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A Poppy McAllister Mystery #6
Beauty Expos Are Murder
Gluten-free baker Poppy McAllister is about to see the ugly side of beauty expos . . . Easter weekend on the Jersey Shore is hopping. Poppy's Bed and Breakfast is busier than ever, but she needs to leave things in the hopefully capable hands of Aunt Ginny-and paws of Figaro the black smoke Persian. She's selling her paleo muffins and keto cookies at the Health and Beauty Expo in Cape May's Convention Hall. Normally sharing a booth with the love of her life would be a treat, but she's recently discovered secrets that throw her new romance into chaos. But more secrets are about to be exposed at the expo. In his keynote address, prominent cosmetic surgeon Dr. Lance Rubin reveals his breakthrough anti-aging technology. Unfortunately, someone has one-upped him with a truly foolproof anti-aging formula: murder. With the plastic surgeon dead under his own UV mask, and bedlam reigning in the hall and back at the B&B, Poppy needs to follow a twisted trail marked by glowing footprints to unmask a killer . . .
464 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 29, 2021
108 people are currently reading
458 people want to read
About the author
Libby Klein
11 books636 followersLibby Klein graduated Lower Cape May Regional High School sometime in the '80s. Her classes revolved mostly around the culinary sciences and theater, with the occasional nap in Chemistry. A few years ago, she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that forced her to remove gluten from her kitchen and adopt a Paleo Diet. Now her life revolves around coffee and bacon. When she’s not feeling sorry for herself that she can’t eat bread, she writes from her Northern Virginia office while trying to keep her cat Figaro off her keyboard. Most of her hobbies revolve around eating, and travel, and eating while travelling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
July 5, 2021
Beauty Expos Are Murder by Libby Klein is the sixth installment in the cozy A Poppy McAllister Mystery series. Each book of this series has a new mystery to be solved by the main character so they can be read and understood as a standalone if choosing to do so. Of course as with any continuing series there is some character development that would be missed if not reading from the beginning.
In this series readers were introduced to Poppy McAllister who is a forty something widow who moved back to her hometown of Cape May, New Jersey after the death of her husband. Poppy returned to be near her elderly Aunt Ginny and has made a living for herself baking gluten-free goodies to sell and running the bed and breakfast they opened after converting Aunt Ginny’s home.
Now Poppy is getting set to sell her baked goods at the Health and Beauty Expo in a booth with her sort of boyfriend Gia. Poppy never expected to find so much drama and danger at a beauty expo but it’s one thing after another until the famous doctor speaking is found dead. Not only does Poppy feel she needs to figure out what happened with the doctor’s death but her once a nemesis now merging into friend who is a police officer seems to need Poppy’s help getting out a her own murder charge.
The A Poppy McAllister Mystery series is one that I have been following from the beginning and love the humorous nature of the series. There are those quirky characters in this series that I am always drawn to and the mysteries are fun to follow. This sixth book had tons going on in it that really kept the pages turning playing detective right along with the main character, that is between the chuckling. Glad that my one niggle of the love triangle is on the way out the door too and looking forward to whatever comes next.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
In this series readers were introduced to Poppy McAllister who is a forty something widow who moved back to her hometown of Cape May, New Jersey after the death of her husband. Poppy returned to be near her elderly Aunt Ginny and has made a living for herself baking gluten-free goodies to sell and running the bed and breakfast they opened after converting Aunt Ginny’s home.
Now Poppy is getting set to sell her baked goods at the Health and Beauty Expo in a booth with her sort of boyfriend Gia. Poppy never expected to find so much drama and danger at a beauty expo but it’s one thing after another until the famous doctor speaking is found dead. Not only does Poppy feel she needs to figure out what happened with the doctor’s death but her once a nemesis now merging into friend who is a police officer seems to need Poppy’s help getting out a her own murder charge.
The A Poppy McAllister Mystery series is one that I have been following from the beginning and love the humorous nature of the series. There are those quirky characters in this series that I am always drawn to and the mysteries are fun to follow. This sixth book had tons going on in it that really kept the pages turning playing detective right along with the main character, that is between the chuckling. Glad that my one niggle of the love triangle is on the way out the door too and looking forward to whatever comes next.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
April 18, 2021
Author Libby Klein is in her own lane with the originality of her plots and her flair for writing snarky dialogue for her plus-size main character, Poppy McAlister, pastry chef extraordinaire. Book Six begins where the previous story ended leaving Poppy’s feelings hurt and bewildered at Gia’s betrayal. This story is an amusing battle of willpower between Poppy and Alexandra, Gia’s ‘wife’.
As Gia attempts to soothe Poppy’s fears with love and positivity, the two prepare their booth at the Spring Into Beauty Expo where they sell coffee and Paleo baked goods. Someone is out to sabotage the vendor booths, and there’s a fast-growing list of suspects after a gruesome murder is discovered by poor Poppy.
I love how the author builds this story and connects all the little pieces that make it so intricate and interesting. I try to read slowly so I won’t miss anything! It’s really hard to tell who’s guilty of what crime, and there’s constant action! Aunt Ginny is in fine form and her geriatric friends are hilariously funny in all they get into! Poppy’s cat, Figaro, is in fine form, too; teaching Portia, a champion show kitty visiting the bed and breakfast, how to be naughty and live it up behind her owners backs! LOL! I found many surprise twists packed into the story, and many laugh-out-loud moments between the pages of this fantastic novel! As misunderstandings are cleared up; the story wraps up with a soothing ending. Delicious recipes are provided for readers enjoyment. I HIGHLY recommend this series beginning with book one.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
As Gia attempts to soothe Poppy’s fears with love and positivity, the two prepare their booth at the Spring Into Beauty Expo where they sell coffee and Paleo baked goods. Someone is out to sabotage the vendor booths, and there’s a fast-growing list of suspects after a gruesome murder is discovered by poor Poppy.
I love how the author builds this story and connects all the little pieces that make it so intricate and interesting. I try to read slowly so I won’t miss anything! It’s really hard to tell who’s guilty of what crime, and there’s constant action! Aunt Ginny is in fine form and her geriatric friends are hilariously funny in all they get into! Poppy’s cat, Figaro, is in fine form, too; teaching Portia, a champion show kitty visiting the bed and breakfast, how to be naughty and live it up behind her owners backs! LOL! I found many surprise twists packed into the story, and many laugh-out-loud moments between the pages of this fantastic novel! As misunderstandings are cleared up; the story wraps up with a soothing ending. Delicious recipes are provided for readers enjoyment. I HIGHLY recommend this series beginning with book one.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
June 6, 2021
Another Poppy story that literally has me snickering and laughing our loud at times. Great story, fantastic ending. Almost makes up for the ending to the previous book....
July 3, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Poppy McAllister is juggling several plates in the air as a Health and Beauty Expo comes to town. Dr. Lance Rubin and his Rubinesque Cosmetic Surgery are the big draws but Gia and Poppy will have a booth featuring her gluten-free desserts. Her Bed & Breakfast is also fully booked and she wants to host a tea on Easter Sunday, plus Aunt Ginny’s birthday is coming up and Poppy hopes to surprise her with a party. She is also going to need to bake goodies to keep the shelves filled at La Dolce Vita which will still be open during the expo. Normally she could handle this all but with her love life in flux, it is hard to work side-by-side with Gia. A recently revealed secret and the arrival of someone from his past has turned her world upside down.
All of Poppy’s concerns fly out the window when Dr. Rubin is murdered at the expo. His death opens up a large group of suspects. Who had the most to gain with the good doctor 6 feet under? Who had the most to lose? Poppy just needs to unmask the real killer without dropping any of those other plates she is juggling.
Beauty Expos are Murder picks up right where Wine Tastings are Murder left off and my heart was breaking for Poppy. She has immerged as a much stronger woman over the course of this series but Gia’s secret sets her back greatly. This story is packed with so many tense moments, I really was amazed how Poppy soldiered on and through them all. Aunt Ginny does play a huge part and that woman is such a hoot. Thanks to her and the new maid at the B&B humor is infused in all the right places. Ms. Klein’s core characters continue to evolve. The new characters she introduces in this story are excellent as well.
The murder mystery is expertly plotted. Poppy gets help from an unlikely source and those escapades never seem to go as planned and delivered a few laughs along the way. The author blends the many subplots in nicely. Sawyer is dealing with something but just won’t open up to her BFF Poppy. There is an unexpected love match at the B&B that was both cute and funny. And Aunt Ginny has hired a new employee at the B&B knowing Poppy would never approve but that just scratches the surface of the antics of Ginny and her friends in this story. One subplot was definitely not funny and I am holding back comments to avoid spoilers but I was very happy with the way that part of the story concluded.
I just love the way Libby Klein writes a story. I know when I open each book there will be a great mystery and captivating drama but that I am going to be laughing out loud more times than I will be able to count. Her sense of comedy is top-notch and she delivers it in spades.
To truly enjoy this series the books should be read from the beginning, in order, because they truly do build from each other. Each story is wonderful in its own right. I do declare every one of them special and a must-read! Beauty Expos Are Murder is a Perfect Escape. It was fun and entertaining and I enjoyed every minute of it.
Poppy McAllister is juggling several plates in the air as a Health and Beauty Expo comes to town. Dr. Lance Rubin and his Rubinesque Cosmetic Surgery are the big draws but Gia and Poppy will have a booth featuring her gluten-free desserts. Her Bed & Breakfast is also fully booked and she wants to host a tea on Easter Sunday, plus Aunt Ginny’s birthday is coming up and Poppy hopes to surprise her with a party. She is also going to need to bake goodies to keep the shelves filled at La Dolce Vita which will still be open during the expo. Normally she could handle this all but with her love life in flux, it is hard to work side-by-side with Gia. A recently revealed secret and the arrival of someone from his past has turned her world upside down.
All of Poppy’s concerns fly out the window when Dr. Rubin is murdered at the expo. His death opens up a large group of suspects. Who had the most to gain with the good doctor 6 feet under? Who had the most to lose? Poppy just needs to unmask the real killer without dropping any of those other plates she is juggling.
Beauty Expos are Murder picks up right where Wine Tastings are Murder left off and my heart was breaking for Poppy. She has immerged as a much stronger woman over the course of this series but Gia’s secret sets her back greatly. This story is packed with so many tense moments, I really was amazed how Poppy soldiered on and through them all. Aunt Ginny does play a huge part and that woman is such a hoot. Thanks to her and the new maid at the B&B humor is infused in all the right places. Ms. Klein’s core characters continue to evolve. The new characters she introduces in this story are excellent as well.
The murder mystery is expertly plotted. Poppy gets help from an unlikely source and those escapades never seem to go as planned and delivered a few laughs along the way. The author blends the many subplots in nicely. Sawyer is dealing with something but just won’t open up to her BFF Poppy. There is an unexpected love match at the B&B that was both cute and funny. And Aunt Ginny has hired a new employee at the B&B knowing Poppy would never approve but that just scratches the surface of the antics of Ginny and her friends in this story. One subplot was definitely not funny and I am holding back comments to avoid spoilers but I was very happy with the way that part of the story concluded.
I just love the way Libby Klein writes a story. I know when I open each book there will be a great mystery and captivating drama but that I am going to be laughing out loud more times than I will be able to count. Her sense of comedy is top-notch and she delivers it in spades.
To truly enjoy this series the books should be read from the beginning, in order, because they truly do build from each other. Each story is wonderful in its own right. I do declare every one of them special and a must-read! Beauty Expos Are Murder is a Perfect Escape. It was fun and entertaining and I enjoyed every minute of it.
June 29, 2021
This is such a fun series and I couldn't wait until the next edition in Poppy's story was available to us...ok, it hasn't been released yet but many thanks to the author for sharing an early copy so I didn't have to wait too long.
As we discovered at the end of the previous book, Wine Tastings are Murder, Poppy decided that Gia was the man for her over Tim. However, she was in for quite a surprise when she learned that Gia was still married and his wife has shown up to try and reconcile. This definitely creates tension between Gia and Poppy and we see that throughout the whole book and both parties aren't 100% honest with each other and trust has to be earned. Thankfully, the situation is resolved in this book and doesn't drag onto the next installment. You will have to read the book to find out how this comes to fruition and Gia and Poppy are able to truly move forward in their relationship.
To top things off, Gia and Poppy are running a booth within the Beauty Expo that has come to town featuring Poppy's gluten-free items and Gia's coffee beverages. However, even that does not run smoothly for him with Tim nursing hurt feelings over losing Poppy to Gia and Gigi trying to cast aspersions on Poppy's Paleo items. Gigi is not a likable character and has never been but she seems to ratch it up a level in this book.
There is of course a murder or two to be solved. There are some twists I didn't expect and just when you think you know who the bad guy is, a new clue or scenario appears which caused me to rethink my original thoughts. I didn't figure out the killer and this person wasn't on my radar. There are quite a few possibilities and all with legitimate reasons but not enough to kill anyone. To top it all off, Poppy works with a long-time rival, Amber, to help solve the crime. Amber is a police detective and has always been a thorn in Poppy's side. The animosity between the two can be seen throughout the book, but Poppy rises above it to help her out of a jam. Will this change their "friendship?"
And then there is a side story regarding Poppy's best friend, Sawyer. I wondered if she was getting into trouble but the truth came out and it was like a weight was lifted from Sawyer's shoulders because she didn't have to mislead Poppy. It is an awwww type of situation so don't worry about it causing any rifts.
The snark is still there and Joanne is quite the character with a biting wit. Of course Aunt Ginny is still causing trouble and even Figaro (the cat) has a love interest in Portia, a show cat.
This is such a fun series and I recommend starting at the beginning to truly follow the personal stories of Poppy, Tim, Gia, Ginny, and the biddies.
We give this book 5 paws up.
As we discovered at the end of the previous book, Wine Tastings are Murder, Poppy decided that Gia was the man for her over Tim. However, she was in for quite a surprise when she learned that Gia was still married and his wife has shown up to try and reconcile. This definitely creates tension between Gia and Poppy and we see that throughout the whole book and both parties aren't 100% honest with each other and trust has to be earned. Thankfully, the situation is resolved in this book and doesn't drag onto the next installment. You will have to read the book to find out how this comes to fruition and Gia and Poppy are able to truly move forward in their relationship.
To top things off, Gia and Poppy are running a booth within the Beauty Expo that has come to town featuring Poppy's gluten-free items and Gia's coffee beverages. However, even that does not run smoothly for him with Tim nursing hurt feelings over losing Poppy to Gia and Gigi trying to cast aspersions on Poppy's Paleo items. Gigi is not a likable character and has never been but she seems to ratch it up a level in this book.
There is of course a murder or two to be solved. There are some twists I didn't expect and just when you think you know who the bad guy is, a new clue or scenario appears which caused me to rethink my original thoughts. I didn't figure out the killer and this person wasn't on my radar. There are quite a few possibilities and all with legitimate reasons but not enough to kill anyone. To top it all off, Poppy works with a long-time rival, Amber, to help solve the crime. Amber is a police detective and has always been a thorn in Poppy's side. The animosity between the two can be seen throughout the book, but Poppy rises above it to help her out of a jam. Will this change their "friendship?"
And then there is a side story regarding Poppy's best friend, Sawyer. I wondered if she was getting into trouble but the truth came out and it was like a weight was lifted from Sawyer's shoulders because she didn't have to mislead Poppy. It is an awwww type of situation so don't worry about it causing any rifts.
The snark is still there and Joanne is quite the character with a biting wit. Of course Aunt Ginny is still causing trouble and even Figaro (the cat) has a love interest in Portia, a show cat.
This is such a fun series and I recommend starting at the beginning to truly follow the personal stories of Poppy, Tim, Gia, Ginny, and the biddies.
We give this book 5 paws up.
June 17, 2021
Murder, awkward relationships, love, humor, a competitive beauty expo, possible mob and a ending I never imagined all wrapped up in one captivating story. I loved this book.
It is book 6 in A Poppy McAllister Mystery series. It is a great book on its own but I think it meant more because I have read book 5. Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
It is book 6 in A Poppy McAllister Mystery series. It is a great book on its own but I think it meant more because I have read book 5. Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
May 13, 2021
BEAUTY EXPOS ARE MURDER, the sixth book in the Poppy McAllister Mystery series by Libby Klein, is the best so far! Actually, from the very first Ms. Klein has penned laugh-out-loud cozy mysteries with memorable and endearing characters. With each new book released, the stories keep getting better and better and I’m definitely hooked. Book five ended with a non-mystery cliffhanger and I was relieved to find book six picks up right where it left off. The protagonist, Poppy, is back to juggling the B & B she runs with her zany Aunt Ginny, along with her baking business creating delicious paleo treats for her love interest’s shop, and providing baked goodies at the huge Beauty expo happening in their town. There is non-stop action and antics, especially when Aunt Ginny comes onto the scene and lucky for the reader, she frequents the pages. Poppy also has a tongue-in-cheek snarky humor which comes in handy when dealing with not only her aunt and her mischievous cat, Figaro, but those who would like to make her life difficult.
While the characters might be what draws me to this series, Ms. Klein pens a sharp plot that hits all the marks for creating a puzzling murder with subtle clues to keep the reader on their toes. She’s written a most unusual method for murder and I applaud her creativity! As Poppy investigates alongside her longtime high school nemeses (another terrific plot addition) she does so with methodical thoughtfulness despite the antics that keeps the story lighthearted. As she narrowed in on the suspects, I was thrown off course by the twists introduced. The author’s attention to detail ensures the reader a highly satisfying ending with no dangling threads left unanswered… except for wondering when the next book will be released!
With Poppy baking so many treats, the reader will be drooling over the descriptions. Ms. Klein provides several delectable paleo recipes at the back of the book.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
While the characters might be what draws me to this series, Ms. Klein pens a sharp plot that hits all the marks for creating a puzzling murder with subtle clues to keep the reader on their toes. She’s written a most unusual method for murder and I applaud her creativity! As Poppy investigates alongside her longtime high school nemeses (another terrific plot addition) she does so with methodical thoughtfulness despite the antics that keeps the story lighthearted. As she narrowed in on the suspects, I was thrown off course by the twists introduced. The author’s attention to detail ensures the reader a highly satisfying ending with no dangling threads left unanswered… except for wondering when the next book will be released!
With Poppy baking so many treats, the reader will be drooling over the descriptions. Ms. Klein provides several delectable paleo recipes at the back of the book.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 3, 2021
I have a big complaint about Beauty Expos Are Murder, the sixth book in the “A Poppy Macallister Mystery” series, okay, more than one starting with the length. This book is unnecessarily long and convoluted to the point that it is bogged down with too much mystery. This book really should have been broken down into two separate books. So many readers aren’t sure which mystery is most important between Poppy’s love life gone wrong, murder(s), theft, and corruption. Also, the whole paleo/keto baking seems to be added in to justify using the beauty expo as the setting.
The main character, Poppy, is at times fantastic, and at other times, a bit much to take. Other characters such as Aunt Ginny and her friends are great, and I would love to see more about each of them. Gia, his mother, and the rest of his family are not likable characters, except Gia’s son Henry. The addition of Gia’s wife, Alex, did not help matters. Unlike Poppy, Alex is small and beloved by Gia’s mother, and she doesn’t need to be on any diet, least of all a paleo/keto one. Amber, who comes to Poppy for help, even though they are not friends because she is being set up to take the blame for murder, and Joanne, who is Poppy’s childhood enemy, is hired by Aunt Ginny to work at the B&B; simple add too much to the overall plot. I can live with Amber, but there is no way anyone would have Joanne working for them! She mistreats Poppy and does whatever she wants; no good business owner would allow Joanne anywhere near their place of business or their customers.
Suspects, in not one but two murders, all appear to have good motives or no motive. There are twists and turns in every direction and both investigations. Poppy, for once, isn’t a suspect, but she knows everyone who is and sticks her nose in where it doesn’t belong as usual. Poppy and Gia’s relationship in Beauty Expos Are Murder is interesting and resolved at long last, but the cost to Poppy may be greater than she expected. Her paleo/keto booth at the expo gets vandalized, along with a few other vendors, and she ends up focusing more on that and the murder of the keynote speaker at the expo and little else. She leaves the B&B in the hands of Aunt Ginny and Joanne and goes about investigating the murder. After a few misdirections on her part, the murderer steps forward, and Poppy finds a way to stop the killer. If readers have not read any of the other books in this series, I would suggest they start at the beginning; otherwise, this book will not make any sense whatsoever.
The main character, Poppy, is at times fantastic, and at other times, a bit much to take. Other characters such as Aunt Ginny and her friends are great, and I would love to see more about each of them. Gia, his mother, and the rest of his family are not likable characters, except Gia’s son Henry. The addition of Gia’s wife, Alex, did not help matters. Unlike Poppy, Alex is small and beloved by Gia’s mother, and she doesn’t need to be on any diet, least of all a paleo/keto one. Amber, who comes to Poppy for help, even though they are not friends because she is being set up to take the blame for murder, and Joanne, who is Poppy’s childhood enemy, is hired by Aunt Ginny to work at the B&B; simple add too much to the overall plot. I can live with Amber, but there is no way anyone would have Joanne working for them! She mistreats Poppy and does whatever she wants; no good business owner would allow Joanne anywhere near their place of business or their customers.
Suspects, in not one but two murders, all appear to have good motives or no motive. There are twists and turns in every direction and both investigations. Poppy, for once, isn’t a suspect, but she knows everyone who is and sticks her nose in where it doesn’t belong as usual. Poppy and Gia’s relationship in Beauty Expos Are Murder is interesting and resolved at long last, but the cost to Poppy may be greater than she expected. Her paleo/keto booth at the expo gets vandalized, along with a few other vendors, and she ends up focusing more on that and the murder of the keynote speaker at the expo and little else. She leaves the B&B in the hands of Aunt Ginny and Joanne and goes about investigating the murder. After a few misdirections on her part, the murderer steps forward, and Poppy finds a way to stop the killer. If readers have not read any of the other books in this series, I would suggest they start at the beginning; otherwise, this book will not make any sense whatsoever.
March 30, 2021
Beauty Expos Are Murder
Libby Klein
Poppy McCallister is in love, and just as she’s ready to tell her love how she feels, she discovers a secret he’s been hiding.
This isn’t a little secret, no, this is a huge secret that goes by Alex to her friends. She’s Gia’s ex wife and she’s determined to win back both her husband and her son. As crushed as Poppy is, she has to muster through, as she’s getting ready for the beauty expo that’s in town. Poppy doesn’t think that things could get any worse, but when a dead body is discovered, things suddenly spin out of control.
With the help of her Aunt Ginny and her friend Sawyer, Poppy works hard to find the secrets that everyone else wants to keep locked up.
Poppy is one of the best characters in the cozy mystery world. To me she’s real, she has problems just like the rest of us, and she just lives her life her own way. Her sense of humor is fantastic and this book kept me snorting and laughing from beginning to end.
I’m excited to see what’s next for Poppy and her friends.
#BeautyExposAreMurder #NetGalley
Libby Klein
Poppy McCallister is in love, and just as she’s ready to tell her love how she feels, she discovers a secret he’s been hiding.
This isn’t a little secret, no, this is a huge secret that goes by Alex to her friends. She’s Gia’s ex wife and she’s determined to win back both her husband and her son. As crushed as Poppy is, she has to muster through, as she’s getting ready for the beauty expo that’s in town. Poppy doesn’t think that things could get any worse, but when a dead body is discovered, things suddenly spin out of control.
With the help of her Aunt Ginny and her friend Sawyer, Poppy works hard to find the secrets that everyone else wants to keep locked up.
Poppy is one of the best characters in the cozy mystery world. To me she’s real, she has problems just like the rest of us, and she just lives her life her own way. Her sense of humor is fantastic and this book kept me snorting and laughing from beginning to end.
I’m excited to see what’s next for Poppy and her friends.
#BeautyExposAreMurder #NetGalley
June 22, 2021
If you're reading in order, you'll recall where book five left off the minute you start reading this book. Poppy had made her decision on guys but as per her usual luck, things went a little sideways, or maybe a lot that way. I don't want to give away any good surprises, but do yourself a favor and read these books in order if you want the most enjoyment from them.
Poppy found herself baking her usual treats and running Gia's booth for the coffee shop at the health and beauty expo at the convention center. But her life wouldn't be complete without a murder or two and a couple of nemeses poking their heads into her business, right? One of the said nemeses needed Poppy's investigation help. Officer Amber actually asked her to help save her badge, and Joanne Junk made an appearance like she usually does partly to help Amber and partly as hired help.
There were a lot of things going on in the book, but what seemed to be separate murders were actually connected. Fig got his own funny little side story as did Aunt Ginny who was getting somewhat addicted to gummy bears laced with something illegal that miraculously made her drive better lol. Victory surprisingly still had her job there, and even Smitty made an appearance at his Three Stooges best nyuking it up with little Henry. Sawyer had been acting a little mysterious throughout the book, but eventually she revealed a good reason. She did always come through when her bestie needed her though.
As hanging (to me, anyway) as the last book ended, this one actually had a very nice and satisfying end to it. After the murders were figured out, there was one more issue, and it was awesome how it played out. That's all I'm gonna say and hope I haven't said too much! This book publishes next Tuesday, June 29, 2021. I already can't wait for the next one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
Poppy found herself baking her usual treats and running Gia's booth for the coffee shop at the health and beauty expo at the convention center. But her life wouldn't be complete without a murder or two and a couple of nemeses poking their heads into her business, right? One of the said nemeses needed Poppy's investigation help. Officer Amber actually asked her to help save her badge, and Joanne Junk made an appearance like she usually does partly to help Amber and partly as hired help.
There were a lot of things going on in the book, but what seemed to be separate murders were actually connected. Fig got his own funny little side story as did Aunt Ginny who was getting somewhat addicted to gummy bears laced with something illegal that miraculously made her drive better lol. Victory surprisingly still had her job there, and even Smitty made an appearance at his Three Stooges best nyuking it up with little Henry. Sawyer had been acting a little mysterious throughout the book, but eventually she revealed a good reason. She did always come through when her bestie needed her though.
As hanging (to me, anyway) as the last book ended, this one actually had a very nice and satisfying end to it. After the murders were figured out, there was one more issue, and it was awesome how it played out. That's all I'm gonna say and hope I haven't said too much! This book publishes next Tuesday, June 29, 2021. I already can't wait for the next one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
March 27, 2025
"Beauty Expos Are Murder (A Poppy McAllister Mystery #6)" by Libby Klein has a little bit Easter, a lot of beauty expo and a little mob action. The black light/glow eggs in the dark adult Easter Egg hunt sounds so fun. The beauty expo felt like it went on forever. The mob stuff, well that was in connection to the Gia being technically married bombshell that dropped at the end of book 5. I do have to say that I am glad that didn't get dragged into multiple books.
While working a beauty expo selling paleo treats with Gia, Poppy stumbles upon a plastic surgeon who appears to be fried by his own LED face mask. She was supposed to be meeting him about his thoughts on her getting liposuction, since she's still a bit heavy on the fat shaming/self hate in this book. Poppy gets wrapped up in figuring out what happened when she also gets pulled into helping clear Amber's name from corruption and murder. Are the two cases connected? Something sure is going on at the beauty expo.
While working a beauty expo selling paleo treats with Gia, Poppy stumbles upon a plastic surgeon who appears to be fried by his own LED face mask. She was supposed to be meeting him about his thoughts on her getting liposuction, since she's still a bit heavy on the fat shaming/self hate in this book. Poppy gets wrapped up in figuring out what happened when she also gets pulled into helping clear Amber's name from corruption and murder. Are the two cases connected? Something sure is going on at the beauty expo.
June 26, 2021
Reading Beauty Expos are Murder was a lovely treat!
A thrilling roller-coaster ride from start to finish I was so pleased to be back with Poppy McAllister, a Bed & Breakfast owner - the Butterfly House Bed & Breakfast - in Cape May, New Jersey, and a baker of glorious gluten-free goodies. It's Easter and she's leaving everything at Butterfly House for her Aunt Ginny to manage while she goes to Jersey Shore Health and Beauty Expo to sell her paleo muffins and keto cookies. A murder at the Expo adds another layer of suspense to Poppy's already extremely chaotic life.
Forty-odd-year-old, pastry chef, Poppy, the protagonist, lives with her elderly Aunt Ginny and Figaro, her mischievous cat. Poppy and many of the other characters are very funny and likeable, and as someone who has read many cozies, Poppy’s Aunt Ginny has become one of my favourite cozy characters. She and her geriatric pals provided plenty of humour in this book and I love her zaniness, zest for life and mischievous antics.
The opening chapters drew me into the story and captured my attention immediately. There was never a dull moment with such a lot going on. The mystery itself was well thought out with plenty of twists and turns as I puzzled over the clues to discover the perpetrator. There was certainly plenty to keep the reader interested. The book had a natural, steady pace, and I was kept guessing until the reveal. Delightful and entertaining, Beauty Expos are Murder is a highly recommended, quick, light read for all cozy mystery fans.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
A thrilling roller-coaster ride from start to finish I was so pleased to be back with Poppy McAllister, a Bed & Breakfast owner - the Butterfly House Bed & Breakfast - in Cape May, New Jersey, and a baker of glorious gluten-free goodies. It's Easter and she's leaving everything at Butterfly House for her Aunt Ginny to manage while she goes to Jersey Shore Health and Beauty Expo to sell her paleo muffins and keto cookies. A murder at the Expo adds another layer of suspense to Poppy's already extremely chaotic life.
Forty-odd-year-old, pastry chef, Poppy, the protagonist, lives with her elderly Aunt Ginny and Figaro, her mischievous cat. Poppy and many of the other characters are very funny and likeable, and as someone who has read many cozies, Poppy’s Aunt Ginny has become one of my favourite cozy characters. She and her geriatric pals provided plenty of humour in this book and I love her zaniness, zest for life and mischievous antics.
The opening chapters drew me into the story and captured my attention immediately. There was never a dull moment with such a lot going on. The mystery itself was well thought out with plenty of twists and turns as I puzzled over the clues to discover the perpetrator. There was certainly plenty to keep the reader interested. The book had a natural, steady pace, and I was kept guessing until the reveal. Delightful and entertaining, Beauty Expos are Murder is a highly recommended, quick, light read for all cozy mystery fans.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
November 15, 2022
**CONTAINS SPOILERS**
Oh my gosh! This book was my favorite of the series so far! It was so funny, I found myself laughing out loud so much - my husband kept asking me what was so funny!
The idea of the beauty expo was so fun and I loved how the mysteries intertwined. I definitely couldn't figure out how and why (and the who, let's be honest), but it was so good. As for Gia and Tim, I was waffling back and forth, but am SOOOOOO happy that she chose Gia. I have to say that Gigi and Tim deserve each other. *Cough* Alex gets what she deserves too *cough* *cough*
I'm glad that Amber and Poppy seem to be on better terms and can't wait to see how their friendship grows, although if I'm honest, I hope some of the snarky-ness stays :) I was sad for Fig when his lady love left and Aunt Ginny had me CRACKING up with those gummies!
All in all, this story was great and I loved how it really focused on the character relationships, even more so than previous stories IMO.
You all better put this on your TBR list NOW! :)
Libby Klein
Oh my gosh! This book was my favorite of the series so far! It was so funny, I found myself laughing out loud so much - my husband kept asking me what was so funny!
The idea of the beauty expo was so fun and I loved how the mysteries intertwined. I definitely couldn't figure out how and why (and the who, let's be honest), but it was so good. As for Gia and Tim, I was waffling back and forth, but am SOOOOOO happy that she chose Gia. I have to say that Gigi and Tim deserve each other. *Cough* Alex gets what she deserves too *cough* *cough*
I'm glad that Amber and Poppy seem to be on better terms and can't wait to see how their friendship grows, although if I'm honest, I hope some of the snarky-ness stays :) I was sad for Fig when his lady love left and Aunt Ginny had me CRACKING up with those gummies!
All in all, this story was great and I loved how it really focused on the character relationships, even more so than previous stories IMO.
You all better put this on your TBR list NOW! :)
Libby Klein
June 30, 2021
Poppy has chosen Gia. But now his wife Alex, is back to reclaim him and their son, Henry. Poppy still has feelings for Gia. But how can she get over the fact that he didn’t tell her he was still married. In the meantime, Gia and Poppy are vendors of coffee and paleo pastries at a large local beauty expo. They both will soon discover that Beauty Expos are Murder when a famed plastic surgeon is found dead.
For fans of this series, this book is a can’t-be-missed series addition. However, first time readers should start reading with at least the previous book, Wine Tastings are Murder. This book continues directly from the cliffhanger surprise ending of the last book.
The book has many laugh-out-loud moments mostly with Aunt Ginny and her biddies and Figaro the rambunctious cat. There are also five delicious gluten-free recipes included. Beauty Expos are Murder is highly recommended to series fans. 5 stars!
Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
For fans of this series, this book is a can’t-be-missed series addition. However, first time readers should start reading with at least the previous book, Wine Tastings are Murder. This book continues directly from the cliffhanger surprise ending of the last book.
The book has many laugh-out-loud moments mostly with Aunt Ginny and her biddies and Figaro the rambunctious cat. There are also five delicious gluten-free recipes included. Beauty Expos are Murder is highly recommended to series fans. 5 stars!
Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
June 23, 2021
Oh. My. Goodness. This is such a fun, entertaining mystery, chock full of humor with a few crazy antics thrown in for good measure. I had a hard time putting this book down, I was so intrigued with trying to solve the mystery. I love the characters: Poppy, Aunt Ginny, Tim, and Gia. I'd love to visit their seashore town and B&B. I enjoy trying to puzzle out the whodunnit before it's revealed in the story. I was nearly successful this time, but maybe it doesn't count when I suspect nearly everyone at some point in the story.
If you love the previous books in this series, you're sure to love Beauty Expos Are Murder! And if you haven't read any of the Poppy McAllister Mysteries yet, what are you waiting for? If you like a good mystery with a great cast of characters, that doesn't leave you hanging in spots wondering what will happen next, this should be your next read (or start at the beginning of the series, if that's your thing)!
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
If you love the previous books in this series, you're sure to love Beauty Expos Are Murder! And if you haven't read any of the Poppy McAllister Mysteries yet, what are you waiting for? If you like a good mystery with a great cast of characters, that doesn't leave you hanging in spots wondering what will happen next, this should be your next read (or start at the beginning of the series, if that's your thing)!
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
September 15, 2021
4.5 stars 🌟 . Loved it! Loved the feel good ending.
June 10, 2021
This was my first cozy book by Libby Klein and I am hugely grateful to Kensington and NetGalley for my e-ARC. Beauty expos are murder tells the story of Poppy McCallister who is in love with a distinguished gentleman. She however discovers the gentleman has been keeping a secret from her *sighh* and so instead of wallowing she has to focus on the upcoming beauty expo. Something does happen that result with a dead body and so Poppy, her aunt Ginny and Sawyer try to solve the case. I absolutely enjoyed this story which also has delicious recipes for us to enjoy. Highly recommend!!
June 4, 2021
Poppy McAllister finally has it all! A great business, an adorable (yet devious) cat, a fun-loving aunt, another woman's husband...wait, what???
Poppy has her work cut out for her and this time it has nothing to do with gluten free pastries! With Gia's estranged wife back in town and a killer running loose amidst a beauty expo, Poppy and the gang will take you for a twisty ride that you won't want to see end.
I also have to add, even though some people skip the recipes in cozy mysteries, you won't want to miss these. No Poppy McAllister book would be complete without some delectable recipes that you will definitely want to try out.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for this delightful ARC.
Poppy has her work cut out for her and this time it has nothing to do with gluten free pastries! With Gia's estranged wife back in town and a killer running loose amidst a beauty expo, Poppy and the gang will take you for a twisty ride that you won't want to see end.
I also have to add, even though some people skip the recipes in cozy mysteries, you won't want to miss these. No Poppy McAllister book would be complete without some delectable recipes that you will definitely want to try out.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for this delightful ARC.
November 12, 2021
Beauty Expos are Murder is the sixth book in the Poppy McAllister Mystery series by Libby Klein and if you aren't a fan yet, it's not too late !! In Beauty Expos are Murder Klein packs a lot into this story and you will be hooked !!!
Poppy McAllister always has a lot going on but it looks like things may be slowing down in one area of her life....since the first book, Class Reunions are Murder, Poppy has been juggling two men. She returned home to Cape May to live with her Aunt Ginny and attend her class reunion where she reconnected with her high school sweetheart Tim. She also met Gia and started baking for his coffee shop. Well finally in Beauty Expos are Murder she is committing to Gia.....but, of course, with Poppy it won't be as easy as she hopes.
In Beauty Expos are Murder Poppy and Gia have a booth at the Health and Beauty Expo being held at the Convention Hall as well as everything else they have going on.....him running the coffee shop, her running the Bed and Breakfast with her aunt.....and then Gia's wife comes to town and there's a death at the Expo and Poppy happens to be the one to discover the body !!
Wait......back up....Gia's wife ?? Yes, that is a secret he kept from Poppy so there is a lot of tension there and you will want to read that all for yourself.... I won't ruin the fun for you !
Now back to the dead body..... Dr. Lance Rubin is a cosmetic surgeon who is very popular and the big draw to the event so when it is his body that winds up dead, you know there is going to be a lot of pressure to solve his murder....and when one of Poppy's high school enemies asks for help on another case, she finds it hard to say no. Seeing as the person asking is a cop and Poppy has sort of helped her in the past, she finds herself in the middle of a major mess !!
There is so much going on in Beauty Expos are Murder that you will stay up past your bedtime and neglect other things in your daily life just so you can stay on top of what is going on with Poppy. The characters in this story will feel like real people that you will grow to love and want to protect. You might even find yourself putting together a list of things to pack so you can go stay at the B&B and tag along with Poppy until you realize you are reading a book......
Poppy McAllister always has a lot going on but it looks like things may be slowing down in one area of her life....since the first book, Class Reunions are Murder, Poppy has been juggling two men. She returned home to Cape May to live with her Aunt Ginny and attend her class reunion where she reconnected with her high school sweetheart Tim. She also met Gia and started baking for his coffee shop. Well finally in Beauty Expos are Murder she is committing to Gia.....but, of course, with Poppy it won't be as easy as she hopes.
In Beauty Expos are Murder Poppy and Gia have a booth at the Health and Beauty Expo being held at the Convention Hall as well as everything else they have going on.....him running the coffee shop, her running the Bed and Breakfast with her aunt.....and then Gia's wife comes to town and there's a death at the Expo and Poppy happens to be the one to discover the body !!
Wait......back up....Gia's wife ?? Yes, that is a secret he kept from Poppy so there is a lot of tension there and you will want to read that all for yourself.... I won't ruin the fun for you !
Now back to the dead body..... Dr. Lance Rubin is a cosmetic surgeon who is very popular and the big draw to the event so when it is his body that winds up dead, you know there is going to be a lot of pressure to solve his murder....and when one of Poppy's high school enemies asks for help on another case, she finds it hard to say no. Seeing as the person asking is a cop and Poppy has sort of helped her in the past, she finds herself in the middle of a major mess !!
There is so much going on in Beauty Expos are Murder that you will stay up past your bedtime and neglect other things in your daily life just so you can stay on top of what is going on with Poppy. The characters in this story will feel like real people that you will grow to love and want to protect. You might even find yourself putting together a list of things to pack so you can go stay at the B&B and tag along with Poppy until you realize you are reading a book......
April 1, 2021
Set in Cape May, South Jersey Poppy works as a pastry chef in a restaurant called Maxine’s owned by her high school friend Tim. She’d just recently learned that Gia, a guy she was seeing was married.
Though according to him the marriage was only on paper because his estranged wife Alexandra abandoned her family and ran off with a man two weeks after their son Henry was born.
Now four years later she’s back and wants Gia to give her another chance. But where does that leave Poppy? She’s at crossroads because she can’t decide if she wants to fight for Gia or just walk. The latter option might be difficult seeing as Gia’s son Henry has taken to her.
Meanwhile, a spring event is around the corner. The Health and Beauty Expo would be held in Cape May’s Convention Hall. Booths would be set up for locals to showcase their products such as juices, vitamins, etc. Poppy would be selling her paleo muffins and keto cookies as well.
One of the guests that would attend is a famous doctor named Dr. Lance Rubin who would reveal his anti-aging technology at the event.
During the event, Dr. Lance Rubin is found dead in a tent under his UV mask on one of his exam tables. Who killed him and why?
Recipes included are Poppy’s Chicken Salad, Gluten-Free Hot Cross Buns, Gluten-Free Chocolate Loaf, Cherry Mascarpone Filling, Gluten-Free Cream Tea Scones, and Joanne’s Extreme Vanilla and Raspberry Rose Petits Fours.
An interesting mystery. Would recommend.
Thank you to Libby Klein, NetGalley, and Kensington for the ARC of this book.
Though according to him the marriage was only on paper because his estranged wife Alexandra abandoned her family and ran off with a man two weeks after their son Henry was born.
Now four years later she’s back and wants Gia to give her another chance. But where does that leave Poppy? She’s at crossroads because she can’t decide if she wants to fight for Gia or just walk. The latter option might be difficult seeing as Gia’s son Henry has taken to her.
Meanwhile, a spring event is around the corner. The Health and Beauty Expo would be held in Cape May’s Convention Hall. Booths would be set up for locals to showcase their products such as juices, vitamins, etc. Poppy would be selling her paleo muffins and keto cookies as well.
One of the guests that would attend is a famous doctor named Dr. Lance Rubin who would reveal his anti-aging technology at the event.
During the event, Dr. Lance Rubin is found dead in a tent under his UV mask on one of his exam tables. Who killed him and why?
Recipes included are Poppy’s Chicken Salad, Gluten-Free Hot Cross Buns, Gluten-Free Chocolate Loaf, Cherry Mascarpone Filling, Gluten-Free Cream Tea Scones, and Joanne’s Extreme Vanilla and Raspberry Rose Petits Fours.
An interesting mystery. Would recommend.
Thank you to Libby Klein, NetGalley, and Kensington for the ARC of this book.
March 1, 2023
I have read all the books in the Poppy McAllister series and this one is by far my favorite. I was so excited to get the ARC I abandoned my TBR pile and had to read it right away. I was not disappointed.
This book follows up from the last one, Wine Tastings are Murder, so if you missed that one there was quite the cliffhanger and I recommend reading that one first (or all of them, in order, you won't be disappointed!). I don't want to give too much of the plot away due to spoilers but suffice it to say Poppy's love life is again in turmoil and now she has to get through a beauty expo where Aunt Ginny discovers THC gummies, a prominent plastic surgeon dies and Poppy's nemesis, police office Amber Fenton, is being framed for murder. Poppy is pulled in multiple directions to solve these crimes and sort out her feelings.
As I said, this one is definitely the best in the series. I laughed multiple times. Libby Klein has a gift for descriptions, I especially loved the one about Amber Fenton's beater car, which I read out loud to my roommate because it was so clever. Poppy is a spunky heroine who has a talent for baking and an equal talent for snark, which makes me love her all the more. I adore this series and it will be one of the few I read over and over. I do hope there will be many more in the Poppy series. I am very excited to get the next one.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions in this review are my own.
This book follows up from the last one, Wine Tastings are Murder, so if you missed that one there was quite the cliffhanger and I recommend reading that one first (or all of them, in order, you won't be disappointed!). I don't want to give too much of the plot away due to spoilers but suffice it to say Poppy's love life is again in turmoil and now she has to get through a beauty expo where Aunt Ginny discovers THC gummies, a prominent plastic surgeon dies and Poppy's nemesis, police office Amber Fenton, is being framed for murder. Poppy is pulled in multiple directions to solve these crimes and sort out her feelings.
As I said, this one is definitely the best in the series. I laughed multiple times. Libby Klein has a gift for descriptions, I especially loved the one about Amber Fenton's beater car, which I read out loud to my roommate because it was so clever. Poppy is a spunky heroine who has a talent for baking and an equal talent for snark, which makes me love her all the more. I adore this series and it will be one of the few I read over and over. I do hope there will be many more in the Poppy series. I am very excited to get the next one.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions in this review are my own.
November 16, 2022
ANOTHER GREAT READ IN THIS SERIES! ONLY COMPLAINT BEING: IT'S TOO LONG.
PREMISE: So in this 6th book in the Poppy McAllister series, we open up picking right back up from where we left off (cliffhanger) in book 5. Once that's resolved itself, we move into the mystery. This time Detective Amber is being framed for a murder and now that her neck's on the line she trusts Poppy enough to get her out of trouble and find the real killer. Meanwhile Poppy is invited to sell her baked goods at a beauty expo (hence the title). There is going to be a famous doctor there (famous for being on 1 episode of Good Morning America - lol). The doctor winds up dead and Poppy needs to work out who killed him.
THOUGHTS: The series as a whole has grown on me for sure. I am now finding myself incredibly invested in: Poppy, Gia, Aunt Ginny, The Biddies, Fig (the cat) and the B&B in general. Had fun with both the cozy and the mystery side. My only con is the length! The book (for a cozy) is 60 Chapters long which is incredibly long for a cozy (amounting to 458 pages - just 42 short of a TOME!). Otheriwse absolutely loved it and can't wait to read book #7!
4.5 Stars
xoxo.
PREMISE: So in this 6th book in the Poppy McAllister series, we open up picking right back up from where we left off (cliffhanger) in book 5. Once that's resolved itself, we move into the mystery. This time Detective Amber is being framed for a murder and now that her neck's on the line she trusts Poppy enough to get her out of trouble and find the real killer. Meanwhile Poppy is invited to sell her baked goods at a beauty expo (hence the title). There is going to be a famous doctor there (famous for being on 1 episode of Good Morning America - lol). The doctor winds up dead and Poppy needs to work out who killed him.
THOUGHTS: The series as a whole has grown on me for sure. I am now finding myself incredibly invested in: Poppy, Gia, Aunt Ginny, The Biddies, Fig (the cat) and the B&B in general. Had fun with both the cozy and the mystery side. My only con is the length! The book (for a cozy) is 60 Chapters long which is incredibly long for a cozy (amounting to 458 pages - just 42 short of a TOME!). Otheriwse absolutely loved it and can't wait to read book #7!
4.5 Stars
xoxo.
May 2, 2021
Poppy has a lot of drama in her life, Gia’s wife (?!?!) arrives on the scene, a dead body shows up at the beauty expo, and Amber reveals that she’s suspect number one for the murder of a teenaged CI. Meanwhile, Aunt Ginny and her friends are causing their usual ruckus all over town.
I really like Poppy, she’s down but not out. She’s classy and doesn’t let things bring her down. She’s got tons of challenges but she’s still a good friend, a great business person, and a classy person in general. We see Amber again, and Joanne, we also meet some new guests at the B & B and their escape-artist cat, Portia. Aunt Ginny is probably one of my favorite cozy characters, she reminds me of Vivian Borne from the Trash ‘N’ Treasures series.
The mystery was pretty interesting, there are a lot of different things going on, none of which seem to be related. I figured from the beginning that there had to be some relationship between the various things that were happening. I’ll let everyone find out for themselves if I was right.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
I really like Poppy, she’s down but not out. She’s classy and doesn’t let things bring her down. She’s got tons of challenges but she’s still a good friend, a great business person, and a classy person in general. We see Amber again, and Joanne, we also meet some new guests at the B & B and their escape-artist cat, Portia. Aunt Ginny is probably one of my favorite cozy characters, she reminds me of Vivian Borne from the Trash ‘N’ Treasures series.
The mystery was pretty interesting, there are a lot of different things going on, none of which seem to be related. I figured from the beginning that there had to be some relationship between the various things that were happening. I’ll let everyone find out for themselves if I was right.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
June 30, 2021
There are few authors whose books make the reader feel at home as soon as they begin reading and Libby Klein is one of them. Just like the first 5 books in the Poppy McAllister Mystery series, Beauty Expos are Murder gave me that, THIS is were I am supposed to be feeling.
While Libby Klein does use some cozy mystery tropes, her books never fall into the same-old, same-old mold that too many others do. Other than knowing that someone will die, that the bitties will leave me laughing, and that Poppy will triumph, I never know what to expect of a Poppy McAllister mystery and I love that!
Poppy has made her decision between the two men who have declared their love only to discover that Gia is not free to make a commitment. The path from that first moment of shock to the delightful resolution is full of twist and turns, laughter and insecurity (and a few tears) for Poppy and for the reader. Oh, what a wonderful journey it is.
#NetGalley #Kensington #Libby Klein #BeautyExposAreMurder
While Libby Klein does use some cozy mystery tropes, her books never fall into the same-old, same-old mold that too many others do. Other than knowing that someone will die, that the bitties will leave me laughing, and that Poppy will triumph, I never know what to expect of a Poppy McAllister mystery and I love that!
Poppy has made her decision between the two men who have declared their love only to discover that Gia is not free to make a commitment. The path from that first moment of shock to the delightful resolution is full of twist and turns, laughter and insecurity (and a few tears) for Poppy and for the reader. Oh, what a wonderful journey it is.
#NetGalley #Kensington #Libby Klein #BeautyExposAreMurder
June 2, 2021
"Beauty Expos Are Murder" is the 6th instalment in the Poppy McAllister Mystery series by Libby Klein. I love this series and I think this was best one yet! I love visiting the Jersey Shore and Poppy, Sawyer, Aunt Ginny, and the "Biddies"! Plus we cant forget about her mischievous cat, Figuro!
This time around we are at a Beauty Expo and Poppy is still struggling from relationship issues with Gia. From meddling wives to vandalism Poppy has her work cut out for her this go around. At the B&B - Portia, a champion show kitty joins in the chaos and captures Figuro’s heart.
I found the mystery was well written and paced with lots of twists and turns. It kept me guessing to the end. I can’t wait till the next instalment comes out and finding out what Poppy does next!
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This time around we are at a Beauty Expo and Poppy is still struggling from relationship issues with Gia. From meddling wives to vandalism Poppy has her work cut out for her this go around. At the B&B - Portia, a champion show kitty joins in the chaos and captures Figuro’s heart.
I found the mystery was well written and paced with lots of twists and turns. It kept me guessing to the end. I can’t wait till the next instalment comes out and finding out what Poppy does next!
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 12, 2022
I have one word for this book, “wow!”
This is the sixth book in this series and it is my favourite so far.
The story grabbed me from the get go, and didn’t let go. I could not put it down. The whodunit had twists and turns that kept me guessing.
Poppy is a realistic, contemporary woman, who I really enjoy reading about.
All in all, this book was a delight to read and a great continuation to this series.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
This is the sixth book in this series and it is my favourite so far.
The story grabbed me from the get go, and didn’t let go. I could not put it down. The whodunit had twists and turns that kept me guessing.
Poppy is a realistic, contemporary woman, who I really enjoy reading about.
All in all, this book was a delight to read and a great continuation to this series.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
July 19, 2021
4.5 Stars
This is the sixth book in the Poppy McAllister mystery series by Libby Klein.
I thought this book was a good representation of how cases are solved in the real world. And the author took her time digging through the mystery to make it not only interesting to the reader but fun to follow too. I completely enjoyed myself. This book was quite a hoot to me. There was definitely a lot going on in this book that was more than just the main mystery. Someone was shooting at the blow up bunny and Sawyer’s strange behavior were two things that stood out to me. Nothing wrong with either of those things. Other reviewers seem to be complaining about similar instances in the plot, but I think such things are perfectly normal. No one is always going to agree with how the investigation is going Things that happen outside the murder will still take people’s attention. Real world stuff always invades so this was a good reflection of real life to me.
I have been keeping up with this series but I had forgotten what had made Poppy want to take a break from relationships at the end of book five. I went and looked it up. Now I remember. The revelation came out that Gia had a wife he never told Poppy about. It just about killed her heart since she was so in love with Gia’s son, Henry. This plot continues in this book and Poppy is dealing with this conniving little blood sucker through most of the book. This Alex chick made me cringe and I was blown away at the fact Gia’s mother was touting her praises. Kinda discombobbled my mind, if I’m honest. I am glad that was completely discussed at the end since I felt so much better about things after that resolution.
There is this fun Agatha Christie-like confrontation at the end that just makes the whole book payoff and all that struggle was deemed worth it. I’ll admit I wanted to strangle that Alex gal myself a time or three. There was a lot of this relationship stuff in this story which is what made the book so much bigger than others. It was a lot to wade through but it was totally worth it for the resolution it gave when the cliffhanger happened at the end of book five.
Great series to follow. Definitely going to dig into it more! So much fun to read!
If you love a cozy mystery, definitely check this one out. Great new must read book great series too!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title. Opinions are completely my own.
This is the sixth book in the Poppy McAllister mystery series by Libby Klein.
I thought this book was a good representation of how cases are solved in the real world. And the author took her time digging through the mystery to make it not only interesting to the reader but fun to follow too. I completely enjoyed myself. This book was quite a hoot to me. There was definitely a lot going on in this book that was more than just the main mystery. Someone was shooting at the blow up bunny and Sawyer’s strange behavior were two things that stood out to me. Nothing wrong with either of those things. Other reviewers seem to be complaining about similar instances in the plot, but I think such things are perfectly normal. No one is always going to agree with how the investigation is going Things that happen outside the murder will still take people’s attention. Real world stuff always invades so this was a good reflection of real life to me.
I have been keeping up with this series but I had forgotten what had made Poppy want to take a break from relationships at the end of book five. I went and looked it up. Now I remember. The revelation came out that Gia had a wife he never told Poppy about. It just about killed her heart since she was so in love with Gia’s son, Henry. This plot continues in this book and Poppy is dealing with this conniving little blood sucker through most of the book. This Alex chick made me cringe and I was blown away at the fact Gia’s mother was touting her praises. Kinda discombobbled my mind, if I’m honest. I am glad that was completely discussed at the end since I felt so much better about things after that resolution.
There is this fun Agatha Christie-like confrontation at the end that just makes the whole book payoff and all that struggle was deemed worth it. I’ll admit I wanted to strangle that Alex gal myself a time or three. There was a lot of this relationship stuff in this story which is what made the book so much bigger than others. It was a lot to wade through but it was totally worth it for the resolution it gave when the cliffhanger happened at the end of book five.
Great series to follow. Definitely going to dig into it more! So much fun to read!
If you love a cozy mystery, definitely check this one out. Great new must read book great series too!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title. Opinions are completely my own.
June 28, 2021
This is the 6th installment of the Poppy McAllister series. Poppy has finally chosen Gia over Tim in the last book only to learn Gia is still married to Alex who is back and wanting to reunite with her husband and son Henry. Poppy does not want to be a homewrecker so she gives herself and Gia some space and decides to throw herself into work (after breaking up with Tim she lost her job at his restaurant) and decides to do a Tea at the B&B before Easter and also participate in the local Beauty Expo featuring a famous NYC plastic surgeon. Gia’s bakery and coffee shop is asked to do a booth and the Expo featuring her Paleo muffin treats and keto cookies etc.. but that means she is working closely with Gia. At the Expo, there is a break-in with the booth next to Gia and Poppy’s has all her beauty cream product stolen along with her laptop. Shayla the booth owner is convinced it is corporate spying as she is awaiting FDA approval on her new product. There are hints that Gia’s family is involved with the mob and he is mysterious on how he plans to finally get a divorce from Alex who is tight with his Mother who can’t stand Poppy but everyone seems sympathetic since Alex left immediately after Henry’s birth. Amber who was in high school with Poppy and a detective on the police force and asks for Poppy’s help since she feels she is about to be framed for the murder of one of her informants. Poppy reluctantly helps Amber and soons becomes involved in that investigation as Amber is soon under investigation. At the expo the guest speaker Dr. Rubin Lance is found dead by Poppy and once again Poppy is in the midst of all sorts of craziness. Her Aunt Ginny is too much fun and hires Joanne another of Poppy’s high school classmates and they are not real fond of each other. The ending of the Easter dinner with Aunt Ginny gives Gia’s Momma a piece of her mind and it is priceless. Loved it. Aunt Ginny and her friends are so entertaining especially when they begin to enjoy some gummies they purchased and continued to purchase at the Expo ! Great ending and great mystery. Enjoy this series so much and looking forward to as what comes next.
April 11, 2021
Beauty Expos Are Murder is the sixth installment in the A Poppy McAllister Mystery series set in Cape May, NJ and featuring paleo baker, Poppy McAllister. This book picks right up where #5 ended, and I highly recommend if you haven't read Wine Tastings are Murder you might want to do that first - but, this one can read as a standalone if you chose.
Poppy has made her decision regarding the men in her life and she was looking forward to operating a muffin/paleo booth at the Beauty Expo alongside Gia, owner of La Dolce Vita - that is until a mysterious woman from Gia's past arrives on scene and completely ruins everything. Things only get worse when the plastic surgeon headlining the expo is found dead.
A great addition to the series with so many things happening - Poppy's relationship woes, the death at the Beauty Expo, Poppy's best friend Sawyer is acting very peculiar and obviously hiding something, someone keeps shooting holes in the huge inflatable rabbit that Aunt Ginny has put on the front lawn to celebrate Easter, the Mob may (or may not) be involved, Poppy's cat Figaro has fallen in love, there is something off with the people staying at the B&B, and Poppy has been roped into helping her high school nemesis turned police officer Amber get out of trouble as she's suspected of killing one of her informants. Phew....
You won't want to miss the latest adventures with Poppy and her friends.
I received an advanced copy of Beauty Expos Are Murder from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
Poppy has made her decision regarding the men in her life and she was looking forward to operating a muffin/paleo booth at the Beauty Expo alongside Gia, owner of La Dolce Vita - that is until a mysterious woman from Gia's past arrives on scene and completely ruins everything. Things only get worse when the plastic surgeon headlining the expo is found dead.
A great addition to the series with so many things happening - Poppy's relationship woes, the death at the Beauty Expo, Poppy's best friend Sawyer is acting very peculiar and obviously hiding something, someone keeps shooting holes in the huge inflatable rabbit that Aunt Ginny has put on the front lawn to celebrate Easter, the Mob may (or may not) be involved, Poppy's cat Figaro has fallen in love, there is something off with the people staying at the B&B, and Poppy has been roped into helping her high school nemesis turned police officer Amber get out of trouble as she's suspected of killing one of her informants. Phew....
You won't want to miss the latest adventures with Poppy and her friends.
I received an advanced copy of Beauty Expos Are Murder from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
July 15, 2021
Each Poppy McAllister mystery is better than the last and they're all awesome! Poppy finds herself in the middle of two murder investigations, dealing with a surprise character from Gia's past, a disgruntled ex, looking out for Aunt Ginny and the biddies, Figaro in love and so much more. Now, Poppy could be the target of two murderers if she doesn't solve the mysteries fast!
I'm in "book love" with this series! Poppy is relatable and you root for her to succeed. She's complicated, genuine, smart, kind and a magnet for mystery. I love the way the two mysteries are solved. It's like a puzzle that the author crafts and the pieces fit together perfectly.
The mystery is fast-paced with twists and turns, full of humor, kindness, love, great food descriptions and recipes and once you finish it you want another! Hint, hint!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I'm in "book love" with this series! Poppy is relatable and you root for her to succeed. She's complicated, genuine, smart, kind and a magnet for mystery. I love the way the two mysteries are solved. It's like a puzzle that the author crafts and the pieces fit together perfectly.
The mystery is fast-paced with twists and turns, full of humor, kindness, love, great food descriptions and recipes and once you finish it you want another! Hint, hint!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
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