What do you think?
Rate this book
Holiday Cozy Mystery #2
Mother's Day Murder
Holiday Cozy Mystery Series is a spin-off of Tonya Kappes's A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery Series! You do not want to miss Violet Rhinehammer's journey and some appearances from our beloved Laundry Club Ladies and favorite characters from A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery crossover series!
It's Mother's Day in Holiday Junction and Violet Rhinehammer is covering all the Mother's Day events in the holiday town and not alone! Her mother is in town to see exactly why her daughter decide to stay in the small town instead of coming home to Kentucky to their beloved Daniel Boone National Park.
To say Violet's mother isn't very fond of Violet's new home is one thing and has to defend her issues against some of the leading mothers in Holiday Junction has put Violet in a very hard spot. After all, Violet has been trying to get in the inner circle so she can hear the good gossip since she is writing the anonymous gossip column in Junction Journal.
When a mother in that gossip circles turns up dead, Violet Rhinehammer's mother is Chief Strickland's number one suspect.
Who on earth could do such a thing on Mother's Day? Certainly not Violet Rhinehammer's mother and Violet has to put on her best journalist-investigating skills to the test and solve the murder before mother goes to jail and Violet is again out of a job.
It's Mother's Day in Holiday Junction and Violet Rhinehammer is covering all the Mother's Day events in the holiday town and not alone! Her mother is in town to see exactly why her daughter decide to stay in the small town instead of coming home to Kentucky to their beloved Daniel Boone National Park.
To say Violet's mother isn't very fond of Violet's new home is one thing and has to defend her issues against some of the leading mothers in Holiday Junction has put Violet in a very hard spot. After all, Violet has been trying to get in the inner circle so she can hear the good gossip since she is writing the anonymous gossip column in Junction Journal.
When a mother in that gossip circles turns up dead, Violet Rhinehammer's mother is Chief Strickland's number one suspect.
Who on earth could do such a thing on Mother's Day? Certainly not Violet Rhinehammer's mother and Violet has to put on her best journalist-investigating skills to the test and solve the murder before mother goes to jail and Violet is again out of a job.
176 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 2, 2022
365 people are currently reading
657 people want to read
About the author
Tonya Kappes
438 books3,670 followersBeloved cozy mystery author Tonya Kappes is bringing her charming world to the screen!
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Twitter
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.
A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.
Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...
Webpage
tonyakappes.com
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/
For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
December 28, 2024
Mother’s Day Murder by Tonya Kappes
Holiday Cosy Mystery series #2. Best read in series order. Spinoff from the Campers and Criminals Cozy series.
Violet Rhinehammer moved to Holiday Junction for a job after her plane was rerouted to the small town a couple months back. She’s covering the Mother’s Day events with her best journalist and investigative skills. A member of the gossip circle has been found dead, and the main suspect is Violet’s own mother. Now Violet needs to figure out who the real killer is or her mother will go to jail and Violet will be out of a job. Again.
Crazy cozy caper with nosey neighbors and gossiping friends. No one os waiting on Chief Strickland to put all the pieces together.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook version narrated by Elizabeth Demetrios who does a wonderful job in the performance and entertaining the reader. I didn’t hear any issues and enjoyed the southern style mystery of an interfering mom who, of course, knows best.
I look forward to listening to more of these holiday stories.
Holiday Cosy Mystery series #2. Best read in series order. Spinoff from the Campers and Criminals Cozy series.
Violet Rhinehammer moved to Holiday Junction for a job after her plane was rerouted to the small town a couple months back. She’s covering the Mother’s Day events with her best journalist and investigative skills. A member of the gossip circle has been found dead, and the main suspect is Violet’s own mother. Now Violet needs to figure out who the real killer is or her mother will go to jail and Violet will be out of a job. Again.
Crazy cozy caper with nosey neighbors and gossiping friends. No one os waiting on Chief Strickland to put all the pieces together.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook version narrated by Elizabeth Demetrios who does a wonderful job in the performance and entertaining the reader. I didn’t hear any issues and enjoyed the southern style mystery of an interfering mom who, of course, knows best.
I look forward to listening to more of these holiday stories.
May 6, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Audiobook 🎧
As if Violet Rhinehammer doesn’t have enough problems, her mom shows up in Holiday Junction unannounced and uninvited and informs Violet that she’s divorcing Violet’s dad and moving to Holiday Junction permanently. While Violet is trying to figure out the best way to tell her mom she doesn’t want her there, Violet’s mom is arrested for the murder of a long time Holiday Junction resident. Now it’s up to Violet to figure out who the real killer is. A quick, fun read.
As if Violet Rhinehammer doesn’t have enough problems, her mom shows up in Holiday Junction unannounced and uninvited and informs Violet that she’s divorcing Violet’s dad and moving to Holiday Junction permanently. While Violet is trying to figure out the best way to tell her mom she doesn’t want her there, Violet’s mom is arrested for the murder of a long time Holiday Junction resident. Now it’s up to Violet to figure out who the real killer is. A quick, fun read.
October 8, 2023
It’s Mother’s Day and Violet can not make a trip back to Normal, KY to see her Mamma, Millie Kay. So Mamma came to Holiday Junction to visit Violet. So when Millie Kay stumbles over a dead body and becomes a murder suspect, Violet dives head first into the police investigation.
This is the second book in a fun new series by author Tonya Kappes. The town of Holiday Junction is a unique small town that celebrates all holidays with grand celebrations. This makes for an entertaining little vacation (read). Violet's mother, Millie Kay, is a great example of a Southern Mamma. She is full of charm and sass. The mystery moves at a great pace and is full of surprises. I recommend this book to cozy mystery fans.
I listened to the audiobook. The narrator does a great job of embodying the characters especially Violet and Millie Kay. She captures the the chemistry of the mother and daughter relationship though her vocal interpretation of Mrs. Kappes written word. Her narrator nicely complements the tone of Mrs Kappes’s writing.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
This is the second book in a fun new series by author Tonya Kappes. The town of Holiday Junction is a unique small town that celebrates all holidays with grand celebrations. This makes for an entertaining little vacation (read). Violet's mother, Millie Kay, is a great example of a Southern Mamma. She is full of charm and sass. The mystery moves at a great pace and is full of surprises. I recommend this book to cozy mystery fans.
I listened to the audiobook. The narrator does a great job of embodying the characters especially Violet and Millie Kay. She captures the the chemistry of the mother and daughter relationship though her vocal interpretation of Mrs. Kappes written word. Her narrator nicely complements the tone of Mrs Kappes’s writing.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
July 3, 2022
It is Mother’s Day in Holiday Junction which means there are plenty of activities for Violet Rhinehammer to cover for the Junction Journal. Violet’s plans are derailed when her mother unexpectedly shows up in town. Millie Kay has some surprising news for Violet. Millie Kay is a force of nature who likes having things her way. Violet sneaks out of the hotel to perform a special task which ends up going awry when she gets a call from her mother. It seems that Millie Kay decided to perform a late night task of her own. She ended up finding a woman dead at the controversial Lustig Spring. Since Millie Kay had an altercation with the dead woman earlier in the day, she ends up Sheriff Strickland’s prime suspect. When an item related to the victim’s death is found in Millie Kay’s belongings, Sheriff Strickland arrests her for murder. Violet must work to prove her mother’s innocence while continuing to cover the town’s Mother’s Day festivities (of course). Mother’s Day Murder by Tonya Kappes is the lighthearted second book in the Holiday Cozy Mysteries. It can be read as a standalone if you have not read Four Leaf Felony. There is plenty of humor in Mother’s Day Murder. We get to meet a variety of townspeople as Violet and Millie Kay participate in the Mother’s Day activities and as Violet investigates the murder. There are some quirky characters living in Holiday Junction. My favorite character is Mayor Paisley, a Boston Terrier. People line up to get their picture taken with her. The mystery was entertaining. The whodunit does not occur until near the halfway mark. By the time the victim was found, I already knew who would die and the identity of the killer (my mother says I have read to many mysteries). I would have liked a better wrap up where all lingering questions are answered, though, I did find the column witty. I would have preferred Millie Kay be introduced later in the series. She is such an over-the-top character that she overshadows Violet. I would have liked to see Violet get settled in Holiday Junction and discover more about herself. She seems to be at a crossroads. I think Violet could fit into this town and have a vital role if given the chance (and if her mother stops interfering). I am not sure what is going on with Violet, Darren, and Rhett Strickland. I thought Violet liked Rhett (my preference for her), but she is now spending time with Darren. I think Rhett’s character needs to be fleshed out. There is a scene with Rhett, a boat, and a bikini wearing beauty that I thought was immature (reminded me a high school boy trying to show off). Violet also finds herself in a bit of a predicament with regard to the Merry Maker. Vern might have placed his trust in the wrong person. If you enjoy lighthearted, amusing cozy mysteries, then you will enjoy Mother’s Day Murder. Mother’s Day Murder is a merry tale with spring water rumors, a meddlesome mother, a cake kerfuffle, a romance quandary, a slain spring water bandit, and a Merry Maker mess.
May 4, 2023
Entertaining mystery listening 🎶🔰
Another will written murder mystery family and friends relationships romantic adventure thriller novel by Tonya Kappes (Holiday Cozy Mystery book two). Violet Rinnehammer has taken over the online publishing of the local paper. Millie Kay Rinnehammer, her mother shows up ☝ and announces that her and her father are getting a divorce. Th mother is making friends and decides to stay in Holiday Junction and then buys a house. Sally Weston is poisoned and the mother is arrested. Violet is investigating because she knows that her mother did not commit the murder. Violet finds the truth and the murderer is arrested. I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of romantic relationships mystery novels 👍🔰. 2023 👒😀😡😮
Cute fast moving novel. Happy reading and have fun 🌙
Another will written murder mystery family and friends relationships romantic adventure thriller novel by Tonya Kappes (Holiday Cozy Mystery book two). Violet Rinnehammer has taken over the online publishing of the local paper. Millie Kay Rinnehammer, her mother shows up ☝ and announces that her and her father are getting a divorce. Th mother is making friends and decides to stay in Holiday Junction and then buys a house. Sally Weston is poisoned and the mother is arrested. Violet is investigating because she knows that her mother did not commit the murder. Violet finds the truth and the murderer is arrested. I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of romantic relationships mystery novels 👍🔰. 2023 👒😀😡😮
Cute fast moving novel. Happy reading and have fun 🌙
June 28, 2022
Tonya Kappes has done it again with another humor filled murder mystery. Violet Rhinehammer left Normal, KY (where nothing is normal) in her quest to reach the big time as a tv reporter in Los Angeles. Due to a dead body in the airplane restroom (read Four Leaf Felony for the whole story) she ends up staying in the town of Holiday Junction and working for the two elderly sisters who own the town newspaper. It's not what she envisioned but she's determined to make it work. Mother's Day is the next holiday and Holiday Junction celebrates every single holiday on the calendar. Sounds innocent enough until Violet's mother, Millie Kay, blows into town announcing that she is divorcing her husband and then plans to make Holiday Junction her new home. Violet is still trying to wrap her head around that news flash when the body of a local mom is found ......yep, by Violet's mom. In the blink of an eye Millie Kay is the prime suspect when it turns out she and the deceased had exchanged some heated words. Time for Violet to slide into detective mode and track down the killer while covering the Mother's Day festivities, of course.
This delightful new series is a spin off of the Camper and Criminal mystery series and it has all of the humor, quirky characters and entertaining mystery I have come to expect in everything Tonya Kappes writes. I must admit that one of the parts I like best is the fact that the Mayor is a Boston Terrier named Paisley. Now I'm ready for the next holiday.
My thanks to Tonya Kappes for allowing me to read an advance copy.
This delightful new series is a spin off of the Camper and Criminal mystery series and it has all of the humor, quirky characters and entertaining mystery I have come to expect in everything Tonya Kappes writes. I must admit that one of the parts I like best is the fact that the Mayor is a Boston Terrier named Paisley. Now I'm ready for the next holiday.
My thanks to Tonya Kappes for allowing me to read an advance copy.
July 11, 2022
Mother’s Day Murder” by Tonya Kappes the 2nd book in her all new series starring Violet Rhinehammer. What a great sequel to book one, I think this is now my favourite out of Tonya’s series.
It’s Mother's Day Weekend in Holiday Junction where Violet finds herself investigating the murder as her mother is the number one suspect! Get ready for some laughs along the way…
There were lots of suspects as well as twists to keep us entertained and guessing. I had no idea who the killer was until Violet did! Also there were a couple of surprises and I can’t wait for the next instalment! I highly recommend this book and new series to all my cozy loving friends especially if you like stories set around the holidays.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It’s Mother's Day Weekend in Holiday Junction where Violet finds herself investigating the murder as her mother is the number one suspect! Get ready for some laughs along the way…
There were lots of suspects as well as twists to keep us entertained and guessing. I had no idea who the killer was until Violet did! Also there were a couple of surprises and I can’t wait for the next instalment! I highly recommend this book and new series to all my cozy loving friends especially if you like stories set around the holidays.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 1, 2022
Mother’s Day Murder Earns 5/5 Raspberry Bundts…Engaging, Fun Gem!
It wasn’t what Violet Rhinehammer started out to do, but a murderous detour was a goodbye to a national break in California and a hello to pushing the limits of her journalistic talents to turn around the local rag, Junction Journal. As if she didn’t have enough to deal with including the aftermath of uncovering a killer, her mother, Millie Kay Rhinehammer, has shown up unannounced. She also revealed she’s divorcing Violet’s dad, but with an overzealous incident at the cake walk, criticism of Violet’s fashion sense, and interest in a “for sale” home, it makes her departure a necessity, but with airport business limited, she’s here for a whole week…maybe!
Violet needs a project. Luckily her journalistic interest is piqued when she learns of the Lustig Spring rumored to have healing properties, and the Lustig family’s longevity, refusal to allow people access, and only serving and cooking with the spring water at their diner does nothing to ward off the curious. But, their fired diner employee is found murdered, and even though there are several suspects, Violet is compelled to get involved since one person of interest is her Mama!
It’s a holiday gem for anytime of the year! Tonya Kappes gave a fresh, renewed look to a character better known as the pushy press in the A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery series. I worried she wouldn’t work, BUT, as the lead in this new Holiday Cozy Mystery series, Violet Rhinehammer is more than a determined professional, she’s clever, witty, and although not entirely experienced in romance, there is hope...it’s just which Strickland. This second book has Violet becoming more involved in this unique community with her efforts to keep afloat the Journal and accepting an important role in the town’s festivities. Again the issue surrounding getting the story vs personal privacy puts some issues are too important to ignore. Family dynamics and issues, in many forms, thread through the story; readers get valuable insights into Violet’s personality, especially her drive and competitiveness. Although being close to Mama, acquiescing to her demands and antics was, for me, a frustration. Inner Sherlock’s will be thrilled gathering the evidence and revising theories, but also challenged to the final chapter when the surprise killer is revealed. I am a big fan!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
It wasn’t what Violet Rhinehammer started out to do, but a murderous detour was a goodbye to a national break in California and a hello to pushing the limits of her journalistic talents to turn around the local rag, Junction Journal. As if she didn’t have enough to deal with including the aftermath of uncovering a killer, her mother, Millie Kay Rhinehammer, has shown up unannounced. She also revealed she’s divorcing Violet’s dad, but with an overzealous incident at the cake walk, criticism of Violet’s fashion sense, and interest in a “for sale” home, it makes her departure a necessity, but with airport business limited, she’s here for a whole week…maybe!
Violet needs a project. Luckily her journalistic interest is piqued when she learns of the Lustig Spring rumored to have healing properties, and the Lustig family’s longevity, refusal to allow people access, and only serving and cooking with the spring water at their diner does nothing to ward off the curious. But, their fired diner employee is found murdered, and even though there are several suspects, Violet is compelled to get involved since one person of interest is her Mama!
It’s a holiday gem for anytime of the year! Tonya Kappes gave a fresh, renewed look to a character better known as the pushy press in the A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery series. I worried she wouldn’t work, BUT, as the lead in this new Holiday Cozy Mystery series, Violet Rhinehammer is more than a determined professional, she’s clever, witty, and although not entirely experienced in romance, there is hope...it’s just which Strickland. This second book has Violet becoming more involved in this unique community with her efforts to keep afloat the Journal and accepting an important role in the town’s festivities. Again the issue surrounding getting the story vs personal privacy puts some issues are too important to ignore. Family dynamics and issues, in many forms, thread through the story; readers get valuable insights into Violet’s personality, especially her drive and competitiveness. Although being close to Mama, acquiescing to her demands and antics was, for me, a frustration. Inner Sherlock’s will be thrilled gathering the evidence and revising theories, but also challenged to the final chapter when the surprise killer is revealed. I am a big fan!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
July 5, 2022
Mother’s Day Murder
Holiday Cozy Mystery, Book #2
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Holiday Cozy Mystery Series is a spin-off of Tonya Kappes's popular A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery Series! You do not want to miss Violet Rhinehammer's journey and some appearances from our beloved Laundry Club Ladies and favorite characters from A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery crossover series!
It's Mother's Day in Holiday Junction and Violet Rhinehammer is covering all the Mother's Day events in the holiday town and not alone! Her mother is in town to see exactly why her daughter decide to stay in the small town instead of coming home to Kentucky to their beloved Daniel Boone National Park.
To say Violet's mother isn't very fond of Violet's new home is one thing and has to defend her issues against some of the leading mothers in Holiday Junction has put Violet in a very hard spot. After all, Violet has been trying to get in the inner circle so she can hear the good gossip since she is writing the anonymous gossip column in Junction Journal.
When a mother in that gossip circles turns up dead, Violet Rhinehammer's mother is Chief Strickland's number one suspect.
Who on earth could do such a thing on Mother's Day? Certainly not Violet Rhinehammer's mother and Violet has to put on her best journalist-investigating skills to the test and solve the murder before mother goes to jail and Violet is again out of a job.
Holiday Cozy Mystery Series is your one stop read for cozy mysteries set during the holidays. Some of them will be released before the intended holiday but most won't because Tonya writes these exclusively for her Patreon group and releases them as she sees fit. If you'd like more information on the Patreon group you can go to Tonya's website in her Amazon bio to check it out. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Violet is making a go at living on her own in Holiday Junction. But her mother has come to visit Violet which is not good news for Violet. When a woman that her mother had words with is murdered, Violet has to solve the mystery before her mother goes to prison. It was nice to see Violet and her mother working on their relationship.
The author is very talented]on her descriptive writing and it grabbed my attention and held it throughout the book. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery was well plotted and you will need your detective hat on to try and solve it.
I would recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am looking forward to seeing what Violet gets into next.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book and and I have given this honest review
Holiday Cozy Mystery, Book #2
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Holiday Cozy Mystery Series is a spin-off of Tonya Kappes's popular A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery Series! You do not want to miss Violet Rhinehammer's journey and some appearances from our beloved Laundry Club Ladies and favorite characters from A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery crossover series!
It's Mother's Day in Holiday Junction and Violet Rhinehammer is covering all the Mother's Day events in the holiday town and not alone! Her mother is in town to see exactly why her daughter decide to stay in the small town instead of coming home to Kentucky to their beloved Daniel Boone National Park.
To say Violet's mother isn't very fond of Violet's new home is one thing and has to defend her issues against some of the leading mothers in Holiday Junction has put Violet in a very hard spot. After all, Violet has been trying to get in the inner circle so she can hear the good gossip since she is writing the anonymous gossip column in Junction Journal.
When a mother in that gossip circles turns up dead, Violet Rhinehammer's mother is Chief Strickland's number one suspect.
Who on earth could do such a thing on Mother's Day? Certainly not Violet Rhinehammer's mother and Violet has to put on her best journalist-investigating skills to the test and solve the murder before mother goes to jail and Violet is again out of a job.
Holiday Cozy Mystery Series is your one stop read for cozy mysteries set during the holidays. Some of them will be released before the intended holiday but most won't because Tonya writes these exclusively for her Patreon group and releases them as she sees fit. If you'd like more information on the Patreon group you can go to Tonya's website in her Amazon bio to check it out. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Violet is making a go at living on her own in Holiday Junction. But her mother has come to visit Violet which is not good news for Violet. When a woman that her mother had words with is murdered, Violet has to solve the mystery before her mother goes to prison. It was nice to see Violet and her mother working on their relationship.
The author is very talented]on her descriptive writing and it grabbed my attention and held it throughout the book. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery was well plotted and you will need your detective hat on to try and solve it.
I would recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am looking forward to seeing what Violet gets into next.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book and and I have given this honest review
July 1, 2022
This is the second book in the new series with Violet Rhinehammer, previous resident of Normal, Kentucky. This book centers around the celebration of Mother’s Day, obviously, and with the unexpected arrival of Violet’s mother Millie Kay. Millie Kay loves the town and its people, and the people love her as well. All except Sally Westin, who loses to Millie Kay in a cake walk contest. They end up fighting over the cake and Millie Kay is forced to give Sally the cake. When Sally is found murdered at Lustig Springs, which are rumored to hold healing powers, there are suspects aplenty. With a Merry Maker sign nearby, it appears that Sally is the Merry Maker. The killer will surprise you, as well as the reason, and it was a great ending.
I think that introducing Millie Kay into this series so soon takes away from Violet finding life on her own. Violet could have used more time on her own to develop her own relationships with the people in town. Millie Kay could have been introduced in the 3rd or 4th book and it would have been fine. I feel like Rhett’s character is 2-dimensional, but maybe that is his role—to be the backdrop for Violet and Darren’s relationship. Rhett taking Fern boating after Violet arrived at the murder scene with Darren is childish. Is Darren really interested in Violet or is she a prize to steal from his rich cousin?
I feel bad that I don’t really like this series yet because I received it as an ARC from Tonya Kappes. However, part of this review process is to give an honest and voluntary review. I have mixed feelings about this series as the town feels like a Hallmark movie town—the kind where the female stumbles into the North Pole disguised as a “real” town and the main character is really Santa. I keep waiting for Rhett to be exposed as something. Santa? Tooth Fairy? I don’t know. Maybe the series will grow on me as I read more of the Camper and Criminal series.
I think that introducing Millie Kay into this series so soon takes away from Violet finding life on her own. Violet could have used more time on her own to develop her own relationships with the people in town. Millie Kay could have been introduced in the 3rd or 4th book and it would have been fine. I feel like Rhett’s character is 2-dimensional, but maybe that is his role—to be the backdrop for Violet and Darren’s relationship. Rhett taking Fern boating after Violet arrived at the murder scene with Darren is childish. Is Darren really interested in Violet or is she a prize to steal from his rich cousin?
I feel bad that I don’t really like this series yet because I received it as an ARC from Tonya Kappes. However, part of this review process is to give an honest and voluntary review. I have mixed feelings about this series as the town feels like a Hallmark movie town—the kind where the female stumbles into the North Pole disguised as a “real” town and the main character is really Santa. I keep waiting for Rhett to be exposed as something. Santa? Tooth Fairy? I don’t know. Maybe the series will grow on me as I read more of the Camper and Criminal series.
February 14, 2025
Mother’s Day Murder
Holiday Cozy Mystery, Book 2
I Picked Up This Book Because: Bookspin Bingo pick. (B3 A book I own)
Media Type: Audiobook
Source: Nook
Dates Read: 2/10/25 - 2/12/25
Rating: 3 Stars
Narrator(s): Elizabeth Demetrios
The Characters:
Violet:
Violet’s Mother
The Story:
A lot of things in this book did not work for me. I didn't care for the narrator's voice, it took half the book for the plot to open up. I never really connected with any of the characters. Overall, it was not a terrible story, just not my cuppa.
Holiday Cozy Mystery, Book 2
I Picked Up This Book Because: Bookspin Bingo pick. (B3 A book I own)
Media Type: Audiobook
Source: Nook
Dates Read: 2/10/25 - 2/12/25
Rating: 3 Stars
Narrator(s): Elizabeth Demetrios
The Characters:
Violet:
Violet’s Mother
The Story:
A lot of things in this book did not work for me. I didn't care for the narrator's voice, it took half the book for the plot to open up. I never really connected with any of the characters. Overall, it was not a terrible story, just not my cuppa.
July 3, 2022
Violet has been tasked with covering all the Mother's Day events happening in Holiday Junction and her mother has come to town to see just what her daughter does. Millie Kay, Violets mother, isn't everyones cup of tea, during gone of the events she gets into an argument with a local named Sally Weston. The two have a huge disagreement over who won the cake walk and neither woman wants to back down. When Sally is found murdered Millie Kay is the main suspect and things aren't looking good for her. Violet won't stand by and let her mom be railroaded so she digs into figuring out who the killer really is and why they resorted to murder. Will she be able to come to a conclusion in the end or will her mom end up in the clink?
June 26, 2022
This is book two in the Holiday Cozy Mysteries with Violet Rhinehammer prepared to cover all of the events for Mother's Day in Holiday Junction when her mother Millie Kay drops in for an unannounced visit and the fun and mayhem begin when she gets into a public fight with Sally Westin who is later found murdered with everyone pointing fingers at Millie Kay. I love, love, love Tonya Kappes books that exude lots of southern charm, small town atmosphere that pulls you into the middle of all that's happening, friendly characters you feel like you know and want to be their friend, a twisty mystery that must be solved and I'm never ready to say goodbye to my book friends when the book ends. If you enjoy fun cozies, don't miss Mother's Day Murder. I received an advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 31, 2024
I listened to the audiobook for this one. I'm not wild about the narrator, but she does an okay job.
This book is VERY southern. If you happen to listen to the book, you will hear it from start to finish.
I was surprised at the killer's revelation; I didn't expect the killer. Violet also has some family issues to now deal with. That should be interesting!
This book is VERY southern. If you happen to listen to the book, you will hear it from start to finish.
I was surprised at the killer's revelation; I didn't expect the killer. Violet also has some family issues to now deal with. That should be interesting!
November 24, 2024
Holiday Junction is the spot to celebrate all holidays. They don't let one slip by without a celebration and now that Mother's Day is coming in hot, they are eager to make a big production of it. But, there's another murder.
This one was cute and a fast read. There wasn't quite as many moments that I chuckled but it was entertaining still.
This one was cute and a fast read. There wasn't quite as many moments that I chuckled but it was entertaining still.
June 26, 2022
Such a fun book. Great getting to know the characters in Violet's new town. I can't wait to see what they get into next time.
July 9, 2022
This was a good read. Violet's mother comes to town. Things get complicated when her mother finds a dead body. She of course becomes a suspect. Violet spends the book trying to figure out who did it. Of course she solves it and all is well for now.
July 2, 2022
Welcome to fun and festive Holiday Junction, where every holiday is a celebration! This is Violet Rhinehammer’s second adventure here. Violet, formerly of Normal, Kentucky in the Campers & Criminals series, may not have the job she dreamed of when finding a dead body on her flight to LA forced an emergency landing, but for now she is content.
Violet is in line to own the Junction Journal. Owners and sisters Marge and Louise have been ready to shut down the little newspaper and Violet has given it new life with a popular, daily, online presence. This unique village is surrounded by mountains, the seaside, and the countryside, filling her creative well as she works hard on the Journal.
Violet hears a tantalizing bit of gossip on the trolley that will make a good news story, about Tricia Lustig and the healing waters of the Lustig Spring. Violet barely arrived at work on this first day of the Mother’s Day festival when her mother, Millie Kay, called to express her disappointment that her only child won’t be home to celebrate Mother’s Day with her. While still on the phone, Mama is at her office door after refusing to take “no” for an answer. It took less than five minutes with her Southern mama to make me see Violet in a new light.
Millie is divorcing Violet’s father, and Violet is shocked. Shock turns to panic when there are no rooms left at the Inn where she lives, so Mama will share her room. The people here are growing on Mama and she decides to buy a house, turning Violet’s panic to dread. Mama is a spontaneous extrovert who delights everyone here except her nose-to-the-grindstone daughter. One person even told Violet that Millie Kay is “. . . exactly the little spark we need around here.”
Violet and Mama went to some Mother’s Day festivities, including a cake walk, where Mama was determined to win the raspberry bundt cake. She shoved Sally, the other contestant, away from the last chair and plunked onto it herself, causing a hoopla worthy of the sheriff’s attention. Later, at the mother-daughter cooking class, she has another run-in with Sally when she tried to steal jugs of Lustig Spring water and Millie Kay accidentally pulled her wig off.
A few hours later, Mama calls Violet in a panic. She is at Lustig Spring to smuggle some water out for Violet to have tested. Instead, she found Sally’s just-murdered body behind the spring building. After her run-ins with Sally today, she is the only suspect. Violet’s hands are full with her new job and trying to find whodunit, especially after bailing Mama out of jail.
Holiday Springs sounds like a great place to be. I would love the options of mountains or seaside every day, as well as living where the primary transportation is the trolley, golf carts, or mopeds. This quirky little village has been described so well I could almost picture the homes and scenery. The people are three-dimensional even as we are continue to learn about them. As this author usually does, she completely blindsided me with whodunit! I didn’t figure it out until just before the big reveal. I am going to enjoy these holiday celebrations and getting to know Violet, Millie Kay, and the Merry Maker even better in the future, and highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys well-written cozy mysteries with quirky characters, humor, and a little bit of murder.
From a thankful heart: I requested and received an eARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
Violet is in line to own the Junction Journal. Owners and sisters Marge and Louise have been ready to shut down the little newspaper and Violet has given it new life with a popular, daily, online presence. This unique village is surrounded by mountains, the seaside, and the countryside, filling her creative well as she works hard on the Journal.
Violet hears a tantalizing bit of gossip on the trolley that will make a good news story, about Tricia Lustig and the healing waters of the Lustig Spring. Violet barely arrived at work on this first day of the Mother’s Day festival when her mother, Millie Kay, called to express her disappointment that her only child won’t be home to celebrate Mother’s Day with her. While still on the phone, Mama is at her office door after refusing to take “no” for an answer. It took less than five minutes with her Southern mama to make me see Violet in a new light.
Millie is divorcing Violet’s father, and Violet is shocked. Shock turns to panic when there are no rooms left at the Inn where she lives, so Mama will share her room. The people here are growing on Mama and she decides to buy a house, turning Violet’s panic to dread. Mama is a spontaneous extrovert who delights everyone here except her nose-to-the-grindstone daughter. One person even told Violet that Millie Kay is “. . . exactly the little spark we need around here.”
Violet and Mama went to some Mother’s Day festivities, including a cake walk, where Mama was determined to win the raspberry bundt cake. She shoved Sally, the other contestant, away from the last chair and plunked onto it herself, causing a hoopla worthy of the sheriff’s attention. Later, at the mother-daughter cooking class, she has another run-in with Sally when she tried to steal jugs of Lustig Spring water and Millie Kay accidentally pulled her wig off.
A few hours later, Mama calls Violet in a panic. She is at Lustig Spring to smuggle some water out for Violet to have tested. Instead, she found Sally’s just-murdered body behind the spring building. After her run-ins with Sally today, she is the only suspect. Violet’s hands are full with her new job and trying to find whodunit, especially after bailing Mama out of jail.
Holiday Springs sounds like a great place to be. I would love the options of mountains or seaside every day, as well as living where the primary transportation is the trolley, golf carts, or mopeds. This quirky little village has been described so well I could almost picture the homes and scenery. The people are three-dimensional even as we are continue to learn about them. As this author usually does, she completely blindsided me with whodunit! I didn’t figure it out until just before the big reveal. I am going to enjoy these holiday celebrations and getting to know Violet, Millie Kay, and the Merry Maker even better in the future, and highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys well-written cozy mysteries with quirky characters, humor, and a little bit of murder.
From a thankful heart: I requested and received an eARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
June 26, 2022
Thank you to Tonya Kappes for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily. I love this charming new series which is a spinoff from A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery series with our favorite journalist, Violet Rhinehammer. Violet has decided to stay, at least temporarily, in Holiday Junction as she is working for the local small town newspaper. Holiday Junction and the residents of the town love ALL holidays, and Mother's Day is no exception. Violet's mom unexpectedly shows up in town and announces to Violet that she is divorcing her dad. Millie Kay Rhinehammer is a force to be reckoned with and even though she has been very displeased with Violet being "stuck" in a small town, she learns the town is not quite so bad after all. Lustig Springs is a local body of water that people think have healing powers. When a dead body shows up beside these healing waters, Millie Kay is the prime suspect since she not only finds the body, but she has had recent "words" with the now deceased. Violet's investigative journalism skills are put to use to make sure her mother does not land in jail. This series is one of my favorites written by Tonya Kappes. The town just seems charming and at times even humorous with business names like a landscaping company known as Lawn and Order Landscaping! I love the characters in the series, and you can see a little competition for Violet's love interest in this book. This is a well written mystery with several red herrings. Tonya Kappes knows how to spin a wicked web of mystery with some light humor. The author has a great sense of humor and a very vivid imagination which brings pleasure to the reader. If you enjoy a good cozy mystery that will give you a chuckle, you will thoroughly enjoy this book.
July 5, 2022
Millie Kay has come to Holiday Junction to visit her daughter for Mother's Day. While there she participates in some of the local activities including a cake walk. When the loser to the cakewalk turns up dead. Millie gets blamed. It is up to Violet to prove different. A fun read
I received a copy to read, the review is mine.
I received a copy to read, the review is mine.
June 29, 2022
This is a fun cozy mystery set in the town of Holiday Junction. Violet Rhinehammer has moved there and is writing an anonymous gossip column for the Junction Journal. Violet's mother, Millie Kay, comes to visit for Mother's Day. When there's a murder, Violet's mother becomes the prime suspect! Violet has to go to work to find the killer before Millie Kay is sent to jail. This is a great mystery, but Millie Kay provides lots of laughs.
May 14, 2023
3.5 A new main character is added to the mix and I like her. I think she spices things up. I’m still iffy on the main character but I do like the town. I’ll try another book in the series before making a final decision to continue or not.
July 26, 2022
Mother's Day
I like this new series Holiday Cozy Mystery .You have a new hit on this series. I read book one an two in a day an half .I just couldn't put them down till I finished them .Thanks Tonya.Congrats. Emma Wooten
I like this new series Holiday Cozy Mystery .You have a new hit on this series. I read book one an two in a day an half .I just couldn't put them down till I finished them .Thanks Tonya.Congrats. Emma Wooten
April 26, 2023
Tonya Kappes writes a huge amount of enjoyable cozy mysteries,. I enjoyed this one much more than the first in this new Holiday Cozy Mystery series. Well-written, well-paced, and entertaining. Worth the time to read.
April 12, 2024
cute story, not a great fan of the reader
May 6, 2024
This was a fine, enjoyable cozy. It still feels like this series is introducing us to the town and characters. I'm interested to see how the main character and her mother get along in the subsequent volumes.
October 21, 2024
Cute Mystery
Tonya Kappes does a great job of entertaining while presenting & then solving mysteries! I enjoy the fun mysteries with a little bit of romance thrown in!
Tonya Kappes does a great job of entertaining while presenting & then solving mysteries! I enjoy the fun mysteries with a little bit of romance thrown in!
December 12, 2024
Is it mediocre at best? Yes. Will I read more of the holiday-themed mysteries in this series? Yes. Do I know why I do this? No.
May 12, 2024
I got this free and still paid too much. Wow this is a terrible book.
It suddenly struck me. Momma was a person too.
This from a person who is at least 25. Good Lord
It suddenly struck me. Momma was a person too.
This from a person who is at least 25. Good Lord
July 1, 2022
I love this series and it seems like every book gets better as the series continues. The cover is very eye catching and draws readers to the book. I wonder what adventure we will find in this book? The author has a funny southern charm that makes me laugh throughout the book. I will tell you that you should read these books in order so you know the characters better. There are some great ones that I can’t help but like. I like that the author mentions characters from her other series in this book and helps me remember what they are up.
Violet hadn’t quite settled into the town yet but her job as a reporter keeps her busy. She has an ear for news and follows it even when it may get her into trouble. The gossips are in overload in this story as a rumor has the town in an uproar. The talk is that there is a spring that has healing powers in the water. Violet needs an interview with the owner and maybe some water samples to check out the rumors. She isn’t very well received but it isn’t really her fault. The whole town is trying to get their share of water and has no problem with trespassing.
This next part I have been waiting to talk about. Violet tries to avoid her mother’s phone calls and thinks she is safe since her mom is in another town. Do you hear a knock on the door? Let’s follow Violet as he opens the door to find her mother Millie Kay standing there. I adored this character and how she catches everyone’s attention with her charm. Can you see Violet rolling her eyes as she finds out why her mom is there? The comedy is just starting as a cake walk finds Millie Kay and Sally fighting over a cake. It makes for a great scene as these two shove each other trying to get to the chair first.
Millie Kay has just begun her reign of attention getting when she surprises Violet with a decision that catches her off guard. I remember when I was in high school that I would try to avoid my mom all the time. Oh she says she was just watching out for me, but I think she was being nosey. Do you think Millie Kay is there to look after her daughter’s well-being? Sally becomes a thorn in Millie Kay’s side as they attend another function. This time I think it got a little heated. I was ready for anything as these two become frustrated with each other. Someone may have to leave town to keep the peace.
I don’t want to give anything away but guess who turns up dead? Well to make matters worse, guess who is accused of murder? The author pulls out all the stops in this cozy mystery filled with a charming town, characters that are simply over the top interesting and a story that keeps readers entertained. The author completely fooled me when the murderer is exposed. Get ready for another adventure in the town that celebrates holidays with festivals, fun and murder.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
Violet hadn’t quite settled into the town yet but her job as a reporter keeps her busy. She has an ear for news and follows it even when it may get her into trouble. The gossips are in overload in this story as a rumor has the town in an uproar. The talk is that there is a spring that has healing powers in the water. Violet needs an interview with the owner and maybe some water samples to check out the rumors. She isn’t very well received but it isn’t really her fault. The whole town is trying to get their share of water and has no problem with trespassing.
This next part I have been waiting to talk about. Violet tries to avoid her mother’s phone calls and thinks she is safe since her mom is in another town. Do you hear a knock on the door? Let’s follow Violet as he opens the door to find her mother Millie Kay standing there. I adored this character and how she catches everyone’s attention with her charm. Can you see Violet rolling her eyes as she finds out why her mom is there? The comedy is just starting as a cake walk finds Millie Kay and Sally fighting over a cake. It makes for a great scene as these two shove each other trying to get to the chair first.
Millie Kay has just begun her reign of attention getting when she surprises Violet with a decision that catches her off guard. I remember when I was in high school that I would try to avoid my mom all the time. Oh she says she was just watching out for me, but I think she was being nosey. Do you think Millie Kay is there to look after her daughter’s well-being? Sally becomes a thorn in Millie Kay’s side as they attend another function. This time I think it got a little heated. I was ready for anything as these two become frustrated with each other. Someone may have to leave town to keep the peace.
I don’t want to give anything away but guess who turns up dead? Well to make matters worse, guess who is accused of murder? The author pulls out all the stops in this cozy mystery filled with a charming town, characters that are simply over the top interesting and a story that keeps readers entertained. The author completely fooled me when the murderer is exposed. Get ready for another adventure in the town that celebrates holidays with festivals, fun and murder.
I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews