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Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery #16
Death of a Clam Digger
As the tide rolls out in coastal town of Bar Harbor, Maine, tasty clams are plentiful--and so is murder . . .
Food and cocktails columnist Hayley Powell usually reserves judgement for local cuisine, not the people who serve it. But staying neutral isn't so easy when caught between the biggest seafood rivals in town--her BFF Mona Barnes and the successful Leighton clan. Adding to a bitter decades-old surf-turf war between family businesses, a modern Romeo and Juliet story unfolds as Mona's son gets engaged to the daughter of her sworn enemy . . .
Spiteful patriarch Lonnie Leighton is also steamed about the arrangement--enough to go to dangerous lengths to break it up. At least, until he's discovered face down and dead in the clam flats. With unanswered questions swirling, accusations flying in both directions, and a young couple stuck in the middle, Hayley has bigger fish to fry than determining who sources the best shellfish in Bar Harbor. Because someone wants to get away with murder . . . and send whoever else gets in their way to a muddy grave.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2023
113 people are currently reading
394 people want to read
About the author
Lee Hollis
49 books818 followersLee Hollis is the pen name for Rick Copp and his sister Holly Simason.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
September 11, 2023
Quite the winner! Loved learning all about Mona's sons and the family rivalry with another clamming family in Bar Harbor, Maine. Lee Hollis knocked it out of the ballpark with Death of a Clam Digger. Ripe with romance, mystery, vengeance, lies, and family drama, so much history is unearthed about Mona's life as a kid, her breakup with Dennis, and how many children they really had - 9! Oh my... and we met many of them in this book. Definitely a great entry in the series, and I think it may even be in my top 2 or 3 overall for the Hayley Powell Mysteries. Even Bruce had some spotlight when an ex- returned to town and tried to worm her way back into his life. Plus, the funny fight scenes and delicious sounding food made me thrilled during the entire read on a flight home from California earlier this week.
March 13, 2023
#DeathofaClamDigger #NetGalley is the latest book featuring Hayley Powell, chef, columnist, wife and mother.
Hayley has 2 best friends, and this story revolves around Mona, mom and business owner.
Mona's son has stars in his eyes, but his love is for the daughter of another local business owner, and Mona's biggest competitor.
When the business owner is found, dead, everyone looks at Mona's son as the suspect, and Hayley can't stop herself from asking questions.
In the middle of all this, Hayley's husband Bruce, has a run in with an ex, and this irritates Hayley.
While I found the story interesting, I found Hayley insecure and worried about her relationship with Bruce, and that's a turn from the strong independent woman she is.
I hope the future books don't continue to portray Haley in that manner.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Hayley has 2 best friends, and this story revolves around Mona, mom and business owner.
Mona's son has stars in his eyes, but his love is for the daughter of another local business owner, and Mona's biggest competitor.
When the business owner is found, dead, everyone looks at Mona's son as the suspect, and Hayley can't stop herself from asking questions.
In the middle of all this, Hayley's husband Bruce, has a run in with an ex, and this irritates Hayley.
While I found the story interesting, I found Hayley insecure and worried about her relationship with Bruce, and that's a turn from the strong independent woman she is.
I hope the future books don't continue to portray Haley in that manner.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
April 1, 2023
It was so nice to slip back into the world of Hayley Powell. I love her good humor and recipes. Even though she is busy at her restaurant and writing her columns at the Island Times she always makes time for her best friends. This time Mona has lots of trouble with her three oldest sons, Dennis Jr, Digger and Dougie, so she calls on Hayley for help and of course Hayley tries to help Mona the best way possible. That is until Mona's rival turns up dead and all fingers are pointed at Mona's boys. Even though the town's capable sheriff, Hayley's brother in law, is always at the ready she does help lend him a helping hand. But this time seems to be trickier than normal seeing that Mona's boys don't seem to be acting innocent and they are all hiding something. As if Hayley doesn't have enough to worry about her new husband, Bruce's ex-girlfriend shows up in town. She's beautiful, successful and extremely rich. What is she looking for in Bar Harbor? Hopefully not Hayley's husband!
July 9, 2023
“Death of a Clam Digger ” by Lee Hollis the 16th instalment in the Haley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery series which releases on July 25, 2023. I love this series, the stories always catch my attention and pull me in right away. This instalment was no different I read over a few hours.
I found the mystery was well written and paced with lots of twists and turns. It kept me guessing to the end. I can’t wait till the next instalment comes out and finding out. I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Kensington Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I found the mystery was well written and paced with lots of twists and turns. It kept me guessing to the end. I can’t wait till the next instalment comes out and finding out. I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Kensington Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 1, 2023
This is such a fun series! I love catching up with Hayley, Mona, and Liddy each time a new book comes out. The mystery was well written and the pacing kept me reading well into the night. Although I had figured out who the killer was early on, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the mystery. There’s just enough humor to balance out the murder investigation. Looking forward to the next.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
April 9, 2023
Death of a Clam Digger is the next book in the Hayley Powell Food & Cocktails mystery series. I absolutely love this series. The characters are unique and interesting, the setting is super charming, and the mysteries are always intriguing. AND, of course, the cocktail and food recipes are delightful! I can't wait to make some of these clam dishes and stir up some of these delicious drinks!
Mona Barnes, Hayley's best friend, has been deeply invovled in a long-standing family feud between the Barnes and the Leightons. With both family's owning successful seafood companies, competition has been and will ever be fierce. Add to the feud that certain family members' relationships may be getting closer, and drama will ensue! Finally, when a body, closely linked to the Leightons is discovered in the clam flats, there are quite a lot of suspects. Unfortunately for Hayley, many of the suspects are part of the Barnes family.
Death of a Clam Digger is a perfect cozy mystery complete with the charming setting, fun characters, and intriguing mystery. If you're looking for a great cozy mystery series, definitely pick this one up!
Mona Barnes, Hayley's best friend, has been deeply invovled in a long-standing family feud between the Barnes and the Leightons. With both family's owning successful seafood companies, competition has been and will ever be fierce. Add to the feud that certain family members' relationships may be getting closer, and drama will ensue! Finally, when a body, closely linked to the Leightons is discovered in the clam flats, there are quite a lot of suspects. Unfortunately for Hayley, many of the suspects are part of the Barnes family.
Death of a Clam Digger is a perfect cozy mystery complete with the charming setting, fun characters, and intriguing mystery. If you're looking for a great cozy mystery series, definitely pick this one up!
March 22, 2023
Through NetGalley, I received a free copy of DEATH OF A CLAM DIGGER (Book 16 of the Hayley Powell Mysteries) by Lee Hollis in exchange for an honest review. Hayley is a food and spirits columnist and a local restaurant owner. There is a local rivalry between local seafood vendors , and Hayley's good friend Mona owns one of the rival businesses. Tensions between the businesses flare up complicated by a star-crossed romance between the offspring of the business owners. When the patriarch of the business rivaling Mona's dies in suspicious circumstances but law enforcement rules the death accidental, the family approaches Hayley to investigate to determine whether it was actually accidental or really homicidal. Hayley's investigation puts her at odds with Mona since Hayley will have to investigate Mona and her family in order to rule them out as possible perpetrators.
I liked this book and enjoy the series. I recommend this book to fans of cozy murder mysteries featuring murder, media, food, and coastal themes.
#DeathofaClamDigger #NetGalley
I liked this book and enjoy the series. I recommend this book to fans of cozy murder mysteries featuring murder, media, food, and coastal themes.
#DeathofaClamDigger #NetGalley
March 21, 2023
Death of a Clam Digger by Lee Hollis is an excellent cozy mystery that is the 16th book in one of my favorite all- time series ever: A Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery. This is such an awesome addition!
I have read every book and novella as part of this series, and I cannot get enough.
In this book, clams are the main dish, served up with a side of murder…and Mona and her family are wading deep into the suspect list.
I enjoyed the wit, the humor, the sarcasm, the over-the-top moments, the mystery, and the conclusion.
Looking forward to the next one.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 7/25/23.
I have read every book and novella as part of this series, and I cannot get enough.
In this book, clams are the main dish, served up with a side of murder…and Mona and her family are wading deep into the suspect list.
I enjoyed the wit, the humor, the sarcasm, the over-the-top moments, the mystery, and the conclusion.
Looking forward to the next one.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 7/25/23.
March 11, 2023
Hayley Powell owns a restaurant called Haley’s Kitchen in Bar Harbor. Her top dish, Clam Risotto is popular among locals thanks to her chef, Kelton.
One of the diners, Tabitha Collins, the CEO of a national seafood company, Boston Common Seafood, loves the food so much that she’s offered to help Hayley expand her business.
Hayley’s BFF, Mona Barnes—who owns a seafood business—and her family have had an ongoing feud with Lonnie Leighton, owner of Leighton Fish & Seafood, a rival local business for years. Now the war is mostly waged between Mona and Lonnie’s daughter, Vera Leighton.
Following an altercation between Mona’s and Lonnie’s families at Haley’s restaurant, Lonnie’s discovered lying facedown in the clam flats by Hayley and Mona while they were out walking their dogs. Near the same spot where Mona and Vera Leighton were seen fighting at earlier.
Hayley immediately calls Bar Harbor Police Chief Sergio Alvares, who happened to be Hayley’s brother-in-law, along with his sidekick, Lieutenant Donnie. Hayley also found a class ring in Lonnie’s clam bucket which she brought to Chief Sergio’s attention.
According to the county coroner, Sabrina Merryweather—Hayley’s old friend from high school, when Lonnie went clamming he lost his footing and fell, suffocating in the low tide clam flats.
But Vera suspects foul play and not long after, Mona’s son Dougie becomes the murder suspect.
The book is interspersed with mouthwatering recipes such as Baked Stuffed Clams 🦪, Mona’s Easy Delicious Steamed Clams, Wow Your Guests Easy Clam Cakes, Clams and Sausage Spaghetti 🍝 Special, Clam Dip, and so on.
Thank you to Lee Hollis, NetGalley, and Kensington Books for the arc of this book
One of the diners, Tabitha Collins, the CEO of a national seafood company, Boston Common Seafood, loves the food so much that she’s offered to help Hayley expand her business.
Hayley’s BFF, Mona Barnes—who owns a seafood business—and her family have had an ongoing feud with Lonnie Leighton, owner of Leighton Fish & Seafood, a rival local business for years. Now the war is mostly waged between Mona and Lonnie’s daughter, Vera Leighton.
Following an altercation between Mona’s and Lonnie’s families at Haley’s restaurant, Lonnie’s discovered lying facedown in the clam flats by Hayley and Mona while they were out walking their dogs. Near the same spot where Mona and Vera Leighton were seen fighting at earlier.
Hayley immediately calls Bar Harbor Police Chief Sergio Alvares, who happened to be Hayley’s brother-in-law, along with his sidekick, Lieutenant Donnie. Hayley also found a class ring in Lonnie’s clam bucket which she brought to Chief Sergio’s attention.
According to the county coroner, Sabrina Merryweather—Hayley’s old friend from high school, when Lonnie went clamming he lost his footing and fell, suffocating in the low tide clam flats.
But Vera suspects foul play and not long after, Mona’s son Dougie becomes the murder suspect.
The book is interspersed with mouthwatering recipes such as Baked Stuffed Clams 🦪, Mona’s Easy Delicious Steamed Clams, Wow Your Guests Easy Clam Cakes, Clams and Sausage Spaghetti 🍝 Special, Clam Dip, and so on.
Thank you to Lee Hollis, NetGalley, and Kensington Books for the arc of this book
March 19, 2023
Death of a Clam Digger is the sixteenth installment in the Hayley Powell Food & Cocktails Mystery series set in Bar Harbor, ME and featuring food columnist and restauranteur Hayley Powell. A casual stroll along the Shore Path has Hayley's dog Leroy's ears perking up as he hears the sounds of a fight in progress. Rushing to the scene Hayley discovers her BFF Mona Barnes in a muddy brawl with her high school nemesis Vera Leighton. The two women have been competing with each other their whole lives and now the rivalry continues as each represents their family seafood business and they are each determined to put the other out of business.
It's no secret that Mona doesn't get a long with any of the Leighton family: Vera, sisters Ruth and Olive and their father, Lonnie. But when Hayley discovers that Mona's youngest son Dougie is dating Olive, she knows that trouble is on the horizon. Lonnie Leighton isn't happy about the relationship either and when he finds out the two are engaged he warns both Mona and Dougie to stay away from his daughter. Lonnie soon turns up facedown on the clam flats and the autopsy comes back insufficient - did he die from health issues or was it murder?
Determined to clear Mona and her family, Hayley finds herself having to dig up a killer. A fast paced afternoon read featuring all the series regulars. A delightful locale, a handful of suspects and a bucketful of mouthwatering recipes, make for an excellent addition to the series and one that can read as a stand alone.
I received an advanced copy of Death of a Clam Digger from Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
It's no secret that Mona doesn't get a long with any of the Leighton family: Vera, sisters Ruth and Olive and their father, Lonnie. But when Hayley discovers that Mona's youngest son Dougie is dating Olive, she knows that trouble is on the horizon. Lonnie Leighton isn't happy about the relationship either and when he finds out the two are engaged he warns both Mona and Dougie to stay away from his daughter. Lonnie soon turns up facedown on the clam flats and the autopsy comes back insufficient - did he die from health issues or was it murder?
Determined to clear Mona and her family, Hayley finds herself having to dig up a killer. A fast paced afternoon read featuring all the series regulars. A delightful locale, a handful of suspects and a bucketful of mouthwatering recipes, make for an excellent addition to the series and one that can read as a stand alone.
I received an advanced copy of Death of a Clam Digger from Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
August 29, 2023
A huge thank goes out to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) of Death Of A Clam Digger (Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery, #16) by Lee Hollis. Several years ago, I read the first book in this series, Death of a Kitchen Diva (Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery, #1) and enjoyed it. When I saw that the author had a new book in the series, I knew I wanted to revisit the series. I was super happy that I was approved to receive this book for free in exchange for my honest review. And, I can't wait to read all the books in between the first book and this latest one in the series.
When I opened the book, it was like being reacquainted with an old friend, and it surely opened with a bang! The action started right away, and it kept up with a steady pace. At first, I wasn't sure who the victim was going to be. What was even more surprising was who the murderer ended up being. There were so many suspects and red herrings that I never figured out who the culprit was. In fact, I felt like it came a little out of left field. However, it didn't detract from the story.
Don't worry if you haven't read any of the other novels in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery series because it can be read as a stand alone as the author does a great job of giving background of the characters without it feeling like a retelling of the previous books. Hayley and her husband are extremely likable as are her brother and his husband. There were times that I didn't like the best friend of Hayley and times that I did. Most of the Leighton clan were extremely unlikable. With that being said, Lonnie ended up not being quite as unlikable as I thought he was going to be, and I ended up feeling extremely sorry for him.
Five out of five stars is what I gave Death Of A Clam Digger (Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery, #16) by Lee Hollis. I look forward to reading more books from this author. This author also has another great series called A Desert Flowers Mystery.
When I opened the book, it was like being reacquainted with an old friend, and it surely opened with a bang! The action started right away, and it kept up with a steady pace. At first, I wasn't sure who the victim was going to be. What was even more surprising was who the murderer ended up being. There were so many suspects and red herrings that I never figured out who the culprit was. In fact, I felt like it came a little out of left field. However, it didn't detract from the story.
Don't worry if you haven't read any of the other novels in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery series because it can be read as a stand alone as the author does a great job of giving background of the characters without it feeling like a retelling of the previous books. Hayley and her husband are extremely likable as are her brother and his husband. There were times that I didn't like the best friend of Hayley and times that I did. Most of the Leighton clan were extremely unlikable. With that being said, Lonnie ended up not being quite as unlikable as I thought he was going to be, and I ended up feeling extremely sorry for him.
Five out of five stars is what I gave Death Of A Clam Digger (Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery, #16) by Lee Hollis. I look forward to reading more books from this author. This author also has another great series called A Desert Flowers Mystery.
March 8, 2024
SOLID BOOK, JUST A COUPLE OF THINGS THAT WEREN'T FOR ME.
PREMISE: Food and cocktails columnist Hayley Powell usually reserves judgement for local cuisine, not the people who serve it. But staying neutral isn’t so easy when caught between the biggest seafood rivals in town—her BFF Mona Barnes and the successful Leighton clan. Adding to a bitter decades-old surf-turf war between family businesses, a modern Romeo and Juliet story unfolds as Mona’s son gets engaged to the daughter of her sworn enemy. Spiteful patriarch Lonnie Leighton is also steamed about the arrangement—enough to go to dangerous lengths to break it up. At least, until he’s discovered face down and dead in the clam flats. With unanswered questions swirling, accusations flying in both directions, and a young couple stuck in the middle, Hayley has bigger fish to fry than determining who sources the best shellfish in Bar Harbor. Because someone wants to get away with murder . . . and send whoever else gets in their way to a muddy grave.
THOUGHTS: Over-all I loved the book and am sad to have to wait now till late septemeber for the next one. But at the same time, so happy to achieve the goal I set out to achieve starting back in late 2022 of getting through this series!
As for this particular book, all the usual things I love about the series I still did in this book. I love Hayley as a protagonist, I love her friends Liddie and Mona and I love that column is still in the books to this day!
In saying that, the theme for this books food recepies was clams and I don't like seafood, so that was personally not fun for me to read. Also the mystery wasn't fantastic. In saying that it was still a solid read and I am very much highly anticiating book 17!
4 Stars!
xoxo.
PREMISE: Food and cocktails columnist Hayley Powell usually reserves judgement for local cuisine, not the people who serve it. But staying neutral isn’t so easy when caught between the biggest seafood rivals in town—her BFF Mona Barnes and the successful Leighton clan. Adding to a bitter decades-old surf-turf war between family businesses, a modern Romeo and Juliet story unfolds as Mona’s son gets engaged to the daughter of her sworn enemy. Spiteful patriarch Lonnie Leighton is also steamed about the arrangement—enough to go to dangerous lengths to break it up. At least, until he’s discovered face down and dead in the clam flats. With unanswered questions swirling, accusations flying in both directions, and a young couple stuck in the middle, Hayley has bigger fish to fry than determining who sources the best shellfish in Bar Harbor. Because someone wants to get away with murder . . . and send whoever else gets in their way to a muddy grave.
THOUGHTS: Over-all I loved the book and am sad to have to wait now till late septemeber for the next one. But at the same time, so happy to achieve the goal I set out to achieve starting back in late 2022 of getting through this series!
As for this particular book, all the usual things I love about the series I still did in this book. I love Hayley as a protagonist, I love her friends Liddie and Mona and I love that column is still in the books to this day!
In saying that, the theme for this books food recepies was clams and I don't like seafood, so that was personally not fun for me to read. Also the mystery wasn't fantastic. In saying that it was still a solid read and I am very much highly anticiating book 17!
4 Stars!
xoxo.
August 3, 2023
There is a feud going on between the two biggest seafood rivals in town. One of Hayley's best friends, Mona, is an owner of one and the.Leighton clan the owner of the other. There has always been a turf war between the two but when one of Mona's sons starts seeing one of the Leighton girls she sees red. Hayley doesn't want to get in the middle but knows how her friend is and does what she can to help her friend. When head of the family Lonnie Leighton ends up dead and Mona becomes a main suspect Hayley jumps in to start Jer investigation. She soon learns that the man had quite a few enemies his family being among the list. Follow Hayley as she tries to unearth a killer, will she be able to fit all the clues together or will her friend end up in jail?
August 27, 2023
Death of a Clam Digger is another fantastic entry in the Hayley Powell mystery series! This series just gets better and better as it goes on. I thought this was a strong mystery, full of twists and turns. I can’t wait for the next book to be released!
July 18, 2023
Death of a Clam Digger is the 16th book in this series, and it may well be the best one yet. Hayley and the rest of the crew are as delightfully crazy as always, but in some cases, mainly Mona, even more than usual. As always, the story captivates readers with the good and bad that plague most small tourist towns, clam recipes, and rivals that literally get into fights.
It seems that one of Mona’s family has fallen for the enemy's daughter, and no one other than the happy couple is thrilled. The murder of Mona’s clam digger rival is just the icing on the cake and has suspects coming out of the sand. There is more intrigue along with relationship secrets in this story to give a romance novel a run for its money. Everyone appears to be a suspect, but the evidence says none of them could have done it. Except, of course, one of them did. The murderer, when revealed, will be a surprise to many, but not all readers will be happy with the outcome.
I loved this book. The characters aren’t warm and fuzzy; that is what makes this series so good. All of them have sharp edges, but they have learned to smooth over the more serious ones and enjoy life together. If you are looking for an exciting mystery filled with wonderful characters, rivals that are on equal grounds with the Hatfields and McCoys, with lots of seafood, mainly clams, or just food in general, you will eat up this fantastic story!
It seems that one of Mona’s family has fallen for the enemy's daughter, and no one other than the happy couple is thrilled. The murder of Mona’s clam digger rival is just the icing on the cake and has suspects coming out of the sand. There is more intrigue along with relationship secrets in this story to give a romance novel a run for its money. Everyone appears to be a suspect, but the evidence says none of them could have done it. Except, of course, one of them did. The murderer, when revealed, will be a surprise to many, but not all readers will be happy with the outcome.
I loved this book. The characters aren’t warm and fuzzy; that is what makes this series so good. All of them have sharp edges, but they have learned to smooth over the more serious ones and enjoy life together. If you are looking for an exciting mystery filled with wonderful characters, rivals that are on equal grounds with the Hatfields and McCoys, with lots of seafood, mainly clams, or just food in general, you will eat up this fantastic story!
July 26, 2023
There’s never, ever a dull moment in a Hayley Powell mystery! Mona, my fave of Hayley’s two besties, got a great spotlight in this installment since her ongoing feud with a rival seafood business was ramped up when her son and the rival’s daughter decided to pull a Romeo and Juliet (the good parts, not their death). But the rival himself was killed and secrets were eventually revealed as Hayley sleuthed this one out. I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so much at Mona’s antics as in this book! She was absolutely in rare form and being the Mama Bear she’s always been, that made it even funnier. We finally found out how many kids her brood ended up with too! Oh and I was happy to see a few new Sergio-isms as well! Gotta love that guy!
I was sure of who I’d picked for killer but boy was I wrong! The showdown/reveal was a really good one and Mona got in one last good scene for the book too. As I always love in a book about food, this one ended in food, family and fellowship with a barbecue at Mona’s house. A good solution was given to the side story that’d been going on.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
I was sure of who I’d picked for killer but boy was I wrong! The showdown/reveal was a really good one and Mona got in one last good scene for the book too. As I always love in a book about food, this one ended in food, family and fellowship with a barbecue at Mona’s house. A good solution was given to the side story that’d been going on.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
October 2, 2023
Read this review on Fresh Fiction
I always look forward to a new Lee Hollis book and DEATH OF A CLAM DIGGER does not disappoint!
Hayley Powell is one of my favorite armature sleuths. I love her friendly personality and the fact that she is co capable. Despite having so many things going on, she handles it all with grace even as she tried to solve a murder.
The rest of the cast is great too. I loved the theme of the clam diggers and found a lot of entertainment while reading about this mystery. Although I found some aspects of the plot predictable, Hollis’ charm shines through, making this one of my favorite series by this author. If you end up trying only one of Lee Hollis’ series, the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktail Mystery series is at the top of the list of series that I would recommend to Cozy Mystery readers.
I can’t recommend the Hayley Powell and this series enough. If you’re looking for fun, charming and interesting mysteries, look no further than Lee Hollis.
I always look forward to a new Lee Hollis book and DEATH OF A CLAM DIGGER does not disappoint!
Hayley Powell is one of my favorite armature sleuths. I love her friendly personality and the fact that she is co capable. Despite having so many things going on, she handles it all with grace even as she tried to solve a murder.
The rest of the cast is great too. I loved the theme of the clam diggers and found a lot of entertainment while reading about this mystery. Although I found some aspects of the plot predictable, Hollis’ charm shines through, making this one of my favorite series by this author. If you end up trying only one of Lee Hollis’ series, the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktail Mystery series is at the top of the list of series that I would recommend to Cozy Mystery readers.
I can’t recommend the Hayley Powell and this series enough. If you’re looking for fun, charming and interesting mysteries, look no further than Lee Hollis.
August 4, 2025
Mona Barnes and Vera Leighton are from rivaling family businesses. Their feud escalates when Mona's son and Vera's younger sister get engaged, and no one is angrier about the possible nuptials than the Leighton patriarch Lonnie. When Lonnie is found dead, the accusations fly, and Hayley finds herself in another unofficial murder investigation.
I had a lot of fun with this book due to the star-crossed lovers aspect. But instead of warring noble families, it's between two seafood businesses where both sides are loud-mouthed, short-tempered, and boorish. So basically it's Romeo and Juliet but way, way trashier. But I love mess and mess is what I got. Everyone was so dramatic. I lost count of how many different characters screamed and cried, though that is staple of this book, the amount of times that "wailed" was used as a dialogue tag was even higher. Sometimes the level of drama and mess got so weird that it became distracting , but it managed to rein itself back .
So what happened? I didn't particularly like the reveal of the murderer's identity because I thought it was uninspired. It felt too easy to have one of the angriest and unhinged characters in the entire book do it. At least their motivation for doing it made sense... until Hayley brought something up. It was just such a major plot hole and the fact that Lee Hollis brought it up in the book meant they knew it too. But then why not fix that plot hole rather than leave it in???
Something I do have to mention is that I'm weirdly proud of Mona for divorcing her husband, Dennis Sr. I read some of the earlier books in the series and I couldn't believe how awful, incompetent, and neglectful he was. I didn't understand why they were together since it's not like his character was used for laughs. He didn't even feel like a character. He was more like a prop. So, good for Mona. I'm also rooting for Dougie and Olive. They're both incredibly young to be getting married at the age of 21, but I think the fact that they decided against eloping and having a proper wedding back in Maine showed some signs of introspection and maturity. Too bad Dougie happened to propose the exact same way that Hayley's ex-husband proposed to her, in which Hayley and Dennis were also way too young to get married, so here's hoping that's not a red flag. I am surprised that Lee Hollis didn't notice they wrote the same proposal twice.
I had a lot of fun with this book due to the star-crossed lovers aspect. But instead of warring noble families, it's between two seafood businesses where both sides are loud-mouthed, short-tempered, and boorish. So basically it's Romeo and Juliet but way, way trashier. But I love mess and mess is what I got. Everyone was so dramatic. I lost count of how many different characters screamed and cried, though that is staple of this book, the amount of times that "wailed" was used as a dialogue tag was even higher. Sometimes the level of drama and mess got so weird that it became distracting , but it managed to rein itself back .
So what happened? I didn't particularly like the reveal of the murderer's identity because I thought it was uninspired. It felt too easy to have one of the angriest and unhinged characters in the entire book do it. At least their motivation for doing it made sense... until Hayley brought something up. It was just such a major plot hole and the fact that Lee Hollis brought it up in the book meant they knew it too. But then why not fix that plot hole rather than leave it in???
Something I do have to mention is that I'm weirdly proud of Mona for divorcing her husband, Dennis Sr. I read some of the earlier books in the series and I couldn't believe how awful, incompetent, and neglectful he was. I didn't understand why they were together since it's not like his character was used for laughs. He didn't even feel like a character. He was more like a prop. So, good for Mona. I'm also rooting for Dougie and Olive. They're both incredibly young to be getting married at the age of 21, but I think the fact that they decided against eloping and having a proper wedding back in Maine showed some signs of introspection and maturity. Too bad Dougie happened to propose the exact same way that Hayley's ex-husband proposed to her, in which Hayley and Dennis were also way too young to get married, so here's hoping that's not a red flag. I am surprised that Lee Hollis didn't notice they wrote the same proposal twice.
March 22, 2023
Hayley Powell writes a food and cocktails column for the Island Times, the local newspaper where her husband Bruce works as a crime writer. She also has the pleasure of owning her own restaurant, Hayley's Kitchen, which has become popular with the locals and tourists alike since she opened it several months ago. It doesn't leave her a lot of free time to spend with her hubby, but they're both so busy, she doesn't think too much about it.
One morning while walking her dog Leroy, she sees two women fighting in the mud flats below, a popular clamming area. To her horror, one of them is her BFF Mona Barnes, who owns her own successful seafood company. The other is Vera Leighton, whose father owns the other seafood company in town. Determined to break it up, she heads to the bottom to find out what started the fight. When she finally succeeds, there's no comfort in it, since the two women have been rivals their entire lives, and their father hates the Barnes -- and the feeling is mutual.
But things get worse when it's discovered that Mona's son Dougie is in love with Lonnie's daughter Olive, and wants to propose to her. Worse yet, they're at Hayley's restaurant when Lonnie walks in with his girlfriend and spots them across the room. Accusations fly, and Lonnie tells Dougie to stay away from his daughter. When Mona finds out, all heck breaks loose. Then there's a murder, and now Hayley is in the middle of that, along with trying to keep peace between Mona and her sons. But it won't be easy, especially since the older two have secrets of their own. To make matters worse, an old girlfriend of Bruce's shows up and she's rich and successful...which has Hayley worried and jealous. Will she be able to find a murderer? Will she be able to keep her marriage? Will there be any peace in Bar Harbor ever again?
This is the sixteenth book in the series, and I've read them all. It's nice to see Mona's family as the center of activity, since they've usually been fringe characters up until now. We get to see that they have lives even their mother doesn't know about. But it's Dougie who takes center stage as a possible suspect, and Hayley has to find a killer to prove the young man's innocence. But when a killer thinks that they're smarter than you, and they've covered their tracks well, it might not be easy as she imagines.
Then there's the ex of Bruce, who keeps 'running into him' and he's flattered by all the attention that she's giving him. Hayley, who at first decided she liked the woman, is finding that she was wrong in her assessment, and is trying to prove to herself she's not jealous. But this is a problem she's never had to deal with before, so jealousy is a normal reaction for her. Watching Hayley, who's always been so confident, deal with a different emotion is interesting, but luckily, it doesn't pervade the story so never gets in the way of the mystery.
And the mystery is prime in this book. There are clues throughout, and I was down to two suspects (yes, one of them was the guilty party) when Hayley began to put everything together. How she does it is the best part, and even Sergio is there with his malapropisms. It's a fun ride in another adventure for Hayley, and for those who love clams (I don't, unfortunately) there are tons of yummy recipes included. (I wonder if any of them can be adapted for crab???). Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
One morning while walking her dog Leroy, she sees two women fighting in the mud flats below, a popular clamming area. To her horror, one of them is her BFF Mona Barnes, who owns her own successful seafood company. The other is Vera Leighton, whose father owns the other seafood company in town. Determined to break it up, she heads to the bottom to find out what started the fight. When she finally succeeds, there's no comfort in it, since the two women have been rivals their entire lives, and their father hates the Barnes -- and the feeling is mutual.
But things get worse when it's discovered that Mona's son Dougie is in love with Lonnie's daughter Olive, and wants to propose to her. Worse yet, they're at Hayley's restaurant when Lonnie walks in with his girlfriend and spots them across the room. Accusations fly, and Lonnie tells Dougie to stay away from his daughter. When Mona finds out, all heck breaks loose. Then there's a murder, and now Hayley is in the middle of that, along with trying to keep peace between Mona and her sons. But it won't be easy, especially since the older two have secrets of their own. To make matters worse, an old girlfriend of Bruce's shows up and she's rich and successful...which has Hayley worried and jealous. Will she be able to find a murderer? Will she be able to keep her marriage? Will there be any peace in Bar Harbor ever again?
This is the sixteenth book in the series, and I've read them all. It's nice to see Mona's family as the center of activity, since they've usually been fringe characters up until now. We get to see that they have lives even their mother doesn't know about. But it's Dougie who takes center stage as a possible suspect, and Hayley has to find a killer to prove the young man's innocence. But when a killer thinks that they're smarter than you, and they've covered their tracks well, it might not be easy as she imagines.
Then there's the ex of Bruce, who keeps 'running into him' and he's flattered by all the attention that she's giving him. Hayley, who at first decided she liked the woman, is finding that she was wrong in her assessment, and is trying to prove to herself she's not jealous. But this is a problem she's never had to deal with before, so jealousy is a normal reaction for her. Watching Hayley, who's always been so confident, deal with a different emotion is interesting, but luckily, it doesn't pervade the story so never gets in the way of the mystery.
And the mystery is prime in this book. There are clues throughout, and I was down to two suspects (yes, one of them was the guilty party) when Hayley began to put everything together. How she does it is the best part, and even Sergio is there with his malapropisms. It's a fun ride in another adventure for Hayley, and for those who love clams (I don't, unfortunately) there are tons of yummy recipes included. (I wonder if any of them can be adapted for crab???). Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
July 29, 2023
"Death Of A Clam Digger" is book #16 in the "Hayley Powell Food And Cocktails Mystery" series by Lee Hollis.
"Food and cocktails columnist Hayley Powell usually reserves judgement for local cuisine, not the people who serve it. But staying neutral isn't so easy when caught between the biggest seafood rivals in town--her BFF Mona Barnes and the successful Leighton clan. Adding to a bitter decades-old surf-turf war between family businesses, a modern Romeo and Juliet story unfolds as Mona's son gets engaged to the daughter of her sworn enemy . . .
Spiteful patriarch Lonnie Leighton is also steamed about the arrangement--enough to go to dangerous lengths to break it up. At least, until he's discovered face down and dead in the clam flats. With unanswered questions swirling, accusations flying in both directions, and a young couple stuck in the middle, Hayley has bigger fish to fry than determining who sources the best shellfish in Bar Harbor. Because someone wants to get away with murder . . . and send whoever else gets in their way to a muddy grave."
My thoughts:
The fighting families are not quite the Hatfield's and McCoy's but the hatred is bitter. The young romance only makes things more volatile for the older ones. When Lonnie Leighton is found dead, his family quickly points to the Barnes family. Hayley doesn't believe that one of them did it but she also soon realizes that some of them aren't being entirely truthful either.
Then there is the appearance of one of Bruce's ex girlfriends from many years ago and why she may be in town. Is it really business or does she want more. Either way, Hayley isn't happy with her hanging around.
The usual dysfunctional antics of the Barnes family as well as Hayley and Liddy add levity to the story. Randy and Sergio also add to the mix. You know when you are reading a Haley Powell book that things are going to get a bit crazy but you just read it anyway.
As for "who done it"? I was not surprised as I suspected early on who was responsible. Granted, it did turn out to be a bit more complex than I expected.
With this series, it is more along the lines of "what can go wrong, will" but Hayley gets to the truth in the end and serves up even more stories of her life in her weekly post to the Island Times. Several recipes for various cocktails and clam dishes are also included throughout the book.
"Food and cocktails columnist Hayley Powell usually reserves judgement for local cuisine, not the people who serve it. But staying neutral isn't so easy when caught between the biggest seafood rivals in town--her BFF Mona Barnes and the successful Leighton clan. Adding to a bitter decades-old surf-turf war between family businesses, a modern Romeo and Juliet story unfolds as Mona's son gets engaged to the daughter of her sworn enemy . . .
Spiteful patriarch Lonnie Leighton is also steamed about the arrangement--enough to go to dangerous lengths to break it up. At least, until he's discovered face down and dead in the clam flats. With unanswered questions swirling, accusations flying in both directions, and a young couple stuck in the middle, Hayley has bigger fish to fry than determining who sources the best shellfish in Bar Harbor. Because someone wants to get away with murder . . . and send whoever else gets in their way to a muddy grave."
My thoughts:
The fighting families are not quite the Hatfield's and McCoy's but the hatred is bitter. The young romance only makes things more volatile for the older ones. When Lonnie Leighton is found dead, his family quickly points to the Barnes family. Hayley doesn't believe that one of them did it but she also soon realizes that some of them aren't being entirely truthful either.
Then there is the appearance of one of Bruce's ex girlfriends from many years ago and why she may be in town. Is it really business or does she want more. Either way, Hayley isn't happy with her hanging around.
The usual dysfunctional antics of the Barnes family as well as Hayley and Liddy add levity to the story. Randy and Sergio also add to the mix. You know when you are reading a Haley Powell book that things are going to get a bit crazy but you just read it anyway.
As for "who done it"? I was not surprised as I suspected early on who was responsible. Granted, it did turn out to be a bit more complex than I expected.
With this series, it is more along the lines of "what can go wrong, will" but Hayley gets to the truth in the end and serves up even more stories of her life in her weekly post to the Island Times. Several recipes for various cocktails and clam dishes are also included throughout the book.
May 5, 2023
Boom, boom, boom. Things moved along at a rapid clip, one after another. I mean, it barely gave me time to take a deep breath when Hayley had some uncharacteristic self-doubts and the action paused...briefly. Aside from that, the fast pace of the story keeps you reading, wondering what will happen on the next page or two, meaning you should probably not start reading until you have a bit of time. If you're like me, you'll find yourself clicking along at that boom, boom, boom pace until the end. What fun!
Hollis is a favorite author and I have particularly enjoyed this series, so it's no surprise I liked it. My only qualm, which may have more to do with the timing of my read than the book itself, was that I shuddered at certain characters frequent resorting to violence and even guns. Despite the blurb mention of Romeo and Juliet vibes, it frequently felt more like we were caught in the crossfire between the Hatfield and McCoy clans, Hayley's attempts to divert encounters were both amusing and relatively useless, but I liked that she tried. I have to admit to having a sense of relief later at Mona's eventual realization about the shortness of life, so to speak. Oh, and then they find the body.
Who murdered a dying man? Why are Vera and Mona usually at each other's throats? Will young love conquer all? What does a potential seafood company have to do with anything? Could Hayley's husband Bruce really be tempted to stray? Will Hayley's asking of questions be dangerous? Oh, never mind. Of course it will be but, well, she just can't help it. No more teasers. Read the book. My mood going into the book aside, it's a fun read you'll be unlikely to be able to put down.
And, that includes salivating over the recipes at the conclusion of each of Hayley's Island Food and Spirits column inserts every few chapters. Hey, there are even recipes for dips and cocktails! Don't skip the columns, btw. They offer great insights into the characters backgrounds and interactions, insights that will frequently help you sort out the mystery. Or, well, not. At least you'll have a dip or cocktail to ponder over.
Thanks #NetGalley and #KensigntonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me back to Bar Harbor, Maine. Hope things are a tad calmer my next visit.
Hollis is a favorite author and I have particularly enjoyed this series, so it's no surprise I liked it. My only qualm, which may have more to do with the timing of my read than the book itself, was that I shuddered at certain characters frequent resorting to violence and even guns. Despite the blurb mention of Romeo and Juliet vibes, it frequently felt more like we were caught in the crossfire between the Hatfield and McCoy clans, Hayley's attempts to divert encounters were both amusing and relatively useless, but I liked that she tried. I have to admit to having a sense of relief later at Mona's eventual realization about the shortness of life, so to speak. Oh, and then they find the body.
Who murdered a dying man? Why are Vera and Mona usually at each other's throats? Will young love conquer all? What does a potential seafood company have to do with anything? Could Hayley's husband Bruce really be tempted to stray? Will Hayley's asking of questions be dangerous? Oh, never mind. Of course it will be but, well, she just can't help it. No more teasers. Read the book. My mood going into the book aside, it's a fun read you'll be unlikely to be able to put down.
And, that includes salivating over the recipes at the conclusion of each of Hayley's Island Food and Spirits column inserts every few chapters. Hey, there are even recipes for dips and cocktails! Don't skip the columns, btw. They offer great insights into the characters backgrounds and interactions, insights that will frequently help you sort out the mystery. Or, well, not. At least you'll have a dip or cocktail to ponder over.
Thanks #NetGalley and #KensigntonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me back to Bar Harbor, Maine. Hope things are a tad calmer my next visit.
July 15, 2024
Death of a Clam Digger is the 16th book in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery series, but with each mystery contained within each book, they can be read as standalones. I enjoy this series set in Bar Harbor, Maine and it was fun having Mona play center stage with her family in this mystery. Mona's family has had an ongoing feud with another clamming family, the Leightons, for decades. The book opens with Mona and her rival having a physical fight over a clam digging spot. Hayley breaks it up and we learn about this rivalry. When Mona's son gets engaged to a Leighton, patriarch Lonnie Leighton, threaten him. The next thing you know, he is found dead, face down in the mud. Who is responsible for his death, or was it natural causes? While trying to clear Mona and her family, as well as help her son-in-law, Hayley is also dealing a small family crisis involving her husband. Can they find the killer and maybe help the young couple find happiness?
Lee Hollis definitely entertained me with this story. It has a bit of everything, romance, mystery, lies, vengeance, family drama and lots of history about Mona and her family. Even Bruce had some spotlight when an ex- returned to town and tried to worm her way back into his life. I enjoyed the fights, the arguments, and Mona's mama bear antics. Of course the food and drink are always delicious sounding and make me want to find a good seafood restaurant. Sergio is working hard to solve the crime and his Sergioisms as he stumbles through the English Language always make me smile. The mystery is well written and as usual, I did not figure out the culprit. With a few twists, more than one suspect and a few laughs, this was another fun addition to this series. Interspersed throughout the book, there were once again snippets from Hayley's columns that do interrupt the flow of the story at times, but always make me smile. Randye Kaye narrates the audiobook and does a nice job with this story.
Lee Hollis definitely entertained me with this story. It has a bit of everything, romance, mystery, lies, vengeance, family drama and lots of history about Mona and her family. Even Bruce had some spotlight when an ex- returned to town and tried to worm her way back into his life. I enjoyed the fights, the arguments, and Mona's mama bear antics. Of course the food and drink are always delicious sounding and make me want to find a good seafood restaurant. Sergio is working hard to solve the crime and his Sergioisms as he stumbles through the English Language always make me smile. The mystery is well written and as usual, I did not figure out the culprit. With a few twists, more than one suspect and a few laughs, this was another fun addition to this series. Interspersed throughout the book, there were once again snippets from Hayley's columns that do interrupt the flow of the story at times, but always make me smile. Randye Kaye narrates the audiobook and does a nice job with this story.
July 26, 2023
Death of a Clam Digger by Lee Hollis is another in her Hayley Powell series and a really good one at that. It is kind of the sizzling down of a Hatfield and McCoys’ feud with the moving force being love. One criticism I had was that it was difficult to tell the ages of people in the story. The timelines didn’t seem to match up. That being said, it was a terrific series with Hayley as the sleuth in the death of the patriarch of one of the families, not hers. Now, the rumor was that he was going to die within the next couple of months anyway, but that could not be confirmed. There also seemed to be a problem with the will. So, was the motive money as it is so often? Good characters in a decent mystery.
Hayley is sensible and intelligent, a good combination for a well-written character. Of course, there was the distraction of Bruce’s ex-girlfriend coming to town. Well, as it turned out, she was more than a girlfriend. He had lived with her for years. Reassuring Hayley took some time, as one might expect. Then there were the visits to her brother, Randy’s bar, Drinks Like a Fish. What a great name! He stayed open even later that Hayley’s restaurant did, so it was a convenient place to catch up on the gossip. The setting is great: Bar Harbor Maine, the perfect place for a murder. Of course, the requisite pet was a part of the story: Leroy, the dog. All together, a terrific book. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Death of a Clam Digger by Kensington, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Kensington #LeeHollis #DeathOfAClamDigger
Hayley is sensible and intelligent, a good combination for a well-written character. Of course, there was the distraction of Bruce’s ex-girlfriend coming to town. Well, as it turned out, she was more than a girlfriend. He had lived with her for years. Reassuring Hayley took some time, as one might expect. Then there were the visits to her brother, Randy’s bar, Drinks Like a Fish. What a great name! He stayed open even later that Hayley’s restaurant did, so it was a convenient place to catch up on the gossip. The setting is great: Bar Harbor Maine, the perfect place for a murder. Of course, the requisite pet was a part of the story: Leroy, the dog. All together, a terrific book. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Death of a Clam Digger by Kensington, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Kensington #LeeHollis #DeathOfAClamDigger
September 10, 2023
Princess Fuzzypants here: Move over the Hatfield’s and McCoys. Romeo and Juliette, step down. The family feud going on between two rival fishing families could match them easily. Hayley’s BFF Mona is the matriarch of the one family with three boys. Lonnie is the patriarch of the other with three girls. One of his daughters is as rabid as her father in his hatred of the other family. Not so much another of his daughters who happens to want to marry one of Mona’s sons. You can imagine the fireworks went Daddy interrupts the proposal at Hayley’s restaurant.
When Lonnie found dead face down in the mud, it is assumed that the terminally ill man toppled over and could not get up. Hayley is not convinced. The more she finds out the more likely a conspiracy was in play but who did what to whom. That is not the only complication. By the time the heinous crime is unravelled, there are going to be more shocks. And that includes one of a very personal nature for Hayley. What is one of her husband Bruce’s former flames doing in town and how does she fit into the mystery.
This is a series I always enjoy especially the little side stories that follow the chapters. They really get the reader to feel like they know the characters- which, of course, increases the pleasure. Five purrs and two paws up.
When Lonnie found dead face down in the mud, it is assumed that the terminally ill man toppled over and could not get up. Hayley is not convinced. The more she finds out the more likely a conspiracy was in play but who did what to whom. That is not the only complication. By the time the heinous crime is unravelled, there are going to be more shocks. And that includes one of a very personal nature for Hayley. What is one of her husband Bruce’s former flames doing in town and how does she fit into the mystery.
This is a series I always enjoy especially the little side stories that follow the chapters. They really get the reader to feel like they know the characters- which, of course, increases the pleasure. Five purrs and two paws up.
March 13, 2023
Mona Barnes and arch-rival Vera Leighton have been at it for decades, so when the two women find out that Mona's son and Vera's baby sister are romantically involved the clams hit the fan. When Vera's father, the patriarch of the Leighton family and head of the family seafood business, goes toes down in the mud, things get even more dicey. Was it an accident or was there foul play involved? Who stands to inherit the profitable business? And what the heck are Mona's kids up to?
This is one of my favorite series! I love Hayley, I love her column, I love her recipes, I love her dog, I love her crazy friends, I love Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. When I dive into a book from this series, just forget getting anything else out of me until I'm done with it. Hayley has her hands in everything on the island and she's on the go 24/7 (literally). She plays the peacemaker, the devils advocate, and the detective, sometimes all at once. In this book she's an advocate for young love and helps her friends get past many squabbles to find happiness on the other side.
If you're into culinary cozies and haven't read this series, you definitely need to check it out!
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
This is one of my favorite series! I love Hayley, I love her column, I love her recipes, I love her dog, I love her crazy friends, I love Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. When I dive into a book from this series, just forget getting anything else out of me until I'm done with it. Hayley has her hands in everything on the island and she's on the go 24/7 (literally). She plays the peacemaker, the devils advocate, and the detective, sometimes all at once. In this book she's an advocate for young love and helps her friends get past many squabbles to find happiness on the other side.
If you're into culinary cozies and haven't read this series, you definitely need to check it out!
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
August 3, 2023
DEATH OF A CLAM DIGGER is the sixteenth book in the Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mysteries by Lee Hollis. This is another outstanding addition to a long-admired series! Protagonist Hayley Powell is delightful and I’ve enjoyed getting to know her over the years. In this newest addition, her BFF, Mona, along with her children (9 of them!) are front and center. It was enjoyable learning some backstory and the plot of the Romeo and Juliet relationship of the kids of Mona and Lonnie, a feuding business owner, added to the appeal. Mona, to be honest, has some rough edges to be sure, but her obvious love and care for her children comes through. When Lonnie is found murdered, the authorities put Mona’s enamored son in their spotlight.
The author does an admirable job laying out clues and providing suspects to keep the reader guessing. Not only is the mystery top-notch, but it’s infused with a layer of emotions that makes the reader invested in what happens. Hayley’s involvement not only includes investigating but also trying to diffuse the feud between the two families. Sitting back and soaking up the coastal setting, I wished I had one of the clam dishes mentioned along with one of Hayley’s cocktails to imbibe as I read this thoroughly enjoyable mystery!
The author does an admirable job laying out clues and providing suspects to keep the reader guessing. Not only is the mystery top-notch, but it’s infused with a layer of emotions that makes the reader invested in what happens. Hayley’s involvement not only includes investigating but also trying to diffuse the feud between the two families. Sitting back and soaking up the coastal setting, I wished I had one of the clam dishes mentioned along with one of Hayley’s cocktails to imbibe as I read this thoroughly enjoyable mystery!
August 22, 2023
Romeo and Juliet meets the Hatfields and the McCoys at a clam bake. As usual, we are supplied with a really good mystery that draws you in because you think you know what is going on, but do you really? Then there are the column contributions and wonderful beverage and food recipes. I had no idea there were that many ways to prepare clams. Hayley does a great job of running the restaurant, being a staunch supporter of young love, and keeping her jealousy in check (for the most part). As usual, this is a stand alone cozy mystery, shoot, Hayley didn't know about 's past girlfriend so we are all in that dark about that one. I was quite invested in this story and could not only feel Hayley's emotions but you empathize with her as well. The usual supporting cast of characters, of which I must say, Mona, is one of my favorites. How that woman has any energy is beyond me. A good number of well laid clues as well as a few bait and switch red herrings. I so wish that my choice for the guilty party had been a part of the dastardly deed, but the ending worked out just as well. Looking forward to the next Hayley Powell mystery and appetizing recipes. In the mean time, I will try out the WOW Your Guests Easy Clam Cakes for a weekend treat.
October 29, 2024
This is my second Lee Hollis book and my last. Just not my style. Poor writing, poor sentence structure, unlikable characters, Barnes boys called by the wrong name in a couple places. I didn't find one likable person in the book. Hayley is just a nosy busybody, Mona is a bully even to her own children, all the Leightons are rude -- even Olive is a whiny brat and she is supposed to be 21, not 12. I have read some easy cozies before that I thought were cute and funny, but this series is not for me.
Also, I've been to Bar Harbor, Ellsworth, and Acadia Nat'l Park. Bar Harbor is not a quiet little town -- it is a busy noisy tourist trap. Ellsworth IS a small beautiful town full of really great restaurants. And you cannot just drive into Acadia -- you have to get a pass -- at least as a visitor. Maybe as a resident of the area you can get a pass? But you still have to go through a ranger check station. I don't remember any "romantic picnic area" near Thunder Hole. Again, this is a tourist area; there is a parking lot and a walkway to the oceanside rock formation, plus a walking path that runs along the cliff coast for a few miles. Amazing views.
I think I am done with Lee Hollis' Food and Cocktails series.
Also, I've been to Bar Harbor, Ellsworth, and Acadia Nat'l Park. Bar Harbor is not a quiet little town -- it is a busy noisy tourist trap. Ellsworth IS a small beautiful town full of really great restaurants. And you cannot just drive into Acadia -- you have to get a pass -- at least as a visitor. Maybe as a resident of the area you can get a pass? But you still have to go through a ranger check station. I don't remember any "romantic picnic area" near Thunder Hole. Again, this is a tourist area; there is a parking lot and a walkway to the oceanside rock formation, plus a walking path that runs along the cliff coast for a few miles. Amazing views.
I think I am done with Lee Hollis' Food and Cocktails series.
July 9, 2023
This is book 16 in the series and it is as fresh as can be. The humor and characters are strong in this one.
I really enjoyed getting to know Mona's family, especially her three sons who are very much like their mother for the most part.
The main story involves two competing seafood companies, one of which is Mona's. The rivalry is strong as is the dislike and even hatred of each other. This plays out throughout the story and gives us lots of insight into the families.
There is a death but is it murder? We're not quite sure until the end because Haley has to dig around. I can say it all resolves out and we learn all.
A side story throughout is if Bruce will remain faithful to Haley. Youi have to read to find out.
The humor is great and mostly in Haley's thoughts and observations in some serious moments. I had to laugh out loud and one when everyone was in danger.
Fans will enjoy and people new to the series although I suggest the read some previous books when they have a chance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for allowing me to read this for an honest review.
I really enjoyed getting to know Mona's family, especially her three sons who are very much like their mother for the most part.
The main story involves two competing seafood companies, one of which is Mona's. The rivalry is strong as is the dislike and even hatred of each other. This plays out throughout the story and gives us lots of insight into the families.
There is a death but is it murder? We're not quite sure until the end because Haley has to dig around. I can say it all resolves out and we learn all.
A side story throughout is if Bruce will remain faithful to Haley. Youi have to read to find out.
The humor is great and mostly in Haley's thoughts and observations in some serious moments. I had to laugh out loud and one when everyone was in danger.
Fans will enjoy and people new to the series although I suggest the read some previous books when they have a chance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for allowing me to read this for an honest review.
March 24, 2023
Death of a Clam Digger is the 16th book in this delightful series. Hayley's best friend Mona Barnes owns a successful seafood business. When Monas' son Dougie becomes engaged to her arch rival Vera Leighton's little sister, all hell breaks loose, as their families have been Leightons business rivals for years. When Lonnie Leighton, the patriarch of the family, is found dead face down on the beach. and Donnie's class ring is found near the body, Hayley decides to do some investigating on her own. This was a fun quick read I could not put down! Lots of suspects, plenty of humor, and quirky characters. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for providing me with a copy by one of my favorite authors, to read and review. I give it 5 stars! ☆☆☆☆☆
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