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Camper & Criminals #29
Gifts, Glamping, & Glocks
SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY WITH A SMIDGEN OF HOMICIDE
Welcome to Normal, Kentucky, a small town in the Daniel Boone National Forest and Happy Trails Campground, where the annual Christmas activities are in full swing. But behind the twinkling lights and festive cheer lies a sinister secret.
When a local delivery driver is found murdered in Seymore’s Candy Cane Factory, suspicion quickly falls on the eccentric cast of characters who call Normal home. From the grumpy old man who own’s the candy cane factory, to the bubbly town fiddle player, Otis Gullett, who is secretly in a rendezvous with the factory owner’s wife. No one is above suspicion.
As the investigation heats up, the town's residents begin to turn on each other, and the killer's true identity becomes more and more elusive. As the body count rises, Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies must race against the clock to uncover the truth before the killer strikes again.
With a southern twist and plenty of red herrings, Gifts, Glamping, & Glocks is a holiday thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Welcome to Normal, Kentucky, a small town in the Daniel Boone National Forest and Happy Trails Campground, where the annual Christmas activities are in full swing. But behind the twinkling lights and festive cheer lies a sinister secret.
When a local delivery driver is found murdered in Seymore’s Candy Cane Factory, suspicion quickly falls on the eccentric cast of characters who call Normal home. From the grumpy old man who own’s the candy cane factory, to the bubbly town fiddle player, Otis Gullett, who is secretly in a rendezvous with the factory owner’s wife. No one is above suspicion.
As the investigation heats up, the town's residents begin to turn on each other, and the killer's true identity becomes more and more elusive. As the body count rises, Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies must race against the clock to uncover the truth before the killer strikes again.
With a southern twist and plenty of red herrings, Gifts, Glamping, & Glocks is a holiday thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 15, 2022
436 people are currently reading
992 people want to read
About the author
Tonya Kappes
437 books3,669 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,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
May 24, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Audiobook 🎧
It’s Christmas time, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a murder for the Laundry Club Ladies to solve, and Santa is at the top of the suspect list! This one had me guessing whodunnit until the end, and there were a few other surprises that made this throughly enjoyable!! Highly recommended!!
It’s Christmas time, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a murder for the Laundry Club Ladies to solve, and Santa is at the top of the suspect list! This one had me guessing whodunnit until the end, and there were a few other surprises that made this throughly enjoyable!! Highly recommended!!
Read
December 17, 2022
"This was a hard book to put down! This may be the most challenging case the Laundry Club Ladies have had to date! The suspect list is short and includes a few different motives. Whodunit surprised almost everyone, and all was wrapped up before Christmas. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys Southern cozy mysteries with humor, suspense, and romance." Goodreads review from Jeanie
December 27, 2022
I love this series and each book is better than the last! I highly recommend this series to all my cozy friends
the annual Christmas activities are in full swing. But behind the twinkling lights and festive cheer lies a sinister secret.
When a local delivery driver is found murdered in Seymore’s Candy Cane Factory, suspicion quickly falls on the eccentric cast of characters who call Normal home. From the grumpy old man who own’s the candy cane factory, to the bubbly town fiddle player, Otis Gullett, who is secretly in a rendezvous with the factory owner’s wife. No one is above suspicion.
As the investigation heats up, the town's residents begin to turn on each other, and the killer's true identity becomes more and more elusive. As the body count rises, Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies must race against the clock to uncover the truth before the killer strikes again.
the annual Christmas activities are in full swing. But behind the twinkling lights and festive cheer lies a sinister secret.
When a local delivery driver is found murdered in Seymore’s Candy Cane Factory, suspicion quickly falls on the eccentric cast of characters who call Normal home. From the grumpy old man who own’s the candy cane factory, to the bubbly town fiddle player, Otis Gullett, who is secretly in a rendezvous with the factory owner’s wife. No one is above suspicion.
As the investigation heats up, the town's residents begin to turn on each other, and the killer's true identity becomes more and more elusive. As the body count rises, Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies must race against the clock to uncover the truth before the killer strikes again.
August 28, 2023
I think I'm officially caught up on all the audiobooks my library has 😭
December 10, 2022
Mae is hosting the Gifts and Glamping Christmas event at the Happy Trails Campground. The event is to help Betts cross off the list of good deeds that Betts feels obligated to carry out for Lester.
Things don't start off as they should when Santa, Otis, is found passed out in his vehicle. So Otis is put in an office to sleep it off and Mae strikes a deal with Ken, her insurance man, to fill in and she'll stop avoiding the discussion of a lawsuit with him.
Dottie has a list of activities for the guests. One stop on the tour bus was at Seymore's Candy Cane Factory, where the guests at Happy Trials were told how the first candy cane was made and that for 145 years the same recipe has been used. While waiting Mae inquired about getting some coffee when Nora Seymore and Mae come across a body. Unfortunately, Mae could identify the man she had just spoken to before the tour started.
A dinner party for Hank's parents goes awry with a surprise, but removed Mae from the hot seat.
A connection between the deceased and Mary Elizabeth leads to a situation, it becomes personal to Mae. The sleuthing notebook comes out!
There were many laugh-out-loud parts and my favorite scene was envisioning Hank in one of Dottie's creations meant for Mae! The culprit wasn't one that I had considered. Another great book in the series!
I received a complimentary copy and I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
Things don't start off as they should when Santa, Otis, is found passed out in his vehicle. So Otis is put in an office to sleep it off and Mae strikes a deal with Ken, her insurance man, to fill in and she'll stop avoiding the discussion of a lawsuit with him.
Dottie has a list of activities for the guests. One stop on the tour bus was at Seymore's Candy Cane Factory, where the guests at Happy Trials were told how the first candy cane was made and that for 145 years the same recipe has been used. While waiting Mae inquired about getting some coffee when Nora Seymore and Mae come across a body. Unfortunately, Mae could identify the man she had just spoken to before the tour started.
A dinner party for Hank's parents goes awry with a surprise, but removed Mae from the hot seat.
A connection between the deceased and Mary Elizabeth leads to a situation, it becomes personal to Mae. The sleuthing notebook comes out!
There were many laugh-out-loud parts and my favorite scene was envisioning Hank in one of Dottie's creations meant for Mae! The culprit wasn't one that I had considered. Another great book in the series!
I received a complimentary copy and I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
December 16, 2022
It’s Christmas time and Normal, KY is going all out with the festivities. However when, a delivery man is found dead and Santa is a suspect Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies have to investigate. I love this series. Each installment is full of humor, southern charm, and mystery. I love the Laundry Club Ladies as a whole but my favorite character is Dottie. She is unapologetically full of sass and is already herself, even those she is secretly a bit of a softie for kids and those she loves. The mystery kept me guess until the end. The book includes camping hacks and recipes. I recommend this to cozy mystery fans.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have not been by anyone.
December 24, 2022
Another great mystery takes place at the Happy Trails Campground. Christmas is here and the decorations are up. Unfortunately things are not so happy for a delivery driver and it is up to Mae and the Laundry Ladies to get things merry again.
A fun read that will leave you guessing and wanting to hurry to find the culprit before they strike again.
A fun read that will leave you guessing and wanting to hurry to find the culprit before they strike again.
December 3, 2022
I’m not sure what surprised me the most this or this?!?! You’ll have to read it to find out. And I was really surprised, I mean really surprised!!! The little twists and turns that this author adds to her story lines are really twisted. But one of them really had me laughing too. The things that some people do for money, and then again, the things that some people will do for love, both can be outrageous. So this book was really fun to read, and I always get a kick out of Dottie. But I think Ellis may take the cake!! I would love to see that campground all gussied up for Christmas! Thanks for the recipes and the camping hacks.
January 14, 2023
Gifts, Glamping, & Glocks is a fun read for the Christmas holiday. Mae’s Happy Trails Campground and the town of Normal are celebrating in style. Mae is hosting a community Christmas party for children, including a visit from Santa. When Santa goes MIA and is found drunk in his car, Mae pulls in the next person closest, her insurance agent Ken who is trying to get Mae to talk about a lawsuit. (Seriously, at Christmas?} She sets up Otis in one of the vacant campers to sleep it off and sober up. The next morning Otis left the camper without any notice. This sets off a chain event of sleigh full of secrets and murder, centered around a candy cane factory. Mae and the Laundry Club ladies are off on another sleuthing adventure that Dottie has titled The Candy Cane Murder.
I look forward to each book in this series. Tonya Kappes cleverly weaves several clues throughout the story and there are always plenty of suspects to choose from. I did not have this suspect on my radar and was completely surprised. I recommend adding this book to your cozy mystery series.
I look forward to each book in this series. Tonya Kappes cleverly weaves several clues throughout the story and there are always plenty of suspects to choose from. I did not have this suspect on my radar and was completely surprised. I recommend adding this book to your cozy mystery series.
November 21, 2024
The first one I realized my library had on audio! Yay! So I got to enjoy this one on audio - which didn't necessarily pull me in more but did make the story and long pauses of drama go a little quicker.
I kind of knew what was coming, based on the hint from the previous read. It was another cozy mystery, filled around the Christmas time at the campground. Dottie still is not my favorite character. I learned a lot about candy canes and hooking - 2 things I knew little about before reading this. I do wonder if I would be able to taste a change in sugar if my favorite company changed it. hmmm. . .
I kind of knew what was coming, based on the hint from the previous read. It was another cozy mystery, filled around the Christmas time at the campground. Dottie still is not my favorite character. I learned a lot about candy canes and hooking - 2 things I knew little about before reading this. I do wonder if I would be able to taste a change in sugar if my favorite company changed it. hmmm. . .
December 30, 2024
"Gifts, Glamping, & Glocks (Camper & Criminals #29)" by Tonya Kappes is set just before Christmas as the town is getting ready for the holiday season. Mae even decks out Hank's RV in an attempt to impress her future mother-in-law. Then there's a mysterious death at the local candy cane factory while Mae is there with some of her campers.
Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies investigate what happened since their not so great Santa is a possible suspect. Also, they just can't help themselves. I was totally thinking it was a different suspect than the actual culprit up until right before the reveal.
Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies investigate what happened since their not so great Santa is a possible suspect. Also, they just can't help themselves. I was totally thinking it was a different suspect than the actual culprit up until right before the reveal.
December 9, 2022
“He’s as useless as a milk bucket under a bull.” Who would ever say that about a Santa – except Dottie? Come and join this fast-paced fun and suspenseful ride with Mae, Dottie, and all the gang! There were many things I loved in this Christmas cozy mystery, including the snow, the quirky complement of characters, the beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest, and most of all, the mysteries! The author outdoes herself with whodunit and why as the Winter Festival begins in Normal, Kentucky.
Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies are hosting a toy drive at Happy Trails Campground, one of many things that Betts’s late ex-husband left on a list of things he didn’t get to do. Betts is determined to get all the items completed, and there’s no better time than Christmas for a toy drive! They encountered a couple little snags…Otis, scheduled to play Santa, was drunk in his car. Ken, the insurance man for the campground, filled in, but only if Mae agreed to discuss a legal matter with him.
The next day, Mae was taking campers and their children to Seymore’s Candy Canes for a tour of the facility. Just before the bus left Happy Trails, Ken gave Mae more details of the lawsuit, and Mae immediately got her attorney involved with it. Former campers were suing to own the campground because of a spider bite that occurred a couple years ago. That news could strip the stripe right off Mae’s candy cane!
Mae met the young man who delivers sugar to her adoptive mother, Mary Elizabeth, when she recognized the company name on his shirt. Graham and Mary Elizabeth had become friends; she even let him store some of his sugar in her barn when he’s in a rush to get deliveries done. His route is Normal and the surrounding area, but a sugar shortage is about to cause some holiday baking woes.
A short time later, Mae and Nora, one of the owners of the candy cane factory, goes to a storage area for coffee. They find that a shelving unit holding bags of sugar tipped over, and somebody’s legs are sticking out from underneath it. Ken, the insurance man, was there to talk about next year’s price increases. He noted that the shelves were not anchored into the concrete floor. The victim was Graham, and the coroner noticed he had a head wound that knocked him out before the shelf fell on him.
This was a hard book to put down! I learned a couple things about Dottie that I didn’t know before, seeing a new side of her. There are developments in Hank’s family that took everyone by surprise, and Mae has made some decisions regarding her and Hank’s wedding. No wonder Dottie is more invested in solving this murder than Mae usually is! At least until someone went after Mary Elizabeth.
This may be the most challenging case the Laundry Club Ladies have had to date! The suspect list is short and includes a few different motives. Whodunit surprised almost everyone, and all was wrapped up before Christmas. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys Southern cozy mysteries with humor, suspense, and romance.
From a thankful heart: I received an e-ARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies are hosting a toy drive at Happy Trails Campground, one of many things that Betts’s late ex-husband left on a list of things he didn’t get to do. Betts is determined to get all the items completed, and there’s no better time than Christmas for a toy drive! They encountered a couple little snags…Otis, scheduled to play Santa, was drunk in his car. Ken, the insurance man for the campground, filled in, but only if Mae agreed to discuss a legal matter with him.
The next day, Mae was taking campers and their children to Seymore’s Candy Canes for a tour of the facility. Just before the bus left Happy Trails, Ken gave Mae more details of the lawsuit, and Mae immediately got her attorney involved with it. Former campers were suing to own the campground because of a spider bite that occurred a couple years ago. That news could strip the stripe right off Mae’s candy cane!
Mae met the young man who delivers sugar to her adoptive mother, Mary Elizabeth, when she recognized the company name on his shirt. Graham and Mary Elizabeth had become friends; she even let him store some of his sugar in her barn when he’s in a rush to get deliveries done. His route is Normal and the surrounding area, but a sugar shortage is about to cause some holiday baking woes.
A short time later, Mae and Nora, one of the owners of the candy cane factory, goes to a storage area for coffee. They find that a shelving unit holding bags of sugar tipped over, and somebody’s legs are sticking out from underneath it. Ken, the insurance man, was there to talk about next year’s price increases. He noted that the shelves were not anchored into the concrete floor. The victim was Graham, and the coroner noticed he had a head wound that knocked him out before the shelf fell on him.
This was a hard book to put down! I learned a couple things about Dottie that I didn’t know before, seeing a new side of her. There are developments in Hank’s family that took everyone by surprise, and Mae has made some decisions regarding her and Hank’s wedding. No wonder Dottie is more invested in solving this murder than Mae usually is! At least until someone went after Mary Elizabeth.
This may be the most challenging case the Laundry Club Ladies have had to date! The suspect list is short and includes a few different motives. Whodunit surprised almost everyone, and all was wrapped up before Christmas. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys Southern cozy mysteries with humor, suspense, and romance.
From a thankful heart: I received an e-ARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.
December 21, 2022
Gifts, Glamping, & Glocks Earns 5/5 Santa Suits…Engaging Holiday Cozy!
Christmas is the time for giving as well as celebrating, and residents of Normal, Kentucky, do both well. Mae West, owner of the Happy Trails Campground, is hosting “Gifts and Glamping” event. The campground has been transformed into the best rendition of the North Pole with Santa’s office, one of Mae’s vintage trailers, as the jewel of the experience: sit on Santa’s lap, convince him you’ve been good, and receive a Christmas gift. Otis Gullette agreed to be the “right jolly old elf,” but when he’s set to go on stage, Mae finds him drunk! Mae’s insurance agent was right there, so he agreed to step in, but only if Mae agreed to more seriously discuss with him the impending lawsuit against Happy Trails Campground. Otis wakes up, is livid about being replaced, and throws a fit which needs some Dottie intervention. Oh, what else could go wrong? Well, another dead body is normal…Ho, Ho, Homicide!
Tonya Kappes has delivered a “Santa-rrific” twenty-ninth mystery with several “couldn’t put down” storylines: a couple of murders, an annoying lawsuit, future mother-in-law angst, adoptive mother’s complaints, Betts’s efforts to finish her ex-husband’s “mea culpa” list, and Christmas, of course, is all around. Tonya gives you the sense you’ve got a handle on the crime and its solution, then “Wham!” She offers a twist you didn’t see coming. Supply chain issues and competing candy cane companies lead to dangerous predicaments and a solution with a creative final arrest. Mae is on overload, like us all, with the holidays and family pressures, but add a lawsuit with a suspicious plaintiff to tarnish the Christmas spirit. Tonya’s writing style is clever and enjoyable and filled with varied personalities from smart and determined like Mae to pure southern fun like Dottie. There’s plenty of holiday talk and goings on befitting the season as well as angst to keep you on your toes. It’s all entertaining and don’t forget the extras! Recipes and Camping Hacks from Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies at Happy Trails Campground include (1) Crockpot Candy Bark and (2) Camper Crockpot Christmas Cinnamon Rolls, and Camping Hacks include (1) adding the scent of Christmas and (2) holiday decorating.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Christmas is the time for giving as well as celebrating, and residents of Normal, Kentucky, do both well. Mae West, owner of the Happy Trails Campground, is hosting “Gifts and Glamping” event. The campground has been transformed into the best rendition of the North Pole with Santa’s office, one of Mae’s vintage trailers, as the jewel of the experience: sit on Santa’s lap, convince him you’ve been good, and receive a Christmas gift. Otis Gullette agreed to be the “right jolly old elf,” but when he’s set to go on stage, Mae finds him drunk! Mae’s insurance agent was right there, so he agreed to step in, but only if Mae agreed to more seriously discuss with him the impending lawsuit against Happy Trails Campground. Otis wakes up, is livid about being replaced, and throws a fit which needs some Dottie intervention. Oh, what else could go wrong? Well, another dead body is normal…Ho, Ho, Homicide!
Tonya Kappes has delivered a “Santa-rrific” twenty-ninth mystery with several “couldn’t put down” storylines: a couple of murders, an annoying lawsuit, future mother-in-law angst, adoptive mother’s complaints, Betts’s efforts to finish her ex-husband’s “mea culpa” list, and Christmas, of course, is all around. Tonya gives you the sense you’ve got a handle on the crime and its solution, then “Wham!” She offers a twist you didn’t see coming. Supply chain issues and competing candy cane companies lead to dangerous predicaments and a solution with a creative final arrest. Mae is on overload, like us all, with the holidays and family pressures, but add a lawsuit with a suspicious plaintiff to tarnish the Christmas spirit. Tonya’s writing style is clever and enjoyable and filled with varied personalities from smart and determined like Mae to pure southern fun like Dottie. There’s plenty of holiday talk and goings on befitting the season as well as angst to keep you on your toes. It’s all entertaining and don’t forget the extras! Recipes and Camping Hacks from Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies at Happy Trails Campground include (1) Crockpot Candy Bark and (2) Camper Crockpot Christmas Cinnamon Rolls, and Camping Hacks include (1) adding the scent of Christmas and (2) holiday decorating.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
December 7, 2022
It's near Christmas time in Normal, Kentucky and Mae and Betts are holding a toy drive/holiday extravaganza at the campsite. Betts found a notebook filled with a bucket list of things, her late ex-husband wanted to do before his passing. Since he couldn't, she feels the need to do it to help him into the Pearly Gates.
The event is mostly a success, except Santa was drunk as a skunk and needed to be replaced by Mae's insurance guy. He's there because she has that lawsuit hanging over her head.
Of course a body is found and Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies feel compelled to solve it. After all, the town sheriff in inept, and Christmas is coming!
Besides solving a murder, Mae is dealing with making nice to Hank's parents. There is pressure to pick a wedding date, Mae realizing that adjustments will have to be made in her lifestyle as sh becomes part of a couple again.
The suspect list is a mile long and everyone on it seems to have a reason to be the culprit. When you finally realize who done it, you need to figure out the why, to see if your correct.
All in all, an entertaining read, with surprises galore and a lot of Southern Sass.
Thank you to Tonya Kappes for the advanced copy.
The event is mostly a success, except Santa was drunk as a skunk and needed to be replaced by Mae's insurance guy. He's there because she has that lawsuit hanging over her head.
Of course a body is found and Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies feel compelled to solve it. After all, the town sheriff in inept, and Christmas is coming!
Besides solving a murder, Mae is dealing with making nice to Hank's parents. There is pressure to pick a wedding date, Mae realizing that adjustments will have to be made in her lifestyle as sh becomes part of a couple again.
The suspect list is a mile long and everyone on it seems to have a reason to be the culprit. When you finally realize who done it, you need to figure out the why, to see if your correct.
All in all, an entertaining read, with surprises galore and a lot of Southern Sass.
Thank you to Tonya Kappes for the advanced copy.
December 25, 2022
What a wild case Mae and the Laundry Club had on their hands this time! Who offed a seemingly-innocent food supplies driver...and why? And poor old Otis--I couldn't help giggling and picturing another small town Otis while Otis in this book was all drunk, lol.
Ellis, Hank's sister made for an interesting side story in this book, and Mae was actually relieved to have some of the pressure off herself and Hank. Just as they were blaming one person, another side story and some clues started to make sense toward the end as to who the perp was. The showdown was good and quick with the culprit hauled off to jail so everyone in Normal could enjoy the rest of the festival and a Merry Christmas. I just love how Normal sounds all decorated for Christmas with their fun festival and wish I could visit there! I'll be eagerly waiting to borrow the next book in KU when it's out!
Ellis, Hank's sister made for an interesting side story in this book, and Mae was actually relieved to have some of the pressure off herself and Hank. Just as they were blaming one person, another side story and some clues started to make sense toward the end as to who the perp was. The showdown was good and quick with the culprit hauled off to jail so everyone in Normal could enjoy the rest of the festival and a Merry Christmas. I just love how Normal sounds all decorated for Christmas with their fun festival and wish I could visit there! I'll be eagerly waiting to borrow the next book in KU when it's out!
December 4, 2022
Christmastime has arrived in Normal, Kentucky and Mae has a lot more than the holidays to handle. Setting a wedding date, Hank’s family (yikes!), a lawsuit and murder, just to name a few. This is just so Normal. Filled with so many twists and suspects. I was so surprised by the ending…way to go Ellis!
December 15, 2022
Who knew sugar could be lethal. This is a delightful holiday cozy which involves candy cane factories. The murder keeps everyone guessing, including Mae, Dottie and the rest of the Laundry Club Ladies. Mae also is dealing with a lawsuit and trying to figure how to reveal her and Hank’s wedding date to the family. As usual, other complications arise with a new and unexpected romance.
This is the perfect cozy to read and enjoy before the holidays. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next installment in this series. I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy.
This is the perfect cozy to read and enjoy before the holidays. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next installment in this series. I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy.
December 21, 2022
This was another good mystery in the series. In this one Mae and her friends find a body at the candy factory. They spend the rest of the book trying to figure out who did it. Thankfully it gets solved and all is well for now.
May 1, 2023
Tonya Kappes writes a huge amount of very enjoyable cozy mysteries, and this book is no exception. Well-written, well-paced, and entertaining. I'm hoping my library obtains the other books from this series. Worth the time to read.
December 3, 2023
Wow what another amazing story this was.
The characters were amazing and I love Mae and her friends from the laundry club.
The storyline was engaging. This story was full of Christmas, snow, sweets and murder. It's my kind of seasonal cozy mystery. I highly recommend this read!!
The characters were amazing and I love Mae and her friends from the laundry club.
The storyline was engaging. This story was full of Christmas, snow, sweets and murder. It's my kind of seasonal cozy mystery. I highly recommend this read!!
December 7, 2022
I just love this series. Mae is always accidentally finding a dead body. She just wants to take a tour of the candy factory and stumble upon a dead body. She had just met the man and decides she needs to find his killer. With the help of her squad, she starts the investigation. It's near Christmas and she is trying to not get involved, but it isn't easy. Can they find the killer before anyone else is killed?
December 7, 2025
Dec 2025: another annual reread and as usual, I loved spending the holiday with the Laundry Club Ladies! I really like the chaos of this one - sugar! candy canes! murder! arson!
June 25, 2024
3.7 stars
December 18, 2022
Gifts, Glamping and Glocks
Camper and Criminals, Book #29
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY WITH A SMIDGEN OF HOMICIDE
Welcome to Normal, Kentucky, a small town in the Daniel Boone National Forest and Happy Trails Campground, where the annual Christmas activities are in full swing. But behind the twinkling lights and festive cheer lies a sinister secret.
When a local delivery driver is found murdered in Seymore’s Candy Cane Factory, suspicion quickly falls on the eccentric cast of characters who call Normal home. From the grumpy old man who owns the candy cane factory, to the bubbly town fiddle player, Otis Gullett, who is secretly in a rendezvous with the factory owner’s wife. No one is above suspicion.
As the investigation heats up, the town’s residents begin to turn on each other, and the killer’s true identity becomes more and more elusive. As the body count rises, Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies must race against the clock to uncover the truth before the killer strikes again.
With a southern twist and plenty of red herrings, Gifts, Glamping, & Glocks is a holiday thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. (Goodreads)
Review:
Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies are busy getting ready for Christmas. They are hosting a toy drive for the children. They are also taking the campers and their families to a tour of a candy cane factory. When someone is murdered at the factory, Mae and her friends will have to find the culprit.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. Whether walking around the campground or meeting at the
Laundromat to work on clues I could see it in my mind’s eye. The mystery was well plotted and not easily solved, which is how I like my mystery.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. These books are very enjoyable and you should check them out.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
Camper and Criminals, Book #29
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY WITH A SMIDGEN OF HOMICIDE
Welcome to Normal, Kentucky, a small town in the Daniel Boone National Forest and Happy Trails Campground, where the annual Christmas activities are in full swing. But behind the twinkling lights and festive cheer lies a sinister secret.
When a local delivery driver is found murdered in Seymore’s Candy Cane Factory, suspicion quickly falls on the eccentric cast of characters who call Normal home. From the grumpy old man who owns the candy cane factory, to the bubbly town fiddle player, Otis Gullett, who is secretly in a rendezvous with the factory owner’s wife. No one is above suspicion.
As the investigation heats up, the town’s residents begin to turn on each other, and the killer’s true identity becomes more and more elusive. As the body count rises, Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies must race against the clock to uncover the truth before the killer strikes again.
With a southern twist and plenty of red herrings, Gifts, Glamping, & Glocks is a holiday thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. (Goodreads)
Review:
Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies are busy getting ready for Christmas. They are hosting a toy drive for the children. They are also taking the campers and their families to a tour of a candy cane factory. When someone is murdered at the factory, Mae and her friends will have to find the culprit.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. Whether walking around the campground or meeting at the
Laundromat to work on clues I could see it in my mind’s eye. The mystery was well plotted and not easily solved, which is how I like my mystery.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. These books are very enjoyable and you should check them out.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
December 17, 2022
Gifts, Glamping, and Glocks is the 29th book in the Camper & Criminals series but it's as fresh and exciting at the first book. Reading Gifts, Glamping, and Glocks is just like coming back home to Normal, Kentucky. I love the familiarity of the characters, the hominess of the setting, and the comfort knowing Mae the the Laundry Club ladies are keeping everyone safe.
It's Christmastime in Normal. Happy Trails Campground's decorating crew is in full swing. The town's Christmas activities are ramping up. And a dead body is found in the local candy cane making factory. A slew of suspects has Mae, Dottie, and the rest of the crew, running around trying to solve the case before anyone else becomes a target. Only, the number suspicious deaths increase. Attempts at identifying the killer fall short when new theories come into play, alibis are revealed for suspects on the whiteboard, and clues becoming stagnant.
The author kept me guessing about the person responsible, and the scheme was shocking. There are several characters who have obvious reasons to be on the suspect list. The book was full of twists, turns, red herrings, and shifts in direction. The mystery would start out going one direction, then completely shift a new way. The suspense build-up was written well and intensified until the very end.
As with the rest of the books in the series, the mystery isn't the only thing going on in the book. Tonya Kappes did a terrific job weaving the main storyline and several smaller ones together. The characters are wonderfully crafted, realistically written, and I feel like I'm coming home to Normal, or wherever the Laundry Club may be, with every book in the series.
It's Christmastime in Normal. Happy Trails Campground's decorating crew is in full swing. The town's Christmas activities are ramping up. And a dead body is found in the local candy cane making factory. A slew of suspects has Mae, Dottie, and the rest of the crew, running around trying to solve the case before anyone else becomes a target. Only, the number suspicious deaths increase. Attempts at identifying the killer fall short when new theories come into play, alibis are revealed for suspects on the whiteboard, and clues becoming stagnant.
The author kept me guessing about the person responsible, and the scheme was shocking. There are several characters who have obvious reasons to be on the suspect list. The book was full of twists, turns, red herrings, and shifts in direction. The mystery would start out going one direction, then completely shift a new way. The suspense build-up was written well and intensified until the very end.
As with the rest of the books in the series, the mystery isn't the only thing going on in the book. Tonya Kappes did a terrific job weaving the main storyline and several smaller ones together. The characters are wonderfully crafted, realistically written, and I feel like I'm coming home to Normal, or wherever the Laundry Club may be, with every book in the series.
December 14, 2022
I love this series so much that when a new book comes out, I stop everything I’m doing. I want to live in Normal, Kentucky and stay at Mae’s camp. I will invite myself into the Laundry Club Ladies group and become a detective. The excitement never ends as another murder creeps up in the town. We know who the victim is, but we don’t know why or who did it. Let’s gets ready to follow Mae as she starts her investigation.
It was very interesting to read how candy canes are made and I could smell the peppermint as we toured the factory. One of my favorite things is peppermint. I love it in cake, ice cream , hot cocoa or just by itself. The description of the process it takes to make candy canes captivated me. This is the perfect story to cozy up with as we get ready for the holidays.
The author doesn’t miss a beat as laughter is scattered throughout the story with a mixup of a robe. Oh I fell in the floor visualizing Hank in this get up. I guess he was in such a hurry to get to a call that he grabbed whatever was close by. After everyone calms down, they try to figure out who was trying to break into the B&B at this hour of the night. With a suspect on the loose, an unexplained fire at the campground, Mae has her hands full trying to solve the case. This is a story that has excitement, laughs, a bit of danger and a cast of characters sure to keep any reader entertained. Don’t miss the recipes and camping hacks at tge end of the book.I think I need to go get some candy canes now.
It was very interesting to read how candy canes are made and I could smell the peppermint as we toured the factory. One of my favorite things is peppermint. I love it in cake, ice cream , hot cocoa or just by itself. The description of the process it takes to make candy canes captivated me. This is the perfect story to cozy up with as we get ready for the holidays.
The author doesn’t miss a beat as laughter is scattered throughout the story with a mixup of a robe. Oh I fell in the floor visualizing Hank in this get up. I guess he was in such a hurry to get to a call that he grabbed whatever was close by. After everyone calms down, they try to figure out who was trying to break into the B&B at this hour of the night. With a suspect on the loose, an unexplained fire at the campground, Mae has her hands full trying to solve the case. This is a story that has excitement, laughs, a bit of danger and a cast of characters sure to keep any reader entertained. Don’t miss the recipes and camping hacks at tge end of the book.I think I need to go get some candy canes now.
December 15, 2022
This is the twenty-ninth installment of the Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery Series. Although I did not find it as well-written as previous installments, it was a good read. The premise was interesting. While on a factory tour of Seymore’s Candy Cane Factory with her customers, Mae discovers a body. There are plenty of suspects, twists and turn, and mis-directions which makes this a highly desirable read.
Mae and the Laundry Club ladies begin their investigation into the many suspects that may have had a reason to follow through on their feelings.
Another thread through the book is the impending lawsuit against the campground.
How will everything turn out?
At times, I joined Dottie in rolling my eyes in commiseration. I feel that the quaint sayings just didn’t hit the mark for me in this episode. I felt the author tried too hard to make up some of them; they probably weren’t but I was left scratching my head.
The characters are well developed and unique. I felt this episode could have included the Laundry Club ladies more in the searching and resolution.
I thoroughly enjoyed the transformation of the campground into a winter wonderland to help Betts fulfill Lester’s book of good deeds.
Even though the story is good, it did not resonate with me. For that reason, I cannot rate it higher than 3.5 which will be rounded up for this review since there are no half points.
I was given an advanced copy and am not required to leave a positive review. I am looking forward to the next episode.
Mae and the Laundry Club ladies begin their investigation into the many suspects that may have had a reason to follow through on their feelings.
Another thread through the book is the impending lawsuit against the campground.
How will everything turn out?
At times, I joined Dottie in rolling my eyes in commiseration. I feel that the quaint sayings just didn’t hit the mark for me in this episode. I felt the author tried too hard to make up some of them; they probably weren’t but I was left scratching my head.
The characters are well developed and unique. I felt this episode could have included the Laundry Club ladies more in the searching and resolution.
I thoroughly enjoyed the transformation of the campground into a winter wonderland to help Betts fulfill Lester’s book of good deeds.
Even though the story is good, it did not resonate with me. For that reason, I cannot rate it higher than 3.5 which will be rounded up for this review since there are no half points.
I was given an advanced copy and am not required to leave a positive review. I am looking forward to the next episode.
December 16, 2022
It is approaching Christmas in Normal, KY and Mae is helping Betts cross off items on Lester’s list of requests from previous congregation members that he was not able to accomplish before he died. As part of the Gifts and Glamping Christmas event being held at the campground, Betts and Mae arrange for a toy drive, which appears to have been successful.
This event is followed by a tour of a candy cane factory, and Mae ends up discovering a dead body. Why would anyone want to kill Graham, a sugar deliveryman? Was it Lucas, the owner of the candy cane factory whose wife was having an affair with Graham? The owners of the other candy cane factory in town over sugar control, or something else entirely?
As well as solving this murder, Mae is dealing with someone suing her for the campground over a spider bite a few years ago. Why they would want ownership of the campground where they got bit is baffling. Obviously, the campground is a successful venture, so why not? Money is money.
There is also Hank’s sister Ellie with news of her own that is sure to shock and surprise everyone! She certainly knows how to upstage an event, and I don’t envy Mae in dealing with Ellie in the future.
The murderer was on my radar for something else entirely because I thought they were sketchy as heck, but ending up as the killer really, really surprised me! Wonderful job with the twists and turns in this story. As always, it is a joy to connect with the characters in this crazy town. I cannot wait for the actual wedding of Hank and Mae and it cannot come soon enough for me.
This event is followed by a tour of a candy cane factory, and Mae ends up discovering a dead body. Why would anyone want to kill Graham, a sugar deliveryman? Was it Lucas, the owner of the candy cane factory whose wife was having an affair with Graham? The owners of the other candy cane factory in town over sugar control, or something else entirely?
As well as solving this murder, Mae is dealing with someone suing her for the campground over a spider bite a few years ago. Why they would want ownership of the campground where they got bit is baffling. Obviously, the campground is a successful venture, so why not? Money is money.
There is also Hank’s sister Ellie with news of her own that is sure to shock and surprise everyone! She certainly knows how to upstage an event, and I don’t envy Mae in dealing with Ellie in the future.
The murderer was on my radar for something else entirely because I thought they were sketchy as heck, but ending up as the killer really, really surprised me! Wonderful job with the twists and turns in this story. As always, it is a joy to connect with the characters in this crazy town. I cannot wait for the actual wedding of Hank and Mae and it cannot come soon enough for me.
December 12, 2022
The twinkly lights are lit and the stocking are hung by the chimney with care in hopes that Santa will soon arrive at Happy Trails Campground in Normal, Kentucky. It seems someone has been naughty when a local delivery driver's dead body is found at the Candy Cane Factory buried beneath sugar of all things! It is Christmastime and all should be merry, but as usual there is murder afoot which needs to be solved. Mae and the Laundry Club Ladies are on the job. They are ready, willing and able to investigate and solve this mystery, whether their help is wanted or not. There are plenty of red herrings to dig through as you try to solve the mystery. The southern humor and antics of the characters in this book and this series will leave you laughing out loud. Dottie is still my favorite character as you never know what may come out of her mouth next! She has no filter at all whatsoever. Hank will provide some comic relief in this one as well when he shows up in an emergency situation dressed in something a little odd! (You will have to read the book to find out.) Trust me... you do not want to miss this scene! If you need a little light-hearted mystery to read with a holiday twist, you will enjoy this one.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 15, 2022
Happy Trails is full swing into preparing for Christmas, one of the first big events helping Betts with a toy drive, another one of her ex-husband’s projects. I’m preparing for the event, though, Otis, the town Santa, turns up drunk, and a replacement has to be found while Otis sleeps it off in an empty camper. The Normal community comes together like always and pulls off the event almost effortlessly.
As the story progresses, The Milkery is broken into, which Mae takes personally, since it was an attack on someone she loves. All signs point to the thieves being interested in the sugar Mary Elizabeth had stored.
When a body is found at the local candy cane company and Otis is nowhere to be found, the Laundry Club ladies are back on the hunt for clues. Then there’s the hinting of an affair and another body turns up at a competing candy cane company down the road. Maybe our mamas were right when they said sugar was bad for us, or maybe it’s just that Tonya Kappes is just too good at killing (but only in her books, y’all).
Next thing I know, Mae ends up finding a bunch of guns (and the killer) in a place she never expected, and I have to say I wasn’t expecting it either. Is she going to get herself out of the mess she finds herself in? Time to read and find out! I was given an advanced reader copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
As the story progresses, The Milkery is broken into, which Mae takes personally, since it was an attack on someone she loves. All signs point to the thieves being interested in the sugar Mary Elizabeth had stored.
When a body is found at the local candy cane company and Otis is nowhere to be found, the Laundry Club ladies are back on the hunt for clues. Then there’s the hinting of an affair and another body turns up at a competing candy cane company down the road. Maybe our mamas were right when they said sugar was bad for us, or maybe it’s just that Tonya Kappes is just too good at killing (but only in her books, y’all).
Next thing I know, Mae ends up finding a bunch of guns (and the killer) in a place she never expected, and I have to say I wasn’t expecting it either. Is she going to get herself out of the mess she finds herself in? Time to read and find out! I was given an advanced reader copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
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