Book 4 in the New York Times and USA Today bestselling Rose Gardner Investigations series.
Rose Gardner feels like she’s up a creek without a paddle. Her sister is dying, her secret boyfriend, James Malcolm, is struggling to protect the county underworld from an upstart drug dealer, and her ex has moved back to town with a bee in his bonnet and a mission to root out corruption in the county. To make matters worse, Neely Kate is in dire straits too—the past she’s spent years trying to forget has finally caught up to her, with horrific fallout. They’re in the thick of danger, and everyone’s quick to tell them they’d do best to hunker down and keep to themselves.
But mysteries have a way of finding Rose and Neely Kate. A mother contacts them about finding her missing teenage daughter the same day they find a different young woman stranded by the side of the road. They know they should turn down the case, just as they should ignore the signs that the woman with the broken down car is running from something, but for Rose and Neely Kate, curiosity will always have a stronger call than danger.
I feel like I’ve been shoved through an emotional wringer talk about fast paced and action packed not to mention just a bit of drama lol ok so it’s a Rose book there was a hell of a lot of drama omg what a freaking awesome story.
This mystery backed up in high cotton so well and as always there is never a dull moment in Henrietta for a small town it’s jam packed with wonderful, lovable and downright scary characters.
Denise has done it again and Up Shute Creek is another terrific addition to the Rose Gardner series. We begin the book with the introduction of Rose’s newest “stray” Carly. (Okay, we actually begin with some Rose and James and uh, yum, but the mystery plot begins with the introduction of Carly.) I really enjoy her character and think she’s a great addition. I like that we have two mysteries going between Carly’s appearance and Rose/NK’s latest PI case involving a missing woman. The plots progress well with lots of twists and I look forward to seeing where some of those twists take us in the future.
Mystery plots aside, I don’t know if I can even properly articulate my emotions throughout the book. They were all over the place, which is a sign of a great book to me! We finally get to see NK and Rose have a big conversation they’ve needed to have. We are gifted with more NK and Jed being the absolute most adorable couple ever. Joe turns a huge leaf between NK’s previous novel In High Cotton and this book and I’m straight loving him now. Violet has won me back over as well and I’m both looking forward to and not looking forward to seeing her storyline progress. And then there’s James. Sigh. I allllmost wrote him off in this book and he made me scream out loud in anger at him multiple times, but ultimately I’ll love him forever. Finally, Denise goes and leaves us with a 4500 ft drop of a cliffhanger that left me in actual tears and feeling heart broken, yet hopeful. I’m dying for more. Needless to say, I highly recommend Up Shute Creek, as well as all of Rose’s books.
As a reader and huge fan of Rose, each book is like catching up with a good friend. I love seeing how much Rose has changed, but also how she has stayed the same throughout the numerous books.
This book was full of excitement, laughter, a few tears, and one or two characters you want to throat punch at least once. I highly recommend this series and anything written by Denise Grover Swank.
Up Shute Creek feels more than a little like na victory lap. Not all that much happens, nothing is really resolved. The main characters don't grow, honestly they go backwards.
For what it is it's entertaining, just not outstanding.
In the past I've waited with bated breath for the latest Rose Gardner book. Not so much anymore.
How many Authors do you know that write a story that engulfs you into the story where you find yourself thinking you are the one living out the story? Denise does this for me. There was some sad tears, laughter,sexy yum yum, angry tears. scared..... It was a lot of hanging on to your seat,up late feelings. This story we get a new person to speculate about. Carly. She seems to be someone we might learn to like. I have all those new people feelings right now. I know she is going to stir her own shit pot at some point. I just hope we still like her after it is all done. We also have a new case that brings in some shady people. I don't know how many times I shook my head. That poor Sarah. Her life was twisted in so many ways. I was holding on to a different ending. But, we did get a whole new What the Hell is going to happen now moments. That I am sure we are going to wonder about till the next book. Now we also have a what IS going on over at the Vets office with Levi and his sister question. I love that we finally see Neely Kate and Rose have that much needed talk. I have always loved Joe because he was the first love of Rose. He was the beginning of her new life. I never felt he was a guy she was going to keep so when all the other stuff happened I was upset but glad he wasn't with Rose. I think he has also grown in so many ways now. He has stepped up and proven that he can be loyal to a fault. If Rose and him revisit their relationship I won't be upset. I was happy to see Mason and Rose get along. I know it isn't much but to have him and Rose on speaking terms is nice. James and Rose. WOW. I cried some tears for them in this book. They were both angry and sad at times. I could see the struggles they are trying to over come to become the people that can be together. I love that Violet is feeling better. To see her out a little bit made me smile. I am not going to lie, I had a few tears for her to. I love that her and Rose have started getting along again. It is going to be interesting to see how the story will go next book. Not her death but her new living arrangements.
This book I feel is a new step into a new,different, Rose that we are going to see as she merges both the Lady and herself into one person. I think we have added a new dimension to the story that will only grow better as the story unfolds. I was sad to see this story end. I will be guessing how many different ways we are going till the next book. Nice job! Denise you never disappoint me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Denise does not disappoint in this book! It was a page turner for sure!! So much was happening that I got whiplash. You ever read a book and, think damn that was a good one? That’s how I am right now. I’m still reeling and processing what I just read. Pick this series up! You will not be disappointed. Be ready for a good book hangover as well. So finger-licking book-good!!
I'm not sure where to even begin. This book starts out with an encounter between Rose and James that is just incredible and wow.... Then Neely-kate and Rose find Carly and decide that they are going to help her out without knowing anything about her, or what kind of trouble she may bring to their world. Rose and Neely-Kate take on a case of a missing girl. This investigation has more twists and turns than you can shake a stick at. There is a hilarious scene involving how to describe a reverse harem book that you won't want to miss. Then we have the men in Rose's life. Who knew that Joe could come around as much as he has. There is hope for him yet. And James, that man has layers upon layers that we have yet to discover. I can't wait to see where it goes. It's nice to see more from Bruce Wayne, I feel like we are maybe going to start seeing more out of this character. Hold on for an amazing story
What I’ve come to expect from Denises’ books, is that you can’t expect to know what is going to happen. The roller coaster ride that she takes you on in the book is amazing. I’m sure I’ve said this about one of her books, but this book is heartbreakingly beautiful. Rose and Neely Kate are our doing PI work again but find themselves in the same old shenanigans. The journey isn’t done yet, and I can’t wait until the next book!
This is exactly what I expect when I read one of Denise’s books. There is EVERYTHING in here. After all of the amazing books we have had, we know the characters and keep finding out more as we join them on their adventures. I mean after all it really wouldn’t be fun if we didn’t have a good mystery to solve or someone shady that we meet up with. Right?!?
As always the girls are my squad goals. With NK’s history coming to light Rose shows her love and support that she needs...even if she doesn’t realize she needs it.
And the men are always going to blow my mind and they are all here along with some truly emotional moments that made me cry and wanna hug someone. I’m looking at you Joe. You have grown just as much as Rose has over the series and it makes my heart so happy.
4.5 Stars... Rose is definitely up a creek without a paddle... Unrest in Fenton County is causing everyone to be on guard; Rose and Neely Kate are tasked with solving a missing persons case which leads them into the center of a building storm... True motivations and desires are revealed as the mystery unfolds and in the end devastation and loss prevail... Friendship, family, love, loss, and humor all take center stage throughout this story giving readers all the beautiful feels associated with Rose and her life endeavors... Another intriguing mystery that ties more of this unfolding storyline together with a chemistry fueled romance that leaves me swooning... This ending left me reeling and in need of the next book ASAP:)
Fans of Rose and Neely Kate will love this next installment in the Rose Gardener series. One of my favorite parts about this series has always been the friendship of Rose and Neely Kate. I think their friendship grew stronger in this book. Everyone needs a true friend like these two. Add in the mystery of their newest case and the intriguing stranger that has been stranded in Henryetta and you have the recipe for a book that just keeps you wanting more!
Oh my goodness this book was amazing! Denise sure knows how to write a great book! I loved every bit of this book, even when it broke my heart a few times. I loved the infusions of humor and the friendship growth. I love Rose and all her strays, I can't get enough of her story! And that ending basically blew my mind. I didn't know I could feel so excited and heartbroken at the same time.
I absolutely love this book. I don't know how Swank does it. This series gets better with each new addition. You will not be disappointed from the moment you open the book till the very end. Be prepared to feel every possible emotion.
The book was written well except a lot of repeating and the fact that the whole book was two days in the lives of Rose and NK from start to finish. I'm happy I read it but I wish I had waited till the next book came out and read them together
Here’s the thing.... I’m still processing because so much happened. There’s a couple of mysteries and a new character, relationships in all forms developing and changing. You have to know going into these books you need your wits about you, and I don’t mean Neely Kate’s cousin either! This books time frame is only around a week and it fits in a months worth of action.
With these novels, I can’t say too much in a review because I definitely do not want to spoil it for others but the thing I have come away with the most is Rose and Neely Kate are back on track with their friendship. Not that they were fighting but there are no secrets left unturned. Rose gets a few house guest in this episode, one from out of town that has a story of her own to tell. Very interesting indeed. I feel like a protective mother to these girls and at times I want to yell a them as much as Joe, Jed, James and Mason do when they are investigating as my heart is in my mouth sometimes for their safety. But I have faith in them and Rose’s ability with her visions.
This series is always told in Rose’s POV but we get enough dialogue with each character to know what the others are thinking. This is book four in the series. Could you read it as a standalone? Maybe as each book has a mystery solved but there is a bigger picture and you will need to start from the beginning to get the full picture and experience. And lastly, as I have read the previous series in its entirety, I still have hope for #TeamMason. ♥️
Another amazing book in the Rose Gardner Investigation series!! So thrilled that I was able to read it before release and can not wait for a re read!! NK and Rose are back at it again, with yet another investigation full of twists and turns. This book will have you feeling every emotion possible. I'm so loving Joe's growth from the Rose Mystery books. He definitely snagged my heart strings. Warning: Major cliff hanger that will have you anxiously waiting for the next book in June. I can't wait!!! A really good and highly recommended read!!!
Anyone who follows me knows how much I love this series and the whole Rose Gardner world. I love the characters, the quirky and humorous banter, the addicting mysteries that must be solved and most important, the very heart of every story - the love that shines through in every relationship. It’s real.
This is one of the very few installments, however, that just didn’t grab me and keep me turning the pages. While all my favorite aspects are there, the plot seemed more like filler that is building for a future book and the climax was milk-toast at best (at least compared to her previous books.). Still, any journey that includes Rose, Kneely Kate and the bunch is guaranteed to be enjoyable - even if the journey is more a stroll.
I kinda miss the wacky N.K., but I get that the books have taken a turn towards the dramatic. It’s a tribute to the author that even though the tone has changed, I’m emotionally invested in all of these characters. I’ll be waiting 6 months for the next one!
This book is a must read. Starts out strong and continues through the whole book. It’s a page turner for sure. Don’t miss Rose and Neely Kate’s next adventure
Up Shute Creek is the next book in the Rose Gardner Investigation Series and it did not disappoint. It grabs your attention from the very beginning and it doesn’t let go.
Rose and Neely Kate are at it again. They end up helping someone who is down on her luck, and they don’t realize how much she’s needing them. They look at her as a friend from the very beginning even though she’s being very secretive.
While helping their new friend, they’re also trying to find a missing girl. Her mother hires Rose and Neely Kate when no one else would help her. Rose and Neely Kate meet some very interesting people while they’re investing and they get into some sticky situations, just like always. This had me laughing so much, especially the part at the dentist office.
Rose and Neely Kate have some big decisions to make...some to do with their love lives, and some to do with each other. I really love how the characters have grown so much throughout this series and I can’t wait for more.
James. Nekkid. Doing all kinds of yummy things. Lordy! lol
The Gist: A girl's gone missing and Rose and Neely Kate are the only ones willing to look into her disappearance. But each new clue brings more questions and unfortunately more connections to the underworld.
Gah Rose and James. Yes! I adore these two. The good girl with an edge and the bad boy with a tender touch. Whew. Yes. And they really steamed things up this go around which I enjoyed. They're both trying so hard to do what they think is right and it's hard not to love them. Even when things blow up. They're just everything.
The mystery was good. So many ways it could go. So many suspects and connections bringing Rose into James' criminal world. Some scary moments along the way, too. There were some interesting additions to the group and an ending that had me wanting to cry.
All in all, another fantastic read. I'm sad I'm entirely caught up now with the original series and both spin offs. The next really can't come soon enough. This is a series you really must give a go. Start with 28 and a Half Wishes, though. That's where it all begins.
Absolutely phenomenal!!! No matter how many books Denise Grover Swank writes in the Rose Gardner series, the books are still fresh and interesting and I am completely obsessed with them. Up Shute Creek has all the action, romance, conflict, suspense, and phenomenal writing that I’ve grown accustomed to in this amazing series. I tried to guess what would happen early on but of course there were twists and turns and it turns out I was completely wrong. I really love books that keep me guessing and aren’t predictable and Up Shute Creek really delivered. This is not a book you’ll want to miss. I cannot wait until the next one is out.
Another great addition to Rose’s story! Such a wild ride as Rose and Neely Kate solve another mystery! My heart broke for both Rose and Neely Kate but I think of how strong both have become and how much they have grown! Love living in their world and can’t wait for my re-read! Thank you denise for another excellent book that I read in a day because I couldn’t put it down!
I love that the author is still able to enthrall us with this series. The excitement, the thrill and the wonderment of this book kept my attention until the end. The only thing I don’t like is that a couple of things are left to find the answers in another book. However, it certainly whets my appetite. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Rose and Neely Kate embark on a mission to find a missing young woman, but uncover so much more. The saga of Rose and James continues. And a new character enters the field. Another winner!
Wow. First, the ending has me absolutely speechless. But the whole book is incredible. Rose and NK are once again investigating another case. One which leads her back down the rabbit hole that is the corruption of Fenton County. Crazy antics and tons of drama. Such a great book.
I can’t even begin to give on of those big fancy reviews that I love to read with all the details about character development and plot lines.
What I can give you is this... if you don’t love this book we can’t be friends. Rose has become so much of my life that I want to drive down and hang out with her and Neely Kate. When I am reading this series... I am there. It is everything. Thanks for another amazing read.
Wow what a wonderful start of this one(fans self). Rose and NK come up on a new case to locate a woman’s missing teenage daughter so the tension is high on if they will find her and the state they find her. This was an amazing read with such high and low moments, wondering what will happen next and giving more clues to a master plan. The characters are amazing with humor and raw emotion, yes it is not a book that would technically happen in real life but this is why it is a book. For entertainment purposes and boy does it not disappoint. I’m a Rose Fan!
Talk about a book hangover! I cannot get enough of these books! The perfect amount of ups and downs and keeping me on my toes! These books make me want to call off work! Impatiently (but understandingly being patient) for the next NK book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.