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Lily Rock Mysteries #5
Deadbeat Dad
Olivia is riding high after her Sweet Four O'Clock summer tour. Michael is hard at work building their dream home and her sister, Sage, is expecting.
Yet things take a dark turn when Olivia follows Mayor Maguire's barks and stumbles onto the body of Beat's Malone. Someone killed the talented drummer and dumped his body in a public parking lot. Olivia is on the case once more! Not only is she determined to uncover who is behind Beat's death, but to discover how it connects to her pregnant sister.
Secrets abound with everyone—including Mayor Maguire—acting odd. But when an anonymous source sends the police a video of a skateboarder riding through downtown Lily Rock in the dark Olivia begins to wonder if this is a clue… or a threat.
When Sage ends up in the hospital, Olivia is ordered by the handsome new Lily Rock doctor to drop everything and care for her sister at home. Janis Jets must continue the investigation on her own.
Can Janis track down the killer without Olivia's help? Or will Olivia have to choose between family obligations and stopping a murderer from striking again?
Yet things take a dark turn when Olivia follows Mayor Maguire's barks and stumbles onto the body of Beat's Malone. Someone killed the talented drummer and dumped his body in a public parking lot. Olivia is on the case once more! Not only is she determined to uncover who is behind Beat's death, but to discover how it connects to her pregnant sister.
Secrets abound with everyone—including Mayor Maguire—acting odd. But when an anonymous source sends the police a video of a skateboarder riding through downtown Lily Rock in the dark Olivia begins to wonder if this is a clue… or a threat.
When Sage ends up in the hospital, Olivia is ordered by the handsome new Lily Rock doctor to drop everything and care for her sister at home. Janis Jets must continue the investigation on her own.
Can Janis track down the killer without Olivia's help? Or will Olivia have to choose between family obligations and stopping a murderer from striking again?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2023
About the author
Bonnie Hardy
18 books57 followersBonnie Hardy, a retired professional turned author, is celebrated for her two enthralling cozy mystery series. The first, set in the picturesque mountain town of Lily Rock, features amateur sleuth Olivia Greer, known for her uncanny ability to draw out confessions from the most unlikely people.
The second series, set in Palm Desert, features the mid-life duo mentalist Rex Redondo and his down to earth next door neighbor doula Vivienne Rose.
Inspired by Agatha Christie, Bonnie's captivating tales of mystery and community masterfully blend fast-paced whodunits with clever sleuthing.
The second series, set in Palm Desert, features the mid-life duo mentalist Rex Redondo and his down to earth next door neighbor doula Vivienne Rose.
Inspired by Agatha Christie, Bonnie's captivating tales of mystery and community masterfully blend fast-paced whodunits with clever sleuthing.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
June 7, 2023
Finally, the end of the bundle
With each book, I disliked sage more and more. She's a user and a moocher. She has a home with Meadow, her mom, at 40 years old!!! Then she moves in with her half sister, olivia.. Olivia puts her name on the deed if a home a rich friend left in her will with money. Olivia finally has her bf move in, but that's temporary. He and Olivia are moving out after he builds her a home. That situation is weird. The police chief is another pathetic one asking Olivia to help her solve crimes she gets paid to solve all while verbally demeaning Olivia with name calling etc.. Three adult "children" and an influencer under one roof til mom flips her wig- more unemployed users and moochers who act entitled and privileged with their I phones and no jobs!!!! They were living lies and beain washed with cult behaviors instilled by their mom. Mom had so much hate and lies that she couldn't and didn't want to see the actual truths. I was happy to complete this series because Michael is the only character (along with the mayor) that I can tolerate now. The sisters and the malone/greys were users and belong together. I'm not following this author any further, and I'm sorry I went this far down the rabbit hole.
With each book, I disliked sage more and more. She's a user and a moocher. She has a home with Meadow, her mom, at 40 years old!!! Then she moves in with her half sister, olivia.. Olivia puts her name on the deed if a home a rich friend left in her will with money. Olivia finally has her bf move in, but that's temporary. He and Olivia are moving out after he builds her a home. That situation is weird. The police chief is another pathetic one asking Olivia to help her solve crimes she gets paid to solve all while verbally demeaning Olivia with name calling etc.. Three adult "children" and an influencer under one roof til mom flips her wig- more unemployed users and moochers who act entitled and privileged with their I phones and no jobs!!!! They were living lies and beain washed with cult behaviors instilled by their mom. Mom had so much hate and lies that she couldn't and didn't want to see the actual truths. I was happy to complete this series because Michael is the only character (along with the mayor) that I can tolerate now. The sisters and the malone/greys were users and belong together. I'm not following this author any further, and I'm sorry I went this far down the rabbit hole.
January 30, 2025
Bonnie Hardy’s Deadbeat Dad, the fifth installment in the Lily Rock Mystery series, delivers another gripping, small-town whodunit that blends family drama, suspense, and an engaging cast of characters. With its signature mix of charm and tension, this novel keeps readers hooked until the very last page, proving once again why Olivia and her quirky circle of sleuths are fan favorites.
At the heart of the story is Olivia, fresh off the success of her Sweet Four O’Clock summer tour and happily watching her dream home come to life with Michael. Meanwhile, her sister, Sage, is preparing to welcome a baby—a moment of joy that should bring peace, but instead, shadows of danger creep in when Olivia stumbles upon the body of Beat’s Malone, a talented drummer whose mysterious murder sets off a chain of chilling discoveries.
Hardy does a fantastic job weaving multiple mysteries into one cohesive, suspenseful plot. What initially seems like an isolated crime quickly becomes something more deeply personal when Olivia realizes there is a connection between Beat’s death and her pregnant sister. With secrets swirling, familiar faces acting strangely, and a cryptic video of a lone skateboarder surfacing as potential evidence, Olivia’s determination to solve the case is stronger than ever.
However, Hardy throws a compelling twist into the mix—Olivia is forced to take a step back when Sage's health takes a turn for the worse, landing her in the hospital. Enter Janis Jets, Olivia’s fiery and fearless partner-in-crime-solving, who must now take the lead on the investigation. This shift in dynamic adds fresh tension and stakes to the story, as Olivia struggles with the impossible choice between being by her sister’s side or tracking down a killer before they strike again.
One of the novel’s strongest elements is its character-driven mystery. The residents of Lily Rock are as vibrant as ever, and Mayor Maguire’s unusual behavior adds an intriguing layer of suspicion. Hardy keeps the suspect list tight yet unpredictable, skillfully planting red herrings and unexpected twists that make the reader question every motive. Is the skateboarder an innocent witness, or is someone sending Olivia a warning? Every clue feels like it could lead to the truth—or a dangerous dead end.
Beyond the sleuthing and suspense, Deadbeat Dad maintains the cozy, small-town charm that makes this series so delightful. Olivia’s relationship with her family, her banter with Janis, and even the quiet moments of domestic normalcy (like Michael working on their dream home) provide a warm contrast to the darkness lurking beneath the surface. Hardy’s writing is engaging, fast-paced, and filled with just the right amount of humor, keeping the tension balanced without losing the heart of the story.
By the time the killer’s identity is revealed, the novel delivers a satisfying payoff, answering lingering questions while setting up potential future tensions for Lily Rock’s amateur detective team. The final choice Olivia must make—between her family obligations and her relentless need for justice—adds emotional depth, making this not just a well-crafted mystery, but a story about priorities, loyalty, and the bonds that define us.
Deadbeat Dad is another stellar entry in the Lily Rock Mystery series, delivering a suspenseful, well-plotted murder mystery with rich character dynamics and small-town intrigue. Hardy masterfully balances family drama, investigative twists, and a touch of humor, making this a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries with an edge. Whether you’re a longtime follower of the series or a newcomer, this book proves that Olivia and Janis are a duo worth watching—and Lily Rock is never short on secrets.
At the heart of the story is Olivia, fresh off the success of her Sweet Four O’Clock summer tour and happily watching her dream home come to life with Michael. Meanwhile, her sister, Sage, is preparing to welcome a baby—a moment of joy that should bring peace, but instead, shadows of danger creep in when Olivia stumbles upon the body of Beat’s Malone, a talented drummer whose mysterious murder sets off a chain of chilling discoveries.
Hardy does a fantastic job weaving multiple mysteries into one cohesive, suspenseful plot. What initially seems like an isolated crime quickly becomes something more deeply personal when Olivia realizes there is a connection between Beat’s death and her pregnant sister. With secrets swirling, familiar faces acting strangely, and a cryptic video of a lone skateboarder surfacing as potential evidence, Olivia’s determination to solve the case is stronger than ever.
However, Hardy throws a compelling twist into the mix—Olivia is forced to take a step back when Sage's health takes a turn for the worse, landing her in the hospital. Enter Janis Jets, Olivia’s fiery and fearless partner-in-crime-solving, who must now take the lead on the investigation. This shift in dynamic adds fresh tension and stakes to the story, as Olivia struggles with the impossible choice between being by her sister’s side or tracking down a killer before they strike again.
One of the novel’s strongest elements is its character-driven mystery. The residents of Lily Rock are as vibrant as ever, and Mayor Maguire’s unusual behavior adds an intriguing layer of suspicion. Hardy keeps the suspect list tight yet unpredictable, skillfully planting red herrings and unexpected twists that make the reader question every motive. Is the skateboarder an innocent witness, or is someone sending Olivia a warning? Every clue feels like it could lead to the truth—or a dangerous dead end.
Beyond the sleuthing and suspense, Deadbeat Dad maintains the cozy, small-town charm that makes this series so delightful. Olivia’s relationship with her family, her banter with Janis, and even the quiet moments of domestic normalcy (like Michael working on their dream home) provide a warm contrast to the darkness lurking beneath the surface. Hardy’s writing is engaging, fast-paced, and filled with just the right amount of humor, keeping the tension balanced without losing the heart of the story.
By the time the killer’s identity is revealed, the novel delivers a satisfying payoff, answering lingering questions while setting up potential future tensions for Lily Rock’s amateur detective team. The final choice Olivia must make—between her family obligations and her relentless need for justice—adds emotional depth, making this not just a well-crafted mystery, but a story about priorities, loyalty, and the bonds that define us.
Deadbeat Dad is another stellar entry in the Lily Rock Mystery series, delivering a suspenseful, well-plotted murder mystery with rich character dynamics and small-town intrigue. Hardy masterfully balances family drama, investigative twists, and a touch of humor, making this a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries with an edge. Whether you’re a longtime follower of the series or a newcomer, this book proves that Olivia and Janis are a duo worth watching—and Lily Rock is never short on secrets.
January 1, 2025
Renowned drummer, Beats Malone, came to Lily Rock to audition for Olivia’s band, Sweet Four O’Clock. Unknown to her, he had another reason for coming to town. Unfortunately, he never made it to the meeting. Mayor Maguire leads Olivia and Arlo to Beat’s body outside the bar. While Olivia would like to help solve the case, her pregnant sister, Sage, is having a medical crisis. Officer Janis has her hands full with a new family in town causing trouble. Soon their own link to Beats is revealed. A second murder and a troubled teen skateboarder bring Olivia back to the investigation. His ex-wife and children paint him as a deadbeat father, but evidence surfaces that proves otherwise. Can Olivia and Janis set the record straight?
Bonnie Hardy continues to weave weighty societal issues into her compelling mysteries. This time, she focuses on parental alienation syndrome in some divorced families. The effects of that manipulation leaves lasting scars for the children and is given a realistic treatment in this story. The adult children of Beats and Bianca are maladjusted and overly enmeshed with each other and Bianca. Her brainwashing of them in regards to Beats makes them viable suspects in his murder and has them willing to hide evidence and obstruct justice. Mayor Maguire again plays a pivotal role in solving the mystery and remains one of the best parts of the Lily Rock series. The relationship between Cookie and Janis is blossoming and shows her heart beneath her snark and aloofness. Her hurt when Olivia walked away from the investigation was palpable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bonnie Hardy continues to weave weighty societal issues into her compelling mysteries. This time, she focuses on parental alienation syndrome in some divorced families. The effects of that manipulation leaves lasting scars for the children and is given a realistic treatment in this story. The adult children of Beats and Bianca are maladjusted and overly enmeshed with each other and Bianca. Her brainwashing of them in regards to Beats makes them viable suspects in his murder and has them willing to hide evidence and obstruct justice. Mayor Maguire again plays a pivotal role in solving the mystery and remains one of the best parts of the Lily Rock series. The relationship between Cookie and Janis is blossoming and shows her heart beneath her snark and aloofness. Her hurt when Olivia walked away from the investigation was palpable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 31, 2024
As Sage gets further in her pregnancy, mysteries abound.
Though Meadow, Olivia and Michael vow to stand by her, the parentage of the cholis still a mystery - who's the Daddy?
New folks in town are a distraction for good friend Cay, and they seem a bit off the wall, which is saying a lot for a town with a dog for a mayor.
Michael and Olivia seem to have some bumps to work out in their relationship, as the building of their house progresses.
Lily Rock is an unique place, and I like ve reading each new chapter about how they try to be their for folks they claim as their own.
it's sometimes lethal, but still feels like a great place to visit.
Though Meadow, Olivia and Michael vow to stand by her, the parentage of the cholis still a mystery - who's the Daddy?
New folks in town are a distraction for good friend Cay, and they seem a bit off the wall, which is saying a lot for a town with a dog for a mayor.
Michael and Olivia seem to have some bumps to work out in their relationship, as the building of their house progresses.
Lily Rock is an unique place, and I like ve reading each new chapter about how they try to be their for folks they claim as their own.
it's sometimes lethal, but still feels like a great place to visit.
January 2, 2025
Detective- Olivia Greer, musician
Love Interest- Michael (architect/builder)
Crime- murder
Victim- Beats Malone
Method- insertion of bladed utensil
Police- Janis Jets
Furry Character- “Mayor” Maguire
Mewsings
I enjoy this mystery series. The greatest strength of this author is their talent for world building, specifically character creation. The interaction of the characters and the dialogue are spot on, and each character, including side characters, are all interconnected and interesting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Love Interest- Michael (architect/builder)
Crime- murder
Victim- Beats Malone
Method- insertion of bladed utensil
Police- Janis Jets
Furry Character- “Mayor” Maguire
Mewsings
I enjoy this mystery series. The greatest strength of this author is their talent for world building, specifically character creation. The interaction of the characters and the dialogue are spot on, and each character, including side characters, are all interconnected and interesting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2024
Baffling murder.
Another enjoyable and entertaining book in the Lily Rock series. I love how Olivia investigates the baffling murder, along with the snarky police officer, Janis Jets. An unexpected turn of events for Olivia's sister Sage makes this book even more interesting. A book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
I read this book as part of an advance reader team and am voluntarily writing this review.
Another enjoyable and entertaining book in the Lily Rock series. I love how Olivia investigates the baffling murder, along with the snarky police officer, Janis Jets. An unexpected turn of events for Olivia's sister Sage makes this book even more interesting. A book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
I read this book as part of an advance reader team and am voluntarily writing this review.
February 3, 2023
Really good
The story is quite involved and well developed. I admire the skill of Bonnie Hardy weaving 3 mysteries around 1 storyline and make it work. Highly recommend this series.
The story is quite involved and well developed. I admire the skill of Bonnie Hardy weaving 3 mysteries around 1 storyline and make it work. Highly recommend this series.
February 8, 2023
Three story lines become one great ending!
This is Bonnie Hardy’s best book to date. Olivia and Janice get mixed up with a new family in Lily Rock, only yo discover they are not at all what seem. Great read, can’t wait for book 6!
This is Bonnie Hardy’s best book to date. Olivia and Janice get mixed up with a new family in Lily Rock, only yo discover they are not at all what seem. Great read, can’t wait for book 6!
September 19, 2025
Bonnie Hardy knows how to write an interesting and intriguing book. Lily Rock is a busy place and in this story there are some really weird people living in this little town. Don't miss out on the fun. It's a great read. Highly Recommended.
June 12, 2023
Disclaimer: Received book as a "Beta" Review. This was the 1st book I read in the series and I admit I want to learn/read more of the Lily Rock residents I'm hooked.
May 13, 2026
Interesting cozy mystery. The heroine seemed a bit indecisive. I enjoyed it and have continued reading the series. I enjoyed the characters a lot. The plots were quite interesting and fun to solve.
February 2, 2023
It’s always a joy to return to Lily Rock, even if it is to join Olivia, Janis, and the rest of the town as they work to solve their most perplexing murder to date. I found the storyline to be so compelling that I truly struggled to put the latest installment of the Lily Rock Mysteries down.
The story of Deadbeat Dad is by far the most complex of the Lily Rock Mysteries. The story explores family dynamics from a multitude of perspectives. This exploration combined with what constitutes a family plays a pivotal role in this mystery. Family dynamics and history can be a sensitive topic, but the author handles these perplexing and unusual familial dynamics with compassion, understanding, and a touch of gentle humor.
The author smoothly weaves together the mystery and the day to day lives of all the characters that comprise Lily Rock. The details of the town and the characters add a layer of richness to the story that makes it easy for the reader to become immersed in storyline. You can certainly read Deadbeat Dad as a stand-alone novel, but to really understand the character growth I recommend reading the other Lily Rock Mysteries.
The story of Deadbeat Dad is by far the most complex of the Lily Rock Mysteries. The story explores family dynamics from a multitude of perspectives. This exploration combined with what constitutes a family plays a pivotal role in this mystery. Family dynamics and history can be a sensitive topic, but the author handles these perplexing and unusual familial dynamics with compassion, understanding, and a touch of gentle humor.
The author smoothly weaves together the mystery and the day to day lives of all the characters that comprise Lily Rock. The details of the town and the characters add a layer of richness to the story that makes it easy for the reader to become immersed in storyline. You can certainly read Deadbeat Dad as a stand-alone novel, but to really understand the character growth I recommend reading the other Lily Rock Mysteries.
February 22, 2023
This is another book in the Lily Rock Mystery Series. This series is always enjoyable- the town is interesting, the characters are generally pleasant (or else they get murdered or stick around to get murdered later), and the stories are comfortable and entertaining. My favorite kind of cozy mystery is this type- where the plot and characters aren't so unbelievable to take me out of the story to roll my eyes, but where it is easier and more entertaining and ties up more easily than real life.
I missed a few books in the series before this one and I felt like I was lost sometimes so I would recommend reading in order.
I missed a few books in the series before this one and I felt like I was lost sometimes so I would recommend reading in order.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews