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Liz Talbot Mystery #9
Lowcountry Boondoggle
Private investigators Liz Talbot and Nate Andrews thought they’d put Darius Baker’s troubles to rest—then his recently discovered son ropes him into a hemp farm investment with his college buddies. When a beloved Charleston professor—and potential investor—is murdered, Liz and Nate discover Darius keeps the PIs on speed dial.
A shocking number of people had reasons to want the genteel, bowtie wearing, tea-drinking professor dead. Was it one of his many girlfriends or a disgruntled student? Or perhaps Murray was killed because his failure to invest meant the hemp farm trio’s dreams were going up in smoke?
Though Liz’s long-dead best friend, Colleen, warns her the stakes are far higher than Liz imagines, she is hellbent on finding the no-good killer among the bevy of suspects. But will the price of justice be more than Liz can bear?
A shocking number of people had reasons to want the genteel, bowtie wearing, tea-drinking professor dead. Was it one of his many girlfriends or a disgruntled student? Or perhaps Murray was killed because his failure to invest meant the hemp farm trio’s dreams were going up in smoke?
Though Liz’s long-dead best friend, Colleen, warns her the stakes are far higher than Liz imagines, she is hellbent on finding the no-good killer among the bevy of suspects. But will the price of justice be more than Liz can bear?
285 pages, Paperback
First published June 30, 2020
625 people are currently reading
3902 people want to read
About the author
Susan M. Boyer
26 books2,055 followers
Susan M. Boyer
is the USA Today bestselling author of thirteen novels. Her debut novel, Lowcountry Boil, won the 2012 Agatha Award for Best First Novel, the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense, and garnered several other award nominations. Subsequent books have been nominated for various honors, including Southern Independent Booksellers Alliance Okra Picks, the 2016 Pat Conroy Beach Music Mystery Prize, and the 2017 Southern Book Prize in Mystery & Detective Fiction.
Susan loves beaches, Southern food, and small towns where everyone knows everyone, and everyone has crazy relatives. You’ll find all of the above in her novels. She and her husband call Greenville, SC, home and visit the Carolina coast as often as possible.
Susan loves to hear from readers. You can reach her through her website: http://www.susanmboyer.com/
Sign up for her newsletter to get recipes from her books and to be among the first to hear the news when the next book is scheduled for release.
Susan loves beaches, Southern food, and small towns where everyone knows everyone, and everyone has crazy relatives. You’ll find all of the above in her novels. She and her husband call Greenville, SC, home and visit the Carolina coast as often as possible.
Susan loves to hear from readers. You can reach her through her website: http://www.susanmboyer.com/
Sign up for her newsletter to get recipes from her books and to be among the first to hear the news when the next book is scheduled for release.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
December 1, 2020
I loved the newest installment of the Liz Talbot mystery series. We have Liz and Nate being asked to investigate when Darius (their client from the last case they worked) asks them to step in when it seems his biological son and two friends are suspects in a murder.
Liz and Nate work well together, but there's increasing tension between them due to Nate spending a lot of money towards the home they live in and a new vehicle they bought. Liz knows how tight their finances are and wonders how Nate has the money he seems to. It is glossed over eventually (but picked up again in the next book). Liz is also still suspicious of Darius's son from the events she unearthed in the last book. And honestly I was too. I did like how that story-line was resolved though by the end of this book. We also have a shifting of Colleen's friendship with Liz and Nate in this one. She wants to keep them safe, but realizes that Liz uses her too much while working cases and also that Colleen has saved them both dozens of times due to her actions. But the Powers That Be are getting annoyed with Colleen since that's not her primary mission. Her mission is to keep Stella Mars safe from being overpopulated with people. When Colleen herself finally has to tell Liz that she can't always be there, you would think that Liz would think things through, but if anything her and Nate continue to do reckless things.
I think that the book was pitch perfect from beginning to end and it definitely made you think about the relationships and families that we make with friends and also with relatives. We have another funny story featuring Liz's father and the dysfunction of Liz's family at times makes the book a lot brighter.
I do have to say that the ending is a game changer for the series, and I wish that Boyer had let that linger with readers instead of just waving her hands at it in the next book. I bought the next book in this series after finishing this and I have to say, that I was very disappointed with that one.
Liz and Nate work well together, but there's increasing tension between them due to Nate spending a lot of money towards the home they live in and a new vehicle they bought. Liz knows how tight their finances are and wonders how Nate has the money he seems to. It is glossed over eventually (but picked up again in the next book). Liz is also still suspicious of Darius's son from the events she unearthed in the last book. And honestly I was too. I did like how that story-line was resolved though by the end of this book. We also have a shifting of Colleen's friendship with Liz and Nate in this one. She wants to keep them safe, but realizes that Liz uses her too much while working cases and also that Colleen has saved them both dozens of times due to her actions. But the Powers That Be are getting annoyed with Colleen since that's not her primary mission. Her mission is to keep Stella Mars safe from being overpopulated with people. When Colleen herself finally has to tell Liz that she can't always be there, you would think that Liz would think things through, but if anything her and Nate continue to do reckless things.
I think that the book was pitch perfect from beginning to end and it definitely made you think about the relationships and families that we make with friends and also with relatives. We have another funny story featuring Liz's father and the dysfunction of Liz's family at times makes the book a lot brighter.
I do have to say that the ending is a game changer for the series, and I wish that Boyer had let that linger with readers instead of just waving her hands at it in the next book. I bought the next book in this series after finishing this and I have to say, that I was very disappointed with that one.
July 3, 2020
When I open to the first page in a Liz Talbot series book I know author Susan M. Boyer will have given me that comfortable feeling for the location (Stella Maris and Charleston, South Carolina) and the family dynamics that surround Liz and her husband Nate as they tackle another case as private investigators. This one concerns the death of a local college professor who has been killed and later his home was destroyed. Liz and Nate need to find evidence of what happened and who was involved.
This one has just as many descriptions as always of the classic Southern food Mrs. Talbot cooks and puts on the table when her family comes for Wednesday night dinner. Liz can't help but sense lots of undercurrents within the family members and she is determined to find out what is going on. Her father is up to something and her mother wants Liz to find out what it is. As usual, these portions of the Boyer novels make me look over my shoulder to see if she's been following me around and taking notes!
Another solid story filled with Southern charm and atmosphere as well as good investigative practices that eventually lead to the resolution of the murder. There is a big change that happens in this book so it will be quite interesting to see how the story continues in book ten. Only a year to go until we find out.
This one has just as many descriptions as always of the classic Southern food Mrs. Talbot cooks and puts on the table when her family comes for Wednesday night dinner. Liz can't help but sense lots of undercurrents within the family members and she is determined to find out what is going on. Her father is up to something and her mother wants Liz to find out what it is. As usual, these portions of the Boyer novels make me look over my shoulder to see if she's been following me around and taking notes!
Another solid story filled with Southern charm and atmosphere as well as good investigative practices that eventually lead to the resolution of the murder. There is a big change that happens in this book so it will be quite interesting to see how the story continues in book ten. Only a year to go until we find out.
June 9, 2020
ADRENALINE OVERLOAD!
LOWCOUNTRY BOONDOGGLE (A Liz Talbot Mystery # 9) is finally here and it is quite the Adrenaline Overload! Author Susan M. Boyer has provided readers with her best action packed adventure to date! Be ready to find a cozy spot to relax in because once you start reading you’re not going to want to stop until you finish.
Everyone’s favorite married team of PIs, Liz Talbot & Nate Andrews, have been asked to work on a case that possibly involves Darius Baker’s love child. Their mission is to determine if he is in involved in any wrongdoing. Simple enough, right? Except the case grows much larger after they begin to investigate Brantley’s involvement in a hemp farm and the mysterious death of of one his business partner’s uncle. One thing for sure, never has one simple case ever been so full of danger!
Boyer provides readers with all the elements she is famous for - Boyer’s eclectic cast of characters that will make you want to get out your own Murder Board; Liz’s love of family and while her own big family might drive her crazy, she will always fiercely defend them; the relationship between Liz and Nate - their mutual respect for each other’s skill set & for growing together as a couple; Boyer’s plot that is always full of twists, turns, and takes you on so many goose chases you better pay attention or you’ll miss a detail; and her exquisite, detailed guide to Charleston (including the Restaurants & what to order at each one). You definitely will be glad you took time to read this one! Now I will just have to rest in the knowledge that there will be more stories of Liz & Nate to come!
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Edelweiss & Henery Press. The opinions expressed here are completely my own and without influence.
LOWCOUNTRY BOONDOGGLE (A Liz Talbot Mystery # 9) is finally here and it is quite the Adrenaline Overload! Author Susan M. Boyer has provided readers with her best action packed adventure to date! Be ready to find a cozy spot to relax in because once you start reading you’re not going to want to stop until you finish.
Everyone’s favorite married team of PIs, Liz Talbot & Nate Andrews, have been asked to work on a case that possibly involves Darius Baker’s love child. Their mission is to determine if he is in involved in any wrongdoing. Simple enough, right? Except the case grows much larger after they begin to investigate Brantley’s involvement in a hemp farm and the mysterious death of of one his business partner’s uncle. One thing for sure, never has one simple case ever been so full of danger!
Boyer provides readers with all the elements she is famous for - Boyer’s eclectic cast of characters that will make you want to get out your own Murder Board; Liz’s love of family and while her own big family might drive her crazy, she will always fiercely defend them; the relationship between Liz and Nate - their mutual respect for each other’s skill set & for growing together as a couple; Boyer’s plot that is always full of twists, turns, and takes you on so many goose chases you better pay attention or you’ll miss a detail; and her exquisite, detailed guide to Charleston (including the Restaurants & what to order at each one). You definitely will be glad you took time to read this one! Now I will just have to rest in the knowledge that there will be more stories of Liz & Nate to come!
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Edelweiss & Henery Press. The opinions expressed here are completely my own and without influence.
June 8, 2021
This has been one of my favorite cozy series, but this one just fell short in my opinion. There was too much description of everything to keep the story moving. The plot was excellent but the descriptions just slowed everything down and made reading a bit more tedious.
June 29, 2020
LOWCOUNTRY BOONDOGGLE, the ninth book in the Liz Talbot Mystery series, is as fresh and exciting as the other installments. I think it is the best book yet and is sure to please both new reader and longtime fans. This time around married couple and PI partners Liz and Nate find themselves involved with the murder of a well liked college professor. Despite his beloved status, there are plenty of secrets and suspects, including students, love interests, and family, to sift through…and, of course, lots of suspense and danger.
I tremendously enjoy Liz and Nate’s adventures. At this point in the series, each book feels like I am visiting old friends. Author Boyer does a great job balancing the wonderfully quirky characters, personal lives, and the murder mystery. I felt invested in the characters and story from the first page and did not figure out whodunit and why until very near the end.
LOWCOUNTRY BOONDOGGLE is great fun. I look forward to many more mysteries featuring Liz Talbot. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher Henery Press and voluntarily shared my thoughts and opinions here.
I tremendously enjoy Liz and Nate’s adventures. At this point in the series, each book feels like I am visiting old friends. Author Boyer does a great job balancing the wonderfully quirky characters, personal lives, and the murder mystery. I felt invested in the characters and story from the first page and did not figure out whodunit and why until very near the end.
LOWCOUNTRY BOONDOGGLE is great fun. I look forward to many more mysteries featuring Liz Talbot. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher Henery Press and voluntarily shared my thoughts and opinions here.
June 15, 2020
LowCountry Boondoggle is the ninth book in the Liz Talbot Mystery series. Talbot & Andrews Investigation returns once again with Colleen, their spirit sidekick. The law firm of Rutledge and Radcliffe have called Liz and Nate to help investigate and clear celebrity Darious Baker's son, Brantley Miller of any involvement in the recent questionable death of Dr. Murray Hamilton who was a well known and liked college professor an also the uncle to Tyler Duval. Brantley Miller, Tyler Duval and Will Capers are agriculture majors at Clemson University and are pursuing establishing a hemp farming business. The setting involves Charleston, South Carolina and surround areas. You will enjoy not just the investigation but also the feel for family involvement. Liz and Nate are very creative and yet you will get the feel of their concern for each other's safety. You will enjoy Susan Boyer's writing and her development of the characters. The characters will keep you wanting to read more and more.
June 18, 2020
I was hooked with the first book I read in the Liz Talbot Mystery series and have loved every book since. The ninth book, Lowcountry Boondoggle, is great! Susan M. Boyer catches me with her wonderful characters and keeps me avidly reading with a complex mystery and family shenanigans! The humor and the loving relationship between Liz and Nate are as much of a draw as the always captivating mysteries.
I requested an arc via Edelweiss and was excited to be approved. Thanks to Edelweiss and Henery press for the opportunity to get to read Lowcountry Boondoggle early. I loved the book and I always review books that I love.
I requested an arc via Edelweiss and was excited to be approved. Thanks to Edelweiss and Henery press for the opportunity to get to read Lowcountry Boondoggle early. I loved the book and I always review books that I love.
March 24, 2021
4.5 stars
This is the ninth book in the Liz Talbot mystery series by Susan Boyer.
I think this series has advanced so much that just calling it a Liz Talbot mystery doesn’t really do it justice. I really think Lowcountry Mystery might be a better moniker.
Maybe this is just me but this almost felt like a series finale. Lots of stuff happens at the end that I wonder if the author had thought to end the series right here. I know that isn’t true since there is a book that came out around Christmas in this series. But this would have made an awesome finale, if that had been its original intention.
You can’t go wrong when you have Nate and Liz on the case. Liz thinks back to Colleen’s prediction about Nate having a horrible accident that is caused because he is trying to keep her safe. Liz laments about this a lot in the book.
The mystery was quite clever and really kept me guessing. There were definitely enough suspects to keep this whodunit interesting. And you have got to love the resident ghost but there wasn’t enough of her in this title to suit my taste.
I wish the community were a bit more on stage. I feel like we are doing these stories in a bit of a vacuum. That sense of community is missing here, in my opinion. Would love to see more of that.
Overall great story and a series worth following!
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank Edelweiss+Plus, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the ninth book in the Liz Talbot mystery series by Susan Boyer.
I think this series has advanced so much that just calling it a Liz Talbot mystery doesn’t really do it justice. I really think Lowcountry Mystery might be a better moniker.
Maybe this is just me but this almost felt like a series finale. Lots of stuff happens at the end that I wonder if the author had thought to end the series right here. I know that isn’t true since there is a book that came out around Christmas in this series. But this would have made an awesome finale, if that had been its original intention.
You can’t go wrong when you have Nate and Liz on the case. Liz thinks back to Colleen’s prediction about Nate having a horrible accident that is caused because he is trying to keep her safe. Liz laments about this a lot in the book.
The mystery was quite clever and really kept me guessing. There were definitely enough suspects to keep this whodunit interesting. And you have got to love the resident ghost but there wasn’t enough of her in this title to suit my taste.
I wish the community were a bit more on stage. I feel like we are doing these stories in a bit of a vacuum. That sense of community is missing here, in my opinion. Would love to see more of that.
Overall great story and a series worth following!
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank Edelweiss+Plus, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
November 19, 2020
This is the ninth book in what I’ll always think of as my Pandemic Series. They were fast, fun books that didn’t require a lot of concentration. Same characters throughout all of them that felt like friends when I wasn’t seeing my real friends because of the virus. There is one more, a Christmas themed book just released, which I hope will help get me through an altered season.
June 28, 2020
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
Welcome to another fabulous adventure with Liz and Nate who totally rock the P.I. business I must say. This one is a hoot as there are all sorts of things happening. We have a hemp farm that may or may not exist and our due is asked to investigate to see if it is a good investment. Along the way a string of strange events start happening until finally a murder occurs. These two use all methods at their disposal in order to unearth the truth including undercover, deception, and so much more making a fun adventure for the reader. I fabulous read that fans of cozies with a Southern flair will enjoy. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
Welcome to another fabulous adventure with Liz and Nate who totally rock the P.I. business I must say. This one is a hoot as there are all sorts of things happening. We have a hemp farm that may or may not exist and our due is asked to investigate to see if it is a good investment. Along the way a string of strange events start happening until finally a murder occurs. These two use all methods at their disposal in order to unearth the truth including undercover, deception, and so much more making a fun adventure for the reader. I fabulous read that fans of cozies with a Southern flair will enjoy. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
December 18, 2020
Liz Talbot and Nate Andrews are married private investigators. They've recently helped Darius Baker out of a tough spot, and now he wants them to help his son Brantley who is mixed up in a murder investigation. When his attorneys retain them to find evidence to prove Brantley innocent, they go to work.
Liz, however, isn't so sure that Brantley's innocent. Darius only recently discovered that he had a son, and it's because Brantley's adoptive parents were killed -- along with every other member of his family -- in a suspicious fire, when none of their smoke alarms signaled anything. Even though he was never charged, she still wonders if he had anything to do with it. But being the professional she is, she's going to help him.
It seems that Brantley, along with two buddies, have invested in a hemp farm and one of them had a college professor uncle that raised him. Tyler, from all appearances, loved his uncle and would never hurt him. But Murray was definitely poisoned, and before anyone could find evidence on his security cameras, his house was demolished in an explosion. Now Tyler is the main suspect, and Liz and Nate are on the trail of a killer -- someone who's killed before and has no problem doing it again...
I have always loved this series and this book isn't any different. It brings me back to Stella Maris Island, just outside Charleston, South Carolina, where Liz and her family lives. We're once again drawn into their lives, along with Liz's teenage friend Colleen, who died when she was seventeen and is guardian of the island. But Colleen's main mission is to protect the island from people who would ruin it, and Liz is only one step in that direction. With only Liz and Nate able to see her, it makes things difficult when she's around.
Liz and Nate have to don disguises to find the information they're looking for, and that includes attending Murray's funeral, where they encounter three women who all insist they were his girlfriend. Finding out that Murray had more layers to him than they thought, they also discover that his current girlfriend Annalise may have been closer to him than anyone. But someone wanted him out of the way, enough to destroy any evidence there might have been. And with what they find out, Annalise might be another target unless they can surreptitiously help her, too.
Among the investigation keeping them busy, Liz discovers that her friend Sonny Ravenel, is heading the police investigation, and he knows something's up with her brother Blake, police chief of Stella Maris. Blake and his girlfriend Poppy have just taken a much-needed vacation, but Sonny refuses to discuss it. Liz, with her natural curiosity, born of the fact of her job, is wondering what's up. But she doesn't have time to worry about it when her mother calls and tells her to find out what's going on with her father -- he's having packages delivered to the house and won't tell her what they are. So Liz, naturally, now has to delve into that somehow while working the murder case.
What follows is a tale of murder, greed, larceny, and lies. Liz and Nate discover more than they expected, and it brings things out into the open that have been hidden without a clue to the truth. There is more to the story, and more people involved than they first expected, It sets forth a chain of events that could cost Liz things she values most; and brings a sadness along with great joy for her.
There is also a hilarious scene between her mother, father, and a horrendous surprise by her father that while funny as can be, almost sets her mother's teeth on edge and when the rest of the family finds out, they're all on her side. Just that one scene alone is worth reading the book.
Since I would love to say more but refuse to give away any major spoilers, I must end this review with what I have already said. When the murderer is found out and everything comes together, it is more than a satisfying story, and it makes it difficult to wait for the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and Edelweiss, but this in no way influenced my review.
Liz, however, isn't so sure that Brantley's innocent. Darius only recently discovered that he had a son, and it's because Brantley's adoptive parents were killed -- along with every other member of his family -- in a suspicious fire, when none of their smoke alarms signaled anything. Even though he was never charged, she still wonders if he had anything to do with it. But being the professional she is, she's going to help him.
It seems that Brantley, along with two buddies, have invested in a hemp farm and one of them had a college professor uncle that raised him. Tyler, from all appearances, loved his uncle and would never hurt him. But Murray was definitely poisoned, and before anyone could find evidence on his security cameras, his house was demolished in an explosion. Now Tyler is the main suspect, and Liz and Nate are on the trail of a killer -- someone who's killed before and has no problem doing it again...
I have always loved this series and this book isn't any different. It brings me back to Stella Maris Island, just outside Charleston, South Carolina, where Liz and her family lives. We're once again drawn into their lives, along with Liz's teenage friend Colleen, who died when she was seventeen and is guardian of the island. But Colleen's main mission is to protect the island from people who would ruin it, and Liz is only one step in that direction. With only Liz and Nate able to see her, it makes things difficult when she's around.
Liz and Nate have to don disguises to find the information they're looking for, and that includes attending Murray's funeral, where they encounter three women who all insist they were his girlfriend. Finding out that Murray had more layers to him than they thought, they also discover that his current girlfriend Annalise may have been closer to him than anyone. But someone wanted him out of the way, enough to destroy any evidence there might have been. And with what they find out, Annalise might be another target unless they can surreptitiously help her, too.
Among the investigation keeping them busy, Liz discovers that her friend Sonny Ravenel, is heading the police investigation, and he knows something's up with her brother Blake, police chief of Stella Maris. Blake and his girlfriend Poppy have just taken a much-needed vacation, but Sonny refuses to discuss it. Liz, with her natural curiosity, born of the fact of her job, is wondering what's up. But she doesn't have time to worry about it when her mother calls and tells her to find out what's going on with her father -- he's having packages delivered to the house and won't tell her what they are. So Liz, naturally, now has to delve into that somehow while working the murder case.
What follows is a tale of murder, greed, larceny, and lies. Liz and Nate discover more than they expected, and it brings things out into the open that have been hidden without a clue to the truth. There is more to the story, and more people involved than they first expected, It sets forth a chain of events that could cost Liz things she values most; and brings a sadness along with great joy for her.
There is also a hilarious scene between her mother, father, and a horrendous surprise by her father that while funny as can be, almost sets her mother's teeth on edge and when the rest of the family finds out, they're all on her side. Just that one scene alone is worth reading the book.
Since I would love to say more but refuse to give away any major spoilers, I must end this review with what I have already said. When the murderer is found out and everything comes together, it is more than a satisfying story, and it makes it difficult to wait for the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and Edelweiss, but this in no way influenced my review.
June 11, 2020
I think that this book is the best in the series so far. As always, Susan keeps you guessing throughout the book with twists and turns, all while keeping you laughing at the antics of the main character’s family. If you haven’t read this series before, I cannot recommend it enough. Light mystery, comedy, romance, murder- all the makings of great storytelling. The characters feel alive and familiar, whether you grew up in the South or not. You will fall in love with them and with the island where it takes place. The plot moves along at a good pace without sacrificing details. You’ll also get a whole new list of wonderful stops to make the next time you’re in Charleston. I don’t want to give away a single detail-but I will admit that I read this in one sitting! I couldn’t put it down and it felt as if it flew by!
I would like to thank Eidelweiss, Henery Press, and the author for the advanced reader copy of this book and the opportunity to review it.
I would like to thank Eidelweiss, Henery Press, and the author for the advanced reader copy of this book and the opportunity to review it.
May 31, 2020
Thank you to author, Susan Boyer, and the publisher for allowing me to read this review copy of Lowcountry Boondoggle. It’s so great when a book you have been waiting for lives up to your hopes. This is the ninth Liz Talbot mystery. I think I can work as a stand alone, but really good if you have been following along on Liz and Nate’s adventures. When I read these books I feel as if I am catching up with old friends. This time Liz and Nate are investigating the murder of he uncle of one of a group of three young men who are trying to get a hemp farm off the ground. The case is rife with suspects, so Liz and Nate, along with ghost, Colleen, have their hands full. The Charleston setting along with food descriptions lend atmosphere. Liz’s family provides comic relief. I love this series.
June 1, 2020
Susan Boyer warns is in the dedication that, "This is a very dramatic chapter in Liz, Nate, and Colleen's story. It is NOT the last." And I'm glad I read that, because I still want to know so much more. I'll be watching her newsletter to see what comes next. I've read the whole series and I think this book has more new story lines than any of the others. While some wrap things up, others leave the reader wanting more. I love Liz and Nate and all the colorful characters of Stella Maris.
Thank you to Edelweiss, the author, and the publisher for the advance review copy and the opportunity to give my review.
Thank you to Edelweiss, the author, and the publisher for the advance review copy and the opportunity to give my review.
June 29, 2020
Lowcountry Boondoggle is the ninth book in Susan Boyer’s Liz Talbot Mystery series. Ms. Boyer provides enough character background that this book can be read as a standalone. This easy read moves along at a steady pace, providing readers with a well-crafted and complex mystery, well-developed characters, Southern charm, humorous situations, and just a touch of paranormal. The book grabs readers’ attention at the beginning, and they are taken on a roller coaster ride that concludes with a surprise ending. There are plenty of twists and turns and red herrings, and no shortage of suspects to keep readers engaged.
Liz Talbot and her husband, Nate Andrews, are private investigators who live in Stella Maris, South Carolina. Liz’s high school friend, Colleen, is a ghost, and Liz and Nate are the only ones who can see and communicate with her. Colleen is the island’s guardian angel, and her assignment is to protect Stella Maris, but she looks out for Liz and Nate as well. Liz’s family adds humor to everyone’s life. Darius Baker’s recently discovered son, Brantley Miller, has gone into the hemp farm business with two of his college friends, Tyler Hamilton and Will Caper. When a beloved Charleston professor, Dr. Murray Hamilton, is murdered, Liz and Nate are asked to look into the death and clear Brantley of any involvement his death. Prior to his death, Brantley and two of his college friends, Tyler Duval and Will Capers, approached Dr. Hamilton, who is Tyson’s uncle, to invest in their hemp farm, but he turned them down. Unfortunately, the murder occurred after Brantley, Tyson, and Will asked Dr. Hamilton to invest in their business, and Tyson becomes a prime suspect because he stands to inherit a substantial amount of money, but Brantley and Will are suspects as well. As always, Liz and Nate, who are well organized and methodical in their investigations, leave no stone unturned as they diligently work to discover the truth.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Edelweiss/Above the Treeline and voluntarily reviewed it.
Liz Talbot and her husband, Nate Andrews, are private investigators who live in Stella Maris, South Carolina. Liz’s high school friend, Colleen, is a ghost, and Liz and Nate are the only ones who can see and communicate with her. Colleen is the island’s guardian angel, and her assignment is to protect Stella Maris, but she looks out for Liz and Nate as well. Liz’s family adds humor to everyone’s life. Darius Baker’s recently discovered son, Brantley Miller, has gone into the hemp farm business with two of his college friends, Tyler Hamilton and Will Caper. When a beloved Charleston professor, Dr. Murray Hamilton, is murdered, Liz and Nate are asked to look into the death and clear Brantley of any involvement his death. Prior to his death, Brantley and two of his college friends, Tyler Duval and Will Capers, approached Dr. Hamilton, who is Tyson’s uncle, to invest in their hemp farm, but he turned them down. Unfortunately, the murder occurred after Brantley, Tyson, and Will asked Dr. Hamilton to invest in their business, and Tyson becomes a prime suspect because he stands to inherit a substantial amount of money, but Brantley and Will are suspects as well. As always, Liz and Nate, who are well organized and methodical in their investigations, leave no stone unturned as they diligently work to discover the truth.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Edelweiss/Above the Treeline and voluntarily reviewed it.
August 23, 2021
A wonderful cozy with lots of twists to hold your interest! This is a swift follow on from the previous book in the series with the person Liz and Nate helped then (Darius) needing their help once more. Darius's recently discovered son is the main suspect in a murder, that would be bad enough but as the son's adopted family were all killed in a similar fashion it doesn't look good. In the young man's favour though is that fact that the other two people (Tyler and Will) also seem to have a reason to kill the Professor, but as Liz and Nate start digging the suspect list becomes larger rather than smaller!
It would help if their friendly neighbourhood ghost was around to assist but Colleen seems to be out of the picture, so they are on their own!
It would help if their friendly neighbourhood ghost was around to assist but Colleen seems to be out of the picture, so they are on their own!
June 30, 2020
Charleston is one of my favorite Cities, so naturally, Stella Mars would be one of my favorite fictional Islands off the Coast of it. This is the ninth book and I highly recommend it. We find out more about the former murder in Book Eight and the relationship between Nick and Liz. This series of Books has won a couple of awards, which shows shows you the high standard of Boyer, and the wonderful way you can walk all the streets and see charming buildings and delicious food. The Mystery is first rate....giving it five stars
May 18, 2021
I accidentally skipped over this book by mistake, so it was nice to come back and catch up with this one. Love the Charleston area location, and since I’ve read the whole series now, it feels like catching up with old friends.
June 30, 2022
long wait
The mysteries in this book (and all Susan Boyer’s books) are more complicated than Janet E’s books but very relatable. And they must be worth waiting for because I was on the NC Digital Library’s hold lift for months. They should have access to more books!
The mysteries in this book (and all Susan Boyer’s books) are more complicated than Janet E’s books but very relatable. And they must be worth waiting for because I was on the NC Digital Library’s hold lift for months. They should have access to more books!
September 5, 2020
Not my favorite, but I still thoroughly enjoy this series.
July 10, 2020
Susan M. Boyer does it again!!! I can't wait to see what she has in store for Liz and Nate next!!
October 25, 2020
I’ve enjoyed this series for the most part. Some are better than others per usual with series. However, this may be the last for me because I found this storyline and characters to be very boring. It was hard to pick back up and finish.
January 8, 2024
3.5 stars
July 2, 2020
Susan does it again! I am a sucker for the lowcountry mysteries and have come to love Liz and Nate (and Colleen). Full of the usual mystery and suspense you'd expect coupled with the awesomeness that is Liz's family, this one had me turning pages until the very end... And as usual I'm looking forward to what is next for Liz & Nate. I don't want to share any spoilers for those who haven't read the series or this book but you may want to have some tissues handy because this one had me in my feelings, too. Thank you to Edelweiss, the author and publisher for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
July 3, 2020
(Note: I just read that some of the books have a mistaken message that this is the last book of the series, the author says it is definitely NOT the last book. There will be many more Yay!) Oh my goodness! These books just keep getting better and better! I could hardly put this one down, I got so wrapped up in this story! Ms. Boyer has such a genuine love of the Lowcountry. Her location descriptions just make me feel like I’m back home (I’m from Mt. Pleasant). The things her momma says and the way she says them just make me laugh out loud. Her main characters of Liz and Nate are just good people who live exciting lives. If you like Southern cozy mysteries by Southern authors, small towns where everyone knows everyone else, people who care deeply for their family and friends, folks who do the right thing and surprise endings, then you need to read this series now!!!
July 1, 2020
Love this series
I would like thank Susan M Boyer and Henry Press for my advanced review copy of Boondoggle. This is a wonderful series. Each book in the series just gets better than last. Susan M. Boyer writes with such detail about all places in the book that you can really picture everything and feel like you are write there with Liz and Nate while the investigate.
I love the side stories about Liz's family and Coleen. All the crazy schemes her dad comes up that drive her mom crazy....And her friendship with Coleen that continues even after death.....
The twist and turns in the plot make you second guess your choice of who the murderer and motive are and then second guess that guess again. Even though there are plenty of plot twist there aren't so many that it leaves feeling turned around and confused. Everything is very smooth and plausible and streams together smoothly.
The only problem I have with this series is waiting on the next book.....
I would like thank Susan M Boyer and Henry Press for my advanced review copy of Boondoggle. This is a wonderful series. Each book in the series just gets better than last. Susan M. Boyer writes with such detail about all places in the book that you can really picture everything and feel like you are write there with Liz and Nate while the investigate.
I love the side stories about Liz's family and Coleen. All the crazy schemes her dad comes up that drive her mom crazy....And her friendship with Coleen that continues even after death.....
The twist and turns in the plot make you second guess your choice of who the murderer and motive are and then second guess that guess again. Even though there are plenty of plot twist there aren't so many that it leaves feeling turned around and confused. Everything is very smooth and plausible and streams together smoothly.
The only problem I have with this series is waiting on the next book.....
July 22, 2020
Where to even start with this book? I was hesitant to read it so quickly because I thought it was going to be the last book in the series but I was beyond excited when I read the dedication page and saw that it was not the last book! I have to say that this is probably my favorite series and this book lives up to the high standard that the previous books set.
This series has it all: fantastic characters that seem so real, great mysteries that really get your mind going, lots of adventure and subterfuge, and an amazing setting in Stella Maris that makes me want to move their. I loved this book and thought the mysteries within were really well done. It kept me guessing until the very end. I can’t wait to read more in this series. I am SO happy it is continuing!
This series has it all: fantastic characters that seem so real, great mysteries that really get your mind going, lots of adventure and subterfuge, and an amazing setting in Stella Maris that makes me want to move their. I loved this book and thought the mysteries within were really well done. It kept me guessing until the very end. I can’t wait to read more in this series. I am SO happy it is continuing!
May 21, 2021
Once again, I enjoyed my visit to Stella Maris, South Carolina. Catching up with PIs, Liz Talbot, her husband Nate and their friends and families is always interesting. In this outing, Liz and Nate are hired by celebrity Darius Baker to prove that his newly discovered son, was not involved in either his adoptive family's death nor the death of his friend's uncle. Brantley and two of his friends are starting up a Hemp Farm to sell the stems to make parts for technology. They have been trying to round up investors and Professor Hamilton had recently turned them down. As it turns out, there are others who may have wanted him dead, so Liz, Nate and ghostly friend Colleen set out to find the killer.
I always enjoy Liz and Nate’s adventures. This is the ninth book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. You will miss some character development on the personal side of the characters, but you will still be able to enjoy this story. Susan Boyer does a great job balancing the characters personal lives and the mystery. I enjoy the many quirky characters that we meet in these stories, although this one follows Liz and Nate more closely than some of the others. There is always some humour in these stories and this one is no exception. I love how Nate and Liz look out for each other, but also have the same concerns and disagreements that other married couples have. The mystery is well-plotted with some red herrings that kept me guessing. I did figure out who the killer was just before the reveal, and there was quite a twist at the end. Another well written story by Susan M. Boyer. I definitely recommend this series, especially if you enjoy a southern setting in your mystery. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
I always enjoy Liz and Nate’s adventures. This is the ninth book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. You will miss some character development on the personal side of the characters, but you will still be able to enjoy this story. Susan Boyer does a great job balancing the characters personal lives and the mystery. I enjoy the many quirky characters that we meet in these stories, although this one follows Liz and Nate more closely than some of the others. There is always some humour in these stories and this one is no exception. I love how Nate and Liz look out for each other, but also have the same concerns and disagreements that other married couples have. The mystery is well-plotted with some red herrings that kept me guessing. I did figure out who the killer was just before the reveal, and there was quite a twist at the end. Another well written story by Susan M. Boyer. I definitely recommend this series, especially if you enjoy a southern setting in your mystery. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
June 6, 2020
Thank you to Edelweiss, Susan M. Boyer, and the publisher for my advanced review copy. This review is totally my own.
I love most book set in the Lowcountry and have been a big fan of the Liz Talbot Mystery series from Book 1. I have called Charleston home for 5 years and love the accurate detail Susan puts into her books about the city, the culture, and food. I have discovered many new restaurants through her books, even though I live here. I'll be trying Cru very soon. =)
All of the Liz Talbot books are very fast paced and exciting, Boondoggle is no exception. I couldn't put it down and stayed up until 5AM to finish it in one day. From the beginning, I was trying to figure out "who dunnit" and was completely surprised by the outcome. Liz and Nate, their family, and friends are such characters...unique, endearing, and believable.
At one point, I believe that this was planned to be the final novel in the series. That would've made me so sad because there are obviously many more tales to be told. I'm thrilled this won't be the end of the road for Stella Maris and its charming inhabitants.
I love most book set in the Lowcountry and have been a big fan of the Liz Talbot Mystery series from Book 1. I have called Charleston home for 5 years and love the accurate detail Susan puts into her books about the city, the culture, and food. I have discovered many new restaurants through her books, even though I live here. I'll be trying Cru very soon. =)
All of the Liz Talbot books are very fast paced and exciting, Boondoggle is no exception. I couldn't put it down and stayed up until 5AM to finish it in one day. From the beginning, I was trying to figure out "who dunnit" and was completely surprised by the outcome. Liz and Nate, their family, and friends are such characters...unique, endearing, and believable.
At one point, I believe that this was planned to be the final novel in the series. That would've made me so sad because there are obviously many more tales to be told. I'm thrilled this won't be the end of the road for Stella Maris and its charming inhabitants.
July 2, 2020
Wow! Susan Boyer has stolen my heart once again! Each book in this amazing series gets even better if that’s even possible! Book 9 in this series totally had me hooked and I read it in a sitting! Liz and Nate find themselves deep into a mystery they thought they had solved! As they keep digging to find the truth will it make Liz wish she had not figured it out? You must read this amazing series Ivd come to love so much!! I highly recommend this series to Everyone! Thank you to the publisher for my copy as this was a delightful read! All thoughts are mine and mine alone.
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