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Pooch Party #1
Pooches, Pumpkins, and Poison
Widow Missy Kingston takes on the job of a lifetime—and it’s not the one at her town’s animal shelter.
It’s Halloween season, and the local animal shelter’s pooch adoption manager, Missy Kingston, is excited to show off the available dogs at her town’s Halloween festival!
But when she discovers the festival’s organizer dead in a pile of pumpkins, Missy’s convinced there’s more to the story than meets the eye.
When Missy sets out to investigate the murder on her own, what she discovers could solve the case—but only if the killer doesn’t get to her first.
150 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2020
302 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Ridder Aspenson
149 books544 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Carolyn Ridder Aspenson writes cozy mysteries, thrillers, and paranormal women's fiction featuring strong female leads. Her stories shine through her dialogue, which readers have praised for being realistic and compelling.
A multiple number one bestseller on Amazon, her first novel, Unfinished Business, was a five-star Reader's Favorite, a Rone Award finalist, as well as a number one bestseller on both Amazon and Barnes and Noble. In 2021, she introduced readers to detective Rachel Ryder in Damaging Secrets, also a number one bestseller on Amazon. Overkill, the third book in the Rachel Ryder series, was one of Thrillerfix’s best thrillers of 2021.Reviews have praised her work as ‘compelling, and intense,’ and ‘read through the night, edge of your seat thrillers. Carolyn’s most recent Rachel Ryder novel, Deadly Means, has been submitted for an Edgar Award by her publisher, Severn River Publishing.
Prior to publishing, she worked as a journalist in the suburbs of Atlanta where her work appeared in multiple newspapers and magazines. She wrote a monthly featured column in Northside Woman magazine.
Writing is only one of Carolyn's passions. She is an avid dog lover and currently spoils an American Staffordshire terrier boxer mix. She lives in the mountains of North Georgia as an empty nester (who misses her kids terribly but loves having a lower grocery bill) with her husband, a cantankerous cat, and her very spoiled pup.
Connect with Carolyn via carolyn@carolynridderaspenson.com
A multiple number one bestseller on Amazon, her first novel, Unfinished Business, was a five-star Reader's Favorite, a Rone Award finalist, as well as a number one bestseller on both Amazon and Barnes and Noble. In 2021, she introduced readers to detective Rachel Ryder in Damaging Secrets, also a number one bestseller on Amazon. Overkill, the third book in the Rachel Ryder series, was one of Thrillerfix’s best thrillers of 2021.Reviews have praised her work as ‘compelling, and intense,’ and ‘read through the night, edge of your seat thrillers. Carolyn’s most recent Rachel Ryder novel, Deadly Means, has been submitted for an Edgar Award by her publisher, Severn River Publishing.
Prior to publishing, she worked as a journalist in the suburbs of Atlanta where her work appeared in multiple newspapers and magazines. She wrote a monthly featured column in Northside Woman magazine.
Writing is only one of Carolyn's passions. She is an avid dog lover and currently spoils an American Staffordshire terrier boxer mix. She lives in the mountains of North Georgia as an empty nester (who misses her kids terribly but loves having a lower grocery bill) with her husband, a cantankerous cat, and her very spoiled pup.
Connect with Carolyn via carolyn@carolynridderaspenson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
October 13, 2019
Pooches, Pumpkins and Poison by Carolyn Ridder Aspenson is an easy afternoon read to celebrate fall festivals and dog adoptions.
Ms. Aspenson's writing is comfortable and her research into dog training is evident in this story. A quickly paced plot, several suspects, poison, threats to widow Missy Kingston and her dogs kept it an intriguing read. I'm hooked on this new series and look forward to reading the next one.
The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Ms. Aspenson's writing is comfortable and her research into dog training is evident in this story. A quickly paced plot, several suspects, poison, threats to widow Missy Kingston and her dogs kept it an intriguing read. I'm hooked on this new series and look forward to reading the next one.
The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 12, 2019
I'm a little behind on some fall books, but I was so happy I took the time to read this sweet dog mystery! I love that Missy's character uses her wealth that she acquired from her husband's insurance policy to help out dogs in need and support her local shelter where she runs an intense training and rehab program for dogs that need it. Her two dogs Bandit and Allie are such sweethearts. It was just fun reading about dogs getting a happily ever after at the end of the book. We always hear about the humans doing that, but doggies deserve to be happy too.
As far as the human characters, I'm not sure I could resist sweet Max like Missy has been doing, but she's still mourning for her hubby, and I know I would be as well in her shoes. There weren't tons of suspects, but there were some great red herrings, so I wasn't totally sure until the reveal who killed the festival organizer. It was a great showdown, and Missy was able to use her self-defense skills to the max. Another couple appeared to be having the start of a happily ever after, so I hope that turns out well as much as I hope that Missy can someday let Max into her life as more than a friend.
As far as the human characters, I'm not sure I could resist sweet Max like Missy has been doing, but she's still mourning for her hubby, and I know I would be as well in her shoes. There weren't tons of suspects, but there were some great red herrings, so I wasn't totally sure until the reveal who killed the festival organizer. It was a great showdown, and Missy was able to use her self-defense skills to the max. Another couple appeared to be having the start of a happily ever after, so I hope that turns out well as much as I hope that Missy can someday let Max into her life as more than a friend.
October 14, 2019
What could be better than a party with puppies, everyone loves dogs right? Apparently not as it seems someone is willing to kill to keep the pooch party out of the festival! A great new series with a strong female lead who is willing to go to the mat to get her shelter dogs adopted! In fact, the book is laden with interesting characters who are well developed and easy to connect with. Add that to an interesting plot that is wrought with intrigue and you have an afternoon of delightful entertainment on your agenda! I can't wait to see how the characters develop and what they get into in the next book!
October 23, 2019
Missy Kingston owns and runs an animal shelter. Dogs are her life. While setting up a dog adoption area at the town festival, she finds a dead body. The body is the woman who is running the festival. As Missy becomes involved in solving the murder, she receives a death threat herself.
This is probably the start of a new series. I love the characters and the story line was solid. This should definitely be on your to read list.
This is probably the start of a new series. I love the characters and the story line was solid. This should definitely be on your to read list.
October 14, 2019
A good book, lots of dog talk, and a solid mystery. If you enjoy a book that has a lot of info along with the fiction, give it a try. There wasn't as much humor in this one. Our main character isn't flawed. I like flawed. lol. This author is highly recommended.
November 1, 2020
freebie at the time of download. The giveaway does not affect my opinion of this novel.
3.5 stars
Missy Kingston, a 49-year-old widow and empty-nester is devoting the rest of her life to helping shelter dogs in need. She started a training program to help shelter dogs, mostly pit bulls, find loving homes. While setting up the Pooch Party, a meet and greet adoption event, at the town's Halloween festival, she stumbles across the body of the festival organizer, Traci Fielding. She thinks calling 9-1-1 will be the end of her involvement but thanks to her sensitive nose smelling almonds, she hasn't seen the last of the police. The police believe Traci was killed by cyanide poisoning and quickly arrest her estranged husband, Jake. Missy's friend Max is certain Joe wouldn't kill Traci. He may not be the most ethical businessman but stoop to murder? never. Max asks Missy to use her position at the festival to ask around and find out what people know. When her patch is vandalized, it makes the quest for the killer personal. Missy zeroes in on the fact someone wants her program to stop. She's determined to save the Pooch Party and protect her babies and that means catching a killer.
I liked this story a lot but it wasn't what I expected. I prefer more lighthearted, funny cozies and younger sleuths to grieving widows. I loved all the dog content though. The dog training information is very controversial and not a method I approve of. Clicker training and positive reinforcement work just fine for most dogs and leashes keep the dog from running after a deer. I also didn't like how Missy carries a concealed gun. If you're not a dog lover though you'll probably find the story slow and dragging in spots. The mystery itself kept me guessing. I thought I knew whodunit but I was wrong! I stayed up late to finish this book.
Missy is an older heroine, 49, and a widow. She's still grieving the sudden loss of her beloved husband. He was a prince among men and she was struggling to cope without him until she started volunteering at the shelter. Her training program has saved many dogs and even Missy. She's fiercely protective of her dogs and her program. I loved that about her. Missy is intelligent and doesn't behave stupidly. She goes to the police with her suspicions and information. That's a nice change. I liked the relationship between Missy and her daughter Hayden. Their roles are reversed here and Hayden becomes the mother, worrying about Missy and her safety. This is understandable as Hayden lost her dad and doesn't want to lose her only remaining parent so soon. Max is Missy's potential love interest. He's nice, he cares for Missy very much and seems to have been a friend of her late husband's but his protectiveness oversteps a boundary she isn't willing to cross yet, in spite of the chemistry between them.
Traci Fielding didn't deserve to die. She sounds like she was difficult to work with: Type A, bossy, demanding and tough but she was dedicated to putting together the best festival possible. Her husband, Jake, is a louse. He can't keep his pants zippered and is rumored to have girlfriends all over town. His latest girlfriend, Jennifer, was seen arguing with him before the murder. Jennifer seems nice enough. She tries to be helpful and kind and regrets her relationship. I don't feel sorry for her. She shouldn't have fallen for Joe's lies. Did she love him enough to kill Traci so they could be together without a messy, expensive divorce? Gina, who takes over the festival after Traci's death, is a good suspect too. She's nosy and interfering. Gina doesn't like dogs and seems dead set against the pooch party. Gina is even worse to work with than Traci but wants to appear humble and sweet. I think she could easily be a murderer. Rick Morring, a city councilman, is a massive, two-faced slimeball. He plays dirty politics and revels in power. I wouldn't put it past him to murder Traci to get what he wants. I loathe him!
Detective Bruno isn't a bumbling fool. He listens to Missy but sometimes doesn't take her theories seriously because there's not enough evidence. I believe he could have solved the case pretty easily the same way Missy does in the end. Justin, Hayden's on-again, off-again high school boyfriend is a kind-hearted young man. He wants to keep Missy safe. He's sweet to worry about her and call Hayden. I think he also has the makings of a good detective because he seems calm and rational.
My favorite characters are, of course, the dogs. Bandit, a Black Lab mix (a male, but gender changes to female and back again mid-way through the book) is adorable, sweet and goofy. He reminds me of my "niece" a Cattle Dog mix who thinks she's a lap dog. It's cute and funny how Bandit is afraid of small critters like turtles. Allie, a rescued Pit Bull (terrier mix) is so sweet. She shows just how gentle and loving Pit Bulls can be if given the right amount of care and training. She melted my heart but she's too big and not scruffy enough for me. Traci should have been more objective with Bandit or filed the adoption papers sooner. Yes it breaks your heart to let them go but if they have the potential to go to the best possible home then you owe it to them to give them up.
While I liked this book, it wasn't enough to want to read more about Missy and her dogs though.
3.5 stars
Missy Kingston, a 49-year-old widow and empty-nester is devoting the rest of her life to helping shelter dogs in need. She started a training program to help shelter dogs, mostly pit bulls, find loving homes. While setting up the Pooch Party, a meet and greet adoption event, at the town's Halloween festival, she stumbles across the body of the festival organizer, Traci Fielding. She thinks calling 9-1-1 will be the end of her involvement but thanks to her sensitive nose smelling almonds, she hasn't seen the last of the police. The police believe Traci was killed by cyanide poisoning and quickly arrest her estranged husband, Jake. Missy's friend Max is certain Joe wouldn't kill Traci. He may not be the most ethical businessman but stoop to murder? never. Max asks Missy to use her position at the festival to ask around and find out what people know. When her patch is vandalized, it makes the quest for the killer personal. Missy zeroes in on the fact someone wants her program to stop. She's determined to save the Pooch Party and protect her babies and that means catching a killer.
I liked this story a lot but it wasn't what I expected. I prefer more lighthearted, funny cozies and younger sleuths to grieving widows. I loved all the dog content though. The dog training information is very controversial and not a method I approve of. Clicker training and positive reinforcement work just fine for most dogs and leashes keep the dog from running after a deer. I also didn't like how Missy carries a concealed gun. If you're not a dog lover though you'll probably find the story slow and dragging in spots. The mystery itself kept me guessing. I thought I knew whodunit but I was wrong! I stayed up late to finish this book.
Missy is an older heroine, 49, and a widow. She's still grieving the sudden loss of her beloved husband. He was a prince among men and she was struggling to cope without him until she started volunteering at the shelter. Her training program has saved many dogs and even Missy. She's fiercely protective of her dogs and her program. I loved that about her. Missy is intelligent and doesn't behave stupidly. She goes to the police with her suspicions and information. That's a nice change. I liked the relationship between Missy and her daughter Hayden. Their roles are reversed here and Hayden becomes the mother, worrying about Missy and her safety. This is understandable as Hayden lost her dad and doesn't want to lose her only remaining parent so soon. Max is Missy's potential love interest. He's nice, he cares for Missy very much and seems to have been a friend of her late husband's but his protectiveness oversteps a boundary she isn't willing to cross yet, in spite of the chemistry between them.
Traci Fielding didn't deserve to die. She sounds like she was difficult to work with: Type A, bossy, demanding and tough but she was dedicated to putting together the best festival possible. Her husband, Jake, is a louse. He can't keep his pants zippered and is rumored to have girlfriends all over town. His latest girlfriend, Jennifer, was seen arguing with him before the murder. Jennifer seems nice enough. She tries to be helpful and kind and regrets her relationship. I don't feel sorry for her. She shouldn't have fallen for Joe's lies. Did she love him enough to kill Traci so they could be together without a messy, expensive divorce? Gina, who takes over the festival after Traci's death, is a good suspect too. She's nosy and interfering. Gina doesn't like dogs and seems dead set against the pooch party. Gina is even worse to work with than Traci but wants to appear humble and sweet. I think she could easily be a murderer. Rick Morring, a city councilman, is a massive, two-faced slimeball. He plays dirty politics and revels in power. I wouldn't put it past him to murder Traci to get what he wants. I loathe him!
Detective Bruno isn't a bumbling fool. He listens to Missy but sometimes doesn't take her theories seriously because there's not enough evidence. I believe he could have solved the case pretty easily the same way Missy does in the end. Justin, Hayden's on-again, off-again high school boyfriend is a kind-hearted young man. He wants to keep Missy safe. He's sweet to worry about her and call Hayden. I think he also has the makings of a good detective because he seems calm and rational.
My favorite characters are, of course, the dogs. Bandit, a Black Lab mix (a male, but gender changes to female and back again mid-way through the book) is adorable, sweet and goofy. He reminds me of my "niece" a Cattle Dog mix who thinks she's a lap dog. It's cute and funny how Bandit is afraid of small critters like turtles. Allie, a rescued Pit Bull (terrier mix) is so sweet. She shows just how gentle and loving Pit Bulls can be if given the right amount of care and training. She melted my heart but she's too big and not scruffy enough for me. Traci should have been more objective with Bandit or filed the adoption papers sooner. Yes it breaks your heart to let them go but if they have the potential to go to the best possible home then you owe it to them to give them up.
While I liked this book, it wasn't enough to want to read more about Missy and her dogs though.
October 10, 2019
A fun, clean, and quick read.
Recently widowed Missy Kingston runs an animal shelter. She has organized an event to be held at the annual Halloween Festival.
While walking towards her booth she comes across the body of the event organizer.
The organizer's estranged husband is accused of the murder, and local councilman Max Hoover ask Missy to help clear his name because he believes him to be innocent.
It gets personal when Missy's booth is vandalized as a warning for her to keep away.
This is a well-told story with defined characters, some humor, and some misdirection.
There are plenty of dogs in this one to keep the story moving, and even a funny episode with some of the shelter cats.
Recently widowed Missy Kingston runs an animal shelter. She has organized an event to be held at the annual Halloween Festival.
While walking towards her booth she comes across the body of the event organizer.
The organizer's estranged husband is accused of the murder, and local councilman Max Hoover ask Missy to help clear his name because he believes him to be innocent.
It gets personal when Missy's booth is vandalized as a warning for her to keep away.
This is a well-told story with defined characters, some humor, and some misdirection.
There are plenty of dogs in this one to keep the story moving, and even a funny episode with some of the shelter cats.
October 11, 2019
Lots of dogs, lots of suspects with lots of motives. Carolyn Ridder Aspenson has sure done her research into the world of dog training and shelters. Missy is preparing for a dog adoption event at the Halloween fair and it seems like there are quite a few folks that don’t like dogs and want her area removed. Missy is a well-prepared (self-defense) widow with some wonderful supportive family/friends. The fair organizer is murdered (is it death by pumpkin??!!) and now they have to determine if it’s related to those trying to shut down the dog area. Great start to a fun new series. What’s ahead for Missy and her daughter!! Can't wait to find out.
January 22, 2021
I love this first book in this new series by one of my favorite authors. I could tell you what happens but that's what the book blurb is for. I can tell you that if you like cozy mysteries, you will like this book.
October 5, 2022
This is the first book I have read from Carolyn. Missy is a widow. With the life insurance money from her husband’s death, she became very involved in the local animal shelter. She hosts what she calls Pooch parties and local events in order to help get the dogs adopted. It seems that some people in the community don’t like her pooch parties. Things start getting interesting when the organizer for a festival coming up is found dead by Missy no less. This is the start. Who killed her and why? Could it have something to do with Missy and her pooch parties? Seems that Missy can’t really trust anyone in the local community. Every time she thinks she has found some answers she just comes up with more questions. This was a great read. Missy is a great character. This was an interesting world. The characters were interesting. It crazy the lengths some will go to, to get their way. I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
September 28, 2025
This was a fun, quick mystery. I really enjoyed the dog elements of the story and the mystery itself was engaging. Perfect read for a fall afternoon.
October 16, 2019
I enjoy cozy mysteries with dogs. I also enjoy Carolyn Ridder Aspenson’s writing. I figured I was going to like Pooches, Pumpkins and Poison. It went beyond my expectations though. I am already invested in this series. I adore the main character, Missy. She is down to earth, smart and caring. The love she has for her dogs, and the shelter dogs, can be felt through the pages. I loved how much of the dogs, their care and training the author put into the story. I was never a fan of shock collars but after reading this, I understand their use and place better. I absolutely love when a book I’m reading teaches me something! I actually learned a few things while being entertained. That is the bonus with this author’s writing. She has a way of imparting knowledge that is wrapped well into the story. You don’t even realize you are being schooled while you read. The mystery was well done with several suspects and red herrings. I was surprised by the villain. There was some romance, too. Missy isn’t ready yet but there is the future, right? Her daughter has an interest, too, and as a mother of grown daughters, I was relating to Missy a lot. I think this cozy mystery may be the first that had me shedding a few happy tears. It is definitely a book that offers something in a couple of genres.
I was gifted an ARC. My review is based on my thoughts and feelings while reading and my reflection afterwards. I highly recommend this book. It is one of those books you wish you could give more than five stars to. I’m already looking forward to the next one!
I was gifted an ARC. My review is based on my thoughts and feelings while reading and my reflection afterwards. I highly recommend this book. It is one of those books you wish you could give more than five stars to. I’m already looking forward to the next one!
October 26, 2019
I was so delighted when I learned of this new cozy mystery series. Not only was it written by one of my very favorite authors, I had an immediate connection with the main character, Missy, who is a widow who has donated most of her husband's life insurance proceeds on the animal shelter and started a training and adoption program for dogs, a woman after my own heart. While setting up for a local festival she stumbles upon the body of the festival's coordinator, who was poisoned by cyanide, and Missy's life is threatened as well. Also fighting opposition of her adoption program by a few misguided individuals, Missy finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation and must solve the mystery to save herself and her beloved pooches! I just love this series, and its characters, and can't wait for the next one! A fairly fast read, in part because it is so hard to put down!
October 17, 2019
This is a new series for the author and I'm reading another series of hers I love all of her books, Missy Kingston owns and runs an animal shelter .dogs are everything to her... while setting up for a dog Festival adoption... she finds a dead body . This is the second dead body she has found the first being her husband Sam. Missy takes it upon herself to try and solve this murder..
In order to save her and her pooches.. those who want to have the festival for dogs shut down could be the ones who are involved but Missy will figure out this mystery... or will she.. this was a really good book I'm looking forward to the next in the series I love all these books by this author and I recommend them to everyone she does wonderful stories...🥰
I always recommend Carolyn Ridder Aspenson Books. They are absolutely the best...
In order to save her and her pooches.. those who want to have the festival for dogs shut down could be the ones who are involved but Missy will figure out this mystery... or will she.. this was a really good book I'm looking forward to the next in the series I love all these books by this author and I recommend them to everyone she does wonderful stories...🥰
I always recommend Carolyn Ridder Aspenson Books. They are absolutely the best...
October 22, 2019
Nice twist but the story is just getting started
A good read. A nice tight plot with some unexpected twists and turns that will throw you for a loop. The characters are good but the main character .... I'm still trying to make my mind up if I like her or not. In some ways her dedication to the pups is admirable but her interaction with the two legged beasts, not so much.
Setting up for the event was going well until she came upon the body of the main organiser. Pus a pumpkin with cyanide. Throw in the arrest of the estranged husband, the dead woman's arguments with his lovers and the sabotage of the area set up for her dogs. Although it appears that the husband is innocent there are strange happenings behind the scenes. Attempts to close her dog program, moving the both around and a break in. How foes it all fit together? Who is innocent and who is guilty?
A good read. A nice tight plot with some unexpected twists and turns that will throw you for a loop. The characters are good but the main character .... I'm still trying to make my mind up if I like her or not. In some ways her dedication to the pups is admirable but her interaction with the two legged beasts, not so much.
Setting up for the event was going well until she came upon the body of the main organiser. Pus a pumpkin with cyanide. Throw in the arrest of the estranged husband, the dead woman's arguments with his lovers and the sabotage of the area set up for her dogs. Although it appears that the husband is innocent there are strange happenings behind the scenes. Attempts to close her dog program, moving the both around and a break in. How foes it all fit together? Who is innocent and who is guilty?
October 31, 2019
What a fun Halloween read that can be finished in one day. Pooch Party and pumpkins sounds like a dream autumn festival until a dead body poisoned by cyanide is found that can put a halt to the festivities. Was the murder because of a bitter divorce, a money making scheme, or a direct target on Missy and her shelter dogs?
October 7, 2022
Good thing it was free, because I'd hate to think I paid real money for something that reads like a beginning writer's rough draft.
Edited to add: I normally don't post lengthy reviews here, but this book punched some buttons.
Acquired Kindle edition when offered free 24 Sept 2022. Not from NetGalley or BookBub or other review service, not from the author. Review is my honest, individual opinion. You don't have to like it.
After four Kindle pages, I have no idea what the narrator's name is. I have no visual description of her/him/it, or the setting: place, time of day, weather, nothing. Come to think of it, there's no description of anything. Visual? Auditory? Tactile? But the narrator's daughter is named Hayden and she loves almonds! Don't ask me if I care, because as this point I don't.
The very first line irritated me and is what prompted my initial response and minimal comment.
Most people didn’t make a habit of finding dead bodies, but I wasn’t most people.
Is the author/narrator saying then that she/he/it, not being "most people," actually does make a habit of finding dead bodies? (At least one can assume that the narrator is human, rather than a "pooch" as indicated by both the title and cover illustration.)
I could almost excuse this kind of sloppy writing if the author were new to the business, but judging by the number of titles she has in print and the number of 5-star ratings those books have received, she's an experienced writer. Even a USA Today Bestselling Author. So, was that opening line a fluke? A mistake?
I shook off the slightly queasy feeling that comes over me when reading crappy writing and plunged on. Instead of getting better, the writing got worse. And worse. And worse. After four or five Kindle pages, I still didn't know the narrator's name. This is the first book in a series, so shouldn't that be like sort of important information? The dead husband's name is Sam, the daughter who like almonds is Hayden, the victim is Traci Fielding, but the first person POV narrator is . . . . ?
Leaving a detailed negative review is risky. This book is so poorly written it made the risk worth taking. Not recommended to anyone, and I will definitely not be reading anything else by this author. I'd rather pound sand. DNF after 4%.
Edited to add: I normally don't post lengthy reviews here, but this book punched some buttons.
Acquired Kindle edition when offered free 24 Sept 2022. Not from NetGalley or BookBub or other review service, not from the author. Review is my honest, individual opinion. You don't have to like it.
After four Kindle pages, I have no idea what the narrator's name is. I have no visual description of her/him/it, or the setting: place, time of day, weather, nothing. Come to think of it, there's no description of anything. Visual? Auditory? Tactile? But the narrator's daughter is named Hayden and she loves almonds! Don't ask me if I care, because as this point I don't.
The very first line irritated me and is what prompted my initial response and minimal comment.
Most people didn’t make a habit of finding dead bodies, but I wasn’t most people.
Is the author/narrator saying then that she/he/it, not being "most people," actually does make a habit of finding dead bodies? (At least one can assume that the narrator is human, rather than a "pooch" as indicated by both the title and cover illustration.)
I could almost excuse this kind of sloppy writing if the author were new to the business, but judging by the number of titles she has in print and the number of 5-star ratings those books have received, she's an experienced writer. Even a USA Today Bestselling Author. So, was that opening line a fluke? A mistake?
I shook off the slightly queasy feeling that comes over me when reading crappy writing and plunged on. Instead of getting better, the writing got worse. And worse. And worse. After four or five Kindle pages, I still didn't know the narrator's name. This is the first book in a series, so shouldn't that be like sort of important information? The dead husband's name is Sam, the daughter who like almonds is Hayden, the victim is Traci Fielding, but the first person POV narrator is . . . . ?
Leaving a detailed negative review is risky. This book is so poorly written it made the risk worth taking. Not recommended to anyone, and I will definitely not be reading anything else by this author. I'd rather pound sand. DNF after 4%.
August 17, 2020
What’s a widow to do?
Recently widowed Missy, who is just a tad too curious for her own good, runs across a murder victim amidst a bunch of pumpkins. Being naturally a curious person, she is hard-pressed to leave the murder investigation to the authorities. She is repeatedly cautioned that it is dangerous to involve herself in a murder investigation; but apparently cannot control her impulsive, curious nature. It is a good thing that she has a strong circle of support because she is going to need them.
It is unusual for murder mysteries to have a HEA ending; but the secondary story of dogs getting a HEA is great. There is also a hint of romance for more than a couple of the characters in the story. My opinion is that is always a nice little extra something to have in a cozy.
This is a good, clean read. There is no vulgar language, sexual situations, or graphic violence; and yet, the story is intriguing and entertaining. Kudos to Carolyn Ridder Aspenson for a great story.
Recently widowed Missy, who is just a tad too curious for her own good, runs across a murder victim amidst a bunch of pumpkins. Being naturally a curious person, she is hard-pressed to leave the murder investigation to the authorities. She is repeatedly cautioned that it is dangerous to involve herself in a murder investigation; but apparently cannot control her impulsive, curious nature. It is a good thing that she has a strong circle of support because she is going to need them.
It is unusual for murder mysteries to have a HEA ending; but the secondary story of dogs getting a HEA is great. There is also a hint of romance for more than a couple of the characters in the story. My opinion is that is always a nice little extra something to have in a cozy.
This is a good, clean read. There is no vulgar language, sexual situations, or graphic violence; and yet, the story is intriguing and entertaining. Kudos to Carolyn Ridder Aspenson for a great story.
January 20, 2024
Carolyn Ridder Aspenson has delivered a delightful story that weaves a good mystery with the love of dogs. It is time for the fall festival in the small mountain town that Missy Kingston calls home and she has plans to showcase dogs available for adoption at her booth for the event.
However, she becomes sidetracked after discovering a dead body at the fairgrounds. Missy wants to help investigate, but this also puts her life at risk. Who could be responsible for this crime? Could her shelter dogs be at risk?
The author brings her characters to life and I really felt like I got to know them. Missy has two dogs who have such personality that any dog-lover would love to call their own. The murder investigation follows what seem like likely suspects, only to lead to new clues that lead in a different direction.
This well written tale is the first in a series and I already have the next one on my e-reader.
However, she becomes sidetracked after discovering a dead body at the fairgrounds. Missy wants to help investigate, but this also puts her life at risk. Who could be responsible for this crime? Could her shelter dogs be at risk?
The author brings her characters to life and I really felt like I got to know them. Missy has two dogs who have such personality that any dog-lover would love to call their own. The murder investigation follows what seem like likely suspects, only to lead to new clues that lead in a different direction.
This well written tale is the first in a series and I already have the next one on my e-reader.
October 17, 2024
Missy is looking forward to the local Halloween festival, where she plans to have one of her pooch parties--an event that allows people to meet and interact with available dogs. While the festival is still in the initial planning and setting up stage, Missy comes across the dead body of the woman who was organizing the event. When the woman's estranged husband is arrested, one of Missy's friends tells her he doesn't think the husband is guilty. Missy starts asking some questions, only to have her own brush with death. Rather than be cowed, Missy digs in further, determined to find out who committed murder and has it out for her.
Interesting story. I liked Missy as a character. She's tough and resilient but also soft hearted to the dogs in her care. Most of the narrative was consumed with Missy's sleuthing; I would have liked to see her doing other things.
Entertaining and worth a read. Four stars.
Interesting story. I liked Missy as a character. She's tough and resilient but also soft hearted to the dogs in her care. Most of the narrative was consumed with Missy's sleuthing; I would have liked to see her doing other things.
Entertaining and worth a read. Four stars.
September 15, 2024
After her husband’s death Missy Kingston puts her heart and soul into working with the local animal shelter to train dogs and find forever homes for them. She has two faithful dogs of her own as well. Missy was not afraid to voice her opinion or speak her mind to anyone. She was strong and independent.
When the local fall festival arrives Missy sets up the pet park adoption area. The festival organizer Traci is found dead in the pooch party adoption area and the hunt to find the killer begins.
City councilman Rick Morring was my least favorite character. He always cared about his own selfish ambitions.
Missy gets help from her lawyer friend Max
to try and solve the case. There are several suspects and lots of twists and questionable motives.
The ending is satisfying when the true murderer is apprehended. A fun fall cozy mystery.
When the local fall festival arrives Missy sets up the pet park adoption area. The festival organizer Traci is found dead in the pooch party adoption area and the hunt to find the killer begins.
City councilman Rick Morring was my least favorite character. He always cared about his own selfish ambitions.
Missy gets help from her lawyer friend Max
to try and solve the case. There are several suspects and lots of twists and questionable motives.
The ending is satisfying when the true murderer is apprehended. A fun fall cozy mystery.
October 2, 2022
Missy, a widow, owns and operates an animal shelter where the animals are really pampered. She holds Pooch Parties to showcase the training the dogs receive and help get the dogs adopted into good homes. I love that Missy admits that she prefers the company of animals over that of humans, so what a perfect person to run the shelter! She discovers the body of the Halloween Festival organizer in the pseudo pumpkin patch, on her way to set up her Pooch Party site, apparently poisoned with cyanide. But when she discovers smashed pumpkins spiked with cyanide in her party site, it’s time to start investigating what’s going on! A great cast of characters for a new series (especially Missy’s dogs, Bandit and Allie) which I am really looking forward to reading!
November 3, 2025
Widow Missy Kingston takes on the job of a lifetime, and it’s not the one at her town’s animal shelter.
It’s Halloween season, and the local animal shelter’s pooch adoption manager, Missy Kingston, is excited to show off the available dogs at her town’s Halloween festival!
But when she discovers the festival’s organizer dead in a pile of pumpkins, Missy’s convinced there’s more to the story than meets the eye.
When Missy sets out to investigate the murder on her own, what she discovers could solve the case, but only if the killer doesn’t get to her first.
Heather's Notes
This was a cute mystery. However, it had a lot of characters and at times it got a bit confusing as to who was who. Still I enjoyed it and may read more.
It’s Halloween season, and the local animal shelter’s pooch adoption manager, Missy Kingston, is excited to show off the available dogs at her town’s Halloween festival!
But when she discovers the festival’s organizer dead in a pile of pumpkins, Missy’s convinced there’s more to the story than meets the eye.
When Missy sets out to investigate the murder on her own, what she discovers could solve the case, but only if the killer doesn’t get to her first.
Heather's Notes
This was a cute mystery. However, it had a lot of characters and at times it got a bit confusing as to who was who. Still I enjoyed it and may read more.
Read
December 9, 2020Pooches, Pumpkins, and Poison (Pooch Party #1), my twelfth highly enjoyable read from author Carolyn Ridder Aspenson and the first in her Pooch party series. After having read Dogs, Dinners, and Death (Pooch Party #3), the third in her Pooch party series I knew I had to get the first two books and read them as well. Well-written & enjoyable, I was only familiar with this author from the Lily Sprayberry Realtor mysteries and Holiday Hills Witch series before these two reads. Another excellent read. I look forward to reading more in this series & from this author. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
October 8, 2022
Enjoyed this new cozy series
Pooches, Pumpkins, and Poison was the first book written by Carolyn Rider As person I've read but it won't be the last. This was a fast paced cozy which kept me guessing whodunit until the end. The main character, Missy, is a strong female lead who didn't set out to solve a mystery; she stumbled upon it. The characters were developed quickly and left me anticipating my next visit with them. If you have a soft spot for dog rescues, then this is a good book for you.
Pooches, Pumpkins, and Poison was the first book written by Carolyn Rider As person I've read but it won't be the last. This was a fast paced cozy which kept me guessing whodunit until the end. The main character, Missy, is a strong female lead who didn't set out to solve a mystery; she stumbled upon it. The characters were developed quickly and left me anticipating my next visit with them. If you have a soft spot for dog rescues, then this is a good book for you.
January 6, 2026
It's one of those stories where the cops arrest the first available suspect (the husband) but the MC proves they didn't do the murder and so the cops release that person. The MC does all the investigating and the cops just take her findings. Annoying.
Maybe it's because I'm an Aussie but I couldn't stand a 49 year old being called 'Missy'. I don't think it specified whether her name or nickname was 'Missy'. I tweaked my electronic copy and changed her name. (Don't worry. It's back to Missy.)
Maybe it's because I'm an Aussie but I couldn't stand a 49 year old being called 'Missy'. I don't think it specified whether her name or nickname was 'Missy'. I tweaked my electronic copy and changed her name. (Don't worry. It's back to Missy.)
August 26, 2022
I loved this story so much, but I am a suckered for animals and cozy mysteries!!
The characters were amazing and I loved reading and getting to know Missy and her dogs!! She was such a strong willed character and would do anything she could to keep her dogs safe and find a killer.
The storyline was addicting!! I couldn't put this book down!! I wanted so bad to solve the case right along with Missy and wanting to love on her dogs too!! It's a fantastic read and I highly recommend it!!
The characters were amazing and I loved reading and getting to know Missy and her dogs!! She was such a strong willed character and would do anything she could to keep her dogs safe and find a killer.
The storyline was addicting!! I couldn't put this book down!! I wanted so bad to solve the case right along with Missy and wanting to love on her dogs too!! It's a fantastic read and I highly recommend it!!
October 27, 2022
It was cute
It was a cute story, but I figured out who done it before the end. Also I have what I know is an overly picky complaint, but it's an issue for me. The dogs mentioned in the story are a grown lab and a grown pit bull. Yet on the cover it has German Shepherd puppies, which aren't featured in the story at all. I love Shepherds and it is one of the main reasons I choose the book. I was disappointed by the misrepresentation.
It was a cute story, but I figured out who done it before the end. Also I have what I know is an overly picky complaint, but it's an issue for me. The dogs mentioned in the story are a grown lab and a grown pit bull. Yet on the cover it has German Shepherd puppies, which aren't featured in the story at all. I love Shepherds and it is one of the main reasons I choose the book. I was disappointed by the misrepresentation.
June 29, 2025
Pooches, Pumpkins, and Poison is a cozy mystery with all the fall vibes — quirky characters and canine charm. That said, this book spends a *lot* of time talking about the shelter dogs and the protagonist's program but much less on the murder mystery. Some of the supporting characters also blended together.
Still, if you're looking for a light, seasonal read that doesn't take itself too seriously, this book offers just enough charm to satisfy fans of cozy mysteries — especially dog lovers.
Still, if you're looking for a light, seasonal read that doesn't take itself too seriously, this book offers just enough charm to satisfy fans of cozy mysteries — especially dog lovers.
October 1, 2022
A howling good read
So much murder and mayhem at a community event! Murder by poisonous powder, a break in at the dog adoption area on the public grounds and more poison and mayhem. A break in at the pet adoption head's home. Who is doing all these deeds?
This was an easy and enjoyable read. I look forward to more in this series
So much murder and mayhem at a community event! Murder by poisonous powder, a break in at the dog adoption area on the public grounds and more poison and mayhem. A break in at the pet adoption head's home. Who is doing all these deeds?
This was an easy and enjoyable read. I look forward to more in this series
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