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Mad for Mod Mystery #3
With Vics You Get Eggroll
The Madison Night novels are “an extremely unique mystery series with an intelligent heroine whose appeal will never go out of style” ( Kings River Life Magazine ).
Interior decorator Madison Night has her hands full with a demanding client and a product endorsement, but when the news shifts from reports of recently abducted women to the discovery of a dead body, she can’t deny the danger. Evidence from the scene links the flirtatious Lt. Tex Allen to the crime, taking him off the case.
As more abductees are either released or killed, Tex struggles with his suspension, on the brink of turning vigilante. Madison’s own life is complicated by the return of her hunky handyman, Hudson James. When seemingly unrelated events lead back to the abductions, she exposes a secondary agenda, a copycat crime, and a vengeful plot to destroy someone she loves.
“Talk about a terrific trio of cozy mysteries, Diane Vallere certainly has the humor . . . the story (as well as the title) will definitely keep readers entertained.” — Suspense Magazine
“If you love Doris Day, you’ll love Madison Night, decorator extraordinaire. She specializes in restoring mid-century homes and designs, and her latest project involves abductions, murder and vengeance.” — Books for Avid Readers
Interior decorator Madison Night has her hands full with a demanding client and a product endorsement, but when the news shifts from reports of recently abducted women to the discovery of a dead body, she can’t deny the danger. Evidence from the scene links the flirtatious Lt. Tex Allen to the crime, taking him off the case.
As more abductees are either released or killed, Tex struggles with his suspension, on the brink of turning vigilante. Madison’s own life is complicated by the return of her hunky handyman, Hudson James. When seemingly unrelated events lead back to the abductions, she exposes a secondary agenda, a copycat crime, and a vengeful plot to destroy someone she loves.
“Talk about a terrific trio of cozy mysteries, Diane Vallere certainly has the humor . . . the story (as well as the title) will definitely keep readers entertained.” — Suspense Magazine
“If you love Doris Day, you’ll love Madison Night, decorator extraordinaire. She specializes in restoring mid-century homes and designs, and her latest project involves abductions, murder and vengeance.” — Books for Avid Readers
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2015
118 people are currently reading
1109 people want to read
About the author
Diane Vallere
83 books1,013 followersRequest MURDER ON A MOON TREK on NetGalley: https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/boo...
I use Goodreads to track my reading and TBR list. For that reason, my rating scale is less important. I don't force myself to finish books, and I don't rate books I DNF. Each year I choose my own BOTY from my have-read list.
AUTHOR BIO: Diane Vallere is the national bestselling author of several mystery series. She edited the Agatha Award-winning essay collection Promophobia: Taking the Mystery out of Promoting Crime Fiction. Diane majored in art history at the College of William and Mary and worked in luxury retailing before reigniting her love of fiction. She currently lives in Pennsylvania. Find out more at: www.dianevallere.com.
Amazon: http://bit.ly/DianeVallere
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3aVXczm
YouTube: https://bit.ly/2RfiyAE
I use Goodreads to track my reading and TBR list. For that reason, my rating scale is less important. I don't force myself to finish books, and I don't rate books I DNF. Each year I choose my own BOTY from my have-read list.
AUTHOR BIO: Diane Vallere is the national bestselling author of several mystery series. She edited the Agatha Award-winning essay collection Promophobia: Taking the Mystery out of Promoting Crime Fiction. Diane majored in art history at the College of William and Mary and worked in luxury retailing before reigniting her love of fiction. She currently lives in Pennsylvania. Find out more at: www.dianevallere.com.
Amazon: http://bit.ly/DianeVallere
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3aVXczm
YouTube: https://bit.ly/2RfiyAE
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
August 21, 2021
Several single women have disappeared around the Dallas suburb where Madison Night lives in recent weeks, so all the women in the area are on high alert. That alert only goes up when the body of one of those women is found. There is evidence next to her body pointing the finger squarely at her abductor – Lt. Tex Allen. Lt. Allen happens to be a friend of Madison’s, and she knows he couldn’t have done it. With Tex suspended from his job at the police department while the investigation is ongoing, Madison finds herself involved in his attempts to clear his name. That’s only made more complicated by the return of Hudson James, the handyman that Madison might have feelings for. Will Madison figure out who the kidnapper is in time? Or will she be the next victim herself?
This book really did grab me from the first page, and it kept me hooked until I reached the final page. There were plenty of twists that surprised me, but the book was perfectly paced, so we had time to digest the new information before everything changed again. The characters are fabulous as well, especially Madison, Tex, and Hudson. I loved the character development all three of them got. This was also perfectly balanced and never slowed down the story. Since Madison Night is a huge Doris Day fan, there are some nods to the actress, and especially With Six You Get Eggroll. If you are familiar with the film, it will be a bonus, but you won’t miss anything if you haven’t seen it. It had been a while since I read the previous book in the series, and I wish I hadn’t let it be so long since I didn’t remember all we’d learned about the characters in the first two books. Still, that’s a very minor complaint and certainly my own fault. This is an outstanding book, and I can’t wait to visit Madison again.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This book really did grab me from the first page, and it kept me hooked until I reached the final page. There were plenty of twists that surprised me, but the book was perfectly paced, so we had time to digest the new information before everything changed again. The characters are fabulous as well, especially Madison, Tex, and Hudson. I loved the character development all three of them got. This was also perfectly balanced and never slowed down the story. Since Madison Night is a huge Doris Day fan, there are some nods to the actress, and especially With Six You Get Eggroll. If you are familiar with the film, it will be a bonus, but you won’t miss anything if you haven’t seen it. It had been a while since I read the previous book in the series, and I wish I hadn’t let it be so long since I didn’t remember all we’d learned about the characters in the first two books. Still, that’s a very minor complaint and certainly my own fault. This is an outstanding book, and I can’t wait to visit Madison again.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
January 18, 2015
Madison is an interior designer specialising in the retro look. She dresses like Doris Day and you can just imagine her turning up to houses with the whole look.
There is a murderer on the scene and some evidence points to Lt Tex Allen. She wants to help him. Whilst he is suspended, he can’t investigate the case. Madison uncovers things that suggest someone is trying to implicate Tex.
A charming combination between 50’s charm and shady stories- keeps your reading.
Many thanks to the publisher and Net Gallery for a copy of this book to read.
There is a murderer on the scene and some evidence points to Lt Tex Allen. She wants to help him. Whilst he is suspended, he can’t investigate the case. Madison uncovers things that suggest someone is trying to implicate Tex.
A charming combination between 50’s charm and shady stories- keeps your reading.
Many thanks to the publisher and Net Gallery for a copy of this book to read.
October 5, 2019
Highly entertaining mix of mid century modern and love of all things Doris Day with a mystery involving abductions, murder and mayhem with a plethora of likely suspects.
July 23, 2017
Someone has been abducting women in Dallas, and Madison Night gets involved in With Vics You Get Eggroll by Diane Vallere. Madison, a retro interior decorator, has been busy on a job remodelling a house for a couple who work in film when Dallas erupts over the kidnapping of a couple women, and the family of one accuses Madison's friend Lt. Tex Allen of the crime on live television. Knowing that while Tex has his baggage, he would never commit such a crime, Madison reaches out to Tex, who is now on leave due to his name's being brought into the case. Then Madison's neighbor has a police officer with a badge saying Tex Allen attempt to abduct her. It becomes obvious that this is not truly Tex, since the name tag was fake. But then Madison's client gets abducted, but unlike the previous women, who turned up dead, Cleo gets released.
Read the rest of this review, more reviews, and other wonderful, geeky articles on FangirlNation
Read the rest of this review, more reviews, and other wonderful, geeky articles on FangirlNation
February 10, 2015
This might be considered a "cozy mystery" but to me, it was mighty well thought out & I had absolutely no idea " who dunnit" until the ending!
This is #3 in the Mad for Mod series, mad being Madison, & mod for modern. Madison Night is a mid-century remodel/interior "fix it up" girl & she uses items from the 1960's & part of 70's also. She likes to dress like Doris Day yet she can demo walls & remodel homes
Her friends are Lt "Tex" Allen & Hudson James, who she has feelings for both but nothing exclusive with either
The women in this Dallas Texas area are in trouble. They're being kidnapped, mainly from a strip mall parking lot & some are found dead, while others are found alive. Someone is imitating Lt Tex Allen, pulling women over for busted tail lights & then kidnapping them. While doing so the perpetrator is wearing a badge that says Sgt. Tex Allen so her friend, even though he's in the clear, is on a temporary suspension from the police force while these crimes are being committed
Madison meets up with him usually in the evening, bringing him eggrolls from the local Chinese take out & they eat together in his jeep while discussing the latest developments He doesn't want to get her involved because he's afraid she'll get hurt. There are many "suspects" throughout the story & they all seem like they have motives or other agendas for doing these crimes
This story is a great one in this Mad for Mod series & I'd highly recommend this if you enjoy a good mystery or cozy mystery ( she has a dog named Rocky) or if you enjoy Doris Day films & that time period. The title is a take off on a Doris Day movie--"with Six You Get Eggroll".
I received a digital copy of this book from Net Galley in return for an honest opinion. I'd like to thank the publisher ( Henery Press) & the author, as this was a very good book!
This is #3 in the Mad for Mod series, mad being Madison, & mod for modern. Madison Night is a mid-century remodel/interior "fix it up" girl & she uses items from the 1960's & part of 70's also. She likes to dress like Doris Day yet she can demo walls & remodel homes
Her friends are Lt "Tex" Allen & Hudson James, who she has feelings for both but nothing exclusive with either
The women in this Dallas Texas area are in trouble. They're being kidnapped, mainly from a strip mall parking lot & some are found dead, while others are found alive. Someone is imitating Lt Tex Allen, pulling women over for busted tail lights & then kidnapping them. While doing so the perpetrator is wearing a badge that says Sgt. Tex Allen so her friend, even though he's in the clear, is on a temporary suspension from the police force while these crimes are being committed
Madison meets up with him usually in the evening, bringing him eggrolls from the local Chinese take out & they eat together in his jeep while discussing the latest developments He doesn't want to get her involved because he's afraid she'll get hurt. There are many "suspects" throughout the story & they all seem like they have motives or other agendas for doing these crimes
This story is a great one in this Mad for Mod series & I'd highly recommend this if you enjoy a good mystery or cozy mystery ( she has a dog named Rocky) or if you enjoy Doris Day films & that time period. The title is a take off on a Doris Day movie--"with Six You Get Eggroll".
I received a digital copy of this book from Net Galley in return for an honest opinion. I'd like to thank the publisher ( Henery Press) & the author, as this was a very good book!
February 17, 2015
With Vics You Get Eggroll continues the fun and the good quality of writing that I've enjoyed in the first two books of this series. It also gives us growth and development of the characters. That's a pretty good thing in the world of today's cozy mysteries. It's a win with me.
Madison Night, the ultimate Doris Day fan and mid-century modern designer, barely has time to recover from her last detective adventure when women start being abducted in the Dallas area someone is try to implicate her friend and potential love interest, Detective Tex Allen in the crimes. Tex takes a leave of absence from the police so that he won't hinder the investigation but, of course he is determined to find the killer and, of course, Madison is determined to help him. She's also in the middle of a job, restoring a Cliff May home to its original mid-century appearance. I'm a huge fan of mid-century modern so I looked up Cliff May homes on google and wow! They are gorgeous! And probably much easier to heat than my big ol' Victorian. Anyway, because cozies are nothing without coincidence, Madison's client becomes a victim of the kidnapper. It has a satisfying ending with plenty of clues along the way. I figured it out the same time Madison did.
I think the characters in this series are really solid compared to some of the fluffier cozy series out there. They don't feel cardboard, they feel flesh and blood. Madison has a lot of introspection in this book and a lot of character growth. That the author manages to do that in a fun mystery is fairly rare.
I always want to go find a Doris Day movie as soon as I finish a book in this series. As long as the author keeps writing them, I'll keep reading them.
Book provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Madison Night, the ultimate Doris Day fan and mid-century modern designer, barely has time to recover from her last detective adventure when women start being abducted in the Dallas area someone is try to implicate her friend and potential love interest, Detective Tex Allen in the crimes. Tex takes a leave of absence from the police so that he won't hinder the investigation but, of course he is determined to find the killer and, of course, Madison is determined to help him. She's also in the middle of a job, restoring a Cliff May home to its original mid-century appearance. I'm a huge fan of mid-century modern so I looked up Cliff May homes on google and wow! They are gorgeous! And probably much easier to heat than my big ol' Victorian. Anyway, because cozies are nothing without coincidence, Madison's client becomes a victim of the kidnapper. It has a satisfying ending with plenty of clues along the way. I figured it out the same time Madison did.
I think the characters in this series are really solid compared to some of the fluffier cozy series out there. They don't feel cardboard, they feel flesh and blood. Madison has a lot of introspection in this book and a lot of character growth. That the author manages to do that in a fun mystery is fairly rare.
I always want to go find a Doris Day movie as soon as I finish a book in this series. As long as the author keeps writing them, I'll keep reading them.
Book provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 4, 2015
What a great read. With Vics You Get Eggroll is the third book in Diane Vallere's Mad for Mod series, but it's my first introduction to her writing. I'm kicking myself for not having read this series from the start; I really enjoyed it.
A string of abductions has everyone in town worried and on edge, including designer Madison Night. She's no stranger to murder investigations but she's shocked to find that her friend, police lieutenant Tex Allen, is a person of interest in the crimes. Madison can't believe Tex has anything to do with the missing women or the bodies that have shown up. When Tex takes a leave from the force, Madison decides she needs to help clear Tex's name--whether he likes it or not.
Diane Vallere crafts a solid and suspenseful plot that carries readers along page by page. I found it hard to put the book down! I like the characters, was charmed by the Doris Day themed design descriptions, and got all tangled up emotionally in Madison's love triangle with Tex and handsome handyman Hudson (#TeamHudson!). I really like how the plot narrows, starting out with people and places that only peripherally relate to Madison and slowly circling in to affect not only Madison herself, but those around her, including friends, clients, and neighbors.
This is a fun, engaging, and exciting mystery and I'm really looking forward to catching up on the first two books and enjoying future installments of the Mad for Mod series.
My thanks to the team at Henery Press for the NetGalley copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A string of abductions has everyone in town worried and on edge, including designer Madison Night. She's no stranger to murder investigations but she's shocked to find that her friend, police lieutenant Tex Allen, is a person of interest in the crimes. Madison can't believe Tex has anything to do with the missing women or the bodies that have shown up. When Tex takes a leave from the force, Madison decides she needs to help clear Tex's name--whether he likes it or not.
Diane Vallere crafts a solid and suspenseful plot that carries readers along page by page. I found it hard to put the book down! I like the characters, was charmed by the Doris Day themed design descriptions, and got all tangled up emotionally in Madison's love triangle with Tex and handsome handyman Hudson (#TeamHudson!). I really like how the plot narrows, starting out with people and places that only peripherally relate to Madison and slowly circling in to affect not only Madison herself, but those around her, including friends, clients, and neighbors.
This is a fun, engaging, and exciting mystery and I'm really looking forward to catching up on the first two books and enjoying future installments of the Mad for Mod series.
My thanks to the team at Henery Press for the NetGalley copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2016
This turned out to be the perfect third book in a series that's both fresh and well crafted. Perfect in a lot of ways: Continued good plotting, fascinating characters who morph and grow, and just a great story in general. Cozy yes, fun yes, but also dark. Something about Madison Night, her plucky spirit, her perseverance in both ordinary and extraordinary circumstances, her humanity... her WARDROBE, has endeared her to me over three books. I'm almost afraid to review Vics because I worry anything I might say may make it sound trite, when really it's not only an amazingly engaging series but in fact a three-book, coming-of-age journey. And not just for Madison, but for her two leading men as well. And if you think your heroine has to be a certain age to star in a coming-of-age tale, I invite you to think again.
This book tied the first three books together beautifully. The story could comfortably end right here. I hope it doesn't. I reckon I've become a little bit Mad for Mod. And Tex. And Rocky, and Hudson, and even Doris Day. So well done. Bravo.
PS: For maximum entertainment and to watch the story evolve I suggest you read the three books in order: Pillow Stalk, That Touch of Ink, and With Vics You Get Eggroll.
This book tied the first three books together beautifully. The story could comfortably end right here. I hope it doesn't. I reckon I've become a little bit Mad for Mod. And Tex. And Rocky, and Hudson, and even Doris Day. So well done. Bravo.
PS: For maximum entertainment and to watch the story evolve I suggest you read the three books in order: Pillow Stalk, That Touch of Ink, and With Vics You Get Eggroll.
January 16, 2015
This is the second book in this series that I've read and I loved it.
I love design and the fact that Madison Night is an interior designer that specializes in mid century modern design just makes this series one I really enjoy. I think it's so cute that she dresses like Doris Day and I love the descriptions of her outfits.
This time, there is a killer on the loose in Lakewood and Madison wants to help Tex, someone she has somewhat of a relationship with as he is the police lieutenant who is implicated in the case. There is also another love interest for Madison, Hudson, who is her handy man and helps her with construction jobs that take more that she can handle alone. She seems very undecided between the two in this book and I hope she will choose the right one.
This story twists and turns and I was kept guessing until the end. I highly recommend this book, this series. :-)
I love design and the fact that Madison Night is an interior designer that specializes in mid century modern design just makes this series one I really enjoy. I think it's so cute that she dresses like Doris Day and I love the descriptions of her outfits.
This time, there is a killer on the loose in Lakewood and Madison wants to help Tex, someone she has somewhat of a relationship with as he is the police lieutenant who is implicated in the case. There is also another love interest for Madison, Hudson, who is her handy man and helps her with construction jobs that take more that she can handle alone. She seems very undecided between the two in this book and I hope she will choose the right one.
This story twists and turns and I was kept guessing until the end. I highly recommend this book, this series. :-)
April 14, 2015
I loved watching Doris Day movies as a kid, definitely not as much as Madison Night, ha! Her but, that just made me like the character so much better. This was my first book by Diane Vallere and it won't be the last. So many suspects and the fact so many were related or the Kevin Bacon thing going made me laugh that this took place in Dallas, not some Podunk town.
The story definitely kept me entertained and interested. I think I got a headache trying to figure out for myself who was abducting these women. (Not really). The characters were likable and fit into the story very well.
I would definitely recommend that you read this. It definitely worth it for me.
Thank you Henery Press and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
The story definitely kept me entertained and interested. I think I got a headache trying to figure out for myself who was abducting these women. (Not really). The characters were likable and fit into the story very well.
I would definitely recommend that you read this. It definitely worth it for me.
Thank you Henery Press and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2015
Bubby: The mystery involving our heroine Madison is a little more sinister this time, and there are some excellent convolutions to the plot.
Sissy: Excellent convolutions--brilliantly said, Bubby. Life is full of excellent convolutions, right? Also present are controlly creepers and shady shysters. This edition of Mad for Mod is fully satisfying! Read our full review of With Vics You Get Eggroll by Daine Vallere
Sissy: Excellent convolutions--brilliantly said, Bubby. Life is full of excellent convolutions, right? Also present are controlly creepers and shady shysters. This edition of Mad for Mod is fully satisfying! Read our full review of With Vics You Get Eggroll by Daine Vallere
February 9, 2015
I thought this book was really fun to read. Amazing chick-lit with a twist. I love how I could get into the character and I'd definitely want to read more by this author. It didn't hurt when I got this book in the mail through Goodread's First Reads that the book came all wrapped up in wrapping paper and ribbon. If the author could get so excited about her work then I could too!! Can't wait to continue the series!
August 29, 2020
There is always a lot going on in these books but they are a lot of fun. The stories are intriguing and you want to find out what happened. I like Madison and it’s entertaining to me to match character names to Doris Day.
November 8, 2022
This series continues to be entertaining. I like that there isn't graphic violence, strong language, or other adult content in these books. Will definitely read the next one.
January 7, 2024
Loving this series.
October 30, 2025
I did not see the ending happen.... and I don't mean #teamhudson
I thought of the obvious suspects, 1 in particular had to be - I mean, seriously. So I was completely shocked when the culprit turned out to be someone I didn't even suspect, wasn't even on my radar.... WHOA.
Diane Vallere keeps the mysteries fresh. I love it when I can't (yet) figure out an author's style. hmmm wow On to the next book.
I thought of the obvious suspects, 1 in particular had to be - I mean, seriously. So I was completely shocked when the culprit turned out to be someone I didn't even suspect, wasn't even on my radar.... WHOA.
Diane Vallere keeps the mysteries fresh. I love it when I can't (yet) figure out an author's style. hmmm wow On to the next book.
March 4, 2015
Madison Night is a 48-year-old interior decorator/contractor who not only shares a birthday with Doris Day, she dresses like her too. Her business specializes in retro style, and right now she is redoing a home for Cleo and Dan Tyler, California transplants to Dallas.
One night when Madison is driving home, she is pulled over by a police officer, but waits until she reaches a well-lit area before stopping. The reason? A man masquerading as a police officer, known as the Lakewood Abductor, is kidnapping women - and killing some of them. Discovering her traffic stop was merely that, when she arrives home, she turns on the news to hear that another body has been found and the police badge found near her is that of Lt. Tex Allen - the same Tex Allen that Madison finds so attractive, and has become a close friend to her. Knowing he is innocent of these crimes, Madison uses her moral compass to try and help find the real killer, even when she is cautioned against it by Lt. Allen.
When more women are kidnapped, and the police are no closer to finding the real killer, Lt. Allen tells Madison to stay out of the case,but she is already involved, and thinks she might be targeted as well. It doesn't sit well with her when the case hits close to home, and someone she knows is kidnapped, and there is a rush against time to save the woman.
This is a very good book. Madison considers herself, like the Doris Day screen persona, an independent woman who can achieve success in the world. But being independent doesn't necessarily mean being alone, and this is something Madison needs to learn. Because the book isn't all about the kidnapping/murders; it is also about the fact that Madison needs to realize that sometimes you just can't do it all. During the course of the investigation, her relationships with both Lt. Tex Allen and Hudson James are tested, as well as her tenacity and faith in her beliefs.
When we discover the true identity of the killer, there weren't really many overt clues; which isn't to say they weren't there, it is just that they were done in a manner as to be as natural as dew on grass, so you will have to use your own "powers of deduction" along with following the storyline. While there were plenty of viable suspects, when the final scenes arrived, the ending was as scary as it was believable in the fact that knowing how people think in the real world, it could have been factual. Highly recommended, and I look forward to the next installment in this mystery series.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review but it in no way influenced my decision.
http://www.joannesbooks.blogspot.com
One night when Madison is driving home, she is pulled over by a police officer, but waits until she reaches a well-lit area before stopping. The reason? A man masquerading as a police officer, known as the Lakewood Abductor, is kidnapping women - and killing some of them. Discovering her traffic stop was merely that, when she arrives home, she turns on the news to hear that another body has been found and the police badge found near her is that of Lt. Tex Allen - the same Tex Allen that Madison finds so attractive, and has become a close friend to her. Knowing he is innocent of these crimes, Madison uses her moral compass to try and help find the real killer, even when she is cautioned against it by Lt. Allen.
When more women are kidnapped, and the police are no closer to finding the real killer, Lt. Allen tells Madison to stay out of the case,but she is already involved, and thinks she might be targeted as well. It doesn't sit well with her when the case hits close to home, and someone she knows is kidnapped, and there is a rush against time to save the woman.
This is a very good book. Madison considers herself, like the Doris Day screen persona, an independent woman who can achieve success in the world. But being independent doesn't necessarily mean being alone, and this is something Madison needs to learn. Because the book isn't all about the kidnapping/murders; it is also about the fact that Madison needs to realize that sometimes you just can't do it all. During the course of the investigation, her relationships with both Lt. Tex Allen and Hudson James are tested, as well as her tenacity and faith in her beliefs.
When we discover the true identity of the killer, there weren't really many overt clues; which isn't to say they weren't there, it is just that they were done in a manner as to be as natural as dew on grass, so you will have to use your own "powers of deduction" along with following the storyline. While there were plenty of viable suspects, when the final scenes arrived, the ending was as scary as it was believable in the fact that knowing how people think in the real world, it could have been factual. Highly recommended, and I look forward to the next installment in this mystery series.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review but it in no way influenced my decision.
http://www.joannesbooks.blogspot.com
June 2, 2015
With Vics You Get Eggroll is a superb addition to Diane Vallere's Mad for Mod series.
Madison Night is an interior decorator inspired by the irrepressible Doris Day. Like many of the characters she played, Madison Night is a mature, capable, independent woman. Madison's love for mid-century modern shines through in her clothing and in her beautiful home restoration work. The novel is littered with fascinating description of mod fixtures, furniture and fashion. It is easy to relate to Madison's excitement. It is also easy to understand her reluctance in furthering relationships. Madison's experiences in Pillow Stalk and That Touch of Ink have left her fearful of getting too close to others. She has lost friends, and the tenants in her apartment building are moving out. Her friend Hudson is out of town, sorting out his life.
The story starts with excitement, as Madison is pursued by a police car. The Lakeside Strangler has been abducting women from their cars, and women are advised to only stop in populated, well-lit areas. Madison returns home, only to see a surprising news report where a woman accuses her friend, Lt. Tex Allen of being the murderer. Although it is clear to Madison that he is being framed and the evidence faked, discovering the real killer is a challenge. As more women go missing, the population panics, and Tex is placed on leave and forced into hiding.
The characters are well developed. Madison's loyalty to Tex and desire to help clear his name is understandable. He saved her life, and has helped and protected her in the past. Motives and suspects abound. Several years previously, a police officer killed two young women in a drunk driving incident. The local force distanced themselves from the crime to avoid scandal. Is the Lakeside Strangler striking against the police force, or is it a personal vendetta against Tex? The motives of the potential suspects were realistic; the anger of a man who felt joining the police changed his brother-in-law, the despair of a man who lost his family. I could empathize with the suspects, while remaining horrified at the abductions and slayings. I felt Tex's frustration with his powerlessness. I was comforted by Hudson's support of Madison. The emotion in the novel was palpable and realistic.
This excellent cozy novel is more serious than humorous, filled with tension and excitement. With Vics You Get Eggroll can be read on its own, but I would recommend reading Vallere's fantastic series in entirety.
I received a copy of With Vics You Get Eggroll from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
Madison Night is an interior decorator inspired by the irrepressible Doris Day. Like many of the characters she played, Madison Night is a mature, capable, independent woman. Madison's love for mid-century modern shines through in her clothing and in her beautiful home restoration work. The novel is littered with fascinating description of mod fixtures, furniture and fashion. It is easy to relate to Madison's excitement. It is also easy to understand her reluctance in furthering relationships. Madison's experiences in Pillow Stalk and That Touch of Ink have left her fearful of getting too close to others. She has lost friends, and the tenants in her apartment building are moving out. Her friend Hudson is out of town, sorting out his life.
The story starts with excitement, as Madison is pursued by a police car. The Lakeside Strangler has been abducting women from their cars, and women are advised to only stop in populated, well-lit areas. Madison returns home, only to see a surprising news report where a woman accuses her friend, Lt. Tex Allen of being the murderer. Although it is clear to Madison that he is being framed and the evidence faked, discovering the real killer is a challenge. As more women go missing, the population panics, and Tex is placed on leave and forced into hiding.
The characters are well developed. Madison's loyalty to Tex and desire to help clear his name is understandable. He saved her life, and has helped and protected her in the past. Motives and suspects abound. Several years previously, a police officer killed two young women in a drunk driving incident. The local force distanced themselves from the crime to avoid scandal. Is the Lakeside Strangler striking against the police force, or is it a personal vendetta against Tex? The motives of the potential suspects were realistic; the anger of a man who felt joining the police changed his brother-in-law, the despair of a man who lost his family. I could empathize with the suspects, while remaining horrified at the abductions and slayings. I felt Tex's frustration with his powerlessness. I was comforted by Hudson's support of Madison. The emotion in the novel was palpable and realistic.
This excellent cozy novel is more serious than humorous, filled with tension and excitement. With Vics You Get Eggroll can be read on its own, but I would recommend reading Vallere's fantastic series in entirety.
I received a copy of With Vics You Get Eggroll from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
January 22, 2018
Diane Vallere's Madison Night books continue to be my favorite cozy mystery series. Having read the fourth book first, I bought the first three and am happy to say that I'm all caught up and ready for book five, The Pajama Frame, which will be released at the end of February. These books have given me a new respect for Doris Day, the actress Madison Night models herself after. If that sounds too cute for words (along with the book covers), think again. Most people, if they are aware of Doris Day at all, think of the frothy romantic comedies she starred in with Rock Hudson, but there's much more to Doris than that. She was a trailblazer in her own right, and her movies run the full spectrum from musicals to Alfred Hitchcock. She portrayed an independent woman who didn't need anyone's protection, and if you think about it, she's the perfect role model for someone like Madison Night. (And I hope you've noticed that the book titles use Day's movies as inspiration.)
In With Vics You Get Eggroll, the spotlight is on Tex Allen, the other man in Madison's life. Yes, she's been dealing with one of fiction's favorite dilemmas for female characters: two men circling around her with bright eyes and hope in their hearts. We've already had a book focusing on Madison's contractor Hudson James, so now it's Tex's turn, and I have to admit that accusing someone of murder is a good way to find out what kind of person they are. Thus, in three books, Vallere solves Madison's man dilemma, and that's good news for readers like me who don't care for that particular plot device. (And no, the series doesn't weaken once Madison has made her choice.)
The mystery surrounding the Lakewood Abductor is very well-constructed and creates some lovely thrills and chills. My brain whispered to me whom the abductor had to be, but I ignored it, choosing instead to snuggle down and enjoy the book. One of the things I enjoy the most about this series is that this cast of characters is intelligent and caring-- and they don't do stupid things or run off half-cocked. Madison is forty-eight, has a bum knee, and knows she's not Wonder Woman. Throw in her adorable Shih Tzu named Rocky, and this series pretty much has it all-- including humor. In With Vics You Get Eggroll, there's a scene in which Tex vents his frustration out on an oak tree and gets taken to task by the elderly lady next-door. I loved it.
Strong mysteries, an excellent cast, chills, thrills and laughter, and an adorable dog... if you haven't read a Madison Night mystery, what are you waiting for?
In With Vics You Get Eggroll, the spotlight is on Tex Allen, the other man in Madison's life. Yes, she's been dealing with one of fiction's favorite dilemmas for female characters: two men circling around her with bright eyes and hope in their hearts. We've already had a book focusing on Madison's contractor Hudson James, so now it's Tex's turn, and I have to admit that accusing someone of murder is a good way to find out what kind of person they are. Thus, in three books, Vallere solves Madison's man dilemma, and that's good news for readers like me who don't care for that particular plot device. (And no, the series doesn't weaken once Madison has made her choice.)
The mystery surrounding the Lakewood Abductor is very well-constructed and creates some lovely thrills and chills. My brain whispered to me whom the abductor had to be, but I ignored it, choosing instead to snuggle down and enjoy the book. One of the things I enjoy the most about this series is that this cast of characters is intelligent and caring-- and they don't do stupid things or run off half-cocked. Madison is forty-eight, has a bum knee, and knows she's not Wonder Woman. Throw in her adorable Shih Tzu named Rocky, and this series pretty much has it all-- including humor. In With Vics You Get Eggroll, there's a scene in which Tex vents his frustration out on an oak tree and gets taken to task by the elderly lady next-door. I loved it.
Strong mysteries, an excellent cast, chills, thrills and laughter, and an adorable dog... if you haven't read a Madison Night mystery, what are you waiting for?
March 2, 2015
There’s a killer on the loose in Lakewood, and Madison Night, owner of an interior decorating firm, is totally involved in the murder mystery. After all, the killer is posing as Madison’s close friend and potential friend with benefits, to pull off the murders. Follow this unlikely sleuth and her friends as they work to uncover the person behind the abductions and murders. The story pulled me in from the very beginning and kept me glued to the story as it wove its way through a myriad of twists and turns. Just who the killer is remains a surprise until close to the end. Throughout the story, adding a hint of romance, Madison juggles her feelings and interactions with the police detective being framed by the killer and her regular carpenter friend. Though Madison can obviously only end up with one of these men, I found their interactions and growing chemistry as the story progressed interesting, to say the least. I also enjoyed the picture of a small presented throughout the story. One thing I liked about Madison was the fact that, though she is and has been involved in police investigations, she still comes across as a normal person, who thrusts herself into the middle of things because of her loyalty to the detective being framed. The story, as I said, pulled me in from the get-go and kept my interest throughout. I think anyone who enjoys a good mystery as well as a great portrayal of a normal person trying to help a friend will enjoy this book. I highly recommend it. I received this from the publisher through Net Galley to read and review.
March 1, 2015
WITH VICS YOU GET EGGROLL by Diane Vallere (A Mad for Mod Mystery #3)
4 STARS
For a decorator Madison Night sure gets involved with a bunch of murders. This is a charming murder mystery with a Doris Day influence. I did not even pick up on the name until I went looking for information about the book. With six you get eggrolls. So I am sure I missed a whole bunch of references.
Madison Night is a decorator who specializes in the 60's. She is a big Doris Day fan. She is single. Her dog is named Rocky. She does not want to let people into her life. She realizes that she already has.
Someone in the Dallas area is kidnapping women. So the women are scared. When the first body shows up a clue is found that leads the police to their own Lt. Tex Allen. Madison has flirted with him and she believes in him.
Madison has also liked her handyman Hudson. He has been gone for a few months.
Madison keeps showing up where the missing women are found or taken. Someone is framing Allen. Madison is determined to help him.
This is a clean read. Has some humor, lots of information about the 60's fashion and decorating ideas.
I was given this ebook to read by Net Galley and Henery Press. In return I agreed to give honest review of With Vics you Get Eggroll
4 STARS
For a decorator Madison Night sure gets involved with a bunch of murders. This is a charming murder mystery with a Doris Day influence. I did not even pick up on the name until I went looking for information about the book. With six you get eggrolls. So I am sure I missed a whole bunch of references.
Madison Night is a decorator who specializes in the 60's. She is a big Doris Day fan. She is single. Her dog is named Rocky. She does not want to let people into her life. She realizes that she already has.
Someone in the Dallas area is kidnapping women. So the women are scared. When the first body shows up a clue is found that leads the police to their own Lt. Tex Allen. Madison has flirted with him and she believes in him.
Madison has also liked her handyman Hudson. He has been gone for a few months.
Madison keeps showing up where the missing women are found or taken. Someone is framing Allen. Madison is determined to help him.
This is a clean read. Has some humor, lots of information about the 60's fashion and decorating ideas.
I was given this ebook to read by Net Galley and Henery Press. In return I agreed to give honest review of With Vics you Get Eggroll
May 25, 2015
What's good about this book? The mystery itself is really good. It kept me guessing until the end. And as it says in the last paragraph of the synopsis, there is more to it than just a simple solution. The romance is good. It doesn't feel like a love triangle to me even though there are 2 love interests. She is drawn to both of them for different reasons. It becomes apparent as the book progresses which one she is being drawn to more. The guys don't really compete for her. There is also humor to the book.
The bad? There is just a little repetition about how Madison came to be in Dallas and what motivates her to keep her emotional walls up. I didn't need it repeated as much as it was, but it is a minor complaint.
Overall this is really a well written, engaging mystery. If you like Doris Day type characters, Madison Night is for you. And even if you don't like Doris Day all that much, I think you could still enjoy the mystery.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
The bad? There is just a little repetition about how Madison came to be in Dallas and what motivates her to keep her emotional walls up. I didn't need it repeated as much as it was, but it is a minor complaint.
Overall this is really a well written, engaging mystery. If you like Doris Day type characters, Madison Night is for you. And even if you don't like Doris Day all that much, I think you could still enjoy the mystery.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 16, 2015
Diane Vallere has added another successful mystery to the Mad for Mod series. In With Vics You Get Eggroll she delivers her most suspenseful story yet. Her friend, Lt. Tex Allen tries to uncover the person who has kidnapped five women and murdered two while impersonating him. Unfortunately this is difficult as he is officially off the case and on leave from the police department. Meanwhile Madison’s friend and number one handyman, Hudson is back in town. He has resolved his issues with his past and provides Madison with a haven of peace when she’s not trying to help Tex keep it together and discover who the kidnapper is.
Readers who have followed this series will get a deeper, clearer look at the three main characters. There is a deep sadness in each, but also hope for the future. It was very hard to turn the last page in this book. I absolutely loved it, as I did the two books that came before it.
Readers who have followed this series will get a deeper, clearer look at the three main characters. There is a deep sadness in each, but also hope for the future. It was very hard to turn the last page in this book. I absolutely loved it, as I did the two books that came before it.
April 14, 2015
Great Series!
This is a great series; this is the third book in the A Mad for Mod Mystery series by Diane Vallere. Madison is an interior decorator who specializes in the old retro look. She is a huge fan of Doris Day and even dresses like her. There is a madman who is abducting and killing women and he is getting closer to Madison. The madman is leaving clues trying to frame Lt. Tex Allen with the police department. Madison is determined to help Tex solve the case and find the madman before there is another murder. If you want to read a great mystery that will leave you guessing until the end, then you need to read this book. I can’t wait until the next book in this series comes out.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
This is a great series; this is the third book in the A Mad for Mod Mystery series by Diane Vallere. Madison is an interior decorator who specializes in the old retro look. She is a huge fan of Doris Day and even dresses like her. There is a madman who is abducting and killing women and he is getting closer to Madison. The madman is leaving clues trying to frame Lt. Tex Allen with the police department. Madison is determined to help Tex solve the case and find the madman before there is another murder. If you want to read a great mystery that will leave you guessing until the end, then you need to read this book. I can’t wait until the next book in this series comes out.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
April 14, 2015
An easy to read cozy mystery featuring Madison Night. She is working on restoring a mansion and naming 3 paint colors. Woman visitors to Dallas are being abducted. There is evidence that points to Lt. Tex Allen and he is suspended from the investigation. Madison tries to help him. Just when you feel you know the it takes an a different way that well keep you guessing about the end. Another year to wait for the next adventure.
Full Disclosure: I received a free copy from HENERY PRESS through Netgalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for the opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions are my own.
Full Disclosure: I received a free copy from HENERY PRESS through Netgalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for the opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions are my own.
March 30, 2015
Madison Night is back and I am very glad to catch up on her hi-jinks. After reading the first two books in the series, I was happy to find it on Net Galley for review. If you have read only one of the books so far, I don't understand how you could possibly not run out and get the other two. I am a big fan of Diane Vallere, and look forward to meeting up with her and Madison again. For those of you who haven't read the books, they are Pillow Stalk, That Touch of Ink and the latest With Vics You Get Egg Roll.
FTC Full Disclosure - A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
FTC Full Disclosure - A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
April 28, 2015
Charming and delightful, like the rest of the series
I try to not be too repetitive, but I can't find another word that fits this book (this series) other than "charming".
I love the 60s Doris Day flavour, I love the stories, and with every book my opinion on who Madison should date gets stronger. In this book, the relationships with Hudson and Tex change and get deeper, but not necessarily in the way I was thinking. So I found plenty of surprising twists and was well and truly hooked from the first page.
I try to not be too repetitive, but I can't find another word that fits this book (this series) other than "charming".
I love the 60s Doris Day flavour, I love the stories, and with every book my opinion on who Madison should date gets stronger. In this book, the relationships with Hudson and Tex change and get deeper, but not necessarily in the way I was thinking. So I found plenty of surprising twists and was well and truly hooked from the first page.
March 12, 2015
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by Diane Vallere, and happens to be the third in the Mad for Mod Mystery series. You don't have to be a Doris Day fan to enjoy this series, but it couldn't hurt. Madison Night is a decorator that specializes in mid-century modern designs and has modeled her look after that of Doris Day. I really enjoyed this book and all of the characters, the killer kept me guessing until the very end. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Keep em' coming!
This was my first book by Diane Vallere, and happens to be the third in the Mad for Mod Mystery series. You don't have to be a Doris Day fan to enjoy this series, but it couldn't hurt. Madison Night is a decorator that specializes in mid-century modern designs and has modeled her look after that of Doris Day. I really enjoyed this book and all of the characters, the killer kept me guessing until the very end. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Keep em' coming!
June 17, 2015
Protagonist Madison Night is an interior decorator, a character inspired by the irrepressible Doris Day. With Vics You Get Egg Roll is the third in the Madison Night series. Diane Vallere is an author writing her way up the mystery library shelves at a energetic, satisfying pace. Her story catches a surging wave with Madison’s friend being charged with murder. It continues on a dangerous, infectious, and page-turning ride. Fashion, the incredible sixties, a solid and suspenseful plot makes this novel worthy sport.
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May 27, 2015"Loved, loved, loved this book and this series! Madison Night is the bomb-diggity! This series is very different from most cozy mysteries and it always keeps me reading well into the night. Madison's two love interests also keep me guessing and provide for a very interesting romantic scenario. This is a very interesting, well rounded series and I cannot wait until Book 4. Diane Vallere is a very talented author." -Lynn Brady, Netgalley Reviewer
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