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Mac Faraday Mystery #7
Twelve to Murder
Two people are brutally murdered in their summer place on Deep Creek Lake. Suspected of the murders, former child star and one-time teenybopper idol Lenny Frost takes innocent bystanders hostage in a local pub and demands that Mac Faraday find the killer. Can Mac save the hostages and himself from the wrath of the enraged has-been by piecing together the clues in less than twelve hours, or will it be a fatal last call at the stroke of midnight?
"Twelve to Murder must be one of the more intense novels the author has written, and one readers will not want to put down. Twists and turns keep the plot moving forward at break-neck speed and fans working hard to figure out who killed the Stillman's. As always, it isn’t who we think." - Reviewer: Edie Dykeman, Bellaonline Mystery Editor
"Carr once again delivers a punch with her latest Mac Faraday novel, Twelve to Murder. Like all Carr's other novels, Twelve to Murder kept me glued to its pages from the very start, and while this murder mystery looks like it may be a cut and dried whodunit, Carr's expertise keeps readers guessing while the twist and turns unfold." - Reviewer: A Book Vacation Reviews
"As always, Lauren Carr brings an action packed story that is almost impossible to put down. Her mystery plots have so many twists and turns, I didn't know if I was coming or going. And the action just didn't stop, from the very beginning, till the very end. If you haven't read any of Lauren's work, I suggest you do she is a great writer and this one didn't disappoint at all. I look forward to reading more Mac Faraday novels in the future as they always keep me entertained."--Reviewer: Melina Mason, Melina's Book Reviews
"Twelve To Murder is a clever blend of comedy, mystery, and sappy love story. Lauren Carr does a good job of moving the quirky storyline along nicely with an abundance of witty dialogue. And you have no idea who the good guys are and who the bad guys are until the end." - Reviewer: Every Free Chance Book Reviews.
"Twelve to Murder must be one of the more intense novels the author has written, and one readers will not want to put down. Twists and turns keep the plot moving forward at break-neck speed and fans working hard to figure out who killed the Stillman's. As always, it isn’t who we think." - Reviewer: Edie Dykeman, Bellaonline Mystery Editor
"Carr once again delivers a punch with her latest Mac Faraday novel, Twelve to Murder. Like all Carr's other novels, Twelve to Murder kept me glued to its pages from the very start, and while this murder mystery looks like it may be a cut and dried whodunit, Carr's expertise keeps readers guessing while the twist and turns unfold." - Reviewer: A Book Vacation Reviews
"As always, Lauren Carr brings an action packed story that is almost impossible to put down. Her mystery plots have so many twists and turns, I didn't know if I was coming or going. And the action just didn't stop, from the very beginning, till the very end. If you haven't read any of Lauren's work, I suggest you do she is a great writer and this one didn't disappoint at all. I look forward to reading more Mac Faraday novels in the future as they always keep me entertained."--Reviewer: Melina Mason, Melina's Book Reviews
"Twelve To Murder is a clever blend of comedy, mystery, and sappy love story. Lauren Carr does a good job of moving the quirky storyline along nicely with an abundance of witty dialogue. And you have no idea who the good guys are and who the bad guys are until the end." - Reviewer: Every Free Chance Book Reviews.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2014
83 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Carr
52 books402 followersLauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, and Thorny Rose Mysteries—over twenty titles across three fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!
Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr’s seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, romance, and humor.
Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. She lives with her husband, and three dogs on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.
Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr’s seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, romance, and humor.
Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. She lives with her husband, and three dogs on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.
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March 25, 2014
Twelve to Murder: Lauren Carr
Gnarly was nice enough to leave Mac and Archie to their own devices while he and his latest main dog squeeze had some romping and fun time on their own. You would think Mac would take advantage of this great opportunity but not Mac. When the romance sizzled and the conversation got just a little steamy Archie suggested that it was about time to set a date and move things along in another direction. But, whether it is fear, past experience or just not ready, Mac blew it. Archie learned right then and there that something had better give and she needed to make a decision before things really take a downward spiral. Before they could continue their discussion Mac was called away by his stepbrother, the police chief, to assist in a double homicide investigation.
Archie and Janice Stillman were murdered in their home. The killer managed to circumvent the alarm or had key in order to enter without being heard or setting it off. Janice killed first and then Archie the killer’s name if it is the killer was written out in blood. Lenny Frost a has been comedian and a client of Janice, was named as the killer but did he really do it. Entering the crime scene it was evident that Mac was upset and being astute and knowing his brother’s personality David tried questioning him only to have him evade the issue. But, some things cannot be hidden and eventually he came clean. Questions asked, discussions had but nothing is solved as the situation concerning the murders escalades. Derrick Stillman is a person of interest claiming he was on a hot date when his parents were killed. Evidence and alibis do not seem to match what he recounts and the police are holding him for questioning. But, is he really guilty or is he being framed as the FBI joins the investigation claiming the club that Derrick runs is a front for drugs. Someone within the club is profiting from selling drugs and the evidence they have points to Derrick. Derrick however claims that he was with a young lady all night one that for some reason the police and FBI claim does not exist.
Lenny Frost was Janice’s client and has serious issues with drugs and alcohol. Lenny is also delusional and hears voices thinks he sees things and is certain that someone out there is out to get him for the murders. Instead of trying to clear his name he enters a bar and takes 8 people hostage demanding to speak to Mickey Forsythe the only person that can find the real killer. But, Deep Creek Lake is the setting and the murderer Lenny Frost was once a child star and then a teen idol. Thinking that Mac/Mickey will save him from the murder charges taking the hostages and demanding that he find the killer but within twelve hours or at the stroke of midnight, similar to that of Cinderella when the magic created by her fairy godmother disappeared, so will the lives of Mac and anyone left in the bar end. But, not everyone in the bar is really a hostage and someone close to the scene just might be in on the murders and a very clever con artist. As one hostage pretends to have a seizure knowing what is hidden in her bag but not aware that Mac is on to her. Half-brother, Spencer police chief David O’Callaghan and his team hook up Mac with tons of communication devices hoping to hear what is happening in the bar and staying in touch in case he is in danger. With the help of Archie’s investigative talents information comes to light about the one hostage that the EMT’s take to the hospital but somehow escapes.
Twelve to Murder is Lauren Carr at the best as the killers come face to face with the Chief of Police of this small town, the hostages spend time with Lenny boozing it up and not wanting to leave the pub because the football game is on and why miss it. Added in they demand steak dinners from Mac delivered from Spencer Inn and some added romance between the grumpy pub owner Carl, his bar maid Ethel and the end result is hilarious. But, humor aside there is a murderer out there and although you think you know who might be the guilty party think again.
Lenny Frost is crazy and should be in rehab but for some reason even when they take him into custody he just might skate. Derrick Stillman remembers nothing about his night with suspect Sela Wallace just what did she slip him? Is Derrick involved in the drug operation in his club? Who wrote Lenny’s name in blood to point the finger at him? But, things start to take a strange turn as Mac begins to analyze things from where they began calling in a favor from a friend. But, nothing is quite so hilarious as the havoc caused by our favorite German Shepherd who enjoyed his time being held hostage, pigging out on food and drink and the end result was worse than bad hangover or food poisoning. Just what happened to him you will have to read for yourself and who took pity on him you just won’t believe. As the plot continues to thicken and suspects are almost hauled in.
Zachary Harris and Sela Wallace are brother and sister. Harris claimed to have evidence that the Stillman’s were behind Lenny’s kidnapping. Wait until you learn what happens to him. Sela is his sister and although she took down the police chief she was no match for him in the end. But, as the plot unfolds there are many layers that have to be peeled back before the final the real murderer is unveiled. Lenny Frost is smart, a great actor and believes his own stories. Janice Stillman was said to be the catalyst behind his kidnapping but was she? What changed when Derrick Stillman declared that his parents were innocent and his mother wrote the name of the killer in her own blood? Zachary Harris and Sela Wallace: just what was their role in the murders, kidnapping. A video that would reveal it all or so it seems. A killer so clever he had so many fooled. Who was framed and who did the framing? Why did Lenny take those people in the pub hostage? What did he see on the screen when he entered? Who was Kate Coleman and what was her relationship to both Lenny and Derrick? Where did the million dollars in ransom money go for the kidnapping?
Lenny is full of himself and when Mac, David, Bogie and the rest of the team unite just how will they catch a killer or is Lenny the killer? Trust, deceit, lies, betrayals, hate, jealousy and greed are just some of the issues brought to light in this novel. Who would benefit from the death of the Stillman’s? What is the final count on the bodies? Who is guilty and who is just a victim of circumstances? Author Lauren Carr will reveal that to you the reader only if you read Twelve to Murder and complete it before Lenny’s deadline.
But, let’s not forget Mac is in the let’s say doghouse with Archie for skirting the issue when it comes to commitment and Gnarly is in the same doghouse for cheating on Molly. So, who gets the final bow-wow? Who is forgiven? Will the two dozen white roses which means forgive, let Mac back in Archie’s’ good graces? Read the Epilogue to find out what happens and the big reveal!
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
Gnarly was nice enough to leave Mac and Archie to their own devices while he and his latest main dog squeeze had some romping and fun time on their own. You would think Mac would take advantage of this great opportunity but not Mac. When the romance sizzled and the conversation got just a little steamy Archie suggested that it was about time to set a date and move things along in another direction. But, whether it is fear, past experience or just not ready, Mac blew it. Archie learned right then and there that something had better give and she needed to make a decision before things really take a downward spiral. Before they could continue their discussion Mac was called away by his stepbrother, the police chief, to assist in a double homicide investigation.
Archie and Janice Stillman were murdered in their home. The killer managed to circumvent the alarm or had key in order to enter without being heard or setting it off. Janice killed first and then Archie the killer’s name if it is the killer was written out in blood. Lenny Frost a has been comedian and a client of Janice, was named as the killer but did he really do it. Entering the crime scene it was evident that Mac was upset and being astute and knowing his brother’s personality David tried questioning him only to have him evade the issue. But, some things cannot be hidden and eventually he came clean. Questions asked, discussions had but nothing is solved as the situation concerning the murders escalades. Derrick Stillman is a person of interest claiming he was on a hot date when his parents were killed. Evidence and alibis do not seem to match what he recounts and the police are holding him for questioning. But, is he really guilty or is he being framed as the FBI joins the investigation claiming the club that Derrick runs is a front for drugs. Someone within the club is profiting from selling drugs and the evidence they have points to Derrick. Derrick however claims that he was with a young lady all night one that for some reason the police and FBI claim does not exist.
Lenny Frost was Janice’s client and has serious issues with drugs and alcohol. Lenny is also delusional and hears voices thinks he sees things and is certain that someone out there is out to get him for the murders. Instead of trying to clear his name he enters a bar and takes 8 people hostage demanding to speak to Mickey Forsythe the only person that can find the real killer. But, Deep Creek Lake is the setting and the murderer Lenny Frost was once a child star and then a teen idol. Thinking that Mac/Mickey will save him from the murder charges taking the hostages and demanding that he find the killer but within twelve hours or at the stroke of midnight, similar to that of Cinderella when the magic created by her fairy godmother disappeared, so will the lives of Mac and anyone left in the bar end. But, not everyone in the bar is really a hostage and someone close to the scene just might be in on the murders and a very clever con artist. As one hostage pretends to have a seizure knowing what is hidden in her bag but not aware that Mac is on to her. Half-brother, Spencer police chief David O’Callaghan and his team hook up Mac with tons of communication devices hoping to hear what is happening in the bar and staying in touch in case he is in danger. With the help of Archie’s investigative talents information comes to light about the one hostage that the EMT’s take to the hospital but somehow escapes.
Twelve to Murder is Lauren Carr at the best as the killers come face to face with the Chief of Police of this small town, the hostages spend time with Lenny boozing it up and not wanting to leave the pub because the football game is on and why miss it. Added in they demand steak dinners from Mac delivered from Spencer Inn and some added romance between the grumpy pub owner Carl, his bar maid Ethel and the end result is hilarious. But, humor aside there is a murderer out there and although you think you know who might be the guilty party think again.
Lenny Frost is crazy and should be in rehab but for some reason even when they take him into custody he just might skate. Derrick Stillman remembers nothing about his night with suspect Sela Wallace just what did she slip him? Is Derrick involved in the drug operation in his club? Who wrote Lenny’s name in blood to point the finger at him? But, things start to take a strange turn as Mac begins to analyze things from where they began calling in a favor from a friend. But, nothing is quite so hilarious as the havoc caused by our favorite German Shepherd who enjoyed his time being held hostage, pigging out on food and drink and the end result was worse than bad hangover or food poisoning. Just what happened to him you will have to read for yourself and who took pity on him you just won’t believe. As the plot continues to thicken and suspects are almost hauled in.
Zachary Harris and Sela Wallace are brother and sister. Harris claimed to have evidence that the Stillman’s were behind Lenny’s kidnapping. Wait until you learn what happens to him. Sela is his sister and although she took down the police chief she was no match for him in the end. But, as the plot unfolds there are many layers that have to be peeled back before the final the real murderer is unveiled. Lenny Frost is smart, a great actor and believes his own stories. Janice Stillman was said to be the catalyst behind his kidnapping but was she? What changed when Derrick Stillman declared that his parents were innocent and his mother wrote the name of the killer in her own blood? Zachary Harris and Sela Wallace: just what was their role in the murders, kidnapping. A video that would reveal it all or so it seems. A killer so clever he had so many fooled. Who was framed and who did the framing? Why did Lenny take those people in the pub hostage? What did he see on the screen when he entered? Who was Kate Coleman and what was her relationship to both Lenny and Derrick? Where did the million dollars in ransom money go for the kidnapping?
Lenny is full of himself and when Mac, David, Bogie and the rest of the team unite just how will they catch a killer or is Lenny the killer? Trust, deceit, lies, betrayals, hate, jealousy and greed are just some of the issues brought to light in this novel. Who would benefit from the death of the Stillman’s? What is the final count on the bodies? Who is guilty and who is just a victim of circumstances? Author Lauren Carr will reveal that to you the reader only if you read Twelve to Murder and complete it before Lenny’s deadline.
But, let’s not forget Mac is in the let’s say doghouse with Archie for skirting the issue when it comes to commitment and Gnarly is in the same doghouse for cheating on Molly. So, who gets the final bow-wow? Who is forgiven? Will the two dozen white roses which means forgive, let Mac back in Archie’s’ good graces? Read the Epilogue to find out what happens and the big reveal!
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
July 4, 2017
Reviewing a thriller is a trick, more so if it is brimful of suspense. A reviewer need to tell the prospective readers about the book and must take care of not to make the review a spoiler. Lauren Carr has put me in a similar situation with her thriller Twelve to Murder.
The basic storyline goes like this. Former Childstar Lenny Frost is alleged of twin murders. The twist happens when the alleged person takes innocent bystanders hostage in a pub and demands Mac Faraday to find the real killer. Mac Faraday is in action with David Callaghan, his half brother.
As usual, authoress has portrayed her excellent narrative talent. How ever complicated the storyline is, finally everything falls into place like a rubik's cube. Adding on to the thrill, time doesn't have the mercy on them. This crisp, cliffhanger is endearing. However the audible narration didn't appeal to me much. May be because I was in a mood to read? I don't know.
The basic storyline goes like this. Former Childstar Lenny Frost is alleged of twin murders. The twist happens when the alleged person takes innocent bystanders hostage in a pub and demands Mac Faraday to find the real killer. Mac Faraday is in action with David Callaghan, his half brother.
As usual, authoress has portrayed her excellent narrative talent. How ever complicated the storyline is, finally everything falls into place like a rubik's cube. Adding on to the thrill, time doesn't have the mercy on them. This crisp, cliffhanger is endearing. However the audible narration didn't appeal to me much. May be because I was in a mood to read? I don't know.
June 5, 2017
Audiobook a-Palloza Tour: 12 to Murder Twelve to Murder is plotted well. What could make it any more interesting? There a mastermind or is it an ill person to wants a two people dead. Is someone framing Lenny or is it just a ploy to have everyone to look elsewhere.
There are two other involved and what happens when they are killed. Who would want more money or is it drug related? Lenny Frost wants and demands Mac to find the killer in less than twelve hours or they and Mac will be killed. Why take hostages and demand on all this. There must be clues to why and what he wants.
Can Mac and David solve these mysteries and crime before it too late? You are in for thriller of a ride and once you get into the book you will not want to put it down. If you are not already a fan of Lauren Carr you will be after reading one of her books. It a never ending ride of Gnarly.
Lauren Carr is one talented writer. She brings you along to find out who the killer is. One thing I love about her mysteries is that you never know who the murderer is? I have read a few of her books already and reviewed a few of them. You are welcome to read my reviews that are part of this audio book palooza. My reviews are Cancelled Vows, A Fine Year for Murder, Killer in the Band, The Murders at Astaire Castle, Candidate for Murder, 3 Days to Forever, Kill and Run, Old Love Die Hard.
There are two other involved and what happens when they are killed. Who would want more money or is it drug related? Lenny Frost wants and demands Mac to find the killer in less than twelve hours or they and Mac will be killed. Why take hostages and demand on all this. There must be clues to why and what he wants.
Can Mac and David solve these mysteries and crime before it too late? You are in for thriller of a ride and once you get into the book you will not want to put it down. If you are not already a fan of Lauren Carr you will be after reading one of her books. It a never ending ride of Gnarly.
Lauren Carr is one talented writer. She brings you along to find out who the killer is. One thing I love about her mysteries is that you never know who the murderer is? I have read a few of her books already and reviewed a few of them. You are welcome to read my reviews that are part of this audio book palooza. My reviews are Cancelled Vows, A Fine Year for Murder, Killer in the Band, The Murders at Astaire Castle, Candidate for Murder, 3 Days to Forever, Kill and Run, Old Love Die Hard.
July 26, 2014
(Original post at Doing Some Reading)
This was my first read of Lauren Carr’s books and of the Mac Faraday Mysteries series.
I haven’t read mysteries for a super long time because I was in a phase with Historical romances so this was a great escape from what I was normally reading. Plus, I was starting to fall out with my HR so it was a super great relieve from it.
First off, I would love to thanks Lauren for the cast of character list and their relation to the story. They’re not spoilers but they help set the foundation of the story and give background information about each character. Plus, it”s a really great help for readers, such as I, to understand because I haven’t read any Mac Faraday Mysteries before and this is Book 7 in the series.
Anyways, so there’s a double murder, the Stillman couple. A has-been former child teen star is indicated as the killer. How did they know this? Well, the son of the two murdered came home to find their dead bodies and a name written in blood!!! — Lenny Frost!
So, why did they think he killed them? Well, the murdered Stillman wife, Janice, is a retired talent agent that helped raise Lenny to stardom. So why not Lenny as the killer, he might have had some grudges against her for his failure and drug addiction as he was one of her clients.
But what was thought to be a solved case turned into a hostage situation when Lenny Frost decided to hold up a pub and its customers to halt his arrest in the murder and to find help to prove his innocence. How was he going to do that? Enlist the infamous detective, Mac Faraday!!!
But Lenny will only give mac 12 hours to solve the case because he’s at his end so if the case isn’t solved by midnight, every one was going to die. Hence the title~!!! But during their hold up the customers were able to be in peace because Lenny wasn’t exactly a threat. He let them do things: watch t.v, eat, talk among themselves…it’s like a normal day at the pub but, in a hostage situation.
As Mac and his friend David get down to business, they uncover clues and some very much twists and turns in the case. You see, Lenny was kidnapped years ago and the case was never solved as to whom had kidnapped him. A retired FBI agent’s career was ruined as was Lenny’s due to his kidnapping case because the kidnapper was never found and the money never found. But, were the Stillmans killed because of something else? They own a club. A Comedy club. But what goes on there has dark secrets. Drug dealers roam the area and could it have been one of them? But Lenny is a druggie so it all came back to him.
As Mac work on the hostage case, there’s also another case he’s working on. His relationship with Archie, his love. I love how even though it’s a mystery, there’s a hint of romance in it.
Archie used to work as an editor for Mac’s late famous writer birth mother, whom he inherited millions from along with an estate and her dog, Gnarly. She wants to push their relationship forward and has waited long enough for him but he’s still feeling the burn his ex-wife did him by leaving him nothing in after their divorce. So he’s sketchy on moving forward with Archie but knows he wants to have a future with her. As this was all opening up, they get some help from unlikely places and well, things turn out okay. Their relationship may have some faults and misunderstandings but it’s very beautiful.
Back to the case, there were many unforeseen, in my sense, outcomes. There were many twists and turns as I indicated along with many casts of characters involved in the case. That’s why that cast list in the beginning was very much appreciated and useful in following the story and the case all together! And it gets solved!!!
I love how Mac and David put and placed everything together to solve the case! There were many fun scenes and laughable comments, And, it was fast paced and kept me turning the pages! I love crime and detective shows so this was a very nice read and man was it fun. The characters were great and the interactions were fun to follow. And Gnarly, he’s fabulous!!!
The suspense and mystery was very well written and easy to follow along with the details and how the investigation went. The pace was great too because I really enjoyed it. And it really was something different from watching the crime and detective shows, so it was great.
I know I’ll be looking more into this series and many other works by Lauren.
Thanks Lauren! For a copy and autograph of Twelve to Murder!
Rating: 4/5
This was my first read of Lauren Carr’s books and of the Mac Faraday Mysteries series.
I haven’t read mysteries for a super long time because I was in a phase with Historical romances so this was a great escape from what I was normally reading. Plus, I was starting to fall out with my HR so it was a super great relieve from it.
First off, I would love to thanks Lauren for the cast of character list and their relation to the story. They’re not spoilers but they help set the foundation of the story and give background information about each character. Plus, it”s a really great help for readers, such as I, to understand because I haven’t read any Mac Faraday Mysteries before and this is Book 7 in the series.
Anyways, so there’s a double murder, the Stillman couple. A has-been former child teen star is indicated as the killer. How did they know this? Well, the son of the two murdered came home to find their dead bodies and a name written in blood!!! — Lenny Frost!
So, why did they think he killed them? Well, the murdered Stillman wife, Janice, is a retired talent agent that helped raise Lenny to stardom. So why not Lenny as the killer, he might have had some grudges against her for his failure and drug addiction as he was one of her clients.
But what was thought to be a solved case turned into a hostage situation when Lenny Frost decided to hold up a pub and its customers to halt his arrest in the murder and to find help to prove his innocence. How was he going to do that? Enlist the infamous detective, Mac Faraday!!!
But Lenny will only give mac 12 hours to solve the case because he’s at his end so if the case isn’t solved by midnight, every one was going to die. Hence the title~!!! But during their hold up the customers were able to be in peace because Lenny wasn’t exactly a threat. He let them do things: watch t.v, eat, talk among themselves…it’s like a normal day at the pub but, in a hostage situation.
As Mac and his friend David get down to business, they uncover clues and some very much twists and turns in the case. You see, Lenny was kidnapped years ago and the case was never solved as to whom had kidnapped him. A retired FBI agent’s career was ruined as was Lenny’s due to his kidnapping case because the kidnapper was never found and the money never found. But, were the Stillmans killed because of something else? They own a club. A Comedy club. But what goes on there has dark secrets. Drug dealers roam the area and could it have been one of them? But Lenny is a druggie so it all came back to him.
As Mac work on the hostage case, there’s also another case he’s working on. His relationship with Archie, his love. I love how even though it’s a mystery, there’s a hint of romance in it.
Archie used to work as an editor for Mac’s late famous writer birth mother, whom he inherited millions from along with an estate and her dog, Gnarly. She wants to push their relationship forward and has waited long enough for him but he’s still feeling the burn his ex-wife did him by leaving him nothing in after their divorce. So he’s sketchy on moving forward with Archie but knows he wants to have a future with her. As this was all opening up, they get some help from unlikely places and well, things turn out okay. Their relationship may have some faults and misunderstandings but it’s very beautiful.
Back to the case, there were many unforeseen, in my sense, outcomes. There were many twists and turns as I indicated along with many casts of characters involved in the case. That’s why that cast list in the beginning was very much appreciated and useful in following the story and the case all together! And it gets solved!!!
I love how Mac and David put and placed everything together to solve the case! There were many fun scenes and laughable comments, And, it was fast paced and kept me turning the pages! I love crime and detective shows so this was a very nice read and man was it fun. The characters were great and the interactions were fun to follow. And Gnarly, he’s fabulous!!!
The suspense and mystery was very well written and easy to follow along with the details and how the investigation went. The pace was great too because I really enjoyed it. And it really was something different from watching the crime and detective shows, so it was great.
I know I’ll be looking more into this series and many other works by Lauren.
Thanks Lauren! For a copy and autograph of Twelve to Murder!
Rating: 4/5
April 12, 2014
Posted first to Blog Critics as Book Review: 'Twelve to Murder' by Lauren Carr.
In bizarre circumstances, tragedy can be much stranger than fiction. When you bring in a ‘has been’ child star, and a whole lot of drama, fireworks flare in spiraling patterns, leaving you to wonder how to find the true beginning of events beneath that very same performance.
In Twelve to Murder by Lauren Carr, Mac Faraday is drawn into a situation of strangely surreal circumstances. The former child-star and idol, Lenny Frost, becomes the prime suspect in the murder of his prior agent and her husband. Lenny has taken hostages in a local pub and demands that Mac find the killer. He has twelve hours to find the responsible party before Lenny begins killing hostages. Mac finds he too must play a part as he tries to ease the tension, and get hostages released. With all the food and drinks they can handle, he is having difficulty getting his job done.
Questioning Lenny, he feels he has some possibilities. How could Lenny be responsible and yet maintain his innocence by taking lives to prove his point. Mac has a very limited time to find the answers to the murder, and keep his client from killing innocent hostages. As the drama and strange events continue to weave throughout the story, Mac is at odds with himself. Can he find the murderer in time to stop the freight train that will not stop until it derails the life of Lenny Frost?
Carr has brought us an entertaining mystery and comedic intrigue, making you guess till the very end in this tale of murder. Her characters are just what you would expect to encounter in some of the same circumstances and you find then either quite likable, quirky or just possibly deadly. Yet who is who, the directions are coy and confusing sending you into differing thoughts of possibilities.
Mac Faraday is an excellent character with just the right amount of emotion and humor. He is also very responsible and cares deeply about those he encounters. A few flaws and a huge heart help him to win your thoughts and you hope he finds the answers.
If you enjoy mystery and comedy you will find this fills the bill. With odd duck characters and potential possibilities everywhere you will want to keep reading from start to finish. While not the usual book club type of read, the humor and sensitivities would create a great reaction and discussion. Carr is an author to watch for and Faraday is investigator of worth. I hope they both show up often.
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
In bizarre circumstances, tragedy can be much stranger than fiction. When you bring in a ‘has been’ child star, and a whole lot of drama, fireworks flare in spiraling patterns, leaving you to wonder how to find the true beginning of events beneath that very same performance.
In Twelve to Murder by Lauren Carr, Mac Faraday is drawn into a situation of strangely surreal circumstances. The former child-star and idol, Lenny Frost, becomes the prime suspect in the murder of his prior agent and her husband. Lenny has taken hostages in a local pub and demands that Mac find the killer. He has twelve hours to find the responsible party before Lenny begins killing hostages. Mac finds he too must play a part as he tries to ease the tension, and get hostages released. With all the food and drinks they can handle, he is having difficulty getting his job done.
Questioning Lenny, he feels he has some possibilities. How could Lenny be responsible and yet maintain his innocence by taking lives to prove his point. Mac has a very limited time to find the answers to the murder, and keep his client from killing innocent hostages. As the drama and strange events continue to weave throughout the story, Mac is at odds with himself. Can he find the murderer in time to stop the freight train that will not stop until it derails the life of Lenny Frost?
Carr has brought us an entertaining mystery and comedic intrigue, making you guess till the very end in this tale of murder. Her characters are just what you would expect to encounter in some of the same circumstances and you find then either quite likable, quirky or just possibly deadly. Yet who is who, the directions are coy and confusing sending you into differing thoughts of possibilities.
Mac Faraday is an excellent character with just the right amount of emotion and humor. He is also very responsible and cares deeply about those he encounters. A few flaws and a huge heart help him to win your thoughts and you hope he finds the answers.
If you enjoy mystery and comedy you will find this fills the bill. With odd duck characters and potential possibilities everywhere you will want to keep reading from start to finish. While not the usual book club type of read, the humor and sensitivities would create a great reaction and discussion. Carr is an author to watch for and Faraday is investigator of worth. I hope they both show up often.
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
March 6, 2014
Janice and Austin are found murdered in their home. Has-been Lenny Frost, Janice's former child-star client, is the suspect ... a witness saw him entering the house the night of the murder and Janice had written his name with her blood before she died. In a desperate attempt to get the police to proof his innocence, Lenny takes some patrons in a pub hostage and demands that the police find out who is the real killer within twelve hours ... if not, at midnight the hostages will be killed.
As detective Mac Faraday and his friend/cop, David O'Callaghan, start to investigate, they discover that this story could be tied to some incidents that happened many years ago ... Lenny's girlfriend, Kate, had committed suicide and Lenny had been kidnapped (the money was never recovered and kidnapper wasn't caught). In addition, there is major drug dealing at the club Janice had bought for her son, Derrick ... could it have been a drug deal gone bad that caused Janice and Austin to killed?
This is the second book I've read by this author and I enjoyed it. I liked the writing style and thought it flowed well. The writing was suspenseful and funny at times. There were lots of twists and turns and things to keep track of. Thank goodness Mac and David summarized everything at the end and pulled everything together so I could see how it all fit.
It is the latest in the Mac Faraday series (#7 maybe?). Though it is part of a series, it worked well as a stand alone ... you don't need to have read the previous ones to know what's going on (it's the first I've read in this series).
There were a lot of characters and at first I found it hard to keep track of them. There was a cast of characters list in the front of the book to refer back to if needed. I liked the interaction between the characters. They obviously cared about each other. Mac's "lady love" is Archie ... they are at the point where she wants to move forward and get married but he's still cautious because he'd been burned by his ex-wife. Mac's dog, Gnarly, is funny.
I liked the characters and the setting and look forward to reading others in this series and others by this author.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2014/03...
As detective Mac Faraday and his friend/cop, David O'Callaghan, start to investigate, they discover that this story could be tied to some incidents that happened many years ago ... Lenny's girlfriend, Kate, had committed suicide and Lenny had been kidnapped (the money was never recovered and kidnapper wasn't caught). In addition, there is major drug dealing at the club Janice had bought for her son, Derrick ... could it have been a drug deal gone bad that caused Janice and Austin to killed?
This is the second book I've read by this author and I enjoyed it. I liked the writing style and thought it flowed well. The writing was suspenseful and funny at times. There were lots of twists and turns and things to keep track of. Thank goodness Mac and David summarized everything at the end and pulled everything together so I could see how it all fit.
It is the latest in the Mac Faraday series (#7 maybe?). Though it is part of a series, it worked well as a stand alone ... you don't need to have read the previous ones to know what's going on (it's the first I've read in this series).
There were a lot of characters and at first I found it hard to keep track of them. There was a cast of characters list in the front of the book to refer back to if needed. I liked the interaction between the characters. They obviously cared about each other. Mac's "lady love" is Archie ... they are at the point where she wants to move forward and get married but he's still cautious because he'd been burned by his ex-wife. Mac's dog, Gnarly, is funny.
I liked the characters and the setting and look forward to reading others in this series and others by this author.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2014/03...
March 18, 2014
Did I enjoy this book: Yes.
Twelve To Murder is a clever blend of comedy, mystery, and sappy love story. Lauren Carr does a good job of moving the quirky storyline along nicely with an abundance of witty dialogue. And you have no idea who the good guys are and who the bad guys are until the end.
She creates a variety of atypical characters. The protagonist is likeable. The obligatory love interest is someone you want to see the hero marry. And even the German shepherd, Gnarly, has a well-developed love story. Gnarly kind of steals the story providing some wonderful comic relief. Not that it’s really necessary given the behavior of the hostage ‘’victims” and other peculiar characters.
The setting is in Maryland, again an unusual choice considering the characters are mostly big shot Hollywood types. But I think that’s a big part of what makes the book worth reading. It’s a good story and it’s told in a unique way.
Why four stars instead of five? Somewhere around 65%, the quirkiness and humor wore thin and I just wanted to know whodunit.
Would I recommend it: I do. I think this book would appeal to the same target audience as the TV show Castle. It’s a fun mystery that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Will I read it again: I will not.
As reviewed by Belinda at Every Free Chance Book Reviews.
(I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2014/03/bl...
Twelve To Murder is a clever blend of comedy, mystery, and sappy love story. Lauren Carr does a good job of moving the quirky storyline along nicely with an abundance of witty dialogue. And you have no idea who the good guys are and who the bad guys are until the end.
She creates a variety of atypical characters. The protagonist is likeable. The obligatory love interest is someone you want to see the hero marry. And even the German shepherd, Gnarly, has a well-developed love story. Gnarly kind of steals the story providing some wonderful comic relief. Not that it’s really necessary given the behavior of the hostage ‘’victims” and other peculiar characters.
The setting is in Maryland, again an unusual choice considering the characters are mostly big shot Hollywood types. But I think that’s a big part of what makes the book worth reading. It’s a good story and it’s told in a unique way.
Why four stars instead of five? Somewhere around 65%, the quirkiness and humor wore thin and I just wanted to know whodunit.
Would I recommend it: I do. I think this book would appeal to the same target audience as the TV show Castle. It’s a fun mystery that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Will I read it again: I will not.
As reviewed by Belinda at Every Free Chance Book Reviews.
(I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
http://everyfreechance.com/2014/03/bl...
March 23, 2014
To see my full review:
http://wp.me/p1jhaj-4Df
If you’ve ever wondered about the has-beens, the child stars that disappear from view, who wake up one morning and realize they’ve passed their prime and they’re not even 20 yet, then this is definitely a story for you. Complete with murder, mayhem, and a mystery that will keep you guessing, Carr once again delivers a punch with her latest Mac Faraday novel, Twelve to Murder.
Like all Carr’s other novels, Twelve to Murder glued me to its pages from the very start, and while this murder mystery looks like it may be a cut and dried whodunit, Carr’s expertise keeps readers guessing as the twists and turns unfold.
Mac Faraday is perhaps my favorite sleuth of all time. He’s rational and extremely good at what he does, and I always get excited when another novel in the series releases. Carr’s novels maintains an air of mystery yet is offset with humor as Farday’s fiancé Archie and his canine “helper” Gnarly come of the scene. The characterization of all the characters, both stationary and new is always superbly done, and Carr’s latest release, Twelve to Murder, is no different. I love her attention to detail and the many “aha” moments as it all unfolds. The fact that each of these novels can stand alone is also a testament to Carr’s sheer writing ability, though you don’t want to miss out on any of Mac Faraday’s awesome mysteries, so make sure you read them all—Twelve to Murder is as good a place to start as any!
http://wp.me/p1jhaj-4Df
If you’ve ever wondered about the has-beens, the child stars that disappear from view, who wake up one morning and realize they’ve passed their prime and they’re not even 20 yet, then this is definitely a story for you. Complete with murder, mayhem, and a mystery that will keep you guessing, Carr once again delivers a punch with her latest Mac Faraday novel, Twelve to Murder.
Like all Carr’s other novels, Twelve to Murder glued me to its pages from the very start, and while this murder mystery looks like it may be a cut and dried whodunit, Carr’s expertise keeps readers guessing as the twists and turns unfold.
Mac Faraday is perhaps my favorite sleuth of all time. He’s rational and extremely good at what he does, and I always get excited when another novel in the series releases. Carr’s novels maintains an air of mystery yet is offset with humor as Farday’s fiancé Archie and his canine “helper” Gnarly come of the scene. The characterization of all the characters, both stationary and new is always superbly done, and Carr’s latest release, Twelve to Murder, is no different. I love her attention to detail and the many “aha” moments as it all unfolds. The fact that each of these novels can stand alone is also a testament to Carr’s sheer writing ability, though you don’t want to miss out on any of Mac Faraday’s awesome mysteries, so make sure you read them all—Twelve to Murder is as good a place to start as any!
February 11, 2014
Anyone who is near the news can’t help but hear about the fall of one child star or teenybopper idol after another. Miley Cyrus twerking everywhere. Lindsay Lohan going in and out of rehab like it had a revolving door. Has-beens arrested and committing suicide or dying of overdoses. In the eighties, Corey Haim was a very successful child star, became a teen-idol, and ended up dead before he was forty.
For best-selling mystery author Lauren Carr, such stories cause her to ask “What if…”
Such was the seed that inspired Twelve to Murder. “What if,” Lauren said, “a very intelligent boy reached his peak before even reaching legal drinking age? What are the emotional effects to an extremely intelligent young man when he realizes he’ll never reach the same level of success that he had when he was a teenager? How does it feel to be a has-been? What would such a person do when suddenly, he is featured on the news again, only this time, it is because he has been accused of a double homicide?”
In Lauren Carr’s latest Mac Faraday Mystery, such is the case of former child-star and teen-idol Lenny Frost when he steps into a pub in Deep Creek Lake to see his face on the television over the bar with the announcement that once again, he’s wanted…for the murder of his agent and her husband!
How does Lenny Frost react to this sudden celebrity? He takes everyone hostage and gives Mac Faraday twelve hours to find the real killer or he’s going to kill everyone in the bar.
For best-selling mystery author Lauren Carr, such stories cause her to ask “What if…”
Such was the seed that inspired Twelve to Murder. “What if,” Lauren said, “a very intelligent boy reached his peak before even reaching legal drinking age? What are the emotional effects to an extremely intelligent young man when he realizes he’ll never reach the same level of success that he had when he was a teenager? How does it feel to be a has-been? What would such a person do when suddenly, he is featured on the news again, only this time, it is because he has been accused of a double homicide?”
In Lauren Carr’s latest Mac Faraday Mystery, such is the case of former child-star and teen-idol Lenny Frost when he steps into a pub in Deep Creek Lake to see his face on the television over the bar with the announcement that once again, he’s wanted…for the murder of his agent and her husband!
How does Lenny Frost react to this sudden celebrity? He takes everyone hostage and gives Mac Faraday twelve hours to find the real killer or he’s going to kill everyone in the bar.
February 11, 2014
4 STARS
Twelve to Murder is latest Mac Faraday Mystery. It has good suspense, twists & turns, humor, Gnarly and gang. It makes you want to come back and visit. Lots of action, mysteries even some cold cases on the west coast. I did figure one case out but not the others.
Mac Faraday was left millions from his birth mother, Gnarly. Mac was a homicide detective. Now he helps out the local police chief when murders happen locally.
David O'Callaghan Police Chief and Mac's half brother. Their father was Police Chief for a bunch of years.
Gnarly a German shepherd is a thief and a smart dog.
The plot is a double murder with the victim writing a name in blood. David calls Mac into help. Then the suspect takes a bar hostage and asks for a famous fictional character that Mac's mom wrote that looks a lot like Mac. So Mac goes into help and he is told to solve the murder in twelve hours or he will kill all the hostages.
A minor plot is Mac and Archie have a fight sort of. She wants to plan the wedding and set a date. Everyone finds out and comments on it.
If your already a Mac Faraday fan you will want to get Lauren's newest mystery. If you have not read one do pick one up. It can stand alone.
The setting is a small resort town with a lot of rich peoples homes or second homes.
It is fast paced.
March 10, 2014
When Austin and Janice Stillman are found murdered in their summer home at Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, one of the suspects is Lenny Frost, a former child actor who had been represented by Janice Stillman.
But just when other suspects are brought into focus, Lenny enters a local pub and takes all the customers hostage, demanding that Mac Faraday find the true killer before midnight. Or he will start killing hostages.
From this point on, the plot thickens, twists, and turns, and numerous characters fill up the canvas, making our jaunt fun and puzzling. What, if anything, do the current murders have to do with Lenny's kidnapping years ago when he was seventeen? Who was involved in that crime, and how does it all somehow make sense at the end of the day? Are there numerous people out to get Lenny, or is he just paranoid?
It is never a simple path to solving mysteries with Mac Faraday, David O'Callaghan, and Archie Monday and associates on the case. The fun is in trying to keep up with their theories and how they will ultimately sort through the clues. Gnarly is a great companion to any mystery in Deep Creek Lake...unless someone has fed him chili.
Another great romp that kept me riveted to the pages, "Twelve to Murder: A Mac Faraday Mystery" earned 4.5 stars.
But just when other suspects are brought into focus, Lenny enters a local pub and takes all the customers hostage, demanding that Mac Faraday find the true killer before midnight. Or he will start killing hostages.
From this point on, the plot thickens, twists, and turns, and numerous characters fill up the canvas, making our jaunt fun and puzzling. What, if anything, do the current murders have to do with Lenny's kidnapping years ago when he was seventeen? Who was involved in that crime, and how does it all somehow make sense at the end of the day? Are there numerous people out to get Lenny, or is he just paranoid?
It is never a simple path to solving mysteries with Mac Faraday, David O'Callaghan, and Archie Monday and associates on the case. The fun is in trying to keep up with their theories and how they will ultimately sort through the clues. Gnarly is a great companion to any mystery in Deep Creek Lake...unless someone has fed him chili.
Another great romp that kept me riveted to the pages, "Twelve to Murder: A Mac Faraday Mystery" earned 4.5 stars.
April 24, 2014
In Twelve To Murder by Lauren Carr readers are introduced to Mac Faraday retired homicide detective who is working the death of two people on Deep Creek Lake. Mac has twelve hours to solve these murders along with freeing hostages in a local pub. Former child star, Lenny Frost has take hostages giving him leverage to force Mac to solve the murders. As Mac delves into this mystery the twist and turns begin to cause Mac problems. Will he solve the case before midnight?
Archie Monday is hopelessly in love with Mac Faraday. Archie believes they are ready for the next step in their relationship but Mac is not there yet. Archie is trying to be understanding because she knows Mac loves and cares for her, but how long should she wait? Mac does want to be with Archie but past hurts have to be resolved before he will be ready to move forward.
Twelve To Murder was about a hostage situation that was running out of time but was also taken overboard. This book had mystery and humor, which overpowered the story at time but still kept me interested. I would recommend this book to others.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes.
Teresa Beasley
4 Stars=Great Page Turner
Archie Monday is hopelessly in love with Mac Faraday. Archie believes they are ready for the next step in their relationship but Mac is not there yet. Archie is trying to be understanding because she knows Mac loves and cares for her, but how long should she wait? Mac does want to be with Archie but past hurts have to be resolved before he will be ready to move forward.
Twelve To Murder was about a hostage situation that was running out of time but was also taken overboard. This book had mystery and humor, which overpowered the story at time but still kept me interested. I would recommend this book to others.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes.
Teresa Beasley
4 Stars=Great Page Turner
March 24, 2014
This is the first Lauren Carr book I have read and this was a great book. Rarely do I get to read a really good mystery book that keeps you guessing all the way to the end like this one did. Every time you think you got everything figured out a new piece comes into play and your blown away.
I adored the life that Lauren brought to all her characters, including the ferocious Gnarly. The book is chopped full of great humor that will have you laughing about the dog, relationships and life. This has the be the most zany and hilarious hostage situation that anyone could have imagined. It was fabulous. I could picture this happening in some small town where everyone knows everyone and takes no one serious.
The book is filled with action,mystery,humor, romance and good ol fashioned revenge.Whats not to love? This is one of those books you hold onto and read again.
Disclaimer: This review was based on an advanced reader copy (ARC) of Twelve to Murder provided by the author through pumpuoyourbooks review program.
I adored the life that Lauren brought to all her characters, including the ferocious Gnarly. The book is chopped full of great humor that will have you laughing about the dog, relationships and life. This has the be the most zany and hilarious hostage situation that anyone could have imagined. It was fabulous. I could picture this happening in some small town where everyone knows everyone and takes no one serious.
The book is filled with action,mystery,humor, romance and good ol fashioned revenge.Whats not to love? This is one of those books you hold onto and read again.
Disclaimer: This review was based on an advanced reader copy (ARC) of Twelve to Murder provided by the author through pumpuoyourbooks review program.
August 17, 2014
Another great read by Lauren Carr.
Another great read by Lauren Carr.
I have become a recent fan of this series. you can become jaded with mystery writers. but this series keeps you guessing and enjoying. great storyline, with just enough twists you wonder if you do know who's who. the characters are great. well developed and with life of their own.
you don't have to be a fan of this series to enjoy the book. it's strong enough to stand on it's own. you are gently pulled into the story and wrapped tight before you know it.
highly recommended read for mystery fans.
Another great read by Lauren Carr.
I have become a recent fan of this series. you can become jaded with mystery writers. but this series keeps you guessing and enjoying. great storyline, with just enough twists you wonder if you do know who's who. the characters are great. well developed and with life of their own.
you don't have to be a fan of this series to enjoy the book. it's strong enough to stand on it's own. you are gently pulled into the story and wrapped tight before you know it.
highly recommended read for mystery fans.
March 19, 2014
As always, Lauren Carr brings an action packed story that is almost impossible to put down. Her mystery plots have so many twists and turns, I didn't know if I was coming or going. And the action just didn't stop, from the very beginning, till the very end. If you haven't read any of Lauren's work, I suggest you do she is a great writer and this one didn't disappoint at all. I look forward to reading more Mac Faraday novels in the future as they always keep me entertained.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review
March 24, 2014
This was a really good mystery. I was worried that Mac would run out of time, and the hostages would be killed. I felt bad for Lenny and hoped that he was innocent. The people of the town were likable and I enjoyed the small town feel of the book. The cast of characters at the beginning of the book helped me remember who was who in the town. I loved Gnarly! I liked the descriptive scenes in the book, and I could see the bloody letters. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.
March 7, 2014
MAC & HIS CREW ARE BACK, SPENCER MOUNTAIN IS AS CRAZY AS EVER. I LOVE THIS SERIES, I WAS PARTLY RIGHT ABOUT WHO-DID-WHAT AND WHY. THIS WAS SO FUNNY IN PARTS AND KEPT ME TRYING TO FIQURE OUT ALL THE CRAZY STUFF GOING ON. I'M SO GLAD EVERYTHING AND EVERYBODY GOT WHAT WAS COMING TO THEM, GOOD AND BAD. ONE THING I WANT TO KNOW WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO THE SQUIRREL?? ;D
April 4, 2022
cozy mystery. Mac solves multiple murders going back decades. narcissistic psychopath on scene. re-read march, 2017. Re-read again in 2022.. Still depressing.
Read
February 27, 2014Review is posted here :)
http://missbooklover.blogspot.com/201...
http://missbooklover.blogspot.com/201...
April 23, 2014
An enjoyable murder mystery with likeable characters in a small-town setting with Gnarly to lighten the mood. I rate this one 4.5 stars.
March 17, 2014
I always enjoy this mystery series. Light, take a break and relax, reading.
July 15, 2017
Note: Even though this is Book 7 in the series, it works just fine as a stand alone.
With the gruesome murder of the Stillmans, the police of Spencer, Maryland are out in force. Unfortunately, they fail to corral Derrick Stillman before he talks to the press, throwing blame for the murders on former child movie star Lenny Frost. From there, we end up with a group of drunk baseball enthusiasts held hostage while Mac Faraday and his half-brother police chief David O’Callaghan dig into the sordid pasts of all these people, the victims and suspects alike.
This was a delicious murder mystery that brings together failed movie careers, hostage situations, double and triple crossing, and guilt trips. Also, we delve into Mac’s love life a bit as his girlfriend Archie pushes to know why he doesn’t want to take the next step. Meanwhile, Gnarly dog is having girlfriend trouble of his own as he was pimped out, only to return to his regular girlfriend, Molly dog.
My favorite scenes were the old timers at the bar who are nearly oblivious to being held hostage (if only everyone would quiet down so they could enjoy the ball game!) and then when David takes on the female stunt woman Sela Wallace and walks away with some injuries. I also liked the jokes at Gnarly’s expense (lovingly doled out). He did over eat a bit, and it was weird bar food, so of course he would have digestive issues later on.
As a minor quibble, Wanda at the police station is described the exact same way in each book. I think I only noticed this because I have been listening to these books back to back. The sentences are the same, explaining that she’s almost always at the office because her grown kids and their offspring moved back home and she’s avoiding that chaos. With that said, we actually get to know more about her in this book as she has several lines while folks gather at the police station to figure out this tangled mystery.
I liked how we had two alcoholics/addicts in this tale. One has obviously worked hard to clean up his act while the other only enjoys the drama of the cycle (treatment, recovery, falling off the wagon, binges, treatment, etc.). It pulled at the heart strings a bit to see how one was trusted over the other with the resultant consequences.
Over all, it was a good solid mystery with plenty of moving parts and more than one guilty person with more than one motive. I love the way Mac puts challenges in front of his hotel manager, a really good guy who takes his job seriously.
I received a free copy of this book via iRead Book Tours.
The Narration: James C. Lewis was OK with this book. His female voices were good but his range wasn’t that big. Often, I had to listen closely to keep track of who was talking unless it was a character with a distinct accent. The narrators keep changing for this series and I think that’s part of it. I had gotten used to Mike Algers and previously Dan Lawson did an incredible job on one of the books. Book 1 was narrated by a woman, Janean Jorgenson. As a stand alone, I would say this is a decent narration.
With the gruesome murder of the Stillmans, the police of Spencer, Maryland are out in force. Unfortunately, they fail to corral Derrick Stillman before he talks to the press, throwing blame for the murders on former child movie star Lenny Frost. From there, we end up with a group of drunk baseball enthusiasts held hostage while Mac Faraday and his half-brother police chief David O’Callaghan dig into the sordid pasts of all these people, the victims and suspects alike.
This was a delicious murder mystery that brings together failed movie careers, hostage situations, double and triple crossing, and guilt trips. Also, we delve into Mac’s love life a bit as his girlfriend Archie pushes to know why he doesn’t want to take the next step. Meanwhile, Gnarly dog is having girlfriend trouble of his own as he was pimped out, only to return to his regular girlfriend, Molly dog.
My favorite scenes were the old timers at the bar who are nearly oblivious to being held hostage (if only everyone would quiet down so they could enjoy the ball game!) and then when David takes on the female stunt woman Sela Wallace and walks away with some injuries. I also liked the jokes at Gnarly’s expense (lovingly doled out). He did over eat a bit, and it was weird bar food, so of course he would have digestive issues later on.
As a minor quibble, Wanda at the police station is described the exact same way in each book. I think I only noticed this because I have been listening to these books back to back. The sentences are the same, explaining that she’s almost always at the office because her grown kids and their offspring moved back home and she’s avoiding that chaos. With that said, we actually get to know more about her in this book as she has several lines while folks gather at the police station to figure out this tangled mystery.
I liked how we had two alcoholics/addicts in this tale. One has obviously worked hard to clean up his act while the other only enjoys the drama of the cycle (treatment, recovery, falling off the wagon, binges, treatment, etc.). It pulled at the heart strings a bit to see how one was trusted over the other with the resultant consequences.
Over all, it was a good solid mystery with plenty of moving parts and more than one guilty person with more than one motive. I love the way Mac puts challenges in front of his hotel manager, a really good guy who takes his job seriously.
I received a free copy of this book via iRead Book Tours.
The Narration: James C. Lewis was OK with this book. His female voices were good but his range wasn’t that big. Often, I had to listen closely to keep track of who was talking unless it was a character with a distinct accent. The narrators keep changing for this series and I think that’s part of it. I had gotten used to Mike Algers and previously Dan Lawson did an incredible job on one of the books. Book 1 was narrated by a woman, Janean Jorgenson. As a stand alone, I would say this is a decent narration.
May 31, 2017
Twelve to Murder
A Mac Faraday Mystery #7
By Lauren Carr
Narrated by James C. Lewis
It was the perfect early morning in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, at least it was. The peacefulness is broken upon the discovery of a double homicide. And the clue that is left behind points to a washed-up former child-star. But is the clue the killer's identity or an attempt frame Lenny Frost?
Mac Faraday and David O'Callaghan are determined to get to the bottom of this crime but before they can start putting the pieces together - Lenny Frost acts - taking hostages and demanding his name be cleared. And he's given them a timeline and the clock is counting down to midnight...
With time against them and a scarcity of clues Mac, David and rest of the Spencer police force have their work cut out for them. Fortunately, or not, Gnarly is on their side and Gnarly always gets his man.
To truly understand this case and all its complexities Mac and David will have to delve into the past of Lenny and that of the Stillman's, the couple found murdered in their summer home, If they can discover the why they will discover who killed them and why Lenny was implicated.
With the clock ticking down the suspense goes up. And with Gnarly around you know there will be laughs and awkward moments - after all a kleptomaniac German Shepherd is not to be ignored. The mystery is steady throughout and the identity of the killer is exposed in such a way that the reader/listener will be kept involved throughout the story.
The writing style is steady with no drag and the narration is a good blend with the story. The narrator, James C. Lewis, with his reading suits the pacing of the story. His voice is not grating and he does each character justice including Gnarly.
At 6 hours and 39 minutes, this is audiobook is a perfect for length for work commutes. If you are looking for an easy on the eyes book this is the perfect alternative. And if you are in search of a mystery that will keep you in suspense give this one a try. Audiobooks are the perfect foil for readers who like to skip ahead in their books
I was provided a free copy of this book by the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
A Mac Faraday Mystery #7
By Lauren Carr
Narrated by James C. Lewis
It was the perfect early morning in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, at least it was. The peacefulness is broken upon the discovery of a double homicide. And the clue that is left behind points to a washed-up former child-star. But is the clue the killer's identity or an attempt frame Lenny Frost?
Mac Faraday and David O'Callaghan are determined to get to the bottom of this crime but before they can start putting the pieces together - Lenny Frost acts - taking hostages and demanding his name be cleared. And he's given them a timeline and the clock is counting down to midnight...
With time against them and a scarcity of clues Mac, David and rest of the Spencer police force have their work cut out for them. Fortunately, or not, Gnarly is on their side and Gnarly always gets his man.
To truly understand this case and all its complexities Mac and David will have to delve into the past of Lenny and that of the Stillman's, the couple found murdered in their summer home, If they can discover the why they will discover who killed them and why Lenny was implicated.
With the clock ticking down the suspense goes up. And with Gnarly around you know there will be laughs and awkward moments - after all a kleptomaniac German Shepherd is not to be ignored. The mystery is steady throughout and the identity of the killer is exposed in such a way that the reader/listener will be kept involved throughout the story.
The writing style is steady with no drag and the narration is a good blend with the story. The narrator, James C. Lewis, with his reading suits the pacing of the story. His voice is not grating and he does each character justice including Gnarly.
At 6 hours and 39 minutes, this is audiobook is a perfect for length for work commutes. If you are looking for an easy on the eyes book this is the perfect alternative. And if you are in search of a mystery that will keep you in suspense give this one a try. Audiobooks are the perfect foil for readers who like to skip ahead in their books
I was provided a free copy of this book by the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 14, 2022
This has got to be the funniest hostage situation ever and I loved it!!! Once again this author has written a compelling story that grabs you from the very start and doesn't let go. Definitely a good show of why this author has quickly become one of my favourites, who else can write humour into such a dead and complicated situation and it seem effortlessly. There was lots of factors (okay people and bodies) going on in this murder but somehow it never got confusing, a sign of a good writer. It's hard to explain what was so good with out giving too much away, so let's just say there is lots of twist. This is book 7 in this wonderful series and it makes for a great standalone but to be honest why would you want to miss out by not reading or listening to the others? As for the characters? Well they are just brilliant, the author has created a nice core group of characters and with book 7 they seem like family, you get to know them and how think that well. I can't wait for the next book.
Mac and Archie's romantic weekend gets cut short when police chief David O'Callahan, who is also Mac's step brother calls him in to consult on a case. The case seems cut and dried, literally the victim wrote the killers name in her own blood. Mac isn't sure why he is there until the son carries out a live press conference naming the killer. This set things spinning and the alleged killer Lenny takes hostages in a pub and will only take to a fictional character, one Mac's mother created and Lenny got his big break as a child star. Is he delusion, crazy or a clever master mind? The only way to find out and free the hostages is for Mac and his sidekick Gnarly to turn themselves over to him and hope that David and his team can solve the case from outside.
I liked the narrator. This author has had several narrator's for this series but to be honest they have all been very good and I haven't really noticed a change.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Mac and Archie's romantic weekend gets cut short when police chief David O'Callahan, who is also Mac's step brother calls him in to consult on a case. The case seems cut and dried, literally the victim wrote the killers name in her own blood. Mac isn't sure why he is there until the son carries out a live press conference naming the killer. This set things spinning and the alleged killer Lenny takes hostages in a pub and will only take to a fictional character, one Mac's mother created and Lenny got his big break as a child star. Is he delusion, crazy or a clever master mind? The only way to find out and free the hostages is for Mac and his sidekick Gnarly to turn themselves over to him and hope that David and his team can solve the case from outside.
I liked the narrator. This author has had several narrator's for this series but to be honest they have all been very good and I haven't really noticed a change.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
September 23, 2023
This is the 7th book from the Mac Faraday series,
This mystery involves a child prodigy actor whose career fades the older he gets. Suddenly his agent and her husband are killed and it appears that the agent wrote his name on the wall with her blood. When word gets out of the murders, the actor walks into a bar and holds everyone hostage until Mac finds the real killer.
her
This is a typical Carr mystery complex with lots of characters and some twists that I always enjoy. There was just too much complexity for a three-chapter-a-day read. I must be getting old but reading at night in bed is not the path for Carr's books.
I do enjoy the regular characters- Archie, David, etc. I am looking forward to the next book where Mac and Archie tie the knot after he proposed in this last book.
This mystery involves a child prodigy actor whose career fades the older he gets. Suddenly his agent and her husband are killed and it appears that the agent wrote his name on the wall with her blood. When word gets out of the murders, the actor walks into a bar and holds everyone hostage until Mac finds the real killer.
her
This is a typical Carr mystery complex with lots of characters and some twists that I always enjoy. There was just too much complexity for a three-chapter-a-day read. I must be getting old but reading at night in bed is not the path for Carr's books.
I do enjoy the regular characters- Archie, David, etc. I am looking forward to the next book where Mac and Archie tie the knot after he proposed in this last book.
June 9, 2022
I chose to read this book after receiving a free e-copy from iRead Book Tours. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
I have read quite a few of Lauren Carr’s books and Mac Faraday is the first character of hers that I read about. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to read all of the books in order, so now I’m catching up. This is the seventh book in the series.
All poor Mac wants to do is spend a quiet weekend with his girlfriend, Archie. Unfortunately, he has to put that on hold when two people are murdered. This case starts out bizarre and just gets crazier. There are many suspects that David and Mac have to sift through, and one of the strangest hostage situations anyone could imagine. By the end of the book, I actually felt sorry for most of the suspects.
There are quite a few characters as is usual for Lauren Carr’s books. She always has a list of characters at the front of the book in case it’s needed, which is nice. In fact, I did use it once or twice this time. I like how the relationship between Mac and Archie is developing.
I definitely recommend Twelve to Murder. It has a great ending! If you like mystery and intrigue along with a touch of sweet romance and humor, this is the series for you. This book does stand-alone though.
I have read quite a few of Lauren Carr’s books and Mac Faraday is the first character of hers that I read about. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to read all of the books in order, so now I’m catching up. This is the seventh book in the series.
All poor Mac wants to do is spend a quiet weekend with his girlfriend, Archie. Unfortunately, he has to put that on hold when two people are murdered. This case starts out bizarre and just gets crazier. There are many suspects that David and Mac have to sift through, and one of the strangest hostage situations anyone could imagine. By the end of the book, I actually felt sorry for most of the suspects.
There are quite a few characters as is usual for Lauren Carr’s books. She always has a list of characters at the front of the book in case it’s needed, which is nice. In fact, I did use it once or twice this time. I like how the relationship between Mac and Archie is developing.
I definitely recommend Twelve to Murder. It has a great ending! If you like mystery and intrigue along with a touch of sweet romance and humor, this is the series for you. This book does stand-alone though.
May 9, 2022
Twelve to Murder by Lauren Carr is the seventh book in the A Mac Faraday Mystery series and it was a great addition to the series. Recently I have been listening to a lot of audio books in this series and so far this one is my current favorite of the series. I just really liked the quirky storyline and the way it made me laugh while also keeping me invested in trying to figure out the mystery!
February 21, 2019
Lauren Carr always delivers
Mac always sees the little things that don't make sense to find the correct solution. Sometimes the solution is so mired in details that makes the story a little difficult to follow. But the author always delivers an interesting story.
Mac always sees the little things that don't make sense to find the correct solution. Sometimes the solution is so mired in details that makes the story a little difficult to follow. But the author always delivers an interesting story.
April 6, 2021
I loved it when Mac and Gnarly got voted out...best punch line ever. The murders were intricate and the trail was twisted, going back many years. Finally Mac moves his romance with Archie forward. Gnarly as a horndog was priceless as was his lady love’s reaction.
May 17, 2017
Full review to be posted for book tour... but I AM VERY obsessed with this series.
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