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Hope Walker Mystery #8
A Hopeless Queen
A funny cozy mystery series full of bold women, a quirky and lovable town, and one seriously hopeless romance.Some of the best chess players in the world have descended upon Hopeless for the prestigious Western States Chess Championship. But something has gone terribly wrong. And as usual, investigative reporter Hope Walker is trying to unravel the puzzle.There's just one problem.Chess masters are used to being the smartest people in the room. Can Hope solve this chess crime? Or has she finally found a puzzle she just can't solve?Order the eighth book in the Hope Walker Mysteries, A Hopeless Queen, today!Five Star Praise For The Hope Walker Mysteries-"I really think this series and each book has the perfect mix of humor, mystery, real life, and suspense."-"I love this series. Carson has me guessing the whole time!"-"This book is every bit as good as the first! I can't get enough of Hope and the rest of the gang. An engaging plot, and laugh out loud humor make it difficult to put this book down."-"I absolutely enjoyed reading this cozy mystery. It had everything I look forward to in a mystery and once started I couldn't put it down."The Hope Walker MysteriesSEASON ONE-Book A Hopeless Murder-Book A Hopeless Heist-Book A Hopeless Discovery-Book A Hopeless Game-Book A Hopeless ChristmasSEASON TWO-Book A Hopeless Journey-Book A Hopeless Valentine-Book A Hopeless Sheriff-Book A Hopeless Storm-Book A Hopeless SheriffSEASON THREE- Book A Hopeless Spring
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 19, 2021
687 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Carson
39 books165 followersDaniel Carson lives in Nebraska with his wife and their perfect adoring children who have never ever misbehaved. Not once. Honest.
His days are a mixture of... teaching, cooking, driving, cleaning, more cooking, lots more driving, cleaning and more driving. So much driving. When the children finally go to bed, Daniel writes stories.
The Hope Walker Mysteries is a cozy mystery series with action, humor, and just a bit of romance. A Hopeless Murder is the first book in the series.
The Baking School Mysteries is a culinary cozy mystery series where the food is a delicious, the people are nosy but lovable, and murder is always on the menu. Fudge Frosting Murder is the first book in the series.
His days are a mixture of... teaching, cooking, driving, cleaning, more cooking, lots more driving, cleaning and more driving. So much driving. When the children finally go to bed, Daniel writes stories.
The Hope Walker Mysteries is a cozy mystery series with action, humor, and just a bit of romance. A Hopeless Murder is the first book in the series.
The Baking School Mysteries is a culinary cozy mystery series where the food is a delicious, the people are nosy but lovable, and murder is always on the menu. Fudge Frosting Murder is the first book in the series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 6, 2025
This one felt a little different because Alex was only in it sparingly but the investigation, and the humor, were still there. I loved the explanation of PMS and its later uses in the book. The mystery was intriguing and kept me guessing until the end. The ending was shocking and I can’t wait to see how it all plays out.
May 18, 2021
Be prepared for a late night, it’s worth staying up for. Daniel never disappoints with every installment of the Hopeless series and this one is no exception. Twists and turns, laughs and love. Can’t wait for the next one.
August 24, 2021
I love Hope and Hopeless, Idaho. So far, so of the books in this series by Daniel Carson are fantastic!!
June 29, 2024
While these books don't have to be read in order, I suggest that they are. This book begins where the last one ended.
Hope and Alex are having breakfast at Buck's the morning after the Valentine's dance and just as they admit they want to kiss, Granny and the whole gang come in.
After Alex leaves to be with his sister, Hope gets an unexpected visitor with a possible lead on her mother's whereabouts. Margaret Kline gives Hope her husband's journals from when he was sheriff.
Alex is about to board his plane when he gets the call about a theft at the college. His only other employee Katie is going to have to handle it, but he wants Hope to help her. Not a hardship to be sure.
I got quite the kick out of Katie at the crime scene with Celia on her hip, Lucy by her side and Dominic on top of their van thinking he can fly. I loved Hope's solution to that one.
They meet with Greta Kovac at Landry Hall where she introduces them to Professor Melanie St Clair and her husband Professor Ashford Beck. Melanie shows them the antique Italian marble chess set under glass that has a piece missing. The white queen.
She informs them the Western States Chess Tournament is due to start the next day and they need the queen back before then. Katie needs somewhere for the kids and Ashford has a unique answer for her. An experiment involving chess and children who have never been exposed to playing it.
As this investigation begins, we find the point of entry, learn of a gathering and discover Lucy has an affinity for chess.
We meet three of the top players in the world, Italian Fortunato Perisi, Ukrainian Yuri Lomanchenko, and American Lyla Van Brocklin who are competing in the tournament. As well as Christopher Wu from the Hopeless Chess Team. They had been at an informal gathering with Greta and the professors the night of the theft.
In the meantime, a security guard is hired to watch over the chess set and of all people it's Gregor. Not exactly the best in the business. All goes well until Gregor comes to work to find Greta dead.
I love the way this story unfolds, it's so much fun with Katie in charge and Lucy's chess playing. Not to mention Gregor as a 'deputy'.
Plenty of twists and I surely didn't see a lot of that coming, especially the ending!
Hope and Alex are having breakfast at Buck's the morning after the Valentine's dance and just as they admit they want to kiss, Granny and the whole gang come in.
After Alex leaves to be with his sister, Hope gets an unexpected visitor with a possible lead on her mother's whereabouts. Margaret Kline gives Hope her husband's journals from when he was sheriff.
Alex is about to board his plane when he gets the call about a theft at the college. His only other employee Katie is going to have to handle it, but he wants Hope to help her. Not a hardship to be sure.
I got quite the kick out of Katie at the crime scene with Celia on her hip, Lucy by her side and Dominic on top of their van thinking he can fly. I loved Hope's solution to that one.
They meet with Greta Kovac at Landry Hall where she introduces them to Professor Melanie St Clair and her husband Professor Ashford Beck. Melanie shows them the antique Italian marble chess set under glass that has a piece missing. The white queen.
She informs them the Western States Chess Tournament is due to start the next day and they need the queen back before then. Katie needs somewhere for the kids and Ashford has a unique answer for her. An experiment involving chess and children who have never been exposed to playing it.
As this investigation begins, we find the point of entry, learn of a gathering and discover Lucy has an affinity for chess.
We meet three of the top players in the world, Italian Fortunato Perisi, Ukrainian Yuri Lomanchenko, and American Lyla Van Brocklin who are competing in the tournament. As well as Christopher Wu from the Hopeless Chess Team. They had been at an informal gathering with Greta and the professors the night of the theft.
In the meantime, a security guard is hired to watch over the chess set and of all people it's Gregor. Not exactly the best in the business. All goes well until Gregor comes to work to find Greta dead.
I love the way this story unfolds, it's so much fun with Katie in charge and Lucy's chess playing. Not to mention Gregor as a 'deputy'.
Plenty of twists and I surely didn't see a lot of that coming, especially the ending!
October 28, 2021
I nearly gave this book only 4 stars because of what Daniel did to Sheriff Kramer; however, the writing storyline doesn’t have anything to do with my review. So, 5 it is. You see, I began to think the same thing during this book - Hope has solved every crime since book 1. What has Alex done? But then I thought more about that. Hope has not solved the crimes by herself. She has had outside help and a lot of input from friends and family. She has also accused the wrong killer(s) EVERY. TIME. In an embarrassing fashion, I might add. And she just stumbled upon the actual killer and nearly got herself killed in the process. This book is really the only one where she solved the crime herself, but she still had help from others. It’s all bullshizzle what Mayor Jerk has done. I’m pretty PO’d over it!
And just when Sheriff and Hope were getting somewhere. I also have another question I hope will be answered soon - will Hope get her dream cabin or did she really let it go?
I’m ready to start the next book 9 “A Hopeless Sheriff” and I pray to God that Hope somehow not only kicks Gemima’s butt (literally and/or metaphorically), but that Hope also grows in her romantic relationship with Alex. I hope he realizes it isn’t Hope’s fault she’s been named the new Sheriff in town!
And just when Sheriff and Hope were getting somewhere. I also have another question I hope will be answered soon - will Hope get her dream cabin or did she really let it go?
I’m ready to start the next book 9 “A Hopeless Sheriff” and I pray to God that Hope somehow not only kicks Gemima’s butt (literally and/or metaphorically), but that Hope also grows in her romantic relationship with Alex. I hope he realizes it isn’t Hope’s fault she’s been named the new Sheriff in town!
June 3, 2021
I am both stunned and extremely upset. This story had many twists and turns, but nothing made me happier than the short conversations between Hope and Alex. I have never liked Gemima (I don’t know if this is the right spelling and I despise her too much to care), but her appearance and actions in this book were downright cruel. Yes, I loved the book, but I am honestly disappointed in the dismissal of the multiple experiences of loss Hope has encountered during her life. To have her mom’s disappearance, her unknown father, her loss of Jimmy and her loss of a house that once held her dreams is frankly more than enough. Then to add Gemima’s disgusting intentional behavior inflicting MORE pain and potentially taking someone else away? I wish I waited to read this book once the next in the series is released. I mean if Gemima is going to ruin her life, couldn’t she have had SOME happiness with Alex? Give the girl a break!
August 13, 2021
Opening the morning after the romantic (ish) end of the previous book, Carson is now leaning in to quite how many murders there are in Hopeless with the next one coming along a mere week from the previous one.Having moved along the relationship between Hope and the sheriff he then instantly takes said boyfriend off of the board (much like he took Hope out of town in book six). Stalling is fine and I am here for the mystery and the off beat characters, but the stretch, much like the number of murders in one year, almost pushing my suspension of disbelief.
Who am I kidding, have a murder a week in all of the institutions not previously mentioned in Hopeless - this time in the University - for all I care. Quality maintained (though I would be interested to see how female readers take the very large PMS subplot here).
Who am I kidding, have a murder a week in all of the institutions not previously mentioned in Hopeless - this time in the University - for all I care. Quality maintained (though I would be interested to see how female readers take the very large PMS subplot here).
October 20, 2022
Shocked
I have loved this series so far. I came across this author through his free YouTube audiobooks. The narrator on his audiobook is phenomenal. I couldn’t wait until the next audiobook to come up on YouTube so I got on my KU and have devoured the next few books in the series.
I love the wit and banter between the characters, Hope and Katie, as well as their deep friendship. Granny is a fan fav also.
I won’t give away any spoilers but I was shocked by the ending of this book. Not only by the solving of the crime but where the book itself leaves off. I can’t help myself and have to start the next book even though it is super late and I should be sleeping.
I would recommend this series if you enjoy cozy mysteries, humor and losing yourself in a enjoyable read.
I have loved this series so far. I came across this author through his free YouTube audiobooks. The narrator on his audiobook is phenomenal. I couldn’t wait until the next audiobook to come up on YouTube so I got on my KU and have devoured the next few books in the series.
I love the wit and banter between the characters, Hope and Katie, as well as their deep friendship. Granny is a fan fav also.
I won’t give away any spoilers but I was shocked by the ending of this book. Not only by the solving of the crime but where the book itself leaves off. I can’t help myself and have to start the next book even though it is super late and I should be sleeping.
I would recommend this series if you enjoy cozy mysteries, humor and losing yourself in a enjoyable read.
March 1, 2024
Hmmm. Yeah I Said, "Hmmm."
Great plot, fabulous twist. Wonderful characters, witty dialogue. I hope Lucy keeps playing chess.
But and I mean BUT, the ending left me cold, very very cold. It was logical to see the ending coming, the clues are all there. But really, is someone that petty and evil? Plus, that is not quite how city government works. Hmmm. Book nine better redeem itself.
Great plot, fabulous twist. Wonderful characters, witty dialogue. I hope Lucy keeps playing chess.
But and I mean BUT, the ending left me cold, very very cold. It was logical to see the ending coming, the clues are all there. But really, is someone that petty and evil? Plus, that is not quite how city government works. Hmmm. Book nine better redeem itself.
March 10, 2024
Cheers for Chess Queens.. and princesses
The author does a great job of introducing Granny and Hope to the Hopeless world of World Chess Competitions while making it small enough to fit into a cozy mystery book. No small feat, but he makes it look effortless. I'm awed by his skill. And the surprise ending...or endings... well leave you both elated and deflated or.. cheering and booing... but no more time, I've got to see what happens in the next book.
The author does a great job of introducing Granny and Hope to the Hopeless world of World Chess Competitions while making it small enough to fit into a cozy mystery book. No small feat, but he makes it look effortless. I'm awed by his skill. And the surprise ending...or endings... well leave you both elated and deflated or.. cheering and booing... but no more time, I've got to see what happens in the next book.
March 31, 2024
As the Western Open Chess Championships are scheduled to start a Queen is stolen from a hand made chess set. As Hope and Alex start to investigate he is called away because his sister was in a serious accident. So the next day Katie and Hope are continuing to investigate when they find a dead body, the organizer. The tournament proceeds and Hope tries to figure it out while dealing with PMS Katie and chess prodigy Lucy. Great cozy mystery with a little romance thrown in.
April 20, 2021
Man, Hope never gets a break!
I love this series and enjoy every book. Poor Hope, even when things finally start going her way just a bit, things go wrong again! The series I feel like is more about the friendship between Hope and Katie because we certainly aren’t getting anywhere with Hope and Alex!
I love this series and enjoy every book. Poor Hope, even when things finally start going her way just a bit, things go wrong again! The series I feel like is more about the friendship between Hope and Katie because we certainly aren’t getting anywhere with Hope and Alex!
October 5, 2024
An excellent mystery!
This was definitely the best storyline so far in the Hopeless series. I loved all the twists and turns! Oh, but the ending just about had my flipping my lid! Yikes! Better hold on to your hats, people! Better believe I’ll be getting the next book ASAP! And please tell me that Gemima will be getting her just desserts sometime soon!
This was definitely the best storyline so far in the Hopeless series. I loved all the twists and turns! Oh, but the ending just about had my flipping my lid! Yikes! Better hold on to your hats, people! Better believe I’ll be getting the next book ASAP! And please tell me that Gemima will be getting her just desserts sometime soon!
March 22, 2026
Gemima is the person you love to hate. The ending was shocking. I didn't come close to solving this mystery. I thought it was interesting that Alex appeared in this book from a distance. The humor was still there, although not as much.
The mystery was solved, and the the author hit us with a cliffhanger! All I can say is that I cannot wait to see how this all plays out.
The mystery was solved, and the the author hit us with a cliffhanger! All I can say is that I cannot wait to see how this all plays out.
April 25, 2021
Love this series, the characters and the mystery. What I didn't expect the ending, it was a huge HUH...WHAT?? I so can't wait for the next book because some how some way Alex will be back and things really need to happen between Hope and Alex or I will go crazy-lol.
May 18, 2021
A Hopeless queen/carson
Sometimes in life when you solved a case the unexpected really becomes the unexpected. I wanted to rejoice but with this story became angry the way it ended what a bummer😠
Sometimes in life when you solved a case the unexpected really becomes the unexpected. I wanted to rejoice but with this story became angry the way it ended what a bummer😠
May 25, 2021
Gemima comes full circle
Wow ! Interesting bringing all together in Clue fashion to wrap up each book. Loved PMS Katie as a sidekick - but must hurry on to the next book to find out about Alex.
Wow ! Interesting bringing all together in Clue fashion to wrap up each book. Loved PMS Katie as a sidekick - but must hurry on to the next book to find out about Alex.
April 25, 2022
Another fun story
Carson write a fun and fast paced mystery. The ending is a bit frustrating but certainly builds tension for the invested reader. Looking forward to the next installment.
Carson write a fun and fast paced mystery. The ending is a bit frustrating but certainly builds tension for the invested reader. Looking forward to the next installment.
July 1, 2022
not at all what was expected
This was truly a mystery with pawns in the making. Playing a game of chess using one’s life one thing but involving seven is a master piece. The ending is crucial and even more unexpected. Mayor Gemima is most certainly evil and enjoyable to dislike.
This was truly a mystery with pawns in the making. Playing a game of chess using one’s life one thing but involving seven is a master piece. The ending is crucial and even more unexpected. Mayor Gemima is most certainly evil and enjoyable to dislike.
May 16, 2023
crazy twists
Another nice installment. I’m glad Hope and Alex are adulting on just talking to each other now! This one had some fun surprises and jemima strikes again. That hateful wench.
Another nice installment. I’m glad Hope and Alex are adulting on just talking to each other now! This one had some fun surprises and jemima strikes again. That hateful wench.
February 14, 2025
tanks for the laughs!
I love books that have a serious theme but somehow always give you a belly laugh. This author does it so creatively and well. Can’t wait to see how this all progresses.
I love books that have a serious theme but somehow always give you a belly laugh. This author does it so creatively and well. Can’t wait to see how this all progresses.
May 2, 2021
It enjoyed the book. Always makes me laugh at something.
May 7, 2021
My favorite of all time series
Start with the first in series and you will be hooked! These books are funny, serious at times, some romance and always a murder. What’s not to love ! Daniel Carson is a very gifted writer. Hope Walker is an exciting and addictive character. Can’t wait for the next installment. Get the whole series. You will not be disappointed!
Start with the first in series and you will be hooked! These books are funny, serious at times, some romance and always a murder. What’s not to love ! Daniel Carson is a very gifted writer. Hope Walker is an exciting and addictive character. Can’t wait for the next installment. Get the whole series. You will not be disappointed!
May 15, 2021
Love the characters
Another great story. I would no mind visiting the town and getting to meet Granny and Hope. Can't wait to see how this vs turn out for Hope.
Another great story. I would no mind visiting the town and getting to meet Granny and Hope. Can't wait to see how this vs turn out for Hope.
May 22, 2021
Love these books!!! Can't wait for the next one.
April 18, 2022
I just love these light, unpredictable reads!
January 16, 2023
Loved it!
March 12, 2023
Can't stop reading
Can't stop reading these books, Daniel Carson is a excellent writer, and will definitely read more of his books. So funny but keep s you on your toes.
Can't stop reading these books, Daniel Carson is a excellent writer, and will definitely read more of his books. So funny but keep s you on your toes.
November 18, 2023
Great read until the very end which I did not like at all.
January 6, 2024
This was quite entertaining. There were some surprises at the end that I wasn’t expecting. Very good book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews