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Chloe Jackson, Sea Glass Saloon Mystery #4
Rum and Choke
Sherry Harris gives readers a new adventure to dive into with the latest installment of her Florida-set mystery series, as local bartender Chloe Jackson’s search for treasure shores up the dead body of a contestant in the upcoming Panhandle Barback Games...
The Florida Panhandle Barback Games are coming up and Chloe’s been drafted to represent the Sea Glass Saloon—competing in various obstacle-course events that conclude with rolling an empty keg up a hill. The rivalries are so fierce that some of the participating bars even stoop to bringing in ringers.
Meanwhile, Chloe’s friend Ann—a descendant of the famed pirate Jean Lafitte—asks her to come along for a boat ride as Ann dives into the Gulf of Mexico. She’s found some old papers that may identify the location of sunken treasure. Instead, she finds a sunken body—of one of the ringers hired for the Barback Games. Now that murder is in the mix, Chloe has to figure out whether one of the competitors went overboard . . .
The Florida Panhandle Barback Games are coming up and Chloe’s been drafted to represent the Sea Glass Saloon—competing in various obstacle-course events that conclude with rolling an empty keg up a hill. The rivalries are so fierce that some of the participating bars even stoop to bringing in ringers.
Meanwhile, Chloe’s friend Ann—a descendant of the famed pirate Jean Lafitte—asks her to come along for a boat ride as Ann dives into the Gulf of Mexico. She’s found some old papers that may identify the location of sunken treasure. Instead, she finds a sunken body—of one of the ringers hired for the Barback Games. Now that murder is in the mix, Chloe has to figure out whether one of the competitors went overboard . . .
316 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 27, 2022
40 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
About the author
Sherry Harris
20 books602 followersSherry Harris is the Agatha Award nominated author of the Sarah Winston Garage Sale mystery series and the Chloe Jackson Sea Glass Saloon mysteries. Sherry is a past president of Sisters in Crime and a member of Mystery Writers of America. Sherry loves books, beaches, bars, and bargain hunting — not necessarily in that order. She is also a patent holding inventor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
December 15, 2022
This is such a fun series set in the Florida Panhandle with the emerald waters and sugar sands, where the tourists love to flock, and the locals are a close community. Chloe Jackson, part owner of the Sea Glass Saloon is going to be in the local barback competition, and she has some tough competitors. When one is found dead by Chloe and friend, Ann, who was diving in the spot, it is very suspicious. How did they manage to find a body where Ann was diving and actually found the body where she is looking for a family treasure? This is another great addition to the series with Chloe and Ann working together with Ann's employee/bodyguard/friend Dex to find answers. Emerald Cove is a great setting with great characters, the Sea Glass crew along with the local business owners and not to forget Kip, Chloe's hunky boyfriend. This mystery has a twist that I really didn't see coming. Recommended for cozy mystery lovers who enjoy a beach setting. I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review from Kensington Books and NetGalley. All thoughts are mine only.
December 25, 2022
Sherry Harris is one of my favorite cozy mystery writers and every book I read by her solidifies that just a little more. This series is fun, set in Florida at a bar in a small town. Chloe Jackson is a fun protagonist, I like that her relationship is progressing, even if I’m not sure we’ve seen enough of them together to buy how strong/fast that relationship is going. It’s much better than the typical dangling of several options for books on end. Chloe is helping Ann who found some maps that she hopes will lead her to find a ship her pirate ancestor wrecked. But instead of a treasure or a wreck they find a dead body. And unfortunately they both have pretty good motives are definitely persons of interest on this one. The side story in this one was a little silly but a lot of fun. I will definitely keep reading this series!
December 28, 2022
Chloe Jackson has been drafted to represent the Sea Glass Saloon in the Barback Games. This annual tradition, a multi stage competition that includes physical and bar related contests, sounds fun until she meets some of her competition – ringers brought in to represent other bars. Meanwhile, her friend Ann asks Chloe to go with her as Ann tries to find a pirate ship sunk long ago. The first morning out ends abruptly when Ann finds a dead body – one of the Barback Games ringers. What is going on?
Sherry Harris is one of my favorite mystery writers, and this book is a perfect example why. With all of the storylines, this book has more than enough to keep us engaged. Yet, it doesn’t unfold in a traditional cozy way, which is a wonderful thing. Chloe pieces everything together for a great climax. It was nice getting to know Ann better, and Chloe is continuing to grow as well. The rest of the returning characters are charming, and the new characters fit in perfectly. I’m not a drinker, so I might have passed up this series if anyone else were writing it. But I’m so glad I started reading it. Whether this is your first visit with Chloe or you already love her, you’ll enjoy this book.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Sherry Harris is one of my favorite mystery writers, and this book is a perfect example why. With all of the storylines, this book has more than enough to keep us engaged. Yet, it doesn’t unfold in a traditional cozy way, which is a wonderful thing. Chloe pieces everything together for a great climax. It was nice getting to know Ann better, and Chloe is continuing to grow as well. The rest of the returning characters are charming, and the new characters fit in perfectly. I’m not a drinker, so I might have passed up this series if anyone else were writing it. But I’m so glad I started reading it. Whether this is your first visit with Chloe or you already love her, you’ll enjoy this book.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
October 23, 2022
A brilliant plot! A blast to read! I love the fun cover!
It’s April in Emerald Cove, Florida, and business is booming inside the trendy tiki hut; the Sea Glass Saloon. Co-owner, Vivi Slidell, and head bartender, Joaquin Diaz, have signed up co-owner, waitress, and barback, Chloe Jackson (the protagonist) to compete in the first annual Florida Panhandle Barback Games which is 10 days away. Turns out, Chloe is up against some stiff competitors who have more experience than she does, and…dark pasts that put Chloe in danger.
When Chloe accompanies her mysterious friend, Ann Williams on a treasure dive and Ann finds one of the competitors bodies below the surface; it quickly becomes obvious both women are in danger, being watched, and the reasons why begin to unfold in this amazing story!
I enjoyed the comraderie of the saloon employees; the Oceanside setting; the great cast of characters; the originality of the plot; and all the exciting danger scenes and humorous narrative in all the right places! Ann is a cool character whom I’ve never quite figured out how she’s so wealthy or what she does with all her time; but I really like her.
As the story begins to reveal the secrets to the murder and other mystery components, Author Harris hints at secrets to anticipate in future books. I’m ready and waiting! I highly recommend “Rum and Choke”, and each previous novel in this exciting series.
I honestly reviewed an unedited arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. All opinions are my own.
It’s April in Emerald Cove, Florida, and business is booming inside the trendy tiki hut; the Sea Glass Saloon. Co-owner, Vivi Slidell, and head bartender, Joaquin Diaz, have signed up co-owner, waitress, and barback, Chloe Jackson (the protagonist) to compete in the first annual Florida Panhandle Barback Games which is 10 days away. Turns out, Chloe is up against some stiff competitors who have more experience than she does, and…dark pasts that put Chloe in danger.
When Chloe accompanies her mysterious friend, Ann Williams on a treasure dive and Ann finds one of the competitors bodies below the surface; it quickly becomes obvious both women are in danger, being watched, and the reasons why begin to unfold in this amazing story!
I enjoyed the comraderie of the saloon employees; the Oceanside setting; the great cast of characters; the originality of the plot; and all the exciting danger scenes and humorous narrative in all the right places! Ann is a cool character whom I’ve never quite figured out how she’s so wealthy or what she does with all her time; but I really like her.
As the story begins to reveal the secrets to the murder and other mystery components, Author Harris hints at secrets to anticipate in future books. I’m ready and waiting! I highly recommend “Rum and Choke”, and each previous novel in this exciting series.
I honestly reviewed an unedited arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. All opinions are my own.
October 30, 2022
Review coming soon.
February 21, 2023
Another enjoyable entry in one of my favorite mystery series. Chloe is really getting settled in her new life in the Florida Panhandle. Her coworkers have drafted her to represent the Sea Glass Saloon in the annual barback games, a fun competition that includes running while holding beer glasses and pushing a keg uphill in the sand. One of her competitors is found murdered and Chloe and her friend Ann are the main suspects. This is a lot of fun with sunken treasure, a great mystery and a growing romance. I can't wait for the next one.
October 17, 2022
Publication Dec. 27, 2022
The song "Shades of Gray" ran through my mind as I finished this book and thought about it a bit. There are so many different elements within to ponder, ranging from venturing out of your comfort zone, taking a chance on love, and that gray area of what is truth. As Chloe discovers, none of these are quite as simple as they seem.
The story begins simply enough, well, aside from the pressure that Vivi and Joaquin's decision to enter her in the highly competitive local bar contest creates. How competitive? Competitive enough that some of the local bars have hired ringers for a month to prepare to represent their businesses. I mean, Wonder Woman's stunt double? Chloe, who is a regular runner, decides to go along with the idea, especially since Joaquin, who won four years ago but won't be eligible to re-enter for another year, says he'll be coaching her.
What no one planned on, however, was Enrique, one of the ringers, being found dead. Chloe and Ann, a descendant of famed pirate Jean Lafitte, both find themselves on the suspect list. There's a search for a sunken pirate ship and treasure, too, in the mix. We also learn quite a bit about life on the Gulf coast, mixing drinks, pirate lore, and how far some might go to protect others.
For me, the strongest point of the book was the characters, however. Chloe is strong and steady, but terrified of thunder/lightning storms. If she makes a promise, she keeps it, even if it's to her detriment. She's also vulnerable in the sense of being wary of mentioning her growing love for fire-figher Rip. In other words, she comes across as a real person with strengths and weaknesses.
Her friends, from take the take-no-prisoners Vivi, who co-owns the Sea Glass Saloon with Chloe and seems to have a hot line to the governor, and Joaquin, steady-as-a-rock bartender and friend, are likable and I hope to get more of their stories in later books. Ann remains a bit of a mystery to me but, well, she's a bit of a mystery to Chloe, so that is probably intentional. I'm sure we'll hear more of her as the series goes along, not to mention her fascinating tidbits on pirate lore.
Bottom line, this book is a winner and works nicely as a stand-alone. It left me pondering the question of what is truth and is omission an untruth, and any book that leaves me thinking is a winner in my book. As I said above, "Shades of Gray". Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me along to watch Chloe roll a beer keg up that sandy slope.
The song "Shades of Gray" ran through my mind as I finished this book and thought about it a bit. There are so many different elements within to ponder, ranging from venturing out of your comfort zone, taking a chance on love, and that gray area of what is truth. As Chloe discovers, none of these are quite as simple as they seem.
The story begins simply enough, well, aside from the pressure that Vivi and Joaquin's decision to enter her in the highly competitive local bar contest creates. How competitive? Competitive enough that some of the local bars have hired ringers for a month to prepare to represent their businesses. I mean, Wonder Woman's stunt double? Chloe, who is a regular runner, decides to go along with the idea, especially since Joaquin, who won four years ago but won't be eligible to re-enter for another year, says he'll be coaching her.
What no one planned on, however, was Enrique, one of the ringers, being found dead. Chloe and Ann, a descendant of famed pirate Jean Lafitte, both find themselves on the suspect list. There's a search for a sunken pirate ship and treasure, too, in the mix. We also learn quite a bit about life on the Gulf coast, mixing drinks, pirate lore, and how far some might go to protect others.
For me, the strongest point of the book was the characters, however. Chloe is strong and steady, but terrified of thunder/lightning storms. If she makes a promise, she keeps it, even if it's to her detriment. She's also vulnerable in the sense of being wary of mentioning her growing love for fire-figher Rip. In other words, she comes across as a real person with strengths and weaknesses.
Her friends, from take the take-no-prisoners Vivi, who co-owns the Sea Glass Saloon with Chloe and seems to have a hot line to the governor, and Joaquin, steady-as-a-rock bartender and friend, are likable and I hope to get more of their stories in later books. Ann remains a bit of a mystery to me but, well, she's a bit of a mystery to Chloe, so that is probably intentional. I'm sure we'll hear more of her as the series goes along, not to mention her fascinating tidbits on pirate lore.
Bottom line, this book is a winner and works nicely as a stand-alone. It left me pondering the question of what is truth and is omission an untruth, and any book that leaves me thinking is a winner in my book. As I said above, "Shades of Gray". Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me along to watch Chloe roll a beer keg up that sandy slope.
January 6, 2023
Dollycas’s Thoughts
We are back in Emerald Cove, Florida just in time to witness Chloe Jackson train for the upcoming Barback Games. The obstacle course can be tough and the trophy is such a coveted prize some of the bars have brought in ringers. Vivi Slidell the saloon’s co-owner and head bartender Joaquin Diaz both encourage Chloe to take the day off and check out the competition.
Chloe has also been asked by Vivi’s friend Ann to help her with a project regarding some hidden treasure linked to her family history. Instead of finding treasure, they find the dead body of one of the ringers brought in to participate in the Barback Games.
So while searching for sunken treasure with Ann they are also searching for a killer. Suddenly pushing a keg up a hill doesn’t seem so hard.
What a fantastic story!
I loved that Ann Williams who claims to be a descendant of the famous pirate Jean Lafitte was given a starring role in this installment. She is known as a “fixer” in the area and until now has been pretty mysterious. The fact that she asked Chloe to help her was very interesting. Chloe becomes a loyal friend really fast especially when they find themselves in dire straights.
Chloe has really grown over the course of this series. She and Vivi co-owing the Sea Glass Saloon has opened up a ton of possibilities. They have learned how to work together very well. Throw Joaquin into the works and they all make a great team. I am so happy that they have realized they need to hire more help. Chloe’s interview techniques had me laughing out loud. The other thing that makes me happy is Chloe’s relationship with Rip. It is evolving at a perfect pace.
Miss Harris really pulled out the stops when she penned the mysteries in this book. The mystery of a sunken pirate ship grabbed my attention right away. The subplot has several nice twists and a moment that stopped my heart. The murder mystery was compelling as well. Chloe did her best to link all the clues together and my oh my that final twist was a doozy.
Everything I have read by Ms. Harris has been fun and entertaining. Rum and Choke is just the latest in a group of wonderful reads. Her characters are well-developed, the mysteries are complex and even when it’s raining the setting is superb, especially when the snow is flying here in Wisconsin.
I am really excited for the next book in this series because the author has dropped a few breadcrumbs of probable coming events and the last line of the book had me grinning ear to ear.
We are back in Emerald Cove, Florida just in time to witness Chloe Jackson train for the upcoming Barback Games. The obstacle course can be tough and the trophy is such a coveted prize some of the bars have brought in ringers. Vivi Slidell the saloon’s co-owner and head bartender Joaquin Diaz both encourage Chloe to take the day off and check out the competition.
Chloe has also been asked by Vivi’s friend Ann to help her with a project regarding some hidden treasure linked to her family history. Instead of finding treasure, they find the dead body of one of the ringers brought in to participate in the Barback Games.
So while searching for sunken treasure with Ann they are also searching for a killer. Suddenly pushing a keg up a hill doesn’t seem so hard.
What a fantastic story!
I loved that Ann Williams who claims to be a descendant of the famous pirate Jean Lafitte was given a starring role in this installment. She is known as a “fixer” in the area and until now has been pretty mysterious. The fact that she asked Chloe to help her was very interesting. Chloe becomes a loyal friend really fast especially when they find themselves in dire straights.
Chloe has really grown over the course of this series. She and Vivi co-owing the Sea Glass Saloon has opened up a ton of possibilities. They have learned how to work together very well. Throw Joaquin into the works and they all make a great team. I am so happy that they have realized they need to hire more help. Chloe’s interview techniques had me laughing out loud. The other thing that makes me happy is Chloe’s relationship with Rip. It is evolving at a perfect pace.
Miss Harris really pulled out the stops when she penned the mysteries in this book. The mystery of a sunken pirate ship grabbed my attention right away. The subplot has several nice twists and a moment that stopped my heart. The murder mystery was compelling as well. Chloe did her best to link all the clues together and my oh my that final twist was a doozy.
Everything I have read by Ms. Harris has been fun and entertaining. Rum and Choke is just the latest in a group of wonderful reads. Her characters are well-developed, the mysteries are complex and even when it’s raining the setting is superb, especially when the snow is flying here in Wisconsin.
I am really excited for the next book in this series because the author has dropped a few breadcrumbs of probable coming events and the last line of the book had me grinning ear to ear.
August 25, 2022
Chloe Jackson goes to work one morning and discovers that her boss, Vivi, and her coworker Joaquin have signed her up for the Barback Games. It's a competitive game, so much so that some of the other bars in the area have hired ringers -- professional athletes -- for the competition. This doesn't sit well with Vivi, and she wants Chloe to go undercover and check them out. But instead one of them, Enrique, seems to be checking out Chloe.
Once the three she's been visiting discover who she is, they come to the Sea Glass to confront her. But her friend Ann Williams is there also -- and she recognizes Enrique from a long time ago when he assaulted her. Things don't look good for either of them, so Ann leaves. But later Ann asks Chloe if she'll come with her as support when she plans a dive to find an old shipwreck of her ancestor, pirate Jean Lafitte. Instead of finding sunken treasure, she finds a sunken body, and now both Chloe and Ann are persons of interest in death.
Trying not to make things worse for herself, she continues to help Ann on her personal quest and finds not only murder, but intrigue, suspicions, secrets, and break-ins along with adventure and excitement. Wanting to stay above the law, but caught in the web of Ann's life, she wants to be part of this exploration also.
Then there's also the fact that she's falling for Rip, and hard. Does she tell him or allow things to go as slow as they have been? Not wanting to keep her involvement in the shipwreck from him, but not wanting to break a promise to Ann has her warring with herself. Which one will win out in the end? And will she finally be charged in the murder?...
This is the fourth book in the series, and I have read them all. This just might be the best one of the group. I was as drawn to the action as Chloe was herself. Watching her try to juggle her relationship, her involvement in the Barback Games and the lure of the excitement of finding a pirate ship was enough in itself, but the murder only added to it. She's determined to find the killer, because if she doesn't, she could be sent away for complicity in the crime.
There's so much going on, but it's all easy enough to keep straight; nothing overlaps so much that you can't follow the action. And there's plenty of that. My favorite, of course, would be looking for the pirate ship (who wouldn't want to?) but we must solve the murder first. Who would want to kill this person? It turns out that plenty of people would. Their past seemed to follow them, and they left unhappy people behind (I will say no more as to not spoil the book for others as to whom the dead person might be).
We learn slightly more about Ann in this book, and I have always found her an intriguing character, so of course I was interested; but not enough to give us everything, leaving her with her secrets. This is as it should be.
When the ending comes and the killer is revealed, it's both sad and understandable; while there is no excuse for killing, sometimes we need to think things out. And yet -- the ending gives us something very good to look forward to, and makes us want to read the next in the series now. If you haven't read this series before, you can start with this book, but it would be better if you read the first in the series, From Beer To Eternity. Highly recommended.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
Once the three she's been visiting discover who she is, they come to the Sea Glass to confront her. But her friend Ann Williams is there also -- and she recognizes Enrique from a long time ago when he assaulted her. Things don't look good for either of them, so Ann leaves. But later Ann asks Chloe if she'll come with her as support when she plans a dive to find an old shipwreck of her ancestor, pirate Jean Lafitte. Instead of finding sunken treasure, she finds a sunken body, and now both Chloe and Ann are persons of interest in death.
Trying not to make things worse for herself, she continues to help Ann on her personal quest and finds not only murder, but intrigue, suspicions, secrets, and break-ins along with adventure and excitement. Wanting to stay above the law, but caught in the web of Ann's life, she wants to be part of this exploration also.
Then there's also the fact that she's falling for Rip, and hard. Does she tell him or allow things to go as slow as they have been? Not wanting to keep her involvement in the shipwreck from him, but not wanting to break a promise to Ann has her warring with herself. Which one will win out in the end? And will she finally be charged in the murder?...
This is the fourth book in the series, and I have read them all. This just might be the best one of the group. I was as drawn to the action as Chloe was herself. Watching her try to juggle her relationship, her involvement in the Barback Games and the lure of the excitement of finding a pirate ship was enough in itself, but the murder only added to it. She's determined to find the killer, because if she doesn't, she could be sent away for complicity in the crime.
There's so much going on, but it's all easy enough to keep straight; nothing overlaps so much that you can't follow the action. And there's plenty of that. My favorite, of course, would be looking for the pirate ship (who wouldn't want to?) but we must solve the murder first. Who would want to kill this person? It turns out that plenty of people would. Their past seemed to follow them, and they left unhappy people behind (I will say no more as to not spoil the book for others as to whom the dead person might be).
We learn slightly more about Ann in this book, and I have always found her an intriguing character, so of course I was interested; but not enough to give us everything, leaving her with her secrets. This is as it should be.
When the ending comes and the killer is revealed, it's both sad and understandable; while there is no excuse for killing, sometimes we need to think things out. And yet -- the ending gives us something very good to look forward to, and makes us want to read the next in the series now. If you haven't read this series before, you can start with this book, but it would be better if you read the first in the series, From Beer To Eternity. Highly recommended.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
October 3, 2022
Wow! I'm not sure how the author, Sherry Harris does it! Every book in the series is stellar and while there are murders each has a different vibe. Rum and Choke reads like an adventure story while it continues to maintain a cozy mystery atmosphere. The location is a small beach town, Chloe,the amateur sleuth, a great group of friends, and is comedic in parts ,heart pounding in other parts.. a the reader feels like they are solving the mystery along with Chloe.
I am excited to be back to the Florida panhandle at the Sea Glass Saloon. This is a super engaging read. I did not guess the murderer but felt very satisfied with who, how and why at the end. I also liked the further character development of Ann.This excellent cozy mystery is 4th in the series and publishes on Dec 27, 2022
I'd like to thank NetGalley, Kensington publishers and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I am excited to be back to the Florida panhandle at the Sea Glass Saloon. This is a super engaging read. I did not guess the murderer but felt very satisfied with who, how and why at the end. I also liked the further character development of Ann.This excellent cozy mystery is 4th in the series and publishes on Dec 27, 2022
I'd like to thank NetGalley, Kensington publishers and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
March 22, 2023
4.5 stars
There is something about this series that has me hooked. I don’t know if it is the location or Chloe but whatever it is I want more.
This installment is a meatier, darker, and more intense. You think it will be light and airy centered around Chloe training for the Barback Games but it’s not. Chloe finds herself entangled in Ann’s search for treasure which leads to a body.
Ann is a character you don’t want to like but can’t help but liking her. You know she is trouble but you also know you want her in your corner. I would enjoy talking books with her. I’ve added several to my TBR mentioned throughout the series.
I look forward to seeing how Rip and Chloe’s relationship progresses. Interesting ending in this installment.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
There is something about this series that has me hooked. I don’t know if it is the location or Chloe but whatever it is I want more.
This installment is a meatier, darker, and more intense. You think it will be light and airy centered around Chloe training for the Barback Games but it’s not. Chloe finds herself entangled in Ann’s search for treasure which leads to a body.
Ann is a character you don’t want to like but can’t help but liking her. You know she is trouble but you also know you want her in your corner. I would enjoy talking books with her. I’ve added several to my TBR mentioned throughout the series.
I look forward to seeing how Rip and Chloe’s relationship progresses. Interesting ending in this installment.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
November 4, 2022
Chloe Jackson returns in the fourth outing of this engaging series set in the Sea Grass Saloon in the Florida Panhandle. Between training for the Barback Olympics and helping friend, Ann, search for sunken treasure, Chloe has her hands full. Add finding a dead body to the mix and you have the recipe for overload and a delightful nysỳttt5. Well-paced. Four and a half stars. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2023
Rum and Choke is the fourth book in the Chloe Jackson, Sea Glass Saloon Mystery series written by Sherry Harris. The reader soon meets the star of the show, children's librarian Chloe Jackson who has waved goodbye to Chicago winters and is living in warmer climes. She promised her late friend Boone that she would help out in Boone's grandma's bar, the Sea Glass Saloon, in Emerald Cove, Florida. Co-owner, Chloe is settled into her new life working with her business partner and boss, Vivi Slidell and Joaquín Diaz, head bartender, and is representing the Sea Glass Saloon in the Florida Panhandle Barback Games. Meanwhile, on a boat ride with her friend, Ann Williams, a pirate's descendant, a body is discovered; it's a professional athlete from the games.
I thought this was an excellent, really solid continuation to the series. I enjoyed reading the author's wonderful descriptions of the gorgeous beach setting and the humorous narrative. Emerald Cove sounds fabulous with its strong, vibrant touristy vibe. Sherry Harris has created a delightful set of characters, apart from Chloe herself who I find to be intelligent, funny, caring and smart. The playfulness of the games and, to a significant degree, treasure hunting, are masterfully mixed. The writing is fast-paced, and the mystery itself is very well executed, with abundant red herrings and twists to sustain my interest. All in all, a brilliant, witty instalment and I will certainly be returning to Emerald Cove to see what Chloe is getting herself into next as well as seeing how Rip and Chloe’s relationship progresses. I highly recommend Rum and Choke to those who appreciate well-written cozy mysteries.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
I thought this was an excellent, really solid continuation to the series. I enjoyed reading the author's wonderful descriptions of the gorgeous beach setting and the humorous narrative. Emerald Cove sounds fabulous with its strong, vibrant touristy vibe. Sherry Harris has created a delightful set of characters, apart from Chloe herself who I find to be intelligent, funny, caring and smart. The playfulness of the games and, to a significant degree, treasure hunting, are masterfully mixed. The writing is fast-paced, and the mystery itself is very well executed, with abundant red herrings and twists to sustain my interest. All in all, a brilliant, witty instalment and I will certainly be returning to Emerald Cove to see what Chloe is getting herself into next as well as seeing how Rip and Chloe’s relationship progresses. I highly recommend Rum and Choke to those who appreciate well-written cozy mysteries.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
January 2, 2023
Rum and Choke by Sherry Harris the 4th instalment in the "Chloe Jackson, Sea Glass Saloon Mystery" series. I loved it and couldn’t put it down, this is becoming one of my favourite series.
Local bartender Chloe Jackson’s search for treasure shores up the dead body of a contestant in the upcoming Panhandle Barback Games...
I found myself engrossed in the story and I love the setting of Emerald Cove, Florida panhandle. The way the author described it really makes me want to visit the area. Lots happening in this instalment as Chloe and Anne form a friendship, and Chloe enters the Barback Games!
I could picture myself sitting in Chloe’s screened in porch with a sweet tea and a good book or running along the beach.
The mystery and side story of sunken treasure had just enough suspects, red herrings, and twists and turns to keep you guessing till the end. I found it to be a fun fast read. I am looking forward to seeing what is next for Chloe and Rip…
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN
Local bartender Chloe Jackson’s search for treasure shores up the dead body of a contestant in the upcoming Panhandle Barback Games...
I found myself engrossed in the story and I love the setting of Emerald Cove, Florida panhandle. The way the author described it really makes me want to visit the area. Lots happening in this instalment as Chloe and Anne form a friendship, and Chloe enters the Barback Games!
I could picture myself sitting in Chloe’s screened in porch with a sweet tea and a good book or running along the beach.
The mystery and side story of sunken treasure had just enough suspects, red herrings, and twists and turns to keep you guessing till the end. I found it to be a fun fast read. I am looking forward to seeing what is next for Chloe and Rip…
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN
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December 10, 2022This is the 4th book in the Sea Glass Saloon series. I love these books. The characters are great and the writing draws you in and makes you want to keep reading and not put the book down! In the previous three books we have learned a lot about Chloe and her history, but Ann has always remained mysterious. This was a deep dive in to Ann's background and she was much more involved in this book.
Chloe is training for a barback competition, where she has to do all kinds of physical activities that are related to being a bartender. As part of her training, Chloe does recon by checking out the competition at the other bars. While all of this is going on, Ann asks her to come along on a pirate treasure hunt and Chloe just can't say no! When one of the barback competitors dies, Chloe can't help be wonder if it's tied to Ann's treasure hunting expedition.
I really enjoyed learning more about Ann and seeing Chloe's relationships grow.
Chloe is training for a barback competition, where she has to do all kinds of physical activities that are related to being a bartender. As part of her training, Chloe does recon by checking out the competition at the other bars. While all of this is going on, Ann asks her to come along on a pirate treasure hunt and Chloe just can't say no! When one of the barback competitors dies, Chloe can't help be wonder if it's tied to Ann's treasure hunting expedition.
I really enjoyed learning more about Ann and seeing Chloe's relationships grow.
December 31, 2022
Rum and Choke, the 4th book in the Sea Glass Saloon, is without a doubt my favorite book in the series. Ann has always fascinated me, so when she involves Chloe in a treasure hunt that leads to a dead body and puts them under suspicion of murder, I was thrilled to join the search. Wonderful and unique characters as well as intense mystery once again highlight a great mystery.
Sherry Harris pulls me in to every book that she writes so I really felt that I was part of all the trouble that they faced and truly cared about what happened. I love the fact that Chloe, our protagonist, is portrayed as an intelligent woman with strengths and weaknesses that I might see in my friends. I was please to get to see more of that about Ann than we had seen in any earlier book. The fact that the series reveals more about characters or allows them to make small changes is one of the many strengths that I see in Ms. Harris's writing. I love the characters and have enjoy seeing Chloe become part of the community. Even though Boone, the friend who is responsible for Chloe being in Florida, died while deployed before the series started, he feels so real that I want to get to know him better.
#NetGalley #KensingtonCozies #SherryHarris #RumandChoke #SeaGlassSaloon
Sherry Harris pulls me in to every book that she writes so I really felt that I was part of all the trouble that they faced and truly cared about what happened. I love the fact that Chloe, our protagonist, is portrayed as an intelligent woman with strengths and weaknesses that I might see in my friends. I was please to get to see more of that about Ann than we had seen in any earlier book. The fact that the series reveals more about characters or allows them to make small changes is one of the many strengths that I see in Ms. Harris's writing. I love the characters and have enjoy seeing Chloe become part of the community. Even though Boone, the friend who is responsible for Chloe being in Florida, died while deployed before the series started, he feels so real that I want to get to know him better.
#NetGalley #KensingtonCozies #SherryHarris #RumandChoke #SeaGlassSaloon
December 27, 2022
I am a sucker for competitions in cozy mysteries – cookoffs, card games, games in general – so the barback games was perfect for me; it’s a great way to introduce several big personalities at once. I loved getting to know Ann better and learning more about her family. The mystery was well-paced and I had no idea who the guilty party was until the very end. This series just keeps getting better and better.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
December 30, 2022
When Chloe's friend asks for help while looking for treasure, they both end up suspects in Emerald Cove's latest murder. Therefore, Chloe soon finds herself in some risky situations as she tries to find the actual murderer and walks a fine line between being honest with her boyfriend and keeping her word.
There is a budding friendship, a hot romance, a mystery with adventure, and a surprise ending in this story. Everything I enjoy about cozy mysteries is rolled into this one entertaining story. Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
There is a budding friendship, a hot romance, a mystery with adventure, and a surprise ending in this story. Everything I enjoy about cozy mysteries is rolled into this one entertaining story. Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 20, 2022
This one is due out in about 10 days-and fans of the series are going to LOVE IT! This is my favorite of the Chloe Jackson series-now that we know the main characters really well-Rum and Choke brings us further into a supporting character's life. The set-up of a barback competition is great fun and a perfect vehicle for this mystery, which does not go where you think it will. As always, Harris puts a lot of humor and heart into her books, but I think Rum and Choke is her best yet!
December 12, 2022
I enjoyed this story through and through! This is book #4 in the Sea Glass Saloon mystery series, and I was able to enjoy it even though I have never read any of the first three books in the series. I love the Florida setting and the ambiance of the Sea Glass Saloon with a sea view. The main character, Chloe Jackson, is very likable although she sometimes scared me because she readily trusted people whom I thought were probably less than trustworthy. There were many suspects for the murder, and the ending was a complete surprise to me. I will definitely read the first book in the series, From Beer to Eternity, and probably A Time to Swill and Three Shots to the Wind as well!
August 16, 2022
In every good series there is at least one pivotal book that opens up new worlds, experiences, and opportunities for the main character based on but beyond the foundation laid in the preceding books. Rum and Choke is just such a book for Chloe Jackson. Chloe is a wonderful character. She is intelligent, brave, loyal, and kind, with just the right balance of spunk and vulnerability to keep her interesting. After moving from the big city to a small beach town in Florida, inheriting a beach house and part of a saloon, learning to bartend, sticking her toe into the relationship pool again, and meeting a number of new and quite eclectic characters, Chloe has settled into her new life. But wait. There's more. In Rum and Choke, Chloe steps way outside her new comfort zone in all aspects of her life: work, friendship, and love. First, there is the competition that Vivi and Joaquin spring on her, and what's this about ringers and Wonder Woman? Then, there is what begins as a seemingly harmless treasure hunt. Finally, how is Rip going to respond to Chloe's new adventures? As they say, buckle up, it could be a rough ride - but only in the best sense, of course. This is a cozy.
I received a copy of this book from #Netgalley for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from #Netgalley for an honest review.
September 22, 2022
Through NetGalley, I received a free copy of RUM AND CHOKE (Book 4 of the Chloe Jackson, Sea Glass Saloon mysteries) by Sherry Harris in exchange for an honest review. There’s competition in the air, and Chloe Jackson’s friends have conned her into participating in the Florida Panhandle Barback Games. As it turns out, Chloe is the only local participating; the other businesses have pulled in ringers. Chole’s friend Ann has helped her out numerous times, so Chloe agrees to return the favor as Ann searches for pirate treasure based on some maps she recently discovered in her family papers. However, when Ann’s first dive for treasure leads to discovering the body of one of the barback ringers, it looks like Ann’s future is sunk! Chloe is now the one who must be the fixer in the relationship; Chloe must uncover the killer’s identity in order to save Ann. If she finds a little treasure along the way, it’ll be even better.
I enjoy this series and recommend it to fans of cozy mysteries featuring bar, beach, and boat themes.
#RumandChoke #NetGalley
I enjoy this series and recommend it to fans of cozy mysteries featuring bar, beach, and boat themes.
#RumandChoke #NetGalley
January 30, 2023
RUM AND CHOKE, the fourth book in author Sherry Harris's Chloe Jackson, Seaglass Saloon mystery series, kicks off with a surprise for Chloe herself. And it's quite an amusing surprise for the reader because by the end of the first chapter and the first sentence of Chapter 2, I think everyone is going to be in love with the story.
Chloe has been unknowingly entered into The Florida Panhandle Barback Games, a competition that finds most of the bars in the area hiring ringers to compete in the athletic events. But as Chloe has been settling more and more into her life working at and co-owning the Seaglass Saloon, her skills have been improving enough that both Vivi (the co-owner) and Joaquin (the other bartender) think she's ready to take part. Joaquin has even offered to train her.
But Chloe isn't exactly thrilled with being entered when she checks out the competition. They are all physical specimens way out of her league and she's sure she has no chance.
If that isn't enough, Chloe is dragged along on a boat ride with the enigmatic Ann Williams, one of the bar regulars who has a lot of secrets going on in her life. But the boat ride turns into a lot more when Chloe learns she's not only on a secret treasure hunt. And it goes from bad to worse when right at the very spot Ann is looking for the treasure, they discover a dead body!
The victim is identified as one of the ringers for the competition and suddenly both Chloe and Ann are suspects. Chloe knows she's innocent but is less sure about Ann because of all the secrets in her background. As Chloe starts looking into who might have wanted the victim dead, she learns that not only has he left a trail of broken hearts and high drama in his wake, he has a past with Ann. One that gives her a great motive for wanting him dead.
Chloe being who she is, she's not convinced Ann is guilty but she remains wary of her "friend" because of how things look. In the meantime, she's trying to get herself out from under suspicion and find the real killer. But much like when you try to find buried treasure, buried secrets have a way of revealing more than you might want to find out. Is Chloe naively protecting Ann or is someone else out there with an agenda that will leave her squarely in the path of a killer?
I mentioned the end of the first chapter and first line of Chapter 2 at the beginning of this review and I tell you, it made me laugh so much I knew right away I was going to love this book. I've liked all the books in the series so far so that part is no surprise but having it confirmed to me so early in the book was a nice surprise.
I like how the story is progressing both in this particular book but with the series as a whole. Vivi is becoming more accustomed to having Chloe around as both a business partner and a friend. Joaquin continues to be a breath of fresh air whenever he's involved in a scene. I even like the romantic subplot because it is avoiding the majority of pitfalls that would normally make me want to skip reading those parts.
With great characters, a tightly plotted mystery that offers a number of credible suspects to keep the reader guessing right to the end and a breezy feel with just the right touch of humor, RUM AND CHOKE will capture your attention right from the start and make you wish you were visiting the Seaglass Saloon for real!
Chloe has been unknowingly entered into The Florida Panhandle Barback Games, a competition that finds most of the bars in the area hiring ringers to compete in the athletic events. But as Chloe has been settling more and more into her life working at and co-owning the Seaglass Saloon, her skills have been improving enough that both Vivi (the co-owner) and Joaquin (the other bartender) think she's ready to take part. Joaquin has even offered to train her.
But Chloe isn't exactly thrilled with being entered when she checks out the competition. They are all physical specimens way out of her league and she's sure she has no chance.
If that isn't enough, Chloe is dragged along on a boat ride with the enigmatic Ann Williams, one of the bar regulars who has a lot of secrets going on in her life. But the boat ride turns into a lot more when Chloe learns she's not only on a secret treasure hunt. And it goes from bad to worse when right at the very spot Ann is looking for the treasure, they discover a dead body!
The victim is identified as one of the ringers for the competition and suddenly both Chloe and Ann are suspects. Chloe knows she's innocent but is less sure about Ann because of all the secrets in her background. As Chloe starts looking into who might have wanted the victim dead, she learns that not only has he left a trail of broken hearts and high drama in his wake, he has a past with Ann. One that gives her a great motive for wanting him dead.
Chloe being who she is, she's not convinced Ann is guilty but she remains wary of her "friend" because of how things look. In the meantime, she's trying to get herself out from under suspicion and find the real killer. But much like when you try to find buried treasure, buried secrets have a way of revealing more than you might want to find out. Is Chloe naively protecting Ann or is someone else out there with an agenda that will leave her squarely in the path of a killer?
I mentioned the end of the first chapter and first line of Chapter 2 at the beginning of this review and I tell you, it made me laugh so much I knew right away I was going to love this book. I've liked all the books in the series so far so that part is no surprise but having it confirmed to me so early in the book was a nice surprise.
I like how the story is progressing both in this particular book but with the series as a whole. Vivi is becoming more accustomed to having Chloe around as both a business partner and a friend. Joaquin continues to be a breath of fresh air whenever he's involved in a scene. I even like the romantic subplot because it is avoiding the majority of pitfalls that would normally make me want to skip reading those parts.
With great characters, a tightly plotted mystery that offers a number of credible suspects to keep the reader guessing right to the end and a breezy feel with just the right touch of humor, RUM AND CHOKE will capture your attention right from the start and make you wish you were visiting the Seaglass Saloon for real!
April 3, 2023
Rum and Choke, the fourth book in Sherry Harris’s Chloe Jackson Sea Glass Saloon mysteries, is another top-notch entry in this delightful series. Once again, Ms. Harris has treated us with characters worth caring about and a mystery that will keep us guessing until the end.
Despite her inexperience in the arena, Chloe Jackson, part owner of the Sea Glass Saloon, finds herself nominated to participate in the Barback Games on behalf of the bar. At the same time, she finds herself enmeshed in a suspenseful treasure hunt with local fixer Ann. But when Ann and Chloe encounter the body of one of Chloe’s main competitors, suspicion turns to them, and they find they must catch a killer to clear their names.
This is a great example of why this is fast becoming one of my favorite series. Not only do we have a complex, multi-layered mystery with a plethora of clues and red herrings, but the book is replete with interesting situations and compelling characters. Chloe is resourceful, logical, and loyal. And it is nice getting to know Ann better. In prior books she was sort of an enigma, but here, her determination and personality make her a force to be reckoned with. And Chloe’s relationship with Rip took a much-anticipated step forward. The subplot involving the Barback Games is thoroughly engaging, and I found myself rooting for Chloe to succeed. And the story’s climax brought the mystery to a bittersweet conclusion when the perpetrator was revealed.
Do I recommend this series? Oh, yes! But as terrific as Rum and Choke is, I do recommend starting with the first book - From Beer to Eternity – to get the full story. For my part, I will be looking forward to reading the fifth book in the series.
Note: I received an ARC of Rum and Choke from NetGalley and Kensington Books. The above is my honest review.
Despite her inexperience in the arena, Chloe Jackson, part owner of the Sea Glass Saloon, finds herself nominated to participate in the Barback Games on behalf of the bar. At the same time, she finds herself enmeshed in a suspenseful treasure hunt with local fixer Ann. But when Ann and Chloe encounter the body of one of Chloe’s main competitors, suspicion turns to them, and they find they must catch a killer to clear their names.
This is a great example of why this is fast becoming one of my favorite series. Not only do we have a complex, multi-layered mystery with a plethora of clues and red herrings, but the book is replete with interesting situations and compelling characters. Chloe is resourceful, logical, and loyal. And it is nice getting to know Ann better. In prior books she was sort of an enigma, but here, her determination and personality make her a force to be reckoned with. And Chloe’s relationship with Rip took a much-anticipated step forward. The subplot involving the Barback Games is thoroughly engaging, and I found myself rooting for Chloe to succeed. And the story’s climax brought the mystery to a bittersweet conclusion when the perpetrator was revealed.
Do I recommend this series? Oh, yes! But as terrific as Rum and Choke is, I do recommend starting with the first book - From Beer to Eternity – to get the full story. For my part, I will be looking forward to reading the fifth book in the series.
Note: I received an ARC of Rum and Choke from NetGalley and Kensington Books. The above is my honest review.
December 30, 2022
Rum and Choke is book four in the Chloe Jackson Sea Glass Saloon Mystery series. I enjoy this series and love all the time I get to spend with Chloe in Emerald Cove. This book has Chloe signed up to partake in the Barback Games, unbeknown to her until 10 days before the competition. The competition is so fierce, many of the local bars hire ringers to participate. This leaves Chloe to check out the competitors to see who she'll be up against.
Chloe also finds herself helping out her friend Ann, who wants to go diving in the Gulf of Mexico. Ann is a descendant of the pirate Jean Lafitte and Ann discovered some documents that may lead her to a sunken ship and treasure. On the day Chloe and Ann travel out to one of the locations Ann has mapped out, Ann surfaces with a body in tow - that of one of the ringers entered in the Barback Games. Now Chloe and Ann are suspects in the murder and Chloe finds herself immersed in another murder investigation.
Rum and Choke is another fantastic book in this series. The story is fast-paced and engaging. The author is such a wonderful writer and I love her ability to instill true emotional reactions in her readers. This book also has other themes threaded through it, making the story realistic.
I love the continued character development and introduction of an assortment of secondary characters. Chloe considers several of the characters to be suspects, giving the reader several viable murderers. Her process of elimination leads to a twist I didn't see coming. The story is original, and I was able to visualize each scene as they played out. A fantastic story with a capable and competent main character make this 5 stars for me.
Chloe also finds herself helping out her friend Ann, who wants to go diving in the Gulf of Mexico. Ann is a descendant of the pirate Jean Lafitte and Ann discovered some documents that may lead her to a sunken ship and treasure. On the day Chloe and Ann travel out to one of the locations Ann has mapped out, Ann surfaces with a body in tow - that of one of the ringers entered in the Barback Games. Now Chloe and Ann are suspects in the murder and Chloe finds herself immersed in another murder investigation.
Rum and Choke is another fantastic book in this series. The story is fast-paced and engaging. The author is such a wonderful writer and I love her ability to instill true emotional reactions in her readers. This book also has other themes threaded through it, making the story realistic.
I love the continued character development and introduction of an assortment of secondary characters. Chloe considers several of the characters to be suspects, giving the reader several viable murderers. Her process of elimination leads to a twist I didn't see coming. The story is original, and I was able to visualize each scene as they played out. A fantastic story with a capable and competent main character make this 5 stars for me.
December 31, 2022
Rum and Choke is another hit in the “Chloe Jackson Sea Glass Saloon Mystery” series. Chloe has her hands full with the barback games she has been forced to participate in by her business partner; she secretly wants to win but doesn’t want anyone to know. But the death of a ringer from one of the other bars and a sunken treasure are causing her concern.
The body of one of the barback games competitors is discovered when Chloe and Ann set out to find a sunken treasure. Fingers point at them when a treasure hunt turns into a murder investigation. Suspects are everywhere, and Chloe weeds through them until she eliminates the innocents. It takes a lot of time and puts her and Ann in grave danger while tracking down this killer. Evidence is in short supply; even the police seem to have their eyes firmly focused on Chloe and Ann and no one else. But even when her life is in danger, Chloe moves forward with the investigation and finds the killer when she least expects it.
The pace of Rum and Choke is steady, with no unnecessary long-winded exchanges or finite details that are irrelevant. The suspects are all contained and easy to find, with solid motives. The evidence is hidden, like the treasure Chloe and Ann are searching for, but it slowly comes together to paint a picture of the killer. In the end, the culprit is uncovered and will surprise many readers. The barback games are held as scheduled, and Chloe manages to keep up with the other competitors. The ending of this story will have readers smiling with happiness and ready for the next installment!
The body of one of the barback games competitors is discovered when Chloe and Ann set out to find a sunken treasure. Fingers point at them when a treasure hunt turns into a murder investigation. Suspects are everywhere, and Chloe weeds through them until she eliminates the innocents. It takes a lot of time and puts her and Ann in grave danger while tracking down this killer. Evidence is in short supply; even the police seem to have their eyes firmly focused on Chloe and Ann and no one else. But even when her life is in danger, Chloe moves forward with the investigation and finds the killer when she least expects it.
The pace of Rum and Choke is steady, with no unnecessary long-winded exchanges or finite details that are irrelevant. The suspects are all contained and easy to find, with solid motives. The evidence is hidden, like the treasure Chloe and Ann are searching for, but it slowly comes together to paint a picture of the killer. In the end, the culprit is uncovered and will surprise many readers. The barback games are held as scheduled, and Chloe manages to keep up with the other competitors. The ending of this story will have readers smiling with happiness and ready for the next installment!
January 3, 2023
This series is just one serious romp after another. Warning do not pick up this book unless you seriously have time to read, you will have a hard time putting it down. Love the characters in this series so much, we learn a lot about one, in particular, in this book, the usual cast is all there to give Chloe the support she needs, especially after Joaquin and Vivi are the ones who started this whole adventure in motion by getting Chloe involved in the Florida Panhandle Barback Games. While things get seriously off track with Ann and Chloe becoming suspects in the death of a ringer contestant, Chloe certainly gets to learn a lot about herself, her values and where she fits in, in her new home! An engrossing read.
October 13, 2023
This is a good entry in the Sea Glass Saloon mystery series. In this one, Chloe helps a friend go diving for treasure, and they discover the dead body of a man they recently knew. Of course, because they found the body at sea in an unusual place, they are suspects, and Chloe must work hard to clear their names.
December 18, 2022
Lovely cozy, light on the mystery, but very entertaining!
Chloe, part owner and an employee at a bar along the Florida Panhandle overlooking the Gulf, has been coerced into participating in a local bar competition. The only catch is that several other area bars have hired ringers - a stunt woman, a former Olympians, and a professional athlete - to compete for their bars. Thus, Chloe is sent out to scope out the competition.
Her friend Ann has requested that Chloe join to guard the boat while Ann goes on a diving expedition for a lost shipwreck (and potential treasure). However, instead of finding a historic boat, Ann finds the body of one of the ringers. Because Ann and Chloe are mum about their true reason for being there, they become suspects, causing Chloe to get involved in figuring out who dunnit.
This book was recommended to me by a friend of a friend, and maybe I’ve just read too many bad books recently, but I loved it! I liked how the plot and subplots neatly meshed together - Chloe meeting the victim and a bunch of suspects because of the competition; Chloe helping discover the body because of helping a friend. The characters were fun as well. And I really, really appreciated the fact that Chloe actually figured out the guilty party using logic, not by accident because the individual came after her.
Highly recommend. I’m adding the previous books to my TBR list.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley.com and voluntarily chose to review.
Chloe, part owner and an employee at a bar along the Florida Panhandle overlooking the Gulf, has been coerced into participating in a local bar competition. The only catch is that several other area bars have hired ringers - a stunt woman, a former Olympians, and a professional athlete - to compete for their bars. Thus, Chloe is sent out to scope out the competition.
Her friend Ann has requested that Chloe join to guard the boat while Ann goes on a diving expedition for a lost shipwreck (and potential treasure). However, instead of finding a historic boat, Ann finds the body of one of the ringers. Because Ann and Chloe are mum about their true reason for being there, they become suspects, causing Chloe to get involved in figuring out who dunnit.
This book was recommended to me by a friend of a friend, and maybe I’ve just read too many bad books recently, but I loved it! I liked how the plot and subplots neatly meshed together - Chloe meeting the victim and a bunch of suspects because of the competition; Chloe helping discover the body because of helping a friend. The characters were fun as well. And I really, really appreciated the fact that Chloe actually figured out the guilty party using logic, not by accident because the individual came after her.
Highly recommend. I’m adding the previous books to my TBR list.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley.com and voluntarily chose to review.
January 2, 2023
Chloe, Joaquin, and Vivi are back, and it's time for the Florida Panhandle Barback Games. If that were all Chloe had to focus on, she'd be in good shape, but one of the hunky contestants ends up dead. Chloe has to solve the murder before she becomes one of the sheriff's suspects.
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