The Race is on to find a Killer in the heart of Kentucky horse country
Detective Augustus Grant is faced with his most baffling case to date. Well-respected race horse breeder John Jorgenson is murdered in his den days before the Kentucky Derby and the list of suspects is growing. Complicating matters, Gus' ex-girlfriend is the last person to have seen the victim alive. Rebecca Hayes owes the Jorgenson family her loyalty. They gave her a new life after a disastrous affair leaves her alone and pregnant. With all the evidence pointing in Becky's direction, will Gus do his duty? Or follow his heart?
Jacquie Biggar is an award-winning USA Today bestselling author of romance who loves to write about tough, alpha males and strong, contemporary women willing to show their men that true power comes from love. She lives on Vancouver Island with her husband and loves to hear from readers all over the world! In her own words: “My name is Jacquie Biggar. When I'm not acting like a total klutz, I am a wife, mother of one, grandmother, and a butler to my calico cat. My guilty pleasures are reality tv shows like Amazing Race and The Voice. I can be found every Monday night in my armchair plastered to the television laughing at the judge's shenanigans. I love to hang at the beach with DH (darling hubby) taking pictures or reading romance novels (what else?). I have a slight Tim Hortons obsession, enjoy gardening, everything pink, and talking to my friends.”
I stumbled across author Jacquie Biggar via her WordPress blog and/or Twitter account and learned she had published a lot of books. I perused the list and chose this one based on my normal reading preferences leaning toward mystery and historical fiction. In this novel, part of a series or collection of books, we focus on foul play leading up to a 1950s Kentucky Derby event. I get to combine two of my favorite genres -- how fun!
August Grant (Gus) is the detective who's called to a plantation home when the owner is found dead. It appears as if the man shot himself, and his wife is beside herself. She's also in the arms of the local sheriff. The two policemen face off over whether it was murder or suicide. Gus soon meets a staff member at the plantation and has an intimate connection to her in the past. He also learns a secret about the end of their relationship that could change the future. As he pokes around, something's also amiss with the upcoming horse race and everyone is more jumpy or angry than ever. Gus keeps pushing until he learns all the information he needs to find the killer and fix a wrong in his own past.
The story is on the shorter side but makes for a great introduction to the author's writing style and perhaps the series if you enjoy the characters. Biggar is descriptive but also very focused on the plot, which is always important to me. I enjoyed the layers of this one as it kept growing more and more complex as the pages flipped by. It's an easy read, less than 2 hours if you're focused, given how she draws you into the plight of a few characters and the actual mystery. Although it takes place in the 1950s, there isn't a lot of detail about the time frame which can be both helpful and not helpful. If you're looking for a deep southern connection from the past, it's on the lighter side, but it also makes for a good foray into the exploration of life at that time. The details that tell you the time frame are hidden in the decor, word choice, and character actions. No computers, no cell phones, no automated way to track a killer. Just good old fashioned common sense and questioning. I like it!
I look forward to reading more from the author's vast publications... perhaps pushing my boundaries on some genres and reading in a new one. Kudos to the author for creating a wonderful book with lots of potential to tempt and tease readers on all she's capable of.
Meet Augustus (Gus) Grant, a detective working in the heart of Kentucky. It's just weeks away from the Kentucky Derby and emotions are riding high ... especially for those who have horses entered into this prestigious event.
A well-respected horse breeder is found murdered in his home. At first, it is hinted that he may have taken his own life. But would this man choose this time ... when his horse is expected to win?
Detective Grant is investigating the death and finding plenty of suspects who may have had the motive and / or the opportunity. What he didn't count on was the fact that Rebecca Hayes was the last person to see the victim alive. This makes her the prime suspect ... but what would her motive be?
He and Rebecca have a history ... and a daughter he never knew about. He finds it hard to think about ... Rebecca killing someone? He can't wrap his mind ... or his heart ... around that idea at all. He's going to have to dig deep to solve this case.
Gus reminds me a bit of Columbo, the seemingly not-so-smart detective who uses deception as an art form to catch the bad guys and The Pink Panther, an inept French police detective. Gus is a bit on the clumsy side, a stumbler, a bumbler, but in a most amusing way. He is smart and being a detective is the only thing he ever wanted to be. Rebecca is a sweet woman, a terrific mother, who works hard to be able to take of her daughter. Gus's ex-wife is a termagant who is not to be trusted at all.
The suspects vary and some of them aren't who they say they are. Some of them have motives that they want to keep buried.
Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries, contemporary romance, inspirational romance, or romantic suspense, will like this second chance romance story.
Many thanks to the author / Author Collective 20 / Netgalley for the digital copy of this mystery. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
A few days before the Kentucky Derby, esteemed breeder John Jorgenson is found murdered in his den. Detective Gus Grant is on the case and just when the list of suspects can’t get any bigger, ex-girlfriend Becky walks back into his life and is the last person to see the victim alive.
Becky’s known heartbreak and his name is Gus Grant. She’s built a nice life for herself and her young daughter since he abandoned her a few years ago. There’s no room for love, least of all from the one man who stole her heart. She puts on a brave face but her resolve crumbles when Gus discovers the truth. Is there any hope of them being a family or will Gus discover what really happened in Mr. Jorgenson’s den?
I love the Kentucky Derby and Biggar brings it to life in this delightful mystery. Gus reminds me of Columbo, from his crinkled attire to the way he fumbles around the crime scene. A mind of steel hidden behind a bumbling exterior, that’s the perfect description of Detective Gus. His past relationship with Becky collides with his duty as a detective and he must decide what really matters.
Missing: The Lady Said No is an addictive mystery filled with cagy characters with the backdrop of the greatest horse race known to man. There’s a lot to uncover yet Biggar only reveals what she wants the reader to know at the time. Gripping sub-plots will keep you turning the pages, all leading up to an explosive climax. I read it in one sitting … yes, it was that good. Can’t wait to read all the books in the Chandler County series!
A few days before the Kentucky Derby, esteemed breeder John Jorgenson is found murdered in his den. Detective Gus Grant is on the case and just when the list of suspects can’t get any bigger, ex-girlfriend Becky walks back into his life and is the last person to see the victim alive.
Becky’s known heartbreak and his name is Gus Grant. She’s built a nice life for herself and her young daughter since he abandoned her a few years ago. There’s no room for love, least of all from the one man who stole her heart. She puts on a brave face but her resolve crumbles when Gus discovers the truth. Is there any hope of them being a family or will Gus discover what really happened in Mr. Jorgenson’s den?
I love the Kentucky Derby and Biggar brings it to life in this delightful mystery. Gus reminds me of Columbo, from his crinkled attire to the way he fumbles around the crime scene. A mind of steel hidden behind a bumbling exterior, that’s the perfect description of Detective Gus. His past relationship with Becky collides with his duty as a detective and he must decide what really matters.
The Lady Said No is an addictive mystery filled with cagy characters set within the greatest horse race known to man. There’s a lot to uncover yet Biggar only reveals what she wants the reader to know at the time. Gripping sub-plots will keep you turning the pages, all leading up to an explosive climax. I read it in one sitting … yes, it was that good.
This is a fast-paced, enjoyable, mystery. I was quickly drawn in to the mystery and couldn't put the book down. I really enjoyed the characters, I thought they were interesting and believable. I particularly enjoyed that the detective was not as suave and put together as other detectives, he was a little rumpled and clumsy,; I found these to be endearing. There were plenty of suspects and I was kept guessing until the final reveal, I was surprised! This is the first book by this author that I've read and it won't be my last.
I received a copy of this manuscript from the author, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
Gus grew up in town and left to pursue a career as a Detective. He has been called back to town to look into a suicide of an influential member of the town.
While he is talking to the staff he finds out that a girl from his past, Rebecca is still in town and staying at the house where the suicide occurred. Will they be able to work through their problems of the past and make a future for them or will they let the past continue to keep them apart.
The way Ms. Biggars tells the story you feel like you are part of their past and present. It is a great read that holds your interest and you will find it hard to put down until you are finished.
this book was amazing! its about a cop who has to investigate a murder but all of it points to his ex girlfriend. he must choose his heart or job. she has a baby to think of and she loves her job. but did she commit murder? thanks for giving me a chance to read this book!
Can murder be wonderful? LOL Yes, if the author writes an entertaining story and creates an interesting cast of characters. Detective Augustus “Gus” Grant seems like an uncomplicated man with clumsy ways, but in reality he’s… well, I’ll let you discover just how perfect he is. I love the equestrian aspect of the book and felt as though I was in the heart of Kentucky horse country. And Gus and Becky’s romance was woven through seamlessly. The Lady Said No is a delightful book that I highly recommend.
This wonderful, suspenseful page-turner will keep the reader’s interest as the detective tracks down the murderer, despite the growing number of suspects – especially one near and dear to his heart!
Detective Augustus “Gus” Grant pulled up behind the Sheriff’s car at the mansion. He knew the Sheriff would not be happy to see him, but the Chief had insisted he work on this case. As expected, the Sheriff said Jorgenson’s death was clearly suicide, gunshot to the head, so Gus would not be needed. But he insisted, following Chief’s orders, he still needed to talk to the staff – or he would question the widow? She saw his determination and reluctantly gave him permission to question them. Odd that she didn’t seem to be grieving her husband’s death.
Rebecca Hayes stared down at the drama below her. Suicide didn’t make sense to her. His favored colt, Forever Humble, was slated to run in the Kentucky Derby and he was worried about his horse. As she came down the stairs, she saw a familiar face – the man who had stolen her heart. But he wanted to be a detective and she wanted stability, so they moved on. But for both of them, all those feelings rushed back, but neither said a word.
Gus entered the crime scene and knew this was a murder. Nancy Huggins, the coroner, showed him a bloodied statue with blood and hair found under the chair which looked like a match to the victim. Gus looked through the desk for any evidence and found a yellowed paper with a warning on it that chilled him to the bone: “Do what I told you to do, or the truth will destroy you.” Trouble was brewing – and he was afraid that Rebecca was involved somehow. Would he arrest his former love? Or would he believe in her innocence and work with her to find the real murderer?
This was a very well-written story. Gus reminded me of the old TV show “Columbo” where the brilliant detective appeared like a bumbling, friendly idiot but was actually relaxing those around him so he could get at the truth. I enjoyed watching him work on this murder. The characters were presented well to the reader. The story line was suspenseful and well-paced. The reader is given the information about various suspicious characters to make it fun to try to solve the case with Gus. Don’t let this one get away!
Missing: The Lady Said No by Jacquie Biggar is a Chandler County Novel and book one in An Augustus Grant Mystery Series that was released on April 25, 2017. This book is a murder, mystery book that is very well written and it will keep you up at night. The story takes place in Kentucky days before The Kentucky Derby that is held at Churchill Downs which is the first of three races comprising The Triple Crown. The writer creates a group of characters that are hard to forget. The backstory on the characters plays an important roll in understanding who they are and why. Biggar only writes enough about the backstories to get you hooked which will leave you hanging on and wanting more. It all starts when esteemed breeder John Jorgenson is found murdered in his den. Because Jorgenson is so highly thought of in the community they call in the best crime solver for the case. Detective Gus Grant is on the case and he has a resume to impress. But just when the list of suspects can’t get any bigger, his ex-girlfriend Becky walks back into his life. Becky just so happens to be the last person to see the victim alive. She quickly starts to feel her heartbreak for Gus all over again. Now she is faced with her past just as she managed to create a good life for her and her young daughter. Becky tries to hide something from Gus. When Gus uncovers the truth you begin to question is there any hope of them being a family? Will Gus discover what really happened in Mr. Jorgenson’s den? I won’t give to much away, because this is a page turner. A real must read! I highly recommend this book.
"Missing: The Lady Said No" (Chandler County) by Jacquie Biggar
I fell in love with this novel almost from the beginning. I truly loved the characters. They are so well written you can feel their personalities coming through the page and feeling what those interacting with them feel.
The plotline seemed straightforward, at first, it or is anything but. Twists and turns are placed in exactly the right moments. Those you suspect...some might be true, others you will be off base, but either way, the ending will surprise you.
I read this novella straight through, even while making and eating dinner. The truly wonderful characters, the great storyline, and the romantic suspense, with a little romance on the side, make this a novella definitely NOT to be missed.
Only problem: I have no clue when the next book in this series will be written and released. It was that good.
“The Lady Said No” is a murder mystery, with some romance, set in Kentucky in the 1950s. Detective Augustus Grant, Gus, is sent to investigate what appeared to be a suicide of a prominent horse breeder. Rebecca, the woman Gus had left behind to become a detective, works for this family. When Gus realizes the death wasn’t self-inflicted, Rebecca is on the list of suspects. This sets up a nice inner battle between his heart and head. I loved the setting, horses, and era, although the time frame made the role of a single mother more of a struggle. I admired Rebecca’s independence and her ability to support her child alone. Then there was something charming about the Detective, and it was beneficial that most underestimated him. This is a quick read that kept me guessing until the exciting end. I really enjoyed this and hope there will be more Detective Grant books coming. I can easily recommend this book, especially if you like a cozy mystery.
When a horse owner turns up dead just weeks before the Kentucky Derby in which his horse is a favourite, Gus Grant is on the case ... but there's a whole lot more going on than just a simple murder, and an old flame of his might be involved. Biggar has crafted a great story set in mid 20th century America with a cast of characters including a crooked sheriff, a not-so-grieving widow, an imperious and overbearing butler, a jovial cook and, of course, the damsel that detective Gus needs to rescue. With lots of detecting, a generous dollop of action and suspense and a feel that pays homage to the great gumshoes of the pulp novel era, The Lady Said No was just plain fun to read.
Augustus Grant is a wonderful change from the rough and tough detective. He is still handsome and smart, but has a few endearing characters as well that make him even more irresistible. Although the killer tried to make it look like a suicide, a famous horse breeder has been murdered. Gus is on the case and notices subtle nuances that others might miss. He is surprised to find that his former lover, Rebecca Hayes, is employed in the home of the victim. Then he is shocked to learn that Rebecca has a young daughter…could she be his? Working the case and trying to make things right with Rebecca will take all of Gus’s mental and emotional ability. There are many twists and turns in this mystery that will keep you guessing. A delightful mystery from one of my favorite authors, Jacquie Biggar! I had purchased this book and also received a free copy and voluntarily chose to give an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
This is a very fast paced book and as a result is is over fast. well it has racing horses in it so what do you expect? ;) This is a mystery book and it is up to Gus to asnwer questions about a high class suicide before a race. The part I like is that Gus is beleivable as a detective and isn't one of those perfect detectives you see on tv or in movies and this made him more likeable. This was a good book.
Gus gave up Rebecca to become a detective. When he is called back to his small town for a murder investigation he finds out she's still there. Can they work things out or is it to late for them? Love the murder mystery! I couldn't put this story down from the very beginning to the very last word! This is a new author to me and I can't wait to see what's next!
When John Jorgenson, a well to do, know it all, horse breeder is found dead a few weeks before his horse is due to race in the Kentucky Derby, Agustus Grant is called in to investigate.Will his impartiality be tested by the fact his ex-girlfriend Rebecca is a possible suspect? Becky and Gus broke up because Gus wanted to chase after his dream of becoming a detective and Becky was ready to settle down. Gus is shocked to find out a secret that Becky has kept hidden about their past. I really enjoyed this book and its' characters. This is a great start to a promising series.
A great murder mystery with a little romance on the side. Very well written, wonderful characters and a plot that kept me guessing!! What looks like a suicide turns out to be a murder, can Detective Augustus "Gus" Grant solve the case?? A must read!!
When Detective Gus Grant is called in to investigate a murder, the last person that he expects to see is his ex-girlfriend Rebecca. She was the last person to see the victim alive but is she a murderer?
Although Missing was a short listen, there was enough character development to make the story work. Gus was a very likeable character with his bumbling ways and was my favorite. The story combined mystery and suspense, with a little romance thrown in for good measure. The plot twists definitely had me guessing right up until the climax. The narration of Daniel F. Purcell was the icing on the cake, bringing the characters to life with wonderful accents and a smooth voice that I loved listening to. Overall, a very satisfying and enjoyable listen. I would recommend Missing: The Lady Said No: An Augustus Grant Mystery, Book 1.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.
What a great introduction to a new to me author. The Lady Said No is a great murder mystery with realistic characters and an engaging storyline. This is definitely a promising start to this series and I will be looking to read more.
A leading citizen of town is found dead in his home with a gunshot to the head. Gus is a detective in another town but is sent to investigate. He finds many things including the love of hs life and a daughter.
a short and sweet, who done it mystery listen. detective gus is on the hunt for the murderer of Kentucky derby breeder only to find he has a family he didn't even know he wanted or needed, but all is found out in splendid time for a hea ending.
I too was reminded of Colombo when reading the description of the detectives antics in this beautifully written story of adultery, murder, gambling with an entire cast of people who have cause to be the actual killer. I love how the answer was parsed out just enough for you to have to continue guessing at the true guilty party. A clean romance makes it even better. Another author I haven't read before but I do like her style and will be reading more.
Mr Jorgenson was worried about the Derby race coming up,being at the track, all day. Was there money problems, a wife, who always had company. Murderhas happened, Gus was sent in by the Chief to look into it. Seeing Rebecca, an old flame, surprised him, and a lot more, his wanting a. career, interfered back then. For Rebecca it was like having her heart shattered into pieces once again. Note, of a threat, who all was involved, was even Rebecca. We next meet Gus ex wife, meeting Becky after that, and we have a little girl, she is raising by herself. Gus maybe a bumbling detective, but he will put the pieces together for a surprise ending. First I have read in this series, and will look for more. A mystery, with romance, with details of the characters made this and enjoyable story to read.
Love Detective Augustus Grant! Augustus is a savvy, hard-working police detective with a complicated past and clumsy feet. Called back to Chandler County to solve a murder, he discovers a secret that will change everything. The only thing I loved more than Augustus was the vividly described setting. A super-rich Kentucky Derby caliber horse farm and the charming but also challenging community of Bourbonville provided the perfect backdrop for this intriguing mystery brimming with romance and suspense.