Disorderly Conduct

A Maggie McDonald Mystery #4

by Mary Feliz

""Professional organizer Maggie McDonald manages to balance a fastidious career with friends, family, and a spunky Golden Retriever. But add a fiery murder mystery to the mix, and Maggie wonders if she's finally found a mess even she can't tidy up . . .

With a devastating wildfire spreading to Silicon Valley, Maggie preps her family for a rapid evacuation. The heat rises when firefighters discover the body of her best friend Tess Olmos's athletic husband-whose untimely death was anything but accidental. And as Tess agonizes over the whereabouts of her spouse's drop-dead gorgeous running mate, she becomes the prime suspect in what's shaping up to become a double murder case. 

 Determined to set the record straight, Maggie sorts through clues in an investigation more dangerous than the flames approaching her home. But when her own loved ones are, can she catch the meticulous killer before everything falls apart?

"A skillful amateur detective with an impressive to-do list." - Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW, Address to Die For ""

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Cozy, Fiction, Contemporary, Animals

217 pages, Paperback

Published July 10, 2018

About the author

Mary Feliz writes the Maggie McDonald Mystery series featuring whip-smart professional organizer Maggie McDonald and her side-kick golden retriever. Together, with the help of family, friends, and a quirky community, they restore order when violence rips their world apart.

Reviews

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read Disorderly Conduct by Mary Feliz after I won this book through the Cozy Mystery Review Crew group which I love being part of! This is the 4th book in the Maggie McDonald mystery series, published in 2018, but I haven't had a chance to read the previous ones, yet. I will be going back to read them at some point as I really enjoyed this one.

Maggie is an organizational expert and in this caper, she's providing tips to prevent and/or react to fires occurring all throughout her Silicon Valley hometown. When her best friend's husband's body is found among the wreckage, she's playing mom to more than just her own family. As Maggie comforts Tess, all the kids suspect there's something foul especially because their father was an experienced hiker and very cautious in all he did. As Maggie helps protect the town and comfort her friends, clues begin to surface, including a sinister group of internationals growing drugs in a nearby field. How does it all fit together? Read to find out... no spoilers here.

Being new to the books and author, I wasn't sure how I'd do starting mid-series. There were a few references to prior murders, and a couple of people who had been suspects once; I will now know not to worry about them. For those reasons, I'd recommend reading in order, but otherwise, it would be a good standalone novel. I enjoyed the premise and characters. I did think the mystery was a little too side-story in terms of actual investigation. Maggie searches for clues along the way, but when she learns of the drug story, it's a bit of a different book. That said, these series aren't always about the mystery -- sometimes it's about getting to know a made-up setting and fictional characters. Readers enjoy living in someone else's world, so there's a balance with both a fun mystery and a cool get-to-know-you story.

I'd recommend it for folks who just like to immerse themselves in a different setting without needing a hardcore mystery to sink there teeth into. The characters stand out. Having pets is fun. Getting tips is beneficial. Overall a good read worthy of 4 stars. Thanks to the publisher and author for setting up this giveaway contest.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth in the Maggie McDonald Mystery series, but can be read as a standalone. I have read and/or listened to all of them and I think this one was my favourite so far. Maggie is a professional organizer and this book shows how her skills can be used in other areas besides organizing a house. In this book there are wildfires and each chapter begins with a tip of what you can do in advance of a disaster where evacuation could occur. There are also some great resources at the end of the book. Having shared that, here is my review of the book.

With wildfires ripping through the canyons, Maggie and her family are worried they might have to evacuate. At the same time, Maggie's friend Tess, gets a phone call that her husband has been found dead on the trails he ran on in the canyon. Knowing that he could not have fallen on the familiar trails, his son Teddy is sure someone killed him. Once that is confirmed, Tess is arrested for his death. Maggie calls her lawyer to help with getting Teddy settled with their family as well as helping Tess. As the story unfolds, there are a lot of clues, some red herrings and several suspects. I thought I knew who the murderer was, then changed my mind. Along with the murder, there are also issues with drugs and cartels having several grow-ops hidden around the canyon. Along with the drugs comes some environmental issues and human slavery. Once another law enforcement agency steps in, Jason is left with only an advisory role which he worked to his advantage. There were several twists, new characters and environmental issues all part of the plot. Mary Feliz does a wonderful job with these varying stories all woven together to write a great story. I definitely recommend this one to cozy mystery lovers, especially if you like a different twist on a story. The publisher, Lyrical Underground, generously provided me with a copy of this book upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.

[Seraphia Bunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maggie McDonald is in a less than pleasant situation. Raging wildfires threaten her home and community. She and her family are preparing to evacuate to a friend's house, Tess when Tess calls frantic. The police have told her they've found a body and believe it to be that of her husband, Patrick. Tess is in a panic, and understandably so. She doesn't want to think or believe that the worst could be true. Sadly, it is. They believe it initially to be an accident but soon fingers, rumors and evidence point the police in a different direction. So when the fires begin to abate and be contained by the firefighters, the investigation by Maggie and those around her begin as they seek to learn the hard-hitting questions. Who wanted Patrick dead or out of the way? Why? Who stood to gain from him being out of the picture? Who potentially has it out for Tess to see her take the wrap for the murder? Prepare yourself! This mystery will pull you in to the end!
Disorderly Conduct by Mary Feliz is an engaging mystery novel from beginning to end. I enjoy Maggie McDonald so much as a character and I love the tidbits of organizational segments that the author has her give at the beginning of each chapter. They are informative and definitely make the reader think about their own preparedness concerning emergencies and disasters that might arise. This story is well put together. Maggie and her family are packing up to relocate to Tess's house, only for Tess's world to be rocked on learning of the untimely death of her husband. Now, the author gives us people who spread rumors, a strange website pops up slurring the family and the marriage. I feel like I was attached to a rope and the author was just gradually pulling me in deeper a little bit at a time. I couldn't get enough! As Maggie began the work of trying to learn what happened to Patrick and the people he associated with I felt like I was right there with her on the trail. If you are an avid mystery reader then this book is most definitely for you.
For the most part, I can easily say that this book has been professionally edited. I do have to admit that there are a couple sentences that feel like they are incomplete. Like the author was writing and got so excited to jump to the next sentence that they forgot to finish. I will admit that when Maggie goes to meet with a Debra to discuss Patrick and they meet up again at Google, I'm a bit annoyed with Maggie. She'd been there the day before with Kath. I had expected her to be prepared for the weather/temperature conditions from what she experienced previously. Kath knew Maggie wouldn't know what to expect, so she took that into consideration and was prepared. The second time around I expected Maggie to be prepared and not rely on someone else.
All in all, I truly enjoyed this book. It has a good pace that is not too slow and not too fast. Maggie and her family are fascinating characters and I couldn't put this book down if I wanted to. I was on the edge of my seat to learn what really happened to Patrick, who did it and why. I liked the added elements of the wildfires and other minor situations throughout that added to the thrills and mystery of this story.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I couldn't get enough. If you are a looking for a good mystery novel that will keep you guessing as to "who done it" to the end and trying to figure out the motive then this is the book for you. If you have read the previous Maggie McDonald books then I highly recommend you pick this book up. I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the beginning of each chapter are good tips on what you need to take with you if you must leave for safety reasons. Don't forget about your pets. Very good information on fire, the drug cartel, rattlesnakes, missing children grief relatives endured after a crime. The murder is secondary to the fire
It is summer time and wildfire is burning out of control near the top of the ridge Maggie and family must excavate to Tess Olmos's home. Tess's husband is found dead the fire line partially burned. When further examination reveals he was murdered and Teas is arrested for his murder. Meanwhile, Maggie is exploring the death will succeed before precious to her are hurt. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book and series.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Kensington Press for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another great cozy murder mystery story, the fourth in the series but the first one I’ve read - and I really enjoyed it, though I’m now tempted to go back and read the earlier books once my tbr pile is lower! It has fire, family, intrigue and a Golden Retriever in this hotly paced murder mystery.

Maggie McDonald is a professional organiser, helping others sort out their lives and giving tips, too. You’ll discover some of the tips as you read the story because each chapter starts by sharing one of them. When her best friend is arrested after her husband is found murdered, Maggie helps organise support for her friend’s family and starts to investigate what happened, too. Get ready for danger, surprises and revelations as this fast paced story progresses. With wildfire’s burning, there’s much more to this story than it first appears. I hadn’t read anything by this author before but I’ll definitely be looking out for more by them in future!

I have no hesitation in recommending this intriguing murder mystery to anyone who enjoys cosy mysteries with great characters, a real sense of family and fun, too.

I requested and was given a copy of this book, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.

[Jessica Robbins · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.

Another great installment in this adorable cozy mystery series. This time super organizer Maggie is packing her family for an enforced evacuation due to an out of control wildfire that puts their property at risk. They plan to stay with her friend Tess and her family. Before they even arrive Tess calls freaking out that the cops called saying they had found her husband body at the edge of the wildfire. This turns out to be murdered with Tess arrested for it. While acting as a temporary guardian for the son Maggie has to do what she does best to clear her friends name. I have to say that this was a surprising mystery investigation with lots of plot twists to throw you of the scent mixed in with heart warming family scenes. Great character development, a well thought out mystery, and family theme that really warms the heart. Great for fans of the genre. I really enjoyed it so I give it 4/5 stars.

[RO G'ma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disorderly Conduct is the fourth book in Mary Feliz’s Maggie McDonald Mystery series and is a wonderful read. This is a well-crafted cozy mystery, with a strong dose of love and friendship, grief, and compassion. The writing style flows smoothly and the characters are likeable. Ms. Feliz is talented in creating suspense and tension with her written words. The mystery has lots of red herrings and twists and turns to sort through. There is great practical information at the beginning of each chapter about what everyone should know and do to prepare for emergencies. I highly recommend this series and am already looking forward to reading the next installment.

Maggie McDonald is a professional organizer and amateur sleuth who lives with her husband, Max, and their two teenage sons, David and Brian, in the small town of Orchard View, California located in the hills above Silicon Valley. They have a Golden Retriever named Belle and two marmalade-colored cats named Holmes and Watson. As wildfires approach the McDonald’s property, evacuation is a strong possibility and Maggie prepares her family and pets for Plan A, which is to stay with her best friend, Tess Olmos, her teenaged son, Teddy, and their German shepherd, Mozart. Maggie receives a call from Tess saying the police have found a body and that might be her missing husband, Patrick, and need her to identify the body. After identifying the body and breaking the news to her son, they both doubt Patrick had an accident and wonder if foul play is involved. Just when they think things can’t get any worse, Sergeant Thanh Nguyen of the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office arrests Tess for Patrick’s murder. Maggie contacts Forrest Doucett, a family friend and attorney, to represent Tess. Maggie knows Tess is being falsely accused. Determined to set the record straight, Maggie starts asking people questions and sorts through clues to help find the killer and clear her best friend’s name. Detective Jason Mueller, Stephen Laird and his dog, Munchkin, Officer Paolo Bianchi, Elaine Cumberfield, neighbor and friend, provide moral support for Maggie, her family, Tess, and Teddy.

I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Mary Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disorderly Conduct
A Maggie McDonald Mystery, Book #4
Mary Feliz
5 Stars

Synopsis:

Professional organizer Maggie McDonald manages to balance a fastidious career with friends, family, and a spunky Golden Retriever. But add a fiery murder mystery to the mix, and Maggie wonders if she’s finally found a mess even she can’t tidy up . . .

With a devastating wildfire spreading to Silicon Valley, Maggie preps her family for a rapid evacuation. The heat rises when firefighters discover the body of her best friend Tess Olmos’s athletic husband—whose untimely death was anything but accidental. And as Tess agonizes over the whereabouts of her spouse’s drop-dead gorgeous running mate, she becomes the prime suspect in what's shaping up to become a double murder case. Determined to set the record straight, Maggie sorts through clues in an investigation more dangerous than the flames approaching her home. But when her own loved ones are, can she catch the meticulous killer before everything falls apart?

“A skillful amateur detective with an impressive to-do list.”
—Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW, Address to Die For (Goodreads)


Review:

The emotions that I felt while reading this book were very strong. I felt so much sorrow for Tess and her son, Teddy, for losing their spouse and father. The emotions went much deeper than those I usually experience when reading a cozy. The grief was just pouring off of the pages in this book.
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Maggie and her family and friends have so much love to share. Maggie will do whatever she can to help Tess during her time of sorrow, even figuring out who killed her husband. Maggie and her husband, Max, make such a great pair and really compliment each other. And I enjoyed spend time with Maggie’s kids, Brian and David. They were involved throughout the entire book and I enjoyed that a lot. I like that Maggie is a wife and mom, it is refreshing in the cozy genre.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. Through the writing style I felt like I had a real feel for the characters and the reasons behind their actions. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and went into enough detail without getting wordy. I really enjoyed all of the tips that were included at the beginning of each chapter. Most of the tips had to do with emergency preparedness, which can be helpful to anyone.
The mystery was well plotted and was not easily solved. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through. Throw in some twists and turns and a couple of red herrings and even the most experienced armchair detective will have a difficult time figuring it out.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. But you might want to have some tissues ready because there were some very sad moments.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm going to say right off the bat I wasn't sure I was going to like this book. It had nothing to do with the plot line, I just didn't understand how the day a woman finds out her husband is dead why all these people would come over that same day and Maggie would set up an atmosphere that was almost party like. I understand people paying condolences and bringing food, but within hours? There were just a few things that happened the first day that just didn't seem logical.

All of that aside, once I got past that first day the story line picked up speed as Maggie and the crew were off trying to decipher who killed Patrick and why. The final result was quite surprising and the author does a great job of misdirection with the characters. I honestly expected the killer to be another character based on information provided. There are still the pesky neighbors that we still don't like even into the fourth book.

Maggie remained true to her character as in previous books - a mother hen with fantastic organizational skills that is able to ferret out the true criminal.

I appreciate all the hints and tips at the beginning of each chapter. I can use all the help I can get when organizing my own life, and these tips can be quite helpful. This book even has a list at the end related to emergency preparedness for acts of nature and the like. I had no idea that the CDC in efforts to reach more people created a program that tied to what to do if there was a zombie apocalypse. Granted this will most like never happen, but if it intrigues others to become prepared then I'm all for whatever it takes!

[Toni Nyman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not read the previous books, but had no problem jumping right in with this one! Maggie is a working mom with two busy boys and lots of friends. In this book she is trying to keep her family and home safe while a raging wildfire threatens Silicone Valley. Her best friend's husband goes for a long run and winds up missing at the same time. The race is on to save her house and family and help find her friend's husband. His body is found and his wife Tess is arrested. Add another thing to Maggies's to-do list as she tries to clear her husband. I found all the twist and turn exciting and learned a lot at the same time. I am hoping to read the first books. Hoping there is more descriptions of the beautiful country side. Also picked up some tips for my backpacking boys!

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disorderly Conduct by Mary Feliz is the 4th book in the Maggie McDonald mystery series. Maggie McDonald, her husband, Max, and their two sons, David and Brian live in Orchard View, California where Max is a college professor and Maggie is a professional organizer. Maggie and her family are evacuating their home due to forest fires, and staying with her best friend Tess Olmos. When Tess's husband is found dead, Tess become the prime suspect, Maggie must find the real killer. I really enjoyed this book, and felt like I was right there with the family during the chaos. This book has more twists and turns, that kept me reading page after page. I found this book to be a quick read, with a well developed plot and characters. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. If you love cozy mysteries, I strongly recommend this book and series. 

I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Tari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this newest book in the series! I had only read the first book and started out reading an advanced copy, but I eventually bought the Kindle version. I'm definitely planning to read the other two books since I have them on Kindle as well. If the others are anything like this book, they can probably all be stand alone stories. I knew the basic characters from the first book, but anything that happened in between, the author did a good job of explaining, without revealing any important clues or whodunits.

Maggie's best friend Tess got the call that her husband Patrick was found dead on a trail where he used to run, which was right in the line of the wildfires going on in the area in August. When Tess was arrested for the murder, Maggie knew it was up to her to investigate. They were already good friends with the police chief, Jason Mueller, and he was always grateful for her help. There were some great twists and I definitely didn't guess who the killer was. I hope the character of Martin stays around. He seemed like such a nice guy, and I loved how he protected the boys in a situation. I found out later in the book that he himself was a dad with family in Nicaragua. You'll have to read the book and find out more of his story!

The book was really interesting and kept me reading. I'm anxious now to catch up and read the other two books before a fifth one comes out (I haven't heard anything about that but I'm hoping there's more coming in this series!)

There are some great resources at the end of the book as well as a few tips for anyone who has to be involved in a disaster such as the wildfires that were taking place in this book.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disorderly Conduct by Mary Feliz is the fourth installment in A Maggie McDonald Mystery series. Devastating wild fires are ravaging through the hills above Silicon Valley close to where Maggie McDonald and her family live on their farm. They are preparing to evacuate when Maggie receives a call from her best friend, Tess Olmos. Tess’s husband, Patrick had not been in touch which is not unusual (he gets caught up in his work). But, then she is contacted by the police stating they believe they found her husband in the hills and they need her identify the body. Tess and her son, Teddy are devastated by the news and have trouble believing Patrick’s death was accidental. They soon discover that Patrick was murdered when the police arrive to search her home and arrest Tess. The evidence the police find in Tess’s house seals her fate. Maggie needs to sort through the clues and question the suspects to pinpoint Patrick’s killer before Teddy loses both of his parents.

I found Disorderly Conduct to be nicely written and to have a quick pace. The mystery becomes complex when it is discovered that criminals are growing marijuana illegally on the public land in the hills above their farm. It happened to be where Patrick ran frequently. However, the mystery takes up a small portion of the book. I wish the author had made Patrick’s murder the focus. The story talks about the fires that are ravaging through the Santa Cruz mountains destroying the vegetation and forcing wildlife along with humans to flee. There are helpful tips at the beginning of each chapter on how people can prepare for emergencies (fires, hurricanes). The items we should have available in our home and car along with planning where you would go. It is important to remember your pets in your plans. There are great characters in A Maggie McDonald Mystery series. Maggie is a smart, strong woman who can handle any situation thrown at her. The kids and the animals add humor to the story (and it makes me very happy that I had a daughter instead of a son). The various families are close and help each other in times of crisis (like Tess taking in the McDonald family). While Disorderly Conduct could be read alone, I recommend reading Address to Die For first. My rating for Disorderly Conduct is 3 out of 5 stars. Disorderly Conduct addresses some tough topics in a different way. Return to Orchard View and join Maggie as she sets out to catch a murderer and save her best friend.

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disorderly Conduct is the 4th book in the Maggie McDonald Mystery series by Mary Feliz.

This is the first book I’ve read in this series and it was easy to read as a standalone book.

I like the family aspect of the book - a husband and wife that love and respect each other and teenagers that are good kids. The friends all gathering around to support a friend in need is heartwarming. It’s a great cast of characters.

The organizing tips at the beginning of each chapter are interesting. I’d recently been told that I should get a Road ID so reading that bit of advice added authenticity to the tips.

This book kept my attention and I couldn’t wait to see how the various storylines wrapped up.

I’ve purchased the first book in the series and look forward to reading the rest of the books.

I received this book as a gift and I am voluntarily reviewing it.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is contemporary. Within the past years wildfires in the west have been a major concern along with their aftermath, especially in California. Ms Feliz puts you there! You can feel the characters’ uncertainty, their fears, and their hopes as they endure this major fire in Orchard Hills' vicinity. The fire has caused them to evacuate their home and has claimed a few lives. Now find out if any of those deaths were due to unnatural causes.

There are plenty of twists and turns, red herrings, and suspense.

The story begins with Maggie’s family packing for evacuation of their home due to the ensuing wildfire. Then it moves into a murder investigation.

This is the first in the series that I have read. I found it engaging and it held my interest throughout the story. Looking forward to reading more from this author.

What I liked:
Tips at the beginning of each chapter on disaster preparedness.
The characters- so diverse.
Family and community oriented.
Well-crafted story.
Gave me a lot to think about:
the environment
wildfires
relationships with communities and families
teen development

Detractors:

A lot happened on 6 August (the first day in the book). I’m not so sure all of what is portrayed would occur within hours of discovering a body and notifying the next of kin.

The epilogue does not state the disposition of the case. Was the murderer charged, prosecuted and what was the outcome. I expected this since it went into other details under the one year later tell all.

With all of the above stated, I would read more from this author and recommend her to others.

I received an Advanced Reader’s Copy from the author and Lyrical Underground via the Review Crew and these are my own opinions.

[Micky Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wildfire, cartel drug dealers and the death of a friend are all entwined to create an exciting plot that entertains and delights as Maggie and crew work quickly to untangle the mess in order to save another friend from going to jail for life as an innocent convict! Once again characters that are well developed, strong and courageous while being flawed and relatable really make the story grab you. I can't wait for the next book in the series!

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fourth book in the Maggie McDonald Mystery is very enjoyable. in this installment, the MacDonald's evacuate their house as wildfires are approaching. So, they plan to stay with their friend Tess. But, before they can get settled in, Tess's husband Patrick has been found dead. Tess is accused of murder and Maggie looks for answers.

I enjoyed this story!

[Doward Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A professional organizer who can solve murders while rearranging your closet!

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disorderly Conduct is the fourth book in the Maggie McDonald Mystery series written by Mary Feliz. Maggie McDonald is a Professional Organizer in Silicon Valley, California. Maggie was preparing her family for an emergency evacuation from a firestorm to evacuate to her friend Tess’ house. Right before Maggie was ready to evacuate her house she received a phone call from Tess that they found a body that could be Tess’ husband. Even though this is the fourth book in the Maggie McDonald Mystery this story could be a stand alone. Disorderly Conduct is a story that continues on Maggie McDonald’s story in how she manages to get in the middle of murder mysteries. This story is a great page turner with unpredictable twists and turning of events. I look forward to reading the previous books in the Maggie McDonald series. I highly recommend this book. For my honest review, I received a copy of this book.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth installment in the Maggie McDonald series. She is a professional organizer whose home and community is being threatened by California wildfires. Her family's evacuation plan is to go to her best friend Tess Olmos' home but when she calls Tess, she finds that Tess' husband has been found dead under suspicious circumstances and Tess is later arrested for his murder. Maggie is determined to prove her friend's innocence but there is an undercurrent of evil that makes its way to the surface, trying to thwart Maggie's efforts.

I enjoyed Maggie's helpful hints about organization; our home burnt down due almost 8 years ago so I know what it feels to watch everything you own go up in flames and one cat die of smoke inhalation. The characters and plot are well-developed and I appreciated their variety and diversity. There was so many great twists, I felt like I was walking down one of their backyard hills. I look forward to seeing Maggie and her friends in the next book of this fun series.

***Thanks to NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. My review is voluntary.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maggie is once again offering great advice and taking care of her friends. This story was very realistic to me with the elements and the internet problems they were dealing with. I really love these characters and their bond of friendship is special. I know authors do a lot of research and I learned something about rattlesnakes. I hope I never find out if it is true. This is not the first Maggie book I’ve read and it won’t be the last.
I was lucky enough to win this book from Goodreads.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wildfires have been in the news a lot lately. They destroy everything in their path and seem to have a mind of their own. How frightening it would be to see the threat of a wildfire close to your home. Maggie is facing that very danger and decides it is time for action. She prepares her family for evacuation and I enjoyed reading how detailed she was about what to bring and how to prepare the home they were leaving behind. There must have been butterflies going their stomachs as they saw the fire rage closer to them.
When a body is found among the area where the fire is , it shakes the town up. Maggie's best friend, Tess is about to get some very upsetting news. I did like how detailed the author was when the body was identified at the morgue. We have all seen those shows where they pull the body out of a slot and the family stares at it. Technology has come a long way and I think it makes more sense to look at the body on a screen to soften the agony the family is going through. I wasn't surprised that Tess was arrested, but I was quite impressed with her son. He is one sharp teenager asking questions that the officers should have been asking others instead of his mom. The big question is why was Patrick up there near the fire and who wanted him dead?
The author gives us several suspects to consider and I tried really hard to figure out who did it and why. I was unsuccessful and pleased that the author had me guessing till the end. There are many twists in the story and I loved how Maggie was determined that her best friend would not be found guilty. It felt like a story that could happen in any neighborhood and of course there is always those gossipy people. I often wonder why people say unkind things when a family is going through a traumatic event. It makes me furious when the media interviews neighbors who want their fifteen minutes of fame.
The story is very well written and brings friends closer together while being able to depend on the truth to come out. Several of the characters were a challenge to like such as Robert Wu. He works with Tess and didn't hide his dislike for Patrick at all. Robert was rude in a way and hinted that Patrick was holding Tess back in her job. I found Robert to be very unpleasant and wanted to slap the smirk off his face. I enjoyed the different people Maggie interviewed to clear her friend's name. Each character seemed to have a reason to kill Patrick so my list of suspects was getting longer. The story gets more intense as Maggie digs further into what happened the day Patrick was killed.
The ending is quite explosive and really intense . I loved learning about the swat team and other law enforcement agencies involved. I didn't expect how in depth the mystery went. I was so engrossed in it, I didn't want it to end. I love how the story started as a murder but turned into so much more. At the end of the book the author has given readers information about emergency preparations. It is filled with helpful websites that readers should look into so they will not be caught off guard in an emergency.
I received a copy of this book from The Great Escapes Virtual Book Tour. The review is my own opinion.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fourth in the Maggie McDonald Mystery series, Disorderly Conduct is different from the earlier mysteries. Each chapter begins with a quote from Maggie’s notebook regarding preparing for disasters. Living in California where the risk of sweeping fires is of great concern to the residents, Maggie, as a Professional Organizer, includes details about planning for evacuation of family and pets. This time, she is faced with putting those tasks into orderly practice for her own loved ones.
Raging fire threatens to jump the ridge to the McDonald home, one that has withstood California challenges for a century. As Maggie and her family prepare to take their needs and their pets to best friend Tess’s house, Tess calls with a bizarre request. She received a call regarding her husband, Patrick, who had not come home from work the night before. An engineer working on classified projects, he sometimes gets caught up in a project and loses track of time. The police believe that a body they found where Patrick often went running, in range of the fire, is Patrick. Tess has been asked to go to the medical examiner’s office to identify him.
Maggie’s husband Max, her sons, and pets go to Tess’s home, and will stay with Teddy, her teenage son and close friend of Maggie’s teens. Tess believes it is not Patrick, she will go to the ME’s just to prove it. Paolo, a young man with the local police department, drives her and Maggie there and tries to prepare Tess for the process. Nothing could have prepared Tess, however, for the horror of seeing a photo of the remains of her husband.
Nothing could ever prepare a family for a husband’s death. Or learning that Patrick had been murdered, and Tess herself being arrested for the murder. Maggie wasn’t going to get involved with helping solve any more murders, but when 14-year-old Teddy asks her to find the truth, she cannot refuse. Tess is her best friend, and Patrick is the guy everybody liked who helped anyone in need.
Few authors could write this mystery with the compassion and skill that Mary Feliz has. Her characters could walk, run, or wheel out of the pages, so well-defined they are. In some ways it was hard to read – it was so personal, I wanted to jump into the pages and find whoever ripped apart this family’s very essence! Amidst gossips and newscasters, Maggie strived to help maintain the background order of her best friend’s home even while asking questions from those who knew Patrick. One of the most heartwarming things was how friends of the two families came together to help Tess and Teddy through the trauma of Patrick’s murder and Tess being in jail. Just as Patrick would have helped any of them with similar circumstances. The plot twists definitely kept me engaged in the mystery, and I simply wasn’t sure who really was the bad guy. The resolution brought unexpected surprises.
It is tough when it is so personal to the characters this reader has come to appreciate – temporary evacuation, murder, and false arrest. It is personal to those who realistically lose loved ones every day, whether through accidents or murder, or those who struggle with fires, hurricanes, or other storms. Because of how the author has portrayed her characters and the subjects, I highly recommend this mystery. It is very well-written with a mystery that was a challenge to solve.
From a grateful heart: I received a copy of this e-arc from the publisher and NetGalley, and was not obligated to provide a review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all four books in this wonderful series but I have to say, I think this is the best. Maggie is an organization expert. From how to organize your home, prepare for emergencies or just about any event in between, Maggie can get the job done. Her family extends to members of the police department who respect her insight. Her husband, her sons and those people she calls friends, they all get her undivided attention when any one of them is in need. This time, her friend Tess faces the sudden death of her husband, Patrick - was it an accident or was it murder? The police declare it homicide and arrest Tess, no bail, either. Maggie and her family step in to become temporary guardians for Tess's son, Teddy and his dog. Once he is safe under her roof, Maggie shifts into investigator mode and sets out to help the police find out who had motive to kill Patrick, a person she is certain had no enemies.
Maggie isn't the type of nosey person who thinks the police can't do their job without her input. She does ask a lot of questions, trusts her instincts and always respects the police. Her family is close knit and, if you are lucky enough to call her a friend, for sure she's got your back when you need help. The characters are well developed, and multi faceted. Her family is one I would love to hang out with. Maggie would be your one phone call, for good or for bad, for her help or to share your happiness.
The mystery was not at all obvious with some red herrings and blind alleys and several times I thought I knew who dunnit only to find out I was so wrong. I didn't see it coming but the ending was satisfying. Having added another "family" member, I'm looking forward to the next installment to see how that develops.
This series can be read out of order but the relationships have more impact if the books are read in order.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great, enjoyable read!!!

It has all the components that I love in a book...great characters, a great storyline, and my favorite, a dog!!!!

Maggie is professional organizer, but she finds herself in a dangerous position. She is making preparations to evacuate her home with her family as the California fires creep closer. On top of that, she finds herself embroiled in a murder mystery that strikes close to home, her best friend, Tess’s husband, Patrick’s, body is found, and his running mate is nowhere to be found. She has to be a support to Tess and Tess’s children, all the while being there for her own children as Patrick’s death heavily impacted them all. As she is dealing with all of this, her family is now being threatened. She definitely has her work cut out for her to find this killer.

I love when I think I have the mystery solved, and the writer adds another twist. This book was full of twists. It was emotional too as Tess was dealing with a devastating loss that was completely unexpected. Maggie is a wonderful friend and is with Tess every step of the way. I loved seeing how strong that friendship was.

The book is very well-written with engaging characters, and the mystery really kept me guessing. I love the beginning of each chapter with a snippet taken from her notebook of organization. It really fit in with the book! This is the first I have read in the series, but I found that I had no problem reading it as a standalone. I’m really looking forward to reading the other books in the series.

[Phyllis · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this is #4 in the series, it's the first one I've read, and I think this book can stand alone. Maggie McDonald is an amateur detective, while her day job is a professional organizer. Each chapter begins with tips from her organizing notebook and they often refer to what is happening or going to happen in that chapter.

I enjoyed the fact that the book was quite up-to-date and accurate as it relates to technology and communication. Of course everyone has cell phones, and the references to texting, Next Door, charging phones, Google, Silicon Valley, and building websites kept the story relevant for those trying to solve the mystery along with the characters. Another accurate factor was the depiction of the three teenage boys in this novel and the author adds many realistic details which are both endearing and amusing.

In addition to a murderer on the loose, there are nearby wildfires raging and a ruthless drug cartel protecting illegal marijuana grow sites - a lot to keep the excitement level high.

I only gave the book three stars because it didn't seem like a traditional cozy in that it was more serious and less lighthearted than the usual cozy. It began with a murder but I felt focused too much on the grief of the family. Several chapters dealt with how the family experienced their loss and how the community responded. All realistic, but too "heavy" for this type of book.

I received an advance reader's copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wildfire is threatening Professional Organizer Maggie McDonald’s home and the family is preparing for the possible upcoming evacuation. Plan A is to evacuate to the home of her friend, Tess Olmos. Unfortunately, that plan takes an unexpected turn when Tess’ husband is found dead. Worse yet, Tess is the primary suspect in his murder. Can Maggie and her family stay safe from the wildfire while uncovering who killed Patrick?

DISORDERLY CONDUCT is the fourth book in the Maggie McDonald Mystery series. It can be read on its own merits, but I suspect readers will enjoy Maggie and her family so much that they’ll want to read all three of the earlier books in the series!

Mary Feliz tackles some disturbing but all too realistic issues in DISORDERLY CONDUCT. I can’t say more as I don’t want to reveal spoilers, but I like that she doesn’t gloss over some of the darker aspects of life. The motivation for the murder is a bit convoluted but Mary Feliz does a good job at breaking it down for the reader.

I didn’t think I would like a professional organizer as the heroine as much as I do! Maggie’s tips at the beginning of each chapter are very helpful, not just for fires but for hurricanes or other natural disasters. I like that DISORDERLY CONDUCT shows us that even the most well-organized plans can go astray and that taking time to mentally refocus is just as important as having an excellent checklist to follow. The Maggie McDonald Mystery series is quickly becoming one of my favorites. Easily recommended!

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the song goes, “It doesn’t rain in
sunny California” much to the dismay
of the McDonald family. They are in
the process of putting into action their
emergency crisis plan as a Forest Fire
is heading toward their home in
Orchard View.
Max and Maggie with their two sons
(Brian and David), their golden retriever
(Belle) and two marmalade-colored
cats (Holmes and Watson) are going
to stay with friends.
What they did not expect was to arrive
at their friends and be involved in heart
wrenching drama. It seems Patrick Olmos
is missing. Neither his wife, Tess or son,
Teddy have heard from him or been able
to contact him.
Then the unthinkable happens, a dead
body is found in an area where Patrick
goes running. Soon Tess is arrested for
her husband’s murder after certain
evidence seems to point to her guilt.
Time for Maggie and her cohorts to step
up to prove Tess’s innocence. The
There is more going on in them there hills
than meets the eye!!!
A well plotted murder mystery with several
sub plots to keep the reader attention.
I thought the characters were all artfully
created, well defined, colorful, quirky with
agendas of there own.
I throughly enjoyed the tips at the beginning
of each chapter from the “Notebook of
Maggie McDonald Simplicity Itself Organizing
Services”. Plus at the end there is what I
consider a good reference list of resources
to be able to get information and materials.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
My opinion is voluntary and my own.

[Katrina Wiese · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been enamored with this series from the very first chapter of Address to Die For and each book in this series has only gotten better and better. In Disorderly Conduct this held true and to me has been the best in the series, yet! I don't know how Mary Feliz does it, as her books are thoroughly entertaining, full of intrigue and suspense and characters that you would want to have in your own circle of friends and family. This book had to have been hard to write, as as an author to know you will be putting some of your beloved characters through such a traumatic time, has got to be hard, however Mary Felix navigated these waters with poise and care. Mt heart broke for each character to have to work through the emotional turmoil they went through. And the mystery, oh the mystery, it kept me on the edge of my seat reading very late into the night because I just couldn't put it down! Honestly, this is one of my favorite cozy mystery series and I love these characters, especially Maggie. As an OCD organizer, she truly speaks to my heart and soul. I know I will be waiting, not-patiently, until I get to see this whole clan again in Book 5!

[Lori D'angelo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disorderly Conduct is the fourth book in a wonderful series about a professional organizer, Maggie McDonald, who also solves murders that affect someone close to her using her skills of observation and list making. In this book, it is the murder of her best friend's husband. Having read the other books, I was shocked by the victim in this book. Because the victim was someone quite close to the main character, the author was able to add depth to the characters by describing the grief and concern for each other that can sometimes be missing in other cozies. One of my favorite things about this book is the backdrop of current events- the California Wildfires. I felt the author addressed concerns about evacuations and escaping wildlife realistically. She even includes some tips and a bibliography so the reader can find out more information. In sum, I feel this book stands out, even in a sea of my favorite cozy mysteries.