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A Maggie McDonald Mystery #5
Cliff Hanger
When a hang-gliding stranger is found fatally injured in the cliffs above Monterey Bay, the investigation into his death becomes a cluttered mess. Professional organizer Maggie McDonald must sort the clues to catch a coastal killer before her family becomes a target . . .
Maggie has her work cut out for her helping Renée Alvarez organize her property management office. Though the condominium complex boasts a prime location on the shores of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, aging buildings and the high-maintenance tenants have Renée run ragged. But Maggie’s efforts are complicated when her sons attempt to rescue a badly injured man who crashed his ultra-light on the coastal cliffs.
Despite their efforts to save him, the man dies. Maggie's family members become the prime suspects in a murder investigation and the target of a lawsuit. Her instincts say something’s out of place, but solving a murder won’t be easy. Maggie still needs to manage her business, the pushy press, and unwanted interest from criminal elements. Controlling chaos is her specialty, but with this killer’s crime wave, Maggie may be left hanging . . .
Maggie has her work cut out for her helping Renée Alvarez organize her property management office. Though the condominium complex boasts a prime location on the shores of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, aging buildings and the high-maintenance tenants have Renée run ragged. But Maggie’s efforts are complicated when her sons attempt to rescue a badly injured man who crashed his ultra-light on the coastal cliffs.
Despite their efforts to save him, the man dies. Maggie's family members become the prime suspects in a murder investigation and the target of a lawsuit. Her instincts say something’s out of place, but solving a murder won’t be easy. Maggie still needs to manage her business, the pushy press, and unwanted interest from criminal elements. Controlling chaos is her specialty, but with this killer’s crime wave, Maggie may be left hanging . . .
215 pages, Paperback
Published July 16, 2019
49 people are currently reading
543 people want to read
About the author
Mary Feliz
6 books626 followersMary Feliz writes the Maggie McDonald Mystery series featuring whip-smart professional organizer Maggie McDonald and her side-kick golden retriever. Together, with the help of family, friends, and a quirky community, they restore order when violence rips their world apart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
January 25, 2020
Cliff Hanger is the 5th book in the Maggie McDonald Mystery series written by Mary Feliz and published in 2019. I previously read an earlier book in the series and really enjoyed it. When this one became available through a cozy mystery group I belong to, I decided to pick up the series again and see how a second one turned out. I'm glad I did... between 4 and 4.5 stars for this one.
The series takes place in California, and Maggie is an organizational expert. We have this in common, although for me it's a hobby and for her it's a career. This time, she and her teenage boys drive to the coast to help out her best friend's cousin who needs help organizing a housing complex. Nothing goes right from the moment Maggie arrives. Between a sorta-hang-glider crashing and the cousin being unavailable to deliver on the rental property and other things, Maggie and the boys think about leaving. Then it gets worse. The guy piloting the glider dies from his injuries despite the cops and doctors thinking he'd survive, and the family blames Maggie's teens for doing something wrong. Unfortunately, as Maggie digs into what happened, she learns it was probably murder.
This is a family mystery, meaning Maggie and the boys do all the sleuthing. I enjoyed that aspect of it, even if i felt at times the boys were put in a bit too much danger, for it being a strange town to them. I also understand that grieving parents might blame anyone for their son's death, but to take it out on 14-and-16-year-old brothers was definitely too much for me. Both aspects pushed my buttons a bit, but on the flip side, everything else makes you love the family bonding, trust, and intimacy. As a mother, Maggie is pretty cool. As an amateur investigator, she's very smart.
The format of the books are great. Each chapter has a tip about how to organize your life. Since this book revolves around a vacation, the tips help people figure out how to manage expectations and time while on a trip. The writing is straightforward and clear, no ambiguity or excessive detail. It reads easily and makes for a fun afternoon lounging in a comfy chair. The story focuses on organic farms, drugs, and hang gliders (not exactly gliders but close enough without explaining the differences here). It was interesting and great to learn a lot more about something I don't have a strong background in. At times, it was a little more than I thought I needed, but then again, it also helped immerse me in the story. After all, who wants a simple tale without enough meat to push our boundaries?
I'm glad I took this one on, as I realized I do enjoy the series a lot. I will be ordering the others next month and getting current on the series by the end of this year. A definite recommend for a well-structured and medium-complex cozy.
The series takes place in California, and Maggie is an organizational expert. We have this in common, although for me it's a hobby and for her it's a career. This time, she and her teenage boys drive to the coast to help out her best friend's cousin who needs help organizing a housing complex. Nothing goes right from the moment Maggie arrives. Between a sorta-hang-glider crashing and the cousin being unavailable to deliver on the rental property and other things, Maggie and the boys think about leaving. Then it gets worse. The guy piloting the glider dies from his injuries despite the cops and doctors thinking he'd survive, and the family blames Maggie's teens for doing something wrong. Unfortunately, as Maggie digs into what happened, she learns it was probably murder.
This is a family mystery, meaning Maggie and the boys do all the sleuthing. I enjoyed that aspect of it, even if i felt at times the boys were put in a bit too much danger, for it being a strange town to them. I also understand that grieving parents might blame anyone for their son's death, but to take it out on 14-and-16-year-old brothers was definitely too much for me. Both aspects pushed my buttons a bit, but on the flip side, everything else makes you love the family bonding, trust, and intimacy. As a mother, Maggie is pretty cool. As an amateur investigator, she's very smart.
The format of the books are great. Each chapter has a tip about how to organize your life. Since this book revolves around a vacation, the tips help people figure out how to manage expectations and time while on a trip. The writing is straightforward and clear, no ambiguity or excessive detail. It reads easily and makes for a fun afternoon lounging in a comfy chair. The story focuses on organic farms, drugs, and hang gliders (not exactly gliders but close enough without explaining the differences here). It was interesting and great to learn a lot more about something I don't have a strong background in. At times, it was a little more than I thought I needed, but then again, it also helped immerse me in the story. After all, who wants a simple tale without enough meat to push our boundaries?
I'm glad I took this one on, as I realized I do enjoy the series a lot. I will be ordering the others next month and getting current on the series by the end of this year. A definite recommend for a well-structured and medium-complex cozy.
July 10, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
*wince* This one was just far too wholesome for me, at least in terms of the sleuths. While I appreciate a crime fighting family, it just was too sweet for me and then balanced oddly against that felt really oddly explained and kind of convoluted? Like a more simple explanation would have worked better but the big reveal didn't tie in at first and everything was too confused. I DID like the idea of the cleaning/organizing side of things, even if I feel it added to the 'wholesome' air somehow? Maybe I just didn't connect to them as well as I usually do my cozy mystery sleuths either.
Not a series I think I'll enjoy, but it will definitely still appeal to the general cozy reader. Still give it a go!
*wince* This one was just far too wholesome for me, at least in terms of the sleuths. While I appreciate a crime fighting family, it just was too sweet for me and then balanced oddly against that felt really oddly explained and kind of convoluted? Like a more simple explanation would have worked better but the big reveal didn't tie in at first and everything was too confused. I DID like the idea of the cleaning/organizing side of things, even if I feel it added to the 'wholesome' air somehow? Maybe I just didn't connect to them as well as I usually do my cozy mystery sleuths either.
Not a series I think I'll enjoy, but it will definitely still appeal to the general cozy reader. Still give it a go!
September 23, 2019
Thanks to Cozymysteryreview crew and Kensington.
A cozy mystery that was fun to read and being in California was nice too on the beach. Maggie is a professional organizer and happens to get involved in a maybe murder with her sons and her dog Belle by accident. Her kids see the hang gliding crash and help to rescue the man and almost become prime suspects after he dies.
A lot of people from Maggie's life in her hometown get called into action and it all falls together with everyone helping.
This is #5 in the series but I had no problem without reading the others in this series.
A cozy mystery that was fun to read and being in California was nice too on the beach. Maggie is a professional organizer and happens to get involved in a maybe murder with her sons and her dog Belle by accident. Her kids see the hang gliding crash and help to rescue the man and almost become prime suspects after he dies.
A lot of people from Maggie's life in her hometown get called into action and it all falls together with everyone helping.
This is #5 in the series but I had no problem without reading the others in this series.
October 2, 2019
Monterrey Bay, California is where Maggie
McDonald, professional organizational
expert is taking a job at a beach resort so
her boys can spend their summer vacation
with her. Sounds perfect.....until they arrive
and are told no dogs are allowed?? Then
the rental unit.....an absolute mess and the
smell is nauseating. What a mess!!! This
is not the arrangements the person who
hired her had made with her.
The boys go down to the beach where a
ultralight had crashed into the cliff. They
help rescue the pilot and call 911. The pilot
under goes surgery but then succumbs to
his injuries.
The boys find themselves in a lawsuit
because of the pilot’s death. This sets the
McDonald family and good friends into
action to determine what happened to the
ultralight.
Smugglers, drug runners, a mysterious barn
set between two farmers land, fraudulent
grant monies and workers, gang members,
machine shop, ICE agents, plus a cast of
well crafted, artfully drawn up colorful
characters that add to the story makes this
a recommended read.
Bella, the McDonald’s dog and Munchkin,
the veteran dog, top off the cast.
The plot is well written with plenty of twists,
turns and family issues and dramas that
make the book very relatable.
This is book # 5 in the Maggie McDonald
Mysteries series. It can be read as a stand
alone.
I volunteered to read Cliff Hanger. Thanks to
the author via the Cozy Mystery Review Crew.
My opinion is voluntary and my own.
Each chapter offers you organizational tips
for taking a beach vacation
McDonald, professional organizational
expert is taking a job at a beach resort so
her boys can spend their summer vacation
with her. Sounds perfect.....until they arrive
and are told no dogs are allowed?? Then
the rental unit.....an absolute mess and the
smell is nauseating. What a mess!!! This
is not the arrangements the person who
hired her had made with her.
The boys go down to the beach where a
ultralight had crashed into the cliff. They
help rescue the pilot and call 911. The pilot
under goes surgery but then succumbs to
his injuries.
The boys find themselves in a lawsuit
because of the pilot’s death. This sets the
McDonald family and good friends into
action to determine what happened to the
ultralight.
Smugglers, drug runners, a mysterious barn
set between two farmers land, fraudulent
grant monies and workers, gang members,
machine shop, ICE agents, plus a cast of
well crafted, artfully drawn up colorful
characters that add to the story makes this
a recommended read.
Bella, the McDonald’s dog and Munchkin,
the veteran dog, top off the cast.
The plot is well written with plenty of twists,
turns and family issues and dramas that
make the book very relatable.
This is book # 5 in the Maggie McDonald
Mysteries series. It can be read as a stand
alone.
I volunteered to read Cliff Hanger. Thanks to
the author via the Cozy Mystery Review Crew.
My opinion is voluntary and my own.
Each chapter offers you organizational tips
for taking a beach vacation
July 19, 2019
Synopsis:
When a hang-gliding stranger is found fatally injured in the cliffs above Monterey Bay, the investigation into his death becomes a cluttered mess. Professional organizer Maggie McDonald must sort the clues to catch a coastal killer before her family becomes a target . . .
Maggie has her work cut out for her helping Renée Alvarez organize her property management office. Though the condominium complex boasts a prime location on the shores of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, aging buildings and the high-maintenance tenants have Renée run ragged. But Maggie’s efforts are complicated when her sons attempt to rescue a badly injured man who crashed his ultra-light on the coastal cliffs.
Despite their efforts to save him, the man dies. Maggie's family members become the prime suspects in a murder investigation and the target of a lawsuit. Her instincts say something’s out of place, but solving a murder won’t be easy. Maggie still needs to manage her business, the pushy press, and unwanted interest from criminal elements. Controlling chaos is her specialty, but with this killer’s crime wave, Maggie may be left hanging . . .
“A skillful amateur detective with an impressive to-do list.”
—Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW, Address to Die For (Goodreads)
Review:
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and those descriptions pulled me into the story right away. I loved the descriptions of the Monterey Bay area and I enjoyed reading about all of the marine life that they saw. And I really liked all the tips that the author supplied at the beginning of each chapter, they were varied and useful ideas.
I have read all the books in this series and I have enjoyed them all. I did enjoy this book but it seemed a little unbelievable to me. I found it hard to believe that Maggie’s sons would be held responsible for the man’s death, all they did was call for help and stay with the victim. And the boys were portrayed as much older than they really are (they acted like college kids to me). And the fact that this family has such close ties to law enforcement that any theory they came up with, and there were some outlandish ones, could be checked out by someone the family knew. That is only my opinion and others may not agree with me.
I do enjoy the fact that the protagonist has a family, because so many of the cozies I read have single heroines that have friends for support. The family group is refreshing and I really like that. It made it more realistic to me, Maggie having a family and having the responsibilities of all parents.
The mystery was well plotted and complex. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider and it was not easily solved. There were enough red herrings thrown in and twists and turns that sometimes I felt like I was on a rollercoaster, which is a good thing.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. I will definitely read the next one in the series when it is released. Whenever I see there is a new book in the series, I know I am in for a treat.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
When a hang-gliding stranger is found fatally injured in the cliffs above Monterey Bay, the investigation into his death becomes a cluttered mess. Professional organizer Maggie McDonald must sort the clues to catch a coastal killer before her family becomes a target . . .
Maggie has her work cut out for her helping Renée Alvarez organize her property management office. Though the condominium complex boasts a prime location on the shores of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, aging buildings and the high-maintenance tenants have Renée run ragged. But Maggie’s efforts are complicated when her sons attempt to rescue a badly injured man who crashed his ultra-light on the coastal cliffs.
Despite their efforts to save him, the man dies. Maggie's family members become the prime suspects in a murder investigation and the target of a lawsuit. Her instincts say something’s out of place, but solving a murder won’t be easy. Maggie still needs to manage her business, the pushy press, and unwanted interest from criminal elements. Controlling chaos is her specialty, but with this killer’s crime wave, Maggie may be left hanging . . .
“A skillful amateur detective with an impressive to-do list.”
—Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW, Address to Die For (Goodreads)
Review:
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and those descriptions pulled me into the story right away. I loved the descriptions of the Monterey Bay area and I enjoyed reading about all of the marine life that they saw. And I really liked all the tips that the author supplied at the beginning of each chapter, they were varied and useful ideas.
I have read all the books in this series and I have enjoyed them all. I did enjoy this book but it seemed a little unbelievable to me. I found it hard to believe that Maggie’s sons would be held responsible for the man’s death, all they did was call for help and stay with the victim. And the boys were portrayed as much older than they really are (they acted like college kids to me). And the fact that this family has such close ties to law enforcement that any theory they came up with, and there were some outlandish ones, could be checked out by someone the family knew. That is only my opinion and others may not agree with me.
I do enjoy the fact that the protagonist has a family, because so many of the cozies I read have single heroines that have friends for support. The family group is refreshing and I really like that. It made it more realistic to me, Maggie having a family and having the responsibilities of all parents.
The mystery was well plotted and complex. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider and it was not easily solved. There were enough red herrings thrown in and twists and turns that sometimes I felt like I was on a rollercoaster, which is a good thing.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. I will definitely read the next one in the series when it is released. Whenever I see there is a new book in the series, I know I am in for a treat.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
July 12, 2019
Cliff Hanger by Mary Feliz is the fifth A Mary McDonald Mystery. Maggie McDonald along with her two boys, Brian and David are heading to Monterey Bay for the summer. Maggie has been hired by the management of the Heron Beach Resort to help the new complex manager, Renee Alvarez organize the office and the payment includes a condo for the summer. David and Brian notice a downed ultralight aircraft pilot and quickly contact emergency services. The distraught family lashes out by filing a lawsuit against the boys and has them the target of an investigation by local law enforcement. The family rallies their resources and begins a deep dive into the victim’s life. After noticing some suspicious activity at night, Maggie believes there is some foul play afoot. I thought Cliff Hanger was nicely written, moves along at a steady rate and is just the right length. While Cliff Hanger is the fifth book in the series, it can easily be read alone. The characters are established, and I find them relatable. Maggie has a good relationship with her two kids, and they have gotten the sleuthing bug from her. The complex crime was not what you typically find in a cozy mystery (I do not want to share too much and spoil it for you). It is multifaceted with a handful suspects and misdirection. The family certainly came up with some unique theories regarding the crime. The action kept the story moving forward toward the conclusion. There is a good wrap-up that ties up the loose threads. I enjoyed the authors vivid descriptions especially those of Monterey Bay and the sea life (a blue whale and dolphins). It was interesting to learn about ultralight aircraft and the regulations for them. I enjoyed Maggie’s handy tips at the beginning of reach chapter to help people prepare for trips. I thought they were clever, helpful and easy to implement. Cliff Hanger has an uplifting adventure with two teenage sleuths, stunning sea life, a malodorous condo, disorganized records, and one weary woman.
June 12, 2019
I won the kindle edition of this novel in a Goodreads Giveaway. While this is the fifth book in the series, it worked as a standalone novel.
Maggie McDonald helps people or offices get organized. She and her two teenage sons head to a condominium complex near Monterrey Bay. In exchange for helping organize the property management office, they get to live rent free in one of the condos. Maggie's husband will be joining them on the weekends. As they are approaching their destination, they see an ultralight behaving somewhat abnormally. With this start, the story is off and running.
This book covers a lot of topics including death, grief, organization tips, false accusations, amateur sleuthing, supportive friends, organic farming, smuggling, working vacations, immigration policies and so much more. Was the ultralight flier tampered with? Who can be trusted? Will the property management office get organized? How do you keep your leg injury dry when body surfing? Will the McDonald family actually get to have any of the vacation part of a working vacation?
There was a lot going on in this well-written book. The main characters were well-developed and likeable and I was rooting for them throughout the book. I am looking forward to reading more of the books in this cozy mystery series.
Maggie McDonald helps people or offices get organized. She and her two teenage sons head to a condominium complex near Monterrey Bay. In exchange for helping organize the property management office, they get to live rent free in one of the condos. Maggie's husband will be joining them on the weekends. As they are approaching their destination, they see an ultralight behaving somewhat abnormally. With this start, the story is off and running.
This book covers a lot of topics including death, grief, organization tips, false accusations, amateur sleuthing, supportive friends, organic farming, smuggling, working vacations, immigration policies and so much more. Was the ultralight flier tampered with? Who can be trusted? Will the property management office get organized? How do you keep your leg injury dry when body surfing? Will the McDonald family actually get to have any of the vacation part of a working vacation?
There was a lot going on in this well-written book. The main characters were well-developed and likeable and I was rooting for them throughout the book. I am looking forward to reading more of the books in this cozy mystery series.
October 2, 2019
Cliff Hanger by Mary Feliz is a thrilling page-turner mystery novel in the Maggie McDonald Mystery series. I’ve read one of Mary Feliz’s previous books in this series and thoroughly enjoyed it so when this book came along I was eager to see what problems Maggie McDonald was going to have to face and tackle. I can easily say that overall this book does not disappoint.
Maggie McDonald, along with her two sons – David and Brian, and their golden retriever Belle are taking a working “vacation.” But let me tell you this vacation quickly becomes more work than vacation. Maggie quickly learns that the young woman she is working for is a bit out of her depth with organizing her property management office and condominium complex. While this place may have a great location, it has a lot of work that needs to be done to get it running shipshape. But this book is full of twists from – a couple with small children being picked up by ICE and deported, to a young man’s untimely death, to mysterious lights on the beach that point to the illegal activity going on. As you can imagine this is all more than Maggie had anticipated taking on. With the young woman, Renee, having to take on the responsibility of three young children for her neighbors who were picked up, Maggie questions whether the timing is right for everything that needs doing.
Due to the circumstances that surround Jake’s untimely accident and death, this book focuses more on all the puzzle pieces that need to come together to solve this mystery. I personally was shocked when Jake’s parents and even the sheriff were shady in their dealings with Maggie and her boys. I was so worried that their shenanigans would taint how the people in this tight-knit community would deal with Maggie and the boys. Thankfully, people remain kind and cordial. There is quite a bit going on and several characters are introduced throughout. At times, it did get a bit confusing trying to keep everyone straight. The author does a great job keeping me engaged in the story throughout though.
If I had to say something that I didn’t like about this book it would honestly be the way that the boys talked to their mother at times. I know, I know. They’re teenagers, but I guess I just reflect back on how I never talked to my mother the way that they do at times. I felt like they were being disrespectful in certain moments and the fact that she let it slide or excused it didn’t sit well with me. Regardless of them being “tired”, “frustrated”, or whatever I felt that they were out of line. I will warn fellow readers of this…the ending isn’t truly satisfying…so prepare yourselves for that. The justice system is far from cut and dry, and we rarely get the answers that we are looking for and this book gives us a perfect example of this. So the ending of this book left me feeling a bit dissatisfied with how things end.
All in all, I am rating this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. This is a good cozy mystery with quite a few thrilling moments. It had me eagerly page-turning trying to figure out who had the motive, means, and opportunity. There are some happy moments, but I have to say I appreciate how true to life the author makes this book because not everything has a happy ending, not everything works out in the end…even for fiction. If you have enjoyed previous books in the Maggie McDonald series then I highly recommend this book. If you’re new and looking for something interesting this book is a good choice because while it is part of a series each book can be read as a stand-alone. So grab this book and enjoy the story!
Maggie McDonald, along with her two sons – David and Brian, and their golden retriever Belle are taking a working “vacation.” But let me tell you this vacation quickly becomes more work than vacation. Maggie quickly learns that the young woman she is working for is a bit out of her depth with organizing her property management office and condominium complex. While this place may have a great location, it has a lot of work that needs to be done to get it running shipshape. But this book is full of twists from – a couple with small children being picked up by ICE and deported, to a young man’s untimely death, to mysterious lights on the beach that point to the illegal activity going on. As you can imagine this is all more than Maggie had anticipated taking on. With the young woman, Renee, having to take on the responsibility of three young children for her neighbors who were picked up, Maggie questions whether the timing is right for everything that needs doing.
Due to the circumstances that surround Jake’s untimely accident and death, this book focuses more on all the puzzle pieces that need to come together to solve this mystery. I personally was shocked when Jake’s parents and even the sheriff were shady in their dealings with Maggie and her boys. I was so worried that their shenanigans would taint how the people in this tight-knit community would deal with Maggie and the boys. Thankfully, people remain kind and cordial. There is quite a bit going on and several characters are introduced throughout. At times, it did get a bit confusing trying to keep everyone straight. The author does a great job keeping me engaged in the story throughout though.
If I had to say something that I didn’t like about this book it would honestly be the way that the boys talked to their mother at times. I know, I know. They’re teenagers, but I guess I just reflect back on how I never talked to my mother the way that they do at times. I felt like they were being disrespectful in certain moments and the fact that she let it slide or excused it didn’t sit well with me. Regardless of them being “tired”, “frustrated”, or whatever I felt that they were out of line. I will warn fellow readers of this…the ending isn’t truly satisfying…so prepare yourselves for that. The justice system is far from cut and dry, and we rarely get the answers that we are looking for and this book gives us a perfect example of this. So the ending of this book left me feeling a bit dissatisfied with how things end.
All in all, I am rating this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. This is a good cozy mystery with quite a few thrilling moments. It had me eagerly page-turning trying to figure out who had the motive, means, and opportunity. There are some happy moments, but I have to say I appreciate how true to life the author makes this book because not everything has a happy ending, not everything works out in the end…even for fiction. If you have enjoyed previous books in the Maggie McDonald series then I highly recommend this book. If you’re new and looking for something interesting this book is a good choice because while it is part of a series each book can be read as a stand-alone. So grab this book and enjoy the story!
October 7, 2019
This was a great cozy mystery! Maggie’s whole family, new friends and old friends all worked together to solve the mystery. Everyone had a unique personality and were fun to get to know during the book. I plan to go back and read the prior books since this is the 1st one in this series I’ve read.
She kept me guessing throughout. I thought I had it figured out but she surprised me. This was an arc that I received and plan to buy more of the series.
She kept me guessing throughout. I thought I had it figured out but she surprised me. This was an arc that I received and plan to buy more of the series.
October 5, 2019
This was the first Maggie McDonald book I have read and enjoyed it. Each chapter starts out with organizational tips for a family vacation. Those were fun to read, and useful.
Maggie accepts a job at a beach resort for the property manager, Renee, to organize the records etc. She brings along her two teenage boys and dog Belle for a beach summer vacation. Fun in the sun! Nothing seems to go as planned. First, condo office doesn't want to give Maggie the key because no dogs are allowed. Then the condo they are assigned is in shambles, filthy and a really bad odor. She can't get in touch with Renee. The summer is off to a really bad start. Just when Maggie is going to pack them all up and go back home, she gets the right condo and it is beautiful. A nice walk on the beach to explore seems in order. They see the ultralight go down, the boys attempt to rescue the pilot and things go from bad to worse. Not only are the boys accused of doing more harm than good Jake resulting in his death, Maggie can't seem to get ahold of Renee to start her job of organizing. The authorities are questioning them. Maggie starts getting threatening texts. They accidently discover some suspicious activity on the beach which poses more danger to the family. There are plenty of suspects in the death of Jake and the activity on the beach, which makes for a good mystery. This is a quick and fast paced read, escalating into an exciting ending.
I received an free book and voluntarily provided this review.
Maggie accepts a job at a beach resort for the property manager, Renee, to organize the records etc. She brings along her two teenage boys and dog Belle for a beach summer vacation. Fun in the sun! Nothing seems to go as planned. First, condo office doesn't want to give Maggie the key because no dogs are allowed. Then the condo they are assigned is in shambles, filthy and a really bad odor. She can't get in touch with Renee. The summer is off to a really bad start. Just when Maggie is going to pack them all up and go back home, she gets the right condo and it is beautiful. A nice walk on the beach to explore seems in order. They see the ultralight go down, the boys attempt to rescue the pilot and things go from bad to worse. Not only are the boys accused of doing more harm than good Jake resulting in his death, Maggie can't seem to get ahold of Renee to start her job of organizing. The authorities are questioning them. Maggie starts getting threatening texts. They accidently discover some suspicious activity on the beach which poses more danger to the family. There are plenty of suspects in the death of Jake and the activity on the beach, which makes for a good mystery. This is a quick and fast paced read, escalating into an exciting ending.
I received an free book and voluntarily provided this review.
September 16, 2019
This is the first book I have read by this author, and is the 5th in the series....and after reading it, I HAVE to go back and read the other four!!
I could have easily finished this in one sitting, had I not started it so late in the evening. It was an easy, fun read that I had trouble putting down, even though I was dead tired. It worked beautifully as a stand alone novel, so I didn't feel bad about being unfamiliar with the characters, though I got attached to those characters quickly.
There was a lot going on in this book, which kept me guessing (although I had a hunch as to who some of the bad guys were) without making the story too convoluted to follow. There was just enough danger to stay interesting without making me tense up, and just enough comedic relief to keep me smiling.
I adored Maggie and her family, especially Belle, and can't wait to go back and catch up on all of their adventures!
I could have easily finished this in one sitting, had I not started it so late in the evening. It was an easy, fun read that I had trouble putting down, even though I was dead tired. It worked beautifully as a stand alone novel, so I didn't feel bad about being unfamiliar with the characters, though I got attached to those characters quickly.
There was a lot going on in this book, which kept me guessing (although I had a hunch as to who some of the bad guys were) without making the story too convoluted to follow. There was just enough danger to stay interesting without making me tense up, and just enough comedic relief to keep me smiling.
I adored Maggie and her family, especially Belle, and can't wait to go back and catch up on all of their adventures!
December 19, 2019
Cliff Hanger by Mary Feliz is the 5thth book in the Maggie McDonald mystery series. Maggie McDonald, her husband, Max, and their two sons, David and Brian live in Orchard View, California where Max is a college professor and Maggie is a professional organizer. Maggie is working to help organize a property management office. Maggie was able to take her sons, who will be able to hang out at the beach. When her sons see and try to help a badly injured man, and when he dies, his family plans on suing them. I really enjoyed this book, and felt like I was right there with the family during the chaos. This book has more twists and turns, that kept me reading page after page. I found this book to be a quick read, with a well developed plot and characters. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. If you love cozy mysteries, I strongly recommend this book and 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.
October 7, 2019
It seemed like the great way to get a vacation in by taking a working vacation at the beach, but when a dead body falls out of the sky, drug smugglers and the threat of a lawsuit against your children pop up it turns out to be anything but a vacation! Excellent characters that have been very well developed pull you into the story and have you invested in the outcome almost immediately. Add great characters to a well developed plot with twists, curves and pitfalls and you have the perfect answer to an entertaining day! I have really enjoyed the series and now can't wait for the next book to come out!
October 2, 2019
Cliff Hanger is the fifth book in the Maggie McDonald Mystery series by Mary Feliz.
I really like reading about Maggie and her friends and family. The descriptions of the area are great. It reminds me of when I went to California on vacation.
I struggled a bit as to why they would put themselves, particularly the boys, in dangerous situations.
I really like reading about Maggie and her friends and family. The descriptions of the area are great. It reminds me of when I went to California on vacation.
I struggled a bit as to why they would put themselves, particularly the boys, in dangerous situations.
June 5, 2019
A summer "work/vacation", at the beach in Monterey Bay, turns into a dangerous time for Maggie and her family!
While working to help a friend of Tess's organize a chaotic condo property, a day at the beach turns deadly when an ultralight plane crashes in front of David and Brian, Maggie's sons. The boys do everything correctly to try to save the pilot, but he later dies at a hospital. The accident begins to look like murder and her son's are being accused of causing the young man's death, after the crash. Now, Maggie must find a murderer and keep her son's from prosecution.
I always enjoy Mary Feliz's books - they're filled with mystery, red herrings, family, great friendships, a lot of love and of course, organizing tips that I've actually used! This book doesn't disappoint. some of my favorite characters - Stephen, Nell, Munchkin and a new intriguing character, Rocket come to the aid of the McDonald family to help solve the mystery and keep the boys safe. The ending ties all the loose ends (and clues) up nicely.
Another winner from Mary Feliz!
I received an ARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review of this book.
While working to help a friend of Tess's organize a chaotic condo property, a day at the beach turns deadly when an ultralight plane crashes in front of David and Brian, Maggie's sons. The boys do everything correctly to try to save the pilot, but he later dies at a hospital. The accident begins to look like murder and her son's are being accused of causing the young man's death, after the crash. Now, Maggie must find a murderer and keep her son's from prosecution.
I always enjoy Mary Feliz's books - they're filled with mystery, red herrings, family, great friendships, a lot of love and of course, organizing tips that I've actually used! This book doesn't disappoint. some of my favorite characters - Stephen, Nell, Munchkin and a new intriguing character, Rocket come to the aid of the McDonald family to help solve the mystery and keep the boys safe. The ending ties all the loose ends (and clues) up nicely.
Another winner from Mary Feliz!
I received an ARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review of this book.
July 2, 2019
Ever have one of those days or weeks? Well Maggie & family are in for one in this novel. Maggie McDonald is an organizer. She assists people in getting their home or offices in order. She takes on a client in Watsonville as a favor to her friend. She plans on a working vacation at the resort she will assist in getting organized.
I had a tough time buying into the premise that the good Samaritan boys would go to jail or the threat was a plausible one. I also had an issue with the boys ages. They seemed too old for the 13 and 15 we are told they are. They act like senior college students or older. So, if you can suspend reality, this story works. As the daughter of a cop, there are other points that I have a tough time buying into but I can suspend those too. In my opinion, this book isn’t the best in the series but it does make a good beach read.
I thought the overall story was well-written even though convoluted. The characters were fully developed and likeable.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley. These are my opinions and I am not required to leave a positive review.
I had a tough time buying into the premise that the good Samaritan boys would go to jail or the threat was a plausible one. I also had an issue with the boys ages. They seemed too old for the 13 and 15 we are told they are. They act like senior college students or older. So, if you can suspend reality, this story works. As the daughter of a cop, there are other points that I have a tough time buying into but I can suspend those too. In my opinion, this book isn’t the best in the series but it does make a good beach read.
I thought the overall story was well-written even though convoluted. The characters were fully developed and likeable.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley. These are my opinions and I am not required to leave a positive review.
June 9, 2019
Do you like actions stories than this the for to read a fast-moving story that includes flight electronics, immigration policies, organic farming, and drugs? They can all be found in the fifth book of the Maggie MacDonald series.
Maggie and her sons, David and Bryan are planning to spending the summer at a resort near Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Maggie will be aiding the manager of the resort with organizing the resort storage and files in exchange for a Condo for the family. Arriving at a resort they spot an ultralight aircraft. The boys managed to recuse the injured pilot, at first they were treated as heroes and later threatened with lawsuit requiring lawyers. Secrets that have been hidden begin to appear and before long all their friends arrived, along with law officers to help. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Disclosure: Thanks to Lyrical Underground for a copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Maggie and her sons, David and Bryan are planning to spending the summer at a resort near Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Maggie will be aiding the manager of the resort with organizing the resort storage and files in exchange for a Condo for the family. Arriving at a resort they spot an ultralight aircraft. The boys managed to recuse the injured pilot, at first they were treated as heroes and later threatened with lawsuit requiring lawyers. Secrets that have been hidden begin to appear and before long all their friends arrived, along with law officers to help. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Disclosure: Thanks to Lyrical Underground for a copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 22, 2019
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
What an adventure for the McDonald clan! Maggie accepts an organizing job that will have the beach using a beach condo as a perk for the Summer. Things go wrong at the minute of arrival when there is a is a misunderstanding about where they are to stay as well as the dog so the boys go for a walk. What starts as fun ends with a call to 911 when they find someone injured from a crash. It starts innocent enough it when the guys parents start coming after the boys Maggie just had to find out what is going on. Great blend of fun family moments, mystery, a cute dog, and an intriguing story. Perfect for cozy fans. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
What an adventure for the McDonald clan! Maggie accepts an organizing job that will have the beach using a beach condo as a perk for the Summer. Things go wrong at the minute of arrival when there is a is a misunderstanding about where they are to stay as well as the dog so the boys go for a walk. What starts as fun ends with a call to 911 when they find someone injured from a crash. It starts innocent enough it when the guys parents start coming after the boys Maggie just had to find out what is going on. Great blend of fun family moments, mystery, a cute dog, and an intriguing story. Perfect for cozy fans. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
July 16, 2019
Cliff Hanger is the very welcome 5th novel in the Maggie McDonald Mystery series. We see the unique world of ultralights as well as property management and professional organizing. Maggie, as a professional organizer, gives clear and helpful guidance, with each chapter opening with a tip on vacationing on the California coast. Maggie, her family, and friends are a very likeable, close-knit group who help each other even as they enjoy each other’s company. The mystery is very challenging and the setting of Monterrey Bay is absolutely gorgeous!
Maggie’s best friend, Tess, introduces her to her cousin Renee, whose new office is in desperate need of organizing. She is managing a beach resort/ condo group. She is next in a series of managers over a two-year period. This one has been way out-of-hand, with dusty cartons of files everywhere and long-delayed maintenance needed. Maggie will have a condo in this beautiful waterfront complex to live in with her two sons for the summer and her hubby will visit on weekends.
The first condo she is given the key to reeks. It is full of garbage, rotting food, and bugs. While she finds that mess, her sons go exploring and are horrified to see the crash of an ultralight and its pilot, Jake Peterson, a local researcher and grad student. They go up the cliffs to see if they could help and called Maggie to call 911 as Jake is badly hurt. The EMT’s at the scene are very complimentary of Brian and David, her teen-age sons, and how they stay with Jake. They are curious about something Jake said, trying to understand his words about the propeller and a possible name.
The next morning, the boys’ pictures are in the paper as having helped rescue a local hero. Unfortunately, Jake died that morning after what was thought to be successful surgery. They are curious about what caused the crash, as they heard how meticulous Jake was when inspecting his ultralight or any of the planes he worked on. They explore the area and see something that leads them to wonder if Jake saw something he shouldn’t have. It takes them on an adventure that includes the possibility of local drug dealers, the cartel, and farmers who may be hiding more than seeds and berries in their buildings. When Maggie and the boys are threatened, she calls in the troops – their friends at home in Orchard View with excellent police and military experience.
Their friends are good as gold, taking Maggie, husband Max, and the boys seriously. They work well with local law enforcement. Maggie encourages herself through these trying circumstances with such cues as how to stay in the moment. This is the first time I recall reading about ultralights in a cozy mystery.
Plot twists confounded me, and it was hard to know who could be trusted. There are several suspects. There is also concern that Jake’s parents want to take Maggie’s sons to court, as they feel the boys must have injured Jake further when trying to help him and caused his death. While there is humor, there is also serious investigation. This complex cozy includes several surprises, including who the bad guy(s) might be. I highly recommend Cliff Hanger to all who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries, interesting careers, goldens, and good friends.
From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
Maggie’s best friend, Tess, introduces her to her cousin Renee, whose new office is in desperate need of organizing. She is managing a beach resort/ condo group. She is next in a series of managers over a two-year period. This one has been way out-of-hand, with dusty cartons of files everywhere and long-delayed maintenance needed. Maggie will have a condo in this beautiful waterfront complex to live in with her two sons for the summer and her hubby will visit on weekends.
The first condo she is given the key to reeks. It is full of garbage, rotting food, and bugs. While she finds that mess, her sons go exploring and are horrified to see the crash of an ultralight and its pilot, Jake Peterson, a local researcher and grad student. They go up the cliffs to see if they could help and called Maggie to call 911 as Jake is badly hurt. The EMT’s at the scene are very complimentary of Brian and David, her teen-age sons, and how they stay with Jake. They are curious about something Jake said, trying to understand his words about the propeller and a possible name.
The next morning, the boys’ pictures are in the paper as having helped rescue a local hero. Unfortunately, Jake died that morning after what was thought to be successful surgery. They are curious about what caused the crash, as they heard how meticulous Jake was when inspecting his ultralight or any of the planes he worked on. They explore the area and see something that leads them to wonder if Jake saw something he shouldn’t have. It takes them on an adventure that includes the possibility of local drug dealers, the cartel, and farmers who may be hiding more than seeds and berries in their buildings. When Maggie and the boys are threatened, she calls in the troops – their friends at home in Orchard View with excellent police and military experience.
Their friends are good as gold, taking Maggie, husband Max, and the boys seriously. They work well with local law enforcement. Maggie encourages herself through these trying circumstances with such cues as how to stay in the moment. This is the first time I recall reading about ultralights in a cozy mystery.
Plot twists confounded me, and it was hard to know who could be trusted. There are several suspects. There is also concern that Jake’s parents want to take Maggie’s sons to court, as they feel the boys must have injured Jake further when trying to help him and caused his death. While there is humor, there is also serious investigation. This complex cozy includes several surprises, including who the bad guy(s) might be. I highly recommend Cliff Hanger to all who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries, interesting careers, goldens, and good friends.
From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
October 4, 2019
Maggie McDonald works as an professional organizer but she's also a wife, mother and amateur sleuth. Her current job is at a resort helping Renee Alvarez, the new property manager, organize her office. Maggie is looking forward to this assignment because the resort is at the beach and she decides to take her two teenage sons, Brian and David, with her so they can enjoy their summer vacation while she works. Hubby Max will come up whenever he's available to spend time with the family. This sounds like the ideal situation for working and spending quality time with the family......until there's an accident.
Jake Peterson is out flying in his hang glider when all of a sudden he's in trouble and crash lands on the cliffs over the beach. Brian and David happen to see Jake's crash and rush to help him in any way they can. Jake is rushed off to the hospital and later dies. Jake's parents show up and originally are very happy that Brian and David helped their son. Then things turn ugly when they change directions and decide that somehow the boys were complicit in Jake's death.
Maggie plays the part of momma bear when her boys are accused having something to do with Jake's death and decides that it's time to investigate some of the clues that lead the family to believe that maybe the crash wasn't an accident. Max comes down with some other friends to help look into the situation.
Strange lights on the beach and in the water, interesting farmers, mechanics and missing memory cards all keep you guessing as to what the real story of Jake's crash might be. There are twists and turns to this plot with every chapter. It was a very good read.
This was the first book in this series that I have read so I was a little confused by the mention of Stephen several times early in the story with no explanation of who he was. Later in the story, when he arrived on the scene, it was mentioned that he was ex-marine and had PTSD but the story never explained his current position or what his relationship to the family was. I assume that readers of the previous books probably know. But if this was the first read in the series, like it was for me, there was no explanation.
I really enjoyed the story because it was different in that the main character was a mom of two boys that were very much involved in the story. I really enjoyed the story and family dynamics.
Jake Peterson is out flying in his hang glider when all of a sudden he's in trouble and crash lands on the cliffs over the beach. Brian and David happen to see Jake's crash and rush to help him in any way they can. Jake is rushed off to the hospital and later dies. Jake's parents show up and originally are very happy that Brian and David helped their son. Then things turn ugly when they change directions and decide that somehow the boys were complicit in Jake's death.
Maggie plays the part of momma bear when her boys are accused having something to do with Jake's death and decides that it's time to investigate some of the clues that lead the family to believe that maybe the crash wasn't an accident. Max comes down with some other friends to help look into the situation.
Strange lights on the beach and in the water, interesting farmers, mechanics and missing memory cards all keep you guessing as to what the real story of Jake's crash might be. There are twists and turns to this plot with every chapter. It was a very good read.
This was the first book in this series that I have read so I was a little confused by the mention of Stephen several times early in the story with no explanation of who he was. Later in the story, when he arrived on the scene, it was mentioned that he was ex-marine and had PTSD but the story never explained his current position or what his relationship to the family was. I assume that readers of the previous books probably know. But if this was the first read in the series, like it was for me, there was no explanation.
I really enjoyed the story because it was different in that the main character was a mom of two boys that were very much involved in the story. I really enjoyed the story and family dynamics.
July 16, 2019
Cliff Hanger by Mary Feliz is the fifth book in A Maggie McDonald Mystery series. Maggie and her boys are heading to Monterey Bay for a job. Maggie is helping to organize a resort and in exchanged they get a three bedroom unit on the beach along with a small salary. This is a working vacation that started off badly, then went from bad to worse. With the boys assisting a young man who crashed his Ultra-Light, and calling 911, they are temporary heroes. When the young man dies, they are being questioned and possibly sued by the family for causing his death. Everyday of this job brings another disaster.
Cliff Hanger was a well-written story that moves at a good pace. It is the fifth book in the series, but can easily be read as a standalone. I have read all the books in this series and have enjoyed the development of the characters as well as the fact that the boys have grown up with the stories. They are older and actively involved in the investigations. Because this book was not in their hometown, some of the characters that I have enjoyed in previous books were not in this one, but others did make a guest appearance. This story has a complicated storyline with multiple suspects, many red herrings and lots of questions. I love all the scenarios that the boys come up with while trying to figure out what is happening. Although there appear to be many smaller crimes, the main one is the death of Jake, the ultra-light pilot. The action kept the story moving forward to a satisfactory conclusion that ties up all the loose ends. I enjoy Mary Feliz's descriptive writing. I could almost visualize the animals and sea life that were seeing from the beach. I like Maggie’s handy tips at the beginning of each chapter. Being a professional organizer, you would expect these to be organizing tips, but they are more than that. Based on the setting and situation in each book they vary, with these ones all about preparing for a beach vacation. Overall, this was a fun cozy mystery with a bit more adventure and complications. It took the whole family to solve this one and I look forward to seeing what is next for Maggie and her family. I definitely recommend this book and series to those who enjoy a good, clean, yet intriguing mystery. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
Cliff Hanger was a well-written story that moves at a good pace. It is the fifth book in the series, but can easily be read as a standalone. I have read all the books in this series and have enjoyed the development of the characters as well as the fact that the boys have grown up with the stories. They are older and actively involved in the investigations. Because this book was not in their hometown, some of the characters that I have enjoyed in previous books were not in this one, but others did make a guest appearance. This story has a complicated storyline with multiple suspects, many red herrings and lots of questions. I love all the scenarios that the boys come up with while trying to figure out what is happening. Although there appear to be many smaller crimes, the main one is the death of Jake, the ultra-light pilot. The action kept the story moving forward to a satisfactory conclusion that ties up all the loose ends. I enjoy Mary Feliz's descriptive writing. I could almost visualize the animals and sea life that were seeing from the beach. I like Maggie’s handy tips at the beginning of each chapter. Being a professional organizer, you would expect these to be organizing tips, but they are more than that. Based on the setting and situation in each book they vary, with these ones all about preparing for a beach vacation. Overall, this was a fun cozy mystery with a bit more adventure and complications. It took the whole family to solve this one and I look forward to seeing what is next for Maggie and her family. I definitely recommend this book and series to those who enjoy a good, clean, yet intriguing mystery. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
October 7, 2019
Cliff Hanger is the fifth book in the Maggie McDonald Mystery Series. I thoroughly enjoyed this fast-paced cozy mystery. Maggie is a professional organizer and has been hired to restructure a small business at a condominium resort complex in Santa Cruz County, California. Because of the job, Maggie and her two teenage sons are staying at the condominium for the summer. Shortly after the family arrives, Maggie’s sons earn hero status after coming to the aid of an injured pilot in an ultralight crash. However, after he dies, the two teens face an accusation of engaging in criminal behavior that caused the pilot’s demise. This is the catalyst for the McDonald family conducting their own investigation. While assuming the role of amateur sleuths, they also deal with personal commitments, unexpected troublesome events, and threats from an unnamed source.
Mary Feliz keeps the story moving right along by using short chapters with enticing endings. The true-to-life characters in this well-written mystery pull readers in and hold their interest. Feliz incorporates real-life issues into this whodunnit. I appreciate how Feliz illustrates typical communication between parents and teenagers, humorously depicts the antics of a golden retriever, accurately portrays migrant family issues, and shows the value of a supportive network of friends and family members.
This aptly titled book can be understood and enjoyed without needing to read other installments. The wonderful descriptions of the natural environment add layers of depth to the mystery. Clever red herrings, multiple suspects, and interesting theories all contribute to keeping readers invested in whether or not the ultralight pilot’s death occurred due to an accident or if something more nefarious played a part in it. At the beginning of each chapter, Maggie offers tips for family trips. I like the practical suggestions and everyday items that she recommends using. My curiosity about learning more backstory about the McDonald family is why I plan to read the first four books in the series, and I look forward to the next installment.
Mary Feliz keeps the story moving right along by using short chapters with enticing endings. The true-to-life characters in this well-written mystery pull readers in and hold their interest. Feliz incorporates real-life issues into this whodunnit. I appreciate how Feliz illustrates typical communication between parents and teenagers, humorously depicts the antics of a golden retriever, accurately portrays migrant family issues, and shows the value of a supportive network of friends and family members.
This aptly titled book can be understood and enjoyed without needing to read other installments. The wonderful descriptions of the natural environment add layers of depth to the mystery. Clever red herrings, multiple suspects, and interesting theories all contribute to keeping readers invested in whether or not the ultralight pilot’s death occurred due to an accident or if something more nefarious played a part in it. At the beginning of each chapter, Maggie offers tips for family trips. I like the practical suggestions and everyday items that she recommends using. My curiosity about learning more backstory about the McDonald family is why I plan to read the first four books in the series, and I look forward to the next installment.
September 23, 2019
It is always a pleasure to read Mary Feliz’s Maggie McDonald Mysteries. Mary easily captures your attention within the first chapter and keeps your interest all the way through. If life wouldn’t get in the way, I would have finished this book in one sitting! She is wonderful at incorporating her knowledge of the Bay Area and the California Coastal Region into her stories.
As a professional organizer, Maggie McDonald, was requested to assist in de-cluttering and organizing an office for the property manager of the Homeowners Association. Maggie thought this would be a prefect summer vacation for her and her boys, David and Brian and their Golden Retriever, Belle. Set on the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, with a small stipend and a condo of their own, this seemed to be the perfect summer job. When they were unable to locate the condo manager, Renee Alverez, the security guard Vik, wasn’t going to let them in, especially Belle, Maggie knew this may not be the vacation she imagined it would be. Relenting bit, the guard let her through stating dogs were allowed on the state beach. When the boys find an injured ultralight pilot on the cliff side, this was just the start of problems Maggie would be dealing with!
The organizing tips at the beginning of each chapter are always useful! Mary’s description of the scenery allows you to feel as if you are there in the background, watching the story unfold as a silent observer. Introducing new characters while incorporating friends from her hometown, all help to contribute to solving the mystery. If you are not familiar with the Maggie McDonald series, this could be read as a stand-alone. Although, I encourage you to begin with the first to introduce yourself to the cast of characters we all love. I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
As a professional organizer, Maggie McDonald, was requested to assist in de-cluttering and organizing an office for the property manager of the Homeowners Association. Maggie thought this would be a prefect summer vacation for her and her boys, David and Brian and their Golden Retriever, Belle. Set on the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, with a small stipend and a condo of their own, this seemed to be the perfect summer job. When they were unable to locate the condo manager, Renee Alverez, the security guard Vik, wasn’t going to let them in, especially Belle, Maggie knew this may not be the vacation she imagined it would be. Relenting bit, the guard let her through stating dogs were allowed on the state beach. When the boys find an injured ultralight pilot on the cliff side, this was just the start of problems Maggie would be dealing with!
The organizing tips at the beginning of each chapter are always useful! Mary’s description of the scenery allows you to feel as if you are there in the background, watching the story unfold as a silent observer. Introducing new characters while incorporating friends from her hometown, all help to contribute to solving the mystery. If you are not familiar with the Maggie McDonald series, this could be read as a stand-alone. Although, I encourage you to begin with the first to introduce yourself to the cast of characters we all love. I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2019
As a cozy mystery fan, I jumped at the chance to review Cliff Hanger by Mary Feliz. I am reviewing this installment on its own merits as a stand-alone book.
Initially, the location drew me in due to the author’s detailed descriptions of the beach and its surroundings. Because I once lived in the Monterey Bay area, reading this book felt like coming home. I remember always having a sweatshirt nearby, even in summer. As she described Maggie’s boys scrabbling up a cliff face from the beach to help an injured ultralight pilot, I felt the wind in my hair and the sand between my toes.
When the book opened with newly minted driver David navigating an unfamiliar road on the way to their vacation condo, my fingers reflexively clenched as I flashbacked to this rite of passage with my own son.
It is a joy to spend time with the McDonald family. Maggie and her husband Max are not only loving parents, but equal partners. Here there is no divorce, no affairs, no name calling, but her family is not perfect. The boys fight and their parents referee, yet there is always an undercurrent of love.
Surprisingly, Maggie and Max allow their teen sons to walk into highly dangerous situations as they help solve the murder. Trips to the emergency room seem to be an uneventful occurrence (which makes me wonder how often those boys end up in the hospital in the earlier books). As a mama bear myself, I find her willingness to let the boys interrogate suspects and monitor bad guys a bit unrealistic.
That is my only criticism of Cliff Hanger. Mary Feliz’s writing is smart and the plot is well crafted with many turns that lead the reader to wonder who the true murderer is. There were several times when I thought I knew who dunnit, only to have my own theories dashed.
That is the sign of a good mystery.
Initially, the location drew me in due to the author’s detailed descriptions of the beach and its surroundings. Because I once lived in the Monterey Bay area, reading this book felt like coming home. I remember always having a sweatshirt nearby, even in summer. As she described Maggie’s boys scrabbling up a cliff face from the beach to help an injured ultralight pilot, I felt the wind in my hair and the sand between my toes.
When the book opened with newly minted driver David navigating an unfamiliar road on the way to their vacation condo, my fingers reflexively clenched as I flashbacked to this rite of passage with my own son.
It is a joy to spend time with the McDonald family. Maggie and her husband Max are not only loving parents, but equal partners. Here there is no divorce, no affairs, no name calling, but her family is not perfect. The boys fight and their parents referee, yet there is always an undercurrent of love.
Surprisingly, Maggie and Max allow their teen sons to walk into highly dangerous situations as they help solve the murder. Trips to the emergency room seem to be an uneventful occurrence (which makes me wonder how often those boys end up in the hospital in the earlier books). As a mama bear myself, I find her willingness to let the boys interrogate suspects and monitor bad guys a bit unrealistic.
That is my only criticism of Cliff Hanger. Mary Feliz’s writing is smart and the plot is well crafted with many turns that lead the reader to wonder who the true murderer is. There were several times when I thought I knew who dunnit, only to have my own theories dashed.
That is the sign of a good mystery.
July 11, 2019
Thank you Netgalley and Kensington for an ARC of this book!
Maggie McDonald is a professional organizer who has booked a working vacation at the beach, helping a resort community organize their office. Her two sons and dog are coming along to enjoy a summer at the shore. The day they arrive, they witness the crash of a hang glider. Assisting at the crash scene unwittingly involves Maggie and her family in the case and she’s compelled to find out what really happened to protect her sons.
The beginning of this book was so enjoyable. Maggie is a like-able character and her sons seemed too good to be true. The setting is cozy and with vivid descriptions. However, the link between her family to the case, and their potential to be suspects, was very weak. It didn’t seem credible enough to warrant investigating. As usual, they went off alone or left one behind despite threats and a family rule to be careful. (We wouldn’t have cozies without that, though.) They came up with the most outlandish theories then employed extreme means based on them; lab work, tech experts, security detail. It seemed like overkill given that the potential for legal action against them was next to nil.
I haven’t read the first four books in this series but I plan to read them because this is high quality writing and I’d like to see what Maggie’s hometown is like.
Maggie McDonald is a professional organizer who has booked a working vacation at the beach, helping a resort community organize their office. Her two sons and dog are coming along to enjoy a summer at the shore. The day they arrive, they witness the crash of a hang glider. Assisting at the crash scene unwittingly involves Maggie and her family in the case and she’s compelled to find out what really happened to protect her sons.
The beginning of this book was so enjoyable. Maggie is a like-able character and her sons seemed too good to be true. The setting is cozy and with vivid descriptions. However, the link between her family to the case, and their potential to be suspects, was very weak. It didn’t seem credible enough to warrant investigating. As usual, they went off alone or left one behind despite threats and a family rule to be careful. (We wouldn’t have cozies without that, though.) They came up with the most outlandish theories then employed extreme means based on them; lab work, tech experts, security detail. It seemed like overkill given that the potential for legal action against them was next to nil.
I haven’t read the first four books in this series but I plan to read them because this is high quality writing and I’d like to see what Maggie’s hometown is like.
October 7, 2019
Mary Feliz in her 5th book of the Maggie Mcdonald Mystery. Maggie decides to take her sons on a working summer vacation. Nothing is going right when they come in at night in the fog they see an Ultralight overhead flying erratically. They make it to Condo Complex they find out that nothing is as it should be and nothing including their condo is ready and their sweet Belle can not stay with them. Maggie makes the decision to wait until morning and talk with her contact about all the arrangements. The next morning the boys while exploring the beach come across the pilot barely alive of the Ultralight and Maggie finds her and her family intertwined into a murder.
I am a huge fan of cozy mysteries but I found this book a little lacking. The cover art is nice and the characters are well written but the overall storyline is written in a way that you are not pulled into the story and you have no investment in the characters as you should. The writes well but there is no stock in the reader to invest the time into reading the story. I do think I enjoyed the helpful cleaning hints etc but at the expense of the rest of the story. To be far this was my first Mary Feliz story so being the fifth in the series may be part of the issue not have a thorough understanding of the growth of the characters may have affected my enjoyment of the story.
I am a huge fan of cozy mysteries but I found this book a little lacking. The cover art is nice and the characters are well written but the overall storyline is written in a way that you are not pulled into the story and you have no investment in the characters as you should. The writes well but there is no stock in the reader to invest the time into reading the story. I do think I enjoyed the helpful cleaning hints etc but at the expense of the rest of the story. To be far this was my first Mary Feliz story so being the fifth in the series may be part of the issue not have a thorough understanding of the growth of the characters may have affected my enjoyment of the story.
October 9, 2019
This was my first time reading a Maggie McDonald mystery, and I loved every minute! I read the whole book start to finish in one day.
Although I knew I was reading a murder mystery, I was surprised by how Maggie and her family became involved. Sometimes you can see the plot coming from a mile away, and I am happy to say that this was not one of those situations. The story and characters were endearing and fun. I enjoyed every minute.
One thing I particularly enjoyed was how real Maggie is as a person, and as a mother. The freedom she allows her boys is refreshing in a time when we see so much restriction put on kids. Their involvement unfurls as a natural extension of Maggie’s willingness to let them explore their surroundings. This was also refreshing, as I never felt like Maggie & Company was sticking their noses in where they didn’t belong.
The vacation tips at the beginning of each chapter were also so useful, and I am looking forward to having an opportunity to put them to use.
Although I knew I was reading a murder mystery, I was surprised by how Maggie and her family became involved. Sometimes you can see the plot coming from a mile away, and I am happy to say that this was not one of those situations. The story and characters were endearing and fun. I enjoyed every minute.
One thing I particularly enjoyed was how real Maggie is as a person, and as a mother. The freedom she allows her boys is refreshing in a time when we see so much restriction put on kids. Their involvement unfurls as a natural extension of Maggie’s willingness to let them explore their surroundings. This was also refreshing, as I never felt like Maggie & Company was sticking their noses in where they didn’t belong.
The vacation tips at the beginning of each chapter were also so useful, and I am looking forward to having an opportunity to put them to use.
September 21, 2019
Cliff Hanger is the fifth installment of the Maggie McDonald mysteries. Reading a book that is part of a series without reading the other books is often risky. References to earlier events can make the current story confusing. Ms. Feliz is one of the best I've read to make a book stand alone with a complete story and characters you can get to know in one book. Maggie, Max and their boys are people you know and interact with everyday. The descriptions of the marine area make you want to book a flight. While most of us don't deal with the events that Maggie does, Cliff Hanger is so well done that you believe everything that happens and it flows from one event to the next very smoothly. Maggie's relationship with her boys is what all moms desire. I really enjoyed the family's devotion to Belle and her devotion to the family. The organizing tips are fun and a great insight to Maggie. I highly recommend Cliff Hanger as a fun and quick read.
September 30, 2019
I think Maggie has the most exciting organizing jobs! It doesn’t take Maggie and sons to get caught up in the excitement that is happening. I loved the story and the characters. It’s not ever pleasant being accused of wrong doing, especially when you were praised first for the actions you took. David and Brian certainly played a large part in this story. I love that Maggie and Max have such good friends that they never hesitate to assist her. Since they weren’t at home, they had to learn to work with folks they didn’t know. You never know how that might work out. I enjoyed the book and love the tips that Maggie gives along the way. I received this book from the Cozy Mystery Review Crew, but my opinion is my own.
October 5, 2019
I received a free copy of this book but my review is entirely voluntary. In the latest Maggie McDonald mystery, a working vacation at a beachside resort seems like the perfect way for Maggie and the boys to spend the summer but a mysterious death before they even unpack the car threatens not only their plans but the boys safety. I always enjoy reading this series. The characters are very relatable and getting to know more about the recurring characters as the series progresses is like making friends. The mystery has enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. I think the organizational tips at the beginning of each chapter are very helpful. I highly recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who enjoys a quick but great mystery read.
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