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The Sisters, Texas #8
Wildflower Wedding: With a Killer Reception
It’s the most anticipated wedding of the year in The Sisters, when Madison Reynolds and Brash deCordova finally tie the knot!Wedding preparations are underway, but the aisle to the altar gets rockier by the minute. Though the community’s support is humbling, their enthusiasm soon hijacks the wedding. Squeeze in a suspicious death during a Texas Independence Day celebration, the needy new widow Madison befriends, and the unscrupulous politician trying to unseat Brash as chief of police, and the path seems littered with obstacles.
Madison will move mountains, however, to marry the man of her dreams. All they really need is each other, their children by their side, and a preacher to make it official. In an effort to please everyone, the couple opts for a private ceremony followed by a public celebration.
It’s the perfect Wildflower Wedding, but who knew it would end in a killer reception?
Cantankerous Nigel Barrett hired In a Pinch Professional Services to find his estranged family, but it takes more than a home DNA test to find his next of kin. Madison suspects he was searching for an heir, but when the wealthy rancher is killed at their reception, she’ll settle for finding someone to attend his funeral.
From the author of Forgotten Boxes, Plain Roots, and the Spirits of Texas Cozy Mysteries, enjoy Book Eight of reader favorite The Sisters, Texas Series.
For maximum enjoyment, follow the award-winning series from the beginning. Readers say “it’s like visiting with old friends!” Chicken Scratch When the Stars Fall Stipulations & Complications Home Starting Over Genny’s Ballad Christmas in The Sisters The Lilac Code Wildflower Wedding with a Killer Reception …and more to come!
Madison will move mountains, however, to marry the man of her dreams. All they really need is each other, their children by their side, and a preacher to make it official. In an effort to please everyone, the couple opts for a private ceremony followed by a public celebration.
It’s the perfect Wildflower Wedding, but who knew it would end in a killer reception?
Cantankerous Nigel Barrett hired In a Pinch Professional Services to find his estranged family, but it takes more than a home DNA test to find his next of kin. Madison suspects he was searching for an heir, but when the wealthy rancher is killed at their reception, she’ll settle for finding someone to attend his funeral.
From the author of Forgotten Boxes, Plain Roots, and the Spirits of Texas Cozy Mysteries, enjoy Book Eight of reader favorite The Sisters, Texas Series.
For maximum enjoyment, follow the award-winning series from the beginning. Readers say “it’s like visiting with old friends!” Chicken Scratch When the Stars Fall Stipulations & Complications Home Starting Over Genny’s Ballad Christmas in The Sisters The Lilac Code Wildflower Wedding with a Killer Reception …and more to come!
299 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2019
473 people are currently reading
223 people want to read
About the author
Becki Willis
44 books541 followersBest-selling indie and hybrid author Becki Willis loves crafting stories with believable characters in believable situations. Many of her stories stem from her own personal experiences. (No worries; she's never actually murdered anyone).
When she’s not plotting danger and adventure for her imaginary friends, Becki enjoys reading, spending time with her family, unraveling a good mystery (real or imagined), dark chocolate, and a good cup of coffee.
A professed history geek, Becki often weaves pieces of the past into her novels. Family is a central theme in her stories and in her life. She and her husband enjoy traveling but believe coming home to their Texas ranch is the best part of any trip.
Becki has won numerous awards—including two Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Awards, InD’Tale’s coveted RONE, and been named Finalist for two Claymore Awards—but feels the real compliments come from her readers. Drop in for an e-visit anytime at beckiwillis.ccp@gmail.com, or www.beckiwillis.com.
When she’s not plotting danger and adventure for her imaginary friends, Becki enjoys reading, spending time with her family, unraveling a good mystery (real or imagined), dark chocolate, and a good cup of coffee.
A professed history geek, Becki often weaves pieces of the past into her novels. Family is a central theme in her stories and in her life. She and her husband enjoy traveling but believe coming home to their Texas ranch is the best part of any trip.
Becki has won numerous awards—including two Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Awards, InD’Tale’s coveted RONE, and been named Finalist for two Claymore Awards—but feels the real compliments come from her readers. Drop in for an e-visit anytime at beckiwillis.ccp@gmail.com, or www.beckiwillis.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
July 10, 2019
Thank you so much to Clear Creek Publishing, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Diving into a series eight books in the making is arguably a daunting task. In addition to being introduced to the fictional towns and their full cast of characters for the first time, I also had to navigate through the events of seven previous novels. Luckily, Willis does a great job of connecting the dots and aiding new readers with the who, what, when, and wheres of the preceding installments. And while some storylines will obviously be spoiled jumping in at this stage of the game, it doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the newest mysteries sweeping through the Sister cities. In fact, thanks to hundreds of pages of prior character development, WILDFLOWER WEDDING felt like reuniting with characters I’ve known for years.
That genuine sense of camaraderie was definitely aided by the fact that this book centers on the series main character, Madison Reynolds, finally marrying her former high school crush turned fiancé. I mean what’s more relatable than stressful wedding planning sessions, emotional and joke-filled rehearsal night speeches, and the excitement and jitters of finally saying, “I do?” Even if you haven’t taken the plunge yourself, I’m certain you’ve been a part of or attended enough weddings to connect to the characters in this momentous part of their fictional lives.
And speaking of momentous, it apparently wouldn’t be a wedding befitting Mrs. Reynolds without at least one murder mystery afoot. Mere weeks before her long-awaited nuptials, Madison agrees to help her elderly and (at times) cantankerous neighbor find his next of kin.A task that becomes drastically more important when he turns up dead at her reception. Throw in another suspicious death, rising scrutiny for her new hubby’s job performance, and a trio of shady characters and it’s easy to see why the pages practically turn themselves in this exciting new installment. I’m not lying when I say it took serious willpower to not skim ahead in those tense, final action-packed pages to reach the resolution (and safety) I was craving!
Despite the fact that this story was definitely a wild ride, it wasn’t without its faults. My biggest complaints stem from two editing issues: multiple SPAG errors and several repetitive passages. While these issues are minor and not frequent enough in occurence to deter my recommendation of this novel, it did create several instances that broke my focus from the story at hand. I truly do believe if edited under a more fine-toothed comb, these minor issues could have a major impact.
At the end of the day this series is full of loveable characters that I’d love to revisit and meet again. From river therapy sessions with Brash (love that idea, by the way), to shopping sprees with Derron, and nonstop laughs with snarky Granny Bert (the true MVP of this book, in my opinion), this series has something for everyone. Whether you choose to start the journey from the beginning or join the party late like I did, I’m certain you’ll enjoy your time in The Sisters, Texas.
Diving into a series eight books in the making is arguably a daunting task. In addition to being introduced to the fictional towns and their full cast of characters for the first time, I also had to navigate through the events of seven previous novels. Luckily, Willis does a great job of connecting the dots and aiding new readers with the who, what, when, and wheres of the preceding installments. And while some storylines will obviously be spoiled jumping in at this stage of the game, it doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the newest mysteries sweeping through the Sister cities. In fact, thanks to hundreds of pages of prior character development, WILDFLOWER WEDDING felt like reuniting with characters I’ve known for years.
That genuine sense of camaraderie was definitely aided by the fact that this book centers on the series main character, Madison Reynolds, finally marrying her former high school crush turned fiancé. I mean what’s more relatable than stressful wedding planning sessions, emotional and joke-filled rehearsal night speeches, and the excitement and jitters of finally saying, “I do?” Even if you haven’t taken the plunge yourself, I’m certain you’ve been a part of or attended enough weddings to connect to the characters in this momentous part of their fictional lives.
And speaking of momentous, it apparently wouldn’t be a wedding befitting Mrs. Reynolds without at least one murder mystery afoot. Mere weeks before her long-awaited nuptials, Madison agrees to help her elderly and (at times) cantankerous neighbor find his next of kin.A task that becomes drastically more important when he turns up dead at her reception. Throw in another suspicious death, rising scrutiny for her new hubby’s job performance, and a trio of shady characters and it’s easy to see why the pages practically turn themselves in this exciting new installment. I’m not lying when I say it took serious willpower to not skim ahead in those tense, final action-packed pages to reach the resolution (and safety) I was craving!
Despite the fact that this story was definitely a wild ride, it wasn’t without its faults. My biggest complaints stem from two editing issues: multiple SPAG errors and several repetitive passages. While these issues are minor and not frequent enough in occurence to deter my recommendation of this novel, it did create several instances that broke my focus from the story at hand. I truly do believe if edited under a more fine-toothed comb, these minor issues could have a major impact.
At the end of the day this series is full of loveable characters that I’d love to revisit and meet again. From river therapy sessions with Brash (love that idea, by the way), to shopping sprees with Derron, and nonstop laughs with snarky Granny Bert (the true MVP of this book, in my opinion), this series has something for everyone. Whether you choose to start the journey from the beginning or join the party late like I did, I’m certain you’ll enjoy your time in The Sisters, Texas.
May 20, 2019
love the story, what could go wrong at the reception for the bride and groom, will if you have read any of the other books you know everything can and does go wrong,.. someone does not like Brash and wants his job, Maddie is trying to help an old man that is all alone find out if he has any relatives still alive. then someone falls down dead at a war reenactment . right in front of Maddie and Brash. did he just die or is there something else going on? i like that her and Brash work though what is bothering them togeather. i could not put the book down read it in one day. i was given a copy of the book but this is an honest review. if you like suspense and romance you have to read the book. looking forward to more of the books
May 19, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Although it is book #8 in the series, and I had not read any of the previous books, this book could easily be read as a stand alone story.
The storyline was interesting and it was difficult to figure out who the killer was until the very end.
The storyline was interesting and it was difficult to figure out who the killer was until the very end.
June 3, 2019
Loved it. Intriguing and suspenseful with a bit of romance thrown in to make your day. Ready for the next.
June 27, 2019
Becki Willis takes us on a wild ride in this eighth installment of her Mystery series, THE SISTERS, TEXAS. And true to the heart of this series, there are colorful, dynamic characters, small town drama, and lots to warm you from the inside out.
WILDFLOWER WEDDING begins with Madison planning her wedding to her long-time crush, Chief of Police Brash de Corodova. But as is Maddy’s nature, she just can’t stay out of trouble too long. While attempting to help an elderly client locate his long-lost family, she encounters one danger after another. Then when her client drops dead at their wedding reception after gifting the couple very generously, the whole town grows suspicious of the newlyweds. Maddy goes on a mission to find the person responsible and clear her new husband’s good name. As usual, trouble finds her. And unraveling the mystery nearly costs her everything.
The characters from the town appear in each of the stories, adding so much flavor to the Texas setting and small town charm. The twists and turns of the story keep the reader on their toes, trying to guess what’s next. Willis tells a great story, peeling off the outer layers of the mystery while savoring the romance and relationships between the people of The Sisters. The setting plays such an integral part of the story, thickening the plot and moving it along because of its nature.
Prior to reading this installment, I had only read one other of the books in the series. Although, each book could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the rest of the series to get the true flavor of The Sister, Texas and its inhabitants. Such a fun story, and I’m definitely going to go back to the beginning of the series to read them all.
WILDFLOWER WEDDING begins with Madison planning her wedding to her long-time crush, Chief of Police Brash de Corodova. But as is Maddy’s nature, she just can’t stay out of trouble too long. While attempting to help an elderly client locate his long-lost family, she encounters one danger after another. Then when her client drops dead at their wedding reception after gifting the couple very generously, the whole town grows suspicious of the newlyweds. Maddy goes on a mission to find the person responsible and clear her new husband’s good name. As usual, trouble finds her. And unraveling the mystery nearly costs her everything.
The characters from the town appear in each of the stories, adding so much flavor to the Texas setting and small town charm. The twists and turns of the story keep the reader on their toes, trying to guess what’s next. Willis tells a great story, peeling off the outer layers of the mystery while savoring the romance and relationships between the people of The Sisters. The setting plays such an integral part of the story, thickening the plot and moving it along because of its nature.
Prior to reading this installment, I had only read one other of the books in the series. Although, each book could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the rest of the series to get the true flavor of The Sister, Texas and its inhabitants. Such a fun story, and I’m definitely going to go back to the beginning of the series to read them all.
May 30, 2019
Wildflower Wedding with a Killer Reception #8 – Another good addition to the series. The multiple storylines continue at a good pace keeping the reader immersed in the interesting and intriguing, well thought out story. The characters are well developed, interesting and realistic. I always look forward to read one of Ms. Willis books and this series has been interesting since the first story. I do love that Texas is a main character too. It is so hard to review a good series without it becoming a book report. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
Chicken Scratch #1 - This is my first book by this author and I was greatly surprised at how well written, well thought out and laced with humor and intrigue; this little gem is packed. The area is near and dear to my heart since I was born in the area. The people, while not as easily identifiable as in a Jeff Abbott novel, are locals I know. The Texas speak is just as if Ms. Willis and I were at the Creamery (TAMU) sharing milk shakes and local gossip. The kinks and knots in the plot made it hard to put down the book, even to get a tea refill. You can't help but like the characters and root for them. The story, filled with life stories, is actually pretty substantial, not fluff, and Ms. W is an entertaining storyteller. 5*
When The Stars Fall #2 - This book is better than Chicken Scratch (#1), which is a good book, too. A lot of suspense, along with developing romances amongst several characters, keeps the reader immersed in this substantial story. Like the first book, the baddie is easily figured out, but the story is well worth reading. There are too many of the well rounded, well developed characters to shout out separately, but they're all interesting, funny, sincere and just plain folk. The Big House becomes a prominent character and helps the family with a huge change to their lives, maybe. Not a cliffhanger, but there's a tease about the future of Big and Madison. 5*
Stipulations and Complications #3 - This is a heavy, suspense filled book full of dark secrets and mysteries with the past and the present colliding and the darkness is felt by all involved. Yet, there's plenty of good and love along with the humor. This intriguing, substantial read is hard to put down with its interesting storylines and well thought out characters. This book is on the level with DeMille, Follette, Grisham and Ludlum. 5*
Home Again: Starting Over #4 - Amen Sister to that comment about Texans and wannabes! This series must be read in order; they keep getting better and better. I love the fact that what happens in the earlier books are just slightly mentioned, instead of being retold. All the characters keep growing and their past and secrets coming to light as the books go on. Multiple storylines in this book and the twists and surprises just keep the reader glued to the pages. I've chain read the first four books and don't have the next two available to me. But I'm diving into book seven, the newly released The Lilac Code. 5*
Genny's Ballad #5 - This story concentrates on Genny and Cutter. The past and the present mix and it's not an all good combination. Well written, intriguing and substantial, this story keeps the reader immersed in the pages. The pace is fast, the action intense and the characters don't disappoint the reader; a well thought out plot. No cliffhanger, but there's another book hinted. 5*
The Lilac Code #7 - Trouble even finds them outside of Texas! I missed the two books before this one, but it was still an interesting read. I was disappointed with the ending - the gun in her hand was forgotten. But the pages were full of intrigue and suspense, and the characters were intense. Again, there were multiple stories occurring, along with the main story. Current events were featured, which isn't surprising with all that's happened in Texas and other U.S. locations in the past year alone. While not a cliffhanger, there's definitely more books in the future. I chain read five books in three days and never once was bored with this series. 5*
Chicken Scratch #1 - This is my first book by this author and I was greatly surprised at how well written, well thought out and laced with humor and intrigue; this little gem is packed. The area is near and dear to my heart since I was born in the area. The people, while not as easily identifiable as in a Jeff Abbott novel, are locals I know. The Texas speak is just as if Ms. Willis and I were at the Creamery (TAMU) sharing milk shakes and local gossip. The kinks and knots in the plot made it hard to put down the book, even to get a tea refill. You can't help but like the characters and root for them. The story, filled with life stories, is actually pretty substantial, not fluff, and Ms. W is an entertaining storyteller. 5*
When The Stars Fall #2 - This book is better than Chicken Scratch (#1), which is a good book, too. A lot of suspense, along with developing romances amongst several characters, keeps the reader immersed in this substantial story. Like the first book, the baddie is easily figured out, but the story is well worth reading. There are too many of the well rounded, well developed characters to shout out separately, but they're all interesting, funny, sincere and just plain folk. The Big House becomes a prominent character and helps the family with a huge change to their lives, maybe. Not a cliffhanger, but there's a tease about the future of Big and Madison. 5*
Stipulations and Complications #3 - This is a heavy, suspense filled book full of dark secrets and mysteries with the past and the present colliding and the darkness is felt by all involved. Yet, there's plenty of good and love along with the humor. This intriguing, substantial read is hard to put down with its interesting storylines and well thought out characters. This book is on the level with DeMille, Follette, Grisham and Ludlum. 5*
Home Again: Starting Over #4 - Amen Sister to that comment about Texans and wannabes! This series must be read in order; they keep getting better and better. I love the fact that what happens in the earlier books are just slightly mentioned, instead of being retold. All the characters keep growing and their past and secrets coming to light as the books go on. Multiple storylines in this book and the twists and surprises just keep the reader glued to the pages. I've chain read the first four books and don't have the next two available to me. But I'm diving into book seven, the newly released The Lilac Code. 5*
Genny's Ballad #5 - This story concentrates on Genny and Cutter. The past and the present mix and it's not an all good combination. Well written, intriguing and substantial, this story keeps the reader immersed in the pages. The pace is fast, the action intense and the characters don't disappoint the reader; a well thought out plot. No cliffhanger, but there's another book hinted. 5*
The Lilac Code #7 - Trouble even finds them outside of Texas! I missed the two books before this one, but it was still an interesting read. I was disappointed with the ending - the gun in her hand was forgotten. But the pages were full of intrigue and suspense, and the characters were intense. Again, there were multiple stories occurring, along with the main story. Current events were featured, which isn't surprising with all that's happened in Texas and other U.S. locations in the past year alone. While not a cliffhanger, there's definitely more books in the future. I chain read five books in three days and never once was bored with this series. 5*
June 30, 2019
This was an absolutely fantastic and enjoyable way to launch into a series that I will definitely be reading more of! Despite jumping in with book 8, I never felt that I was missing anything, and enough information was provided from previous installments to create intrigue and interest to go back and read from the beginning.
Having read and reviewed Tangible Spirits, a previous book by the author, but not a part of this series, I was quite excited for the opportunity to delve into The Sisters. My mom had read many of the books and raved about them to me, so I was definitely looking forward to getting started.
"Today was Texas Independence Day, and no Texian worth his salt would put his own personal comfort before the most sacred day in their state's illustrious history."
The author's effortless writing style instantly drew me into the story and vividly captured this colorful community with its quirky and eclectic cast of characters. Every character has such a lifelike personality that they each jump off of the page and welcome you as an old friend into this down home and delightful little community. As with any good company, the dialogue was witty, humorous, and realistic, keeping the story moving at break neck speed! Add in the mounting tension from investigating multiple murders, scrutiny on the police chief's job performance, and quite a few suspicious individuals all with their own motives, and the pages could not fly fast enough! The descriptive language is so vivid and perceptive that you feel as though you are either watching it happen on the big screen or you are right there along with them, which only further adds to that familiar charm. From Brash's self-devised "river therapy," Granny Bert's snarky common sense, and Derron's fun-filled shopping trips, I want more and look forward to returning to this group of new found friends!
Maddy's extensive skill set derived from the numerous side jobs she has undertaken throughout her life gave her amateur sleuthing abilities such authenticity. She's a jack of all trades, but a master at finding herself where the dead bodies seem to be! But she's also tenacious, spunky, and likeable, making it an absolute treat to move through the story in her company and draw from her insatiable curiosity as she tries to discover the truth.
Beautifully blending elements of romance and family dynamics showcased the distinctly upbeat and lighthearted nature of cozies, yet the multilayered and well plotted mystery sets it above its more traditional counterparts. Very few clues, some red herrings, and lots of dramatic twists and turns made the ending definitely hard to see coming, but wonderfully satisfying!
Now to go back and start from the beginning to stay awhile at The Sisters this summer reading season!
Many thanks to Lone Star Book Blog Tours and the author for providing me with a free copy. This is my honest and thoughtful review.
June 26, 2019
This is my first time reading any book in This Sisters Texas series, and I was a bit wary (as I always am) of reading any book out of order of a series. I am indeed a completist. With that said, I am pleasantly surprised to say that I did not need to read the other books in the series to thoroughly enjoy this book! In fact, it made me curious about the other books and I just may visit them at a later time.
I did have a bit of a feeling that I was falling into the middle of a story in starting Wildflower Wedding, but it didn't take me long to catch up! Madison is two weeks away from her wedding. She's set to marry Brash deCordova, the town's designated "hottie" police chief. This, in itself, is already a huge thing for the couple, but that isn't the only important event happening in Madison's life at the moment! Madison is not necessarily a detective, but she is someone hired to research things for clients, etc. This brings about a whole lot of problems for the to-be Mrs. deCordova.
I think the reason I was able to delve into this book so easily is because it resembles greatly a cozy mystery novel. I don't know if some people would consider this a cozy, but I didn't from first hearing about it. I honestly didn't have an impression like that about it. Once I started reading, however, I couldn't help but think that it gave me familiar feelings like that of a cozy: a protagonist thrust into semi-detective mode, family and relationship issues and events, and the ultimate thrilling end (with a twist!).
Author Becki Willis does a fantastic job of getting the reader to not only become interested in the story, but truly become invested in these characters. All the characters were so well-rounded and fit into the story exceptionally well. It would be very easy for any story to become overwhelmed by the number of characters and storylines, but Willis is able to balance these extremely well. It was this balance that left me rooting for Madison to get to her wedding day, laughing at Brash's disgust at being plastered all over the media (shirtless!), and cringing along with Derron at...well, you have to read to find that one out. Willis' writing kept me submerged in this story because so many things keep me going! From the mystery behind Nigel's family and the death of certain characters, to the eagerness to read about the ever-blooming love between Madison and Brash - it all kept me turning the pages until the very end.
So, all in all, read this story for its thrills, and care about it for its loving, fun - and sometimes twisted - characters.
I did have a bit of a feeling that I was falling into the middle of a story in starting Wildflower Wedding, but it didn't take me long to catch up! Madison is two weeks away from her wedding. She's set to marry Brash deCordova, the town's designated "hottie" police chief. This, in itself, is already a huge thing for the couple, but that isn't the only important event happening in Madison's life at the moment! Madison is not necessarily a detective, but she is someone hired to research things for clients, etc. This brings about a whole lot of problems for the to-be Mrs. deCordova.
I think the reason I was able to delve into this book so easily is because it resembles greatly a cozy mystery novel. I don't know if some people would consider this a cozy, but I didn't from first hearing about it. I honestly didn't have an impression like that about it. Once I started reading, however, I couldn't help but think that it gave me familiar feelings like that of a cozy: a protagonist thrust into semi-detective mode, family and relationship issues and events, and the ultimate thrilling end (with a twist!).
Author Becki Willis does a fantastic job of getting the reader to not only become interested in the story, but truly become invested in these characters. All the characters were so well-rounded and fit into the story exceptionally well. It would be very easy for any story to become overwhelmed by the number of characters and storylines, but Willis is able to balance these extremely well. It was this balance that left me rooting for Madison to get to her wedding day, laughing at Brash's disgust at being plastered all over the media (shirtless!), and cringing along with Derron at...well, you have to read to find that one out. Willis' writing kept me submerged in this story because so many things keep me going! From the mystery behind Nigel's family and the death of certain characters, to the eagerness to read about the ever-blooming love between Madison and Brash - it all kept me turning the pages until the very end.
So, all in all, read this story for its thrills, and care about it for its loving, fun - and sometimes twisted - characters.
June 28, 2019
Reading Wildflower Wedding is like sipping iced tea while swinging on the front porch, sweet with a kick of caffeine.
I went into the novel expecting a romance from the title, but it looks like I missed the blossoming romance between Madison and Brash by starting with book 8 in the series. (Bummer for me!) The relationship between Brash and Madison reads real. The love they hold for each other, their family, friends, and town is foremost in their hearts. Their family, friends, and town reciprocate that love. There is an especially emotional scene during the wedding rehearsal dinner where each of the children is giving a toast. I may have had a twig or something in my eye while I was reading that scene!
So many characters inhabit the Sisters, Texas area within Wildflower Wedding. Both the main and secondary characters are individualistic and fully formed. Kudos for Ms. Willis on the character development. I will say that Granny Bert is my favorite character within the novel. She’s not only a town know-it-all, but she’s a hoot!
The mystery within the novel has some red herrings, but, I was 90% confident of the killer before the reveal. This aspect didn’t detract from the story. I enjoyed reading the journey Madison takes. She is determined to find the killer, help her clients, and get married all in a short window of time. That’s a lot of balls to juggle at the same time.
Authors must tread along a fine line when writing long series. Enough backstory needs to be introduced to intrigue new readers. But not too much backstory so as to be repetitious and boring for the loyal readers. Ms. Willis does a admirable job with Wildflower Wedding. It is a fine representation of this balance. I found myself intrigued by the previous stories, but not confused by the introduction of characters or old story lines.
While Wildflower Wedding can be read as a stand-alone, I encourage you to check out the rest of the series. I know I’ll be checking out the other books myself! Scroll down to see links to reviews of books 1-7 on Lone Star Lit Tours.
As a side note, it’s always neat when I read books set in places I’ve visited. Washington-on-the-Brazos is a great state park. I’ll have to check the schedule for reenactors. Though, hopefully with a lot fewer dead bodies!
I went into the novel expecting a romance from the title, but it looks like I missed the blossoming romance between Madison and Brash by starting with book 8 in the series. (Bummer for me!) The relationship between Brash and Madison reads real. The love they hold for each other, their family, friends, and town is foremost in their hearts. Their family, friends, and town reciprocate that love. There is an especially emotional scene during the wedding rehearsal dinner where each of the children is giving a toast. I may have had a twig or something in my eye while I was reading that scene!
So many characters inhabit the Sisters, Texas area within Wildflower Wedding. Both the main and secondary characters are individualistic and fully formed. Kudos for Ms. Willis on the character development. I will say that Granny Bert is my favorite character within the novel. She’s not only a town know-it-all, but she’s a hoot!
The mystery within the novel has some red herrings, but, I was 90% confident of the killer before the reveal. This aspect didn’t detract from the story. I enjoyed reading the journey Madison takes. She is determined to find the killer, help her clients, and get married all in a short window of time. That’s a lot of balls to juggle at the same time.
Authors must tread along a fine line when writing long series. Enough backstory needs to be introduced to intrigue new readers. But not too much backstory so as to be repetitious and boring for the loyal readers. Ms. Willis does a admirable job with Wildflower Wedding. It is a fine representation of this balance. I found myself intrigued by the previous stories, but not confused by the introduction of characters or old story lines.
While Wildflower Wedding can be read as a stand-alone, I encourage you to check out the rest of the series. I know I’ll be checking out the other books myself! Scroll down to see links to reviews of books 1-7 on Lone Star Lit Tours.
As a side note, it’s always neat when I read books set in places I’ve visited. Washington-on-the-Brazos is a great state park. I’ll have to check the schedule for reenactors. Though, hopefully with a lot fewer dead bodies!
July 2, 2019
It's a pretty sure bet that if you ever start reading any of the books in THE SISTERS Series, you'll want to read them all. At least, that is how I feel after reading the very last book in the series, the brand new "WILDFLOWER WEDDING and a Killer Reception" by Becki Willis.
The characters. The characters. The characters. And the tight writing. And the setting. The mysteries. The romance. The wedding. (Not to mention the killer reception!) This book has it all.
I love how WILDFLOWER WEDDING started with a picture of a gloved hand doing something (or someone) dirty. Then in Chapter One we cut to the most Texas thing of all, a reenactor named Bobby Ray on Texas Independence Day--and his suspicious demise.
Then there is a smooth transition to Madison and her loves and life, and, of course, her wedding. There is so much to Madison, Brash, and the twins, as well as all the family.
This matters a great deal to me, because I love character driven books the most, so a straight mystery or romance won't cut it. Here, in the Sisters, Madison's life is much like any bride's life--it won't go away and leave her to bask in the glow of pre-wedding planning. It makes for a perfect book, especially as Madison has to deal with client's needs in the midst of all the wedding craziness, not to mention helping Brash mull over the mystery of Bobby Ray's death, even though the widow is not interested in the least. And then there is the sweet wedding (making me want to go see how this all got here) followed by the killer reception. Talk about page turning excitement! I'd now love to go hear Becki talk about her books and writing, I'm definitely a new fan.
If you want a good summer page turning book, this is the one. If you love a good series and are constantly looking for a new one to plough through, like me, this is your series. No wonder Willis has grown such a big fan base. Count me in!
Thank you for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. I was highly entertained.
The characters. The characters. The characters. And the tight writing. And the setting. The mysteries. The romance. The wedding. (Not to mention the killer reception!) This book has it all.
I love how WILDFLOWER WEDDING started with a picture of a gloved hand doing something (or someone) dirty. Then in Chapter One we cut to the most Texas thing of all, a reenactor named Bobby Ray on Texas Independence Day--and his suspicious demise.
Then there is a smooth transition to Madison and her loves and life, and, of course, her wedding. There is so much to Madison, Brash, and the twins, as well as all the family.
This matters a great deal to me, because I love character driven books the most, so a straight mystery or romance won't cut it. Here, in the Sisters, Madison's life is much like any bride's life--it won't go away and leave her to bask in the glow of pre-wedding planning. It makes for a perfect book, especially as Madison has to deal with client's needs in the midst of all the wedding craziness, not to mention helping Brash mull over the mystery of Bobby Ray's death, even though the widow is not interested in the least. And then there is the sweet wedding (making me want to go see how this all got here) followed by the killer reception. Talk about page turning excitement! I'd now love to go hear Becki talk about her books and writing, I'm definitely a new fan.
If you want a good summer page turning book, this is the one. If you love a good series and are constantly looking for a new one to plough through, like me, this is your series. No wonder Willis has grown such a big fan base. Count me in!
Thank you for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. I was highly entertained.
July 2, 2023
Not my favourite in the series which is a shame as it was the big day. The book just went over my head, there was to much talk (detail) about things I don't know anything about, ancestry, mineral rights and Texas history. Also the killer seemed pretty obvious to me and there was no real surprises. Well only the way the killer tried to get away with killing Madison. I really like the characters and still had a chuckle in a few place, oh even some tears at the emotional heartfelt speeches the three teenagers gave before the big day. I have already downloaded the next book.
Madison is still working every hour she can before her big day. A client wants her to find his relatives and she isn't have much luck. Brash is also work on what to him looks a suspicious death, a man dies of an apparent heart attack after a cannon goes off. The Wedding goes off without a hitch until the reception when Madison's client dies after getting in a fight with Brash's friend. Fearing he will have to arrest his friend, dodging the media in the hopes that they won't think Brash himself has a possible motive and trying to stop a hostile take over from a man who isn't afraid to stir up the town to get Brashs job, Madison will stop at nothing to help her new husband even cancel her honeymoon.
Madison is still working every hour she can before her big day. A client wants her to find his relatives and she isn't have much luck. Brash is also work on what to him looks a suspicious death, a man dies of an apparent heart attack after a cannon goes off. The Wedding goes off without a hitch until the reception when Madison's client dies after getting in a fight with Brash's friend. Fearing he will have to arrest his friend, dodging the media in the hopes that they won't think Brash himself has a possible motive and trying to stop a hostile take over from a man who isn't afraid to stir up the town to get Brashs job, Madison will stop at nothing to help her new husband even cancel her honeymoon.
June 3, 2019
Madison and Brash finally get their wildflower wedding. Small, family members only. The dinner is another story. Seems like the whole town was there whether they were invited or not. When Nigel and Tony get in a loud argument, then Tony leaves after telling Nigel to "do us all a favor and just die". Nigel has been looking for an heir to leave his house and mineral rights. Madison was looking for him, but he died before she could find anyone. But Joel Werner is trying to take Brash's job. He thinks Brash is too 'playboyish' for the job, even though Brash has solved every case that has come across his desk. Things don't look too good for Brash's friend Tony when he is arrested for the murder of Nigel. Could he of done it? Joel is keeping the rumor mill going at high speed trying to undermine Brash. Can they find the killer? There is a twist you will not see coming in the ending. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Booksprout.
January 25, 2021
Maddy Reynolds only has a month before her wedding to sheriff Brash deCordova, the man she’s wanted since they were teens. Luckily between granny Bert, Brash's mother and Brash’s ex, Maddy has precious little to do and they’re taking care of the wedding details because things are busy, busy, busy at her burgeoning temporary help service.
Amid her busy caseload Maddy decides she and Brash would prefer a wildflower wedding in the field and a barbeque. Maddy’s wacky cases include a crochety neighbor who wants his relatives found immediately, and a Texas Independence Day re-enactor dropped dead during the performance. Plus, a local’s planning to unseat Brash.
Just as the title suggests, this outing had a large dose of romance to accompany the madcap cases, trademark for the series, there were plenty of red herrings with the culprit feigning innocence in plain sight plus a lot of zingers and plainly spoken observations from the usual ‘peanut gallery’.
Rating: 4stars
Amid her busy caseload Maddy decides she and Brash would prefer a wildflower wedding in the field and a barbeque. Maddy’s wacky cases include a crochety neighbor who wants his relatives found immediately, and a Texas Independence Day re-enactor dropped dead during the performance. Plus, a local’s planning to unseat Brash.
Just as the title suggests, this outing had a large dose of romance to accompany the madcap cases, trademark for the series, there were plenty of red herrings with the culprit feigning innocence in plain sight plus a lot of zingers and plainly spoken observations from the usual ‘peanut gallery’.
Rating: 4stars
June 16, 2020
Best one yet!
The wedding we have been waiting for...Maddy and Brash! Maddy's world only gets crazier as the wedding approaches. She takes on two cases, one finding relatives for an old man and one trying to figure out if the man who dies in front of the family at the Texas independence reenactment was murdered. Brash has his own battle as a new guy in town wants his job and has no problem spreading lies and innuendo about Brash. Great town hall scene! Will Maddy and Brash ever get to have their honeymoon? Of course they will! Lots of good Texas history in here too.
The wedding we have been waiting for...Maddy and Brash! Maddy's world only gets crazier as the wedding approaches. She takes on two cases, one finding relatives for an old man and one trying to figure out if the man who dies in front of the family at the Texas independence reenactment was murdered. Brash has his own battle as a new guy in town wants his job and has no problem spreading lies and innuendo about Brash. Great town hall scene! Will Maddy and Brash ever get to have their honeymoon? Of course they will! Lots of good Texas history in here too.
November 4, 2022
Another Hit!
So different from the sometimes overly-violent action novels I’ve read (and enjoyed!), this series is refreshingly different. Much more character oriented. Before finishing the first book you feel like you are actually living in this quaint rural “town” and are on a first name basis with its denizens! Though well woven, the underlying action plot is almost incidental. The realistic characters and their evolving relationships is what really draws you in and holds your attention! Great series — highly recommended!
So different from the sometimes overly-violent action novels I’ve read (and enjoyed!), this series is refreshingly different. Much more character oriented. Before finishing the first book you feel like you are actually living in this quaint rural “town” and are on a first name basis with its denizens! Though well woven, the underlying action plot is almost incidental. The realistic characters and their evolving relationships is what really draws you in and holds your attention! Great series — highly recommended!
September 13, 2023
rollercoaster
This author has a way of weaving a story that starts off with just enough to get your attention and then pulling the threads and theme together to create a wild and interesting and exciting story. I read this one in two days. Some would say that it contains some unrealistic over the top stuff like some of the James Bond movies but it does make for a interesting read.
I love all the characters the small town setting and the weave of family and friends and mushy gushy endings.
This author has a way of weaving a story that starts off with just enough to get your attention and then pulling the threads and theme together to create a wild and interesting and exciting story. I read this one in two days. Some would say that it contains some unrealistic over the top stuff like some of the James Bond movies but it does make for a interesting read.
I love all the characters the small town setting and the weave of family and friends and mushy gushy endings.
June 2, 2019
The eighth book in The Sisters, Texas Mystery Series and is the wedding of Madison Reynolds and Brash deCordova. There is suspense, drama, danger, murder,a really bad villain,family and love. I want to read the other books in this series as this is the first book by this Author that I have read and I had no problem with reading this book first. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2019
This was my first story by this author but certainly won't be my last. It was well written and intriguing. The characters are realistic and work amazingly well together. I love that murder happens at their wedding reception. How Maddie and Brash handle this is a great indicator of how their marriage will be. A good surprise ending as to 'whodunnit'.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 2, 2019
Loved this book!
When families mesh due to a new marriage, it usually takes time, love and attention to get all facets of the new family in sync. Apparently Maddy and Brash were extremely lucky with their blended family. What a shame that a friend was murdered at their wedding reception! This was a great mystery within a mystery: Maddy was in the process of running down long lost relatives for the friend that was murdered! No more hints, read the book! You will enjoy it!
When families mesh due to a new marriage, it usually takes time, love and attention to get all facets of the new family in sync. Apparently Maddy and Brash were extremely lucky with their blended family. What a shame that a friend was murdered at their wedding reception! This was a great mystery within a mystery: Maddy was in the process of running down long lost relatives for the friend that was murdered! No more hints, read the book! You will enjoy it!
December 10, 2019
Friends and enemies
Life is never dull for Maddie since returning to The Sisters! This book, along with sharing the beautiful wedding as the Reynolds and de Cordova families become one, adds enough suspense and action to keep you turning pages quickly to see how the honeymoon from hell ends! All the great characters are gathered and Granny Bert saves the day but who will save Derron and Maddie? I love this series!
Life is never dull for Maddie since returning to The Sisters! This book, along with sharing the beautiful wedding as the Reynolds and de Cordova families become one, adds enough suspense and action to keep you turning pages quickly to see how the honeymoon from hell ends! All the great characters are gathered and Granny Bert saves the day but who will save Derron and Maddie? I love this series!
January 29, 2020
This was the long awaited marriage of two of the main characters, Maddy and Brash. I have followed them from the original Chicken Scratch: Sisters series. They are fun, emotional, small town stories with mysteries- though sometimes I guess the outcome before the great unveiling in the last chapter. I like all the wacky characters and I think Granny Bert with her zest for life- and use of her age to get things going her way- is one of my favoites. All of the books are really fun to read.
June 6, 2019
Maddie just seems to have trouble find her, no matter the occasion, so why should her wedding be any different?!? I love these characters and this is another great story in which they reside. Reading about them is like visiting friends, cozy, fun, and you never know what will happen!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2019
In Becki Willis' Wildflower Wedding, fans get what they expect which is an intriguing mystery, warm characters, hot guys and sweet romance...oh, yes, and an interrupted honeymoon for Maddy and Brash. I do believe that new readers could step right in and enjoy the book without having read the earlier books in The Sisters, Texas Mystery Series, but watching the relationships grow through the series, not just the romance, is one of the best parts of the series.
June 18, 2019
Great characters that I want to keep spending time with, great story with a bit of romance and some mystery! Difficult to predict, okay, impossible to predict with a surprise ending. This book is an all-star winner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2019
Hours of enjoyment.
I have read all the books in the Sisters series through Wildflower Wedding. Have enjoyed each one. They keep getting better and better. Really enjoy the characters. Grannie Bert is my idol. All the characters are growing and developing. I must admit that I would like to see Brash in person (sorry, Madison). Anyway, good reads and hours of enjoyment.
I have read all the books in the Sisters series through Wildflower Wedding. Have enjoyed each one. They keep getting better and better. Really enjoy the characters. Grannie Bert is my idol. All the characters are growing and developing. I must admit that I would like to see Brash in person (sorry, Madison). Anyway, good reads and hours of enjoyment.
October 7, 2019
This series is addictive. As soon as I finish one book, I'm looking for the next one. The characters are so believable, their relationships strong, and the trouble they get into is intriguing. I'm so looking forward to peeking in on the lives of Maddie & Brash, Genny & Cutter, Granny Bert & her latest, and the kids.
October 8, 2019
Happily Ever After
I am addicted to this series. So well written with characters you'd want to have as friends and family. I'm so glad Maddy and Brash finally get to have their happily ever after, even though their marriage starts off with terrible events. Can't wait for Book 9,
I am addicted to this series. So well written with characters you'd want to have as friends and family. I'm so glad Maddy and Brash finally get to have their happily ever after, even though their marriage starts off with terrible events. Can't wait for Book 9,
October 9, 2019
Love this series
Brash and Maddy finally get married but what a reception...a death that leads to a friend getting arrested. A sleezy man trying to get Brashes job. A canon, finding relatives and total confusion lead to a good story. If you havent read the others ij the series start with one and work your way up.
Brash and Maddy finally get married but what a reception...a death that leads to a friend getting arrested. A sleezy man trying to get Brashes job. A canon, finding relatives and total confusion lead to a good story. If you havent read the others ij the series start with one and work your way up.
October 16, 2019
the sisters texas mystery series......
just finished the last (so far) of the sisters texas mystery series......can’t wait for the next book in the series....from the first book to the most current in the series i was captivated by the the stories.....the characters.....the action.....the love and the humor interwoven with each story.......
just finished the last (so far) of the sisters texas mystery series......can’t wait for the next book in the series....from the first book to the most current in the series i was captivated by the the stories.....the characters.....the action.....the love and the humor interwoven with each story.......
January 27, 2020
Excellent story. So glad Genny finally wrapped up the beginning of her love story and the way that Maddie always winds up having trouble come knocking at her door. Kinda seems like real life (at least relating this to my life ...) Excellent series, solid characters and you feel like you become a part of the family just by reading each book in this story.
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