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A Tourist Trap Mystery #13
Wedding Bell Blues
In the California coastal town of South Cove, Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More, becomes more engaged in sleuthing than wedding preparations when there's a murder in a dress shop . . . Jill couldn't love police chief Greg King more--so why does that engagement ring still feel funny on her finger? At least she'll have a chance to show it off this Saturday at their engagement party. Just in time for the event, a new dress shop has opened in town, Exquisite Gowns for You, specializing in designer wedding gowns and other custom-fit dresses. But Jill's excitement turns to shock when she comes by to pick up her dress for the party and discovers a dead body in the shop. New owner Harper Sanchez is behaving strangely and becoming more mysterious than anyone expected. Despite Greg's warnings to leave the case to him, Jill can't help looking into the murder. Somebody in South Cove is dressed to kill--and if Jill's not careful, she may not live to wear her wedding gown . . .
1 pages, Audio CD
First published March 1, 2022
209 people are currently reading
1841 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Cahoon
105 books2,370 followersNYT and USA Today bestselling author, Lynn Cahoon, writes the Tourist Trap, Cat Latimer, Farm-to-Fork, Kitchen Witch, Survivors' Book Club, the Haunted Life, and the Bainbridge Island cozy mystery series. No matter where the mystery is set, readers can expect a fun ride Sign up for her newsletter at www.lynncahoon.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
August 3, 2025
Wedding Bell Blues is the 13th book in the Tourist Trap Mysteries written by Lynn Cahoon. I began reading the series earlier this year and rushed through them to get current for this release... now I'll be waiting half a year before the next one is available. Oops! Cahoon is one of my auto-buy reads... simple but powerful mysteries revolving around amateur sleuths in small towns. This collection takes place in a California seaside town around Jill, owner of a book-and-coffee shop. In book 1 she began dating Greg, the local detective. Now they're engaged, but things are a bit awkward as they both learn to give and take a little more. Jill picks up a new custom-made dress for their engagement party and stumbles upon the shop owner's dead body. Except it's not her... a lookalike? A sister? Things are a bit complicated, and Jill is determined to find the culprit even though Greg tells her not to do so. She's luckily busy running an overnight kids' reading club, so she balances her time... nonetheless, she gets caught by the killer and almost dies again. Lots of commentary on side stories and relationships, these novels offer more than a light mystery. Life advice. Publishing advice. Marriage advice. And sometimes the characters are a little too direct for me, but I enjoy the way the stories are told. Always a fan of them, and now I eagerly await the next release in one of the author's many series.
February 22, 2022
This thirteenth in the Tourist Trap series, set in the coastal town of South Cove, California, starts off with a dead body in the new clothing designer's shop. Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More, finds the body when she goes to pick up her dress and her aunt's dress for the upcoming engagement party for her and her fiancé, Police Detective Greg King. The strange twist is that the body looks like the shop owner, but she appears across the street when Jill walks out. What? The designer, Harper Sanchez, acts very strange throughout the story. Lots of twists and turns to figure out.
I always look forward to reading this series as it is like a trip back to visit old friends in the quaint tourist town. There are some interesting characters, most of whom are likable, all realistic and well developed. This is another fun mystery to unravel and hope that Jill stays out of trouble. I had some thoughts about what was going on, but I did not have it quite right.
I received a complimentary ARC from Lyrical Press, Kensington Books, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are mine only.
I always look forward to reading this series as it is like a trip back to visit old friends in the quaint tourist town. There are some interesting characters, most of whom are likable, all realistic and well developed. This is another fun mystery to unravel and hope that Jill stays out of trouble. I had some thoughts about what was going on, but I did not have it quite right.
I received a complimentary ARC from Lyrical Press, Kensington Books, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are mine only.
February 3, 2022
Wedding Bell Blues is the thirteenth book in this series. I really wanted to love this book, however, I found Jill and Greg to be extremely annoying. Jill and Greg are finally engaged, and the first thing that struck me as odd was Jill forgetting to put on her engagement ring. In my experience, the proposal and ring are the beginning of a life long commitment, and any newly engaged woman would be showing her ring to everyone. Jill and Greg spent too much time discussing the situation, and Jill's lack of excitement to set a wedding date is a huge red flag. I'm not sure what the author has planned, but I hope this weird vibe gets better over time. I felt very uncomfortable with the way they were acting and I wanted to tell them to grow up. The mystery was excellent and I had some of it pieced together, but the reveal surprised me. My rating is based on the storyline and the mystery, and is my own personal opinion. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book. #WeddingBellBlues #NetGalley
April 18, 2022
This book is the 13th installment in this series, but I have only read a couple of the others and had no issues enjoying this one. I struggled with the characters a bit more than in previous books because while Jill and Greg are finally engaged their relationship rubs me the wrong way. Greg gets over protective to the point of being controlling which doesn’t feel like romance to me. I know he’s the police chief and Jill is a magnet for trouble, but I still don’t think the message his overprotectiveness sends. And I don’t mean him telling her not to investigate, that’s pretty typical for the genre, but him telling her she’s not allowed to run alone until he said it was safe for example rubbed me wrong. I did enjoy the mystery and had figured out the twists but still thought they were great and pretty unique for a cozy mystery. I loved the readathon event in the shop and do continue to enjoy some of the side characters. Overall I gave it 3.5 stars which I rounded up since half stars remain not an option.
July 28, 2022
Wedding Bell Blues is the 13th book of this series. I have read all in the series. Jill Gardner is the main character along with all supporting characters from the first book. She owns Coffee Books and More store. She lives in a tourist and coastal town of South Cove, CA. She and her fiancé, Greg King , police chief, are getting ready for their engagement party on Saturday, Her Aunt Jackie has ordered a dress for her from the new dress store owned by Harper Sanchez. When she goes to pick up the dress she finds a body in the store. It is thought to be Harper's sister, Alison. This is where the story takes off and takes the reader on an adventure of finding out who killed her . I don't want to ruin the story for the reader so I will let the reader find out the unusual and exciting ending of this story.
I love this series and look forward to the next adventure of Jill and Greg and the villagers in the town of South Cove.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC
Merged review:
Wedding Bell Blues is the 13th book of this series. I have read all in the series. Jill Gardner is the main character along with all supporting characters from the first book. She owns Coffee Books and More store. She lives in a tourist and coastal town of South Cove, CA. She and her fiancé, Greg King , police chief, are getting ready for their engagement party on Saturday, Her Aunt Jackie has ordered a dress for her from the new dress store owned by Harper Sanchez. When she goes to pick up the dress she finds a body in the store. It is thought to be Harper's sister, Alison. This is where the story takes off and takes the reader on an adventure of finding out who killed her . I don't want to ruin the story for the reader so I will let the reader find out the unusual and exciting ending of this story.
I love this series and look forward to the next adventure of Jill and Greg and the villagers in the town of South Cove.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC.
I love this series and look forward to the next adventure of Jill and Greg and the villagers in the town of South Cove.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC
Merged review:
Wedding Bell Blues is the 13th book of this series. I have read all in the series. Jill Gardner is the main character along with all supporting characters from the first book. She owns Coffee Books and More store. She lives in a tourist and coastal town of South Cove, CA. She and her fiancé, Greg King , police chief, are getting ready for their engagement party on Saturday, Her Aunt Jackie has ordered a dress for her from the new dress store owned by Harper Sanchez. When she goes to pick up the dress she finds a body in the store. It is thought to be Harper's sister, Alison. This is where the story takes off and takes the reader on an adventure of finding out who killed her . I don't want to ruin the story for the reader so I will let the reader find out the unusual and exciting ending of this story.
I love this series and look forward to the next adventure of Jill and Greg and the villagers in the town of South Cove.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC.
February 26, 2022
In this thirteenth addition to the Tourist Trap series, Ms. Cahoon has provided a complex mystery that kept me turning the pages. I do love visiting South Cove and catching up with all of the characters as most of them feel like friends now. The characters add depth to each story in the series as they have developed and grown in each book which makes the business community of South Cove come alive for me. A well-crafted and smoothly paced plot, twists, turns, misdirection and a dramatic finale that had me gripping my e-reader. I honestly did not have a clue as to "who done it" until I read the reveal.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Lyrical Press via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own."
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Lyrical Press via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own."
May 21, 2022
This series has always given me issues: namely, the main character, Jill. I don’t like her all that much, and Greg isn’t much better. However, Wedding Bell Blues makes Jill more human and somewhat more of a pain. Buying a gown for an engagement party shouldn’t be as tricky as Jill makes it, and being her best friend and maid of honor isn’t filled with joy. When a body shows up in the new dress shop, Jill is on the case once more, or is she using it as a distraction.
Jill, Greg, and Aunt Jackie all return in this new addition to the “A Tourist Trap Mystery” series. What should have been the best time of her life has Jill wondering and worrying if she is ready for marriage instead of looking forward to her wedding day. Greg is busy trying to prove to her that everything will be fine, and Aunt Jackie is still keeping an eye on what Jill looks like to the point of being downright rude. However, when Greg’s ex is named a suspect in the murder of a gown maker, Jill reluctantly sets out to prove her innocent.
There are twists and turns throughout this story. Plenty of suspects and red herrings to keep readers entertained, even if some of them are far too obvious. I enjoyed the gown/dress shop as the setting. I like the story of the wedding prep, Jill would not be the first bride who second-guessed everything, but we get to see her slowly (perhaps a bit too slowly) come to terms with the future. Unfortunately, I knew how this book would end as soon as the body was discovered. The killer came as no surprise, and the reason for the entire mystery was evident almost from the beginning.
Overall, Wedding Bell Blues is a fun, easy read that fans will enjoy. The engagement gown Harper, the new shop owner, creates for Jill sounds beautiful. Watching Sherry get some of what she usually dishes out was priceless. Some things in this book and series could be better, but in general, the book holds true to the series and gives readers a few hours of enjoying someone else’s life with just as many, if not more, problems than their own.
Jill, Greg, and Aunt Jackie all return in this new addition to the “A Tourist Trap Mystery” series. What should have been the best time of her life has Jill wondering and worrying if she is ready for marriage instead of looking forward to her wedding day. Greg is busy trying to prove to her that everything will be fine, and Aunt Jackie is still keeping an eye on what Jill looks like to the point of being downright rude. However, when Greg’s ex is named a suspect in the murder of a gown maker, Jill reluctantly sets out to prove her innocent.
There are twists and turns throughout this story. Plenty of suspects and red herrings to keep readers entertained, even if some of them are far too obvious. I enjoyed the gown/dress shop as the setting. I like the story of the wedding prep, Jill would not be the first bride who second-guessed everything, but we get to see her slowly (perhaps a bit too slowly) come to terms with the future. Unfortunately, I knew how this book would end as soon as the body was discovered. The killer came as no surprise, and the reason for the entire mystery was evident almost from the beginning.
Overall, Wedding Bell Blues is a fun, easy read that fans will enjoy. The engagement gown Harper, the new shop owner, creates for Jill sounds beautiful. Watching Sherry get some of what she usually dishes out was priceless. Some things in this book and series could be better, but in general, the book holds true to the series and gives readers a few hours of enjoying someone else’s life with just as many, if not more, problems than their own.
February 12, 2022
Wedding Bell Blues is the 13th book in the Tourist Trap Mystery series by author Lynn Cahoon. I love the characters in this series and they are what keep me coming back with each new book. I do have to admit however, this book was not a favorite. Jill and Greg are now engaged and getting ready for the engagement party. When Jill goes back to pick up the dress for the party, she finds a dead body of who she believes to be the owner of the store. There are a couple of viable suspects including Greg's ex-wife, which frankly made me happy. She is a pretty annoying character and it was fun to see her on the hot seat. The author throws in plenty of twists and turns when it comes to the victim's identity and the reason for the murder.
Where this one left me wanting was the characters. Now that Jill and Greg are finally engaged, I was hoping that Jill's uncertainty and reticence toward marriage would dissipate. Unfortunately, it just seemed to intensify it. The romance storyline has gone on so long now I would have loved to see the author write Jill settling into her decision. Hopefully, that will occur in the next book going forward.
I will return to see what the author has in store in future books in this series. I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and are not influenced by the manner in which I received this book.
Where this one left me wanting was the characters. Now that Jill and Greg are finally engaged, I was hoping that Jill's uncertainty and reticence toward marriage would dissipate. Unfortunately, it just seemed to intensify it. The romance storyline has gone on so long now I would have loved to see the author write Jill settling into her decision. Hopefully, that will occur in the next book going forward.
I will return to see what the author has in store in future books in this series. I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and are not influenced by the manner in which I received this book.
February 9, 2022
A festival, a read-a-thon, an engagement party and oh yeah, a murder all equals tons of entertainment to be had for the Coffee, Books and More gang once again! Especially when you throw a jealous ex-wife into the mix for Jill and Greg to deal with. I absolutely love this series and the depth of characters that are intwined throughout the story lines. The author gives each book more depth by having multiple plot lines running throughout the book, so each story has more meat on its bones than the average cozy mystery! I can't wait to see what comes next for the CBM gang!
June 13, 2022
Here's the scenario. You go to the dress shop to pick up your designer gown for your engagement party. You find a dead body. Not long afterward, you see the person you thought was dead walking about seemingly without a care in the world. You're a naturally curious person but your husband-to-be, who happens to be the town detective, warns you away from investigating. He loves you, even though you can't seem to remember to wear your engagement ring, and fears you might be in danger. He asks some fellow officers and associates to keep an eye on you. What do you do?
Well, if you're Jill Gardner, you not only chaff under the supervision, insisting your dog will protect you, but you start asking questions and surfing the internet for information. Well, also while scarfing down and incredible amount of food, ice cream, and/or cookies. Often all of the above. Eating seems to be Jill's go-to when she is stressed. You also not only visit the scene of the crime again but talk to likely suspects. Will you get your designer gown in time for the party? Will your snooping, er, looking for information mean you won't live to wear your eventual designer wedding gown?
Welcome to Jill's "Wedding Bell Blues". Although his is the 13th book in the series, it works nicely as a stand-alone although perhaps reading previous books might give readers a better feel for the other characters who surround Jill and her shop. I tend to be drawn to books with strong relationships between well-rounded characters and didn't sense this this book. I was, however, intrigued by the potential author in the bunch and hope he's the focus of a later entry. Lynn Cahoon kept me guessing until the very end, I might add. What a twist!
Thank you #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for letting me drop in on Jill as she preps for her upcoming wedding. Hope she saves some of those cookies for me.
Well, if you're Jill Gardner, you not only chaff under the supervision, insisting your dog will protect you, but you start asking questions and surfing the internet for information. Well, also while scarfing down and incredible amount of food, ice cream, and/or cookies. Often all of the above. Eating seems to be Jill's go-to when she is stressed. You also not only visit the scene of the crime again but talk to likely suspects. Will you get your designer gown in time for the party? Will your snooping, er, looking for information mean you won't live to wear your eventual designer wedding gown?
Welcome to Jill's "Wedding Bell Blues". Although his is the 13th book in the series, it works nicely as a stand-alone although perhaps reading previous books might give readers a better feel for the other characters who surround Jill and her shop. I tend to be drawn to books with strong relationships between well-rounded characters and didn't sense this this book. I was, however, intrigued by the potential author in the bunch and hope he's the focus of a later entry. Lynn Cahoon kept me guessing until the very end, I might add. What a twist!
Thank you #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for letting me drop in on Jill as she preps for her upcoming wedding. Hope she saves some of those cookies for me.
February 14, 2022
Wedding Bell Blues" the 13th instalment in the "Tourist Trap” Mystery series by Lynn Cahoon. This is one of my favourite cozy mystery series!
In the California coastal town of South Cove, Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More, becomes more engaged in sleuthing than wedding preparations when there’s a murder in a dress shop . . .
As always I love visiting South Cove, California and Coffee, Books & More, this story was really good. I love the main set of characters Jill, Amy, Aunt Jackie, Greg, Toby and now we have Deek and Evie as part of the CBM family. Deek is a budding writer and I hope we see more of this development in future books.
As for the mystery I found it to be well plotted and it moved along at a steady pace. There were only a few suspects for the murder but you still find yourself second guessing on who the murderer can be. Overall I found this to be a great story and I loved the surprise ending!
I can’t wait for the next instalment to come out.
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
In the California coastal town of South Cove, Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More, becomes more engaged in sleuthing than wedding preparations when there’s a murder in a dress shop . . .
As always I love visiting South Cove, California and Coffee, Books & More, this story was really good. I love the main set of characters Jill, Amy, Aunt Jackie, Greg, Toby and now we have Deek and Evie as part of the CBM family. Deek is a budding writer and I hope we see more of this development in future books.
As for the mystery I found it to be well plotted and it moved along at a steady pace. There were only a few suspects for the murder but you still find yourself second guessing on who the murderer can be. Overall I found this to be a great story and I loved the surprise ending!
I can’t wait for the next instalment to come out.
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 31, 2022
Fun mystery that kept me guessing! At some point, I thought I knew what was going on, then stuff changed and my thoughts changed. Jill is a great lead character and I liked going on this adventure with her!
March 15, 2022
I always enjoy my trips to South Cove. Jill and Greg are trying to figure out exactly what being engaged means and if it changes anything when Jill goes to pick a new designer dress Aunt Jackie has bought for her to wear to her engagement party. Unfortunately as well as a beautiful dress, she discovered a dead body, and so it begins. I really enjoyed this one as we spend quality time in the bookstore and with all our favorite characters. The mystery is very interesting but left me with a few loose ends, still can't wait to go back to South Cove for more.
April 8, 2022
This is a favorite series for me. I’m fully invested in the town of South Cove and Jill and Greg’s relationship. This time, Jill comes across a dead body when she goes to pick up her dress for her engagement party. It turns out that the victim is the sister of the store’s owner. But both the store owner Hannah and the victim’s ex husband don’t seem to be grieving very much. There are a lot of secrets and-once again- Jill can’t help but investigate, much to the chagrin of fiancé and town detective Greg. The mystery is good but I still feel like Jill and Greg need to work out a few kinks before they walk down the aisle. All in all, another winner from Lynn Cahoon.
July 10, 2022
Wedding Bell Blues by Lynn Cahoon takes us back to South Cove, California. Jill Gardner and Greg King are engaged. There is going to be an engagement party for them on Saturday. Jill’s aunt, Jackie has commissioned dresses for both of them from the town’s newest shop owner, Harper Sanchez. When Jill arrives to pick up their dresses, she finds a woman dead in the shop. Jill believes it is Harper until the dress designer walks up apologizing for being tardy. Detective Greg King is working diligently on the case and would prefer it if Jill focuses on the business and their upcoming engagement party. Jill, of course, cannot resist doing a little snooping on her own. Wedding Bell Blues by Lynn Cahoon is the thirteenth A Tourist Trap Mystery. It can be read as a standalone since the author provides the main background details on Jill. Lynn Cahoon has a great writing style. It is casual and friendly. It makes her stories easy to read. I found Jill’s behavior odd in this story. I would expect a newly engaged woman to be proudly showing off her engagement ring. Jill, though, keeps forgetting her ring at home. Jill seems to be hesitant regarding the engagement and making wedding plans. She talks it over with her best friend plus Jill and Greg spend a lot of time talking about the subject. Jill does not wish to set a wedding date or discuss her wedding dress (which needs to be ordered six to eight months in advance). Everyone seems happy for the engagement except Jill. I know Jill loves Greg, but I believe her past failed relationship is dampening her joy and giving her self-doubts. You can always tell when Jill is stressed because she heads for the sweets (stress eating). Jill’s engagement dress sounded beautiful. The story consists of Jill working at the bookstore, reading, talking to her employees, running on the beach with her dog (Emma), eating, and watching television. The mystery was interesting. I liked that it was different. There are a couple of suspects along with misdirection. I loved that one of the suspects was Greg’s ex-wife, Sherry. I wish the solution had not been so obvious. I was annoyed with Greg during the investigation. He tries to control Jill during murder investigations. Greg had police officers escort Jill home (not letting her detour), he had people from city hall drop by the store every half an hour on the mornings she worked alone, and he kept telling her to keep out of the investigation. I feel that by now Greg should be used to Jill investigating and he should have accepted it (maybe even welcome her insights). I would have liked a better wrap-up of the whodunit. I was left with a couple of unanswered questions. Deek, one of Jill’s employees, has written a book and asks for Jill’s critique. Jill is worried that an unscrupulous publisher will take advantage of him. Jill also does not want to lose Deek as an employee (which was mentioned a few times). Wedding Bell Blues is a South Cove cozy with pretty party dresses, a mysterious murder, an enjoyable engagement party, readying for the readathon, tasty treats, a publisher problem, and a safeguarding fiancé.
March 14, 2022
Wedding Bell Blues earns 5/5 Designer Dresses…Engaging & Clever!
At the monthly business to business meetings hosted by Jill’s Coffee, Books, and More established and new business owners gather together to discuss important issues, like the upcoming Welcome Spring Saturday festival, or getting an introduction to a new business, like Exquisite Gowns For You owned and operated by Harper Sanchez. Ms. Sanchez is a designer of special occasion and wedding gowns including creating Jill’s engagement ensemble. However, the new shop is in competition with Vintage Duds owned by Sherry King, Jill’s fiancé’s ex-wife, and despite their proximity being far enough apart, Sherry doesn’t plan to peacefully co-exist. She accuses Harper of wanting to drive her out of business by offering new creations. She has even been to the shop pounding on the window and spewing threats. The next day, Jill and her aunt arrived for a fitting and overheard an argument between Harper and an unidentified male. It all seems more suspicious when Jill returns to pick up the dresses and instead finds a dead body, and knowing how focused Greg gets on an investigation, the question is: what about the engagement party?
Lynn Cahoon penned another excellent read for her thirteen book in the Tourist Trap Mystery series. The crime occurred early in the drama, my preference, putting the investigation, formal and informal, as the main feature. The victim’s identity is an immediate mystery of its own along with the discovery of a secret business partners. Cahoon’s writing style is very entertaining slowly revealing the clues, from curious to shocking, making the drama a “can’t put down” experience. Jill has several realistic connections with law enforcement, her fiancé Detective King, of course, but also Esmeralda, resident fortune-teller and police dispatcher. She’s quite a delightful character sharing her visions, reading auras, and warnings to “be careful.” Additionally, the side stories include interesting discussions about marriage, relationships, and acceptance along with Deek’s book publishing woes. The connections between family and friends emphasize characteristics with small town life where everyone looks out for each other. Absolute fun…that includes a recipe! Enjoy her easy-to-make Lemon Drop Pie.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Kensington thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
At the monthly business to business meetings hosted by Jill’s Coffee, Books, and More established and new business owners gather together to discuss important issues, like the upcoming Welcome Spring Saturday festival, or getting an introduction to a new business, like Exquisite Gowns For You owned and operated by Harper Sanchez. Ms. Sanchez is a designer of special occasion and wedding gowns including creating Jill’s engagement ensemble. However, the new shop is in competition with Vintage Duds owned by Sherry King, Jill’s fiancé’s ex-wife, and despite their proximity being far enough apart, Sherry doesn’t plan to peacefully co-exist. She accuses Harper of wanting to drive her out of business by offering new creations. She has even been to the shop pounding on the window and spewing threats. The next day, Jill and her aunt arrived for a fitting and overheard an argument between Harper and an unidentified male. It all seems more suspicious when Jill returns to pick up the dresses and instead finds a dead body, and knowing how focused Greg gets on an investigation, the question is: what about the engagement party?
Lynn Cahoon penned another excellent read for her thirteen book in the Tourist Trap Mystery series. The crime occurred early in the drama, my preference, putting the investigation, formal and informal, as the main feature. The victim’s identity is an immediate mystery of its own along with the discovery of a secret business partners. Cahoon’s writing style is very entertaining slowly revealing the clues, from curious to shocking, making the drama a “can’t put down” experience. Jill has several realistic connections with law enforcement, her fiancé Detective King, of course, but also Esmeralda, resident fortune-teller and police dispatcher. She’s quite a delightful character sharing her visions, reading auras, and warnings to “be careful.” Additionally, the side stories include interesting discussions about marriage, relationships, and acceptance along with Deek’s book publishing woes. The connections between family and friends emphasize characteristics with small town life where everyone looks out for each other. Absolute fun…that includes a recipe! Enjoy her easy-to-make Lemon Drop Pie.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Kensington thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
March 1, 2022
Wedding Bell Blues is the 13th book in the Tourist Trap Mystery series by featuring Coffee, Books, and More shop owner, Jill Gardner. I have read two other instalments in this delightful series but plan to read the others at some stage.
I enjoyed reading Wedding Bell Blues immensely! In this instalment, set in South Cove, California, It's springtime, Jill is newly engaged to police chief Greg King and their engagement party is planned for the weekend. All Jill needs is a frock which she is buying from the recently opened Exquisite Gowns for You in the town, owned by Harper Sanchez, a special occasion gown designer. There is another clothing shop in town - Vintage Duds - that sells used designer clothes, run by Sherry King. When Jill arrives at Exquisite Gowns for You to collect her dress she finds the lobby empty so so she rings the bell on the counter. There's no response so she enters the dressing room area and discovers a dead body.
This novel was an extremely intriguing tale and I was delighted to be visiting Jill in her coffee, book and trinket shop in coastal South Cove again! Although the list of plausible suspects was fairly small, unravelling the mystery alongside Jill and Greg was lots of fun and I welcomed the comfortable pace. I waded through the red herrings to identify the murderer and often found myself sidetracked by other events, happenings, and occurrences. Lynn Cahoon certainly knows how to write a well-crafted, compelling, and colourful tale. Wedding Bell Blues is a highly recommended read that will be of interest to many cozy readers, and I’m game to see what's going on in South Cove next time. If you haven’t tried this series out yet, then you’re definitely missing out!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I enjoyed reading Wedding Bell Blues immensely! In this instalment, set in South Cove, California, It's springtime, Jill is newly engaged to police chief Greg King and their engagement party is planned for the weekend. All Jill needs is a frock which she is buying from the recently opened Exquisite Gowns for You in the town, owned by Harper Sanchez, a special occasion gown designer. There is another clothing shop in town - Vintage Duds - that sells used designer clothes, run by Sherry King. When Jill arrives at Exquisite Gowns for You to collect her dress she finds the lobby empty so so she rings the bell on the counter. There's no response so she enters the dressing room area and discovers a dead body.
This novel was an extremely intriguing tale and I was delighted to be visiting Jill in her coffee, book and trinket shop in coastal South Cove again! Although the list of plausible suspects was fairly small, unravelling the mystery alongside Jill and Greg was lots of fun and I welcomed the comfortable pace. I waded through the red herrings to identify the murderer and often found myself sidetracked by other events, happenings, and occurrences. Lynn Cahoon certainly knows how to write a well-crafted, compelling, and colourful tale. Wedding Bell Blues is a highly recommended read that will be of interest to many cozy readers, and I’m game to see what's going on in South Cove next time. If you haven’t tried this series out yet, then you’re definitely missing out!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
February 16, 2022
The cover of this book caught my eye. I knew I shouldn’t have done it, since it’s the 12th book in the series, but when has that ever stopped me?
It’s fine to read as a stand alone but it’s probably better to read the books in order. I do get the sense that Jill, although she loves her fiancé Greg, isn’t all that eager to get married. The ex wife still lives in the same small town which makes for interesting interactions.
I liked the coastal Cali locale and that it’s a close knit community.
The mystery part was decent, but honestly I was more interested in the newsy, gossipy characters and the relationships.
I mist added more more to my catch up reading list.
Thanks to Lyrical Press and NetGalley for the advance copy.
It’s fine to read as a stand alone but it’s probably better to read the books in order. I do get the sense that Jill, although she loves her fiancé Greg, isn’t all that eager to get married. The ex wife still lives in the same small town which makes for interesting interactions.
I liked the coastal Cali locale and that it’s a close knit community.
The mystery part was decent, but honestly I was more interested in the newsy, gossipy characters and the relationships.
I mist added more more to my catch up reading list.
Thanks to Lyrical Press and NetGalley for the advance copy.
April 8, 2022
I really enjoy this series because of the characters and the setting; it always feels like coming home when reading a new story. This one centers more on Jill's wedding than it does on a mystery, which is fine, but I visit this wonderful setting because of the mysteries. The mystery was lacking in this one; there was little to no investigating done. I still love this series, though, and will continue to read it.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
March 1, 2022
I love everything about Wedding Bell Blues starting with the cover! This well written book is set in a small, close knit town. Jill and Greg will soon be attending their engagement party. I love the recurring cast of characters, the small town vibe and the author's interestingly twisted mystery. I read the book in one day because I could not put it down!
February 5, 2022
Lynn Cahoon is one of my favorite cozy mystery authors, and I have enjoyed reading through the Tourist Trap Mystery series. In Wedding Bell Blues, Jill has a lot on her mind: her upcoming engagement party, how her relationship with police chief Greg will change after marriage, and a recent murder at the new dress shop in town.
Jill and Greg's relationship seemed to overshadow the mystery in this book, which is fine because I'm invested in it. There's something off about them in this book and, while it can be frustrating at times, I found it rather authentic. I'm eager to see what's next for them.
I thought I solved the mystery early on but was surprised to see I was wrong. :)
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jill and Greg's relationship seemed to overshadow the mystery in this book, which is fine because I'm invested in it. There's something off about them in this book and, while it can be frustrating at times, I found it rather authentic. I'm eager to see what's next for them.
I thought I solved the mystery early on but was surprised to see I was wrong. :)
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2022
Wedding Bell Blues by Lynn Cahoon is the 13th book in A Tourist Trap Mystery series and another great addition. This book is a very good cozy mystery, and I enjoyed the plot, cast of characters and this author’s writing. I have read every book in this series, and I look forward to reading more books in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 23, 2022
Wedding Bell Blues
A Tourist Trap mystery, Book #13
Lynn Cahoon
5 Stars
Synopsis:
In the California coastal town of South Cove, Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More, becomes more engaged in sleuthing than wedding preparations when there’s a murder in a dress shop . . .
Jill couldn’t love police chief Greg King more—so why does that engagement ring still feel funny on her finger? At least she’ll have a chance to show it off this Saturday at their engagement party. Just in time for the event, a new dress shop has opened in town, Exquisite Gowns for You, specializing in designer wedding gowns and other custom-fit dresses.
But Jill’s excitement turns to shock when she comes by to pick up her dress for the party and discovers a dead body in the shop. New owner Harper Sanchez is behaving strangely and becoming more mysterious than anyone expected. Despite Greg’s warnings to leave the case to him, Jill can’t help looking into the murder. Somebody in South Cove is dressed to kill—and if Jill’s not careful, she may not live to wear her wedding gown . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. It is great to be able to spend time with Jill, Greg, Amy, Justin and Aunt Jackie. Jill is getting ready for her engagement party and Aunt Jackie has ordered a dress for Jill to wear to the party. When Jill goes to pick up the dress, she finds a dead body. Now Jill and Amy have to find out the murderer so that Jill can enjoy her engagement.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I was pulled into the story from the very beginning. The mystery was well plotted and there were suspects to consider and clues to sift through. You will have to use all of your detective skills to figure out the culprit.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well plotted cozy mystery. I cannot wait to see where their next adventure takes them.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
A Tourist Trap mystery, Book #13
Lynn Cahoon
5 Stars
Synopsis:
In the California coastal town of South Cove, Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More, becomes more engaged in sleuthing than wedding preparations when there’s a murder in a dress shop . . .
Jill couldn’t love police chief Greg King more—so why does that engagement ring still feel funny on her finger? At least she’ll have a chance to show it off this Saturday at their engagement party. Just in time for the event, a new dress shop has opened in town, Exquisite Gowns for You, specializing in designer wedding gowns and other custom-fit dresses.
But Jill’s excitement turns to shock when she comes by to pick up her dress for the party and discovers a dead body in the shop. New owner Harper Sanchez is behaving strangely and becoming more mysterious than anyone expected. Despite Greg’s warnings to leave the case to him, Jill can’t help looking into the murder. Somebody in South Cove is dressed to kill—and if Jill’s not careful, she may not live to wear her wedding gown . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. It is great to be able to spend time with Jill, Greg, Amy, Justin and Aunt Jackie. Jill is getting ready for her engagement party and Aunt Jackie has ordered a dress for Jill to wear to the party. When Jill goes to pick up the dress, she finds a dead body. Now Jill and Amy have to find out the murderer so that Jill can enjoy her engagement.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I was pulled into the story from the very beginning. The mystery was well plotted and there were suspects to consider and clues to sift through. You will have to use all of your detective skills to figure out the culprit.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well plotted cozy mystery. I cannot wait to see where their next adventure takes them.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
August 5, 2022
Come dice il titolo, in questo libro si affrontano più i dubbi della protagonista sul suo futuro matrimonio che il mistero vero e proprio. E a quest'ultimo riguardo, il finale mi sembra un po' affrettato: ho capito che cosa è successo, ma mi sembra che molto sia lasciato non detto, soprattutto per quanto riguarda i personaggi coinvolti nella storia.
October 17, 2022
Sit back and enjoy the book.
It's been awhile since I visited South Cove and the wonderful characters that live there. It was fun to catch up with Jill and Greg, Aunt Jackie and Harrold, Amy and Jason, Deek, Toby and Evie.
The storyline has some twists and I enjoyed just reading and getting lost in the story and not obsess about trying to figure out who did what and who the murderer is. I went with the flow of the story and everything fell into place. There was just one twist that was a surprise and a bit confusing, and it wasn't what most people would think.
It's been awhile since I visited South Cove and the wonderful characters that live there. It was fun to catch up with Jill and Greg, Aunt Jackie and Harrold, Amy and Jason, Deek, Toby and Evie.
The storyline has some twists and I enjoyed just reading and getting lost in the story and not obsess about trying to figure out who did what and who the murderer is. I went with the flow of the story and everything fell into place. There was just one twist that was a surprise and a bit confusing, and it wasn't what most people would think.
March 19, 2022
I think I am now a little tired of the babying Jill requires from Greg. She is remains a little too dysfunctional in the relationship department. She is intelligent, caring, and capable but seems to be limited in her abilities to trust and believe in herself because of one past bad marriage. Greg has overcome his marriage to Sherry, because of his love and trust for/of Jill. It is time for Jill to grow up and follow his example or stay single the rest of her life. If the next few books in this series continue along these lines, I am done. I am looking forward to them become a team in marriage and in solving murders. They have different skills and ways of obtaining truths and clues, let them work together, please - they have earned it!!
March 3, 2022
I listened to the first couple of books in A Tourist Trap mystery series through my library. I liked them all right, but Jill was a so-so character and her aunt Jackie was abrasive. I like several of the author’s other cozy mysteries, so when Netgalley offered Wedding Bell Blues I decided it was time to catch up on Jill’s life. I wasn’t sure why the title reference at first, but on reflection the wedding bell blues applies to several relationships in the story.
The setting in the California coast in small town with a bookstore is attractive.
Jill is an interesting main character, and the reader spends a lot of time in her head. The thoughts revolve around the murder, the bookstore, the engagement to Greg, the boxes in the proposed library room at the house, food, finances, what’s happening with her friend Amy’s relationship, etc. Aunt Jackie was only annoying a few times. Greg sounds like a great guy, but he is almost as much to blame for Jill getting herself into dangerous situations as she is. He thinks he is protecting her by not telling her things and she goes off on her curiosity quests which inevitably lead her into trouble. Then Greg feels the need to lecture Jill or give her the silent treatment or try laying down the law. They have been together for a while now. So you’d think he would stop beating a dead horse and accept Jill as she is.
Jill doesn’t seem as happy about the engagement as one thinks she would be. This is a main theme within the book and makes me wonder if nuptials will ever really occur.
I had a hypothesis on what was going on with Harper, whose sister died, but it turns out my guesses were incorrect. It makes for a better ending when you don’t guess exactly right.
The read-a-thon sounds like a fun community event. It was a lot of work that supposedly paid off financially for Coffee, Books and More.
This was a fun read. It doesn’t inspire me to go back and fill in the intervening stories between book three and book 13. This book does provide enough backstory that it could be read as a stand-alone.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book.
The setting in the California coast in small town with a bookstore is attractive.
Jill is an interesting main character, and the reader spends a lot of time in her head. The thoughts revolve around the murder, the bookstore, the engagement to Greg, the boxes in the proposed library room at the house, food, finances, what’s happening with her friend Amy’s relationship, etc. Aunt Jackie was only annoying a few times. Greg sounds like a great guy, but he is almost as much to blame for Jill getting herself into dangerous situations as she is. He thinks he is protecting her by not telling her things and she goes off on her curiosity quests which inevitably lead her into trouble. Then Greg feels the need to lecture Jill or give her the silent treatment or try laying down the law. They have been together for a while now. So you’d think he would stop beating a dead horse and accept Jill as she is.
Jill doesn’t seem as happy about the engagement as one thinks she would be. This is a main theme within the book and makes me wonder if nuptials will ever really occur.
I had a hypothesis on what was going on with Harper, whose sister died, but it turns out my guesses were incorrect. It makes for a better ending when you don’t guess exactly right.
The read-a-thon sounds like a fun community event. It was a lot of work that supposedly paid off financially for Coffee, Books and More.
This was a fun read. It doesn’t inspire me to go back and fill in the intervening stories between book three and book 13. This book does provide enough backstory that it could be read as a stand-alone.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book.
March 1, 2022
I always love a visit to South Cove to see old book friends Jill and her crew. When Jill and her aunt stumbled onto the latest dead body, they had no idea what a twisty case it'd turn out to be. I'm not even close to being caught up in real time for this series, but I did know Jill and Greg were engaged, so when I saw the ARC at NetGalley and the title, I couldn't resist!
Meanwhile, Jill and Greg were attending the engagement party being thrown for them, besides what a good way to pick up on clues, right? I wanted to like Harper the dress designer, but there was just something off about her which a good twist later on definitely explained.
I just love that feisty Aunt Jackie, and now her new husband Harrold who seems to adore her. Deek makes a great bookstore employee, and I hope he eventually becomes an author like he wants, but I'd love to see him stay on. He was so good with the kids and the crowd at the store's readathon!
The showdown was exciting and as always, Jill kinda got in the middle of things and could've gotten killed...again. But it still ended well, and hopefully between now and the next book, I'll be able to get even more caught up with the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
Meanwhile, Jill and Greg were attending the engagement party being thrown for them, besides what a good way to pick up on clues, right? I wanted to like Harper the dress designer, but there was just something off about her which a good twist later on definitely explained.
I just love that feisty Aunt Jackie, and now her new husband Harrold who seems to adore her. Deek makes a great bookstore employee, and I hope he eventually becomes an author like he wants, but I'd love to see him stay on. He was so good with the kids and the crowd at the store's readathon!
The showdown was exciting and as always, Jill kinda got in the middle of things and could've gotten killed...again. But it still ended well, and hopefully between now and the next book, I'll be able to get even more caught up with the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
December 18, 2023
This series is wonderful. The characters. The town. Ugh such a cozy mystery series, that is delightful and really interesting. Also Coffee Books and More. Ugh I really want to go even if it's fictional. Obsessed! Can't wait for the next book! ❤️
April 17, 2022
This is the thirteenth book in A Tourist Trap Mystery series, but can be read as a standalone. Each mystery is self-contained, but character development is ongoing. Jill Gardner, owner of Coffee, Books, and More, becomes more engaged to police chief Greg King. Aunt Jackie is throwing an engagement party for them and purchases a custom made dress for Jill. When Jill goes to pick up the dresses, she finds Exquisite Gowns for You open, but empty, at least that was what she thought until she found the owner, Harper, dead on the floor of her shop. It turns out that it wasn't Harper but her twin sister killed by mistake. Greg is on the case, but Jill does a bit of sleuthing on her own as well.
I always enjoy a visit to South Cove to spend time with friends Jill, Greg as well as family, friends and employees. I love the family feeling around Coffee, Books, and More, including the wonderful working environment. The town is great with some quirky residents, but a great atmosphere. This is another fun mystery to unravel with more than one suspect. Although Greg tells Jill to stay out of it, she can't resist and does get herself into another sticky and dangerous situation. I had some thoughts about what was going on, but I didn't have it quite right. The final showdown was tense and kept me glued to the page. I look forward to the next adventure of Jill and Greg and the villagers in the town of South Cove. Overall, another entertaining mystery that I enjoyed and recommend to cozy mystery lovers.
I always enjoy a visit to South Cove to spend time with friends Jill, Greg as well as family, friends and employees. I love the family feeling around Coffee, Books, and More, including the wonderful working environment. The town is great with some quirky residents, but a great atmosphere. This is another fun mystery to unravel with more than one suspect. Although Greg tells Jill to stay out of it, she can't resist and does get herself into another sticky and dangerous situation. I had some thoughts about what was going on, but I didn't have it quite right. The final showdown was tense and kept me glued to the page. I look forward to the next adventure of Jill and Greg and the villagers in the town of South Cove. Overall, another entertaining mystery that I enjoyed and recommend to cozy mystery lovers.
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