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Retired Detectives Club #2
Death at Paradise Palms
It looks like an open-and-shut case—until one of the Retired Detectives disappears…
When movie producer Cody Ziegler goes missing from The Homestead’s Millionaires’ Row, his wife, retired actress Olivia, immediately claims there’s foul play afoot. A million-dollar ransom demand soon follows, with clear instructions not to involve the cops. In desperation she enlists the help of Moira, Rick, Philip and Lizzie, aka the Retired Detectives Club.
Racing against the clock, the four retirees set to work. Sure, Cody had enemies—there’s a disgruntled employee, a jilted film-maker and a hundred other people who know how much he’s worth. But when it emerges that Cody’s apparently perfect marriage isn’t what it seems, even Olivia isn’t above suspicion.
When Cody’s car turns up in a nearby lake with a shocking surprise inside, the case becomes even more complicated. But with Philip and Lizzie’s marriage on the rocks, and threatening notes sending Moira into a spin, the Retired Detectives Club risks falling apart before getting any closer to the truth.
Can Moira and the gang find Cody before it’s too late? Or will this case see them lose in more ways than one?
When movie producer Cody Ziegler goes missing from The Homestead’s Millionaires’ Row, his wife, retired actress Olivia, immediately claims there’s foul play afoot. A million-dollar ransom demand soon follows, with clear instructions not to involve the cops. In desperation she enlists the help of Moira, Rick, Philip and Lizzie, aka the Retired Detectives Club.
Racing against the clock, the four retirees set to work. Sure, Cody had enemies—there’s a disgruntled employee, a jilted film-maker and a hundred other people who know how much he’s worth. But when it emerges that Cody’s apparently perfect marriage isn’t what it seems, even Olivia isn’t above suspicion.
When Cody’s car turns up in a nearby lake with a shocking surprise inside, the case becomes even more complicated. But with Philip and Lizzie’s marriage on the rocks, and threatening notes sending Moira into a spin, the Retired Detectives Club risks falling apart before getting any closer to the truth.
Can Moira and the gang find Cody before it’s too late? Or will this case see them lose in more ways than one?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 11, 2022
1047 people are currently reading
3108 people want to read
About the author
Steph Broadribb
14 books318 followersSteph Broadribb was born in Birmingham and grew up in Buckinghamshire. A prolific reader, she adored crime fiction from the moment she first read Sherlock Holmes as a child. She’s worked in the UK and the US, has an MA in Creative Writing (Crime Fiction) and trained as a bounty hunter in California.
Her latest novel is DEATH IN THE SUNSHINE - the first book in her new Retired Detectives Club series featuring four recent retirees living in a luxury 55+ resort community in Florida, USA.
Her other novels include the Lori Anderson bounty-hunter series and the Starke/Bell psychological police-procedural books (writing as Stephanie Marland). Her books have been shortlisted for the eDunnit eBook of the Year Award, the ITW Best First Novel Award, the Dead Good Reader Awards for Fearless Female Character and Most Exceptional Debut, and longlisted for the Guardian Not The Booker Prize.
She provides coaching for new crime writers via www.crimefictioncoach.com.
You can find out more about Steph at www.stephbroadribb.com, and get in touch via Facebook (@CrimeThrillerGirl) and Twitter (@crimethrillgirl).
Her latest novel is DEATH IN THE SUNSHINE - the first book in her new Retired Detectives Club series featuring four recent retirees living in a luxury 55+ resort community in Florida, USA.
Her other novels include the Lori Anderson bounty-hunter series and the Starke/Bell psychological police-procedural books (writing as Stephanie Marland). Her books have been shortlisted for the eDunnit eBook of the Year Award, the ITW Best First Novel Award, the Dead Good Reader Awards for Fearless Female Character and Most Exceptional Debut, and longlisted for the Guardian Not The Booker Prize.
She provides coaching for new crime writers via www.crimefictioncoach.com.
You can find out more about Steph at www.stephbroadribb.com, and get in touch via Facebook (@CrimeThrillerGirl) and Twitter (@crimethrillgirl).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
October 5, 2022
The Retired Detectives Club consists of four ex police, Moira, Rick, Lizzie and Phillip, who all live in a retirement community in Florida, and enjoy using their skills to solve crimes. In Death at Paradise Palms they are asked by his wife to find a missing movie producer since the police are not showing interest in the case.
Events become dangerous and each member of the team is distracted by something. Moira is receiving threatening calls which she thinks are to do with her past, Lizzie and Phillip are having marital problems, and Rick is worrying about all of them. I probably should have read book one before I read this one. Although the story was stand-alone I think I may have missed out on some character development, because I struggled to be interested in any of their personal problems.
The story on the other hand was excellent. Using ex detectives as sleuths was a great idea because the team were using their professional skills and this made their investigation more plausible. The book was well written, and I enjoyed it enough to know I should read more from this author.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Events become dangerous and each member of the team is distracted by something. Moira is receiving threatening calls which she thinks are to do with her past, Lizzie and Phillip are having marital problems, and Rick is worrying about all of them. I probably should have read book one before I read this one. Although the story was stand-alone I think I may have missed out on some character development, because I struggled to be interested in any of their personal problems.
The story on the other hand was excellent. Using ex detectives as sleuths was a great idea because the team were using their professional skills and this made their investigation more plausible. The book was well written, and I enjoyed it enough to know I should read more from this author.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 14, 2022
I was excited to receive this second book in the cozy mystery series about 4 ex-cops at a Florida retirement community as I had really enjoyed the first book. I loved the retirement paradise setting and the four mature main characters who were not ready to leave the world of crime behind them just yet. Their wisdom that comes with age rounded out their character and presented readers with a chance to smirk when younger detectives/policemen crossed their path.
As was the case in book 1, Broadribb has continued to write in 3rd person present tense and dedicated each chapter to one of the four detectives and their point of view. Broadribb continued to develop her characters’ across the arc of the series as well as within each of the books in The Retired Detective Club series. To keep things fresh, she’s written about different types of crime and added new characters (clients). I also noticed that she’s added more detective procedural into the plot and it brings the focus back to their former careers and gives authenticity. I liked Moira’s character and appreciated learning more about her and why she retired as a DCI in the Metropolitan Police and headed to Florida. The author keeps her cards close and gives readers just enough about Moira’s backstory to keep it intriguing. Of the four of them, Moira has a great sense of humour and I giggled when she admitted that “she hates being shaken around like a martini at a James Bond convention.”
Florida may be known as the ‘sunshine state’ but it’s also by far the most popular destination for retirement communities. I’m happy to see an author capitalize on that fact and craft a great cozy mystery with mature protagonists. I’m looking forward to book 3. With so much going on in the world, it’s nice to escape to a sunny climate where justice is done, villains are conquered and all ends up well.
I was gifted this advance copy by Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
As was the case in book 1, Broadribb has continued to write in 3rd person present tense and dedicated each chapter to one of the four detectives and their point of view. Broadribb continued to develop her characters’ across the arc of the series as well as within each of the books in The Retired Detective Club series. To keep things fresh, she’s written about different types of crime and added new characters (clients). I also noticed that she’s added more detective procedural into the plot and it brings the focus back to their former careers and gives authenticity. I liked Moira’s character and appreciated learning more about her and why she retired as a DCI in the Metropolitan Police and headed to Florida. The author keeps her cards close and gives readers just enough about Moira’s backstory to keep it intriguing. Of the four of them, Moira has a great sense of humour and I giggled when she admitted that “she hates being shaken around like a martini at a James Bond convention.”
Florida may be known as the ‘sunshine state’ but it’s also by far the most popular destination for retirement communities. I’m happy to see an author capitalize on that fact and craft a great cozy mystery with mature protagonists. I’m looking forward to book 3. With so much going on in the world, it’s nice to escape to a sunny climate where justice is done, villains are conquered and all ends up well.
I was gifted this advance copy by Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
October 17, 2022
Having enjoyed the first book in this original series of The Retired Detectives Club I was keen to pick up the four central character’s stories.
The writing is crisp and well plotted with clever dialogue and the resulting story is amateur sleuthing times four.
Told alternately across the four retirees’ perspective we see them reluctantly and keen to help a Homestead resident when her husband goes missing.
The stakes quickly get raised into a life and death struggle but little fazes these individuals who all have experience working in criminal detection roles.
Punchy and with a degree of fun these are not just cozy cases as murder is never far from the cases they investigate. The questions remain however. Why are the police so inept? Why does the retirement settlement they live on seem so keen to bury bad news stories and How can four elderly sleuths outsmart and out perform the criminals and local law enforcement consistently?
The answers and the joy, is in the reading of this books.
The writing is crisp and well plotted with clever dialogue and the resulting story is amateur sleuthing times four.
Told alternately across the four retirees’ perspective we see them reluctantly and keen to help a Homestead resident when her husband goes missing.
The stakes quickly get raised into a life and death struggle but little fazes these individuals who all have experience working in criminal detection roles.
Punchy and with a degree of fun these are not just cozy cases as murder is never far from the cases they investigate. The questions remain however. Why are the police so inept? Why does the retirement settlement they live on seem so keen to bury bad news stories and How can four elderly sleuths outsmart and out perform the criminals and local law enforcement consistently?
The answers and the joy, is in the reading of this books.
December 6, 2022
Death at Paradise Palms is a fantastic follow up to Death in the Sunshine. I love a well written cosy mystery and this book, the second in The Retired Detectives Club series, ticked all the right boxes for me. A great setting, captivating characters and a suspenseful plot. A real must read.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and Amazon Publishing for an advanced copy.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and Amazon Publishing for an advanced copy.
September 29, 2022
Pub date: 11 Oct 2022
3.5 stars, rounding up.
I read the Retired Detectives Club book 1 and was looking forward to seeing what Moira, Rick, Lizzie and Phillip would get up to next. Each character has their own secrets & stuff going on yet they all come together to investigate a missing person. I liked this story and getting more of the characters story from book 1. Lizzie & Phillip's drama was a continuation from the end of the last and Moira's secrets were explained even more here from book 1 as well. The twists at the end were mostly unexpected for me but I know lots of readers will suspect who's behind the abduction early on.
3.5 instead of 4 only because at times I felt the characters seemed a bit immature in their thinking/ feelings. Maybe that's just me but it was how I felt while reading. Example: Phillip's "they won't support me, that's fine I'll go off on my own to follow this lead and it'll SHOW THEM" (paraphrasing his thoughts). Lol, felt a little bit childish. Again, maybe it's just me (shrug).
A lot of reviews mention the POV but it honestly didn't bother me. A good, quick, crime read.
Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the copy to read and review.
3.5 stars, rounding up.
I read the Retired Detectives Club book 1 and was looking forward to seeing what Moira, Rick, Lizzie and Phillip would get up to next. Each character has their own secrets & stuff going on yet they all come together to investigate a missing person. I liked this story and getting more of the characters story from book 1. Lizzie & Phillip's drama was a continuation from the end of the last and Moira's secrets were explained even more here from book 1 as well. The twists at the end were mostly unexpected for me but I know lots of readers will suspect who's behind the abduction early on.
3.5 instead of 4 only because at times I felt the characters seemed a bit immature in their thinking/ feelings. Maybe that's just me but it was how I felt while reading. Example: Phillip's "they won't support me, that's fine I'll go off on my own to follow this lead and it'll SHOW THEM" (paraphrasing his thoughts). Lol, felt a little bit childish. Again, maybe it's just me (shrug).
A lot of reviews mention the POV but it honestly didn't bother me. A good, quick, crime read.
Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the copy to read and review.
October 7, 2022
Death at Paradise Palms by Steph Broadribb is an exceptionally entertaining read that is mostly cozy, yet a solid whodunit.
Death at Paradise Palms by Steph Broadribb is the second book in the Retired Detectives Club, featuring four retired residents of The Homestead Retirement Community in Florida. It’s an exceptionally entertaining read that is mostly cozy, yet a solid whodunit. The premise is probably a little far-fetched, but the novel is pure escapism, so I tried not to overthink the practicality of retired folks (albeit all former law enforcement) gallivanting about after armed, murderous kidnappers.
Broadribb introduces us to a primary cast of four – a former DEA agent (Rick), a British ex-DCI (Moira), and a married British couple (Philip and Lizzie), an ex-DCI and ex-CSI, respectively. I haven’t read the first bestselling book in the series, Death in the Sunshine, but references in this one suggest here we have the same group of retired detectives investigating crimes that the local cops either can’t or are unwilling to investigate. While I don’t think it matters if you’ve not read the first book in the series, that one might give the reader more context since authors often spend significant time in first books building the backstories and personalities of the regular characters. Still, Broadribb gives us ample information about the characters, so we never feel lost entering the series with the second book.
While here we seem to have a protagonist by committee since all four main characters seem to have equal weight, the book unfolds in third person from the point of view of Moira Flynn, but we get the points of view of the others and Broadribb spends plenty of time developing them all. We learn not only the roles they play in the investigation, but get personal side stories for all four that help give us clearer perspectives of them that help us see them as real people we come to care about. Still, I found Moira the most interesting character in the group because I found her side story more compelling and sympathy provoking. Rick Denver is also a likeable, realistic character and his budding romantic interest in Moira adds much to the story. I didn’t really like Philip and Lizzie Sweetman much at the start. Philip seems to have an inflated idea of his own importance. His wife Lizzie, holding onto an old grudge bitterly and tenaciously, uses it as an excuse to treat her husband harshly. I felt little sympathy for either until near the end of the book when circumstances forced them both to finally became more likeable.
The retired detectives are in fine form and there are a few laugh-out-loud moments interspersed among the more serious issues Broadribb touches deftly on, such as ageing, life after retirement, and relationships.
We’re offered a simple missing person case at the start when a former Hollywood star, Olivia Hamilton Zeigler, hires the retired detectives to find her missing husband Cory. But when Oliva receives a ransom demand, the case turns into a kidnapping case. Still, the team stays on the case since Olivia doesn’t rust trust the police and refuses to involve the authorities. Broadribb’s writing and characterization are incredibly engaging and the reader feels as if they are as involved in the case as the cast.
As mentioned, a team of amateur sleuths, even retired law enforcement types, probably wouldn’t take on an active kidnapping case, but it’s certainly good fun and an enjoyable page-turning read. If you’re a fan of Miss Marple or Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series, you’re sure to enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for review purposes.
Death at Paradise Palms by Steph Broadribb is the second book in the Retired Detectives Club, featuring four retired residents of The Homestead Retirement Community in Florida. It’s an exceptionally entertaining read that is mostly cozy, yet a solid whodunit. The premise is probably a little far-fetched, but the novel is pure escapism, so I tried not to overthink the practicality of retired folks (albeit all former law enforcement) gallivanting about after armed, murderous kidnappers.
Broadribb introduces us to a primary cast of four – a former DEA agent (Rick), a British ex-DCI (Moira), and a married British couple (Philip and Lizzie), an ex-DCI and ex-CSI, respectively. I haven’t read the first bestselling book in the series, Death in the Sunshine, but references in this one suggest here we have the same group of retired detectives investigating crimes that the local cops either can’t or are unwilling to investigate. While I don’t think it matters if you’ve not read the first book in the series, that one might give the reader more context since authors often spend significant time in first books building the backstories and personalities of the regular characters. Still, Broadribb gives us ample information about the characters, so we never feel lost entering the series with the second book.
While here we seem to have a protagonist by committee since all four main characters seem to have equal weight, the book unfolds in third person from the point of view of Moira Flynn, but we get the points of view of the others and Broadribb spends plenty of time developing them all. We learn not only the roles they play in the investigation, but get personal side stories for all four that help give us clearer perspectives of them that help us see them as real people we come to care about. Still, I found Moira the most interesting character in the group because I found her side story more compelling and sympathy provoking. Rick Denver is also a likeable, realistic character and his budding romantic interest in Moira adds much to the story. I didn’t really like Philip and Lizzie Sweetman much at the start. Philip seems to have an inflated idea of his own importance. His wife Lizzie, holding onto an old grudge bitterly and tenaciously, uses it as an excuse to treat her husband harshly. I felt little sympathy for either until near the end of the book when circumstances forced them both to finally became more likeable.
The retired detectives are in fine form and there are a few laugh-out-loud moments interspersed among the more serious issues Broadribb touches deftly on, such as ageing, life after retirement, and relationships.
We’re offered a simple missing person case at the start when a former Hollywood star, Olivia Hamilton Zeigler, hires the retired detectives to find her missing husband Cory. But when Oliva receives a ransom demand, the case turns into a kidnapping case. Still, the team stays on the case since Olivia doesn’t rust trust the police and refuses to involve the authorities. Broadribb’s writing and characterization are incredibly engaging and the reader feels as if they are as involved in the case as the cast.
As mentioned, a team of amateur sleuths, even retired law enforcement types, probably wouldn’t take on an active kidnapping case, but it’s certainly good fun and an enjoyable page-turning read. If you’re a fan of Miss Marple or Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series, you’re sure to enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for review purposes.
March 29, 2023
The retired detective team is hired to locate the kidnapped much younger husband of an aging actress from Millionaire Row in their retirement community. With Moira still receiving threatening messages, Lizzie and Phillip’s marriage on the rocks and Rick questioning if he can still contribute to the team meaningfully, they set out to rescue the kidnapped man. Faced with skeptical police who won’t take the initial report seriously, a client hiding secrets, and distraction in the ranks, the Retired detectives have their work cut out for them.
This is a pretty good follow up to the first book. Lizzie really irritated me in this one, her reaction to Phillip’s “lie” was so over the to it was juvenile. That she would even refuse to consider counseling with him to try and overcome their issues was 🙄🙄🙄. Phillip surprised me, he started maturing in this book, realizing how much Lizzie hurt, but also opening up and considering counseling without her to deal with his loss.
The book was well paced, it’s also nice having a mystery with the leads being senior citizens and very active ones at that with very real problems ( health and personal). Looking forward to book 3
This is a pretty good follow up to the first book. Lizzie really irritated me in this one, her reaction to Phillip’s “lie” was so over the to it was juvenile. That she would even refuse to consider counseling with him to try and overcome their issues was 🙄🙄🙄. Phillip surprised me, he started maturing in this book, realizing how much Lizzie hurt, but also opening up and considering counseling without her to deal with his loss.
The book was well paced, it’s also nice having a mystery with the leads being senior citizens and very active ones at that with very real problems ( health and personal). Looking forward to book 3
October 27, 2022
Death at Paradise Palms is a semi-standalone cozy style mystery that's layered with a mix of characters and intrigue that'll grab you right from the being.
I really enjoyed the story with the exception of Lizzie. My absolute dislike for her character had me nearly putting the book down several times, but thankfully her point-of-view is minimal compared to the others. The subplot between her and her husband are also why I state the story's a semi-standalone, apparently there are things that happened at the end of book one - which I didn't not read - that "justify" her actions that aren't explained in this book until later on. Even after discovering the "hidden" history I disliked her even more and couldn't connect with her character.
I really enjoyed the story with the exception of Lizzie. My absolute dislike for her character had me nearly putting the book down several times, but thankfully her point-of-view is minimal compared to the others. The subplot between her and her husband are also why I state the story's a semi-standalone, apparently there are things that happened at the end of book one - which I didn't not read - that "justify" her actions that aren't explained in this book until later on. Even after discovering the "hidden" history I disliked her even more and couldn't connect with her character.
October 12, 2022
Death at Paradise Palms by Steph Broadribb.
2 (The Retired Detectives Club).
When movie producer Cody Ziegler goes missing from The Homestead’s Millionaires’ Row, his wife, retired actress Olivia, immediately claims there’s foul play afoot. A million-dollar ransom demand soon follows, with clear instructions not to involve the cops. In desperation she enlists the help of Moira, Rick, Philip and Lizzie, aka the Retired Detectives Club.
A really enjoyable read. I do like this series. 4*.
2 (The Retired Detectives Club).
When movie producer Cody Ziegler goes missing from The Homestead’s Millionaires’ Row, his wife, retired actress Olivia, immediately claims there’s foul play afoot. A million-dollar ransom demand soon follows, with clear instructions not to involve the cops. In desperation she enlists the help of Moira, Rick, Philip and Lizzie, aka the Retired Detectives Club.
A really enjoyable read. I do like this series. 4*.
August 22, 2024
Complex story line but writing was very repetitive. Also another look over by an editor would be helpful. E.g. at one stage she looked at her tablet and minutes later she shut her laptop, the very secret mission wasn’t supposed to move mentioned but then it was announced to the neighbourhood watch. I didn’t count how many time the wording ‘back in the day’ was used but it was substantial.
January 14, 2023
A great cast of retired detective, a solid plot, a mystery that kept me guessing. I had a lot of fun and read this book in two settings.
I want to read the rest of the series as I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
I want to read the rest of the series as I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
June 26, 2025
exciting finish
The beginning was a bit slow to develop the plot but when it took off it really took off. The amateur detectives finally got the leads they needed. Abductions and murder upped the excitement and the anticipation for the resolution was delightful.
The beginning was a bit slow to develop the plot but when it took off it really took off. The amateur detectives finally got the leads they needed. Abductions and murder upped the excitement and the anticipation for the resolution was delightful.
March 25, 2023
I am really enjoying this series so far, it always keeps you guessing. Will definitely keep reading more from this series
December 6, 2022
Four law enforcement retirees living in the same retirement village have formed a "murder club" in which they try to solve mysterious deaths. After the success of their first venture, they're asked by a former movie star to find her missing husband. A side-plot involves the individual dilemmas within the group: a married couple going through a rough patch, a woman who has taken on a new identity, and a man who wonder if he'll find love again after his wife's death. I'm sure these sub-plots were added as depth to the novel, but I found them rather annoying and distracting. Also members of the group seemed to do several unwise things that one would not expect of people with their backgrounds. Three of the four main characters are ex-pats from Britain, and the descriptions in the book are written in language from that background (e.g., boot instead of trunk, indicate instead of signal, etc.) That seemed odd to me, as an American reading about something happening in America, but I suppose I can understand the perspective. Overall, the story wasn't that interesting and the characters could be improved by adding a bit more humor or quirkiness. Not sure I'd recommend this book.
June 29, 2023
A Lot to Really Like, And Yet...
...it's an incredibly frustrating read. It's as though the intended audience is presumed to either be extremely slow on the uptake, or to have major problems with their short-term memories, or both. Couldn't begin to count the number of times I rolled my eyes, shook my head, and thought, "Yes, we get it! Actually, we got it the first 17 times you said the same thing, with only slightly different phrasing...." As much as I like some aspects, I'm honestly not sure if I'm going to keep reading the series.
...it's an incredibly frustrating read. It's as though the intended audience is presumed to either be extremely slow on the uptake, or to have major problems with their short-term memories, or both. Couldn't begin to count the number of times I rolled my eyes, shook my head, and thought, "Yes, we get it! Actually, we got it the first 17 times you said the same thing, with only slightly different phrasing...." As much as I like some aspects, I'm honestly not sure if I'm going to keep reading the series.
May 24, 2023
★ ★ ★ 1/2 (rounded up)
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
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WHAT'S DEATH AT PARADISE PALMS ABOUT?
After they solved a murder a few months earlier, the Retired Detectives Club has gained a certain amount of notoriety around the Homestead Retirement Community, so it's not terribly surprising that when a resident has some concerns they call them for help. Particularly when that resident has had bad experiences with the police previously.
This particular resident is a retired movie star, Olivia Hamilton Ziegler. Her husband is missing, and she suspects foul play. They're having no problems and it's not like him to just not come home, not call, not pick up his phone, etc.
The Club jumps in, more than willing to help—they find a handful of decent suspects and start to dig into the background of each when a ransom demand shows up. Now they have a pressing deadline and more than a wife's intuition. It's time for these retired detectives to get to work.
DISTRACTED DETECTIVES
I'm not sure if this says something about Broadribb's view of Americans, but in Death in the Sunshine we see that the three British retirees have things from their past that are hovering over them. I like that dynamic, but it's good that not everyone has some deep, dark secret. Rick, our DEA retiree, seems to be baggage-free and easygoing. Maybe that just means we haven't seen his baggage, or maybe Broadribb just thinks Americans are shallow.*
* I'm kidding. Probably.
With our British friends, however, things have happened to push these problems from hanging over their heads to being front-and-center in their minds. Normally this would be good, they're working on the issues, dealing with the issues. However, when this club is the only one working on this kidnapping—the only outsiders aware of it—dealing with personal stuff becomes a distraction. Potentially a fatal one.
All three of these people make huge mistakes in the course of this investigation, easily observable mistakes (especially to the reader). And it's not because they're older, it's not because their minds are slower, or their bodies aren't up to what they used to be able to do—it's because their heads aren't in the game.
This makes for compelling storytelling, it's great to see flawed characters battling with their flaws—but it's a good thing they're all retired because this is the kind of thing that should hurt a career.
THE SERIES ARC
Ultimately, I think this series going to be telling the story of the shenanigans at the top of the Homestead Retirement Community. In Death in the Sunshine we see pretty clearly that TPTB filter the news and do what they can to prevent anything negative from getting out to the public or into the residents. And if it does show up, it's quickly erased.
This takes work on the Social Media, old-school media, and possibly even law enforcement fronts—there's no way that it's all coincidental, unintentional, or any other excusable motivation. So the questions that need to be answered are why is this being done, who profits, who is hurt by this, and what actions are being taken/pressures applied, to get these various and sundry groups to quash the information.
Some of the residents see that this is going on—but (if you ask me) not enough seem that concerned—Moira sure is and is doing something about it. She's working with a local reporter, although she has reason to believe that this is not the safest path for either of them to be taking. But that doesn't seem to deter her.
I really hope that she's able to get more of the Club on board with this soon—not that I want them distracted from their next big case. But she's going to need some backup.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT DEATH AT PARADISE PALMS?
I remember enjoying Death in the Sunshine, but I'd largely forgotten why. It was good to be reminded—this isn't your typical elderly amateur detective series—this is a grittier take on that trend, full of people who are only amateur now, it wasn't that long ago they were professionals, and they've still got the goods.
I did clock the Main Bad Guy instantly, and can only excuse the Club for not doing the same because of all their distractions (and because they're not aware that they're fictional characters, a lot of what tipped me off came from being a reader). So for me, the tension came from wanting to know how long it would take them to get around to discovering the truth—and how they'd use what they learned from the false trails to get there. That was enough for me—the good in this series doesn't come from the whodunit—but from how they're caught.
This, like all of Broadribb's work, is a fast and fun read—it hooks you early and doesn't let go until it's good and ready to. Just buckle in and enjoy the ride. I can't imagine I'll let the next one of these sit ignored on my Kindle as I did this one.
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
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WHAT'S DEATH AT PARADISE PALMS ABOUT?
After they solved a murder a few months earlier, the Retired Detectives Club has gained a certain amount of notoriety around the Homestead Retirement Community, so it's not terribly surprising that when a resident has some concerns they call them for help. Particularly when that resident has had bad experiences with the police previously.
This particular resident is a retired movie star, Olivia Hamilton Ziegler. Her husband is missing, and she suspects foul play. They're having no problems and it's not like him to just not come home, not call, not pick up his phone, etc.
The Club jumps in, more than willing to help—they find a handful of decent suspects and start to dig into the background of each when a ransom demand shows up. Now they have a pressing deadline and more than a wife's intuition. It's time for these retired detectives to get to work.
DISTRACTED DETECTIVES
I'm not sure if this says something about Broadribb's view of Americans, but in Death in the Sunshine we see that the three British retirees have things from their past that are hovering over them. I like that dynamic, but it's good that not everyone has some deep, dark secret. Rick, our DEA retiree, seems to be baggage-free and easygoing. Maybe that just means we haven't seen his baggage, or maybe Broadribb just thinks Americans are shallow.*
* I'm kidding. Probably.
With our British friends, however, things have happened to push these problems from hanging over their heads to being front-and-center in their minds. Normally this would be good, they're working on the issues, dealing with the issues. However, when this club is the only one working on this kidnapping—the only outsiders aware of it—dealing with personal stuff becomes a distraction. Potentially a fatal one.
All three of these people make huge mistakes in the course of this investigation, easily observable mistakes (especially to the reader). And it's not because they're older, it's not because their minds are slower, or their bodies aren't up to what they used to be able to do—it's because their heads aren't in the game.
This makes for compelling storytelling, it's great to see flawed characters battling with their flaws—but it's a good thing they're all retired because this is the kind of thing that should hurt a career.
THE SERIES ARC
Ultimately, I think this series going to be telling the story of the shenanigans at the top of the Homestead Retirement Community. In Death in the Sunshine we see pretty clearly that TPTB filter the news and do what they can to prevent anything negative from getting out to the public or into the residents. And if it does show up, it's quickly erased.
This takes work on the Social Media, old-school media, and possibly even law enforcement fronts—there's no way that it's all coincidental, unintentional, or any other excusable motivation. So the questions that need to be answered are why is this being done, who profits, who is hurt by this, and what actions are being taken/pressures applied, to get these various and sundry groups to quash the information.
Some of the residents see that this is going on—but (if you ask me) not enough seem that concerned—Moira sure is and is doing something about it. She's working with a local reporter, although she has reason to believe that this is not the safest path for either of them to be taking. But that doesn't seem to deter her.
I really hope that she's able to get more of the Club on board with this soon—not that I want them distracted from their next big case. But she's going to need some backup.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT DEATH AT PARADISE PALMS?
I remember enjoying Death in the Sunshine, but I'd largely forgotten why. It was good to be reminded—this isn't your typical elderly amateur detective series—this is a grittier take on that trend, full of people who are only amateur now, it wasn't that long ago they were professionals, and they've still got the goods.
I did clock the Main Bad Guy instantly, and can only excuse the Club for not doing the same because of all their distractions (and because they're not aware that they're fictional characters, a lot of what tipped me off came from being a reader). So for me, the tension came from wanting to know how long it would take them to get around to discovering the truth—and how they'd use what they learned from the false trails to get there. That was enough for me—the good in this series doesn't come from the whodunit—but from how they're caught.
This, like all of Broadribb's work, is a fast and fun read—it hooks you early and doesn't let go until it's good and ready to. Just buckle in and enjoy the ride. I can't imagine I'll let the next one of these sit ignored on my Kindle as I did this one.
October 5, 2023
Ich habe letztes Jahr mein erstes Buch von Ms Broadribb gelesen, und das habe ich als ziemlich cool in Erinnerung – die Autorin ist nicht nur als Queen of Crime bekannt, hat einige Preise eingeheimst, sondern sie hat auch selbst schon mal als Kopfgeldjägerin gearbeitet - sie weiss also, wovon sie schreibt, wenn sie Krimis schreibt 😉!
Auf diesen hier war ich also gespannt. Es handelt sich hier um den zweiten Teil einer neuen Serie um ein Quartett aus 4 ehemaligen Cops, jetzt aber als Pensionäre im sonnigen Florida ansässig, die - natürlich – nicht aus ihrer Haut können und über Verbrechen quasi stolpern, die in ihrer Umgebung passieren. Und natürlich lösen sie diese mit Scharfsinn, Instinkt, jahrelanger Erfahrung und Training besser als die lokale Polizei. Das muss man jetzt einfach mal so vorausschicken, das ist der Charme des Plots. Ich mag solche Konstellationen und Stories aber sehr gerne, und habe mich gerne auf die 4 „retired detectives“ eingelassen. Alter schlägt die Jugend 😉: wir haben hier die Britin Moira, die nach Mobster Erfahrungen in London ihre Identität gewechselt hat und in Florida ein ganz neues Leben begonnen hat, Rick, der auch im Alter noch ein Draufgänger sein möchte, und das Ehepaar Lizzie und Philipp, die in diesem Band als Nebenplot einiges an Eheproblemen zu lösen hat. Nebenbemerkung: war interessant – mehrere Jahrzehnte Ehe hinterlassen Spuren. Nicht immer schöne.
Hier nun werden die Pensionäre zu einem Entführungsfall gerufen. Die alternde Hollywooddiva Olivia vermisst ihren 35 Jahre jüngeren Ehemann Cody. Für die Polizei ist klar, der Ehemann ist abgängig, da kann man erstmal nix tun, aber für Moira, Rick, Philipp und Lizzie sieht die Sache anders aus, und sie beginnen zu ermitteln. Und schon bald treffen die Erpresserbriefe bei Olivia ein, und es geht um Leben und Tod. Und der Entführte selbst scheint nicht ganz der zu sein, für den man ihn gehalten hat….
Mein Leseeindruck: das war ein Krimi, der mir richtig gut gefallen hat. Sehr kurzweilig, sehr viel Action, permanent hoher Spannungsbogen, Kapitalverbrechen, aber ohne ins Blutrünstige abzurutschen, und ein Ermittlerquartett mit Pfiff. Die Oldies waren cool. Natürlich hatten sie einen stillen Helfer in den lokalen Behörden, der mal Kennzeichen, Adressen und Telefonnummern abfragen kann (hey, wofür hat man sein ganzes Berufsleben Kontakte aufgebaut?), und ansonsten ergänzen sich die 4 perfekt. Lizzie, die als ehemalige CSI die Spusi-Arbeit übernimmt, und die anderen 3 alles erfahrene Einsatzkräfte. Halt, nun ja, nicht mehr ganz in der Frische der Kraft, soviel Realismus ist drin, und das war gut. Das hat dem Ganzen immer wieder die Glaubwürdigkeit gegeben. Ich mochte dieses Team. Endlich mal „reife“ Charaktere, die trotzdem noch komplett im Leben stehen.
Den ersten Band der Serie kenne ich jetzt nicht, aber das hat nichts ausgemacht; es gab ein paar Referenzen zum ersten Fall, aber das hat meinen Lesefluss nicht gestört.
A propos Lesefluss – das war (erwartungsgemäss) flüssig zu lesen gewesen, hat mich abgeholt.
Ja, mein Fazit: rundum gelungener Krimi!
Vielen Dank an Netgalley und den Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar; ich bin schon gespannt auf die nächsten Fälle mit den 4!
Auf diesen hier war ich also gespannt. Es handelt sich hier um den zweiten Teil einer neuen Serie um ein Quartett aus 4 ehemaligen Cops, jetzt aber als Pensionäre im sonnigen Florida ansässig, die - natürlich – nicht aus ihrer Haut können und über Verbrechen quasi stolpern, die in ihrer Umgebung passieren. Und natürlich lösen sie diese mit Scharfsinn, Instinkt, jahrelanger Erfahrung und Training besser als die lokale Polizei. Das muss man jetzt einfach mal so vorausschicken, das ist der Charme des Plots. Ich mag solche Konstellationen und Stories aber sehr gerne, und habe mich gerne auf die 4 „retired detectives“ eingelassen. Alter schlägt die Jugend 😉: wir haben hier die Britin Moira, die nach Mobster Erfahrungen in London ihre Identität gewechselt hat und in Florida ein ganz neues Leben begonnen hat, Rick, der auch im Alter noch ein Draufgänger sein möchte, und das Ehepaar Lizzie und Philipp, die in diesem Band als Nebenplot einiges an Eheproblemen zu lösen hat. Nebenbemerkung: war interessant – mehrere Jahrzehnte Ehe hinterlassen Spuren. Nicht immer schöne.
Hier nun werden die Pensionäre zu einem Entführungsfall gerufen. Die alternde Hollywooddiva Olivia vermisst ihren 35 Jahre jüngeren Ehemann Cody. Für die Polizei ist klar, der Ehemann ist abgängig, da kann man erstmal nix tun, aber für Moira, Rick, Philipp und Lizzie sieht die Sache anders aus, und sie beginnen zu ermitteln. Und schon bald treffen die Erpresserbriefe bei Olivia ein, und es geht um Leben und Tod. Und der Entführte selbst scheint nicht ganz der zu sein, für den man ihn gehalten hat….
Mein Leseeindruck: das war ein Krimi, der mir richtig gut gefallen hat. Sehr kurzweilig, sehr viel Action, permanent hoher Spannungsbogen, Kapitalverbrechen, aber ohne ins Blutrünstige abzurutschen, und ein Ermittlerquartett mit Pfiff. Die Oldies waren cool. Natürlich hatten sie einen stillen Helfer in den lokalen Behörden, der mal Kennzeichen, Adressen und Telefonnummern abfragen kann (hey, wofür hat man sein ganzes Berufsleben Kontakte aufgebaut?), und ansonsten ergänzen sich die 4 perfekt. Lizzie, die als ehemalige CSI die Spusi-Arbeit übernimmt, und die anderen 3 alles erfahrene Einsatzkräfte. Halt, nun ja, nicht mehr ganz in der Frische der Kraft, soviel Realismus ist drin, und das war gut. Das hat dem Ganzen immer wieder die Glaubwürdigkeit gegeben. Ich mochte dieses Team. Endlich mal „reife“ Charaktere, die trotzdem noch komplett im Leben stehen.
Den ersten Band der Serie kenne ich jetzt nicht, aber das hat nichts ausgemacht; es gab ein paar Referenzen zum ersten Fall, aber das hat meinen Lesefluss nicht gestört.
A propos Lesefluss – das war (erwartungsgemäss) flüssig zu lesen gewesen, hat mich abgeholt.
Ja, mein Fazit: rundum gelungener Krimi!
Vielen Dank an Netgalley und den Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar; ich bin schon gespannt auf die nächsten Fälle mit den 4!
October 3, 2022
The gang are back with a new case, a few months on from the murder in Manatee Park. Ex-DEA agent Rick Denver, Ex undercover DCI Moira Flynn and married couple Ex-CSI Lizzie and Ex-DCI Philip Sweetman (AKA The retired Detectives Club) are enlisted by retired actress, Olivia Hamilton-Ziegler when her younger, movie producer husband, Cody Ziegler unexpectedly goes missing. Olivia appears frightened and claims there’s foul play afoot, but the combined experience of the detectives tells them that all is not what it seems!
When a million-dollar ransom demand comes in with clear instructions not to involve the police, the detectives find themselves racing against the clock to solve the case before it is too late. As they begin to work the case, they uncover that the much loved, kind-hearted Cody actually had enemies – a disgruntled employee, a jilted film-maker – and the celebrity couple with the strongest marriage in the business also had big secrets…
When Cody’s silver Lexus turns up in a nearby lake, the case becomes even more complicated. But with threatening notes from Moira’s past distracting her, Lizzie and Philip’s marriage on the rocks and one of the retired detectives going missing – the club risks falling apart before they get the chance to find Cody! Will this case see them lose in more ways than one?
I read the first book in this series, Death in the Sunshine back in March this year when I spotted it while scrolling through Kindle Unlimited, so when I saw book two available on Netgalley, I requested it straight away! To be honest, I couldn’t remember everything that happened back in book one, but remembered the general premise. This book does a good job at reminding you of the relevant details that pertain to this case without dragging it out too much like other books are guilty of doing in a series. I enjoyed the flow of the book having each chapter dedicated to each of the four detectives perspectives which kept the book fresh. There was the perfect amount of the case, police procedure, the detectives backgrounds before they were retired and a few twists and red herrings thrown in to keep you guessing – although, I did correctly guess which detective goes missing!
This book is an all round easy read that is reminiscent of Death In Paradise, Murder She Wrote or Columbo – all of which I love by the way. I’m looking forward to a book three. A great escape that doesn’t take itself too seriously and isn’t too dark.
My thanks to the author and Amazon Publishing UK for my advance copy to review via Netgalley. Due out 11th October 2022!!
When a million-dollar ransom demand comes in with clear instructions not to involve the police, the detectives find themselves racing against the clock to solve the case before it is too late. As they begin to work the case, they uncover that the much loved, kind-hearted Cody actually had enemies – a disgruntled employee, a jilted film-maker – and the celebrity couple with the strongest marriage in the business also had big secrets…
When Cody’s silver Lexus turns up in a nearby lake, the case becomes even more complicated. But with threatening notes from Moira’s past distracting her, Lizzie and Philip’s marriage on the rocks and one of the retired detectives going missing – the club risks falling apart before they get the chance to find Cody! Will this case see them lose in more ways than one?
I read the first book in this series, Death in the Sunshine back in March this year when I spotted it while scrolling through Kindle Unlimited, so when I saw book two available on Netgalley, I requested it straight away! To be honest, I couldn’t remember everything that happened back in book one, but remembered the general premise. This book does a good job at reminding you of the relevant details that pertain to this case without dragging it out too much like other books are guilty of doing in a series. I enjoyed the flow of the book having each chapter dedicated to each of the four detectives perspectives which kept the book fresh. There was the perfect amount of the case, police procedure, the detectives backgrounds before they were retired and a few twists and red herrings thrown in to keep you guessing – although, I did correctly guess which detective goes missing!
This book is an all round easy read that is reminiscent of Death In Paradise, Murder She Wrote or Columbo – all of which I love by the way. I’m looking forward to a book three. A great escape that doesn’t take itself too seriously and isn’t too dark.
My thanks to the author and Amazon Publishing UK for my advance copy to review via Netgalley. Due out 11th October 2022!!
February 26, 2023
Death at Paradise Palms is the second book in the Retired Detective Series. This time we see Rick, Moira, Lizzie and Philip investigate the disappearance of Cody Zeigler, husband of retired actress Olivia Hamilton Ziegler and resident of Millionaires Row at the Homestead retirement village. With the local police not taking things seriously, Olivia believes that the Retired Detectives are her only hope of finding out what has happened to her husband.
Olivia is clearly not telling them the whole story and they all but have to drag the truth from her which makes Rick think that she may be behind it yet the others don’t seem quite as convinced. As they dig into Cody’s work life they find that although his staff seem to love him there are one or two people who do not have quite such a high opinion of him and may have a motive for his kidnapping. I could understand Rick not trusting Olivia as she did not always make things easy for the team and he could not understand why she insisted on being in on every conversation they had, almost as if she was trying to make sure that she was never suspected and her relationship with Cody was not exactly conventional giving her the possibility of a motive.
This team are definitely growing on me. As much as they work well together you can see that also at times they can rub each other up the wrong way making them just that little bit more human and believable. I love the way the chapters are divided up between all of the main characters giving different perspectives on events and how they feel the investigation is going based on what they are doing. Their personal lives are definitely impacting on this case as Moira is being harassed by an unknown person with threatening texts she is convinced link back to her life in the UK and Lizzie and Philip are still struggling with their marriage after events in book 1. As much as Moira manages to stay professional, Philip and Lizzie have gone the other way to the point they can hardly be in the same room as each other and ultimately leads Philip to make decisions that could prove disastrous.
This may be classed as cosy crime, but the investigations keep up a pace that belies the setting of a retirement village and the image of older people heading to the sunshine state to relax in later life. I am looking forward to the next in the series to see what they will get mixed up in and if Moira will truly trust Rick with her past or find out why she was being threatened.
Olivia is clearly not telling them the whole story and they all but have to drag the truth from her which makes Rick think that she may be behind it yet the others don’t seem quite as convinced. As they dig into Cody’s work life they find that although his staff seem to love him there are one or two people who do not have quite such a high opinion of him and may have a motive for his kidnapping. I could understand Rick not trusting Olivia as she did not always make things easy for the team and he could not understand why she insisted on being in on every conversation they had, almost as if she was trying to make sure that she was never suspected and her relationship with Cody was not exactly conventional giving her the possibility of a motive.
This team are definitely growing on me. As much as they work well together you can see that also at times they can rub each other up the wrong way making them just that little bit more human and believable. I love the way the chapters are divided up between all of the main characters giving different perspectives on events and how they feel the investigation is going based on what they are doing. Their personal lives are definitely impacting on this case as Moira is being harassed by an unknown person with threatening texts she is convinced link back to her life in the UK and Lizzie and Philip are still struggling with their marriage after events in book 1. As much as Moira manages to stay professional, Philip and Lizzie have gone the other way to the point they can hardly be in the same room as each other and ultimately leads Philip to make decisions that could prove disastrous.
This may be classed as cosy crime, but the investigations keep up a pace that belies the setting of a retirement village and the image of older people heading to the sunshine state to relax in later life. I am looking forward to the next in the series to see what they will get mixed up in and if Moira will truly trust Rick with her past or find out why she was being threatened.
October 17, 2022
Movie producer Cody Ziegler has gone missing from his home on Millionaire's Row at The Homestead. His movie star wife, Olivia is convinced there is foul play, but doesn't trust the police to find him. Instead, she contacts the Retired Detectives Club to get to the truth and bring her husband home. Not long after, a ransom note arrives. The detectives are on the case but are also a bit distracted with their own issues. Moira is getting mysterious texts from an unknown number that she thinks may be related to her work back in London. Lizzie and Philip's marriage is on the brink. Rick knows something is going on with each of the others but no one is ready to talk about it with him. Things also get more complicated when Cody's vehicle is found with a shocking discovery inside. Then as the ransom deadline draws near, one of the group disappears. Can the group manage to work together to find the missing movie producer and their missing partner or will time run out?
My thoughts:
This is the second book in the Retired Detectives Club series by Steph Broadribb. Like the first book, the chapters tell the story from different points of view of the four members. It makes for a more interesting and detailed plot (though there are times I wish I could just keep reading what is happening with a certain character!). That doesn't really hinder the enjoyment of the story though. If anything, it increases the suspense.
Moira is having a really tough time in this book and it's hard not to feel for her. I like the way Rick is looking out for her while also trying to give her space. Philip is a pompous ass and seems to be getting some comeuppance in this book. About time as I'm not sure how much more Lizzie could or should put up with him.
There were several people who could have taken Cody and I really wasn't sure which of them did it until it was revealed. The takedown was dramatic and had me swiping the pages as fast as I could read! The debriefing after answered the questions as to how and why it was all done as well as laying out some potential storyline subplots.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading "Death At Paradise Palms" by Steph Broadribb and can't wait to see what the next installment of this series has instore for the Retired Detectives Club!
My thoughts:
This is the second book in the Retired Detectives Club series by Steph Broadribb. Like the first book, the chapters tell the story from different points of view of the four members. It makes for a more interesting and detailed plot (though there are times I wish I could just keep reading what is happening with a certain character!). That doesn't really hinder the enjoyment of the story though. If anything, it increases the suspense.
Moira is having a really tough time in this book and it's hard not to feel for her. I like the way Rick is looking out for her while also trying to give her space. Philip is a pompous ass and seems to be getting some comeuppance in this book. About time as I'm not sure how much more Lizzie could or should put up with him.
There were several people who could have taken Cody and I really wasn't sure which of them did it until it was revealed. The takedown was dramatic and had me swiping the pages as fast as I could read! The debriefing after answered the questions as to how and why it was all done as well as laying out some potential storyline subplots.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading "Death At Paradise Palms" by Steph Broadribb and can't wait to see what the next installment of this series has instore for the Retired Detectives Club!
February 7, 2023
Willing to Pay!
Suitable for teen - adult, but adults would probably enjoy it more because of the ages of the characters.
No sex
Action violence - Not horribly gory
Very limited harsh language
Well-developed characters
Good plot
Readers who have read the first book of the series will probably enjoy it more than those who might read it without the characters' backgrounds explained in book #1.
Setting - Florida, nowadays, in and around a retirement community
Plot no spoilers:
A retired movie star, married to a significantly younger man, contacts "The Retired Detectives Club" after she receives a ransom note for his return. Included are disturbing pictures of her husband having been roughed up and warning that he would be killed if she contacts the police. Because the local police are not particularly efficient, the friends agree to help.
Complications in the detectives' lives as well as the obvious determination of the kidnappers keep readers' attention.
Criticism:
However, and I'm being rather nit-picky here, in the midst of this well-crafted plot line, the author seemed to have been in a hurry to get published, and therefore occasionally enough to be noticeable, sentences lacked the kind of word choices that would have made them flow without interruption:
Just two examples (because I may be the only one who cares.) -
1.) "...padlock on the door that looks real heavy-duty," would have seemed more realistic from these well-trained professionals simply by using "really" instead of "real."
2.) Grammar in "...he needs to tread real careful..." could be improved if the word "real" was left out completely and "carefully" used instead of careful.
Again, excellent plot development, and that this group of friends did a far better job than the police was believably portrayed.
Recommended
Suitable for teen - adult, but adults would probably enjoy it more because of the ages of the characters.
No sex
Action violence - Not horribly gory
Very limited harsh language
Well-developed characters
Good plot
Readers who have read the first book of the series will probably enjoy it more than those who might read it without the characters' backgrounds explained in book #1.
Setting - Florida, nowadays, in and around a retirement community
Plot no spoilers:
A retired movie star, married to a significantly younger man, contacts "The Retired Detectives Club" after she receives a ransom note for his return. Included are disturbing pictures of her husband having been roughed up and warning that he would be killed if she contacts the police. Because the local police are not particularly efficient, the friends agree to help.
Complications in the detectives' lives as well as the obvious determination of the kidnappers keep readers' attention.
Criticism:
However, and I'm being rather nit-picky here, in the midst of this well-crafted plot line, the author seemed to have been in a hurry to get published, and therefore occasionally enough to be noticeable, sentences lacked the kind of word choices that would have made them flow without interruption:
Just two examples (because I may be the only one who cares.) -
1.) "...padlock on the door that looks real heavy-duty," would have seemed more realistic from these well-trained professionals simply by using "really" instead of "real."
2.) Grammar in "...he needs to tread real careful..." could be improved if the word "real" was left out completely and "carefully" used instead of careful.
Again, excellent plot development, and that this group of friends did a far better job than the police was believably portrayed.
Recommended
April 29, 2024
Death at Paradise Arms, by Steph Broadribb, is the second book in her Retired Detectives Club series. The series is based on 4 retired police detectives living in a retirement community in Florida.
In Death at Paradise Arms the husband of an aged movie actress, Olivia Hamilton Ziegler, has gone missing. The local police say there is nothing they can do about for 48 hours; however, Olivia remembers how the 4 detectives solved the murder of a woman a few months earlier.
The 4 detectives each have secrets of their own that they are keeping from their comrades.
Cody Ziegler, Olivia’s husband, failed to come home or call the night before. The police response is that Cody, who is much younger than Olivia, probably hooked up with another woman for the night; however, Olivia is sure Cody has been kidnapped.
Our 4 detectives get right into the case, as the story takes on the aspects of a normal detective story: tracing Cody’s last known activities and who actually saw him or talked to him, and trying to locate his car.
The story also continues to slowly relate the backstories of the 4 detectives: following up on the problems between Lizzie and Philip, a husband-and-wife pair from England, and revealing the real reason Moira, also from England, is residing at the retirement community. There are hints as to why Rick, a retired American DEA agent is there, but his story has not been revealed yet.
As the investigation goes on a ransom note is sent to Olivia; the team tries to execute a plan to trap the kidnappers at the ransom exchange that doesn’t work; Cody’s car is found in a small pond with the body of a dead woman in it; and by tracing the locations of Cody’s car before it was found in the pond the team is able to locate where he is being held.
Overall, this was a good, although typical, mystery. It kept my attention through the whole story and the back stories for each of the team members adds a nice diversion from just the investigation. If you like a good detective yarn I would recommend this book.
In Death at Paradise Arms the husband of an aged movie actress, Olivia Hamilton Ziegler, has gone missing. The local police say there is nothing they can do about for 48 hours; however, Olivia remembers how the 4 detectives solved the murder of a woman a few months earlier.
The 4 detectives each have secrets of their own that they are keeping from their comrades.
Cody Ziegler, Olivia’s husband, failed to come home or call the night before. The police response is that Cody, who is much younger than Olivia, probably hooked up with another woman for the night; however, Olivia is sure Cody has been kidnapped.
Our 4 detectives get right into the case, as the story takes on the aspects of a normal detective story: tracing Cody’s last known activities and who actually saw him or talked to him, and trying to locate his car.
The story also continues to slowly relate the backstories of the 4 detectives: following up on the problems between Lizzie and Philip, a husband-and-wife pair from England, and revealing the real reason Moira, also from England, is residing at the retirement community. There are hints as to why Rick, a retired American DEA agent is there, but his story has not been revealed yet.
As the investigation goes on a ransom note is sent to Olivia; the team tries to execute a plan to trap the kidnappers at the ransom exchange that doesn’t work; Cody’s car is found in a small pond with the body of a dead woman in it; and by tracing the locations of Cody’s car before it was found in the pond the team is able to locate where he is being held.
Overall, this was a good, although typical, mystery. It kept my attention through the whole story and the back stories for each of the team members adds a nice diversion from just the investigation. If you like a good detective yarn I would recommend this book.
September 5, 2024
Good story but needs a proofreader/editor
The story that this series develops about these 4 retired legal pros is interesting but there are a few irritants that a good proofreader/editor should address. For example, since the entire book is set in Florida, the British spelling of words like kerb (curb) should be eliminated, especially when Rick (the American) is speaking. It is often quaint to read foreign expressions by a foreign character but those expressions should be spoken (or even thought) by the character and not be just descriptive writing in the story; the connection between the foreign character and the foreign expression should be made.
Also, some grammatical errors often with verb tenses are repeated numerous times — for example: the person has gotten the message ( NOT: the person has ‘got’ the message). Alternatively, the sentences could be restructured (in this case, for example, ‘the message was delivered’). This grammatical error is very prevalent these days and often heard on TV; however, it is still incorrect! If the sentence must use the word ‘has’ or ‘have’, check the verb tense!
In general, there were many fewer of these types of annoyances than there were in the first book of the series. I am glad I decided to read this second book in the series. Improvements have been made; many fewer distractions/annoyances for the reader in this book. Hopefully, book 3 in the series will get 5 stars from this reader.
The story that this series develops about these 4 retired legal pros is interesting but there are a few irritants that a good proofreader/editor should address. For example, since the entire book is set in Florida, the British spelling of words like kerb (curb) should be eliminated, especially when Rick (the American) is speaking. It is often quaint to read foreign expressions by a foreign character but those expressions should be spoken (or even thought) by the character and not be just descriptive writing in the story; the connection between the foreign character and the foreign expression should be made.
Also, some grammatical errors often with verb tenses are repeated numerous times — for example: the person has gotten the message ( NOT: the person has ‘got’ the message). Alternatively, the sentences could be restructured (in this case, for example, ‘the message was delivered’). This grammatical error is very prevalent these days and often heard on TV; however, it is still incorrect! If the sentence must use the word ‘has’ or ‘have’, check the verb tense!
In general, there were many fewer of these types of annoyances than there were in the first book of the series. I am glad I decided to read this second book in the series. Improvements have been made; many fewer distractions/annoyances for the reader in this book. Hopefully, book 3 in the series will get 5 stars from this reader.
September 10, 2022
They’re back! Rick, Moira, Philip and Lizzie, are known as the Retired Detectives Club to the residents of the The Homestead, a Florida mega retirement community. Since solving their last case, they have improved security with hidden cameras and added patrollers to the community watch. So it isn’t a surprise when retired movie star Olivia Hamilton Zeigler, resident of the Millionaires’ Row neighborhood, contacts them. Her much younger husband Cody, a producer, has disappeared. The police assume that, because of the age gap, a younger woman is involved. Olivia knows this isn’t true but is unwilling to reveal all her secrets.
So the search is on. Aided by camera surveillance and helpful neighbors, the team follows Cody’s movements while dealing with their own problems. Lizzie and Philip’s long term marriage has been wounded by personal betrayal and Moira’s past may be catching up with her. This deftly plotted novel, with a mature cast of characters, is another hit for Stephanie Broadribb. I’m waiting to discover more secrets from The Homestead in the next in this must read series! 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and Steph Broadribb for this ARC.
So the search is on. Aided by camera surveillance and helpful neighbors, the team follows Cody’s movements while dealing with their own problems. Lizzie and Philip’s long term marriage has been wounded by personal betrayal and Moira’s past may be catching up with her. This deftly plotted novel, with a mature cast of characters, is another hit for Stephanie Broadribb. I’m waiting to discover more secrets from The Homestead in the next in this must read series! 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and Steph Broadribb for this ARC.
October 31, 2022
An intriguing second book in this series. The Retired Detectives, Moira a former DCI with the Metropolitan Police, Phillip a former DCI and his wife Lizzie a former CSI, along with Rick, former DEA are once again on a case. Former Hollywood star Olivia Hamilton’s husband Cody is missing. The police tell her she needs to wait as he has only been missing one night, but she knows her husband…he would contact her if he was able. She contacts Moira as the retirees had previously solved the Manatee murder. As the group investigates, Lizzie is still dealing with information that has put her at odds with Phillip and Moira is receiving threatening text messages. When one of their own goes missing, did they find Cody and are now in danger as well? These retirees are using the knowledge they gained after many years of police work to step in when the police won’t or don’t. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
September 30, 2022
While I was aware that this was book 2 in a series, I was happy to realize it can be read by itself.
The storyline was pretty good. Liked the way that they really delved into what was unique about Olivia & Cody's marriage.
My hurdle came with the main characters. They aren't real likeable. When I'm reading a book of i can't click with at least one character...have someone to root for...then it makes the booknless enjoyable to me. I was annoyed with Lizzie and her reaction to Phillips lie. I was annoyed with Moira and her inability to be open when I couldn't see how it could hurt. They supposedly have each other's back. Characters all felt selfish which made reading it difficult.
But again, the storyline was interesting. I definitely didn't guess the bad guy. And the little twist after the climax was pretty cool to discover.
This opinion is all my own.
The storyline was pretty good. Liked the way that they really delved into what was unique about Olivia & Cody's marriage.
My hurdle came with the main characters. They aren't real likeable. When I'm reading a book of i can't click with at least one character...have someone to root for...then it makes the booknless enjoyable to me. I was annoyed with Lizzie and her reaction to Phillips lie. I was annoyed with Moira and her inability to be open when I couldn't see how it could hurt. They supposedly have each other's back. Characters all felt selfish which made reading it difficult.
But again, the storyline was interesting. I definitely didn't guess the bad guy. And the little twist after the climax was pretty cool to discover.
This opinion is all my own.
September 30, 2022
Death at Paradise Palms
2 (The Retired Detectives Club)
by Steph Broadribb
Olivia Ziegler, a former movie star, summons the team. Cody, her husband, has vanished. The police tell Olivia she should wait because he has only been missing for a short time, but Olivia is convinced that something is wrong. Moira is receiving threatening text messages from an unknown number and believes they are related to her past as the group begins their investigation. Philip and Lizzie are struggling with marital issues so aren't as focused. Rick is concerned about all of them.
This is a cosy mystery set in a Florida retirement community with older people who have a lot of experience working cases and getting results.
#DeathatParadisePalms #StephBroadribb #crime #NetGalleyArc #amazonukpublishing
2 (The Retired Detectives Club)
by Steph Broadribb
Olivia Ziegler, a former movie star, summons the team. Cody, her husband, has vanished. The police tell Olivia she should wait because he has only been missing for a short time, but Olivia is convinced that something is wrong. Moira is receiving threatening text messages from an unknown number and believes they are related to her past as the group begins their investigation. Philip and Lizzie are struggling with marital issues so aren't as focused. Rick is concerned about all of them.
This is a cosy mystery set in a Florida retirement community with older people who have a lot of experience working cases and getting results.
#DeathatParadisePalms #StephBroadribb #crime #NetGalleyArc #amazonukpublishing
October 27, 2022
Another interesting book in the series
We join our friends the retired detectives again solving crime and keeping the retirement community safe.
While Philip is still a bit of a stereotype, we learn more about Moira and Rick.
It’s refreshing to see older people portrayed as vital and engaged and not just old.
It seems that the writer is from the UK, as when the American people are speaking, they use phrases that are not typically American, but it’s an interesting story and now I read it so quickly I’ll have to wait probably another year to read the next in the series…thankfully I believe there are other books the author has written, so I can keep myself occupied while I wait. 🤙🏼
We join our friends the retired detectives again solving crime and keeping the retirement community safe.
While Philip is still a bit of a stereotype, we learn more about Moira and Rick.
It’s refreshing to see older people portrayed as vital and engaged and not just old.
It seems that the writer is from the UK, as when the American people are speaking, they use phrases that are not typically American, but it’s an interesting story and now I read it so quickly I’ll have to wait probably another year to read the next in the series…thankfully I believe there are other books the author has written, so I can keep myself occupied while I wait. 🤙🏼
October 7, 2022
This is book 2 in the Retired Detectives series and this time the team have been asked to look into local former actress Olivia's missing husband. The police don't seem to be taking it seriously and she is adamant that he would not have just upped and left without telling her. So they tap into their well-hones skills and set about working out what happened to Cody.
Alongside the investigation, we get more of an insight into the lives of the four friends with Lizzie and Philip's marriage troubles, Rick struggling to keep his feelings in check and Moira's past threatening to upend everything... who says retirement is relaxing!
Alongside the investigation, we get more of an insight into the lives of the four friends with Lizzie and Philip's marriage troubles, Rick struggling to keep his feelings in check and Moira's past threatening to upend everything... who says retirement is relaxing!
December 18, 2022
This is the second book in a three-book series. I was a bit critical in the first book due to errors I found in the text that should have been caught and corrected by the editors and proofreaders.
Well, those staffers were on the mark with this one! We learn more about Moira and her background back in the UK. We learn why she ran away and has settled in FL. That helped pull the story together better. She is totally stressed out by mysterious text messages she receives. She thinks they reference her past but they don't. A budding romance is seen as a couple about to divorce begin to repair their issues.
I'm excitedly awaiting the final book in the series!
Well, those staffers were on the mark with this one! We learn more about Moira and her background back in the UK. We learn why she ran away and has settled in FL. That helped pull the story together better. She is totally stressed out by mysterious text messages she receives. She thinks they reference her past but they don't. A budding romance is seen as a couple about to divorce begin to repair their issues.
I'm excitedly awaiting the final book in the series!
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