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Roscoe Conklin Mystery #2
Paradise Cove
Every day is paradise on Bonaire—until something unexpected washes ashore
On the laid-back island of Bonaire, every day is paradise until a seaweed-entangled human leg washes ashore. Combing the beach, retired cop Roscoe Conklin examines the scene and quickly determines that the leg belongs to the nephew of a close friend.
The island police launch an investigation, but with little evidence and no suspects, their progress comes to a frustrating halt. Then, thanks to a unique barter with the lead detective, Conklin finds himself in possession of the case file. He can now aggressively probe for his own answers.
Sifting through the scant clues, eager to bring the killer to justice, Conklin struggles to maintain forward momentum. He has all the pieces. He can feel it. But he'd better get them snapped together soon.
On the laid-back island of Bonaire, every day is paradise until a seaweed-entangled human leg washes ashore. Combing the beach, retired cop Roscoe Conklin examines the scene and quickly determines that the leg belongs to the nephew of a close friend.
The island police launch an investigation, but with little evidence and no suspects, their progress comes to a frustrating halt. Then, thanks to a unique barter with the lead detective, Conklin finds himself in possession of the case file. He can now aggressively probe for his own answers.
Sifting through the scant clues, eager to bring the killer to justice, Conklin struggles to maintain forward momentum. He has all the pieces. He can feel it. But he'd better get them snapped together soon.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2022
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999 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
November 14, 2022
The Publisher Says: Every day is paradise on Bonaire—until something unexpected washes ashore
On the laid-back island of Bonaire, every day is paradise until a seaweed-entangled human leg washes ashore. Combing the beach, retired cop Roscoe Conklin examines the scene and quickly determines that the leg belongs to the nephew of a close friend.
The island police launch an investigation, but with little evidence and no suspects, their progress comes to a frustrating halt. Then, thanks to a unique barter with the lead detective, Conklin finds himself in possession of the case file. He can now aggressively probe for his own answers.
Sifting through the scant clues, eager to bring the killer to justice, Conklin struggles to maintain forward momentum. He has all the pieces. He can feel it. But he’d better get them snapped together soon.
Otherwise, the body count will continue to rise.
The novels in the Roscoe Conklin Mystery Series stand on their own and can be read in any order.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.
My Review: The awfulness of a friend's loss is hard to bear. Roscoe, our hilariously yclept detective, has that experience in spades when Erika, the lovely Bonaire native who runs...well, let's be honest, his entire life on Bonaire...loses her nephew whom she raised from childhood.
Roscoe is for sure gonna get deep into this case. He found the young man's leg on the beach. Yes, his leg...singular...and unattached.
Foul play is suspected.
What ensues is, as expected, Roscoe dealing with the Bonaire cops (in the form of his love interest Arabella) though, this time at least, he also has to deal with the Top Cop. As a client, as it happens...there's some whiff of shenanigans between the Inspector's wife and...well, that would be telling.
As much a tropical cozy as a procedural novel, the series is going to give you a lovely trip to Bonaire right as it's getting cold for #Noirvember here in the Global North. As the author lives in Wisconsin (!), one assumes he's there under eiderdowns and wearing Thinsulate gloves as he pecks these tales out with a pencil eraser-side-down in each claw-shaped frozen hand, tap-tap-tapping as he drifts away dreaming of being Roscoe.
I read these books back-to-back, and that was a mistake on my part. There are details in each, and the same sort of details, that go unnoticed and un-dealt-with in resolving the crime. There is not a huge sense of urgency in Roscoe's investigative technique...even when the dead person is someone close to his found-family circle. Everyone who needs to be found out is, and that is why I awarded the full fourth star to what otherwise would've been a three-and-a-half star read.
Space the reads out, don't binge, and make your experience mood-dictated, and you will have a lovely read indeed.
On the laid-back island of Bonaire, every day is paradise until a seaweed-entangled human leg washes ashore. Combing the beach, retired cop Roscoe Conklin examines the scene and quickly determines that the leg belongs to the nephew of a close friend.
The island police launch an investigation, but with little evidence and no suspects, their progress comes to a frustrating halt. Then, thanks to a unique barter with the lead detective, Conklin finds himself in possession of the case file. He can now aggressively probe for his own answers.
Sifting through the scant clues, eager to bring the killer to justice, Conklin struggles to maintain forward momentum. He has all the pieces. He can feel it. But he’d better get them snapped together soon.
Otherwise, the body count will continue to rise.
The novels in the Roscoe Conklin Mystery Series stand on their own and can be read in any order.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.
My Review: The awfulness of a friend's loss is hard to bear. Roscoe, our hilariously yclept detective, has that experience in spades when Erika, the lovely Bonaire native who runs...well, let's be honest, his entire life on Bonaire...loses her nephew whom she raised from childhood.
Roscoe is for sure gonna get deep into this case. He found the young man's leg on the beach. Yes, his leg...singular...and unattached.
Foul play is suspected.
What ensues is, as expected, Roscoe dealing with the Bonaire cops (in the form of his love interest Arabella) though, this time at least, he also has to deal with the Top Cop. As a client, as it happens...there's some whiff of shenanigans between the Inspector's wife and...well, that would be telling.
As much a tropical cozy as a procedural novel, the series is going to give you a lovely trip to Bonaire right as it's getting cold for #Noirvember here in the Global North. As the author lives in Wisconsin (!), one assumes he's there under eiderdowns and wearing Thinsulate gloves as he pecks these tales out with a pencil eraser-side-down in each claw-shaped frozen hand, tap-tap-tapping as he drifts away dreaming of being Roscoe.
I read these books back-to-back, and that was a mistake on my part. There are details in each, and the same sort of details, that go unnoticed and un-dealt-with in resolving the crime. There is not a huge sense of urgency in Roscoe's investigative technique...even when the dead person is someone close to his found-family circle. Everyone who needs to be found out is, and that is why I awarded the full fourth star to what otherwise would've been a three-and-a-half star read.
Space the reads out, don't binge, and make your experience mood-dictated, and you will have a lovely read indeed.
April 7, 2022
The second of the Roscoe Conklin Mystery series, Paradise Cove by Davin Goodwin is a mystery thriller. Former detective Roscoe Conklin lives on Bonaire Island in the southern Caribbean and runs a hotel. When a leg is found washed up on the beach, Roscoe discovers it belongs to a friend’s nephew. Whilst he investigates and gets some assistance from the lead detective with their case file, he struggles to make sense of it when another body turns up. An average crime thriller with lots of beaches and warm weather and a three-star rating. With thanks to Oceanview Publishing and the author, for an uncorrected advanced copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own and freely given.
April 10, 2022
“Few things draw a crowd to the beach faster than a human body part washing ashore.”
Davin Goodwin’s 2020 debut, DIVER’S PARADISE, featured retired US ex-pat detective Roscoe Conklin, who conducts dive excursions and owns the YellowRock resort in Bonaire, a small Caribbean island.
Now, Conklin happens to be nearby when a human leg beaches. It has a distinctive tattoo, the “ankle wrapped in wire, the obvious conclusion was foul play.”
Erika is the likable and adept gal Friday who manages YellowRock and much of Conklin’s lax life. The tattoo leaves no doubt: it’s Rulio’s trademark. Rulio is more than Erika’s nephew. He’s her de facto son ever since the death of his biological parents when he was a toddler.
Conklin runs afoul of suspicious characters while investigating Rulio’s presumed homicide. For one thing, gal-pal Arabella is a Bonaire detective. Other complications come in the form of suspected money laundering by someone at Paradise Cove, a snazzy new resort. He receives needed info from Bonaire’s top cop, Inspector Schleper, who disappears after engaging Conklin to sleuth his fickle wife, Tessa, a friend of Arabella’s sister, Ruth. “Arabella was in the middle of this mess as much as I was.” Withhold information about crimes from a cop, or potentially damage a love relationship? Conklin’s mental scales of justice seesaw at warp speed.
The Netherlands Antilles “ABC” islands consist of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao, although Bonaire is the easternmost island paradise for divers and sun-worshipers. Those who have not traveled during the two-year pandemic paranoia, open a bottle of Bonaire’s signature beer, Bright, and enjoy “another splendid day in paradise.” As Conklin opines, “Drinking was never a waste of time.”
Goodwin’s well-crafted mysteries, à la John D. MacDonald’s Travis McGee novels, are a study in police procedural investigative forensics. A former flight instructor, real estate investor and scuba diver, Goodwin works in the technology industry and shares life with his wife, Leslie, in Wisconsin.
Reviewed by L. Dean Murphy
Davin Goodwin’s 2020 debut, DIVER’S PARADISE, featured retired US ex-pat detective Roscoe Conklin, who conducts dive excursions and owns the YellowRock resort in Bonaire, a small Caribbean island.
Now, Conklin happens to be nearby when a human leg beaches. It has a distinctive tattoo, the “ankle wrapped in wire, the obvious conclusion was foul play.”
Erika is the likable and adept gal Friday who manages YellowRock and much of Conklin’s lax life. The tattoo leaves no doubt: it’s Rulio’s trademark. Rulio is more than Erika’s nephew. He’s her de facto son ever since the death of his biological parents when he was a toddler.
Conklin runs afoul of suspicious characters while investigating Rulio’s presumed homicide. For one thing, gal-pal Arabella is a Bonaire detective. Other complications come in the form of suspected money laundering by someone at Paradise Cove, a snazzy new resort. He receives needed info from Bonaire’s top cop, Inspector Schleper, who disappears after engaging Conklin to sleuth his fickle wife, Tessa, a friend of Arabella’s sister, Ruth. “Arabella was in the middle of this mess as much as I was.” Withhold information about crimes from a cop, or potentially damage a love relationship? Conklin’s mental scales of justice seesaw at warp speed.
The Netherlands Antilles “ABC” islands consist of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao, although Bonaire is the easternmost island paradise for divers and sun-worshipers. Those who have not traveled during the two-year pandemic paranoia, open a bottle of Bonaire’s signature beer, Bright, and enjoy “another splendid day in paradise.” As Conklin opines, “Drinking was never a waste of time.”
Goodwin’s well-crafted mysteries, à la John D. MacDonald’s Travis McGee novels, are a study in police procedural investigative forensics. A former flight instructor, real estate investor and scuba diver, Goodwin works in the technology industry and shares life with his wife, Leslie, in Wisconsin.
Reviewed by L. Dean Murphy
March 30, 2022
If Jimmy Buffett Wrote A Detective Novel... it would likely feel very much like this one. This is one where the body count gets staggeringly high for such a small island, but one where the murders and mystery almost take a backseat to the vibe of the Caribbean island and #islandlife. There is a lot of action here, and a credible yet also human detective - but this is no Big City or Jack Reacher type tale. If you're looking for a nonstop thrill ride or an near superhuman hero... this ain't it. But if you're looking for a more laid back, approachable dude who runs a Caribbean hotel and happens to be a former detective back in his former life in the States... well, for that kind of tale you've come to the right place. Excellent story and well told. Very much recommended.
April 22, 2022
In Paradise Cove, the second book of the Roscoe Conklin Mystery Series, author Davin Goodwin weaves an intriguing mystery tale that follows retired detective and island hotel owner Roscoe Conklin's investigation into the disappearance of the nephew of his hotel office manager.
This mystery tale is set in the Caribbean tropical island setting of Bonaire. Roscoe Conklin is a retired police detective from Rockford, Illinois, who for the past five years has owned The YellowRock hotel on the island of Bonaire. Bonaire is known to be a diving paradise, but when a young dive master named Rulio goes missing, and ultimately his leg washes ashore, Roscoe is dragged out of retirement and promises Erika, his hotel office manager, that he would investigate and find out what happened to her nephew.
Author Davin Goodwin provides a multi-layered storyline that has enough mystery, suspense, drama, treachery, secrets, and intriguing twists and turns that keeps the reader guessing. The author weaves an intricate and complicated investigation into the murder of the young dive master, but that isn't all that Roscoe's investigation uncovers, especially when the clues leads to something more than diving happening on the island paradise.
Told in the first person perspective, Roscoe takes the reader along for the ride on his latest investigative adventure. This engaging Caribbean mystery story has realistic characters; witty island dialogue and humorous interactions; a rich description of the island setting of Bonaire; and a multi-layered storyline that easily draws the reader into how the pieces of Roscoe's investigation puzzle comes together and is solved.
Paradise Cove is the kind of island mystery that easily keeps the reader captivated, guessing, on their toes, and wanting more!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review and participation in a vitural book tour event hosted by Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours.
https://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspo...
This mystery tale is set in the Caribbean tropical island setting of Bonaire. Roscoe Conklin is a retired police detective from Rockford, Illinois, who for the past five years has owned The YellowRock hotel on the island of Bonaire. Bonaire is known to be a diving paradise, but when a young dive master named Rulio goes missing, and ultimately his leg washes ashore, Roscoe is dragged out of retirement and promises Erika, his hotel office manager, that he would investigate and find out what happened to her nephew.
Author Davin Goodwin provides a multi-layered storyline that has enough mystery, suspense, drama, treachery, secrets, and intriguing twists and turns that keeps the reader guessing. The author weaves an intricate and complicated investigation into the murder of the young dive master, but that isn't all that Roscoe's investigation uncovers, especially when the clues leads to something more than diving happening on the island paradise.
Told in the first person perspective, Roscoe takes the reader along for the ride on his latest investigative adventure. This engaging Caribbean mystery story has realistic characters; witty island dialogue and humorous interactions; a rich description of the island setting of Bonaire; and a multi-layered storyline that easily draws the reader into how the pieces of Roscoe's investigation puzzle comes together and is solved.
Paradise Cove is the kind of island mystery that easily keeps the reader captivated, guessing, on their toes, and wanting more!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review and participation in a vitural book tour event hosted by Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours.
https://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspo...
April 26, 2022
This is a mystery where the setting makes the plot work. The island off Venezuela with the Dutch influence is the most interesting aspect of the novel. The plot is also interesting with many curves and plenty of suspects.
I was a bit disappointed by the action of the hero, Conklin. He's a retired policeman but sure does not act like one. Rather than a methodical investigation, he bumbles along. Some of his actions seem meaningless or counter productive. He often makes rash acts out of anger, antagonizing others rather than getting them to help. And he fails to tell his detective girlfriend important information in a timely manner.
I feel Conklin was a more engaging hero in the first novel in this series. Goodwin plans to write more featuring him and I hope the next will see the hero as a more controlled and effective (retired policeman) amateur sleuth.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I was a bit disappointed by the action of the hero, Conklin. He's a retired policeman but sure does not act like one. Rather than a methodical investigation, he bumbles along. Some of his actions seem meaningless or counter productive. He often makes rash acts out of anger, antagonizing others rather than getting them to help. And he fails to tell his detective girlfriend important information in a timely manner.
I feel Conklin was a more engaging hero in the first novel in this series. Goodwin plans to write more featuring him and I hope the next will see the hero as a more controlled and effective (retired policeman) amateur sleuth.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
May 4, 2022
Paradise Cove is the sequel to Diver's Paradise featuring Roscoe "R" Conklin. This time around, a severed leg has washed up on the shore of a beach on Bonaire. Roscoe recognizes the tattoo and has to tell his friend that her nephew has been murdered. Roscoe finds himself investigating what happened.
I really enjoyed this one as much as the first one. The author did a great job of layout the clues to the mystery in a way that kept me guessing. I didn't call the ending. What I am loving the most about the series is Roscoe. He is such a great character. He just wants to enjoy the island, his girlfriend and live a peaceful retirement. But he keeps getting pulled into mysteries. I love his relationship with Arabella and how it is progressing. I really got a kick out of the t-shirts that she wears. I found myself looking forward to what the shirt said in each new scene. I hope this series continues. I highly recommend this one.
I really enjoyed this one as much as the first one. The author did a great job of layout the clues to the mystery in a way that kept me guessing. I didn't call the ending. What I am loving the most about the series is Roscoe. He is such a great character. He just wants to enjoy the island, his girlfriend and live a peaceful retirement. But he keeps getting pulled into mysteries. I love his relationship with Arabella and how it is progressing. I really got a kick out of the t-shirts that she wears. I found myself looking forward to what the shirt said in each new scene. I hope this series continues. I highly recommend this one.
January 27, 2022
⛵⛵⛵ paradise stars!
This is Book #2 in the Roscoe Conklin Mystery series
The Caribbean Island of Bonaire is paradise; well until a human leg washes ashore.
Retired police officer Roscoe Conklin investigates the scene and determines that the leg belongs to Rulio, the nephew of his assistant Erika.
Although not a super exciting story, it was total fun being transported to a Caribbean Island.
Love the cover.
Personal Note: We vacationed in Nassau many years ago and it was so wonderful ~ truly a turn back in time.
We did have a funny somewhat turn back in time experience ~ no we didn’t come across any legs.
We were with friends and tried to make dinner reservations but seemed we to get connected to everyone but the restaurant. We gave up and decided we just needed to get there early when the phone rang. It was the restaurant and they said we understand you want to make reservations!!
Gotta love it!
Awww I believe I can hear the steel drums and other native music.
Want to thank NetGalley and Oceanview Publication for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for an honest professional review.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for April 8, 2022
This is Book #2 in the Roscoe Conklin Mystery series
The Caribbean Island of Bonaire is paradise; well until a human leg washes ashore.
Retired police officer Roscoe Conklin investigates the scene and determines that the leg belongs to Rulio, the nephew of his assistant Erika.
Although not a super exciting story, it was total fun being transported to a Caribbean Island.
Love the cover.
Personal Note: We vacationed in Nassau many years ago and it was so wonderful ~ truly a turn back in time.
We did have a funny somewhat turn back in time experience ~ no we didn’t come across any legs.
We were with friends and tried to make dinner reservations but seemed we to get connected to everyone but the restaurant. We gave up and decided we just needed to get there early when the phone rang. It was the restaurant and they said we understand you want to make reservations!!
Gotta love it!
Awww I believe I can hear the steel drums and other native music.
Want to thank NetGalley and Oceanview Publication for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for an honest professional review.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for April 8, 2022
January 8, 2022
3.5/5 stars- This books transports you right to the Caribbean. I felt like I could feel the sun, smell the salt water, hear the ocean and taste the Bright on every page. The plot keeps you reading and keeps you hooked, I was never bored reading this book. R and Annabelle’s relationship is absolutely adorable. The only thing I felt it lacked was a little more excitement otherwise what a perfect murder mystery to read while lounging on the beach or by the pool!
June 2, 2022
Perfect for readers looking for a series that embodies the essence of procedural crime fiction: A compelling protagonist, one to cheer for, snappy dialog, great atmosphere—in this case, Bonaire—an intelligent plot, authentic tactics, and a fast-paced page-turner. Everything to like.
May 1, 2022
For me , paradise cove was a intriguing story
Roscoe Conklin mystery. Held my interest though out this entire book.
This book had a few twists. A fast pace read. Love how the author works in who dun it..
Also love that it's a island story a place that makes you want to kick off your shoes and relax.
Well unless Body parts wash ashore..
This is a fantastic Read..
In fact I plan on reading Book 1 soon..
Definitely would recommend this Book to others...
Roscoe Conklin mystery. Held my interest though out this entire book.
This book had a few twists. A fast pace read. Love how the author works in who dun it..
Also love that it's a island story a place that makes you want to kick off your shoes and relax.
Well unless Body parts wash ashore..
This is a fantastic Read..
In fact I plan on reading Book 1 soon..
Definitely would recommend this Book to others...
January 8, 2022
3.5/5 stars- This books transports you right to the Caribbean. I felt like I could feel the sun, smell the salt water, hear the ocean and taste the Bright on every page. The plot keeps you reading and keeps you hooked, I was never bored reading this book. R and Annabelle’s relationship is absolutely adorable. The only thing I felt it lacked was a little more excitement otherwise what a perfect murder mystery to read while lounging on the beach or by the pool!
February 14, 2022
This ARC was provided to me via Kindle, Oceanview Publishing and by #NetGalley. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
The second book in the Roscoe Conklin series. It’s not super exciting, Roscoe is likable enough. It was suspenseful but littered with errors it was distracting.
The second book in the Roscoe Conklin series. It’s not super exciting, Roscoe is likable enough. It was suspenseful but littered with errors it was distracting.
August 22, 2021
Thanks to Edelweiss and Oceanview Publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Roscoe "R" Conklin is back with his second mystery set in Bonaire. This time the leg of Rulio, his assistant, Erika's nephew, has washed up on shore. She asks R, a retired cop, to investigate because the police aren't finding anything. He winds up uncovering all kinds of misdeeds.
I love the setting of these books. I think the author does a great job of making me feel like I am there, which is really welcome after missing my regular Caribbean trips thanks to Covid. I like the characters and feel like I know them after reading 2 books featuring them. The mystery part is good but it really the setting that draws me in. I look forward to R's next case.
Roscoe "R" Conklin is back with his second mystery set in Bonaire. This time the leg of Rulio, his assistant, Erika's nephew, has washed up on shore. She asks R, a retired cop, to investigate because the police aren't finding anything. He winds up uncovering all kinds of misdeeds.
I love the setting of these books. I think the author does a great job of making me feel like I am there, which is really welcome after missing my regular Caribbean trips thanks to Covid. I like the characters and feel like I know them after reading 2 books featuring them. The mystery part is good but it really the setting that draws me in. I look forward to R's next case.
October 30, 2021
After reading Godwin’s first book in the series, “Divers Paradise”, I was excited to get my hands on the second book in the series featuring retired American detective, “R” Conklin and his Dutch girlfriend and Bonaire police woman, Arabella De Groot. Paradise Cove did not disappoint. The story line was interesting, well-thought out, and provided plenty of twists that kept me turning pages.
May 19, 2022
Paradise Cove was the first book I’d read by Davin Goodwin, the second in his Roscoe Conklin Mystery series. The publisher called it to my attention, and the blurb enticed me to dive in. Many times, when I’m asked, I accept most any book I’m offered as long as it falls roughly within the crime fiction spectrum. As a result, I read many books that aren’t exactly what I might choose to read for pleasure alone. Not to say I don’t enjoy many of them. But once in a great while, I accept a book like this one which turns out to be right in my wheelhouse. I enjoyed this book so much that I immediately headed to the bookstore and bought Diver’s Paradise, the first book in the series. So, as I write this review, I’ve now read two of Goodwin’s books and can’t wait for the next one in this entertaining series.
It didn’t really matter that I read the second book in the series first since Goodwin recaps most everything we want to know from the first book. So, both this book and the other work well as a standalone.
I really like the Roscoe Conklin character, a former police detective from a suburb of Chicago who is living out his retirement years on Bonaire, an island in the Leeward Antilles in the Dutch Caribbean. I’ve known for a long while that Bonaire boasts some of the best diving in the world, but it’s one island in the Caribbean I’ve never visited it. And Goodwin makes it come alive so effectively that it left me wanting to plan a visit to Bonaire soon.
While retired, Conklin does a little unofficial private investigative work. Since he has no license for it, despite his police experience, he’s more of an amateur sleuth. And he doesn’t go looking for cases, but friends and acquaintances persuade him to do investigations from time to time. That’s how he becomes involved in a murder investigation the story centers on after the severed leg of someone he knew washes up on the beach. Conklin is unabashedly lazy and drinks beer almost continuously, which provides just enough flaws to make him interesting and believable, but not so flawed that he’s unlikable.
Besides Conklin, Goodwin offers an array of other interesting, well-drawn characters. There’s Conklin’s love interest, Arabella De Groot, a Bonaire police officer, and Erika, a Bonaire woman who works for Conklin and helps run his 10-unit hotel. Both are delightful strong women characters who do their best to keep Conklin in line in their own unique ways.
Interestingly, given his background as a cop and professional investigator, Conklin misses a lot of clues and is far from perfect. He’s also not the Harry Bosch type and frequently comes out on the losing end of confrontations with the bad guys. But with Arabella’s help, he solves the case. Conklin’s failure to connect the dots at time aside, this is a nice twisty whodunit and the author effectively keeps us guessing through the liberal use of red herrings until he reveals the murderer’s identity.
I enjoyed this book a lot, especially Goodwin’s conversational writing style, and I’m already looking forward to the third book in the series.
Oceanview Publishing Sarasota, Florida published Paradise Cove by Davin Goodwin on April 5, 2022. I received an advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley used for this review which represents my honest opinions.
It didn’t really matter that I read the second book in the series first since Goodwin recaps most everything we want to know from the first book. So, both this book and the other work well as a standalone.
I really like the Roscoe Conklin character, a former police detective from a suburb of Chicago who is living out his retirement years on Bonaire, an island in the Leeward Antilles in the Dutch Caribbean. I’ve known for a long while that Bonaire boasts some of the best diving in the world, but it’s one island in the Caribbean I’ve never visited it. And Goodwin makes it come alive so effectively that it left me wanting to plan a visit to Bonaire soon.
While retired, Conklin does a little unofficial private investigative work. Since he has no license for it, despite his police experience, he’s more of an amateur sleuth. And he doesn’t go looking for cases, but friends and acquaintances persuade him to do investigations from time to time. That’s how he becomes involved in a murder investigation the story centers on after the severed leg of someone he knew washes up on the beach. Conklin is unabashedly lazy and drinks beer almost continuously, which provides just enough flaws to make him interesting and believable, but not so flawed that he’s unlikable.
Besides Conklin, Goodwin offers an array of other interesting, well-drawn characters. There’s Conklin’s love interest, Arabella De Groot, a Bonaire police officer, and Erika, a Bonaire woman who works for Conklin and helps run his 10-unit hotel. Both are delightful strong women characters who do their best to keep Conklin in line in their own unique ways.
Interestingly, given his background as a cop and professional investigator, Conklin misses a lot of clues and is far from perfect. He’s also not the Harry Bosch type and frequently comes out on the losing end of confrontations with the bad guys. But with Arabella’s help, he solves the case. Conklin’s failure to connect the dots at time aside, this is a nice twisty whodunit and the author effectively keeps us guessing through the liberal use of red herrings until he reveals the murderer’s identity.
I enjoyed this book a lot, especially Goodwin’s conversational writing style, and I’m already looking forward to the third book in the series.
Oceanview Publishing Sarasota, Florida published Paradise Cove by Davin Goodwin on April 5, 2022. I received an advanced copy from the publisher via NetGalley used for this review which represents my honest opinions.
April 10, 2022
Paradise Cove
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Format: ebook/Kindle
Date Published: 4/05/2022
Author: Davin Goodwin
Publisher: Oceanview Publishing
Pages: 304
Goodreads Rating: 3.82
Thank you to Oceanview Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to publishing via Kindle.
Synopsis: Everyday is paradise in Bonaire. It’s paradise until a seaweed entangled leg washed to shore. Retired Detective Roscoe Conklin determines the leg belongs to a nephew of a friend. Police investigate, but limited evidence causes the case to come to a halt. Thanks to a unique barter, Conklin gets access to the police file. Sifting through the clues, he has all of the pieces to solve the case, and better gets them shaped together soon.
My thoughts: This is a who-done-it mystery. The chapters are fairly short. Told from the POV of Conklin, the retired detective, who is known to most as “R.” The characters are well developed. The writing is clear and beautifully written. Chapters are brilliantly constructed together, in a manner that is easy to follow along, and keeps you engaged. The book begins fast, then is a little slow paced, then about 30-40% in, heats up and becomes a page turner. I went from 50% to finished on a Sunday afternoon. There were a few twists in the book, ones I expected and others that I did not see coming. I would highly recommend this book that is out now!! I would also pick up the first one in the series, Diver’s Paradise. However, this could be read as a stand alone, as I did with no issues. While I had not read anything from this author before, I would definitely read more books by this author.
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#books #reading #bookstagram #whatimreading #booklover #thrillerreads #bookclubpicks #2022bookgoals #bookpost #bookclubpicks #Book-Reviews #bookstagrammer #bookpost #netgalley #paradisecove #davingoodwin #detectiveroscoeconklinseries #oceanviewpublishing #mysterysuspense
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Format: ebook/Kindle
Date Published: 4/05/2022
Author: Davin Goodwin
Publisher: Oceanview Publishing
Pages: 304
Goodreads Rating: 3.82
Thank you to Oceanview Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to publishing via Kindle.
Synopsis: Everyday is paradise in Bonaire. It’s paradise until a seaweed entangled leg washed to shore. Retired Detective Roscoe Conklin determines the leg belongs to a nephew of a friend. Police investigate, but limited evidence causes the case to come to a halt. Thanks to a unique barter, Conklin gets access to the police file. Sifting through the clues, he has all of the pieces to solve the case, and better gets them shaped together soon.
My thoughts: This is a who-done-it mystery. The chapters are fairly short. Told from the POV of Conklin, the retired detective, who is known to most as “R.” The characters are well developed. The writing is clear and beautifully written. Chapters are brilliantly constructed together, in a manner that is easy to follow along, and keeps you engaged. The book begins fast, then is a little slow paced, then about 30-40% in, heats up and becomes a page turner. I went from 50% to finished on a Sunday afternoon. There were a few twists in the book, ones I expected and others that I did not see coming. I would highly recommend this book that is out now!! I would also pick up the first one in the series, Diver’s Paradise. However, this could be read as a stand alone, as I did with no issues. While I had not read anything from this author before, I would definitely read more books by this author.
.
.
.
.
.
.
#books #reading #bookstagram #whatimreading #booklover #thrillerreads #bookclubpicks #2022bookgoals #bookpost #bookclubpicks #Book-Reviews #bookstagrammer #bookpost #netgalley #paradisecove #davingoodwin #detectiveroscoeconklinseries #oceanviewpublishing #mysterysuspense
April 3, 2023
Paradise Cove by Davin Goodwin is a highly recommended procedural and the second novel in the Roscoe Conklin series. The series starts with Diver’s Paradise and is followed by Paradise Cove.
When a human leg washes ashore on the island of Bonaire, retired cop Roscoe Conklin, called "R" by friends, is nearby and examines the scene. Due to a tattoo, he quickly determines that the leg belongs to Rulio, the nephew of a close friend, Erika. With little evidence, the investigation comes to a standstill. R makes a deal with the lead detective to follow his wife because the inspector thinks she is having an affair. In exchange R is given the case file. Even though it is in Dutch, he manages to decipher the few clues available. The clues seem to lead to Paradise Cove, an upscale resort run by a friendly American couple. Then the body count begins to rise...
Paradise Cove is a well-written, very satisfying procedural with an interesting investigative plot. This is the second in a series but worked as a stand alone. The unique island setting gives the novel the ambience of a procedural set in a small town. Don't expect the relentless action of a thriller. The island setting provides a vibrant and laid back atmosphere.
The characters are portrayed as realistic individuals and are all integrated into the plot of the narrative. R's relationship with Arabella, a detective with the Bonaire police, is going strong. His beer is a Bright with a slice of lime, which seems appropriate for someone living on an island paradise.
Goodwin presents all the clues to solve the complicated case, and, although I guessed who-dun-it early on, the action leading up to the end was engaging and interesting.
Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of Oceanview Publishing via Edelweiss.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2023/0...
When a human leg washes ashore on the island of Bonaire, retired cop Roscoe Conklin, called "R" by friends, is nearby and examines the scene. Due to a tattoo, he quickly determines that the leg belongs to Rulio, the nephew of a close friend, Erika. With little evidence, the investigation comes to a standstill. R makes a deal with the lead detective to follow his wife because the inspector thinks she is having an affair. In exchange R is given the case file. Even though it is in Dutch, he manages to decipher the few clues available. The clues seem to lead to Paradise Cove, an upscale resort run by a friendly American couple. Then the body count begins to rise...
Paradise Cove is a well-written, very satisfying procedural with an interesting investigative plot. This is the second in a series but worked as a stand alone. The unique island setting gives the novel the ambience of a procedural set in a small town. Don't expect the relentless action of a thriller. The island setting provides a vibrant and laid back atmosphere.
The characters are portrayed as realistic individuals and are all integrated into the plot of the narrative. R's relationship with Arabella, a detective with the Bonaire police, is going strong. His beer is a Bright with a slice of lime, which seems appropriate for someone living on an island paradise.
Goodwin presents all the clues to solve the complicated case, and, although I guessed who-dun-it early on, the action leading up to the end was engaging and interesting.
Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of Oceanview Publishing via Edelweiss.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2023/0...
April 5, 2022
Paradise Cove is the second book in the series featuring Roscoe Conklin who goes "R" for those that know him. "R" has retired from the Rockford, Illinois Police Department, now the owner of a 10 unit hotel on Bonaire. In spite of opening a hotel, he manages to have plenty of time to do investigations for his friends. This time he is brought into an investigation of a missing man who happens to be the nephew of his office manager, Erica. A body part washes ashore and they are afraid it is the missing man. R’s main squeeze, Sergeant Arabella DeGroot, is in charge of the investigation and he knows that he must not get involved but that is easier said than done. While trying to investigate quietly he is asked to do a “favor” for the local Inspector, "R" bargains to follow the wife for a copy of the file on of the body part.
As "R" tries to investigates both cases he finds more than he bargained for while trying not to compromise the investigation for Arabella. More bodies will turn up missing as well as more dead bodies. "R" will have his hands full as he attempts to keep his promises and his friends safe.
This was a very entertaining book. Roscoe, retired and an expat enjoys island time but can't help getting engrossed in the mysteries. He is a very likeable character which make the story worth reading. This is a quick afternoon read that will hold your attention until the end.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
As "R" tries to investigates both cases he finds more than he bargained for while trying not to compromise the investigation for Arabella. More bodies will turn up missing as well as more dead bodies. "R" will have his hands full as he attempts to keep his promises and his friends safe.
This was a very entertaining book. Roscoe, retired and an expat enjoys island time but can't help getting engrossed in the mysteries. He is a very likeable character which make the story worth reading. This is a quick afternoon read that will hold your attention until the end.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
May 2, 2022
I have read a previous book by Davin Goodwin called Diver’s Paradise. Goodwin had me hooked on his character in the first few pages of that one. This book is no different. Roscoe Conklin or “R” as he likes to be called, is once again the main character and “character” is a pretty good description of him too. This is another excellent mystery and the setting in the Caribbean made me think I was holding some beautiful fruit drink in my hand:)
Basically what I’m saying is that I think the author is good at descriptive writing. Oddly enough, I don’t think I noticed it until I got further into the book. All of a sudden, I was on the beach, watching the ocean. I was even watching the iguanas and lizards. Goodwin puts it all together. He also throws in a dead body or at least part of one to make it a good cop or ex-cop mystery. Roscoe or “R” is that perfect ex-cop character. He’s a private investigator, but not really since he has no license. He’s tough and yet soft and swimmingly handsome. At least I think he must be from Goodwin’s description. Wow, I got carried away, didn’t I?
I said previously that the style or character reminded me a little of the Travis McGee mysteries I read long ago. I hope Mr. Goodwin will take this as the complement it is meant to be, and I hope he’ll keep writing mysteries for “R” to solve.
Basically what I’m saying is that I think the author is good at descriptive writing. Oddly enough, I don’t think I noticed it until I got further into the book. All of a sudden, I was on the beach, watching the ocean. I was even watching the iguanas and lizards. Goodwin puts it all together. He also throws in a dead body or at least part of one to make it a good cop or ex-cop mystery. Roscoe or “R” is that perfect ex-cop character. He’s a private investigator, but not really since he has no license. He’s tough and yet soft and swimmingly handsome. At least I think he must be from Goodwin’s description. Wow, I got carried away, didn’t I?
I said previously that the style or character reminded me a little of the Travis McGee mysteries I read long ago. I hope Mr. Goodwin will take this as the complement it is meant to be, and I hope he’ll keep writing mysteries for “R” to solve.
April 17, 2022
I love how the book started on a serene tropical beach in the Caribbean. A place to relax all day and read a book if you choose. Roscoe Conklin is a retired cop who expected to do just that as he became a hotel owner, drank some beers and spent the evenings with his lady friend, Arabella, a cop on the island…..Unless it is the Island of Bonaire. Everyday was paradise until…..a severed leg with a tattoo and wire wrapped around his ankle washes up on the beach. Goodwin did a fantastic job making me relax and read a book that I did not think would have me waiting and reading faster and faster until I could figure out the “who dunnit”. His book is well written and well paced. He did not use a lot of filler words to drag out the scenes. The book has wonderful details that can make the Caribbean island come alive to the reader. The book has a strong and intriguing plot. People normally hold an image of life in the Caribbean as so serene, not a care in the world. The islands have been characterized are lands of the sun and vacations. Goodwin’s Book can cause the hairs on your neck to stand up with its twists and turns that you are not expecting. Violence and murder take over. Who is the killer(s)? Why are they on the island of Bonaire? What is the reasons for the murders?
June 8, 2022
I enjoyed the story, it is well put together. Unusually for me, I guessed the murderer pretty quickly!
Roscoe Conklin, known as R, is a retired policeman, he moved to the Caribbean and now runs a small hotel in Bonaire. He is on the beach when a human leg is washed to shore, and from the tattoo he knows it belongs to Rulio, his friend and workmate Erika’s nephew, who has been missing for a few days. Erika asks him to find out what happened, which is difficult for him as his girlfriend Arabella is a leading policeman. Nevertheless he does start investigating, and the bodies start to pile up or vanish - and they are all people he has spoken to about the case. I do think he was a bit slow in recognising that connection!
I was concerned throughout the book the he might be a high-functioning alcoholic, a bit too much time in the book is taken up with him drinking bottles of Amstel Bright lager, he seems to down them one after the other on a regular basis! The only time he avoids drinking is when he is planning to fly to Curaçao, a neighbouring island.
It is a decent read for a sunny afternoon.
Roscoe Conklin, known as R, is a retired policeman, he moved to the Caribbean and now runs a small hotel in Bonaire. He is on the beach when a human leg is washed to shore, and from the tattoo he knows it belongs to Rulio, his friend and workmate Erika’s nephew, who has been missing for a few days. Erika asks him to find out what happened, which is difficult for him as his girlfriend Arabella is a leading policeman. Nevertheless he does start investigating, and the bodies start to pile up or vanish - and they are all people he has spoken to about the case. I do think he was a bit slow in recognising that connection!
I was concerned throughout the book the he might be a high-functioning alcoholic, a bit too much time in the book is taken up with him drinking bottles of Amstel Bright lager, he seems to down them one after the other on a regular basis! The only time he avoids drinking is when he is planning to fly to Curaçao, a neighbouring island.
It is a decent read for a sunny afternoon.
April 4, 2022
Paradise Cove by Davin Goodwin is an entertaining cozy murder mystery type of read. It is intriguing from the beginning and holds my full attention. The characters including the hero who takes over the case were believable. That made this book pop to life. Being able to relate to and understand the characters helped my reading experience. It was like watching Heriot Poirot and Murder She Wrote in action. This novel surprised me. There was plenty of action-packed scenes as well as mystery. The suspense built into a great fire. The need to know the answers as much as the main character, Roscoe Conklin, was intense. Unlike the blurb, this tale has more of a mystery noir type of vibe than a thrilling dark thriller. I highly recommend it to love unsolved crimes, murder investigations, and a slower pace. It was funny how this one man could find the answers and clues needed for this mystery/crime fiction.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
March 30, 2022
Once again retired detective Roscoe Conklin aka “call me R” is pulled into a case on Bonaire Island. A body part washes ashore and it is from the dismembered body of his office manager’s nephew, Rulio. He had been reported as missing, but someone had disposed of his body in the ocean. R’s lover, Sergeant Arabella DeGroot is in charge of the investigation and he knows that he must not get involved. That is more difficult than he imagines as Ericka, his office manager, is begging him to find the killer. When he is asked to do a “favor” for the local Inspector, he uses this request to be kept up to date with the investigation. Will he be able to wade through the evidence and various suspects to find out who and why Rulio was killed? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
March 17, 2023
*The first chapter is very descriptive and may be disturbing to readers. *
Retired Detective Roscoe or "R" Conklin is back simply trying to remain retired. The fates have other ideas when "R" stumbles upon a human leg.
Sadly, he recognizes the leg due to a tatto0. It is the nephew of of his hotel secretary. Someone he has seen as a big sister not employee. Despite the local police ordering him to butt out and his police officer girlfriend freezing him out, he is determined to help for the sake of his friend.
In order to get information he is agrees to follow a woman. Against his better judgement. Following her creates more problems and more violence.
Again Bonaire is described as a diver's paradise as well as a popular tourtist attraction. It sounds a wonderful place to visit.
Retired Detective Roscoe or "R" Conklin is back simply trying to remain retired. The fates have other ideas when "R" stumbles upon a human leg.
Sadly, he recognizes the leg due to a tatto0. It is the nephew of of his hotel secretary. Someone he has seen as a big sister not employee. Despite the local police ordering him to butt out and his police officer girlfriend freezing him out, he is determined to help for the sake of his friend.
In order to get information he is agrees to follow a woman. Against his better judgement. Following her creates more problems and more violence.
Again Bonaire is described as a diver's paradise as well as a popular tourtist attraction. It sounds a wonderful place to visit.
May 3, 2022
I loved the island setting, the mystery of body parts and a story to keep you guessing and wondering is always enjoyable. The storyline was good, somewhat slow but held together by following the main character Conklin as he works to solve a murder.
Conklin, or R as he’s known, takes you on an investigative journey, all readers will be interested in solving the mystery.
This book is an easy read, somewhat long winded at times, but worth getting to know Conklin and his cast of many!
Thank you to the publisher, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Conklin, or R as he’s known, takes you on an investigative journey, all readers will be interested in solving the mystery.
This book is an easy read, somewhat long winded at times, but worth getting to know Conklin and his cast of many!
Thank you to the publisher, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 19, 2022
Roscoe might have retired to Bonaire but that doesn't mean he hasn't stopped investigating. Especially when the victim is the nephew of his assistant Erika. What happened to Rulio that his leg washed up on the beach? Roscoe persuades Annabelle, a police officer and his love interest, to have the info the police have gathered so that he can find the bad guy. It's a classic PI story with the benefit of the Caribbean setting. Thanks to the publisher for the ARC. It's light- really light and will appeal to those who like Death in Paradise.
April 9, 2022
Bonaire -a great place for a thrilling murder mystery
Having visited Bonaire many times for snorkeling I gave the Roscoe Conklin books a try. I can say, without a doubt, that I expect to read each as it arrives on the market. There is good suspense and a nice story line that I imagine will have its thread continue throughout the series. While Bonaire has always been very peaceful when I was there, like any other place, violence and intrigue are possibilities especially now that cruise lines have begun stopping in. I look forward to Roscoe’s next adventure.
Having visited Bonaire many times for snorkeling I gave the Roscoe Conklin books a try. I can say, without a doubt, that I expect to read each as it arrives on the market. There is good suspense and a nice story line that I imagine will have its thread continue throughout the series. While Bonaire has always been very peaceful when I was there, like any other place, violence and intrigue are possibilities especially now that cruise lines have begun stopping in. I look forward to Roscoe’s next adventure.
April 19, 2022
Roscoe is still in Paradise but it’s anything but peaceful. He has let his PI license expire and is just enjoying himself running his little hotel.
Than tragedy struck too close to home and he once again gets involved in another case. Even the head cop wants him in on it.
There’s lots of action in this book and it’s going to keep you guessing until nearly the end.
Thank you, Mr. Goodwin. I’m looking forward to more of R’s adventures in Paradise.
***Book provided without charge by PICT.***
Than tragedy struck too close to home and he once again gets involved in another case. Even the head cop wants him in on it.
There’s lots of action in this book and it’s going to keep you guessing until nearly the end.
Thank you, Mr. Goodwin. I’m looking forward to more of R’s adventures in Paradise.
***Book provided without charge by PICT.***
July 10, 2022
A great read, especially over the summer, pool side! R Conklin is a likeable character who stays calm and cool while investigating a string of murders. He’d rather be drinking a Bright on his balcony, but he’s doing a friend a favor, and I appreciated his trustworthy, respectable nature as well as his dynamic with his partner, Arabella, who is equally as cool. The setting makes me want to book a plane ticket to the Caribbean ASAP. The plot took twists and turns and ended with some major action. Looking forward to the next one in the series!
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