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Rosa Reed #2
Murder on the Boardwalk
Brand New 1950s Cozy Mystery series by USA TODAY bestselling author Lee Strauss!
Murder's such a shock!
When Rosa Reed, aka CPW Reed of the Metropolitan Police, and her cousin Gloria decide to spend a carefree and fun-filled afternoon in 1956 at the fair on the boardwalk in Santa Bonita, California, they're in for a shocking surprise. After a ride assistant's death by electrocution is determined to be murder, Rosa finds herself entangled once again with her high school sweetheart, Detective Miguel Belmonte. Should she catch the next flight to London before she becomes the next victim?
THE ROSA REED MYSTERY SERIES Murder at High Tide Murder on the Boardwalk Murder at the Bomb Shelter Murder on Location
Murder's such a shock!
When Rosa Reed, aka CPW Reed of the Metropolitan Police, and her cousin Gloria decide to spend a carefree and fun-filled afternoon in 1956 at the fair on the boardwalk in Santa Bonita, California, they're in for a shocking surprise. After a ride assistant's death by electrocution is determined to be murder, Rosa finds herself entangled once again with her high school sweetheart, Detective Miguel Belmonte. Should she catch the next flight to London before she becomes the next victim?
If you love early rock & roll, poodle skirts, clever who-dun-its, a charming cat and an even more charming detective, you're going to love this new series!
~ Clean read: no graphic violence, sex, or strong language.THE ROSA REED MYSTERY SERIES Murder at High Tide Murder on the Boardwalk Murder at the Bomb Shelter Murder on Location
230 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2020
739 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
Lee Strauss
129 books2,342 followersFor fans of Golden Age who-dun-its ~ from a USA TODAY Bestselling author!
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
April 28, 2020
Murder on the Boardwalk by Lee Strauss was a engaging second book in the Rosa Reed cozy mystery series,
Rosa is definitely the daughter of Ginger and Basil Reed being a smart, independent woman with a nose for crime. Ms. Strauss' descriptive writing made me feel as if I was in the 1950s with saddle shoes and poodle skirts. Rosa finds the victim's body at the fair but she resolves to not get involved this time. However, when suspects turn out to be women who she knew in high school as well as her cousin, Gloria, she's going to get answers. A swiftly paced plot, plenty of suspects and red herrings that completely misled me until the reveal.
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.
Rosa is definitely the daughter of Ginger and Basil Reed being a smart, independent woman with a nose for crime. Ms. Strauss' descriptive writing made me feel as if I was in the 1950s with saddle shoes and poodle skirts. Rosa finds the victim's body at the fair but she resolves to not get involved this time. However, when suspects turn out to be women who she knew in high school as well as her cousin, Gloria, she's going to get answers. A swiftly paced plot, plenty of suspects and red herrings that completely misled me until the reveal.
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.
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September 27, 2020CHAPTER ONE
Lines of gently swaying palm trees and stucco Spanish mansions were set against a cloudless blue sky, and Miss Rosa Reed, known in rainy London, England as WPC Reed of the Metropolitan Police, thought the endless sunshine would never get old. She strolled away from the Forrester mansion in Santa Bonita, California, with her cousin Gloria at her side.
“We need to find you a fuller crinoline,” Gloria said, playfully nudging Rosa with an elbow as they neared one of the Forrester vehicles, a two-tone yellow Chevrolet Bel Air parked in the driveway.
Not once in her life in London had Rosa been criticized for her wardrobe. With a mother who owned one of London’s highbrow Regent Street dress shops, Rosa had grown up under the influence of stylish and quality fashion, the kind that certainly turned heads in the United Kingdom. Apparently, the California coast was a different story as Rosa had been encouraged more than once to wear something a little brighter, a little tighter, or today, a little fuller.
Then again, those suggestions had come from Gloria and might have said more about Rosa’s spirited cousin than they did about California fashions. Already, Rosa regretted giving in to Gloria’s pleas to accompany her to the fair recently set up at the boardwalk. Rosa preferred the quiet of her bedroom—hers at the Forrester mansion felt as cozy and comfortable as her room at Hartigan House in South Kensington—and a good book.
Rosa had a stack resting on her night table, from mystery fiction to the latest in forensic science developments. She’d raided the Forrester mansion library shortly after she’d arrived in Santa Bonita, and had tipped one of the maids to make a run to the local library for her (not daring to go there herself for reasons she’d rather not think of at this time). The gentle purring and warm companionship of her kitten, Diego, was all the socializing Rosa desired, and with a deep breath she had to brace herself for the cacophony sure to come.
Not wanting to face Gloria’s wrath if she changed her mind, Rosa was determined to be a good sport. Gloria looked adorable and rather youthful—seven years Rosa’s junior, Rosa often felt ancient at twenty-eight in Gloria’s presence—in her pink flared skirt with an embroidery of a sizable French poodle and flat black-and-white leather saddleback shoes.
Gloria stood with one hand on one tiny hip and the other stretched out, palm open. “Keys?”
“Why?”
“You’ve driven it all week. Besides, you have Diego to concern yourself with.”
Rosa peeked into her tapestry handbag, or satchel, as she liked to call it, where her kitten slept soundly. She’d chosen the satchel more for the comfort of Diego, a brown tabby kitten Rosa had recently rescued, than she had for how it complimented her sky-blue swing dress—the one without a large enough crinoline, apparently—and matching Juliette cap.
Diego had an adventurous personality and didn’t, for the most part, cause Rosa any concern when she took him along. A rather fortuitous discovery, since Aunt Louisa had insisted that Rosa keep the kitten with her and not leave “that scraggly thing” behind unless either Gloria or the Forrester housekeeper, Señora Gomez, was available to watch him.
Rosa suppressed her strong feelings of apprehension as she handed over the coveted keys. “Drive carefully!” With an exaggerated shudder, she added, “The way you command a car reminds me of my mum.”
“Oh, I love Aunt Ginger!” Gloria smirked at Rosa before snatching the keys. “I don’t suppose you’d like to trade mothers?” She laughed before Rosa could come up with a suitable quip and hopped into the driver’s side of the Bel Air. In moments, the large engine rumbled to life.
“Why Do Fools Fall in Love” played on the radio, and Rosa mused at how apropos it was for her, the fool who fell in love with Miguel Belmonte, her former American flame and who, as fate would have it, was no longer single.
Gloria, looking away from the road more often than Rosa would have liked, announced, “I’m sure we’ll see people I know at the boardwalk. In fact, you might run into some of your friends from high school.”
Though born and raised in London, Rosa had spent her high school years in Santa Bonita. Her parents had felt an urgent need to get her out of harm’s way during the Second World War, and Rosa suspected some of that angst was due to their involvement with the British secret service, though she could never get them to admit to it to her.
The highway wound along the coast. As Gloria chattered on about the funfair at the boardwalk, Rosa gazed at the gleaming sun. The ball of fire hung over the beach, and blue water rushed to the shore. The scene looked like a postcard picture. In the distance, she saw the Santa Bonita Pier. Bright red bars lined a giant Ferris wheel at the edge of the water.
Almost missing the exit, Gloria stomped on the brake and spun onto the ramp to guide them off the highway just in time.
“Gloria!” Rosa pressed a hand on the Bel Air’s sleek crocus-yellow dashboard. “For crying out loud!”
“Oh, chili-pop, honey.” Gloria glided around a bend that momentarily hid the ocean, then continued along a curvy road that led them down a steep decline. Rosa didn’t relax until they were level with the water.
Gloria managed to squeeze into a parking spot without scratching the paint. Rosa could only imagine how Clarence, Gloria’s older brother, took to the odd scuffs sure to appear on the Forrester vehicles.
Rosa reached for her satchel. Diego was awake and no worse for wear.
“Hi, sweetie,” Rosa cooed and reached in to pat him. “You’ve already had your first fair ride, poor thing.”
Gloria pretended offense, blowing loudly through lips thick with tangerine-colored lipstick. She led the way to the back of the gravel parking lot and down a short dirt path. Then, quite suddenly, the trail opened to more bright colors and tiny lights than Rosa had ever seen in one place. It was as though Christmas had come early and had exploded across the pier.
“It’s stunning!” Rosa said, stopping. Now that they were closer, she could see not only the brightly lit Ferris wheel set against the brilliant blue sky, but also several carnival game tents, a ride with spinning cars, and even a roller coaster! The salty air she’d become accustomed to in the last two weeks took on a new aroma with smells of buttered popcorn and warm sugar.
“It is, isn’t it?” Gloria grasped Rosa’s hand and pulled her toward the lights and the action.
“You’ll have to show me how it’s all done,” Rosa said while gazing around in awe. She slid her new Riviera sunglasses up onto her forehead to get a clearer view.
They walked onto the base of the pier, and only then could Rosa see most of the exciting ocean-side fair. A large platform sat inland and seemed to hold most of the amusement rides, including the giant roller coaster that made Rosa’s stomach turn upside down just watching it. The Ferris wheel turned its slow and steady circles at the farthest end of the pier. Along the boardwalk and pier, numerous game tents were busy with customers and “carnies” yelling, “Step right up! Be our next winner!”
As Rosa and Gloria meandered down the pier, the dings and clanks and shouts from the carnival games were soon drowned out by lively upbeat swing music.
“Is there a band here?” Rosa asked.
Gloria answered glibly, “Mick and the Beat Boys are playing tonight. They’re often here on weekends. Isn’t that neat?”
Rosa’s pulse jumped at the mention of the band’s name. The “Mick” in question was the nickname of Detective Miguel Belmonte. She groaned inwardly. So much for keeping her distance from the man.
Very few people knew of the short but intense romance she and Miguel Belmonte had shared eleven years ago. Eleven years. The four months they’d spent falling in love was just a blip now on Rosa’s timeline. Ancient history. But despite her best efforts, her body still reacted to the mention of his name.
“There’s an amphitheater just ahead, with a dance floor.” As Gloria led the way, a gaggle of ladies that Gloria recognized joined them. She called out hello and waved, and the gaggle moved toward them. Turning to Rosa, she added, “See, I told you we’d know people here.”
We seemed like the wrong pronoun, but as Gloria leaned for quick hugs, recognition dawned. A few were familiar to Rosa, and one was particularly familiar.
A lack of teachers during Rosa’s high school years in Santa Bonita had combined students of all ages in large classrooms. More times than Rosa could count, they had turned out the school lights and blacked out windows when an oil field was bombed, or a firebomb was discovered somewhere within California.
“You remember Marjorie, right?” Gloria said, motioning to a pretty girl in a green A-line dress with a black-and-white polka-dotted under layer. She wore her bright-red hair in a long ponytail.
“Rosa Reed!” Marjorie said with a sparkle in her eye. “It’s so nice to see you.” She sprang forward to give Rosa a hug, which momentarily surprised Rosa. This very non-English custom of hugging at every hello and goodbye took some getting used to.
“Hello!” Rosa said. Marjorie Davidson had transformed from a girl to a woman in the eleven years Rosa had been gone. “You’re all grown up!”
Rosa recognized Joyce Kilbourne and Pauline Van Peridon before Gloria could announce them.
“Hello, ladies,” Rosa said. They both wore less flashy dresses, Joyce, a slender brunette in violet and Pauline with a boyish-figure, in navy. If anyone needed a fuller crinoline, it was Pauline.
“Hi, Rosa.”
Pauline’s voice was soft and gentle. Rosa remembered how Pauline had suffered from shyness as a child.
“Hi, Pauline. So nice to see you again.”
Pauline covered her mouth when she said, “I forgot all about your accent!”
“I’d argue that you’re the ones with the accent,” Rosa said warmly.
Joyce grasped both of Rosa’s hands, leaned in, and kissed her on the cheek. “Oh, Rosa! It’s been too long.”
To the brunette who had only just stepped into the group behind Marjorie, Gloria said, “And you must remember Nancy.”
Rosa’s emotions were in a state of disorder as she stared at the young lady with honey-blond hair who gaped back. Older now, Nancy Davidson—now Kline—had her hair styled shorter, and a little more weight rested on her hips and face, but her round blue eyes and cute ski-jump nose were unmistakable.
“Hello, Nancy,” Rosa said, stepping closer.
Nancy had been Rosa’s American best friend during her days in Santa Bonita through the war years. Practically attached at the hip, they’d done homework together, discovered fashion and boys together, and ultimately, Nancy was the only one to know about Rosa’s forbidden affair with Miguel Belmonte.
The girls had continued to write after Rosa returned to London, but like with Miguel, the effort became too difficult over time. Because Nancy had invited Rosa to her wedding, Rosa had felt compelled to ask Nancy to hers. She had not expected Nancy would come. Or reply, for that matter, and she hadn’t.
Without smiling, Nancy said, “I heard you were back in town.”
Whether Gloria’s impulse to pull the other girls away was an act of sensitivity or merely a need to move things along, Rosa was thankful for a moment to speak with Nancy alone.
“I’ve been meaning to look you up.”
“Uh-huh.”
“I ran into your mother the other day at the bakery. She said you’ve been busy. Three boys?”
“Yes, Eddie junior, Johnny, and Mikey, ages ten, eight, and six.” Nancy risked a smile. “A right handful. Mom’s a champ about taking them occasionally so I can forget I’m an old married woman and pretend to be Marjorie’s age again.”
Rosa returned the smile. “It’s why I like hanging out with Gloria.”
“Are you here on your honeymoon?” Nancy’s eyes darted about in search of Rosa’s phantom spouse.
Rosa frowned. “I didn’t go through with the wedding.” Rosa had done a horrible thing to Lord Winston Eveleigh and walked, rather run, out of St. George’s Church before saying I do. “It’s a good thing you didn’t come.”
Nancy’s eyes brightened, and Rosa saw a glimpse of her old friend in them. “Golly! Now that sounds like a story I’d like to hear!”
GET IT ON AMAZON TODAY - https://smarturl.it/RRBoardwalk
Lines of gently swaying palm trees and stucco Spanish mansions were set against a cloudless blue sky, and Miss Rosa Reed, known in rainy London, England as WPC Reed of the Metropolitan Police, thought the endless sunshine would never get old. She strolled away from the Forrester mansion in Santa Bonita, California, with her cousin Gloria at her side.
“We need to find you a fuller crinoline,” Gloria said, playfully nudging Rosa with an elbow as they neared one of the Forrester vehicles, a two-tone yellow Chevrolet Bel Air parked in the driveway.
Not once in her life in London had Rosa been criticized for her wardrobe. With a mother who owned one of London’s highbrow Regent Street dress shops, Rosa had grown up under the influence of stylish and quality fashion, the kind that certainly turned heads in the United Kingdom. Apparently, the California coast was a different story as Rosa had been encouraged more than once to wear something a little brighter, a little tighter, or today, a little fuller.
Then again, those suggestions had come from Gloria and might have said more about Rosa’s spirited cousin than they did about California fashions. Already, Rosa regretted giving in to Gloria’s pleas to accompany her to the fair recently set up at the boardwalk. Rosa preferred the quiet of her bedroom—hers at the Forrester mansion felt as cozy and comfortable as her room at Hartigan House in South Kensington—and a good book.
Rosa had a stack resting on her night table, from mystery fiction to the latest in forensic science developments. She’d raided the Forrester mansion library shortly after she’d arrived in Santa Bonita, and had tipped one of the maids to make a run to the local library for her (not daring to go there herself for reasons she’d rather not think of at this time). The gentle purring and warm companionship of her kitten, Diego, was all the socializing Rosa desired, and with a deep breath she had to brace herself for the cacophony sure to come.
Not wanting to face Gloria’s wrath if she changed her mind, Rosa was determined to be a good sport. Gloria looked adorable and rather youthful—seven years Rosa’s junior, Rosa often felt ancient at twenty-eight in Gloria’s presence—in her pink flared skirt with an embroidery of a sizable French poodle and flat black-and-white leather saddleback shoes.
Gloria stood with one hand on one tiny hip and the other stretched out, palm open. “Keys?”
“Why?”
“You’ve driven it all week. Besides, you have Diego to concern yourself with.”
Rosa peeked into her tapestry handbag, or satchel, as she liked to call it, where her kitten slept soundly. She’d chosen the satchel more for the comfort of Diego, a brown tabby kitten Rosa had recently rescued, than she had for how it complimented her sky-blue swing dress—the one without a large enough crinoline, apparently—and matching Juliette cap.
Diego had an adventurous personality and didn’t, for the most part, cause Rosa any concern when she took him along. A rather fortuitous discovery, since Aunt Louisa had insisted that Rosa keep the kitten with her and not leave “that scraggly thing” behind unless either Gloria or the Forrester housekeeper, Señora Gomez, was available to watch him.
Rosa suppressed her strong feelings of apprehension as she handed over the coveted keys. “Drive carefully!” With an exaggerated shudder, she added, “The way you command a car reminds me of my mum.”
“Oh, I love Aunt Ginger!” Gloria smirked at Rosa before snatching the keys. “I don’t suppose you’d like to trade mothers?” She laughed before Rosa could come up with a suitable quip and hopped into the driver’s side of the Bel Air. In moments, the large engine rumbled to life.
“Why Do Fools Fall in Love” played on the radio, and Rosa mused at how apropos it was for her, the fool who fell in love with Miguel Belmonte, her former American flame and who, as fate would have it, was no longer single.
Gloria, looking away from the road more often than Rosa would have liked, announced, “I’m sure we’ll see people I know at the boardwalk. In fact, you might run into some of your friends from high school.”
Though born and raised in London, Rosa had spent her high school years in Santa Bonita. Her parents had felt an urgent need to get her out of harm’s way during the Second World War, and Rosa suspected some of that angst was due to their involvement with the British secret service, though she could never get them to admit to it to her.
The highway wound along the coast. As Gloria chattered on about the funfair at the boardwalk, Rosa gazed at the gleaming sun. The ball of fire hung over the beach, and blue water rushed to the shore. The scene looked like a postcard picture. In the distance, she saw the Santa Bonita Pier. Bright red bars lined a giant Ferris wheel at the edge of the water.
Almost missing the exit, Gloria stomped on the brake and spun onto the ramp to guide them off the highway just in time.
“Gloria!” Rosa pressed a hand on the Bel Air’s sleek crocus-yellow dashboard. “For crying out loud!”
“Oh, chili-pop, honey.” Gloria glided around a bend that momentarily hid the ocean, then continued along a curvy road that led them down a steep decline. Rosa didn’t relax until they were level with the water.
Gloria managed to squeeze into a parking spot without scratching the paint. Rosa could only imagine how Clarence, Gloria’s older brother, took to the odd scuffs sure to appear on the Forrester vehicles.
Rosa reached for her satchel. Diego was awake and no worse for wear.
“Hi, sweetie,” Rosa cooed and reached in to pat him. “You’ve already had your first fair ride, poor thing.”
Gloria pretended offense, blowing loudly through lips thick with tangerine-colored lipstick. She led the way to the back of the gravel parking lot and down a short dirt path. Then, quite suddenly, the trail opened to more bright colors and tiny lights than Rosa had ever seen in one place. It was as though Christmas had come early and had exploded across the pier.
“It’s stunning!” Rosa said, stopping. Now that they were closer, she could see not only the brightly lit Ferris wheel set against the brilliant blue sky, but also several carnival game tents, a ride with spinning cars, and even a roller coaster! The salty air she’d become accustomed to in the last two weeks took on a new aroma with smells of buttered popcorn and warm sugar.
“It is, isn’t it?” Gloria grasped Rosa’s hand and pulled her toward the lights and the action.
“You’ll have to show me how it’s all done,” Rosa said while gazing around in awe. She slid her new Riviera sunglasses up onto her forehead to get a clearer view.
They walked onto the base of the pier, and only then could Rosa see most of the exciting ocean-side fair. A large platform sat inland and seemed to hold most of the amusement rides, including the giant roller coaster that made Rosa’s stomach turn upside down just watching it. The Ferris wheel turned its slow and steady circles at the farthest end of the pier. Along the boardwalk and pier, numerous game tents were busy with customers and “carnies” yelling, “Step right up! Be our next winner!”
As Rosa and Gloria meandered down the pier, the dings and clanks and shouts from the carnival games were soon drowned out by lively upbeat swing music.
“Is there a band here?” Rosa asked.
Gloria answered glibly, “Mick and the Beat Boys are playing tonight. They’re often here on weekends. Isn’t that neat?”
Rosa’s pulse jumped at the mention of the band’s name. The “Mick” in question was the nickname of Detective Miguel Belmonte. She groaned inwardly. So much for keeping her distance from the man.
Very few people knew of the short but intense romance she and Miguel Belmonte had shared eleven years ago. Eleven years. The four months they’d spent falling in love was just a blip now on Rosa’s timeline. Ancient history. But despite her best efforts, her body still reacted to the mention of his name.
“There’s an amphitheater just ahead, with a dance floor.” As Gloria led the way, a gaggle of ladies that Gloria recognized joined them. She called out hello and waved, and the gaggle moved toward them. Turning to Rosa, she added, “See, I told you we’d know people here.”
We seemed like the wrong pronoun, but as Gloria leaned for quick hugs, recognition dawned. A few were familiar to Rosa, and one was particularly familiar.
A lack of teachers during Rosa’s high school years in Santa Bonita had combined students of all ages in large classrooms. More times than Rosa could count, they had turned out the school lights and blacked out windows when an oil field was bombed, or a firebomb was discovered somewhere within California.
“You remember Marjorie, right?” Gloria said, motioning to a pretty girl in a green A-line dress with a black-and-white polka-dotted under layer. She wore her bright-red hair in a long ponytail.
“Rosa Reed!” Marjorie said with a sparkle in her eye. “It’s so nice to see you.” She sprang forward to give Rosa a hug, which momentarily surprised Rosa. This very non-English custom of hugging at every hello and goodbye took some getting used to.
“Hello!” Rosa said. Marjorie Davidson had transformed from a girl to a woman in the eleven years Rosa had been gone. “You’re all grown up!”
Rosa recognized Joyce Kilbourne and Pauline Van Peridon before Gloria could announce them.
“Hello, ladies,” Rosa said. They both wore less flashy dresses, Joyce, a slender brunette in violet and Pauline with a boyish-figure, in navy. If anyone needed a fuller crinoline, it was Pauline.
“Hi, Rosa.”
Pauline’s voice was soft and gentle. Rosa remembered how Pauline had suffered from shyness as a child.
“Hi, Pauline. So nice to see you again.”
Pauline covered her mouth when she said, “I forgot all about your accent!”
“I’d argue that you’re the ones with the accent,” Rosa said warmly.
Joyce grasped both of Rosa’s hands, leaned in, and kissed her on the cheek. “Oh, Rosa! It’s been too long.”
To the brunette who had only just stepped into the group behind Marjorie, Gloria said, “And you must remember Nancy.”
Rosa’s emotions were in a state of disorder as she stared at the young lady with honey-blond hair who gaped back. Older now, Nancy Davidson—now Kline—had her hair styled shorter, and a little more weight rested on her hips and face, but her round blue eyes and cute ski-jump nose were unmistakable.
“Hello, Nancy,” Rosa said, stepping closer.
Nancy had been Rosa’s American best friend during her days in Santa Bonita through the war years. Practically attached at the hip, they’d done homework together, discovered fashion and boys together, and ultimately, Nancy was the only one to know about Rosa’s forbidden affair with Miguel Belmonte.
The girls had continued to write after Rosa returned to London, but like with Miguel, the effort became too difficult over time. Because Nancy had invited Rosa to her wedding, Rosa had felt compelled to ask Nancy to hers. She had not expected Nancy would come. Or reply, for that matter, and she hadn’t.
Without smiling, Nancy said, “I heard you were back in town.”
Whether Gloria’s impulse to pull the other girls away was an act of sensitivity or merely a need to move things along, Rosa was thankful for a moment to speak with Nancy alone.
“I’ve been meaning to look you up.”
“Uh-huh.”
“I ran into your mother the other day at the bakery. She said you’ve been busy. Three boys?”
“Yes, Eddie junior, Johnny, and Mikey, ages ten, eight, and six.” Nancy risked a smile. “A right handful. Mom’s a champ about taking them occasionally so I can forget I’m an old married woman and pretend to be Marjorie’s age again.”
Rosa returned the smile. “It’s why I like hanging out with Gloria.”
“Are you here on your honeymoon?” Nancy’s eyes darted about in search of Rosa’s phantom spouse.
Rosa frowned. “I didn’t go through with the wedding.” Rosa had done a horrible thing to Lord Winston Eveleigh and walked, rather run, out of St. George’s Church before saying I do. “It’s a good thing you didn’t come.”
Nancy’s eyes brightened, and Rosa saw a glimpse of her old friend in them. “Golly! Now that sounds like a story I’d like to hear!”
GET IT ON AMAZON TODAY - https://smarturl.it/RRBoardwalk
January 9, 2025
Another enjoyable cozy mystery in this series.
May 4, 2021
I really enjoyed it. I loved the plot idea and how everything was executed. Of course my favorite character is little kitten Deputy Diego. Meow.🤗
October 10, 2024
Cute little who dun it? 1950’s setting is fun
April 29, 2020
Rosa is in the United States with her cousin Gloria. They go to the fair on the boardwalk for some fun and sun. She learns that what looked like an accident was actually murder to one of the ride assistants. She now must decide to stay or fly back to London. After all her high school sweetheart is the investigator of this case. If you like the 1950's music and fashion, this book brings it all to you with a dash of murder. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
April 30, 2020
A fabulous story as always. Rosa and her cousin try to have a peaceful day, unfortunately that’s not to happen. Murder happens. Suspense and a bit of humour make this delightful.
May 10, 2020
I love this author and the first few books I've read, can't wait to read all this series and her other ones also!
April 29, 2020
Another fun entertaining mystery from Lee Strauss. The second installment of the Rosa Reed series transports us to the California boardwalk of the 1950's.The operator of the roller coaster, Victor who happens to be an old classmate of Rosa and her friends is electrocuted. After the adorable cat Diego finds a clue, it appears to be more than an accident. Since Victor was the high school bully there were plenty of people who had a motive. Rosa works alongside Detective Miguel Belmonte to solve the murder-could it be one of her own friends? With amazing attention to detail from the clothes, the food, the music, the magic of the boardwalk this whodunit is a thrilling ride.
June 8, 2020
Reading these Rosa Reed Mysteries is like traveling back in time. I was born in the 60's but grew up watching TV shows and movies about the 50's. I can't wait to read what the women will be wearing as I love the fashions of the 5o's.
I love the characters and the beachy setting. Rosa and Miguel make a great team and the sparks just keep sparking. I love the relationship between Gloria and Rosa as well, quite sisterly. Want more Grandma Sally.
Can't wait to read the next and am going to go and start reading the series that inspired this one thanks for keeping me entertained and taking us back in time.
I love the characters and the beachy setting. Rosa and Miguel make a great team and the sparks just keep sparking. I love the relationship between Gloria and Rosa as well, quite sisterly. Want more Grandma Sally.
Can't wait to read the next and am going to go and start reading the series that inspired this one thanks for keeping me entertained and taking us back in time.
June 30, 2020
Murder' s Along for the Ride
Rosa Reed's cosy mysteries continue to delight. As whipsmart as her mother, Ginger & upright as her Scotland Yard Superintendent father, Basil, Rosa is yet her own woman. It's been a blast revisiting the 1950's with Rosa fighting crime & her feelings for Det. Miguel Bellamonte, her first love. Look forward to more Rosa Reed adventures & maybe a visit from her sleuthing parents?
Rosa Reed's cosy mysteries continue to delight. As whipsmart as her mother, Ginger & upright as her Scotland Yard Superintendent father, Basil, Rosa is yet her own woman. It's been a blast revisiting the 1950's with Rosa fighting crime & her feelings for Det. Miguel Bellamonte, her first love. Look forward to more Rosa Reed adventures & maybe a visit from her sleuthing parents?
November 25, 2020
Rosa and Gloria spend the afternoon with some of the girl's Rosa knew when she was in school during the 40's at the carnival on the boardwalk.
When Rosa discovers one of the ride operators has been killed, she fears one of her former friends may be guilty of murder as the carney was one of the biggest bullies in school. And almost all of them disliked him to some degree or more.
Defined characters, some humor, and a fun read.
When Rosa discovers one of the ride operators has been killed, she fears one of her former friends may be guilty of murder as the carney was one of the biggest bullies in school. And almost all of them disliked him to some degree or more.
Defined characters, some humor, and a fun read.
May 22, 2021
Rosa attends an amusement park in Santa Bonita and runs into a few people she knew when she lived in California during the war. One of the guys she remotely knew was a carnie running the roller coaster who turns up dead at his control panel. What caused his death? Are any of his former classmates to blame, and, if so, why would anyone want to kill the school bully after all these years? Interesting twist at the end. Quick read.
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January 18, 2023I liked this one so much better than the first one! That isn't a knock on the first book - I knew it was just setting up the characters. The 50s vibe was so strong in this, from the clothes, to the boardwalk, to the drive in burger place with the waitresses on roller skates. Rosa and Miguel had more chemistry in this one too, and a bit more of their past romance was revealed. The mystery was more interesting this time too. My favorite character, though? Diego the kitten 😽
April 28, 2020
I enjoyed this book for several reasons. I really like the light hearted feeling I get when reading it. I also enjoy reading about the fashion designs of that era and the historical things that happened. The authors did a lot of research in making sure that the reader gets accurate information. It wii be great to read the next book and find out what’s going on in Rosa’s life.
April 30, 2020
I enjoyed this new mystery with Rosa and her cat Diego. 50's songs and clothes make it a nostalgic story but with a murder mystery. There are red herrings and lots of suspects and the book keeps you turning the page till the end. Rosa is definitely her mother's daughter, she won't let go till she has her murderer.
May 5, 2020
Love love love
I absolutely love this new series. I become so engrossed in the book that I can’t put it down. I just stayed up all night reading it. I am anxiously awaiting the next installment. In these times of illness and quarantine it is just what the dr ordered to take your mind off of what’s going on in the world today. If only for a little while. I highly recommend!
I absolutely love this new series. I become so engrossed in the book that I can’t put it down. I just stayed up all night reading it. I am anxiously awaiting the next installment. In these times of illness and quarantine it is just what the dr ordered to take your mind off of what’s going on in the world today. If only for a little while. I highly recommend!
May 12, 2020
Great series. Another winner. I love this book, it fun, lighthearted and has a lot of twists and turns. The adventures of Rosa Miquel and now her new kitty Diego is interesting to see unfold. It's set at a fair and a accident that not an accident happened and the page turning race begins. Write more
May 15, 2020
Another fun series from Lee Straus
I am truly enjoying Rosa Fred's story. The fifties fashion references are fun to read and remember my own poodle skirt and swirly dresses with peticoats. The mysteries are fun and light and great for reading with lots of distractions. Love Lee Straus and I am eagerly awaiting the release of the next book in the series.
I am truly enjoying Rosa Fred's story. The fifties fashion references are fun to read and remember my own poodle skirt and swirly dresses with peticoats. The mysteries are fun and light and great for reading with lots of distractions. Love Lee Straus and I am eagerly awaiting the release of the next book in the series.
June 10, 2020
Rosa Reed gets involved in another murder and once again is working with former flame detective Belmonte. Am having difficulty liking most of the characters, her aunt Louisa, cousin Gloria, cousin Clarence seem just a little off. I was given a free ARC by the author. My review is freely and honestly given
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November 23, 2020I am enjoying this spin off of the Lady Gold series almost as much as I enjoyed the earlier series. The character and some of the plot sittings are very similar but fun nevertheless. I also like the mysteries. Solutions makes sense, don't come out of left field and are solvable by the reader, not too soon but with the detective. I also love reading about strong women!
February 2, 2021
Rosa persists in her American adventure. She and her cousin Gloria attend a local fair on the Santa Bonita pier. While there, they meet a number of high school classmates, since Rosa had spent the war years in the U.S. A murder occurs, almost in front of them, and Rosa involves herself in the case. She also works with Miguel Belmonte again, and deals with her unresolved feelings again.
May 12, 2021
A fun little mystery
This was a nice cozy mystery that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. The authors do a great job of capturing the vibe of the 1950's. Rosa is so sweet and tough at the same time. Diego the cat adds a touch of cuteness. The handsome detective helps pull the story together. Gloria, Rosa's cousin, adds a spark of fun. I'm really looking forward to the next book.
This was a nice cozy mystery that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. The authors do a great job of capturing the vibe of the 1950's. Rosa is so sweet and tough at the same time. Diego the cat adds a touch of cuteness. The handsome detective helps pull the story together. Gloria, Rosa's cousin, adds a spark of fun. I'm really looking forward to the next book.
January 17, 2025
Is this a romance novel or a murder mystery? Rosa borders on obsession with her feelings for a man from the past who is engaged and all of this nonsense obscures the murder mystery. I came back to the series because of the setting of 1950s California in the hopes that something would change but the obsessive attraction got worse.
April 18, 2020
A light and fun read, with plenty of twists and turns, and lots of suspects to choose from right up until the end!
The second book in the series does not disappoint! It is well written and intriguing, with a fun setting and interesting character dynamics.
I look forward to the next book!
The second book in the series does not disappoint! It is well written and intriguing, with a fun setting and interesting character dynamics.
I look forward to the next book!
May 8, 2020
Another great read from author Lee Strauss. It’s the 1950’s in sunny California and Rosa Reed is once again drawn into a police investigation. The story is expertly woven making it impossible to figure out the bad guy.
June 2, 2020
Am loving this series. The characters are believable and I can see them in my imagination. If you like stories that are not to gruesome and no bad language these books 📚 are for you. Can't wait to read the rest.
June 17, 2020
Delightful
A happy summer day spent in the boardwalk, with old friends from high school. The high school bully is there too. It's all fun and games until someone gets killed. Love the outfits! Read and enjoy!
A happy summer day spent in the boardwalk, with old friends from high school. The high school bully is there too. It's all fun and games until someone gets killed. Love the outfits! Read and enjoy!
October 30, 2021
Cute story
Rosa meets up with her old high school chums at a fair only to spy the high school bully who promptly gets himself murdered. Did one of her friends do him in? This is the dilemma facing Rosa in this intriguing story.
Rosa meets up with her old high school chums at a fair only to spy the high school bully who promptly gets himself murdered. Did one of her friends do him in? This is the dilemma facing Rosa in this intriguing story.
April 29, 2020
Rosa
Will they hurry up and bring Ross and Miguel- . Together. Great read awaits the book to come out. One of my favorite Authors.
Will they hurry up and bring Ross and Miguel- . Together. Great read awaits the book to come out. One of my favorite Authors.
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