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Rose Strickland Mystery #4
Diner Knock Out
Rose Strickland's life is complicated. Besides her waitressing gig, she works part-time for Andre Thomas, a PI with no faith in Rose's ability to investigate, her love life with Sullivan has stalled, and her BFF, Roxy, has found a new bestie, leaving Rose out in the cold.
Determined to prove herself, Rose takes a case on the sly. As she searches for a missing MMA fighter, Rose discovers an illegal fight club, a group of ruthless businessmen, dead bodies, and a trail of drugs.
Hunting down clues that lead too close to home, Rose finds herself in the fight of her life. Can she beat the killer to the punch before she gets knocked out for good?
Determined to prove herself, Rose takes a case on the sly. As she searches for a missing MMA fighter, Rose discovers an illegal fight club, a group of ruthless businessmen, dead bodies, and a trail of drugs.
Hunting down clues that lead too close to home, Rose finds herself in the fight of her life. Can she beat the killer to the punch before she gets knocked out for good?
292 pages, Paperback
First published October 20, 2015
38 people are currently reading
819 people want to read
About the author
Terri L. Austin
15 books475 followersTerri lives in Missouri with her family. She loves to hear from readers. Drop her a note at TerriLAustin.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
September 18, 2015
I would like to thank Henery Press and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
I've not read any of the Ms. Austin's other books in this series and it's my lost. I have some catching up to do on this series for sure.
This being the the latest in the Rose Strickland series instead of feeling lost and confused like some series have left me when you jump in the middle or start at the last in a series, this one left me craving for more. I'm already looking forward to reading what this eclectic group of friends get into in the next book of this series.
I love every thing about this series, the rich characters with their very diverse backgrounds that played off each other so well. I'm always on the look out of a great cozy mystery series and I'm glad I found one with Rose Strickland.
I've not read any of the Ms. Austin's other books in this series and it's my lost. I have some catching up to do on this series for sure.
This being the the latest in the Rose Strickland series instead of feeling lost and confused like some series have left me when you jump in the middle or start at the last in a series, this one left me craving for more. I'm already looking forward to reading what this eclectic group of friends get into in the next book of this series.
I love every thing about this series, the rich characters with their very diverse backgrounds that played off each other so well. I'm always on the look out of a great cozy mystery series and I'm glad I found one with Rose Strickland.
October 20, 2015
4 stars!
Another Henery Press excellent read! I don't know how they do it, but I have never read a bad book by this publishing house!
This one starts out a little slow getting the reader familiar with all the characters and there are a lot of characters, but once it takes off. . . BAM. It's off and running. Rose is training to become a PI. But while the boss in out a new client comes in with a job that seems cut and dry, so she takes it upon herself to figure it out on her own. Big mistake. This one could get her and everyone around her killed. Of course, she doesn't know this until she's knee deep in the middle of it and it's a little late to back out then.
There are a lot of quirky, lovable characters in Rose's life. Then there's her socialite mom and dad who are way up the social scale in the little town she lives in. Then, of course, there's her current boyfriend who won't tell her exactly what he does for a living, but she knows its not above board what with the huge gate around his house complete with bodyguards and blood thirsty guard dogs.
Somehow this "cut and dry, easy money" job puts her right in the middle of her boyfriend's business life and he and his associates are not happy. Let's just say they are livid and looking for an excuse and/or reason to take Rose out. And I'm not talking about a date.
While there were some pretty funny moments in this book, there were some pretty scary ones as well. Rose was definitely finding herself in the wrong place at the wrong time several times. Apparently she just has a knack for it.
While this was my first book in this series, I will definitely be reading more in this series. I was definitely entertained, whether it was the outfits that Rose's friend Roxy wore or the way the criminals were trying to act like they knew nothing and were trying to send Rose on her way. I definitely recommend this book. Entertaining and enjoyable!
Thanks Henery Press and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
Another Henery Press excellent read! I don't know how they do it, but I have never read a bad book by this publishing house!
This one starts out a little slow getting the reader familiar with all the characters and there are a lot of characters, but once it takes off. . . BAM. It's off and running. Rose is training to become a PI. But while the boss in out a new client comes in with a job that seems cut and dry, so she takes it upon herself to figure it out on her own. Big mistake. This one could get her and everyone around her killed. Of course, she doesn't know this until she's knee deep in the middle of it and it's a little late to back out then.
There are a lot of quirky, lovable characters in Rose's life. Then there's her socialite mom and dad who are way up the social scale in the little town she lives in. Then, of course, there's her current boyfriend who won't tell her exactly what he does for a living, but she knows its not above board what with the huge gate around his house complete with bodyguards and blood thirsty guard dogs.
Somehow this "cut and dry, easy money" job puts her right in the middle of her boyfriend's business life and he and his associates are not happy. Let's just say they are livid and looking for an excuse and/or reason to take Rose out. And I'm not talking about a date.
While there were some pretty funny moments in this book, there were some pretty scary ones as well. Rose was definitely finding herself in the wrong place at the wrong time several times. Apparently she just has a knack for it.
While this was my first book in this series, I will definitely be reading more in this series. I was definitely entertained, whether it was the outfits that Rose's friend Roxy wore or the way the criminals were trying to act like they knew nothing and were trying to send Rose on her way. I definitely recommend this book. Entertaining and enjoyable!
Thanks Henery Press and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2015
Diner Out is the fourth book in the Rose Strickland cozy mystery series. I love the humorous writing style and snarky dialogue that kept me entertained, “cover to cover.” This is my first book of the series, but it didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story, though I would love to go back and find out what I missed.
Rose Strickland loves playing superhero, sometimes landing herself in some very hot water. She gave up her ritzy life, not to slum on the south side, but because she knew that was where she belonged.
Rose works for the Thomas Detective Agency, when she isn’t waitressing. Her boss, Andre is the yin to her yang, when it comes to work. She has a mind of her own, is a “bit” cocky and by going rogue, she is playing with fire.
When I first heard of her boyfriend Sullivan, the scene was so romantic and sexy. The details were left to my imagination and that worked very well for me. She’s good, him not so much. She is drawn to bad boys. The heart wants what the hearts want and she cannot deny him.
The peripheral characters have unusual names to go with their unusual personalities that make reading Diner Knock Out so much fun. Her pseudo family is unique, interesting and lovable, keeping the story lively. As her family grows, so does the fun and adventure.
Terri Austin is a master at misdirection, as I danced from one suspect to another. The suspense and mystery kept me reading, questioning and laughing while I worried and fretted over the outcome.
I received an ARC of Diner Knockout by Terri L Austin in return for an honest review.
To see more visit http://www.fundinmental.com
Rose Strickland loves playing superhero, sometimes landing herself in some very hot water. She gave up her ritzy life, not to slum on the south side, but because she knew that was where she belonged.
Rose works for the Thomas Detective Agency, when she isn’t waitressing. Her boss, Andre is the yin to her yang, when it comes to work. She has a mind of her own, is a “bit” cocky and by going rogue, she is playing with fire.
When I first heard of her boyfriend Sullivan, the scene was so romantic and sexy. The details were left to my imagination and that worked very well for me. She’s good, him not so much. She is drawn to bad boys. The heart wants what the hearts want and she cannot deny him.
The peripheral characters have unusual names to go with their unusual personalities that make reading Diner Knock Out so much fun. Her pseudo family is unique, interesting and lovable, keeping the story lively. As her family grows, so does the fun and adventure.
Terri Austin is a master at misdirection, as I danced from one suspect to another. The suspense and mystery kept me reading, questioning and laughing while I worried and fretted over the outcome.
I received an ARC of Diner Knockout by Terri L Austin in return for an honest review.
To see more visit http://www.fundinmental.com
November 23, 2021
I love Terri L. Austin's Rose Strickland series. Rose is a scrappy, hard working waitress who is in training to become a P.I. Rose often does things the unconventional way which does not always set well with Andre, a by the books former cop turned P.I. When Kai comes to the office looking for help to find his friend, Rob, Rose takes the case. Searching for Rob leads Rose down paths her criminal boyfriend, Sullivan would rather she not head down. Rose turns to Roxy to help but her BFF has a new friend in town and Rose is feeling left out. Rose can't quit, but how can she continue to walk the thin line between doing what she knows is right and not losing Sullivan?
September 30, 2018
Diner Knock Out is amazing -- a knock-out of a cozy mystery. Diner Knock Out is the fourth book in Author Terri L. Austin's Rose Strickland Mystery series. Diner Knock Out can be read as a stand-alone, as far as the mysteries contained therein are concerned. But to really understand all of the characters, their interactions with each other, and the references to past occurrences, you really should begin at the beginning of the series.
The main character in Diner Knock Out is Rose Strickland. She is the formerly-pampered younger daughter of a wealthy, upper-class couple in Huntingford, Missouri. I say "formerly," because almost six years ago, Rose took a stand against her parents' wishes concerning the women's college they had chosen for her. Rose refused to return for her sophomore year, wanting to transfer to a different college where she would be happier. As a result of this rebellion, her parents kicked her out of their house, and cut off all financial support. After Rose found a job, waitressing at Ma's Diner, and somewhere to live, in a dinky studio apartment, she enrolled in Huntingford's community college as a part-time student. She has been taking a class or two each semester for the past six years, until now.
At the end of Book 3, Diner Impossible, Rose is approached by another character with an intriguing proposal. Police Officer Andre Thomas has just resigned from the force to become a private investigator. He invites Rose to work part-time for him as an apprentice P.I., during the two years it will take before she can get her own P.I. license. Rose accepts the offer, and will take the summer off from school while she only works at Ma's Diner and the Thomas Detective Agency.
The agency case that Rose and Thomas are working on, as he trains her in "police procedure," concerns Ted Benson, the husband of their client Camilla Benson. Camilla thinks that her husband is cheating on her, and has hired the agency to find out for sure. I love how this case turns out! I think you'll be very surprised at how Ted cheats. It certainly surprised me.
Rose's big case concerns Rob, the MMA fighter, and fight clubs. When Rose is alone in the office, she misrepresents herself as Andre's associate (rather than an apprentice, only able to work under his direct supervision) to a new client who comes in with a missing person case, and agrees to take the case. The client admits he can't afford their fee, but Rose still agrees. When Rob's girlfriend tells Rose "You can't say anything about the club. Not to anyone. The men in charge are serious about keeping it a secret. By even discussing it, we could all be in danger." Rose almost tells Andre then about the case.
It's really lucky for Rose that Andre steps in when he does. Just imagine the fireworks when Thomas finds out that Rose has taken on this case — a pro bono case, passing herself off as his associate, no less.
I enjoyed watching Rose try to solve these mysteries, with all the twists and turns in the case, and encounter some rather odd people along the way. (By the way, if you're ever offered a bottle of water containing fermented birch sap, I'd advise you to turn it down. Rose says it tastes disgusting.) The suspense and the plot twists make Diner Knock Out fast-paced and a quick read.
Author Terri L. Austin's zany, quirky characters and their antics make Diner Knock Out a fun read. For example, the utter chaos, devastation, and destruction in the diner caused by a team of Little Leagers is unbelievable — and hilarious.
Rose's bestie and fellow waitress, Roxy, has a new BFF, which leaves Rose feeling jealous and left out. Roxy is rather unconventional. She has blue hair (not pale blue, but more like cobalt blue) and she often dresses in baby-doll style with ribbons, ruffles, and sashes. The scene when Rose and Roxy discuss their (former?) BFF status, and Roxy's reasons for finding a new BFF, is sweet and poignant.
Ma is trying to catch a man, a new widower whose wife has just passed. Ma, almost eighty years old, figures that she has been alone long enough since her husband died. Ma must work quickly, because Byron's "a looker" and "relatively healthy — a pacemaker and a bum knee." For bait, she is using her specialty chicken dish, Chicken a la Ma, a new bra (pushup, in black lace), and chocolate lava cake. Ma has stiff competition, though, in the much-younger Sally Dawkins (only 62). The outcome of this struggle for Byron's attention is quite amusing.
As you can see, Rose, her friends, and her co-workers at Ma's Diner are so much fun to read about. I enjoy reading about their hijinks, capers, and adventures, just as much as the mysteries. Author Terri L. Austin has created a cast of unique, likable, distinctive people, ones whom I love to visit with, in each new Diner entry in the Rose Strickland Mysteries.
I highly recommend Terri L. Austin's Diner Knock Out to all cozy mystery fans, especially those of us who have a thing about bad-boy book-boyfriends. Diner Knock Out is fun, entertaining, and unique — all in all, a great read.
Note: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of Diner Knock Out.
The entire review is available on my blog Jane Reads.
The main character in Diner Knock Out is Rose Strickland. She is the formerly-pampered younger daughter of a wealthy, upper-class couple in Huntingford, Missouri. I say "formerly," because almost six years ago, Rose took a stand against her parents' wishes concerning the women's college they had chosen for her. Rose refused to return for her sophomore year, wanting to transfer to a different college where she would be happier. As a result of this rebellion, her parents kicked her out of their house, and cut off all financial support. After Rose found a job, waitressing at Ma's Diner, and somewhere to live, in a dinky studio apartment, she enrolled in Huntingford's community college as a part-time student. She has been taking a class or two each semester for the past six years, until now.
At the end of Book 3, Diner Impossible, Rose is approached by another character with an intriguing proposal. Police Officer Andre Thomas has just resigned from the force to become a private investigator. He invites Rose to work part-time for him as an apprentice P.I., during the two years it will take before she can get her own P.I. license. Rose accepts the offer, and will take the summer off from school while she only works at Ma's Diner and the Thomas Detective Agency.
The agency case that Rose and Thomas are working on, as he trains her in "police procedure," concerns Ted Benson, the husband of their client Camilla Benson. Camilla thinks that her husband is cheating on her, and has hired the agency to find out for sure. I love how this case turns out! I think you'll be very surprised at how Ted cheats. It certainly surprised me.
Rose's big case concerns Rob, the MMA fighter, and fight clubs. When Rose is alone in the office, she misrepresents herself as Andre's associate (rather than an apprentice, only able to work under his direct supervision) to a new client who comes in with a missing person case, and agrees to take the case. The client admits he can't afford their fee, but Rose still agrees. When Rob's girlfriend tells Rose "You can't say anything about the club. Not to anyone. The men in charge are serious about keeping it a secret. By even discussing it, we could all be in danger." Rose almost tells Andre then about the case.
It's really lucky for Rose that Andre steps in when he does. Just imagine the fireworks when Thomas finds out that Rose has taken on this case — a pro bono case, passing herself off as his associate, no less.
I enjoyed watching Rose try to solve these mysteries, with all the twists and turns in the case, and encounter some rather odd people along the way. (By the way, if you're ever offered a bottle of water containing fermented birch sap, I'd advise you to turn it down. Rose says it tastes disgusting.) The suspense and the plot twists make Diner Knock Out fast-paced and a quick read.
Author Terri L. Austin's zany, quirky characters and their antics make Diner Knock Out a fun read. For example, the utter chaos, devastation, and destruction in the diner caused by a team of Little Leagers is unbelievable — and hilarious.
Rose's bestie and fellow waitress, Roxy, has a new BFF, which leaves Rose feeling jealous and left out. Roxy is rather unconventional. She has blue hair (not pale blue, but more like cobalt blue) and she often dresses in baby-doll style with ribbons, ruffles, and sashes. The scene when Rose and Roxy discuss their (former?) BFF status, and Roxy's reasons for finding a new BFF, is sweet and poignant.
Ma is trying to catch a man, a new widower whose wife has just passed. Ma, almost eighty years old, figures that she has been alone long enough since her husband died. Ma must work quickly, because Byron's "a looker" and "relatively healthy — a pacemaker and a bum knee." For bait, she is using her specialty chicken dish, Chicken a la Ma, a new bra (pushup, in black lace), and chocolate lava cake. Ma has stiff competition, though, in the much-younger Sally Dawkins (only 62). The outcome of this struggle for Byron's attention is quite amusing.
As you can see, Rose, her friends, and her co-workers at Ma's Diner are so much fun to read about. I enjoy reading about their hijinks, capers, and adventures, just as much as the mysteries. Author Terri L. Austin has created a cast of unique, likable, distinctive people, ones whom I love to visit with, in each new Diner entry in the Rose Strickland Mysteries.
I highly recommend Terri L. Austin's Diner Knock Out to all cozy mystery fans, especially those of us who have a thing about bad-boy book-boyfriends. Diner Knock Out is fun, entertaining, and unique — all in all, a great read.
Note: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of Diner Knock Out.
The entire review is available on my blog Jane Reads.
October 1, 2015
Rose Strickland works in a diner in the morning and for a PI, Andre Thomas, in the afternoons. She's learning the trade, per se, but is usually relegated to background checks and filing. Occasionally, her boss will allow her to come along on a stakeout, but that's about the extent of it.
She also works as a waitress, but her best friend Roxy seems to be pulling away from her. Roxy has been hanging out with Sugar, a burlesque artist, and Rose feels left out.
Her boyfriend, Sullivan, he of the not-so-above-board enterprises, isn't always available and just shows up at her apartment sporadically, and it's beginning to bother her - especially since she gave him a key but he hasn't reciprocated, making her question his commitment to her.
So Rose has a full plate. But one day, when Andre is out of the office, she receives a visit from Kai, a man who says his friend Rob Huggins has disappeared - he's been gone for several days, but the police won't look for him because he's a grown man and they have no reason to believe anything has happened, and think he just decided to leave.
Rose accepts the missing person case, but doesn't bother to tell Andre. She figures if she can solve this simple case, then Andre will have to see her as a valuable employee and give her more exciting work to do. What Rose doesn't know is that by accepting this case, she's getting much more than she bargained for.
More, in the fact that it's not just a missing person she's looking for. When Andre does find out what she's doing, Rose considers herself lucky that he doesn't fire her, but instead agrees to help her - with a time limit on the case. Rob's being missing is only the tip of the iceberg. The more Rose digs her heels in, she finds that the search for Rob brings her to an illegal fight club, one that involves Sullivan and his cohorts, and even though he asks her to back off, she's not going to, which angers him and frustrates her.
This book, I must say, was very well-thought out and complicated, as much as it was intriguing and compelled me to stay with it until I finished, not wanting to put it down. The characters all seem real, and the plot so well written that I wish the next book in the series were available to read right now.
Rose's relationships with others might be complicated, but she does her best to make them all work, even finding out things about herself in the process. As for her relationship with Sullivan, one can actually feel the chemistry between the two fairly electrify the pages. (Which is a very good thing, I tell you).
When the pieces begin to mesh, and Rose starts to put it all together, you can almost feel the tension she feels, and the anxiety of the surrounding characters. And at last when we are in the final chapters of the book, even though we know the identity of the killer and pretty much how the book will finish, we want nothing more than for it to go on.
Ms. Austin is a very talented author, and her books do not disappoint. I greatly anticipate the next book in this series and will be watching for it. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review, but it in no way influenced my decision.
She also works as a waitress, but her best friend Roxy seems to be pulling away from her. Roxy has been hanging out with Sugar, a burlesque artist, and Rose feels left out.
Her boyfriend, Sullivan, he of the not-so-above-board enterprises, isn't always available and just shows up at her apartment sporadically, and it's beginning to bother her - especially since she gave him a key but he hasn't reciprocated, making her question his commitment to her.
So Rose has a full plate. But one day, when Andre is out of the office, she receives a visit from Kai, a man who says his friend Rob Huggins has disappeared - he's been gone for several days, but the police won't look for him because he's a grown man and they have no reason to believe anything has happened, and think he just decided to leave.
Rose accepts the missing person case, but doesn't bother to tell Andre. She figures if she can solve this simple case, then Andre will have to see her as a valuable employee and give her more exciting work to do. What Rose doesn't know is that by accepting this case, she's getting much more than she bargained for.
More, in the fact that it's not just a missing person she's looking for. When Andre does find out what she's doing, Rose considers herself lucky that he doesn't fire her, but instead agrees to help her - with a time limit on the case. Rob's being missing is only the tip of the iceberg. The more Rose digs her heels in, she finds that the search for Rob brings her to an illegal fight club, one that involves Sullivan and his cohorts, and even though he asks her to back off, she's not going to, which angers him and frustrates her.
This book, I must say, was very well-thought out and complicated, as much as it was intriguing and compelled me to stay with it until I finished, not wanting to put it down. The characters all seem real, and the plot so well written that I wish the next book in the series were available to read right now.
Rose's relationships with others might be complicated, but she does her best to make them all work, even finding out things about herself in the process. As for her relationship with Sullivan, one can actually feel the chemistry between the two fairly electrify the pages. (Which is a very good thing, I tell you).
When the pieces begin to mesh, and Rose starts to put it all together, you can almost feel the tension she feels, and the anxiety of the surrounding characters. And at last when we are in the final chapters of the book, even though we know the identity of the killer and pretty much how the book will finish, we want nothing more than for it to go on.
Ms. Austin is a very talented author, and her books do not disappoint. I greatly anticipate the next book in this series and will be watching for it. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review, but it in no way influenced my decision.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2015
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for a fair and honest review as a part of a book tour.
A cozy mystery filled with colorful characters, a touch of comedy and a handful of dangerous criminals, Diner Knock Out by Terri L. Austin is a great addition to her Rose Strickland Mystery series. Set in the fictional town of Huntingford, Missouri, the fourth installment finds Rose working as a part-time waitress and a part-time private investigator. Trying to solve a missing person’s case without her bosses’ knowledge, Rose deals with a touch of the green monster and her currently stalled love life. Proving that getting what you wish for isn’t always what you really want, she finds herself up to her armpits in danger making me wonder if Rose would make it through this case in one piece. If you like cozy mysteries this is a series you really should check out.
One of the best things about this series is Ms. Austin’s character development. I have to admit that I’m heavily invested in what happens to Rose, her crazy friends Ax and Roxie, Ma and Ray at the diner and even her boyfriend Thomas Sullivan, who’s still involved in a criminal lifestyle. Each character brings depth and color to Rose’s life and a smile to this reader’s face. They also back her up as she runs a clandestine investigation without the approval of Andre Thomas, former cop and the owner of the private investigation firm she works for part time.
What begins as a simple missing person’s case soon turns into something much darker as Rose and company investigate an illegal MMA fight circuit involving steroids, illegal pain medications and murder. Determined to discover who runs everything behind the scenes, Rose uncovers evidence leading to prominent and successful businessmen, society leaders and associates of her boyfriend.
Ms. Austin does a good job developing the mystery; there are plenty of twists and turns, a touch of physical action and the looming threat of danger, which kept me turning the pages to discover what Rose would discover next. Like Rose, I also worried about how deeply Sullivan was involved and what this would do to their already fragile relationship. Especially since Rose really loves Sullivan and it doesn’t look like he’s getting out of the criminal lifestyle anytime soon.
Will Rose uncover who killed the missing fighter? Will Rose, Roxie and their new friends make it through this investigation in one piece? And will Rose and Sullivan’s relationship progress to dinner at her parent’s house? You’ll have to read Diner Knock Out to find out. I loved it and hope we don’t have to wait too long to read Rose’s next adventure.
A cozy mystery filled with colorful characters, a touch of comedy and a handful of dangerous criminals, Diner Knock Out by Terri L. Austin is a great addition to her Rose Strickland Mystery series. Set in the fictional town of Huntingford, Missouri, the fourth installment finds Rose working as a part-time waitress and a part-time private investigator. Trying to solve a missing person’s case without her bosses’ knowledge, Rose deals with a touch of the green monster and her currently stalled love life. Proving that getting what you wish for isn’t always what you really want, she finds herself up to her armpits in danger making me wonder if Rose would make it through this case in one piece. If you like cozy mysteries this is a series you really should check out.
One of the best things about this series is Ms. Austin’s character development. I have to admit that I’m heavily invested in what happens to Rose, her crazy friends Ax and Roxie, Ma and Ray at the diner and even her boyfriend Thomas Sullivan, who’s still involved in a criminal lifestyle. Each character brings depth and color to Rose’s life and a smile to this reader’s face. They also back her up as she runs a clandestine investigation without the approval of Andre Thomas, former cop and the owner of the private investigation firm she works for part time.
What begins as a simple missing person’s case soon turns into something much darker as Rose and company investigate an illegal MMA fight circuit involving steroids, illegal pain medications and murder. Determined to discover who runs everything behind the scenes, Rose uncovers evidence leading to prominent and successful businessmen, society leaders and associates of her boyfriend.
Ms. Austin does a good job developing the mystery; there are plenty of twists and turns, a touch of physical action and the looming threat of danger, which kept me turning the pages to discover what Rose would discover next. Like Rose, I also worried about how deeply Sullivan was involved and what this would do to their already fragile relationship. Especially since Rose really loves Sullivan and it doesn’t look like he’s getting out of the criminal lifestyle anytime soon.
Will Rose uncover who killed the missing fighter? Will Rose, Roxie and their new friends make it through this investigation in one piece? And will Rose and Sullivan’s relationship progress to dinner at her parent’s house? You’ll have to read Diner Knock Out to find out. I loved it and hope we don’t have to wait too long to read Rose’s next adventure.
February 27, 2016
Title: Diner Knockout - Rose Strickland Mystery 4
Author: Terri L. Austin
Published: 10-20-15
Publisher: Henery Press
Pages: 302
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub Genre: Cozy Mystery; Women Sleuths; Humor;
ISBN: 9781943390090
ASIN: B012B59QM4
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
.
Ms. Austin delivers a mystery filled humor and suspense and a clean plot that gives the reader a chance to follow Rose Strickland as she manages to step into trouble without looking once more. Rose has decided to apprentice under former police officer now private investigator Andre Thomas. When her boss is away from the office Rose takes on a simple missing person case, Unfortunately Rose doesn't mention the case to Andre and decides to investigate on her own, thinking it will prove to Andre she is suited to the work. Rose's search finds her knee deep in her boyfriend's questionable business and his associates are not happy to have her snooping into their business and want her out of the picture permanently.
Diner Knockout is for both those who have been reading this series all along as well as those who are reading Diner Knockout without reading any of the previous books. For those who have read this series from the start the first chapter or so may seem a bit tedious because we already know the characters, but I enjoyed learning about them all and previous events in such a concise manner so that I could review them and catch myself up on things so that I was prepared to go into the story with everything fresh in my mind. It is like seeing old friend you haven't seen in over a year, sitting down to a cup of tea and catching up on what is going on each other's lives. The characters are well developed and welcoming.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/diner...
Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/The-Reading-...#
Author: Terri L. Austin
Published: 10-20-15
Publisher: Henery Press
Pages: 302
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub Genre: Cozy Mystery; Women Sleuths; Humor;
ISBN: 9781943390090
ASIN: B012B59QM4
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
.
Ms. Austin delivers a mystery filled humor and suspense and a clean plot that gives the reader a chance to follow Rose Strickland as she manages to step into trouble without looking once more. Rose has decided to apprentice under former police officer now private investigator Andre Thomas. When her boss is away from the office Rose takes on a simple missing person case, Unfortunately Rose doesn't mention the case to Andre and decides to investigate on her own, thinking it will prove to Andre she is suited to the work. Rose's search finds her knee deep in her boyfriend's questionable business and his associates are not happy to have her snooping into their business and want her out of the picture permanently.
Diner Knockout is for both those who have been reading this series all along as well as those who are reading Diner Knockout without reading any of the previous books. For those who have read this series from the start the first chapter or so may seem a bit tedious because we already know the characters, but I enjoyed learning about them all and previous events in such a concise manner so that I could review them and catch myself up on things so that I was prepared to go into the story with everything fresh in my mind. It is like seeing old friend you haven't seen in over a year, sitting down to a cup of tea and catching up on what is going on each other's lives. The characters are well developed and welcoming.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/diner...
Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
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September 3, 2015
The Rose Strickland Mysteries have been favorites of mine since the first in the series; Diners. Dives and Dead Ends. The series features quirky characters, lots of laughs and a developing romance. All the characters revolve around Rose Strickland; a refugee from a stifling upper-middle-class upbringing whose escape has landed her in a precarious financial situation working as a waitress at Ma's Diner and going to college part-time. Too bad Rose doesn't know what she wants to do with her life. She does know what is important, though; protecting her friends Axton, Ma. Roxy, the mysterious Sullivan and her family (whether they like it or not).
Rose has solved several mysteries and paid a price, both physical and emotional in doing so. She has a second job now, working for a former cop, now P.I., Andre Thomas. Thomas is a by-the-book guy and doesn't think Rose is ready for field work. Rose is sure that she is and takes a missing person case without Andre's knowledge, and even worse on a pro bono basis. The case takes her into dangerous territory, illegal fight clubs, and murder. Of course, Sullivan is involved with the fight club, as he is with just about every shady enterprise in town. Sullivan wants to protect her, but Rose, as usual, does exactly what she thinks is right.
I like the way this series is developing. Rose is gaining a direction that she lacked without really changing her core. The conflict between her feelings for Sullivan and his criminal associates is believable; it's hard not to like Sullivan, bad guy or not. I'm looking forward to seeing how they can resolve their differences, It seems like I waited a long time for this book and now I am back to waiting for the next one.
Thanks to Henery Press and netgalley.com for an advance digital copy of Diner Knock Out.
Rose has solved several mysteries and paid a price, both physical and emotional in doing so. She has a second job now, working for a former cop, now P.I., Andre Thomas. Thomas is a by-the-book guy and doesn't think Rose is ready for field work. Rose is sure that she is and takes a missing person case without Andre's knowledge, and even worse on a pro bono basis. The case takes her into dangerous territory, illegal fight clubs, and murder. Of course, Sullivan is involved with the fight club, as he is with just about every shady enterprise in town. Sullivan wants to protect her, but Rose, as usual, does exactly what she thinks is right.
I like the way this series is developing. Rose is gaining a direction that she lacked without really changing her core. The conflict between her feelings for Sullivan and his criminal associates is believable; it's hard not to like Sullivan, bad guy or not. I'm looking forward to seeing how they can resolve their differences, It seems like I waited a long time for this book and now I am back to waiting for the next one.
Thanks to Henery Press and netgalley.com for an advance digital copy of Diner Knock Out.
October 3, 2015
Diner Knock Out is the latest installment in the Rose Strickland mystery series. If you haven't read anything from this series, you really should get started on it now.
Rose Strickland is a rich girl who gives it all up and works in a diner and part time for a PI. Oh and her boyfriend is sort of a criminal.
Rose takes on a case that seemed simple. A missing persons case, but as she starts to investigate it becomes apparent that a lot of things are more than what they seem, and that includes her own relationship with Sullivan.
She discovers a fight club and drug dealings and some really scary businessmen. (One of which is her boyfriend)
Terri Austin does a great job combining the sleuthing with Rose's personal life. The characters in her life are so colorful and fun. Ma, the owner of the diner is one heck of fun older lady. Roxy and Sugar are beyond nuts, but in a good way. I found myself wishing I had friends like this. There's even a new friend, who I hope we'll see in future books, Candi Carlucci. She's the daughter of one of the not so nice businessmen that figure in with the mystery.
The story was fast paced and really fun. It keeps you on the edge of your seat, especially at the end, as you are waiting for the reveal of the whodunit. Ms. Austin gives you so many options of who could have killed the fighter, that when all is revealed you are a little bit surprised.
This was a fun read and a great addition to this series!
Rose Strickland is a rich girl who gives it all up and works in a diner and part time for a PI. Oh and her boyfriend is sort of a criminal.
Rose takes on a case that seemed simple. A missing persons case, but as she starts to investigate it becomes apparent that a lot of things are more than what they seem, and that includes her own relationship with Sullivan.
She discovers a fight club and drug dealings and some really scary businessmen. (One of which is her boyfriend)
Terri Austin does a great job combining the sleuthing with Rose's personal life. The characters in her life are so colorful and fun. Ma, the owner of the diner is one heck of fun older lady. Roxy and Sugar are beyond nuts, but in a good way. I found myself wishing I had friends like this. There's even a new friend, who I hope we'll see in future books, Candi Carlucci. She's the daughter of one of the not so nice businessmen that figure in with the mystery.
The story was fast paced and really fun. It keeps you on the edge of your seat, especially at the end, as you are waiting for the reveal of the whodunit. Ms. Austin gives you so many options of who could have killed the fighter, that when all is revealed you are a little bit surprised.
This was a fun read and a great addition to this series!
October 20, 2015
This is,the fourth book of the series and new author for me. I was at disadvantage of not having read the earlier books. The book was well written and the plot original. The characters were difficult for me to place and Rose came across to me as a spoiled rich girl. When she did not get her way she had a tantrum. Who was Sullivan? I felt she didn't understand her Mother's actions. As I began to understand the book I found myself turning pages fast to see what occurred next. Rose takes a detective inquiry without telling her boss and has problems. We go into the boxing world involving a death of a fighter. Rose encounters her boyfriend as one of the owners of fight club and tempers flare. I feel this series needs to be read in order.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from HENERY PRESS through Netgalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for the opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from HENERY PRESS through Netgalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for the opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions are my own.
October 27, 2015
I love the Rose Strickland mysteries! Although there is a lot of humor in the stories, Rose is able to handle all sorts of situations with grace and courage. This story finds Rose working at her new job as an assistant PI to her former nemesis, Andre "Hardass" Thomas. While investigating the disappearance of an MMA fighter, Rose stumbles on an illegal fight club, and discovers that Sullivan is involved in the operation. Her efforts to find out what happened to the missing man expose her to the dark side of Sullivan's world, and cause sparks to fly in Rose's relationship with her sexy, bad-boy lover. The mystery is intriguing and sometimes suspenseful, and seeing Rose as she grows and strengthens and discovers who she wants to be is wonderful. I love Roxy and Ax, the gang at Ma's Diner, and Sullivan's bodyguard, Henry, and feel like they are old friends, and I adore Sullivan. I can't wait for the next book!
September 2, 2015
I received this free from Netgalley for the purpose of review.
This was a great read - really fast paced and full of characters you really found yourself caring about. Rose is not your stereotypical investigator - brought up in a privileged family but going it alone for the last six years whilst dating a criminal kingpin.
I really loved the relationship dynamics she had with a couple of characters, namely Sullivan (boyfriend), her two best friends, Henry (bodyguard) and her boss at the PI agency, Andre or 'Hardass' as she liked to call him.
The plot moved along quickly and despite me guessing the culprit early on, I kept second guessing myself as we were taken on a story full of twists and turns.
The author writes such interesting characters and I would definitely consider reading more of her work - if only to see more Rose and Sullivan.
Really recommend it.
This was a great read - really fast paced and full of characters you really found yourself caring about. Rose is not your stereotypical investigator - brought up in a privileged family but going it alone for the last six years whilst dating a criminal kingpin.
I really loved the relationship dynamics she had with a couple of characters, namely Sullivan (boyfriend), her two best friends, Henry (bodyguard) and her boss at the PI agency, Andre or 'Hardass' as she liked to call him.
The plot moved along quickly and despite me guessing the culprit early on, I kept second guessing myself as we were taken on a story full of twists and turns.
The author writes such interesting characters and I would definitely consider reading more of her work - if only to see more Rose and Sullivan.
Really recommend it.
September 22, 2015
Terri Austin has given us not only an entertaining series, The Rose Strickland Mysteries, she has given us likable, believable characters. People like Ma, who is probably one of the most real people that I have met. Terri is not afraid to let her characters show their faults or to let us see their human side of them. The 4th book, Diner Knockout, was a joy to read, I have been lucky enough to read all of this series and highly recommend it. I can't imagine any one not falling in love with the characters and story lines by the end of the 2nd book. Terri has given them real emotions and I for one, have come to love them, laugh at them, become a part of their daily life, and even get a little angry at times.
Another thing that I'm sure of is that Terri needs to give her fans another 3 or 4 courses at the DINER.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.
Another thing that I'm sure of is that Terri needs to give her fans another 3 or 4 courses at the DINER.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.
October 21, 2015
A Knock Out!
Rose Strickland is the black sheep of her wealthy upper class family. She's a part time waitress & part time P.I. in training, wanting very little to do with her privileged family. Her best friend, is Roxy, who wears "costumes" as daily wear & her significant other, Sullivan, is a crime lord (however, it appears with some morals & standards). This time Rose & company become involved with a suicide/murder that leads to the super violent world of fight club. The author kept me constantly on the edge of my seat with not only the twists & turns of the violent underworld but also on the ever changing & developing relationship between Rose & Sullivan. Definitely another knock out book in this great series!
Rose Strickland is the black sheep of her wealthy upper class family. She's a part time waitress & part time P.I. in training, wanting very little to do with her privileged family. Her best friend, is Roxy, who wears "costumes" as daily wear & her significant other, Sullivan, is a crime lord (however, it appears with some morals & standards). This time Rose & company become involved with a suicide/murder that leads to the super violent world of fight club. The author kept me constantly on the edge of my seat with not only the twists & turns of the violent underworld but also on the ever changing & developing relationship between Rose & Sullivan. Definitely another knock out book in this great series!
October 21, 2015
Great Series!
This is a great series; this is the fourth book in the Rose Strickland Mystery series by Terri Austin. Rose Strickland is a waitress but also works part time for Andre Thomas a private investigator who doesn’t have any faith in Rose’s ability to investigate. Rose takes a case on the sly to search for a missing MMA fighter and discovers an illegal fight club in the process. If you are looking for a great mystery that will keep you reading until the end, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
This is a great series; this is the fourth book in the Rose Strickland Mystery series by Terri Austin. Rose Strickland is a waitress but also works part time for Andre Thomas a private investigator who doesn’t have any faith in Rose’s ability to investigate. Rose takes a case on the sly to search for a missing MMA fighter and discovers an illegal fight club in the process. If you are looking for a great mystery that will keep you reading until the end, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
November 10, 2015
Diner Knock Out is the fourth book in the Rose Strickland Mystery series. It is a very well written and professionally edited full length novel.
I love this series; the heroine, Rose, is smart and determined to make it through life as an independent woman. The secondary characters are complex and fully part of the plot.
The plot is a fast paced mystery intertwined with the romance between Rose and her underworld boss boyfriend.
I would suggest that this series of mysteries be read in order; this book wouldn't read well as a standalone novel. It does end with a satisfying HFN.
ARC provided by Henery Press via Netgalley.
I love this series; the heroine, Rose, is smart and determined to make it through life as an independent woman. The secondary characters are complex and fully part of the plot.
The plot is a fast paced mystery intertwined with the romance between Rose and her underworld boss boyfriend.
I would suggest that this series of mysteries be read in order; this book wouldn't read well as a standalone novel. It does end with a satisfying HFN.
ARC provided by Henery Press via Netgalley.
May 1, 2022
I loved reading this series. I will miss Rose Strickland with her zany crew and crazy adventures. RIP Terri Snethen aka Terri L. Austin, yet another lost in the battle against Covid.
I thought this book was the best in the series and was sad to see it end.
As far as the plot goes…. The first rule of fight club is… well, you know the rest.
I thought this book was the best in the series and was sad to see it end.
As far as the plot goes…. The first rule of fight club is… well, you know the rest.
July 21, 2022
I freaking think this is one of the greatest series out there. I really hope that is not over but it's been a long time since I got any new books. I just think the mysteries are interesting and the characters are built great. The stories are a lot of fun and the relationships between all the characters are very entertaining. Super love this series!.
September 5, 2017
Another excellent installment- sort of feel like crying until the next one comes out. It's a cast of characters you would love to hang out with. Comes complete with a great mystery which unravels throughout. I can't get enough of this series!
January 8, 2018
I loved the series. They kept me on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t wait to finish them all to see what happened and if Rose and Sullivan moved forward in their relationship. I hope to see more of the “Diner” series very soon.
March 20, 2022
Great story. Can't wait for the next one. I enjoy seeing how Rose and Sullivan's relationship is evolving.
October 29, 2015
Another Rose Strickland book that does not disappoint. Rose gets deeper into Sullivan's world in this one and man is it exciting!!!! I cannot wait until the next book is released!!
November 23, 2015
Enjoyed the book. Really love the characters and continue to root for Rose and Sullivan.
February 13, 2017
More, more, more!
August 6, 2017
Loving this series. This one is darker than the previous 3 books. I thoroughly enjoyed it and am waiting for the next one!
April 25, 2020
Diner knock out
Another nail biter. Terri keeps your attention that's for sure. Just who is Sullivan. Rose has many facets to who she is. Hope number 5 is in the works.
Another nail biter. Terri keeps your attention that's for sure. Just who is Sullivan. Rose has many facets to who she is. Hope number 5 is in the works.
November 6, 2019
Pretty cheesy book. Chapter 21 repeats a page or so. Rose the main character is not believable. No one else gets enough space to have a developed character. Book seems more like a B movie. Not worth the time.
May 7, 2018
Totally enjoyed this series, was afraid the end would leave you hanging, but everything was
wrapped up nicely.
wrapped up nicely.
October 21, 2015
It's been awhile since we got a new Rose Strickland novel. Two long years, as a matter of fact. In the first three books, Rose mostly got involved with murders and mysteries through no real fault of her own. They just kind of happened around her. In this book, Rose is actively looking for them, by working a second job with Andre Thomas, former cop turned Private Investigator.
When a potential client comes into the office while Rose is - once again - relegated to staying behind and running background screenings, she can't help herself. She ends up taking a case - probably pro-bono. What starts as a simple missing persons case quickly leads into illegal gambling, an underground fight ring, drugs and murder. And of course, Rose's crime lord boyfriend, Sullivan is right there in the middle of all that illegal activity. To top it off, Rose's bestie Roxy has been hanging out more and more with Sugar, a bodacious burlesque dancer with a fashion sense nearly as outrageous as Roxy's, Ma is preoccupied with a man hunt and Axton is stressing over a girl at work. Without her usual backup, Rose has to use the tools she has learned from Andre, as well as her gut instincts to get to the bottom of what happened.
There was a lot of emphasis on relationships in this book. Not just between Rose and Sullivan. Yes, Rose's various relationships, be they friend, family member or co-worker, had some transition this book. Additionally, relationships between other characters were examined, discussed and analysed, everything from friends to family to lovers. I think Rose discovered a lot about herself this book, both in how she sees herself and how she relates to others. I like the direction the series is headed. Here's hoping we don't have to wait another two years for the next installment! This was a 4 star read for me.
Thanks to Netgalley, Henery Press and Great Escapes for the opportunity to read and review this book.
When a potential client comes into the office while Rose is - once again - relegated to staying behind and running background screenings, she can't help herself. She ends up taking a case - probably pro-bono. What starts as a simple missing persons case quickly leads into illegal gambling, an underground fight ring, drugs and murder. And of course, Rose's crime lord boyfriend, Sullivan is right there in the middle of all that illegal activity. To top it off, Rose's bestie Roxy has been hanging out more and more with Sugar, a bodacious burlesque dancer with a fashion sense nearly as outrageous as Roxy's, Ma is preoccupied with a man hunt and Axton is stressing over a girl at work. Without her usual backup, Rose has to use the tools she has learned from Andre, as well as her gut instincts to get to the bottom of what happened.
There was a lot of emphasis on relationships in this book. Not just between Rose and Sullivan. Yes, Rose's various relationships, be they friend, family member or co-worker, had some transition this book. Additionally, relationships between other characters were examined, discussed and analysed, everything from friends to family to lovers. I think Rose discovered a lot about herself this book, both in how she sees herself and how she relates to others. I like the direction the series is headed. Here's hoping we don't have to wait another two years for the next installment! This was a 4 star read for me.
Thanks to Netgalley, Henery Press and Great Escapes for the opportunity to read and review this book.
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