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Lilly Hawkins #3
Going to the Bad
Newshound Lilly Hawkins is back, and this time the story she’s chasing is her own.
NEWSHOUND LILLY HAWKINS IS BACK, AND THIS TIME THE STORY SHE’S CHASING IS HER OWN.
Working as a TV news photographer at her hometown television station, Lilly has documented Bakersfield’s most violent crimes and tragic accidents. To stay sane and avoid burnout, she’s developed a wicked sense of humor and a very thick skin. For her, a vicious shooting is just another day on the job. But what if the victim is someone she loves? Thrown off balance by the brutal attack on her uncle Bud in her own home, Lilly decides to handle the tragedy the only way she knows how. Using all her TV station’s resources and her own considerable skills, Lilly dives headlong into the investigation. But even with the assistance of her well-meaning but eccentric coworkers, this story may prove her last. Because as Lilly untangles a history of her uncle’s misdeeds and betrayals, a clever killer is preparing to strike again. Can she break the story in time to prevent another murder, or will Lilly be the next victim?
NEWSHOUND LILLY HAWKINS IS BACK, AND THIS TIME THE STORY SHE’S CHASING IS HER OWN.
Working as a TV news photographer at her hometown television station, Lilly has documented Bakersfield’s most violent crimes and tragic accidents. To stay sane and avoid burnout, she’s developed a wicked sense of humor and a very thick skin. For her, a vicious shooting is just another day on the job. But what if the victim is someone she loves? Thrown off balance by the brutal attack on her uncle Bud in her own home, Lilly decides to handle the tragedy the only way she knows how. Using all her TV station’s resources and her own considerable skills, Lilly dives headlong into the investigation. But even with the assistance of her well-meaning but eccentric coworkers, this story may prove her last. Because as Lilly untangles a history of her uncle’s misdeeds and betrayals, a clever killer is preparing to strike again. Can she break the story in time to prevent another murder, or will Lilly be the next victim?
- GenresMystery
304 pages, Paperback
First published August 7, 2012
About the author
Nora McFarland
3 books24 followersNora McFarland has worked for CNN and has an MFA from the University of Southern California's school of cinematic arts. She lives in Savannah, Georgia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 22, 2012
Lilly Hawkins, every reader’s favorite determined and dedicated (not to mention, hysterical) news photographer, is back. And this time around, the mystery she has to uncover is extremely personal.
Working as a television news photographer in Bakersfield, California, Lilly is the best at what she does. She’s seen it all, photographed it all, and works her proverbial behind off to make sure she documents her hometown’s violent crimes for the world to see. Of course, it’s not just grisly pictures she offers; Lilly also has a tendency to get deeply involved in the crimes that occur.
In this newest mystery, it is Christmas Eve and Lilly is working the assignments desk, seeing as that most of the staff is off on their Holiday break. While listening to the police band radio, Lilly overhears a dispatcher announce that there were gunshots fired at ‘173 Jefferson Street’ and immediately goes into shock. This is Lilly’s home address where she and her boyfriend, Rod, reside.
Running to the crime scene, Lilly finds Rod healthy and well. Unfortunately, her Uncle Bud - the owner of her house - has been shot. Taken to the hospital, Lilly heads out on the ‘case’ with all of her familiar newspaper cohorts in tow, in order to find out who broke into her home and attempted to murder her uncle.
While investigating the crime, Lilly soon uncovers facts regarding her uncle and his long ago friendship with millionaire, Leland Warner. Leland’s family soon ‘appears’ and wants nothing more than to keep the crime quiet, sending people to watch over Lilly in order to make sure she doesn’t ‘guess’ the real truth buried in her uncle’s past.
Taking place over a two-day time period, Lilly’s new ‘case’ is as fast-paced and suspenseful as all the ones that have come before. But what really allows Lilly to stand out is her beloved sarcasm that draws the reader in and makes them follow the intrepid amateur sleuth wherever she goes.
Full of pure, unadulterated attitude - Lilly Hawkins is back with a vengeance!
Until Next Time, Everybody.
Amy
Working as a television news photographer in Bakersfield, California, Lilly is the best at what she does. She’s seen it all, photographed it all, and works her proverbial behind off to make sure she documents her hometown’s violent crimes for the world to see. Of course, it’s not just grisly pictures she offers; Lilly also has a tendency to get deeply involved in the crimes that occur.
In this newest mystery, it is Christmas Eve and Lilly is working the assignments desk, seeing as that most of the staff is off on their Holiday break. While listening to the police band radio, Lilly overhears a dispatcher announce that there were gunshots fired at ‘173 Jefferson Street’ and immediately goes into shock. This is Lilly’s home address where she and her boyfriend, Rod, reside.
Running to the crime scene, Lilly finds Rod healthy and well. Unfortunately, her Uncle Bud - the owner of her house - has been shot. Taken to the hospital, Lilly heads out on the ‘case’ with all of her familiar newspaper cohorts in tow, in order to find out who broke into her home and attempted to murder her uncle.
While investigating the crime, Lilly soon uncovers facts regarding her uncle and his long ago friendship with millionaire, Leland Warner. Leland’s family soon ‘appears’ and wants nothing more than to keep the crime quiet, sending people to watch over Lilly in order to make sure she doesn’t ‘guess’ the real truth buried in her uncle’s past.
Taking place over a two-day time period, Lilly’s new ‘case’ is as fast-paced and suspenseful as all the ones that have come before. But what really allows Lilly to stand out is her beloved sarcasm that draws the reader in and makes them follow the intrepid amateur sleuth wherever she goes.
Full of pure, unadulterated attitude - Lilly Hawkins is back with a vengeance!
Until Next Time, Everybody.
Amy
August 12, 2012
Nora McFarland in her new book, “Going to the Bad” Book Three in the Lilly Hawkins Mysteries series published by Touchstone brings us back to Bakersfield, CA and another adventure with TV news photographer Lilly Hawkins.
From the back cover: NEWSHOUND LILLY HAWKINS IS BACK, AND THIS TIME THE STORY SHE’S CHASING IS HER OWN.
Working as a TV news photographer at her hometown television station, Lilly has documented Bakersfield’s most violent crimes and tragic accidents. To stay sane and avoid burnout, she’s developed a wicked sense of humor and a very thick skin. For her, a vicious shooting is just another day on the job. But what if the victim is someone she loves?
Thrown off balance by the brutal attack on her uncle Bud in her own home, Lilly decides to handle the tragedy the only way she knows how. Using all her TV station’s resources and her own considerable skills, Lilly dives headlong into the investigation.
But even with the assistance of her well-meaning but eccentric coworkers, this story may prove her last. Because as Lilly untangles a history of her uncle’s misdeeds and betrayals, a clever killer is preparing to strike again. Can she break the story in time to prevent another murder, or will Lilly be the next victim?
Nora McFarland began her career as the only female TV news photographer in Bakersfield, CA. She knows firsthand the relentless pace of TV news, the constant threat of missed deadlines, and the colorful characters who work inside every newsroom. This on-the-job training has more than prepared her to bring us the adventures of Lilly Hawkins who also happens to be a TV news photographer in Bakersfield, CA. Someone shot Uncle Bud in Lilly’s home now Lilly is determined to find out who, why and also what was Uncle Bud doing in her home. Get ready for a page-turning, thrill ride. This whole adventure takes place over the period of two days. “Going to the Bad” is a satisfying mystery that will keep you flipping pages trying to find out what is going on. Ms. McFarland gets us caught up in the story and the characters lives to the point that we actually hate to say goodbye to them when the book ends. I liked this book very much and look forward to more from the pen of Nora McFarland.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Touchstone. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: NEWSHOUND LILLY HAWKINS IS BACK, AND THIS TIME THE STORY SHE’S CHASING IS HER OWN.
Working as a TV news photographer at her hometown television station, Lilly has documented Bakersfield’s most violent crimes and tragic accidents. To stay sane and avoid burnout, she’s developed a wicked sense of humor and a very thick skin. For her, a vicious shooting is just another day on the job. But what if the victim is someone she loves?
Thrown off balance by the brutal attack on her uncle Bud in her own home, Lilly decides to handle the tragedy the only way she knows how. Using all her TV station’s resources and her own considerable skills, Lilly dives headlong into the investigation.
But even with the assistance of her well-meaning but eccentric coworkers, this story may prove her last. Because as Lilly untangles a history of her uncle’s misdeeds and betrayals, a clever killer is preparing to strike again. Can she break the story in time to prevent another murder, or will Lilly be the next victim?
Nora McFarland began her career as the only female TV news photographer in Bakersfield, CA. She knows firsthand the relentless pace of TV news, the constant threat of missed deadlines, and the colorful characters who work inside every newsroom. This on-the-job training has more than prepared her to bring us the adventures of Lilly Hawkins who also happens to be a TV news photographer in Bakersfield, CA. Someone shot Uncle Bud in Lilly’s home now Lilly is determined to find out who, why and also what was Uncle Bud doing in her home. Get ready for a page-turning, thrill ride. This whole adventure takes place over the period of two days. “Going to the Bad” is a satisfying mystery that will keep you flipping pages trying to find out what is going on. Ms. McFarland gets us caught up in the story and the characters lives to the point that we actually hate to say goodbye to them when the book ends. I liked this book very much and look forward to more from the pen of Nora McFarland.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop, commercial free Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Touchstone. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 10, 2012
I have devoured all of the books in Nora McFarland’s Lilly Hawkins Mystery series. The third book in the series “Going to the Bad” just came out August 7 and not only is a great mystery but also an exploration of a variety of relationships as well.
Lilly Hawkins, the main character, is a TV news photographer, called “a shooter”, in Bakersfield, California. In what is normally a man’s job, Lilly has had to be tough.
Nora knows quite a bit about this occupation. After completing her MFA from the University of Southern California’s school of cinema and television she actually had a job working as T.V. News Photographer in Bakersfield and realized what a perfect job this would be for a main character in a mystery. Nora points out that it is a job that requires working grueling hours at a frantic pace and reporting on everything from heinous crimes to bizarrely comical feature stories.
See the rest of the review at http://www.examiner.com/article/read-...
Lilly Hawkins, the main character, is a TV news photographer, called “a shooter”, in Bakersfield, California. In what is normally a man’s job, Lilly has had to be tough.
Nora knows quite a bit about this occupation. After completing her MFA from the University of Southern California’s school of cinema and television she actually had a job working as T.V. News Photographer in Bakersfield and realized what a perfect job this would be for a main character in a mystery. Nora points out that it is a job that requires working grueling hours at a frantic pace and reporting on everything from heinous crimes to bizarrely comical feature stories.
See the rest of the review at http://www.examiner.com/article/read-...
August 4, 2012
This was my first time to read a Lily Hawkins book, but it will not be my last. I received an ARC from the author via GoodReads and threw it my vacation bag on a spur of the moment. Glad I did because it was a great summer read.
For Hawkins this time the "news" is literally on her front door step, when a beloved family member is shot, discovered by her boyfriend who is acting a little strange. The humor lightens up the book which deals with not only betrayal, but abuse, elder care and asks the question will you continue to love someone unconditionally after you learn the REAL truth about them.
The story is flat out entertaining and if you are not laughing outloud during the on-air segment with the animals from the shelter - take your temperature because you can't be breathing.
Although I prefer to read series in order, but I cannot wait to read another Lilly Hawkins book.
Enjoy!
For Hawkins this time the "news" is literally on her front door step, when a beloved family member is shot, discovered by her boyfriend who is acting a little strange. The humor lightens up the book which deals with not only betrayal, but abuse, elder care and asks the question will you continue to love someone unconditionally after you learn the REAL truth about them.
The story is flat out entertaining and if you are not laughing outloud during the on-air segment with the animals from the shelter - take your temperature because you can't be breathing.
Although I prefer to read series in order, but I cannot wait to read another Lilly Hawkins book.
Enjoy!
August 2, 2012
Lily Hawkins is back in this third installment and is still a shooter (news photographer) for the Bakerstown television station. Christmas Eve, while sitting at work, she hears there’s been a shooting. Her ears perk up when she hears it’s at her home. Thinking that her boyfriend Rod was shot, she rushes home to find out that Ron is safe but her uncle Bud was the one who was shot.
Within a two day time span, Lily is determined to find out why Bud was shot. She digs into his past to find a lot of strange things. Lily’s toughness and sarcastic nature makes her a colorful character and a heroine that made me enjoy sharing her exploits. This was an entertaining mystery and the reader gets to learn more about Lily.
Within a two day time span, Lily is determined to find out why Bud was shot. She digs into his past to find a lot of strange things. Lily’s toughness and sarcastic nature makes her a colorful character and a heroine that made me enjoy sharing her exploits. This was an entertaining mystery and the reader gets to learn more about Lily.
May 12, 2012
Lilly Hawkins, one of the most original heroines in all of mystery fiction, returns and comes to grips with the many challenges in her life laid out in the first two books in the series. After all her trials and tribulations in the series, she finally strives for and achieves the resolutions she has been blindly striving for, and all with wit, heart, and considerable adventure along the way. This book made me cry.
July 12, 2012
I always watch the news a little differently after reading a Lilly Hawkins mystery...
What a rollercoaster! I wouldn't want Lilly on my tail- she's like my cat after a string.
"You have a giant heart, Lilly. If it were full of anger, you wouldn't try so hard to protect it." - this is both my favorite line and a great summation of the entire book.
Also, best use of snake in a mystery...
What a rollercoaster! I wouldn't want Lilly on my tail- she's like my cat after a string.
"You have a giant heart, Lilly. If it were full of anger, you wouldn't try so hard to protect it." - this is both my favorite line and a great summation of the entire book.
Also, best use of snake in a mystery...
May 16, 2012
This was a fun mystery with plenty of interesting characters. Add to that a surprise, heart-wrenching ending, and you've got an entertaining book to read again and again. It's a keeper.
July 15, 2012
Parts of this mystery are hilarious making this one of the most enjoyable thrillers of the year so far.
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August 19, 2012
So much fun!
November 3, 2014
"Going to the Bad," 'is a humorous mystery that is so visual it's as if the hilarious scenes were taking place on TV and that maybe, Lucille Ball, had returned to a younger life and became the protagonist.
The story begins with Lilly Hawkins at work. Her attention is diverted when a police scanner gives the address of a shooting. She realizes it's her own address and later, learns that her Uncle Bud had been shot.
Zany things are happening at the TV station. The afternoon anchor is nervous about his first show where an animal shelter will bring some animals in cages with the hope that some might be adopted by viewers.
Lilly seems to have two reasons for searching for the person who shot her uncle. From one point of view, it might be a good story but on the other hand, she's learned that her uncle was one of two suspects in a robbery and she doesn't want to bring dirt to her uncle's name.
In a funny scene, Lilly goes to interview a woman who is elderly and has early dementia. The woman lives in a mobile home and the door is locked so she won't walk away when her daughter isn't home. She tells Lilly that she can come in via the bathroom window. When she does and begins interviewing the woman, the woman forgets who she is and begins screaming. Lilly has to beat a hasty retreat.
There are some excellent characters in the story, led by Lilly. The action takes place in Bakersfield with a number of sub plots. The author brings the various parts of the story together in a satisfactory conclusion.
The story begins with Lilly Hawkins at work. Her attention is diverted when a police scanner gives the address of a shooting. She realizes it's her own address and later, learns that her Uncle Bud had been shot.
Zany things are happening at the TV station. The afternoon anchor is nervous about his first show where an animal shelter will bring some animals in cages with the hope that some might be adopted by viewers.
Lilly seems to have two reasons for searching for the person who shot her uncle. From one point of view, it might be a good story but on the other hand, she's learned that her uncle was one of two suspects in a robbery and she doesn't want to bring dirt to her uncle's name.
In a funny scene, Lilly goes to interview a woman who is elderly and has early dementia. The woman lives in a mobile home and the door is locked so she won't walk away when her daughter isn't home. She tells Lilly that she can come in via the bathroom window. When she does and begins interviewing the woman, the woman forgets who she is and begins screaming. Lilly has to beat a hasty retreat.
There are some excellent characters in the story, led by Lilly. The action takes place in Bakersfield with a number of sub plots. The author brings the various parts of the story together in a satisfactory conclusion.
November 8, 2012
Having met the wonderfully flawed protagonist, Lilly Hawkins, in McFarland’s book, Hot, Shot and Bothered, it was good to connect with her again. Lilly is a TV photographer for a Bakersfield, California news station. During the Christmas holidays, she is supervising the news stories, when one grabs her by the throat and won’t let go. She learns her beloved Uncle Bud has been shot.
She also learns her uncle was embroiled in something shady and doesn’t want the police involved, so she can’t turn to law enforcement for help to catch his assailant. So, Lilly and her quirky co-workers, which includes one crazed, ugly little mutt called Thing, are on the case.
McFarland writes distinctive dialog and descriptions. When she describes one character, Leonore, from Lilly’s P.O.V., she says: She was an optimist, a strange and exotic species I’d never understand. That type of writing tells us something about both Leonore and Lilly.
Going to the Bad isn’t just a crime mystery, it also deals with family issues. Sometimes family can be a good thing and sometimes a person simply wants to escape their home life and familial responsibilities. Relatives often have their own mysteries they don’t want to share with others, even kinfolk. Lilly is forced to grapple with that as she strives to solve her uncle’s shooting. This reader loved watching her growth throughout the story.
Besides creating interesting characters and complicated plotlines, McFarland made me laugh with her keen humor and cry with her insights into human nature. I highly recommend this book.
July 8, 2013
Lilly Hawkins is a news photographer and she is good at her job. She takes grisly crime scene photographs and more often than not, finds herself caught up in the investigation. Christmas Eve, she hears on the scanner that shots were fired, so she moves quickly when she gets the location, her house! She knows that her boyfriend Rod is there and she's scared he's been hurt or worse.
But when she arrives, she realizes that it's her Uncle Bud who was shot. She didn't even know he was in town. But neither here nor there, Lilly wants to know who shot him and why. With some help of her newspaper co-workers, she dives into the investigation, not liking where some of it takes her - into Uncle Bud's shady past.
What ensues is a hysterical, page-turning suspense that will keep you thoroughly entertained. McFarland has a knack at character development and dialogue that really brings them to life. Lilly's sarcasm and wit gave me a few chuckles and I was impressed with the pace of this story.
This is the first McFarland novel I have read, but it is the third in the series. Going To The Bad can be read as a standalone - I had no problems with back story of characters or events. However, I urge you to get the first two in the series, A Bad Day's Work and Hot, Shot, and Bothered, just because if they are anything as good as this one - they can't be missed. Mystery lovers won't want to miss this one!
But when she arrives, she realizes that it's her Uncle Bud who was shot. She didn't even know he was in town. But neither here nor there, Lilly wants to know who shot him and why. With some help of her newspaper co-workers, she dives into the investigation, not liking where some of it takes her - into Uncle Bud's shady past.
What ensues is a hysterical, page-turning suspense that will keep you thoroughly entertained. McFarland has a knack at character development and dialogue that really brings them to life. Lilly's sarcasm and wit gave me a few chuckles and I was impressed with the pace of this story.
This is the first McFarland novel I have read, but it is the third in the series. Going To The Bad can be read as a standalone - I had no problems with back story of characters or events. However, I urge you to get the first two in the series, A Bad Day's Work and Hot, Shot, and Bothered, just because if they are anything as good as this one - they can't be missed. Mystery lovers won't want to miss this one!
August 31, 2012
Going to the Bad is a tongue and cheek mystery, with a well-written plot and unforgettable characters.
Lilly Hawkins is a feisty protagonist. She is not a reporter she is a news photographer who refers to herself as a shooter. She works for a small town television news station.
Lilly has shot scenes of most of the violent crimes and tragic accidents in her town. A criminal scene is just another day’s job. But when the crime scene is her own home, it takes on a different dimension. Using her TV station’s resources and her own skills, Lilly decides to investigate the reason for this tragedy.
She discovers a history of her favorite Uncle’s past misdeeds and betrayals and a strange long ago friendship with Leland Warner, an influential millionaire who appears to want to keep the crime quiet and the real truth buried. As Lilly delves deeper into the history of this small town, she places herself in jeopardy and could possibly become the next victim.
Along the way Lilly is helped by her friends; some of the weird characters that probably exist in real life news stations. She encounters devious friends and foes; all are well developed by the author.
I especially like the author’s ability to create emotional scenes that has the reader identifying with Lilly.
Lilly Hawkins is a feisty protagonist. She is not a reporter she is a news photographer who refers to herself as a shooter. She works for a small town television news station.
Lilly has shot scenes of most of the violent crimes and tragic accidents in her town. A criminal scene is just another day’s job. But when the crime scene is her own home, it takes on a different dimension. Using her TV station’s resources and her own skills, Lilly decides to investigate the reason for this tragedy.
She discovers a history of her favorite Uncle’s past misdeeds and betrayals and a strange long ago friendship with Leland Warner, an influential millionaire who appears to want to keep the crime quiet and the real truth buried. As Lilly delves deeper into the history of this small town, she places herself in jeopardy and could possibly become the next victim.
Along the way Lilly is helped by her friends; some of the weird characters that probably exist in real life news stations. She encounters devious friends and foes; all are well developed by the author.
I especially like the author’s ability to create emotional scenes that has the reader identifying with Lilly.
September 13, 2012
Right from the start I had a hard time putting this book down. Lilly Hawkins is a reporter…no she is a Shooter. She is busy working at her TV station KJAY when a report comes in of a crime at her address. Can't even imagine what she must have been feeling at that point…panic. All she could think of what her boyfriend Rod. As she arrives she is hoping beyond hope that it isn't Rod…it wasn't it was her Uncle Bud.
As Uncle Bud is rushed to surgery, rather than spend all her time at the hospital waiting for news, Lilly has to have answers. She is about to go down paths no one wants her on, including Uncle Bud and Rod.
We learn some astonishing things, and the action doesn't stop until we are at the end of the book. Be ready to grip you seat, of course your book will fall, and there are some really great hysterical moments too. I loved Thing!! He did mark his territory!
By the end of the book you wonder if Lilly is going to make it, and if she does will she and Rob still be together? What will happen with Uncle Bud?
Don't miss this great suspenseful read, if you enjoy a good mystery this is for you!
I received this book from the Publisher Simon and Schuster, and was not required to give a positive review.
http://musingsbymaureen.blogspot.com/
As Uncle Bud is rushed to surgery, rather than spend all her time at the hospital waiting for news, Lilly has to have answers. She is about to go down paths no one wants her on, including Uncle Bud and Rod.
We learn some astonishing things, and the action doesn't stop until we are at the end of the book. Be ready to grip you seat, of course your book will fall, and there are some really great hysterical moments too. I loved Thing!! He did mark his territory!
By the end of the book you wonder if Lilly is going to make it, and if she does will she and Rob still be together? What will happen with Uncle Bud?
Don't miss this great suspenseful read, if you enjoy a good mystery this is for you!
I received this book from the Publisher Simon and Schuster, and was not required to give a positive review.
http://musingsbymaureen.blogspot.com/
October 4, 2012
Going to the Bad is a tongue and cheek mystery, with a well-written plot and unforgettable characters.
Lilly Hawkins is a feisty protagonist. She is not a reporter she is a news photographer who refers to herself as a shooter. She works for a small town television news station.
Lilly has shot scenes of most of the violent crimes and tragic accidents in her town. A criminal scene is just another day’s job. But when the crime scene is her own home, it takes on a different dimension. Using her TV station’s resources and her own skills, Lilly decides to investigate the reason for this tragedy.
She discovers a history of her favorite Uncle’s past misdeeds and betrayals and a strange long ago friendship with Leland Warner, an influential millionaire who appears to want to keep the crime quiet and the real truth buried. As Lilly delves deeper into the history of this small town, she places herself in jeopardy and could possibly become the next victim.
Along the way Lilly is helped by her friends; some of the weird characters that probably exist in real life news stations. She encounters devious friends and foes; all are well developed by the author.
I especially like the author’s ability to create emotional scenes that has the reader identifying with Lilly.
Lilly Hawkins is a feisty protagonist. She is not a reporter she is a news photographer who refers to herself as a shooter. She works for a small town television news station.
Lilly has shot scenes of most of the violent crimes and tragic accidents in her town. A criminal scene is just another day’s job. But when the crime scene is her own home, it takes on a different dimension. Using her TV station’s resources and her own skills, Lilly decides to investigate the reason for this tragedy.
She discovers a history of her favorite Uncle’s past misdeeds and betrayals and a strange long ago friendship with Leland Warner, an influential millionaire who appears to want to keep the crime quiet and the real truth buried. As Lilly delves deeper into the history of this small town, she places herself in jeopardy and could possibly become the next victim.
Along the way Lilly is helped by her friends; some of the weird characters that probably exist in real life news stations. She encounters devious friends and foes; all are well developed by the author.
I especially like the author’s ability to create emotional scenes that has the reader identifying with Lilly.
August 16, 2012
Lilly Hawkins is at the news station when she hears about a shooting. The shooting is at Lilly’s place. Lilly fears the worst at first. Rod, Lilly’s boyfriend has returned home. Lilly thinks it is Rod but then discovers it is still bad as it is Lilly’s Uncle Bud.
Lilly can not just stand by and wait for the police to figure out what happened to her Uncle Bud. Lilly takes matters into her own hands and discovers some family secrets that someone wants hidden. How high is the price…murder?
Going to the Bad is the second Lilly Hawkins novel that I have read. This is a nice cozy, mystery series. Love Lilly. She is the back bone of this series and the superstar. She seems to always find herself in the middle of a story or murder. Although, she always finds her way out of the sticky situation. Lilly may want to think about switching from “shooter” to news reporter.
I felt bad some for Rod. He was just trying to help and protect Lilly. He is a good guy. Although, the romance between them is lacking somewhat as Lilly is too busy getting out of jams. Not too many surprises in this story but still a fun and quick read.
Lilly can not just stand by and wait for the police to figure out what happened to her Uncle Bud. Lilly takes matters into her own hands and discovers some family secrets that someone wants hidden. How high is the price…murder?
Going to the Bad is the second Lilly Hawkins novel that I have read. This is a nice cozy, mystery series. Love Lilly. She is the back bone of this series and the superstar. She seems to always find herself in the middle of a story or murder. Although, she always finds her way out of the sticky situation. Lilly may want to think about switching from “shooter” to news reporter.
I felt bad some for Rod. He was just trying to help and protect Lilly. He is a good guy. Although, the romance between them is lacking somewhat as Lilly is too busy getting out of jams. Not too many surprises in this story but still a fun and quick read.
November 10, 2012
Going to the Bad is the third and final Lilly Hawkins mystery. (Hold on while I cry a little. I'm really going to miss Lilly.) All three of the Lilly books are funny, but the humor seems more obvious in this book, and it's full of fabulous one-liners.
In this final book, Lilly is busy unraveling Uncle Bud's secrets while dealing with a dog with bladder control issues. I love a book that has both ups and downs just as you find in real life. McFarland has a great sense of humor and it comes through in her books, even while she deals with serious problems like, you know, people trying to kill you. While I'm sad that we've said goodbye to Lilly and her friends, I'll be looking forward to McFarland's next book.
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review is part of my Hurricane Relief Review-a-thon. http://www.livinglearninglovinglife.c...
In this final book, Lilly is busy unraveling Uncle Bud's secrets while dealing with a dog with bladder control issues. I love a book that has both ups and downs just as you find in real life. McFarland has a great sense of humor and it comes through in her books, even while she deals with serious problems like, you know, people trying to kill you. While I'm sad that we've said goodbye to Lilly and her friends, I'll be looking forward to McFarland's next book.
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review is part of my Hurricane Relief Review-a-thon. http://www.livinglearninglovinglife.c...
August 26, 2012
I recieved this book in a GoodReads giveaway and I'm not typically into mystery books but this one was a rare exception.
I have no prior history with this series and this is the third novel in it. I think it says a lot that although I had no prior background with the main character and her various companions, I had little trouble adjusting to the story. It certainly cannot stand alone as there were many mentions of previous events from what I assume are the other books, but they were brought up and explained in a manner that made sure I had no trouble adjusting to the story without the history.
This story was also very well done in its ability to keep me guessing. Normally, I can easily figure out the ending within the first third of a mystery. Either I am getting lazy or the author is exceptional compared to other mystery writers I've read.
I have no prior history with this series and this is the third novel in it. I think it says a lot that although I had no prior background with the main character and her various companions, I had little trouble adjusting to the story. It certainly cannot stand alone as there were many mentions of previous events from what I assume are the other books, but they were brought up and explained in a manner that made sure I had no trouble adjusting to the story without the history.
This story was also very well done in its ability to keep me guessing. Normally, I can easily figure out the ending within the first third of a mystery. Either I am getting lazy or the author is exceptional compared to other mystery writers I've read.
September 26, 2012
"Going To The Bad" is the third book in Nora McFarland's "Lily Hawkins Mystery" series, and to me, it is the liveliest, funniest book of trio.
I adore Lily Hawkins as a main character - she is fiesty, smart and devoted to her job as a television news shooter, but also has the natural curiousity that leads her to search deeper and often gets her in deep trouble as a result!
As this is reported to be the final book in this series, this book kind of wraps up Lily's story - and author Nora McFarland does give her fans a satisfying ending for many of the characters. But she does leave a tiny opening for perhaps a short sequel for Lily and Rod's life together afterwards. (I hope, I hope!)
Fans of fast paced, fun and intriguing mysteries will enjoy Nora McFarland's "Lily Hawkins" books. I highly recommend them!
I adore Lily Hawkins as a main character - she is fiesty, smart and devoted to her job as a television news shooter, but also has the natural curiousity that leads her to search deeper and often gets her in deep trouble as a result!
As this is reported to be the final book in this series, this book kind of wraps up Lily's story - and author Nora McFarland does give her fans a satisfying ending for many of the characters. But she does leave a tiny opening for perhaps a short sequel for Lily and Rod's life together afterwards. (I hope, I hope!)
Fans of fast paced, fun and intriguing mysteries will enjoy Nora McFarland's "Lily Hawkins" books. I highly recommend them!
April 4, 2020
Going to the Bad is the third book in the Lilly Hawkins series but it can also be easily read as a standalone novel. The story hits the ground running when Lilly, a TV news photographer, hears on the police scanner that there were "shots fired" at 173 Jefferson Street. Racing home, she finds her uncle the victim of a shooting. As Lilly rushes to solve the mystery of why someone might want her family dead, she begins to uncover some unsettling secrets in her uncle's past. Overall, Going to the Bad is a fun and easy read. The writing is pretty straightforward and the plot, fast-paced.
Full disclosure: I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher and my review is based on an uncorrected proof.
Full disclosure: I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher and my review is based on an uncorrected proof.
March 1, 2014
Lilly Hawkins is manning the news desk as KJAY when she learns there's been a shooting at her house. She rushes there to find her uncle is the victim. While he fights for his life, she tries to figure out who shot him. What secret from his past has resurfaced? I love the characters, and I felt them grow even more here. And the story kept me turning pages to see what the next twist would be.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
October 7, 2012
This is my first Lilly Hawkins mystery, and I had a bit of trouble getting engaged in the flow of the novel. But I have to say that by the time I finished, I was convinced that Lilly and her adventures are engaging, funny, and, well worth further reading. We have a nice accumulation of personal storyline, quirky and interesting characters, effective subplots, and a nicely moving plotline.
August 26, 2014
I won "Going to the Bad" as a signed ARC from Goodreads' First Reads giveaway. This this the first book I've read by Nora McFarland and I look forward to reading more by this author.
There's plenty of humor in this mystery and the plot was well thought out. I had no idea "who done it" until the very end. Some "lite" blood and gore take this out of the cozy category (for me, anyway) and I found it a fun, easy read.
There's plenty of humor in this mystery and the plot was well thought out. I had no idea "who done it" until the very end. Some "lite" blood and gore take this out of the cozy category (for me, anyway) and I found it a fun, easy read.
December 17, 2012
The story is enjoyable due to McFarland’s taut writing and well-developed story line. In spite of the life and death situation, much of the story is light-hearted because of Lilly’s quirky friends and co-workers. Going to the Bad will please readers who are looking for a light-hearted mystery, a cast of unconventional characters, and a down-right fun read.
February 11, 2013
An enjoyable mystery. I found it funny that the main character, Lilly, points out when she is doing stupid things. Instead of being a PI, Lilly works for a television station. I can't say that any of the characters really came to life for me. I might try another in the series and see what I think.
September 5, 2012
Good reads win: This wasn't one of my favorite reads but it was still pretty good. I guess is could have been because I hadn't read the other books that involve Lily Hawkins. This novel it totally worth the read for mystery readers.
August 21, 2012
Characters were likable, plot line was interesting, but overall I felt like some type of spark was missing for me. It was a good book, but something just seemed to be holding it back from reaching its full potential (although I am not sure what that something is).
September 16, 2012
The author tries to portray the main character, Lilly Hawkins as quirky and cute but she just comes across as annoying and clueless. Other than her (which let's face it is the biggest part) it's not a bad story.
January 6, 2013
This is the first Lilly Hawkins book I've read, and I enjoyed it very much. Some of Hawkins' adventures in "reporting" required some willful suspension of disbelief, but that made for no less exciting reading. Will probably seek out more books in this series.
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