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Mapleton Mystery #5
Deadly Fun
This 9th book in Terry Odell’s Mapleton Mystery series pits Gordon against a cat-and-mouse killer.
Someone is playing a game with Mapleton’s Chief of Police … and it’s deadly.
For Mapleton Police Chief Gordon Hepler, life has become predictably boring—despite being a newlywed. Being a husband is great. Dealing with nothing but parking violations, speeders, and the occasional disorderly complaint is monotonous. Gordon wonders if he’s been so busy dealing with “Chief Stuff” that he’s lost his edge as a street cop. Especially when his biggest challenges are handling the penny-pinching mayor and deciding what goes into the station’s vending machines. A few anonymous prank letters are about the only ‘non-normal’ things to hit his desk, and even those pose no apparent threat.
When a tragic car accident kills a friend, Gordon soon learns it was no accident. Determined this is the case meant to pull him out of his workplace rut, Gordon delves into the investigation. He and his colleagues uncover a string of similar murders all across the country over the last 20-odd years. Then, going through a victim’s personal effects, Gordon discovers the same type of anonymous letters that he’s been receiving. Now it’s a race against the clock to find the killer before another victim is chosen.
Or is Gordon the next casualty on the killer’s list?
Someone is playing a game with Mapleton’s Chief of Police … and it’s deadly.
For Mapleton Police Chief Gordon Hepler, life has become predictably boring—despite being a newlywed. Being a husband is great. Dealing with nothing but parking violations, speeders, and the occasional disorderly complaint is monotonous. Gordon wonders if he’s been so busy dealing with “Chief Stuff” that he’s lost his edge as a street cop. Especially when his biggest challenges are handling the penny-pinching mayor and deciding what goes into the station’s vending machines. A few anonymous prank letters are about the only ‘non-normal’ things to hit his desk, and even those pose no apparent threat.
When a tragic car accident kills a friend, Gordon soon learns it was no accident. Determined this is the case meant to pull him out of his workplace rut, Gordon delves into the investigation. He and his colleagues uncover a string of similar murders all across the country over the last 20-odd years. Then, going through a victim’s personal effects, Gordon discovers the same type of anonymous letters that he’s been receiving. Now it’s a race against the clock to find the killer before another victim is chosen.
Or is Gordon the next casualty on the killer’s list?
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
303 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 4, 2020
9 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Terry Odell
64 books224 followersTerry Odell was born in Los Angeles and after living several decades in Florida now makes her home in Colorado. An avid reader (her parents tell everyone they had to move from their first home because she finished the local library), she always wanted to "fix" stories so the characters did what she wanted, in books, television, and the movies. Once she began writing, she found this wasn't always possible, as evidenced when the mystery she intended to write rapidly became a romance.
However, her entry into the world of writing can be attributed to a "mistake" when her son mentioned the Highlander television series on a visit home. Being the "good mother" she began watching the show and soon connected with the world of fanfiction, first as a reader, then as a critique giver, and then, one brave weekend, she wrote her first short story.
Things snowballed (if one can use that analogy in central Florida!) and soon she was writing her first original novel. Much later, she mentioned something about a recent Highlander episode to her son, and he said, "Oh, I've never actually watched the show, I just thought the concept was cool." Little did he know what he'd started.
"
However, her entry into the world of writing can be attributed to a "mistake" when her son mentioned the Highlander television series on a visit home. Being the "good mother" she began watching the show and soon connected with the world of fanfiction, first as a reader, then as a critique giver, and then, one brave weekend, she wrote her first short story.
Things snowballed (if one can use that analogy in central Florida!) and soon she was writing her first original novel. Much later, she mentioned something about a recent Highlander episode to her son, and he said, "Oh, I've never actually watched the show, I just thought the concept was cool." Little did he know what he'd started.
"
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
March 16, 2020
4.5 Stars
This is the ninth book in the Mapleton mystery series by Terry Odell
I think the blurb for this book totally over hypes how “bored” Mapleton’s police chief is. I didn’t feel that vibe at all really. When he himself receives an unusual letter in the mail, he overlooks it as not important. Later when a man in what seems to be a simple automobile accident has a similar letter in his possession, Gordon knows that something fishy is going on.
We don’t realize how important this letter is until later and what the mysterious “V” or “Aries” Symbol really means. As time goes on in the investigation, more people are discovered to have received a similar note right before their untimely demise.
This story really hooks you and keeps you interested until the end. What a roller coaster of an investigation! I particularly enjoyed how the author paired Gordon’s personal life and the police stuff together. It all felt so natural and effortless. This totally didn’t seem like the ninth book in a series. It still felt very fresh and new. I am totally going to go back and read books 1-8 since this book so intrigued me!
If you love a good police procedural/detective fiction, definitely check this one out! Recommended!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the ninth book in the Mapleton mystery series by Terry Odell
I think the blurb for this book totally over hypes how “bored” Mapleton’s police chief is. I didn’t feel that vibe at all really. When he himself receives an unusual letter in the mail, he overlooks it as not important. Later when a man in what seems to be a simple automobile accident has a similar letter in his possession, Gordon knows that something fishy is going on.
We don’t realize how important this letter is until later and what the mysterious “V” or “Aries” Symbol really means. As time goes on in the investigation, more people are discovered to have received a similar note right before their untimely demise.
This story really hooks you and keeps you interested until the end. What a roller coaster of an investigation! I particularly enjoyed how the author paired Gordon’s personal life and the police stuff together. It all felt so natural and effortless. This totally didn’t seem like the ninth book in a series. It still felt very fresh and new. I am totally going to go back and read books 1-8 since this book so intrigued me!
If you love a good police procedural/detective fiction, definitely check this one out! Recommended!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
April 27, 2020
If you like police procedural, you’ll really enjoy this one. The reader will soon discover that this book has more than one mystery connecting into the search for a serial killer. While the story line is set in a small town, the officers are on their game and follow the trail of the killer to the end.
Nathan “Nate” Romash retired to Mapleton a decade ago and was a valued volunteer for both the fire department and civilian patrol. He was a good friend of Police Chief Gordon Hepler who is saddened by his death. Notifying his widow is very difficult for him to do. It’s more difficult now the forensics report indicates it wasn’t an accident. Jurisdiction makes it necessary to work closely with county officials to seek the real crime scene, compile Nate’s movements, and review available evidence. His phone is missing, and the mystery of a package he may or may not have picked up is a puzzle challenging everyone.
Some strange things begin to happen at the police station as well: Hepler finds a red folder on his desk with an envelope addressed to him personally and inside a cryptic message “Hey, Gordon...” Then another one arrives and no one is taking credit for having put it on his desk. Later we discover just how important the symbol "V" really means. As time goes on in the investigation, more people are discovered to have received a similar note right before their untimely demise. The victims also received anonymous messages and the team uncovers similar murders across the country for the past several years. Hepler and his team have their work cut out for them...a killer is on the loose!
I look forward to reading the next book in this series. I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
March 4, 2020
I felt like this book was slow in places, although it's following a police investigation so that may be to emphasis/reflect on the pacing of the investigation. It was interesting but I felt like they didn't have a lot of information/details when they picked a suspect. The ending was too abrupt, it feels unfinished due to suspect being arrested 'on the road' and the woman helping him not being caught at all. Overall, I think it's an interesting story but needs some work. #DeadlyFun #NetGalley
March 21, 2020
Police Chief Gordon Hepler is saddened by the death of his friend, a civilian colleague beloved by everyone. But when it turns out the guy’s car accident was not the cause of his demise, Gordon goes on the hunt for a devious killer. At first he doesn’t associate the strange letters he’s been getting with the case, but it soon becomes evident that he might be another intended victim. Can he find the killer first before he’s the next target? If you like finely-tuned police procedurals, you’ll follow the trail along with Gordon to the exciting conclusion. Gordon is a well-rounded character whose appeal will hold your interest as he follows a logical path to solve the crime.
April 20, 2020
Deadly Fun earns 5+/5 Cryptic Red Folders...Compelling Page-Turner Drama!
Nathan “Nate” Romash retired to Mapleton a decade ago and became a valued volunteer for both the fire department and the civilian patrol. He was also a good friend of Chief Gordon Hepler which makes notifying his wife of his tragic death difficult. It’s more difficult now the forensics report indicates it wasn’t an accident. Jurisdiction makes it necessary to work closely with county officials to seek the real crime scene, compile Nate’s movements, and review available evidence. His phone is missing, and the mystery of a package he may or may not have picked up is a puzzle challenging everyone. Additionally, Hepler finds a red folder on his desk with an envelope addressed to him personally and inside a cryptic message “Hey, Gordon...” Curious prank? It’s even more curious when a second cryptic message arrives, and no one is taking credit for having put it on his desk. Curious threat? The victim also received anonymous messages and the team uncovers similar murders across the country for the past several years. Hepler and his team have their work cut out for them...a killer is on the loose!
“Deadly” Entertaining! Terry Odell has again grabbed my attention with a compelling police procedural that has more than one mystery intersecting into one search for a serial killer. I get a pleasant Walt Longmire vibe when reading, but don’t misunderstand, it’s not a copy cat series; Gordon Hepler is his own man, quiet, reserved, and meticulous. The drama has a cozy feel, more character driven, but with a realistic edge. The crime is cleverly depicted and revealed with intriguing issues and some personal peril; the characters are strong and skilled, and the station’s dynamics is less soap opera and more family. Terry’s writing style uses a third-person narrative putting readers in an outsider role, but it provides a well-rounded view of the investigation and all the characters. I really like the manner in which Odell organizes the drama with detailed interactions and descriptions in easily consumed chapters well-paced, detailed, not choppy...a realistic drama which also includes everyday life. I really enjoyed and highly recommend this book, but you can’t overlook the entire series...
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author Terry Odell. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Nathan “Nate” Romash retired to Mapleton a decade ago and became a valued volunteer for both the fire department and the civilian patrol. He was also a good friend of Chief Gordon Hepler which makes notifying his wife of his tragic death difficult. It’s more difficult now the forensics report indicates it wasn’t an accident. Jurisdiction makes it necessary to work closely with county officials to seek the real crime scene, compile Nate’s movements, and review available evidence. His phone is missing, and the mystery of a package he may or may not have picked up is a puzzle challenging everyone. Additionally, Hepler finds a red folder on his desk with an envelope addressed to him personally and inside a cryptic message “Hey, Gordon...” Curious prank? It’s even more curious when a second cryptic message arrives, and no one is taking credit for having put it on his desk. Curious threat? The victim also received anonymous messages and the team uncovers similar murders across the country for the past several years. Hepler and his team have their work cut out for them...a killer is on the loose!
“Deadly” Entertaining! Terry Odell has again grabbed my attention with a compelling police procedural that has more than one mystery intersecting into one search for a serial killer. I get a pleasant Walt Longmire vibe when reading, but don’t misunderstand, it’s not a copy cat series; Gordon Hepler is his own man, quiet, reserved, and meticulous. The drama has a cozy feel, more character driven, but with a realistic edge. The crime is cleverly depicted and revealed with intriguing issues and some personal peril; the characters are strong and skilled, and the station’s dynamics is less soap opera and more family. Terry’s writing style uses a third-person narrative putting readers in an outsider role, but it provides a well-rounded view of the investigation and all the characters. I really like the manner in which Odell organizes the drama with detailed interactions and descriptions in easily consumed chapters well-paced, detailed, not choppy...a realistic drama which also includes everyday life. I really enjoyed and highly recommend this book, but you can’t overlook the entire series...
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author Terry Odell. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
March 4, 2020
Police Chief Gordon Hepler has settled in to married life with his dear wife Angie. For the police in Mapleton, speeding tickets and minor violations are the norm until one of his civilian patrol members is killed. Although it appeared to be an accident, they soon learn that it was a homicide. With assistance from the sheriff’s office, they search for clues as to who would have wanted the man dead. In the meantime, Gordon has received a letter from an unknown source, then a second letter and a package. When it is revealed that a previous victim received similar letters, Gordon realizes that someone might be after him and with no idea why. An entertaining small-town Mapleton mystery. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
February 14, 2020
The next in the Mapleton Mysteries finds Chief of Police Gordon uncomfortable with administrative duties. When the head of the civilian patrol is found dead, Gordon wants to do something, but he has to trust his department to do their jobs. In an ironic twist, he holds the clues when the killer wants to have some “fun” with Gordon.
March 6, 2020
Deadly Fun is my new favorite story in author Terry Odell’s police procedural series. Mapleton Police Chief Gordon Hepler and his officers find themselves on the trail of a vicious killer. It’s a race against time to see if Gordon can catch the killer before there’s another victim.
Twists and turns that will keep you guessing!
Muddy Rose Reviews
Twists and turns that will keep you guessing!
Muddy Rose Reviews
March 6, 2020
Sometimes police procedurals can be rather boring, due to the fact that most police work is rather boring. This book starts with a lot of police administration as well, to make it extra boring. I also find the plot to be very thin, and the end is as lame as the rest of the book. Where is the entertainment?
April 29, 2020
A great thrilling ride filled with intrigue and excitement, where the COP Hepler and his boys had a frustrating time trying to catch a killer. An exhilarating and down right captivating book, where the characters had you glued to every page. I love this book, it has that element of deep intrigue which captivates and holds you prisoner with its gripping words. A must read I say.
March 13, 2020
I'm happy I requested this ARC because i discovered a new to me entertaining cozy series.
It's a well written and engrossing story with a solid mystery and a cast of likeable and interesting characters.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
It's a well written and engrossing story with a solid mystery and a cast of likeable and interesting characters.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
October 19, 2025
Another good plot line. but the Chief's insecurities seemed a bit out of character from his previous confidence level. A good read.
March 14, 2020
This is a terrific series. While Deadly Fun may not be my favorite, it certainly held my attention and kept me turning the pages. Nice to be back with familiar characters. There is a clever theme. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews