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The Southernmost Mystery #1
A Farewell To Murder
Mallory Hemingway is living the dream.
Ok, well, maybe not the dream, but it’s a promising start to her brand new life. When Mallory lands the nighttime caretaker position at the home and museum of her long-lost cousin Ernest Hemingway, she finds living in funky Key West is better than she could have imagined.
A hippie best friend who challenges her, a hunky scuba diver instructor who might have the hots for her, a cat that sometimes tolerates her, and plenty of free time to write the next great American novel—or find the next dead body ... whichever comes first!
Only someone keeps leaving the gate open at the Hemingway Home and everyone is pointing their fingers at Mallory. The threatening messages and a pirate’s creepy warnings are just the beginning of a string of incidents that are intended to scare Mallory away.
When a dead body is found floating in Hemingway’s famous pool, Mallory is terminated from her caretaker position and forced to figure out who is setting her up to take the fall. Nasty co-workers, a massive lay-off plan, black market kittens, Hemingway look-a-likes for days, and a dead body combine into a smorgasbord of potential suspects, leading Mallory to race to save her job, the Hemingway Home, and maybe even her life.
Put on some tea or grab an ice cold lemonade, because you won't be able to put this one down until you get to the end!
And don't forget to read all about how Mallory ended up in Key West in the exciting prequel called, A Death In The Afternoon here: books2read.com/death-in-the-afternoon.
Ok, well, maybe not the dream, but it’s a promising start to her brand new life. When Mallory lands the nighttime caretaker position at the home and museum of her long-lost cousin Ernest Hemingway, she finds living in funky Key West is better than she could have imagined.
A hippie best friend who challenges her, a hunky scuba diver instructor who might have the hots for her, a cat that sometimes tolerates her, and plenty of free time to write the next great American novel—or find the next dead body ... whichever comes first!
Only someone keeps leaving the gate open at the Hemingway Home and everyone is pointing their fingers at Mallory. The threatening messages and a pirate’s creepy warnings are just the beginning of a string of incidents that are intended to scare Mallory away.
When a dead body is found floating in Hemingway’s famous pool, Mallory is terminated from her caretaker position and forced to figure out who is setting her up to take the fall. Nasty co-workers, a massive lay-off plan, black market kittens, Hemingway look-a-likes for days, and a dead body combine into a smorgasbord of potential suspects, leading Mallory to race to save her job, the Hemingway Home, and maybe even her life.
Put on some tea or grab an ice cold lemonade, because you won't be able to put this one down until you get to the end!
And don't forget to read all about how Mallory ended up in Key West in the exciting prequel called, A Death In The Afternoon here: books2read.com/death-in-the-afternoon.
- GenresCozy Mystery
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2020
10 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Griggs
22 books16 followersI write romance with a twist—whether it’s wrapped in fantasy, mystery, or suspense, there’s always a love story at the heart of my books.
I’ve been a storyteller for as long as I can remember, spinning wild tales about the characters who live rent-free in my mind or turning a routine trip to the grocery store into a grand saga. My knack for details sometimes drives my husband up the wall— but thankfully, he’s a good sport!
My journey began in fourth grade when I penned my first tragic romance—a dramatic, undying love story that left my teacher both impressed and slightly alarmed. That early passion for storytelling never faded, but it wasn’t until after the birth of my second son that I truly embraced it. Now, I’m still writing romance novels—crafting worlds brimming with love, danger, a touch of magic, and the occasional whodunit.
I’ve been married to my real-life hero for over 25 years, raising two wild and wonderful sons alongside two dogs and a bunny with enough attitude for them all. When I’m not writing, you can find me singing and songwriting with my husband, binge-watching stories on the big screen, or devouring every romance novel I can get my hands on. I live in North GA where I fuel my stories with Diet Coke, heartfelt songwriting sessions, and an alarming number of plot twists.
I’ve been a storyteller for as long as I can remember, spinning wild tales about the characters who live rent-free in my mind or turning a routine trip to the grocery store into a grand saga. My knack for details sometimes drives my husband up the wall— but thankfully, he’s a good sport!
My journey began in fourth grade when I penned my first tragic romance—a dramatic, undying love story that left my teacher both impressed and slightly alarmed. That early passion for storytelling never faded, but it wasn’t until after the birth of my second son that I truly embraced it. Now, I’m still writing romance novels—crafting worlds brimming with love, danger, a touch of magic, and the occasional whodunit.
I’ve been married to my real-life hero for over 25 years, raising two wild and wonderful sons alongside two dogs and a bunny with enough attitude for them all. When I’m not writing, you can find me singing and songwriting with my husband, binge-watching stories on the big screen, or devouring every romance novel I can get my hands on. I live in North GA where I fuel my stories with Diet Coke, heartfelt songwriting sessions, and an alarming number of plot twists.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 23, 2020
Mallory Hemingway is settling into Key West, and has a wonderful gal pal named Juni. She is supportive of Mal, but also pushes her to face uncertanties and make her life be what she wants it to be. In doing so, Juni gives Mal dive lessons to overcome her fear of water. It might also have a little something to do with matchmaking, as the hunky teacher/friend of Juni seems to like what he sees despite dozens of mishaps.
Meanwhile, back at the Hemingway mansion where Mal is the night time caretaker, gates are coming unlocked, vandals are leaving warnings, and a mysterious person is borrowing---cats? Things escalate and once again Mal finds herself in the middle of murder!
Fast paced and extremely exciting, this reader was beginning to worry how much abuse one diminuative redhead could stand! But the relentless exciting pace didn't leave me much time for worry!! Turns out, authors Berens and Griggs had a plan and went full speed ahead.
I LOVED the book and the chance to "be" in Key West. I enjoyed the preview, but this was head over heels better. Now I am impatiently waiting for the next book! Pick up your copy and go visit...you'll be glad you did!
Meanwhile, back at the Hemingway mansion where Mal is the night time caretaker, gates are coming unlocked, vandals are leaving warnings, and a mysterious person is borrowing---cats? Things escalate and once again Mal finds herself in the middle of murder!
Fast paced and extremely exciting, this reader was beginning to worry how much abuse one diminuative redhead could stand! But the relentless exciting pace didn't leave me much time for worry!! Turns out, authors Berens and Griggs had a plan and went full speed ahead.
I LOVED the book and the chance to "be" in Key West. I enjoyed the preview, but this was head over heels better. Now I am impatiently waiting for the next book! Pick up your copy and go visit...you'll be glad you did!
April 23, 2020
This the first of a new series by Kimberly Griggs & David Berens. But, although not necessary, your should read the prequel, A Death In The Afternoon.
So Mallory Hemingway, a distant cousin to the beloved Ernest, has finally arrived to Key West and her new position as nighttime caretaker position at the Hemingway Home and Museum.
She attempts to make friends with a not-so-friendly cat named Watson (formerly named Humphrey Bogart - hey, who names a cat like that anyway), and make friends with a local gal named Juni; Huck, a scuba diver who was introduced by her new friend; and the other workers at the museum.
But Mal is in trouble quickly as someone keeps opening the gate to the complex and she keeps getting blamed for it after locking it in the first place. Add to that a strange local guy named Pirate Pete, who keeps a pirate on his shoulder, keeps warning Mal that she is in danger. Then a dead body is found in the Hemingway pool.
Follow Mal and her friends in a new adventure in a place whose characters have these very unusual names. You can't go wrong because it looks like this new series is going to be addictive.
So Mallory Hemingway, a distant cousin to the beloved Ernest, has finally arrived to Key West and her new position as nighttime caretaker position at the Hemingway Home and Museum.
She attempts to make friends with a not-so-friendly cat named Watson (formerly named Humphrey Bogart - hey, who names a cat like that anyway), and make friends with a local gal named Juni; Huck, a scuba diver who was introduced by her new friend; and the other workers at the museum.
But Mal is in trouble quickly as someone keeps opening the gate to the complex and she keeps getting blamed for it after locking it in the first place. Add to that a strange local guy named Pirate Pete, who keeps a pirate on his shoulder, keeps warning Mal that she is in danger. Then a dead body is found in the Hemingway pool.
Follow Mal and her friends in a new adventure in a place whose characters have these very unusual names. You can't go wrong because it looks like this new series is going to be addictive.
April 21, 2020
Having read A Death in the Afternoon, the prelude to A Farewell to Murder I had to follow Mallory Hemingway’s adventures as the night caretaker at the Hemingway Museum in key West. Once again Mallory finds herself neck deep in mystery, threats, and murder. Along with plenty of action, there is a little romance, and maybe even a bit of paranormal activity. Hopefully the next book in this series arrives soon, I enjoy this series and its quirky characters.
I received an Advance Reader Copy and chose to provide this review.
I received an Advance Reader Copy and chose to provide this review.
April 17, 2020
I'm not typically a contemporary book reader, I prefer my historicals, but sometimes you need a change from all the dukes and hoop skirts. I adored this book! The setting was unique and Mallory was easy to root for. As was her love interest, Huck, who I can't wait to see more of. The cast of characters is kooky in the best possible sense.
Read
September 15, 2020A Farewell to Murder is so charming! 4.8 stars
The characters are so much fun! Yes, even the bad guys are still interesting characters. The story was so interesting, action-packed, and the ending was very satisfying. All in all, I can't wait to read the next book in the series. You'll love it!
The characters are so much fun! Yes, even the bad guys are still interesting characters. The story was so interesting, action-packed, and the ending was very satisfying. All in all, I can't wait to read the next book in the series. You'll love it!
December 18, 2020
A Relaxing Read
This is a fun story of a young woman striking out on her own and discovering herself only to find someone wants to scare her out of her new job. The threats get dangerous. Meanwhile Mallory is falling in love with her scuba teacher. Key West and the Hemingway House are full of surprises. A good series to read and relax.
This is a fun story of a young woman striking out on her own and discovering herself only to find someone wants to scare her out of her new job. The threats get dangerous. Meanwhile Mallory is falling in love with her scuba teacher. Key West and the Hemingway House are full of surprises. A good series to read and relax.
April 21, 2020
A Farewell to Murder is another great book from David Berens. Setting is in the Florida Keys at Ernest Hemingway's home.This Detective Mystery style book has it all. It is funny, exciting, tense, young love and a great ending. Do yourself a favor and read this one.
April 21, 2020
Spend a pleasant day with this laugh-out-loud funny NC17 conundrum which has Mallory Hemingway, age 26, of Harmony Grove, Georgia, in Key West. Florida. I had an ARC and this voluntary review is my own opinion.
June 27, 2020
Sunshine and threats in paradise
This book was a pleasure to read. The plot was twisted and kept me interested. The scenes and scenery were exactly as I remember from trips to Key West and The characters were spot on real. Had to read in one sitting.
This book was a pleasure to read. The plot was twisted and kept me interested. The scenes and scenery were exactly as I remember from trips to Key West and The characters were spot on real. Had to read in one sitting.
May 8, 2020
Fun read
My ratings reflect the anticipation of what is coming next and my joy of having this read calling me back. Enjoy !!
My ratings reflect the anticipation of what is coming next and my joy of having this read calling me back. Enjoy !!
Read
May 10, 2020Hi David,
I loved this book and the wealth of characters. It was a fun to read.
I loved this book and the wealth of characters. It was a fun to read.
May 11, 2020
Great read!
Loved the characters, references to history/Hemingway, and mystery. Great read but hard to put down! Ready for the next Mallory adventure!
Loved the characters, references to history/Hemingway, and mystery. Great read but hard to put down! Ready for the next Mallory adventure!
June 4, 2020
A hem
A good story but a funny one. I enjoyed Mallory s first book a nd looking forward to her next.
A good story but a funny one. I enjoyed Mallory s first book a nd looking forward to her next.
November 17, 2023
Who killed Pete and why??? making cats??? Ketamine??? I enjoyed this story and recommended the book.
September 8, 2021
Charming cozy mystery…
Mallory Hemingway, the audacious redheaded distant relation of Ernest Hemingway, is back in this full length novel to delight the fans she charmed in her preview novella, A Death in the Afternoon. Our newly independent heroine has moved out of her parents’ house and to the Florida Keys to take a position as the nighttime caretaker of the Hemingway House and Museum. She harbors dreams of penning her first novel in this charming and atmospheric community teeming with Hemingway devotees. As per usual for Mallory, however, she finds herself smack in the middle of some sinister events and she must solve the mystery or risk losing her job, her apartment, and possibly her life. This book is a fun (and often funny) cozy mystery with a host of quirky characters, some genuinely gripping tension, and a newfound budding romance. I love that each chapter starts with a quote from Ernest Hemingway and that the book offered such a good description of some of the sights and activities that can be enjoyed if one were to visit that historic site. I can’t wait to see what the authors have planned for Mallory and her friends in the next book. What a refreshing diversionary read.
I was provided with a free copy of this book but I am voluntarily offering my honest and unbiased review.
Mallory Hemingway, the audacious redheaded distant relation of Ernest Hemingway, is back in this full length novel to delight the fans she charmed in her preview novella, A Death in the Afternoon. Our newly independent heroine has moved out of her parents’ house and to the Florida Keys to take a position as the nighttime caretaker of the Hemingway House and Museum. She harbors dreams of penning her first novel in this charming and atmospheric community teeming with Hemingway devotees. As per usual for Mallory, however, she finds herself smack in the middle of some sinister events and she must solve the mystery or risk losing her job, her apartment, and possibly her life. This book is a fun (and often funny) cozy mystery with a host of quirky characters, some genuinely gripping tension, and a newfound budding romance. I love that each chapter starts with a quote from Ernest Hemingway and that the book offered such a good description of some of the sights and activities that can be enjoyed if one were to visit that historic site. I can’t wait to see what the authors have planned for Mallory and her friends in the next book. What a refreshing diversionary read.
I was provided with a free copy of this book but I am voluntarily offering my honest and unbiased review.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews