Rating: Good
Source: NetGalley
Description: Kenni Lowry likes to think the zero crime rate in Cottonwood, Kentucky is due to her being sheriff, but she quickly discovers the ghost of her grandfather, the town's previous sheriff, has been scaring off any would-be criminals since she was elected. When the town's most beloved doctor is found murdered on the very same day as a jewelry store robbery, and a mysterious symbol ties the crime scenes together, Kenni must satisfy her hankerin' for justice by nabbing the culprits. With the help of her Poppa, a lone deputy and an annoyingly cute, too-big-for-his-britches State Reserve officer, Kenni must solve both cases and prove to the whole town, and herself, that she's worth her salt before time runs out. (from Goodreads)
Genre: Mystery
Why I Picked This Book: I've been wanting to try this author for ages so I couldn't resist this first book in a new series.
My Impression: This was such a fun cozy! Right from the start I liked Kenni. She's trying to do her best for the town as sheriff and feels a bit like she had the rug pulled out from under her when the the crime free town has both a jewelry store robbery and a murder back to back. She's smart enough to realize she needs help but also has good instincts. I loved how thrown she was by the appearance of a ghost. So often in fiction people are instantly ok with a ghost so I liked how long it Kenni to adjust to the idea even though it was someone she was glad to see. I also liked that while the ghost did help guide Kenni formed the bulk of the theories on her own.
The town of Cottonwood rang true for a small Southern town. The gossip spread like wildfire, there are all kinds of petty grievances, and there is definitely a way things should be done. There are a lot of residents that I'm really looking forward to getting to know and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing how Kenni's relationship with her mom continues.
The mystery was entertaining with lots of false starts, dead ends, and red herrings. Kenni sometimes drove me crazy with how unprofessional at times but the fact that it felt like she was learning her way instead of just being incompetent kept it from decreasing my enjoyment in the read. Overall, this was a fun cozy with all kinds of quirky characters, Perfect for a beach read or when you need a pick me up!
Would I Read More of this Series/Author?: Absolutely! I have the first book in another series from Kappes and I'm really looking forward to reading it.
Would I Recommend this Book?: If you enjoy cozy mysteries I think you'd enjoy this. While there is a ghost it doesn't feel particularly paranormal so don't let scare you off if paranormal isn't for you.
Would I Read More of this Series/Author?: Absolutely! I have the first book in another series from Kappes and I'm really looking forward to reading it.
Would I Recommend this Book?: If you enjoy cozy mysteries I think you'd enjoy this. While there is a ghost it doesn't feel particularly paranormal so don't let scare you off if paranormal isn't for you.
This does sound like an adorable cozy mystery. You know I have such a soft spot for ghost stories. I don't know why, but if there is a ghost, count me in!
ReplyDeleteAs you know exactly the same way! I never can resist a ghost!
DeleteThe part of the ghost actually keeping the town safe made me laugh. Poor girl thinks she's doing a good job, but nope, it's actually your dead grandfather. Lol
ReplyDeleteAnd it sounds like he's more there as a guide than to actually be a spooky ghost.
Glad you liked this one. Sounds like you might have found some more beach reads for this summer; which is never a bad thing.
I know! I felt bad for her when she put all that together! It was a fun read and definitely not spooky!
DeleteThis sounds good, Katherine. I like realistic reactions in characters--and to see them learn and grow as they go. I will definitely have to give this book a try.
ReplyDeleteThis is a series I definitely want to keep reading. I think the author has really started Kenni on an interesting path.
DeleteIt was a lot of fun and I can't wait to try more from this author as well.
ReplyDeleteSame! I have the first book from another series and it's all I can do to not start it right now!
DeleteAnd it's set in Kentucky...what could be better? :O) (Not that I'm biased, or anything!) *ROFL*
ReplyDeleteThe author is actually from Kentucky and I think she did a great job making the setting really feel authentic.
DeleteThis sounds like such a fun cozy! It is great that she is bothered by the ghost...I know I would be. Great review!
ReplyDeleteMe too! It always bugs me a little when a character isn't bothered at all by a ghost just showing up. I think you'd have to peel me off the ceiling!
DeleteSounds like fun indeed! I'm glad you enjoyed it, and I'll keep it on my radar.
ReplyDeleteIt's a fun read! It'd be good for when you're in the mood for a light mystery.
DeleteThis sounds good, and I like that she is smart, and learned along the way. The ghost is a nice paranormal touch.
ReplyDeleteIt was a lot of fun!
DeleteSounds good. I hope it comes to my library. A fun cozy is a relaxing read.
ReplyDeleteGood to hear! She's one I've been wanting to try for a while as well. Yay for it being a winner :)
ReplyDelete