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A Tourist Trap Mystery #14
A Vacation to Die For
In the California coastal town of South Cove, Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More, discovers that wedding planning can be murder . . .
Hustling her fiancé off to a neighboring tourist town might be the only way Jill Gardner can plan her nuptials to South Cove’s in-demand police detective. But when a mystery man turns up dead at South Cove’s PD, Greg is hightailing it back home to investigate, leaving Jill to finish the vacation solo.
Jill can barely get in a spa day before her own respite is spoiled by a greedy hotel guest and unexpected revelations about Max Winter, the developer conniving to buy her home out from under her. Then there’s the staffing issues at the store, the strange men seen lurking about town, and an aggressive and obnoxious family member harassing Jill’s beloved employee. It’s enough to make the bride-to-be full of jitters . . . especially when she finds herself in the crosshairs of a killer . . .
Hustling her fiancé off to a neighboring tourist town might be the only way Jill Gardner can plan her nuptials to South Cove’s in-demand police detective. But when a mystery man turns up dead at South Cove’s PD, Greg is hightailing it back home to investigate, leaving Jill to finish the vacation solo.
Jill can barely get in a spa day before her own respite is spoiled by a greedy hotel guest and unexpected revelations about Max Winter, the developer conniving to buy her home out from under her. Then there’s the staffing issues at the store, the strange men seen lurking about town, and an aggressive and obnoxious family member harassing Jill’s beloved employee. It’s enough to make the bride-to-be full of jitters . . . especially when she finds herself in the crosshairs of a killer . . .
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2022
756 people are currently reading
1581 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Cahoon
103 books2,387 followersNYT and USA Today bestselling author, Lynn Cahoon, writes the Tourist Trap, Cat Latimer, Farm-to-Fork, Kitchen Witch, Survivors' Book Club, the Haunted Life, and the Bainbridge Island cozy mystery series. No matter where the mystery is set, readers can expect a fun ride Sign up for her newsletter at www.lynncahoon.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
August 26, 2022
The fourteenth book in this series but only the second one I have read. I have promised myself to go back and read them all because I do enjoy the characters and the author's style.
In A Vacation to Die For Jill and Greg take a short break to spend time relaxing and planning their wedding. Unfortunately murder takes precedence and Greg gets called back to investigate the death of an unknown who has collapsed into the police station with a knife in his back. It seems this wedding is going to be a long time coming!
Of course Greg investigates and Jill promises not to get involved but still manages to pick up the most important clues and even discovers the identity of the dead man. The author does an excellent job of obscuring the identity of the murderer by following a number of apparently separate stories which come together at the end. All this made for a really enjoyable read.
My thanks to Netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
In A Vacation to Die For Jill and Greg take a short break to spend time relaxing and planning their wedding. Unfortunately murder takes precedence and Greg gets called back to investigate the death of an unknown who has collapsed into the police station with a knife in his back. It seems this wedding is going to be a long time coming!
Of course Greg investigates and Jill promises not to get involved but still manages to pick up the most important clues and even discovers the identity of the dead man. The author does an excellent job of obscuring the identity of the murderer by following a number of apparently separate stories which come together at the end. All this made for a really enjoyable read.
My thanks to Netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 11, 2025
A Vacation to Die For is the 14th book in the Tourist Trap Mysteries written by Lynn Cahoon. I've read many of the author's other series, and I started this one in early 2022... now that I've read all the prior versions I was able to pick up a copy of her latest due to be released next month (Thanks NetGalley). Set in a seaside California town and focused on a 30ish protagonist named Jill, the series is filled with great characters, gorgeous scenery, and lots of levity, despite the frequent homicide count. In this installment, the town is battling over a new high-end hotel proposal. The mayor wants Jill to sell her historic home but she won't budge. A suspicious real estate developer is in the mix, and a stranger shows up dead on the police station steps. Jill's fiancé, Greg, is the local police detective, so the two solve the case together: Greg thru legal means and Jill by pushing her way in, even tho Greg asks her not to. Jill's employee is involved because her ex-husband is stalking her and has connections to the dead guy. How does it all come together? You'll have to read it to find out... I very much enjoyed the book and the mystery; the murder happened suddenly and to someone we didn't know, nor did we know the person's identity for much of the book, so it felt a little weird... but it came together in the end. And the side stories moved forward in a cohesive manner. Looking forward to the next one in 2023.
August 6, 2022
A Vacation to Die For is a fun and easy read. I have read and enjoyed all of the Tourist Trap Mysteries in this series. Jill Gardner is the main character in this story.. She owns the Coffee, Books and More store. Her Aunt Jackie is her manager. She and the other characters from this series live in the town of South Cove. The mayor, Marvin Baylor wants to put a new mini hotel in their town on the property where Jill lives. as well as her neighbor, Esmeralda's house. Esmeralda works part-time as a police dispatcher a well as the local psychic, Jill tells Properties sales rep, Max Winter that she has no intention of selling her house. Because Esmeralda is a threatening psychic they do not attempt to approach her about her house.
Greg and Jill are going to a B&B in the town of Apple Valley to relax and discuss their plans for their wedding. While there they run into their friends Bill and Mary who own South Cove B&B as well as Max Winter and his wife Connie. While away Greg gets a call from his deputy Toby (who lives in the apartment behind Jill's house) that he has to come back as a man walked into the police station with a knife in his stomach and died. Greg tells Jill she should stay and call her friend,, Amy Newman-Cross to come and have a girls weekend. While there Jill meets the other person, Rebecca (Becky) Craft staying there. Jill feels that she is not a very nice person..
Greg comes home from work and tells Jill they still don't know who the dead man is but later identified as Gentry Floods. He also tells her that Max's wife named Beth calls to see if Greg can help with the threats he is getting.. Jill wonders if Max has has two families.
Evie who works for Jill as barista at Jill's store and lives in the apartment above. She asks for time off as her sister-in-law has come to visit unexpectedly. When Becky arrives Jill realizes that she is the woman who was at the B&B. She and her brother and Evie's ex-husband, John Marshall, want Evie to give back the mantle clock that Evie got from her father-in-law for a wedding present. He and his sister start to stalk Evie. Judith Dane the new hired barista tells Evie that she should have the clock appraised as it could be worth a lot of money before giving it to her ex and his sister. Evie decides that she should give the clock to Greg for safe keeping and he puts it in the police safe.
Greg asks Jill if she can go and see Beth to find out more about who the Winters are. He meets Beth and finds out that Beth is a collector of the movie actress Vivian Lee. While showing her the collection Jill sees a picture of Beth, Max and Connie. She finds out that Connie Middletown is an old friend of Max's family.
The story takes the reader on an adventure to finding out who killed Gentry Floods and why he was in South Cove, Why Evie's ex and sister-in-law Becky want the clock and more about the Winters. The story comes to an exciting and unexpected ending.
I look forward to the next book to find out what new adventure Jill and Greg go on along with all the wonderful friends that live in South Cove.
Thank you NetGalley, Lyrical Press and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC
Greg and Jill are going to a B&B in the town of Apple Valley to relax and discuss their plans for their wedding. While there they run into their friends Bill and Mary who own South Cove B&B as well as Max Winter and his wife Connie. While away Greg gets a call from his deputy Toby (who lives in the apartment behind Jill's house) that he has to come back as a man walked into the police station with a knife in his stomach and died. Greg tells Jill she should stay and call her friend,, Amy Newman-Cross to come and have a girls weekend. While there Jill meets the other person, Rebecca (Becky) Craft staying there. Jill feels that she is not a very nice person..
Greg comes home from work and tells Jill they still don't know who the dead man is but later identified as Gentry Floods. He also tells her that Max's wife named Beth calls to see if Greg can help with the threats he is getting.. Jill wonders if Max has has two families.
Evie who works for Jill as barista at Jill's store and lives in the apartment above. She asks for time off as her sister-in-law has come to visit unexpectedly. When Becky arrives Jill realizes that she is the woman who was at the B&B. She and her brother and Evie's ex-husband, John Marshall, want Evie to give back the mantle clock that Evie got from her father-in-law for a wedding present. He and his sister start to stalk Evie. Judith Dane the new hired barista tells Evie that she should have the clock appraised as it could be worth a lot of money before giving it to her ex and his sister. Evie decides that she should give the clock to Greg for safe keeping and he puts it in the police safe.
Greg asks Jill if she can go and see Beth to find out more about who the Winters are. He meets Beth and finds out that Beth is a collector of the movie actress Vivian Lee. While showing her the collection Jill sees a picture of Beth, Max and Connie. She finds out that Connie Middletown is an old friend of Max's family.
The story takes the reader on an adventure to finding out who killed Gentry Floods and why he was in South Cove, Why Evie's ex and sister-in-law Becky want the clock and more about the Winters. The story comes to an exciting and unexpected ending.
I look forward to the next book to find out what new adventure Jill and Greg go on along with all the wonderful friends that live in South Cove.
Thank you NetGalley, Lyrical Press and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC
October 14, 2022
I so want to live in South Cove so I can just hang out in Coffee, Books & More everyday especially now that they have a new yarn store right next door!!! Jill is so my kind of gal and would make a wonderful friend. I love that she is expanding her friend pool in this book as she breaks a bit out of her introverted shell. Once again the mystery is divine and keeps you guessing and once again Jill gets into a bit of hot water at home as she starts to sleuth a bit into the things happening in her town. The characters are all so unique and well fleshed out that you feel like you are hanging with old friends rather than reading another story. I can't wait to go back to South Cove soon! The hardest part about finishing a book in this series is waiting for the next one to be written and published!
September 30, 2022
Another great cozy installment in my favorite cozy series. I am always excited for a new adventure for Jill, Greg and the rest of South Cove. This was a great mystery with several surprises and twists. Reading and listening to the Tourist Trap stories always leave me with a smile on my face. These are automatic preorders for me, and I hope this series lasts for a long time to come.
August 4, 2022
When I last dropped in on Jill Gardner, she was reeling after discovering a body when stopping to pick up a party gown, only to discover the person she thought had been killed alive and well soon after. This visit there's another body. Thankfully, Jill didn't discover it this time. Instead, the unidentified man sort of fell into the police station, I guess saving the police a trip to a murder site. It's this event that cuts Jill and her detective boyfriend Greg's vacation short.
The body remains unidentified throughout much of the book but the suspects are numerous and the side-stories intriguing. Are they related? It's unclear. Somehow it all seems to be related to one of Jill's shop workers, distracting her once again from wedding planning. Gee, will Jill and Greg ever manage to walk down the aisle? Author Lynn Cahoon remains a must-read for me, so I'm sure I'll be on the wedding invitation list, right?
I like Jill and Greg, who worries about her but without being overbearing, and the cast of supporting characters. I was definitely intrigued by Judith, a fill-in bookshop hire. Btw, as a bookaholic myself, I did have to laugh at Jill's idea that a heavy book in hand was better than no weapon at all. She even manages to stay out of danger's way, well, mostly. It wouldn't be a cozy mystery if our amateur sleuth wasn't in peril at some point, after all. That said, she does have the knack of being in the right (wrong?) place at the right (wrong?) time and is instrumental in discovering the identity of the dead man, not to mention his possible connections to others. She even gets to visit a shrine of sorts to actress Vivian Leigh in the process, which made me curious as she describes what she's seeing. Lynn Cahoon always manages to come up with intriguing characters to whet our curiosity.
Bottom line, an easy, interesting read with fun characters, mysterious bodies, reclusive wives, plus civic issues that also occupy Jill's time. I'm already looking forward to the next visit. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me to catch up with Jill, Greg, and the rest but, oh, we can't forget, their dogs.
The body remains unidentified throughout much of the book but the suspects are numerous and the side-stories intriguing. Are they related? It's unclear. Somehow it all seems to be related to one of Jill's shop workers, distracting her once again from wedding planning. Gee, will Jill and Greg ever manage to walk down the aisle? Author Lynn Cahoon remains a must-read for me, so I'm sure I'll be on the wedding invitation list, right?
I like Jill and Greg, who worries about her but without being overbearing, and the cast of supporting characters. I was definitely intrigued by Judith, a fill-in bookshop hire. Btw, as a bookaholic myself, I did have to laugh at Jill's idea that a heavy book in hand was better than no weapon at all. She even manages to stay out of danger's way, well, mostly. It wouldn't be a cozy mystery if our amateur sleuth wasn't in peril at some point, after all. That said, she does have the knack of being in the right (wrong?) place at the right (wrong?) time and is instrumental in discovering the identity of the dead man, not to mention his possible connections to others. She even gets to visit a shrine of sorts to actress Vivian Leigh in the process, which made me curious as she describes what she's seeing. Lynn Cahoon always manages to come up with intriguing characters to whet our curiosity.
Bottom line, an easy, interesting read with fun characters, mysterious bodies, reclusive wives, plus civic issues that also occupy Jill's time. I'm already looking forward to the next visit. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me to catch up with Jill, Greg, and the rest but, oh, we can't forget, their dogs.
September 20, 2022
Jill is hoping a vacation to a nearby tourist town will give her some much needed alone time with her fiance Greg. When Greg is called back home to investigate a murder Jill is left alone to finish the vacation. Her vacation gets a bit spoiled though by another tourist and by Max Winter, a man trying to buy her home. Meanwhile the store is having a problem with staff and an employee being bothered by an obnoxious family member. She is doing her best to not only enjoy this vacation but relax a bit at the same time. She soon finds herself in the sights of a killer and must keep herself safe. Follow along and see if Jill can save herself and finally find some time to relax.
October 13, 2022
Another great entry in the Tourist Trap series. This time engaged couple Jill and Greg are at a b&b, relaxing when he has to cut his vacation short to investigate a murder back home in South Cove. Of course Jill can't help but get involved in the mystery. It's very interesting because for a lot of the book, we don't even know who the victim is. But, it all makes sense in the end and it's always fun to catch up with Jill, Greg, Amy, Aunt Jackie and all of the characters in South Cove. Definitely looking forward to the next one!
September 10, 2022
A Vacation to Die For is the 14th book in the Tourist Trap Mystery series featuring Coffee, Books, and More shop owner, Jill Gardner. I have read three other instalments in this delightful series but plan to read the others at some stage.
I enjoyed reading A Vacation to Die For immensely! In this instalment, Jill is engaged to South Cove, California's police chief, Greg King and they need to plan their wedding so they take a trip to Apple Valley, just up the coast. They are staying at a B and B recommended by Jill's Aunt Jackie and her husband Harrold. They are relaxing by the pool when Jill takes a call from Esmeralda; requesting Greg's return to South Cove to deal with a problem when a man walks into the police station with a knife sticking out of his stomach. Jill continues the holiday with her bestie Amy at Apple Valley, but she becomes embroiled in the investigation herself when returns home.
This novel was an extremely intriguing tale and I was delighted to be visiting Jill in her coffee, book and trinket shop in coastal South Cove again! Unravelling the mystery alongside Jill and Greg was lots of fun and I welcomed the varying plot threads. I waded through the red herrings to identify the murderer and often found myself sidetracked by other events, happenings, and occurrences. Lynn Cahoon certainly knows how to write a well-crafted, compelling, and colourful tale. A Vacation to Die For is a highly recommended read that will be of interest to many cozy readers, and I’m game to see what's going on in South Cove next time. If you haven’t tried this series out yet, then you’re definitely missing out!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I enjoyed reading A Vacation to Die For immensely! In this instalment, Jill is engaged to South Cove, California's police chief, Greg King and they need to plan their wedding so they take a trip to Apple Valley, just up the coast. They are staying at a B and B recommended by Jill's Aunt Jackie and her husband Harrold. They are relaxing by the pool when Jill takes a call from Esmeralda; requesting Greg's return to South Cove to deal with a problem when a man walks into the police station with a knife sticking out of his stomach. Jill continues the holiday with her bestie Amy at Apple Valley, but she becomes embroiled in the investigation herself when returns home.
This novel was an extremely intriguing tale and I was delighted to be visiting Jill in her coffee, book and trinket shop in coastal South Cove again! Unravelling the mystery alongside Jill and Greg was lots of fun and I welcomed the varying plot threads. I waded through the red herrings to identify the murderer and often found myself sidetracked by other events, happenings, and occurrences. Lynn Cahoon certainly knows how to write a well-crafted, compelling, and colourful tale. A Vacation to Die For is a highly recommended read that will be of interest to many cozy readers, and I’m game to see what's going on in South Cove next time. If you haven’t tried this series out yet, then you’re definitely missing out!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
February 20, 2024
A Vacation to Die For is the 14th book in the Tourist Trap Mystery series. This book finds our protagonist, Jill Gardner and her fiancé, Police Detective Greg, in a nearby town, Apple Valley, at a spa from a weekend away. When Greg gets a phone call that a dead man was found at the police department, he heads home and leaves Jill to enjoy the weekend alone. Jill has been dealing with a high pressure developer wanting to buy her house and property, so she stays and one of her friends joins her. All would have been well, if there hadn't been a rude and greedy hotel guest ruining things for them. When Jill heads home, she is faced with staffing issues at her store, one of her employees being harassed and strange men lurking around. With Jill's nosiness bothering her, she begins her own investigation into all that is happening in South Cove.
As I have come to expect from Lynn Cahoon, this book has more than one thing going on. With the murder being the central mystery storyline, there are other things pulling at Jill for her attention. Along with all the issues she is dealing with, she is also trying to plan her wedding. With the victim being unknown for much of the story, it took longer to sort out all the clues and evidence. I like how all the various stories come together in the end and the mystery gets solved. There are some tense moments as the showdown happens, but overall, Jill keeps safe and doesn't take too many chances. This was an enjoyable, well developed mystery with characters I enjoy. The audiobook is narrated by Susan Boyce, a familiar performer of cozy mystery books. She has a pleasant voice and doesn't over dramatize the stories. If you enjoy a light mystery, with an easy to listen to narrator, then you might want to pick up this audiobook.
As I have come to expect from Lynn Cahoon, this book has more than one thing going on. With the murder being the central mystery storyline, there are other things pulling at Jill for her attention. Along with all the issues she is dealing with, she is also trying to plan her wedding. With the victim being unknown for much of the story, it took longer to sort out all the clues and evidence. I like how all the various stories come together in the end and the mystery gets solved. There are some tense moments as the showdown happens, but overall, Jill keeps safe and doesn't take too many chances. This was an enjoyable, well developed mystery with characters I enjoy. The audiobook is narrated by Susan Boyce, a familiar performer of cozy mystery books. She has a pleasant voice and doesn't over dramatize the stories. If you enjoy a light mystery, with an easy to listen to narrator, then you might want to pick up this audiobook.
August 8, 2022
Jill and Greg are taking along weekend to get their wedding plans going. What starts out a romantic getaway finishes up as a a girls weekend when Greg is called back to South Cove when a man is murdered and found at the police station. With a John Doe on their hands, Jill is hopeful the murder can be tied to the developer who so badly wants her house, but if only wishes were fishes.
Now Greg is working long hours to solve a murder and figure out who the John Doe is, while Jill tries to manage CBM with a skeleton staff as everyone seems to need time off and Aunt Jackie is no longer working in the store. With Evie having family in town and Deek at a writer’s workshop, it’s time to hire another worker to help fill in. With her plate fully loaded, Jill tries to sleuth without stepping on Greg’s toes and finds that things may hit a little closer to home than either of them realized.
I adore all books Lynn Cahoon! Really, I do. She has several solid cozy mystery series and all are on my list of must reads. Her characters are well developed, each has a strong female protagonist who is different from each of the others in her series, Cuddly pets and solid whodunits. I love that each of her protagonists are smart, which makes me really relate to and like them. If you haven’t read a book by Ms. Cahoon, what are you waiting for? Get our Cozy on and find out what you’ve been missing out on…this is a greta one to start with too and each reads fine as a stand alone!
Now Greg is working long hours to solve a murder and figure out who the John Doe is, while Jill tries to manage CBM with a skeleton staff as everyone seems to need time off and Aunt Jackie is no longer working in the store. With Evie having family in town and Deek at a writer’s workshop, it’s time to hire another worker to help fill in. With her plate fully loaded, Jill tries to sleuth without stepping on Greg’s toes and finds that things may hit a little closer to home than either of them realized.
I adore all books Lynn Cahoon! Really, I do. She has several solid cozy mystery series and all are on my list of must reads. Her characters are well developed, each has a strong female protagonist who is different from each of the others in her series, Cuddly pets and solid whodunits. I love that each of her protagonists are smart, which makes me really relate to and like them. If you haven’t read a book by Ms. Cahoon, what are you waiting for? Get our Cozy on and find out what you’ve been missing out on…this is a greta one to start with too and each reads fine as a stand alone!
September 6, 2022
Ms. Cahoon has done it again in this fourteenth book in her Tourist Trap cozy mystery series. From the first page to the end I was completely absorbed into the story.
An intricate plot with plenty of twists, several red herrings that unfortunately worked for me and led me off the path until the the the reveal. I enjoy visiting South Cove and catching up with the residents and CBM employees throughout the story. There were some interest side stories throughout the book but they never detracted from the main story line but added more depth to the employees and residents of South Cove.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Publishing via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
An intricate plot with plenty of twists, several red herrings that unfortunately worked for me and led me off the path until the the the reveal. I enjoy visiting South Cove and catching up with the residents and CBM employees throughout the story. There were some interest side stories throughout the book but they never detracted from the main story line but added more depth to the employees and residents of South Cove.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Publishing via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
September 17, 2022
ill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More, is newly engaged to South Cove police detective Greg King. They've taken a much-needed and rare vacation, since they never seem to get any time away from their jobs. The plan was to enjoy the weekend and plan their wedding. But before they can even get the conversation going, Greg gets a call from one of his deputy's about a man who walks into the station with a stab wound in his stomach. By the time Greg arrives, the man is dead, but no one knows who he is and he doesn't have any identification.
When Jill, who has called her best friend Amy to join her at the hotel, arrives home, she finds her employee Evie in a state. It seems Evie's ex-husband is harassing her and again Jill asks for the help of the police to keep him at bay. But she knows she needs help at the store, and her own life isn't calm as developer Max Winter is still after her home; she can't do her daily run with a killer on the loose; and things in South Cove seem to be going crosswise. How can she plan a wedding when all this is happening -- and the killer might be after her next?
This is the fourteenth book in the series and I have read them all, savoring one after another. Ms. Cahoon has had no problem bringing me to the town of South Cove; the problem is I never want to leave after I finish the book. I find the characters believable and the descriptions of the town delightful; I enjoy every visit and can't wait to crawl back between the pages of the next book.
In this book there is a lot going on -- with what I've mentioned above -- and Jill and Greg are finding it hard to get any time together. Jill is learning what it's like to be a cop's wife while running her own business; at least she has good employees to back her (even if she knows she needs more). There's the fall festival coming up, and she wants everything to be solved (but maybe it won't be) by the time it rolls around. She's also trying a new craft (one I've been doing since I was about eight at the feet of my mother teaching me) and she's frustrated regarding that, too, but still plugging away.
When her employee's ex starts stalking Jill, too, she's about had enough, and that's all it takes for her to decide this is over. But watching it play out is the best part, and the end is definitely full of surprises (nice ones) that left me feeling pleased. So pleased that I want to jump into the next book (hurry, please?) soon. Highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
When Jill, who has called her best friend Amy to join her at the hotel, arrives home, she finds her employee Evie in a state. It seems Evie's ex-husband is harassing her and again Jill asks for the help of the police to keep him at bay. But she knows she needs help at the store, and her own life isn't calm as developer Max Winter is still after her home; she can't do her daily run with a killer on the loose; and things in South Cove seem to be going crosswise. How can she plan a wedding when all this is happening -- and the killer might be after her next?
This is the fourteenth book in the series and I have read them all, savoring one after another. Ms. Cahoon has had no problem bringing me to the town of South Cove; the problem is I never want to leave after I finish the book. I find the characters believable and the descriptions of the town delightful; I enjoy every visit and can't wait to crawl back between the pages of the next book.
In this book there is a lot going on -- with what I've mentioned above -- and Jill and Greg are finding it hard to get any time together. Jill is learning what it's like to be a cop's wife while running her own business; at least she has good employees to back her (even if she knows she needs more). There's the fall festival coming up, and she wants everything to be solved (but maybe it won't be) by the time it rolls around. She's also trying a new craft (one I've been doing since I was about eight at the feet of my mother teaching me) and she's frustrated regarding that, too, but still plugging away.
When her employee's ex starts stalking Jill, too, she's about had enough, and that's all it takes for her to decide this is over. But watching it play out is the best part, and the end is definitely full of surprises (nice ones) that left me feeling pleased. So pleased that I want to jump into the next book (hurry, please?) soon. Highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
September 16, 2022
This is the 14th book in the Tourist Trap Mystery Series and my first. I was able to read the book as a standalone. I hope at one point I'll be able to go back and read the rest of the series.
Jill Gardner is a former attorney and now bookshop owner in South Cove, California. She is engaged to Greg King the local detective/chief of the small tourist town. They go on a mini vacation to the next town and stay at the local B&B. Their vacation is cut short when a man arrives at the police station stabbed and dies.
Greg has difficulty finding out who the man is and who killed him. He tries to keep Jill from investigating. But when one of their baristas is being harassed by her ex-husband. Jill decides to step in and help.
This was a fun cozy mystery. I had no clue who the bad guys were and enjoyed all the characters. I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series.
Jill Gardner is a former attorney and now bookshop owner in South Cove, California. She is engaged to Greg King the local detective/chief of the small tourist town. They go on a mini vacation to the next town and stay at the local B&B. Their vacation is cut short when a man arrives at the police station stabbed and dies.
Greg has difficulty finding out who the man is and who killed him. He tries to keep Jill from investigating. But when one of their baristas is being harassed by her ex-husband. Jill decides to step in and help.
This was a fun cozy mystery. I had no clue who the bad guys were and enjoyed all the characters. I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series.
September 11, 2022
"A Vacation to Die For” the 14th instalment in the "Tourist Trap” Mystery series by Lynn Cahoon. This is one of my favourite cozy mystery series!
In the California coastal town of South Cove, Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More, discovers that wedding planning can be murder . . .
As always I love visiting South Cove, California and Coffee, Books & More. I love the main set of characters Jill, Amy, Aunt Jackie, Greg, Toby, Deek, Evie and now Judith as part of the CBM family. We also get to know the new Pirates Yarn shop owner more , she will be a good addition I think.
As for the mystery I found it to be well plotted and it moved along at a steady pace. There were only a few suspects for the murder but you still find yourself second guessing on who the murderer can be. Overall I found this to be a great story.
I can’t wait for the next instalment to come out.
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
In the California coastal town of South Cove, Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More, discovers that wedding planning can be murder . . .
As always I love visiting South Cove, California and Coffee, Books & More. I love the main set of characters Jill, Amy, Aunt Jackie, Greg, Toby, Deek, Evie and now Judith as part of the CBM family. We also get to know the new Pirates Yarn shop owner more , she will be a good addition I think.
As for the mystery I found it to be well plotted and it moved along at a steady pace. There were only a few suspects for the murder but you still find yourself second guessing on who the murderer can be. Overall I found this to be a great story.
I can’t wait for the next instalment to come out.
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 5, 2022
When you run a busy bookstore and your fiancé is a police detective getting any vacation time together needs meticulous planning. So when Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More and Detective Greg King finally get away for the weekend neither of them are overly surprised when he has to leave early.
A dead body on the doorstep of the police station is only the start of Greg’s problems, an ID would be good and if he could keep Jill from helping he would be a lot happier. People talk to her however, and all she ever wants is to make things easier for everyone close to her, but sometimes that isn't enough to prevent danger from coming to call.
I love this series and in book 14 all the main protagonists are involved in a case which has no easy answers. I enjoyed working it all out as it went along and hope there will be more to come before too long.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a good continuation of a lovely series.
A dead body on the doorstep of the police station is only the start of Greg’s problems, an ID would be good and if he could keep Jill from helping he would be a lot happier. People talk to her however, and all she ever wants is to make things easier for everyone close to her, but sometimes that isn't enough to prevent danger from coming to call.
I love this series and in book 14 all the main protagonists are involved in a case which has no easy answers. I enjoyed working it all out as it went along and hope there will be more to come before too long.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a good continuation of a lovely series.
August 5, 2022
A Vacation to Die For by Lynn Cahoon is book #14 in the Tourist Trap Mystery series. In this latest edition amateur sleuth Jill Gardner and her fiance, police detective Greg King, have their mini vacation in a nearby resort interrupted by a murder back in their hometown of South Cove. The victim has no ID on him so this is a tough murder case to solve. Jill tries to stay out of it but fails. I love this couple. Jill is good at figuring out clues and Greg is an excellent police detective. I enjoy all the happenings in South Cove and how all the residents help each other out. This book was a fast-paced, can't-put-down read for me and I can't wait to see what Ms. Cahoon has in store for her readers in the next book.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
December 18, 2023
I will never be able to get enough of this series. Never gets old. Keeps me entertained. I love it! I would just like to go to Coffee, Books and More and spend time with Jill, Evie, Deek and the lovely Judith. Have good conversation and have a delicious treat. Now that would be amazing.:]
August 19, 2022
If charactered-centric cozy mysteries are your cup of tea, A Vacation to Die For is the perfect book for you. I loved it! A visit to South Cove always makes my day and A Vacation to Die For offered one of my favorite visits. This 14th novel in Lynn Cahoon’s Tourist Trap Mystery series has a challenging mystery or two, but its focus in on the great people who work with Jill at Coffee, Books, and More and their friends makes it especially fun. Jill and Greg finally get that mini vacation to plan their wedding, but naturally, Greg is called back to deal with the murder of an unidentified man. This might be Greg’s toughest case, but that leaves little for Jill to work with, not that that keeps her from thinking about the mystery, but she is more focused on helping one of her new employees who is being harassed by her ex-husband and his family. The comradery of the coffee/bookshop and within the community is what most draws me to this series so A Vacation to Die For is a just-right read for me.
I want to thank NetGalley and Lyrical Press for approving my request for an ARC. I pre-ordered the book because I loved this series; I requested an ARC because I cannot wait to get my hands on books from this series. Not only was I not disappointed, I think it is the best book in the series. That is a tough call so I can't say it 100%
#NetGalley #LyricalPress #LynnCahoon #ATouristTrapMystery #AVacationtoDieFor
I want to thank NetGalley and Lyrical Press for approving my request for an ARC. I pre-ordered the book because I loved this series; I requested an ARC because I cannot wait to get my hands on books from this series. Not only was I not disappointed, I think it is the best book in the series. That is a tough call so I can't say it 100%
#NetGalley #LyricalPress #LynnCahoon #ATouristTrapMystery #AVacationtoDieFor
September 23, 2022
Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More is hustling her fiancé off to a neighboring tourist town to plan her nuptials. But when a mystery man turns up dead at South Cove’s PD, Greg is hightailing it back home to investigate, leaving Jill to finish the vacation solo. She can barely get in a spa day before her own respite is spoiled by a greedy hotel guest and unexpected revelations about Max Winter, the developer conniving to buy her home out from under her. Then there’s the strange men seen lurking about town, and an aggressive and obnoxious family member harassing Jill’s employee. Could all these happenings be connected? Can Jill find the truth before a killer finds her?
This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I love Jill and her coffee/book shop. I enjoy reading about her investigations. I love Greg and his relationship with her. They make a great team and I hope that we get to see them married and working together to solve mysteries. The plot to this mystery was very confounding. I kept on thinking I knew who the killer was, but I was surprised in the end. I can’t wait to read the next installment. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this advanced reader’s copy. This review is my unbiased opinion.
This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I love Jill and her coffee/book shop. I enjoy reading about her investigations. I love Greg and his relationship with her. They make a great team and I hope that we get to see them married and working together to solve mysteries. The plot to this mystery was very confounding. I kept on thinking I knew who the killer was, but I was surprised in the end. I can’t wait to read the next installment. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this advanced reader’s copy. This review is my unbiased opinion.
September 8, 2022
A Vacation to Die For by Lynn Cahoon is a Tourist Trap Mystery and takes us back to South Cove where we reunite with our friends there. Jill and Greg are now engaged and beginning to plan a wedding. Amy and Justin are married and having a few problems adjusting. Deek is working hard on his novel and Evie is beginning to plan to start school in the fall. She is excited to be going back to college after her horrendous marriage and divorce. There is a new business in town: a yarn shop, and even Jill plans to attend, learn how to crochet, and make come blanket for NICU babies. The goal for the project is 100 blankets, although knowing Jill and crafts, she’ll be lucky if she makes one. Jill and Greg have taken a trip up the coast just to get a couple of days away. Of course, Greg is called back early. It seems a man who had been stabbed, entered the police station and died in the entry. No one knew who he was. Jill had Amy join her for the last couple of days and they had a girls’ weekend. It was fun.
This dead man contributed to the complications around Emma’s clock. Her father-in-law had given it to her and now her sister-in-law, Becky, and ex-husband wanted it back. That was not happening but things got scary for Evie. She found John, the ex, watching her and waiting for her. They both made threats. Then one night when she was in the shop alone, Becky came into threaten her some more and there ended up being a fight with Evie on the floor. Toby was right there to help. There is so much more to this book, including some heavy-handed offers to buy her house, several new friends, and a murder threat. The mystery was pretty good, although Jill didn’t get as involved as she does sometimes. It was a fun read.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of A Vacation to Die For by Kensington, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Kensington #LynnCahoon #AVacationToDieFor
This dead man contributed to the complications around Emma’s clock. Her father-in-law had given it to her and now her sister-in-law, Becky, and ex-husband wanted it back. That was not happening but things got scary for Evie. She found John, the ex, watching her and waiting for her. They both made threats. Then one night when she was in the shop alone, Becky came into threaten her some more and there ended up being a fight with Evie on the floor. Toby was right there to help. There is so much more to this book, including some heavy-handed offers to buy her house, several new friends, and a murder threat. The mystery was pretty good, although Jill didn’t get as involved as she does sometimes. It was a fun read.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of A Vacation to Die For by Kensington, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Kensington #LynnCahoon #AVacationToDieFor
August 7, 2022
Back for the fourteenth book in the series, Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books and More in South Cove, finds herself pulled into the investigation when a body is found in town. Up to her usual tricks, Jill uncovers the killer before anyone else and finds herself in danger once again.
I have read and enjoyed this series from the very beginning and this newest mystery was no exception. A Vacation to Die for is a great addition to the Tourist Trap Mystery series. I’m a big fan of the South Cove setting, the characters and the mysteries in this series themselves. This series is great for cozy mystery fans and I would definitely recommend giving it a try. If you are okay with missing out in a little character background information, I also think this mystery could be read on its own. I hope you give this book a chance, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
I have read and enjoyed this series from the very beginning and this newest mystery was no exception. A Vacation to Die for is a great addition to the Tourist Trap Mystery series. I’m a big fan of the South Cove setting, the characters and the mysteries in this series themselves. This series is great for cozy mystery fans and I would definitely recommend giving it a try. If you are okay with missing out in a little character background information, I also think this mystery could be read on its own. I hope you give this book a chance, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
August 9, 2022
Another great tourist trap mystery. Jill and Greg take a much needed vacation to a B&B in a near by town. It does not start off well as a developer who has been hounding them to buy Jill's house shows up. It is made even worse when Greg gets called back home for a murder. When Jill gets back she finds that Evie is being stalked by her ex husband and his sister over an old clock her father in law left her, As Jill tries and fails to stay out of Greg's investigation and help Evie, she once again ends up in the wrong place at the wrong time.
This is a must read series for anyone who loves mysteries and bookstores.
I received this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a must read series for anyone who loves mysteries and bookstores.
I received this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2022
I have enjoyed the Tourist Trap Mystery Series by Lynn Cahoon and was excited to be a goodreads giveaway winner for A Vacation to Die For. Jill Gardner and her fiancé Greg planned a mini vacation at a resort to have the time to just focus on their wedding plans. Naturally their plans are interrupted by a murder. There are many suspects and side stories from both friends, family and new individuals that end up surprisingly tying together that helped solve the murder. Looking forward to the next book in the series as I am hoping to read more about Jill and Greg's wedding plans!
I won a free ebook copy being a Goodreads Giveaway winner!
I won a free ebook copy being a Goodreads Giveaway winner!
January 4, 2023
This entry in series continues the development of supporting characters. Jill and her fiance, the police chief, try to get away for the weekend, but a murder calls the chief back to town. Jill continues her trip with a friend who seems to be having marriage issues. However, Jill overhears a very disturbing conversation at the inn that may tie to the murder. As the story develops, Jill continues to interact with about a half dozen characters who work at her shop or live in the village. Eventually, the murderer is caught and we await the next installment in the series.
May 30, 2023
I really enjoy this series. Tourist Trap mystery is one of my all time favorites. I was sad to see not much Toby in this one or Jill's Aunt. But the whole concept of the story really keep me guessing and I enjoyed all the community interaction. Reading this series is always like coming home. I can't recommend it enough.
October 11, 2022
Really enjoyed this cozy mystery. It’s set in a fun, small town near the sea with some interesting characters. I could relate to the characters and especially the main one since I love book stores. I recommend it to all cozy book lovers.
Note: free copy given to me for an honest review.
Note: free copy given to me for an honest review.
February 28, 2023
A great series
I really enjoy this series. Fourteen books in and it still has spunk and pizazz. My only complaint is I wish it would mention the titles of every book Jill reads. I bet we could all get some inspiration from her reading list.
I loved the introduction of a few new characters. One I hope we see randomly throughout. She seems like she could use the world of Jill and friends.
Aunt Jackie makes a couple of appearances but marriage seems to have mellowed her a bit. That’s a good thing.
The murder investigation kept me on my toes guessing. A good solid ending.
I really enjoy this series. Fourteen books in and it still has spunk and pizazz. My only complaint is I wish it would mention the titles of every book Jill reads. I bet we could all get some inspiration from her reading list.
I loved the introduction of a few new characters. One I hope we see randomly throughout. She seems like she could use the world of Jill and friends.
Aunt Jackie makes a couple of appearances but marriage seems to have mellowed her a bit. That’s a good thing.
The murder investigation kept me on my toes guessing. A good solid ending.
March 26, 2025
Jill and Greg can’t go on a vacation without Greg being called back for a murder. This time her new hire is facing family issues. This person was given a clock by her former father in law and her ex and his sister want it, but why?
This is an intriguing mystery with plenty of twists.
I enjoy these wonderful characters and the narrator help bring them to life.
This is an intriguing mystery with plenty of twists.
I enjoy these wonderful characters and the narrator help bring them to life.
September 9, 2022
I really enjoyed this 14th entry in the Tourist Trap Mystery series!
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