The Murder

50-Plus Condo #1

by Janie Owens

Sometimes life is about trust and love. And occasionally, murder.

When Rachel and Joe retired to a 50-Plus Condo, they did not anticipate encountering amusing and eccentric residents - or the murder of Rachel’s friend, who owned an animal shelter. The suspects are many: the shelter caretaker, an abusive husband, a mistaken hitman and a strange man in a top hat.

While investigations of the murder ensue, trouble erupts for the couple who seemingly have the perfect marriage. But what will it take to convince them both that trust and love conquers all?

Genres: Mystery, Fiction, Mystery Thriller

254 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2020

Reviews

[Lori (on hiatus, life is crazy busy)) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun cozy mystery filled with drama and some serious laugh out loud moments.
Rachel manages a 50+ condo complex. She is the person that everyone goes to to solve their problems. One of the residents gets murdered and Rachel is determined to solve the case on her own.
This story was filled with quirky characters and a plot that kept me well entertained.

[Jannelies (living between hope and fear) · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm very sorry to say this is a DNF for me. I can see what the author wanted to do - a big building full of quirky characters, a murder, lots of suspects and therefore a lot of tension.
Unfortunately, I didn't make it past the first half of the book before I realised I was increasingly irritated by the writing style and the characters. So I skipped to the end which was a big surprise but for me, not a good one.
I can see why this book would appeal to other readers, though.

[Lise · Rating 3 out of 5]

Managing an apartment building, especially one mostly filled with seniors, is challenging. Rachel finds her plate filled to the rim when, in addition to her usual duties, her best friend is killed within the building. When the detective assigned to the case hits a dead end, Rachel puts an investigation into action to bring justice to her friend.

3.5 Stars rounded down.

I liked the mystery but found that the action dragged a little. The component I liked the least was the characters. The rest of my thoughts are under a spoiler tag so the story is not ruined for those who haven't read the book.

Many problems between Rachel and her husband Joe were caused by a lack of communication. However, the ultimate problem was Joe, himself. He leapt to (in my opinion) an unnatural conclusion for someone who had lived with his wife for almost 30 years. And, rather than give her the benefit of the doubt, he immediately began punishing her. Even if Rachel were an alcoholic, his "tough love" approach set my teeth on edge. I would expect a loving husband to seek a more compassionate solution. Suggesting attendance at an AA meeting, spending time with her, or even just talking it out instead of issuing ultimatums: these propositions would be more in line with a partner who wants the best for his wife. Rachel blaming herself for their separation was the icing on the cake. Also, Joe sizing up other women, because Rachel wasn't knuckling under, gave me an ick feeling. Beyond this couple, some of the seniors were childish and irritating. The other couple wrapped up in a physical domestic dispute felt out of kilter - they would have either murdered one another or divorced long before getting to the stage that they were at. I couldn't believe they had been allowed to rent in the building, but Rachel's lackadaisical vetting of LuAnn lent credence to their ability to gain a lease.

A Christian component is present in the story which may attract/deter a reader. I felt the approach was overly simplistic - others may disagree. Other content warnings include domestic abuse and alcoholism.

Though this story had me somewhat dismayed, I'll be revisiting the series to see where it goes. The bones of the plot had me intrigued.

[Harold Force · Rating 2 out of 5]

And you will never guess who the murderer is...

And you won't be able to diagnose Rachel's disease, either. And God does make an appearance.. Sorry, but I don't think I will be following the rest of the series.

[Crazypetlady · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was a boring, pointless book. The author seems to have wanted to cover all genres and didn't actually succeed in writing a book worth reading.

[Philippa Bruell · Rating 2 out of 5]

Rubbish husband

So Joe is a wonderful, caring and understanding husband? No, he is not. Rachel is clearly unwell. He accuses her of being a drunk, doesn't listen to her, then ignores her and somehow SHE's the one apologising for HER behaviour! What the heck!? He doesn't even take care of the damn dog.

[Lynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable start to a new series. Rachel is the manager of an over 50’s condo. Her husband Joe does the maintenance. We meet lots of the eccentric residents before a murder is committed. Who done it?

[Kate Cavell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting murder mystery

I liked this book very much. The characters were believable , and interesting. I particularly enjoyed the ending.I will recommend this book to other readers.

[Marianne Lopapa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review:

This was a really cute quick read... I loved the zany character's and their knowing what was going on in their condo building.... I look forward to the other books in this series.... Thanks for an enjoyable read.... Mrs. M.L.👍☺️

[Mary Lou Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

MATURE COZY MYSTERY

Murder in a condo for 55+ adults. Full of interesting and unique characters.

This was the first time I have read something from Janie Owens and I really liked her style and her Christian values.

[Cidney · Rating 1 out of 5]

It was a few weeks ago when I read this set in a condo looked after by a couple who do all the work there for the residents. Then one of the residents is murdered. The plot didn't hold my interest too well and I stopped following after the first few chapters.

[Lois White · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointing

Started out liking the book but thought it had a weak ending. Not interested in continuing with the series. Would not recommend.

[Linda Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute story

I really enjoyed the comedy of the story. Even though there was a murder involved, the charm and humor of the characters came through.

[Meme · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it.

[Cheryl Landmark · Rating 2 out of 5]

Actual Rating: 2.5 Stars

[Brenda Hancock · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some interesting characters, but not totally my cup of tea. The strain in the marriage between Joe and Rachel and her denial of her medical issues just seemed a bit forced.

[Jeniece · Rating 5 out of 5]

The murder

Thank you for writing this book was interesting and on the edge of my seat. Guessing who done it and what next would happen.

[Judypck · Rating 5 out of 5]

exciting

I really enjoyed reading this book , keep me in suspense.Would recommend this to anyone who loves a good mystery

[Baca Buku · Rating 1 out of 5]

The story moved along at a snail's pace. Left with loose threads. (Or strings of slime?)

[Judy Lawless · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an easy, light-hearted read despite the fact there was a murder. I did find some of the descriptions of what was happening a bit repetitive and unnecessary, which made me want to skip ahead.

[Lennie McDonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Running A condo isn't easy.

Rachel enjoys her manager job at the condo that she shares with
her hubby.
Lots of intrigue leading to murder makes this a what's happening next book.

[Charlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good read

I enjoyed this, the first in the 50-Plus Condo series and I hope to read more! Fun, memorable characters would highly recommend.

[Jessie hastings · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good light read

Good light reading for a time that something easy is desired. Love the characters and their interaction. There may be one protagonist but all are stars.

[Lynette Murray denham · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun and easy read. I would have liked more development of the main characters.

[Jacquelyn V. · Rating 2 out of 5]

Slow and Stupid

I made it to the end of this book but it was very slow going. Nothing to want you to keep reading. Some parts of the book were just plain stupid 🙄

[Jean Roehrs · Rating 5 out of 5]

who would of thought?

A cute cozy that holds your attention and keeps you reading more. Follow the search for the killer. Can you guess who? Jean

[Jill · Rating 1 out of 5]

Wow. Hateful. First few pages. Quit immediately.

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good plot and some quirky characters.

[Charlotte Stuart · Rating 5 out of 5]

50-Plus Condo is a romp through a condo community of aging and eccentric residents, many with far too much time on their hands. Relationships are complicated and gossip is on the daily menu of activities. If you’ve ever wanted to be a condo manager, you might change your mind after reading this! Personality foibles, Christian values, an unruly dog, and a setting that invites friendship and conflict. And murder. For a glimpse of the good life sprinkled with mayhem, this is the cozy for you.

[Rochelle Mountjoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect Sunmer read! Relatable characters and quickly moving plot. Would definitely read again.