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A Horse Rescue Mystery #1
Canter With a Killer
Perfect for fans of Amanda Flower and Mollie Cox Bryan, Amber Camp’s debut novel will have you galloping through the pages, as a horse rescue owner races to find a killer and clear her name.
Mallory Martin left her marriage and her unfulfilling job to move back to her hometown of Hillspring, Arkansas, and start a horse rescue. It’s everything she’s been missing, with paddocks of happy horses and one very quirky donkey. But when her cantankerous neighbor and longtime critic, Albert Cunningham, is found murdered in his fancy show barn, Mallory becomes suspect number one. Since Sheriff Grady Sullivan is ignoring all good sense and focusing only on Mallory, she decides to take matters into her own hands.
Aided by her best friend, Lanie, and rescue volunteer Tanner, Mallory races headlong into the investigation in search of the real killer. But horses and murder aren’t the only thing on her mind when she meets Albert’s handsome son, Braydon. Sparks fly, and soon she’s got a new boyfriend. But there’s a case to be solved, and she redoubles her efforts to learn the truth.
The suspects mount quickly. There’s Albert’s girlfriend, Kathleen, who was on the farm when he was murdered; organic farmer Heather Rogers, who accused Albert of contaminating her creek; and Philip Atwood, who’d been trying for a right-of-way across Albert’s farm. None of the evidence is holding up though, and Mallory learns that she'll need to take the reins on this investigation if she's going to clear her own name.
Mallory Martin left her marriage and her unfulfilling job to move back to her hometown of Hillspring, Arkansas, and start a horse rescue. It’s everything she’s been missing, with paddocks of happy horses and one very quirky donkey. But when her cantankerous neighbor and longtime critic, Albert Cunningham, is found murdered in his fancy show barn, Mallory becomes suspect number one. Since Sheriff Grady Sullivan is ignoring all good sense and focusing only on Mallory, she decides to take matters into her own hands.
Aided by her best friend, Lanie, and rescue volunteer Tanner, Mallory races headlong into the investigation in search of the real killer. But horses and murder aren’t the only thing on her mind when she meets Albert’s handsome son, Braydon. Sparks fly, and soon she’s got a new boyfriend. But there’s a case to be solved, and she redoubles her efforts to learn the truth.
The suspects mount quickly. There’s Albert’s girlfriend, Kathleen, who was on the farm when he was murdered; organic farmer Heather Rogers, who accused Albert of contaminating her creek; and Philip Atwood, who’d been trying for a right-of-way across Albert’s farm. None of the evidence is holding up though, and Mallory learns that she'll need to take the reins on this investigation if she's going to clear her own name.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 8, 2022
15 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
Amber Camp
3 books30 followersAmber Camp has lived in Northwest Arkansas for twenty years, working as an RN at a rural hospital in the area. She has a menagerie of animals that includes dogs, cats, horses, and what has been described as the Mule from Hell, which may or may not be a slight exaggeration. Writing has always been a focus in Amber's life, something she describes as "food for my soul." An avid reader since grade school, she enjoys multiple genres and is always looking for new authors to add to her favorites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
November 3, 2022
4.5★s
Mallory Martin felt a sense of peace at her horse rescue property, in Hillspring, Arkansas. She'd left her husband and job in the city after realising they'd grown apart and they liked different things. Her property and the horses, along with her best friend Janie, kept her sane. But when her next door neighbour, cranky, critical and general pain, Albert Cunningham, was murdered in his barn, her long time friend, police chief Grady, had Mallory in his sights. Mallory's shock turned to anger and she was determined to discover Albert's killer herself, before she ended up in jail for something she didn't do.
Along with the local attorney Andy, and Lanie, Mallory began her investigation. She had a couple of suspects but their alibis checked out. Then she discovered another local who'd had arguments with Albert - could it have been him? Desperate to clear her name, she put herself in more dangerous situations than was sensible. Would she discover who the killer was before she was arrested - or worse?
Canter with a Killer is the debut novel and 1st in A Horse Rescue Mystery series by Amber Camp and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Fast paced, lots of horse love, and an adorable donkey called Biscuit, plus two helpful young volunteers at the rescue, Tanner and Ashley, all contributed to making Canter with a Killer an excellent debut and I'm looking forward to the next in the series! I picked the perpetrator early in the proceedings, but it didn't stop me enjoying the story from start to finish! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Mallory Martin felt a sense of peace at her horse rescue property, in Hillspring, Arkansas. She'd left her husband and job in the city after realising they'd grown apart and they liked different things. Her property and the horses, along with her best friend Janie, kept her sane. But when her next door neighbour, cranky, critical and general pain, Albert Cunningham, was murdered in his barn, her long time friend, police chief Grady, had Mallory in his sights. Mallory's shock turned to anger and she was determined to discover Albert's killer herself, before she ended up in jail for something she didn't do.
Along with the local attorney Andy, and Lanie, Mallory began her investigation. She had a couple of suspects but their alibis checked out. Then she discovered another local who'd had arguments with Albert - could it have been him? Desperate to clear her name, she put herself in more dangerous situations than was sensible. Would she discover who the killer was before she was arrested - or worse?
Canter with a Killer is the debut novel and 1st in A Horse Rescue Mystery series by Amber Camp and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Fast paced, lots of horse love, and an adorable donkey called Biscuit, plus two helpful young volunteers at the rescue, Tanner and Ashley, all contributed to making Canter with a Killer an excellent debut and I'm looking forward to the next in the series! I picked the perpetrator early in the proceedings, but it didn't stop me enjoying the story from start to finish! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2022
Canter With a Killer is one of the best Cozy Mysteries I’ve read in a long time. I was completely swept in from the book’s beginning. It was a page turner and an easy read. The book was witty at times and I really enjoyed the Author’s writing style. The main character, Mallory Martin was a strong protagonist and a good Sleuth. There were four strong suspects but only one killer. This was the author’s debut book into this genre and the first book in her Horse Rescue Mystery series. I look forward to reading more of her books as they are added to this series.
Mallory Martin was a successful forensic nurse but after her divorce to successful lawyer Ethan Martin she decides to return to Hillspring Arkansas and try something she has always wanted to do. She opens a Horse Rescue Center and enjoys working with the animals. But a few of her neighbors aren’t happy to have the rescue center near by. One such neighbor would be the cranky Albert Cunningham who owns Cunningham Performance Horses. After a heated phone call with her disgruntled rich neighbor he is found dead in his barn the next morning. His death is ruled as murder and a witness who overheard one side of the phone conversation causes Sheriff Grady Sullivan to make Mallory his main suspect for Albert’s murder. Everyone else has a strong alibi for their whereabouts during the time of the murder except Mallory . Since the Sheriff is determined she is guilty Mallory must rely on her forensic training to find the real killer. Can she get to the bottom of this and find out who killed Albert before Grady arrests her on charges of murdering her neighbor?
I recommend this book to readers of Cozy Mystery . This book is scheduled to be released on 10/11/22.
I voluntarily read a advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
#CanterWithaKiller#NetGalley
Mallory Martin was a successful forensic nurse but after her divorce to successful lawyer Ethan Martin she decides to return to Hillspring Arkansas and try something she has always wanted to do. She opens a Horse Rescue Center and enjoys working with the animals. But a few of her neighbors aren’t happy to have the rescue center near by. One such neighbor would be the cranky Albert Cunningham who owns Cunningham Performance Horses. After a heated phone call with her disgruntled rich neighbor he is found dead in his barn the next morning. His death is ruled as murder and a witness who overheard one side of the phone conversation causes Sheriff Grady Sullivan to make Mallory his main suspect for Albert’s murder. Everyone else has a strong alibi for their whereabouts during the time of the murder except Mallory . Since the Sheriff is determined she is guilty Mallory must rely on her forensic training to find the real killer. Can she get to the bottom of this and find out who killed Albert before Grady arrests her on charges of murdering her neighbor?
I recommend this book to readers of Cozy Mystery . This book is scheduled to be released on 10/11/22.
I voluntarily read a advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
#CanterWithaKiller#NetGalley
June 14, 2022
Canter with a Killer was a fun read. Mallory Martin is the main character who owns a horse rescue called Hillspring Horse Rescue in Hillspring, Arkansas. The supporting characters add to the story. She has a problem with her next door neighbor, Albert Cunningham who owns show horses. He calls her about her rescue operation. which he feels is an eyesore. The day after the call she sees police at his farm and finds out that he has been murdered. The police think that she killed him due to the phone call. This is where the story takes off with accusations, deceit, imminent arrest. and potential romance. Mallory feels that the only way that she has to prove that she did not kill him is to find out who the killer is. There are lots of twists and turns that takes the reader on an adventure to an exciting end.
I look forward to the next story of this series.
Thankyou NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC.
I look forward to the next story of this series.
Thankyou NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC.
October 14, 2022
Canter With A Killer is the first book in A Horse Rescue Mystery series which is set in Hillspring, Arkansas and most of the action taking place at the horse rescue/ farm owned and run by Mallory Martin.
The best part about the book was hands down the horses and the description of the workings of a horse rescue/farm, with Biscuit the donkey stealing the show and literally saving Mallory life in the end!
Less favourable was Mallory herself. For a person who had a successful career as a forensic nurse and was married to an equally successful lawyer (both careers that require deducing skills), Mallory is very rash, childish and judgemental when it comes to forming opinions about people and incidents. It's mostly her own actions that keep her under the radar of the local police as a prime suspect but fails to realise it herself.
This is also probably the first book where I guessed who the culprit could be (very early on in the story) the minute the character was introduced. Also, I didn't exactly get the cozy vibes that one expects from a book marketed as a cozy mystery; it felt more like a normal mystery suspense novel.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author Amber Camp for the e-Arc of the book. This is the author's debut book and I think if she improves Mallory's characterisation, have more likeable side characters and get a more cozy feel to the books, this series could be fun.
This book was published on 11th October, 2022.
The best part about the book was hands down the horses and the description of the workings of a horse rescue/farm, with Biscuit the donkey stealing the show and literally saving Mallory life in the end!
Less favourable was Mallory herself. For a person who had a successful career as a forensic nurse and was married to an equally successful lawyer (both careers that require deducing skills), Mallory is very rash, childish and judgemental when it comes to forming opinions about people and incidents. It's mostly her own actions that keep her under the radar of the local police as a prime suspect but fails to realise it herself.
This is also probably the first book where I guessed who the culprit could be (very early on in the story) the minute the character was introduced. Also, I didn't exactly get the cozy vibes that one expects from a book marketed as a cozy mystery; it felt more like a normal mystery suspense novel.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author Amber Camp for the e-Arc of the book. This is the author's debut book and I think if she improves Mallory's characterisation, have more likeable side characters and get a more cozy feel to the books, this series could be fun.
This book was published on 11th October, 2022.
November 6, 2022
Review coming soon.
July 9, 2022
"Canter with a Killer" is a cozy mystery. Having read hundreds of cozy mysteries, I nominate Mallory as the most annoying, childish main character that I've encountered. She's in her forties but acted like a fifteen-year-old. Her college-age rescue helpers were much more responsible and mature. Mallory occasionally had epiphanies, like realizing that she's been impatient and judgmental. But she always justified her behavior and didn't seem to realize that these were her norm. She had a terrible temper (often aimed at the undeserving), and she felt it was justified because it felt so good to go off on someone. Let's add self-centered to the list. She hated when the police searched her home legally, but then decided to break into the home of one of her suspects and snoop around. It wasn't even clear what she was looking for. She realized she would be breaking the law and even briefly felt bad about going through his closets, file cabinets, and computer, but she justified it as "he might be guilty" and therefore he deserved it. So it's okay for her, but not the cops?
From the beginning, the sheriff assured her that he didn't think her guilty but needed her cooperation to rule her out. Her response was to get a lawyer, investigate on her own, and tell everyone that she's the #1 suspect. Even though the sheriff proved that she wasn't his only or even main suspect, she yelled at him for not considering other suspects. She respected no one and blamed others for believing her the #1 suspect when, hello, she's the main one spreading that rumor.
She had a handful of suspects and looked mostly for motives. She overlooked possible suspects and focused on people she didn't like. She never found out exactly how or when the victim died. She jumped to (wrong) conclusions and acted on them. She was rude to the people who tried to help her. For example, she asked her (rather nice) ex-husband, a lawyer, to help, then blocked his texts because he didn't find her a lawyer fast enough to suit her, then mostly ignored him when he showed up to help. He concluded that she hated him, and she's shocked that he could think that. Really?! Anyway, the author made the clues very, very "look at that!" obvious, so I had whodunit figured out as soon as we met whodunit. I identified the clue that would solve the case way back at the beginning of the story. So no puzzle to distract from Mallory's appalling behavior.
Finally, I live in the very area that "Hillspring" is fictionally located. I've never met such friendly, polite, nice people anywhere else I've lived, but this book makes us seem like bitter, mean, backbiting people out to sue all of our neighbors. It's also very safe in this area. People are extremely unlikely to point a shotgun at you, especially if the public is welcomed on their land. Being a cozy mystery meant Cabot Cove had hundreds of murders, but it still came across as a nice town. Yet this author's Hillspring makes it sound like you should do everything you can to avoid the area.
There was occasional use of bad language. There were no sex scenes.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
From the beginning, the sheriff assured her that he didn't think her guilty but needed her cooperation to rule her out. Her response was to get a lawyer, investigate on her own, and tell everyone that she's the #1 suspect. Even though the sheriff proved that she wasn't his only or even main suspect, she yelled at him for not considering other suspects. She respected no one and blamed others for believing her the #1 suspect when, hello, she's the main one spreading that rumor.
She had a handful of suspects and looked mostly for motives. She overlooked possible suspects and focused on people she didn't like. She never found out exactly how or when the victim died. She jumped to (wrong) conclusions and acted on them. She was rude to the people who tried to help her. For example, she asked her (rather nice) ex-husband, a lawyer, to help, then blocked his texts because he didn't find her a lawyer fast enough to suit her, then mostly ignored him when he showed up to help. He concluded that she hated him, and she's shocked that he could think that. Really?! Anyway, the author made the clues very, very "look at that!" obvious, so I had whodunit figured out as soon as we met whodunit. I identified the clue that would solve the case way back at the beginning of the story. So no puzzle to distract from Mallory's appalling behavior.
Finally, I live in the very area that "Hillspring" is fictionally located. I've never met such friendly, polite, nice people anywhere else I've lived, but this book makes us seem like bitter, mean, backbiting people out to sue all of our neighbors. It's also very safe in this area. People are extremely unlikely to point a shotgun at you, especially if the public is welcomed on their land. Being a cozy mystery meant Cabot Cove had hundreds of murders, but it still came across as a nice town. Yet this author's Hillspring makes it sound like you should do everything you can to avoid the area.
There was occasional use of bad language. There were no sex scenes.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
November 6, 2022
Debut cozy mystery series by a debut author and I am so on board! Love the horse rescue setting -- including a certain scene-stealing donkey. I thought Mallory was an easy to relate to heroine . Divorced, early forties, following her dream of starting a horse rescue which is all kinds of scary and a bit out of her comfort zone. Not that she isn't a spectacular horsewoman, but she's been living the city life for years and quitting a secure job in order to follow this dream takes all kinds of nerve.
I thought the mystery was solid, with enough suspects to keep me guessing. I did latch on to the murderer, though my knowing when Mallory didn't, just added to the suspense. I wanted to scream, "No, don't go into the xxxx with XXXX!!!!" But she did. Sigh. Made for a rollicking good reveal though. lol
There's a few instances of swearing which I'm not a fan of in a cozy, so I docked a star, but I am truly enamoured with this Horse Rescue series and will be anxiously awaiting the next release.
I listened to the audible edition narrated by Colleen Marlo who was the perfect voice for Mallory.
I thought the mystery was solid, with enough suspects to keep me guessing. I did latch on to the murderer, though my knowing when Mallory didn't, just added to the suspense. I wanted to scream, "No, don't go into the xxxx with XXXX!!!!" But she did. Sigh. Made for a rollicking good reveal though. lol
There's a few instances of swearing which I'm not a fan of in a cozy, so I docked a star, but I am truly enamoured with this Horse Rescue series and will be anxiously awaiting the next release.
I listened to the audible edition narrated by Colleen Marlo who was the perfect voice for Mallory.
January 28, 2023
Dollycas's Thoughts
Not happy in her marriage or her job Mallory Martin divorces her spouse and moves back to her hometown of Hillspring, Arkansas to take care of her ailing father and open up a horse rescue. Her obsession with horses goes way back as does wanting to make a difference in the world so opening up a rescue on the family farm was an easy choice. But money is not rolling in so Mallory decides to add riding lessons to the rescue. This angers her neighbor Albert Cummings, who owns Champion Performance Horses, a horse breeding and training farm uphill from Mallory's rescue. He called to voice his displeasure the day before he was killed and found in his fourteen-stall show barn. A witness to the conversation and Mallory's iffy alibi make her the prime suspect.
Sheriff Grady Sullivan has known Mallory forever so you would think he would know she couldn't be responsible for the crime but he still is going all out to prove her guilty. Heck, she can think of several others with more motive and even Albert's son believes she is innocent. So with a little help from her friends, she is bound and determined to find the real killer.
______
Mallory Martin is a strong woman intent on making her dreams come true but she is a bit gruff at times. She tries to use her knowledge learned as a forensic nurse to ferret out the killer but at times she leaps into action before thinking things through and that just gives the sheriff more ammunition against her. He clearly had tunnel vision when it came to Mallory. He also had a problem in his department he failed to address. I was not a fan.
Mallory has two college-age volunteers to help her take care of her rescues. Tanner and Ashley are knowledgeable about horses and love their jobs. They can't believe their "boss" is even considered a suspect. With her daughter away at college these kids help her deal with her empty nest feelings. Her friend Lanie along with her husband Bill truly have Mallory's back and fully support her throughout the whole ordeal. I loved the way Bill stepped up when a supplier was treating Mallory so poorly. It gave her the strength to take the man on too. Mallory's lawyer Andy was great too.
I loved the unique setting of a horse farm with rescues. The horses and a crazy lovable donkey tugged at my heart. Mallory also has a wonderful blue heeler. We have a loveable red heeler and they are great dogs.
The mystery was filled with some nice twists. There were some clear suspects and a couple more that I added to my personal list. I was focused on the wrong person for quite a while so I was surprised when the actual culprit was revealed. I was not sure how Mallory was going to save herself but then her rescuer took care of it in an awesome way.
Canter with a Killer was a strong debut and a very enjoyable read. A fine mystery with a brisk pace and a smashing ending that was very entertaining. I look forward to getting to know these characters better as the series continues.
Not happy in her marriage or her job Mallory Martin divorces her spouse and moves back to her hometown of Hillspring, Arkansas to take care of her ailing father and open up a horse rescue. Her obsession with horses goes way back as does wanting to make a difference in the world so opening up a rescue on the family farm was an easy choice. But money is not rolling in so Mallory decides to add riding lessons to the rescue. This angers her neighbor Albert Cummings, who owns Champion Performance Horses, a horse breeding and training farm uphill from Mallory's rescue. He called to voice his displeasure the day before he was killed and found in his fourteen-stall show barn. A witness to the conversation and Mallory's iffy alibi make her the prime suspect.
Sheriff Grady Sullivan has known Mallory forever so you would think he would know she couldn't be responsible for the crime but he still is going all out to prove her guilty. Heck, she can think of several others with more motive and even Albert's son believes she is innocent. So with a little help from her friends, she is bound and determined to find the real killer.
______
Mallory Martin is a strong woman intent on making her dreams come true but she is a bit gruff at times. She tries to use her knowledge learned as a forensic nurse to ferret out the killer but at times she leaps into action before thinking things through and that just gives the sheriff more ammunition against her. He clearly had tunnel vision when it came to Mallory. He also had a problem in his department he failed to address. I was not a fan.
Mallory has two college-age volunteers to help her take care of her rescues. Tanner and Ashley are knowledgeable about horses and love their jobs. They can't believe their "boss" is even considered a suspect. With her daughter away at college these kids help her deal with her empty nest feelings. Her friend Lanie along with her husband Bill truly have Mallory's back and fully support her throughout the whole ordeal. I loved the way Bill stepped up when a supplier was treating Mallory so poorly. It gave her the strength to take the man on too. Mallory's lawyer Andy was great too.
I loved the unique setting of a horse farm with rescues. The horses and a crazy lovable donkey tugged at my heart. Mallory also has a wonderful blue heeler. We have a loveable red heeler and they are great dogs.
The mystery was filled with some nice twists. There were some clear suspects and a couple more that I added to my personal list. I was focused on the wrong person for quite a while so I was surprised when the actual culprit was revealed. I was not sure how Mallory was going to save herself but then her rescuer took care of it in an awesome way.
Canter with a Killer was a strong debut and a very enjoyable read. A fine mystery with a brisk pace and a smashing ending that was very entertaining. I look forward to getting to know these characters better as the series continues.
June 11, 2023
The is a well written debut to a series. The characters are in need a a little more character development but that is what you expect with a debut series. This allow the character to grow throughout the series. Mallory is determined to make her rescue a success but is seems like her neighbor won’t make this easy for her. She is relatable and likable but at time she seems a little to trusting/naive. The mystery was well plotted with plenty of twist to keep you guessing. I recommend this books to cozy mystery fans.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been influenced by anyone.
January 30, 2023
If you love Jethro with Amanda Flower’s cozies, you’ll love Biscuit in Amber Camp’s!!
Canter with a Killer is the debut novel by Arkansas author Amber Camp. It’s a great whodunnit featuring Mallory, owner of a new horse rescue in NW Arkansas, who is accused of murdering her meddling neighbor who seems to be a crotchety old man.
I love starting a new series and getting to know all the various characters that I just know I’ll come to love along the way as new books are released. At her rescue are Ashley and Tanner, two volunteers who are almost loyal to a fault but who share her love for horses.
Andy, the lawyer in town who helps her navigate her legal issues and of course, her best friend, Lanie, who I can totally see getting into mischief in later books.
Grady the sheriff is one I hope we’ll see more of (It’s a cozy mystery series, so that’s all but guaranteed of course) since there were a couple things that were left unresolved, but that are the makings of a longer story arc.
I’m interested in seeing what happens with Phillip and Heather as well as the jerk of a feed shop owner. Grr!
I love that this book was set in a more unusual setting - a horse rescue - making it a welcome change of scenery from restaurants and coffee shops (or pet stores) that I often see in cozies. I look forward to reading more books by Camp.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Canter with a Killer is the debut novel by Arkansas author Amber Camp. It’s a great whodunnit featuring Mallory, owner of a new horse rescue in NW Arkansas, who is accused of murdering her meddling neighbor who seems to be a crotchety old man.
I love starting a new series and getting to know all the various characters that I just know I’ll come to love along the way as new books are released. At her rescue are Ashley and Tanner, two volunteers who are almost loyal to a fault but who share her love for horses.
Andy, the lawyer in town who helps her navigate her legal issues and of course, her best friend, Lanie, who I can totally see getting into mischief in later books.
Grady the sheriff is one I hope we’ll see more of (It’s a cozy mystery series, so that’s all but guaranteed of course) since there were a couple things that were left unresolved, but that are the makings of a longer story arc.
I’m interested in seeing what happens with Phillip and Heather as well as the jerk of a feed shop owner. Grr!
I love that this book was set in a more unusual setting - a horse rescue - making it a welcome change of scenery from restaurants and coffee shops (or pet stores) that I often see in cozies. I look forward to reading more books by Camp.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
July 24, 2022
I received an advance copy via NetGalley.
What a fun mystery from a debut author! Camp demonstrates horse knowledge and intimacy with Northwest Arkansas in this kick-off to a new series following a horse rescue farm owner. In this book, Mallory, a forty-something divorced woman with a college-going daughter, is accused of murdering her cranky and wealthy neighbor. It grabbed me from page one and I zoomed through in about a day. Truly, this book is the epitome of cozy. Mallory is a savvy fairly savvy amateur investigator--and she needs to be, as she is the prime suspect. There's a romantic subplot with some nice twists and turns. Revelations and tension keep up a perfect pace. I correctly guessed at the guilty party about halfway through, but that didn't detract from my enjoyment one bit because there were still plenty of surprises as the climax neared. I genuinely enjoyed Mallory as a character. She's my age, curvy, and loves food without shame--hooray!
The thematic elements of the cozy were so well done, too. The author knows horses and the work it takes to maintain a property. I loved seeing Northwest Arkansas used as a setting. My in-laws live there and I have a more than passing familiarity with the place; Hillspring, the fictional Ozark small town in the book, definitely reminded me of Eureka Springs.
This is a series I would love to keep reading!
What a fun mystery from a debut author! Camp demonstrates horse knowledge and intimacy with Northwest Arkansas in this kick-off to a new series following a horse rescue farm owner. In this book, Mallory, a forty-something divorced woman with a college-going daughter, is accused of murdering her cranky and wealthy neighbor. It grabbed me from page one and I zoomed through in about a day. Truly, this book is the epitome of cozy. Mallory is a savvy fairly savvy amateur investigator--and she needs to be, as she is the prime suspect. There's a romantic subplot with some nice twists and turns. Revelations and tension keep up a perfect pace. I correctly guessed at the guilty party about halfway through, but that didn't detract from my enjoyment one bit because there were still plenty of surprises as the climax neared. I genuinely enjoyed Mallory as a character. She's my age, curvy, and loves food without shame--hooray!
The thematic elements of the cozy were so well done, too. The author knows horses and the work it takes to maintain a property. I loved seeing Northwest Arkansas used as a setting. My in-laws live there and I have a more than passing familiarity with the place; Hillspring, the fictional Ozark small town in the book, definitely reminded me of Eureka Springs.
This is a series I would love to keep reading!
January 22, 2023
First off, I have to admit I am a sucker for stories featuring animals and this debut cozy about a horse rescue is a doozie. Intelligent with a plot that rings true and peopled by a strong cast of folks you want to know. And hope to meet again soon. Mallory Martin is all for second chances...for her childhood dream of creating a rescue for horses and for the animals who deserve to live without fear of brutality and starvation. After a fairly amicable divorce she returns home to create that haven. Her unpaid volunteers/assistants are young, responsible and addicted to horses. Each with a vibrancy and enough depth that they could have a future plot formed around them. Mallory has a enough of a nurse forensics background to augument her her natural curiosity. One point I didnt care for is her overstepping into questioning others. However at least she showed some guilt for some actions. Overall she's strong and resourceful while fighting off suspicions of murdering her unlikable neighbor. Strong debut. Thanks to netgalley and Crooked Lane for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 25, 2023
Canter with a Killer, the first book in Amber Camp’s Horse Rescue Mystery series is delightful, charming, and highly recommended.
Following her divorce, Mallory Martin has moved back to Hillspring, AR, to fulfill a lifelong dream of owning a horse rescue. But when she decides to give riding lessons to supplement the income from the rescue, she meets with opposition from her nearest neighbor, Albert Cunningham, who operates a fancy quarter horse training and breeding farm. Albert views her rescue as an eyesore that decreases his property values, and he tells her so, angrily and vehemently in a phone conversation. Shortly thereafter, he is murdered, and based on their argument, Mallory is one of the prime suspects. The pressure is on for Mallory to clear her name and that of the rescue before the killer strikes again.
Canter with a Killer is pretty fantastic for a debut novel. The mystery is handled deftly and suspensefully, with a large cast of suspects and a variety of clues to keep you guessing along the way. Although I had discerned the perpetrator before the reveal, it in no way detracted from enjoying the entire journey. Mallory is a strong character, compassionate and logical. I found her relationship with her ex, Ethan, to have the ring of authenticity. Even though it is complicated, it is clear the love was (and to some extent still is) there. Her young volunteers, Tanner and Ashley, as well as her best friend, Lanie, prove themselves both capable and supportive companions. Even a resident donkey, Biscuit, adds to the charm. And the horse rescue setting is unique and perfect for a cozy mystery series.
One thing that especially struck me is that Mallory immediately “lawyers up,” once it is clear she is a suspect. So many of these amateur sleuths fail to do so (or worse, ignore the advice of their lawyer) and end up in even more trouble. Here, attorney Andy Hannigan, is on hand to offer both prescient advice and a friendly face. What’s more, Mallory actually listens to him.
It should be noted that there is also an audio version as well. Narrator Colleen Marlo does an excellent job of bringing this novel to life.
If you like horses and cozy mysteries, Canter with a Killer is a must-read. I look forward to enjoying the next book in the series, Trotting into Trouble, which should be available later this year.
Note: I received an ARC of Canter with a Killer from NetGalley, and Crooked Lane Books. The above is my honest review.
Following her divorce, Mallory Martin has moved back to Hillspring, AR, to fulfill a lifelong dream of owning a horse rescue. But when she decides to give riding lessons to supplement the income from the rescue, she meets with opposition from her nearest neighbor, Albert Cunningham, who operates a fancy quarter horse training and breeding farm. Albert views her rescue as an eyesore that decreases his property values, and he tells her so, angrily and vehemently in a phone conversation. Shortly thereafter, he is murdered, and based on their argument, Mallory is one of the prime suspects. The pressure is on for Mallory to clear her name and that of the rescue before the killer strikes again.
Canter with a Killer is pretty fantastic for a debut novel. The mystery is handled deftly and suspensefully, with a large cast of suspects and a variety of clues to keep you guessing along the way. Although I had discerned the perpetrator before the reveal, it in no way detracted from enjoying the entire journey. Mallory is a strong character, compassionate and logical. I found her relationship with her ex, Ethan, to have the ring of authenticity. Even though it is complicated, it is clear the love was (and to some extent still is) there. Her young volunteers, Tanner and Ashley, as well as her best friend, Lanie, prove themselves both capable and supportive companions. Even a resident donkey, Biscuit, adds to the charm. And the horse rescue setting is unique and perfect for a cozy mystery series.
One thing that especially struck me is that Mallory immediately “lawyers up,” once it is clear she is a suspect. So many of these amateur sleuths fail to do so (or worse, ignore the advice of their lawyer) and end up in even more trouble. Here, attorney Andy Hannigan, is on hand to offer both prescient advice and a friendly face. What’s more, Mallory actually listens to him.
It should be noted that there is also an audio version as well. Narrator Colleen Marlo does an excellent job of bringing this novel to life.
If you like horses and cozy mysteries, Canter with a Killer is a must-read. I look forward to enjoying the next book in the series, Trotting into Trouble, which should be available later this year.
Note: I received an ARC of Canter with a Killer from NetGalley, and Crooked Lane Books. The above is my honest review.
May 13, 2025
4 🌟
Mood/Seasonal Reading: I think summer works just fine. It had a season but it wasn’t a standout enough for me to recall.
I volunteer at a horse rescue so this was an obvious must read for me. For the most part I enjoyed it!
Starting off with the mystery I think it had a solid base with some interesting suspects and motives. As with many cozy mysteries the killer was fairly obvious and the investigation left common sense behind occasionally.
The characters were decent. I will say no one really stood out to me as they have in my favourite cozy series. Our main character is good enough to bring me back to another book in the series but isn’t a star.
I loved the aspects with horses of course and would’ve loved to see more. Knowing how much work horses are I did question how she had so much time to investigate when she was the only worker at her farm.
The hint of romance was a nice touch as well.
Will continue the series and can’t wait to see more horses.
Mood/Seasonal Reading: I think summer works just fine. It had a season but it wasn’t a standout enough for me to recall.
I volunteer at a horse rescue so this was an obvious must read for me. For the most part I enjoyed it!
Starting off with the mystery I think it had a solid base with some interesting suspects and motives. As with many cozy mysteries the killer was fairly obvious and the investigation left common sense behind occasionally.
The characters were decent. I will say no one really stood out to me as they have in my favourite cozy series. Our main character is good enough to bring me back to another book in the series but isn’t a star.
I loved the aspects with horses of course and would’ve loved to see more. Knowing how much work horses are I did question how she had so much time to investigate when she was the only worker at her farm.
The hint of romance was a nice touch as well.
Will continue the series and can’t wait to see more horses.
October 17, 2022
Well laid out mystery and with good pacing. The setting is interesting and I liked the characters. My issue was that it just kind of moved on. There was no real action or drama. I didn’t connect with the main character or anyone else in the story. I never got really involved with the story. I may read the next one in the series as there wasn’t anything wrong but it wasn’t very exciting.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
November 12, 2022
A solid start to a new cozy series. I really liked the horse theme of this series and Mallory is a fun character. I also liked the Arkansas Ozarks setting as I live not far from that area in the Missouri Ozarks. The mystery is good although the fact that Mallory was basically the only suspect from the standpoint of the police for pretty much the entire book was a little much for me. I look forward to book 2.
December 8, 2022
There was so much about this book that I was looking forward to. I grew up with horses and helped out on some horse rescues, as much as I could. I really enjoyed the parts with the horses and felt compassion for them in the story. However, I was just a bit disappointed with this book. I wasn’t able to connect with the characters or the mystery. When the reveal happened, I just shrugged.
I’m going to give the book a 3 stars for the horses and for Biscuit
I’m going to give the book a 3 stars for the horses and for Biscuit
December 31, 2022
This was a fun first in series! Although I'm too knowledgeable on the subject of horses I still found this to be a well planned mystery with great characters and interesting details relating to the main character's horse rescue. I will definitely check out the next book by this author.
October 11, 2022
This is a nice start to a new series. It's hard not to get hooked into a story that involves an animal rescue. Add a good mystery with a dose of romance and you have Canter with a Killer.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
February 9, 2023
When Mallory moves back home and starts a horse rescue, her neighbor, who owns a successful horse training business, is none to happy. The manure hits the fan when he’s found dead and she becomes the prime suspect. The sheriff has blinders on and only sees Mallory as the killer and the race is on to find the culprit and prove her innocence.
I really liked Mallory and the other characters in the book, except the sheriff. He just wouldn’t consider any other suspect. I really concentrated on what was being shown to me and had several of my own suspects. Imagine my surprise when the thrilling reveal came and I was so wrong. LOL My love of cozies I was reaffirmed with this delightful cast, twisted mystery, one wacky donkey and horses galore.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
I really liked Mallory and the other characters in the book, except the sheriff. He just wouldn’t consider any other suspect. I really concentrated on what was being shown to me and had several of my own suspects. Imagine my surprise when the thrilling reveal came and I was so wrong. LOL My love of cozies I was reaffirmed with this delightful cast, twisted mystery, one wacky donkey and horses galore.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
April 11, 2022
Mallory Martin is heading home to Arkansas after marriage and her career didn’t fill her with happiness. She returns home to find her heart filled with all that she had been missing after she starts a horse rescue. When he neighbor is found murdered, the sheriff decides that she is his main suspect and she needs to clear her name.
With several suspects that aren’t really panning out, she needs to step up her sleuthing and find out who killed the man, or she’ll be heading to the big house and losing her dream life.
A new author with a new series that doesn’t disappoint. If you’re a horse lover you will not want to miss this one! If you’re not a horse lover, you still don’t want to miss this one. It’s a great start to a new cozy series.
With several suspects that aren’t really panning out, she needs to step up her sleuthing and find out who killed the man, or she’ll be heading to the big house and losing her dream life.
A new author with a new series that doesn’t disappoint. If you’re a horse lover you will not want to miss this one! If you’re not a horse lover, you still don’t want to miss this one. It’s a great start to a new cozy series.
June 4, 2024
Mallory Martin is living her dream as a horse rescue in Hillspring, Arkansas. She is divorced with a daughter in college. She has happy horses, an awesome donkey and two young volunteers. She has an upsetting phone call with her neighbor. The next morning she sees police cars at the neighbor. The neighbor is found dead and Mallory is the prime suspect.
I really enjoyed this mystery. An older 🙄 amateur sleuth and a fun cast of characters. I'm excited to read the next in the series.
I really enjoyed this mystery. An older 🙄 amateur sleuth and a fun cast of characters. I'm excited to read the next in the series.
July 28, 2024
A divorcee leaves her nursing career and Lawyer exhusband behind to start a horse rescue. Her two closest neighbors are anything but neighborly and when one is murdered she becomes the prime suspect.
July 13, 2023
I don’t read many cozy mysteries, but this one was definitely worth the read. I couldn’t put it down. The storyline was compelling, and the characters were so interesting! I loved the main character, so much. She was so relatable.
I would like to say that, because I’m not usually reading cozy mysteries, I don’t know what to expect with covers. The cover was not what brought me to this book. In fact, the cover gave me an idea of the book that was quite different than reality. And I liked the reality much better!
This book came to my reading cue because I know the author from an online writers group. It ALSO came recommended to me from other readers I trust.
I’m so glad I finally took time to read it…listen actually. I listened to the audiobook, which was well done. The narrator felt perfect for this character.
I can’t wait to see what this author comes out with next!
I listened to the audio at 1.7x speed, which is my normal on audible.
Thank you for this lovely story, Amber Camp!
I would like to say that, because I’m not usually reading cozy mysteries, I don’t know what to expect with covers. The cover was not what brought me to this book. In fact, the cover gave me an idea of the book that was quite different than reality. And I liked the reality much better!
This book came to my reading cue because I know the author from an online writers group. It ALSO came recommended to me from other readers I trust.
I’m so glad I finally took time to read it…listen actually. I listened to the audiobook, which was well done. The narrator felt perfect for this character.
I can’t wait to see what this author comes out with next!
I listened to the audio at 1.7x speed, which is my normal on audible.
Thank you for this lovely story, Amber Camp!
May 9, 2022
I really loved the horse rescue incorporated in the mystery.
Mallory Martin left her marriage and her unfulfilling job to move back to her hometown of Hillspring, Arkansas, and start a horse rescue. I enjoyed getting to know Mallory and the mystery she is solving. This mystery was good and kept me guessing.
#CanterwithaKiller #NetGalley
Mallory Martin left her marriage and her unfulfilling job to move back to her hometown of Hillspring, Arkansas, and start a horse rescue. I enjoyed getting to know Mallory and the mystery she is solving. This mystery was good and kept me guessing.
#CanterwithaKiller #NetGalley
May 6, 2022
A horse, a cozy mystery and reading are just right!!! This was a fun book! I kept guessing until the end. Love the story. The characters are well written. A great start!! Thanks #netgalley and #Crookedlanebooks for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
February 22, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Great Escapes Book Tours. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Canter with a Killer by Amber Camp is a new cozy animal mystery that features Mallory Martin, an owner of a horse rescue farm in a small town in Arkansas.
Can Mallory steer the police in the right direction?
Mallory Martin
Mallory Martin is a 42-year-old woman who has been living her dream of owning a horse rescue (since she was a little girl) for a bit. She has a college-bound daughter who wants to be a vet and an ex-husband who might still like Mallory. Mal sounds like a fantastic character, and she brings a lot more oomph to a sleuth than some of the others I’ve had the opportunity to read. I love how she does her murder board and how, despite everything mounting against her, Mallory still wants to prove herself innocent.
The Mystery
Mallory argues over the phone with her next-door neighbor, who ends up getting murdered, and the police are looking at her as their only suspect. Everyone else seems to have pretty much good alibis while she doesn’t. So much goes on from the story’s beginning to right when Mallory confronts the killer. I have to say sadly that I fell for a red herring, but that red herring was a pretty good suspect.
Five Stars
Canter with a Killer by Amber Camp is getting five stars, and a recommendation to anyone that loves horses to give this story a try. It also has a pet donkey named Biscuit. Biscuit is awesome! Ms. Camp has written a great first story for a new series.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Canter with a Killer by Amber Camp. Check out the other stops and giveaway if you have time.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
Canter with a Killer by Amber Camp is a new cozy animal mystery that features Mallory Martin, an owner of a horse rescue farm in a small town in Arkansas.
Can Mallory steer the police in the right direction?
Mallory Martin
Mallory Martin is a 42-year-old woman who has been living her dream of owning a horse rescue (since she was a little girl) for a bit. She has a college-bound daughter who wants to be a vet and an ex-husband who might still like Mallory. Mal sounds like a fantastic character, and she brings a lot more oomph to a sleuth than some of the others I’ve had the opportunity to read. I love how she does her murder board and how, despite everything mounting against her, Mallory still wants to prove herself innocent.
The Mystery
Mallory argues over the phone with her next-door neighbor, who ends up getting murdered, and the police are looking at her as their only suspect. Everyone else seems to have pretty much good alibis while she doesn’t. So much goes on from the story’s beginning to right when Mallory confronts the killer. I have to say sadly that I fell for a red herring, but that red herring was a pretty good suspect.
Five Stars
Canter with a Killer by Amber Camp is getting five stars, and a recommendation to anyone that loves horses to give this story a try. It also has a pet donkey named Biscuit. Biscuit is awesome! Ms. Camp has written a great first story for a new series.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Canter with a Killer by Amber Camp. Check out the other stops and giveaway if you have time.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
October 14, 2022
Canter With A Killer is the first book in the A Horse Rescue Mystery series by Amber Camp.
Mallory’s father has signed the family farm over, and being divorced, she decides to leave her job as a legal nurse consultant and move back to the family home in Hillspring, Arkansas. Mallory has opened a horse rescue on the farm and has two volunteers, Ashley and Tanner, helping her to care for rescue horses. One day, her neighbor Albert Cunningham calls and tells her she needs to shut down her rescue as it is lowering the property value of his champion horse farm, where he breeds champion horses. As Mallory starts her day the next morning, she peers out the window and sees police cars gathered at Cunningham’s barn. She heads over to Cunningham’s farm to learn the problem and soon knows that Cunningham is dead. A few hours later, the police are at her door to question her. After her ex-husband is slow in advising her of a suitable lawyer, she engages a local lawyer, Andy Hannigan as her lawyer. Hoping not to have to use him, she will begin her own investigation.
Mallory will find several possible suspects that she will need to learn more about where they were at the time of Cunningham’s. They include Cunningham’s lady friend, a neighboring organic farmer who claims that run-off from his farm is causing problems for her farm, and another neighbor who claims that some of his fences prohibit him from accessing his land.
The book is well-written and plotted and reads at a steady pace. The characters were well-developed and interesting. I did have problems with Mallory. She was very offended that the police wanted to search her home, but she didn’t have any trouble searching through the house of one of her suspects.
Mallory’s father has signed the family farm over, and being divorced, she decides to leave her job as a legal nurse consultant and move back to the family home in Hillspring, Arkansas. Mallory has opened a horse rescue on the farm and has two volunteers, Ashley and Tanner, helping her to care for rescue horses. One day, her neighbor Albert Cunningham calls and tells her she needs to shut down her rescue as it is lowering the property value of his champion horse farm, where he breeds champion horses. As Mallory starts her day the next morning, she peers out the window and sees police cars gathered at Cunningham’s barn. She heads over to Cunningham’s farm to learn the problem and soon knows that Cunningham is dead. A few hours later, the police are at her door to question her. After her ex-husband is slow in advising her of a suitable lawyer, she engages a local lawyer, Andy Hannigan as her lawyer. Hoping not to have to use him, she will begin her own investigation.
Mallory will find several possible suspects that she will need to learn more about where they were at the time of Cunningham’s. They include Cunningham’s lady friend, a neighboring organic farmer who claims that run-off from his farm is causing problems for her farm, and another neighbor who claims that some of his fences prohibit him from accessing his land.
The book is well-written and plotted and reads at a steady pace. The characters were well-developed and interesting. I did have problems with Mallory. She was very offended that the police wanted to search her home, but she didn’t have any trouble searching through the house of one of her suspects.
April 23, 2022
This ARC was provided to me via Kindle, Crooked Lane Books and by #NetGalley. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
Wonderful first book in a new cozy mystery series. One of my favorite genres, it’s a lovely read full of interesting and intriguing characters.
Wonderful first book in a new cozy mystery series. One of my favorite genres, it’s a lovely read full of interesting and intriguing characters.
April 15, 2022
This was a great first book in a new series. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters.. My favorite was Biscuit the donkey. So cute! The setting of a horse rescue was interesting although sad that there is a need for one. I will certainly be on the look out for the next in the series.
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