Flared Stiff

Bonnie & Clyde Mysteries #5

by Julie Anne Lindsey

Cake, cocktails and… murder?

Bonnie’s embracing the big 4-0 and all it has to offer, including a celebratory night out with friends. The evening is a perfect blend of fun and fabulous, until the local love guru, Gretchen, is confronted by a client’s spouse, who’s displeased by a prediction of new romance in his wife’s future. Gretchen excuses herself to sort the situation, but in the morning, the man is dead. Stabbed with a cake knife from her True Love collection.

When Bonnie’s friends turn to her for help unwrapping the truth, she quickly moves saving Gretchen’s reputation to the top of her birthday list.

Can she make her wish for answers come true? Or will the killer give Bonnie the next slice?

Genres: Cozy Mystery, Mystery, Contemporary, Cozy

206 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 10, 2022

About the author

Julie Anne Lindsey- Hatcher is an award-winning and bestselling author of cozy mystery and romantic suspense. She’s published more than sixty novels as herself & under the pen names, Bree Baker, Jacqueline Frost & Julie Chase, for various publishers, including Kensington, Harlequin, Sourcebooks and Crooked Lane Books. When she's not writing the stories that keep her up at night, Julie stays busy in Kent, Ohio with her three amazing kids and shamelessly enabling friends. Today she hopes to make someone smile. One day she plans to change the world.

Be sure to check out NOT QUITE BY THE BOOK, Julie's latest work of contemporary fiction, written under her birth name, Julie Hatcher.

Reviews

[Linda Langford · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful addition to the Bonnie & Clyde Mysteries. I quickly became a fan of the great cast of characters in this series—Bonnie Balfour and her family and friends in the southern town of Bliss, GA. I like Bonnie’s unique second chance resale shop, Bless Her Heart, and how Bonnie gives back to the community. Moving back home with her rescue cat, Clyde, who is her hero and confidante, Bonnie’s fit in easily after spending several years away. The handsome Sheriff Mason Wright is her love interest and they grow closer in every story.

In this fifth installment, the cozy romancing continues; the plot is action packed; the mystery is invigorating; and it’s Bonnie’s 40th birthday! Happy Birthday, Bonnie! There’s lots of fun and celebration until one of Bonnie’s friends is accused of murder. When Bonnie investigates, someone comes close to killing her! I enjoy the humor the author disperses throughout the story, also. There’s never a dull moment when Bonnie Balfour’s in the house! I highly recommend this novel to cozy mystery readers.

I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by Cozy Queen Publishing. All opinions are my own.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everytime I read a new book by Julie Anne Lindsey I say it's my new favorite. Flared Stiff is no different! I love the character growth between Bonnie and Mason. I love the charm and the danger that comes along in the wonderful town of Bliss. I love how Julie drops little Easter eggs along her stories. There isn't anything I would change about this series. Definitely recommend.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my favorite in the series so far. Bonnie has really grown as an independent woman and is standing up for herself more. I loved the events in this one (don't want to give too much away) and as always, the sense of community. This mystery was a little more difficult to solve so I had no idea who the killer was until the big reveal. So many exciting things to look forward to in the next one!

I received a copy from the author for an honest review.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so glad to be back in Bliss with Bonnie, Clyde, and the whole gang! I have loved every book in this series, and this installment was no exception. I was so into the story that I read it in one sitting. There was fantastic character development, funny moments, and a fun mystery. There was a teaser at the end that made me desperate for book 6!

Thank you to Julie Anne Lindsey and Cozy Queen Publishing LLC for providing an aARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julie Anne Lindsey has so many wonderful cozy mystery series, and while I can’t choose a favorite, the Bonnie & Clyde mysteries will always be dear to my heart because I have a loving and sassy black cat that is a lot like Clyde, and I’ve been a true crime lover since I was in high school.

In Flared Stiff, the fifth book in the series, we get a lot more movement on various character’s romantic relationships, we get to finally see what calendar month Bonnie’s handsome sheriff boyfriend is on, and go along for another wild ride, including boat bombings, while Bonnie solves another mystery with the help of her friends.

We don’t see Thelma or Louisa in this book since Lindsey gave them their own spin-off series and they’re busy planning a miniature donkey wedding. But we do get more of Gretchen and her plant whisperer aunt (hopefully they’ll be getting a spin-off series too!), and a lot more of Cami, Bonnie’s bestie, and Cat comes back to town just in time to babysit Bonnie and for a secret mission that I’m sure we’ll see play out in an upcoming book in the series.

Another fun, fast read and I’m super excited for book six in the Bonnie and Clyde Mysteries.

[Lori Leaf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Flared Stiff
Author: Julie Ann Lindsay
Publication: 5/10/22
Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: Loved it!

In short: Book 5 in the Bonnie & Clyde Mysteries has Bonnie defending her friend Gretchen after she’s a suspect in a murder.

The murder mystery: Gretchen is a fortune teller specializing in soul mates. She recently told a client she met her soul mate a year ago, problem is (unbeknownst to Gretchen) her client has been married for 5 years. The husband, Tucker, confronts Gretchen at a party. They discuss things outside and then part ways. Tucker is found later that evening stabbed in the back.

What I loved:
🎉The surprise 40th bday party Sheriff Mason threw for Bonnie. What a gesture! He’s totally swoon worthy.
❤️The growing love between Bonnie & Mason. I adore this couple & love that their relationship is a core part of this series.
☠️This was an excellent murder mystery! Started out strong with plenty of motive, tons of twists and red herrings that have you questioning everything & a possible 2nd mystery surfacing. And extra points for Clyde helping to save Bonnie at the end!

Final thoughts: This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series and each installment just keeps getting better! It’s the perfect combo of murder mystery and small town romance.

[Deborah Almada · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely a cute, fun and fast read. Bonnie is her usual self and the book starts with her surprise 40th birthday party, this is good because you know we will see plenty of our favorite characters from Bliss! Unfortunately Bonnie's friend Gretchen is confronted by an angry husband who says she told his wife he is not her soulmate. When the guy turns up dead the next morning you know who is on the hot seat and that Bonnie won't stay out of it. As usual mayhem will follow, will worth your time!

[Cari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so anxious for this series to continue, even though I know the next book won't be out for a while. In this entry, Bonnie Balfour investigates the murder of Tucker Cahill, a landscaper who accuses Bonnie's friend, Gretchen, of destroying his marriage. Gretchen admits she did accidentally predict what would happen in the love life of Tucker's wife, but she didn't know the woman was married. And Gretchen didn't have the animosity to kill the man, anyway. Yet the evidence points to Gretchen, and Bonnie must help exonerate her. Along the way, Bonnie continues to explore her relationship with her boyfriend, Sheriff Mason Wright, and sends some suspicious vibes toward her best friend's boyfriend, Dale, who is acting cagey. Another threat from Mason's past looms but isn't fully resolved here, and I really want to know what happens. There's also a fantastic sequence on a lake that I don't want to give spoilers for, but it reads like a movie scene. If you haven't read the first book, start there, and you'll end up wanting more too.

[Carol Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Things are going pretty well for Bonnie. Her store is going great, she has made some new friends, and she is enjoying a big birthday party put on by her friends. At the party one of her friends and fellow shop mates gets into an argument and the next day the other person is found dead. Bonnie jumps into action to help prove that Gretchen did not do it and to find out who the read murderer is. A great continuation to the series. Look forward to what happens next
I received a copy to read, the review is mine.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

More Bonnie & Clyde, Please!

It was so nice to visit Bliss again and especially nice to visit while Bonnie was celebrating her 40th birthday! Of course there also had to be a murder to solve! The mystery was fun and well paced, but what really had me was the relationships that Bonnie has and the banter between her and Mason. I love the way Julie Anne Lindsey spins a Murder mystery into an enchantingly cozy tale. This will forever go down as a favorite series and I can’t wait to see what happens next! Oh, and! We finally get to “see” the calendar turn to July! *wink*

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bonnie and Clyde start a new adventure together. Clyde, Bonnie's cat, continues to be a fun and furry sidekick. Julie Anne Lindsey is a very gifted writer. I was drawn into the story and kept mesmerized. Several relationships move forward and keep the reader engaged. I loved this fifth book in the series! Very satisfying! Definitely 5 stars!

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore this series! I love Bonnie and the HANS and all the townspeople in this fun little town. Can't wait for the next book!

[Karen Stallman · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Flared Stiff” book 5 in the Bonnie & Clyde Mysteries by Julie Anne Lindsey. I love this series! Cake, cocktails and… murder?

I loved this latest instalment in the Bonnie & Clyde series! I liked how Bonnie and the HANS relationship is progressing and that she will finally see his calendar photo!

The mystery is well-written and there were several red herrings and twists to keep the reader engaged.

I’m anxiously awaiting book 6 in the series as fun things are sure to happen but even better i cant wait for book 2 in the Thelma & Luisa series! I’m wondering if Gretchen or her aunt will get a spin off series…

I look forward to reading all the books in the series and highly recommend to all my cozy mystery loving friends.

I voluntarily agreed to read a digital copy of this book supplied by the Author. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

[Helen Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy this series. This story several of the lead characters friends as well as her boyfriend. There are several mysteries involved including the murder mystery. The story was well developed with a satisfying ending.

I really enjoy these characters. They are so relatable and I enjoy their various occupations, several of which are different from other cozies.

My reading experience was enhanced by listening to the audiobook.

[Kate]

Release on 5/10/22

[Holly Cameron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bonnie wants to stay out of murder investigations and keep her boyfriend, Sheriff Mason, happy. But when her friend Gretchen is a murder suspect, Bonnie can't help but get involved.

For the 5th time in a row, Julie Anne Lindsay has given us a fantastic cozy mystery in the Bonnie and Clyde series. This series definitely catches your attention and keeps it until the very end.

This is a must read for any cozy mystery fan (really any book fan!).

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series mostly for the town of Bliss and the fabulous characters. This one is no different and just increases my love and attachment especially after so many happy moments (and despite some scary ones). I was completely baffled by this mystery and loved how Bonnie investigated and found out the answers. I can't wait for more!

[Jessica Wilhoite · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Bonnie and the town of Bliss! Aside from the Georgia heat, I wouldn't mind living there :)

A lot is happening in Bliss - Bonnie is now 40 (and fabulous), her Gigi's bakery is thriving, Sutton may decide to finally move to Bliss, Cami is having relationship woes, Cat is back in town (are The Investors around too?), and Gretchen may have unknowingly given someone a motive for murder.
 
I feel like Bonnie is really in her stride now of solving crimes and her sheriff beau is finally (maybe reluctantly) ready to accept that, which thrills her to know end and she, of course, dives headfirst into the new murder mystery, especially since it took place after an altercation at her birthday party.

I was so excited when I learned an engagement was happening, but I honestly thought it would be both Cami and Bonnie, so I was a little disappointed when it was only one of them (you have to read the book to find out which one *wink*). I realized once I finished the story that I wasn't even trying to guess the murderer - I was waiting for what I thought was a double engagement! That's one of my favorite parts of cozies - you feel like you know these characters and that you have a stake in what's going on in their lives, that you are rooting for them! 

I can't wait to see what is in store for the gang in Bliss in the next book, which I assume will take place during the above said wedding. 

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

[Sherry Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great page turner!

Julie Ann Lindsey knows how to pen a tale and develop characters and settings that make you sad to turn the last page.

But as always we are left with a little teaser making you anxiously wait for more and the next one! No spoilers but there just might be a wedding or two in the Charming and Cozy Town of Bliss next time.

But before anyone can think about weddings another murder happens and Bonnie and her best friend Cami's boyfriends begin acting just a little squirrely.

Dean Cami's FBI guy seems to be putting on the breaks.

While Bonnie and Mason move forward all the while they are watching thier backs while they investigate the current murder.

Over the course of the series Mason has given up on trying to keep Bonnie from nosing in on investigations. But he has convinced Bonnie to keep him in the loop as she looks for clues and chats it up with suspects and towns people.

It's a good thing Bliss is a small town making it easy to get to Bonnie when she gets herself into trouble.

The Bonnie & Clyde series is filled with fun and enjoyable characters.

Fun plots and a charming town.

Each book is written as a stand alone. Start the series any time.

[Debbie Lacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Setting the Scene: Bonnie is celebrating her 40th birthday with friends and loved ones, especially her handsome sheriff boyfriend. An interloper at her birthday party threatens her friend, Gretchen, because he believes one of her psychic readings led to his wife leaving him. When said interloper ends up dead with a knife in his back, and Gretchen becomes the #1 suspect, she begs for Bonnie's help. Then things really heat up in so many ways.

What I Thought: Julie Anne Lindsey, whatever name she publishes under, is one of my favorite cozy mystery authors. She instills such heart into her characters, and they simply come to life for her readers. Her storytelling is so natural, never forced, and she layers her mysteries so well, whether they are personal, fun, or deadly. The personal and fun mysteries are likely more easily solved, but there is no shortage of suspects and red herrings when it comes to the deadly ones. I actually wasn't sure where the threat was coming from in this book until the resolution, but as I finished, it left me feeling as though my best friends just left on a long journey, and I want them to come home.

The narrator does an excellent job with each character and helps bring them to life.

[Sapphyria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flared Stiff if the fifth book in Julie Anne Lindsey’s Bonnie and Clyde Mysteries series. Bonnie turns 40in Flared Stiff, and she’s thrown a celebration to commemorate the occasion. When Bonnie’s friend Gretchen, is confronted by a client’s husband at the party, tension escalates. Apparently, Gretchen gave some love advice that didn’t set well. When the man is found dead the next day, all signs point to Gretchen. Bonnie knows Gretchen didn’t commit murder and she can’t help but get involved in the investigation.

I loved Flared Stiff. The characters, setting, and plot are engaging. The murder isn’t the only theme in the book, giving the book a lot of realism. The book is full of excellent imagery and character development. Bonnie, Clyde, Mason, Gigi, and all the rest, are fun characters.

The author's writing style is fluid, and the pacing is perfect. The story is so easy to read that when I reached the end, I couldn’t believe I was done already. I found myself engaged and completely captivated in the story from the very beginning. I really enjoyed Flared Stiff and can't wait for the next book.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

❓What categories of books do you think are underrated❓

🌺Happy Pub Day to Julie Anne Lindsey and Flared Stiff

🌺Hard to believe this is book 5 in the Bonnie and Clyde cozy mystery series. I finished it a few days ago and I have been thinking about it off and on since.

🌺Is it another somewhat traditional entry in a cozy mystery series? Yes.

🌺Is it also something more? Also yes. This is a series entry that will please series fans in how it continues to develop and pays off investment in the non-mystery storyline and romantic subplots. But MORE than that...

🌺Lindsey has created a theme of relationships and carried it throughout this series entry, from romance to friendship and everything in between even the possible motives for murder.

🌺While the mystery stands alone, readers of the series will enjoy all the details and development since the start of the series.

🌺What categories of books are underrated? Genre fiction (in my opinion)

🌺Many thanks to @julieannelindsey for the ARC in exchange for an honest review

[SM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flared Stiff is the 5th book in Julie Anne Lindsey’s Bonnie and Clyde Mysteries series. This can be read as a standalone. This series gets better with every book. Once again there has been a murder in the quaint southern town of Bliss, Georgia, and Bonnie Balfour sets out to find the killer. Bonnie makes a surprising admission about why she tries to solve crimes. There’s a lot of romance happening in this story, but it doesn’t overpower the mystery, and it is delightfully charming. I’m in awe of the pet beds that Bonnie makes in her secondhand shop, Bless Her Heart. Bliss is populated by unique people, although my favorite characters are not yet permanent residents. I like Cat’s sarcasm and snark, but quirky Sutton is still my favorite. Ms. Lindsey’s cleverly plotted mystery kept me guessing to the end. I highly recommend the read not just this book, but the entire series. Also check out Ms. Lindsey’s other books, I’m sure you will love them, she is a fabulous writer.

I received a digital copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have grown to really enjoy visiting Bonnie and her crew in Bliss. As Flared Stiff opens, Bonnie's family and friends are gathering to celebrate Bonnie's 40th birthday. Everyone is enjoying the party, but psychic matchmaker Gretchen has a feeling that trouble is right on their doorstep. That trouble arrives soon enough in the form of a disgruntled husband. Poor Gretchen had no idea that her client was married when she told her she had met her soul mater one year earlier. As the angry man in front of Gretchen, Bonnie, and Sherriff Mason Wright informs them, he and his wife have been married for the past five years. Mason monitors the conversation and walked Gretchen home safely. But he returns the very next morning to take Gretchen in for questioning. That angry husband from the night before was stabbed through the heart, and Gretchen was the last to see him alive. Bonnie knows her friend isn't a killer, and she starts asking questions around town, eager to help Mason catch the true culprit. But while Bonnie is on the case, someone is on her trail.

Like all of the Bonnie and Clyde books, the mystery is smart, fast-paced, and infused with great characters. It's easy to get swept into the story, but they are always over too soon!

[Jasi · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS BOOK!!! What a thrill! I stayed up way too late finishing it, but the lack of sleep was well worth it.

Bonnie turns 40 and stumbles into some trouble shortly after her surprise party. One of her friends is accused of murder and she makes it a priority to find the real killer.

There’s a couple other background mysteries going on and they add an extra layer of suspense to the story.

The last page is always bittersweet for me. Sad that it’s over, but the way Julie ends her books with such a sweet moment never fails to put a smile on my face.💗

Bonnie is such a delight to read about. She has such a big heart and cares so deeply for the ones who mean the most to her. I can’t wait for the next book to see where things go with Mason and how her friendship with Gretchen grows.

Flared Stiff is book 5 in the Bonnie & Clyde Mysteries and is a new favorite. This series is just so freakin fantastic and you all need to read it soon!

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

back in Bliss, GA with Bonnie and the most adorable and sweet cat, Clyde (seriously, 😍 i love him so much!!). as the book opens, it’s a celebration — Bonnie turning 40!!— and all is going well until someone turns up dead and her good friend is the prime suspect.

this action-packed installment is nothing short of entertaining! there are funny and touching moments, but Bonnie is still determined to collect information regarding the death and clear her friend from the suspect list. unfortunately, the real killer isn’t happy with all of her snooping and threats begin to emerge, the most serious one puts Bonnie too close to being killed! i was guessing until the reveal and was completely shocked when it happened!

Julie Anne Lindsey knows how to pack a lot into her stories! i loved this little gem; the end was quite lovely and left me looking forward to reading the next book in the series 💞✨

[Liz Caldwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

We return to Bliss, Georgia, to Bonnie’s 40th birthday and a surprise party. The only hiccup comes when a man accosts one of Bonnie’s friends, saying he ruined his life. When he turns up dead, Bonnie’s friend is the prime suspect. And just to complicate things further, Mason’s former colleague, Cat, has shown up in town, and Bonnie’s best friend Cami is worried that her guy is pulling away from her. There’s a lot going on in this sleepy southern town!
Lindsey has created such a lovely town with such great characters! There’s a lot of joy in Bliss, even with the sudden surge of dead bodies. Bonnie and Mason make a wonderful couple, and they’re surrounded by people who love and support them. Seeing the ways Bonnie finds to repurpose older items is a bonus!
This is another delightful installment in a fun series!

[JenJen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julie Anne Lindsey strikes again! Flared Stiff is the 5th book in the Bonnie and Clyde Mystery series. In this installment, Bonnie puts on her sleuthing cap after a confrontation at her 40th birthday party leaves a man dead and a close friend the only suspect. Can Bonnie solve the murder in time or will the killer blow out the birthday candles before she can clear her friends name? Read the book and find out!

This book, and all her cozy mystery books, are perfect for cozy mystery lovers who love a little bit of romance! I know romance and cozy mysteries don’t usually go together, but Julie has found the purrfect balance between the two. She continues to create worlds and characters that you never want to end/leave. Make sure you grab a copy of this master piece to add to your bookshelves 🥰 and do yourself a favor and pre-order the next book now! You won’t regret it!

[Stephanie Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series. This is a great addition to the series. I enjoy reading about Bonnie and her cute kitty Clyde. Although, Clyde wasn't really involved as much as he normally is. I still love his character tho. There were definitely some things I didn't see coming which kept me on my toes. I literally kept wanting to read more just to see what happens next. There are some interesting characters in this series that makes it even more entertaining. I never like to give away spoilers, but it's so cool how she made the new pet beds. It's an added bonus when you can learn something new when reading a cozy mystery. I am excited to see what happens next for Bonnie and Mason! I absolutely love them together.