Doreen tried to solve the crimes, handle more in her new life and develop her friendship with Mack. Nan was just priceless naughty old lady with deep down a heart of gold. Well written, everything was easy to read and understand.
March 27, 2019
Even when you’re not looking for trouble…
Trouble seems to follow Doreen, even when it appears that things have calmed down, though reporters still watch her, waiting for her to find another body part and then treat her as if she’s somehow responsible for the murder. Mack has nixed Doreen’s desire to perhaps get a job helping him in case-solving. Fortunately, the Kelowna City Council is running a competition among gardeners to create a beautiful flower garden at the entrance to the city. Sounds innocent enough, yes? She is thinking carnations. Due diligence requires that Doreen visit florists to assess the feasibility in cost and color selection. In her travels, she comes across a man and woman having what seems a disagreement and then driving off separately but in the same direction. Her curiosity demands that she follow along to assure herself that the man in the truck is not following the woman to do her harm. When she sees them enter a building together, she realizes that her imagination must be in hyperdrive. She then proceeds to the city entrance to view the place where the flower garden will be.
Can you guess what she finds there and whose it is?
Trouble seems to follow Doreen, even when it appears that things have calmed down, though reporters still watch her, waiting for her to find another body part and then treat her as if she’s somehow responsible for the murder. Mack has nixed Doreen’s desire to perhaps get a job helping him in case-solving. Fortunately, the Kelowna City Council is running a competition among gardeners to create a beautiful flower garden at the entrance to the city. Sounds innocent enough, yes? She is thinking carnations. Due diligence requires that Doreen visit florists to assess the feasibility in cost and color selection. In her travels, she comes across a man and woman having what seems a disagreement and then driving off separately but in the same direction. Her curiosity demands that she follow along to assure herself that the man in the truck is not following the woman to do her harm. When she sees them enter a building together, she realizes that her imagination must be in hyperdrive. She then proceeds to the city entrance to view the place where the flower garden will be.
Can you guess what she finds there and whose it is?
June 5, 2023
Corpse in the Carnations started out so innocently that it had me wondering how Doreen could possibly get in trouble. True to form, she did, while trying to be a nice person, lol.
I did not start this series with book one. It was book #18. I wasn't a huge fan, but was intrigued enough to find out how Doreen ended up being a solver of cold cases.
I admit it. Doreen, her triple threat, Mack, and Nan are growing on me. I am addicted to Lovely Lethal Gardens.
Although the book involved murder, and sometimes threats to Doreen and her animals. It managed to be a lighthearted, quirky, cozy mystery.
There was a touch of .... I'll say romance for lack of a better word, but it wasn't really romance. Mack and Doreen had an interest in one another, but it hadn't advanced to the "romantic" stage. I was still interested enough to see how their relationship will progress .
I did like the way the book ended with a lead in to the next book. It was a nice touch, and gave me an idea of whether or not I wanted to continue.
I listened to the Audiobooks on this one again. Now I couldn't imagine Doreen and the gang being voiced by anyone other than Vanessa Moyen.
I did not start this series with book one. It was book #18. I wasn't a huge fan, but was intrigued enough to find out how Doreen ended up being a solver of cold cases.
I admit it. Doreen, her triple threat, Mack, and Nan are growing on me. I am addicted to Lovely Lethal Gardens.
Although the book involved murder, and sometimes threats to Doreen and her animals. It managed to be a lighthearted, quirky, cozy mystery.
There was a touch of .... I'll say romance for lack of a better word, but it wasn't really romance. Mack and Doreen had an interest in one another, but it hadn't advanced to the "romantic" stage. I was still interested enough to see how their relationship will progress .
I did like the way the book ended with a lead in to the next book. It was a nice touch, and gave me an idea of whether or not I wanted to continue.
I listened to the Audiobooks on this one again. Now I couldn't imagine Doreen and the gang being voiced by anyone other than Vanessa Moyen.
Read
June 17, 2023Je continue la lecture de cette saga, dont je suis devenue totalement accro, au moment où j’écris cet avis, j’ai déjà lu deux autres tomes.
Dans ce tome, Doreen assiste à une dispute entre un homme et une femme. Cette dernière étant prise d’une curiosité, décide de le suivre, jusqu’à ce qu’elle entende une série de coup de feu. Mais pour couronner le tout, elle trouve le corps d’une jeune femme dans les oeillets. En parallèle, elle apprend l’existence d’une disparition non résolue trente ans plutôt, elle décide donc de mener les deux enquêtes en parallèle.
J’ai passé un agréable moment de lecture en compagnie de Doreen et de ses animaux, tout comme elle, je me suis prise au jeu de trouver les coupables des enquêtes. Et pour être honnête avec vous, je n’ai pas réussi contrairement à Doreen.
Tous les personnages que l’on suit au fil des tomes sont vraiment intéressants et je dois dire que Nan, la grand-mère de Doreen, et un personnage vraiment haute en couleur, et elle l’a fait tourner en bourrique.
Si je devais utiliser deux mots pour décrire cette série, je dirais « Totalement addictif ».
Dans ce tome, Doreen assiste à une dispute entre un homme et une femme. Cette dernière étant prise d’une curiosité, décide de le suivre, jusqu’à ce qu’elle entende une série de coup de feu. Mais pour couronner le tout, elle trouve le corps d’une jeune femme dans les oeillets. En parallèle, elle apprend l’existence d’une disparition non résolue trente ans plutôt, elle décide donc de mener les deux enquêtes en parallèle.
J’ai passé un agréable moment de lecture en compagnie de Doreen et de ses animaux, tout comme elle, je me suis prise au jeu de trouver les coupables des enquêtes. Et pour être honnête avec vous, je n’ai pas réussi contrairement à Doreen.
Tous les personnages que l’on suit au fil des tomes sont vraiment intéressants et je dois dire que Nan, la grand-mère de Doreen, et un personnage vraiment haute en couleur, et elle l’a fait tourner en bourrique.
Si je devais utiliser deux mots pour décrire cette série, je dirais « Totalement addictif ».
January 29, 2019
This book was an absolutely hilarious ride from start to finish. Being a female that didn't really learn to cook until I left home, I can relate to Doreen being afraid of her stove haha.
Poor Mack will be grey haired within a month with all the stress he takes on just being a friend to Doreen. The nicknames Doreen is being given are rightfully earned and hilarious. She hasn't lived in Mission for very long but she's already making a name for herself. Not to mention the money she is making for her Nan with all the betting going on at the retirement home.
Doreen and her little family of furry and feathered assistants will having you laughing out loud while you try to figure out who is responsible for the murder.
Trying to read this late at night and not wake up my hubby wasn't easy, what with all the giggling and outright laughing. I'm completely hooked on this series.
Highly recommend this series to cozy mystery lovers. You won't be disappointed!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Poor Mack will be grey haired within a month with all the stress he takes on just being a friend to Doreen. The nicknames Doreen is being given are rightfully earned and hilarious. She hasn't lived in Mission for very long but she's already making a name for herself. Not to mention the money she is making for her Nan with all the betting going on at the retirement home.
Doreen and her little family of furry and feathered assistants will having you laughing out loud while you try to figure out who is responsible for the murder.
Trying to read this late at night and not wake up my hubby wasn't easy, what with all the giggling and outright laughing. I'm completely hooked on this series.
Highly recommend this series to cozy mystery lovers. You won't be disappointed!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2019
Mysterious and full of surprises, I love how Doreen thinks outside of the usual boxes and researches her hunches to work out the puzzles. Along with her trusty threesome both helping solve, highlight something she needs to know or just simply protecting her, the bond between the four of them is getting stronger and stronger. Plus the gorgeous Mach is on hand as the voice of reason or command as the scene determines, the sparks are building. Only inconsistency I have noticed between the three books is regarding the house, I know the legal transfer was being done but somehow the confirmation and receiving of transfer hadn't been mentioned until about half way through this one, I don't know maybe I just missed it in all the excitement of bodies and items being found all over this town. I am loving this series though, it is new and fabulous a really great reading experience. I get lost and completely enthralled in the reading, I find myself chuckling often and holding my breath at other times. Well worth the five stars and more.
January 30, 2019
First can I just say two things: 1. As much as I love Doreen, I do not want to hang out with her because man, she is a dead body/crime magnet. LOL and 2. As picturesque and charming as Kelowna, British Columbia seems, I would not want to live there. After all the crime rate and body count just keep getting higher. Seriously though, this was another absolutely delightful cozy mystery in this series. You do have to feel for Doreen. She is really feeling the pressure from the press, Detective Mack and the even the townspeople over these situations she keeps finding herself in. Hoping to stay out of the spotlight and to dial her notoriety back a notch, she has a plan. Of coarse nothing turns out as planned. Hilarity ensues as action-packed mystery begins. The adorable pet brigade and Nan make their return as well and the slow simmering attraction between Doreen and Mack continues to build. Such a wonderful series and an excellent book! Can't wait for the next one. This is my impartial, independent review.
February 5, 2019
This third book in a new series involves discovery of body in a bed of carnations and a old case as well. So Doreen hears a couple arguing and this leads to her following them, hearing gunshots and quickly leaving the area to call her friend RCMP Mack Moreau to report her findings. He does not find anything but quickly after this Doreen is checking out a carnation garden in her search for a job and finds the body of the woman she heard arguing. The town isn't sure what to make of Doreen who seems to find bodies on a weekly basis. All in all, this is the charming adventure of a newly almost divorced woman finding her way with her animal friends helping at every turn. Her grandmother is at a retirement place not far away and adds to the interesting mix as she books bets on almost everything. These stories are witty, funny, mysterious and definitely entertaining. I hear this is to be a series of six books but could we could hope for more as there are a lot of letters left in the alphabet.
May 10, 2024
I listened to this on audio from Chirp. This is the third in the Lovely Lethal Gardens series.
Doreen is the amateur sleuth that has a penchant for finding bodies and solving cold cases. She is struggling to make ends meet, have food for herself, and a roof over head. Her Nan, grandmother, has given her a home filled with antiques that may help Doreen through her initial struggles. Nan has always helped her mother and Doreen out over the years. Nan is now in a retirement home and enjoying it.
Doreen comes across as a flake but I see it as her quirkiness. She is a divorcee after 14 years of marriage. The ex-husband does not want to share the business they built nor pay her for her fair share. I see things may change in the future before this is settled. Her lawyer misled her and was ethically bound to protect her interests. Instead, she protected the husband whom she had a relationship.
Doreen is growing on me. I am now going back to listen to book 2.
Doreen is the amateur sleuth that has a penchant for finding bodies and solving cold cases. She is struggling to make ends meet, have food for herself, and a roof over head. Her Nan, grandmother, has given her a home filled with antiques that may help Doreen through her initial struggles. Nan has always helped her mother and Doreen out over the years. Nan is now in a retirement home and enjoying it.
Doreen comes across as a flake but I see it as her quirkiness. She is a divorcee after 14 years of marriage. The ex-husband does not want to share the business they built nor pay her for her fair share. I see things may change in the future before this is settled. Her lawyer misled her and was ethically bound to protect her interests. Instead, she protected the husband whom she had a relationship.
Doreen is growing on me. I am now going back to listen to book 2.
March 9, 2019
Corpse in the Carnations by Dale Mayer
Lovely Lethal Gardens Series Book Three
Doreen Montgomery is at it again. She doesn't mean to fall into mysteries...mostly dead bodies...but they keep seeming to find her.
Along with her basset hound, Mugs, her inherited Maine Coon cat, Goliath, and the ever chatty African Grey, Thaddeus; they find adventure and sometimes danger. Poor Mack, the police detective, has been pulled along into her adventures. Although, in the end he gets the credit for solving the case. Even some longtime cold cases.
And then there is Nan, Doreen's grandmother who left her the house...and pets. She may be living in Rosemoor, the retirement village, but Nan is busy. Mostly playing bookie.
As always, another fun-loving, page-turning adventure.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Lovely Lethal Gardens Series Book Three
Doreen Montgomery is at it again. She doesn't mean to fall into mysteries...mostly dead bodies...but they keep seeming to find her.
Along with her basset hound, Mugs, her inherited Maine Coon cat, Goliath, and the ever chatty African Grey, Thaddeus; they find adventure and sometimes danger. Poor Mack, the police detective, has been pulled along into her adventures. Although, in the end he gets the credit for solving the case. Even some longtime cold cases.
And then there is Nan, Doreen's grandmother who left her the house...and pets. She may be living in Rosemoor, the retirement village, but Nan is busy. Mostly playing bookie.
As always, another fun-loving, page-turning adventure.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
February 27, 2019
Love this series!!!!!!!!!💖💖💖💖
Dear Dale Mayer, I absolutely adore this series! It's right up my alley. I simply cannot put these books down!!!! I have to put on my headphones to vacuum. I get so caught up!! I love the characters you have created for the series, especially the main characters!!! The camaraderie between Doreen and Mack give me sheer joy and amusement. I also love the heartwarming bond Doreen has with Nan and the lovable trio of animals. I hope you can keep writing these books for me(and others) LOL. Thank you so much. I'm home a lot and I live alone with my dog 🐕and the pleasure I receive from your wonderful creativity and writing skills fill my days! Bless you! Janet😀
Dear Dale Mayer, I absolutely adore this series! It's right up my alley. I simply cannot put these books down!!!! I have to put on my headphones to vacuum. I get so caught up!! I love the characters you have created for the series, especially the main characters!!! The camaraderie between Doreen and Mack give me sheer joy and amusement. I also love the heartwarming bond Doreen has with Nan and the lovable trio of animals. I hope you can keep writing these books for me(and others) LOL. Thank you so much. I'm home a lot and I live alone with my dog 🐕and the pleasure I receive from your wonderful creativity and writing skills fill my days! Bless you! Janet😀
March 17, 2019
Corpse in the Carnations (Lovely Lethal Gardens Book 3) by Dale Mayer
This third book in the Lovely Lethal Gardens series by Dale Mayer is the best one yet! She is a terrific writer!! It's packed full of fascinating information about the seasonal rise and fall of the creek behind Doreen Montgomery's home, the incredible antics of her three precocious pets, and more twisty cold cases for Doreen to solve along with the handsome police Detective Mark Moreau! Then, readers will enjoy the cooking lessons as Mark helps Doreen learn her way around that stove in the kitchen!! And there's More! Don't miss this one as Doreen becomes more capable at running her life and blossoms as a cold case investigator!
This third book in the Lovely Lethal Gardens series by Dale Mayer is the best one yet! She is a terrific writer!! It's packed full of fascinating information about the seasonal rise and fall of the creek behind Doreen Montgomery's home, the incredible antics of her three precocious pets, and more twisty cold cases for Doreen to solve along with the handsome police Detective Mark Moreau! Then, readers will enjoy the cooking lessons as Mark helps Doreen learn her way around that stove in the kitchen!! And there's More! Don't miss this one as Doreen becomes more capable at running her life and blossoms as a cold case investigator!
March 12, 2020
Doreen and her crew are out solving mysteries again.
Because of the way the description read I almost skipped this one. Boy that would have been a big mistake. As always get crew, Thaddeus, the parrot, Goliath, the main coon cat and of course Mugs her sweet doggy. Having lived a life as a trophy wife, which she hated, she didn't even know how to boil water. Her Nan moved into a retirement home and left her the house. She is dirt poor since her lawyer was sleeping with her ex. Nan on the other hand had constant betting pools going on in the home. As always a murder case or 2 and a cold case to solve keeps her busy when she isn't setting up her gardening business . Jump on board for laughter, mystery solving and more
Because of the way the description read I almost skipped this one. Boy that would have been a big mistake. As always get crew, Thaddeus, the parrot, Goliath, the main coon cat and of course Mugs her sweet doggy. Having lived a life as a trophy wife, which she hated, she didn't even know how to boil water. Her Nan moved into a retirement home and left her the house. She is dirt poor since her lawyer was sleeping with her ex. Nan on the other hand had constant betting pools going on in the home. As always a murder case or 2 and a cold case to solve keeps her busy when she isn't setting up her gardening business . Jump on board for laughter, mystery solving and more
April 16, 2021
Humor, danger and a great mystery...what more could you ask for?
I am absolutely hooked on this series! The goodness and naivety of Doreen, the quirkiness and generosity and love of Nan, the grudging acceptance & support of Mack, new friends and of course the pets - Thaddeus, Goliath and Mugs are just so charming. And the mysteries just aren’t predictable at all! I love that!
And as high pitched as Vanessa Moyen’s voice is, it’s perfect for this book and these characters - especially Doreen and Thaddeus! Dale Mayer did such a great job of writing the parrot’s humor, and Vanessa delivers it flawlessly. It makes me laugh out loud at least a couple times in each book!
Can’t wait for the next one!
I am absolutely hooked on this series! The goodness and naivety of Doreen, the quirkiness and generosity and love of Nan, the grudging acceptance & support of Mack, new friends and of course the pets - Thaddeus, Goliath and Mugs are just so charming. And the mysteries just aren’t predictable at all! I love that!
And as high pitched as Vanessa Moyen’s voice is, it’s perfect for this book and these characters - especially Doreen and Thaddeus! Dale Mayer did such a great job of writing the parrot’s humor, and Vanessa delivers it flawlessly. It makes me laugh out loud at least a couple times in each book!
Can’t wait for the next one!
July 21, 2021
This is the 3rd book in the series (Lovely Lethal Gardens) and I plan on reading all the books. Each one is better than the last and even though the endings are cliffhangers it's similar to a soap opera. The author (Dale Mayer) makes the reader feel as if we're right along with Doreen and her critters visiting Nan or strolling along the river back to her home. Since Doreen has always held an interest for flowers, she begins to develop an idea about a garden business. Doreen also discovers she has an uncanny ability for solving cold cases and with the assistance of her 3 quirky pets that help her with solving the dead-end cases. Doreen’s grandmother has left her not only a house but most is jammed with expense antiques and wonderful clothing. It’s an entertaining and fun read.
February 23, 2022
Corpse in the Carnations is the third installment in the Lovely Lethal Gardens cozy mystery series. So far, each installment has been short with the epilogue being the first chapter of the next installment. Even though they’re longer than a typical novella, that’s what these stories seem like to me. The mysteries are self contained and stand alone but only encompass a few days in the life of the main character. Each installment has improved somewhat over the first but I still find the stories average at best. But those darn epilogues take me right into the next book; so for now, I continue. There are currently more than a dozen books in the series with three more coming out this year. We’ll see if I can make it through all of them.
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