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Avery Shaw #17
Mayhem & Mistletoe
Avery Shaw has the world at her fingertips … and a pile of dead Santas near the railroad tracks. Interestingly, she’s more focused on the Santas than her personal life, but only because she’s been warned that a proposal is imminent from her live-in love Eliot Kane and she needs to look somewhere else – anywhere else will do – rather than accept what he’s trying to offer.
Avery never pictured herself married but it appears it might be happening … no matter how she tries to dodge and weave. The Santas make an enticing distraction, so Avery throws herself in with gusto.
Tracking the Santas isn’t easy because Macomb County Sheriff Jake Farrell doesn’t want the names released. He lets one slip, though, and that leads Avery on an adventure … all the way down to a halfway house in Detroit.
It’s a big world and some crimes are worse than others. The only common thread Avery can find when chasing this story is a drug ring, and when she pulls that particular thread, everything comes toppling down.
The drug world is dark and seamy and Avery is going to need her guile and wits to survive this one. Even if she comes out on the other side – and that’s a big if – then there’s a proposal waiting.
It’s finally time for Avery Shaw to grow up … at least a little bit. Come along for the ride, because the big moment is finally here. There might even be a murder to solve along the way.
Avery never pictured herself married but it appears it might be happening … no matter how she tries to dodge and weave. The Santas make an enticing distraction, so Avery throws herself in with gusto.
Tracking the Santas isn’t easy because Macomb County Sheriff Jake Farrell doesn’t want the names released. He lets one slip, though, and that leads Avery on an adventure … all the way down to a halfway house in Detroit.
It’s a big world and some crimes are worse than others. The only common thread Avery can find when chasing this story is a drug ring, and when she pulls that particular thread, everything comes toppling down.
The drug world is dark and seamy and Avery is going to need her guile and wits to survive this one. Even if she comes out on the other side – and that’s a big if – then there’s a proposal waiting.
It’s finally time for Avery Shaw to grow up … at least a little bit. Come along for the ride, because the big moment is finally here. There might even be a murder to solve along the way.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2020
672 people are currently reading
132 people want to read
About the author
Amanda M. Lee
303 books2,899 followersWhen I was a kid, I was torn between whether or not I was going to grow up and be the Incredible Hulk or Wonder Woman. I flirted with being a Jedi Knight for awhile, but I wasn't up for the intense travel associated with the gig. In my teens, I settled on being a writer -- although I had no idea the effort that would entail.
Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.
Not only am I a writer now, but I'm a writer in several different mediums. I'm a longtime newspaper reporter, an avid reader and a voracious science fiction fanatic.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
October 11, 2020
Avery is back at her snarky, sarcastic best ready to solve another mystery in her unique way.
Yes, that's right. Avery will annoy the crap out of everyone until she gets to the bottom of this string of murders...
In the end, will Avery’s big mouth make her another victim?
This was a great mystery. I loved the story. It kept me guessing. I love Avery’s snarky whit it always makes me chuckle. It was great to be back visiting Avery, Elliot, and all the rest of these wacky characters, some I love, some I love to hate...lol
Yes, that's right. Avery will annoy the crap out of everyone until she gets to the bottom of this string of murders...
In the end, will Avery’s big mouth make her another victim?
This was a great mystery. I loved the story. It kept me guessing. I love Avery’s snarky whit it always makes me chuckle. It was great to be back visiting Avery, Elliot, and all the rest of these wacky characters, some I love, some I love to hate...lol
September 16, 2020
Full of exposition; In my head....
I love Avery Shaw, but there seemed to be major bits missing. Family dynamic was not as strong, which is often my favorite part. Still, it was a great novel full of humor, self reflection and hot Sheriff Jake. It was like the last Jurassic World movie. Full of adventure and suspense, but you're only in it to get to the next movie. Still, worth the ride. And, I really appreciated the Tad bit.
So, in my head, (sort of like a younger Kathy Bates), I see the author of this series, Amanda M. Lee, voracious trolling through comments for a nugget of kindness regarding her awesome story. (Hi, Mandy! You rock!) She comes across my suggestion to retroactively rename Avery's grandpa's restaurant to the Two Brooms, thus casting Avery as a cousin to our newest series (which kinda plunked that awesome setting/grandpa into Stormy's storyline), thus keeping kick ass Avery, Derrick, Roxy, Eh Mario (how my brain translates his moniker) and all their various and sundry shenanigans into Ms Lee's supernatural universe, but still keeping it separate. Both storylines stress the obscene numbers of cousins, aunts, etc and haven't traveled beyond their side of the booth, so to speak. Imagine the hijinks with trying to keep Stormy's secret from Avery?!? Comic gold, man.
Also, in my head, I see Avery Shaw having a wedding night not totally dissimilar to the movie, Ready or Not. However, she would somehow have to be physically separated from Eliot so he doesn't suffer the same end fate. Maybe he's beating on the door, ala The Graduate, or something. It's probably just that I see her wearing chucks with her wedding dress. Pfft. I'm totally cool keeping that one in my head.
I love Avery Shaw, but there seemed to be major bits missing. Family dynamic was not as strong, which is often my favorite part. Still, it was a great novel full of humor, self reflection and hot Sheriff Jake. It was like the last Jurassic World movie. Full of adventure and suspense, but you're only in it to get to the next movie. Still, worth the ride. And, I really appreciated the Tad bit.
So, in my head, (sort of like a younger Kathy Bates), I see the author of this series, Amanda M. Lee, voracious trolling through comments for a nugget of kindness regarding her awesome story. (Hi, Mandy! You rock!) She comes across my suggestion to retroactively rename Avery's grandpa's restaurant to the Two Brooms, thus casting Avery as a cousin to our newest series (which kinda plunked that awesome setting/grandpa into Stormy's storyline), thus keeping kick ass Avery, Derrick, Roxy, Eh Mario (how my brain translates his moniker) and all their various and sundry shenanigans into Ms Lee's supernatural universe, but still keeping it separate. Both storylines stress the obscene numbers of cousins, aunts, etc and haven't traveled beyond their side of the booth, so to speak. Imagine the hijinks with trying to keep Stormy's secret from Avery?!? Comic gold, man.
Also, in my head, I see Avery Shaw having a wedding night not totally dissimilar to the movie, Ready or Not. However, she would somehow have to be physically separated from Eliot so he doesn't suffer the same end fate. Maybe he's beating on the door, ala The Graduate, or something. It's probably just that I see her wearing chucks with her wedding dress. Pfft. I'm totally cool keeping that one in my head.
October 24, 2021
Ok book in the series, nothing special though
Is was an ok installment for the series, but it didn’t stand out either. Almost felt like it was just going through the motions. The ending was cute with the proposal, but seriously if the woman is that much work, is it really worth marrying her? I guess it’s better then a card carrying member of the crazy club, like Fawn was.
There were cute lines and all, but pretty much all had been done before, so nothing stood out. The only new addition is the intern, Sabrina. I didn’t really care for the ex-cheerleader. That may be due to the fact she was a bully in high school and I never liked that type of bully. It might also be due to the fact they mentioned Sabrina the Teenage Witch and she hadn’t even known of the ABC version and the fake cat - I mean really!!
Overall it was okay but nothing special. It might be that the series is played out. Guess we will just have to wait and see.
Is was an ok installment for the series, but it didn’t stand out either. Almost felt like it was just going through the motions. The ending was cute with the proposal, but seriously if the woman is that much work, is it really worth marrying her? I guess it’s better then a card carrying member of the crazy club, like Fawn was.
There were cute lines and all, but pretty much all had been done before, so nothing stood out. The only new addition is the intern, Sabrina. I didn’t really care for the ex-cheerleader. That may be due to the fact she was a bully in high school and I never liked that type of bully. It might also be due to the fact they mentioned Sabrina the Teenage Witch and she hadn’t even known of the ABC version and the fake cat - I mean really!!
Overall it was okay but nothing special. It might be that the series is played out. Guess we will just have to wait and see.
September 23, 2020
The long awaited proposal..
But first Avery is up to her neck in a new case when first one Santa is found dead near the railway tracks and then 6 more..
Who could have a grudge against Santa? And with Jake stonewalling over releasing any useful information how on earth is Avery going to fill her column?
With Sabrina, not the witch but the really irritating new intern, she's going to have to work with a sidekick and it's not as much fun as she thought. Her usual tag team is hampered as Carly is about to pop out her baby "anytime two weeks ago" and Lexie's putting her through her paces while she waits for her waters to break.
Avery's going to get it all in the end, she just has to get over her engagement anxiety, solve the case and be the very best friend Carly always knew she was.. even if the thought terrifies her.
But first Avery is up to her neck in a new case when first one Santa is found dead near the railway tracks and then 6 more..
Who could have a grudge against Santa? And with Jake stonewalling over releasing any useful information how on earth is Avery going to fill her column?
With Sabrina, not the witch but the really irritating new intern, she's going to have to work with a sidekick and it's not as much fun as she thought. Her usual tag team is hampered as Carly is about to pop out her baby "anytime two weeks ago" and Lexie's putting her through her paces while she waits for her waters to break.
Avery's going to get it all in the end, she just has to get over her engagement anxiety, solve the case and be the very best friend Carly always knew she was.. even if the thought terrifies her.
November 20, 2025
Avery is really worried about getting married. There's a body that's been found she has to report on so that can distract her for a while. The body is in a Santa Claus suit for some reason. Then there's more bodies found.
If that's not enough to be concerned about she's assigned an intern, Sabrina. Not something she really wants to deal with and she does what she can to continue to operate solo.
Things get a lot worse as she does her investigating, including Eliot being hurt, another death, Ted appears and Carly's baby is on the way. Avery is expected to be there to help Carly after having watched videos about birthing.
As you can see there's a heck of a lot going on. Another really good book in the series.
If that's not enough to be concerned about she's assigned an intern, Sabrina. Not something she really wants to deal with and she does what she can to continue to operate solo.
Things get a lot worse as she does her investigating, including Eliot being hurt, another death, Ted appears and Carly's baby is on the way. Avery is expected to be there to help Carly after having watched videos about birthing.
As you can see there's a heck of a lot going on. Another really good book in the series.
September 9, 2020
Wish I could give more stars
I loved, loved, loved this book. I highlighted a few lines that had me laughing out loud, so I could go back and reread. A lot of the book is funny, but sometimes, it's just hilarious. Avery is still freaking out over Elliots announcement of his impending question, her and Jake are coming to terms with all the changes and Carly is past due and ready to pop.
There is also an intern fast becoming the bane of Averys existence.
Good mystery, fun times, sweet moments and lots of snark. Highly recommend.
I loved, loved, loved this book. I highlighted a few lines that had me laughing out loud, so I could go back and reread. A lot of the book is funny, but sometimes, it's just hilarious. Avery is still freaking out over Elliots announcement of his impending question, her and Jake are coming to terms with all the changes and Carly is past due and ready to pop.
There is also an intern fast becoming the bane of Averys existence.
Good mystery, fun times, sweet moments and lots of snark. Highly recommend.
September 10, 2020
Five plus stars
I have read every one of the Avery Shaw books. I adore each and every one of them. Amanda M. Lee is absolutely brilliant when she writes this series. You can't put them done. All the characters are so well developed it feels like you know each and every one if them personally. Avery and Eliot are starting a new life, but the story line needs to continue. Please, Please, Please get number 18 here soon.
I have read every one of the Avery Shaw books. I adore each and every one of them. Amanda M. Lee is absolutely brilliant when she writes this series. You can't put them done. All the characters are so well developed it feels like you know each and every one if them personally. Avery and Eliot are starting a new life, but the story line needs to continue. Please, Please, Please get number 18 here soon.
September 14, 2020
Thank you - again
Of all your series I've been lucky enough to read, you've never let me down. This time you've gifted me with happy tears and a hopeful heart, not easy in these challenging time. Truly a gifted author.
I know I don't write about the who, what, etc. of your books - don't want to spoil someone else's enjoyment. But, if the person reading this has been following A very as stories, this installment is one you won't want to miss!
Of all your series I've been lucky enough to read, you've never let me down. This time you've gifted me with happy tears and a hopeful heart, not easy in these challenging time. Truly a gifted author.
I know I don't write about the who, what, etc. of your books - don't want to spoil someone else's enjoyment. But, if the person reading this has been following A very as stories, this installment is one you won't want to miss!
October 11, 2020
Great
Took me a few books but I really enjoy this series now. This one had great verbal sparring and an interesting mystery. The intern Avery gets stuck with is amusing and that situation made me laugh. No family supper this round, though a couple with Mario, one with Lexi and a flashback of her grandfather. Lots of fun all around.
Cozy mystery with some sexual situations. Non graphic violence. No language. Recommended series.
Took me a few books but I really enjoy this series now. This one had great verbal sparring and an interesting mystery. The intern Avery gets stuck with is amusing and that situation made me laugh. No family supper this round, though a couple with Mario, one with Lexi and a flashback of her grandfather. Lots of fun all around.
Cozy mystery with some sexual situations. Non graphic violence. No language. Recommended series.
September 9, 2020
Avery grows up
While attempting to unravel the typical bad guy/life-threatening cases that are her stock in trade, Avery comes to terms with the prospect of marriage and even mentoring an intern who might remind her a little too much of herself. As usual, Eliot is the perfect man, but will Avery accept a "traditional" relationship, even with him?
While attempting to unravel the typical bad guy/life-threatening cases that are her stock in trade, Avery comes to terms with the prospect of marriage and even mentoring an intern who might remind her a little too much of herself. As usual, Eliot is the perfect man, but will Avery accept a "traditional" relationship, even with him?
September 9, 2020
Bittersweet
Avery is growing up. This book really shows how far she has come. The mystery was rather fun too.
Sadly, according the the author's blog this is the last of the series. Its sweet for a series' ending but it leaves me wanting more. But at the same time, maybe this is the perfect stopping place. Avery is maturing but she's still filled with that feisty snark I love.
Avery is growing up. This book really shows how far she has come. The mystery was rather fun too.
Sadly, according the the author's blog this is the last of the series. Its sweet for a series' ending but it leaves me wanting more. But at the same time, maybe this is the perfect stopping place. Avery is maturing but she's still filled with that feisty snark I love.
September 11, 2020
I love Avery Shaw!
Avery is my spirit animal. I love her confidence and her spark. Elliot's warning about his impending proposal weighs heavily on Avery and finding someone to sympathize with her plight is a fruitless task. And then there's that thing with all those dead Santas...
Avery is my spirit animal. I love her confidence and her spark. Elliot's warning about his impending proposal weighs heavily on Avery and finding someone to sympathize with her plight is a fruitless task. And then there's that thing with all those dead Santas...
September 11, 2020
My favorite Amanda M. Lee series
I love all Amanda's books. But this series is my favorite.
I really enjoyed this book because Avery didn't put herself in the path of danger like usual. She actually had help with her. She was more like a real person in this book in my opinion. I hope her new side kick is here to stay.
I love all Amanda's books. But this series is my favorite.
I really enjoyed this book because Avery didn't put herself in the path of danger like usual. She actually had help with her. She was more like a real person in this book in my opinion. I hope her new side kick is here to stay.
September 15, 2020
Avery is fantastic and funny as always!
I love this series and Avery, underneath it all she cares about people, especially those who are usually overlooked or treated with disdain in our society. I love her confidence and she has truly grown as a person since the beginning of the series. I hope Avery & Eliot have a lot more adventures together.
I love this series and Avery, underneath it all she cares about people, especially those who are usually overlooked or treated with disdain in our society. I love her confidence and she has truly grown as a person since the beginning of the series. I hope Avery & Eliot have a lot more adventures together.
September 15, 2020
Avery has it all
Avery is by far one of my favorite characters. She is always true to her voice. She has grown so much in the books but never loses her sense of self it is amazing that the author has kept this character so entertaining in 17 books that you finish and immediately wish for more
Avery is by far one of my favorite characters. She is always true to her voice. She has grown so much in the books but never loses her sense of self it is amazing that the author has kept this character so entertaining in 17 books that you finish and immediately wish for more
September 24, 2020
I totally loved this one.
I truly enjoyed reading this book. It had a lot of mystery and snark, but it is the ending that sent this book over the top. Avery is one of favorite characters that Ms. Lee writes about and the trouble and snark make it a fun read. You won't be disappointed in this book.
I truly enjoyed reading this book. It had a lot of mystery and snark, but it is the ending that sent this book over the top. Avery is one of favorite characters that Ms. Lee writes about and the trouble and snark make it a fun read. You won't be disappointed in this book.
October 2, 2020
The best Avery Shaw so far.....m
Amanda M. Lee is as usual at the top of her game. Avery is always a favorite character but Mayhem and Mistletoe took it to a new level. A must read for anyone who loves snark, adventure, laughing out loud, and a crew of characters that will make your day
Amanda M. Lee is as usual at the top of her game. Avery is always a favorite character but Mayhem and Mistletoe took it to a new level. A must read for anyone who loves snark, adventure, laughing out loud, and a crew of characters that will make your day
October 7, 2020
Marriage Ahead
Awesome read fast paced and lots of snarky humor between the characters and great storyline,love the characters, Avery is entertaining when she is trying to get her story any way she can and here is five read Santa's, no news from the cops plus she is avoiding a proposal from Elliot and top it off Carly is in labor.
Awesome read fast paced and lots of snarky humor between the characters and great storyline,love the characters, Avery is entertaining when she is trying to get her story any way she can and here is five read Santa's, no news from the cops plus she is avoiding a proposal from Elliot and top it off Carly is in labor.
October 29, 2020
A great story plus happy ending.
Amanda M Lee is a superb writer. The Avery Shaw mystery books are a mixture of a good mystery/thriller series interspersed with quirky humour and witty repartee . I have binge read the whole series to date. I hope there are more. I recommend these books very highly. I just loved them.
Amanda M Lee is a superb writer. The Avery Shaw mystery books are a mixture of a good mystery/thriller series interspersed with quirky humour and witty repartee . I have binge read the whole series to date. I hope there are more. I recommend these books very highly. I just loved them.
September 9, 2020
Laugh Your Way to a Toned Body
Best exercise program on the planet. You just laugh and laugh and laugh. And there’s 17 books in the series so you’ll never get bored with your workout.
Best exercise program on the planet. You just laugh and laugh and laugh. And there’s 17 books in the series so you’ll never get bored with your workout.
September 10, 2020
Loved it!
I think this is my favorite book yet. I can't believe Avery worked with another pets I and actually got along with them. My favorite part was the ending. I can't wait for the next book.
I think this is my favorite book yet. I can't believe Avery worked with another pets I and actually got along with them. My favorite part was the ending. I can't wait for the next book.
September 10, 2020
Three cheers for Amanda M Lee!
I absolutely love Avery Shaw! Amanda M Lee has written a book that will make you laugh and cry and just plain giggle!
Dead Santa's and a New drug are just the start !
I absolutely love Avery Shaw! Amanda M Lee has written a book that will make you laugh and cry and just plain giggle!
Dead Santa's and a New drug are just the start !
September 10, 2020
Wow!
I highly recommend this fantastic book in this quirky, funny series. I won't spoil it for you, but if you've read all the books before this one you will be happily surprised. Enjoy!
I highly recommend this fantastic book in this quirky, funny series. I won't spoil it for you, but if you've read all the books before this one you will be happily surprised. Enjoy!
September 11, 2020
Avery Shaw is always a good time!
I love the Shaw series. Ms. Lee has created a complex and rich world with
totally embracable characters. Can't wait for the next chapter of Avery's story.
I love the Shaw series. Ms. Lee has created a complex and rich world with
totally embracable characters. Can't wait for the next chapter of Avery's story.
September 12, 2020
Warning Spoilers Ahead
Spoilers Ahead
Omg!! It finally happened! I can't believe it!! And in such an Avery way. Elliot thought of everything even though I halfway still expected her to run but SHE SAID YES!!!!!
Spoilers Ahead
Omg!! It finally happened! I can't believe it!! And in such an Avery way. Elliot thought of everything even though I halfway still expected her to run but SHE SAID YES!!!!!
September 13, 2020
The whole series is PHENOMENAL
I have read each and everyone, multiple times. They are that fun and thought provoking. This is one of the few authors, I would give my eye teeth to be an ARC or Beta reader for! Please, Please, Please don’t stop now!
I have read each and everyone, multiple times. They are that fun and thought provoking. This is one of the few authors, I would give my eye teeth to be an ARC or Beta reader for! Please, Please, Please don’t stop now!
Read
September 13, 2020Absolutely amazing as always!
Avery Shaw is definitely one of my favorite characters from Amanda M Lee. She's so much fun! Smart, full of snark and hilarious, these stories are always multifaceted and exceptional. These are definitely a must read.
Avery Shaw is definitely one of my favorite characters from Amanda M Lee. She's so much fun! Smart, full of snark and hilarious, these stories are always multifaceted and exceptional. These are definitely a must read.
September 16, 2020
This book was fantastic
The first book I ever read baNana M. Lee, was the first Avery Shaw book, I loved this character from the start, she has grown so much, as always, Avery does not disappoint. The way the book ends seems as if it is the last in the series, I hope not.
The first book I ever read baNana M. Lee, was the first Avery Shaw book, I loved this character from the start, she has grown so much, as always, Avery does not disappoint. The way the book ends seems as if it is the last in the series, I hope not.
September 18, 2020
Absolutely love this series!
What can I say, I absolutely love Avery Shaw and her shenanigans! I absolutely love her snark! Now that she and Eliot are engaged I can’t wait for the wedding and what shenanigans that will involve! I hope this series never ends. Best series ever!!!
What can I say, I absolutely love Avery Shaw and her shenanigans! I absolutely love her snark! Now that she and Eliot are engaged I can’t wait for the wedding and what shenanigans that will involve! I hope this series never ends. Best series ever!!!
September 19, 2020
Loved it
Avery is in the middle of everything once again, but this time she has a sidekick. We've got drugs, interns, a bunch of dead santas, a baby on the way and talk of marriage!
Avery is in the middle of everything once again, but this time she has a sidekick. We've got drugs, interns, a bunch of dead santas, a baby on the way and talk of marriage!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews