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Camper & Criminals #10
Sunsets, Sabbatical & Scandal
Welcome to Normal, Kentucky~ where nothing is normal.
Who served up the murder of a local in the honey springs dinner?
A beloved resident of Normal, Kentucky is found dead on the floor of the Normal Diner, leaving the entire town on high alert. Faster than the short order cook can say order up... the laundry ladies are in the scene. News spreads fast about the murder and Detective Hank Sharp is hungry for answers.
Mae West along with the Laundry Club ladies come up with a list of suspects and the evidence is piling up faster than a juicy double cheeseburger. Who murdered the beloved citizen? Was it a hit to score some extra lunch money?
Who served up the murder of a local in the honey springs dinner?
A beloved resident of Normal, Kentucky is found dead on the floor of the Normal Diner, leaving the entire town on high alert. Faster than the short order cook can say order up... the laundry ladies are in the scene. News spreads fast about the murder and Detective Hank Sharp is hungry for answers.
Mae West along with the Laundry Club ladies come up with a list of suspects and the evidence is piling up faster than a juicy double cheeseburger. Who murdered the beloved citizen? Was it a hit to score some extra lunch money?
188 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 17, 2020
999 people are currently reading
1381 people want to read
About the author
Tonya Kappes
437 books3,671 followersBeloved cozy mystery author Tonya Kappes is bringing her charming world to the screen!
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Twitter
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 320 reviews
November 6, 2021
Sunset, Sabbatical & Scandal by Tonya Kappes
Campers & Criminals book 10. Cozy mystery. Best read in series order but can stand-alone.
A friend is found dead in the local diner. Mae West and her Laundry Club investigate though detective boyfriend Hank is worried about their safety.
When you listen to 6 of these fun cozies in a row, the details do tend to blur a bit. This is the book where Mae travels to her hometown, not the previous.
What I do remember specifically is about the local bank accounts were hacked and the connection is a real life wake up call on electronic security.
Entertaining and a bit amusing.
🎧 I listened to the audio version narrated by Johanna Parker who has done the full series to-date. She does a fantastic job with the southern drawl and different character voices. I listened to this at 1.5 which is faster than my preferred because it upped the drawl to a more reasonable talking speed.
Campers & Criminals book 10. Cozy mystery. Best read in series order but can stand-alone.
A friend is found dead in the local diner. Mae West and her Laundry Club investigate though detective boyfriend Hank is worried about their safety.
When you listen to 6 of these fun cozies in a row, the details do tend to blur a bit. This is the book where Mae travels to her hometown, not the previous.
What I do remember specifically is about the local bank accounts were hacked and the connection is a real life wake up call on electronic security.
Entertaining and a bit amusing.
🎧 I listened to the audio version narrated by Johanna Parker who has done the full series to-date. She does a fantastic job with the southern drawl and different character voices. I listened to this at 1.5 which is faster than my preferred because it upped the drawl to a more reasonable talking speed.
March 9, 2020
This was my first introduction to the Camperand Criminals cozies. I was happy to not be lost or left wondering. It completely stood alone. I quickly fell in love with the characters. The storyline was engaging and had a wonderful flow to it. I figured out the who-dun-it before the end, but that didnt detract from how much I enjoyed the book.
March 17, 2020
Sunsets, Sabbatical and Scandal by Tonya Kappes is the tenth novel in A Campers & Criminals Cozy Mystery series. Each book in the series can be read on its own. It is always fun to visit Normal, Kentucky with its quirky residents. Mae West has just arrived for book club with the Laundry Club gals when she hear a woman screaming. They find Abby Fawn pointing at the Normal Diner where Trudy Bull, a beloved waitress, is dead. The motive was not robbery since her purse still has money inside, but Trudy’s cell phone (which she always had with her) is missing. Mae along with the ladies of the Laundry Club work to solve the crime despite Hank’s warning to stay out of his investigation. Mae must return to her hometown of Perrysburg to speak with the man Trudy was seen with the evening she died. There are a handful of suspects in this whodunit. Mae gets bad news from the bank. It turns out that someone has hacked her bank account and drained it. Mae and a handful of other local residents were affected. The police are working with the FBI to identify the evildoer. I was able to recognize the murderer and the hacker early in the book but that did not hinder my enjoyment of this fun cozy mystery. With Mae returning to her hometown, we get to learn more about her plus Mae learns some startling information. I like Tonya Kappes’ engaging writing style which makes the book a delight to read. There is humor sprinkled throughout the story. I enjoy the descriptions of Normal with its quaint shops and surrounded by the National Boone National Forest. There are recipes and RV hacks at the end of the book. Sunsets, Sabbatical and Scandal is a merry book with a harsh hacker, a cozy campground, out of the blue news, a pocketed phone, happy hikers and a meaningless murder.
March 15, 2020
Sunsets, Sabbaticals and Scandal
A Camper & Criminal Cozy, Book # 10
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Welcome to Normal, Kentucky~ where nothing is normal.
Who served up the murder at Normal Diner?
A beloved resident of Normal, Kentucky is found dead on the floor of the Normal Diner, leaving the entire town on high alert. Faster than the short order cook can say order up... the laundry ladies are in the scene.
News spreads fast about the murder and Detective Hank Sharp is hungry for answers.
Mae West along with the Laundry Club ladies come up with a list of suspects and the evidence is piling up faster than a juicy double cheeseburger.
Who murdered the beloved citizen?
Was it a hit to score some extra lunch money? (Goodreads)
Review:
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick, easy read.
The characters are well developed and well developed. I always enjoy getting to spend time with Mae and her family and friends. I really liked that Mae went back to her hometown, it gave me a little more insight to who she has become. I also liked spending more time with Mary Elizabeth, she is growing on me.
There were enough clues to sift through and characters to consider. This time I did know who the killer was fairly early, but it did not take away from my enjoyment.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. Take a trip to Normal, Kentucky, you will be happy that you did.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
A Camper & Criminal Cozy, Book # 10
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Welcome to Normal, Kentucky~ where nothing is normal.
Who served up the murder at Normal Diner?
A beloved resident of Normal, Kentucky is found dead on the floor of the Normal Diner, leaving the entire town on high alert. Faster than the short order cook can say order up... the laundry ladies are in the scene.
News spreads fast about the murder and Detective Hank Sharp is hungry for answers.
Mae West along with the Laundry Club ladies come up with a list of suspects and the evidence is piling up faster than a juicy double cheeseburger.
Who murdered the beloved citizen?
Was it a hit to score some extra lunch money? (Goodreads)
Review:
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick, easy read.
The characters are well developed and well developed. I always enjoy getting to spend time with Mae and her family and friends. I really liked that Mae went back to her hometown, it gave me a little more insight to who she has become. I also liked spending more time with Mary Elizabeth, she is growing on me.
There were enough clues to sift through and characters to consider. This time I did know who the killer was fairly early, but it did not take away from my enjoyment.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. Take a trip to Normal, Kentucky, you will be happy that you did.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
September 13, 2020
Mini Review: Sunsets, Sabbatical and Scandal is the 10th book in the Camper & Criminals cozy mystery by Tonya Kappes! This series is so much fun to read and I always enjoy catching up with Mae and the gang. In this one, readers will go along with Mae as she searches for clues to catch the killer of a Normal resident, and pie maker. Not only that, there is a hacker on the loose whose taking money from the residents. Are these hacks linked to the murder? Or are they two ongoing crimes in Normal? You'll find out in this book!
If you're a cozy mystery reader and enjoy shorter books you can breeze through and still fully engage in the story line then I recommend this series. I love the characters, the setting, and everything about the small town charm and smart sleuthing!
If you're a cozy mystery reader and enjoy shorter books you can breeze through and still fully engage in the story line then I recommend this series. I love the characters, the setting, and everything about the small town charm and smart sleuthing!
March 15, 2020
Camper & Criminals mysteries by Tonya Kappes is one of my favorite cozy mystery series.
Sunsets, Sabbatical and Scandal is the 10th installment in the Camper & Criminals mystery series . I LOVE visiting “Normal, Kentucky” and Happy Trails campground.
The story was intriguing and I liked how we learnt more about Mae’s past as she visits her hometown of Perrysburg, Kentucky. It brought to life why she is the way she is and why she left at 18.
I did figure out who the hacker and killer was fairly quickly but it didn’t take away from the story.
One thing that I found hard at first was that in this instalment there was so much back story in the first 3 chapters, and some things were repeated more than once. (This is just my personal opinion and in no way a reflection on the author) But with that said if you were new to the series you might like this. I was thinking it would be better to have list of characters at front of book, even a map of normal...
I still love this series and can’t wait for Tents, Trails and Turmoil to come out on April 28th!
There are recipes and cleaning hacks at the end of the book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced, unpolished, electronic copy of this book
Sunsets, Sabbatical and Scandal is the 10th installment in the Camper & Criminals mystery series . I LOVE visiting “Normal, Kentucky” and Happy Trails campground.
The story was intriguing and I liked how we learnt more about Mae’s past as she visits her hometown of Perrysburg, Kentucky. It brought to life why she is the way she is and why she left at 18.
I did figure out who the hacker and killer was fairly quickly but it didn’t take away from the story.
One thing that I found hard at first was that in this instalment there was so much back story in the first 3 chapters, and some things were repeated more than once. (This is just my personal opinion and in no way a reflection on the author) But with that said if you were new to the series you might like this. I was thinking it would be better to have list of characters at front of book, even a map of normal...
I still love this series and can’t wait for Tents, Trails and Turmoil to come out on April 28th!
There are recipes and cleaning hacks at the end of the book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced, unpolished, electronic copy of this book
March 26, 2020
While several members of the community are attending a wedding taking place just outside of the town of Normal, KY, Mae West and the Laundry Club Girls are preparing for their book club meeting. When Mae arrives outside the Laundry Club she sees the lights still on at the diner but doesn’t really think much about it. Just minutes later a scream breaks the night's silence. The ladies rush out to see what has happened only to find out that one of the town’s beloved residents is dead inside the diner. Why was she at the diner when she was supposed to be at the wedding? With one town member dead Mae needs to get to the bottom of what is going on before something else happens.
This is a fast-paced humorous cozy mystery with several twists and turns. The book is well-written and engaging, although I figured out the culprit before the big reveal, the book was still very entertaining. The characters are fun and relatable. I enjoyed learning about Mae’s past. I am looking forward to the next book.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced by anyone.
This is a fast-paced humorous cozy mystery with several twists and turns. The book is well-written and engaging, although I figured out the culprit before the big reveal, the book was still very entertaining. The characters are fun and relatable. I enjoyed learning about Mae’s past. I am looking forward to the next book.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced by anyone.
February 18, 2023
While the books are enjoyable, Mae’s behaviors continues to be a source of irritation and eye rolls. How many times can she say “I can take care of myself” only to rush headlong into danger, almost get herself killed and have to be rescued? Ughhhhh
In this book, Mae also visits her hometown and learns additional info about the fire that killed her family.
In this book, Mae also visits her hometown and learns additional info about the fire that killed her family.
March 9, 2020
I'm not sure exactly how I feel about this book. I liked it but something didn't make me love it. I can't put my finger on what it is.
March 11, 2020
I read an advanced copy for an honest review.
Welcome back to Normal Kentucky, where things are not.
Mae West's phone keeps dying, her bank account has been hacked and her good friend, at the diner has been murdered!
The clues cause Mae to head back to the hometown where she originally came from. It was very interesting and sad to learn more about her childhood and how things were for her growing up. There is a lot more understanding to why she left as soon as she turned 18.
The Laundry club gets together , as usual to help Mae figure out who killed one of "their own".
This book had some humor injected in it, but it was easy to figure out who the culprit was of not only the hacking, but the murder pretty early on.
As entertaining as this story was, it was not one of the author's best. I know she can do better.
Welcome back to Normal Kentucky, where things are not.
Mae West's phone keeps dying, her bank account has been hacked and her good friend, at the diner has been murdered!
The clues cause Mae to head back to the hometown where she originally came from. It was very interesting and sad to learn more about her childhood and how things were for her growing up. There is a lot more understanding to why she left as soon as she turned 18.
The Laundry club gets together , as usual to help Mae figure out who killed one of "their own".
This book had some humor injected in it, but it was easy to figure out who the culprit was of not only the hacking, but the murder pretty early on.
As entertaining as this story was, it was not one of the author's best. I know she can do better.
June 14, 2023
Such a cute series Mae always gets tangled in the murder investigation 👍🏻
November 19, 2020
I love the people in the town but with that set-up, it's easy to guess who the murderer is going to be. Still, it was entertaining getting to the reveal.
September 4, 2023
I am about half way through this series and am just loving it. Cozy mysteries are a love of mine but sometimes when you read them they contain some problematic themes, fat shaming and innocent love triangles that last through the series make me cringe but this series is NOT like that. It's cute, I love the women's friendship and the fun townspeople. This series is always a quick read that makes me happy!
July 30, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Audiobook
March 21, 2020
Wow, what fabulous new offering in this series! I enjoy the fast pace set by Mae, her friends, and adoptive mother Mary Elizabeth! Each is defined well according to their role, especially through their actions and snappy, even snarky, Southern speak. While it is the most fun to read these in order, one can easily pick up at any point in the series as the author seamlessly weaves in just enough background so every reader can enjoy this Southern cozy mystery.
Springtime in Normal is as charming as can be; when Mae almost weeps at the sunrise at the Old Train Station, you can bet that it is a real beauty. The young woman who finds a silver lining in every cloud is a hero in Normal!
A grand wedding is being prepared for Mayor Courtney MaKenzie’s cousin, who saw Normal’s unique venue with gorgeous sunsets and fell in love with it. Trudy, waitress and baker at the Normal Diner has been invited to be a plus-one. Since the match she had sought on a dating app didn’t work out, she is excited to have met someone at the diner who is taking her to the event of the season.
After a long day helping Betts clean the mayor’s home, and running errands, Mae stopped by Happy Trails campground, the best (and only) thing she ever received from her ex-husband Paul. Mae and the Laundry Club ladies will be meeting that night for their monthly book club. At least until Abby, one of the club ladies, screamed outside the laundromat for help. Trudy, friends to most of them, was lying dead in the diner, apparently murdered.
Hank, Mae’s sweetheart and Normal’s detective, asks that she not snoop into this mystery. He remembers all too clearly how her life was on the line before and, even though she is good at getting information from people and putting clues together, he would rather take care of the bad guys himself and have the love of his life alive. But he has his hands full! Not only is he investigating Trudy’s murder, but several people’s bank accounts were hacked, taking their life savings – including Mae’s. And now the local TV news anchor wants to work together with Mae to help find the whodunit, despite their former adversarial roles, and Mae is willing to work out a deal with her! Nope, there is nothing normal about Normal!!
This are two very challenging mysteries this time, critical enough that Mae, her adoptive mother, and Hank take a trip to her hometown to find a clue – or a killer. It is Mae’s first time back since she turned 18 because the memories are so painful – and it sounds like there is another trip there in Mae and Hank’s future. I actually had an idea who at least one of the culprits was but was still surprised by the full outcome! The end was satisfactory, with the loose ends tied up – for now. I highly recommend this to those who love Southern cozy mysteries with great characters, a gorgeous setting, romance, and lots of laughs.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary ARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
Springtime in Normal is as charming as can be; when Mae almost weeps at the sunrise at the Old Train Station, you can bet that it is a real beauty. The young woman who finds a silver lining in every cloud is a hero in Normal!
A grand wedding is being prepared for Mayor Courtney MaKenzie’s cousin, who saw Normal’s unique venue with gorgeous sunsets and fell in love with it. Trudy, waitress and baker at the Normal Diner has been invited to be a plus-one. Since the match she had sought on a dating app didn’t work out, she is excited to have met someone at the diner who is taking her to the event of the season.
After a long day helping Betts clean the mayor’s home, and running errands, Mae stopped by Happy Trails campground, the best (and only) thing she ever received from her ex-husband Paul. Mae and the Laundry Club ladies will be meeting that night for their monthly book club. At least until Abby, one of the club ladies, screamed outside the laundromat for help. Trudy, friends to most of them, was lying dead in the diner, apparently murdered.
Hank, Mae’s sweetheart and Normal’s detective, asks that she not snoop into this mystery. He remembers all too clearly how her life was on the line before and, even though she is good at getting information from people and putting clues together, he would rather take care of the bad guys himself and have the love of his life alive. But he has his hands full! Not only is he investigating Trudy’s murder, but several people’s bank accounts were hacked, taking their life savings – including Mae’s. And now the local TV news anchor wants to work together with Mae to help find the whodunit, despite their former adversarial roles, and Mae is willing to work out a deal with her! Nope, there is nothing normal about Normal!!
This are two very challenging mysteries this time, critical enough that Mae, her adoptive mother, and Hank take a trip to her hometown to find a clue – or a killer. It is Mae’s first time back since she turned 18 because the memories are so painful – and it sounds like there is another trip there in Mae and Hank’s future. I actually had an idea who at least one of the culprits was but was still surprised by the full outcome! The end was satisfactory, with the loose ends tied up – for now. I highly recommend this to those who love Southern cozy mysteries with great characters, a gorgeous setting, romance, and lots of laughs.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary ARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
March 15, 2020
This was a very interesting story where the town lost a close friend. Mae West decides she needs to help the police find the killer. When clues lead Mae West to her hometown, it also leads to something that will lead her and Hank to investigating another crime in hopefully the near future. The ending was exciting, but I had already guessed who the killer was. I highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book,
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book,
March 23, 2025
Entertaining mystery listening 🎶🔰
This kindle e-book novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 10 of 40
Mae West and a friend find a friend murdered in her place of employment. Money 💰 is missing from people's bank accounts. Mae and the ladies 🚺 book club keep asking questions leading to the unexpected conclusion. 😮
I would highly recommend this series and author to 😆 readers of romantic family and friends relationships adventure mystery novels 👍🔰 2025 👒🐕
This kindle e-book novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 10 of 40
Mae West and a friend find a friend murdered in her place of employment. Money 💰 is missing from people's bank accounts. Mae and the ladies 🚺 book club keep asking questions leading to the unexpected conclusion. 😮
I would highly recommend this series and author to 😆 readers of romantic family and friends relationships adventure mystery novels 👍🔰 2025 👒🐕
March 12, 2020
When Mae heads over to see the gals at the laundry club, Abby Fawn's screams have everyone running to find one of their own dead in the diner. Everyone is puzzled, why their friend was at the diner, when she was supposed to be someone's plus one for a wedding. When Ty shows up thinking his diner was robbed, he tells Hank about an argument between Trudy and a man from a dating app.
Of course, Mae and The Laundry Club Ladies are going to get involved and snoop around to help solve who killed their friend. The notebook comes out and the suspects are added. To find out information from one suspect, Mae will need to return to her hometown, Perrysburg. Mae receives some bad news that she's been hacked, she gets some help from Alvin Deters. Although, Mae asks her mother, Mary Elizabeth, to go along with her to Perrysburg; Hank inserts himself to tag along, after he is tipped off by Alvin, who has some necessary items to give to Mae for her trip.
I enjoyed learning some of Mae's background and visiting her hometown. We get a glimpse of why Mae wanted to leave. Hank, who is rather very serious, came across quite comical. I had to laugh when, after learning of Mae's trip, Hank states: "And me too. Isn't that right, suga'?" When Mae gets called suga' and was never called that before, she knows she's been had!
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
I received an ARC and I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
Of course, Mae and The Laundry Club Ladies are going to get involved and snoop around to help solve who killed their friend. The notebook comes out and the suspects are added. To find out information from one suspect, Mae will need to return to her hometown, Perrysburg. Mae receives some bad news that she's been hacked, she gets some help from Alvin Deters. Although, Mae asks her mother, Mary Elizabeth, to go along with her to Perrysburg; Hank inserts himself to tag along, after he is tipped off by Alvin, who has some necessary items to give to Mae for her trip.
I enjoyed learning some of Mae's background and visiting her hometown. We get a glimpse of why Mae wanted to leave. Hank, who is rather very serious, came across quite comical. I had to laugh when, after learning of Mae's trip, Hank states: "And me too. Isn't that right, suga'?" When Mae gets called suga' and was never called that before, she knows she's been had!
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
I received an ARC and I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
February 20, 2021
Book 45 towards my goal of 260! 5/5 stars for this camping cozy mystery! "Nothing is normal in Normal." Boy howdy! Such a great series, set in Kentucky, in Daniel Boone National Park! Great stories and characters, and in this one we get to see our main character return to her home town. Love these covers! Quick stories! Can't recommend them enough!
October 1, 2021
This is the book I have been waiting for! Mae would never really talk about her hometown. When she was younger, she couldn't wait until she turned 18 so that she could leave. This book shows how strong Mae's friendships have grown in Normal. There was a murder at the local diner. When one of the suspects is from Mae's hometown, she, Hank, and Mary Elizabeth take the camper on a little road trip.
This book made me laugh. It made me cry. I can't wait for the next book!
This book made me laugh. It made me cry. I can't wait for the next book!
March 24, 2020
Murder and hacks, just another normal day in Normal. Mae finds herself in the middle of another mystery when her friend Trudy has been found murdered at the diner. But what was Trudy doing there? She was supposed to be at a wedding. On top of it, Mae finds that her banking account has been hacked and all of her money has been taken.
I found this story intriguing as Mae finds herself back into her hometown in search of answers to Trudy's death - she was the Mayor of Perrysburg's plus one to the wedding. It brings more of an emotional tie and outlook into why Mae is the way she is, and why she was so adamant to pull away from Mary Elizabeth as a teenager. To me, this really made the story as you can feel the emotions that Tonya is trying to convey about Mae. The clues are enjoyable, as well as the conundrums she finds herself in!
Why the 3 stars? While the story is very enjoyable, it seemed like two stories in one with the murder feeling like it would get overlooked at times due to the emotions behind Mae's past - though it does make for a great opening for a future book and is definitely great character building! I did also get kind of tiring hearing about Mae's phone constantly dying. I expected there to be a reason why this was continually getting mentioned - short of Mae needing to get a new phone - but it went nowhere. Unfortunately I was able to figure out who the killer(s) was from the beginning as it was a bit too obvious, at least for me, from how the person(s) was written and introduced. It was a bit too convenient how this person(s) shows up and all of the information behind this person(s). And finally, the story just ended. It felt very abrupt like there was more to say, but wasn't being said as the climax of the story had just been coming back down.
Now, one thing I want you to keep in mind is that this is my own personal opinion. You may find this was your absolute favorite of the series. True to Tonya's style, it brings the town of Normal to life and gives you a feeling of coming home when reading it. I highly recommend reading it for yourself and finding the joys that Normal brings.
It is best read as a series, but you can pick it up as an individual story as well.
I was given an advanced copy to review to write my honest opinion.
I found this story intriguing as Mae finds herself back into her hometown in search of answers to Trudy's death - she was the Mayor of Perrysburg's plus one to the wedding. It brings more of an emotional tie and outlook into why Mae is the way she is, and why she was so adamant to pull away from Mary Elizabeth as a teenager. To me, this really made the story as you can feel the emotions that Tonya is trying to convey about Mae. The clues are enjoyable, as well as the conundrums she finds herself in!
Why the 3 stars? While the story is very enjoyable, it seemed like two stories in one with the murder feeling like it would get overlooked at times due to the emotions behind Mae's past - though it does make for a great opening for a future book and is definitely great character building! I did also get kind of tiring hearing about Mae's phone constantly dying. I expected there to be a reason why this was continually getting mentioned - short of Mae needing to get a new phone - but it went nowhere. Unfortunately I was able to figure out who the killer(s) was from the beginning as it was a bit too obvious, at least for me, from how the person(s) was written and introduced. It was a bit too convenient how this person(s) shows up and all of the information behind this person(s). And finally, the story just ended. It felt very abrupt like there was more to say, but wasn't being said as the climax of the story had just been coming back down.
Now, one thing I want you to keep in mind is that this is my own personal opinion. You may find this was your absolute favorite of the series. True to Tonya's style, it brings the town of Normal to life and gives you a feeling of coming home when reading it. I highly recommend reading it for yourself and finding the joys that Normal brings.
It is best read as a series, but you can pick it up as an individual story as well.
I was given an advanced copy to review to write my honest opinion.
March 22, 2020
Sunsets, Sabbatical, and Scandal is another exciting installment in Kappes' Camper and Criminals cozy mystery series. Mae West ends up with her hands full when she finds herself a victim of a cyber hack and then a friend of hers is found dead in the local diner. Determined to find out who murdered her friend, Mae starts her own investigation when Hank seems to be getting nowhere. This investigation really hits close to home when one of her suspects ends up being from her hometown meaning that Mae West finally needs to face her demons at home.
Kappes sets up an intriguing mystery with a murder case that forces Mae to confront her past in order to get justice for a friend in the present. Mae needs to not just worry about Hank's disapproval of her investigating this time. She needs to confront her past and ends up with even more questions than answers setting up a future mystery. I always love reading this series because I love all of the secondary characters in this series. I really enjoyed seeing all of my favorite characters dealing with not just a murder mystery but also an attack on Normal with the cyber crimes story. Overall Sunsets, Sabbatical, and Scandal proved to be an exciting read that captures the reader's attention from the very beginning and never lets go. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an enjoyable read that has mystery, intrigue, great characters, and a small town setting. I look forward to reading Mae's next adventure.
Received a copy of Sunsets, Sabbatical, and Scandal from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Kappes sets up an intriguing mystery with a murder case that forces Mae to confront her past in order to get justice for a friend in the present. Mae needs to not just worry about Hank's disapproval of her investigating this time. She needs to confront her past and ends up with even more questions than answers setting up a future mystery. I always love reading this series because I love all of the secondary characters in this series. I really enjoyed seeing all of my favorite characters dealing with not just a murder mystery but also an attack on Normal with the cyber crimes story. Overall Sunsets, Sabbatical, and Scandal proved to be an exciting read that captures the reader's attention from the very beginning and never lets go. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an enjoyable read that has mystery, intrigue, great characters, and a small town setting. I look forward to reading Mae's next adventure.
Received a copy of Sunsets, Sabbatical, and Scandal from the author in exchange for my honest review.
March 11, 2020
Mae gets herself caught up in another murder...and finds herself uncomfortably close to the past. I really liked hearing more about what happened to her family, I hope to see that little thread continue. I found myself getting a little tired of Hank and his overprotective attitude. Mae seems to find it endearing, while I find it annoying. I also loved seeing some more of the dynamic between Mae and Mary Elizabeth. She seemed so much more real in this story. Overall, not my favorite - I found it just a little shallow and too easy to skim. I had to work to make myself really read it. It was a good story, but I was left wanting just a little. I also found the ending to be kind of absurd and predictable.
I recieved an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I recieved an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 5, 2021
I’ve enjoyed the series up to now, but this is the last one I’ll read.
First of all, I have been becoming more and uncomfortable with the idea of her breaking the law so often as if her bf, the detective will never arrest her for it. That seems like abuse of power.
On that same note, lying to her bf to do things she knows he won't condone while saying she loves him. Nah, not for me.
But my major concern with this book was the straying from the original story. In an earlier book, she tells us how her family died in the fire and the “same story” in this one is very different. She wasn't even in the same room as before. That really threw me. Apparently, she doesn’t keep an accurate story map.
First of all, I have been becoming more and uncomfortable with the idea of her breaking the law so often as if her bf, the detective will never arrest her for it. That seems like abuse of power.
On that same note, lying to her bf to do things she knows he won't condone while saying she loves him. Nah, not for me.
But my major concern with this book was the straying from the original story. In an earlier book, she tells us how her family died in the fire and the “same story” in this one is very different. She wasn't even in the same room as before. That really threw me. Apparently, she doesn’t keep an accurate story map.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2020
Sunsets, Sabbatical and Scandal earns 5/5 Hidden Clues...Engaging Fun!
A wedding. A dating app. A “don’t remember” classmate. A book club meeting. A call from the bank. A friend dead. “Nothing is normal in Normal.” Trudy Bull, everyone’s favorite waitress, is found dead at the diner. The diner was closed and she was suppose to be at the wedding, so it’s curious why she was even there so late. Robbery is dismissed since her wallet is in tact and the diner had little on site. Where’s her phone? It was like a third appendage, and it’s missing.
Mae’s detecting abilities have invaluable in the past, however the execution-style manner of death indicates the more professional than a crime of passion. That makes this mystery appear to be more dangerous, and he reminds her to stay out of it. But Ty, the owner of the diner, needs answers, so Mae and her “Laundry Club” girls are on the case charting suspects, listing questions, organizing facts, and creating theories on the whiteboard usually reserved for campground notices. Ok, start with...
Brilliant! This tenth book in Tonya Kappes’s Camper and Criminals Cozy is the best with a clever cozy murder, quirky characters (several of a certain mature age), realistic investigation journey, and an “I didn’t see that coming” ending. The murder takes center stage as a well-developed and steady paced, engaging and entertaining, twisty and turny drama with realistic reactions and responses. Tonya’s writing style is very enjoyable using a first-person narrative from Mae’s perspective (I love my vicarious role with the “I” references). She follows the traditional cozy formula I enjoy with the murder happening early, Mae cooperating most of the time with law enforcement, despite commandeering evidence and some covert snooping, and a reasonable motive, opportunity, and means explanation that unfolds nicely. I enjoy the “Laundry Club’s” input, Mae and Hank’s relationship, and the added insights into Mae’s childhood, especially revisiting the family tragedy Mae has long held herself to blame. Sprinkled with Tonya’s signature southern flair is delightfully entertaining. Great escape!
Bonus! This series always includes “Recipes and Cleaning Hack from Mae West and the Women in Normal, Kentucky, and Happy Trails Campground” with easy-to-follow recipes for some delicious treats and a few RV or camping tips that can often be translated to anyone, with or without a camper. Enjoy Campfire French Dip Sandwiches and Campfire Veggies! Try Campfire Fire Bombs and instructions for Tick Spray.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
A wedding. A dating app. A “don’t remember” classmate. A book club meeting. A call from the bank. A friend dead. “Nothing is normal in Normal.” Trudy Bull, everyone’s favorite waitress, is found dead at the diner. The diner was closed and she was suppose to be at the wedding, so it’s curious why she was even there so late. Robbery is dismissed since her wallet is in tact and the diner had little on site. Where’s her phone? It was like a third appendage, and it’s missing.
Mae’s detecting abilities have invaluable in the past, however the execution-style manner of death indicates the more professional than a crime of passion. That makes this mystery appear to be more dangerous, and he reminds her to stay out of it. But Ty, the owner of the diner, needs answers, so Mae and her “Laundry Club” girls are on the case charting suspects, listing questions, organizing facts, and creating theories on the whiteboard usually reserved for campground notices. Ok, start with...
Brilliant! This tenth book in Tonya Kappes’s Camper and Criminals Cozy is the best with a clever cozy murder, quirky characters (several of a certain mature age), realistic investigation journey, and an “I didn’t see that coming” ending. The murder takes center stage as a well-developed and steady paced, engaging and entertaining, twisty and turny drama with realistic reactions and responses. Tonya’s writing style is very enjoyable using a first-person narrative from Mae’s perspective (I love my vicarious role with the “I” references). She follows the traditional cozy formula I enjoy with the murder happening early, Mae cooperating most of the time with law enforcement, despite commandeering evidence and some covert snooping, and a reasonable motive, opportunity, and means explanation that unfolds nicely. I enjoy the “Laundry Club’s” input, Mae and Hank’s relationship, and the added insights into Mae’s childhood, especially revisiting the family tragedy Mae has long held herself to blame. Sprinkled with Tonya’s signature southern flair is delightfully entertaining. Great escape!
Bonus! This series always includes “Recipes and Cleaning Hack from Mae West and the Women in Normal, Kentucky, and Happy Trails Campground” with easy-to-follow recipes for some delicious treats and a few RV or camping tips that can often be translated to anyone, with or without a camper. Enjoy Campfire French Dip Sandwiches and Campfire Veggies! Try Campfire Fire Bombs and instructions for Tick Spray.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
March 11, 2020
Book club meetings, new Jazzercise moves, hacked bank accounts, and a dead body in the diner – just another normal day in Normal, Kentucky.
Tonya Kappes delivers another enchanting and fun read with her newest book in the Campers & Criminal series. Sunsets, Sabattical, and Scandal takes us back to the Happy Trails Campground and Normal, Kentucky, where we meetup with old friends Mae West, the Laundry Club Ladies, and Detective Hank.
When Trudy Bull is found murdered in the Normal Diner, Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies take it upon themselves to help Detective Hank solve the crime. There are a number of suspects. Is the murderer the politician that took Trudy to a wedding or his jealous estranged wife? Could it be the man Trudy met through a dating app or did his wife kill her to keep their home together? Or is it someone else? The trail of clues takes Mae and friends to Mae’s old home town of Perrysburg, Kentucky. The trip to Perrysburg gives you insight into Mae’s past and why she left at 18 and never came back. It gives you a glimpse into the mystery surrounding the deaths of Mae’s family and the possibility of what is to come next in the series. But does this trip lead to the murderer and the reason for Trudy’s death? Read Sunsets, Sabbatical, and Scandal and see if you can find the murderer before Mae and friends. You won’t regret it.
I read an advanced reading copy of Sunsets, Sabbatical, and Scandal, and have given an honest review of the book.
Tonya Kappes delivers another enchanting and fun read with her newest book in the Campers & Criminal series. Sunsets, Sabattical, and Scandal takes us back to the Happy Trails Campground and Normal, Kentucky, where we meetup with old friends Mae West, the Laundry Club Ladies, and Detective Hank.
When Trudy Bull is found murdered in the Normal Diner, Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies take it upon themselves to help Detective Hank solve the crime. There are a number of suspects. Is the murderer the politician that took Trudy to a wedding or his jealous estranged wife? Could it be the man Trudy met through a dating app or did his wife kill her to keep their home together? Or is it someone else? The trail of clues takes Mae and friends to Mae’s old home town of Perrysburg, Kentucky. The trip to Perrysburg gives you insight into Mae’s past and why she left at 18 and never came back. It gives you a glimpse into the mystery surrounding the deaths of Mae’s family and the possibility of what is to come next in the series. But does this trip lead to the murderer and the reason for Trudy’s death? Read Sunsets, Sabbatical, and Scandal and see if you can find the murderer before Mae and friends. You won’t regret it.
I read an advanced reading copy of Sunsets, Sabbatical, and Scandal, and have given an honest review of the book.
March 31, 2020
While I am new to this series, in the course of the story, the author included brief summations on the main characters and their interpersonal connections. This allowed me to feel comfortable starting this series at #10. Mae and her Laundry Club gals find themselves in the unthinkable position of investigating the murder of one of their own friends, much to the consternation of Mae’s boyfriend and homicide detective, Hank. Mae soon finds herself juggling running her trailer park, along with checking out motives and alibis, as well as dealing with problems at her bank. And then there’s the dreaded trip back to her old hometown. This trip helped provide much appreciated background for the main character. I also loved the Southern touches to this story, drawls and all. I am looking forward to the next book in this series, which hopefully will clear up a notable crime from Mae’s childhood. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing this book and all opinions are strictly my own.
March 21, 2020
This was first published on my blog "Lecture toute une Aventure"
My opinion:
While the culprit was evident for me since the beginning is till got immersed into the story and i was definitively more interested by Mae's past. We learned a bit about her past in precedent book but this time we get a real sight of part of it and it only brings more question which mean i can't wait to read next book..
This is really a great cozy mystery with a good read to keep you entertained until the last page and just leave you wanting for more. The characters are funny, the feeling is good , the romance is cute really it 's a good instalment.
In fact this one could even be read as stand alone without trouble.
If you need a good cozy mystery during these difficult time, this is one you could binge on without hesitation or regret.
My opinion:
While the culprit was evident for me since the beginning is till got immersed into the story and i was definitively more interested by Mae's past. We learned a bit about her past in precedent book but this time we get a real sight of part of it and it only brings more question which mean i can't wait to read next book..
This is really a great cozy mystery with a good read to keep you entertained until the last page and just leave you wanting for more. The characters are funny, the feeling is good , the romance is cute really it 's a good instalment.
In fact this one could even be read as stand alone without trouble.
If you need a good cozy mystery during these difficult time, this is one you could binge on without hesitation or regret.
September 8, 2024
"Sunsets, Sabbatical, & Scandal (Camper & Criminals #10)" by Tonya Kappes mentions sunsets and some scandal but I must have missed where the sabbatical part came in. Mae gets some flashes from the past though. The mayor is hosting a cousin's wedding in Normal that one of Mae's friends was planning to attend. However, this friend is found in the diner she works in later that evening. There's also been some bank accounts hacked, one of them being Mae's.
Things start to point to where Mae grew up and where her family all died. An old high school buddy of Bobby's, Mae's foster brother, is in town doing a travel article. The mayor of her old hometown is the brother to the Mayor of Normal and attending the wedding with the victim. That really miffed his wife who showed up to tell him and the victim what's what. So, a lot of drama going down in Noal and for Mae.
Things start to point to where Mae grew up and where her family all died. An old high school buddy of Bobby's, Mae's foster brother, is in town doing a travel article. The mayor of her old hometown is the brother to the Mayor of Normal and attending the wedding with the victim. That really miffed his wife who showed up to tell him and the victim what's what. So, a lot of drama going down in Noal and for Mae.
March 26, 2020
I can’t believe this is the 10th book in this series—like the other books, this stands on its own just fine. This is one of my favorite series; I love the camper/campground aspect of the series and also the southern setting and language. This cozy mystery has both a murder and a hacking/theft to solve. I just love Mae, the main character, and her cheerful approach to life; she loves to figure things out, as much as her law enforcement boyfriend wishes she would stay out of investigations and stay safe. Mae has a close group of friends—a rather quirky assortment—and they all enjoy sleuthing, just as she does. This is a fun book, and I highly recommend it. I was provided an arc of this book, but these opinions are my own.
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