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Granny Reid #4
Murder Most Grave
For Stella "Granny" Reid, the 1980s in McGill, Georgia could be seriously predictable. Gossip would flow, her grandkids would stumble into the kind of harmless trouble only encountered when growing up, and a deadly mystery was all it took to make the tranquil Southern town unravel.
With a new grandbaby to care for at home, Stella has little time to spare. Her hands are especially full since Savannah, her teenage granddaughter, developed a crush on a boy guaranteed to break her heart. Gallivanting around with her best pal Sheriff Manny Goldford simply isn't an option--until a freshly murdered body is discovered...
Holding a criminal record unlike anyone's in McGill, Dexter Corbin was a man who wouldn't be missed at Sunday school or the darkest local tavern. But he never deserved to meet his end so soon--so violently. When a gravedigger finds Dexter sprawled across the steps of a crypt, Stella and Manny launch into action to investigate who had motive to kill him...
As the pieces start falling together, everything else becomes less certain. Manny soon realizes he could lose his position as sheriff, and there's the case of yet another shocking death. Now, Stella must protect those closest to her while unearthing the dangerous culprit and putting a real grave affair to rest.
With a new grandbaby to care for at home, Stella has little time to spare. Her hands are especially full since Savannah, her teenage granddaughter, developed a crush on a boy guaranteed to break her heart. Gallivanting around with her best pal Sheriff Manny Goldford simply isn't an option--until a freshly murdered body is discovered...
Holding a criminal record unlike anyone's in McGill, Dexter Corbin was a man who wouldn't be missed at Sunday school or the darkest local tavern. But he never deserved to meet his end so soon--so violently. When a gravedigger finds Dexter sprawled across the steps of a crypt, Stella and Manny launch into action to investigate who had motive to kill him...
As the pieces start falling together, everything else becomes less certain. Manny soon realizes he could lose his position as sheriff, and there's the case of yet another shocking death. Now, Stella must protect those closest to her while unearthing the dangerous culprit and putting a real grave affair to rest.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2022
52 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
About the author
G.A. McKevett
34 books727 followersSince publication of her first novel in 1986, Sonja Massie has authored over sixty published works, including the highly popular and critically acclaimed SAVANNAH REID MYSTERIES under the pseudonym G. A. McKevett.
Sonja's novels range from Irish historicals to contemporary thrillers. Her earthy humor and fast-paced plots delight her fans, while critics applaud her offbeat characterizations and incisive observations on human nature.
Irish by ancestry, Sonja has authored two non-fiction books on the history of Ireland: THE COMPLETE IDIOT'S GUIDE TO IRISH HISTORY AND CULTURE and IRISH PRIDE: 101 REASONS TO BE PROUD YOU'RE IRISH. Both books impart detailed knowledge of the complex and controversial Irish story with a light hand and plenty of humor. Her Irish novels include: DREAM CARVER, CAROUSEL, DAUGHTER OF IRELAND and the bestselling FAR AND AWAY - the novelization of the Ron Howard movie starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman.
On nationwide tours, Sonja lectures to published and "pre-published" authors in her workshop, "The Novel Approach," a seminar which covers such topics as: story structure, characterization, plotting, pacing, and marketing manuscripts.
Sonja has taught numerous courses at university and adult continuing education facilities including: general fiction, historical research, and mystery writing. She was managing editor at "Single Living" magazine and has functioned as a manuscript doctor and storyline editor for major publishers. Earlier in her career, she was a prolific ghostwriter, authoring both fictional and non-fictional books for celebrities and professionals.
Having lived in Los Angeles, Toronto, and County Kerry, Ireland, she now resides in New York.
Sonja's novels range from Irish historicals to contemporary thrillers. Her earthy humor and fast-paced plots delight her fans, while critics applaud her offbeat characterizations and incisive observations on human nature.
Irish by ancestry, Sonja has authored two non-fiction books on the history of Ireland: THE COMPLETE IDIOT'S GUIDE TO IRISH HISTORY AND CULTURE and IRISH PRIDE: 101 REASONS TO BE PROUD YOU'RE IRISH. Both books impart detailed knowledge of the complex and controversial Irish story with a light hand and plenty of humor. Her Irish novels include: DREAM CARVER, CAROUSEL, DAUGHTER OF IRELAND and the bestselling FAR AND AWAY - the novelization of the Ron Howard movie starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman.
On nationwide tours, Sonja lectures to published and "pre-published" authors in her workshop, "The Novel Approach," a seminar which covers such topics as: story structure, characterization, plotting, pacing, and marketing manuscripts.
Sonja has taught numerous courses at university and adult continuing education facilities including: general fiction, historical research, and mystery writing. She was managing editor at "Single Living" magazine and has functioned as a manuscript doctor and storyline editor for major publishers. Earlier in her career, she was a prolific ghostwriter, authoring both fictional and non-fictional books for celebrities and professionals.
Having lived in Los Angeles, Toronto, and County Kerry, Ireland, she now resides in New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
March 20, 2022
I have a confession. This is the first Granny Reid book I've read. I'm a huge fan of the Savannah Reid Mysteries and have read all the books. I wasn't sure if I would feel the same way about this series. Let me tell you, I love it just as much as the Savannah Reid series - maybe a touch more! This mystery finds Stella (Granny) raising her eight grandchildren while working with the local Sheriff to solve the murder of the town "bad boy" and keeping young Savannah on track. Little does Stella know, a killer will try to separate her from her grandchildren and the man she loves forever!
What a gift, to read about the Reid crew when they were young and to see Stella as her own person. The mystery is fast-paced and once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. Seeing Stella as a sleuth was fun and I'll see her in a different light in the Savannah series. She's not only Granny who is full of love for her family, but a sleuth who is an expert in reading crime scenes and people. The supporting characters, Sheriff Manny Gilford and Elsie Dingle, Stella''s lifelong best friend bring so much to the mystery - love, support and they complete the family. I also enjoyed that the mystery was set in the 1980's with all its cultural references!
If you haven't read a Granny Reid mystery, hurry and pick one (or more) up! It's one of the most enjoyable series I've read and I'm now a devoted fan!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions in this review are my own.
What a gift, to read about the Reid crew when they were young and to see Stella as her own person. The mystery is fast-paced and once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. Seeing Stella as a sleuth was fun and I'll see her in a different light in the Savannah series. She's not only Granny who is full of love for her family, but a sleuth who is an expert in reading crime scenes and people. The supporting characters, Sheriff Manny Gilford and Elsie Dingle, Stella''s lifelong best friend bring so much to the mystery - love, support and they complete the family. I also enjoyed that the mystery was set in the 1980's with all its cultural references!
If you haven't read a Granny Reid mystery, hurry and pick one (or more) up! It's one of the most enjoyable series I've read and I'm now a devoted fan!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions in this review are my own.
May 26, 2022
Murder Most Grave Earns 5/5 Family Crypts…Engaging & Clever Cozy!
When young Waycross finds life a bit trying he runs off to his favorite sanctuary…the cemetery, especially sitting butt up against his late grandpa Art’s grave stone. That’s where his grandma, Stella May Reid, found him having a strange, yet one-sided conversation with his late grandfather. He seemed to feel better after a bad day at school, and was ready to head home with her, until…a scream and Mr. Horton, the landscaper (aka gravedigger), running past gasping for air struggling to say, “Dead…man. Crypt.”
Stan Horton runs to his car and sets off to notify the police, and Stella grabs her grandson and hurries home. Staying home was a challenge since she’d always been a bit curious and worked well with the local sheriff to uncover many a killer’s identity. She got her best friend to stay with her troop of eight grandchildren in her care (long story), and headed back to the cemetery. There she finds Sheriff Gilford at the steps of the Patterson crypt examining the gruesome scene. The body? Dexter Corbin has been murdered. Due to Dexter’s history with the town’s residents, there will be a long list of suspects, and it’s obvious the crime scene points to someone the victim knew and premeditated means and opportunity. The sheriff, a long-time friend and more, and Stella work well together, but a civilian’s involvement isn’t by the book accepted, and with a very contentious election for sheriff looming, his opponent and his deputy can’t help but point out all of Sheriff Gilford’s flaws and failures.
Brilliant Fourth Cozy! G.A. McKevett has set her delightful story during the year 1988 when cell phones and other tech devices were limited (What’s a pager? LOL). The investigation stretches one’s empathy since many thought the victim deserved it, and efforts are hindered by the contentious election for sheriff riddled with subterfuge and resistance from Deputy Faber. The small town gossip line is an important investigative tool slowly revealing what he said, she said, what bruises are revealed, and what the strongest motive might be. All ending in a shocking and perilous arrest! In and around the investigation are delightful picnics, campaign rallies, holding babies, corralling anxious young’uns, and a hand holding or more here and there. McKevett’s writing style is entertaining filled with seemingly accurate dialect abbreviations along with many southern idioms to illustrate situations and feelings. I think I hear my own grandmother in a few of the sayings. The grandkids play roles in the drama (how can they not; there’s eight of them!), and the thirteen-year-old granddaughter, who stars in her own Savannah Reid series as the adult detective turned private investigator, exhibits those interests and intuitive skills later to be useful. Real fun. Engaging drama. Satisfying closure. Don’t miss this gem!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Kensington thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
When young Waycross finds life a bit trying he runs off to his favorite sanctuary…the cemetery, especially sitting butt up against his late grandpa Art’s grave stone. That’s where his grandma, Stella May Reid, found him having a strange, yet one-sided conversation with his late grandfather. He seemed to feel better after a bad day at school, and was ready to head home with her, until…a scream and Mr. Horton, the landscaper (aka gravedigger), running past gasping for air struggling to say, “Dead…man. Crypt.”
Stan Horton runs to his car and sets off to notify the police, and Stella grabs her grandson and hurries home. Staying home was a challenge since she’d always been a bit curious and worked well with the local sheriff to uncover many a killer’s identity. She got her best friend to stay with her troop of eight grandchildren in her care (long story), and headed back to the cemetery. There she finds Sheriff Gilford at the steps of the Patterson crypt examining the gruesome scene. The body? Dexter Corbin has been murdered. Due to Dexter’s history with the town’s residents, there will be a long list of suspects, and it’s obvious the crime scene points to someone the victim knew and premeditated means and opportunity. The sheriff, a long-time friend and more, and Stella work well together, but a civilian’s involvement isn’t by the book accepted, and with a very contentious election for sheriff looming, his opponent and his deputy can’t help but point out all of Sheriff Gilford’s flaws and failures.
Brilliant Fourth Cozy! G.A. McKevett has set her delightful story during the year 1988 when cell phones and other tech devices were limited (What’s a pager? LOL). The investigation stretches one’s empathy since many thought the victim deserved it, and efforts are hindered by the contentious election for sheriff riddled with subterfuge and resistance from Deputy Faber. The small town gossip line is an important investigative tool slowly revealing what he said, she said, what bruises are revealed, and what the strongest motive might be. All ending in a shocking and perilous arrest! In and around the investigation are delightful picnics, campaign rallies, holding babies, corralling anxious young’uns, and a hand holding or more here and there. McKevett’s writing style is entertaining filled with seemingly accurate dialect abbreviations along with many southern idioms to illustrate situations and feelings. I think I hear my own grandmother in a few of the sayings. The grandkids play roles in the drama (how can they not; there’s eight of them!), and the thirteen-year-old granddaughter, who stars in her own Savannah Reid series as the adult detective turned private investigator, exhibits those interests and intuitive skills later to be useful. Real fun. Engaging drama. Satisfying closure. Don’t miss this gem!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Kensington thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
May 22, 2022
It has never been any secret that the “A Granny Reid Mystery” series is one of my all-time favorite cozy series, and Murder Most Grave is the best one yet! A body on the steps of a crypt, grandkids that make life worth living, and friends like Manny and Elsie standing by her side, make Granny (Stella) Reid loveable, loyal, and the kind of person we would all like to be. This book is a perfect example of what love and family are supposed to mean, even when they try our patience.
Stella is in the graveyard checking on her grandkid, Waycross. He spends far too much time sitting at his grandfather's grave, and she is worried about him, but nothing prepares her for what she learns about why Waycross is there or the blood-curdling scream that shatters the peace and quiet of the cemetery. A body is found on the steps of a family crypt with his head bashed in. Her friend Sheriff Manny Gilford soon arrives, and Stella and Manny are off on the hunt for a killer.
It doesn’t take long before suspects, motives, and opportunities show up. The victim isn’t sympathetic in the least, and readers learn quickly that chances are, sooner or later, someone was bound to murder him. From a new wife to an old one, business people, and politicians, there is no end to the suspect pool. Getting your head bashed in at a crypt was not the nicest way to die, and having one of Stella’s grandkids nearby and in harm's way is worrisome, but nothing stops Stella from pursuing the killer and tracking them down even when her life is in danger.
When the killer and the motive are revealed, it is a relief. However, there is tension in the sheriff’s department, and things get nasty. Waycross has issues, and Stella is at her wit's end trying to cope with everything that happened at the crypt and with her grandkids. Stella is smack in the middle of the murder investigation and Manny’s reelection campaign. In the end, Stella finds the killer and the peace she has sought. Readers of this series are treated to a few surprises and some joyful news. Murder Most Grave is a new beginning for Stella and her family, and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
Stella is in the graveyard checking on her grandkid, Waycross. He spends far too much time sitting at his grandfather's grave, and she is worried about him, but nothing prepares her for what she learns about why Waycross is there or the blood-curdling scream that shatters the peace and quiet of the cemetery. A body is found on the steps of a family crypt with his head bashed in. Her friend Sheriff Manny Gilford soon arrives, and Stella and Manny are off on the hunt for a killer.
It doesn’t take long before suspects, motives, and opportunities show up. The victim isn’t sympathetic in the least, and readers learn quickly that chances are, sooner or later, someone was bound to murder him. From a new wife to an old one, business people, and politicians, there is no end to the suspect pool. Getting your head bashed in at a crypt was not the nicest way to die, and having one of Stella’s grandkids nearby and in harm's way is worrisome, but nothing stops Stella from pursuing the killer and tracking them down even when her life is in danger.
When the killer and the motive are revealed, it is a relief. However, there is tension in the sheriff’s department, and things get nasty. Waycross has issues, and Stella is at her wit's end trying to cope with everything that happened at the crypt and with her grandkids. Stella is smack in the middle of the murder investigation and Manny’s reelection campaign. In the end, Stella finds the killer and the peace she has sought. Readers of this series are treated to a few surprises and some joyful news. Murder Most Grave is a new beginning for Stella and her family, and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
March 17, 2022
Stella Reid has her hands full raising her 8 grandchildren, but anyone who knows Stella, knows she wouldn't trade it for anything.
When her grandson Waycross has something on his mind, he goes to the cemetery to visit his grandfather's grave.
Not long after Stella finds him, screams are heard and sure enough, Stella is once again involved in a murder investigation.
I enjoy her easy relationship with Manny and her love for her family and friends shows in this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#MurderMostGrave #NetGalley
When her grandson Waycross has something on his mind, he goes to the cemetery to visit his grandfather's grave.
Not long after Stella finds him, screams are heard and sure enough, Stella is once again involved in a murder investigation.
I enjoy her easy relationship with Manny and her love for her family and friends shows in this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#MurderMostGrave #NetGalley
June 6, 2022
This was a spectacular read for me! The mystery was excellent and kept me enthralled. I also enjoyed catching up with Stella, Manny and the kids. There are some surprises in the story that were awesome. I need more in this series asap!
June 11, 2022
Southern charm and familial love practically spill from the pages of this story. Granny Stella is caring for her 8 grandangels and loving every minute of it, but even a granny as dedicated as she is needs a break now and then. She finds some diversions from her chores when she is with Sheriff Manny Goldford, and not just in helping him solve crimes. There is a definite spark between these two old friends, but first, they need to solve a couple of murders and some drug dealing. Along the way, they help Waycross, who is feeling low because a mean girl said some hurtful things to him, and Savannah, who is cautioned about a not-very-nice boy she has a crush on. Some dangerous dealings are going on in this mostly lovely southern town, but it just takes one bad apple, or maybe a couple, to spoil things, and put people in danger. This fourth installment in the Granny Reid Mystery series may just be the best one yet. It’s storytelling at its best, with a well-written plot and delightful characters. I am so looking forward to the next mystery - please write faster, Ms. McKevett!
July 26, 2022
I love the Savannah Reid series but wasn't sure about the Granny Reid books. I should've know better. They are wonderful, and the latest is about as close to perfect as can be.
Stella herself, Manny, Elsie, all the children - great characters! The tiny town is a great setting, and I do all the old "Southernisms" in Stella's speech patterns. There's lots of action, in an interesting plot, and a lovely romance as icing on the cake. Maybe Elsie's coconut cake? I'm excited to read the next book - in whatever series it appears!
This was a library book, BTW. I seldom pay attention to the edition when I'm writing these reviews.
Stella herself, Manny, Elsie, all the children - great characters! The tiny town is a great setting, and I do all the old "Southernisms" in Stella's speech patterns. There's lots of action, in an interesting plot, and a lovely romance as icing on the cake. Maybe Elsie's coconut cake? I'm excited to read the next book - in whatever series it appears!
This was a library book, BTW. I seldom pay attention to the edition when I'm writing these reviews.
June 11, 2022
I always love catching up with Granny and her grandchildren. In this book, Waycross and Granny stumble across a body in the cemetery. Sheriff Manny asks Granny to help him investigate. I loved the characters in this series. They are well developed and very relatable. We see Savannah as a new teenager and growing up more. The story was very well done and moved at a nice pace. I can't wait to read the next book.
June 29, 2022
My favorite of the series so far!
August 28, 2022
Murder Most Grave, the 4th novel in G. A. McKevett’s Granny Reid mystery series, is another entertaining and suspenseful visit with Stella Reid and her “grand-angels.”
When little Waycross Reid does not arrive home on the bus from school, Granny Reid searches for, and ultimately encounters, him in the local cemetery, “conversing” with his late Grandfather (Stella’s husband). They set off for home, but hear piercing screams, only to discover a dead body on the steps of one of the mausoleums. Sheriff Manny Gilford is summoned to lead up the investigation. The victim, Dexter Corbin, is not well-regarded in the community, but a murder has been committed, and it is up to Manny, with more than a little help from Stella, to catch a killer.
As with the other Granny Reid books, the focus is on the family as much as (if not more than) the mystery. The mystery itself is fairly obvious, with enough misdirection to make you second-guess the obvious perpetrator. The climactic scene is well done and suspenseful. But the star of this book is the family relationship. This time the spotlight is on Waycross, a spirited boy with natural curiosity and several interesting and endearing qualities. A subplot involving granddaughter Alma and an abandoned kitty is touching as well.
Thankfully, this time, the focus is off of Savannah, who is as obnoxious a character as I’ve seen (so much so that I’m hesitant to read McKevett’s other series which features Savannah). I tire of hearing how “smart” Savannah is, when her actions consistently belie that statement. Here, however, her scenes are brief and not reliant on her alleged acumen. In contrast, a major bright spot in the book is Stella’s blossoming relationship with Manny. It is obvious that Stella’s and Manny’s friendship has grown into a relationship, and the way this is handled is charming and heartwarming.
All in all, Murder Most Grave is a mystery that is truly cozy. It is a quick and enjoyable read, and I look forward to reading the next installment in the series.
Note: I received an ARC of Murder Most Grave from NetGalley and Kensington Books. The above is my honest review.
When little Waycross Reid does not arrive home on the bus from school, Granny Reid searches for, and ultimately encounters, him in the local cemetery, “conversing” with his late Grandfather (Stella’s husband). They set off for home, but hear piercing screams, only to discover a dead body on the steps of one of the mausoleums. Sheriff Manny Gilford is summoned to lead up the investigation. The victim, Dexter Corbin, is not well-regarded in the community, but a murder has been committed, and it is up to Manny, with more than a little help from Stella, to catch a killer.
As with the other Granny Reid books, the focus is on the family as much as (if not more than) the mystery. The mystery itself is fairly obvious, with enough misdirection to make you second-guess the obvious perpetrator. The climactic scene is well done and suspenseful. But the star of this book is the family relationship. This time the spotlight is on Waycross, a spirited boy with natural curiosity and several interesting and endearing qualities. A subplot involving granddaughter Alma and an abandoned kitty is touching as well.
Thankfully, this time, the focus is off of Savannah, who is as obnoxious a character as I’ve seen (so much so that I’m hesitant to read McKevett’s other series which features Savannah). I tire of hearing how “smart” Savannah is, when her actions consistently belie that statement. Here, however, her scenes are brief and not reliant on her alleged acumen. In contrast, a major bright spot in the book is Stella’s blossoming relationship with Manny. It is obvious that Stella’s and Manny’s friendship has grown into a relationship, and the way this is handled is charming and heartwarming.
All in all, Murder Most Grave is a mystery that is truly cozy. It is a quick and enjoyable read, and I look forward to reading the next installment in the series.
Note: I received an ARC of Murder Most Grave from NetGalley and Kensington Books. The above is my honest review.
April 24, 2022
I have been looking forward to the release of this book and I was grateful to receive an advance reader copy from NetGalley.
Stella is searching for her grandson after learning he ran away from school rather than taking the bus home. She knows to first look for him in the cemetery where he goes to pour out his heart to his late grandfather. After finding him the two are about to head for home when they hear horrible screams. On their way to investigate they are passed by the gravedigger who encourages them to follow him. Stella soon learns that there is a dead body near a mausoleum, and it is on the steps rather than buried. At the request of her dear friend, the Sheriff, Stella joins Manny in the investigation of what happened to the dead man. The small town is rocked by a killer that needs to be found before he takes another life.
This is the fourth book in G.A. McKevett’s Granny Reid Mystery series. I love the characters in this series. They are realistic and well developed. The setting is easy to picture. This story is engaging and the plot moves at a good pace. I like the progression of the relationships between several of the characters. Now that this book has been read I’ll begin waiting patiently for Book 5. I highly recommend this book and this entire series.
Stella is searching for her grandson after learning he ran away from school rather than taking the bus home. She knows to first look for him in the cemetery where he goes to pour out his heart to his late grandfather. After finding him the two are about to head for home when they hear horrible screams. On their way to investigate they are passed by the gravedigger who encourages them to follow him. Stella soon learns that there is a dead body near a mausoleum, and it is on the steps rather than buried. At the request of her dear friend, the Sheriff, Stella joins Manny in the investigation of what happened to the dead man. The small town is rocked by a killer that needs to be found before he takes another life.
This is the fourth book in G.A. McKevett’s Granny Reid Mystery series. I love the characters in this series. They are realistic and well developed. The setting is easy to picture. This story is engaging and the plot moves at a good pace. I like the progression of the relationships between several of the characters. Now that this book has been read I’ll begin waiting patiently for Book 5. I highly recommend this book and this entire series.
May 31, 2022
Stella's Reid's life is busier than ever, especially with a new grandbaby to raise. It doesn't help that her oldest Savannah seems to be taken with a young man who is definitely no good for her. When her grandson doesn't come home from school because he was being bullied she knows exactly where to find him. Anytime he runs off he always visits his grandfathers grave and this time is no exception. While there the grounds keeper discovers the body of Dexter Corbin, a man of ill repute. Who would of killed him and why is the question of the hour. Stella's friend Sheriff Manny Goldford is on the case and is happy to accept help from her. The two start asking questions in hopes in putting all the pieces together. Can the two figure it all out before someone else meets an untimely end?
July 4, 2022
I've been waiting for this one, and it was definitely worth the wait. One of my favorite series, Granny and company never disappoint me. Now with 8 grandchildren in her care, it would seem that Stella Reid has more than enough to fill her time. But she can always find a little extra for Sheriff Reid and his cases to be solved. This book mixes a horrendous murder case with the upcoming election for sheriff against a creep deputy with the continuous tension of the relationship between Stella and the Sheriff. The kids are still part of the book, along with the world's greatest friend, Elsie, but most of the story is the budding romance and the murder case. The convolutions of both make for a book that is immediately engaging and hard to put down.
August 15, 2022
Murder Most Grave by G.A. McKevett is the 4th book in A Granny Reid Mystery series, and I really enjoyed it. First of all I love the Savannah Reid Mystery series, so I am excited to read this series too, and I was not disappointed. This book/series goes back in time to tell how Granny Reid who was awarded custody of Savannah and her 6 siblings ,raised the children and solved mysteries. Granny and the Sheriff are great together. I loved this book/series and strongly recommend anyone who likes cozy mystery, especially Savannah Reid series. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 27, 2023
Oh my the ending to this book was really amazing. I loved it so much.
The story line was quick moving and I always love seeing Savannah as a young girl this time with a guy who is wild catter. I also love Granny Reid and Sheriff Manny.
The story line had twists and turns and it was almost at the end when I realized who had actually committed the murderer.
A wonderful book and I am hoping we will have more but this one tended to feel like an ending.
A must do read for anyone who likes a good mystery and romance.
The story line was quick moving and I always love seeing Savannah as a young girl this time with a guy who is wild catter. I also love Granny Reid and Sheriff Manny.
The story line had twists and turns and it was almost at the end when I realized who had actually committed the murderer.
A wonderful book and I am hoping we will have more but this one tended to feel like an ending.
A must do read for anyone who likes a good mystery and romance.
June 30, 2022
I absolutely love this series and this was by far my favorite of the books. It’s great to continue to read more about Stella May, aka Granny Reid, and the childhoods of Savannah and her siblings. The ending was also fantastic.
October 23, 2023
This was a fantastic book. I’ve been a fan of the Savannah Reid mysteries for years and love this “prequel” series when Savannah was a child and living in Georgia with her Granny and 7 siblings. This is the 4th book in the Granny Reid series and by far the best one yet. I look forward to the next one.
June 23, 2022
This series is more about the characters than it is about the mystery. Yes, there is a mystery and it’s well written but for me, I want more about Stella and Manny and the kids. The mystery had a good pace and tons of clues to keep you guessing. I loved the ending and can’t wait to see what happens next.
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July 8, 2022Great read! I love her books
June 30, 2022
I love Stella "Granny" Reid! Stella has her hands fully raising 8 grandchildren, including a baby, but that doesn't stop her from helping the local sheriff whenever she possibly can. In this one, Granny goes to retrieve grandson Waycross from visiting his grandpa's grave and the police show up and because someone discovered a murdered body in a nearby crypt. Thankfully, with help from her friend Elsie, she is able to take some time to help her favorite sheriff, and life long friend, get to the bottom of the mystery. I have read all of the Savannah Reid books and all of the Granny Reid books to date and this just may be my favorite one. The characters and settings draw me in and make me want to finish in one sitting. I hope this series continues because I can't wait to see where it goes next!
Thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book.
Thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book.
February 25, 2022
Small town. Check. Cute (mostly) kids. Check. Dog. Check. Hunky sheriff. Check. Good friends. Check. Murder. Check. Er, make that double check. Double murder. And I wasn't sure who did it until the end, so this one keeps you guessing. It also was fun to visit an ol' favorite's past, ie the Savannah Reid series, and see what Savannah and the rest of her siblings were like as children. I have a real soft spot for Waycross, I have to admit.
In any case, while the murder is the focus, we get to see the younger version of Grannie, aka, Stella Reid, and her relationship with the sheriff, Manny, develop. Although all her thought of him in the story sometimes seemed a bit much, the use of so to a dramatic ending. I've also got to mention that having grown up in the South, albeit Florida, not Georgia, I felt myself falling right into the rhythm the use of so many Southern colloquialisms conjured up. Heck, I found myself jotting down several as I read simply because, "I swear on my mama's best pecan pie", they delighted me so. In fact, Manny sums up Stella and Savannah nicely at one point with, "You Reid gals are full of sass and vinegar". Is it any wonder Stella gets all "twitterpated" at times when she's around him?
Bottom line, an easy, fun read. Set in the 1980's, seemingly during the Bush-Dukakis presidential campaign, it's a fun trip back in time with delightful characters one will wish they could spend some time with. Thank you #NetGalley and #KensigntonBooks for inviting me to time travel back into McGill, GA, and enjoy their company.
In any case, while the murder is the focus, we get to see the younger version of Grannie, aka, Stella Reid, and her relationship with the sheriff, Manny, develop. Although all her thought of him in the story sometimes seemed a bit much, the use of so to a dramatic ending. I've also got to mention that having grown up in the South, albeit Florida, not Georgia, I felt myself falling right into the rhythm the use of so many Southern colloquialisms conjured up. Heck, I found myself jotting down several as I read simply because, "I swear on my mama's best pecan pie", they delighted me so. In fact, Manny sums up Stella and Savannah nicely at one point with, "You Reid gals are full of sass and vinegar". Is it any wonder Stella gets all "twitterpated" at times when she's around him?
Bottom line, an easy, fun read. Set in the 1980's, seemingly during the Bush-Dukakis presidential campaign, it's a fun trip back in time with delightful characters one will wish they could spend some time with. Thank you #NetGalley and #KensigntonBooks for inviting me to time travel back into McGill, GA, and enjoy their company.
March 21, 2022
After a rough day at school, Waycross Reid goes to hide out in the local cemetery and have some man-to-man time with his deceased Grandpa Art when his little getaway turns into a crime scene. Who killed local n'er-do-well, Dexter? Stella and Manny are on the case!
This series is somewhat hit or miss for me. Stella is super sweet and I love Savannah and her siblings Alma and Waycross, but most of the children in the Reid family are incredibly obnoxious (and spoiler alert, they actually get worse as they get older). Stella's relationship with Manny is a bright spot in the darkness that is Stella's life but in the reverse spin-off from the Savannah Reid series (if I'm recalling correctly) we hear that Stella mourned her first husband Art for the rest of her life, never remarrying and only moving out of her little shotgun shack to live in a mobile home at the beach near Savannah in California some 30 years in the future.
The mystery Stella and Manny are left to solve in this book, the murder in the cemetery, is somewhat disappointing. There's really only one person who could or would have committed the crime and though it took the crime-fighting duo the whole book to come up with the killer, the reader will guess it long before that.
Another thing I've noticed with the last few books I've read by this author is that they tend to be real tearjerkers at the end. While I don't necessarily not like that, that's not what I expect or really want in a cozy. But all this having been said, this series and the Savannah Reid series are good reads, they're fun and quick and you'll feel strongly about the characters, whether loving them or hating them.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
This series is somewhat hit or miss for me. Stella is super sweet and I love Savannah and her siblings Alma and Waycross, but most of the children in the Reid family are incredibly obnoxious (and spoiler alert, they actually get worse as they get older). Stella's relationship with Manny is a bright spot in the darkness that is Stella's life but in the reverse spin-off from the Savannah Reid series (if I'm recalling correctly) we hear that Stella mourned her first husband Art for the rest of her life, never remarrying and only moving out of her little shotgun shack to live in a mobile home at the beach near Savannah in California some 30 years in the future.
The mystery Stella and Manny are left to solve in this book, the murder in the cemetery, is somewhat disappointing. There's really only one person who could or would have committed the crime and though it took the crime-fighting duo the whole book to come up with the killer, the reader will guess it long before that.
Another thing I've noticed with the last few books I've read by this author is that they tend to be real tearjerkers at the end. While I don't necessarily not like that, that's not what I expect or really want in a cozy. But all this having been said, this series and the Savannah Reid series are good reads, they're fun and quick and you'll feel strongly about the characters, whether loving them or hating them.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
May 20, 2022
I love spending time back in the 1980's with Stella Reid. Before this series began we came to know her as Granny to Savannah Reid. Getting to know her as the loving grandmother who raised eight grandchildren is a real treat. After reading Savannah's series(the Magnolia Detective Agency series) it's clear to see Granny's influence over her.
When her grandson, Waycross isn't on the school bus after school, Stella has a good idea where he went. Whenever he has things weighing on his mind he goes to the cemetery to talk to his departed grandfather. Sure enough that's where she finds him and together they head home. They don't get very far. They encounter the gravedigger who leads them to a dead man, murdered. The victim is the local bad boy, Dexter and the list of suspects is long. He wasn't nice, he wasn't much liked but who was pushed to murder? Stella has an eye for details when it comes to crime and she is very close to the local sheriff, Manny Gilford and he welcomes her input. Together they make a great team.
While there is always a satisfying mystery to solve, the main reason I enjoy this series so much is the relationship Stella has with her grandchildren and her friends. The small Southern town of McGill is the perfect setting and the 1980's time period means the pacing is slower. Spending time with the Reid family is a good way to relax....unless you are arriving when Stella and Manny are tracking down a killer.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
When her grandson, Waycross isn't on the school bus after school, Stella has a good idea where he went. Whenever he has things weighing on his mind he goes to the cemetery to talk to his departed grandfather. Sure enough that's where she finds him and together they head home. They don't get very far. They encounter the gravedigger who leads them to a dead man, murdered. The victim is the local bad boy, Dexter and the list of suspects is long. He wasn't nice, he wasn't much liked but who was pushed to murder? Stella has an eye for details when it comes to crime and she is very close to the local sheriff, Manny Gilford and he welcomes her input. Together they make a great team.
While there is always a satisfying mystery to solve, the main reason I enjoy this series so much is the relationship Stella has with her grandchildren and her friends. The small Southern town of McGill is the perfect setting and the 1980's time period means the pacing is slower. Spending time with the Reid family is a good way to relax....unless you are arriving when Stella and Manny are tracking down a killer.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
July 17, 2023
Granny Stella Reid is raising her 8 grandchildren (one of them an infant) while their mother is in prison and their father is on the road in his semi, seldom coming home. She is also good friends with the sheriff, Manny, and sometimes assists him (whether he wants it or not) in his investigations, especially murder. This time it is close to home as she and grandson, Waycross (all the grands have names of towns in Georgia), are in the graveyard visiting her late husband's grave and find a fresh unburied body. The town bad boy has just come back from Las Vegas with his new wife, now widow. He was extremely unpopular in the area and had many questionable business dealings. One of his "associates" is arrested, but Stella doesn't think he did it.
There is also an election, including for sheriff, which Manny's job is being contested by one of his deputies.
Stella puts together all the clues and the RIGHT person is finally caught. And some surprises are happening on the personal front too.
I love that an "older" heroine is becoming more acceptable. Granny was a great supporting character in the Savannah Reid mysteries (Her oldest granddaughter, grown up, set in California) but this series shows where Savannah got her talent for solving mysteries.
I would give it TEN stars if it was available!
There is also an election, including for sheriff, which Manny's job is being contested by one of his deputies.
Stella puts together all the clues and the RIGHT person is finally caught. And some surprises are happening on the personal front too.
I love that an "older" heroine is becoming more acceptable. Granny was a great supporting character in the Savannah Reid mysteries (Her oldest granddaughter, grown up, set in California) but this series shows where Savannah got her talent for solving mysteries.
I would give it TEN stars if it was available!
May 31, 2022
This is the 4th book in the series set in the 1980s that follows Stella (Granny) Reid who is a grandmother to seven children. Stella lives in the southern town of McGill, Georgia and the townsfolk are generally a welcoming bunch. Stella is being kept on her toes with young Savannah who has taken to behaving like a teenager and Waycross who doesn't arrive at home after an altercation at school. She goes in search of him and finds him in the graveyard, whilst the graveyard groundskeeper discovers the body of a man named Dexter Corbin.
This was my second book in the series and enjoyed every aspect of G. A. McKevett's writing. Although not a 'traditional cozy' as many of the themes within are hard-hitting, it was an extremely compelling and intriguing mystery. There were some lighter touches with Stella and Manny's relationship and also a fair bit of humour and comedy. Granny Reid was a kind soul as well as being sassy and smart. With some good twists I was kept guessing and it made a superb standalone read which can't be said for every cozy series. I shall be picking up copies of the other instalments. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
This was my second book in the series and enjoyed every aspect of G. A. McKevett's writing. Although not a 'traditional cozy' as many of the themes within are hard-hitting, it was an extremely compelling and intriguing mystery. There were some lighter touches with Stella and Manny's relationship and also a fair bit of humour and comedy. Granny Reid was a kind soul as well as being sassy and smart. With some good twists I was kept guessing and it made a superb standalone read which can't be said for every cozy series. I shall be picking up copies of the other instalments. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
July 10, 2022
Princess Fuzzypants here: I am a fan of the Savannah Reid mysteries and I was delighted when a series of “back stories” began with Granny Reid, Stella, as the main character. The eight children who are adults in the former series are all children and being raised by their grandmother.
The characters are all wonderful but it is impossible not to fall in love with Stella. She is kind, strong, loyal and so many other things. Despite her down-home speech, she is also a very sharp cookie. Her childhood friend, Manny, sees her virtues and relies on them as he investigates cases.
He is saddled with two not so wonderful deputies. One if thicker than a plank and the other is angling for Manny’s job. And Gus will go to any lengths to get it. He ends up playing so many games that Manny is forced to fire him after Manny wins the election. But Gus has far more nefarious deeds on the go. It is going to take Manny, Stella, Merv, the other deputy and Manny’s wonderful dog to bring him to justice. It all plays out with two murders and a whole lot of shenanigans but the best part of the story is still Stella and the people around her. She is just an awesome character. If you have not discovered her yet, you are missing out. Five purrs and two paws up.
The characters are all wonderful but it is impossible not to fall in love with Stella. She is kind, strong, loyal and so many other things. Despite her down-home speech, she is also a very sharp cookie. Her childhood friend, Manny, sees her virtues and relies on them as he investigates cases.
He is saddled with two not so wonderful deputies. One if thicker than a plank and the other is angling for Manny’s job. And Gus will go to any lengths to get it. He ends up playing so many games that Manny is forced to fire him after Manny wins the election. But Gus has far more nefarious deeds on the go. It is going to take Manny, Stella, Merv, the other deputy and Manny’s wonderful dog to bring him to justice. It all plays out with two murders and a whole lot of shenanigans but the best part of the story is still Stella and the people around her. She is just an awesome character. If you have not discovered her yet, you are missing out. Five purrs and two paws up.
May 31, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely loved Murder Most Grave. It was the perfect continuation of the series. It is always a pleasure to come back to McGill and see what new mystery Stella Reid will investigate with Sheriff Gilford. They are wonderful, heartwarming, and very human characters, and the relationship between them is a highlight of the series. The friendship between Stella and Elsie is also a highlight of the series. With Murder Most Grave, these elements lighten the tone of the book, considering the murder itself and the fact that some characters are worse than sewer rats (unfortunately, there are people such as those characters in real life). However, Ms. McKevett manages to keep everything balanced and, as with her other books, tackles delicate and sensitive issues with finesse. I salute her courage to address social issues which many people do not want to think about in a work of fiction. In my opinion, it makes the books better, while being entertaining at the same time. Thanks for writing such good books.
May 31, 2022
Murder Most Grave by G.A. McKevett (Granny Reid Mystery #4 ) 4 stars
A school day for Waycross Reid brings some nasty name calling and hurt. He heads to the cemetery to talk to his grandpa (who’s dead). Before you bring the paranormal vibes, Stella “Granny” Reid goes to fetch him. On the way out of the cemetery, the Reid's hear a commotion. The local gravedigger has discovered a fresh body near a crypt. It is the body of a local hood, Dexter Corbin. Now Stella and her pal Sheriff Manny Goldford will try to find out who wanted to kill Dexter.
This mystery was a fun read; it had a lot of suspects with motive, means and opportunity. Unfortunately, the Sheriff also had to deal with personnel problems because his deputy was also gunning for his job. What made this mystery enjoyable was the interaction between Manny and Stella; add in the dialogue from Savannah and Waycross and you have a few laugh out loud moments. I was surprised by the ending and the identity of the killer. I am really looking forward to the next book in this series.
Thank you Netgalley and Kensington for this ARC.
A school day for Waycross Reid brings some nasty name calling and hurt. He heads to the cemetery to talk to his grandpa (who’s dead). Before you bring the paranormal vibes, Stella “Granny” Reid goes to fetch him. On the way out of the cemetery, the Reid's hear a commotion. The local gravedigger has discovered a fresh body near a crypt. It is the body of a local hood, Dexter Corbin. Now Stella and her pal Sheriff Manny Goldford will try to find out who wanted to kill Dexter.
This mystery was a fun read; it had a lot of suspects with motive, means and opportunity. Unfortunately, the Sheriff also had to deal with personnel problems because his deputy was also gunning for his job. What made this mystery enjoyable was the interaction between Manny and Stella; add in the dialogue from Savannah and Waycross and you have a few laugh out loud moments. I was surprised by the ending and the identity of the killer. I am really looking forward to the next book in this series.
Thank you Netgalley and Kensington for this ARC.
October 28, 2023
I enjoyed this story with all the characters within. The main characters were Stella and Manny.
Stella is a grandmother to eight kids that she been taking care off. There father is a truck driver and the mother of the kids is in jail. One day after school all of the 7 kids expect one return home. The youngest is a baby. Stella get a friend to look after the 7 kids and the baby. While she looks for the other one that didn't return home. She find him at the grave yard. While there they talk and as they are leave they hear someone screaming. They go to look and what they find is a graveyard caretaker. He has seen a body and Stella decided to take the one kid home and come back with the sheriff.
Manny is the local sheriff. Stella come to see him about something that happened in the graveyard. He is happy to follow her there. She has help him on different case.
This was a fun story to read. It had action, adventure, suspense and drama throughout. It had a few giggles within. It was fun trying to solve the mystery within.
I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley. This is my honest unbiased opinions.
Stella is a grandmother to eight kids that she been taking care off. There father is a truck driver and the mother of the kids is in jail. One day after school all of the 7 kids expect one return home. The youngest is a baby. Stella get a friend to look after the 7 kids and the baby. While she looks for the other one that didn't return home. She find him at the grave yard. While there they talk and as they are leave they hear someone screaming. They go to look and what they find is a graveyard caretaker. He has seen a body and Stella decided to take the one kid home and come back with the sheriff.
Manny is the local sheriff. Stella come to see him about something that happened in the graveyard. He is happy to follow her there. She has help him on different case.
This was a fun story to read. It had action, adventure, suspense and drama throughout. It had a few giggles within. It was fun trying to solve the mystery within.
I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley. This is my honest unbiased opinions.
April 18, 2022
Granny Reid series is another Southern comforting experience and book 4 left me smiling.
Widow Stella Reid is raising her son's 8 children with the arrival of baby Macon Jr. Her eldest granddaughter, Savannah is a huge help. Savannah's life goal is to be a police officer and solve murders. Stella's childhood friend, Manny Gilford is the local Sherriff who is encouraging Savannah, and Stella, to develop their love of solving crimes.
This time it is Dexter Cobin, town criminal, who Stella finds murdered at the cemetery. Surprises continue to move this cozy story along quickly. Each character is well developed and if you follow the Magnolia Detective Agency series you are familiar with Savannah and her brothers and sisters as adults. Learning about them as children adds another layer of fun.
I love a happy ending!
I volunteered to read an ARC from Kensington Press through Net Galley
Release date is May 31, 2022.
Widow Stella Reid is raising her son's 8 children with the arrival of baby Macon Jr. Her eldest granddaughter, Savannah is a huge help. Savannah's life goal is to be a police officer and solve murders. Stella's childhood friend, Manny Gilford is the local Sherriff who is encouraging Savannah, and Stella, to develop their love of solving crimes.
This time it is Dexter Cobin, town criminal, who Stella finds murdered at the cemetery. Surprises continue to move this cozy story along quickly. Each character is well developed and if you follow the Magnolia Detective Agency series you are familiar with Savannah and her brothers and sisters as adults. Learning about them as children adds another layer of fun.
I love a happy ending!
I volunteered to read an ARC from Kensington Press through Net Galley
Release date is May 31, 2022.
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