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Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery #4
Drape Expectations
These days, home stager Caprice De Luca’s calendar is a full house. Her grandmother’s health is failing, her wayward uncle is stirring the pot, and she’s torn between two equally eligible suitors. With so much drama in her personal life, Caprice is grateful to have Ace Richland, a former 80s rock star, ask her to stage his girlfriend’s house. But Alanna Goodwin is a tough customer who balks at Caprice’s ideas and all but commandeers the staging. Caprice almost isn’t surprised when the snappish Southern belle is strangled to death with a tieback from her tacky velvet drapes. But just as she draws back the curtains on the truth, Caprice realizes she may be next on a murderer’s set list…
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 15, 2015
133 people are currently reading
918 people want to read
About the author
Karen Rose Smith
352 books910 followersAward-winning author Karen Rose Smith was born in Pennsylvania. Although she was an only child, she remembers the bonds of an extended family. Family is a strong theme in her books and she suspects her childhood memories are the reason.
In college, Karen began writing poetry and also met her husband to be. They both began married life as teachers, but when their son was born, Karen decided to try her hand at a home-decorating business.
She returned to teaching for a while but changes in her life led her to writing relationship novels. Now she writes romances as well as mysteries full time. Her first book was published in 1992; her 110th novel will be published in 2024. A winner of New Jersey's Golden Leaf Award in Short Contemporary Romance, Colorado Romance Writers Award Of Excellence for short contemporary, as well as the Phoenix Desert Rose Chapter's Golden Quill for Traditional Romance, she has also been honored with Cataromance.com's award for Best Special Edition and Washington Romance Writers Career Achievement Award. Her romances have made both the USA TODAY list and the Amazon Romance and Contemporary Romance Bestseller lists. Her mysteries have made the USA TODAY and Barnes and Noble bestseller lists.
She has written for Meteor/Kismet, Kensington, Silhouette and Harlequin. Readers can contact Karen through her website, on Facebook (Karen Rose Smith Author) and on Twitter @ Karenrosesmith, on TIKTOK at karenrosesmithauthor and on Instagram. They can also follow her monthly e-zine IN TOUCH with KAREN ROSE SMITH which has the latest news about her books, recipes and contests.
In college, Karen began writing poetry and also met her husband to be. They both began married life as teachers, but when their son was born, Karen decided to try her hand at a home-decorating business.
She returned to teaching for a while but changes in her life led her to writing relationship novels. Now she writes romances as well as mysteries full time. Her first book was published in 1992; her 110th novel will be published in 2024. A winner of New Jersey's Golden Leaf Award in Short Contemporary Romance, Colorado Romance Writers Award Of Excellence for short contemporary, as well as the Phoenix Desert Rose Chapter's Golden Quill for Traditional Romance, she has also been honored with Cataromance.com's award for Best Special Edition and Washington Romance Writers Career Achievement Award. Her romances have made both the USA TODAY list and the Amazon Romance and Contemporary Romance Bestseller lists. Her mysteries have made the USA TODAY and Barnes and Noble bestseller lists.
She has written for Meteor/Kismet, Kensington, Silhouette and Harlequin. Readers can contact Karen through her website, on Facebook (Karen Rose Smith Author) and on Twitter @ Karenrosesmith, on TIKTOK at karenrosesmithauthor and on Instagram. They can also follow her monthly e-zine IN TOUCH with KAREN ROSE SMITH which has the latest news about her books, recipes and contests.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
June 7, 2015
Caprice gets a call from her friend and client, Ace Richland, a rock star legend making a comeback. He asks her for a favor, to stage his new girlfriend's Kismet house to sell, so that she could move in with him. While Caprice's initial opinion of Alanna is not the greatest, her friendship with Ace wins out and she agrees to meet Alanna at her home and discuss a possible contract. At her first meeting, she quickly realizes how difficult Alanna can be but a promise is a promise. One good thing about her visit is she gets a chance to meet her cat, a beautiful white Persian named Mirabelle, who seems to be starved for attention. During the open house, Caprice realizes that she hasn't seen the cat in a while and goes looking to make sure she is okay. To her horror, she finds that Alanna has locked the cat in a utility closet without food, water, comfortable bedding or light. She quickly supplies these things for the cat, and when she later runs into Alanna and Ace, she loses her temper, gives Alanna a piece of her mind, and then storms out of the open house to go home. So it should come as no surprise to her when Alanna's dead body is found in her home, but unfortunately Ace becomes the prime suspect and once again Caprice finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation. In addition to all this, she starts to question her relationship with Seth, who seems to have no time for her, and her growing friendship with Grant. I enjoy this series, especially all the caring members of Caprice's close-knit family members (love Nana and her sage advice). I also enjoy her interactions with her pet dog, Lady, and her cat, Sophia as well as her concern for the well-being of Mirabelle after Alanna has been murdered. I look forward to the next book in this series, especially to see how Caprice's lovelife decision will impact her and her job. Disclosure: I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2015
Caprice, Caprice..what are you going to do? Which beau will be
the pick for you?
But first, a mystery needs resolution…who murdered Alanna
Goodwin, owner of the White Pillars mansion. Caprice has been
hired to stage Alanna’s home for sale.
Caprice’s friend Ace Richland had recommended her to Alanna.
Caprice discovers that is Alanna is trying to sabotage Ace’s
upcoming road tour working with one of the band members.
Then Ace’s house is robbed of two of his valuable guitars,
and Caprice interest is peaked. Caprice discovers issues of
infidelity, an illegitimate child, and a considerable estate. So
Caprice starts her own investigation.
This book is the fourth book in the Caprice De Luca Home
Staging Mystery series. It can be read as a stand alone.
It is full of intrigue, suspense, suspects, humor, family values,
forgiveness, the awaited romantic decision and great food with
recipes at the end of the story.
Caprice also adds a new fur baby to her household, Mirabelle.
This is the white Persian cat that had been Alanna’s.
So make sure to visit Caprice and her family in Kismet,
Pennsylvania for an enjoyable read.
Thanks to Net Gallery, Kensington Publishing and the author
for the eBook. My opinion is my own
the pick for you?
But first, a mystery needs resolution…who murdered Alanna
Goodwin, owner of the White Pillars mansion. Caprice has been
hired to stage Alanna’s home for sale.
Caprice’s friend Ace Richland had recommended her to Alanna.
Caprice discovers that is Alanna is trying to sabotage Ace’s
upcoming road tour working with one of the band members.
Then Ace’s house is robbed of two of his valuable guitars,
and Caprice interest is peaked. Caprice discovers issues of
infidelity, an illegitimate child, and a considerable estate. So
Caprice starts her own investigation.
This book is the fourth book in the Caprice De Luca Home
Staging Mystery series. It can be read as a stand alone.
It is full of intrigue, suspense, suspects, humor, family values,
forgiveness, the awaited romantic decision and great food with
recipes at the end of the story.
Caprice also adds a new fur baby to her household, Mirabelle.
This is the white Persian cat that had been Alanna’s.
So make sure to visit Caprice and her family in Kismet,
Pennsylvania for an enjoyable read.
Thanks to Net Gallery, Kensington Publishing and the author
for the eBook. My opinion is my own
June 10, 2015
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Publishing through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Once again this is a new series for me. I liked the character of Caprice De Luca quite a lot and think she would be a great friend to have. I haven't ever heard of a house stager before but then again I live in a very rural area. Caprice gets involved when her friend Ace is suspected of killing his girlfriend. There is a love triangle that has apparently been on going in the last few books but it gets resolved in this one. I love her family and them to adopt me. Caprice is an animal lover and actually has some great care tips in there. This is one mystery where I actually didn't have a clue who the killer was until it was revealed in about the last chapter or so. The only thing that aggravating for me and I think its because this was an advance Kindle edition was the font kept switching back and forth. I am going to see about reading the rest of the books in this series because I liked this one so well.
Once again this is a new series for me. I liked the character of Caprice De Luca quite a lot and think she would be a great friend to have. I haven't ever heard of a house stager before but then again I live in a very rural area. Caprice gets involved when her friend Ace is suspected of killing his girlfriend. There is a love triangle that has apparently been on going in the last few books but it gets resolved in this one. I love her family and them to adopt me. Caprice is an animal lover and actually has some great care tips in there. This is one mystery where I actually didn't have a clue who the killer was until it was revealed in about the last chapter or so. The only thing that aggravating for me and I think its because this was an advance Kindle edition was the font kept switching back and forth. I am going to see about reading the rest of the books in this series because I liked this one so well.
June 14, 2015
I absolutely LOVED every minute of this book. While I had figured out many of the twists in this book I was completely surprised by the reveal of the murderer. I am excited to see what lies ahead for this great cast of characters. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review, which in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
June 14, 2016
Drape Expectations is the 4th installment in the Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery series. Set in the quaint town of Kismet, Pennsylvania Caprice has been hired by her rock star friend Ace Richland to stage the home of his new girlfriend, Alanna Goodwin.
Alanna is a Southern Belle with a Texan twang. Caprice is very protective of Ace and his daughter Trista and does not have good feelings about the Southern beauty. Butting heads over the Antebellum Ecstasy staging theme does little to endear Alanna to Caprice and things get even worse when Caprice meets Mirabelle, the homeowner's beautiful yet obviously neglected, white Persian cat.
During the Open House which is catered with delicious foods prepared by Caprice's sister, Nikki, Caprice overhears Alanna conspiring with Ace's keyboardist Len Lowery. It seems that Alanna wants to pressure Ace into marrying her as soon as possible and does not want Ace to go out on the road with his band plus she does not want Trista to living with them. While Caprice is debating on whether or not to tell Ace what Alanna is up to she discovers that Mirabelle has been locked in the homeowner's utility closet with no bedding, food or water. As if her blood wasn't already boiling, the inhumane treatment of the cat by its owner really sets Caprice off and she storms out of the Open House.
When someone breaks into Ace's Secure Room and steals two of his valuable guitars, Caprice is sure that it was the work of either Alanna or Len. But when Ace stumbles on the strangled dead body of Alanna, and becomes the number one suspect, Caprice must jump in and try to clear her friends name. With encouragement from Ace and Alanna's sister Twyla, Caprice sets out to investigate. She also becomes the new owner of Mirabelle, and begins the slow introduction to her own cat Sophia and dog Lady.
Caprice quickly discovers that Alanna is not who she appeared to be on the surface. Her marriage to Barton Goodwin looked good to outsiders, but extramarital affairs and illegitimate children resulted in a bad case of insecurity for Alanna. Having inherited a sizeable estate from her late husband, Alanna leaves behind a considerable estate and plenty of motive for murder. Did Twyla or stepson Archer Ford need the money bad enough to kill her?
Caprice is struggling with her feelings for long time and now absent beau Seth Randolph and her brother's law partner Grant Weatherford. Complicating personal matters, Uncle Dom has moved back in with her parents and the tension in the house is making Caprice's grandmother, Nana sick. I was glad that the author has Caprice make a decision regarding her love life and isn't going to drag the love triangle out through future books.
Another fun addition to this series. I enjoy these characters and their pets so much that I wish I lived in Kismet. There are some terrific recipes in the back of the book and I can't wait to try and duplicate the Chocolate Coffee Loaf and I will definitely be making the Baked Cinnamon Apples on the next cold winter day here in VT.
I'll be waiting patiently for May 2016 and Silence of the Lamps!
I received an Advanced copy of Drape Expectations from NetGalley via publisher Kensington books. While I was not required to write a review I am more than happy to share my honest opinion.
Alanna is a Southern Belle with a Texan twang. Caprice is very protective of Ace and his daughter Trista and does not have good feelings about the Southern beauty. Butting heads over the Antebellum Ecstasy staging theme does little to endear Alanna to Caprice and things get even worse when Caprice meets Mirabelle, the homeowner's beautiful yet obviously neglected, white Persian cat.
During the Open House which is catered with delicious foods prepared by Caprice's sister, Nikki, Caprice overhears Alanna conspiring with Ace's keyboardist Len Lowery. It seems that Alanna wants to pressure Ace into marrying her as soon as possible and does not want Ace to go out on the road with his band plus she does not want Trista to living with them. While Caprice is debating on whether or not to tell Ace what Alanna is up to she discovers that Mirabelle has been locked in the homeowner's utility closet with no bedding, food or water. As if her blood wasn't already boiling, the inhumane treatment of the cat by its owner really sets Caprice off and she storms out of the Open House.
When someone breaks into Ace's Secure Room and steals two of his valuable guitars, Caprice is sure that it was the work of either Alanna or Len. But when Ace stumbles on the strangled dead body of Alanna, and becomes the number one suspect, Caprice must jump in and try to clear her friends name. With encouragement from Ace and Alanna's sister Twyla, Caprice sets out to investigate. She also becomes the new owner of Mirabelle, and begins the slow introduction to her own cat Sophia and dog Lady.
Caprice quickly discovers that Alanna is not who she appeared to be on the surface. Her marriage to Barton Goodwin looked good to outsiders, but extramarital affairs and illegitimate children resulted in a bad case of insecurity for Alanna. Having inherited a sizeable estate from her late husband, Alanna leaves behind a considerable estate and plenty of motive for murder. Did Twyla or stepson Archer Ford need the money bad enough to kill her?
Caprice is struggling with her feelings for long time and now absent beau Seth Randolph and her brother's law partner Grant Weatherford. Complicating personal matters, Uncle Dom has moved back in with her parents and the tension in the house is making Caprice's grandmother, Nana sick. I was glad that the author has Caprice make a decision regarding her love life and isn't going to drag the love triangle out through future books.
Another fun addition to this series. I enjoy these characters and their pets so much that I wish I lived in Kismet. There are some terrific recipes in the back of the book and I can't wait to try and duplicate the Chocolate Coffee Loaf and I will definitely be making the Baked Cinnamon Apples on the next cold winter day here in VT.
I'll be waiting patiently for May 2016 and Silence of the Lamps!
I received an Advanced copy of Drape Expectations from NetGalley via publisher Kensington books. While I was not required to write a review I am more than happy to share my honest opinion.
June 19, 2015
Drape Expectations is a mystery that leaves cozy lovers and animal lovers begging for more. Filled with food, family (both 2 and 4 legged), friends, and suspense, the 4th Caprice De Luca Home Staging mystery is a terrific addition to the series. *For newcomers to the series, home staging is the decoration and setup of a home to highlight its best features and facilitate a sale.
As a favor to her friend Ace, a famous musician, Caprice agrees to stage Alanna's home. She quickly learns that beneath Alanna's southern charm lies a demanding and selfish woman. Even her beautiful Persian cat, Mirabelle receives little attention and affection. When Ace discovers Alanna dead the day after a very public quarrel, the police suspect him of murder. He asks Caprice for help finding the truth. With Grant as backup, and possibly more, Caprice digs into Alanna's life discovering secrets and plans that provide several with a motive for murder - and a motive for stopping Caprice's investigation permanently.
One aspect of the novel I loved was the attention paid to Caprice's relationship with her pets. Her efforts to integrate Mirabelle into her household are familiar to those of us with multi-pet households. I liked how Caprice not only spent time training her puppy Lady (using only positive reinforcement) but also took time to bring her to the dog park, etc. Caprice's pets are clearly part of her family, as much as her relatives are. The author does a wonderful job bringing Caprice and her family to life. As an animal lover, I like books where pets are more than window dressing and are given proper care and attention.
Drape Expectations is an entertaining light mystery with an appealing heroine, cute pets, and very little violence. It is a good choice for mystery lovers of all ages - particularly pet loving ones. As an added bonus, there are delicious recipes included at the end.
Drape Expectations is the 4th Caprice De Luca home staging mystery. The books do not have to be read in order.
Drape Expectations is available for preorder and will be released July 28, 2015.
5/5
I received a copy of Drape Expectations from the publisher and netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
Mystery lovers and animal lovers alike will enjoy Drape Expectations
http://muttcafe.com/2015/06/drape-exp...
As a favor to her friend Ace, a famous musician, Caprice agrees to stage Alanna's home. She quickly learns that beneath Alanna's southern charm lies a demanding and selfish woman. Even her beautiful Persian cat, Mirabelle receives little attention and affection. When Ace discovers Alanna dead the day after a very public quarrel, the police suspect him of murder. He asks Caprice for help finding the truth. With Grant as backup, and possibly more, Caprice digs into Alanna's life discovering secrets and plans that provide several with a motive for murder - and a motive for stopping Caprice's investigation permanently.
One aspect of the novel I loved was the attention paid to Caprice's relationship with her pets. Her efforts to integrate Mirabelle into her household are familiar to those of us with multi-pet households. I liked how Caprice not only spent time training her puppy Lady (using only positive reinforcement) but also took time to bring her to the dog park, etc. Caprice's pets are clearly part of her family, as much as her relatives are. The author does a wonderful job bringing Caprice and her family to life. As an animal lover, I like books where pets are more than window dressing and are given proper care and attention.
Drape Expectations is an entertaining light mystery with an appealing heroine, cute pets, and very little violence. It is a good choice for mystery lovers of all ages - particularly pet loving ones. As an added bonus, there are delicious recipes included at the end.
Drape Expectations is the 4th Caprice De Luca home staging mystery. The books do not have to be read in order.
Drape Expectations is available for preorder and will be released July 28, 2015.
5/5
I received a copy of Drape Expectations from the publisher and netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
Mystery lovers and animal lovers alike will enjoy Drape Expectations
http://muttcafe.com/2015/06/drape-exp...
July 18, 2015
Drape Expectations is book four in the home staging series written by Karen Rose Smith which feature Caprice Deluca. These books are delightful to read because whatever is happening in her career a mystery always occurs and she can’t resist solving it.
Caprice DeLuca is a home stager with busy schedule getting her girlfriend’s house ready for sale, her family, caring for rescued animals along with a complicated love life. Then she gets a phone call from Ace Richland requesting a favor, to stage his girlfriend Alanna’s mansion for sell. As Caprice visits she discovers that Alanna has a cat named Mirabelle which makes her worry about it. The day of the home staging Caprice and Alanna have some issues and Caprice can’t find the cat. Finally, she discovers her in a closet and gives her food and water. Caprice decides to go home.
Ace calls her the next morning to tell her that he found Alanna dead and he has become the prime suspect. When she goes to the mansion; she can’t talk to the officers about the crime. Caprice asks about the cat and she is given Mirabelle until a relative is found.
The characters in this series are like old friends whom you want to know what is going on in their lifes. There are also recipes included. This book moved along at a fast pace and kept me turning pages to attempt to figure out who killed Alanna and free Ace Richland. The twists and turns made the story line more suspenseful which holds your attention to the end. Caprice begins to realize she might be in danger; will she catch the killer before she is next? In addition, Caprice has to make some personal relations decisions about her love life, who will she choose?
I give this book five stars and eagerly await the next one in the series and highly recommend it to everyone who loves cozy mysteries with animals. I received this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Caprice DeLuca is a home stager with busy schedule getting her girlfriend’s house ready for sale, her family, caring for rescued animals along with a complicated love life. Then she gets a phone call from Ace Richland requesting a favor, to stage his girlfriend Alanna’s mansion for sell. As Caprice visits she discovers that Alanna has a cat named Mirabelle which makes her worry about it. The day of the home staging Caprice and Alanna have some issues and Caprice can’t find the cat. Finally, she discovers her in a closet and gives her food and water. Caprice decides to go home.
Ace calls her the next morning to tell her that he found Alanna dead and he has become the prime suspect. When she goes to the mansion; she can’t talk to the officers about the crime. Caprice asks about the cat and she is given Mirabelle until a relative is found.
The characters in this series are like old friends whom you want to know what is going on in their lifes. There are also recipes included. This book moved along at a fast pace and kept me turning pages to attempt to figure out who killed Alanna and free Ace Richland. The twists and turns made the story line more suspenseful which holds your attention to the end. Caprice begins to realize she might be in danger; will she catch the killer before she is next? In addition, Caprice has to make some personal relations decisions about her love life, who will she choose?
I give this book five stars and eagerly await the next one in the series and highly recommend it to everyone who loves cozy mysteries with animals. I received this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2015
Drape Expectations by Karen Rose Smith is a 2015 Kensington Publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the 4th book in the Caprice DeLuca Mystery series.
Ace, a rock legend, is about to embark on a tour, but is also planning to marry a woman named Alanna. So, he ask Caprice to do a staging for his fiance's home, because they plan on moving in together immediately. Caprice agrees to help because Ace is a good friend, but before she gets the project started, Alanna is found murdered, and Ace is the number one suspect.
On a more personal level, Caprice meets her Uncle Dom who has returned home after a twelve year absence, and Caprice is finally ready to address her true feelings for Seth and Grant.
This is a sturdy installment in this cozy mystery series, with a real puzzler of a mystery and a nice balance between the investigation and the on going saga of Caprice's family dramas and her love life.
While I never guessed who the killer was, the conclusion was bit tepid due to the rushed through explanation of the killer's motives, but other than that the story was wonderful and thoroughly entertaining.
Of course Caprice has the help of her pets and even takes care of the victim's cat, which is what I like most about her. I also like her family and although they go through ups and downs, they always stick together and try to work through their issues.
I was delighted by the developments in Caprice's personal life and can't wait to see how everything turns out.
Overall, I recommend this book to all cozy mystery lovers especially those you enjoy home interior and pets.
4 stars
This is the 4th book in the Caprice DeLuca Mystery series.
Ace, a rock legend, is about to embark on a tour, but is also planning to marry a woman named Alanna. So, he ask Caprice to do a staging for his fiance's home, because they plan on moving in together immediately. Caprice agrees to help because Ace is a good friend, but before she gets the project started, Alanna is found murdered, and Ace is the number one suspect.
On a more personal level, Caprice meets her Uncle Dom who has returned home after a twelve year absence, and Caprice is finally ready to address her true feelings for Seth and Grant.
This is a sturdy installment in this cozy mystery series, with a real puzzler of a mystery and a nice balance between the investigation and the on going saga of Caprice's family dramas and her love life.
While I never guessed who the killer was, the conclusion was bit tepid due to the rushed through explanation of the killer's motives, but other than that the story was wonderful and thoroughly entertaining.
Of course Caprice has the help of her pets and even takes care of the victim's cat, which is what I like most about her. I also like her family and although they go through ups and downs, they always stick together and try to work through their issues.
I was delighted by the developments in Caprice's personal life and can't wait to see how everything turns out.
Overall, I recommend this book to all cozy mystery lovers especially those you enjoy home interior and pets.
4 stars
June 7, 2015
*I was given an advanced copy by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Warning MINOR spoilers.
Finally! This book has taken that big step forward that this series needed. Our romantic love triangle gets an answer, plus we get shown a little bit more of the affection, though I still would classify this as a romance series. The mystery was even better than the last. Not so much in itself but more the execution. It was planned out better, the red herrings made sense, and the ending actually was plausible. Add that to the fact that Caprice has really matured, (silly thing to say about a 32-33 year old I know, but) while she still sticks her nose about, she takes advice (like taking self-defense classes, and taking back-up to her 'interviews') plus she is much more willing to co-operate with the police. In short, I no longer wanted to smack her every couple of chapters (lol). If Karen Rose Smith keeps going in this direction I can only hopefully predict that this series will get better and better.
If you've read the first three books in this series, definitely give this one a go.
Warning MINOR spoilers.
Finally! This book has taken that big step forward that this series needed. Our romantic love triangle gets an answer, plus we get shown a little bit more of the affection, though I still would classify this as a romance series. The mystery was even better than the last. Not so much in itself but more the execution. It was planned out better, the red herrings made sense, and the ending actually was plausible. Add that to the fact that Caprice has really matured, (silly thing to say about a 32-33 year old I know, but) while she still sticks her nose about, she takes advice (like taking self-defense classes, and taking back-up to her 'interviews') plus she is much more willing to co-operate with the police. In short, I no longer wanted to smack her every couple of chapters (lol). If Karen Rose Smith keeps going in this direction I can only hopefully predict that this series will get better and better.
If you've read the first three books in this series, definitely give this one a go.
June 20, 2015
Caprice is hired to stage a house for Alanna, the wealthy fiancee of her friend Ace, a former rock star who's trying to get his career going again. As they will get married soon, they want to put her house on the market. That doesn't seem too likely at this point, when Alanna is killed and Ace is named as the main suspect. Poor Caprice, not only is her work life slowing down, but her personal life is being put to the test. Grant and Seth, her gentlemen friends would really like Caprice to decide who she wants to be with. Her formerly estranged uncle moves back to town and moves in with Caprice's parents. Lucky for Caprice and for us, she is a strong modern woman and takes it all in stride.
Drape Expectations is the 4th book in the Caprice DeLuca series. Karen has recently found out that #5 and #6 in this series are a go. I also have, from a reliable source, that Karen has another series that will be out next year.
Drape Expectations is the 4th book in the Caprice DeLuca series. Karen has recently found out that #5 and #6 in this series are a go. I also have, from a reliable source, that Karen has another series that will be out next year.
July 28, 2015
Caprice De Luca homestaging business is moving along fine When she gets a call from Ace Richland to come at once as his fiancee Alanna has been strangled. He found the body and fought her the night before. Her curiosity is caught and she starts exploring what happen. The police and her friends tell her to let the police find the killer. Caprice rescues Mirabella , white Persian cat. The description of introducing Caprice to her cat and dog are great and is funny. Families problems have her attention while Caprice sort s it out.. Will she clear Ace from the MURDER charge?
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through Netgalley for a honest review. I would like to thank for the opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through Netgalley for a honest review. I would like to thank for the opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions are my own.
July 3, 2017
Once again, Caprice is up to her eyeballs in work, pets, family drama and mystery. When Caprice is asked by her friend, rockstar Ace Richland to stage his girlfriend's house, she can not refuse him. Alanna Goodwin is not the easiest person to get along with but Caprice knows she must have a good side if Ace loves her. When Ace finds Alanna dead in her house, he calls Caprice for help. He is immediately suspected of killing her, but Caprice does not believe it. She puts on her detective hat and does her best to unearth clues to find the real killer. While all this is going on, she ends up taking in Alanna's cat and has to deal with socializing Mirabelle with her own pets. Family issues also crop up with her Uncle Dom returning to Kismet after a twelve year self-imposed exile. This puts pressure on Nana and her mom, causing Nana to have health issues. She is juggling jobs and trying to help her sister increase her catering business when a new caterer sets up shop. Her love life is still in trumoil and she needs to figure out if her heart really belongs to Seth, who is still out of town, or will she and Grant finally act on their smoldering feelings. As the clues pile up in the mystery, Caprice has a few suspects, but not enough concrete information. Once again, her sniffing around may be putting her in danger. Will she find the killer? What is going to happen with Seth and Grant? Will Nana rebound from her latest illness? A lot of questions are answered at the end of this book as well as revealing who the killer is. I did figure out the culprit but not until almost the end of the book. A well plotted mystery with a little romance, and lots of family involvement. I love this series and my visits to Kismet. A must for cozy mystery lovers. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
July 20, 2015
All the books in the Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mystery series have been extremely captivating, and the fourth story has the amateur sleuth heroine trying to solve a murder connected to a friend. Though Caprice De Luca has no formal police training, her ability to logically work though clues linked to an unsolved death has led to her helping discover three killers. When she once again becomes entangled in a mysterious murder, she vows to keep digging until the culprit is caught. Cozy mysteries created by Karen Rose Smith are always delightfully entertaining. DRAPE EXPECTATIONS is filled with evidence that leads to multiple suspects and keeps you guessing.
When a house Caprice De Luca had decorated with an unusual theme was bought by Ace Richland, their business dealings gradually turned into a friendship. The home stager and the rock star from the 1980’s may be very different in personality, but she is always willing to offer her assistance when he needs a favor from her. The latest task is to use her expertise in order to get the home of his snooty girlfriend ready to sell since she is going to live with him. Though Caprice senses she and Alanna Goodwin would never get along very well together, she will do her best to make the huge house sell swiftly.
Thankfully the open house event goes as expected, but an overheard conversation a day later lets Caprice know Alanna does not have Ace’s best interest in mind. Not long afterward, she is informed by a phone call that the woman has been murdered in her house. With Ace being a top suspect, the home stager becomes an investigator once more. As each additional secret is uncovered about the deceased, the list of those who could have killed the girlfriend of Ace keeps growing. When Caprice is not looking for clues into what happened to Alanna or working her magic on a client’s residence, she is taking care of her beloved pets plus visiting family. She also has some private issues like deciding whether she wants to date a good-hearted doctor or a handsome lawyer. Her life is certainly never boring.
The way in which Karen Rose Smith cleverly interweaves an abundance of personal problems with a murder makes her Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mysteries particularly realistic. A variety of predicaments in the life of Caprice are shown with genuine reactions and often plenty of emotion. From home staging procedures to concerns about her pets and definitely lots of predicaments related to family plus men, situations are depicted with convincing responses from this woman who is forthright yet loyal. Trying to balance her time between business and watching over her animals plus helping out her family is not always easy, especially when she also takes time to look for proof someone she knows is not guilty of murder.
Adoration for special pets is very evident in DRAPE EXPECTATIONS, and the author cunningly incorporates gives good advice about their care into the story. Caprice has some tough decisions to make when it comes to the two men whom she really likes, and I enjoyed seeing how things played out for Caprice, Grant and Seth. A couple of family problems have to be worked through, too, and these situations are portrayed as they would be in real life. Though home staging is her expertise, exposing killers is something for which she is becoming known in her community. The way she looks for answers is an intelligent approach, and I think her technique would work for an actual person. Karen Rose Smith gives her amateur sleuth loads of uncertainties to figure out as doubts raise suspicions. I thoroughly enjoyed the compelling journey of discovering the murderer in the latest cozy mystery by this talented author. DRAPE EXPECTATIONS is engagingly imaginative.
Copy received from author for a Single Titles review - 4.5 Stars
When a house Caprice De Luca had decorated with an unusual theme was bought by Ace Richland, their business dealings gradually turned into a friendship. The home stager and the rock star from the 1980’s may be very different in personality, but she is always willing to offer her assistance when he needs a favor from her. The latest task is to use her expertise in order to get the home of his snooty girlfriend ready to sell since she is going to live with him. Though Caprice senses she and Alanna Goodwin would never get along very well together, she will do her best to make the huge house sell swiftly.
Thankfully the open house event goes as expected, but an overheard conversation a day later lets Caprice know Alanna does not have Ace’s best interest in mind. Not long afterward, she is informed by a phone call that the woman has been murdered in her house. With Ace being a top suspect, the home stager becomes an investigator once more. As each additional secret is uncovered about the deceased, the list of those who could have killed the girlfriend of Ace keeps growing. When Caprice is not looking for clues into what happened to Alanna or working her magic on a client’s residence, she is taking care of her beloved pets plus visiting family. She also has some private issues like deciding whether she wants to date a good-hearted doctor or a handsome lawyer. Her life is certainly never boring.
The way in which Karen Rose Smith cleverly interweaves an abundance of personal problems with a murder makes her Caprice De Luca Home Staging Mysteries particularly realistic. A variety of predicaments in the life of Caprice are shown with genuine reactions and often plenty of emotion. From home staging procedures to concerns about her pets and definitely lots of predicaments related to family plus men, situations are depicted with convincing responses from this woman who is forthright yet loyal. Trying to balance her time between business and watching over her animals plus helping out her family is not always easy, especially when she also takes time to look for proof someone she knows is not guilty of murder.
Adoration for special pets is very evident in DRAPE EXPECTATIONS, and the author cunningly incorporates gives good advice about their care into the story. Caprice has some tough decisions to make when it comes to the two men whom she really likes, and I enjoyed seeing how things played out for Caprice, Grant and Seth. A couple of family problems have to be worked through, too, and these situations are portrayed as they would be in real life. Though home staging is her expertise, exposing killers is something for which she is becoming known in her community. The way she looks for answers is an intelligent approach, and I think her technique would work for an actual person. Karen Rose Smith gives her amateur sleuth loads of uncertainties to figure out as doubts raise suspicions. I thoroughly enjoyed the compelling journey of discovering the murderer in the latest cozy mystery by this talented author. DRAPE EXPECTATIONS is engagingly imaginative.
Copy received from author for a Single Titles review - 4.5 Stars
July 17, 2015
This is a top-notch cozy mystery, featuring a one-of-a-kind sleuth in home decorator and stager Caprice de Luca. Her small town doesn't confine her, as the rich and famous come to buy and sell there and nearby. One, a friend and rock star, wants Caprice to work her magic on his girlfriend's home.
Alanna, the would-be client, is difficult and that's only the start of problems for Caprice and company. Soon she's dead and the police suspect Alanna's boyfriend, Caprice's client and friend, Ace. Caprice doesn't want to get involved but what can she do?
Smith lets the story unfold smoothly from the start. Caprice is a colorful lead character but her tics don't jar or overwhelm the storyline. Instead, when you read about her family problems (estranged uncle Dom moves back to the family home, putting a strain on Caprice's grandmother) or her relationship dilemma (should she explore the opening with Grant, her brother's friend, or keep holding the flame for Seth, the trauma specialist who's moved away for his work?), they add organically to the characterization and storyline. I enjoyed the small town connections and setting, even what appears to be the set-up for future outings in some bubbling tension, but it was the main storyline that kept me reading along.
This mystery is well-crafted and compelling. You don't like Alanna because Caprice doesn't, but that doesn't stop Caprice from learning more about Alanna and using that information to understand her problems as well as what drove someone to murder her. There's a genuine sense of risk and discovery maintained all the way to the final chapters.
Colorful but not chintzy, Drape Expectations is a stylish cozy mystery well-worth reading.
I received an ARC via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Alanna, the would-be client, is difficult and that's only the start of problems for Caprice and company. Soon she's dead and the police suspect Alanna's boyfriend, Caprice's client and friend, Ace. Caprice doesn't want to get involved but what can she do?
Smith lets the story unfold smoothly from the start. Caprice is a colorful lead character but her tics don't jar or overwhelm the storyline. Instead, when you read about her family problems (estranged uncle Dom moves back to the family home, putting a strain on Caprice's grandmother) or her relationship dilemma (should she explore the opening with Grant, her brother's friend, or keep holding the flame for Seth, the trauma specialist who's moved away for his work?), they add organically to the characterization and storyline. I enjoyed the small town connections and setting, even what appears to be the set-up for future outings in some bubbling tension, but it was the main storyline that kept me reading along.
This mystery is well-crafted and compelling. You don't like Alanna because Caprice doesn't, but that doesn't stop Caprice from learning more about Alanna and using that information to understand her problems as well as what drove someone to murder her. There's a genuine sense of risk and discovery maintained all the way to the final chapters.
Colorful but not chintzy, Drape Expectations is a stylish cozy mystery well-worth reading.
I received an ARC via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
June 22, 2015
Ace Richland was a good client and friend, so when he asks Caprice De luca to do a last minute home staged open house for his new girlfriend, Caprice couldn't say no. Just as she couldn't turn down Ace's 12 year old daughter Trista's request to referee her arguing parents. Caprice has a few soft spots.
Alanna, the girlfriend, turns out to be less than the ideal client, and seems to have quite a few secrets.
There is more to her than the gruff, demanding exterior she projects to the world.
Things get worse for Caprice when she overhears a conversation she doesn't know what to do about.
As if her life isn't complicated enough, with two men vying for her attention, amateur sleuth Caprice finds herself unable to resist snooping when her friend Ace discovers Alanna's dead body and becomes suspect number one.
Will working together to prove Ace innocent change the relationship Caprice has with attorney Grant?
Will Caprice survive asking strangers dangerous questions?
This is the most tension filled mystery of this series so far.
When you think you have it figured out, the plot twists. People are not who they seem at first.
I enjoy that besides the murder mystery we get more personal background on the de Luca family.
I did get a complimentary copy of this book for review.
Alanna, the girlfriend, turns out to be less than the ideal client, and seems to have quite a few secrets.
There is more to her than the gruff, demanding exterior she projects to the world.
Things get worse for Caprice when she overhears a conversation she doesn't know what to do about.
As if her life isn't complicated enough, with two men vying for her attention, amateur sleuth Caprice finds herself unable to resist snooping when her friend Ace discovers Alanna's dead body and becomes suspect number one.
Will working together to prove Ace innocent change the relationship Caprice has with attorney Grant?
Will Caprice survive asking strangers dangerous questions?
This is the most tension filled mystery of this series so far.
When you think you have it figured out, the plot twists. People are not who they seem at first.
I enjoy that besides the murder mystery we get more personal background on the de Luca family.
I did get a complimentary copy of this book for review.
July 1, 2015
[I received this book free from the publisher through NetGalley. I thank them for their generousity. In exchange, I was simply asked to write an honest review, and post it. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising]
Question: How can you go wrong with a novel called Drape Expectations?
When I first saw a professional staging mystery I was intrigued and could only imagine the possibilities for a murder. In Drape Expectations Caprice Da Luce our Camero driving sleuth is trying to solve the murder of Alanna, a friends Fiancée. Add in that friend being rock legend Ace Richland! I found this book at times a little tedious and also at time wished it was going by a little faster. But in the end enjoyed our amateur sleuth in action either staging the house or solving the murder. In addition Karen Rose Smith is the first author who has made me truly fall in love with all the animals in her books! I feel like they are real and truly loved by Caprice, even when they are not her own. I definitely think that I will revisit this series again.
Question: How can you go wrong with a novel called Drape Expectations?
When I first saw a professional staging mystery I was intrigued and could only imagine the possibilities for a murder. In Drape Expectations Caprice Da Luce our Camero driving sleuth is trying to solve the murder of Alanna, a friends Fiancée. Add in that friend being rock legend Ace Richland! I found this book at times a little tedious and also at time wished it was going by a little faster. But in the end enjoyed our amateur sleuth in action either staging the house or solving the murder. In addition Karen Rose Smith is the first author who has made me truly fall in love with all the animals in her books! I feel like they are real and truly loved by Caprice, even when they are not her own. I definitely think that I will revisit this series again.
June 9, 2015
This is the first book I've read in this series, and I'm definitely hooked on it. There is a love triangle, but it is resolved by the end of the book, so I can overlook it. :)
Caprice stages homes to help sell them, and in the course of her job she manages to discover dead bodies--and then feels compelled to solve the crimes. She is also an animal lover, as are the majority of the other characters in the story, so we are introducted to a variety of pets as well as people. Caprice's Nana is one of my favorite characters, with her kitten and her wonderful words of advice.
The mystery is very well played out, with red herrings and honest clues all along the way. The relationships between Caprice, Seth and Grant are honestly written, with all of Caprice's doubts and concerns about each one as she tries to choose between them.
Can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
Caprice stages homes to help sell them, and in the course of her job she manages to discover dead bodies--and then feels compelled to solve the crimes. She is also an animal lover, as are the majority of the other characters in the story, so we are introducted to a variety of pets as well as people. Caprice's Nana is one of my favorite characters, with her kitten and her wonderful words of advice.
The mystery is very well played out, with red herrings and honest clues all along the way. The relationships between Caprice, Seth and Grant are honestly written, with all of Caprice's doubts and concerns about each one as she tries to choose between them.
Can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
July 28, 2015
I absolutely loved this book. This is the first book I have read in this series and I don't know how I have missed it. I am ready to delve right into another. Love how Karen Rose Smith incorporates her love of animals, fashion, decorating sense and mystery all in one book. Also the way she writes it just has you reading effortlessly, flowing from scene to scene. Her characters are so believable you feel like they could be your neighbors or friends.
Caprice has so much going on in her life right now, should she be with Grant or Seth, the need to help a friend, the need to help her family, and her two family of pets growing to maybe three?? She is strong and confident in her business and family but very confused right now with LOVE:)
The murder and mystery in this book are so captivating you don't want to put the book down because you want to find out what is next. Caprice has solved three mysteries up until now, can she solve this one and save a friend or will this one be her undoing??? And will she decide Seth or will it be Grant???
Caprice has so much going on in her life right now, should she be with Grant or Seth, the need to help a friend, the need to help her family, and her two family of pets growing to maybe three?? She is strong and confident in her business and family but very confused right now with LOVE:)
The murder and mystery in this book are so captivating you don't want to put the book down because you want to find out what is next. Caprice has solved three mysteries up until now, can she solve this one and save a friend or will this one be her undoing??? And will she decide Seth or will it be Grant???
July 29, 2015
Karen Rose Smith is at her very best in ‘Drape Expectations’! She exceeds the suspense, humor, and warmth of family and friends that we anticipate from her in this fourth offering of the Caprice De Luca Mystery series. It can be read as a stand-alone or as part of the series.
Caprice has her own interior design and home staging business with an excellent reputation for her unique artistry. Caprice has a close-knit family, including her Nana, with whom she is exceptionally close. Caprice loves animals and rescues strays. She is ‘mom’ to Sophia, a calico cat, and Lady, a cocker spaniel pup. One of the things I like is how “Caprice’s house was a haven for her and her animals.”
Rock star Ace Richland, one of Caprice’s pleased clients, surprised Caprice when he introduced her to Alanna Goodwin, a widow he had been dating. Alanna was selling her home, then moving in with Ace as they finalize wedding plans. Alanna could act the perfect Southern belle as well as the steel magnolia. Ace was planning a new music tour, but a vital band member left the group, then his rare and very expensive guitars were stolen.
During the open house at Alanna’s, Caprice saw her cozy tete-a-tete with a band member. Caprice also found Alanna’s beautiful Persian cat, Mirabelle, stuffed in a utility closet. After setting up the lovable kitty with food and water and having words with the steel magnolia, Caprice left. Feeling guilty, Caprice returned to Alanna’s the next day but left after she overheard Alanna and the band member discussing a plot to sabotage Ace’s tour.
The next day, Ace called Caprice after he went to see his fiancé and found her dead. Unfortunately, the couple had a very public disagreement the day before. Caprice called Grant Weatherford, her brother’s law partner, for assistance. Ace asked her to help find the real murderer and care for Mirabelle.
The characters will be remembered long after readers finish the novel. They shine as three-dimensional men and women. The characters and their relationships have grown along with the series. Caprice provides wit, intelligence, and vulnerability that is appealing to many female readers. When I wear a bright-colored outfit, I think of Caprice – her love of vintage clothing, colors and design – and how life is too short to not be colorful. Caprice also appeals to pet lovers; the reader can gently learn more about dog and pet care from the author’s expertise worked easily into the prose.
The multi-layered plot was beautifully executed, leaving no loose ends. I was surprised to see the lady friend of popular return character Ace be killed off, but I admit to thinking Ace deserved better than Alanna! The plot twists reveal a number of suspects and then the plot turns and rejects those suspects. The author surprised me anew when the bad guy(s) were revealed. Situations within Caprice’s family add to the plot, especially when Nana was taken to the emergency room and Uncle Dominic, the black sheep of the family, comes to visit.
One of the mysteries we have eagerly awaited for resolution to is which of two men who are interested in Caprice she would choose – as a traditional girl, only one could win. Would it be Dr. Seth Randolph, in a special fellowship many hours away at a prestigious hospital? Or Grant Weatherford, who had been her teen-age crush and now her brother’s law partner? I highly recommend ‘Drape Expectations’ to cozy mystery readers who appreciate top-notch writing, also those who love pets, cooking, and a little romance. Once you have visited Kismet, you will look forward to returning!
With a grateful heart, I received a copy of this book from the author through NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All opinions are my own; no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Caprice has her own interior design and home staging business with an excellent reputation for her unique artistry. Caprice has a close-knit family, including her Nana, with whom she is exceptionally close. Caprice loves animals and rescues strays. She is ‘mom’ to Sophia, a calico cat, and Lady, a cocker spaniel pup. One of the things I like is how “Caprice’s house was a haven for her and her animals.”
Rock star Ace Richland, one of Caprice’s pleased clients, surprised Caprice when he introduced her to Alanna Goodwin, a widow he had been dating. Alanna was selling her home, then moving in with Ace as they finalize wedding plans. Alanna could act the perfect Southern belle as well as the steel magnolia. Ace was planning a new music tour, but a vital band member left the group, then his rare and very expensive guitars were stolen.
During the open house at Alanna’s, Caprice saw her cozy tete-a-tete with a band member. Caprice also found Alanna’s beautiful Persian cat, Mirabelle, stuffed in a utility closet. After setting up the lovable kitty with food and water and having words with the steel magnolia, Caprice left. Feeling guilty, Caprice returned to Alanna’s the next day but left after she overheard Alanna and the band member discussing a plot to sabotage Ace’s tour.
The next day, Ace called Caprice after he went to see his fiancé and found her dead. Unfortunately, the couple had a very public disagreement the day before. Caprice called Grant Weatherford, her brother’s law partner, for assistance. Ace asked her to help find the real murderer and care for Mirabelle.
The characters will be remembered long after readers finish the novel. They shine as three-dimensional men and women. The characters and their relationships have grown along with the series. Caprice provides wit, intelligence, and vulnerability that is appealing to many female readers. When I wear a bright-colored outfit, I think of Caprice – her love of vintage clothing, colors and design – and how life is too short to not be colorful. Caprice also appeals to pet lovers; the reader can gently learn more about dog and pet care from the author’s expertise worked easily into the prose.
The multi-layered plot was beautifully executed, leaving no loose ends. I was surprised to see the lady friend of popular return character Ace be killed off, but I admit to thinking Ace deserved better than Alanna! The plot twists reveal a number of suspects and then the plot turns and rejects those suspects. The author surprised me anew when the bad guy(s) were revealed. Situations within Caprice’s family add to the plot, especially when Nana was taken to the emergency room and Uncle Dominic, the black sheep of the family, comes to visit.
One of the mysteries we have eagerly awaited for resolution to is which of two men who are interested in Caprice she would choose – as a traditional girl, only one could win. Would it be Dr. Seth Randolph, in a special fellowship many hours away at a prestigious hospital? Or Grant Weatherford, who had been her teen-age crush and now her brother’s law partner? I highly recommend ‘Drape Expectations’ to cozy mystery readers who appreciate top-notch writing, also those who love pets, cooking, and a little romance. Once you have visited Kismet, you will look forward to returning!
With a grateful heart, I received a copy of this book from the author through NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All opinions are my own; no monetary compensation was received for this review.
July 21, 2015
Caprice Deluca is a home stager, and because of this, she sometimes makes friends of her clients. Ace Richland, a former rock star on the way to a comeback, is one of those friends. He has called Caprice because his girlfriend Alanna Goodwin is going to sell her house and move in with him. He wants Caprice to stage it for her.
When Caprice acquiesces, she soon realizes that Alanna won't be easy to work with; and has a pretty good reason to dislike her: she doesn't seem to care for her beautiful cat Mirabelle, and puts her 'out of the way' on a whim. With Caprice's love of animals, this is enough for her to be suspicious of Alanna's motives where Ace is concerned, and even more so when she inadvertently hears a conversation between Alanna and one of Ace's bandmates that doesn't bode well for Ace.
So when Caprice arrives at Alanna's for a scheduled meeting regarding the house, she finds something she didn't count on - Alanna's body. With Ace the prime suspect, and Caprice acquiring a new pet in the form of Mirabelle, she does what she can to prove Ace innocent: Find the real killer, even though the police have warned her away.
This was another delightful entry in the Caprice Deluca mysteries. Ms. Smith has a unique flair for bringing us into her sphere of Caprice's life: Her work, her family, her pets, and her love life. We are treated not only to Caprice and her way of 'subtlety' going about unmasking a murderer without getting herself killed, but are privy to the closeness she shares with her family, including the latest problem: Her Uncle Dom, her father's brother, who hasn't spoken to the family in twelve years. It seems his marriage didn't work out, and now, homeless and jobless, he has moved in with Caprice's parents, which is causing problems with her beloved Nana, his mother.
She also has the slight problem of deciding who she wants to spend her life with. With her thirty-third birthday coming up close, she has to choose between the elusive doctor Seth Randolph, whom she has been seeing, or the possibility of pursuing a relationship with Grant Weatherford, her brother's law partner with a troubled past, and who might just be opening up to Caprice. A devilish dilemma indeed...
And, of course, there is the matter of Caprice's beloved pets: Lady, her Cocker Spaniel, who adores her; Sophia, her calico cat who tolerates her; and her newest acquisition, Mirabelle, a Persian who is skittish and is afraid of human contact.
While not giving anything away, I can truthfully say that for anyone who is a fan of this series, or anyone who has just discovered it, read on: You won't be disappointed. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review but this in no way influenced my decision.
When Caprice acquiesces, she soon realizes that Alanna won't be easy to work with; and has a pretty good reason to dislike her: she doesn't seem to care for her beautiful cat Mirabelle, and puts her 'out of the way' on a whim. With Caprice's love of animals, this is enough for her to be suspicious of Alanna's motives where Ace is concerned, and even more so when she inadvertently hears a conversation between Alanna and one of Ace's bandmates that doesn't bode well for Ace.
So when Caprice arrives at Alanna's for a scheduled meeting regarding the house, she finds something she didn't count on - Alanna's body. With Ace the prime suspect, and Caprice acquiring a new pet in the form of Mirabelle, she does what she can to prove Ace innocent: Find the real killer, even though the police have warned her away.
This was another delightful entry in the Caprice Deluca mysteries. Ms. Smith has a unique flair for bringing us into her sphere of Caprice's life: Her work, her family, her pets, and her love life. We are treated not only to Caprice and her way of 'subtlety' going about unmasking a murderer without getting herself killed, but are privy to the closeness she shares with her family, including the latest problem: Her Uncle Dom, her father's brother, who hasn't spoken to the family in twelve years. It seems his marriage didn't work out, and now, homeless and jobless, he has moved in with Caprice's parents, which is causing problems with her beloved Nana, his mother.
She also has the slight problem of deciding who she wants to spend her life with. With her thirty-third birthday coming up close, she has to choose between the elusive doctor Seth Randolph, whom she has been seeing, or the possibility of pursuing a relationship with Grant Weatherford, her brother's law partner with a troubled past, and who might just be opening up to Caprice. A devilish dilemma indeed...
And, of course, there is the matter of Caprice's beloved pets: Lady, her Cocker Spaniel, who adores her; Sophia, her calico cat who tolerates her; and her newest acquisition, Mirabelle, a Persian who is skittish and is afraid of human contact.
While not giving anything away, I can truthfully say that for anyone who is a fan of this series, or anyone who has just discovered it, read on: You won't be disappointed. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review but this in no way influenced my decision.
July 21, 2015
This was my first book by Karen Rose Smith, and I was not disappointed. In fact I enjoyed this book so much that I want to go back and read the previous books!
At first I wasn’t sure I was going to like this because the main character decorates houses and I have no interest in decorations, but the characters ended up being so loveable that I couldn’t help but love it all.
So let me start off with the setting, one of the reasons I liked this book was once again like all cozy mysteries it has that small town feel to it that I just love. I also enjoyed how the book didn’t have too much description either because that takes away from a story.
I loved the characters, especially Grant. The fact that I was able to empathize with a lot of the characters tells me it’s a good book. When you are able to get sad because something happened in the book, you know the book is creating emotion in you! Also all the animals made the book even more enjoyable, I’m a sucker for animals.
The best part of the book was the plot! Oh my goodness! I am finding with the more mysteries I read the better I am getting at guessing who the killer is. I could not guess who the killer was in this book, and when I did omg! It left me saying wow this book! I must read more!
I would recommend this to everyone who loves a cozy mystery, but also to anyone who wants to try a cozy mystery for the first time!
At first I wasn’t sure I was going to like this because the main character decorates houses and I have no interest in decorations, but the characters ended up being so loveable that I couldn’t help but love it all.
So let me start off with the setting, one of the reasons I liked this book was once again like all cozy mysteries it has that small town feel to it that I just love. I also enjoyed how the book didn’t have too much description either because that takes away from a story.
I loved the characters, especially Grant. The fact that I was able to empathize with a lot of the characters tells me it’s a good book. When you are able to get sad because something happened in the book, you know the book is creating emotion in you! Also all the animals made the book even more enjoyable, I’m a sucker for animals.
The best part of the book was the plot! Oh my goodness! I am finding with the more mysteries I read the better I am getting at guessing who the killer is. I could not guess who the killer was in this book, and when I did omg! It left me saying wow this book! I must read more!
I would recommend this to everyone who loves a cozy mystery, but also to anyone who wants to try a cozy mystery for the first time!
July 18, 2015
Caprice's home staging business is providing her with lots of work and she really does not need anymore work. But, she cannot say "no" to her friend Ace, he wants her to stage his new girlfriends house so it can be sold so she can move in with Ace. Alanna (Ace's new girlfriend) is not the nicest person in the world and Caprice does walk out of her home showing when she gets very upset with her. Before you know it there is a murder and it's Alanna and the weapon is an ugly tie back from the curtains that Caprice wanted changed. Through many twists and turns, this book takes you on a wild ride to the end of trying to figure out who the killer is. There are secrets that have been hidden for years that come to light and sabbotage of Ace's road tour. Also, Caprice's love life finally comes to a head and she finally is going to chose between Seth and Grant. Of course their is always an animal needing to be saved and this book does not disappoint. Caprice must save Mirabelle the cat from Alanna, who treats her terrible. Caprice volunteers to take Mirabelle home with her after Alanna's death and ends up adding her to her menagerie of pets . Another great book by Karen Rose Smith and thanks to her for allowing me to get a copy to review. I sure that all who read it will love it as much as I do.
July 19, 2015
Drape Expectations by Karen Rose Smith is the fourth book in her Caprice DeLuca mystery series. I have not read the others in this series; but I didn't have any problems in following the mystery.
Caprice is a home stager and apparently in big demand by the local real estate agents in her home town area. I liked Caprice and her vintage style of dress because she was comfortable in her own skin and in what she enjoyed without any affectations. I also enjoyed her family very much because there is love and respect for each other. The author has done an excellent job of developing all of the characters in this book. I would love to move to Kismet and meet all of them. The romance in Caprice's life, two men to choose between, has apparently been building in the previous books; and a decision is made in this one. Caprice's love of animals runs throughout this book and I enjoyed the tips that were given regarding training and love for both cats and dogs.
The story moved along quickly and the twists kept me guessing all the way as I kept turning the pages. I will definitely be looking for the previous books in this series so that I have the opportunity to meet Caprice, her family and friends from the beginning.
I was given an ARC by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Caprice is a home stager and apparently in big demand by the local real estate agents in her home town area. I liked Caprice and her vintage style of dress because she was comfortable in her own skin and in what she enjoyed without any affectations. I also enjoyed her family very much because there is love and respect for each other. The author has done an excellent job of developing all of the characters in this book. I would love to move to Kismet and meet all of them. The romance in Caprice's life, two men to choose between, has apparently been building in the previous books; and a decision is made in this one. Caprice's love of animals runs throughout this book and I enjoyed the tips that were given regarding training and love for both cats and dogs.
The story moved along quickly and the twists kept me guessing all the way as I kept turning the pages. I will definitely be looking for the previous books in this series so that I have the opportunity to meet Caprice, her family and friends from the beginning.
I was given an ARC by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2015
Princess Fuzzypants here! I get to review when there are animals in the book and with Sophia, Mirabelle and Lady all central characters, it's a natural for meow. House stager, Caprice, might not have been drawn into the murder of her client had she not witnessed her cruelty to her kitty, Mirabelle. Of course, when Caprice discovers Alanna's body, she feels compelled to solve the mystery despite the danger to her own safety. Her friend, former 80's rock icon, Ace, is the prime suspect and Caprice is certain he did not commit the crime.
Her physical well being is not the only thing at risk. She is being torn between two very attractive suitors. Her immediate family is also in turmoil with the prodigal uncle returning after an absence of ten years.
There are a lot of twists and turns in the story but what makes it even better are the characters are realistic. When the story bumps them around, the reader feels empathy for their plights. Particularly well drawn are the members of Caprice's close knit family. They are people a kitty could grow to love. And of course, there are the dogs and especially the cats who are the stars of the story.
I give this two paws up. and lots of purrs.
Her physical well being is not the only thing at risk. She is being torn between two very attractive suitors. Her immediate family is also in turmoil with the prodigal uncle returning after an absence of ten years.
There are a lot of twists and turns in the story but what makes it even better are the characters are realistic. When the story bumps them around, the reader feels empathy for their plights. Particularly well drawn are the members of Caprice's close knit family. They are people a kitty could grow to love. And of course, there are the dogs and especially the cats who are the stars of the story.
I give this two paws up. and lots of purrs.
January 26, 2016
I received an ARC of of this book from NetGalley via publisher Kensington books for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
This is the 4th book in the Caprice De Luca Mysteries Series by Karen Rose Smith, and another fun addition to this series. I have really loved reading all of the books in the series. I have enjoyed the characters and their pets, which are very believable and relatable. Karen Rose Smith is amazing at character building and plot building. I am always amazed that I have a hard time pegging the "who done it" of these books, which I thoroughly enjoy! I especially loved the storyline between Caprice and Seth and Caprice and Grant in this book. I knew who I wanted Caprice to end up with, but it didn't seem that it would ever happen and until the end I wasn't sure which way it was going to go. I think the way Karen Rose Smith handled the love triangle aspect of the storyline was perfect.
There are also some terrific recipes in the back of the book.
All-in-all, another awesome book in the series! I can't wait until May 2016 when Book 5 in the series, Silence of the Lamps, gets released!
This is the 4th book in the Caprice De Luca Mysteries Series by Karen Rose Smith, and another fun addition to this series. I have really loved reading all of the books in the series. I have enjoyed the characters and their pets, which are very believable and relatable. Karen Rose Smith is amazing at character building and plot building. I am always amazed that I have a hard time pegging the "who done it" of these books, which I thoroughly enjoy! I especially loved the storyline between Caprice and Seth and Caprice and Grant in this book. I knew who I wanted Caprice to end up with, but it didn't seem that it would ever happen and until the end I wasn't sure which way it was going to go. I think the way Karen Rose Smith handled the love triangle aspect of the storyline was perfect.
There are also some terrific recipes in the back of the book.
All-in-all, another awesome book in the series! I can't wait until May 2016 when Book 5 in the series, Silence of the Lamps, gets released!
July 26, 2015
First, I would give this a 4.5, but Goodreads won't let me. I try to save 5's for books that really change things for me.
Like the other titles in the Caprice De Luca series, this is a good, solid story. Well told, well paced, and enough of a puzzle to leave you with a challenge. As a cozy series it is solid. We care about the characters, enjoy the relations with family and friends and get enough about Caprice's career to keep her story interesting. In addition, there has been a romance or two going on and this was the time for Caprice to decide which direction she wanted to go. I had that figured out before I knew the murderer.
You do not have to start this series at the first book, Staged to Death, but doing so will give you all the family relationships that are mentioned along the way and that may come up in the future.
I recommend this, along with the rest of the series, it will not disappoint.
Full confession-I did win an advanced copy.
Like the other titles in the Caprice De Luca series, this is a good, solid story. Well told, well paced, and enough of a puzzle to leave you with a challenge. As a cozy series it is solid. We care about the characters, enjoy the relations with family and friends and get enough about Caprice's career to keep her story interesting. In addition, there has been a romance or two going on and this was the time for Caprice to decide which direction she wanted to go. I had that figured out before I knew the murderer.
You do not have to start this series at the first book, Staged to Death, but doing so will give you all the family relationships that are mentioned along the way and that may come up in the future.
I recommend this, along with the rest of the series, it will not disappoint.
Full confession-I did win an advanced copy.
July 7, 2015
Drape Expectations is the fourth Caprice De Luca Mystery, but the first I have read. This works very well as a stand-alone novel, but the characters are so likable and engaging, I now want to read the first three books! This is a very pleasant cozy, filled with family, dogs, cats, love....and of course, a murder to be solved. Caprice stages houses to be sold, but she also happens to be very good at solving crimes...and getting into dangerous situations. Sit back with a cup of coffee and enjoy.
July 12, 2015
This is the 4th book in this series. I enjoyed the easy flow of the book and the characters interacting with one another. Caprice jumps in to help her friend Ace with staging his fiance, Alanna's, house. Ace becomes a suspect in Alanna's murder and Caprice begins investigating. There are several interesting twists & turns before the killer is revealed. I really appreciate Caprice choosing one of the potential boyfriends and not having a love triangle drag on & on.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in-exchange for my honest opinion/review.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in-exchange for my honest opinion/review.
October 16, 2015
Another series where the bodies drop in and an unsuspecting person finds them and then works to solve the crime because a friend or relative is involved. While a better read than most because the main player is nosey but not out of touch with the real world and therefore always doing things so stupidly that they deserve to be hurt or killed she is still not cautious enough. We have yet again a small town and a group of characters that seem to center on their pets and there over curious natures. Will not be going back to read the lead stories and will not try any more for the time being.
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