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Lake Erie Mysteries #2
Deviled!
Fireworks and spectacular performances were to be expected at the Drama Divas Convention over the Fourth of July weekend, being framed for murder was not.
Best friends Francie and June thought attending a three-day acting seminar at Devil’s Island Luxury Resort and Amusement Park would provide the perfect opportunity to indulge in some relaxation and entertaining girl time, but stumbling over a dead body throws a monkey wrench into their holiday agenda.
Glamorous women, gorgeous men, and unlimited access to free food, drinks, and the resort’s world-renowned spa do little to distract the unwitting sleuths from their mission to uncover the murderer’s true identity.
Encounters with zombies, creepy clowns, and a peculiar conventioneer with a bad toupee muddy the waters as Francie and June sort through clues, dodge disaster, and uncover a devilish plot backed by a dangerous group of sinister criminals. Can they unmask the murderer before their lives are forever changed?
Best friends Francie and June thought attending a three-day acting seminar at Devil’s Island Luxury Resort and Amusement Park would provide the perfect opportunity to indulge in some relaxation and entertaining girl time, but stumbling over a dead body throws a monkey wrench into their holiday agenda.
Glamorous women, gorgeous men, and unlimited access to free food, drinks, and the resort’s world-renowned spa do little to distract the unwitting sleuths from their mission to uncover the murderer’s true identity.
Encounters with zombies, creepy clowns, and a peculiar conventioneer with a bad toupee muddy the waters as Francie and June sort through clues, dodge disaster, and uncover a devilish plot backed by a dangerous group of sinister criminals. Can they unmask the murderer before their lives are forever changed?
- GenresMystery
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 20, 2015
15 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Maureen K. Howard
5 books71 followersMaureen K. Howard is the pen name of mother/daughter writing partners, Maureen Kovach and Brigette Howard. They both live in Findlay, Ohio.
Maureen recently retired from a long career as a high school English teacher and now focuses her time on spoiling her three granddaughters, spending long weekends at the lake with her husband and their golden doodle, and making friends with fellow mystery writers and readers across the globe via social media. Oh yeah, she also writes books.
Brigette works full time managing multiple national restaurant franchises. She enjoys taking her charcoal lab on running adventures and spends her free time reading, gardening with her husband, cooking, and planning the perfect murder.
Maureen recently retired from a long career as a high school English teacher and now focuses her time on spoiling her three granddaughters, spending long weekends at the lake with her husband and their golden doodle, and making friends with fellow mystery writers and readers across the globe via social media. Oh yeah, she also writes books.
Brigette works full time managing multiple national restaurant franchises. She enjoys taking her charcoal lab on running adventures and spends her free time reading, gardening with her husband, cooking, and planning the perfect murder.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 14, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Devised! was AMAZING!!! Maureen K. Howard had my attention for the get go!!! I will definitely be reading more of the Lake Erie Mysteries!!!
Devised! was AMAZING!!! Maureen K. Howard had my attention for the get go!!! I will definitely be reading more of the Lake Erie Mysteries!!!
January 6, 2016
What could be more simple? Two friends, Francie and June, set off to enjoy a weekend a workshop, while their partners take the time to play golf. However, despite the weekend getting off to a good start, the ladies soon find that things at the resort are not all as they should be. Instead of being able to attend the various workshops in the programme, they suddenly find themselves at the centre of a murder investigation.
Though the writing style was new to me, It did not stop me from enjoying this novel. The characters are well described and the story is fast-paced. It all begins with a murder, for which Francie becomes the main suspect due to her scarf being found at the scene of the crime. But with so many twists and turns throughout the story, will she be able to prove her innocence?
Once having started this book I was loathe to put it down. A most enjoyable read.
Though the writing style was new to me, It did not stop me from enjoying this novel. The characters are well described and the story is fast-paced. It all begins with a murder, for which Francie becomes the main suspect due to her scarf being found at the scene of the crime. But with so many twists and turns throughout the story, will she be able to prove her innocence?
Once having started this book I was loathe to put it down. A most enjoyable read.
March 19, 2016
Francie and June need a break. After solving a murder, and almost becoming victims themselves, a little "rest and relaxation" combined with a fun drama workshop is in order. The fact that the workshop is located at a gorgeous lakeside resort make it a definite choice to relax.
The duo go from being treated like VIPs to being accused of murder within a day and this leads them on a roller coaster (love the cover!) ride of events! The women solve a mystery that spans countries, the mafia, gambling, a handsome man of mystery (sigh) for June, scary clowns, zombies and fireworks!!
Francie and June are smart, funny and adventurous ladies who trouble finds - much to the despair of their significant others.
I love this series and the relatable characters - can't wait for the next book!
The duo go from being treated like VIPs to being accused of murder within a day and this leads them on a roller coaster (love the cover!) ride of events! The women solve a mystery that spans countries, the mafia, gambling, a handsome man of mystery (sigh) for June, scary clowns, zombies and fireworks!!
Francie and June are smart, funny and adventurous ladies who trouble finds - much to the despair of their significant others.
I love this series and the relatable characters - can't wait for the next book!
December 2, 2015
This book was excellent! The first few pages had me gasping, I hate roller coasters and the vivid descriptions had me clenching my teeth.
This is the 2nd book in the clever series written by the talented mother-daughter team.
This story has Francie and June attending a diva drama weekend and believe me there is plenty of both in this book.
The authors are so creative that at times I found myself on the wild adventure with Francie and June.
If you enjoyed the first in this delightful series, then you will not be disappointed with this one.
I received a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.
This is the 2nd book in the clever series written by the talented mother-daughter team.
This story has Francie and June attending a diva drama weekend and believe me there is plenty of both in this book.
The authors are so creative that at times I found myself on the wild adventure with Francie and June.
If you enjoyed the first in this delightful series, then you will not be disappointed with this one.
I received a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.
November 24, 2015
I loved Francie and June!
Their knack for getting in trouble while armature sleuthing carried over from Sunny side up. With a murder at a luxurious resort and a interesting cast of characters with the help of a couple of unlikely people and an old friend they solve the murder.
Their knack for getting in trouble while armature sleuthing carried over from Sunny side up. With a murder at a luxurious resort and a interesting cast of characters with the help of a couple of unlikely people and an old friend they solve the murder.
January 26, 2016
Fun and full of Surprises!
This cozy mystery was a blast! I enjoyed the twists and turns, and the main characters were very lovable and funny. The roller coaster on the cover was perfect, as this book was a roller coaster ride filled with suspense, giggles and just plain fun! I read it in one sitting because I simply couldn't put it down. Highly recommended!
This cozy mystery was a blast! I enjoyed the twists and turns, and the main characters were very lovable and funny. The roller coaster on the cover was perfect, as this book was a roller coaster ride filled with suspense, giggles and just plain fun! I read it in one sitting because I simply couldn't put it down. Highly recommended!
February 1, 2016
Absolutely the best book I have read in quite awhile since Sunny Side Up. Every paragraph in this wonderful mystery is packed full of intrigue, excitement and just overall enjoyment as our favorites, Francie and June find themselves in another mystery needing their expertise. I have been on the edge of my seat and loving this adventure! Wonderfully written and sheer perfection!
April 4, 2016
I loved the premise of this book taking place in a resort, by a lake, attending a conference called The Drama Divas workshop. It tweaked my interest and drew me in. It had enough fun, snark, unusual situations and mystery to keep me reading. It's a winner.
November 29, 2017
Another Lake Shore Murder Mystery!
This is the second book of a series. I have read both and have enjoyed them. This second book has the same feel and tempo as the first. I would suggest reading them in order, but this book could stand-alone. I really enjoy the characters, both old and new. This writing duo has much skill in making the story very life-like and believable. Both stories could easily be made into movies as they already read like a movie of the mind. I received a free copy of this book (ARC) and voluntarily chose to share my honest review.
This is the second book of a series. I have read both and have enjoyed them. This second book has the same feel and tempo as the first. I would suggest reading them in order, but this book could stand-alone. I really enjoy the characters, both old and new. This writing duo has much skill in making the story very life-like and believable. Both stories could easily be made into movies as they already read like a movie of the mind. I received a free copy of this book (ARC) and voluntarily chose to share my honest review.
December 15, 2015
Review by: By Booth Talks Books
Francie and June are back in full force in this rollercoaster of a ride follow up to the first book, “Sunny Side Up.” Maureen Howard wastes no time in pushing us in the middle of a crazy family and a dead body while visiting Devil Island Resort and Convention Center for a theatre workshop.
Francie and June are quickly reeled into the beautiful and mysterious DeVille family when a mishap occurs and they gain access to some of the most prestigious parts of the resort. Some parts are better left alone however as they find out later in the book.
Things get crazy as Francie’s scarf ends up at a murder scene and she becomes the focus of the investigation as the ever odd world of the DeVille family is revealed. From almost being cut in half, to a suspicions young lady who seems to follow the women everywhere , an annoying workshop-goer to creepy clowns and scorpions ever where, the drama visits Francie and June in a huge way in “Deviled.” As is their nature, the best friends can’t help but to try and solve the murder of Roberto DeVille and in turn, try and find out why Francie is being framed. This gets them in hot water with Detective Evelyn Reed as she tries to collect information on Bob’s death. Can these two just stay put? Nope. And the action continues through the entire book. There is never a dull moment with this duo.
This book is exciting and full of twists and turns that the reader won’t see coming. The ending is not only exiting, but leaves you scratching your head as to why you didn’t see that little plot twist coming. I won’t say much more than this is a fun action packed book that will make you wish it didn’t end.
“Deviled” can be enjoyed even if you haven’t read the first in the series, “Sunny Side Up”, but there are a few bits of information that is more fun finding out when you’ve read the first book.
So, when is book three coming out?
*I received this book to read and give an honest opinion*
Francie and June are back in full force in this rollercoaster of a ride follow up to the first book, “Sunny Side Up.” Maureen Howard wastes no time in pushing us in the middle of a crazy family and a dead body while visiting Devil Island Resort and Convention Center for a theatre workshop.
Francie and June are quickly reeled into the beautiful and mysterious DeVille family when a mishap occurs and they gain access to some of the most prestigious parts of the resort. Some parts are better left alone however as they find out later in the book.
Things get crazy as Francie’s scarf ends up at a murder scene and she becomes the focus of the investigation as the ever odd world of the DeVille family is revealed. From almost being cut in half, to a suspicions young lady who seems to follow the women everywhere , an annoying workshop-goer to creepy clowns and scorpions ever where, the drama visits Francie and June in a huge way in “Deviled.” As is their nature, the best friends can’t help but to try and solve the murder of Roberto DeVille and in turn, try and find out why Francie is being framed. This gets them in hot water with Detective Evelyn Reed as she tries to collect information on Bob’s death. Can these two just stay put? Nope. And the action continues through the entire book. There is never a dull moment with this duo.
This book is exciting and full of twists and turns that the reader won’t see coming. The ending is not only exiting, but leaves you scratching your head as to why you didn’t see that little plot twist coming. I won’t say much more than this is a fun action packed book that will make you wish it didn’t end.
“Deviled” can be enjoyed even if you haven’t read the first in the series, “Sunny Side Up”, but there are a few bits of information that is more fun finding out when you’ve read the first book.
So, when is book three coming out?
*I received this book to read and give an honest opinion*
May 10, 2016
I bought Deviled!: Lake Erie Mysteries Book Two because I’m both a fan of cozy mysteries and I love the Lake Erie area. I thought the book would be tailor-made for me.
It did not disappoint.
The novel follows the adventures of Francie and June as they try to mix a drama convention with a girls’ weekend. The results are nothing short of hilarious. Kind of what you’d expect would happen if Two Broke Girls went to an acting seminar and a murder occurred. Of course they would accidentally find the body and not even know it. Of course one of them would be framed for the murder. Of course things would keep going from bad to worse and they wouldn’t know why. And of course it would be just as funny as it was scary along the way.
If these girls aren’t you, they are girls you know. Close as sisters. Funny, loyal, smart. Accident-prone, unlucky and lucky at the same time. The life of the party and the girls you shake you heads at. Perfectly written, perfectly captured on the page. You don’t want the book to end because you don’t want to say goodbye to them.
The plot is well conceived and moves very fast. I read this in one sitting. Heck, I read this in one afternoon. I hadn’t read book one first, and I didn’t need to. This book stands on its own just fine. But I will be going back to read it because I found these authors’ voices/work so engaging. I’ll definitely be looking for their other works.
If you’re looking for a fast, light mystery with fun, quirky characters, I highly recommend this novel.
It did not disappoint.
The novel follows the adventures of Francie and June as they try to mix a drama convention with a girls’ weekend. The results are nothing short of hilarious. Kind of what you’d expect would happen if Two Broke Girls went to an acting seminar and a murder occurred. Of course they would accidentally find the body and not even know it. Of course one of them would be framed for the murder. Of course things would keep going from bad to worse and they wouldn’t know why. And of course it would be just as funny as it was scary along the way.
If these girls aren’t you, they are girls you know. Close as sisters. Funny, loyal, smart. Accident-prone, unlucky and lucky at the same time. The life of the party and the girls you shake you heads at. Perfectly written, perfectly captured on the page. You don’t want the book to end because you don’t want to say goodbye to them.
The plot is well conceived and moves very fast. I read this in one sitting. Heck, I read this in one afternoon. I hadn’t read book one first, and I didn’t need to. This book stands on its own just fine. But I will be going back to read it because I found these authors’ voices/work so engaging. I’ll definitely be looking for their other works.
If you’re looking for a fast, light mystery with fun, quirky characters, I highly recommend this novel.
February 14, 2017
This book is such fun. It's well written with characters who are believable and funny, even when facing some pretty bad situations. I loved it.
July 16, 2016
This is a fun read, with very real characters who somehow manage to get caught up in a true-life murder mystery while attending a drama conference. The ladies have a knack of being in the wrong place at the wrong time, but their devil-may-care does not see them run from danger. Oh, no! These two roll up their sleeves and get stuck in. Add some freaky clowns, mobsters hell bent on turning the Lake resort into a gambling den and plenty of larger-than-life characters and you have a plot where the mysteries take all sorts of unexpected twists and turns. All of this is beautifully depicted in gorgeous locations and with sparkling dialogue and humour.
Take your time to read this, for there is much to enjoy.
Take your time to read this, for there is much to enjoy.
February 10, 2016
When Francie and June decided to attend a drama workshop at a luxury resort, they didn’t expect real-life drama to be part of the package. After a murder takes place and Francie seems to be the prime suspect, the two friends are determined to find the killer and prove her innocence. The two friends were very likeable, and the cast of potential suspects included a colorful bunch of thespians, criminals, and others.
The pages of this engaging mystery turned quickly, with just enough twists to keep me guessing. I think most cozy mystery lovers will enjoy this book.
(Note: Second book in series, but works fine as a standalone.)
The pages of this engaging mystery turned quickly, with just enough twists to keep me guessing. I think most cozy mystery lovers will enjoy this book.
(Note: Second book in series, but works fine as a standalone.)
March 31, 2016
What a good mystery this was! The murderer was one of 4 I considered as I read this book. There were enough twists and turns that I wasn't positive until the end of the mystery as to which character was the culprit. Lots of sneaking around, fumbling around, rescuing and chuckles to more than satisfy my tastes. Bravo, Maureen Howard! A very, very successful second attempt at mystery writing! I can't wait to read the next one! BTW I loved the last line of the book between Francie and Hamm! I laughed out loud! Good one!
February 27, 2016
When June and Francesca are together trouble is not far behind.
A fun girls weekend turn deadly when a body turns up. The are determined to let the police handle it until they are who the police suspect. How can their fun weekend get worse? There is only one answer to that you add a great looking guy and things go downhill fast. You will want to read the first book before or after to see how this dynamic duo got started.
A fun girls weekend turn deadly when a body turns up. The are determined to let the police handle it until they are who the police suspect. How can their fun weekend get worse? There is only one answer to that you add a great looking guy and things go downhill fast. You will want to read the first book before or after to see how this dynamic duo got started.
December 29, 2015
June and Francie are at it again
This is the second book I've read in the series, and again found it enjoyable. It's a light read with quite a few humorous situations. The author does a good job of making the innocent appear guilty. All the loose ends are tied up nicely at the end. Detective Reed, Michael, and Gunner from the first book reappear in this one.
This is the second book I've read in the series, and again found it enjoyable. It's a light read with quite a few humorous situations. The author does a good job of making the innocent appear guilty. All the loose ends are tied up nicely at the end. Detective Reed, Michael, and Gunner from the first book reappear in this one.
June 26, 2016
I loved, Deviled and its two main characters Francie and June. They were cheeky and intrepid and I enjoyed following their antics as they tried unsuccessfully to stay out of trouble and were forced to use their skills to expose the real murderer and his nefarious plans. Beautifully written with the perfect amount of humour. I found it hard to put down!
August 9, 2016
A FIVE STAR RECOMMENDED BOOK!!
This was a really terrific book! I had not read the first book so I was not sure if that would affect reading this one, but it did not. However, I enjoyed this one so much that I am now reading Book One! I found the characters June and Francie likable and the plot was interesting and engaging. Definitely a recommended read!
This was a really terrific book! I had not read the first book so I was not sure if that would affect reading this one, but it did not. However, I enjoyed this one so much that I am now reading Book One! I found the characters June and Francie likable and the plot was interesting and engaging. Definitely a recommended read!
August 30, 2016
Well written story with the same wonderful characters
This is another hit by this great author team. So much going on that this book was hard to put down. I love the characters, the location sounds beautiful and the mystery is intriguing. So many twists and turns it made for an exciting adventure. I can't wait for book three. Great series don't miss it.
This is another hit by this great author team. So much going on that this book was hard to put down. I love the characters, the location sounds beautiful and the mystery is intriguing. So many twists and turns it made for an exciting adventure. I can't wait for book three. Great series don't miss it.
August 23, 2016
Murder and mayhem again
Trouble seems to follow these two, no matter where they go. This the second in the series and well worth the read. Lots of details that add to the story. For those that like mystery with twists and light-hearted approach, this the one. I mean, without a drink and shopping, what's the point? A good read.
Trouble seems to follow these two, no matter where they go. This the second in the series and well worth the read. Lots of details that add to the story. For those that like mystery with twists and light-hearted approach, this the one. I mean, without a drink and shopping, what's the point? A good read.
September 11, 2017
I would give this one 3.5 stars. It was a fast, fun read but lacked a little in story telling. The characters were fun but I kept finding myself asking why they would do certain things. Why not just stay put? Why not call people for help? Overall, not a terrible story.
January 11, 2016
Love June and Francie
The story was very entertaining and full of excitement and surprises. Little long for a cozy but enjoyed it tremendously.
The story was very entertaining and full of excitement and surprises. Little long for a cozy but enjoyed it tremendously.
July 20, 2016
Enjoyable lighthearted nonesense!
August 3, 2016
I started out liking the book a lot. By the end, Frannie and June were getting on my nerves and I asked myself "Don't these two take advice from anyone?"
August 13, 2016
Cracker
Again another cracker of a book. Good plot and characters. Good to share with others roll on the next one.
Again another cracker of a book. Good plot and characters. Good to share with others roll on the next one.
July 26, 2017
great book, loved it!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews