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Presley Thurman #14
Elves & Embezzlement
'Tis the season... for murder?
Presley Thurman and Cooper Sands (and Bella, too!) have returned to Hunter's Hollow just in time for their Christmas Eve wedding. But when Winston Rose is murdered in the parking lot of Sue Thurman's flower shop, the police peg Sue as their number one suspect.
Presley knows her mom is innocent but can she convince the police of that?
Presley and Cooper think maybe it's best they cancel their wedding and focus on Sue's legal troubles, but she won't hear of it. She wants her daughter married on December 24, even if the mother-of-the-bride is in jail.
Can Presley find the real culprit AND get married to Cooper? This just might take a Christmas miracle.
Presley Thurman and Cooper Sands (and Bella, too!) have returned to Hunter's Hollow just in time for their Christmas Eve wedding. But when Winston Rose is murdered in the parking lot of Sue Thurman's flower shop, the police peg Sue as their number one suspect.
Presley knows her mom is innocent but can she convince the police of that?
Presley and Cooper think maybe it's best they cancel their wedding and focus on Sue's legal troubles, but she won't hear of it. She wants her daughter married on December 24, even if the mother-of-the-bride is in jail.
Can Presley find the real culprit AND get married to Cooper? This just might take a Christmas miracle.
- GenresCozy MysteryChristmas
162 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2022
31 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
L.C. Turner
65 books73 followersAs a child, L.C. thought she would either be a truck driver (thanks to Jerry Reed in Smokey and the Bandit) or work at Taco Bell (her favorite restaurant as a child). As she grew older, she realized her talents lay in other areas, and for the last several years has been a college professor teaching business and English.
Through all her career choices, she has continued to have a passion for writing stemming from childhood, where, as an only child, she developed a vivid imagination.
She is proud of her vast experiences in life from barrel racing, to being on the dance team for a semi-pro basketball team, to being a mom of 2 amazing kids.
She decided to follow her dream as an author in 2009 and has worked her way up to having 5 fans (maybe 6 now). She often tells her family and friends that no one is safe from his or her ventures slipping into her books. She lives in Indiana with her husband, kids and two very spoiled dogs.
L.C. previously published her cozy mysteries under Laina Turner.
To find out more information about L.C. and her books, check out her website at http://www.lainaturner.com/
Join my newsletter and get a FREE Book Promotions and Poisons - https://laina-turner-media.ck.page/0b...
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Through all her career choices, she has continued to have a passion for writing stemming from childhood, where, as an only child, she developed a vivid imagination.
She is proud of her vast experiences in life from barrel racing, to being on the dance team for a semi-pro basketball team, to being a mom of 2 amazing kids.
She decided to follow her dream as an author in 2009 and has worked her way up to having 5 fans (maybe 6 now). She often tells her family and friends that no one is safe from his or her ventures slipping into her books. She lives in Indiana with her husband, kids and two very spoiled dogs.
L.C. previously published her cozy mysteries under Laina Turner.
To find out more information about L.C. and her books, check out her website at http://www.lainaturner.com/
Join my newsletter and get a FREE Book Promotions and Poisons - https://laina-turner-media.ck.page/0b...
FOLLOW ME
Book Bub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/l-c-t...
Amazon https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 29, 2022
Now those people who follow my reviews will know that despite me focussing mostly on sci-fi and Golden Age mysteries, I do occasionally stray into the cosy mystery territory for a fun easy read, and this was one of those occasions.
I had somehow ( my memory of why and when eludes me ) signed up to receive occasional e-mails from a couple of American female Cosy Mystery writers, and when I was offered the chance to receive an Arc of this book from Laina Turner I jumped at the chance.
And I have to say it was a good decision (maybe I went back in time and told myself to sign up, hmm).
Anyway back to this book, not having read the previous 16 did not stop me really enjoying the characters and I was soon really in the swing of the interaction between the main players in the drama.
Heading back to her home town (Hunter's Hollow) for Christmas and her wedding on Christmas Eve , Presley finds her mother Sue accused of murder when a delivery guy is murdered outside her mum's flower shop. Determined to clear her mother before her wedding, she starts investigating who it could have actually have been.
The book takes us through a number of twists and turns, a few meetings for Presley to sort out her upcoming wedding and the odd coffee and cake with her best friend and I have to say I was really interested in how she was going to resolve the accusation against her mum, and get married. And without giving anything away, she almost doesn't !!
As I said, I haven't read any of the earlier novels in the series , but I have now bought 3 of them on kindle, so that tells you how much I enjoyed it.
So a big thank you to Laina Turner for trusting me enough to read one of her books ( a 60+ British male is not your normal reader I'm sure !! ).
I had somehow ( my memory of why and when eludes me ) signed up to receive occasional e-mails from a couple of American female Cosy Mystery writers, and when I was offered the chance to receive an Arc of this book from Laina Turner I jumped at the chance.
And I have to say it was a good decision (maybe I went back in time and told myself to sign up, hmm).
Anyway back to this book, not having read the previous 16 did not stop me really enjoying the characters and I was soon really in the swing of the interaction between the main players in the drama.
Heading back to her home town (Hunter's Hollow) for Christmas and her wedding on Christmas Eve , Presley finds her mother Sue accused of murder when a delivery guy is murdered outside her mum's flower shop. Determined to clear her mother before her wedding, she starts investigating who it could have actually have been.
The book takes us through a number of twists and turns, a few meetings for Presley to sort out her upcoming wedding and the odd coffee and cake with her best friend and I have to say I was really interested in how she was going to resolve the accusation against her mum, and get married. And without giving anything away, she almost doesn't !!
As I said, I haven't read any of the earlier novels in the series , but I have now bought 3 of them on kindle, so that tells you how much I enjoyed it.
So a big thank you to Laina Turner for trusting me enough to read one of her books ( a 60+ British male is not your normal reader I'm sure !! ).
November 30, 2022
Presley Thurman and her fiancé Cooper Sands both live and work in Chicago. They are returning to their hometown for Christmas and to have their Christmas Eve wedding. But when Presley arrives at her mother's flower shop, she finds a dead body in a florist truck in the parking lot, The police are not doing a very thorough job if investigating, because they think that Sue Thurman killed the man, even though she really didn't have a motive to do so. Presley is more than ready to postpone her wedding to clear her mother's name, but she won't hear of it. Therefore, Presley is determined to find the killer so there can be a happy Christmas all around. That is, if she can stay alive long enough to do so...
I am grateful the author took the opportunity and time to write this book, and I am just as sure that others are, too. While it was interesting in the plot line, it seemed weaker than I would have expected, and personally I didn't feel that there was anything 'there' to see Sue as a murderer, but perhaps that's just me and I'm reading too much into it.
The writing was very good, and having known the characters, this is one more chapter in their lives, which makes it easy to read. Speaking of the plot line, it all centers around Winston Rose's garden farm, and the reason for his murder. There are a few real suspects at hand, but it's deciding which one is the killer that's forefront. While I knew the murderer before Presley (only because I read mysteries more than anything else) it was still enjoyable watching her put everything together. And the climax itself was done nicely.
In the end, everything comes together as it should, with a lovely Christmas Eve wedding, and a resolution of issues that everyone might have.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author but this in no way influenced my review.
I am grateful the author took the opportunity and time to write this book, and I am just as sure that others are, too. While it was interesting in the plot line, it seemed weaker than I would have expected, and personally I didn't feel that there was anything 'there' to see Sue as a murderer, but perhaps that's just me and I'm reading too much into it.
The writing was very good, and having known the characters, this is one more chapter in their lives, which makes it easy to read. Speaking of the plot line, it all centers around Winston Rose's garden farm, and the reason for his murder. There are a few real suspects at hand, but it's deciding which one is the killer that's forefront. While I knew the murderer before Presley (only because I read mysteries more than anything else) it was still enjoyable watching her put everything together. And the climax itself was done nicely.
In the end, everything comes together as it should, with a lovely Christmas Eve wedding, and a resolution of issues that everyone might have.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author but this in no way influenced my review.
January 5, 2023
Elves & Embezzlement is an entertaining cozy mystery by a new to me author, L.C. Turner. I enjoy cozy mysteries, but when you throw in a holiday theme - I am right in there. Luckily for me, the author has penned a mystery which kept me stumped for the majority of the time I was reading.
The story had interesting characters with just the right amount of back story to make this reader feel a part of Presley and Cooper’s lives, even with the fact that I am starting this series at book 17!
The story begins with Presley and Cooper returning to Hunter's Hollow to celebrate their wedding on Christmas eve. While the wedding plan continues, outside Sue’s (Presley’s mother) flower shop a murder occurs and the police arrest Sue as a suspect. In order for the wedding to happen on Christmas Eve as planned - Presley decides she must solve the murder.
What the reader is taken on is a bit of a roller coaster ride while Presley work’s through the possible suspects and comes up with a viable motive and suspect. At times I wondered if she would be able to pull off finding another suspect along with all the other tasks she needed to complete for her impending nuptials. Lucky for Presley - she has the best friend to beat all best friends (Katy) who picks up the wedding preparations slack!
One item that still has me puzzled is how the title of the book came about. I understand the embezzlement portion of the name but is using “Elves” in the title the way of connecting it to the time of year? Or did I miss the elves in the story? Hmmm… a conundrum for another day.
Obviously the story kept my interest as I felt compelled to read it all in one sitting, which is something I rarely do! I found this new to me author grabbed my attention and provided enough intrigue to keep me guessing until the very end - just the way I like my cozy mysteries.
I look forward to reading the other 16 books in this series . If you enjoy cozy mysteries with multi-faceted characters, interesting plot line that keeps you guessing, then I suggest picking up Elves & Embezzlement by L.C. Turner and get reading!
* I received this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this review *
The story had interesting characters with just the right amount of back story to make this reader feel a part of Presley and Cooper’s lives, even with the fact that I am starting this series at book 17!
The story begins with Presley and Cooper returning to Hunter's Hollow to celebrate their wedding on Christmas eve. While the wedding plan continues, outside Sue’s (Presley’s mother) flower shop a murder occurs and the police arrest Sue as a suspect. In order for the wedding to happen on Christmas Eve as planned - Presley decides she must solve the murder.
What the reader is taken on is a bit of a roller coaster ride while Presley work’s through the possible suspects and comes up with a viable motive and suspect. At times I wondered if she would be able to pull off finding another suspect along with all the other tasks she needed to complete for her impending nuptials. Lucky for Presley - she has the best friend to beat all best friends (Katy) who picks up the wedding preparations slack!
One item that still has me puzzled is how the title of the book came about. I understand the embezzlement portion of the name but is using “Elves” in the title the way of connecting it to the time of year? Or did I miss the elves in the story? Hmmm… a conundrum for another day.
Obviously the story kept my interest as I felt compelled to read it all in one sitting, which is something I rarely do! I found this new to me author grabbed my attention and provided enough intrigue to keep me guessing until the very end - just the way I like my cozy mysteries.
I look forward to reading the other 16 books in this series . If you enjoy cozy mysteries with multi-faceted characters, interesting plot line that keeps you guessing, then I suggest picking up Elves & Embezzlement by L.C. Turner and get reading!
* I received this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this review *
April 3, 2023
This was a fun and quick read. It was the first I have read by this author and although this is the fourteenth in the series, it didn't make any difference and was easily read as a standalone.
When Presley's mother is accused of murdering her flower delivery guy, Presley takes it upon herself to investigate and determine who the real culprit was. This is despite the fact she is about to get married on Christmas Eve which is only a few days away.Despite the coziness of the story, there were several red herrings to keep the intrigue going (although I did enjoy all the references to baking and food! ) and I was surprised at being wrong in my assumption as to the killer's identity. I enjoyed this enough to check out the author's other books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When Presley's mother is accused of murdering her flower delivery guy, Presley takes it upon herself to investigate and determine who the real culprit was. This is despite the fact she is about to get married on Christmas Eve which is only a few days away.Despite the coziness of the story, there were several red herrings to keep the intrigue going (although I did enjoy all the references to baking and food! ) and I was surprised at being wrong in my assumption as to the killer's identity. I enjoyed this enough to check out the author's other books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 3, 2022
I loved this book! Presley is so earnest in her search for the truth. I liked that she asked her questions in town but I knew it would get her in trouble! But worse, for her and me, it got her friends and family in trouble! She started her investigation because the cops arrested her mother, but even after they cleared her, Presley didn't stop. It wasn't just about clearing her mom; it was about getting to the truth. I loved her best friend trying to rein her in but also knowing it was pointless, so just keeping her out of real trouble. If you like cozy mysteries, this is a great one to jump into!
November 30, 2022
Presley and Cooper are getting married on Christmas Eve in their hometown. Everything is all set when someone is murdered in front of Presley’s mom’s flower shop and she is arrested for the murder! Presley thinks they should postpone the wedding but her mom is adamant that it go on as scheduled. So Presley and Cooper are determined to investigate and get mom out of jail in time for the wedding. A fun and somewhat twisty book, and a very enjoyable read! I received a free copy of this book from the author and write this review voluntarily.
March 6, 2023
I love cozy mysteries and am always looking for a new series to try. Although this is several books into the series I quickly understood the character dynamics at play. Presley and her fiancee Cooper return to Hunter's Hollow for their Christmas Eve nuptials. Less than 24 hours in this small, sleepy town Presley becomes involved in a murder investigation to clear her Mom, Sue's name. The fact that her mother was arrested in the first place was ridiculous-will Presley find the real killer before her Wedding or will it be postponed? Full of potential suspects and twists and turns I was guessing until the end. I will definitely be reading more of this series-the characters were fun. I especially enjoyed the mother/daughter relationship and Presley's amazing best friend Katy. The Christmas theme and the Wedding added to the enjoyment .I received a Copy through Booksirens, and I leave this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
November 29, 2022
Read this book in a couple hours. Another book you just can't put down. Presley gets herself involved in a murder investigation a week before her wedding. Will she be able to solve this mystery and still have a Christmas Eve wedding? Lots of laughs and tears in this cozy. Hoping there will be more Presley cozy mystery books to come.
I received this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this review.
I received this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this review.
November 30, 2022
I throughly enjoyed this book. I thought which was great since there we’re a bunch of twists and turns I didn’t see coming. Presley and Cooper were trying to be married but murder just got caught in the way. I love how the loved ones all turn back again towards home that was a great sentiment to the story line. I recommend this book as a good clean read.
I received an advance copy and said I would give an honest review.
I received an advance copy and said I would give an honest review.
December 5, 2022
This series is filled with such enjoyable characters. The series is entertaining and each installment comes to a satisfying conclusion. They all do well as a standalone mystery but I think the true enjoyment is following along from the beginning. Presley and Cooper’s wedding is planned for Christmas Eve. The plans are almost complete. There’s only one big thing left to do. For Presley’s big day to be perfect, she needs to keep her mother out of jail and prove she isn’t guilty of murder.
December 9, 2022
Presley and Cooper have come back to Hunter's Hollow for their long anticipated wedding on Christmas Eve. Everyone is so excited until Presley discovers a body behind her mother's flower shop. To make matters worse, the police suspect Presley's mother of being the killer! Can Presley find the real killer before her wedding day or will the wedding be postponed? I love this series and this one is no exception! You won't be disappointed!
March 8, 2023
Presley is heading back to her home town of Hunter’s Hollow for her wedding and Christmas. However, when they arrive they find a dead body in the parking lot of her mother’s flower shop. The police suspect Presley’s mom, Sue. Presley is determined to find the true killer before her wedding. She has to work through the possible suspects, while trying to get everything ready for her wedding. Plenty of story to keep you involved and interested. Enjoy.
April 5, 2025
Is there a wedding or isn't there?
Trying my best not giving any SPOILERS away in this review. For the really loyal Presley and Coop fans like myself you don't want to miss this one, really the Katie and Dirt fans either! So to say something without saying too much... lots of twists and turns. Jealously and performance anxiety issues from small town folks who can't measure up lol. There's a lot more with and ending or two... we don't see coming at all! ENJOY!
Trying my best not giving any SPOILERS away in this review. For the really loyal Presley and Coop fans like myself you don't want to miss this one, really the Katie and Dirt fans either! So to say something without saying too much... lots of twists and turns. Jealously and performance anxiety issues from small town folks who can't measure up lol. There's a lot more with and ending or two... we don't see coming at all! ENJOY!
December 1, 2022
That sure was a beautiful ending!
Presley and Cooper finally tie the know, but of course before they get there, there’s another murder. This time Presley’s mom is a suspect. So let nobody try and stop Presley from investigating! An unexpected twist had me on the edge of my seat. And then that ending. Beautiful!
Presley and Cooper finally tie the know, but of course before they get there, there’s another murder. This time Presley’s mom is a suspect. So let nobody try and stop Presley from investigating! An unexpected twist had me on the edge of my seat. And then that ending. Beautiful!
November 17, 2024
Everywhere Presley goes, a body is soon to be found! This time her mother is a suspect. The characters are fun and interesting. The plot is easily followed, and the premise is finding out who actually killed Presley's mother's flower provider, and why. The answers were convoluted and at least two of the wrong people were accused. I definitely recommend this book.
January 9, 2025
Not Mrs. Thurman
Driving home to Hunters Hollow for Christmas was going to be special.
Tying the knot and new beginnings were the plan until they were knifed in the parking lot behind the flower shop.
With only a week before the wedding, checking off all the to do boxes, solving a murder to clear her mother may be more muffins than Presley can stomach and still fit in her dress.
Driving home to Hunters Hollow for Christmas was going to be special.
Tying the knot and new beginnings were the plan until they were knifed in the parking lot behind the flower shop.
With only a week before the wedding, checking off all the to do boxes, solving a murder to clear her mother may be more muffins than Presley can stomach and still fit in her dress.
November 29, 2022
What bride would decide to solve a murder the week before her wedding? Presley, of course. Now the question is whether she'll make the wedding or not. This is another hilarious adventure. I loved this book and recommend it.
December 12, 2022
Another superbly written story. Presley’s plans for a nice Christmas Eve wedding go astray when a body is found. They try to solve the murder, who did it and why. Intriguing, well written to make it a book for everyone.
December 29, 2022
What a great cozy mystery. The characters are fun and the plot flows so smoothly. Impossible to stop reading once you start. Definitely will read more by L. C. Turner. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 3, 2022
Great story. Fun characters. Easy read. Can’t wait to read other books by this author.
December 4, 2022
Good mystery
This author always manages to throw twists and turns in the story to confuse the reader as to the guilty person really is. The romance in one is a focus as well.
This author always manages to throw twists and turns in the story to confuse the reader as to the guilty person really is. The romance in one is a focus as well.
December 9, 2022
This was a really good read. The Author did an excellent job with the characters giving the storyline and making it feel like you were right there in the story. Good book.
January 3, 2023
I received an Advanced Reader copy from Book Sirens for my honest review. This is book 17 of the Presley Thurman Cozy Mystery series. It can easily be read as a stand alone. I enjoyed the story, yet I felt like it was missing some depth. Each chapter ended with a comment about needing to find the killer. The fact that Presley gets more info through her town connections, than the police was a bit of a stretch. I found all the comments about her weight bothersome. She is concerned about fitting into her wedding dress at the end of the week. There is so much more in life than one week of lattes and muffins. The story is a nice cozy mystery for a few hours of enjoyment. I would probably read more from the series. The ending provides lots of opportunities for interesting adventures.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews