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Camper & Criminals #26
Rangers, RVs, & Revenge
SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY WITH A SMIDGEN OF HOMICIDE
USA Today Bestselling author Tonya Kappes brings you southern and quirky characters in her mystery series. Her stories are charged with humor, friendship, family and life in small southern towns.
Welcome to Normal where nothing is normal!
As we say in the south beauty is only skin deep but ugly...now that runs straight to the bone.
When Miss Daniel Boone Days is murdered and our good friend Helen Pyle, owner of Cute-icles beauty salon is standing over our beauty queen with a gun, lets just say Helen didn't giddy up on out of there.
Nope. She was hauled down to the sheriff's department and booked for murder.
Ranger Tucker Pyle is taken off the case because let's just say he knows his Aunt Helen didn't do it, but who better to snoop around to help him out?
Yep! You guessed it!
The Laundry Club Ladies and Mae West once again find themselves with their sleuthing notebook in hand and get all gussied up to find out just who is behind the murder.
After all everyone has beauty but not everyone sees it.
USA Today Bestselling author Tonya Kappes brings you southern and quirky characters in her mystery series. Her stories are charged with humor, friendship, family and life in small southern towns.
Welcome to Normal where nothing is normal!
As we say in the south beauty is only skin deep but ugly...now that runs straight to the bone.
When Miss Daniel Boone Days is murdered and our good friend Helen Pyle, owner of Cute-icles beauty salon is standing over our beauty queen with a gun, lets just say Helen didn't giddy up on out of there.
Nope. She was hauled down to the sheriff's department and booked for murder.
Ranger Tucker Pyle is taken off the case because let's just say he knows his Aunt Helen didn't do it, but who better to snoop around to help him out?
Yep! You guessed it!
The Laundry Club Ladies and Mae West once again find themselves with their sleuthing notebook in hand and get all gussied up to find out just who is behind the murder.
After all everyone has beauty but not everyone sees it.
159 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2022
504 people are currently reading
1059 people want to read
About the author
Tonya Kappes
440 books3,673 followersBeloved cozy mystery author Tonya Kappes is bringing her charming world to the screen!
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Twitter
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
May 3, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Audiobook 🎧
Book #26 in the Camper and Criminal Cozy Mystery Series.
Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies friend Helen is found by a dead body holding a gun, and not just any dead body, but the body of Miss Daniel Boone Days, who Helen was mad at for breaking tradition and not using her hair salon to do her hair for the parade and events that would take place during the week long event. Helen is arrested and charged with murder. Now it’s up to Mae and her friends to find the real killer. I absolutely love this series. It’s always a good time reading about Mae, Dottie, and the rest of the gang and it’s great to finally see their characters developing. Highly recommended!
“Wrong hand, doofus!!”
Book #26 in the Camper and Criminal Cozy Mystery Series.
Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies friend Helen is found by a dead body holding a gun, and not just any dead body, but the body of Miss Daniel Boone Days, who Helen was mad at for breaking tradition and not using her hair salon to do her hair for the parade and events that would take place during the week long event. Helen is arrested and charged with murder. Now it’s up to Mae and her friends to find the real killer. I absolutely love this series. It’s always a good time reading about Mae, Dottie, and the rest of the gang and it’s great to finally see their characters developing. Highly recommended!
“Wrong hand, doofus!!”
June 20, 2022
Normal, KY is going all out for Daniel Boone Days. Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies are enjoying all the festivities from the parade to the games to the beauty pageant winner announcement. When Miss Daniel Boone Days is killed after her piano performance and one of their own is the top suspect the ladies start their own investigation.
If you're looking for a cozy mystery full of southern charm and humor look no further.
This was a fun read. Dottie, one of my favorite characters, was a hoot while sitting in the dunk tank. I was laughing so hard visualizing Dottie in the dunk tank and the beauty queen trying to dunk her. The mystery, as usual, was well plotted with plenty of suspects, twists and turns, and surprises to keep the reader guessing.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
If you're looking for a cozy mystery full of southern charm and humor look no further.
This was a fun read. Dottie, one of my favorite characters, was a hoot while sitting in the dunk tank. I was laughing so hard visualizing Dottie in the dunk tank and the beauty queen trying to dunk her. The mystery, as usual, was well plotted with plenty of suspects, twists and turns, and surprises to keep the reader guessing.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
June 28, 2022
It is time for the annual Daniel Boone Day festivities in Normal, Kentucky. The town goes all out with a parade, games, food, and the crowning of Miss Daniel Boone Day. Helen Pyle is in tizzy when the new Miss Daniel Boone Day breaks with tradition and does not use her salon, Cute-icles. Violet’s replacement at the Normal Gazette writes an article that causes Helen to lose business. After Alice Beakman, Miss Daniel Boone Day gives a stellar piano performance, she is found dead behind the stage with Helen standing over her with a gun in her hand. Helen is placed is under arrest by Sheriff Al Hemmer. Mae rallies the Laundry Club ladies to prove Helen’s innocence. Rangers, RVs, and Revenge by Tonya Kappes is the 26th A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery. Each book can be read as a standalone as the author provides Mae West’s background information. I like Tonya Kappes’ engaging writing style. It reminds me of chatting with friends. The characters are friendly and quirky. Mae West has come along way since the day she arrived in Normal, Kentucky. She has a large collection of friends who are her family. I enjoyed the author’s vivid descriptions of Normal, Kentucky and the Daniel Boone National Forest (sounds like a feast for nature lovers). I laughed at the scene with Dottie and the dunk tank. Dottie is a hoot. A scene with Helen Pyle is equally entertaining. The mystery is well plotted. There are a couple of suspects along with a red herring. There are clues to help readers solve the crime. There is a suspenseful reveal. There are sweet friendship moments and one scene that will delight fans of the series. There is also plenty of Southern charm. Rangers, RVs, and Revenge is an amusing story with friendship, family, a murder or two, and fun. Rangers, RVs, and Revenge is a cute cozy with pretty piano playing, scrumptious s’mores cookies, a departed pageant queen, dunk tank taunting, and a special surprise.
June 28, 2022
“Rangers, Rvs, & Revenge” the 26th instalment in the "Camper & Criminals “ Mystery series by Tonya Kappes. I absolutely love this series, and can’t get enough of the Laundry Club Ladies and Mae West.
In this instalment we have the ladies and Hank trying to solve who murdered the Beauty Queen during Daniel Boone Days! Dottie cracks me up even more than usual with her antics sitting on the dunk tank at the festival. What a hoot her and Beck Greer were having taunting people to toss a ball for charity. I loved this one “Her little dog, Fifi, can throw a bone better than you throwing that ball!”
The mystery was good, with several suspects and a few red herrings thrown in.
I’m full of anticipation/excitement for Book 27 Campfires, Courage, & Convicts as I want to know more about what’s in store for Mae and Hank… (coming August 25, 2022)
I highly recommend you read this series from the beginning and enjoy the escapism as much as I do.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
In this instalment we have the ladies and Hank trying to solve who murdered the Beauty Queen during Daniel Boone Days! Dottie cracks me up even more than usual with her antics sitting on the dunk tank at the festival. What a hoot her and Beck Greer were having taunting people to toss a ball for charity. I loved this one “Her little dog, Fifi, can throw a bone better than you throwing that ball!”
The mystery was good, with several suspects and a few red herrings thrown in.
I’m full of anticipation/excitement for Book 27 Campfires, Courage, & Convicts as I want to know more about what’s in store for Mae and Hank… (coming August 25, 2022)
I highly recommend you read this series from the beginning and enjoy the escapism as much as I do.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
June 24, 2022
Dottie is on the hot seat of the dunk tank on the first day of the Daniel Boone Day festival and is having the time of her life! She makes fun of everyone tossing balls, hoping to drop her into the water, but nothing happens. Alice, the snooty, newly crowned Miss Daniel Boone Day, thought that since she was queen, she should play for free. When she can’t get Dottie to fall in the water either, she made a bet and lost, putting Alice on the hot seat. Author Tonya Kappes has given her readers a fabulous, fun, and fascinating new mystery that tops every other one in the series.
It is summertime in Normal, Kentucky, and this festival brings more tourists to town than usual. I love visiting here any time of the year, as each season has a unique beauty. The area is described so well that I can picture Happy Trails Campground and the surrounding national forest.
The activities were going strong when everyone heard a scream. As folks came running, Mae, her boyfriend Hank, and the new local reporter, Waldo, saw Helen, the owner of the local hair and nail salon holding a gun over Alice’s dead body.
I thoroughly enjoy the people of Normal with all their quirky little traits, especially Mae and Dottie. Mae had gotten the campground from her ex-husband; she came to Normal to sell it. Once she met the people there, she stayed and worked hard to right the wrongs he did. Dottie was raised in Normal, knows everyone in town, and has an opinion about everything.
The Laundry Club Ladies, especially Mae and Dottie, have snooped around every murder investigation since Mae moved here and have helped solve all of them. It is not too hard to imagine, then, that they quickly became embroiled in the newest Campers & Criminals mystery.
This fast-paced mystery kept me flipping pages from the beginning through to the end! The plot twists and turns almost made my head spin as I tried to figure out whodunit. The author has a never-ending imagination for the most intricate cases! And there are definitely surprises in store this time, especially for Mae! The resolution had a few surprises, as well, with the most important clue provided by the least likely person. I highly recommend this Southern cozy mystery to those who enjoy camping at a community-style campground or from their favorite reading nook, and appreciate well-written cozy mysteries with engaging, endearing characters.
From a thankful heart: I requested and received an ARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
It is summertime in Normal, Kentucky, and this festival brings more tourists to town than usual. I love visiting here any time of the year, as each season has a unique beauty. The area is described so well that I can picture Happy Trails Campground and the surrounding national forest.
The activities were going strong when everyone heard a scream. As folks came running, Mae, her boyfriend Hank, and the new local reporter, Waldo, saw Helen, the owner of the local hair and nail salon holding a gun over Alice’s dead body.
I thoroughly enjoy the people of Normal with all their quirky little traits, especially Mae and Dottie. Mae had gotten the campground from her ex-husband; she came to Normal to sell it. Once she met the people there, she stayed and worked hard to right the wrongs he did. Dottie was raised in Normal, knows everyone in town, and has an opinion about everything.
The Laundry Club Ladies, especially Mae and Dottie, have snooped around every murder investigation since Mae moved here and have helped solve all of them. It is not too hard to imagine, then, that they quickly became embroiled in the newest Campers & Criminals mystery.
This fast-paced mystery kept me flipping pages from the beginning through to the end! The plot twists and turns almost made my head spin as I tried to figure out whodunit. The author has a never-ending imagination for the most intricate cases! And there are definitely surprises in store this time, especially for Mae! The resolution had a few surprises, as well, with the most important clue provided by the least likely person. I highly recommend this Southern cozy mystery to those who enjoy camping at a community-style campground or from their favorite reading nook, and appreciate well-written cozy mysteries with engaging, endearing characters.
From a thankful heart: I requested and received an ARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
June 25, 2022
For years, all the Miss Daniel Boone Days winners have gotten their hair for the festivities done at Cute-icles beauty salon, owned by Helen Pyle. Until this year’s winner, Alice Beakman, breaks tradition and goes elsewhere. How rude! The town’s new reporter doesn’t help the situation when he puts Alice on the cover of the local paper and is critical of Helen’s beauty salon. The workers at the salon are outraged, so when Alice is found dead and Helen is holding the murder weapon, she’s hauled off to jail. Ranger Tucker Pyle can’t work the case because Helen is his aunt. Mae and The Laundry Club Ladies, along with Hank and Tucker, don’t believe Helen could have committed the crime. But who else had motive and means? They set out to find the answers.
A fun story with twists, turns, Dottie in the dunk tank taunting passers-by to try dunking her, danger for Mae, and more!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A fun story with twists, turns, Dottie in the dunk tank taunting passers-by to try dunking her, danger for Mae, and more!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 26, 2022
Mae, Hank and the Laundry Ladies are on the case. Ranger Tucker Pyle’s aunt Helen is in the hot-seat. She was caught red-handed with a gun over the dead Miss Daniel Boone Day. Not only is she found with the gun, but it appears she had a grudge against Alice Beakman. Alice did not have her nails and hair done for the pageant at Helen’s salon and her business might be in trouble. Bad press and now this! One body turns into 2, another participant in the Miss Daniel Boone Day pageant. Is there some conspiracy afoot? Twists and turns on every page will keep you guessing until the end. You’ll never see it coming! I can’t wait to see what family fun is next up for Hank and Mae now that they are engaged. It’s gonna be a hoot and maybe a holler too! Tonya Kappes has built this magical little town. You are going to wish it existed. Every story is fresh and exciting in the series! This is my opinion about this great book and I am not required to leave a review.
June 30, 2022
It's that time of year again, a newly Miss Daniel Boone Days has been crowned. All is well until everyone's friend Helen is found standing over the new queen holding a gun, who also happens to be dead. Tucker is removed from the case because his Aunt Helen is now the main suspect in the death. Mae isn't going to stand by and let Helen be railroaded so she looks to the Laundry Ladies to help figure out who the real killer is. Follow along as the ladies dig deep to find the answers they seek. Will the find the killer or will Helen end up behind bars for good?
June 18, 2022
I was laughing so hard at Dottie while she was sitting at the dunk tank, I almost had to change my pants! But when Alice Beakman, the newly crowned Miss Daniel Boone Day Queen ends up dead the celebration comes to an abrupt end. All eyes are on Helen Pyle, after what was printed in the local paper and what happened at the dunk tank. The new news reporter isn't really helpful, due to him being an outsider and not knowing how things really are with the people in Normal. Can Mae, Hank and the Laundry Ladies figure out who killed the beauty queen and why? Lots of surprises and twists in this story. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
June 21, 2022
Mae and everyone else are out enjoying the festivities at the Daniel Boone Day celebration.
When Miss Daniel Boone Festival is murdered. Seems like even Miss Daniel Boone Festival was not safe in Normal, Kentucky. I guess Mae needs the help of The Laundry Club Ladies to figure out those clues.
I was laughing so hard at Dottie in that dunk tank, my dogs were giving me funny looks.
Mae and Hanks relationship has taken a new turn. Not exactly what Hank originally planned.
Twists, laughter and just fun reading this book.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
When Miss Daniel Boone Festival is murdered. Seems like even Miss Daniel Boone Festival was not safe in Normal, Kentucky. I guess Mae needs the help of The Laundry Club Ladies to figure out those clues.
I was laughing so hard at Dottie in that dunk tank, my dogs were giving me funny looks.
Mae and Hanks relationship has taken a new turn. Not exactly what Hank originally planned.
Twists, laughter and just fun reading this book.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2025
A bunch of bored women in a club helping the police solve murders lol. I can’t be mad at it.
July 11, 2022
Rangers, RVs & Revenge Earns 5/5 Dunking Targets…Entertaining Gem!
“Queen of Cozies” Tonya Kappes’s twenty-sixth book is a “crowning” glory! Helen Pyle, owner of the local beauty shop Cute-icles, is furious after reading the front-page news article, I Hope She Goes Bald. Waldo Willy is the new Gazette reporter and he seems to lack an understanding of local customs and with an insulting, business-damaging headline he’s a persona non grata with Helen. The article seems the culprit for the drop in business, and the newest winner of Miss Daniel Boone Day beauty contest, Alice Beakman, isn’t taking Helen’s calls. For thirty years, she’s coiffed the annual contest winner, and now, the decades-long tradition has ended. Unfortunately, there’s more that has ended. Alice literally doesn’t live [here] anymore and Helen, after her acerbic comments, revenge at the dunking tank, and the murder weapon found in her hands, is considered suspect number one!
Tonya Kappes created a clever murder mystery with multi-generational characters, a giggle or more, friendships and romance all around, and insights into the southern ways of a small Kentucky community. Traditions are broken, loyalties are tested, beauty queens are dethroned, and close friends find themselves in jeopardy as this complex mystery challenges Mae, Hank, the Laundry Club crew, and Helen’s nephew. They work well reaching out to family, friends, and the local prison to uncovering motives of ruined reputations, jealous competitors, and possibly the victim’s family. But, when another dead body is discovered, the investigation is turned upside down. Engaging fun and this series always has some tasty treats and helpful ideas for any level of camper with Recipes and Camping Hacks from Mar West and the Laundry Club Ladies: Southern Tomato Pie, Bacon on a Stick, Cookie Crumble S’More Cookies, and Camping Hacks (1) ideas on shoe care, (2) toilet paper storage, and (3) campfire starters.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
“Queen of Cozies” Tonya Kappes’s twenty-sixth book is a “crowning” glory! Helen Pyle, owner of the local beauty shop Cute-icles, is furious after reading the front-page news article, I Hope She Goes Bald. Waldo Willy is the new Gazette reporter and he seems to lack an understanding of local customs and with an insulting, business-damaging headline he’s a persona non grata with Helen. The article seems the culprit for the drop in business, and the newest winner of Miss Daniel Boone Day beauty contest, Alice Beakman, isn’t taking Helen’s calls. For thirty years, she’s coiffed the annual contest winner, and now, the decades-long tradition has ended. Unfortunately, there’s more that has ended. Alice literally doesn’t live [here] anymore and Helen, after her acerbic comments, revenge at the dunking tank, and the murder weapon found in her hands, is considered suspect number one!
Tonya Kappes created a clever murder mystery with multi-generational characters, a giggle or more, friendships and romance all around, and insights into the southern ways of a small Kentucky community. Traditions are broken, loyalties are tested, beauty queens are dethroned, and close friends find themselves in jeopardy as this complex mystery challenges Mae, Hank, the Laundry Club crew, and Helen’s nephew. They work well reaching out to family, friends, and the local prison to uncovering motives of ruined reputations, jealous competitors, and possibly the victim’s family. But, when another dead body is discovered, the investigation is turned upside down. Engaging fun and this series always has some tasty treats and helpful ideas for any level of camper with Recipes and Camping Hacks from Mar West and the Laundry Club Ladies: Southern Tomato Pie, Bacon on a Stick, Cookie Crumble S’More Cookies, and Camping Hacks (1) ideas on shoe care, (2) toilet paper storage, and (3) campfire starters.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
August 23, 2024
ONE OF THE BEST IN THE SERIES.
PREMISE: When Miss Daniel Boone Days is murdered and our good friend Helen Pyle, owner of Cute-icles beauty salon is standing over our beauty queen with a gun, lets just say Helen didn't giddy up on out of there. Nope. She was hauled down to the sheriff's department and booked for murder. Ranger Tucker Pyle is taken off the case because let's just say he knows his Aunt Helen didn't do it, but who better to snoop around to help him out?
Yep! You guessed it!
The Laundry Club Ladies and Mae West once again find themselves with their sleuthing notebook in hand and get all gussied up to find out just who is behind the murder.
THOUGHTS: I really loved this book! I know I didn't give it 5 Stars, but the minor deduction of .5 shouldn't be taken too harshly. Something huge for the series happened in the book which I loved. Also the mystery itself was a perfect length and the reveal was a good one too! Really looking forward to book 27!
4.5 Stars!
xoxo.
PREMISE: When Miss Daniel Boone Days is murdered and our good friend Helen Pyle, owner of Cute-icles beauty salon is standing over our beauty queen with a gun, lets just say Helen didn't giddy up on out of there. Nope. She was hauled down to the sheriff's department and booked for murder. Ranger Tucker Pyle is taken off the case because let's just say he knows his Aunt Helen didn't do it, but who better to snoop around to help him out?
Yep! You guessed it!
The Laundry Club Ladies and Mae West once again find themselves with their sleuthing notebook in hand and get all gussied up to find out just who is behind the murder.
THOUGHTS: I really loved this book! I know I didn't give it 5 Stars, but the minor deduction of .5 shouldn't be taken too harshly. Something huge for the series happened in the book which I loved. Also the mystery itself was a perfect length and the reveal was a good one too! Really looking forward to book 27!
4.5 Stars!
xoxo.
June 30, 2022
Rangers, RVs, and Revenge is the latest camper and criminals cozy mystery by the unstoppable talent of Tonya Kappes. This book kept me on my toes why laughing at the witty antics of Mae West and her band of Laundry Club ladies.
Dottie, her campground office manager delighted the reader throughout the book with her crazy antics and witty sayings. There is even a marriage proposal by one and from my favorite characters. Oh, yes, this is a mystery, as a beauty queen and her alternate are found murdered during the annual Daniel Boone celebration. Join Mae, Hank, the Landry ladies with some inside help from a prisoner as they help bring justice to light.
I thank the author and publisher who provided me with an advanced reader copy of this mystery. These are my thoughts and opinions only.
Dottie, her campground office manager delighted the reader throughout the book with her crazy antics and witty sayings. There is even a marriage proposal by one and from my favorite characters. Oh, yes, this is a mystery, as a beauty queen and her alternate are found murdered during the annual Daniel Boone celebration. Join Mae, Hank, the Landry ladies with some inside help from a prisoner as they help bring justice to light.
I thank the author and publisher who provided me with an advanced reader copy of this mystery. These are my thoughts and opinions only.
July 1, 2022
Rangers, Rvs and Revenge
Campers and Criminals, Book #26
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY WITH A SMIDGEN OF HOMICIDE
USA Today Bestselling author Tonya Kappes brings you southern and quirky characters in her mystery series. Her stories are charged with humor, friendship, family and life in small southern towns.
Welcome to Normal where nothing is normal!
As we say in the south beauty is only skin deep but ugly...now that runs straight to the bone.
When Miss Daniel Boone Days is murdered and our good friend Helen Pyle, owner of Cute-icles beauty salon is standing over our beauty queen with a gun, lets just say Helen didn't giddy up on out of there.
Nope. She was hauled down to the sheriff's department and booked for murder.
Ranger Tucker Pyle is taken off the case because let's just say he knows his Aunt Helen didn't do it, but who better to snoop around to help him out?
Yep! You guessed it!
The Laundry Club Ladies and Mae West once again find themselves with their sleuthing notebook in hand and get all gussied up to find out just who is behind the murder.
After all everyone has beauty but not everyone sees it. (Amazon)
Review:
Another festival, another murder for Mae and her friends to try to solve. When to winner of Miss Daniel Boone Days is murdered, Mae will have to figure who the culprit is. Some funny things happened at the festival, including Dottie being at the dunk tank.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and this helped pull me into the story from the very beginning. You can tell the author knows about southern living and it shines through when you are reading her books.
The mystery was well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. I had a pretty good idea of who the killer was but not the why.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well plotted cozy mystery. If you are looking for a book with great characters. a southern setting and lots of laughs, pick this book up and enjoy.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
Campers and Criminals, Book #26
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY WITH A SMIDGEN OF HOMICIDE
USA Today Bestselling author Tonya Kappes brings you southern and quirky characters in her mystery series. Her stories are charged with humor, friendship, family and life in small southern towns.
Welcome to Normal where nothing is normal!
As we say in the south beauty is only skin deep but ugly...now that runs straight to the bone.
When Miss Daniel Boone Days is murdered and our good friend Helen Pyle, owner of Cute-icles beauty salon is standing over our beauty queen with a gun, lets just say Helen didn't giddy up on out of there.
Nope. She was hauled down to the sheriff's department and booked for murder.
Ranger Tucker Pyle is taken off the case because let's just say he knows his Aunt Helen didn't do it, but who better to snoop around to help him out?
Yep! You guessed it!
The Laundry Club Ladies and Mae West once again find themselves with their sleuthing notebook in hand and get all gussied up to find out just who is behind the murder.
After all everyone has beauty but not everyone sees it. (Amazon)
Review:
Another festival, another murder for Mae and her friends to try to solve. When to winner of Miss Daniel Boone Days is murdered, Mae will have to figure who the culprit is. Some funny things happened at the festival, including Dottie being at the dunk tank.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and this helped pull me into the story from the very beginning. You can tell the author knows about southern living and it shines through when you are reading her books.
The mystery was well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. I had a pretty good idea of who the killer was but not the why.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well plotted cozy mystery. If you are looking for a book with great characters. a southern setting and lots of laughs, pick this book up and enjoy.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
June 30, 2022
The Laundry Club Ladies are at it again, with a new mystery to solve. It’s all fun and games in Normal, KY until Miss Daniel Boone Day Alice Beakman dies just after being crowned. Helen Pyle is one of the top suspects, especially since she was found holding the gun, and the beauty queen broke the tradition of getting her hair and nails done at Helen’s salon, Cute-icles. The suspect list keeps growing from there, but all roads lead back to Helen, so did she do it?
You also won’t want to miss Dottie being in the dunk tank or the new reporter that doesn’t have any idea how it works in Normal. And Mae and Hank have a few new plans on the horizon. This may be my favorite book in this series yet, at least until the next one!!
I received an ARC of this book, but all thoughts and opinions are my own. Tonya has hit another slam dunk with this one!
You also won’t want to miss Dottie being in the dunk tank or the new reporter that doesn’t have any idea how it works in Normal. And Mae and Hank have a few new plans on the horizon. This may be my favorite book in this series yet, at least until the next one!!
I received an ARC of this book, but all thoughts and opinions are my own. Tonya has hit another slam dunk with this one!
June 27, 2022
This series keeps getting better and better! I absolutely love all the quirky characters! I love how in each book we get to learn more and more about all the characters! I love all the tips and recipes in the book as well! I write them in my camper tablet so I have them on hand when we go camping! I absolutely love this series!! I can not wait to read the next one!! Tonya you are a fantastic writer! Keep it up! I have not found a book yet that she has written that I have not liked! Read this book and series today! You will not be disappointed!!
September 21, 2023
3.5 Stars
July 4, 2022
This was a good read. The town is celebrating Daniel Boone Day. Everything is going good until someone is found murdered. Now Mae tries to figure out who did it. Of course she solves it and all is well for now.
September 5, 2023
Every visit with the Laundry Club ladies is so much fun but this one had a few surprises that made it extra special. I enjoyed the glimpse into pageants and, of course, the time spent with the residents of Normal. The mystery was paced well and kept me guessing. Looking forward to seeing what happens in the next one!
June 24, 2022
If you haven’t started reading this series, you are missing out on so much. I absolutely adore The Laundry Club Ladies. They are a tight knit group that sees their share of mysteries with the ring leader Mae West. I have decided that I want to move to Normal, Kentucky and live at Happy Trails Campground. There is always excitement going on with cookouts and gossip. Wouldn’t it be fun to be part of their group? Just think of all the strange things you would encounter as Mae puts on her detective hat when a crime is committed.
This story starts on a great day as a parade is about to start until Miss Daniel Boone Days stirs up a ruckus. She decides to get gussied by someone else instead of following tradition. Every year it has been an honor for Cute-icles beauty saloon to get Miss Daniel Boone’s Day ready for her debut on the float. This sure stirs up trouble and makes Helen very mad that her salon was snubbed and it makes front page news. Okay I had to laugh at what Helen was quoted as saying about a certain someone. The town is buzzing about her outburst as she sees her business dropping off because of it.
As if that isn’t enough for the small town to deal with, who do you think is found dead? Let’s also think about who is found holding a gun while standing over the dead body? It was obvious who the guilty person was to most people. Mae on the other hand knows it can’t be her friend Helen who did this crime and sets out on a bumpy ride to bring the real criminal to justice. With a list of suspects including the Appalachian mob, the ladies have their work cut out for them.
I loved how the author gives us hints along the way of who the guilty person is. I had my list written down and followed along as Mae and the ladies started their investigation.The author gives us several surprises in the story that made me almost scream out loud. There is plenty of laughs in the book and I believe this definitely is my favorite series by the author. Well now wait a minute. Now that I think of it, all of her series are my favorite. I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this journey in Normal, Kentucky.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
This story starts on a great day as a parade is about to start until Miss Daniel Boone Days stirs up a ruckus. She decides to get gussied by someone else instead of following tradition. Every year it has been an honor for Cute-icles beauty saloon to get Miss Daniel Boone’s Day ready for her debut on the float. This sure stirs up trouble and makes Helen very mad that her salon was snubbed and it makes front page news. Okay I had to laugh at what Helen was quoted as saying about a certain someone. The town is buzzing about her outburst as she sees her business dropping off because of it.
As if that isn’t enough for the small town to deal with, who do you think is found dead? Let’s also think about who is found holding a gun while standing over the dead body? It was obvious who the guilty person was to most people. Mae on the other hand knows it can’t be her friend Helen who did this crime and sets out on a bumpy ride to bring the real criminal to justice. With a list of suspects including the Appalachian mob, the ladies have their work cut out for them.
I loved how the author gives us hints along the way of who the guilty person is. I had my list written down and followed along as Mae and the ladies started their investigation.The author gives us several surprises in the story that made me almost scream out loud. There is plenty of laughs in the book and I believe this definitely is my favorite series by the author. Well now wait a minute. Now that I think of it, all of her series are my favorite. I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this journey in Normal, Kentucky.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
Read
July 3, 2022When we return to the Daniel Boone National Forest, we find Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies, enjoying the National Daniel Boone Day parade, complete with marching bands, floats, and the Miss Daniel Boone Festival Queen and her court. A festival queen that broke tradition and had her hair styled by someone other than Helen Pyle, owner of Cute-Icles Hair Salon. Poor Mae got dragged into Helen’s fit showing her a front-page article that portrayed the salon in a less than favorable light. Waldo Wynn, the new reporter that replaced Violet Rheinhammer, wasn’t familiar with the little town of Normal Kentucky, and the loyalty and traditions that stand behind it. Poor Helen, stomps off, disappearing into the crowd. In the meantime, Dottie, one my favorite character, other than Mae, is sitting on the chair of the dunk tank, inciting others to try to dunk her by yelling out the one-liners she’s famous for. The crowd knows it’s all in fun, but Alicia Beakman, the Festival Queen, isn’t that amused saying the whole thing is rigged. She is out to prove a point as she takes over the chair from Dottie. Much to the laughter of the crowd, down she goes, with her gown and crown floating around her. Humiliated, she grabs a towel and heads out. Later returning to the festivities accompanying the band on her piano. Festival duties done for the day, she leaves the stage, and shortly after there are gun shots! When the police show up, Helen is holding a gun in her hand.
This was another fun adventure happening in the town of Normal. I enjoy the puzzle, trying to figure out the stories and the motives behind the possible suspects. Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies, always find the necessary clues needed, although the true background isn’t revealed until the end. The ending for me was more of a confirmation of suspects. I’m looking forward to reading more of the newest character, Waldo Wynn, as he discovers what the town of Normal, Kentucky is really like! This is a cozy mystery that will have you surprised, shocked, and laughing out loud, thanks to Dottie.
I requested and received an advanced copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was another fun adventure happening in the town of Normal. I enjoy the puzzle, trying to figure out the stories and the motives behind the possible suspects. Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies, always find the necessary clues needed, although the true background isn’t revealed until the end. The ending for me was more of a confirmation of suspects. I’m looking forward to reading more of the newest character, Waldo Wynn, as he discovers what the town of Normal, Kentucky is really like! This is a cozy mystery that will have you surprised, shocked, and laughing out loud, thanks to Dottie.
I requested and received an advanced copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 20, 2022
As Mae and Dottie are enjoying the parade, which opens for the Daniel Boone Day festival, Dottie isn't having any luck catching candy being tossed out. She's snarling at the kids snatching her loot.
Mae goes to buy bottled water and gets called over to Cute-icles by the owner, Helen Pyle. Not only did Mae hear about a break from tradition, but was directed to the front page of the newspaper. The title of the article which was front and center was written by the new reporter, Waldo Wynn, who took Violet Rhinehammer's job, the object of Helen's humiliation. Something that hurt Helen's business!
There on the float was Alice Beakman, the crowned Miss Daniel Boone Day, the object of Helen and her two best friends' ire. Not able to watch another moment, Helen leaves Mae and the others behind.
When Alice Beakman ends up dead, the suspect is Helen, who just happens to be Tucker Pyle's aunt. Helen is not on good ground after a stunt she pulled at the dunk tank and the fact she was found holding a weapon standing over Alice's body. Tucker knows his aunt didn't do it. Tucker throws in another angle and requests Mae and Hank's help.
Hank, Mae, and the Laundry Club Ladies are on the case to find the killer with three suspects, who all have a reason.
Oh my gosh, Dottie on the hot seat of the dunk tank was hilarious! Her baiting was throwing everyone off, which only had Dottie baiting them more. That was one of my favorite parts and the other was a complete and total surprise that actually brought happy tears to my eyes! I love the Camper & Criminals series, but I think, this was by far my favorite book of the series!
I received a complimentary copy and I have voluntarily reviewed this book!
Mae goes to buy bottled water and gets called over to Cute-icles by the owner, Helen Pyle. Not only did Mae hear about a break from tradition, but was directed to the front page of the newspaper. The title of the article which was front and center was written by the new reporter, Waldo Wynn, who took Violet Rhinehammer's job, the object of Helen's humiliation. Something that hurt Helen's business!
There on the float was Alice Beakman, the crowned Miss Daniel Boone Day, the object of Helen and her two best friends' ire. Not able to watch another moment, Helen leaves Mae and the others behind.
When Alice Beakman ends up dead, the suspect is Helen, who just happens to be Tucker Pyle's aunt. Helen is not on good ground after a stunt she pulled at the dunk tank and the fact she was found holding a weapon standing over Alice's body. Tucker knows his aunt didn't do it. Tucker throws in another angle and requests Mae and Hank's help.
Hank, Mae, and the Laundry Club Ladies are on the case to find the killer with three suspects, who all have a reason.
Oh my gosh, Dottie on the hot seat of the dunk tank was hilarious! Her baiting was throwing everyone off, which only had Dottie baiting them more. That was one of my favorite parts and the other was a complete and total surprise that actually brought happy tears to my eyes! I love the Camper & Criminals series, but I think, this was by far my favorite book of the series!
I received a complimentary copy and I have voluntarily reviewed this book!
June 24, 2022
Rangers, RVs, & Revenge is the latest book in the Camper and Criminals series by Tonya Kappes. This time around the Laundry Club Ladies, Mae West and Hank try to figure out who wanted to kill the beautiful and talented Miss Daniel Boone Days (Alice). The prime suspect is Helen Pyle, who did not get chosen by Alice to style her hair for the parade and was heard to comment on how she hoped Alice would go bald. Even though Helen was found standing over the body with a gun in her hand, her friends know she is not guilty.
I love the setting of Normal, Kentucky and the Daniel Boone National Forest, which makes me want to visit there. Who wouldn’t want to stay at the Happy Trails Campground and participate in their cookouts? The characters in this book are such a delight and the scene with Dottie in the dunk tank is hilarious, especially when Beck talks about Dottie giving people her “bless your heart” as an insult. We all know what that means, even if not Southern.
Mae and Hank’s relationship heats up and hopefully Hank’s mother won’t put the brakes on their future with her meanness. I loved how a simple token of Hank’s affection totally went off the rails, yet turned out well in the end.
I loved this story as the road to the reveal of the suspect kept me guessing. My first suspect ended up innocent and my second suspect, who I picked because there was no way, ended up as the killer with the craziest motive! When the killer was revealed and the why of it all, you just shake your head as to the ultimate reason. I mean, yeah, I can see why they did it, but so crazy!
I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. Thank you Tonya Kappes for this opportunity to read this story in advance.
I love the setting of Normal, Kentucky and the Daniel Boone National Forest, which makes me want to visit there. Who wouldn’t want to stay at the Happy Trails Campground and participate in their cookouts? The characters in this book are such a delight and the scene with Dottie in the dunk tank is hilarious, especially when Beck talks about Dottie giving people her “bless your heart” as an insult. We all know what that means, even if not Southern.
Mae and Hank’s relationship heats up and hopefully Hank’s mother won’t put the brakes on their future with her meanness. I loved how a simple token of Hank’s affection totally went off the rails, yet turned out well in the end.
I loved this story as the road to the reveal of the suspect kept me guessing. My first suspect ended up innocent and my second suspect, who I picked because there was no way, ended up as the killer with the craziest motive! When the killer was revealed and the why of it all, you just shake your head as to the ultimate reason. I mean, yeah, I can see why they did it, but so crazy!
I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving my honest review. Thank you Tonya Kappes for this opportunity to read this story in advance.
June 22, 2022
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is another fun installment in the Campers and Criminals series. The town of Normal, Kentucky celebrates Daniel Boone Days with a queen and a parade each year. Ms. Daniel Boone, Alice Beakman, is riding high on her float and then she serenades the crowd with her lovely piano concerto, but a few minutes afterwards, she is lying dead behind the stage. Helen Pyle is found literally holding the smoking gun over the body. Needless to say she is the prime suspect, but Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies know Helen too well, and they KNOW she would never kill anyone. She might have a sassy mouth, but she would never physically hurt anyone. They set out on their sleuthing adventure to find out who the real culprit may be. I just love the characters in this book and this series. There is a part in the beginning of the book at the festival where Dottie is in the dunk tank taunting her "would-be" dunkers. I was laughing out loud at a book! These ladies are southern and sassy and will entertain you with their antics and their southern "sayings". I think this may be my favorite one so far in this series. The mystery was good and enjoyable to read. If you want a change of pace from your everyday life, you cannot go wrong with this book and this series. You can solve a mystery and get a laugh as well!
June 26, 2022
It's Summertime in Normal Kentucky, so what better time for celebrating different parades and events? Our story starts with the community celebrating the "Daniel Boone Day" festival and all seems fun and well. That is until Helen Pyle, who runs the local hair salon, shows Mae the front page of the Normal Gazette. Not only has the new reporter, Waldo Wynn, embarrassed Helen. It's caused a domino effect and she's been getting cancellations in her business. Helen want Mae to explain how things were done in their little town, and stop ruffling feathers. Especially if he wants things to go smoothly for him in the future. There is nothing worse than crossing one of the women , who were in the bible chain. It was really more "like a gossip hotline", and you did not want their ill attention turned on you!
Alice, the winner of the Miss Daniel Boone pageant, refused to go to Helen, to have her hair done, and broke tradition. Hours later Helen purposely dunks Alice in the dunk tank. Hours after that, Helen is standing over Alice's dead body with a gun in her hand! Does she really have it in her to kill the girl?
Of course the inept sheriff take Helen to jail and it's up to Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies to find out who really did it!
While Mae and the ladies are hunting for clues, Mae's and Hank's relationship grows stronger. While he plans to give her a token of his esteem, snowballs quickly into something out of control and unplanned, in the most delightful way.
There are red herrings galore, revelations about our new nosy reporter and some sad news that we need to come to grips with. The mystery becomes so baffling that higher agencies are called in. When Mae finally figures it out, will the "Calvary" arrive in time? The ending will keep you on the edge of your seat!
Thank you to Tonya Kappes for the advanced copy
Alice, the winner of the Miss Daniel Boone pageant, refused to go to Helen, to have her hair done, and broke tradition. Hours later Helen purposely dunks Alice in the dunk tank. Hours after that, Helen is standing over Alice's dead body with a gun in her hand! Does she really have it in her to kill the girl?
Of course the inept sheriff take Helen to jail and it's up to Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies to find out who really did it!
While Mae and the ladies are hunting for clues, Mae's and Hank's relationship grows stronger. While he plans to give her a token of his esteem, snowballs quickly into something out of control and unplanned, in the most delightful way.
There are red herrings galore, revelations about our new nosy reporter and some sad news that we need to come to grips with. The mystery becomes so baffling that higher agencies are called in. When Mae finally figures it out, will the "Calvary" arrive in time? The ending will keep you on the edge of your seat!
Thank you to Tonya Kappes for the advanced copy
June 24, 2022
Mae West and the rest of the Laundry Club ladies are back in one of the best books in the Camper & Criminals series yet! It’s Daniel Boone Day in Normal, Kentucky. Waldo Wynn, the new reporter in town, hasn’t learned the ways of the town and is busy stirring people up. Soon after she was crowned Miss Daniel Boone Day, Alice Beakman is found dead and Helen, the owner of Cute-icles and a victim of Waldo’s reporting, is taken to jail. Mae, Hank, and the rest of the Laundry Club ladies get busy searching for the killer to clear Helen. Be prepared for the typical Mae West investigation and the killer you didn’t see coming! And, a totally unrelated surprise is thrown in too! Can’t wait for more to come!
June 20, 2022
I know what you are thinking. The girls could never get into something in the middle of a Daniel Boone Days. Well, these girls are not your ordinary ladies. They are the Laundry Club Ladies.
Dottie is going to have you laughing so hard in the dunk tank you are going to need water, tissue and maybe a change. I had tears laughing so hard. Sometime while all the fun is going on the crowned Miss Daniel Boone Days is found dead. Sigh. That puts a stop to all the festival fun.
Helen has a bunch of stuff going against her in this book. She seems guilty of murder after all the gossip going around town. You better bet the Laundry Ladies are going to work hard to get their friend out of trouble. There is a new reporter in town. I wanted to hate him and like him at times.
You are going to wonder who the killer is up till about the end. One thing I like about this authors writing is I never figure out who it is till close to or right at the end. Grab this book and see if you can figure out who the killer is before they do.
Dottie is going to have you laughing so hard in the dunk tank you are going to need water, tissue and maybe a change. I had tears laughing so hard. Sometime while all the fun is going on the crowned Miss Daniel Boone Days is found dead. Sigh. That puts a stop to all the festival fun.
Helen has a bunch of stuff going against her in this book. She seems guilty of murder after all the gossip going around town. You better bet the Laundry Ladies are going to work hard to get their friend out of trouble. There is a new reporter in town. I wanted to hate him and like him at times.
You are going to wonder who the killer is up till about the end. One thing I like about this authors writing is I never figure out who it is till close to or right at the end. Grab this book and see if you can figure out who the killer is before they do.
February 22, 2024
I love the Camper & Criminal series by Tonya Kappes!
These books are short and sweet.
The books are set in Normal, KY and centered around an RV park, where the laundry club ladies get in their fair share of trouble trying to investigate murders around the town.
The stories are very reminiscent to episodes of Monk, if you have ever seen it. They are humorous and the characters themselves are quippy!
Although I have read these books in order, I feel that you could read any book from the series because Tonya does a short overall recap of how the main character, May, came to be at the RV park at the beginning of every book.
These books are short and sweet.
The books are set in Normal, KY and centered around an RV park, where the laundry club ladies get in their fair share of trouble trying to investigate murders around the town.
The stories are very reminiscent to episodes of Monk, if you have ever seen it. They are humorous and the characters themselves are quippy!
Although I have read these books in order, I feel that you could read any book from the series because Tonya does a short overall recap of how the main character, May, came to be at the RV park at the beginning of every book.
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