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Enchanted Events #1
Engaged in Trouble
When a washed-up pop star inherits a wedding planning business, it’s all bouquets and bliss until a bride turns up dead.
Paisley Sutton shot to stardom as a teenage rock sensation, but ten years later that star has fizzled out, just like her bank account. When she unexpectedly inherits her aunt’s wedding planning business, Paisley leaves the glamour of Los Angeles for a charming small town in Arkansas. Thinking she’ll arrive in Sugar Creek and liquidate the moldly property, Paisley’s shocked to find Enchanted Events has experienced a major makeover and is now the place for brides. She’s got two months to keep Enchanted Events afloat if she wants to sell and rekindle her music career with the profits.
Paisley’s tossed into a world of vows and venues, but her most difficult challenge comes in the form of one demanding bride. When this Bridezilla’s found facedown in her cake, all fingers point to Paisley as the prime murder suspect. And she does not look good in prison orange.
This former pop princess will need the help of her gun-toting, ex-CIA grandmother and her handsome neighbor, Beau Hudson, to unravel the mystery and clear her good name. As she and her unruly posse dig into Bridezilla’s life, she discovers the woman had a long list of enemies. The closer Paisley gets to the truth, the more her own life is in danger.
Love is in the air this wedding season, but before Paisley can help the ladies of Sugar Creek say, “I do,” she’s got to unveil a killer. Or find herself the next target.
Engaged in Trouble is the first book in the long-awaited Enchanted Events cozy mystery series by award-winning author Jenny B. Jones. If you like laugh-out-loud adventures, small-town romance, unforgettable, sassy characters, and a mystery to keep you guessing, then you’ll love this new page-turning series.
Paisley Sutton shot to stardom as a teenage rock sensation, but ten years later that star has fizzled out, just like her bank account. When she unexpectedly inherits her aunt’s wedding planning business, Paisley leaves the glamour of Los Angeles for a charming small town in Arkansas. Thinking she’ll arrive in Sugar Creek and liquidate the moldly property, Paisley’s shocked to find Enchanted Events has experienced a major makeover and is now the place for brides. She’s got two months to keep Enchanted Events afloat if she wants to sell and rekindle her music career with the profits.
Paisley’s tossed into a world of vows and venues, but her most difficult challenge comes in the form of one demanding bride. When this Bridezilla’s found facedown in her cake, all fingers point to Paisley as the prime murder suspect. And she does not look good in prison orange.
This former pop princess will need the help of her gun-toting, ex-CIA grandmother and her handsome neighbor, Beau Hudson, to unravel the mystery and clear her good name. As she and her unruly posse dig into Bridezilla’s life, she discovers the woman had a long list of enemies. The closer Paisley gets to the truth, the more her own life is in danger.
Love is in the air this wedding season, but before Paisley can help the ladies of Sugar Creek say, “I do,” she’s got to unveil a killer. Or find herself the next target.
Engaged in Trouble is the first book in the long-awaited Enchanted Events cozy mystery series by award-winning author Jenny B. Jones. If you like laugh-out-loud adventures, small-town romance, unforgettable, sassy characters, and a mystery to keep you guessing, then you’ll love this new page-turning series.
368 pages, Paperback
First published March 27, 2017
673 people are currently reading
1512 people want to read
About the author
Jenny B. Jones
31 books2,190 followersFour-time Carol Award winner Jenny B. Jones writes contemporary romance with wit, sass, and Southern charm. Since writing for both women and teens leaves her with very little free time, she believes in spending her spare hours in meaningful, intellectual pursuits, such as watching E!, going to the movies and inhaling large buckets of popcorn, and writing her name in the dust on her furniture. www.jennybjones.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
April 9, 2017
Yes, girl, Yes!! I am always all kinds of happy when Jenny B. Jones comes out with a new book, because she is one my favorite authors for-eves!! Her books are definitely on my top favs list along with Pinterest crafts, cupcakes, and Dwayne Johnson's smile...sigh. :-)
"Engaged In Trouble" was a fun and hilarious cozy mystery ride! Paisley is a former Pop star who definitely feels out of her element, when she finds out she has inherited her aunts wedding planning business and she has to move back to her hometown of Sugar Creek, Arkansas . The only problem is, she has no clue how to run a business, let alone have anything to do with weddings, after her fiance left her at the alter at her own wedding. She must keep the business afloat for at least two months to have any hope of selling it, and restart her music career. As she wades her way through bridal dresses and venues, she encounters a demanding bride-to-be, who makes her new job all the more challenging. But when the bridezilla is found dead, face down in her wedding cake, all fingers point to Paisley as the murder suspect. To prove her own innocence, Paisley must enlist the help of her gun-toting ex-C.I.A. grandmother and her oh so handsome neighbor to help her find the real killer.
Paisley Sutton was a character after my own heart, I love her sassy wit and style. She had me at sequin top and leather pants and pink couture heels! Haha, I was like "we're style twins!". The Lady definitely has a gift for sleuthing. Plus, I love that Sylvie and Frannie are back, ya'll!! I was cracking up with all of their funny quips and their crazy shenanigans they would get into.
Oh, and how can I forget about Beau! I loved the moments between Paisley and him! The banter and the romantic tension definitely one of the many things that makes this book oh so exciting.
I totally fell in love with this series and town. I cannot wait to read more, bravo Jenny!
July 23, 2017
Fair warning: this will be a long review b/c there is much to love about this fabulous book! If that annoys you, go check out my shorter review on Amazon lol.
First things first: COVER LOVE!!!! Who’s with me?!?
Second – WHOLE BOOK LOVE!!
I adore this book, these characters, and Jenny B. Jones’ style. Hilarity abounds between Paisley’s sassy narrative voice, a small Southern town, and her grandmother’s group of sexy-book-reading-matchmaking former spies. Sylvie (Paisley's grandmother) says completely delightful things like:
“And if we need to, we’ll prove [your innocence] to the whole world…Or surgically alter your face and send you to my friends in Nairobi.”
The mystery is really well-plotted with several potential suspects and just as many opportunities for Grandma Sylvie and her CIA cohort … or Beau (more on him in a moment) to help Paisley keep herself out of jail. In typical cozy mystery fashion, of course.
Third – BEAU LOVE!!!
Let’s all take a moment to appreciate Beau…. sexy, next-door-neighbor Beau with a gravelly drawl and a tender spot for Paisley and some awesome ex-military moves. The romantic tension in this book is fabulously swoonlicious but it won’t overpower the story for those readers who prefer more cozy mystery and less cozying up. But … I mean… how can you resist this?
"His eyes … reflected his protective nature, his loyalty, and unspoken stories he unwittingly carried like the shrapnel in his leg. On the drive, I kept finding myself asking Beau questions just to hear his voice. It was a voice that could narrate books – and a girl’s fantasies."
Oh be still my book-boyfriend-collecting heart!
FOURTH – JENNY B. JONES LOVE!
This is my first Jenny B. Jones book and it will not be my last! The way she turns a phrase, the perfect comedic timing, the beautiful imagery her words evoke. I’m going to be adding her backlist to my TBR pile post-haste. This quote is perhaps my favorite part of the entire book (and that includes Beau’s scenes! lol):
"This was home.
For most of my life I’d wanted nothing to do with it.
But it welcomed me back all the same, gathered me to its freshly laundered bosom, and said, “Child, I’m gonna love you anyway.”
Home."
Y’all. That’s grace summed up in 4 sentences. Just beautiful.
Bottom Line: Engaged in Trouble by Jenny B. Jones is a truly enjoyable read from page 1 until the very end. It’s laugh-out-loud funny, keep-a-fan-handy swoony and Southern-belle sassy – all while weaving a mystery that will keep you guessing! Jenny B. Jones’ way with words and her sense of humor are the icing on the wedding cake in this bridal-salon-turned-crime-scene mystery novel. And while this is not Christian fiction, the author’s faith is clearly – if gently – felt.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is the SuperPower
First things first: COVER LOVE!!!! Who’s with me?!?
Second – WHOLE BOOK LOVE!!
I adore this book, these characters, and Jenny B. Jones’ style. Hilarity abounds between Paisley’s sassy narrative voice, a small Southern town, and her grandmother’s group of sexy-book-reading-matchmaking former spies. Sylvie (Paisley's grandmother) says completely delightful things like:
“And if we need to, we’ll prove [your innocence] to the whole world…Or surgically alter your face and send you to my friends in Nairobi.”
The mystery is really well-plotted with several potential suspects and just as many opportunities for Grandma Sylvie and her CIA cohort … or Beau (more on him in a moment) to help Paisley keep herself out of jail. In typical cozy mystery fashion, of course.
Third – BEAU LOVE!!!
Let’s all take a moment to appreciate Beau…. sexy, next-door-neighbor Beau with a gravelly drawl and a tender spot for Paisley and some awesome ex-military moves. The romantic tension in this book is fabulously swoonlicious but it won’t overpower the story for those readers who prefer more cozy mystery and less cozying up. But … I mean… how can you resist this?
"His eyes … reflected his protective nature, his loyalty, and unspoken stories he unwittingly carried like the shrapnel in his leg. On the drive, I kept finding myself asking Beau questions just to hear his voice. It was a voice that could narrate books – and a girl’s fantasies."
Oh be still my book-boyfriend-collecting heart!
FOURTH – JENNY B. JONES LOVE!
This is my first Jenny B. Jones book and it will not be my last! The way she turns a phrase, the perfect comedic timing, the beautiful imagery her words evoke. I’m going to be adding her backlist to my TBR pile post-haste. This quote is perhaps my favorite part of the entire book (and that includes Beau’s scenes! lol):
"This was home.
For most of my life I’d wanted nothing to do with it.
But it welcomed me back all the same, gathered me to its freshly laundered bosom, and said, “Child, I’m gonna love you anyway.”
Home."
Y’all. That’s grace summed up in 4 sentences. Just beautiful.
Bottom Line: Engaged in Trouble by Jenny B. Jones is a truly enjoyable read from page 1 until the very end. It’s laugh-out-loud funny, keep-a-fan-handy swoony and Southern-belle sassy – all while weaving a mystery that will keep you guessing! Jenny B. Jones’ way with words and her sense of humor are the icing on the wedding cake in this bridal-salon-turned-crime-scene mystery novel. And while this is not Christian fiction, the author’s faith is clearly – if gently – felt.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is the SuperPower
September 26, 2017
I really liked this one, great start to a fun new cozy mystery series!
The synopsis gives you a good idea what this story is about, so I won't rehash it. Paisley was a likable character. To me, that is an absolute must when reading. If I don't like the main character, I won't keep reading. Paisley was an easy character to root for, she's at a crossroads in her life right now and is trying to figure things out. When one of her clients ends up dead and she's the prime suspect, she jumps right in and tries to clear her name.
The story was well paced and kept me engaged. I thought the mystery was good and kept me guessing until the end. As for the romance, gotta love me some Beau Hudson. Very swoon worthy. Since this is the start of the series, the romance wasn't the main focus of the story, but we get plenty of swoony moments to keep me happy. I thought Paisley and Beau had good chemistry and I look forward to seeing what happens with them next.
Overall, a fun read! I'd recommend to anyone looking for a lighter mystery.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild - murder, attempted murder, but nothing descriptive
Religious: None
Source: Amazon
The synopsis gives you a good idea what this story is about, so I won't rehash it. Paisley was a likable character. To me, that is an absolute must when reading. If I don't like the main character, I won't keep reading. Paisley was an easy character to root for, she's at a crossroads in her life right now and is trying to figure things out. When one of her clients ends up dead and she's the prime suspect, she jumps right in and tries to clear her name.
The story was well paced and kept me engaged. I thought the mystery was good and kept me guessing until the end. As for the romance, gotta love me some Beau Hudson. Very swoon worthy. Since this is the start of the series, the romance wasn't the main focus of the story, but we get plenty of swoony moments to keep me happy. I thought Paisley and Beau had good chemistry and I look forward to seeing what happens with them next.
Overall, a fun read! I'd recommend to anyone looking for a lighter mystery.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild - murder, attempted murder, but nothing descriptive
Religious: None
Source: Amazon
April 30, 2023
I don't know what it is about grannies in the CIA but I'm here for it. All. Day. Long. I loved the twist of the murder/mystery/suspense in this story and I think Ms. Jones does an excellent job balancing it in perfect amounts. Highly recommend this fun read any time of the year!
September 3, 2017
I have missed reading JBJ's books! Engaged in Trouble is a hilarious cozy mystery, that really did have me chuckling out loud several times. Jones captures small-town living very well, from the descriptions of the setting to the authenticity of the dialogue. She does a fabulous job at keeping things lighthearted yet also still focusing on her characters' development. Paisley's characterization is awesome, and I loved her first person narration. The secondary characters are one of my favorite parts of this story - especially Paisley's grandmother Sylvie, and Sylvie's best friend, Frannie. They had me laughing several times.
Though I hesitate to use the term "edgy," perhaps it's better to say that this is definitely a cozy mystery that comes from a Christian worldview. The focus is the mystery first and foremost, but the characters have interesting back story's, so there are certainly well-drawn characters as well. Paisley's history, while unique, is not altogether unbelievable, especially given how the entertainment industry works. There is a romantic element, but it's definitely light and not the primary focus of the story.
I used to read the Stephanie Plum series, but honestly I got tired of the main character flip-flopping between the two men like it was no big deal. The humor in this book reminded me of the humor in that book, but without the content that I found iffy in the Stephanie Plum books.
There were some great lines in the book, too -
"All of life’s questions could be answered at the library."
"Violet pink and lilac purple covered the sky as if God had airbrushed his favorite colors across the it. The moon hid in the distance, not quite ready to report for the night shift."
And funny ones like this -
“What are you doing?” I pointed toward her side of the road. “That was the house.” “You never go right to the perp’s hideout. You have to do a little surveillance.” She slowed the car even more. “Check out the perimeter, scan the area for any danger—like snipers and Chihuahuas.”
I will definitely be keeping my eye out for the next book in this series, as well as go back and read the Sugar Creek novellas - I can tell this will be one set of characters and one small town that I will enjoy visiting again.
Though I hesitate to use the term "edgy," perhaps it's better to say that this is definitely a cozy mystery that comes from a Christian worldview. The focus is the mystery first and foremost, but the characters have interesting back story's, so there are certainly well-drawn characters as well. Paisley's history, while unique, is not altogether unbelievable, especially given how the entertainment industry works. There is a romantic element, but it's definitely light and not the primary focus of the story.
I used to read the Stephanie Plum series, but honestly I got tired of the main character flip-flopping between the two men like it was no big deal. The humor in this book reminded me of the humor in that book, but without the content that I found iffy in the Stephanie Plum books.
There were some great lines in the book, too -
"All of life’s questions could be answered at the library."
"Violet pink and lilac purple covered the sky as if God had airbrushed his favorite colors across the it. The moon hid in the distance, not quite ready to report for the night shift."
And funny ones like this -
“What are you doing?” I pointed toward her side of the road. “That was the house.” “You never go right to the perp’s hideout. You have to do a little surveillance.” She slowed the car even more. “Check out the perimeter, scan the area for any danger—like snipers and Chihuahuas.”
I will definitely be keeping my eye out for the next book in this series, as well as go back and read the Sugar Creek novellas - I can tell this will be one set of characters and one small town that I will enjoy visiting again.
April 7, 2017
I love Jenny B Jones' comedic voice and this book has it in spades. The mystery is interesting. The characters really enjoyable. I loved the supporting characters and the interactions between the heroine and her grandma and neighbor. Life is not proceeding in a straight line for Paisley. She's got immense hurts and doubts that are forced to the surface by her return home. Add in an ex-fiance, his murdered bride-to-be and a host of trouble, and the book is plain fun. And the pacing is pitch perfect. Set in small town Arkansas, the book is an ode to small towns.
January 6, 2019
3.5 Stars!
A fun lighthearted contemporary cozy mystery with sass, humour, a little romance and a good mystery that kept me questioning to the end.
My favourite characters without a doubt were Granny Sylvie and Frannie. Who does not love ex CIA Granny's? LoL.
This is my first book by Jenny B jones but won't be my last :)
Recommended for anyone looking for a lighthearted cozy sassy mystery with fun humour and a little romance :)
A fun lighthearted contemporary cozy mystery with sass, humour, a little romance and a good mystery that kept me questioning to the end.
My favourite characters without a doubt were Granny Sylvie and Frannie. Who does not love ex CIA Granny's? LoL.
This is my first book by Jenny B jones but won't be my last :)
Recommended for anyone looking for a lighthearted cozy sassy mystery with fun humour and a little romance :)
April 6, 2017
This book is hilarious and heartfelt, intriguing and wonderful. I can't think of a single thing that could be improved. The characters are diverse, prolific, and engaging. The town itself plays a pretty big role in the story, and it's wonderful. The mystery kept me guessing until the very end. The romance was sweet and fun. And Sylvie and Frannie stole the show. I adore them. I love all the characters, but they're something special. This was an entertaining, uplifting read, and I'm very excited for the next installment in the series. Side note, I also adore the cover art.
www.wanderingthepages.tumblr.com
www.wanderingthepages.tumblr.com
September 1, 2019
Overall, I found the story to be cute and humorous at times, even though I thought some of it was unrealistic. I think this book would be a good choice if you are looking for a light read with a little mystery and lots of silly antics.
July 11, 2017
Sugar Creek, Arkansas is exactly where Paisley Sutton does NOT want to be. However, her pop star singing career has come to an abrupt end and she inherits an event planning business, Enchanted Events, which is located in her old hometown of Sugar Creek. She figures the business is going down the tubes, so she’ll sell it and use the money to start over again in the music business.
Things don’t go quite as Paisley plans. She discovers that Enchanted Events is actually doing quite well. According to her inheritance, she must stay with the company for two months and keep it a success. Only then can she sell it.
Enchanted Events is known for fulfilling every bride’s dream wedding, but Paisley has no experience and doesn’t have a cluet what to do. To make it worse, her first client is a real Bridezilla. After a particularly heated argument with her client, the bride-to-be is found dead at Enchanted Events. The number one suspect is Paisley. The police seem set on making her the guilty party, so Paisley has no choice but to look into matters on her own.
With the help of her handsome neighbor and her former spy grandmother, this is a wacky adventure to catch a killer. This book is a combo of chick lit and cozy mystery. Humor is spread throughout the book with mystery and a touch of romance. It’s a quick read with “laugh-out-loud” fun.
The killer was someone I hadn’t even suspected, although the clues were all there. I love when I can’t figure it out and am kept guessing until the end. The author did a great job with it.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but won’t be my last. I’m looking forward to the second story in this series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Things don’t go quite as Paisley plans. She discovers that Enchanted Events is actually doing quite well. According to her inheritance, she must stay with the company for two months and keep it a success. Only then can she sell it.
Enchanted Events is known for fulfilling every bride’s dream wedding, but Paisley has no experience and doesn’t have a cluet what to do. To make it worse, her first client is a real Bridezilla. After a particularly heated argument with her client, the bride-to-be is found dead at Enchanted Events. The number one suspect is Paisley. The police seem set on making her the guilty party, so Paisley has no choice but to look into matters on her own.
With the help of her handsome neighbor and her former spy grandmother, this is a wacky adventure to catch a killer. This book is a combo of chick lit and cozy mystery. Humor is spread throughout the book with mystery and a touch of romance. It’s a quick read with “laugh-out-loud” fun.
The killer was someone I hadn’t even suspected, although the clues were all there. I love when I can’t figure it out and am kept guessing until the end. The author did a great job with it.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but won’t be my last. I’m looking forward to the second story in this series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 5, 2017
I purely love to read a Jenny B. Jones novel. And this one was absolutely delightful! Thrilled me to pieces.
Former pop star Paisley Sutton returns to Sugar Creek after inheriting her great aunt's wedding shop. She doesn't want the shop but is required to run it for two months before she can sell it. Right off the bat, she has to deal with a bridezilla.
Paisley's new digs are a duplex, the other side of which is inhabited by a former high school crush, Beau, who once shamed her in high school. Well, well.
Then a murder happens. What's a girl to do when accused of murder? Why, try to solve the crime, of course! We are treated to the return of former CIA ladies, Sylvie and Frannie, who provide much enjoyment with their antics. I declare, this book brought me such pure joy, it's incredible. I read it in one day and now I'm sad because it's over. But wait! There will be another in the series in late summer! What a wonderful thing to look forward to.
I enjoyed every single little minute of this book, re-reading certain passages all over again, laughing out loud, hugely hilarious! Scared my dog I laughed so hard. I cannot wait for the next book.
Former pop star Paisley Sutton returns to Sugar Creek after inheriting her great aunt's wedding shop. She doesn't want the shop but is required to run it for two months before she can sell it. Right off the bat, she has to deal with a bridezilla.
Paisley's new digs are a duplex, the other side of which is inhabited by a former high school crush, Beau, who once shamed her in high school. Well, well.
Then a murder happens. What's a girl to do when accused of murder? Why, try to solve the crime, of course! We are treated to the return of former CIA ladies, Sylvie and Frannie, who provide much enjoyment with their antics. I declare, this book brought me such pure joy, it's incredible. I read it in one day and now I'm sad because it's over. But wait! There will be another in the series in late summer! What a wonderful thing to look forward to.
I enjoyed every single little minute of this book, re-reading certain passages all over again, laughing out loud, hugely hilarious! Scared my dog I laughed so hard. I cannot wait for the next book.
October 31, 2017
I have to hand over my man card again.
I read one of Jenny B. Jones' books a few years ago when I ordered it for my wife and got sucked in by her sassy sense of humor and engaging writing (thus the loss of my man card). I've been on a science fiction binge for a while, so it was time to read something a little different.
Engaged in Trouble didn't disappoint. Not only does it showcase Jenny's wicked sense of humor, it is a great mystery that kept me guessing (and guessing wrong) until the end. She's created a fictional Southern town with enough crazy characters to keep me hooked.
If you like witty writing with laugh out loud antics and/or a tricky mystery, this book does the trick on both counts.
And now it's time to find a book with lots of explosions. I want my man card back...
I read one of Jenny B. Jones' books a few years ago when I ordered it for my wife and got sucked in by her sassy sense of humor and engaging writing (thus the loss of my man card). I've been on a science fiction binge for a while, so it was time to read something a little different.
Engaged in Trouble didn't disappoint. Not only does it showcase Jenny's wicked sense of humor, it is a great mystery that kept me guessing (and guessing wrong) until the end. She's created a fictional Southern town with enough crazy characters to keep me hooked.
If you like witty writing with laugh out loud antics and/or a tricky mystery, this book does the trick on both counts.
And now it's time to find a book with lots of explosions. I want my man card back...
December 29, 2018
This was my first Jenny B Jones novel and it was really cute. The banter between Paisley and Beau was fun. And the grandmother and her friend. They are hysterical. The only negative is the sexual innuendo could have been quite a bit lighter with the grandmother and friend and the novel more enjoyable. Overall, a fun read and I look forward to reading more novels by the author.
November 2, 2017
This book was so good!! The dialogue and really every line was just so witty and effortlessly funny. Not slap stick, not trying too hard. Just naturally funny. I kept wavering between the guilty party. So many suspects and all fit! So well done. And I even teared up at the end.
April 22, 2017
4+ Stars!
Really enjoyed this cozy murder mystery! Jones added in dashes of humor & romance to round it out. Excited to catch up with these characters again in Book 2!
Really enjoyed this cozy murder mystery! Jones added in dashes of humor & romance to round it out. Excited to catch up with these characters again in Book 2!
May 24, 2017
About this book:
“When a washed-up pop star inherits a wedding planning business, it’s all bouquets and bliss until a bride turns up dead.
Paisley Sutton shot to stardom as a teenage rock sensation, but ten years later that star has fizzled out, just like her bank account. When she unexpectedly inherits her aunt’s wedding planning business, Paisley leaves the glamour of Los Angeles for a charming small town in Arkansas. Thinking she’ll arrive in Sugar Creek and liquidate the moldly property, Paisley’s shocked to find Enchanted Events has experienced a major makeover and is now the place for brides. She’s got two months to keep Enchanted Events afloat if she wants to sell and rekindle her music career with the profits.
Paisley’s tossed into a world of vows and venues, but her most difficult challenge comes in the form of one demanding bride. When this Bridezilla’s found facedown in her cake, all fingers point to Paisley as the prime murder suspect. And she does not look good in prison orange.
This former pop princess will need the help of her gun-toting, ex-CIA grandmother and her handsome neighbor, Beau Hudson, to unravel the mystery and clear her good name. As she and her unruly posse dig into Bridezilla’s life, she discovers the woman had a long list of enemies. The closer Paisley gets to the truth, the more her own life is in danger.
Love is in the air this wedding season, but before Paisley can help the ladies of Sugar Creek say, “I do,” she’s got to unveil a killer. Or find herself the next target.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Enchanted Events” series.
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Thanking God a few of times; Some ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God & Jesus; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of chapels, churches, church going, church events, Sunday school classes, Bible studies, sermons, & pastors; A few mentions of prayer meetings; A few mentions of being baptized & a youth group; A few mentions of hymns; A couple mentions of Heaven; A couple mentions of saints; A couple mentions of sin; A mention of being blessed; A mention of a deacon; A mention of spiritual warfare; A mention of holy water; A mention of Hail Mary prayers; A mention of someone crossing;
*Note: A few mentions of angels, dark angels, & demons; A few mentions of zen; A couple mentions of religious extremists & cult leaders; A couple mentions of devilishly handsome men; A couple mentions of miracle working powers; A mention of the witching hour; A mention of an NFL god; A mention of voodoo dolls; A mention of ghosts; A mention of a portal of hell.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘BS’, a ‘darn it’, a ‘heck’, a ‘witch’, two ‘shoot’s, three ‘darn’s, three forms of ‘dumb’, three ‘oh my gosh’s, five ‘geez’s, six ‘gosh’s, six forms of ‘screw up’, eight ‘stupid’s, 9 forms of ‘crap’; Sass, Sarcasm, & Eye rolling; Finding a body, blood, & being accused of murder (up to semi-detailed); Pain, Being attacked, bleeding, fighting, injuries, passing out, & a fire (up to semi-detailed); A break-in (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of a body, blood, the murder, & the killer (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of drinking, champagne, a bottle as a murder weapon, & needing a bottle to drink; Mentions of past wars, fighting wars, deaths, sniper fire, injuries, & pain (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of setting a place on fire, planning to murder someone, & injuries (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of terrorists, bombs/explosives, & spies; Mentions of criminals, prisons, jails, & being arrested; Mentions of DUI, a car crash, & being arrested; Mentions of threats & blackmail; Mentions of stealing; Mentions of cocaine/crack, drugs & medications/prescriptions; Mentions of drunks, bars, alcohol/booze, moonshine, beers, whiskey, wine, & cocktails; Mentions of gambling & betting; Mentions of loans, loan sharks, debts, beatings & expecting one; Mentions of a break-in, burglar, & torn-up stuff; Mentions of slashed tires; Mentions of nightmares & yelling out; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of roadkill & hunting; A few mentions of a drunk party (that didn’t happen); A couple mentions of serial killers; A couple mentions of suicides; A couple mentions of an internment camp; A couple mentions of spiking drinks; A couple mentions of a liquor store; A couple mentions of divorce; A couple mentions of cigarettes; A couple mentions of tattoos; A couple mentions of diarrhea; A couple mentions of a urine sample; A couple mentions of cheating on a test; A mention of mobsters; A mention of robbing a bank; A mention of poison; A mention of a drunken college rave; A mention of wild parties; A mention of tobacco; A mention of throwing up; A mention of dog pee; A mention of needing to pee; A mention of being gassy;
*Note: Mentions of celebrities/singers (Elvis, Cher, Madonna, Beyoncé, Adele, Lady Gaga, Olivia Newton John, Oprah, the Kardashians, Jay Z, Justin Timberlake, George Strait, Idris Elba, Jerry Springer, Richard Simmons, George Clooney, & Wes Craven); Mentions of bands (Rolling Stones & Aerosmith); Mentions of brand-names (Justin, Ray-Bans, Ralph Lauren, BMW, & Mercedes-Benz); A few mentions of Barbie dolls; A couple mentions of serial killer characters (Freddy Krueger & Jason Voorhees); A couple mentions of People magazine; A mention of Starbucks; A mention of Girl Scouts; A mention of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream; A mention of Jeopardy!; A mention of an alien invasion.
Sexual Content- three cheek kisses, an almost (semi-detailed) kiss, and a very-detailed kiss; Remembering a kiss (up to semi-detailed); Touches, Dancing, Embraces, Heat, & Nearness (up to semi-detailed); Noticing, Smelling, & Butterflies (up to semi-detailed); a ‘bimbo’, a ‘hot stuff’, a ‘rake’, two ‘babe’s, nine ‘hot’s, nine ‘sexy’s; Mentions of a ‘Sexy Book Club’ with senior women reading hot romances (barely-above-not-detailed mentions about a man’s pecs & kissing techniques; it’s mentioned about something dirty said, the ladies also fan themselves); Mentions of smutty romance books; Mentions of affairs & infidelity; Mentions of a college girl’s crush on a her married professor (she dressed in a provocative outfit once; they did have an affair at one point, however); Mentions of making out sessions, lip locking, & canoodling; Mentions of an almost kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of kisses & a bad kisser (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of touches & not touching (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a cheating ex-fiancé; Mentions of boyfriends, girlfriends, stealing a friend’s boyfriend, dating, dates, breakups, & exes; Mentions of flirting; A few mentions of reputations & compromising a girl; A few mentions of morals & compromising them; A couple mentions of winks; A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of a man’s voice being “rumpled-sheets sexy’; A mention of an invitation to join someone in bed; A mention of the police being in bed with the Russians; A mention of a man seducing every woman in a town; A mention of a harem; A mention of a girl’s fantasies (nothing said); A mention of wanting to throw yourself to a guy; A mention of a man that women want to devour; A mention of hanky-panky; A mention of a bachelorette party where a man leaps out from a cake in his skivvies (it doesn’t happen); A mention of a Sexy Single Seniors group & a profile picture showing lots of skin; A mention of lingerie for a honeymoon; A mention of a mother running off after having a baby at age seventeen; Love, falling in love & the emotions;
*Note: Beau catches Paisley coming out of the bathroom wearing a towel that “barely covered up the goods” (it’s mentioned that he lingers looking at her legs, but nothing else is mentioned sexually); Many mentions of bras, boobs (along with slang for them), & strapless dresses; A few mentions of underwear & unmentionables; A few mentions of skin-tight clothes; A couple mentions of curves & figures; A couple mentions of a butt bow on a dress; A couple mentions of feminine productions; A couple mentions of pole dancing; A couple mentions of a man in a cross-dressing cabaret; A couple mentions of “a well-placed knee to [a man’s] manly bits” (it didn’t happen); A mention of kicking a man in his “squishy parts”; A mention of women thinking a guy isn’t straight (he is, though); A mention of paternity suits; A mention of a drag queen convention; A mention of female wiles; A mention of shooting dynamite at a person’s tochus; A mention of working a butt off; A mention of wearing booty shorts.
-Paisley Sutton, age 28(?)
1st person P.O.V. of Paisley
361 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star
Older High School Teens- One Star
My personal Rating- One Star
Jenny B. Jones has always been an author I’ll watch. She has a talent for lots of sass and sarcasm with detailed, zany characters. Unfortunately, there’s always some content that I think could have been left out or comments that didn’t need to be said.
I don’t want to give this book a one-star rating. I never want to give a one-star rating. It’s so disappointing and sad and discouraging when I have to give a low rating because of content. {Especially one with such a great cover. I adore the colors and style of this cover.} But the thing is: I can’t, I just can’t, give a book that accepts smutty romance books as okay—something BFCG is highly against—a rating anything higher than one-star.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
“When a washed-up pop star inherits a wedding planning business, it’s all bouquets and bliss until a bride turns up dead.
Paisley Sutton shot to stardom as a teenage rock sensation, but ten years later that star has fizzled out, just like her bank account. When she unexpectedly inherits her aunt’s wedding planning business, Paisley leaves the glamour of Los Angeles for a charming small town in Arkansas. Thinking she’ll arrive in Sugar Creek and liquidate the moldly property, Paisley’s shocked to find Enchanted Events has experienced a major makeover and is now the place for brides. She’s got two months to keep Enchanted Events afloat if she wants to sell and rekindle her music career with the profits.
Paisley’s tossed into a world of vows and venues, but her most difficult challenge comes in the form of one demanding bride. When this Bridezilla’s found facedown in her cake, all fingers point to Paisley as the prime murder suspect. And she does not look good in prison orange.
This former pop princess will need the help of her gun-toting, ex-CIA grandmother and her handsome neighbor, Beau Hudson, to unravel the mystery and clear her good name. As she and her unruly posse dig into Bridezilla’s life, she discovers the woman had a long list of enemies. The closer Paisley gets to the truth, the more her own life is in danger.
Love is in the air this wedding season, but before Paisley can help the ladies of Sugar Creek say, “I do,” she’s got to unveil a killer. Or find herself the next target.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Enchanted Events” series.
Spiritual Content- Prayers; Thanking God a few of times; Some ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God & Jesus; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of chapels, churches, church going, church events, Sunday school classes, Bible studies, sermons, & pastors; A few mentions of prayer meetings; A few mentions of being baptized & a youth group; A few mentions of hymns; A couple mentions of Heaven; A couple mentions of saints; A couple mentions of sin; A mention of being blessed; A mention of a deacon; A mention of spiritual warfare; A mention of holy water; A mention of Hail Mary prayers; A mention of someone crossing;
*Note: A few mentions of angels, dark angels, & demons; A few mentions of zen; A couple mentions of religious extremists & cult leaders; A couple mentions of devilishly handsome men; A couple mentions of miracle working powers; A mention of the witching hour; A mention of an NFL god; A mention of voodoo dolls; A mention of ghosts; A mention of a portal of hell.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘BS’, a ‘darn it’, a ‘heck’, a ‘witch’, two ‘shoot’s, three ‘darn’s, three forms of ‘dumb’, three ‘oh my gosh’s, five ‘geez’s, six ‘gosh’s, six forms of ‘screw up’, eight ‘stupid’s, 9 forms of ‘crap’; Sass, Sarcasm, & Eye rolling; Finding a body, blood, & being accused of murder (up to semi-detailed); Pain, Being attacked, bleeding, fighting, injuries, passing out, & a fire (up to semi-detailed); A break-in (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of a body, blood, the murder, & the killer (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of drinking, champagne, a bottle as a murder weapon, & needing a bottle to drink; Mentions of past wars, fighting wars, deaths, sniper fire, injuries, & pain (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of setting a place on fire, planning to murder someone, & injuries (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of terrorists, bombs/explosives, & spies; Mentions of criminals, prisons, jails, & being arrested; Mentions of DUI, a car crash, & being arrested; Mentions of threats & blackmail; Mentions of stealing; Mentions of cocaine/crack, drugs & medications/prescriptions; Mentions of drunks, bars, alcohol/booze, moonshine, beers, whiskey, wine, & cocktails; Mentions of gambling & betting; Mentions of loans, loan sharks, debts, beatings & expecting one; Mentions of a break-in, burglar, & torn-up stuff; Mentions of slashed tires; Mentions of nightmares & yelling out; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of roadkill & hunting; A few mentions of a drunk party (that didn’t happen); A couple mentions of serial killers; A couple mentions of suicides; A couple mentions of an internment camp; A couple mentions of spiking drinks; A couple mentions of a liquor store; A couple mentions of divorce; A couple mentions of cigarettes; A couple mentions of tattoos; A couple mentions of diarrhea; A couple mentions of a urine sample; A couple mentions of cheating on a test; A mention of mobsters; A mention of robbing a bank; A mention of poison; A mention of a drunken college rave; A mention of wild parties; A mention of tobacco; A mention of throwing up; A mention of dog pee; A mention of needing to pee; A mention of being gassy;
*Note: Mentions of celebrities/singers (Elvis, Cher, Madonna, Beyoncé, Adele, Lady Gaga, Olivia Newton John, Oprah, the Kardashians, Jay Z, Justin Timberlake, George Strait, Idris Elba, Jerry Springer, Richard Simmons, George Clooney, & Wes Craven); Mentions of bands (Rolling Stones & Aerosmith); Mentions of brand-names (Justin, Ray-Bans, Ralph Lauren, BMW, & Mercedes-Benz); A few mentions of Barbie dolls; A couple mentions of serial killer characters (Freddy Krueger & Jason Voorhees); A couple mentions of People magazine; A mention of Starbucks; A mention of Girl Scouts; A mention of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream; A mention of Jeopardy!; A mention of an alien invasion.
Sexual Content- three cheek kisses, an almost (semi-detailed) kiss, and a very-detailed kiss; Remembering a kiss (up to semi-detailed); Touches, Dancing, Embraces, Heat, & Nearness (up to semi-detailed); Noticing, Smelling, & Butterflies (up to semi-detailed); a ‘bimbo’, a ‘hot stuff’, a ‘rake’, two ‘babe’s, nine ‘hot’s, nine ‘sexy’s; Mentions of a ‘Sexy Book Club’ with senior women reading hot romances (barely-above-not-detailed mentions about a man’s pecs & kissing techniques; it’s mentioned about something dirty said, the ladies also fan themselves); Mentions of smutty romance books; Mentions of affairs & infidelity; Mentions of a college girl’s crush on a her married professor (she dressed in a provocative outfit once; they did have an affair at one point, however); Mentions of making out sessions, lip locking, & canoodling; Mentions of an almost kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of kisses & a bad kisser (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of touches & not touching (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a cheating ex-fiancé; Mentions of boyfriends, girlfriends, stealing a friend’s boyfriend, dating, dates, breakups, & exes; Mentions of flirting; A few mentions of reputations & compromising a girl; A few mentions of morals & compromising them; A couple mentions of winks; A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of a man’s voice being “rumpled-sheets sexy’; A mention of an invitation to join someone in bed; A mention of the police being in bed with the Russians; A mention of a man seducing every woman in a town; A mention of a harem; A mention of a girl’s fantasies (nothing said); A mention of wanting to throw yourself to a guy; A mention of a man that women want to devour; A mention of hanky-panky; A mention of a bachelorette party where a man leaps out from a cake in his skivvies (it doesn’t happen); A mention of a Sexy Single Seniors group & a profile picture showing lots of skin; A mention of lingerie for a honeymoon; A mention of a mother running off after having a baby at age seventeen; Love, falling in love & the emotions;
*Note: Beau catches Paisley coming out of the bathroom wearing a towel that “barely covered up the goods” (it’s mentioned that he lingers looking at her legs, but nothing else is mentioned sexually); Many mentions of bras, boobs (along with slang for them), & strapless dresses; A few mentions of underwear & unmentionables; A few mentions of skin-tight clothes; A couple mentions of curves & figures; A couple mentions of a butt bow on a dress; A couple mentions of feminine productions; A couple mentions of pole dancing; A couple mentions of a man in a cross-dressing cabaret; A couple mentions of “a well-placed knee to [a man’s] manly bits” (it didn’t happen); A mention of kicking a man in his “squishy parts”; A mention of women thinking a guy isn’t straight (he is, though); A mention of paternity suits; A mention of a drag queen convention; A mention of female wiles; A mention of shooting dynamite at a person’s tochus; A mention of working a butt off; A mention of wearing booty shorts.
-Paisley Sutton, age 28(?)
1st person P.O.V. of Paisley
361 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star
Older High School Teens- One Star
My personal Rating- One Star
Jenny B. Jones has always been an author I’ll watch. She has a talent for lots of sass and sarcasm with detailed, zany characters. Unfortunately, there’s always some content that I think could have been left out or comments that didn’t need to be said.
I don’t want to give this book a one-star rating. I never want to give a one-star rating. It’s so disappointing and sad and discouraging when I have to give a low rating because of content. {Especially one with such a great cover. I adore the colors and style of this cover.} But the thing is: I can’t, I just can’t, give a book that accepts smutty romance books as okay—something BFCG is highly against—a rating anything higher than one-star.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
July 15, 2017
Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/2tV1thk
Engaged in Trouble … smart, sassy, and southern. I’ve found a new favorite author in Jenny B. Jones, one who captivates me with her storytelling, characterization, and lyrical writing. For pure entertainment, it doesn't get much better than this.
What did I find in Engaged in Trouble, book #1 in this first Enchanted Events cozy mystery? Unforgettable characters, small-town (to-die-for) romance, laugh-out-loud adventures, a mystery that kept me guessing, and a story that satisfies my love for Southern fiction. Engaged in Trouble goes on my "best of the best" list.
I haven’t yet had the opportunity to read any of Jenny’s highly-rated books published in the Christian fiction genre, so when this mystery came up on Great Escapes tour, I immediately signed up. Let me quickly say that Engaged in Trouble is not Christian fiction, but rather fiction written from a biblical worldview. It is completely clean, but with an edginess that some conservative readers might not appreciate.
Jenny B. Jones is a wordsmith. One strength of this story is lyrical imagery that paints a vivid picture, such as … "Violet pink and lilac purple covered the sky as if God had airbrushed his favorite colors across it. The moon hid in the distance, not quite ready to report for the night shift." At times, I felt like the narrative was wrapping its arms around me. Then there’s the wicked humor, snappy quips, bridal salon setting, unforgettable characters, romantic tension, and solid mystery plot.
Ex-CIA operatives Sylvie and Frannie, also known as Paisley’s grandmother and close friend, almost steal the show with their zany antics and love for “secular” romance novels. Another character that I loved is Paisley’s assistant, Henry, who “could be as prickly as a corsage pin, but he was also as reliable as a wedding march.”
Paisley and Beau are compelling, appealing lead characters, both with backgrounds that affect who they are now. Paisley’s thoughts about Beau are too good not to share: "His eyes … reflected his protective nature, his loyalty, and unspoken stories he unwittingly carried like the shrapnel in his leg. On the drive, I kept finding myself asking Beau questions just to hear his voice. It was a voice that could narrate books – and a girl’s fantasies."
The mystery plotting is excellent, slowly developed in a methodical and logical way. Romantic tension is palpable and while the ending is satisfying, we’re left with the promise of much more to come. Jones has created rich characters and a beautiful Arkansas community that I am eager to return to. I’ll end with Paisley's closing words from the story …
This was home.
For most of my life I’d wanted nothing to do with it.
But it welcomed me back all the same, gathered me to its freshly laundered bosom, and said, “Child, I’m gonna love you anyway.”
Home.
Highly recommended.
I was provided a free copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Engaged in Trouble … smart, sassy, and southern. I’ve found a new favorite author in Jenny B. Jones, one who captivates me with her storytelling, characterization, and lyrical writing. For pure entertainment, it doesn't get much better than this.
What did I find in Engaged in Trouble, book #1 in this first Enchanted Events cozy mystery? Unforgettable characters, small-town (to-die-for) romance, laugh-out-loud adventures, a mystery that kept me guessing, and a story that satisfies my love for Southern fiction. Engaged in Trouble goes on my "best of the best" list.
I haven’t yet had the opportunity to read any of Jenny’s highly-rated books published in the Christian fiction genre, so when this mystery came up on Great Escapes tour, I immediately signed up. Let me quickly say that Engaged in Trouble is not Christian fiction, but rather fiction written from a biblical worldview. It is completely clean, but with an edginess that some conservative readers might not appreciate.
Jenny B. Jones is a wordsmith. One strength of this story is lyrical imagery that paints a vivid picture, such as … "Violet pink and lilac purple covered the sky as if God had airbrushed his favorite colors across it. The moon hid in the distance, not quite ready to report for the night shift." At times, I felt like the narrative was wrapping its arms around me. Then there’s the wicked humor, snappy quips, bridal salon setting, unforgettable characters, romantic tension, and solid mystery plot.
Ex-CIA operatives Sylvie and Frannie, also known as Paisley’s grandmother and close friend, almost steal the show with their zany antics and love for “secular” romance novels. Another character that I loved is Paisley’s assistant, Henry, who “could be as prickly as a corsage pin, but he was also as reliable as a wedding march.”
Paisley and Beau are compelling, appealing lead characters, both with backgrounds that affect who they are now. Paisley’s thoughts about Beau are too good not to share: "His eyes … reflected his protective nature, his loyalty, and unspoken stories he unwittingly carried like the shrapnel in his leg. On the drive, I kept finding myself asking Beau questions just to hear his voice. It was a voice that could narrate books – and a girl’s fantasies."
The mystery plotting is excellent, slowly developed in a methodical and logical way. Romantic tension is palpable and while the ending is satisfying, we’re left with the promise of much more to come. Jones has created rich characters and a beautiful Arkansas community that I am eager to return to. I’ll end with Paisley's closing words from the story …
This was home.
For most of my life I’d wanted nothing to do with it.
But it welcomed me back all the same, gathered me to its freshly laundered bosom, and said, “Child, I’m gonna love you anyway.”
Home.
Highly recommended.
I was provided a free copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
August 24, 2019
This is a well written book but the plot was a bit too silly and nonchalant for me. If you are looking for an sarcastic, humorous murder mystery this might be just the book!
September 16, 2017
Funny and fun. Quirky characters. Toe curling romance. But very little faith. The characters attend church, throw up prayers when they're desperate, and don't have sex before marriage. Not what I expect from Jones, but still enjoyed the book.
September 3, 2017
The good news? This cozy mystery grabbed me from the beginning and wouldn't let me go! It took me well over an hour to read it--which is unusual for me--but, I had a blast with it!
The bad news? It didn't feel very Christian. Between some bawdy references--transsexuals, trashy romance novels, etc.--and not much mention of the Way, I think I can see why I couldn't find this at any of the Christian bookstores in my area.
So...this one was really great at times, really awful at others. Proceed with caution.
The bad news? It didn't feel very Christian. Between some bawdy references--transsexuals, trashy romance novels, etc.--and not much mention of the Way, I think I can see why I couldn't find this at any of the Christian bookstores in my area.
So...this one was really great at times, really awful at others. Proceed with caution.
May 1, 2018
This was cute! I'm not a huge cozy mystery reader (if one at all), so I wasn't sure what to expect, but I thoroughly enjoyed this. Paisley was a great character, and I appreciated her growth throughout the novel. Add in plenty of other funny/relatable characters, and an intriguing whodunit, and you get a sweet read. :)
July 27, 2023
4.5 stars 🫶🏻
I wanted a tad more romance, but otherwise it was amazing!
I wanted a tad more romance, but otherwise it was amazing!
September 16, 2018
4.5 stars
While I don’t read a lot of cozy mysteries, I am a fan of Jenny B. Jones! Throw a former pop princess back in her hometown, a horrible bride-to-be, and an ex-CIA grandmother together, and there is plenty to keep a reader busy!
A long list of suspects keeps readers guessing as to “who-done-it” and the antics of Paisley’s grandmother and aunt kept me laughing throughout. I mean with statements like “Where's your imagination? Between the two of us, we have enough wigs, costumes and stage makeup to serve a drag queen convention. You'll go incognito,” you can’t help but smile a little.
And then there’s Beau. The guy is a mystery but in the best sort of way. The tenuous relationship with slow simmering heat makes you cheer for an HEA here.
And even though I am late to the game, I cannot wait for the next installment of Enchanted Events Mysteries.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
While I don’t read a lot of cozy mysteries, I am a fan of Jenny B. Jones! Throw a former pop princess back in her hometown, a horrible bride-to-be, and an ex-CIA grandmother together, and there is plenty to keep a reader busy!
A long list of suspects keeps readers guessing as to “who-done-it” and the antics of Paisley’s grandmother and aunt kept me laughing throughout. I mean with statements like “Where's your imagination? Between the two of us, we have enough wigs, costumes and stage makeup to serve a drag queen convention. You'll go incognito,” you can’t help but smile a little.
And then there’s Beau. The guy is a mystery but in the best sort of way. The tenuous relationship with slow simmering heat makes you cheer for an HEA here.
And even though I am late to the game, I cannot wait for the next installment of Enchanted Events Mysteries.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
June 3, 2020
This is a new, to me, author but I saw this series come up and decided I’d give it a try. Murder mysteries are not really my preference, but I could tell from the cover and from some reviews that it would be pretty mild. I was right...this was a cute and funny story with enough mystery to make it hard to put the book down. It would be like mixing Sweet Home Alabama with Sherlock Holmes. :-)
Paisley is a washed up pop star who leaves LA to move back to her small town in Arkansas to take over a wedding planning business that was left to her by a great aunt. She has an eccentric retired CIA grandma and aunt, a super hot neighbor, and many other crazy town folks to deal with. Her first job is to work with the Bridezilla of all Bridezillas...and of course she winds up murdered. Everyone thinks it had to have been Paisley so Paisley has to uncover the mystery to prove her innocence.
There were lots of funny parts mixed with swoon worthy moments between her and hot neighbor aka Beau, as well as trying to figure out who did it. I was hooked from beginning to end.
It looks like this is a 3 part series and I can’t wait to get more of Paisley and Beau.
Paisley is a washed up pop star who leaves LA to move back to her small town in Arkansas to take over a wedding planning business that was left to her by a great aunt. She has an eccentric retired CIA grandma and aunt, a super hot neighbor, and many other crazy town folks to deal with. Her first job is to work with the Bridezilla of all Bridezillas...and of course she winds up murdered. Everyone thinks it had to have been Paisley so Paisley has to uncover the mystery to prove her innocence.
There were lots of funny parts mixed with swoon worthy moments between her and hot neighbor aka Beau, as well as trying to figure out who did it. I was hooked from beginning to end.
It looks like this is a 3 part series and I can’t wait to get more of Paisley and Beau.
August 4, 2024
I don't think I have ever not liked a book by Jenny B. Jones. Even though this took a step away from her typical inspirational fiction, the characters are still wholesome. I appreciate the focus on the small town and the familiar characters that appear in this mystery. I laughed out loud in more than one section. I did have an inkling on who I thought the murderer was, but there was an unexpected twist at the end that made it less predictable. I cannot wait for the next installment in this series!
May 2, 2017
I read the sample and knew that I wanted to read the book. It was laugh out loud funny at times. Those characters were crazy, especially Sylvie and Frannie. The storyline between Paisley and Beau worked my nerves, get together already! I kept getting the killer wrong, but in the end it made total sense. I found another good author to read.
April 1, 2019
Adorable cozy mystery with a snarky, yet endearing main character!
April 3, 2017
From the moment Paisley Sutton hits Sugar Creek with plans to sell off her great aunt’s old business, it’s just one mess after another. When the worst bridezilla ever (who just happens to belong to Paisley’s own very ex-fiance) is found murdered shortly after Paisley publicly threatens said ex-fiance with dire retribution – all evidence points to her. Not her wisest move, but he did wreck her career and publicly humiliate her. A little anger is to be expected, right? Too bad the cops don’t see it that way.
Loaded with heaping scoops of Jones’s trademark wit, Engaged in trouble is a fast paced ride from beginning to end.
Paisley is a fun heroine. She’s quirky, she’s flawed, she’s emotional, and doesn’t always learn the first time. But she won’t go down without a fight! Her determination is admirable, even when it’s aimed in the wrong direction.
Grandma Sylvie, the terrifying ex-CIA sister of Mad Maxine from the Katie Parker series, is probably the most fun character in the book. Though there are a lot of similarities between her and her sister, she is still her own character – and this one comes packing heat! Unable to fully leave behind the thrill of the “glory days” of her time in the CIA, she’s definitely not someone you want on your bad side, or probably even within fifty feet....
Check out the rest of this review and safety ratings here on my blog: https://embersreviews.wordpress.com/2...
Loaded with heaping scoops of Jones’s trademark wit, Engaged in trouble is a fast paced ride from beginning to end.
Paisley is a fun heroine. She’s quirky, she’s flawed, she’s emotional, and doesn’t always learn the first time. But she won’t go down without a fight! Her determination is admirable, even when it’s aimed in the wrong direction.
Grandma Sylvie, the terrifying ex-CIA sister of Mad Maxine from the Katie Parker series, is probably the most fun character in the book. Though there are a lot of similarities between her and her sister, she is still her own character – and this one comes packing heat! Unable to fully leave behind the thrill of the “glory days” of her time in the CIA, she’s definitely not someone you want on your bad side, or probably even within fifty feet....
Check out the rest of this review and safety ratings here on my blog: https://embersreviews.wordpress.com/2...
November 6, 2017
An entertaining mystery with zany, earthy humor, an appealing love interest, and a clever mystery.
While the ex-CIA granny and her friend struck me as over the top ridiculous in A Sugarcreek Christmas, I think they work MUCH better in this cozy mystery. Somehow they blend well with Paisley's washed-up pop star persona and the mysterious death of a bridezilla.
The mystery kept me guessing and the writing was great! Humor, smart banter, and some touching passages, particularly near the end.
And, a few sentences for the love interest, Beau. Such a spectacularly well-drawn character! I can hear his gravelly voice and imagine his war vet limp. I looked forward to scenes between him and Paisley despite Engaged In Trouble not being a straight-up romance. The characters played so well off of each other, much to Jenny B. Jones's credit.
Looking forward to a return visit to Sugar Creek!
While the ex-CIA granny and her friend struck me as over the top ridiculous in A Sugarcreek Christmas, I think they work MUCH better in this cozy mystery. Somehow they blend well with Paisley's washed-up pop star persona and the mysterious death of a bridezilla.
The mystery kept me guessing and the writing was great! Humor, smart banter, and some touching passages, particularly near the end.
And, a few sentences for the love interest, Beau. Such a spectacularly well-drawn character! I can hear his gravelly voice and imagine his war vet limp. I looked forward to scenes between him and Paisley despite Engaged In Trouble not being a straight-up romance. The characters played so well off of each other, much to Jenny B. Jones's credit.
Looking forward to a return visit to Sugar Creek!
June 18, 2020
This was a fun 3 book series I got on kindle unlimited. It was clean and simple, but a decent mystery. I liked the characters, but especially loved Grandma Sylvie and Aunt Frannie, they were the best.
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