Thanksgiving Treachery

Holiday Cozy Mystery #7

by Tonya Kappes

CELEBRATE GOOD CRIMES

Holiday Cozy Mystery Series is a spin-off of Tonya Kappes's popular A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery Series! You do not want to miss Violet Rhinehammer's journey and some appearances from our beloved Laundry Club Ladies and favorite characters from A Camper and Criminals Cozy Mystery crossover series!

In the quaint town of Holiday Junction, where traditions run deep and festivities are the heart of the community, a shadow lurks beneath the autumn leaves. When the prominent Harden family is struck by tragedy, everyone becomes a suspect. It's up to intrepid journalist, Violet Rhinehammer of the Junction Journal, to unearth the truths buried beneath layers of deception and old grudges.

But as Violet delves deeper, she discovers secrets that entwine the art district with the village in ways she never imagined. With the town's highly anticipated Leaf Dance Festival approaching, tensions rise and alliances are tested. Will Violet decipher the puzzle before the killer strikes again?

From glittering pageant schools to the bustling world of local artisans, dive into a tale where community spirit clashes with dark vendettas. As Holiday Junction gears up for its Friendsgiving festivities, one question lingers—can the town's cherished unity withstand the weight of treachery? Join Violet on a race against time in this gripping holiday mystery.

Genres: Cozy Mystery, Mystery, Thanksgiving, Holiday, Audiobook, Contemporary, Fiction

164 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2023

About the author

Beloved cozy mystery author Tonya Kappes is bringing her charming world to the screen!

The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.

A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.

Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.

Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...

Webpage
tonyakappes.com

Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

Twitter
https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11

Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/

For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,

Reviews

[Tonya Kappes]

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YOU'LL NEVER GO TO A FRIENDSGIVING LIKE THIS ONE!

[William · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining mystery listening 🎶🔰

This is a kindle e-book from my Kindle Unlimited account book seven in the series.

Violet is the reporter for the local paper. There are two deaths in a family which turn out to be murder. Her and her family and friends are part of the investigation off line. The town is planning a holiday season celebration when the truth comes out leading to the arrest of the killer.

I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of romantic family and friends relationships adventure mystery novels 👍🔰. 2024 👒😀💘😕

[Allyson Abu-Hajar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Millie Kay is hosting Friendsgiving at the Leisure Center as the Thanksgiving Festival starts to kick off. Violet hopes the art district she discovered will eventually bridge with the community of Holiday Junction.

A scream by Millie Kay brings Violet and Darren running, only to find Albert Harden, the milk deliveryman, lying at the bottom of the steps to his delivery truck, dead. Some evidence points out that it may have been foul play.

Violet heads to see Tara Harden, only to encounter Tara's body in the kitchen, dead. Chief Strickland comes to investigate and requires Violet's help to act as a photographer since the one for the police department is still at the Leisure Center documenting evidence for the investigation of Albert.

Violet uses what may be a clue to look into several people of interest. A tip from a neighbor points to another suspect, and it will take Radley, Violet, and Fern to help resolve the case before Friendsgiving.

I was surprised to see Fern being more of a sidekick and a helpful one at that! I like even though Violet and Darren are trying to keep their relationship on the low down, that it hasn't gone unnoticed by the public. The killer was not one I would've suspected. A fun Thanksgiving read!

I received an advanced reader's copy and voluntarily read and reviewed this book.

[Regina the Constant Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Kindle Book 📕

Book #7 in the Holiday Junction Series

This is such a cute series. I love picturing how the small town will look for each holiday and where the two Merry Makers will place the Holiday Sign. Of course there’s a murder (or two!) to solve, a little romance and lots of Southern Charm!

[Emmalynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty standard tale in the series.

[Ellen · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was definitely not my cup of tea. But I’m glad I gave it a chance! It was a murder mystery based in a town called Holiday Junction. Apparently the town is a Thanksgiving and Christmas tourist attraction place. It took place around the time of the town’s “Friendsgiving”, thus the title. Told the story of a double murder in the town and the town’s journalist (and apparently detective?) Violett Rhinehammer’s attempt to find out whodunnit.

The whole murder mystery just wasn’t good. All of the suspects had these described motives that made no sense (like really petty reasons to kill two people). There was no twist really when the murderer was revealed cause the whole thing was so ridiculous.

This book got pretty good reviews so I think I just don’t appreciate the genre. Like extra cheesy writing and extra extravagant descriptions and just a very simple surface level plot. It makes your run of the mill mystery (eg John Grisham, Mary Higgans Clark) look like Picasso. But it’s nice to switch things up sometimes so glad I stuck with it.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanksgiving Treachery is another exciting installment in Kappes' Holiday cozy mystery series. I always look forward to reading each installment in this series, and this book definitely didn't disappoint. Holiday Junction is getting ready to celebrate Thanksgiving. Lots of fun activities are planned for the town, and Violet is excited about covering them for the paper. When her mother discovers a body, Violet decides to get involved.

Kappes sets up an entertaining holiday mystery that grabs the reader's attention from the beginning and doesn't let go. Violet's relationship with Darren has some rough spots since Darren is pursuing his dream of becoming a lawyer working for the town's only lawyer. I liked how this case added a little conflict to their relationship giving them a chance to work on this new dynamic. The book's mystery is well done full of enough twists and turns. Overall Thanksgiving Treachery proved to be a great read that I would most definitely recommend. I look forward to reading Violet's next adventure.

Received a copy of Thanksgiving Treachery from the author.

[amelia (taylor's version) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars
this is the 7th book in the series and took place at thanksgiving in holiday junction. a local man is found dead at the leisure center, which has recently been started by millie kay, and when violet goes to his wife's house to let her know and ask her questions, she is found to be dead. like all the other books, violet has a list of suspects (which often have such small ties that make you question why they would kill someone because of it) and she follows her leads.
the plot twist in this book was shocking and i didn't see it coming which is always good. i wish that more attention would be payed to violet and darren's relationship because it feels like it is being neglected again. but overall, the book was an enjoyable read and im excited to read the next one in the series.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.75 stars

This was another great atmospheric read that gave all the fall and Thanksgiving vibes. It felt like I was right there with them in that small town and about to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. I loved the fact that this just jumped immediately into the mystery and sucked me into it. It was very engaging. This particular mystery had all types of layers to it with the couple’s dead son and the artist community. Then all the different suspects and motives were great. The pacing was fast paced but completely easy to follow. Plus there were two murders. This was just a win on all sides.

[Cozy Reader Lady · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Thanksgiving Treachery (Holiday Cozy Mystery #7)" by Tonya Kappes is one of the better quick Thanksgiving cozy mysteries I've read so far. It stays consistent with the holiday, though some Christmas planning stuff gets thrown in a little too. I also appreciate that part of the reason our main character is investigating is because she is the main journalist in town. So, makes a bit more sense for her to want to know the facts.

I honestly didn't have any decent ideas for who the killer was. I bounced around a bit between people. In the end I was pretty much at the same place with my thoughts as the characters were.

[Helen Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like every holiday in Holiday Junction, it’s a special event filled with numerous actives with the Leaf Dance as one of the favorite activities. Amidst the merriment, there is a double murder of a husband and his wife who had tragically lost their son years ago. This has led to a schism between the art district and the town.

As usual Violet Rhinehammer and her friends try to discover the killer before Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving, a new tradition bringing those together who might be alone on the big day. She is successful in solving the case although she puts herself in peril again.

I appreciate the way the murder mystery unfolded. I was beginning to suspect the motive for the killings before the big reveal, so the identity of the killer was logical.

The more I read of this series the more I appreciate the characters, especially Violet Rhinehammer, her family, and the recurring characters in this series.

I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this entertaining read.

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fun holiday cozy mystery in the Holiday Junction series! As usual, the descriptions of this picturesque small town were the perfect way to onto the Thanksgiving spirit... even if it was mixed up with murder! 🥧🍂🦃

[Karen Rand · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute cozy mystery that I enjoyed reading a few days before Thanksgiving. I loved the closing words, “keep the spirit alive and remember to find joy in the little things.”

[Katie · Rating 1 out of 5]

What I wanted from a thanksgiving book but alas the story wasn’t that good.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Violet is helping her mama, Millie Kay, set up for the Friendsgiving celebration Millie Kay is hosting at the Leisure Center. When Millie Kay stumbles cover a body, Violet jumps into her investigation. The deeper she investigates the more she finds out about the past of Holiday Junction.

This is such a fun series. Who wouldn’t want it live or at least visit Holiday Junction and attend all the holiday celebrations. The characters are just as fun and entertaining as the setting. I am really enjoying reading and getting to know the new characters in the art district. The mystery is full of twists as you along with Violet uncover secrets and clues to solve the murder or possibly murders. I am really enjoying reading and getting to know the new characters in the art district.

All thoughts and opinions are my own, I have not been influenced by anyone.

[Ashley Yungbluth · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Thanksgiving Treachery" by Tonya Kappes was a great read in the "Holiday Cozy Mystery" series. Violet is trying to figure out who murdered two people in the town of Holiday Junction that she currently moved to. She is part of the Junction Journal and just can't let it go. Violet is growing on me, and I am enjoying this series more and more. I always like a good mystery of trying to figure out who did it, and this one does not disappoint.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very happy to visit Violet again in Holiday Junction! She has changed so much since leaving Normal, Kentucky, and I really like the person she is becoming. Violet loves celebrating holidays now, finding joy and comfort in the village’s holiday traditions. They are, she says, “butter to the soul”. One of the appeals of the village is the “culmination of history, tradition, and community spirit”.

Darren, the police chief’s son and Violet’s first ever boyfriend, is studying to become a lawyer. His current studies are online, and he is very serious about them. He will learn something new about himself that he will to consider in light of his career goals.

Thanksgiving is a couple days away, and Millie Kay, Violet’s Mama, is overseeing every detail of the community dinner as the fine Southern lady she is. The special dinner is called Friendsgiving, and is the finale of the Thanksgiving festival. Violet stopped to see her to verify they have all the event times ready to print in the Junction Journal, of which she is editor-in-chief. Darren is also there, as it is a quiet place to study. Until they heard Millie Kay scream.

At the bottom of the stairs, in front of Mama’s feet, lay Albert, the dairy and produce delivery man. It looks as if he fell down the stairs. The medical examiner determined that he had been murdered. Violet took the trolley to Albert’s home, hoping to tell his wife before everyone came with condolences. Tara didn’t answer, but Violet could see through the screen door. Her table was set for a lovely luncheon, but Tara was dead on the floor.

Violet’s mind is finely honed as an investigative journalist. Before snooping, she called the police chief, who was still at the scene of Albert’s death. She prefers to examine the clues, research, and find the killer herself, as she has done several times since moving here. It is to her advantage, however, to follow police protocol, especially since Chief Strickland is married to one of the Junction Journal’s owners, and brother to the other owner.

Violet and Radley, the new journalist at the paper, have split up to cover every festival event. Violet seeks clues in what people say and do as she chats with and takes photos of people at each event. Millie Kay and Darren are the main people she discusses theories with. There are deep ties between downtown Holiday Junction and the art district in the nearby mountains where Albert and Tara had lived many years ago. When she is attacked and left unconscious, she’s getting close to whodunit, and has to up her game.

I enjoyed seeing the festival events, especially some of the many artists’ works, through Violet’s eyes. There was one so intricately detailed and described, it was as if the author had designed and made it herself! I also imagined autumn views from narratives of different views of the sides of Holiday Junction, the ocean, the mountains, and the countryside.

There are so many twists and turns in this mystery! I could not figure out whodunit, and my favorite suspects were eliminated, one by one. I guessed it only a few steps ahead of Violet, who discovered the person before anyone else was hurt. I was satisfied with the ending, and look forward to returning. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written Southern cozy mysteries, Thanksgiving, special events, and autumn.

From a thankful heart: I requested and received an eARC of this novel, and this is my honest review.

[Mary Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanksgiving Treachery
Holiday Cozy Mystery, Book #7
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars

Synopsis:

CELEBRATE GOOD CRIMES
New holiday, new mystery, and Violet Rhinehammer's got her notepad ready!
In the festive heart of Holiday Junction, where the turkeys are stuffed and the traditions are age-old, shadows dance with the autumn wind. The Hardens, the town's glitz and glamour, face a pie-slice of tragedy, and suddenly everyone's holding the knife!
With a dash of sass and a sprinkle of wit, it's up to our gal Violet of the "Junction Journal" to sift through the tales and tattles, from glittering pageants to art district whispers. But as the Leaf Dance Festival twirls closer, secrets simmer and suspicions brew. Can Violet serve up the truth before the main course, or will the killer come back for seconds?
Hold onto your hats and pumpkin pies, y'all! This Friendsgiving, join Violet in dishing out justice in the coziest, quirkiest holiday whodunit of the season!

Dear reader, if you love dogs, every holiday with all the holiday trimmings, and a cozy town, you’re going to love this new series by Tonya Kappes. It's time to CELEBRATE GOOD CRIMES in the town of Holiday Junction! Just because it's the holiday, doesn't mean it's free of crime and murder! But I can guarantee this series is clean with no foul language or gore. Each book can be read as a stands alone because each murder is wrapped up. Grab your cozy blanket and a cup of tea or coffee! It's time to sleuth along Violet Rhinehammer and celebrate good crimes! (Amazon)


Review:


The characters are well rounded and well developed. Holiday Junction is getting ready to celebrate Thanksgiving like only they can. But unfortunately they will have to deal with the death of two members of the community before they can enjoy the holiday. It will not be easy and she will need all the help she can get.


The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and the descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery was well plotted and there were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through.


I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. When reading this book you are getting to experience Southern living at its best.


I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to live in Holiday Junction where holidays are celebrated in a fantastical fashion. The people of Holiday Junction know how to celebrate any holiday with pizzazz. The atmosphere is always festive, and the entire community participates in everything. They really get into it and enjoy any holiday with festivals, games, pageants, etc. The description of the decorations will make you want to jump into the book and sit awhile. The festivities are interrupted when tragedy strikes a well known family in the community. We know we can count on local journalist Violet Rhinehammer to not only report the news, but investigate it as well. This one hits a little closer to home for Violet because her sweet mother found the body. She is traumatized, to say the least. As Violet starts delving further into this mystery, she finds more questions than answers. She also finds there are some deep issues at work here. Past actions have future consequences in some cases. There was a particular quote that I liked from Violet where she thought, "Motives are more complex than they appear on the surface." This was definitely true in this mystery. As Violet begins connecting dots, she finds that the mystery deepens and her suppositions are actually assumptions that she made without all of the facts.

I love this series. The cast of characters are one of my favorites. Almost everyone is likable. I like where the relationship with Darren Strickland and Violet seems to be heading. Working together as the Merry Maker is made even more fun for them as they grow closer together romantically.

Once again Tonya Kappes fools me into believing one thing only to fool me again a few pages later. Even if you are not a cozy mystery fan, you will enjoy this book and this series because Tonya Kappes knows how to write an interesting, complex mystery. I love cozy mysteries, and this series is one of my favorites. Being a holiday nut makes this series even more fun to read. It is good, clean fun with a side of mystery. The queen of cozy mysteries strikes again with another gold medal winner. This one comes out just in time to put you in the spirit and get you ready for Thanksgiving and all the fixings.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lisa Christensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are few books that go with the Thanksgiving holiday season, but Tonya Kappes was able to fill that void with her latest installment to the Holiday Cozy Mystery Series.  ‘Thanksgiving Treachery’ was just released, and Violet is back with the whole gang.  Even her dad who doesn’t show up on the pages much also makes an appearance.

What I love most about this Holiday Cozy Mystery series is how the town is called Holiday Junction and really takes even the smallest holiday into something amazing and wonderful.  Of course, the true spirit of Thanksgiving is throughout this book, and for those who can’t celebrate with family, they even put together Friendsgiving.  I think most people will agree that the best family we can have is one we make with our friends.

And of course, this wouldn’t be a Tonya Kappes book if there wasn’t a case to solve.  In this case, it’s not just one murder but TWO!  And just when you thought you got the whole story about these two you find out more.  This case really went down a path I didn’t see coming and there was really a list of who did it a mile long. I will say the ending of who did it wasn’t too much of a surprise but yet I was surprised because I really had my thoughts on this one character.

‘Thanksgiving Treachery’ is not the book for you if you are looking for some spice.  This book has none.  But like I have said in previous reviews for cozy mysteries that is normal.  I will give this book a solid four stars. It was so nice to have a book that fit right with the season we are in, and the mystery was one great one to read.  I always enjoy Tonya Kappes's books, and she didn’t disappoint.  If you are a cozy mystery fan you need to pick up your copy today.  And if you are a Kindle Unlimited member the good news is that this is included in your membership, and you can borrow this book right here.  If you want more news on upcoming releases make sure to head over to Tonya Kappes's website.

**I would like to thank Tonya Kappes for the ARC copy of this book. Getting the ARC Copy did not influence my thoughts on the book as they are all my own.**

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just in time for Thanksgiving we get to visit Violet in Holiday Junction. It’s time for a fun holiday with festivals, quirky characters and a little mystery mixed in. What shenanigan’s will Violet get involved in this holiday? With her boyfriend’s nose stuck in law books she is left to do the traditional Merry Maker duties herself. With beautiful fall colors surrounding the town, it made for a picturesque scenery. Why is everyone talking about Tofurky? Doesn’t sound very festive to me but maybe the town will enjoy it. Violet’s mama is hosting Friendsgiving this year and I just go she is going to go all out. Food, decorations, family and friends will all be there. Tradition is “all about community coming together, sharing in the joys and traditions passed down through generations.” What could possibly go wrong?

The Leisure Center is decorated with fall colors and pumpkins ready for the big feast. Everything grinds to a halt when a body is discovered there. Poor Albert is found at the bottom of the stairs under mysterious circumstances. Will the feast go on, or will it be stopped by an investigation? Violet better get busy and use her snoopy ways to clear up the mess or Thanksgiving will be canceled.

The author throws a curve ball when the deceased’s wife is also found dead. What is going on? There are many suspects but as Violet starts to dig into each one’s where alibi , the list starts to shrink. I loved following the trail as the author is brilliant with little tides buts of hints for readers to pay attention to. The town is a buzz with the festival and the murder of two of their own. I was taken aback when the killer was revealed. It was almost sad for the reason behind the killings, but in the end justice must prevail. Off to jail they go with a lifetime off being behind bars with no chance to be out anytime soon,

I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.

[Sapphyria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanksgiving Treachery is the seventh book in the Holiday Cozy Mystery series, a spin-off of the Camper and Criminals series. The spin-off is headlined by Normal's ace reporter Violet Rhinehammer. She exits Normal to move onto greener pastures and finds herself in a different small town.

Book seven finds the town of Holiday Junction preparing for Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving celebrations. As Violet continues to keep the Junction Journal afloat and tend to her civic duties, a body is found at the Leisure Center. The Harden family had been dealt a hard blow several years ago, and it seems tragedy is their middle names. Violet can't help herself; she just has to look into the murder. Digging into the victim's past brings a lot to light and Violet must tread carefully or she may be next.

Thanksgiving Treachery is a fun and quick read. I continue to enjoy Violet and Darren and love how their relationship continues to grow as the series progresses. I enjoy getting to know everyone in Holiday Junction. We get to meet many interesting people and learn how important holidays are in this town. The mystery was well thought out, full of suspense, and red herrings. In the end, the reveal was sad, and I was on the wrong path to solving the case. The author did an excellent job concealing the correct path. I am looking forward to the next book.

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holidays are the best times of the year, and spending them in Holiday Junction just takes it up a notch. Violet is planning her coverage of the Thanksgiving activities, while her mama Millie Kay is gearing up for the Friendsgiving celebration at the Leisure Center. Then Violet hears her mama scream, and she finds Albert, the milk delivery man, dead at the bottom of the steps. Violet begins her investigation and, at her first stop, finds Albert’s wife, Tara, dead in their home. Not one, but two murders to solve.

Violet is on the case, but there is a twist since her boyfriend, Darren, has started law school and is interning at the local law office, so he is limited when it comes to sharing information. Of course, Violet’s tenacity pushes her forward, and she will continue at all costs until she finds the killer.

The plot will keep you glued to the book and guessing who was responsible for the murders. I had several suspects in mind, but as new information was revealed, I kept changing my mind. The descriptions of the scenery have me wanting to move to Holiday Junction and help Violet and Darren as the Merrymakers!

I am thankful to have received an ARC and have provided my honest review.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tonya has done it again! What a fun time in Holiday Junction where they go overboard to celebrate every possible holiday and where the secret Merry Makers decide where the celebrations will end. In this book, Millie Kay is hosting the Friendsgiving celebration at the Leisure Center with the help of her daughter, local journalist, Violet. Far be it for Millie Kay to NOT go overboard. But will things go awry? When Millie Kay discovers the body of Albert the dairy and produce deliveryman, things look bleak. But when Violet goes to Albert's house to talk to his wife, she finds her dead as well! Wow! She called police chief Strickland, her boyfriend, Darren's father. Who would want the couple dead and why? Millie Kay of course is traumatized. Violet, Radley a new journalist working with Violet and Darren are investigating to try and help solve the murders before the holiday celebrations can begin. With so many twists and turns and miscues, we are taken on a roller coaster ride with strange suspects. Just when you think you've solved it...there is another red-herring! I love this series and never want to see it end! I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Kara Marks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 7th book in this series; I’ve read and loved the entire series, but this book can stand alone pretty well. I do think that it would be best enjoyed if one has read at least some in the series. This is a very unique setting, as Holiday Junction makes a huge deal over each holiday, with tons of community and tourism festivities. One can walk over much of the community, but you can also drive a golf cart or take the trolley, which helps add to the uniqueness, since few people take cars. There are two murders to solve, and they’re unique too, since a husband and wife are killed separately across town in different locations. Violet is editor of the local paper, but she also has a way of solving local crimes. She’s dating the police chief’s grown son, and no one really approves of her getting involved in investigating, but the chief has come to rely on her for her unique insight. Violet is a great character; she is a transplant from Kentucky, so she and her parents, especially her mom, are full of southernisms I really enjoy. I can definitely recommend this book and series; I was provided an arc, but these opinions are my own.

[Judy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never a spoiler in my reviews and I don't rehash the story or blub nor do I give anything away, but here's why you NEED to read this story! I'm never disappointed with any book written by Tonya Kappes. All of her books work as stand alones so you can't go wrong picking ANY up any one of them. Holiday Junction is the focus of this latest installment of this fun holiday-themed Thanksgiving story. The characters are so well developed that the reader always can get into the storylines without difficulty. That being said, this is a spinoff from the Camper Series featuring Violet Rhinehammer a news reporter with a nose for trouble. And she finds it. Always! Interestingly enough, she doesn't have the same type of relationship with Mae that she had in the camper series, but nonetheless, the book is fun, and engaging and has the same twists, turns, laugh-out-loud moments, great characters, and the requisite dead body that are all well placed, well timed and just plain well written. A relatively quick read because you just can't put it down! A must-read for any cozy mystery book lover.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s Friendsgiving celebration time in Holiday Junction. Things are going well until Violet’s mother finds the dead body of a local milk delivery man. He appeared to have died in a fall. But when the man’s wife is found dead in their home, things get suspicious. When the coroner determines both were murdered, Violet sets out to investigate the crime. From the start of her investigation, there are many suspects. Violet will need all her sleuthing skills to solve this crime. She ends up with an unlikely partner helping her research and track down clues. One by one the suspects on her list are eliminated. Who does that leave who would want both the husband and wife killed, and why?

As a new bit of information is revealed, Violet ties all the pieces together and figures out who the culprit is. But will she come out of this one alive? The guilty party isn’t going down without a fight.

Another fun whodunit that will keep you guessing to the end!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Susan Reads Cozies · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how Violet and Millie Kay bring a little of Normal to Holiday Junction! It is so much fun getting to experience the holidays in Holiday Junction. This book had to be my favorite as far as visualization goes. There was so much detail about the decorations, the food, and the festivities. It was so easy to picture everything. It felt like I was right there. There were a few parts that made so hungry!
 
I was not expecting a double homicide, at least not so soon in the book. It’s great to read along with Violet’s instincts and her thought process as the story progresses.
 
We were introduced to Radley in the last book as the newest employee of the Junction Journal. I am still not sure about him. I feel like I am waiting for the other shoe to drop when it comes to him. We shall see! I am starting to see Fern in a new light. Could it be possible for her and Violet to be friends?
 
I cannot wait for the next book to experience the Mistletoe Masquerade Ball.
 
Thanks to the author for my copy in exchange for my review!

[Aimee Stark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been my favorite Holiday Junction book so far (and I’ve read them all)! When the local milkman Albert Harden is found dead, Violet Rhinehammer is right around the corner. She and Darren call for an ambulance, but it’s already too late. And when Violet goes to Albert’s house, she finds his wife dead as well from an apparent heart attack. But when it’s discovered that they were both murdered, Violet gets to work to help crack the case.

The list of suspects seems to keep growing, and the art district seems to be a part of the mystery as well, but is it? Does it have anything to do with a loss that Albert and his wife suffered many years ago? Even as Violet clears suspects, she finds more, but will she discover who did it? And will this be her last story? This was a great read, and while I never expect the twists and turns that Tonya takes us on, this one took me by even more surprise and this series has become one of my absolute favorites. I received an arc copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holiday Junction is a town that knows how to celebrate the holidays. Unfortunately, it seems since Violet Rhinehammer has arrived in town there seems to be a murder at most holiday celebrations and this Thanksgiving in no exception.

As Millie Kay is gearing up for a Friendsgiving celebration at her Leisure Center building, she stumbles on the body of Albert Harden, the milk deliveryman, lying at the bottom of some steps. When Violet goes to talk to Albert’s wife, Tara, she is discovered dead also. What could this couple have done to make someone want to kill them?

Violet and her gang do some snooping around and are able to come up with some good suspects. The murderer was a total surprise to me and I never suspected this person. The reason was a surprise also. It is nice to see that Violet is becoming friends with Fern because she needs a friend in her age group. This series just keeps getting better, especially now with more inclusion of the artist section of the community.