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Zoe Chambers Mysteries #6
Uneasy Prey
On the way to the emergency room, an elderly woman regains consciousness long enough to inform paramedic Zoe Chambers that her fall down the basement steps was no accident. Before she can say more, she succumbs to her injuries, launching Zoe and Police Chief Pete Adams into the investigation of a burglary ring targeting the area’s vulnerable senior citizens.
Zoe—in spite of Pete’s objections—takes it upon herself to act as protection detail after the con men, disguised as water company employees, set their sights on Zoe’s beloved former landlady. It’s a decision that eventually puts Zoe in harm’s way.
With Zoe already recovering from one close call, Pete must race against time to stop the crime ring—and a dangerous killer—before they strike again.
RUNNING TIME ⇒ 10hrs. and 37mins.
©2018 Annette Dashofy (P)2018 Tantor
Zoe—in spite of Pete’s objections—takes it upon herself to act as protection detail after the con men, disguised as water company employees, set their sights on Zoe’s beloved former landlady. It’s a decision that eventually puts Zoe in harm’s way.
With Zoe already recovering from one close call, Pete must race against time to stop the crime ring—and a dangerous killer—before they strike again.
RUNNING TIME ⇒ 10hrs. and 37mins.
©2018 Annette Dashofy (P)2018 Tantor
Audible Audio
First published March 27, 2018
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About the author
Annette Dashofy
24 books506 followersAnnette Dashofy is the USA Today best-selling author of 18 mystery/thriller novels. She won the 2021 Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award and has multiple Agatha Award nominations. Annette and her husband live on ten acres of what was her grandfather’s dairy farm in southwestern Pennsylvania with their very spoiled cat, Kensi.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
April 22, 2022
Zoe Chambers is back to work after a couple of months of medical leave, and her first night back in the ambulance finds her taking a call for an elderly woman who fell down the stairs in her house. On her way to the hospital, she revives enough to say she was pushed, but then she passed out again. When she dies, Zoe’s boyfriend, Police Chief Pete Adams, becomes involved. The investigation quickly leads to the thieves who are targeting the elderly in the area. Can Pete and Zoe catch them before they strike again?
Every time I pick up one of these books, I’m reminded why I enjoy them. Zoe and Pete are both strong, and they share main character duties. I love seeing the story unfold from both of their point-of-views, and it is always easy to follow whose head we are in. The story includes a couple of sub-plots that help draw us into the story, and I had a hard time putting the book down. The twists kept coming until the end. The characters are all strong whether returning or new. I did get a little frustrated with Pete at one point, but it was a minor point. These books are a tad darker than the books I normally read, and they have a shade more language and violence as well, but that’s worth noting only in passing. I hope I get a chance to pick up the next in the series soon.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Every time I pick up one of these books, I’m reminded why I enjoy them. Zoe and Pete are both strong, and they share main character duties. I love seeing the story unfold from both of their point-of-views, and it is always easy to follow whose head we are in. The story includes a couple of sub-plots that help draw us into the story, and I had a hard time putting the book down. The twists kept coming until the end. The characters are all strong whether returning or new. I did get a little frustrated with Pete at one point, but it was a minor point. These books are a tad darker than the books I normally read, and they have a shade more language and violence as well, but that’s worth noting only in passing. I hope I get a chance to pick up the next in the series soon.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
February 24, 2018
Uneasy Prey (Zoe Chambers Mysteries #6) by Annette Dashofy is an eye-opening story that will leave the reader shaking their heads in amazement.
For anyone with elderly relatives, the idea of them being conned is heartbreaking. Annette Dashofy takes the reader into the cruel world of conning- where young men are posing as utility workers to gain access into the homes of the elderly.
When Zoe Chambers arrives on scene and the elderly neighbor whispers, " I was pushed...I didn't fall," Zoe can only use her common sense to try and find the answers, before it's too late.
This story was so good, I didn't want to put it down. AS much as I wanted to keep reading, sleep invaded my reading time and I had to put it down.
I am relatively new to this author and this series, but I am hooked on this series and enjoy the free flowing way the author writes. Her writing style seems effortless and when I meet up with Zoe and Pete, I feel a certain kinship to them.
This is an exceptional story that will appeal to all readers of this genre.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the author and NetGalley.
For anyone with elderly relatives, the idea of them being conned is heartbreaking. Annette Dashofy takes the reader into the cruel world of conning- where young men are posing as utility workers to gain access into the homes of the elderly.
When Zoe Chambers arrives on scene and the elderly neighbor whispers, " I was pushed...I didn't fall," Zoe can only use her common sense to try and find the answers, before it's too late.
This story was so good, I didn't want to put it down. AS much as I wanted to keep reading, sleep invaded my reading time and I had to put it down.
I am relatively new to this author and this series, but I am hooked on this series and enjoy the free flowing way the author writes. Her writing style seems effortless and when I meet up with Zoe and Pete, I feel a certain kinship to them.
This is an exceptional story that will appeal to all readers of this genre.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the author and NetGalley.
March 24, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Someone is preying on senior citizens and Zoe isn’t going to stand for it, especially after one woman dies and her friend Sylvia Bassi may be their next target. Then she learns Mrs. Kroll has had a visit from the burglars too. Her boyfriend, Police Chief Pete Adams, wants Zoe to stay out of it but she moves out of his house and back in with Mrs. Kroll to keep her safe. Pete also has his hands full with his father who has Alzheimer’s. His sister, Nadine has decided it is time to move their dad into an assisted living facility. There is also a new newspaper reporter in town and she is not warmly welcomed by Zoe or Pete, but she keeps showing up everywhere they are.
I love this series and these characters. The character development that has taken place over the six books is phenomenal. Zoe has just a warm heart and always tries to the right thing, even when the right thing puts her in danger. Pete loves her so much, but he has reason to worry about her. She has racked up quite a few injuries herself. He appreciates her intellect and the way she doesn’t give up. He loves her for her independence but has a hard time with some of her decisions. Like any real-life couple, they have their up and downs. They are surrounded by a strong supporting cast that makes these stories even more real.
This time Ms. Dashofy has taken on some hot topics. Criminals do prey on the elderly. What happens in this story could happen in any town, anywhere. She also shines the light on a hard decision families must make when their parents and grandparents can no longer live a home. When Nadine faces the truth that she can no longer care for their father, Harry, and informs Pete about an appointment to visit an assisted living center, Pete is not happy. He doesn’t want to put his dad in a nursing home. When he visits the center he sees the difference between a nursing home and the type of center his sister has chosen for their dad he starts to see his dad’s future home in a new light. It does take a bit of time for Harry to get comfortable but he does make a friend right away. The two topics come together nicely.
There is also a surprise visit from Zoe’s mother that made things very interesting and at times pretty funny. She arrives just in time to help Zoe handle a horsey situation.
Uneasy Prey was a wonderful read. Well-written with a strong plot and supreme characters that kept me totally entertained start to finish.
Someone is preying on senior citizens and Zoe isn’t going to stand for it, especially after one woman dies and her friend Sylvia Bassi may be their next target. Then she learns Mrs. Kroll has had a visit from the burglars too. Her boyfriend, Police Chief Pete Adams, wants Zoe to stay out of it but she moves out of his house and back in with Mrs. Kroll to keep her safe. Pete also has his hands full with his father who has Alzheimer’s. His sister, Nadine has decided it is time to move their dad into an assisted living facility. There is also a new newspaper reporter in town and she is not warmly welcomed by Zoe or Pete, but she keeps showing up everywhere they are.
I love this series and these characters. The character development that has taken place over the six books is phenomenal. Zoe has just a warm heart and always tries to the right thing, even when the right thing puts her in danger. Pete loves her so much, but he has reason to worry about her. She has racked up quite a few injuries herself. He appreciates her intellect and the way she doesn’t give up. He loves her for her independence but has a hard time with some of her decisions. Like any real-life couple, they have their up and downs. They are surrounded by a strong supporting cast that makes these stories even more real.
This time Ms. Dashofy has taken on some hot topics. Criminals do prey on the elderly. What happens in this story could happen in any town, anywhere. She also shines the light on a hard decision families must make when their parents and grandparents can no longer live a home. When Nadine faces the truth that she can no longer care for their father, Harry, and informs Pete about an appointment to visit an assisted living center, Pete is not happy. He doesn’t want to put his dad in a nursing home. When he visits the center he sees the difference between a nursing home and the type of center his sister has chosen for their dad he starts to see his dad’s future home in a new light. It does take a bit of time for Harry to get comfortable but he does make a friend right away. The two topics come together nicely.
There is also a surprise visit from Zoe’s mother that made things very interesting and at times pretty funny. She arrives just in time to help Zoe handle a horsey situation.
Uneasy Prey was a wonderful read. Well-written with a strong plot and supreme characters that kept me totally entertained start to finish.
February 5, 2018
The Zoe Chamber series keeps getting better with every book. This book deals with several problems of the aging.
A lot is happening in Monongahela County, Zoe had returned to her job as a pre-medic. In a case, the victim whispers that someone pitched her down the stairs. Her body shows hand marks on her arms that help to validate the tale. Police chief Pete Adams' father is moved into an assisted living home. The Knolls farm has been sold and Zoe must find and move her horse in two weeks. The major case is two thugs casing the homes of the elderly and returning later when the occupants are not at home and robbing them of the valuables. The ending will surprise (it did me) but there are no cliffhangers.I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book and series.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Henery Press for my copy for a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
A lot is happening in Monongahela County, Zoe had returned to her job as a pre-medic. In a case, the victim whispers that someone pitched her down the stairs. Her body shows hand marks on her arms that help to validate the tale. Police chief Pete Adams' father is moved into an assisted living home. The Knolls farm has been sold and Zoe must find and move her horse in two weeks. The major case is two thugs casing the homes of the elderly and returning later when the occupants are not at home and robbing them of the valuables. The ending will surprise (it did me) but there are no cliffhangers.I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book and series.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Henery Press for my copy for a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
February 10, 2018
UNEASY PREY by Annette Dashofy
“Didn’t fall, I was pushed.” — and so begins a painful and frustrating search for those who take advantage of elders, “easy prey . . . or uneasy prey might be more accurate.” Lessons learned from this book include horse terms like “flake of hay” and “lunge her first to wear her down” — and important life lessons, don’t open doors to strangers, don’t judge hastily by appearances, and look out for each other.
I love that Zoe cares about everyone, even those who don’t seem to deserve it, and that everyone in her circle, especially Pete, looks out for everyone else. I did not like that the pushy reporter delayed calling 911; I would not want her to “have my six.” People I love, a most intriguing plot, and writing that flows to a gripping ending made this a most satisfying book. Here’s a favorite bit of description, “Without wind to swirl the stuff, the snowfall created a translucent screen.”
I’m sad that it’s over, though parts are still replaying in my mind, and I can hardly wait for the next one. All main points are resolved (important to me; I hate cliffhanger endings), but there are threads that will lead on.
Will Zoe and her mom learn to be nice to each other? Will the farm get fixed up enough to work for horses and for Zoe? Has Pete’s dad (like son, like father, “you dog, you”) found a happy new home and lady friend? I hope so. I LIKE these people and wish them well.
A part of me wants to move to Pennsylvania and keep horses. Thanks to this book, I can do so vicariously.
“Didn’t fall, I was pushed.” — and so begins a painful and frustrating search for those who take advantage of elders, “easy prey . . . or uneasy prey might be more accurate.” Lessons learned from this book include horse terms like “flake of hay” and “lunge her first to wear her down” — and important life lessons, don’t open doors to strangers, don’t judge hastily by appearances, and look out for each other.
I love that Zoe cares about everyone, even those who don’t seem to deserve it, and that everyone in her circle, especially Pete, looks out for everyone else. I did not like that the pushy reporter delayed calling 911; I would not want her to “have my six.” People I love, a most intriguing plot, and writing that flows to a gripping ending made this a most satisfying book. Here’s a favorite bit of description, “Without wind to swirl the stuff, the snowfall created a translucent screen.”
I’m sad that it’s over, though parts are still replaying in my mind, and I can hardly wait for the next one. All main points are resolved (important to me; I hate cliffhanger endings), but there are threads that will lead on.
Will Zoe and her mom learn to be nice to each other? Will the farm get fixed up enough to work for horses and for Zoe? Has Pete’s dad (like son, like father, “you dog, you”) found a happy new home and lady friend? I hope so. I LIKE these people and wish them well.
A part of me wants to move to Pennsylvania and keep horses. Thanks to this book, I can do so vicariously.
March 24, 2018
Uneasy Prey
Zoe Chambers Mysteries, Book #6
Annette Dashofy
5+ Stars
Synopsis:
On the way to the emergency room, an elderly woman regains consciousness long enough to inform paramedic Zoe Chambers that her fall down the basement steps was no accident. Before she can say more, she succumbs to her injuries, launching Zoe and Police Chief Pete Adams into the investigation of a burglary ring targeting the area’s vulnerable senior citizens.
Zoe—in spite of Pete’s objections—takes it upon herself to act as protection detail after the con men, disguised as water company employees, set their sights on Zoe’s beloved former landlady. It’s a decision that eventually puts Zoe in harm’s way.
With Zoe already recovering from one close call, Pete must race against time to stop the crime ring—and a dangerous killer—before they strike again. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed, well rounded and three dimensional. I think that Zoe and Pete are some of my all time favorite characters. Individually they are both loyal, tough, caring and hard working. As a couple they are loving, unsure and totally devoted to each other. But they also have problems like everyone else. They have family problems that they try to tackle together and they can be stubborn to a fault. I just love Pete’s father, Harry. He reminds me so much of my own father and it was bittersweet reading about him and his problems.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. I felt the style of writing allowed my to get a very clear picture of the characters from their actions and words. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I felt like I was right there, watching the snow swirl around and watching all of the action taking place.
The mystery was well plotted and carried on well throughout the whole book. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through. The mystery was not an easy one to solve and I was surprised who the culprit was.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With fantastic characters, a realistic setting and a top notch mystery, there is not one thing I would change about this book. The whole series is not-to-be-missed.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Henery Press, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
Zoe Chambers Mysteries, Book #6
Annette Dashofy
5+ Stars
Synopsis:
On the way to the emergency room, an elderly woman regains consciousness long enough to inform paramedic Zoe Chambers that her fall down the basement steps was no accident. Before she can say more, she succumbs to her injuries, launching Zoe and Police Chief Pete Adams into the investigation of a burglary ring targeting the area’s vulnerable senior citizens.
Zoe—in spite of Pete’s objections—takes it upon herself to act as protection detail after the con men, disguised as water company employees, set their sights on Zoe’s beloved former landlady. It’s a decision that eventually puts Zoe in harm’s way.
With Zoe already recovering from one close call, Pete must race against time to stop the crime ring—and a dangerous killer—before they strike again. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed, well rounded and three dimensional. I think that Zoe and Pete are some of my all time favorite characters. Individually they are both loyal, tough, caring and hard working. As a couple they are loving, unsure and totally devoted to each other. But they also have problems like everyone else. They have family problems that they try to tackle together and they can be stubborn to a fault. I just love Pete’s father, Harry. He reminds me so much of my own father and it was bittersweet reading about him and his problems.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. I felt the style of writing allowed my to get a very clear picture of the characters from their actions and words. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I felt like I was right there, watching the snow swirl around and watching all of the action taking place.
The mystery was well plotted and carried on well throughout the whole book. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through. The mystery was not an easy one to solve and I was surprised who the culprit was.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With fantastic characters, a realistic setting and a top notch mystery, there is not one thing I would change about this book. The whole series is not-to-be-missed.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Henery Press, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
August 28, 2018
This series gets better with each book. Zoe Chambers, EMT and deputy coroner, returns to her job as EMT after recuperating from knee injury. She immediately gets involved in incidents of elders being scammed and robbed in their rural community. When Zoe attends an incident of a senior falling down the stairs she is concerned about the woman. Before transporting her to the hospital she says, “Didn’t fall, I was pushed.” Zoe is not not only on the case of the scammer and thefts, but they are now murderers. Pete is also dealing with his father's move to an assisted living facility. His father has alzheimers and thinks someone at "the hotel he is staying in" is killing the guests. Is there something happening at the residence?
Zoe is one of my favorite characters, smart, caring, and her actions always grounded in reality. She is an amateur sleuth to some degree, but with her job as deputy coroner, she is entitled to information. While the mystery is exceptionally good, the underlying framework of dealing with aging loved ones pushes it over the top. I did figure out who the perpetrator was, but did not know why or how some of the other suspects fit into the mystery. The ending was sad but tied all the loose ends together. The other characters, the police, EMTs, Zoe's cousin and the other residents of Mongahela County, are all realistic, small town friendly and people I would love to know. I highly recommend this book and series.
Zoe is one of my favorite characters, smart, caring, and her actions always grounded in reality. She is an amateur sleuth to some degree, but with her job as deputy coroner, she is entitled to information. While the mystery is exceptionally good, the underlying framework of dealing with aging loved ones pushes it over the top. I did figure out who the perpetrator was, but did not know why or how some of the other suspects fit into the mystery. The ending was sad but tied all the loose ends together. The other characters, the police, EMTs, Zoe's cousin and the other residents of Mongahela County, are all realistic, small town friendly and people I would love to know. I highly recommend this book and series.
March 21, 2018
This series just keeps getting better! Zoe Chambers, coming back to her job as EMT after recuperating from knee injury, immediately gets involved in incidents of elders being scammed and robbed in their rural community. Zoe is one of my favorite characters, smart and caring, and her actions always grounded in reality. While the mystery is exceptionally good, with me totally guessing wrong who was responsible, what elevates this story is the underlying framework of dealing with aging loved ones.Highly recommended!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 19, 2018
I can't believe the author has written a book that is even better than the last. I love the series and Zoe has to be hands down one of the best characters I have read. She is stubborn, smart and very protective of her family and friends. I'm not sure how I feel about her mom though. She seems to be so unfeeling at times and selfish. She does add a bit of tension to the story which I found to be good. It is always interesting to read about family dynamics. Zoe, thankfully is nothing like her mother at all.
This story in the series involves the elderly and I thought the story line was very realistic. We read in the paper or hear on the news about break ins where the victims are elderly people with no way to defend themselves. Zoe is very concerned because the people who are getting robbed are her friends. One of the robberies ends in a tragedy that sets off a series of almost hysteria in the small town. Is anyone safe from the burglars? Why would someone target the elderly? The author gives readers a story that goes from burglary to murder and reaches a heightened sense of danger. I love reading books by the author because she writes with accuracy and true to life stories. I love that she can make a story jump off the pages and keep you guessing to the end.
I was so sure I had figured out what was going on, but I was way off base. That's the beauty of a well written story with twists that convince you that a certain person is guilty. I was quite intrigued by the news reporter in the story. She is one sneaky and crafty woman. I didn't trust her at all. She had this way of always knowing what was going on before others did. Where was she getting her information? Could she somehow be involved in the crimes going on? The tension between her and Zoe is very evident and I felt chills every time they came in contact.
Once again Pete has his hands full trying to keep Zoe from investigating what is going on. He is such a good man and I love the patience he has with Zoe. Will Zoe find herself in danger as she stubbornly continue to help investigate the rash of burglaries? Can Pete and his officers solve the crime before more elderly people are robbed or hurt? It's a race against the clock as the story reaches an unexpected turn of events. This one is a real page turner and unexpected surprises that ends with a bang.
I received a copy of this book from The Great Escapes Book Tours. The review is my own opinion.
This story in the series involves the elderly and I thought the story line was very realistic. We read in the paper or hear on the news about break ins where the victims are elderly people with no way to defend themselves. Zoe is very concerned because the people who are getting robbed are her friends. One of the robberies ends in a tragedy that sets off a series of almost hysteria in the small town. Is anyone safe from the burglars? Why would someone target the elderly? The author gives readers a story that goes from burglary to murder and reaches a heightened sense of danger. I love reading books by the author because she writes with accuracy and true to life stories. I love that she can make a story jump off the pages and keep you guessing to the end.
I was so sure I had figured out what was going on, but I was way off base. That's the beauty of a well written story with twists that convince you that a certain person is guilty. I was quite intrigued by the news reporter in the story. She is one sneaky and crafty woman. I didn't trust her at all. She had this way of always knowing what was going on before others did. Where was she getting her information? Could she somehow be involved in the crimes going on? The tension between her and Zoe is very evident and I felt chills every time they came in contact.
Once again Pete has his hands full trying to keep Zoe from investigating what is going on. He is such a good man and I love the patience he has with Zoe. Will Zoe find herself in danger as she stubbornly continue to help investigate the rash of burglaries? Can Pete and his officers solve the crime before more elderly people are robbed or hurt? It's a race against the clock as the story reaches an unexpected turn of events. This one is a real page turner and unexpected surprises that ends with a bang.
I received a copy of this book from The Great Escapes Book Tours. The review is my own opinion.
March 14, 2018
This was the first Zoe Chambers book I had read, and hopefully will not be the last. Although there are several references to events in previous stories, this book can easily be read as a stand-alone, as the knowledge needed is quickly and skilfully woven into the narrative.
Zoe Chambers is a paramedic, and while on a call-out to an elderly lady, who was found collapsed in the basement, discovers that 1) the old lady did not fall and 2) that con men, posing as water company employees, are targeting the local elderly. As more and more elderly are robbed and traumatised, including some of her close friends, Zoe and her boyfriend, Police Chief Pete Adams, set about trying to catch the con men before any more old people are hurt.
Unlike many crime novels today, there are no serial or depraved killers and no salacious descriptions, but the crimes and their effects on their victims are more poignant, because you can clearly imagine them taking place in your neighbourhood, and to people that you know and care about.
The book is fast paced and keeps your interest throughout, as the criminals always seem to be one step ahead of the police and show no sign of slowing down their crime wave. There are little side stories too, that add to the idea of this being a normal, every-day, believable community: bullying at school, difficulties of lone parenting, finding and paying for suitable care for elderly relatives (and horses), Alzheimer’s, bereavement, intra-familial conflict; suspicions aroused by new people in town …Each of these may – or may not – be relevant to solving the crimes, but all add to your interest in the characters and the world of the story.
The book has a full complement of elderly characters: there are the fiercely independent; those that rely totally on relatives; those looking for a second chance at love and/or companionship; those still in love; some actually with fading mental faculties – and some just pretending; those wanting to stay in their own home regardless of the wisdom of doing so – and those ready to move on; the lonely and the gregarious. They all seemed so familiar to me. I feel the author, must really enjoy being around old people, to be able to depict them with such empathy and authenticity. I loved the quote from one elder: “All you kids look young to me. I could swear my doctor can’t be more than twelve.”
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good crime novel, and particularly to those who either are, or have friends that are, in advanced years.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Zoe Chambers is a paramedic, and while on a call-out to an elderly lady, who was found collapsed in the basement, discovers that 1) the old lady did not fall and 2) that con men, posing as water company employees, are targeting the local elderly. As more and more elderly are robbed and traumatised, including some of her close friends, Zoe and her boyfriend, Police Chief Pete Adams, set about trying to catch the con men before any more old people are hurt.
Unlike many crime novels today, there are no serial or depraved killers and no salacious descriptions, but the crimes and their effects on their victims are more poignant, because you can clearly imagine them taking place in your neighbourhood, and to people that you know and care about.
The book is fast paced and keeps your interest throughout, as the criminals always seem to be one step ahead of the police and show no sign of slowing down their crime wave. There are little side stories too, that add to the idea of this being a normal, every-day, believable community: bullying at school, difficulties of lone parenting, finding and paying for suitable care for elderly relatives (and horses), Alzheimer’s, bereavement, intra-familial conflict; suspicions aroused by new people in town …Each of these may – or may not – be relevant to solving the crimes, but all add to your interest in the characters and the world of the story.
The book has a full complement of elderly characters: there are the fiercely independent; those that rely totally on relatives; those looking for a second chance at love and/or companionship; those still in love; some actually with fading mental faculties – and some just pretending; those wanting to stay in their own home regardless of the wisdom of doing so – and those ready to move on; the lonely and the gregarious. They all seemed so familiar to me. I feel the author, must really enjoy being around old people, to be able to depict them with such empathy and authenticity. I loved the quote from one elder: “All you kids look young to me. I could swear my doctor can’t be more than twelve.”
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good crime novel, and particularly to those who either are, or have friends that are, in advanced years.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
March 30, 2018
Uneasy Prey (Zoe Chambers Mysteries #6) by author Annette Dashofy is another easy to read mystery. I enjoy the Zoe Chambers mysteries and in Uneasy Prey she has more than one mystery to solve. Senior citizens who live in the rural communities of Monongahela County are being victimized by an organized team of burglars. They first receive an unexpected visit from 'employees' of the water company needing to make an in-home inspection. Then when the residents are away from home, they return to find their homes ransacked and all their valuables have been stolen. The crimes escalate when the paramedics are called to the home of Oriole Andrews and she regains consciousness long enough to tell Zoe she didn't fall but was pushed down the basement stairs. Zoe wants to find the truth of this matter and soon there are more characters in town with secrets.
I won't post spoilers, but poor Zoe trudges through the snow more than once as she tries to help her friends and neighbors. Oh-No...another serious injury for Zoe!
The mysteries are not the only theme of this story. Pete's father is having more problems with his memory. Pete's sister Nadine is exhausted with the full-time caregiver responsibilities of their father. Pete is resistant to placing their father in an assisted-living facility. This part of the story upset me because I know the exhaustion and emotional stress of being a full-time caregiver to a parent with memory issues. This is a very real problem for families across the country. What will Pete do about his father?
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I won't post spoilers, but poor Zoe trudges through the snow more than once as she tries to help her friends and neighbors. Oh-No...another serious injury for Zoe!
The mysteries are not the only theme of this story. Pete's father is having more problems with his memory. Pete's sister Nadine is exhausted with the full-time caregiver responsibilities of their father. Pete is resistant to placing their father in an assisted-living facility. This part of the story upset me because I know the exhaustion and emotional stress of being a full-time caregiver to a parent with memory issues. This is a very real problem for families across the country. What will Pete do about his father?
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 18, 2018
I love this series. This book was complex and simple and all the things you want in a mystery.
March 10, 2018
Zoe Chambers is a paramedic in Pennsylvania. Just as she's back to work after recovering from an injury, she receives a call that an ambulance is needed at elderly widow Oriole Andrews' home. When she and her co-worker Earl arrive, they find Oriole at the bottom of the basement stairs, where she's apparently taken a nasty fall. Oriole's granddaughter Janie is distraught and tells them she found her that way. But on the way to the hospital, Oriole regains consciousness and tells Zoe she was pushed; but dies before she can tell them who did it.
Concerned, Zoe shares this information with Police Chief Pete Adams, who is also Zoe's live-in boyfriend. What Zoe learns later is that con men posing as water department employees are targeting elderly people and burglarizing them. When Zoe's friends the Krolls have a run-in with the thieves, Zoe decides to temporarily stay with them to keep them safe.
But Pete has problems of his own. His sister Nadine is falling apart caring for their elderly father Harry, who has Alzheimer's, so makes the decision to put him in an assisted-living facility. The one she's chosen is Golden Oaks, and it's as nice as they come, even though Pete knows Harry would still be happier at home. But just when he thinks it's not going to work out, Harry sees his across-the-hall neighbor Barbara and becomes instantly smitten. So, for the time being at least, Pete's mind is at rest.
But then the retired town police dispatcher Sylvia makes a call to the station that the con men have come to her home, too, and Zoe and Pete rush to her side. While there, she has what appears to be a heart attack, and while they're at the hospital, she's also burglarized.
Not to help the situation is a reporter who's come to town, Lauren Sanders, and she won't give up on the case. She's there at every turn Pete or Zoe makes, and they begin to wonder how she knows what's going on and why she's around every corner. They wonder if she's involved somehow; and Janie's son Marcus is getting into fights at school, which only complicates things. Now Zoe and Pete both have their hands full, trying to find these guys and handle everything before someone else is killed...
I have always enjoyed the Zoe Chambers books; and each time I read one I remember why. The plot is well-thought out and the characters are full of life. Zoe and Pete have their new live-in relationship pretty well navigated, and now they have new problems with needing Pete's dad to go to a new place to live and Zoe worried about the Krolls, her ex-landlords. It doesn't help that Oriole's granddaughter's son is acting up at school, nor that attractive reporter Lauren Sanders appears to be flirting with Pete in order to get information. Along again is Monongahela County Detective Wayne Baronick, who's also investigating the burglaries, and while sometimes a thorn in Pete's side, he's grateful that Wayne's there to help.
Pennsylvania's winter countryside covered with snow cannot be easy to navigate, and can be treacherous; and Ms. Dashofy's descriptions are vibrant and enough to make you feel the cold along with the characters. The people in the book seem real and convincing; each has a definite personality and draw you into the book along with them.
The mystery itself is woven tightly and with many threads; when it at last all comes together and you see how everything - even what seems trivial - connects, it is definitely a pleasing outcome to an admirable story. Ms. Dashofy is an excellent writer with a broad imagination that makes you want to read her books more than once.
At the end, it is rather sad on the paths life can take us, and how even the smallest decision can color everything we do. While sadness does reign, there is also happiness to be found, and this was indeed a very good book and I look forward to the next in the series. Highly recommended.
Concerned, Zoe shares this information with Police Chief Pete Adams, who is also Zoe's live-in boyfriend. What Zoe learns later is that con men posing as water department employees are targeting elderly people and burglarizing them. When Zoe's friends the Krolls have a run-in with the thieves, Zoe decides to temporarily stay with them to keep them safe.
But Pete has problems of his own. His sister Nadine is falling apart caring for their elderly father Harry, who has Alzheimer's, so makes the decision to put him in an assisted-living facility. The one she's chosen is Golden Oaks, and it's as nice as they come, even though Pete knows Harry would still be happier at home. But just when he thinks it's not going to work out, Harry sees his across-the-hall neighbor Barbara and becomes instantly smitten. So, for the time being at least, Pete's mind is at rest.
But then the retired town police dispatcher Sylvia makes a call to the station that the con men have come to her home, too, and Zoe and Pete rush to her side. While there, she has what appears to be a heart attack, and while they're at the hospital, she's also burglarized.
Not to help the situation is a reporter who's come to town, Lauren Sanders, and she won't give up on the case. She's there at every turn Pete or Zoe makes, and they begin to wonder how she knows what's going on and why she's around every corner. They wonder if she's involved somehow; and Janie's son Marcus is getting into fights at school, which only complicates things. Now Zoe and Pete both have their hands full, trying to find these guys and handle everything before someone else is killed...
I have always enjoyed the Zoe Chambers books; and each time I read one I remember why. The plot is well-thought out and the characters are full of life. Zoe and Pete have their new live-in relationship pretty well navigated, and now they have new problems with needing Pete's dad to go to a new place to live and Zoe worried about the Krolls, her ex-landlords. It doesn't help that Oriole's granddaughter's son is acting up at school, nor that attractive reporter Lauren Sanders appears to be flirting with Pete in order to get information. Along again is Monongahela County Detective Wayne Baronick, who's also investigating the burglaries, and while sometimes a thorn in Pete's side, he's grateful that Wayne's there to help.
Pennsylvania's winter countryside covered with snow cannot be easy to navigate, and can be treacherous; and Ms. Dashofy's descriptions are vibrant and enough to make you feel the cold along with the characters. The people in the book seem real and convincing; each has a definite personality and draw you into the book along with them.
The mystery itself is woven tightly and with many threads; when it at last all comes together and you see how everything - even what seems trivial - connects, it is definitely a pleasing outcome to an admirable story. Ms. Dashofy is an excellent writer with a broad imagination that makes you want to read her books more than once.
At the end, it is rather sad on the paths life can take us, and how even the smallest decision can color everything we do. While sadness does reign, there is also happiness to be found, and this was indeed a very good book and I look forward to the next in the series. Highly recommended.
March 22, 2018
Zoe Chambers is returning to work and finds a woman that has died at her home after a robbery... it seems that lately there are some men that enter to houses saying that they are checking the pipes and after a few hours they enter when there's no one inside and steal everything they can. But killing someone is another level... what has happened this time? Did she resist? Maybe the robbers didn't find anything valuable? Enjoy this read and you will discover all the answers! ;)
This had been a quick but interesting read, Zoe Chambers is a character who not only "investigates" murders, but also she loves her friends and family and always takes care of them.
In this case the main story are the robberies and the murder of course, but we will meet again Zoe's mother; as charming as always... and there will be a weird reporter that seems that has a hidden agenda... is she involved in the murder?
We will enjoy a few scenes with the Police Chief Pete Adam, Zoe's boyfriend... but after reading the book I am still wondering if they simply share flat or they have feelings for each other... And I hope we will know more of Pete's father in the next story, seems he has a new friend...!
I don't want to spoil the mystery in this case, but I always love how Zoe treat the elder people, like a normal person, simply taking a little more care to them and making them valuable, really, I think everyone should learn to do the same. This case is quite interesting sharing with us the worries of old people, how they live alone and afraid that someone tries to steal them or how the sons/daughters/nephews they treat them or take care of them.
I really enjoyed the read, the mystery was not very complicate to discover, but is not just the case that interests the reader but all the other secrets that the characters hide.
Ready to be robbed by a white van?
This had been a quick but interesting read, Zoe Chambers is a character who not only "investigates" murders, but also she loves her friends and family and always takes care of them.
In this case the main story are the robberies and the murder of course, but we will meet again Zoe's mother; as charming as always... and there will be a weird reporter that seems that has a hidden agenda... is she involved in the murder?
We will enjoy a few scenes with the Police Chief Pete Adam, Zoe's boyfriend... but after reading the book I am still wondering if they simply share flat or they have feelings for each other... And I hope we will know more of Pete's father in the next story, seems he has a new friend...!
I don't want to spoil the mystery in this case, but I always love how Zoe treat the elder people, like a normal person, simply taking a little more care to them and making them valuable, really, I think everyone should learn to do the same. This case is quite interesting sharing with us the worries of old people, how they live alone and afraid that someone tries to steal them or how the sons/daughters/nephews they treat them or take care of them.
I really enjoyed the read, the mystery was not very complicate to discover, but is not just the case that interests the reader but all the other secrets that the characters hide.
Ready to be robbed by a white van?
March 25, 2018
Reviewed at The Power of Words: https://bit.ly/2pyz4Lh
A poignant, complex story with lots of heart … I read a lot of good mysteries, but every now and then I come across a gem, and that describes Uneasy Prey by Annette Dashofy. This is a moving, touching story that not only entertains, but engages the emotions. Previous events are alluded to, but this book easily stands alone.
Pete, Chief of Police, and Zoe, a paramedic, are strong, appealing characters. They have grown closer and this story focuses on several senior adults in their lives and community. And in that vein, the storyline focuses on something that makes me see red – a scamming scheme targeting the elderly. Other relevant issues come into play, such as bullying, independence, and single parenting.
The tightly-woven mystery itself is exceptional, but it’s the character depth and relationships that make this story so rich. The people and situations are so real that it hardly felt like fiction at times. Dashofy writes in a conversational, effortless style with gentle humor, and there’s no rehashing of thoughts to slow the narrative down.
Uneasy Prey has a satisfying, surprising conclusion with storylines resolved, yet there are some ongoing threads to be developed in future stories – such as Kimberly and Zoe’s mother/daughter relationship, the rundown Engle farm that she deeded over to Zoe, and a certain reporter that grew on me. I look forward to many more stories in this series and plan to read the previous books as well.
Highly recommended.
Note: The only negative for me was the unnecessary use of profanity.
I received a copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
A poignant, complex story with lots of heart … I read a lot of good mysteries, but every now and then I come across a gem, and that describes Uneasy Prey by Annette Dashofy. This is a moving, touching story that not only entertains, but engages the emotions. Previous events are alluded to, but this book easily stands alone.
Pete, Chief of Police, and Zoe, a paramedic, are strong, appealing characters. They have grown closer and this story focuses on several senior adults in their lives and community. And in that vein, the storyline focuses on something that makes me see red – a scamming scheme targeting the elderly. Other relevant issues come into play, such as bullying, independence, and single parenting.
The tightly-woven mystery itself is exceptional, but it’s the character depth and relationships that make this story so rich. The people and situations are so real that it hardly felt like fiction at times. Dashofy writes in a conversational, effortless style with gentle humor, and there’s no rehashing of thoughts to slow the narrative down.
Uneasy Prey has a satisfying, surprising conclusion with storylines resolved, yet there are some ongoing threads to be developed in future stories – such as Kimberly and Zoe’s mother/daughter relationship, the rundown Engle farm that she deeded over to Zoe, and a certain reporter that grew on me. I look forward to many more stories in this series and plan to read the previous books as well.
Highly recommended.
Note: The only negative for me was the unnecessary use of profanity.
I received a copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
September 16, 2018
When I saw this was the 6th book in this series, I went WTF. I read books 2-4. How in the heck did I miss book 5? Grrr
I love this series because its set in Pennsylvania in a made up county which should be somewhere near where I live. That was a huge draw for this series for me. Plus Annette writes SW PA just like it is. I feel like Monongahela County is my county which is Washington County.
This story involves some elderly people being conned and one elderly lady being murdered. This book really hit home, with the subject matter and Pete and his issues with his father with Alzheimer's. As far as mystery series go, this book has to be the most emotional, especially as things progress and you see what's behind some of the crimes.
I don't usually get emotional when reading books like this, but the victim and her family and a man that was close to the victim all play a huge part in this story.
I love Annette's writing. She's created characters where the mystery always feels personal to Zoe and company. Places and people from other books figure in this one as well, especially the Knolls and another farm that Zoe's mom inherited.
I think this series just keeps getting better. The ending had me in tears.
I can't wait for the next book
I love this series because its set in Pennsylvania in a made up county which should be somewhere near where I live. That was a huge draw for this series for me. Plus Annette writes SW PA just like it is. I feel like Monongahela County is my county which is Washington County.
This story involves some elderly people being conned and one elderly lady being murdered. This book really hit home, with the subject matter and Pete and his issues with his father with Alzheimer's. As far as mystery series go, this book has to be the most emotional, especially as things progress and you see what's behind some of the crimes.
I don't usually get emotional when reading books like this, but the victim and her family and a man that was close to the victim all play a huge part in this story.
I love Annette's writing. She's created characters where the mystery always feels personal to Zoe and company. Places and people from other books figure in this one as well, especially the Knolls and another farm that Zoe's mom inherited.
I think this series just keeps getting better. The ending had me in tears.
I can't wait for the next book
March 12, 2018
Uneasy Prey is the sixth book in Annette Dashofy’s Zoe Chambers Mysteries series. The storyline is well plotted and the characters are well developed and complex. There’s a lot going on and this is more intense than most cozy mysteries and contains some adult language. This is a fast paced book and hard to put down, with lots of twists and turns. The books in this series can be read as standalones.
Zoe Chambers is a paramedic and deputy coroner for Monongahela County, Pennsylvania. She loves horses and operates a boarding stable on the Kroll’s property. Pete and his sister, Nadine, are dealing with the emotional issues of placing their father, Harry, who has Alzheimer’s, in an assisted living facility. Zoe’s back to work after a medical leave and her first call out is to Oriole Andrews’s residence. It’s originally thought that Oriole fell down the stairs to the basement until she whispers to Zoe that she was pushed. Pete and Monongahela County Detective Wayne Baronick investigate a burglary ring targeting the area’s senior citizens. The men pretend to be water company representatives to gain access to and scope out the homes before returning to burglarize them. Zoe and Vance Township Police Chief, Pete Adams, recently moved in together and their relationship has grown, so he’s lost and upset when she temporarily moves out to care for Sylvia Bassi whose health is in jeopardy after a visit from a man claiming to be a water company employee and whose home is broken into. The Krolls, whose home was also broken into, tell Zoe that they’ve sold their property and the new owners want all the boarded horses removed within a few weeks. Lauren Sanders, a reporter with The Phillipsburg Enterprise, a new local newspaper, is quite assertive and rubs Zoe the wrong way, so she and Sylvia research her past. Zoe’s estranged mom, Kimberly Chambers Jackson, who lives in Florida shows up unannounced and has a surprise for Zoe.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Zoe Chambers is a paramedic and deputy coroner for Monongahela County, Pennsylvania. She loves horses and operates a boarding stable on the Kroll’s property. Pete and his sister, Nadine, are dealing with the emotional issues of placing their father, Harry, who has Alzheimer’s, in an assisted living facility. Zoe’s back to work after a medical leave and her first call out is to Oriole Andrews’s residence. It’s originally thought that Oriole fell down the stairs to the basement until she whispers to Zoe that she was pushed. Pete and Monongahela County Detective Wayne Baronick investigate a burglary ring targeting the area’s senior citizens. The men pretend to be water company representatives to gain access to and scope out the homes before returning to burglarize them. Zoe and Vance Township Police Chief, Pete Adams, recently moved in together and their relationship has grown, so he’s lost and upset when she temporarily moves out to care for Sylvia Bassi whose health is in jeopardy after a visit from a man claiming to be a water company employee and whose home is broken into. The Krolls, whose home was also broken into, tell Zoe that they’ve sold their property and the new owners want all the boarded horses removed within a few weeks. Lauren Sanders, a reporter with The Phillipsburg Enterprise, a new local newspaper, is quite assertive and rubs Zoe the wrong way, so she and Sylvia research her past. Zoe’s estranged mom, Kimberly Chambers Jackson, who lives in Florida shows up unannounced and has a surprise for Zoe.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
December 10, 2025
Another winner in a series quickly becoming a favorite of mine. Zoe is just getting back to work after her knee injury when they arrive at the home of an elderly lady who has taken a bad fall down the stairs. When the patient let's Zoe know that she didn't fall but was pushed, Zoe knows she needs to let Pete know, especially when the woman passes. After some investigation, it appears there are a couple of guys targeting senior citizens by first showing up as water company employees to case their homes and then later going back to rob them. When Zoe's former landlady states she had such a visit, Zoe moves in to stay until they can get to the bottom of it. Pete is frustrated, people are preying on the elderly citizens in town, his sister is insisting that their father go into an assisted care home, and Zoe is putting herself in danger by staying at the farm. With the wonderful twists and turns we have come to expect in this series, we get another amazing story that flips in so many ways! #UneasyPrey #ZoeChambersMysteries #AnnetteDashofy #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
October 16, 2019
Up front I will tell you Annette Dashofy is a friend.
I read the next book in the series, Cry Wolf, before I read this one which left me a little at a loss about some thing that happened in that book. Now, I get it.
Zoe and Pete are dealing with a ton of problems both personal and professional. And they all affect each other, distracting them from focusing on the main one – the death of an elderly woman.
Again, Annette put plenty of twists in the storyline to keep the reader off-balance, although some were a bit easier to see through than others. It took me almost to the end to figure out the true guilty party.
Keep ’em coming, Annette.
I read the next book in the series, Cry Wolf, before I read this one which left me a little at a loss about some thing that happened in that book. Now, I get it.
Zoe and Pete are dealing with a ton of problems both personal and professional. And they all affect each other, distracting them from focusing on the main one – the death of an elderly woman.
Again, Annette put plenty of twists in the storyline to keep the reader off-balance, although some were a bit easier to see through than others. It took me almost to the end to figure out the true guilty party.
Keep ’em coming, Annette.
February 24, 2018
Uneasy Prey is the sixth installment in the Zoe Chambers Mystery series by Annette Dashofy. Although part of a series, the story does stand alone. The series threads are mentioned such that the reader of the single book is not lost but the series followers aren’t bored.
Paramedic/deputy coroner Zoe Chambers is just back to work after an eight week absence from a knee injury. One of her first calls is to the home of Vance Township elder Oriole Andrews who, at first glance, would have appeared to have fallen down her basement stairs. But on the ride to the hospital she momentarily regains consciousness and tells Zoe she was pushed.
Earlier that week police chief Pete Adams was involved in a call at Ms. Andrews house when a man posing as a water system rep came to check her water pressure, a total scam. These supposed utility workers have been visiting the elderly across the county with a follow up robbery when the homeowners were out.
At the same time, Pete is at his sister Nadine’s mercy when it comes to placing their father, who is dealing with Alzheimer’s issues, at the nearby Golden Oaks Assisted Living facility. As Pete also works the senior break ins, he is forced to look at things from two perspectives, and gives him fresh insight into his father as well as those dealing with the break ins.
Also involved in the investigation is Monongahela County Detective Wayne Baronick. Also, there is new area reporter Lauren Sanders of the Phillipsburg Enterprise who keeps inserting herself into the investigation, always seeming to be there immediately after something occurs.
Set in a frigid Pennsylvania countryside with very complex characters, this story delves into local justice and social issues. The flowing tale has its share of twists and turns that culminate in an unexpected conclusion. I did enjoy this book and may just have to get caught up on this series which I do recommend.
February 21, 2018
Someone is robbing the senior citizens of southwestern Pennsylvania. And for Zoe, it is starting to hit close to home - to close to home. It begins with a visit from the water company, followed by a visit by thieves taking most of what is of value from the homes of the communities senior citizens. It would take the combined work of EMT Zoe Chambers and her close friend, the Police Chief, Pete Adams, to narrow the pool of suspects and find the guilty party.
Things went from bad to worse when one of the senior citizens died after falling down a flight of stairs.
If the reader has ever lived in a small rural community, the people, homes, and places will already be known. If the reader has never lived in a small town, he or she will want to after reading Uneasy Prey. The book is just right for a cold February day - where everyone is just waiting for spring to start popping out; and until it does, solving this week’s crime will hit the perfect spot.
______________
This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions are mine alone.
Things went from bad to worse when one of the senior citizens died after falling down a flight of stairs.
If the reader has ever lived in a small rural community, the people, homes, and places will already be known. If the reader has never lived in a small town, he or she will want to after reading Uneasy Prey. The book is just right for a cold February day - where everyone is just waiting for spring to start popping out; and until it does, solving this week’s crime will hit the perfect spot.
______________
This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions are mine alone.
February 11, 2018
In the 6th book of Annette Dashofy's Zoe Chambers Mysteries, Zoe and her partner Earl respond to a call at Oriole Andrews house where Oriole lays at the bottom of the stairs, unresponsive. Her daughter, on the scene, tells Zoe her grandmother had fallen down the stairs. On the way to the hospital, however, Oriole regains consciousness long enough to whisper to Zoe, that she was pushed and did not fall. Thus begins another great story from this author.
With a series of burglaries by two men preying on the elderly that already have the police department working overtime, Zoe and Pete, the police chief and Zoe's lover, step up the investigation into the burglaries that now seem to have escalated to murder. When her former landlady and her husband become victims of the burglaries, Zoe, temporarily moves in with them to protect them, while Pete with his own problems, has to move his father, who has Alzheimers, into an assisted living facility.
This book will keep your interest to the last page. It is a very well written, entertaining read. If you haven't read the Zoe Chambers series, I highly recommend that you do. I don't know how she does it, but each book gets better than the previous one.
Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.com
With a series of burglaries by two men preying on the elderly that already have the police department working overtime, Zoe and Pete, the police chief and Zoe's lover, step up the investigation into the burglaries that now seem to have escalated to murder. When her former landlady and her husband become victims of the burglaries, Zoe, temporarily moves in with them to protect them, while Pete with his own problems, has to move his father, who has Alzheimers, into an assisted living facility.
This book will keep your interest to the last page. It is a very well written, entertaining read. If you haven't read the Zoe Chambers series, I highly recommend that you do. I don't know how she does it, but each book gets better than the previous one.
Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.com
June 21, 2025
The main characters were so much more enjoyable in the first 2 books
I like a lot about the books but many of the characters make me want to murder them myself
Except for Sylvia ... love her, no wonder she takes everyone's money in the weekly poker game
And Patsy ... she's sharp & shares Zoe's best traits without Zoe's annoying ones
And Harry - you can still see what a great guy he is & I love that he's one of those people who retains his lovingkindness at least into this phrase of Alzheimer's
Zoe is great sometimes but then she is slow to see the obvious or does really knuckleheaded things - everyone does sometimes but Zoe does pretty much every chapter ... I still like her for the most part
But Pete is a sexist jerk who hadn't taken any responsibility for care of his father with Alzheimer's & expects his sister to do all the work for free
He briefly cares for his father in a previous book for a mere 2 weeks because his sister rightfully demanded a long-needed & well-deserved break
Yet does Pete learn anything or gain any compassion for his sister? No - he just judges her decision that after doing it all for several years she thinks it's time to put him in a memory care unit ... then he says "wouldn't it be better if he were somewhere near you so you can be the one to check in on him regularly" as if that would be doing his sister a favor
That & he tries to get out of any responsibility at every turn, characterizing his sister's very understandable impatience with him as "yammering" ... he finally helps a bit but it's like pulling teeth
Really Pete really? Also irksome when it's revealed that Zoe - who works long hours just as much as Pete - does all the cleaning AND cooking ... even though it's made perfectly clear that she has no talent or passion for nor interest or particular experience in cooking
Okay there are some LOW-KEY SPOILERS below so stop here if you don't want broad hints about some of the plot points
I DO NOT come out & state who done it but you might be able to extrapolate & I also discuss clues that don't appear until well into the book
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SPOILERS BELOW
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Pete also judges a woman harshly when she's very understandably frustrated when her father Mr Troutman ignores his wife's wishes & supposedly pawns a necklace she'd left to their daughter even though the daughter is willing to give him money to retrieve it ... turns out that Trout didn't pawn it but what he did do to it wasn't any more respectful to his wife's wishes & it was her property to bequeath to their daughter ... what kind of jerky father does that???
Pete is constantly trying to tell Zoe what to do when she often has a lot better sense than he does ... he often treats her like an adolescent & gives her bad, selfishly-motivated advice ... I often feel that he doesn't really like her that much & it's mainly their mutual physical attraction that keeps them together
For example when Zoe's mom wants to leave her the old farm Pete tells her to decline the offer because he doesn't want Zoe to move out of his house so he points out how run down the farm house is ... that's true but Zoe can (1) use the barn & keep living at Pete's & even make a profit from renting to the other boarders (2) sell the farm & use the money to buy another barn or board her horse elsewhere (3) use the barn & buy a cheap RV or truck camper with the rent from other boarders while she either fixes the house or builds a new one
Pete telling her to reject offer completely is telling her to throw away money & a chance for the independence of a second income
And he also completely ignores that Zoe doesn't have any options for her horse otherwise
Pete is kind of an asshole & not a particularly insightful police chief ... if you notice he hasn't been the one to figure out the killer in ANY of the books yet somehow everyone keeps treating him like he's great at his job
My god this guy is a mid GenXer but he acts like the stereotype of someone born 20 years earlier if not 30 in terms of his treatment of women & appreciation of the unpaid work when done by women
In general this book doesn't have much compassion for the unpaid work of women ... in contrast there are many examples of the male characters being cut a ton of slack for failing to do what they should or for being a burden to others
There's even a woman in the book who doesn't even respect the work when she demands that her granddaughter devote her life caring for her & instead of trying to help financially at least a little bit in return she berates her granddaughter for being poor... when she is actually responsible for her granddaughter's poverty since she's working an unpaid full time job taking care of her grandmother ... at her grandmother's demands
On top of this I've had it with Zoe's former landlady - she's particularly stupid, repeating the mistake of inviting a smiling stranger into their house - that got their house burned down & her & Zoe almost murdered in a previous book
And then she pressures Zoe to - inconveniently for Zoe & Pete's relationship - temporarily move in with her to protect her instead of the woman just going to stay with her son ... all because her former landlady is a fool .. & once again Mrs Kroll puts Zoe in danger
THEN after Zoe has gone far out of her way to do the Krolls this favor they spring it on her that they're only giving her 2 weeks to find a new barn for her horse because they were too chickenshit to tell Zoe & the other stall holders in a timely manner
THEN on top of all of that they expect Zoe to break the news to her fellow stall holders even though they are the landlords, not Zoe
Pennsylvania law states that a 30 day written notice from the landlords is required for eviction of boarders who have been tenants for a year or longer ... this is EVEN WITHOUT a contract
And any land developer & legal advisor would demand proof that this was done because they wouldn't want the legal fallout complicating their project
Zoe ABSOLUTELY has been boarding Windstar there for more than a year & it's pretty clear that the majority of the other boarders have been there for at least a year as well - most of them are often described as long-time boarders
Then SERIOUSLY Zoe... you can't come up with the concept of group email on your own??? Thank goodness she's friends with Patsy
it's 2015 in this book ... email has been in wide use even in rural areas for 20 years & Gmail has been around for 10 years .. in many cases more common in rural areas for people like Zoe who were still in high school when email became common ... I know this firsthand
Even everyone's grandmothers were on Facebook by 2015 much less email
Why am I still listening to this aggravating series??? Even the narrator annoys me with her emphasis so often on the wrong words ... as an example of something she does on virtually every page she says in this book "old FOLKS" instead of "OLD folks"- the emphasis goes on the most important word in this case you're comparing OLD folks to other folks such as YOUNG folks not old FOLKS to something else old such as old TRUCKS
However I suspect I'll keep reading because I can't help myself - I like some of the characters & these books are entertaining to listen to when they're not driving me nuts
Did I mention I really like the new character Lauren the journalist? I think she'll end up with the detective
And I'd cut Zoe a lot more slack if she weren't almost 40
Pete ... I see why his first wife left him
I like a lot about the books but many of the characters make me want to murder them myself
Except for Sylvia ... love her, no wonder she takes everyone's money in the weekly poker game
And Patsy ... she's sharp & shares Zoe's best traits without Zoe's annoying ones
And Harry - you can still see what a great guy he is & I love that he's one of those people who retains his lovingkindness at least into this phrase of Alzheimer's
Zoe is great sometimes but then she is slow to see the obvious or does really knuckleheaded things - everyone does sometimes but Zoe does pretty much every chapter ... I still like her for the most part
But Pete is a sexist jerk who hadn't taken any responsibility for care of his father with Alzheimer's & expects his sister to do all the work for free
He briefly cares for his father in a previous book for a mere 2 weeks because his sister rightfully demanded a long-needed & well-deserved break
Yet does Pete learn anything or gain any compassion for his sister? No - he just judges her decision that after doing it all for several years she thinks it's time to put him in a memory care unit ... then he says "wouldn't it be better if he were somewhere near you so you can be the one to check in on him regularly" as if that would be doing his sister a favor
That & he tries to get out of any responsibility at every turn, characterizing his sister's very understandable impatience with him as "yammering" ... he finally helps a bit but it's like pulling teeth
Really Pete really? Also irksome when it's revealed that Zoe - who works long hours just as much as Pete - does all the cleaning AND cooking ... even though it's made perfectly clear that she has no talent or passion for nor interest or particular experience in cooking
Okay there are some LOW-KEY SPOILERS below so stop here if you don't want broad hints about some of the plot points
I DO NOT come out & state who done it but you might be able to extrapolate & I also discuss clues that don't appear until well into the book
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SPOILERS BELOW
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Pete also judges a woman harshly when she's very understandably frustrated when her father Mr Troutman ignores his wife's wishes & supposedly pawns a necklace she'd left to their daughter even though the daughter is willing to give him money to retrieve it ... turns out that Trout didn't pawn it but what he did do to it wasn't any more respectful to his wife's wishes & it was her property to bequeath to their daughter ... what kind of jerky father does that???
Pete is constantly trying to tell Zoe what to do when she often has a lot better sense than he does ... he often treats her like an adolescent & gives her bad, selfishly-motivated advice ... I often feel that he doesn't really like her that much & it's mainly their mutual physical attraction that keeps them together
For example when Zoe's mom wants to leave her the old farm Pete tells her to decline the offer because he doesn't want Zoe to move out of his house so he points out how run down the farm house is ... that's true but Zoe can (1) use the barn & keep living at Pete's & even make a profit from renting to the other boarders (2) sell the farm & use the money to buy another barn or board her horse elsewhere (3) use the barn & buy a cheap RV or truck camper with the rent from other boarders while she either fixes the house or builds a new one
Pete telling her to reject offer completely is telling her to throw away money & a chance for the independence of a second income
And he also completely ignores that Zoe doesn't have any options for her horse otherwise
Pete is kind of an asshole & not a particularly insightful police chief ... if you notice he hasn't been the one to figure out the killer in ANY of the books yet somehow everyone keeps treating him like he's great at his job
My god this guy is a mid GenXer but he acts like the stereotype of someone born 20 years earlier if not 30 in terms of his treatment of women & appreciation of the unpaid work when done by women
In general this book doesn't have much compassion for the unpaid work of women ... in contrast there are many examples of the male characters being cut a ton of slack for failing to do what they should or for being a burden to others
There's even a woman in the book who doesn't even respect the work when she demands that her granddaughter devote her life caring for her & instead of trying to help financially at least a little bit in return she berates her granddaughter for being poor... when she is actually responsible for her granddaughter's poverty since she's working an unpaid full time job taking care of her grandmother ... at her grandmother's demands
On top of this I've had it with Zoe's former landlady - she's particularly stupid, repeating the mistake of inviting a smiling stranger into their house - that got their house burned down & her & Zoe almost murdered in a previous book
And then she pressures Zoe to - inconveniently for Zoe & Pete's relationship - temporarily move in with her to protect her instead of the woman just going to stay with her son ... all because her former landlady is a fool .. & once again Mrs Kroll puts Zoe in danger
THEN after Zoe has gone far out of her way to do the Krolls this favor they spring it on her that they're only giving her 2 weeks to find a new barn for her horse because they were too chickenshit to tell Zoe & the other stall holders in a timely manner
THEN on top of all of that they expect Zoe to break the news to her fellow stall holders even though they are the landlords, not Zoe
Pennsylvania law states that a 30 day written notice from the landlords is required for eviction of boarders who have been tenants for a year or longer ... this is EVEN WITHOUT a contract
And any land developer & legal advisor would demand proof that this was done because they wouldn't want the legal fallout complicating their project
Zoe ABSOLUTELY has been boarding Windstar there for more than a year & it's pretty clear that the majority of the other boarders have been there for at least a year as well - most of them are often described as long-time boarders
Then SERIOUSLY Zoe... you can't come up with the concept of group email on your own??? Thank goodness she's friends with Patsy
it's 2015 in this book ... email has been in wide use even in rural areas for 20 years & Gmail has been around for 10 years .. in many cases more common in rural areas for people like Zoe who were still in high school when email became common ... I know this firsthand
Even everyone's grandmothers were on Facebook by 2015 much less email
Why am I still listening to this aggravating series??? Even the narrator annoys me with her emphasis so often on the wrong words ... as an example of something she does on virtually every page she says in this book "old FOLKS" instead of "OLD folks"- the emphasis goes on the most important word in this case you're comparing OLD folks to other folks such as YOUNG folks not old FOLKS to something else old such as old TRUCKS
However I suspect I'll keep reading because I can't help myself - I like some of the characters & these books are entertaining to listen to when they're not driving me nuts
Did I mention I really like the new character Lauren the journalist? I think she'll end up with the detective
And I'd cut Zoe a lot more slack if she weren't almost 40
Pete ... I see why his first wife left him
February 13, 2018
Excellent series that doesn't rehash previous books so to get the most out of these deeply developed characters you might want to read the fist five books, though this could stand alone nicely.
Zoe & Pete's relationship has grown now that they are living together.
The seniors in their lives are the focus of most of the stories in this episode. New loves, health concerns and solutions, as well as crimes against the elderly are all well handled in the cozy mystery.
Zoe's estranged mother shows up with a 'gift' that can create future problems.
A new character, reporter Lauren Saunders, joins the cast of Monongahela County, PA
This is the best to date in this series and I look forward to more.
I volunteered to read an ARC from Henery Press through Net Galley.
Zoe & Pete's relationship has grown now that they are living together.
The seniors in their lives are the focus of most of the stories in this episode. New loves, health concerns and solutions, as well as crimes against the elderly are all well handled in the cozy mystery.
Zoe's estranged mother shows up with a 'gift' that can create future problems.
A new character, reporter Lauren Saunders, joins the cast of Monongahela County, PA
This is the best to date in this series and I look forward to more.
I volunteered to read an ARC from Henery Press through Net Galley.
February 22, 2021
I don't know how Annette does it, but her Zoe Chambers books just keep getting better and better. Her characters are great. I feel like I know them. I guarantee that if you start this series, Annette is quickly going to become one of your favorite authors. I know she's one of my favorites!
May 7, 2018
I loved everything about Uneasy Prey. This novel deserves an award on its literary merit and for the issues that the book addresses; there are so many special outstanding elements throughout the novel. While I am especially drawn to characters, the plots in Uneasy Prey shine as unique and captivating and draw me as much at the amazing characters. With the ups and downs, joys and sorrows they experience, Zoe and her extended family feel true to life. The caring that they show draws me to their happiness and their pains and of course to this amazing series.
I am so glad that Ms. Dashofy had the courage to once again include Pete's father who has Alzheimer's. Continuing with this story line has to be so hard for her but she manages to give us moments of happiness for him as well as sadness since so many of us know what is present is like and what his future holds. His move to assisted living, that is assisted living, not a nursing home, is one more reality that makes the books stand out. That repeated reminder, "not a nursing home" brings home our experience with a bit of a smile. I also appreciate that she took the time to help people understand that while the future is beyond grim, the living options do not have to be. This story line is built smoothly into the book and only gets such emphasis here because it matters so much to me.
Zoe and Pete's romance has to take a back seat to her caring heart and his is so evident in his handling of the first death and the scam against the elderly. The Kroll's continued probably create new issues for Zoe to address and a visit from her mother once again fails to make her day.
I was absolutely thrilled when I received notice that I was approved for an ARC of Uneasy Prey from and I was just as thrilled with the book! I will be sharing my love for this book every chance I get just as I have the earlier books in the series.
I am so glad that Ms. Dashofy had the courage to once again include Pete's father who has Alzheimer's. Continuing with this story line has to be so hard for her but she manages to give us moments of happiness for him as well as sadness since so many of us know what is present is like and what his future holds. His move to assisted living, that is assisted living, not a nursing home, is one more reality that makes the books stand out. That repeated reminder, "not a nursing home" brings home our experience with a bit of a smile. I also appreciate that she took the time to help people understand that while the future is beyond grim, the living options do not have to be. This story line is built smoothly into the book and only gets such emphasis here because it matters so much to me.
Zoe and Pete's romance has to take a back seat to her caring heart and his is so evident in his handling of the first death and the scam against the elderly. The Kroll's continued probably create new issues for Zoe to address and a visit from her mother once again fails to make her day.
I was absolutely thrilled when I received notice that I was approved for an ARC of Uneasy Prey from and I was just as thrilled with the book! I will be sharing my love for this book every chance I get just as I have the earlier books in the series.
April 14, 2018
Another winner!
Once again Annette Dashofy delivers a highly entertaining mystery for her lead character to solve. Paramedic, Zoe Chambers, loves her work and her boyfriend, Pete, head of local law enforcement. A string of burglaries around the county keeps Pete hopping but when an elderly resident ends up dead at the bottom of her basement stairs, Pete has his work cut out for him trying to catch her killer.
In this installment Zoe also has to contend with her mother, Kimberly, not an easy task as the two don't get along. She's stunned when her mother gives her a farm. Zoe has a horse she's always boarded with a local couple but the Krolls inform Zoe that they've sold their place and are moving. Thanks to Kimberly, Zoe now has a place for her horse as well as the other boarders ' horses that no longer have a home.
And Pete and his sister are faced with putting their dad in a nursing home. It's gotten to the point where Harry just can't safely stay in his home any more. When he tells Pete something fishy is going on there, Pete doesn't know whether to believe him or not, given Harry's present state of mind.
Between the murder, the robberies, and the turmoil of a close friend, Zoe's life suddenly becomes complicated. At least her relationship with Pete is progressing nicely. This story doesn't have a complex plot and there are no big twists and turns involved, at least nothing one's likely to lose sleep over. What it does have, however, is a cast of entertaining characters that keep you turning the pages and make you look forward to the next book when it comes out. I give this one a big thumb's up. If you haven't tried this series yet, you won't be disappointed when you do.
Once again Annette Dashofy delivers a highly entertaining mystery for her lead character to solve. Paramedic, Zoe Chambers, loves her work and her boyfriend, Pete, head of local law enforcement. A string of burglaries around the county keeps Pete hopping but when an elderly resident ends up dead at the bottom of her basement stairs, Pete has his work cut out for him trying to catch her killer.
In this installment Zoe also has to contend with her mother, Kimberly, not an easy task as the two don't get along. She's stunned when her mother gives her a farm. Zoe has a horse she's always boarded with a local couple but the Krolls inform Zoe that they've sold their place and are moving. Thanks to Kimberly, Zoe now has a place for her horse as well as the other boarders ' horses that no longer have a home.
And Pete and his sister are faced with putting their dad in a nursing home. It's gotten to the point where Harry just can't safely stay in his home any more. When he tells Pete something fishy is going on there, Pete doesn't know whether to believe him or not, given Harry's present state of mind.
Between the murder, the robberies, and the turmoil of a close friend, Zoe's life suddenly becomes complicated. At least her relationship with Pete is progressing nicely. This story doesn't have a complex plot and there are no big twists and turns involved, at least nothing one's likely to lose sleep over. What it does have, however, is a cast of entertaining characters that keep you turning the pages and make you look forward to the next book when it comes out. I give this one a big thumb's up. If you haven't tried this series yet, you won't be disappointed when you do.
May 1, 2021
In an online interview with Terry Ambrose (March 18, 2018) Dashofy shared that this was a very difficult book to write. Her mother was a victims of con artists who prey on seniors. Her father had Alzheimer's. While Dashofy was writing Uneasy Prey, her mother resided in a senior care home. She died while the book was a work in progress, and as Dashofy says "There’s a lot of my heart on those pages."
A lot of heart indeed. I was at turns tear eyed with the plight of Henry's care giver. Henry, Pete's father, introduced in Lost Legacy, is now incapable of living in a non custodial arrangement. Dashofy's spot on portrait of Henry shows how the thought process while muddled still carries the personality of the individual. Dignity is a key theme in Uneasy Prey, from the victims who are reluctant to report the crime to the patients who are reluctant to share their confusion. Leaving the mystery aside, this book could serve as required reading for anyone with aging parents.
As always Dashofy's mysteries are tightly woven, demanding staying up for just one more chapter.
Here Pete is still a bit of a duffus when it comes to handling his over protectiveness with Zoe, and his denial with his father's needs. The characters are learning from past experiences, a clever way for Dashofy to reference earlier books.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention Zoe's mother, Kimberley. I wrote Dashofy to share how much I appreciate the introduction of this infuriating, but somehow vulnerable mother figure. I find her to be compelling in her awfulness, making other "momsters" Snow White in comparison. Dashofy is often nominated for literary awards. Characters like Kimberley are part of the reason for this.
Highly recommended for mystery readers of all ages.
A lot of heart indeed. I was at turns tear eyed with the plight of Henry's care giver. Henry, Pete's father, introduced in Lost Legacy, is now incapable of living in a non custodial arrangement. Dashofy's spot on portrait of Henry shows how the thought process while muddled still carries the personality of the individual. Dignity is a key theme in Uneasy Prey, from the victims who are reluctant to report the crime to the patients who are reluctant to share their confusion. Leaving the mystery aside, this book could serve as required reading for anyone with aging parents.
As always Dashofy's mysteries are tightly woven, demanding staying up for just one more chapter.
Here Pete is still a bit of a duffus when it comes to handling his over protectiveness with Zoe, and his denial with his father's needs. The characters are learning from past experiences, a clever way for Dashofy to reference earlier books.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention Zoe's mother, Kimberley. I wrote Dashofy to share how much I appreciate the introduction of this infuriating, but somehow vulnerable mother figure. I find her to be compelling in her awfulness, making other "momsters" Snow White in comparison. Dashofy is often nominated for literary awards. Characters like Kimberley are part of the reason for this.
Highly recommended for mystery readers of all ages.
March 28, 2018
This very good book stands on its own just fine, though it is sixth in a series. Some serious topics are covered, such as crimes against the elderly and the pain of having to put a loved one in an assisted living facility. Those topics were very well handled. I appreciated that the things that should have been dealt with seriously were, but that there was also plenty of fun in the story. Have to admire an author who can pull that off.
I liked the main character, Zoe. She's brave, but not very reckless. She gives her all to help her patients and friends. Her work makes her involvement in the case logical. She might take a little too much of the weight of the world on her shoulders than she needs to. I did wonder if she should really be a deputy coroner because of her difficulties with some things.
Pete was one of my favorite characters. Watching him try to deal with all the women in his life was a real highlight, whether it was his sister who demanded help with their father, his girlfriend who refused to stay safely on the sidelines, or the female reporter who just wouldn't go away. I really liked him. I even sympathized with his frustration, even while I laughed at them.
The mystery was well written. There were enough details to make a pretty good guess as to what had occurred.
All in all, I thought this was an above-average cozy mystery. I didn't have any trouble wanting to stay with the story the whole way through. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I liked the main character, Zoe. She's brave, but not very reckless. She gives her all to help her patients and friends. Her work makes her involvement in the case logical. She might take a little too much of the weight of the world on her shoulders than she needs to. I did wonder if she should really be a deputy coroner because of her difficulties with some things.
Pete was one of my favorite characters. Watching him try to deal with all the women in his life was a real highlight, whether it was his sister who demanded help with their father, his girlfriend who refused to stay safely on the sidelines, or the female reporter who just wouldn't go away. I really liked him. I even sympathized with his frustration, even while I laughed at them.
The mystery was well written. There were enough details to make a pretty good guess as to what had occurred.
All in all, I thought this was an above-average cozy mystery. I didn't have any trouble wanting to stay with the story the whole way through. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
March 27, 2018
Another great one! I met Zoe and Annette Dashofy last spring
when I had the chance to read/review No Way Home. I loved
book 5 in this series. I have not had the chance to read the
earlier books.
Book 6 is another page turner. I was engaged and captivated
with page 1. (just like in book 5)
UNEASY PREY was a totally different story/plot than the
previous book.
The characters are the same and of course a few new ones.
The story revolves around the crimes committed to the elderly. And the drama and struggles families face as their loved ones need help and professional care.
Zoe gets involved in investigating a burglary ring that is targeting the elderly.
I totally got this one. While I could see this really happening as my mother is 94 and we have concerns about people taking
advantage of her.
She reminds me a bit of Zoe's mom so I have a little more empathy for her even though she's a bit of a piece of work (Zoe's mom).
I couldn't help but turn the pages. The story/plot was not only
interesting and entertaining.
Zoe is a great gal always wanting to help and investigate even when she puts herself into danger.
I'm still routing for Pete and hope that the romance sparks in the next book!
I enjoyed reading UNEASY PREY and hope for the chance to read the remaining books in this series.
I received a complimentary copy
when I had the chance to read/review No Way Home. I loved
book 5 in this series. I have not had the chance to read the
earlier books.
Book 6 is another page turner. I was engaged and captivated
with page 1. (just like in book 5)
UNEASY PREY was a totally different story/plot than the
previous book.
The characters are the same and of course a few new ones.
The story revolves around the crimes committed to the elderly. And the drama and struggles families face as their loved ones need help and professional care.
Zoe gets involved in investigating a burglary ring that is targeting the elderly.
I totally got this one. While I could see this really happening as my mother is 94 and we have concerns about people taking
advantage of her.
She reminds me a bit of Zoe's mom so I have a little more empathy for her even though she's a bit of a piece of work (Zoe's mom).
I couldn't help but turn the pages. The story/plot was not only
interesting and entertaining.
Zoe is a great gal always wanting to help and investigate even when she puts herself into danger.
I'm still routing for Pete and hope that the romance sparks in the next book!
I enjoyed reading UNEASY PREY and hope for the chance to read the remaining books in this series.
I received a complimentary copy
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