What do you think?
Rate this book
A Book Barn Mystery #2
A Reference to Murder
Charli Rae Warren is back home in Hazel Rock, Texas, spending her time reading, collecting, and selling books—at least, the ones that don’t get eaten first by her father’s pet armadillo. Running the family bookstore is a demanding job, but solving murders on the side can be flat out dangerous . . .
The Book Barn is more than just a shop, it’s a part of the community—and Charli is keeping busy with a fundraising auction and the big rodeo event that’s come to town. That includes dealing with the Texas-sized egos of some celebrity cowboys, including Dalton Hibbs, a blond, blue-eyed bull rider who gets overly rowdy one night with the local hairdresser . . . and soon afterward, disappears into thin air.
Dalton’s brother also vanished seven years ago—and Charli is thrown about whether Dalton is a villain or a victim. After a close call with an assailant wielding a branding iron (that plays havoc with her hair), and some strange vandalism on her property, she’s going to have to team up with the sheriff to untangle this mystery, before she gets gored...
The Book Barn is more than just a shop, it’s a part of the community—and Charli is keeping busy with a fundraising auction and the big rodeo event that’s come to town. That includes dealing with the Texas-sized egos of some celebrity cowboys, including Dalton Hibbs, a blond, blue-eyed bull rider who gets overly rowdy one night with the local hairdresser . . . and soon afterward, disappears into thin air.
Dalton’s brother also vanished seven years ago—and Charli is thrown about whether Dalton is a villain or a victim. After a close call with an assailant wielding a branding iron (that plays havoc with her hair), and some strange vandalism on her property, she’s going to have to team up with the sheriff to untangle this mystery, before she gets gored...
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2017
67 people are currently reading
812 people want to read
About the author
Kym Roberts
16 books208 followersThree career paths resonated for Kym during her early childhood, a detective, an investigative reporter, and a nun. Being a nun however, dropped by the wayside when she became aware of boys, they were a perk to life she couldn't deny. In high school her path was forged when she took her first job at a dry cleaners and met every cop in town, especially the lone female police officer in patrol. Following her dream led to a degree in Administration of Justice and the Kansas City Police Department. Kym followed her dream and became a detective that fulfilled her desire to be an investigative reporter, with one extra perk--a badge. Promoted to sergeant, she returned to SVU a short time later. She retired from the job reluctantly--her husband drug her kicking and screaming to another state,but writing continued to call her name.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 16, 2017
Cowboys, Cowboys, and more cowboys have invaded Basel Rock, Texas. They are there for a major Rodeo event. The cowboys featured are the Bull riders. The top bull riders are present and burying for three titles. Dalton Gibbs the leader insult Charli 's friend Scarlet. Then he disappeared as his brother Wyatt did seven years ago. He was last seen near Scarlet's trailer.
Charlie Rae Warren has troubles as someone tried to brand her with Dalton's number. Her armadillo adds much to the story. We learned about the animal life.
Charlie still has not heard from Chad, an old boyfriend, and the Sheriff will not be social until he is sure that Chad is not in the picture. The story takes several turns before answers are found. Charlie is right in the thick of the matters much to the dismay of the Sheriff. The ending is a surprise. I have not read the first book but plan on it. I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Charlie Rae Warren has troubles as someone tried to brand her with Dalton's number. Her armadillo adds much to the story. We learned about the animal life.
Charlie still has not heard from Chad, an old boyfriend, and the Sheriff will not be social until he is sure that Chad is not in the picture. The story takes several turns before answers are found. Charlie is right in the thick of the matters much to the dismay of the Sheriff. The ending is a surprise. I have not read the first book but plan on it. I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 3, 2017
A Reference to Murder is the second book in Kym Roberts’ Book Barn Mystery series and is a well-written, steady paced whodunit, with well-developed and likeable characters, humor, a sense of community and friendship, plus an adorable pink Armadillo, named Princess. There are enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing who the murderer is until the reveal. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading fun, well-crafted cozy mysteries.
Charli Rae (Princess) Warren fled her hometown after high school, but recently returned to Hazel Rock, Texas and is helping her dad, Bobby Ray, run The Book Barn, the family bookstore. It’s time for Hazel Rock’s annual rodeo event, the Cowboy Ranch Invitational and Cowboy Ranch Auction, which benefits injured and aging rodeo stars who’ve suffered career and life altering injuries and need financial backing and support. Charli and her friend, Scarlett Jenkins, who owns the beauty shop across the street from the bookstore, have been conducting book art classes and everyone donated their projects to the auction. Scarlett has a ‘thing’ for Dalton Hibbs, a champion bull rider, but he loses control and disrespects her while they are partying. The next day, it appears he has vanished as his brother did at the same event years ago. Charli doesn’t know if Dalton is truly missing or just hiding out, but her friend is devastated and she wants to help Scarlett find him. Sheriff Mateo Espinosa and ex-boyfriend, Mayor Cade Calloway, worry about Charli’s safety and rightfully so because she ends up in over her head and in harm’s way.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Charli Rae (Princess) Warren fled her hometown after high school, but recently returned to Hazel Rock, Texas and is helping her dad, Bobby Ray, run The Book Barn, the family bookstore. It’s time for Hazel Rock’s annual rodeo event, the Cowboy Ranch Invitational and Cowboy Ranch Auction, which benefits injured and aging rodeo stars who’ve suffered career and life altering injuries and need financial backing and support. Charli and her friend, Scarlett Jenkins, who owns the beauty shop across the street from the bookstore, have been conducting book art classes and everyone donated their projects to the auction. Scarlett has a ‘thing’ for Dalton Hibbs, a champion bull rider, but he loses control and disrespects her while they are partying. The next day, it appears he has vanished as his brother did at the same event years ago. Charli doesn’t know if Dalton is truly missing or just hiding out, but her friend is devastated and she wants to help Scarlett find him. Sheriff Mateo Espinosa and ex-boyfriend, Mayor Cade Calloway, worry about Charli’s safety and rightfully so because she ends up in over her head and in harm’s way.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
July 11, 2017
I received a free copy of this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a cute mystery but not my favorite. I did love the Book Barn theme and Princess, the pet armadillo. The armadillo's antics are hilarious and made this more entertaining. Charli was just ok for me, and I wasn't a big fan of the bull riding circuit. Sorry, I'm on the fence as to whether I would read another one of these.
This is a cute mystery but not my favorite. I did love the Book Barn theme and Princess, the pet armadillo. The armadillo's antics are hilarious and made this more entertaining. Charli was just ok for me, and I wasn't a big fan of the bull riding circuit. Sorry, I'm on the fence as to whether I would read another one of these.
October 25, 2018
A good second book in the series, with a very good mystery. The latter saved the book from a 3 to 3.5* rating as it had some confusing or inconsistent moments, some comma fails, and some repetition (a downfall of many cozy mysteries). A quick, easy read otherwise.
February 19, 2018
A Reference to Murder is the 2nd book in the Book Barn mystery series. With a fun setting including a pink barn that houses a book shop and also the quirky antics of a pet armadillo, this book is entertaining and contains a well planned mystery. Although I was a bit lost at times since I hadn't read the first book in the series, the author did give some back story now and then so I was able to follow along most of the time. Lots of characters to keep track of but all in all an enjoyable story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book via NetGalley.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book via NetGalley.
April 21, 2017
A Reference To Murder
A Book Barn Mystery, Book #2
Kym Roberts
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Charli Rae Warren is back home in Hazel Rock, Texas, spending her time reading, collecting, and selling books—at least, the ones that don’t get eaten first by her father’s pet armadillo. Running the family bookstore is a demanding job, but solving murders on the side can be flat out dangerous…
The Book Barn is more than just a shop, it’s a part of the community—and Charli is keeping busy with a fundraising auction and the big rodeo event that’s come to town. That includes dealing with the Texas-sized egos of some celebrity cowboys, including Dalton Hibbs, a blond, blue-eyed bull rider who gets overly rowdy one night with the local hairdresser . . . and soon afterward, disappears into thin air.
Dalton’s brother also vanished seven years ago—and Charli is thrown about whether Dalton is a villain or a victim. After a close call with an assailant wielding a branding iron (that plays havoc with her hair) and some strange vandalism on her property, she’s going to have to team up with the sheriff to untangle this mystery, before she gets gored . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded, well developed and three dimensional. Charli is smart and feisty and is not afraid to stick her nose where it might not belong. She is a hard worker and has good business sense. Scarlett is the perfect best friend, she will stick up for you and also comfort you when you need it. I just love the friendship that they have and I think we should all have a friend like Scarlett. Princess, Charli’s father’s pink armadillo, stole the show and is one of the best pets ever. I have to say that I would really like Charli to decide on which of her male suitors she likes best and move on.
The author is very talented is her descriptive writing and through most of the book I felt like I was right there watching all of the action taking place. I felt like I could see the bulls at the rodeo and smell the smells. I loved the small town feel of Hazel Rock and how neighbor’s helped each other out, and also how everyone knew everyone’s business. It seemed like a real small town to me.
The mystery was carried on well throughout the story. There were enough suspects to consider and enough twists and turns and red herrings thrown in to make it difficult to solve the mystery, and I did not figure out the whodunit until it was revealed at the end. I like when that happens.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With quirky likable characters, a small town setting and a well plotted mystery, this is a book you do not want to miss.
I received a free copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I want to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
A Book Barn Mystery, Book #2
Kym Roberts
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Charli Rae Warren is back home in Hazel Rock, Texas, spending her time reading, collecting, and selling books—at least, the ones that don’t get eaten first by her father’s pet armadillo. Running the family bookstore is a demanding job, but solving murders on the side can be flat out dangerous…
The Book Barn is more than just a shop, it’s a part of the community—and Charli is keeping busy with a fundraising auction and the big rodeo event that’s come to town. That includes dealing with the Texas-sized egos of some celebrity cowboys, including Dalton Hibbs, a blond, blue-eyed bull rider who gets overly rowdy one night with the local hairdresser . . . and soon afterward, disappears into thin air.
Dalton’s brother also vanished seven years ago—and Charli is thrown about whether Dalton is a villain or a victim. After a close call with an assailant wielding a branding iron (that plays havoc with her hair) and some strange vandalism on her property, she’s going to have to team up with the sheriff to untangle this mystery, before she gets gored . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded, well developed and three dimensional. Charli is smart and feisty and is not afraid to stick her nose where it might not belong. She is a hard worker and has good business sense. Scarlett is the perfect best friend, she will stick up for you and also comfort you when you need it. I just love the friendship that they have and I think we should all have a friend like Scarlett. Princess, Charli’s father’s pink armadillo, stole the show and is one of the best pets ever. I have to say that I would really like Charli to decide on which of her male suitors she likes best and move on.
The author is very talented is her descriptive writing and through most of the book I felt like I was right there watching all of the action taking place. I felt like I could see the bulls at the rodeo and smell the smells. I loved the small town feel of Hazel Rock and how neighbor’s helped each other out, and also how everyone knew everyone’s business. It seemed like a real small town to me.
The mystery was carried on well throughout the story. There were enough suspects to consider and enough twists and turns and red herrings thrown in to make it difficult to solve the mystery, and I did not figure out the whodunit until it was revealed at the end. I like when that happens.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With quirky likable characters, a small town setting and a well plotted mystery, this is a book you do not want to miss.
I received a free copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I want to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 13, 2017
Welcome back to Hazel Rock, Texas, we're now at the book barn (oh how I've missed you!!), Princess the albino Armadillo (still not allowed one, not sure if I can find one rocking about in Nottingham though) and Charli Rae and the wonderful characters who surround her!
This time there are cowboys wandering around the town for the big Rodeo event and fundraising action, we all know there will be shenanigans and they start pretty quickly!!
The story flows really well, the characters are well drawn out, there's humour, I love the humour, wonderful interplay between the characters and there's the book barn which is one of the reasons I love this series, the other reason is Princess <3
*Huge, huge thanks to Kym Roberts, Kensington Books and NetGalley for this copy which I chose to read and all opinions are my own*
This time there are cowboys wandering around the town for the big Rodeo event and fundraising action, we all know there will be shenanigans and they start pretty quickly!!
The story flows really well, the characters are well drawn out, there's humour, I love the humour, wonderful interplay between the characters and there's the book barn which is one of the reasons I love this series, the other reason is Princess <3
*Huge, huge thanks to Kym Roberts, Kensington Books and NetGalley for this copy which I chose to read and all opinions are my own*
April 4, 2017
This is the second book in the series and I quite enjoyed it. I have not read the first one, and it may have been a bit helpful, but I was able to enjoy this book. (I will be reading the first one.)
I found the characters entertaining and the book barn was an interesting idea.
The whodunit was well written and I look forward to reading more in the series.
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I found the characters entertaining and the book barn was an interesting idea.
The whodunit was well written and I look forward to reading more in the series.
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
May 23, 2017
The second book in Kym Robert's Book Barn Mystery series, A REFERENCE TO MURDER, is about danger and intrigue in a quirky and delightful small town. The heroine, Charli Rae Warren... or Princess, as most of the town calls her no matter how many times she asks them not to, is back in town to run her family's business, The Book Barn Princess. Charli shares her nickname and her apartment above the shop with her father's very pampered pet armadillo.
Charli's best friend is Scarlett, who owns the local hair salon which is conveniently right next door to the Book Barn. Scarlett has a thing for bull riders, specifically Dalton Hibbs. Dalton just happens to be the younger brother of Wyatt Hibbs, also a bull rider, but he's been missing for the past seven years. The town is also home to a retirement ranch of sorts for rodeo cowboys no longer able to ride the circuit, due to injury or age. The ranch hosts a large annual rodeo as a fundraiser for expenses and the whole town does their part. The Cowboys that will be competing are in town to prepare and to help with promotion for the event. When Dalton goes missing, just like his brother had, everyone is looking at Scarlett. Charli can't have that so rather than wait for the Sheriff to clear her friend's name she starts investigating on her own.
A Reference to Murder is a well written mystery with plenty of danger and suspense as Charli and her friends get their selves into all kinds of trouble while trying to solve the crime. There's also plenty of humor, loveable characters, and a little romance. Charli's habit of finding (or causing) trouble wherever she goes has more than one man completely frustrated with how to handle her... but also more than one who'd be more than happy to give it a shot if only Charli would notice. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for more Book Barn Princess mysteries~ 4.5 stars
~Downloaded a copy from NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own..
Charli's best friend is Scarlett, who owns the local hair salon which is conveniently right next door to the Book Barn. Scarlett has a thing for bull riders, specifically Dalton Hibbs. Dalton just happens to be the younger brother of Wyatt Hibbs, also a bull rider, but he's been missing for the past seven years. The town is also home to a retirement ranch of sorts for rodeo cowboys no longer able to ride the circuit, due to injury or age. The ranch hosts a large annual rodeo as a fundraiser for expenses and the whole town does their part. The Cowboys that will be competing are in town to prepare and to help with promotion for the event. When Dalton goes missing, just like his brother had, everyone is looking at Scarlett. Charli can't have that so rather than wait for the Sheriff to clear her friend's name she starts investigating on her own.
A Reference to Murder is a well written mystery with plenty of danger and suspense as Charli and her friends get their selves into all kinds of trouble while trying to solve the crime. There's also plenty of humor, loveable characters, and a little romance. Charli's habit of finding (or causing) trouble wherever she goes has more than one man completely frustrated with how to handle her... but also more than one who'd be more than happy to give it a shot if only Charli would notice. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for more Book Barn Princess mysteries~ 4.5 stars
~Downloaded a copy from NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own..
April 19, 2017
I very much enjoyed this second book in the Book Barn series! Not only did it keep me guessing as to who the murderer was, if there was one, but it kept me guessing until the very end. It also had lots of cowboys in town for the annual fundraiser for retired cowboys and girls. Nothing better than a cowboy in a tight pair of wranglers to keep a girl interested!
Charli is fitting back into town well and settling into things at the Book Barn. She is getting local businesses on board for a fundraiser to help out the local retirement home for cowboys and girls. The yearly event of the big rodeo brings lots of visitors to town. When you have the swagger and egos of all those macho guys in town fireworks are bound to erupt. Unfortunately, one cowboy disappears after acting a fool and getting everyone in town worked up. Thing is, this isn't the only time something like this happened. It happened before and Charli's friend, Scarlett was suspected then. Does Scarlett have anything to do with it now? Or is something more sinister at work? Especially when Charli is attacked not once, but twice.
I was given an eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
Charli is fitting back into town well and settling into things at the Book Barn. She is getting local businesses on board for a fundraiser to help out the local retirement home for cowboys and girls. The yearly event of the big rodeo brings lots of visitors to town. When you have the swagger and egos of all those macho guys in town fireworks are bound to erupt. Unfortunately, one cowboy disappears after acting a fool and getting everyone in town worked up. Thing is, this isn't the only time something like this happened. It happened before and Charli's friend, Scarlett was suspected then. Does Scarlett have anything to do with it now? Or is something more sinister at work? Especially when Charli is attacked not once, but twice.
I was given an eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
April 9, 2017
Even though anything having to do with Rodeo can be controversial, I loved this book.
It is a wonderful mixture of mystery, romance, small town living and friendship.
There is a lot of action and adventure as Princess (the human) Charli tries to protect her best friend, Scarlet, and figure out her feelings about and relationships with two (or is it three) handsome men around town.
Scarlet came across as the ditzy one to me. Usually respectable and responsible, her soft spot is a certain cowboy. Charli, while maybe not the town's WILD girl, does seem to attract the crazies. She needs to learn when to step back. It's a good thing her father and her mother's spirit have her back.
I did learn a few things about rodeo as I was reading. More than that - this book inspired me to try my hand at some book art! There is something here for everyone to enjoy.
I gladly volunteered to read and review this book. I don't know how I missed the previous book in this series but immediately went to Amazon to buy it.
It is a wonderful mixture of mystery, romance, small town living and friendship.
There is a lot of action and adventure as Princess (the human) Charli tries to protect her best friend, Scarlet, and figure out her feelings about and relationships with two (or is it three) handsome men around town.
Scarlet came across as the ditzy one to me. Usually respectable and responsible, her soft spot is a certain cowboy. Charli, while maybe not the town's WILD girl, does seem to attract the crazies. She needs to learn when to step back. It's a good thing her father and her mother's spirit have her back.
I did learn a few things about rodeo as I was reading. More than that - this book inspired me to try my hand at some book art! There is something here for everyone to enjoy.
I gladly volunteered to read and review this book. I don't know how I missed the previous book in this series but immediately went to Amazon to buy it.
April 23, 2017
This is the second book in the series and I loved this one. It read easier than the first book and I was glued to pages before long.
The Championship Bull Riding Rodeo is in Hazel Rock, Texas and everyone is geared up for a week of fun.
The CBR donates proceeds to The Cowboy Ranch, owned by Mayor Cade Calloway.
The small town is filled with fans and tourists, keeping the The Book Barn busy and keeping Charli on her toes.
When Charli isn't busy in the book store, she can usually be found with Princess, her dad's armadillo.
Charli's friend Scarlet has won the affection of Dalton Hibbs, the rodeo star. After a brief night together, Dalton disappears and Scarlet begs Charli to help her.
Charli can't say no, and before long, Charli finds herself close to being branded, tossed in a pen with Twisted Mister and so much more.
I really enjoyed this store, it was well written and there were plenty of twists and turns to keep me guessing.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
The Championship Bull Riding Rodeo is in Hazel Rock, Texas and everyone is geared up for a week of fun.
The CBR donates proceeds to The Cowboy Ranch, owned by Mayor Cade Calloway.
The small town is filled with fans and tourists, keeping the The Book Barn busy and keeping Charli on her toes.
When Charli isn't busy in the book store, she can usually be found with Princess, her dad's armadillo.
Charli's friend Scarlet has won the affection of Dalton Hibbs, the rodeo star. After a brief night together, Dalton disappears and Scarlet begs Charli to help her.
Charli can't say no, and before long, Charli finds herself close to being branded, tossed in a pen with Twisted Mister and so much more.
I really enjoyed this store, it was well written and there were plenty of twists and turns to keep me guessing.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
June 26, 2017
When the annual rodeo comes to town, along with its fundraiser, Charli and the rest of the residents of Hazel Rock have to deal with egos of some of the better-known cowboys. When one of those cowboys goes missing, just a few years after his older brother disappeared, everyone suspects the worst. Despite warnings not to get involved, and some unexplained "accidents," Charli is determined to figure out the truth.
This is the second book in the Book Barn series, which I find myself enjoying much more than I thought I would since cowboys, Texas and all that go with them are not my thing. Despite that, I like the setting and would love to spend time with most of the characters in this book. I had a list of potential bad guys in mind as I read the book, which included the person who actually was the villain, but I wasn't positive until the reveal at the end of the book. I look forward to the next book in this series :)
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is the second book in the Book Barn series, which I find myself enjoying much more than I thought I would since cowboys, Texas and all that go with them are not my thing. Despite that, I like the setting and would love to spend time with most of the characters in this book. I had a list of potential bad guys in mind as I read the book, which included the person who actually was the villain, but I wasn't positive until the reveal at the end of the book. I look forward to the next book in this series :)
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 23, 2018
A Reference to Murder by Kym Roberts was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. After all, there is a book store, Charli, Scarlet, Mateo, Princess and cowboys to entertain the reader.
Scarlet may have just found her HEA and I couldn't be happier for her. But first Charli has to solve a mystery which is so twisted that I had to keep a notebook handy to write down the clues (or red herrings) as I was reading. I can always count on Ms. Roberts to write a story that has humor as well as a tightly woven plot that makes me keep turning the pages. Charli is a strong young woman who is quickly turning the Book Barn into a center for Hazel Rock's creative residents. Charli and Scarlet are best friends who can't seem to stay out of a mystery or trouble; and they are very "creative" during their investigations. With a fast paced plot, numerous suspects, and more than one mystery to be unraveled, this book will keep a reader on the edge of their seats and turning the pages until the end.
Scarlet may have just found her HEA and I couldn't be happier for her. But first Charli has to solve a mystery which is so twisted that I had to keep a notebook handy to write down the clues (or red herrings) as I was reading. I can always count on Ms. Roberts to write a story that has humor as well as a tightly woven plot that makes me keep turning the pages. Charli is a strong young woman who is quickly turning the Book Barn into a center for Hazel Rock's creative residents. Charli and Scarlet are best friends who can't seem to stay out of a mystery or trouble; and they are very "creative" during their investigations. With a fast paced plot, numerous suspects, and more than one mystery to be unraveled, this book will keep a reader on the edge of their seats and turning the pages until the end.
May 19, 2017
For complete review check out my blog at https://booksaplentybookreviews.blogs...
April 9, 2017
A Reference to Murder is the second installment in the A Book Barn Mystery series set in Hazel Rock, Texas and featuring Bookstore owner Charli Rae Warren. Settling back into her hometown after many years away, Charli and the Book Barn Princess are participating in the fundraising auction for the annual Cowboy Ranch Auction.
The Cowboy Ranch owned by Mayor Cade Calloway, is hosting the Invitational featuring all the top bull riders in the country, and the top rider is hunky Dalton Hibbs. Dalton takes a liking to Charli's best friend Scarlet, but after a night of drinking he publicly humiliates her and then disappears. Scarlet becomes the prime focus of the investigation being led by Sheriff Mateo Espinosa and Charli is determined to clear her friends name.
Nosing around leads Charli to discover that there is a lot going on behind the scenes with the cowboys. Dalton's brother, Wyatt disappeared at the exact same rodeo seven years ago, and it seems as though the promoters are deliberately causing animosity between the riders. Soon someone is making threats against her and Charli has no choice but to hang on for the ride.
A fast paced storyline with well developed characters, returning and new, the delightful armadillo Princess and a glimpse into life on the rodeo circuit. The only drawback is the dreaded love triangle which I hope will be resolved soon.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley via Lyrical Underground, a division of Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
The Cowboy Ranch owned by Mayor Cade Calloway, is hosting the Invitational featuring all the top bull riders in the country, and the top rider is hunky Dalton Hibbs. Dalton takes a liking to Charli's best friend Scarlet, but after a night of drinking he publicly humiliates her and then disappears. Scarlet becomes the prime focus of the investigation being led by Sheriff Mateo Espinosa and Charli is determined to clear her friends name.
Nosing around leads Charli to discover that there is a lot going on behind the scenes with the cowboys. Dalton's brother, Wyatt disappeared at the exact same rodeo seven years ago, and it seems as though the promoters are deliberately causing animosity between the riders. Soon someone is making threats against her and Charli has no choice but to hang on for the ride.
A fast paced storyline with well developed characters, returning and new, the delightful armadillo Princess and a glimpse into life on the rodeo circuit. The only drawback is the dreaded love triangle which I hope will be resolved soon.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley via Lyrical Underground, a division of Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
November 11, 2017
Murder, at least between the pages of a book doesn't have to be most foul, in cases like this book, A Reference to Murder it's actually quite fun, the book, not the murder.
I was unfamiliar with Kym Roberts as a writer until I won this from Goodreads (and the author) and I promised to do an honest review so here goes, I enjoyed this, I don't mean to sound so surprised, this wasn't my first cozy mystery rodeo (in real life or the book), but you never know what to expect.
I appreciated how hyper-authentic the characters are, they sprang from the pages in all their flawed glory. Too often characters seem cookie cutter, or too perfect, or too flawed or too perfectly flawed (well, except for their penchant for getting themselves in the middle of dangerous murder mysteries), but Charli and all the characters just seem like you know them, even her pet armadillo.
And why oh why do I like books even more if they're about book lovers, gee, I wonder. As a whodunit I liked it and as a cozy-in-a-big-overstuffed-chair-with-a-cup-of-calming-tea it rocked.
The bigger mystery, why I didn't find the first book in this series sooner and how can I get Ms. Roberts to give us the gift of more mayhem and murder. https://yadadarcyyada.com/2017/09/28/we-were-on-a-break/
I was unfamiliar with Kym Roberts as a writer until I won this from Goodreads (and the author) and I promised to do an honest review so here goes, I enjoyed this, I don't mean to sound so surprised, this wasn't my first cozy mystery rodeo (in real life or the book), but you never know what to expect.
I appreciated how hyper-authentic the characters are, they sprang from the pages in all their flawed glory. Too often characters seem cookie cutter, or too perfect, or too flawed or too perfectly flawed (well, except for their penchant for getting themselves in the middle of dangerous murder mysteries), but Charli and all the characters just seem like you know them, even her pet armadillo.
And why oh why do I like books even more if they're about book lovers, gee, I wonder. As a whodunit I liked it and as a cozy-in-a-big-overstuffed-chair-with-a-cup-of-calming-tea it rocked.
The bigger mystery, why I didn't find the first book in this series sooner and how can I get Ms. Roberts to give us the gift of more mayhem and murder. https://yadadarcyyada.com/2017/09/28/we-were-on-a-break/
March 17, 2017
How can you not love a book with an armadillo as a character? Add in the book barn and a small town and you have the perfect setting for a cozy mystery.
August 26, 2017
My initial reaction after finishing Kym Roberts's A Reference to Murder? I want a pet armadillo too!
On a more serious note, however, A Reference to Murder was an incredibly engaging and fast paced read. Combining an intriguing mystery, charming main characters, and normal small town hijinks and quirks, A Reference to Murder is a book I just HAD to finish in one setting. It was a book that I actually fought sleep for just so I could figure out who-dun-it. Yes, it was THAT addictive!
As anyone who reads my reviews and/or blog on a regular basis knows, I love a good twisty mystery, and thankfully, A Reference to Murder completely delivered in that regard. I enjoyed that Kym Roberts' combined a past unsolved disappearance to that of a current disappearance. It was interesting to see how the two lined up, especially considering the two missing persons were brothers & celebrity cowboys. Additionally, the mystery truly managed to keep me guessing...all the way up until the end, I wasn't completely sure who had done it, which really managed to add to my love of this book. I always dislike when the mystery is so easily solved in the beginning.
An aspect that I found so utterly refreshing about this one? The lack of romance. This book primarily focuses on Charli's sleuthing ways as well as Charli continuing to figure out her role in her hometown, and I just loved it. Here's this main character who's not all that worried about romance, and while she does have some potential suitors, she's less worried about finding a serious relationship and more concerned about helping her best friend out of a bad situation.
The characters in this were also a ton of fun. Charli was a ball of dynamite - I admired her determination to get justice for the ones she loved most while also continuing to successfully run her book barn. Charli's best friend Scarlet was another favorite of mine. Sometimes I just wanted to shake some sense into her regarding a certain celebrity cowboy, but I also just loved the loyalty she had for the people in her life. Here's a girl who will support you to the end if she thinks you're innocent. The rest of the town also proved a lot of fun, sass, and love...it was so easy to get caught up in the world of Hazel Rock - it made me actually wish this was a real town I could visit.
If you're a fan of mystery, little romance, and one cute, sassy, and show-stealing armadillo, you simply must check out A Reference to Murder. I look forward to continuing with this series.
Grade: A
On a more serious note, however, A Reference to Murder was an incredibly engaging and fast paced read. Combining an intriguing mystery, charming main characters, and normal small town hijinks and quirks, A Reference to Murder is a book I just HAD to finish in one setting. It was a book that I actually fought sleep for just so I could figure out who-dun-it. Yes, it was THAT addictive!
As anyone who reads my reviews and/or blog on a regular basis knows, I love a good twisty mystery, and thankfully, A Reference to Murder completely delivered in that regard. I enjoyed that Kym Roberts' combined a past unsolved disappearance to that of a current disappearance. It was interesting to see how the two lined up, especially considering the two missing persons were brothers & celebrity cowboys. Additionally, the mystery truly managed to keep me guessing...all the way up until the end, I wasn't completely sure who had done it, which really managed to add to my love of this book. I always dislike when the mystery is so easily solved in the beginning.
An aspect that I found so utterly refreshing about this one? The lack of romance. This book primarily focuses on Charli's sleuthing ways as well as Charli continuing to figure out her role in her hometown, and I just loved it. Here's this main character who's not all that worried about romance, and while she does have some potential suitors, she's less worried about finding a serious relationship and more concerned about helping her best friend out of a bad situation.
The characters in this were also a ton of fun. Charli was a ball of dynamite - I admired her determination to get justice for the ones she loved most while also continuing to successfully run her book barn. Charli's best friend Scarlet was another favorite of mine. Sometimes I just wanted to shake some sense into her regarding a certain celebrity cowboy, but I also just loved the loyalty she had for the people in her life. Here's a girl who will support you to the end if she thinks you're innocent. The rest of the town also proved a lot of fun, sass, and love...it was so easy to get caught up in the world of Hazel Rock - it made me actually wish this was a real town I could visit.
If you're a fan of mystery, little romance, and one cute, sassy, and show-stealing armadillo, you simply must check out A Reference to Murder. I look forward to continuing with this series.
Grade: A
August 10, 2017
I journeyed back to Hazel Rock Texas and checked in with Princess (Charli) and the gang. This time they were getting ready for a fundraising rodeo and auction.
I enjoy this series on many levels - Charli's business is the Book Barn - hello, books! The book is also set in Texas...I think there are references to North Texas but not 100% sure on the location within the state. But that is ok because this is a great big state and anywhere would be a good setting.
There are actually a couple of mysteries to solve in this book - who killed Wyatt 7 years ago, whose body is in the grave next to Wyatt, and who was attacking Charli? While I never really figured out all of the details, I suspected one of the characters but couldn't tell you why. There are several people involved in everything that was going on in Hazel Rock, so don't just stop at suspecting one person.
There is some humor in the book as well and I really like Daisy and Jessie. Daisy keeps saying that Jessie is her husband - basically warning off any other woman that even hints at flirting with him.
And of course it wouldn't be this series without Princess the armadillo. I never would have expected an armadillo to be someone's pet, but I suppose if you raise any animal from an early age it can become a pet. The quirks of Princess are comical and definitely add to the story.
Overall an enjoyable book and series, one worth checking out.
I enjoy this series on many levels - Charli's business is the Book Barn - hello, books! The book is also set in Texas...I think there are references to North Texas but not 100% sure on the location within the state. But that is ok because this is a great big state and anywhere would be a good setting.
There are actually a couple of mysteries to solve in this book - who killed Wyatt 7 years ago, whose body is in the grave next to Wyatt, and who was attacking Charli? While I never really figured out all of the details, I suspected one of the characters but couldn't tell you why. There are several people involved in everything that was going on in Hazel Rock, so don't just stop at suspecting one person.
There is some humor in the book as well and I really like Daisy and Jessie. Daisy keeps saying that Jessie is her husband - basically warning off any other woman that even hints at flirting with him.
And of course it wouldn't be this series without Princess the armadillo. I never would have expected an armadillo to be someone's pet, but I suppose if you raise any animal from an early age it can become a pet. The quirks of Princess are comical and definitely add to the story.
Overall an enjoyable book and series, one worth checking out.
May 1, 2017
This first book in this series is the first book I read during Dewey's 24 hour readathon! I wasn't blown away but thought it was a pretty good cozy mystery. It left me wanting to know more about the characters, especially Charli.
Since the first book was not my favorite in the cozy mystery genre, I started this one with trepidation but hope. I was also hoping that Charli would make up her mind and this would not turn into a love triangle. I understand though, because I would not know who to choose between these two strong, courageous, handsome men either.
What's more fun about this one is that I know some of the characters now so there is none of that first book introduction. There are some characters that are unknown since the town is having a rodeo, but they add to the already eclectic mix of characters from the town. Charli has made some life decisions and with how book one ended, I'm not surprised.
What is funny is her relationship with Cade and Mateo. I wish I could kick them both in the shins! And once again when she starts being threatened they are there for her. Sort of. Both are alpha men that think they know best. In this case, maybe they do, but in Charli's defense it's not like she's putting her life on the line here. She is actually much more reserved than in her first case!
The downside to this is that, like in the first story, many of the clues do not lead toward the killer. And once the killer is outed they go into the reasons why. Stop your yapping and kill people, geez. When are villains going to learn this? Also, I can't remember what they did to the body considering the body could not be identified. They had to do something but I don't think it was ever brought up.
Other than all the talk at the end, which was needed to bring the story together, I felt that this was a really solid cozy mystery. Charli's characterization came out even more and so did the characterization of the others in the town. I found myself wanting to immediately read book three! Sadly, nothing seems to be out there yet about book three, but I'll be here when it is!
Received by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Since the first book was not my favorite in the cozy mystery genre, I started this one with trepidation but hope. I was also hoping that Charli would make up her mind and this would not turn into a love triangle. I understand though, because I would not know who to choose between these two strong, courageous, handsome men either.
What's more fun about this one is that I know some of the characters now so there is none of that first book introduction. There are some characters that are unknown since the town is having a rodeo, but they add to the already eclectic mix of characters from the town. Charli has made some life decisions and with how book one ended, I'm not surprised.
What is funny is her relationship with Cade and Mateo. I wish I could kick them both in the shins! And once again when she starts being threatened they are there for her. Sort of. Both are alpha men that think they know best. In this case, maybe they do, but in Charli's defense it's not like she's putting her life on the line here. She is actually much more reserved than in her first case!
The downside to this is that, like in the first story, many of the clues do not lead toward the killer. And once the killer is outed they go into the reasons why. Stop your yapping and kill people, geez. When are villains going to learn this? Also, I can't remember what they did to the body considering the body could not be identified. They had to do something but I don't think it was ever brought up.
Other than all the talk at the end, which was needed to bring the story together, I felt that this was a really solid cozy mystery. Charli's characterization came out even more and so did the characterization of the others in the town. I found myself wanting to immediately read book three! Sadly, nothing seems to be out there yet about book three, but I'll be here when it is!
Received by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2017
Hazel Rock Texas is hosting a fundraising rodeo and apparently a murderer. Charli Rae Warren is determined to make sure her best friend, Scarlet, doesn't get hurt by Dalton Hibbs. He's a bull rider with a big ego and lots of emotional baggage. When he goes missing, Scarlet becomes a person of interest. Is Dalton alive or dead? Charli is glad to be home and working at the family book shop. She missed her dad and the pace of life here. I liked Charli. She has spunk and nose for trouble. She plans to help the Sheriff find out what's going on even if it puts her in danger. Mateo with his protective attitude is a hero. I fell for him. I'm hoping that a romance will develop between these two. I enjoyed this suspenseful mystery. It is a rolling coaster ride that kept me guessing. A Reference To Murder has great dialogue and characters. I loved the touch of romance and the surprising twists. The Book Barn Mystery series pulled me in. I couldn't stop reading.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
June 12, 2017
Charli Rae Warren is originally from Hazel Rock, TX and is back to run the family bookstore, “The Book Barn”. Charli and her father’s pink armadillo are roommate in the apartment above the bookstore. Scarlett, Charli’s best friend, seems to be drawn to rodeo cowboys. Hazel Rock is also a retirement ranch for rodeo cowboys that can no longer work the circuit. Scarlett has hooked up with a brother of someone she dated seven years ago; also missing. What is Scarlett up to? Charli and her friends try to solve the mysteries and stay out of trouble themselves!
Well written with plenty of danger, suspense and humor. Great read!
Well written with plenty of danger, suspense and humor. Great read!
May 23, 2017
Charli Rae Warren operates the Book Barn along with her father in Hazel Rock, Texas. Both participate in the yearly fundraising rodeo, this year additionally running an auction of artwork made at the Barn with tattered books.
Years before top rank rider, Wyatt Hibbs disappeared and his brother Dalton came this year to ride in his honor.
Dalton also disappears, Charli is attacked and things just get stranger. Fingers are pointed, some at Scarlet, Charli's friend and a person of interest as Dalton was seeing her and she knew his brother well in the past.
Charli investigates with Scarlet and when they find a double grave, they call the police. Eliminating all the red herrings the killer sets up still leaves Her puzzled...but when she does find out ...only a nosy budding reporter saves her with a quick 911 call.
Fun mystery read.
I received my Arc copy from NetGalley upon request.
Years before top rank rider, Wyatt Hibbs disappeared and his brother Dalton came this year to ride in his honor.
Dalton also disappears, Charli is attacked and things just get stranger. Fingers are pointed, some at Scarlet, Charli's friend and a person of interest as Dalton was seeing her and she knew his brother well in the past.
Charli investigates with Scarlet and when they find a double grave, they call the police. Eliminating all the red herrings the killer sets up still leaves Her puzzled...but when she does find out ...only a nosy budding reporter saves her with a quick 911 call.
Fun mystery read.
I received my Arc copy from NetGalley upon request.
May 3, 2017
What's more exciting than books and a good mystery? A Reference to Murder has Charli Rae Warren back in Texas at the Book Barn, selling books and solving murders. The story begins with a famous bull rider, Dalton Hibbs, having a drunken night of fun before he disappears. Charli has to get to the bottom of this incident, quickly before someone else gets hurt. A satisfying story of fun and suspense, filled with many great characters and surprises. Recommended for all those who love cozy mysteries.
A Reference to Murder by Kym Roberts will be available May 16, 2017 by Lyrical Underground. An egalley of this book was made available by the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
A Reference to Murder by Kym Roberts will be available May 16, 2017 by Lyrical Underground. An egalley of this book was made available by the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
May 5, 2017
An entertaining cozy. There frequently is a pet in a cozy mystery. No dogs or cats here, but an armadillo. Our delightful protagonist is in Texas after all. Rodeo excitement, missing persons, murder, and romance all add up to an enjoyable read. The publisher provided a copy via NetGalley for my voluntary review.
May 22, 2017
This is a great book; this is the second book in the Book Barn Mystery series written by Kym Roberts. Charli Rae Warren is back home in Hazel Rock, Texas, spending her time reading, collecting, and selling books—at least, the ones that don’t get eaten first by her father’s pet armadillo. Running the family bookstore is a demanding job, but solving murders on the side can be flat out dangerous. The Book Barn is more than just a shop, it’s a part of the community—and Charli is keeping busy with a fundraising auction and the big rodeo event that’s come to town. That includes dealing with the Texas-sized egos of some celebrity cowboys, including Dalton Hibbs, a blond, blue-eyed bull rider who gets overly rowdy one night with the local hairdresser . . . and soon afterward, disappears into thin air. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. If you are looking for a great book, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
May 14, 2017
Sometimes you have to just accept you’re a Princess and move on. Such is the case for Charli Rae Warren in the latest Book Barn mystery, A Reference to Murder. Charli has been trying to get the town of Hazel Rock to quit calling her Princess since she moved back. In this novel she finally realizes the futility of that effort and lets herself be the Princess they’ve always thought her to be. Though the road certainly isn’t easy. It is her involvement in the local Cowboy Invitational Rodeo that finally sets her on this path and not surprisingly there is a body or two along the way. I’m really enjoying this cozy series by Kym Roberts. It’s got great characters, fun characters, and a barn bookstore (how can you go wrong with a bookstore?). As a Colorado girl, I loved the amount of detail Roberts included about the rodeo; it the Cowboy Invitational isn’t real, I really wish it was. If you are looking for a great escapist read, this is a good place to start. I know I can’t wait for the next installment in this fun series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novel.
May 17, 2017
Fun cozy ! Charlie Rae and Scarlett are quite the intrepid duo in this second entry in a series- which you could happily read as a standalone. Small town stuff and rodeo are bonuses but this never gets too madcap or twee. Roberts has a breezy writing style and the book zips along. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Thumbs up!
February 2, 2021
Charli is enjoying life back in Hazel Rock, Texas selling books, working on book art projects from books her pet armadillo chewed, hanging out with BFF Scarlet and repairing her relationship with her dad. It's rodeo season and a big charity rodeo event is coming to Hazel Rock. Some of the bull riders, including star Dalton Hibbs, patronize The Book Barn Princess and even buy some of Scarlet's art. When Dalton takes a liking to Scarlet herself, Charli is worried, especially after she is attacked one night by a maniac with a branding iron featuring Dalton's number. Then Dalton disappears one night after a rowdy night on the town ending in a bar room brawl. Charli is worried about Scarlet's safety and also her friend's heart. Not to mention the fact that years ago Scarlet was questioned about the disappearance of Dalton's brother Wyatt. Mateo warns Chari not to get involved but how can she not when her best friend's future is at stake? Besides, it's not like she has a social life to worry about. Cade hasn't called her once in two months and is seen around town with other women and Mateo seems interested but hasn't made a move. What's a girl to do?
I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first one. I don't like sports that encourage a toxic culture of masculinity and I especially don't like cruelty to animals and bull riding features both. I noticed there are no women in this sport just at the management level. I also hate it when normally smart women act dumb because of a man who isn't worthy. Charli, too, acts like a child. Everyone thinks she's a troublemaker but it's more that she hasn't matured past childhood and when someone says "no", she decides to disobey. She was almost killed in the first novel and again in the beginning of this one. You would think she would learn a lesson. There were also innumerable typos in this novel including name errors even in the murderer's confession! That's just sloppy for Kensington and unacceptable.
The mystery was super tight. I never guessed who or why. In fact, the murderer seems to come out of nowhere and their motive doesn't seem very plausible. There were red herrings galore and some other things going on. There's also some commentary on guns. I was waiting for that in the first and pleased when it didn't appear. How very Texas. Exactly what I was worried I wouldn't like this series. I didn't like the romance subplots.
Charli is massively annoying and immature. At first it seems like she's settled in and become a part of Hazel Rock again. She has some great fundraising ideas, setting up the Cowboy Ranch Auction to raise money for healthcare for career ending injured bull riders. That's truly admirable. She's trying to work things out with her dad and realizing her teenage perceptions of him and the town were all wrong. Then she's attacked and that's the first dumb thing she does. The porch light is off when it wasn't last she saw. She goes out alone, without her phone to fix it when someone comes and attacks her. No kidding! The light was probably unscrewed or broken on purpose. She should have gone upstairs or called someone to come over for safety reasons -at the very least to hold the ladder. Then Charli owes Scarlet a true friendship favor and all reason goes out the window. For some reason the men in her life truly raise her hackles. Cade is a jerk. I get it. He's snobby and rude yet wants to be a nice guy. He has to grow up as much as Charli does. Matteo has a good reason to tell her not to interfere in his investigation! He's the sheriff! He knows Scarlet is innocent and he's kinder to her than he is to Charli. Mateo is a real gentleman except for when he first met Charli. He was snoozing on the job not checking her alibi before arresting her. Mateo may be hot but he's a cop and that should be a no-no for Charli if she can't keep her nose out of police business.
Scarlet loses her brain and becomes someone I despise. I don't believe in love at first sight, but it may not be first sight for Dalton. He may have seen Scarlet around town. Second, he moves FAST and she loses her head. She becomes silly and swoony over him even when he doesn't treat her well. I don't believe he was acting out of character in the tavern that night. He lost his inhibitions. He's part of a very toxic masculine culture and I'm sure the men talk about women when they're alone. Scarlet got lucky when he ghosted her. I felt sad for her because she was so miserable and like Charli, I wanted her to be free to live her life. She didn't deserve to be hounded by the media but Mateo had it covered. I do have to say, her book art still sounds amazing and $200 wasn't even enough! I hope she makes a Princess armadillo. Wyatt sounds like he was a better man for Scarlet but we only learn about him after the fact and mostly from his brother, so who knows?
Scarlet's book art
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/3349559...
https://www.deviantart.com/wetcanvas/... (close)
https://wordandimage.files.wordpress.... (closer)
The locals include Daisy and Jessie Mahan, an elderly couple. Daisy has massive jealousy issues. I got tired of her claiming her man, even out of context when it was inappropriate. Charli briefly wonders if Jessie could be behind the mysterious events surrounding Dalton. I hope not. He's an elderly man and heaven help Mateo if he tries to arrest Jessie. Daisy will be all over Mateo, probably hitting, hissing and spitting "That's MY husband" Sugar has become nice and even helpful! Joe Buck becomes fearsome here, in bouncer mode. He's a good choice to run a tavern and I love his banter with his wife. They're a cute couple.
Oh Princess! How I love you, except for when you smell! I never thought an armadillo could be lovable but she is. I appreciate Charli's explanation of how her dad came to have Princess in the first place and why they chose to keep her. Princess acts like a puppy with a dash of cat, stealing her mom's pillow at night. I also appreciate how Charli explains that while armadillos do often get leprosy, Princess is tested by the vet routinely and has been cleared.
Aubrey is back, having graduated high school. She now has a journalism internship and she puts the scoop ahead of friendship and family. She's still a naïve girl and trying to follow in the footsteps of her mentor. The news reporters are horrible. I think they're so focused on the sensational side of journalism, they've lost focus. There are real people involved and real feelings. Peter Kroft from CNBC news is pretty smarmy. Liza is even worse. Liza Twaine, top news reporter will do anything to get a story. Would she resort to murder? Maybe. She doesn't like Princess so we know she's not a good person. Aiden, the cameraman, has even fewer scruples than the reporters, if that's possible.
Equally as disgusting is Erik Piper, the promoter for the Cowboy Ranch Invitational. He smokes when he's told no smoking, is rude and lets his talent get away with murder, maybe literally. Erik is like a sleazy salesman but worse. Promoter, Taylor Goode, seems like a man eater. She's always all over Cade. She's one of Dalton's handlers and also associates with disgusting, sleazy men in suits smoking fat cigars. I think she has feelings for Dalton but she's nice to Scarlet so I'm not sure.
Did someone harm Dalton and kill Wyatt? Was it a rival? What about Travis? He seems like the perfect gentleman one minute and suspicious the next. His pick up lines are not worth swooning over. I think he's insincere. He was Dalton's main rival. If Dalton doesn't show up, Travis is the likely winner and his eulogy is awful. Charli suspects him but wants to question him so she lets herself get physically close to Travis. Another rider is Dusty Lamb. He's young and the nicest of the bunch, albeit a bit cocky. Sly Alexander is another contradiction. With the guys, he comes across as massively arrogant but his eulogy is sweet.
I don't know if I want to read the next book now. I probably will but this one wasn't up to the standard of the first one.
I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first one. I don't like sports that encourage a toxic culture of masculinity and I especially don't like cruelty to animals and bull riding features both. I noticed there are no women in this sport just at the management level. I also hate it when normally smart women act dumb because of a man who isn't worthy. Charli, too, acts like a child. Everyone thinks she's a troublemaker but it's more that she hasn't matured past childhood and when someone says "no", she decides to disobey. She was almost killed in the first novel and again in the beginning of this one. You would think she would learn a lesson. There were also innumerable typos in this novel including name errors even in the murderer's confession! That's just sloppy for Kensington and unacceptable.
The mystery was super tight. I never guessed who or why. In fact, the murderer seems to come out of nowhere and their motive doesn't seem very plausible. There were red herrings galore and some other things going on. There's also some commentary on guns. I was waiting for that in the first and pleased when it didn't appear. How very Texas. Exactly what I was worried I wouldn't like this series. I didn't like the romance subplots.
Charli is massively annoying and immature. At first it seems like she's settled in and become a part of Hazel Rock again. She has some great fundraising ideas, setting up the Cowboy Ranch Auction to raise money for healthcare for career ending injured bull riders. That's truly admirable. She's trying to work things out with her dad and realizing her teenage perceptions of him and the town were all wrong. Then she's attacked and that's the first dumb thing she does. The porch light is off when it wasn't last she saw. She goes out alone, without her phone to fix it when someone comes and attacks her. No kidding! The light was probably unscrewed or broken on purpose. She should have gone upstairs or called someone to come over for safety reasons -at the very least to hold the ladder. Then Charli owes Scarlet a true friendship favor and all reason goes out the window. For some reason the men in her life truly raise her hackles. Cade is a jerk. I get it. He's snobby and rude yet wants to be a nice guy. He has to grow up as much as Charli does. Matteo has a good reason to tell her not to interfere in his investigation! He's the sheriff! He knows Scarlet is innocent and he's kinder to her than he is to Charli. Mateo is a real gentleman except for when he first met Charli. He was snoozing on the job not checking her alibi before arresting her. Mateo may be hot but he's a cop and that should be a no-no for Charli if she can't keep her nose out of police business.
Scarlet loses her brain and becomes someone I despise. I don't believe in love at first sight, but it may not be first sight for Dalton. He may have seen Scarlet around town. Second, he moves FAST and she loses her head. She becomes silly and swoony over him even when he doesn't treat her well. I don't believe he was acting out of character in the tavern that night. He lost his inhibitions. He's part of a very toxic masculine culture and I'm sure the men talk about women when they're alone. Scarlet got lucky when he ghosted her. I felt sad for her because she was so miserable and like Charli, I wanted her to be free to live her life. She didn't deserve to be hounded by the media but Mateo had it covered. I do have to say, her book art still sounds amazing and $200 wasn't even enough! I hope she makes a Princess armadillo. Wyatt sounds like he was a better man for Scarlet but we only learn about him after the fact and mostly from his brother, so who knows?
Scarlet's book art
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/3349559...
https://www.deviantart.com/wetcanvas/... (close)
https://wordandimage.files.wordpress.... (closer)
The locals include Daisy and Jessie Mahan, an elderly couple. Daisy has massive jealousy issues. I got tired of her claiming her man, even out of context when it was inappropriate. Charli briefly wonders if Jessie could be behind the mysterious events surrounding Dalton. I hope not. He's an elderly man and heaven help Mateo if he tries to arrest Jessie. Daisy will be all over Mateo, probably hitting, hissing and spitting "That's MY husband" Sugar has become nice and even helpful! Joe Buck becomes fearsome here, in bouncer mode. He's a good choice to run a tavern and I love his banter with his wife. They're a cute couple.
Oh Princess! How I love you, except for when you smell! I never thought an armadillo could be lovable but she is. I appreciate Charli's explanation of how her dad came to have Princess in the first place and why they chose to keep her. Princess acts like a puppy with a dash of cat, stealing her mom's pillow at night. I also appreciate how Charli explains that while armadillos do often get leprosy, Princess is tested by the vet routinely and has been cleared.
Aubrey is back, having graduated high school. She now has a journalism internship and she puts the scoop ahead of friendship and family. She's still a naïve girl and trying to follow in the footsteps of her mentor. The news reporters are horrible. I think they're so focused on the sensational side of journalism, they've lost focus. There are real people involved and real feelings. Peter Kroft from CNBC news is pretty smarmy. Liza is even worse. Liza Twaine, top news reporter will do anything to get a story. Would she resort to murder? Maybe. She doesn't like Princess so we know she's not a good person. Aiden, the cameraman, has even fewer scruples than the reporters, if that's possible.
Equally as disgusting is Erik Piper, the promoter for the Cowboy Ranch Invitational. He smokes when he's told no smoking, is rude and lets his talent get away with murder, maybe literally. Erik is like a sleazy salesman but worse. Promoter, Taylor Goode, seems like a man eater. She's always all over Cade. She's one of Dalton's handlers and also associates with disgusting, sleazy men in suits smoking fat cigars. I think she has feelings for Dalton but she's nice to Scarlet so I'm not sure.
Did someone harm Dalton and kill Wyatt? Was it a rival? What about Travis? He seems like the perfect gentleman one minute and suspicious the next. His pick up lines are not worth swooning over. I think he's insincere. He was Dalton's main rival. If Dalton doesn't show up, Travis is the likely winner and his eulogy is awful. Charli suspects him but wants to question him so she lets herself get physically close to Travis. Another rider is Dusty Lamb. He's young and the nicest of the bunch, albeit a bit cocky. Sly Alexander is another contradiction. With the guys, he comes across as massively arrogant but his eulogy is sweet.
I don't know if I want to read the next book now. I probably will but this one wasn't up to the standard of the first one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews