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Tiffany Black Mysteries #1
Innocent in Las Vegas
Cupcake-loving croupier Tiffany Black is determined to leave her job at the casino for good. She's one small step away from acquiring her Private Investigator license, and has her eye on the prize.
Accepting her first real case - investigating the murder of casino-mogul Ethan Becker - should be exciting. Instead, things spiral out of control and Tiffany finds herself in over her head, as she confronts secretive suspects, corrupt casino henchmen and her mysterious, ex-Special Forces bodyguard.
Tiffany's poker-hustling Nanna and pushy parents want her to find a nice man and settle down, but Tiffany just wants to track down the real murderer before he finds her first...
Accepting her first real case - investigating the murder of casino-mogul Ethan Becker - should be exciting. Instead, things spiral out of control and Tiffany finds herself in over her head, as she confronts secretive suspects, corrupt casino henchmen and her mysterious, ex-Special Forces bodyguard.
Tiffany's poker-hustling Nanna and pushy parents want her to find a nice man and settle down, but Tiffany just wants to track down the real murderer before he finds her first...
217 pages, ebook
First published September 5, 2013
4001 people are currently reading
5982 people want to read
About the author
A.R. Winters
179 books386 followersA.R. Winters is a cozy mystery writer who loves writing about crazy characters and vibrant locations. And food, lots of delicious food!
When not writing, A.R. Winters is usually busy eating too much cake...
You can also find her on Facebook
When not writing, A.R. Winters is usually busy eating too much cake...
You can also find her on Facebook
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 813 reviews
April 23, 2023
Innocent in Las Vegas is the first book in the Tiffany Black Mystery series. Tiffany Black works at a casino as a croupier, but she’s looking to give that up to become a Private Investigator. Before she acquires her license, one of her friends from high school contacts her to ask for her investigative help. The friend married a wealthy Las Vegas mogul who was murdered and the friend claims that even though all the evidence points to her, she’s innocent. Tiffany takes the case, but she is confronted by thugs that are accustomed to making people disappear. Tiffany is now firmly in their cross hairs and it remains to be seen whether they will get to her before she solves her first case. A fast-paced read, that's good, interesting, and fun, but not great. The mystery part leaves a lot to be desired (which should be read as: Easy to Figure Out.) It could have been better with more story, character development, red herrings, but not a bad start to a series.
September 10, 2013
Fans of Stephanie Plum, meet Tiffany Black, A.R. Winters's new heroine in Innocent in Las Vegas.
I remember reading Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum novels when I was in my early teens. I raved about them. But then I grew up.
Somehow, Innocent in Las Vegas takes me back to that time, when an innocent enjoyment of books and laugh out loud capers were paramount. I have to say although I can draw parallels between the two characters, I relate more to Tiffany Black, and love her interactions with her clients, suspects, and friends and family. Especially her family.
I can't remember laughing out loud quite so much while reading for a very long time.
A great plot with realistic characterisation and entertainment value, this is definitely not a book to be missed by lovers of mysteries, chick lit, spunky heroines and all things comedic.
I remember reading Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum novels when I was in my early teens. I raved about them. But then I grew up.
Somehow, Innocent in Las Vegas takes me back to that time, when an innocent enjoyment of books and laugh out loud capers were paramount. I have to say although I can draw parallels between the two characters, I relate more to Tiffany Black, and love her interactions with her clients, suspects, and friends and family. Especially her family.
I can't remember laughing out loud quite so much while reading for a very long time.
A great plot with realistic characterisation and entertainment value, this is definitely not a book to be missed by lovers of mysteries, chick lit, spunky heroines and all things comedic.
June 22, 2014
OK I'll start with the positives.
I enjoyed the author's writing style. It kept me entertained until the end.
I think the premise of a fledgling detective with experience in the Vegas casino community is a good one.
& I think Stone has potential as a hero.
But... this book is so derivative. An eccentric grandma a la Evanovich. Two heroes to (potentially) rescue our heroine when she gets into difficulties? Also Evanovich. An elderly & kindly male neighbour who bakes? Grafton.
Also
Also, this book needed better proofreading.
I will be happy to read more by Winters & hope she develops her own voice. Out of all the books I've acquired from Bookbub, I think this author is the one with the most potential.
I enjoyed the author's writing style. It kept me entertained until the end.
I think the premise of a fledgling detective with experience in the Vegas casino community is a good one.
& I think Stone has potential as a hero.
But... this book is so derivative. An eccentric grandma a la Evanovich. Two heroes to (potentially) rescue our heroine when she gets into difficulties? Also Evanovich. An elderly & kindly male neighbour who bakes? Grafton.
Also
Also, this book needed better proofreading.
I will be happy to read more by Winters & hope she develops her own voice. Out of all the books I've acquired from Bookbub, I think this author is the one with the most potential.
April 3, 2016
I really enjoyed this simple fast paced mystery about a private investigator and her somewhat quirky family. Tiffany Black works as a dealer at a casino in Las Vegas. She lives in a small apartment nearby and her parents and grandmother not too far from that. Her Nanna is a feisty little old lady who lives life with gusto, much to the regret of Tiffany's mom who is positive granny is up to no good. She expects Tiffany to snoop into Nanna's business and report back to her. However, Tiffany and her Nanna are allies of a sort and tend to watch each other's backs.
When the story opens, Tiffany is attempting to break into the private eye business. She has her first case. Sophie Baker, a former stripper, is being charged with her wealthy husband's murder. Ethan Baker was the owner of the Riverbelle casino, who had numerous affairs over the course of their marriage. A definite motive for wanting her husband dead. The police found the murder weapon in Sophie's dresser. It looked a lot like an open and shut case. Except Sophie swears she's innocent.
At first, even Tiffany is skeptical about her client's claims but agrees to look into it. What she discovers has her leaning more toward Sophie's side of things, especially when she is accosted by two oversized gorillas who warn her off the case and are on the verge of a little physical persuasion to prove their point when she manages to escape. She goes to Sophie after that and informs her she's quitting. She has no intention of being killed for her involvement in Sophie's problems. Sophie cries and begs her to stay. With one phone call, she hires a man named Jonathan Stone. He's ex CIA and now has his own security company. He's built like a tank, doesn't talk much, but knows his business. He beefs up the security at Tiffany's apartment, enrolls her in Krav Maga self - defense classes, and takes her to get her gun permit. SHE TAKES HIM TO DINNER! At her parents. With her grandmother present. What follows is hilarious as they immediately assume Stone is her boyfriend. He gets the third degree in spite of Tiffany's protests but she's surprised when it doesn't seem to bother Stone and he actually has a lengthy conversation with her father.
From this point on its non-stop action. The suspects are numerous as Tiffany discovers when she questions each one. She also meets an elderly man in her building when she's being chased by a guy with a gun trying to kill her. She ducks into Glen's apartment and the two of them end up striking a friendship. There's also Nick, a police officer who shows interest in Tiffany. I can't give away much more because I might spoil things for any potential readers. I will just say that I found Tiffany delightful and am already half way in love with Stone. I love a hero who is a bit of a mystery and you have to uncover the truth one layer at a time. I look forward to getting to know him better in future books. If you like mysteries on the lighter side then this is definitely one you should try.
When the story opens, Tiffany is attempting to break into the private eye business. She has her first case. Sophie Baker, a former stripper, is being charged with her wealthy husband's murder. Ethan Baker was the owner of the Riverbelle casino, who had numerous affairs over the course of their marriage. A definite motive for wanting her husband dead. The police found the murder weapon in Sophie's dresser. It looked a lot like an open and shut case. Except Sophie swears she's innocent.
At first, even Tiffany is skeptical about her client's claims but agrees to look into it. What she discovers has her leaning more toward Sophie's side of things, especially when she is accosted by two oversized gorillas who warn her off the case and are on the verge of a little physical persuasion to prove their point when she manages to escape. She goes to Sophie after that and informs her she's quitting. She has no intention of being killed for her involvement in Sophie's problems. Sophie cries and begs her to stay. With one phone call, she hires a man named Jonathan Stone. He's ex CIA and now has his own security company. He's built like a tank, doesn't talk much, but knows his business. He beefs up the security at Tiffany's apartment, enrolls her in Krav Maga self - defense classes, and takes her to get her gun permit. SHE TAKES HIM TO DINNER! At her parents. With her grandmother present. What follows is hilarious as they immediately assume Stone is her boyfriend. He gets the third degree in spite of Tiffany's protests but she's surprised when it doesn't seem to bother Stone and he actually has a lengthy conversation with her father.
From this point on its non-stop action. The suspects are numerous as Tiffany discovers when she questions each one. She also meets an elderly man in her building when she's being chased by a guy with a gun trying to kill her. She ducks into Glen's apartment and the two of them end up striking a friendship. There's also Nick, a police officer who shows interest in Tiffany. I can't give away much more because I might spoil things for any potential readers. I will just say that I found Tiffany delightful and am already half way in love with Stone. I love a hero who is a bit of a mystery and you have to uncover the truth one layer at a time. I look forward to getting to know him better in future books. If you like mysteries on the lighter side then this is definitely one you should try.
October 9, 2014
This book is really quite bad. I haven't read the Stephanie Plum books that some reviewers have said that this copies in epic proportions but anyway, the story is weak and predictable.
I felt the main character was unbelievable in so many ways: one that she is hardly a capable, ruthless or even innovative PI yet she manages to 'stumble' across what the Police didn't even consider; and that although she is too frightened to talk, she manages to fight off two security men by 'stabbing' one with her shoe! Please! Oh, a Manolo shoe no less. I can tell this book is meant for women with the endless fashion brands mentioned where as the first car make cited is at 45%. As long as there's a cupcake at the end you could probably put her through who knows what and she'd forgive you.
The story has been done many times before, but to read a well-written one with a good mystery along the way with good, 'real' characters, I'd recommend an Elvis Cole-Joe Pike story or Connelly's Harry Bosch series.
What's more, I sent more than 10 typo error-indications via Kindle. I know this is a freebie, but that doesn't mean it deserves more stars, otherwise a new Grisham or Child release would start off in minus figures given the cost.
Definitely will not be going on with any more in the series.
I felt the main character was unbelievable in so many ways: one that she is hardly a capable, ruthless or even innovative PI yet she manages to 'stumble' across what the Police didn't even consider; and that although she is too frightened to talk, she manages to fight off two security men by 'stabbing' one with her shoe! Please! Oh, a Manolo shoe no less. I can tell this book is meant for women with the endless fashion brands mentioned where as the first car make cited is at 45%. As long as there's a cupcake at the end you could probably put her through who knows what and she'd forgive you.
The story has been done many times before, but to read a well-written one with a good mystery along the way with good, 'real' characters, I'd recommend an Elvis Cole-Joe Pike story or Connelly's Harry Bosch series.
What's more, I sent more than 10 typo error-indications via Kindle. I know this is a freebie, but that doesn't mean it deserves more stars, otherwise a new Grisham or Child release would start off in minus figures given the cost.
Definitely will not be going on with any more in the series.
August 5, 2015
Innocent in Las Vegas is a contemporary chick lit mystery that got straight to the point of the story early on. The author didn’t waste any time introducing our heroine Tiffany and the details of the murder she is to solve.
As a fan of Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series, I was able to pick up on several similarities between her character and Winter’s character. Their writing style also shares the same sarcastic humour, which is something that I enjoy. However as I read along I couldn’t help but make note of these similarities and at times it became a bit irritating for me; the single woman living alone, meddling mother nearby, spunky grandmother just to name a few. Thankfully there were some notable differences that made the reading experience more enjoyable for me. For example: the fact that Tiffany was in training to be a P.I. a career that she was determined to be successful in, the Las Vegas setting and her eagerness to learn and grow despite her fears. All these traits made for an admirable main character.
The mystery itself with the casinos, strippers and money is what I would expect from one set in Las Vegas. It kept my interest throughout and was a quick read. Although I did find it hard to keep the suspects straight because there was so many of them. It was difficult to remember who was who and how they related to the murder victim.
Although I find Winter’s writing style to be enjoyable I am undecided if I will continue with this series. I would recommend it to other fans of this genre. However I think that it would be more enjoyed by someone who has not yet read the Stephanie Plum series.
For more of my reviews visit my blog:
http://mlsmanyreads.blogspot.ca/
As a fan of Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series, I was able to pick up on several similarities between her character and Winter’s character. Their writing style also shares the same sarcastic humour, which is something that I enjoy. However as I read along I couldn’t help but make note of these similarities and at times it became a bit irritating for me; the single woman living alone, meddling mother nearby, spunky grandmother just to name a few. Thankfully there were some notable differences that made the reading experience more enjoyable for me. For example: the fact that Tiffany was in training to be a P.I. a career that she was determined to be successful in, the Las Vegas setting and her eagerness to learn and grow despite her fears. All these traits made for an admirable main character.
The mystery itself with the casinos, strippers and money is what I would expect from one set in Las Vegas. It kept my interest throughout and was a quick read. Although I did find it hard to keep the suspects straight because there was so many of them. It was difficult to remember who was who and how they related to the murder victim.
Although I find Winter’s writing style to be enjoyable I am undecided if I will continue with this series. I would recommend it to other fans of this genre. However I think that it would be more enjoyed by someone who has not yet read the Stephanie Plum series.
For more of my reviews visit my blog:
http://mlsmanyreads.blogspot.ca/
August 1, 2015
Not humorous at all!!!
I was really disappointed with this book. The title is a bit deceiving. I didn't find this humorous AT ALL. I found it a bit boring and unfullfilling. How does one become a PI without knowing the basics? I just couldn't completely immerse myself in this book. I found myself just reading but not fully interested in what was going on. Good thing this was a freebie.
I was really disappointed with this book. The title is a bit deceiving. I didn't find this humorous AT ALL. I found it a bit boring and unfullfilling. How does one become a PI without knowing the basics? I just couldn't completely immerse myself in this book. I found myself just reading but not fully interested in what was going on. Good thing this was a freebie.
May 22, 2014
I have to say this book was a good book. I rated it actually 2.5 stars for the following reasons...
Well, I got this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review..
reason 1.) this book is just like the Stephanie Plum series, I am sorry to burst anyone's bubble but it is let me break it down for you....
2.) this girl lost her job, is working as a P.I. ( props to you for not making her a bounty hunter.) 3.)she is fat and loves to binge eat. ( sounds oddly the same as another book?)
4.) she has a grandmother who acts like a teenager and is involved in all the gossip. WAIT!!! did i mention this grandmother also lives at home with their children..... ( wow i am getting similar..)
5.) she has a mother who wants her to get a real job and get married. ( this mother will also tell her that other woman doesn't do what she does...)
6.) when she is on her first case, she get caught up in some bad situations that leave people wanting to kill her...
well, I finished the book and i have to tell you that if you even picked up at least one Janet Evanovich book then you know what happens
my final thought:
PLEASE WHEN YOU MAKE A SECOND BOOK THAT YOU GET YOUR OWN IDEAS... here i will help you
start by making your MC a skinny pretty lady who has a job, and helps a friend.. for once why can't we have a fun mother? or why cant the MC be married already? see! its not that hard! i hate people who copy other people.. ( OH! and don't tell me because the names and job titles are changed that it is not copying...)
Well, I got this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review..
reason 1.) this book is just like the Stephanie Plum series, I am sorry to burst anyone's bubble but it is let me break it down for you....
2.) this girl lost her job, is working as a P.I. ( props to you for not making her a bounty hunter.) 3.)she is fat and loves to binge eat. ( sounds oddly the same as another book?)
4.) she has a grandmother who acts like a teenager and is involved in all the gossip. WAIT!!! did i mention this grandmother also lives at home with their children..... ( wow i am getting similar..)
5.) she has a mother who wants her to get a real job and get married. ( this mother will also tell her that other woman doesn't do what she does...)
6.) when she is on her first case, she get caught up in some bad situations that leave people wanting to kill her...
well, I finished the book and i have to tell you that if you even picked up at least one Janet Evanovich book then you know what happens
my final thought:
PLEASE WHEN YOU MAKE A SECOND BOOK THAT YOU GET YOUR OWN IDEAS... here i will help you
start by making your MC a skinny pretty lady who has a job, and helps a friend.. for once why can't we have a fun mother? or why cant the MC be married already? see! its not that hard! i hate people who copy other people.. ( OH! and don't tell me because the names and job titles are changed that it is not copying...)
June 22, 2014
Great Start to What Will Be an Amazing Series
I truly enjoyed getting to know Tiffany Black in this story and watch her begin her PI career. Miss Winters does a splendid job of intertwining thrills and humor into a plot that kept me reading until I reached the last page (seriously I finished it in one day!). I truly enjoyed watching Tiffany come into her own as an investigator up against insurmountable odds, and appreciated the rookie mistakes she had along the way. It made her character more realistic than if she'd been a PI prodigy. My only critique would be how when the murderer is revealed the coercing of his confession seemed unlikely. The murderer's willingness to cooperate at that point would have been plausible if we believe her to be a first time killer unloading his guilty conscious, but his following seasoned criminal actions made her cooperation all the more unlikely (liked how I'm switched up the his and hers to keep you guessing right?). In addition, I would have liked to have seen the reaction of other characters in the case to his true identity, and more of an outcome to the side case Tiffany stumbles upon. Despite these things I truly enjoyed the book, will love reading it again, and would love to read it in a book club or something where I could express and discuss the things I brought up here as well as other exciting scenes I won't reveal because bottom line you need to read this for yourself! I can't wait to read the next installment of Tiffany's adventures; well done Miss Winters!
I truly enjoyed getting to know Tiffany Black in this story and watch her begin her PI career. Miss Winters does a splendid job of intertwining thrills and humor into a plot that kept me reading until I reached the last page (seriously I finished it in one day!). I truly enjoyed watching Tiffany come into her own as an investigator up against insurmountable odds, and appreciated the rookie mistakes she had along the way. It made her character more realistic than if she'd been a PI prodigy. My only critique would be how when the murderer is revealed the coercing of his confession seemed unlikely. The murderer's willingness to cooperate at that point would have been plausible if we believe her to be a first time killer unloading his guilty conscious, but his following seasoned criminal actions made her cooperation all the more unlikely (liked how I'm switched up the his and hers to keep you guessing right?). In addition, I would have liked to have seen the reaction of other characters in the case to his true identity, and more of an outcome to the side case Tiffany stumbles upon. Despite these things I truly enjoyed the book, will love reading it again, and would love to read it in a book club or something where I could express and discuss the things I brought up here as well as other exciting scenes I won't reveal because bottom line you need to read this for yourself! I can't wait to read the next installment of Tiffany's adventures; well done Miss Winters!
October 22, 2016
A copy of many janet Evanovich books,only the heroine Tiffany Black is a private eye. The book is somewhat funny complete with overbearing parents
March 15, 2015
I found it odd that she was training to be a P.I. but didn't want to carry a gun? I can let the self defense thing slide, but the lack of a weapon was just strange. The story wasn't very fast paced. It seemed to derail a little bit for me here and there with some gaps in continuity. I don't see this is a horrible read, but I don't think I'll be picking up any other books in this series.
August 7, 2016
While this wasn't a bad book, I'm glad that I didn't pay for it. How many books can you read with the same format - young female lead, wants to be a PI, "wacky" family trying to get her married off, a strong, silent, mysterious guy, crazy neighbors, etc, etc, etc. It's been done by one of the best. Again, not a bad book, but I won't be getting any others in the series.
June 26, 2024
Very good cozy mystery. My first read by this author. Enjoyed it. The grandma reminds of of Grandma Mauzer in Janet Evanovich number books. The relationship between granddaughter and grandmother are very similar. Love it.
March 23, 2017
This was a nice, quick, and enjoyable read. I'm really starting to like the cozy mystery genre. The characters were very likable in this book. So, I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.
May 15, 2019
Tiffany Black is a cupcake-loving Vegas dealer who would love nothing more than to quit her job and be a PI. She's almost has her license when she takes on her first case. But before she can discover who the murderer is, she's in too deep and finds the killer's sights on her. If that wasn't enough, she's getting pressure from her parents and casino-lovin' nanna to settle down already. Pass the cupcake. . .
What a great humorous mystery! I loved every minute of it and it made me crave cupcakes. The heroine reminds me of Stephanie Plum but with a great deal more snark. As the suspects mounts, so did my suspicions. It was fun solving the mystery when Tiffany did. I will be reading more from this author!
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
What a great humorous mystery! I loved every minute of it and it made me crave cupcakes. The heroine reminds me of Stephanie Plum but with a great deal more snark. As the suspects mounts, so did my suspicions. It was fun solving the mystery when Tiffany did. I will be reading more from this author!
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
March 1, 2021
Tiffany Black is a Law Vegas casino dealer. But she is becoming a P.I Sophia was her first case. Tiffany knew in Sophia in school and she was a stripper. Sophia was accused of killing her husband a wealthy rich man. Some of the dealings Tiffany faced while trying to help Sophia was very crazy. But Sophia asked a mysterious man Stone to help Tiffany from shady dealing she encountered.Some of this book remained me of Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanolitch. But it was a pretty good book
February 19, 2015
Okay, so there are some super positives here and then some smaller negatives.
Starting with the super positive. This might be the fastest book I have ever read. I literally read it in one sitting. It wasn't necessarily super in depth or gripping or anything like that. But it's just one of those books where you glance down at the % in the bottom corner of your Kindle and realize you've got up 40% from the last time you checked...ten minutes ago. Very fast, pretty fun, if you need a relaxing read, this is definitely it.
The negatives.
1) Tiffany is an idiot. I'm sorry, I'm just being honest. She in no way is qualified to be a PI by ANY stretch of the imagination. 75% of the book is her sitting there realizing she knows absolutely nothing at all. I realize she's supposed to be your every day girl...but every day girls shouldn't be PIs if they have her IQ level.
2) Tiffany is a bigger girl and her weight is used as a punchline in every other chapter. She's always wolfing down cupcakes and being told she won't find a man if she doesn't dress nicer and that she's a slob, etc. It's really disheartening when I think the whole point was supposed to be this Independent Woman Takes On The World eqsque story.
3) There's this one scene where Tiffany needs a ride home from work and the direct quote is "Fortunately I bummed a ride from a gay co-worker (...) I invited him up for a drink and he said no, but since he is a homosexual I didn't have to be offended." ......................I'm sorry, run that one by me again. In what universe was any of that nonsense necessary?
So. There are some problems but overall it's a decent story. Personally, I won't keep going with the series because I couldn't care less about Tiffany but I don't regret the read.
Starting with the super positive. This might be the fastest book I have ever read. I literally read it in one sitting. It wasn't necessarily super in depth or gripping or anything like that. But it's just one of those books where you glance down at the % in the bottom corner of your Kindle and realize you've got up 40% from the last time you checked...ten minutes ago. Very fast, pretty fun, if you need a relaxing read, this is definitely it.
The negatives.
1) Tiffany is an idiot. I'm sorry, I'm just being honest. She in no way is qualified to be a PI by ANY stretch of the imagination. 75% of the book is her sitting there realizing she knows absolutely nothing at all. I realize she's supposed to be your every day girl...but every day girls shouldn't be PIs if they have her IQ level.
2) Tiffany is a bigger girl and her weight is used as a punchline in every other chapter. She's always wolfing down cupcakes and being told she won't find a man if she doesn't dress nicer and that she's a slob, etc. It's really disheartening when I think the whole point was supposed to be this Independent Woman Takes On The World eqsque story.
3) There's this one scene where Tiffany needs a ride home from work and the direct quote is "Fortunately I bummed a ride from a gay co-worker (...) I invited him up for a drink and he said no, but since he is a homosexual I didn't have to be offended." ......................I'm sorry, run that one by me again. In what universe was any of that nonsense necessary?
So. There are some problems but overall it's a decent story. Personally, I won't keep going with the series because I couldn't care less about Tiffany but I don't regret the read.
April 20, 2015
I was smiling from the first page. Mostly because the set up and characters are so much like the Stephanie Plum books by Janet Evanovich. I love that series so I was curious to see how well A R Winters would do. I really enjoyed the whole book. Tiffany Black is sweet and tough. Her family is neurotic and Stone is a good Ranger substitute. The premise is good and Las Vegas should provide lots of opportunities for a young PI. I will read more of this series.
What I didn't like was the poor editing. Editors and writers that do not edit well are disrespectful of the readers. We are worth the time and effort to provide a well edited book - even when it is free. After all these free books are often our first impression of what we may expect from the books we buy.
What I didn't like was the poor editing. Editors and writers that do not edit well are disrespectful of the readers. We are worth the time and effort to provide a well edited book - even when it is free. After all these free books are often our first impression of what we may expect from the books we buy.
April 17, 2014
This book was a little disappointing, in that it struck me as an attempt to create another female PI, using the famous Stephanie Plum persona, as a model for the book's main character. complete with a wacky Nanny, funny parents, and a tall, handsome and mysterious male character who may be a candidate for future romance, further on in the series. This is the first book, and has the main character learning to be a private investigator, while trying to solve her first case. She is trying to clear a former stripper of the murder charge levelled against her after her wealthy casino-owning husband has been killed. It is an easy, quick read, and fits within the the cozy sub-genre.
December 26, 2014
The story was enjoyable. I finished it in about a few hours in one sitting. The writing style is quite good - it keeps you captivated for long enough. My problem in this book is with 2 things: a) The attacks on the PI started even before she unearthed any sensible clues. Why? Wouldn't someone start assaults after the detective had got close to the solution of the mystery? b). The romantic/personal side of the story is SO similar to Bridget Jones. Older single woman, her mother and grandma trying to get her hooked, her friends trying to get her hooked...
Apart from these little foibles, the book is a good, breezy read. I'd recommend it for travel reading.
Apart from these little foibles, the book is a good, breezy read. I'd recommend it for travel reading.
September 7, 2015
This book is cute, but how does someone copy so blatantly? As a Stephanie Plum fan, I was appalled reading this book and couldn't get over the similarities. I mean, come on, even the wacky Grandma? With that being said, the storyline was cute and this author might be more successful if they originate their own series. I won't get another book from this author until there's not even a hint of copying ideas.
December 9, 2023
Innocent in Las Vegas is a chick lit mystery that is filled with a lot of humor. If you are into the Stephanie Plum series, you will definitely love this book!
March 30, 2025
This book is similar in writing style, story line and characters to Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series. I found it to be an interesting read.
July 26, 2018
Tiffany Black, Las Vegas croupier and aspiring PI, isn't much good with guns or hand-to-hand combat. She'd much rather tuck into a nice chocolate muffin. But when an old-friend-turned-stripper-turned-trophy-wife asks her to solve the murder of the friend's husband, she takes on the case when no one else will.
"Innocent in Las Vegas" is essentially a cozy mystery, with a hint of romantic suspense. The heroine, who is nominally a professional PI but might as well be an amateur, is sweet and funny and a bit chubby, with a strong sweet tooth. So it's hard not to like her, unless you want your PIs dark and bitter like black coffee. Then you should just mosey on over to the noir section, but if you enjoy cozy, hot-chocolate-with-marshmallows heroines, you'll probably like Tiffany.
The Las Vegas setting does lend a layer of grit to the plot, so, without giving too much away, I'll say that casino corruption is a feature of the story, and Tiffany has some pretty scary moments. Luckily she's got a new mentor, a strong silent type with a secret past, to help her out, and she wields a mean stiletto when she has to.
There are a lot of elements in this book that do echo other popular mystery/thriller series with female heroines, so it's up to you whether you find that comfortingly familiar or derivative. Tiffany befriends a handsome older man who likes to bake, like Kinsey Millhone, and has a grandmother who likes to cause a stir, like Stephanie Plum. But she's still enough of her own character to make the book feel like something new instead of a complete rehashing of old tropes. So while if you're looking for something noirish and gritty, or something totally different from anything you've read before, this is probably not the book for you, if you're looking for a fun cozy mystery that gives a behind-the-scenes look at Las Vegas, you'll probably enjoy this book a lot.
"Innocent in Las Vegas" is essentially a cozy mystery, with a hint of romantic suspense. The heroine, who is nominally a professional PI but might as well be an amateur, is sweet and funny and a bit chubby, with a strong sweet tooth. So it's hard not to like her, unless you want your PIs dark and bitter like black coffee. Then you should just mosey on over to the noir section, but if you enjoy cozy, hot-chocolate-with-marshmallows heroines, you'll probably like Tiffany.
The Las Vegas setting does lend a layer of grit to the plot, so, without giving too much away, I'll say that casino corruption is a feature of the story, and Tiffany has some pretty scary moments. Luckily she's got a new mentor, a strong silent type with a secret past, to help her out, and she wields a mean stiletto when she has to.
There are a lot of elements in this book that do echo other popular mystery/thriller series with female heroines, so it's up to you whether you find that comfortingly familiar or derivative. Tiffany befriends a handsome older man who likes to bake, like Kinsey Millhone, and has a grandmother who likes to cause a stir, like Stephanie Plum. But she's still enough of her own character to make the book feel like something new instead of a complete rehashing of old tropes. So while if you're looking for something noirish and gritty, or something totally different from anything you've read before, this is probably not the book for you, if you're looking for a fun cozy mystery that gives a behind-the-scenes look at Las Vegas, you'll probably enjoy this book a lot.
March 25, 2019
I thought this book was interesting and had a lot of potential. I do wish it had been fleshed out a bit more. It wasn’t really clear why Tiffany was such a lover of cupcakes and why that addiction mattered to the storyline. Most of the covers in this series have cupcakes on them so I was just curious as to the why of it all. And maybe it was just because she liked them and met a man in her building who was a former pastry chef who liked to bake for his friends.
Before the book began, Tiffany’s family was already wondering why she wasn’t practically shacked up with a man named Stone and that kinda threw me. Then, almost after her initial meeting with Officer Nick three-fourths of the way through the book, Stone wanted to know if she liked him. That must have been an insta-karmic connection and how Stone found out about it so fast is anyone's guess. Things just seemed to happen too fast for me. I understand that this book is only 200 pages burt these characters are interesting, the plot had some meat to it and it really could have been a great book. I am hopeful that other books in the series develop things more and bring out a 4 or 5 star rating from me. Cross your fingers for me.
I bought this book with my own money.
Before the book began, Tiffany’s family was already wondering why she wasn’t practically shacked up with a man named Stone and that kinda threw me. Then, almost after her initial meeting with Officer Nick three-fourths of the way through the book, Stone wanted to know if she liked him. That must have been an insta-karmic connection and how Stone found out about it so fast is anyone's guess. Things just seemed to happen too fast for me. I understand that this book is only 200 pages burt these characters are interesting, the plot had some meat to it and it really could have been a great book. I am hopeful that other books in the series develop things more and bring out a 4 or 5 star rating from me. Cross your fingers for me.
I bought this book with my own money.
May 26, 2017
Innocent in Las Vegas is a very lighthearted mystery. The author uses the word "humorous" but I think lighthearted is a better description. Or maybe a female reader would see humor in the life of PI Tiffany Black.
Tiffany certainly has some family drama of a minor kind - an incorrigible grandmother, a mother who just wants her to get married and a father who stays glued to the TV. I find this a very common theme in stories about single female investigators. Does this really reflect the lives of single women? I can't answer that. But I hope that real single women lead richer lives than that.
The story moves ahead at a steady pace. There really aren't any clues dropped that will let you guess the identity of the killer, so you just have to follow the investigation and enjoy the ride.
Tiffany isn't that well developed in this story. Neither are any of the secondary characters. But some breadcrumbs (or maybe cupcake crumbs) are dropped toward the end of the book that may foreshadow development later in the series.
The book was a pleasant diversion. I'd recommend it to readers who are looking for a light, quick read.
Tiffany certainly has some family drama of a minor kind - an incorrigible grandmother, a mother who just wants her to get married and a father who stays glued to the TV. I find this a very common theme in stories about single female investigators. Does this really reflect the lives of single women? I can't answer that. But I hope that real single women lead richer lives than that.
The story moves ahead at a steady pace. There really aren't any clues dropped that will let you guess the identity of the killer, so you just have to follow the investigation and enjoy the ride.
Tiffany isn't that well developed in this story. Neither are any of the secondary characters. But some breadcrumbs (or maybe cupcake crumbs) are dropped toward the end of the book that may foreshadow development later in the series.
The book was a pleasant diversion. I'd recommend it to readers who are looking for a light, quick read.
April 13, 2018
First of a great new to me series!
Tiffany Black is a new PI, not even certified yet when she is hired by a murder suspect hoping to clear her name. This is a well written, free flowing book that is easy to read and comprehend. Tiffany's client has hired a Security agent to protect Tiffany from thugs who are following her. Of course, the agent is Alpha male and gorgeous!
Stephanie Plum readers will love Stone and the other characters in the book. It is a fun book with good characters and a strong plot. I can't wait to read the next in the series!
Tiffany Black is a new PI, not even certified yet when she is hired by a murder suspect hoping to clear her name. This is a well written, free flowing book that is easy to read and comprehend. Tiffany's client has hired a Security agent to protect Tiffany from thugs who are following her. Of course, the agent is Alpha male and gorgeous!
Stephanie Plum readers will love Stone and the other characters in the book. It is a fun book with good characters and a strong plot. I can't wait to read the next in the series!
June 27, 2017
Really quick read. Not a bad book, but just not what I'm into at the moment. Not saying I wouldn't read more books by this author, but it may be awhile before I do if I do. :-)
March 23, 2025
A interesting story .
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