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Podcasting Sisters #1
Microphones and Murder
Tired of living life on the sidelines, Liv Olsen gave up everything—her job at the #1 podcast series in the country, her apartment, most of her belongings—to launch her own show, Missing or Murdered. Teaming up with her kid stepsister, Camry Lewis, the dynamic duo set out to be the next big thing in true crime.
On the program for season one, the sisters focus on the case of twenty-three-year-old Amelia Clark, who vanished ten years ago after an embarrassing video of her went viral. The police found the California native's car and personal belongings, but the investigation quickly went cold. A decade later, Liv and Camry retrace Amelia’s final steps, unearthing dangerous secrets, lost loves, quirky characters, and a lifetime supply of cinnamon rolls. As funds run low and time runs out, the investigation is complicated by anonymous threats. Threats from someone who doesn't want Amelia's story told.
Liv and Camry have a lot riding on their Missing or Murdered podcast. Now it's more important than financial success. They have to know.
What happened to Amelia Clark?
On the program for season one, the sisters focus on the case of twenty-three-year-old Amelia Clark, who vanished ten years ago after an embarrassing video of her went viral. The police found the California native's car and personal belongings, but the investigation quickly went cold. A decade later, Liv and Camry retrace Amelia’s final steps, unearthing dangerous secrets, lost loves, quirky characters, and a lifetime supply of cinnamon rolls. As funds run low and time runs out, the investigation is complicated by anonymous threats. Threats from someone who doesn't want Amelia's story told.
Liv and Camry have a lot riding on their Missing or Murdered podcast. Now it's more important than financial success. They have to know.
What happened to Amelia Clark?
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2020
37 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Erin Huss
28 books147 followersErin Huss is a blogger and bestselling author. She can change a diaper in fifteen seconds flat, is a master overanalyzer, has a gift for making any social situation awkward and yet, somehow, she still has friends. Erin shares hilarious property management horror stories at The Apartment Manager's Blog and her own daily horror stories at erinhuss.com. She currently resides in Southern California with her husband and five children, where she complains daily about the cost of living but will never do anything about it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 26, 2020
Microphones and Murder is the first book in the new Podcasting Sisters mystery series. Liv Olsen quits her job with a popular podcast to strike out on her own. Her sister, Camry, joins her. The two sisters are going to start off their own true crime podcast, Missing or Murdered, by investigating a 10-year old missing persons case. Amelia Clark disappeared after an embarrassing and bizarre video of her went viral on YouTube. Police found the 23-year old woman's car stuffed with her belongings....but Amelia was never seen again. What happened to Amelia Clark? Is she missing.....or murdered??
This is a very promising start to a new series. I like the characters, especially Aunt Hazel. The mystery moved along at a good pace, with plenty of sleuthing and suspense. I like the background theme of podcasting...I'm a podcast addict so knew I had to read this book! Glad I did! Enjoyable story! I look forward to the next book!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Henery Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
This is a very promising start to a new series. I like the characters, especially Aunt Hazel. The mystery moved along at a good pace, with plenty of sleuthing and suspense. I like the background theme of podcasting...I'm a podcast addict so knew I had to read this book! Glad I did! Enjoyable story! I look forward to the next book!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Henery Press. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
February 12, 2020
Liv Olsen has spent a few years working on a popular true crime podcast, but now she’s decided to risk everything to start her own, Missing or Murdered. Working with her stepsister, Camry Lewis, she’s identified her first case. Just over ten years ago, Amelia Clark disappeared from Santa Maria, a town on central California’s coast, a week after an embarrassing video of her was posted on YouTube. The trail has long gone cold, but the retired detective who worked the case reached out to Liv, hoping that publicity would bring forward a new clue. As Liv begins to interview people who knew Amelia, she gets more questions than answers. What happen to Amelia all those years ago?
It’s always fun when a mystery opens with something other than a murder, and that’s what we get here. The missing person case was compelling, and it seemed the further I read, the more confusing the case became. However, everything came together for a satisfying solution before it was all over. The characters are charming, and I fell in love with them immediately. I appreciated the character growth we saw here, and I can’t wait to see how these relationships grow in future books. The suspects are just as real and do a great job of confusing us. I did find out character who speaks with a stutter annoying, and there were a couple of scenes I could have done without, but these are both minor issues. On the other hand, I appreciated the book’s humor and found myself laughing several times. This is a delightful debut, and I will definitely be back when the sequel drops.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
It’s always fun when a mystery opens with something other than a murder, and that’s what we get here. The missing person case was compelling, and it seemed the further I read, the more confusing the case became. However, everything came together for a satisfying solution before it was all over. The characters are charming, and I fell in love with them immediately. I appreciated the character growth we saw here, and I can’t wait to see how these relationships grow in future books. The suspects are just as real and do a great job of confusing us. I did find out character who speaks with a stutter annoying, and there were a couple of scenes I could have done without, but these are both minor issues. On the other hand, I appreciated the book’s humor and found myself laughing several times. This is a delightful debut, and I will definitely be back when the sequel drops.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
February 24, 2020
Microphones and Murder earns 5/5 Microphones, of course...Totally Engaging!
Testing! Testing! 1...2...Thrilling! Erin Huss penned a delightful first-in-a-series book combining a cold case with podcasting. She labeled each chapter as an episode adding a clever title (I like chapter titles); she incorporated how podcasts are produced and some tech language I found easy to understand. We are introduced to Liv Olsen who pitched a new podcast series to her boss after receiving some compelling information about a ten-year-old cold case, but she refuses to take “no” as an answer. Liv quits, purchases all the equipment, partners with her younger step-sister, and is determined to create her own podcast, “Missing or Murdered,” with season one titled “Where’s Amelia Clark?” The anniversary of twenty-something Amelia Clark’s disappearance is in two weeks to go, so much has to be revisited and reinterviewed before their first episode can be broadcast. The viral video, dubbed “Aluminum Woman Goes Mad,” brought up questions about Amelia’s state of mind, but to round out the picture there’s taping interviews, mapping out a timeline, getting a sense of her last days...hours, and as promised, presenting it in a thoughtful, fluid manner. But, opening the case in a public forum, reveals Liv and Camry may not be totally prepared. They enlist some friends and family, but are still plagued with limitations, roadblocks, and some perilous moments. The idea of finding the truth is admirable, but is it safe?
Erin Huss’s writing style includes descriptive “world building” and dialogue that does well to set up facts and clues along with illustrating varied personalities. The drama was a compelling and engaging cold case of which I enjoyed: emotions resurfacing, missing or unreliable information, and all the questions arising. I was surprised at, yet loved, the ultimate conclusion. However, it’s the characters created that have strengthen my being a fan of this series. Erin uses a first-person narrative from Liv’s perspective, highlighting her inner thoughts and showing her personal journey from self-deprecating to confidence...although her journey obviously will continue. Liv and Camry have a delightful sister dynamic, despite not being blood relatives. I also enjoyed Hazel’s grandson Oliver, hearing-impaired, with whom Liv can “sign” and...is there a spark? They’re not related...good to know. There’s Hazel ready with a buffet of hardy foods, Liv’s detective brother full of advice, and a plethora of good, bad, and quirky to round out the enjoyable experience. I loved it!
No bonus included. I’m not sure how to connect recipes with podcasting, but Aunt Hazel seems to be all about food and touts the “above the rest” BBQ found in Santa Maria...just saying. Although it in no way effected my enjoyment of the book, one recipe would have been great...Santa Maria Ribs?
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Henery Press. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Testing! Testing! 1...2...Thrilling! Erin Huss penned a delightful first-in-a-series book combining a cold case with podcasting. She labeled each chapter as an episode adding a clever title (I like chapter titles); she incorporated how podcasts are produced and some tech language I found easy to understand. We are introduced to Liv Olsen who pitched a new podcast series to her boss after receiving some compelling information about a ten-year-old cold case, but she refuses to take “no” as an answer. Liv quits, purchases all the equipment, partners with her younger step-sister, and is determined to create her own podcast, “Missing or Murdered,” with season one titled “Where’s Amelia Clark?” The anniversary of twenty-something Amelia Clark’s disappearance is in two weeks to go, so much has to be revisited and reinterviewed before their first episode can be broadcast. The viral video, dubbed “Aluminum Woman Goes Mad,” brought up questions about Amelia’s state of mind, but to round out the picture there’s taping interviews, mapping out a timeline, getting a sense of her last days...hours, and as promised, presenting it in a thoughtful, fluid manner. But, opening the case in a public forum, reveals Liv and Camry may not be totally prepared. They enlist some friends and family, but are still plagued with limitations, roadblocks, and some perilous moments. The idea of finding the truth is admirable, but is it safe?
Erin Huss’s writing style includes descriptive “world building” and dialogue that does well to set up facts and clues along with illustrating varied personalities. The drama was a compelling and engaging cold case of which I enjoyed: emotions resurfacing, missing or unreliable information, and all the questions arising. I was surprised at, yet loved, the ultimate conclusion. However, it’s the characters created that have strengthen my being a fan of this series. Erin uses a first-person narrative from Liv’s perspective, highlighting her inner thoughts and showing her personal journey from self-deprecating to confidence...although her journey obviously will continue. Liv and Camry have a delightful sister dynamic, despite not being blood relatives. I also enjoyed Hazel’s grandson Oliver, hearing-impaired, with whom Liv can “sign” and...is there a spark? They’re not related...good to know. There’s Hazel ready with a buffet of hardy foods, Liv’s detective brother full of advice, and a plethora of good, bad, and quirky to round out the enjoyable experience. I loved it!
No bonus included. I’m not sure how to connect recipes with podcasting, but Aunt Hazel seems to be all about food and touts the “above the rest” BBQ found in Santa Maria...just saying. Although it in no way effected my enjoyment of the book, one recipe would have been great...Santa Maria Ribs?
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Henery Press. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
June 9, 2023
A good one
At first, I kind of drug my feet when I started this book. When I got to a certain point, though, I didn't wanna put it down. I started getting suspicious of who the person who they thought was the killer, then I got thrown off and started suspecting someone else. It caught me up in its mystery
At first, I kind of drug my feet when I started this book. When I got to a certain point, though, I didn't wanna put it down. I started getting suspicious of who the person who they thought was the killer, then I got thrown off and started suspecting someone else. It caught me up in its mystery
February 27, 2020
This book and story has a nice read, with enough mystery and twist to keep you interested for the whole book, and enough humour to have you smiling &/or eye-rolling. Could have toned down on the repetitive comment regarding how much she had riding on the solving of the mystery and establishing of the main character's new podcast i.e. financial and proving her oomph.
March 23, 2020
This review originally published in Looking For Good Book. Rated 2.5 of 5
Liv Olsen, and her stepsister, Camry Lewis, start their own podcast, Missing or Murdered, and for their first episode, they investigate the ten-year-old case of Amelia Clark, who went disappeared after an embarrassing video of her went viral a decade ago. Money for a first episode is pretty tight and they don't have a lot of time to spend researching the old case, but when they start getting threats warning them to back off, they suspect that they are getting too close, which of course gives them more incentive to stay on the case.
The idea of using a podcast as motivation for researching old cases is certainly clever (it seems that most mysteries have a 'gimmick' that gets people looking in to cases that are typically reserved for police detectives) and unique (in my experience). Not being a podcast listener however, it didn't really catch my interest as much as I had hoped. I would have liked to have gotten a little more background on what it means to be a podcast - how do they get the word out? What does it take to produce content? How often do they plan to produce a new episode? Some of this is here, but it's a mystery and most of the book is focused on answering the mystery questions.
Liv has the enthusiasm and wide-eyed innocence of a lot of modern mysteries that I've read. The rest of the characters blended in a bit - nobody really stood out as a unique and interest character.
Overall this was a fine read, but generally a very average fine read. I wouldn't say 'no' to another book in the series, but I wouldn't be eagerly watching for the next volume, either.
Looking for a good book? Microphones and Murder by Erin Huss is a fine mystery, but there's not much to distinguish it from so many other fine mysteries.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.
Liv Olsen, and her stepsister, Camry Lewis, start their own podcast, Missing or Murdered, and for their first episode, they investigate the ten-year-old case of Amelia Clark, who went disappeared after an embarrassing video of her went viral a decade ago. Money for a first episode is pretty tight and they don't have a lot of time to spend researching the old case, but when they start getting threats warning them to back off, they suspect that they are getting too close, which of course gives them more incentive to stay on the case.
The idea of using a podcast as motivation for researching old cases is certainly clever (it seems that most mysteries have a 'gimmick' that gets people looking in to cases that are typically reserved for police detectives) and unique (in my experience). Not being a podcast listener however, it didn't really catch my interest as much as I had hoped. I would have liked to have gotten a little more background on what it means to be a podcast - how do they get the word out? What does it take to produce content? How often do they plan to produce a new episode? Some of this is here, but it's a mystery and most of the book is focused on answering the mystery questions.
Liv has the enthusiasm and wide-eyed innocence of a lot of modern mysteries that I've read. The rest of the characters blended in a bit - nobody really stood out as a unique and interest character.
Overall this was a fine read, but generally a very average fine read. I wouldn't say 'no' to another book in the series, but I wouldn't be eagerly watching for the next volume, either.
Looking for a good book? Microphones and Murder by Erin Huss is a fine mystery, but there's not much to distinguish it from so many other fine mysteries.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2020
🎙Slow start eventually 🎣caught me hook, line & sinker😊
🎧4.5🌟stars
I started this book knowing that I adore the quirky, fun side to author Erin Huss' s writing and, during the early stages of the story I was a bit disappointed. The story did not take off for me until over the one-third mark when I really started to care where podcast newbie Liv and her quirky sidekick step-sister Camry were heading in their efforts to discover what happened to Amelia Clark ten years earlier to make her suddenly disappear. After that point I just could not put it down. I ended up loving the journey and the outcome, both for long-missing Amelia and for Liv and Camry's podcasting venture.
Along the way, the sisters interview a slew of suspicious characters who touched Amelia's last days in town and a crew of supporting sleuths, starting with a sultry-voiced aunt who resembles Mrs. Claus and stuffs them with homemade treats ad nauseum (and yes, nauseum is the perfect word!)😬 The humor is there in the interplay between zany Camry and Liv's new-found amigos, including a studly YouTube sensation and a stuttering local journalist.
So, hats off to a new Erin Huss cozy mystery series with fun characters not shy about showing their ridiculous side in pursuit of a good 🎙podcast .👍👍
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
🎧4.5🌟stars
I started this book knowing that I adore the quirky, fun side to author Erin Huss' s writing and, during the early stages of the story I was a bit disappointed. The story did not take off for me until over the one-third mark when I really started to care where podcast newbie Liv and her quirky sidekick step-sister Camry were heading in their efforts to discover what happened to Amelia Clark ten years earlier to make her suddenly disappear. After that point I just could not put it down. I ended up loving the journey and the outcome, both for long-missing Amelia and for Liv and Camry's podcasting venture.
Along the way, the sisters interview a slew of suspicious characters who touched Amelia's last days in town and a crew of supporting sleuths, starting with a sultry-voiced aunt who resembles Mrs. Claus and stuffs them with homemade treats ad nauseum (and yes, nauseum is the perfect word!)😬 The humor is there in the interplay between zany Camry and Liv's new-found amigos, including a studly YouTube sensation and a stuttering local journalist.
So, hats off to a new Erin Huss cozy mystery series with fun characters not shy about showing their ridiculous side in pursuit of a good 🎙podcast .👍👍
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
February 25, 2022
I didn't expect to love it as much as I did.
I am also amazed that it has taken this long for a cozy author (I'd term this as cozy, especially since the characters hilariously and catchingly kept saying 'what the frog?!') to base their characters around a true crime podcaster. When you think about it a main character being a true crime podcaster is a perfect premise for going around being all sleuth-y and noisy and poking into murders. Like at no point are you asking "How is it their business?" or asking "why is no one wondering why they are asking all these questions?".
Also I loved the way Huss set up the story and her story-telling abilities. And, the characters. I loved the characters. All of them. Especially Camry who is such an tough odd-ball who is slightly vulnerable. Or maybe Oliver, the deaf love interest who damn, is such a dork and you can't help but love it. Or maybe Aunt Hazel. The whole scene about her sex phone operator voice had me cackling hard. Or maybe Austin, the stutterer who somehow ended up working with them but you can't imagine him not. Or maybe, Liz, the 'main' character who is tightly wound, perfectionist and kind of not being able to see her own strengths and courage. And don't get me started on all the other characters!
And, the ending-- no spoilers--but dang! I enjoyed it!
I am also amazed that it has taken this long for a cozy author (I'd term this as cozy, especially since the characters hilariously and catchingly kept saying 'what the frog?!') to base their characters around a true crime podcaster. When you think about it a main character being a true crime podcaster is a perfect premise for going around being all sleuth-y and noisy and poking into murders. Like at no point are you asking "How is it their business?" or asking "why is no one wondering why they are asking all these questions?".
Also I loved the way Huss set up the story and her story-telling abilities. And, the characters. I loved the characters. All of them. Especially Camry who is such an tough odd-ball who is slightly vulnerable. Or maybe Oliver, the deaf love interest who damn, is such a dork and you can't help but love it. Or maybe Aunt Hazel. The whole scene about her sex phone operator voice had me cackling hard. Or maybe Austin, the stutterer who somehow ended up working with them but you can't imagine him not. Or maybe, Liz, the 'main' character who is tightly wound, perfectionist and kind of not being able to see her own strengths and courage. And don't get me started on all the other characters!
And, the ending-- no spoilers--but dang! I enjoyed it!
March 25, 2020
ARC received from Hidden Gems Books in exchange for an honest review.
Erin Huss introduces driven, relatable, and ambitious Liv Olsen in this first-in-a-series mystery. Microphones and Murder is a fun, easy read that snags your interest from the start. This book captures the interest and thrill of true crime podcasts while showing you the behind-the-scenes, live developments of a classic mystery thriller. Supported by a cast of great characters, Liv is an engaging narrator with some pretty heart-warming relationships throughout the book. I sat down to read this and finished it in one sitting, the mystery was so interesting and organic; I felt like the clues all came together at a nice pace, and it kept me guessing along with Liv.
It might not be a super "deep" novel, and reads a little simplistic, but for me that was part of the appeal: I was looking for a quick but interesting mystery, and this fulfilled that need for me. The storyline and characters were great, and the writing was strong; not ever novel needs to be ground-breaking in its philosophical delving! Would recommend for a nice vacation read; seems like it will be a fun series.
Erin Huss introduces driven, relatable, and ambitious Liv Olsen in this first-in-a-series mystery. Microphones and Murder is a fun, easy read that snags your interest from the start. This book captures the interest and thrill of true crime podcasts while showing you the behind-the-scenes, live developments of a classic mystery thriller. Supported by a cast of great characters, Liv is an engaging narrator with some pretty heart-warming relationships throughout the book. I sat down to read this and finished it in one sitting, the mystery was so interesting and organic; I felt like the clues all came together at a nice pace, and it kept me guessing along with Liv.
It might not be a super "deep" novel, and reads a little simplistic, but for me that was part of the appeal: I was looking for a quick but interesting mystery, and this fulfilled that need for me. The storyline and characters were great, and the writing was strong; not ever novel needs to be ground-breaking in its philosophical delving! Would recommend for a nice vacation read; seems like it will be a fun series.
October 12, 2020
I loved this story! I've read several books by Erin Huss and they do not disappoint. Liv Olsen and her stepsister Camry Lewis were such fun characters. Their banter back and forth and the way their personalities complement each other made this such an enjoyable read. Aunt Hazel was an such an enjoyment and it was so much more entertaining thinking of her as Mrs. Claus. I had some ideas on the Amelia Clark case but never would have guessed the ending. I'm excited to see what happens next for Liv and Camry and hope the same fun characters make an appearance.
I received a review copy from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
I received a review copy from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
May 19, 2021
Fast paced story, great mystery, wonderful characters
I read this book through kindle unlimited, but I’d pay full price! It’s one of the best books I’ve read this year. Erin Huss never disappoints and this new series sets the bar even higher. On the surface the plot is simple - two sisters start a true crime podcast, which would be interesting by itself. Their path to the truth of the case is by turns funny, sad, scary - everything you’d want and more. It’s one of the books that you don’t want to read too quickly so it’s not over! Can’t wait to read the next.
I read this book through kindle unlimited, but I’d pay full price! It’s one of the best books I’ve read this year. Erin Huss never disappoints and this new series sets the bar even higher. On the surface the plot is simple - two sisters start a true crime podcast, which would be interesting by itself. Their path to the truth of the case is by turns funny, sad, scary - everything you’d want and more. It’s one of the books that you don’t want to read too quickly so it’s not over! Can’t wait to read the next.
February 27, 2020
I don't think there's a true crime podcast out there that I haven't listened to. I have them streaming through my headphones at the gym, during my walk to the train station, when I'm pacing around my living room like a crazy person . . . (I hear you, Liv.) So when I saw that ARCs were available for a mystery novel about podcasting, I was all like: "HELL TO THE YES. SIGN ME UP." Microphones and Murder was all I could have hoped for and so much more. It genuinely reads like your favorite podcast -- like Up and Vanished without the filler episodes or Serial: Season 1 with actual closure. And just like with true crime podcasts, I sat down and binged this novel in a single afternoon.
First of all: Is the mystery any good? YES. While I guessed the big twist early in the novel, author Erin Huss worked so many brilliant misdirects into each chapter that I started really doubting myself. Huss kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time, and I will absolutely come back for the murder of Brinkley Douglas. (Huss manages to brilliantly tease Season 2 of Missing or Murdered, while the podcasters are still investigating Season 1!) But while the mystery speeds ahead at a mile-a-minute, there are so many other things that really set Microphones and Murder apart. I haven't visited California in a while, but the sleepy not-so-little town of Santa Maria was so vividly depicted and realistic that I felt as though I'd once lived there. You'll probably feel the same reading the description of the strip mall where you'll find CinnaMann's (the Clark Family's cinnamon roll bakery) and the rundown community of Morning Knoll.
The characters are an absolute delight to read, especially our narrator, Liv Olsen, who cashed in all of her savings and quit her job to make this podcast happen. Liv worked for a successful true crime podcast called Cold in America as an audio engineer and dreamed of transitioning to a life in front of the microphone; however, her boss told her that she didn't have any oomph. Her conflict, as someone who's spent her whole life working behind-the-scenes struggling to find her place in the spotlight, really resonated with me. Camry could have easily been an annoyance with her larger-than-life personality and disregard for legalities, but she was almost as likeable as her stepsister. I'm not a huge fan of romantic interests in mystery books but, OH BOY, was Oliver Lewis SMOKING HOT. He's a professional YouTuber with a surfing channel, who's incredibly down-to-earth and spends all his free time helping out the podcasters.
I don't usually read more than one book in a series, but I will 100% be back for the rest of Podcasting Sisters.
First of all: Is the mystery any good? YES. While I guessed the big twist early in the novel, author Erin Huss worked so many brilliant misdirects into each chapter that I started really doubting myself. Huss kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time, and I will absolutely come back for the murder of Brinkley Douglas. (Huss manages to brilliantly tease Season 2 of Missing or Murdered, while the podcasters are still investigating Season 1!) But while the mystery speeds ahead at a mile-a-minute, there are so many other things that really set Microphones and Murder apart. I haven't visited California in a while, but the sleepy not-so-little town of Santa Maria was so vividly depicted and realistic that I felt as though I'd once lived there. You'll probably feel the same reading the description of the strip mall where you'll find CinnaMann's (the Clark Family's cinnamon roll bakery) and the rundown community of Morning Knoll.
The characters are an absolute delight to read, especially our narrator, Liv Olsen, who cashed in all of her savings and quit her job to make this podcast happen. Liv worked for a successful true crime podcast called Cold in America as an audio engineer and dreamed of transitioning to a life in front of the microphone; however, her boss told her that she didn't have any oomph. Her conflict, as someone who's spent her whole life working behind-the-scenes struggling to find her place in the spotlight, really resonated with me. Camry could have easily been an annoyance with her larger-than-life personality and disregard for legalities, but she was almost as likeable as her stepsister. I'm not a huge fan of romantic interests in mystery books but, OH BOY, was Oliver Lewis SMOKING HOT. He's a professional YouTuber with a surfing channel, who's incredibly down-to-earth and spends all his free time helping out the podcasters.
I don't usually read more than one book in a series, but I will 100% be back for the rest of Podcasting Sisters.
June 22, 2020
This was good! Despite what could have been a heavy subject matter, this was written in the style of a cozy mystery. So it was light, had a cast of quirky characters and made me laugh out loud more than once. Couple all that with the fact that I love podcasts and it was a home run for me.
I will definitely be continuing on with the series.
I will definitely be continuing on with the series.
March 21, 2021
Must read!
OMG perfection ! What an awesome book I enjoyed every minute of reading. The amateur sleuthing of these characters was amazing . All who read will love it. I highly recommend this Author Erin Huss and all her books. Cant wait to read the next Microphones and Murder story.
OMG perfection ! What an awesome book I enjoyed every minute of reading. The amateur sleuthing of these characters was amazing . All who read will love it. I highly recommend this Author Erin Huss and all her books. Cant wait to read the next Microphones and Murder story.
June 23, 2020
I would rate it at about 3.5. A new series featuring a podcaster looking in to the case of a missing girl and eventually solving the mystery. It was slow to start but the pace picked up towards the end.
May 4, 2022
This story was so predictable, that by the time the so-called "twists and turns" were introduced, I already called them. The characters were unlikable, especially Liv. The only character I came close to liking was Austin.
March 2, 2020
I like the premise
It's nice to read a mystery where it makes sense why people would answer her questions about a death. Well written, i enjoyed the character's.
It's nice to read a mystery where it makes sense why people would answer her questions about a death. Well written, i enjoyed the character's.
December 31, 2020
Super fun read; Erin has mastered the unexpected twist, and as a Santa Maria native this book transported me right back.
March 6, 2020
This book was a great start to a new series! Liv quits her job to become a podcaster and along with her sister Camry they are looking into the disappearance of Amelia Clark. As they look into her past to try to determine who knows anything about her disappearance they find many secrets that were being kept out of the public eye. There were plenty of laugh out loud moments when the girls and their helpers get themselves into some strange predicaments. I cant wait to read the next installment in the series since this one was so fun and entertaining to read. I received an ARC and I voluntarily reviewed this book.
February 26, 2020
3.5 stars
Twenty-three-year-old Amelia Clark disappeared ten years ago after an embarrassing video of her went viral. Her car was found abandoned, containing all of her personal belongings. Her case quickly went cold. It was the one case that Detective Leon Ramsey hadn't been able to close before he retired. That's why he reached out to Liv Olsen at Cold in America, the number one podcast in the country. Liv wanted to tell Amelia's story and hopefully find out what happened to her, but her boss refused to let her produce it So she quit. Liv teamed up with her stepsister, Camry Lewis, took a leap of faith and decided to start her own podcast, Missing or Murdered.
Liv and Camry try to retrace Amelia's last few days before her disappearance. They discover secrets, lies, and suspects. The sisters have a lot riding on the success of this podcast. Will it be a success? Can they figure out what happened to Amelia Clark? I guess you'll have to tune in to Missing or Murdered to find out.
I received a free copy of the book and am happy to review it. I was pleasantly surprised by the book. I think the story was told well. It was funny at times and was paced perfectly. There was never a time where I wished the author would move the story along. I would recommend it if you're looking for a light, easy read.
Twenty-three-year-old Amelia Clark disappeared ten years ago after an embarrassing video of her went viral. Her car was found abandoned, containing all of her personal belongings. Her case quickly went cold. It was the one case that Detective Leon Ramsey hadn't been able to close before he retired. That's why he reached out to Liv Olsen at Cold in America, the number one podcast in the country. Liv wanted to tell Amelia's story and hopefully find out what happened to her, but her boss refused to let her produce it So she quit. Liv teamed up with her stepsister, Camry Lewis, took a leap of faith and decided to start her own podcast, Missing or Murdered.
Liv and Camry try to retrace Amelia's last few days before her disappearance. They discover secrets, lies, and suspects. The sisters have a lot riding on the success of this podcast. Will it be a success? Can they figure out what happened to Amelia Clark? I guess you'll have to tune in to Missing or Murdered to find out.
I received a free copy of the book and am happy to review it. I was pleasantly surprised by the book. I think the story was told well. It was funny at times and was paced perfectly. There was never a time where I wished the author would move the story along. I would recommend it if you're looking for a light, easy read.
February 24, 2020
My main problems with this book are not the story itself. Firstly, i have just read a different book by the author, a Cambria Clyne mystery. Now this book is featuring a character with the name Camry and I'm really bad with names but really good at scabble where you make out words from a set of letters (you know where I'm heading?). I couldn't shake the feeling that I should know this character, that this has something to do with the other book, but it doesn't.
Secondly, the distinct voice of the author's writing shines through both books intensifying the i-should-know-this feeling. Thirdly, the other book is called Mint chip & murder, I mentioned already my problem with names/titles/letter salads...
So, now to the book itself. I love the author's writing style (apart from aforementioned feeling of similarity that isn't helping in this case). The interaction of the sisters is funny and helps the story to get momentum.
A typical whodunnit with several suspects revealed one by one. One questionable thing: it's a 10 year old case with a dedicated detective trying to get it solved for years but those two amateurs get more insight in one week...
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
There was a major plothole but not sure if this was my version or if I missed something.
Secondly, the distinct voice of the author's writing shines through both books intensifying the i-should-know-this feeling. Thirdly, the other book is called Mint chip & murder, I mentioned already my problem with names/titles/letter salads...
So, now to the book itself. I love the author's writing style (apart from aforementioned feeling of similarity that isn't helping in this case). The interaction of the sisters is funny and helps the story to get momentum.
A typical whodunnit with several suspects revealed one by one. One questionable thing: it's a 10 year old case with a dedicated detective trying to get it solved for years but those two amateurs get more insight in one week...
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
There was a major plothole but not sure if this was my version or if I missed something.
February 11, 2020
Microphones and Murder is the first book in the Podcasting Sisters mystery series by author Erin Huss. It is also the first book that I have read by Erin Huss. I preordered a copy of this book because it sounded like such an interesting premise for a cozy mystery series. I am happy to say that it definitely did not disappoint. The story begins with Liv Olsen and her stepsister Camry Lewis heading to Santa Maria, California to start work on their brand new podcast series, Missing or Murdered. They have decided that their first case will be the ten year old disappearance of Amelia Clark from Santa Maria.
The sisters soon realize that they may be a bit in over their heads and quickly recruit some friends and family to help with the podcast. They are able to make some quick progress into the search for what happened to Amelia but they also face some pretty huge obstacles. The detective that came to Liv with the case dies during Liv's first in person interview for the podcast, leaving her with a box full of illegible notes from his work on the case. Then an apple is thrown through the window of Liv and Camry's bedroom and Liv has to endure some cuts from the glass. However, once the sisters start to realize that they know what they're doing and that they have good ideas, they are able to make some real progress on the case. This includes uncovering several people that the police had not previously spoken with that had information pertinent to the case. I really enjoyed following along with Liv and Camry as they conducted their investigation and was shocked by the ending. I thought the ending was fantastic and look forward to reading the next Podcasting Sisters mystery.
The only downside that I found with this book (and it's definitely a minor one) was that there were several grammatical and spelling errors throughout the book. I don't usually dwell on this when I am involved with a good story (and this was definitely a good story) but it happened enough for me to notice and a couple of times it took me out of the story. This seems unusual for a Henery Press book, as I have read many of their books and don't remember noticing this before. All that to say, the story was definitely worth reading, it was a fun, new premise for a cozy mystery series, and I loved the characters and can't wait to see what happens in the next Podcasting Sisters mystery.
The sisters soon realize that they may be a bit in over their heads and quickly recruit some friends and family to help with the podcast. They are able to make some quick progress into the search for what happened to Amelia but they also face some pretty huge obstacles. The detective that came to Liv with the case dies during Liv's first in person interview for the podcast, leaving her with a box full of illegible notes from his work on the case. Then an apple is thrown through the window of Liv and Camry's bedroom and Liv has to endure some cuts from the glass. However, once the sisters start to realize that they know what they're doing and that they have good ideas, they are able to make some real progress on the case. This includes uncovering several people that the police had not previously spoken with that had information pertinent to the case. I really enjoyed following along with Liv and Camry as they conducted their investigation and was shocked by the ending. I thought the ending was fantastic and look forward to reading the next Podcasting Sisters mystery.
The only downside that I found with this book (and it's definitely a minor one) was that there were several grammatical and spelling errors throughout the book. I don't usually dwell on this when I am involved with a good story (and this was definitely a good story) but it happened enough for me to notice and a couple of times it took me out of the story. This seems unusual for a Henery Press book, as I have read many of their books and don't remember noticing this before. All that to say, the story was definitely worth reading, it was a fun, new premise for a cozy mystery series, and I loved the characters and can't wait to see what happens in the next Podcasting Sisters mystery.
December 6, 2024
A new true crime podcast team investigates a missing person cold case.
Liv Olsen was working on the number one true-crime podcast program in the nation, Cold in America, when she learned about the 10-year-old missing person's case of Amelia "Millie" Clark. Based on this case, she pitched the idea of a new podcast, Missing or Murdered, to her Cold in America boss, who not only turned her down flat but added insult to injury by scoffing at the idea of Liv as the host. With hurt feelings and injured pride, Liv quits her job and goes all-in to bring her dream to fruition, taking her younger stepsister, Camry Lewis, along as her assistant.
Camry has relatives in Santa Maria, where Millie had lived, so the girls set up a home base for their investigation and interviews for the show at Camry's Great-Aunt Hazel's home, which eases the strain on Liv's minuscule operating budget. Hazel is delighted to host the sisters, as her life has become somewhat quiet since her husband passed away. As she learns more about the girls' project, Hazel enlists the aid of her grandson, Oliver, who is a successful YouTuber with over 5 million subscribers to his channel.Together, the four start looking into Amelia's disappearance, with their first step being to interview the original detective on the case. Now retired, he is anxious to see that his only open case is resolved. When one clue after another results in dead ends and Amelia's father changes his mind about the podcast reinvigorating interest in his daughter's disappearance, Liv worries that the podcast she has staked everything on is going down in flames.
Microphones and Murder is the first book in author Erin Huss's fun Podcasting Sisters Mystery series, and I was immediately drawn to the likable young narrator who decides to follow her dream of hosting her own show. The premise of the true-crime podcast is timely and exciting, and her characters are engaging. The story is told from Liv's perspective, and her narrative is witty, fun, and entertaining. I liked that Liv's character, although competent and confident, also has a very real vulnerability as she second-guesses her decision to go out on her own and follow her dream. Stepsister Camry is young, flirty, and sassy but has her vulnerabilities as well. I felt the mystery was sound, and Liv's investigation made sense. I'll definitely be reading more of this author's work.With its topical premise, non-stop plot, and engaging characters, I recommend MICROPHONES AND MURDER to cozy mystery readers who like young, savvy female protagonists.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Hidden Gems.
February 26, 2020
This story has a unique storyline. Liv Olsen starts her own podcast of an unsolved murder after being told she didn't have what it took to do her own podcasting. With her kid stepsister, Camry Lewis, together to go about trying to find out what happened to twenty-three-year-old Amelia Clark, who vanished ten years ago after an embarrassing video of her went viral. There are some odd characters along the way, but there is also someone who doesn't want the truth to be known as to what happened to Amelia. Can Liv and Camry find the truth or will the threating notes become real? You will have to read the book to find out. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Hidden Gems.
February 18, 2020
On a scale of one to five, this new series is a five star winner from the start. Though the main character of Liv Olsen is starting over as so many young female characters are portrayed these days, this series has a fresh feel to it. Liv is joined by her step sister when Liv decides to strike out on her own and starts a podcast series called Missing or Murdered. A connection is made when the investigating detective of a missing person cold case contacts her with the hope of new information due to more attention on the case. Amelia Clark was only 23 when she vanished, leaving her car filled with her belongings. Like she vanished in a puff of smoke, nothing has been seen nor heard from her in 10 years.
Tanks to her stepsister Camry's aunt, they have six months food and lodging with her while they track down possible information. The characters are well developed and were people I wouldn't mind spending time with and the mystery was very satisfying with added humor that added to my enjoyment. I hope this series continues - I already have it on my TBR list as soon as the next one is published.
Tanks to her stepsister Camry's aunt, they have six months food and lodging with her while they track down possible information. The characters are well developed and were people I wouldn't mind spending time with and the mystery was very satisfying with added humor that added to my enjoyment. I hope this series continues - I already have it on my TBR list as soon as the next one is published.
February 24, 2020
Microphones and Murder stars Liv Olsen, a sound engineer who quits her job at a top true crime podcast to launch one of her own. She decides to tackle a ten-year-old case of a missing young woman, Amelia Clark, with her stepsister in tow. The duo picks up more helps as they go along and work to solve an old mystery.
I enjoyed the pacing and characters. The “cast,” so to speak, was an interesting blend of characters with some uncommon characteristics thrown in that kept them interesting. The first-person POV was well done without being annoying in giving us Liv’s thoughts without straying too close to an omniscient POV. The mystery was great—it kept me guessing the whole time and the conclusion was a surprising one. I enjoyed this book quite a bit!
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the pacing and characters. The “cast,” so to speak, was an interesting blend of characters with some uncommon characteristics thrown in that kept them interesting. The first-person POV was well done without being annoying in giving us Liv’s thoughts without straying too close to an omniscient POV. The mystery was great—it kept me guessing the whole time and the conclusion was a surprising one. I enjoyed this book quite a bit!
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2020
Henery Press offers another great cozy - the perfect one for a computer nerd.
Liv Olsen has left her job as a production assistant for true crime podcaster Mara Lancer who had told her she did not have enough “oomph” to have her own podcast. Liv left her job, sold all she had of value to buy the tools needed to have a legitimate podcast, and had arrived in Santa Maria to investigate the disappearance of 23-year-old Amelia Clark 10 years previously. She had come to Santa Maria at the request of former Detective Leon Ramsey to put fresh eyes on the only case he had open - he wanted it solved before he died. Sadly, that was not to be. He passed in the midst of his first interview with Liv and her step-sister/peon, Camry. Though he would not live to see the crime solved, it was the first push Liv needed to jump on the case.
Liv and Camry could not move forward by themselves - it would take a team consisting of family and friends to keep the case moving and to keep them safe.
The book provides an interesting look at the life (albeit, fictional) of a podcaster. While weaving in brief hints at the technology needed for a successful podcast, the mystery moves forward at a nice clip holding this reader’s interest from the first page. Though most of the plot takes place in Santa Maria, we learn little about the town itself. This lack of detail made me think the community was fictitious until a Google search showed that Santa Maria did lie on the coast 150 miles north of Los Angeles in Santa Barbara county. A bit more detail may have made the place worth visiting, the lack of detail did not make the place worth visiting. Perhaps that was the author’s intent.
What is provided is a good cozy in a setting that was new to me. Those familiar with California or the coastal region north of Los Angeles would find this an interesting read. The surprise ending just adds additional worth to the book. Cozy lovers and public libraries are encouraged to add this book to their collections. This reviewer will be looking forward to the next book in “The Podcasting Mystery Series” from Erin Huss.
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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Liv Olsen has left her job as a production assistant for true crime podcaster Mara Lancer who had told her she did not have enough “oomph” to have her own podcast. Liv left her job, sold all she had of value to buy the tools needed to have a legitimate podcast, and had arrived in Santa Maria to investigate the disappearance of 23-year-old Amelia Clark 10 years previously. She had come to Santa Maria at the request of former Detective Leon Ramsey to put fresh eyes on the only case he had open - he wanted it solved before he died. Sadly, that was not to be. He passed in the midst of his first interview with Liv and her step-sister/peon, Camry. Though he would not live to see the crime solved, it was the first push Liv needed to jump on the case.
Liv and Camry could not move forward by themselves - it would take a team consisting of family and friends to keep the case moving and to keep them safe.
The book provides an interesting look at the life (albeit, fictional) of a podcaster. While weaving in brief hints at the technology needed for a successful podcast, the mystery moves forward at a nice clip holding this reader’s interest from the first page. Though most of the plot takes place in Santa Maria, we learn little about the town itself. This lack of detail made me think the community was fictitious until a Google search showed that Santa Maria did lie on the coast 150 miles north of Los Angeles in Santa Barbara county. A bit more detail may have made the place worth visiting, the lack of detail did not make the place worth visiting. Perhaps that was the author’s intent.
What is provided is a good cozy in a setting that was new to me. Those familiar with California or the coastal region north of Los Angeles would find this an interesting read. The surprise ending just adds additional worth to the book. Cozy lovers and public libraries are encouraged to add this book to their collections. This reviewer will be looking forward to the next book in “The Podcasting Mystery Series” from Erin Huss.
______________
This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.
February 24, 2020
Microphones & Murder was the first book I've read by the author Erin Huss & I enjoyed it so much. The author crafted such an interesting story with really entertaining & relatable characters. The story built bit by bit & kept me reading way past my bedtime. I will be back to read the next book in the Podcasting Sisters Mystery series!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 15, 2020
This is one the best start in a new cozy series I read in quite a long time.
It's amazing, well written and I couldn't put it down as I was engrossed in the story.
It's a breath of fresh air as it mixes geek themes, the production of a podcast, with the plot of a great cozy mystery.
The cast of characters is well thought and I loved Liv and the gang of podcaster. The other characters are well written and fleshed out.
The mystery is solid, full of twists and turns, and the end came as a surprise.
It's one of those books that makes you crave for the next installment as it was such a fun read.
Strongly recommended.
Many thanks to the Henery Press and Edelweiss for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
It's amazing, well written and I couldn't put it down as I was engrossed in the story.
It's a breath of fresh air as it mixes geek themes, the production of a podcast, with the plot of a great cozy mystery.
The cast of characters is well thought and I loved Liv and the gang of podcaster. The other characters are well written and fleshed out.
The mystery is solid, full of twists and turns, and the end came as a surprise.
It's one of those books that makes you crave for the next installment as it was such a fun read.
Strongly recommended.
Many thanks to the Henery Press and Edelweiss for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
February 14, 2020
[I received an electronic review copy of this book from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]
Outstanding! I adored every page of this. The characters are fantastic - the little podcasting group that develops is a delight. Diverse, endearing, FUNNY! The mystery is fantastic, as well. The pacing was perfect - they didn't discover unbelievable things the police somehow missed after 10 years. In fact, early on Liv wonders if she has made a huge mistake. But her persistence in asking questions and looking for new perspectives - and Camry's computer/social media skills - pays off.
I can't wait for more from this series - don't miss this one!!
Outstanding! I adored every page of this. The characters are fantastic - the little podcasting group that develops is a delight. Diverse, endearing, FUNNY! The mystery is fantastic, as well. The pacing was perfect - they didn't discover unbelievable things the police somehow missed after 10 years. In fact, early on Liv wonders if she has made a huge mistake. But her persistence in asking questions and looking for new perspectives - and Camry's computer/social media skills - pays off.
I can't wait for more from this series - don't miss this one!!
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