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Allie Cobb Mystery #3
A Mysterious Mix Up
Murder hits the stacks when literary agent Allie Cobb investigates a fatality in the local library . . .
Allie Cobb returns home from a book conference armed with hugs for her cat and her boyfriend, and dreams of a long, hot bath. She’s also getting ready to take the plunge by hiring an intern for her expanding literary agency. But it’s one for the books when Allie finds the town’s librarian—and her longtime role model—seconds away from death on the library floor.
Who would want to poison Vicky Napier—one of Rushing Creek’s most beloved citizens—on the eve of her retirement? But it seems there were toxic people in her life, like the handyman with an obsessive crush, and a wood carver with a hair-trigger temper. The list of suspects includes Allie’s boyfriend, Brent, who’s in the running to take over as town librarian. Avenging her friend’s murder could be a trap as she goes up against a killer determined to write Allie’s epitaph . . .
Allie Cobb returns home from a book conference armed with hugs for her cat and her boyfriend, and dreams of a long, hot bath. She’s also getting ready to take the plunge by hiring an intern for her expanding literary agency. But it’s one for the books when Allie finds the town’s librarian—and her longtime role model—seconds away from death on the library floor.
Who would want to poison Vicky Napier—one of Rushing Creek’s most beloved citizens—on the eve of her retirement? But it seems there were toxic people in her life, like the handyman with an obsessive crush, and a wood carver with a hair-trigger temper. The list of suspects includes Allie’s boyfriend, Brent, who’s in the running to take over as town librarian. Avenging her friend’s murder could be a trap as she goes up against a killer determined to write Allie’s epitaph . . .
- GenresCozy MysteryMysteryCozy
190 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 7, 2020
3 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Kenney
14 books253 followersI write contemporary whodunnits set in oddball small towns. I live in Indianapolis with my wife, two adult children, and a kitty cat. I dream of one day retiring to a place where the water is warm and the beaches are soft. I'm a big fan of motor sports, so when I'm not writing, you'll likely find me following the latest IndyCar developments.
I'm the co-host of the It's Bookish Time TV webcasts, a member of Sisters in Crime, and the Mystery Writers of America.
I'm the co-host of the It's Bookish Time TV webcasts, a member of Sisters in Crime, and the Mystery Writers of America.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 7, 2020
A MYSTERIOUS MIX UP by J.C. Kenney is the third book in Allie Cobb cozy mystery series. The novel takes place in Indiana. It worked as a stand-alone novel for me, but I believe reading the previous books would likely add to a reader’s enjoyment of the novel. I rated this one 3.5 stars and rounded up to 4 stars.
In this story, Allie Cobb returns home from a book conference and is looking forward to time with her cat Ursula (Ursi), her boyfriend Brent and his dog Sammy. Brent managers the installation of genealogy departments in libraries around the state and volunteers at the local library as well. The librarian, Vicky Napier, has been Allie’s mentor since she was in school. Allie and Brent find Vicky almost dead on the library floor. Who would want to kill her when she is ready for retirement? Allie feels she has to find the culprit, especially when Brent is on the police suspect list. While trying to solve the case, she is also looking for an intern to help her in her literary agency and finds time to visit friends and family.
The writing is appealing and entertaining. Allie feels three-dimensional and has clear goals with believable motivations. The secondary characters were well-rounded and enhanced the story. There are several red herrings, but I did determine the real culprit ahead of the book reveal. Several themes are explored in this book including murder, the difficulties of running a small business, small town dynamics, friendship, family, and much more.
I enjoyed this well-written novel and recommend this series to those that enjoy cozy mysteries that include small towns and pets. This is the first novel that I have read by this author, and I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
Thanks to Kensington Books / Lyrical Underground and J.C. Kenney for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
In this story, Allie Cobb returns home from a book conference and is looking forward to time with her cat Ursula (Ursi), her boyfriend Brent and his dog Sammy. Brent managers the installation of genealogy departments in libraries around the state and volunteers at the local library as well. The librarian, Vicky Napier, has been Allie’s mentor since she was in school. Allie and Brent find Vicky almost dead on the library floor. Who would want to kill her when she is ready for retirement? Allie feels she has to find the culprit, especially when Brent is on the police suspect list. While trying to solve the case, she is also looking for an intern to help her in her literary agency and finds time to visit friends and family.
The writing is appealing and entertaining. Allie feels three-dimensional and has clear goals with believable motivations. The secondary characters were well-rounded and enhanced the story. There are several red herrings, but I did determine the real culprit ahead of the book reveal. Several themes are explored in this book including murder, the difficulties of running a small business, small town dynamics, friendship, family, and much more.
I enjoyed this well-written novel and recommend this series to those that enjoy cozy mysteries that include small towns and pets. This is the first novel that I have read by this author, and I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
Thanks to Kensington Books / Lyrical Underground and J.C. Kenney for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
January 7, 2020
A Mysterious Mix Up by J.C. Kenney is the third book of the cozy Allie Cobb Mystery series. As with most cozy series each book in this series contains it’s own mystery that is solved by the end so each can be read and understood as a standalone. However, some character development happens that carries over book to book for those that follow from the beginning.
Readers met Allie Cobb in the first book who was definitely her father’s daughter as she followed his footsteps into a career as a literary agent. Fresh out of college and trying to make a name for herself Allie chose to begin her career in the big city of New York. However, Allie’s father had taken ill and passed on so she returned to her hometown of Rushing Creek in southern Indiana to attend the funeral and close out her father’s business but then decided to stay.
Now Allie’s business has really begun to do well so she begins the process of looking for an assistant to help her out. After returning from a book conference she also finds out that her boyfriend will be getting a job in Rushing Creek at the local library when Allie’s her longtime role model retires. However, before it’s announced Vicky is found murdered which then puts Brent at the top of the suspect list for being in line for her job.
I have to admit that the biggest appeal to this series for me is that it was set in my home state of Indiana and I always find it fun when places I’m familiar with are mentioned. I’ve also found after getting into this series that I actually enjoy the characters too and it is good for a few laughs while sorting through suspects which I always enjoy. However, again in this series the victim is someone well liked which I think brings down the tone a bit when it’s not a “bad” guy so in the end I would give this one 3 1/2 stars.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Readers met Allie Cobb in the first book who was definitely her father’s daughter as she followed his footsteps into a career as a literary agent. Fresh out of college and trying to make a name for herself Allie chose to begin her career in the big city of New York. However, Allie’s father had taken ill and passed on so she returned to her hometown of Rushing Creek in southern Indiana to attend the funeral and close out her father’s business but then decided to stay.
Now Allie’s business has really begun to do well so she begins the process of looking for an assistant to help her out. After returning from a book conference she also finds out that her boyfriend will be getting a job in Rushing Creek at the local library when Allie’s her longtime role model retires. However, before it’s announced Vicky is found murdered which then puts Brent at the top of the suspect list for being in line for her job.
I have to admit that the biggest appeal to this series for me is that it was set in my home state of Indiana and I always find it fun when places I’m familiar with are mentioned. I’ve also found after getting into this series that I actually enjoy the characters too and it is good for a few laughs while sorting through suspects which I always enjoy. However, again in this series the victim is someone well liked which I think brings down the tone a bit when it’s not a “bad” guy so in the end I would give this one 3 1/2 stars.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
January 8, 2020
A Mysterious Mix-Up earns 5/5 Overdue Notices...Engaging Fun!
This is the third book, and my first, in J.C. Kenney’s Allie Cobb Mystery series, so I’m always concerned I’ll start at a disadvantaged...no need to worry here! Kenney’s writing style developed well the background and character connections to keep me quickly engaged. Allie Cobb, a literary agent, is a unique occupation to highlight, and putting her in the middle of a murder investigation was very entertaining. Allie had started her career in New York, but a family tragedy brought her back home to Indiana where she decided to stay and take over her father’s agency; she is now enjoying success which included being an active participant at the national book conference. But, returning home with lots to do, trouble again pops up when childhood mentor and the town’s beloved librarian, Vicky Napier, is found on the eve of her retirement...dead. The “why” is not immediately evident, but motives are exposed within the victim’s circle of friends, co-workers, and acquaintances including Allie’s boyfriend who was set as Vicky’s replacement. The drama moves at a steady pace with entertaining twists and a satisfying, although not entirely unexpected, solution that had Allie in nail-biting peril. Beyond the crime and investigation, Kenney includes engaging side issues that make this series one I plan to revisit: dynamics of a small town, ins and outs of running a small business, friendships, friends and family including a couple of fur friends, and a fascinating connection with law enforcement being an ex-brother-in-law. Great cozy fans should not miss!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley and Lyrical. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
This is the third book, and my first, in J.C. Kenney’s Allie Cobb Mystery series, so I’m always concerned I’ll start at a disadvantaged...no need to worry here! Kenney’s writing style developed well the background and character connections to keep me quickly engaged. Allie Cobb, a literary agent, is a unique occupation to highlight, and putting her in the middle of a murder investigation was very entertaining. Allie had started her career in New York, but a family tragedy brought her back home to Indiana where she decided to stay and take over her father’s agency; she is now enjoying success which included being an active participant at the national book conference. But, returning home with lots to do, trouble again pops up when childhood mentor and the town’s beloved librarian, Vicky Napier, is found on the eve of her retirement...dead. The “why” is not immediately evident, but motives are exposed within the victim’s circle of friends, co-workers, and acquaintances including Allie’s boyfriend who was set as Vicky’s replacement. The drama moves at a steady pace with entertaining twists and a satisfying, although not entirely unexpected, solution that had Allie in nail-biting peril. Beyond the crime and investigation, Kenney includes engaging side issues that make this series one I plan to revisit: dynamics of a small town, ins and outs of running a small business, friendships, friends and family including a couple of fur friends, and a fascinating connection with law enforcement being an ex-brother-in-law. Great cozy fans should not miss!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley and Lyrical. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
January 7, 2020
J C Kenney has done it again, another engaging story starring Ursula the Calico Cat (oh and her servant Allie Cobb!)
Allie has been away at a book conference back in New York, and she is glad to be able to get back to her apartment in Rushing Creek and to see Ursi and her house/pet sitter aka her boyfriend Brent and his dog Sammy, when she has unwound from the conference and the travel Brent lets her know that Mrs Napier, the head librarian, is planning on retiring to Florida and she is recommending that he, Brent, applies for the job! Allie is sad that she will be leaving (but is happy with the idea that Brent could be permanently around!), the following day they head to the library to give Vicky Napier some cookies only to discover her dying in the break room with a volunteer kneeling beside her!
Now Allie is determined to find out who would kill a librarian and why, at the same time try and find an intern for her expanding business, oh and try not to get checked out by a killer!
Allie has been away at a book conference back in New York, and she is glad to be able to get back to her apartment in Rushing Creek and to see Ursi and her house/pet sitter aka her boyfriend Brent and his dog Sammy, when she has unwound from the conference and the travel Brent lets her know that Mrs Napier, the head librarian, is planning on retiring to Florida and she is recommending that he, Brent, applies for the job! Allie is sad that she will be leaving (but is happy with the idea that Brent could be permanently around!), the following day they head to the library to give Vicky Napier some cookies only to discover her dying in the break room with a volunteer kneeling beside her!
Now Allie is determined to find out who would kill a librarian and why, at the same time try and find an intern for her expanding business, oh and try not to get checked out by a killer!
January 7, 2020
New from Lyrical Press https://www.facebook.com/LyricalPress... is the 3rd installment in the literary series, “An Allie Cobb Mystery,” and possibly the best one yet, A Mysterious Mix Up.
Allie is always getting herself in the middle of a murder investigation. Sometimes she is also the main suspect. In this literary series, amateur sleuth and literary agent Allie Cobb is once again skirting danger and worrying her friends and family. For the most part, Allie is a very likable character, as are all of the repeating individuals throughout this series, but she has a nasty habit of getting herself involved in matters that are none of her business and ends up hurt as a result of her inability to let the police do their job. Great if you are a suspect, not so great if you are her boyfriend, mother, or other friends and family members.
This time Allie’s childhood hero, the local librarian, is murdered for no apparent reason. She vows to get justice. The suspects are few, and the motives are a bit thin in this third book in this literary series. Unfortunately, I was able to figure out who the guilty party was almost from the first chapter. But other readers may not catch on to who the killer is until midway through the book. That said, the fact that I figured out who killed Allie’s hero immediately did not detract from the great storytelling or the enjoyment of the read.
From start to finish, A Mysterious Mix Up is a fast-paced, easy read. The characters are delightful, and the victim sympathetic. The relationships between Allie, her boyfriend, and her family members are becoming stronger, and readers will love having Brent, Allie’s boyfriend, around a lot more. This is one of my favorite literary series,’ and I am happy to recommend this book along with the other two for readers who like quick reads and characters with oodles of personality.
Allie is always getting herself in the middle of a murder investigation. Sometimes she is also the main suspect. In this literary series, amateur sleuth and literary agent Allie Cobb is once again skirting danger and worrying her friends and family. For the most part, Allie is a very likable character, as are all of the repeating individuals throughout this series, but she has a nasty habit of getting herself involved in matters that are none of her business and ends up hurt as a result of her inability to let the police do their job. Great if you are a suspect, not so great if you are her boyfriend, mother, or other friends and family members.
This time Allie’s childhood hero, the local librarian, is murdered for no apparent reason. She vows to get justice. The suspects are few, and the motives are a bit thin in this third book in this literary series. Unfortunately, I was able to figure out who the guilty party was almost from the first chapter. But other readers may not catch on to who the killer is until midway through the book. That said, the fact that I figured out who killed Allie’s hero immediately did not detract from the great storytelling or the enjoyment of the read.
From start to finish, A Mysterious Mix Up is a fast-paced, easy read. The characters are delightful, and the victim sympathetic. The relationships between Allie, her boyfriend, and her family members are becoming stronger, and readers will love having Brent, Allie’s boyfriend, around a lot more. This is one of my favorite literary series,’ and I am happy to recommend this book along with the other two for readers who like quick reads and characters with oodles of personality.
December 12, 2019
Hey, if I can't be proud of my own work, what can I be proud of?
December 17, 2019
4.5 stars
Allie finds her personal mentor and long time librarian nearly dead with a man hovering over her. Turns out she was poisoned by some tea she drank that is traced back to this same man's garden. Allie is almost sure he wouldn't have killed the woman and she makes it her personal mission to find the killer.
I really liked the dynamic of the police chief being her sister's ex and someone she grew up with. It make the sleuthing seem a bit easier since he was so understanding, most of the time. Some of these characters really resonated with me and I look forward to digging into the previous books in this series.
Considering how simple and straightforward the death seemed, the author was able to pull every ounce of drama out of the situation. I applaud that. Great book. If you love a good cozy mystery, definitely check this one out!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank the author, the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this title.
Allie finds her personal mentor and long time librarian nearly dead with a man hovering over her. Turns out she was poisoned by some tea she drank that is traced back to this same man's garden. Allie is almost sure he wouldn't have killed the woman and she makes it her personal mission to find the killer.
I really liked the dynamic of the police chief being her sister's ex and someone she grew up with. It make the sleuthing seem a bit easier since he was so understanding, most of the time. Some of these characters really resonated with me and I look forward to digging into the previous books in this series.
Considering how simple and straightforward the death seemed, the author was able to pull every ounce of drama out of the situation. I applaud that. Great book. If you love a good cozy mystery, definitely check this one out!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank the author, the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this title.
January 9, 2020
When literary agent Allie Cobb's hero, the longtime town librarian, is murdered, Allie decides to investigate.
I enjoyed the lit agent angle. The background was interesting, and the flexibility worked well for avoiding the question of why the amateur sleuth has time to investigate. I also appreciated that Allie could generally see when she did something unsafe, and although she made mistakes she attempted to be careful- women can be brave and smart.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC. The opinions in this review are honest and my own. #cozymystery #AMysteriousMixUp
I enjoyed the lit agent angle. The background was interesting, and the flexibility worked well for avoiding the question of why the amateur sleuth has time to investigate. I also appreciated that Allie could generally see when she did something unsafe, and although she made mistakes she attempted to be careful- women can be brave and smart.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC. The opinions in this review are honest and my own. #cozymystery #AMysteriousMixUp
January 8, 2020
A Mysterious Mix Up by J.C. Kenney is the 3rd book in the Allie Cobb Mystery series, and another great addition. Allie Cobb is now running the family's literary agency that her father started. Allie returns from a book confrence, excited to be home. Until Allie finds her role model, the town libraian, close to death on the library floor. Why would anyone want to poison Vicky Napier, when she is ready to retire? Allie is determined to find out. I really enjoyed this book, and read it in one day it was so good. So many twists and turns. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. I highly recommend this cozy mystery book and the whole series.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
January 13, 2020
A great series! The author’s love of the literary world comes through in the pages of the book. A fun series with wonderful characters that is sure to keep you entertained from beginning to end. I have enjoyed the character development throughout this series and I look forward to seeing where Allie’s adventures take her next.
January 13, 2020
A lovely 3rd installment to the Allie Cobb Mystery series. Well thought out plot (you had me at Smalls 😊). If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check out this series. I can't wait to see what Allie, her cat Ursi, and the rest of the folks in Rushing Creek get up to next.
January 25, 2020
A Mysterious Mix Up is the third book in the An Allie Cobb Mystery series.
Allie has just returned from a conference in New York City and the first thing that he shares with her is that the Rushing Creek Librarian, Vicky Napier, is retiring and moving to Florida. Napier had been the librarian since Allie started to read and was someone she looked to and who was largely responsible for Allie’s love of books.
The next morning Allie and Brent head over to the library with some cookies she had baked the night before. When they arrive the library has yet to open and the only cars in lot belong to Vicky and custodian, Porter. When they enter the library, no one is to be found. They head for the break room and find Porter kneeling over the body of Vicky. Once tests have been completed, it is determined that Vicky had been poisoned.
Allie is now on a mission to help her ex-brother-in-law and police chief, Matt to find the killer. First, she needs to get Brent removed from any suspicion and then check out two prime suspects, Porter and Vicky’s ex-husband, among other suspects.
I always enjoy my visits to Rushing Creek, as I have come to enjoy well-written and plotted stories with a very interesting cast of characters. There are plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing till the end.
I will be watching for the next book in this interesting series.
Allie has just returned from a conference in New York City and the first thing that he shares with her is that the Rushing Creek Librarian, Vicky Napier, is retiring and moving to Florida. Napier had been the librarian since Allie started to read and was someone she looked to and who was largely responsible for Allie’s love of books.
The next morning Allie and Brent head over to the library with some cookies she had baked the night before. When they arrive the library has yet to open and the only cars in lot belong to Vicky and custodian, Porter. When they enter the library, no one is to be found. They head for the break room and find Porter kneeling over the body of Vicky. Once tests have been completed, it is determined that Vicky had been poisoned.
Allie is now on a mission to help her ex-brother-in-law and police chief, Matt to find the killer. First, she needs to get Brent removed from any suspicion and then check out two prime suspects, Porter and Vicky’s ex-husband, among other suspects.
I always enjoy my visits to Rushing Creek, as I have come to enjoy well-written and plotted stories with a very interesting cast of characters. There are plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing till the end.
I will be watching for the next book in this interesting series.
April 12, 2024
In the third book of this series, Allie Cobb is back to solve another mystery. However, this time it is involving someone very close to her heart... will she be able to find out who did it before they strike again?
I've really enjoy the Allie Cobb mysteries. It combines my love of solving small town crimes with my love of books, as Allie is a literary agent. Not everything is always peaceful and quiet in Rushing Creek, but don't worry they have their resident "Kickboxing Crusader" Allie Cobb to restore the peace.
Oh the emotion in this one! J.C. Kenney not only has readers on the edge of their seat trying to solve the mystery, but the high intense emotion of the murder being a person so close to Allie's heart, town librarian, Vicky Napier. My heart simply went to pieces for Allie as she put in double effort to give her hero the peace she deserves.
While the actual mysteries in this series are first class, it's the emotion that J.C. Kenney pours into the writing of the sub-plots that keep me coming back for more. In The Mysterious Mix Up we see that several people close to the victims in the previous books have gotten together to provide a support group for each other and I just love this. This is real small town support shining through, because this is exactly what people do in a small town. It's this added realism that brings me back to this series.
The Mysterious Mix Up was a lovely instalment in this series. Towards the end of the book we get a new character to Rushing Creek, and I can't wait to see how they shake things up.... especially in Allie's life! I won't say more, but you really should pick up this series and find out. It's definitely well worth a spot on your shelves, especially if you love books about books!
"I thought we agreed that you were done being Agatha Raisin"
"If you're going to needle me, you'll have to do better than that. Aggie's older than me and British. Besides, while the show's a hoot, the books are better."
"Is it encoded in your DNA to say the books are better?"
I've really enjoy the Allie Cobb mysteries. It combines my love of solving small town crimes with my love of books, as Allie is a literary agent. Not everything is always peaceful and quiet in Rushing Creek, but don't worry they have their resident "Kickboxing Crusader" Allie Cobb to restore the peace.
Oh the emotion in this one! J.C. Kenney not only has readers on the edge of their seat trying to solve the mystery, but the high intense emotion of the murder being a person so close to Allie's heart, town librarian, Vicky Napier. My heart simply went to pieces for Allie as she put in double effort to give her hero the peace she deserves.
While the actual mysteries in this series are first class, it's the emotion that J.C. Kenney pours into the writing of the sub-plots that keep me coming back for more. In The Mysterious Mix Up we see that several people close to the victims in the previous books have gotten together to provide a support group for each other and I just love this. This is real small town support shining through, because this is exactly what people do in a small town. It's this added realism that brings me back to this series.
The Mysterious Mix Up was a lovely instalment in this series. Towards the end of the book we get a new character to Rushing Creek, and I can't wait to see how they shake things up.... especially in Allie's life! I won't say more, but you really should pick up this series and find out. It's definitely well worth a spot on your shelves, especially if you love books about books!
"I thought we agreed that you were done being Agatha Raisin"
"If you're going to needle me, you'll have to do better than that. Aggie's older than me and British. Besides, while the show's a hoot, the books are better."
"Is it encoded in your DNA to say the books are better?"
April 28, 2020
Book 3 in the series finds us back in Rushing Creek, Illinois, where Allie has finally set up Cobb Literary Agency and is now busy representing a large pool of authors (40+ if I remember correctly). To help with this, she has decided to hire an intern. In this book, she gets drawn into the murder of her childhood hero, town librarian Vicky Napier. She feels compelled to become involved because her boyfriend Brent has been fingered as the prime suspect and she, obviously, doesn't believe he could have done it.
I missed reading the second installment but had no trouble picking things up again. I liked the first one enough to request this one (although thought it was the second), and am glad I did. The characters are good, the mystery well done and the story flowed well.
Although Allie volunteering to use herself as bait for the murderer was pretty unbelievable (would any police chief anywhere who cared about his job actually agree to endanger a civilian in that way? Highly improbable, and most likely illegal), overall it was a good story and kept me more or less engaged for the time it took to read it (entirely too long, but my own issues not the book).
I did peg the murderer, however, from the get-go, not something I normally do. This somewhat distracted me from things, and from that point on I kept going to a) confirm my 'peg', and b) to find out why. I have to agree with another reviewer who mentioned the sermonising of forgiveness at the end, and it feeling more like a 'tell' rather than a 'show'. I was also a bit surprised that the book carried on for as long as it did once the murderer and motivation were revealed. Generally, it's not *quite* so long. I'm also not a great fan of 'sappy' which I felt this verged on, but that's entirely my opinion.
Despite my niggles, I am really looking forward to book 4, as Allie is a great character and the writing is easy and enjoyable.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the ARC to read and review. All opinions are strictly my own.
I missed reading the second installment but had no trouble picking things up again. I liked the first one enough to request this one (although thought it was the second), and am glad I did. The characters are good, the mystery well done and the story flowed well.
Although Allie volunteering to use herself as bait for the murderer was pretty unbelievable (would any police chief anywhere who cared about his job actually agree to endanger a civilian in that way? Highly improbable, and most likely illegal), overall it was a good story and kept me more or less engaged for the time it took to read it (entirely too long, but my own issues not the book).
I did peg the murderer, however, from the get-go, not something I normally do. This somewhat distracted me from things, and from that point on I kept going to a) confirm my 'peg', and b) to find out why. I have to agree with another reviewer who mentioned the sermonising of forgiveness at the end, and it feeling more like a 'tell' rather than a 'show'. I was also a bit surprised that the book carried on for as long as it did once the murderer and motivation were revealed. Generally, it's not *quite* so long. I'm also not a great fan of 'sappy' which I felt this verged on, but that's entirely my opinion.
Despite my niggles, I am really looking forward to book 4, as Allie is a great character and the writing is easy and enjoyable.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the ARC to read and review. All opinions are strictly my own.
January 22, 2020
Some of my favorite mystery series are book themed. Many have librarians as the main character but it's been awhile since I read one with a librarian as the victim. Allie has taken over her father's literary agency and has just returned home from a book conference. Her boyfriend tells her that her mentor, the long time serving librarian, is going to retire. Once Allie has reconnected with her boyfriend, unpacked and spent some time with her cat, she decides to head over to the library to talk with Vicky Napier, the librarian. Much to her shock and dismay she finds Vicky taking her last breaths, dying on the break room floor. It turns out that she was poisoned. Who would want to kill a librarian? Turns out one of the suspects, according to Allie's police chief ex-brother in law, is Allie's boyfriend. Not if Allie has any say in the matter. So what if he was on the list to replace Vicky? There has to be another suspect to make the top of the list and Allie is determined to nail the killer. She can't keep her nose out of the investigation and it puts her in the killer's cross hairs.
This is the third in the series and it was a great change from some of the darker historical mysteries I had been reading of late. Small town politics and relationships, family and friends with a well crafted puzzle to solve complete with some red herrings and a twist or two to keep me satisfied. I did enjoy spending my reading time with Allie, her boyfriend Brent and their respective cat and dog. All the characters are well fleshed out and believable. I'm happy to give this series a spot on my permanent to be read list.
My thanks to the publisher Lyrical Press and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is the third in the series and it was a great change from some of the darker historical mysteries I had been reading of late. Small town politics and relationships, family and friends with a well crafted puzzle to solve complete with some red herrings and a twist or two to keep me satisfied. I did enjoy spending my reading time with Allie, her boyfriend Brent and their respective cat and dog. All the characters are well fleshed out and believable. I'm happy to give this series a spot on my permanent to be read list.
My thanks to the publisher Lyrical Press and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 24, 2019
This is the 3rd installment in the Allie Cobb mystery series and does stand well alone although I have read the previous two books. Allie is just returning from a conference in New York and is excited to return home to Indiana and home to her cat Ursi and her boyfriend Brent and his dog Sammy. When Allie returns he mentions that Allie’s beloved librarian Vicky Napier is planning to retire and recommend Brent as her replacement. She is devastated as Vicky was a role model of hers growing up although she is happy about Brent getting a position in town which would really help their relationship as Brent is currently in and out of town as he is installing genealogy software all over the state of Indiana. Allie decides to go to the library the next morning to congratulate Vicky and instead finds her dead in the breakroom with Porter (handyman and crushing on Vicky)standing over her body. Porter is a prime suspect as is Brent as he would benefit from her death (although I found this a little weak as he knew she was retiring). Brent and Allie both help out at the library and Allie tries to stay out of the way of the investigation but that does not work too well. I found the book a little slow in parts with the ending being very exciting and tragic. I love Allie’s support crew and Sloane’s advice of letting go of the anger and to have forgiveness was a nice touch. Will be interesting to see how Allie’s new intern Calypso plays into future mysteries. Good mystery and recommend.
January 16, 2020
"A Mysterious Mix Up" is the 3rd book in the Allie Cobb Mystery series by J. C. Kenney. Allie has just returned from a business trip to NYC and is looking forward to a bit of downtime with her fur baby Ursi and her boyfriend Brent. That respite is short lived when the head librarian Vicky Napier is murdered. Allie thought of her as a hero and knows she has to figure out who would hurt such a wonderful woman.
Allie's suspect list isn't that long and evidence seems to be pointing to one person in particular - but Allie isn't convinced that person did it. Can she sort out who the real culprit is before that person can do more harm or come after her?
I enjoyed this book and like the characters that J C Kenney has created. Rushing Creek and it's residents fit together well. Very relatable to those of us who grew up in small towns. As interesting as the plot was, I did suspect who the killer was quite awhile before Allie figured it out - though the "why" and "how" wasn't as clear until much later.
The only reason I am giving this a 4 instead of a 5 is that once again there was an obvious error that should have been found while proofreading. At one point, Allie is having a conversation with Shirley and Ozzy. Ozzy speaking but the text says Porter shook his head. Porter wasn't there - it was Ozzy who shook his head. Yes, a minor error but it is annoying to see such clear errors make it into the finished text - especially since Allie is a literary agent and editing is part of her job description!
Still a good read though and I'd recommend the series!
Allie's suspect list isn't that long and evidence seems to be pointing to one person in particular - but Allie isn't convinced that person did it. Can she sort out who the real culprit is before that person can do more harm or come after her?
I enjoyed this book and like the characters that J C Kenney has created. Rushing Creek and it's residents fit together well. Very relatable to those of us who grew up in small towns. As interesting as the plot was, I did suspect who the killer was quite awhile before Allie figured it out - though the "why" and "how" wasn't as clear until much later.
The only reason I am giving this a 4 instead of a 5 is that once again there was an obvious error that should have been found while proofreading. At one point, Allie is having a conversation with Shirley and Ozzy. Ozzy speaking but the text says Porter shook his head. Porter wasn't there - it was Ozzy who shook his head. Yes, a minor error but it is annoying to see such clear errors make it into the finished text - especially since Allie is a literary agent and editing is part of her job description!
Still a good read though and I'd recommend the series!
December 5, 2019
I received a free copy of A MYSTERIOUS MIX UP (Book 3 of the Allie Cobb Mysteries) by J.C. Kenney in exchange for an honest review. Life is going well for Allie Cobb; she has a devoted boyfriend, a loving cat, and a flourishing publishing business. Allie is disappointed and saddened finds out that her long-time role model and personal hero Vicky Napier has abruptly decided to retire from her position as head librarian and is rushing to sell her house and move to Florida. However, Allie quickly decides to be happy for her friend and celebrate her retirement. When Allie shows up early to the library to surprise her Ms. Napier with some sweet treats, Allie discovers Ms. Napier has retired even earlier than expected; someone has murdered her. Though the evidence seems to weigh heavily towards the guilt of one individual, something bothers Allie about that scenario. Determined to avenge her friend, Allie embarks on a mission to find the real killer.
I enjoyed this book and like the series. I recommend this book to fans of J.C. Kenney, to fans of the series, and to those who enjoy cozy mysteries featuring small town life, books, and libraries.
#AMysteriousMixUp #NetGalley
I enjoyed this book and like the series. I recommend this book to fans of J.C. Kenney, to fans of the series, and to those who enjoy cozy mysteries featuring small town life, books, and libraries.
#AMysteriousMixUp #NetGalley
December 28, 2019
Returning home from a trip, literary agent Allie Cobb finds out that Mrs. Napier, the librarian at Rushing Creek Library is retiring and plans to move to Florida. Eager to speak with Mrs. Napier the next morning, Allie arrives at the library early and finds Porter, a local handyman, standing over the librarian’s dead body.
With the whole town shocked at the murder of the beloved librarian rumors begin regarding motives and suspects. Allie becomes determined to find her heroine’s killer even thought her former brother-in-law and police chief Matt Robertson warns her off. Suspects include Porter, the man who found her; Gary Napier, her ex-husband; and Ozzy Metcalf, an artist with a major complaint, to name a few.
However, motives shift when Allie, tasked with packing up Mrs. Napier’s office, finds several small packets of marijuana stashed in secret locations around the office. Naturally this leads the investigation in a different direction.
J. C. Kenney is a master of misdirection using red herrings to the hilt. Again the author concocts a captivating mystery, includes the charming community of established characters and surprises with an unexpected conclusion.
With the whole town shocked at the murder of the beloved librarian rumors begin regarding motives and suspects. Allie becomes determined to find her heroine’s killer even thought her former brother-in-law and police chief Matt Robertson warns her off. Suspects include Porter, the man who found her; Gary Napier, her ex-husband; and Ozzy Metcalf, an artist with a major complaint, to name a few.
However, motives shift when Allie, tasked with packing up Mrs. Napier’s office, finds several small packets of marijuana stashed in secret locations around the office. Naturally this leads the investigation in a different direction.
J. C. Kenney is a master of misdirection using red herrings to the hilt. Again the author concocts a captivating mystery, includes the charming community of established characters and surprises with an unexpected conclusion.
January 14, 2020
While this is the third book in the series, I found it read well as a stand alone. You will find all the bases covered.
Small, connected community. People with eccentric traits and twisted relationships. This time it was not a much hated person who was the victim. In fact, the woman we lose quickly at the beginning of the story is very well liked and looked up to. We are told she has plans to retire and move south, sadly enough, for she will be missed. Shockingly, she never gets to enjoy retirement.
Allie's business is flourishing and she finds herself looking for an intern, someone to help with the work load. She also finds that qualified applicants are not going to be easy to find, even with input and help from friends. Add to things pulling her attention in all directions is the search for a killer, when she, once again, feels the simplest answer is NOT the correct one.
You will want to keep turning pages as Allie finds herself in danger (also Once AGAIN) as she comes face to face with a murderer when she uncovers too much information. Lessons learned come back to be put into practice.
Small, connected community. People with eccentric traits and twisted relationships. This time it was not a much hated person who was the victim. In fact, the woman we lose quickly at the beginning of the story is very well liked and looked up to. We are told she has plans to retire and move south, sadly enough, for she will be missed. Shockingly, she never gets to enjoy retirement.
Allie's business is flourishing and she finds herself looking for an intern, someone to help with the work load. She also finds that qualified applicants are not going to be easy to find, even with input and help from friends. Add to things pulling her attention in all directions is the search for a killer, when she, once again, feels the simplest answer is NOT the correct one.
You will want to keep turning pages as Allie finds herself in danger (also Once AGAIN) as she comes face to face with a murderer when she uncovers too much information. Lessons learned come back to be put into practice.
January 29, 2020
Princess Fuzzypants here: Life is good for Allie Cobb. Her literary agency is growing nicely, her romance with her boyfriend is developing well, and things in general are looking up. That is until her mentor and friend is murdered and her boyfriend is considered a viable suspect. In spite of the worries she gives her family and friends, the kickboxing crusader feels compelled to find out who murdered her idol.
Naturally when she starts looking into the past, she discovers her mentor was human with all the foibles that come with it. But nothing she learns seems to explain why someone would poison her. There are some pretty obvious suspects but Allie is convinced the motive was not as simple as it seems. In fact, when she discovers marijuana hidden in her desk, Allie is convinced there is a connection. But what that connection is and who felt sufficiently threatened to kill proves more elusive. And when the villain is revealed, Allie and the reader are shocked.
I do like this series and find even though Allie can be rather cavalier with her safety, she is an interesting heroine. Four purrs and two paws up.
Naturally when she starts looking into the past, she discovers her mentor was human with all the foibles that come with it. But nothing she learns seems to explain why someone would poison her. There are some pretty obvious suspects but Allie is convinced the motive was not as simple as it seems. In fact, when she discovers marijuana hidden in her desk, Allie is convinced there is a connection. But what that connection is and who felt sufficiently threatened to kill proves more elusive. And when the villain is revealed, Allie and the reader are shocked.
I do like this series and find even though Allie can be rather cavalier with her safety, she is an interesting heroine. Four purrs and two paws up.
did-not-finish
May 15, 2020I really liked the breezy writing style of this series in the first two books, but this third one felt different. In just the short excerpt I read before deciding not to finish the book, there were a lot of random pop culture references used as similes. A librarian is compared to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, good news is said to be better than a scene from The Princess Bride and Allie tells Brent that a character in The Incredibles has nothing on him. Unfortunately, while I think these references are meant to make the story feel fresh and relevant, they really weigh it down and make it seem dated. Additionally, there are other seemingly random metaphors that come out of nowhere and don't match what the characters are doing. During a police interrogation, for example, a character is described as having the focus of a heart surgeon. I decided to abandon the book finally when someone is said to be breathing like he'd just finished a trail run with Allie's best friend. I just couldn't get into the story with all these distracting and unnecessary descriptions constantly interrupting the plot. For me, this series has run its course.
January 6, 2020
Allie Cobb is shocked to learn that Rushing Creek's librarian and her mentor Vicky Napier is abruptly retiring and moving to Florida to be with her sister. Allie and her boyfriend Brent go to give Vicky their best wishes and end up finding the librarian dead on the library floor. Vicky was much beloved by the town but there were some toxic people in her life, including obsessive handyman Porter Rasmussen and wood carver Ozzy who felt that Vicky had ripped him off on a contract. Brent, who’s in the running to take over as town librarian also becomes one of the suspects for the police. Determined to avenge Vicky's murder and clear Brent's name, Allie is willing to risk her life again to get justice. The book title refers to a mix-up in delivery that is the key motive to Vicky's murder.
This was another enjoyable read in the Allie Cobb mystery series. I received an eARC from Netgalley and Kensington/Lyrical Underground with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and provided this review.
This was another enjoyable read in the Allie Cobb mystery series. I received an eARC from Netgalley and Kensington/Lyrical Underground with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and provided this review.
January 21, 2020
This is the third Allie Cobb Mystery and a series I love to return to. Thank you to the author, publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. Allie Cobb, literary agent is one of my favorite protagonist and these are such fun books to read.
Allie has just returned from a book conference when she finds her mentor , the local librarian poisoned .
Allie is determined to find out who did this to her friend and prevent anyone else from being harmed. As she begins to explore clues through the local community she finds out that her mentor had some bad people in her life and soon suspects abound and Allie may be in danger. Allie is also shocked that her boyfriend is first on the suspect list and equally determined to clear his name.
I loved the twist and turns that kept me guessing to conclusion. Allie is a likable protagonist and a savvy investigator. I love the setting of small town Indiana and the supporting charcters are enjoyable and all add depth to the books. I look forward to the next in series.
Allie has just returned from a book conference when she finds her mentor , the local librarian poisoned .
Allie is determined to find out who did this to her friend and prevent anyone else from being harmed. As she begins to explore clues through the local community she finds out that her mentor had some bad people in her life and soon suspects abound and Allie may be in danger. Allie is also shocked that her boyfriend is first on the suspect list and equally determined to clear his name.
I loved the twist and turns that kept me guessing to conclusion. Allie is a likable protagonist and a savvy investigator. I love the setting of small town Indiana and the supporting charcters are enjoyable and all add depth to the books. I look forward to the next in series.
February 11, 2020
Allie once again becomes the Kickboxing Crusader to find out who killed her heroine, the local librarian. Allie initially becomes involved when she and Brent discover the victim with another standing over her. Then Allie remains involved because she claims to want justice for her friend. However, I found Allie to waffle between wanting justice and wanting to just pin the murder on any likely suspect, not specifically on the guilty party. Allie also wishes to turn suspicion away from Brent, as he technically could have done it so was technically a suspect, but was mainly questioned only because he and Allie discovered the body. She keeps saying that Matt is good cop but still doesn’t butt out when she should and trust the police do their jobs. Allie is also on the lookout for an assistant to help with the Cobb Literary Agency, so as to allow her to take on more clients.
I had read the other books in this series and was excited to get to read this instalment as well. I enjoyed it and look forward to Allie’s next adventure.
I had read the other books in this series and was excited to get to read this instalment as well. I enjoyed it and look forward to Allie’s next adventure.
December 5, 2019
3 stars
I feel conflicted by this book, The Mysterious Mixup by J.C. Kenney. I have loved the past few books in this series, this one not so much. This book felt contrived and forced through most of it. The last two chapters were the best part of the whole book. Allie Cobb, the main character of the series just came across as cocky. I don't know if I didn't notice it in the other books in this series but I barely could get past it.
I was sure boyfriend Brent did it. She protested way too much that he couldn't possibly have murdered anyone and then his story-line disappeared until the last chapter.
I do enjoy her unusual pet and the closeness she has with her family and friends. I adore the person she ended up hiring for the internship. This is a decent book that I think many cozy mystery lovers will enjoy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own.
I feel conflicted by this book, The Mysterious Mixup by J.C. Kenney. I have loved the past few books in this series, this one not so much. This book felt contrived and forced through most of it. The last two chapters were the best part of the whole book. Allie Cobb, the main character of the series just came across as cocky. I don't know if I didn't notice it in the other books in this series but I barely could get past it.
I was sure boyfriend Brent did it. She protested way too much that he couldn't possibly have murdered anyone and then his story-line disappeared until the last chapter.
I do enjoy her unusual pet and the closeness she has with her family and friends. I adore the person she ended up hiring for the internship. This is a decent book that I think many cozy mystery lovers will enjoy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own.
June 1, 2021
I haven't read the first two books in this series, but without giving too much recap (very little actually) I was easily able to understand the set up. The mystery aspect was good and I could appreciate Allie's relationship with Vicky. .
There were a couple "bobbles" like Allie wanting an editing sample before hiring an intern then it being completely forgotten about, Vicky's relationship and dealing with the killer was off to me as well. Allie is a hard character for me to warm up to. As a 34 (?) year old professional, I'd expect her to have opinions and there are a lot of details provided for why she acts the way she does, but it is unusual in a cozy and took some getting used to. She also at times seems too emotional, hugging, extreme crying. Again, there are reasons, but it doesn't smoothly dovetail with other details.
I have another book in the series which I'll give a try.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
There were a couple "bobbles" like Allie wanting an editing sample before hiring an intern then it being completely forgotten about, Vicky's relationship and dealing with the killer was off to me as well. Allie is a hard character for me to warm up to. As a 34 (?) year old professional, I'd expect her to have opinions and there are a lot of details provided for why she acts the way she does, but it is unusual in a cozy and took some getting used to. She also at times seems too emotional, hugging, extreme crying. Again, there are reasons, but it doesn't smoothly dovetail with other details.
I have another book in the series which I'll give a try.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 8, 2022
this book, book 3 was so my favorite. but you should check out this series and pick a favorite yourself. go on. please check it out. so enjoyable!! great writing style!! i got all 6 at once ...you will never guess, or maybe you will?? are you familiar with Peter Monn? he did recommend this series on a YT video about book he was or would be reading. i was curious. so, i did check them out.
book 1: 3.99
book 2: 4.99
book 3: 5.99
book 4: 4.99
book 5: 4.99
book 6: 4.99
if i am honest ...book 3. was my favorite. i love a good read, cozy mysteries make my heart and eye so happy. i love a book about a library. i grew up going to one and i love it. makes me smile. fond memories. i will look forward to more from J.C. Kenney soon. check him out!!
book 1: 3.99
book 2: 4.99
book 3: 5.99
book 4: 4.99
book 5: 4.99
book 6: 4.99
if i am honest ...book 3. was my favorite. i love a good read, cozy mysteries make my heart and eye so happy. i love a book about a library. i grew up going to one and i love it. makes me smile. fond memories. i will look forward to more from J.C. Kenney soon. check him out!!
January 2, 2020
I love this series and I loved this instalment that I read as fast as I could.
It was great to meet again the likeable and fleshed out cast of characters and I was happy for the developments in their life. Ursi is becoming one of my favourite cozy mystery pets.
The setting is lovely and I always think I'd like to spend my holidays there.
The mystery was solid, full of twists and turns, and the solution came as a surprise.
I think this is an excellent series and can't wait to read the next instalment.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
It was great to meet again the likeable and fleshed out cast of characters and I was happy for the developments in their life. Ursi is becoming one of my favourite cozy mystery pets.
The setting is lovely and I always think I'd like to spend my holidays there.
The mystery was solid, full of twists and turns, and the solution came as a surprise.
I think this is an excellent series and can't wait to read the next instalment.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
March 14, 2020
This was pretty good as a quick, light read. It's so far beyond the realm of believeability that you just have to put that completely out of mind. The idea of cops embracing this much help from a citizen...and the thought that a literary agent with 34 (I think) writers in her stable would have a schedule anything like Allie's is laughable. That aside (and 9 instances of talking about fur babies, which is 9 too many), the plotting was enjoyable, and I do like Allie. The sermonizing at the end about forgiveness knocked it down from a 4 to 3. Fine if the character learns that, but show it, don't preach it.
Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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