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Red Frog Beach Mystery #1
Drowning Lessons
You are cordially invited to a destination wedding to die for... Welcome to Bocas del Toro, a remote chain of islands off the Caribbean coast of Panama. Five days of glorious sun and lush rainforest await the forty guests celebrating Bridezilla Olivia’s dream wedding—but will a grisly murder sink the catered affair? Before anyone’s got time to start working on a tan, an unfortunate snorkeling accident eliminates a member of the wedding party. Maid of honor Lexie Marino smells trouble, and takes it upon herself to investigate, hoping to solve the case before her bestie’s trip down the aisle gets tropically derailed.
Lexie’s a little too tall, a little too awkward, and a little too brokenhearted, but she’s determined to nail the real killer. Can this unlikely sleuth stay afloat as she’s hit by wave after wave of wildly entertaining characters, including an alpha bride, surfing detectives, and a high school flame long forgotten? You’ll find yourself laughing until the very end of Drowning Lessons, a debut cozy mystery that makes the perfect beach read. Rub in some coconut oil, dangle your feet in the crystal-blue waters of Starfish Beach, and sip a cool drink as Lexie discovers the deductive superpowers she never knew she had. Let the party begin!
This is the first book of five in the Red Frog Beach Mystery Series. For information, updates, and mouth watering Caribbean recipes, please check out rachelneuburger.com
Lexie’s a little too tall, a little too awkward, and a little too brokenhearted, but she’s determined to nail the real killer. Can this unlikely sleuth stay afloat as she’s hit by wave after wave of wildly entertaining characters, including an alpha bride, surfing detectives, and a high school flame long forgotten? You’ll find yourself laughing until the very end of Drowning Lessons, a debut cozy mystery that makes the perfect beach read. Rub in some coconut oil, dangle your feet in the crystal-blue waters of Starfish Beach, and sip a cool drink as Lexie discovers the deductive superpowers she never knew she had. Let the party begin!
This is the first book of five in the Red Frog Beach Mystery Series. For information, updates, and mouth watering Caribbean recipes, please check out rachelneuburger.com
- GenresCozy MysteryMystery
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 20, 2019
17 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
May 25, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
We arrive on Bocas del Toro, a remote chain of islands off the Caribbean coast of Panama for the destination wedding of Olivia Fowlers. Alexandra ‘Lexie’ Martone is her maid of honor and is at the bride’s beck and call, as are all of the bridesmaids. Each one has received a binder/dossier with details about all 40 guests and all the activities the bride has planned for the week. Each bridesmaid has been assigned a group of people to watch over and certain events they are each in charge of.
The first event, snorkeling is all fun and games until one of the guests failed to come out of the water on their own. The bride quickly informs Lexie to handle it, a dead body is not going to ruin her big day. When the authorities determine the person was actually murdered the bride’s Zilla claws come out and she tells Lexie to keep everything a secret until her wedding goes off without a hitch. Lexie isn’t sure if the island detectives can solve the case since they seem more focused on surfing instead of the murder, so she starts to do a little snooping on her own. Even she knows this could end badly.
‘Lexie’ Martone has the patience of a saint. She is trying to recover from a bad breakup, doesn’t know how to swim, has put on a few pounds, and has always been the tallest girl in the crowd. She knows nothing about investigating a murder but she is going to give her the old college try. Everyone is a suspect and she doesn’t know who she can trust. Her time on the island is going to be the farthest thing from a delightful vacation. Lexie shows a lot of growth over these pages which makes me excited about this character.
In addition to Lexie, the author introduces us to a mixed bag of characters. New friends, old friends, a few relatives, work colleagues and one very wealthy character who is paying for this extravaganza. One ends up dead and then another and all those remaining land on the suspect list. Truthfully, with the exception of one or two, they weren’t a likable bunch for me or Lexie, so it wasn’t hard to believe that one or more of them could be a murderer.
Our protagonist didn’t do too much actual investigating. She leaned on her observations, overhearing conversations, and making a pest of herself, just being on the scene while trying to keep up with all her wedding chores. In my mind, she put herself in some risky situations for very little knowledge gained, but somehow it all came together by the end in a very enjoyable way.
This story is much more than a cozy mystery. It is a dramedy where literally everything that can go wrong does. Twists, turns, craziness, and good old mayhem fill these pages all on an idyllic chain of islands. A virtual beach escape or grab a copy and head to the beach. This was a fun book to read and a great start for this series. I am looking forward to the next book.
We arrive on Bocas del Toro, a remote chain of islands off the Caribbean coast of Panama for the destination wedding of Olivia Fowlers. Alexandra ‘Lexie’ Martone is her maid of honor and is at the bride’s beck and call, as are all of the bridesmaids. Each one has received a binder/dossier with details about all 40 guests and all the activities the bride has planned for the week. Each bridesmaid has been assigned a group of people to watch over and certain events they are each in charge of.
The first event, snorkeling is all fun and games until one of the guests failed to come out of the water on their own. The bride quickly informs Lexie to handle it, a dead body is not going to ruin her big day. When the authorities determine the person was actually murdered the bride’s Zilla claws come out and she tells Lexie to keep everything a secret until her wedding goes off without a hitch. Lexie isn’t sure if the island detectives can solve the case since they seem more focused on surfing instead of the murder, so she starts to do a little snooping on her own. Even she knows this could end badly.
‘Lexie’ Martone has the patience of a saint. She is trying to recover from a bad breakup, doesn’t know how to swim, has put on a few pounds, and has always been the tallest girl in the crowd. She knows nothing about investigating a murder but she is going to give her the old college try. Everyone is a suspect and she doesn’t know who she can trust. Her time on the island is going to be the farthest thing from a delightful vacation. Lexie shows a lot of growth over these pages which makes me excited about this character.
In addition to Lexie, the author introduces us to a mixed bag of characters. New friends, old friends, a few relatives, work colleagues and one very wealthy character who is paying for this extravaganza. One ends up dead and then another and all those remaining land on the suspect list. Truthfully, with the exception of one or two, they weren’t a likable bunch for me or Lexie, so it wasn’t hard to believe that one or more of them could be a murderer.
Our protagonist didn’t do too much actual investigating. She leaned on her observations, overhearing conversations, and making a pest of herself, just being on the scene while trying to keep up with all her wedding chores. In my mind, she put herself in some risky situations for very little knowledge gained, but somehow it all came together by the end in a very enjoyable way.
This story is much more than a cozy mystery. It is a dramedy where literally everything that can go wrong does. Twists, turns, craziness, and good old mayhem fill these pages all on an idyllic chain of islands. A virtual beach escape or grab a copy and head to the beach. This was a fun book to read and a great start for this series. I am looking forward to the next book.
May 7, 2019
This not typically the kind of book I find myself reading, but I was drawn to the blurb and the cover! Surprisingly, I liked it! Drowning Lessons by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds is book 1 in the A Red Frog Beach Mystery Book series. Its suspenseful, fun and a very enjoyable read.
Alexandra 'Lexie' Martone is the maid of honor at her best friend Olivia Fowlers over-the-top extravagant destination wedding at Bocas del Toro, a remote chain of islands off the Caribbean coast of Panama. Olivia and her gang of bridesmaid have kept a file, with snarky details of all her wedding guests. When one of the members of the bridal party has a snorkeling "accident" Lexie finds herself in the middle of a mystery, she must solve in order that her best friend Olivia gets the wedding of her dreams. Except that Olivia is not your typical bridezilla, she's much more 'extra' and it takes Lexie a great deal of patience and perseverance to see this to the end! When a second member at the wedding drops dead, Lexie knows she's dealing with someone sinister and must put a stop to the murders( with the help from the local police, offcourse) before the wedding celebrations end up as a colossal failure.
I liked mostly all the characters in this book, especially our protagonist Lexie. The monologues she has with herself are too funny and too good! This looks to be the start of a fresh new series I look forward to following! I'll be eagerly waiting to get my hands on the next in the series - The Wipe Out Affair.
Thank you Netgalley, Rachel Neuburger Reynolds & BooksGoSocial for an arc!
Alexandra 'Lexie' Martone is the maid of honor at her best friend Olivia Fowlers over-the-top extravagant destination wedding at Bocas del Toro, a remote chain of islands off the Caribbean coast of Panama. Olivia and her gang of bridesmaid have kept a file, with snarky details of all her wedding guests. When one of the members of the bridal party has a snorkeling "accident" Lexie finds herself in the middle of a mystery, she must solve in order that her best friend Olivia gets the wedding of her dreams. Except that Olivia is not your typical bridezilla, she's much more 'extra' and it takes Lexie a great deal of patience and perseverance to see this to the end! When a second member at the wedding drops dead, Lexie knows she's dealing with someone sinister and must put a stop to the murders( with the help from the local police, offcourse) before the wedding celebrations end up as a colossal failure.
I liked mostly all the characters in this book, especially our protagonist Lexie. The monologues she has with herself are too funny and too good! This looks to be the start of a fresh new series I look forward to following! I'll be eagerly waiting to get my hands on the next in the series - The Wipe Out Affair.
Thank you Netgalley, Rachel Neuburger Reynolds & BooksGoSocial for an arc!
April 29, 2019
This book was given t me in exchange for an honest review by NetGalley.com
Drowning Lessons is the first novel in the Red Frog Beach Mystery Series by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds.
Welcome to Bocas del Toro, a remote chain of islands off the Caribbean coast of Panama. Five days of glorious sun and lush rainforest await the forty guests celebrating Bridezilla Olivia’s dream wedding—but before anyone’s got time to start working on a tan, an unfortunate snorkeling accident eliminates a member of the wedding party. Maid of honour Lexie Marino smells trouble and takes it upon herself to investigate. Sneaking and Suspicions ensue in this debut Cozy Mystery.
This book was a good place to start, but think there is room for improvement in the remainder of the series. The book was unfortunately too slow-paced for my liking, I felt myself feeling bored as no real progress was made in the mystery when we reach the novel's halfway point.
The friendship between Olivia and Lexie, as well as Lexie's relationships with the other guests at Olivia's destination wedding, was far more compelling than the mystery itself. I enjoyed watching different dynamic's play out and the utter confusion that ensues when suddenly everyone seems like a suspect.
The novel was an easy read, and still enjoyable despite some flaws, I enjoyed exploring Lexie's world and found her perspective really compelling and she seems like a fun character to follow. I feel the novel reads more like a drama than the mystery it advertises, that being said the drama is written very well and I can only hope the mystery is also elevated as the series goes on.
A great book for anyone who wants to cozy up with a more light-hearted mystery.
Drowning Lessons is the first novel in the Red Frog Beach Mystery Series by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds.
Welcome to Bocas del Toro, a remote chain of islands off the Caribbean coast of Panama. Five days of glorious sun and lush rainforest await the forty guests celebrating Bridezilla Olivia’s dream wedding—but before anyone’s got time to start working on a tan, an unfortunate snorkeling accident eliminates a member of the wedding party. Maid of honour Lexie Marino smells trouble and takes it upon herself to investigate. Sneaking and Suspicions ensue in this debut Cozy Mystery.
This book was a good place to start, but think there is room for improvement in the remainder of the series. The book was unfortunately too slow-paced for my liking, I felt myself feeling bored as no real progress was made in the mystery when we reach the novel's halfway point.
The friendship between Olivia and Lexie, as well as Lexie's relationships with the other guests at Olivia's destination wedding, was far more compelling than the mystery itself. I enjoyed watching different dynamic's play out and the utter confusion that ensues when suddenly everyone seems like a suspect.
The novel was an easy read, and still enjoyable despite some flaws, I enjoyed exploring Lexie's world and found her perspective really compelling and she seems like a fun character to follow. I feel the novel reads more like a drama than the mystery it advertises, that being said the drama is written very well and I can only hope the mystery is also elevated as the series goes on.
A great book for anyone who wants to cozy up with a more light-hearted mystery.
May 29, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Great Escapes Book Tours. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Can they keep this death a secret or will it ruin the wedding?
Drowning Lessons by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds is an adventure filled murder mystery, with plenty of suspects trapped on an island paradise.
Likes
The way the author breaks up the story into the days that the wedding party are on the island works so well.
Olivia, the bride, has everyone’s cellphones taken at the beginning of the story works well at isolating the wedding party and guests.
The island paradise and the way that the islanders are portrayed. I thought it was respectful and genuine.
The La Guardia is open to allowing our reluctant sleuth to help with the investigation.
The bridezilla, Olivia, is a wonderfully written narcissistic control freak. Who deserved her groom.
The whole wedding scheme was outrageous, blood red everything, Goth outfits, a costume party, bats, drinking like a college spring break. It was all so crazy, like that train wreck that you can’t turn away.
The Slam Book as a wedding planner was so utterly, Olivia.
Emma is another marvelous character even though she is a lot like Olivia only sad. I felt sorry for her.
Lexi, our sleuth
Lexi is a fabulously flawed character. I love that she is this tall, beautiful woman but doesn’t see it herself. Then there is her whole “Left Behind” thing. I am so glad she figured out that she is better than that. Lexi also has a lot of class, and she handled some things that happen with her head held high. Oh, and Lexi is entirely loyal to her friend, Olivia. Which seems like a remedy characteristic but seriously, you have to read about Olivia to realize what a huge flaw that is.
I think that helping solve this murder let Lexi see who was actually on her side and who was using her. The friends that she makes while doing it also help her grow as an individual.
Mystery
The mystery is well planned, with lots of motives, plenty of suspects and such an exotic method of murder. I think my favorite part was learning about each of the suspects and how warped they were. Honestly, the first victim was a straight up arse, but he must have had some redeeming qualities. However, the second victim is sweet and is such a loss to society. Kudos to our sleuth and her temporary sidekick for figuring it out and explaining why via a Scooby Doo wrap up.
5 Stars for Drowning Lessons by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds
My rating for Drowning Lessons by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds is five stars. I loved the setting, the mystery is top-notch, the characters are very realistic, yet humorous, and the plot moved well. This series is one that I will be watching.
I highly recommend this book to all the cozy mystery readers out there.
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Prize: (1) eBook Copy - Drowning Lessons by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds
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Drowning Lessons by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds is an adventure filled murder mystery, with plenty of suspects trapped on an island paradise.
Likes
The way the author breaks up the story into the days that the wedding party are on the island works so well.
Olivia, the bride, has everyone’s cellphones taken at the beginning of the story works well at isolating the wedding party and guests.
The island paradise and the way that the islanders are portrayed. I thought it was respectful and genuine.
The La Guardia is open to allowing our reluctant sleuth to help with the investigation.
The bridezilla, Olivia, is a wonderfully written narcissistic control freak. Who deserved her groom.
The whole wedding scheme was outrageous, blood red everything, Goth outfits, a costume party, bats, drinking like a college spring break. It was all so crazy, like that train wreck that you can’t turn away.
The Slam Book as a wedding planner was so utterly, Olivia.
Emma is another marvelous character even though she is a lot like Olivia only sad. I felt sorry for her.
Lexi, our sleuth
Lexi is a fabulously flawed character. I love that she is this tall, beautiful woman but doesn’t see it herself. Then there is her whole “Left Behind” thing. I am so glad she figured out that she is better than that. Lexi also has a lot of class, and she handled some things that happen with her head held high. Oh, and Lexi is entirely loyal to her friend, Olivia. Which seems like a remedy characteristic but seriously, you have to read about Olivia to realize what a huge flaw that is.
I think that helping solve this murder let Lexi see who was actually on her side and who was using her. The friends that she makes while doing it also help her grow as an individual.
Mystery
The mystery is well planned, with lots of motives, plenty of suspects and such an exotic method of murder. I think my favorite part was learning about each of the suspects and how warped they were. Honestly, the first victim was a straight up arse, but he must have had some redeeming qualities. However, the second victim is sweet and is such a loss to society. Kudos to our sleuth and her temporary sidekick for figuring it out and explaining why via a Scooby Doo wrap up.
5 Stars for Drowning Lessons by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds My rating for Drowning Lessons by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds is five stars. I loved the setting, the mystery is top-notch, the characters are very realistic, yet humorous, and the plot moved well. This series is one that I will be watching.
I highly recommend this book to all the cozy mystery readers out there.
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This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
June 6, 2019
A destination wedding to die for....
I liked this cozy mystery book, fantastic easy beach read. However, although it was a good start in the series, I think there is some improvement room ready for the next book. It was a little slow paced at times and I found myself getting a little bit bored at times.
The main friendship between Olivia and Lexie was really good and in fact Lexie's whole dynamic was enjoyable to read. She was very easy to read and likable as well. This is a good book for anyone looking for a lighthearted mystery.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I liked this cozy mystery book, fantastic easy beach read. However, although it was a good start in the series, I think there is some improvement room ready for the next book. It was a little slow paced at times and I found myself getting a little bit bored at times.
The main friendship between Olivia and Lexie was really good and in fact Lexie's whole dynamic was enjoyable to read. She was very easy to read and likable as well. This is a good book for anyone looking for a lighthearted mystery.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2019
When you read a ton of books a year (a fact for which I will remain eternally grateful) there will always be cases of books both pleasantly and unpleasantly surprising you. When the former happens, it makes your day. This is one such case.
I have had this book with me for a while, and I somehow never got to it. I corrected that error recently and sat down with it. It was a very different version of cozy mystery/chicklit/drama than I am in the habit of reading. It is multi-layered and has interesting characters and even more interesting relationships. This last fact is analyzed to a very high degree and I am sure all of you reading would find something to commiserate with. I have had my share of great friendships (most of which still exist) and a couple of ones which border on toxic. I unknowingly might have been the aggressor in a few and I tried my best to learn from those mistakes but the others left a mark. This is one such story.
Lexie is not in a happy place but has to participate in her childhood best friend's wedding. She has been roped in to bend to the bridezilla's every whim and things start to get crazy. Nothing about the setup feels right and one of them turns up dead. This, as it turns out is another thing the bride needs her help keeping away from her party because she needs the show to go on. There are multiple suspects, a lot of crazy activities being organized and slip-shod detecting done by Lexie. Every person in the party is a suspect and while being surrounded by water-Lexie does not know how to swim. She learns through the book to not only not-drown in the water but to stay afloat in her normal life.
I highly recommend this book, I would have given it a full five stars if it was a tiny bit shorter. I was restless to see where the story was headed. The writing was great and the narration flowed otherwise.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is completely based on my own reading experience.
I have had this book with me for a while, and I somehow never got to it. I corrected that error recently and sat down with it. It was a very different version of cozy mystery/chicklit/drama than I am in the habit of reading. It is multi-layered and has interesting characters and even more interesting relationships. This last fact is analyzed to a very high degree and I am sure all of you reading would find something to commiserate with. I have had my share of great friendships (most of which still exist) and a couple of ones which border on toxic. I unknowingly might have been the aggressor in a few and I tried my best to learn from those mistakes but the others left a mark. This is one such story.
Lexie is not in a happy place but has to participate in her childhood best friend's wedding. She has been roped in to bend to the bridezilla's every whim and things start to get crazy. Nothing about the setup feels right and one of them turns up dead. This, as it turns out is another thing the bride needs her help keeping away from her party because she needs the show to go on. There are multiple suspects, a lot of crazy activities being organized and slip-shod detecting done by Lexie. Every person in the party is a suspect and while being surrounded by water-Lexie does not know how to swim. She learns through the book to not only not-drown in the water but to stay afloat in her normal life.
I highly recommend this book, I would have given it a full five stars if it was a tiny bit shorter. I was restless to see where the story was headed. The writing was great and the narration flowed otherwise.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is completely based on my own reading experience.
June 2, 2019
Lexie Marino has her work cut out for her. She’s the Maid of Honor at her friend Olivia’s destination wedding. It sounds like fun as all their friends gather on an island in the Caribbean called Bocas del Toro. Fun turns to horror when one of the groom’s close friends is found murdered.
Olivia is the definition of Bridezilla and she’s not going to let a little murder get in the way of her big day. Lexie decides to do her own investigation and try to figure out who could have done this horrible thing. She learns more about the victim than she bargained for and wonders if this wedding will really be able to happen.
This is not just a cozy mystery. It’s more like chick lit meets cozy. It has a nice blend of both genres. The dialogue is LOL and witty. The characters are more than just a little quirky. Lexie was my favorite of the cast.
The storyline moves along at a nice pace. It’s filled with humor from beginning to end, not to mention several twists along the way. It’s the perfect beach read.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Olivia is the definition of Bridezilla and she’s not going to let a little murder get in the way of her big day. Lexie decides to do her own investigation and try to figure out who could have done this horrible thing. She learns more about the victim than she bargained for and wonders if this wedding will really be able to happen.
This is not just a cozy mystery. It’s more like chick lit meets cozy. It has a nice blend of both genres. The dialogue is LOL and witty. The characters are more than just a little quirky. Lexie was my favorite of the cast.
The storyline moves along at a nice pace. It’s filled with humor from beginning to end, not to mention several twists along the way. It’s the perfect beach read.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 20, 2019
The perfect beach read. This book is a great escape to a tropical location sure to leave you caught up in the story’s twists and turns. It was an enjoyable start to the series with entertaining characters that infused humor into the story. I can’t wait to see where the author takes Lexie and her adventures next!
April 7, 2019
A Bridezilla's wedding on a tropical island, should be peaceful, except that she's given each of her four bridesmaids a file with details on the guests, the activities and what they will be in charge of and when. Oh and the bridesmaids have been given all red clothes for the five days. Everything is organised - even down to the guests having to hand over their phones, cameras and any other technology before leaving the boat to land on the island for the first of many parties.
It takes a couple of hours before the first thing goes wrong. One of the snorkellers doesn't return to the boat and can be seen lying face down in the water. Lexie, chief bridesmaid and the bride's best friend is left in charge of 'sorting everything out' while keeping it a secret.
A good fun read.
It takes a couple of hours before the first thing goes wrong. One of the snorkellers doesn't return to the boat and can be seen lying face down in the water. Lexie, chief bridesmaid and the bride's best friend is left in charge of 'sorting everything out' while keeping it a secret.
A good fun read.
Read
July 14, 2019So cool to read something written by someone I know! Entertaining summer read with a surprising end.
August 3, 2019
I debated giving it two or three stars, but in the end, two felt right as I just got a bit bored and lost a lot of interest in reading it.
Some positives (there are some I swear!) It is a cozy mystery set against an amazing backdrop of sunsets, beaches and crystal clear waters. The cast of characters are fun and quirky, which is what you want in a who-done-it 'locked room' style of mystery. And if you are looking for a quick and easy beach read (whether you or on the beach or you want a beach setting) this one is pretty easy to pick up.
So the reason for the less than stellar rating... I believe a few other people noted it in their review, but the book is pretty boring for at leas the first half. In fact, the first half just felt like a trip down memory lane of the Lexi and Olivia show. One chapter is fine, but I was on chapter 8 thinking, 'I really don't care, just get back to the action.' And on that point, I know that this is a cosy mystery and therefore an armchair analysis on the best friend relationship of both Lexi and Olivia isn't probably warranted, but my god, they were practically chalk and cheese. I mean, why were they friends? Olivia is shallow, obnoxious, cruel and demanding (yes we are supposed to believe she is having a bit of a bridezilla moment, but she felt pretty one dimensional), and Lexi is a sweet, bookish nerd who seems to be a bit of a pushover... ahhh that's why they were 'friends.'
And Lexi, spends the first part whinging about her failed career as a writer and how much weight she put on post-boyfriend break up (a break up she instigated, so if you follow the usual 'I'm a free woman now' trope, she should have actually lost the 10 pounds, moved town and got a new job, unless of course during that time he had just been forcing her to eat healthy and exercise regularly). I know that sounds really picky, but when you are waiting to get back to the murder, all you have to focus on are the dynamics between the characters, and those questions just kept going round my head!
In the end, I just felt like I was having to force myself to persevere, however there are a lot of good reviews for this book, so I think once you get past the first half, it gets better. And if this is the author's first book, you can definitely see potential.
Some positives (there are some I swear!) It is a cozy mystery set against an amazing backdrop of sunsets, beaches and crystal clear waters. The cast of characters are fun and quirky, which is what you want in a who-done-it 'locked room' style of mystery. And if you are looking for a quick and easy beach read (whether you or on the beach or you want a beach setting) this one is pretty easy to pick up.
So the reason for the less than stellar rating... I believe a few other people noted it in their review, but the book is pretty boring for at leas the first half. In fact, the first half just felt like a trip down memory lane of the Lexi and Olivia show. One chapter is fine, but I was on chapter 8 thinking, 'I really don't care, just get back to the action.' And on that point, I know that this is a cosy mystery and therefore an armchair analysis on the best friend relationship of both Lexi and Olivia isn't probably warranted, but my god, they were practically chalk and cheese. I mean, why were they friends? Olivia is shallow, obnoxious, cruel and demanding (yes we are supposed to believe she is having a bit of a bridezilla moment, but she felt pretty one dimensional), and Lexi is a sweet, bookish nerd who seems to be a bit of a pushover... ahhh that's why they were 'friends.'
And Lexi, spends the first part whinging about her failed career as a writer and how much weight she put on post-boyfriend break up (a break up she instigated, so if you follow the usual 'I'm a free woman now' trope, she should have actually lost the 10 pounds, moved town and got a new job, unless of course during that time he had just been forcing her to eat healthy and exercise regularly). I know that sounds really picky, but when you are waiting to get back to the murder, all you have to focus on are the dynamics between the characters, and those questions just kept going round my head!
In the end, I just felt like I was having to force myself to persevere, however there are a lot of good reviews for this book, so I think once you get past the first half, it gets better. And if this is the author's first book, you can definitely see potential.
Read
May 8, 2019Struggled to find any sympathy with the characters in this book. Like murder mysteries to focus on the solving of the crime but this one seemed more about the romance and increasingly annoying behaviour of the characters - not for me, sorry!
** Recieved a free Digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
** Recieved a free Digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
April 15, 2019
When I read a murder mystery, I want the book to basically be about murder and mystery. This book is mainly about 35 year olds behaving like teenagers in a childish drama.
October 17, 2019
I will admit that I don’t read many mystery novels. The ones I do read though, usually end up being interesting and this one is no exception. What’s more interesting than a bunch of strangers shoved together for a destination wedding that has a giant bridezilla? Ones that have skeletons and secrets in their closets that they are trying to hide when the best man gets murdered.
Poor Lexi is the maid of honor for her best friend Olivia’s wedding. Olivia is taking bridezilla to the next level with her destination wedding weeklong schedule. Lexi is trying desperately to keep everything from becoming a disaster when Olivia decides that nobody needs to know that the best man has been murdered, and that the wedding must go on. When Olivia’s sister shows up with a plan to ruin the wedding that includes an ex that broke her sister’s heart, Lexi’s problems hit nuclear level. Between love, lies, murder and lots of secrets Lexi learns a lot about herself and her best friend.
There are some really interesting characters in this book that have some surprises up their sleeve. The world building is pretty good, and I felt like I could feel the ocean breeze and picture the small coastal town so clearly. I mostly gave this book five stars because I was drawn into the story not just because of the murder mystery but because of Lexi’s struggles to come to terms with truths about herself, her best friend, and what she really wanted in her life.
Poor Lexi is the maid of honor for her best friend Olivia’s wedding. Olivia is taking bridezilla to the next level with her destination wedding weeklong schedule. Lexi is trying desperately to keep everything from becoming a disaster when Olivia decides that nobody needs to know that the best man has been murdered, and that the wedding must go on. When Olivia’s sister shows up with a plan to ruin the wedding that includes an ex that broke her sister’s heart, Lexi’s problems hit nuclear level. Between love, lies, murder and lots of secrets Lexi learns a lot about herself and her best friend.
There are some really interesting characters in this book that have some surprises up their sleeve. The world building is pretty good, and I felt like I could feel the ocean breeze and picture the small coastal town so clearly. I mostly gave this book five stars because I was drawn into the story not just because of the murder mystery but because of Lexi’s struggles to come to terms with truths about herself, her best friend, and what she really wanted in her life.
May 26, 2019
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
First of all, this is a cozy mystery. There are no scenes with graphic violence or sex. There is some sex implied. There are also very few instances of profanity in this book. The harshest language would be considered PG in nature. Most lovers of cozy mysteries will find this book includes everything they have come to expect as far as the content is concerned.
The story itself had a rather intriguing mystery attached to it. I didn't find myself overly invested in the personal lives of the characters in the book, but the use of poison dart frogs was quite interesting. The fact that the mystery occurs during a wedding celebration is a typical but ideal setting. I didn't quite figure out "who done it," and thankfully, the mystery was cleverly laid out.
I am grateful that this was the first book in the series. This meant that I was able to become acquainted with the players from the series inception, and I was able to make the determination if this would be a series I would be interested in continuing. While it was not overly exciting, it was a foundational book, and I think reading at least one more book in the series would help me make up my mind concerning the series.
First of all, this is a cozy mystery. There are no scenes with graphic violence or sex. There is some sex implied. There are also very few instances of profanity in this book. The harshest language would be considered PG in nature. Most lovers of cozy mysteries will find this book includes everything they have come to expect as far as the content is concerned.
The story itself had a rather intriguing mystery attached to it. I didn't find myself overly invested in the personal lives of the characters in the book, but the use of poison dart frogs was quite interesting. The fact that the mystery occurs during a wedding celebration is a typical but ideal setting. I didn't quite figure out "who done it," and thankfully, the mystery was cleverly laid out.
I am grateful that this was the first book in the series. This meant that I was able to become acquainted with the players from the series inception, and I was able to make the determination if this would be a series I would be interested in continuing. While it was not overly exciting, it was a foundational book, and I think reading at least one more book in the series would help me make up my mind concerning the series.
June 3, 2019
I enjoyed this read! It was less cozy of a mystery than I thought. It contained more scandalous elements than most cozy mysteries ever do and that worked for me. The book was a mystery but also held drama elements as well. Lexie was a likable character and deserves the reward of the year for being an awesome friend. She is put in situations that I would have lost my mind over and/or told off my friend ten times over. She is not an investigator by any means but somehow ends up pulling off what she needs to after the death of a groomsman during a pre-wedding snorkel activity. I also enjoy how funny Lexie can be and enjoyed many of the humorous scenarios that occur during the read.
My issue with the book was that it could be slow-paced at times. As the first book of the series, there could be more work to be done for readers to discover our character and I do hope that this is why we learned so much about Lexie. I hope that the author continues to use Lexie in this series or it wouldn't make much sense for some of the background character driven knowledge we gained during the book.
Overall, there is some need for improvement in the series but it was a light-hearted mystery that still reads more than a cozy mystery. I do look forward to more of the series
My issue with the book was that it could be slow-paced at times. As the first book of the series, there could be more work to be done for readers to discover our character and I do hope that this is why we learned so much about Lexie. I hope that the author continues to use Lexie in this series or it wouldn't make much sense for some of the background character driven knowledge we gained during the book.
Overall, there is some need for improvement in the series but it was a light-hearted mystery that still reads more than a cozy mystery. I do look forward to more of the series
June 6, 2019
Dark Comedy Mystery!
Whoa! What a story! Rachel is a new Author for me; I didn't know what to make of this book! It was sad, lost long term friendship over, a death of a friend funding an expensive wedding, kind of makes for a strange wedding party! The bride turns into a bridezilla, monster is a better description for " beautiful Olivia", her handsome groom, one has to wonder, after all, beauty is skin deep! Nico, the rich, as in filthy, dies while snorkeling, his best friend Max is arrested. Lexie, Olivia's friend since they were young girls, is treated like dirt by Olivia, yet, she seems to believe the real Olivia from their childhood is still there? Lexie is on the rebound, picks the weakest guy to bind with! I could see this happening to twenty-two-year-olds, but thirty five!? You have to be kidding me?!
I am looking forward to the next book, simply because I want Lexie to have a happy, loving relationship!
I highly recommend for the sophisticated! :) Thank you Netgalley! #Drowning Lessons #Netgalley
carolintallahassee.com
Whoa! What a story! Rachel is a new Author for me; I didn't know what to make of this book! It was sad, lost long term friendship over, a death of a friend funding an expensive wedding, kind of makes for a strange wedding party! The bride turns into a bridezilla, monster is a better description for " beautiful Olivia", her handsome groom, one has to wonder, after all, beauty is skin deep! Nico, the rich, as in filthy, dies while snorkeling, his best friend Max is arrested. Lexie, Olivia's friend since they were young girls, is treated like dirt by Olivia, yet, she seems to believe the real Olivia from their childhood is still there? Lexie is on the rebound, picks the weakest guy to bind with! I could see this happening to twenty-two-year-olds, but thirty five!? You have to be kidding me?!
I am looking forward to the next book, simply because I want Lexie to have a happy, loving relationship!
I highly recommend for the sophisticated! :) Thank you Netgalley! #Drowning Lessons #Netgalley
carolintallahassee.com
October 14, 2019
I enjoyed "Drowning Lessons" by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds, though I must admit that I found the first half a bit slow-paced for my tastes. Fortunately, the story picked up in the second half, and I read most of the book in one sitting.
I found the characters to be enjoyably quirky, especially Lloyd, a.k.a "the Dissector," the accused (but never proven) serial killer; flighty bridezilla Olivia; flirty Migs the photographer; and surfer detectives LaGuardia and McDonough. I wasn't crazy about Josh, main character Lexie's love interest, but since this book wasn't a romance, I was able to mostly ignore that aspect of the story and focus on the other elements. I especially appreciated the book's comedic elements, as well as the fact that the mystery kept me guessing until the end.
Overall, "Drowning Lessons" was a light, easy read, perfect for enjoying by the beach or pool. I will plan to read the next book in the series to see where Lexie's adventures take her next.
*ARC provided by the author via Xpresso Book Tours. All opinions expressed are my own.
I found the characters to be enjoyably quirky, especially Lloyd, a.k.a "the Dissector," the accused (but never proven) serial killer; flighty bridezilla Olivia; flirty Migs the photographer; and surfer detectives LaGuardia and McDonough. I wasn't crazy about Josh, main character Lexie's love interest, but since this book wasn't a romance, I was able to mostly ignore that aspect of the story and focus on the other elements. I especially appreciated the book's comedic elements, as well as the fact that the mystery kept me guessing until the end.
Overall, "Drowning Lessons" was a light, easy read, perfect for enjoying by the beach or pool. I will plan to read the next book in the series to see where Lexie's adventures take her next.
*ARC provided by the author via Xpresso Book Tours. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 16, 2019
Do not read this thinking you are reading a book you can take seriously. Sure, people die, but that barely puts a dent into the plans Olivia has for her wedding. She just adds "find the killer" and "don't let the guests know" to her maid of honor's huge to-do list. Why? Because this week-long lead-up to her nuptials will not be ruined by someone getting murdered! That pretty much sets the mood for a campy romp of a cozy. Lexie, the maid of honor, quickly finds out that a beautiful secluded island is not a magnet for the best police detectives and starts to investigate on her own. She manages to do this between other bridesmaid duties like zip lining and themed cocktail parties. Like I said, it is a campy romp. A great read when you don't really want something serious.
Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
April 12, 2019
Lexie and Olivia have been friends since the age of 5, and now Lexie is intent on making sure her friend's island wedding goes off without a hitch. When the bodies start dropping, Lexie jumps in to solve the mystery and keep the wedding on track.
The story is a pretty easy read, and i think the unraveling of Olivia and Lexi's friendship was the most engaging part of the story. Lexi is a bit annoying in regards to her relationships, but has other qualities. that are more endearing. Overall, the author did well at giving the characters enough definition to make them interesting and the crime was well paced. I actually rate in 3 1/2 stars.
I received an ARC from NetGalley, and am sharing my opinion about the book.
The story is a pretty easy read, and i think the unraveling of Olivia and Lexi's friendship was the most engaging part of the story. Lexi is a bit annoying in regards to her relationships, but has other qualities. that are more endearing. Overall, the author did well at giving the characters enough definition to make them interesting and the crime was well paced. I actually rate in 3 1/2 stars.
I received an ARC from NetGalley, and am sharing my opinion about the book.
May 19, 2019
Olivia and Lexie are childhood friends, now in their thirties. Olivia devolves into a total bridzilla prior to her destination wedding in Boca Del Torres Panama. It is all fun and games until the best man is murdered during a snorkeling trip. Lexi being the good friend and maid of honor, does as Olivia and her fiancé request and tries to keep the murder secret and the wedding on track while searching for the killer.
While I really enjoyed some aspects of this Drowning Lessons I had a hard time accepting Lexie putting up with Olivia. I think that as a series the next book may be better for me as Lexie has come to have a little more self respect by the end of this book. I will look forward to reading the next one.
While I really enjoyed some aspects of this Drowning Lessons I had a hard time accepting Lexie putting up with Olivia. I think that as a series the next book may be better for me as Lexie has come to have a little more self respect by the end of this book. I will look forward to reading the next one.
January 2, 2020
Great debut for this new series: a compelling plot, a spectacular setting and bizarre characters, nothing is missing.
Lexi is the bridesmaid at the wedding of her friend Olivia but the party is in danger of jumping when a guest is found dead and the main suspect is the future groom. Olivia tries to hide the murder and Lexi will have to do everything possible to help her and solve the case
The characters are very realistic, Lexi is a great woman, she has infinite patience with Olivia, a crazy control freak.
It's a well written story, the plot is well intertwined and unpredictable, so many bizarre situations, twists and lots of humor. I loved the descriptions of this Caribbean paradise
To read for lovers of cozy mystery
Lexi is the bridesmaid at the wedding of her friend Olivia but the party is in danger of jumping when a guest is found dead and the main suspect is the future groom. Olivia tries to hide the murder and Lexi will have to do everything possible to help her and solve the case
The characters are very realistic, Lexi is a great woman, she has infinite patience with Olivia, a crazy control freak.
It's a well written story, the plot is well intertwined and unpredictable, so many bizarre situations, twists and lots of humor. I loved the descriptions of this Caribbean paradise
To read for lovers of cozy mystery
October 18, 2019
I am always a fan of mystery ... I've never read this author before, such a new fan. great interesting characters. love a read with a "bridezilla" ... personally I've never met one .. or maybe i should say THANKFULLY. but i guess we all were a bride once and we want, what we want. Only once you go through it do u change your thoughts. I know i did. I wish i had gone way smaller. set on a tropical island, now we are talking, I so hope to travel to one, one day??! what a great setting!!I think right now is a perfect time to dive into this kind of read. Fall is a great cozy time of good cozy mystery. It is a series, and I look forward to more to come. in KU if you have that service.
April 4, 2019
Drowning Lessons us a fun, cozy mystery series that will have reader falling in love with one very awkward Lexie who is trying to survive a broken heart is determined to give her Bridezilla the wedding of her dreams.
This story will have readers laughing so hard and dying to visit the wedding destination point in this Cozy Mystery.
The book also has wonderful recipes readers will be able to recreate in their home if they have the ability to cook.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the Debut novel by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds Drowning Lessons
This story will have readers laughing so hard and dying to visit the wedding destination point in this Cozy Mystery.
The book also has wonderful recipes readers will be able to recreate in their home if they have the ability to cook.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the Debut novel by Rachel Neuburger Reynolds Drowning Lessons
April 12, 2019
I LOVED LOVED LOVED this book.
What a treat. Such a fantastic debut by the author that will sure to become one of my favorites.
Where do I start?
The main character made me cry and laugh, and really wish the book would never end. The situations were believably hilarious, chapters flew, I had a dozen murder theories—all of them false!
This is the type of novel you want to read with a glass of wine next to you and no distractions. What a fun way to unwind from the stress of the days.
What a treat. Such a fantastic debut by the author that will sure to become one of my favorites.
Where do I start?
The main character made me cry and laugh, and really wish the book would never end. The situations were believably hilarious, chapters flew, I had a dozen murder theories—all of them false!
This is the type of novel you want to read with a glass of wine next to you and no distractions. What a fun way to unwind from the stress of the days.
October 15, 2019
“Drowning Lessons was the kind of book that you know it’s going to be mysterious but you never expected what you read! I loved the cozy style and the whole beach scenario but honestly I await for killers, betrayal… a mystery focus but I was more romantic yet I enjoyed it and I’m happy I read it.
The friendship between Olivia and Lexi was special and flawless. Their interaction were delightful and easy to read. I’m ready for book #2 and see how things will continue.”
The friendship between Olivia and Lexi was special and flawless. Their interaction were delightful and easy to read. I’m ready for book #2 and see how things will continue.”
July 21, 2020
Lots of Fun… and an Endearing Heroine
What a fun and funny cozy mystery! Our heroine is an endearingly awkward young woman, best friend to the bridezilla of the destination wedding at the heart of the story. I adore cozy mysteries, but I've rarely found one so laugh-out-loud funny in places. The place, too, sounds like a great one to visit. All in all, this was a fantastic and very humorous read.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
What a fun and funny cozy mystery! Our heroine is an endearingly awkward young woman, best friend to the bridezilla of the destination wedding at the heart of the story. I adore cozy mysteries, but I've rarely found one so laugh-out-loud funny in places. The place, too, sounds like a great one to visit. All in all, this was a fantastic and very humorous read.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
August 30, 2019
I really enjoyed this book! Contemporary literature really isn't my genre but I must say this was a great read. Rachel Neuburger is a new author for me and I dare say this won't be the last book of hers I read.
If books made me cry, this one would have done the trick. There was humor alongside sadness! It was a great debut book!
If books made me cry, this one would have done the trick. There was humor alongside sadness! It was a great debut book!
February 28, 2020
Murder mystery in Bocas del Toro
Living in Bocas, I really enjoyed reading about places I know. The premise of the story is good but I did not connect with any of the characters. The games they play of tearing each other down - wore me down. I am hoping future books will have characters more emotionally developed and sure of themselves.
Living in Bocas, I really enjoyed reading about places I know. The premise of the story is good but I did not connect with any of the characters. The games they play of tearing each other down - wore me down. I am hoping future books will have characters more emotionally developed and sure of themselves.
April 15, 2019
I was lucky to receive an advance copy of Drowning Lessons. An absolutely thrilling and unexpected murder mystery. This is the rare ‘beach read’ that is not only fun, but intellectually satisfying. The characters are extraordinarily memorable and delightfully wicked. I can’t recommend this enough!
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