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Britton Bay #2
Deadly Vows
Former Army brat Molly Owens is happily settling into her new life in the seaside town of Britton Bay—and into new her job as editor-in-chief of the local paper. But as tourists discover the desirable spot, the tide along the Oregon Coast is turning . . .
Britton Bay is buzzing with preparations for a wedding at the bed and breakfast where Molly rents a small carriage home. Molly is even helping out and plans to interview the rising star caterer—until the woman is found dead. And then the bride-to-be goes missing. To make matters worse, the venue is owned by Molly’s new boyfriend’s mother—and Molly was among the last people to see the victim alive. All of which makes solving the crime her top priority . . .
With the nuptials indefinitely on hold, Molly will have to sift through a sticky mix of suspects, including a rival caterer with a short fuse, a groom with an illicit secret, and a wedding party riddled with personal drama. And if she doesn’t discover the truth soon, Molly might be her own front-page news . . .
Britton Bay is buzzing with preparations for a wedding at the bed and breakfast where Molly rents a small carriage home. Molly is even helping out and plans to interview the rising star caterer—until the woman is found dead. And then the bride-to-be goes missing. To make matters worse, the venue is owned by Molly’s new boyfriend’s mother—and Molly was among the last people to see the victim alive. All of which makes solving the crime her top priority . . .
With the nuptials indefinitely on hold, Molly will have to sift through a sticky mix of suspects, including a rival caterer with a short fuse, a groom with an illicit secret, and a wedding party riddled with personal drama. And if she doesn’t discover the truth soon, Molly might be her own front-page news . . .
170 pages, Paperback
Published April 9, 2019
115 people are currently reading
814 people want to read
About the author
Jody Holford
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
February 13, 2019
I enjoyed the first book in this series so I was really looking forward to the second one. I was not disappointed. This series is written by an author who also writes romance stories so the romance in this story is just as strong as the mystery - maybe more prominent. For me, I didn't mind that. I found these characters to be so inviting that I just wanted to see what happened next in their lives. Molly is settling into her new life in Britton Bay but unfortunately is in the wrong place at the wrong time when a chef she was set to interview is found dead. Molly's curious nature gets her into trouble as she begins investigating the death of this chef. There are enough suspects with motives to keep you guessing with a few twists to keep the reader waffling between suspects.
I am enjoying this series and the characters. It has a stronger romance element than other cozy mysteries but that isn't something that bothers me. I will definitely be continuing with this series and looking forward to book three.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
I am enjoying this series and the characters. It has a stronger romance element than other cozy mysteries but that isn't something that bothers me. I will definitely be continuing with this series and looking forward to book three.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
April 12, 2019
Release Date: April 9, 2019
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Actual Rating: 5 stars
I love the Britton Bay mystery series by Jody Holford! It's charming, unpredictable, and a whole lot of fun! There's even a blossoming romance within it that will make any reader smile! Deadly Vows is the second book in the series and I recommend reading all the books in order as they follow the same sleuth (just different murder mysteries).
In this one, a wedding has come to the town of Britton Bay! Normally, weddings are supposed to be fun and full of love and adoration, but when people push their own ideals on what the wedding is supposed to look like and hire over the top celebrity chefs things get a little... wild. That's not all though. A murder shocks not only the town but those who are a part of the wedding- it hits too close to home. So amateur sleuth and editor of the local paper begins searching for clues to figure out "who-dun-it" before it's too late!
If you are a cozy mystery fan like me, this is a must read series! I highly recommend both books and am super excited for the next installment. Who knows, maybe Molly may even have a wedding in her future..
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Actual Rating: 5 stars
I love the Britton Bay mystery series by Jody Holford! It's charming, unpredictable, and a whole lot of fun! There's even a blossoming romance within it that will make any reader smile! Deadly Vows is the second book in the series and I recommend reading all the books in order as they follow the same sleuth (just different murder mysteries).
In this one, a wedding has come to the town of Britton Bay! Normally, weddings are supposed to be fun and full of love and adoration, but when people push their own ideals on what the wedding is supposed to look like and hire over the top celebrity chefs things get a little... wild. That's not all though. A murder shocks not only the town but those who are a part of the wedding- it hits too close to home. So amateur sleuth and editor of the local paper begins searching for clues to figure out "who-dun-it" before it's too late!
If you are a cozy mystery fan like me, this is a must read series! I highly recommend both books and am super excited for the next installment. Who knows, maybe Molly may even have a wedding in her future..
February 13, 2019
Deadly Vows by Jody Holford brings us back to Britton Bay, OR where Molly is now settling into her new job, new home and new romantic relationship.
This cozy is all about romance, relationships and the murder of a chef who is catering the wedding at the Bed & Breakfast owned by Molly's boyfriend's mother. Ms. Holford really delved more into Molly's character in this book and revealed several insights into Molly's thoughts and attitudes about herself and how she looks at the world. Readers also got to know more about Sam, Molly's boyfriend, too. The plot was quickly paced with only a few suspects and enough twists and turns to keep me guessing until the dramatic reveal. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to other cozy mystery readers.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Lyrical Underground via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
This cozy is all about romance, relationships and the murder of a chef who is catering the wedding at the Bed & Breakfast owned by Molly's boyfriend's mother. Ms. Holford really delved more into Molly's character in this book and revealed several insights into Molly's thoughts and attitudes about herself and how she looks at the world. Readers also got to know more about Sam, Molly's boyfriend, too. The plot was quickly paced with only a few suspects and enough twists and turns to keep me guessing until the dramatic reveal. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to other cozy mystery readers.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Lyrical Underground via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
June 23, 2019
A wonderful continuation of this charming mystery series. The characters are colourful and enjoyable, the plot is well-crafted, and the setting makes me want to move to Britton Bay. I'm looking forward to following more of Molly's adventures!
April 3, 2019
Deadly Vows
A Britton Bay Mystery, Book #2
Jody Holford
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Former Army brat Molly Owens is happily settling into her new life in the seaside town of Britton Bay—and into new her job as editor-in-chief of the local paper. But as tourists discover the desirable spot, the tide along the Oregon Coast is turning . . .
Britton Bay is buzzing with preparations for a wedding at the bed and breakfast where Molly rents a small carriage home. Molly is even helping out and plans to interview the rising star caterer—until the woman is found dead. And then the bride-to-be goes missing. To make matters worse, the venue is owned by Molly’s new boyfriend’s mother—and Molly was among the last people to see the victim alive. All of which makes solving the crime her top priority . . .
With the nuptials indefinitely on hold, Molly will have to sift through a sticky mix of suspects, including a rival caterer with a short fuse, a groom with an illicit secret, and a wedding party riddled with personal drama. And if she doesn’t discover the truth soon, Molly might be her own front-page news . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Molly is smart and hardworking and she loves investigating (which is good because she works for a newspaper). So when there is a murder in her small town it is only natural that she wants to solve it. I liked getting to spend more time with Molly and learning a little more about her and her thoughts and feeling. Sam, Molly’s boyfriend, seems like a great guy and it was fun reading about their interactions. I thought that the secondary characters added a lot to the story.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book was a quick easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and those descriptions pulled me into the story right from the beginning. The mystery was well plotted and with so many twists and turns,it was not easily solved.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. And in this case, you can judge a book by it’s cover, which is adorable.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
A Britton Bay Mystery, Book #2
Jody Holford
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Former Army brat Molly Owens is happily settling into her new life in the seaside town of Britton Bay—and into new her job as editor-in-chief of the local paper. But as tourists discover the desirable spot, the tide along the Oregon Coast is turning . . .
Britton Bay is buzzing with preparations for a wedding at the bed and breakfast where Molly rents a small carriage home. Molly is even helping out and plans to interview the rising star caterer—until the woman is found dead. And then the bride-to-be goes missing. To make matters worse, the venue is owned by Molly’s new boyfriend’s mother—and Molly was among the last people to see the victim alive. All of which makes solving the crime her top priority . . .
With the nuptials indefinitely on hold, Molly will have to sift through a sticky mix of suspects, including a rival caterer with a short fuse, a groom with an illicit secret, and a wedding party riddled with personal drama. And if she doesn’t discover the truth soon, Molly might be her own front-page news . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Molly is smart and hardworking and she loves investigating (which is good because she works for a newspaper). So when there is a murder in her small town it is only natural that she wants to solve it. I liked getting to spend more time with Molly and learning a little more about her and her thoughts and feeling. Sam, Molly’s boyfriend, seems like a great guy and it was fun reading about their interactions. I thought that the secondary characters added a lot to the story.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book was a quick easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and those descriptions pulled me into the story right from the beginning. The mystery was well plotted and with so many twists and turns,it was not easily solved.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. And in this case, you can judge a book by it’s cover, which is adorable.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
April 25, 2019
Molly Owens had no idea she'd be dumped into a murder investigation after the last one was only a few months ago. Since then, she'd started dating Sam, and they were pretty much inseparable. When the celebrity chef at a wedding being held at the B&B fell over dead at her hotel room, Molly was more curious at first, but as always for someone who is a career reporter by trade, things weren't adding up, then they started adding up.
I just love Sam's mother. She has to be the kindest lady on the planet, since she was such a gracious host to the wedding party, especially the bride's mom who was being a momzilla at the time. Sam's cousin Jill is a fun addition too, and I was happy to see that Hannah had stuck around the paper as well. I love that Sam and Molly might have their little moments of unrest, but they always apologize and make up instead of letting it eat at them. The scene where Sam was telling her about wanting to surprise her by grooming her dog Tigger for her just cracked me up. I could see that slippery little dog racing around soaking everything.
It was great to be able to read an excerpt of the next book which will be set in October, and according to an Amazon search I did, it looks like it'll be coming out this October.
I just love Sam's mother. She has to be the kindest lady on the planet, since she was such a gracious host to the wedding party, especially the bride's mom who was being a momzilla at the time. Sam's cousin Jill is a fun addition too, and I was happy to see that Hannah had stuck around the paper as well. I love that Sam and Molly might have their little moments of unrest, but they always apologize and make up instead of letting it eat at them. The scene where Sam was telling her about wanting to surprise her by grooming her dog Tigger for her just cracked me up. I could see that slippery little dog racing around soaking everything.
It was great to be able to read an excerpt of the next book which will be set in October, and according to an Amazon search I did, it looks like it'll be coming out this October.
April 11, 2019
Deadly Vows by Jody Holford is the 2nd book in A Britton Bay Mystery, and another good addition to this series. Molly Owens is the editor in chief at he local newspaper, located on the seaside coast of Oregon. Molly is renting a small carriage home on the property of the bed and breakfast her boyfriends mother owns. A big wedding is planned at the B&B, until a women's body if found and the mystery begins. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. If you love cozy mysteries, I recommend this book.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
February 7, 2019
This cozy mystery is heavy on the cozy and light on suspense. It makes for a wonderful beach read. Molly has recently moved to Britton Bay and rents at a lovely Bed & Breakfast in the coastal town. The B&B is chosen as the venue for some rather pretentious nuptials. When the chef for the wedding mysteriously turns up dead and the bride-to-be goes missing, Molly rolls up her sleeves to get to the bottom of things. There are touches of romance and slight suspense peppered throughout.
February 12, 2019
Deadly Vows is the second book in Jody Holford’s A Britton Bay Mystery series. I haven’t read the first book in this series, but there is sufficient background information that I didn’t feel lost. The mystery is well written, with lots of twists and turns, and the characters are likable in this steadily paced cozy mystery.
Molly Owens moved to Britton Bay, Oregon a few of months ago, and lives in a cottage located on the grounds of a Bed & Breakfast owned by Katherine Alderich with a black-and-white border collie named Tigger. She’s the editor-in-chief and writes a few news articles for the Britton Bay Bulletin, and is dating Katherine’s son, Sam, who owns an auto garage. The Bed & Breakfast is preparing for the nuptials of Patricia Lovenly’s daughter, Chantel, and Blake Findle. Patricia, a former resident of Britton Bay, has arranged for a celebrity chef, Skyler Friessen, and her sous chefs to prepare all food for the week before the wedding, the rehearsal dinner, and the wedding day food. When Skyler is found murdered in her hotel room, and the bride goes missing, Sheriff Brandon Saron tells Molly to keep her tendency to snoop out of the murder investigation and not to worry about the bride because she’d only been gone for a few hours. The sheriff steps away from the investigation and assigns Officer Chris Beatty, one of Sam’s friends, to take the lead because of his growing feelings for Katherine. Blake begs Molly to find his bride-to-be since the authorities aren’t taking her disappearance seriously and she felt compelled to help him. Unable to step away from the murder investigation and missing bride, Molly finds herself in harm’s way.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Molly Owens moved to Britton Bay, Oregon a few of months ago, and lives in a cottage located on the grounds of a Bed & Breakfast owned by Katherine Alderich with a black-and-white border collie named Tigger. She’s the editor-in-chief and writes a few news articles for the Britton Bay Bulletin, and is dating Katherine’s son, Sam, who owns an auto garage. The Bed & Breakfast is preparing for the nuptials of Patricia Lovenly’s daughter, Chantel, and Blake Findle. Patricia, a former resident of Britton Bay, has arranged for a celebrity chef, Skyler Friessen, and her sous chefs to prepare all food for the week before the wedding, the rehearsal dinner, and the wedding day food. When Skyler is found murdered in her hotel room, and the bride goes missing, Sheriff Brandon Saron tells Molly to keep her tendency to snoop out of the murder investigation and not to worry about the bride because she’d only been gone for a few hours. The sheriff steps away from the investigation and assigns Officer Chris Beatty, one of Sam’s friends, to take the lead because of his growing feelings for Katherine. Blake begs Molly to find his bride-to-be since the authorities aren’t taking her disappearance seriously and she felt compelled to help him. Unable to step away from the murder investigation and missing bride, Molly finds herself in harm’s way.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
April 8, 2019
Deadly Vows is a light hearted and romantic cozy mystery. This second installment in A Britton Bay Mystery series can be read as a standalone. I like how the information from Deadly News was incorporated into the story. Molly Owens is happy with her new home and job. She enjoys spending time with Sam and her puppy, Tigger. Molly has the perfect location (her cottage) to watch the wedding drama at the B&B unfold. The mother-of-the-bride is controlling the wedding. Patricia Lovenly grew up in Britton Bay and has come back to gloat over how rich she is by throwing a spectacular, over-the-top wedding for her daughter. It does not seem to matter that this is not what her daughter and the groom want. Skyler Friessen is the chef for the event, and she is a prickly. It is no surprise when she turns up dead. Molly just needs to figure out which individual disliked Skyler enough to kill her which is easier said then done. There are a couple of suspects, good clues and misdirection. Deadly Vows is nicely written with steady pacing. I could have done with less repetition (I get it the first time). I did not like how many times Molly was told to keep her nose out of the investigation (it was not going to happen). I also felt the romance between Molly and Sam was too much for a cozy mystery. It came across as sappy (especially the dialogue) and their relationship progressed too quickly. We are introduced to numerous characters in this book and many of them had nothing to do with the plot. An example is Clay, the newspapers supposed social media coordinator. He added nothing to this story, and I am shocked he has not been fired. Some tweaks would enhance this cute mystery series. Deadly Vows is an easy breezy cozy mystery with a dead chef, a battling wedding party, an adorable pup, a handsome beau, and one a nosy reporter.
April 15, 2019
Jody Holford’s Britton Bay Mystery series is fastly becoming one of my favorite cozy mystery series. She combines romance and mystery together, and makes you want to turn the page to see what happens next.
Deadly Vows finds the small town of Britton Bay, Oregon all abuzz with the wedding of a former resident’s daughter. Patricia Lovenly wants nothing but the best for her daughter Chantel’s wedding. She’s rented out the Bed-and-Breakfast of Katherine Alderich to host the wedding as well as all the wedding party. For Patricia, none of the restaurants or local businesses are good enough to feed the wedding party or guests. She has brought in her own celebrity chef, Skyler Friessen, to see to all the food, including the wedding cake. Skyler is very particular about any and all food coming into and out of her kitchen. She comes across as rude, demanding, and unfriendly.
As the week long events leading up the the weekend wedding get under way, tensions start to rise. Molly Owens, editor of the the Brittan Bay Bulletin, finally figures out a way to get Chef Friessen to agree to being interviewed. Just as Molly is making her way to the chef’s hotel room, she discovers the chef is dead and police are thinking it was murder. Molly’s thirst for information has her looking into who would want to kill the out-of-town chef and why.
I love all the main and secondary characters Jody has created for this series. Molly is a twenty-eight-year-old who is still trying to figure out where she belongs. She arrived in Britton Bay shortly after discovering her ex had been cheating on her. Growing up with an Army father didn’t provide her with a sense of roots, so she’s accustomed to moving around a lot. Molly has been in Britton Bay for almost three months. She’s starting to wonder if it’s time she moved on and if she can truly trust her growing feelings for her new boyfriend Sam.
I love the blossoming romance developing between Molly and Sam. I’m looking forward to seeing where their relationship goes. I also like the possible relationship that seems to be developing between Katherine and the Police Chief. The mystery of who killed Skyler was easy and straightforward. However, that’s not to say there aren’t secrets to uncover. There are definitely secrets, some more surprising than others. Deadly Vows proved to be a really good read. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed.**
Deadly Vows finds the small town of Britton Bay, Oregon all abuzz with the wedding of a former resident’s daughter. Patricia Lovenly wants nothing but the best for her daughter Chantel’s wedding. She’s rented out the Bed-and-Breakfast of Katherine Alderich to host the wedding as well as all the wedding party. For Patricia, none of the restaurants or local businesses are good enough to feed the wedding party or guests. She has brought in her own celebrity chef, Skyler Friessen, to see to all the food, including the wedding cake. Skyler is very particular about any and all food coming into and out of her kitchen. She comes across as rude, demanding, and unfriendly.
As the week long events leading up the the weekend wedding get under way, tensions start to rise. Molly Owens, editor of the the Brittan Bay Bulletin, finally figures out a way to get Chef Friessen to agree to being interviewed. Just as Molly is making her way to the chef’s hotel room, she discovers the chef is dead and police are thinking it was murder. Molly’s thirst for information has her looking into who would want to kill the out-of-town chef and why.
I love all the main and secondary characters Jody has created for this series. Molly is a twenty-eight-year-old who is still trying to figure out where she belongs. She arrived in Britton Bay shortly after discovering her ex had been cheating on her. Growing up with an Army father didn’t provide her with a sense of roots, so she’s accustomed to moving around a lot. Molly has been in Britton Bay for almost three months. She’s starting to wonder if it’s time she moved on and if she can truly trust her growing feelings for her new boyfriend Sam.
I love the blossoming romance developing between Molly and Sam. I’m looking forward to seeing where their relationship goes. I also like the possible relationship that seems to be developing between Katherine and the Police Chief. The mystery of who killed Skyler was easy and straightforward. However, that’s not to say there aren’t secrets to uncover. There are definitely secrets, some more surprising than others. Deadly Vows proved to be a really good read. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed.**
February 25, 2019
Light fun and entertaining read go to Britton Bay, Oregon where Molly Owens rents a cabin near a B&B and Sam, her current boyfriend's Mother, Katherine run it. A wedding is to be held there and Katherine will host the entire party for a week. The Mother of the bride is bringing special cater and will not be using local people. Things begin to go wrong almost at once and there is a climax with the MURDER of the special cater. Will there be a Wedding? In the end, there is a twist and Molly managed to get in trouble.
Disclosure: Thanks to Kensington Books for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: Thanks to Kensington Books for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
January 9, 2021
This is a great 2nd book in an already amazing series!!!
I especially liked the main heroine and her relationship with Sam!!!
I didn't figure out the mystery surrounding a dead chef for quite a while, which is great. I kind of missed an important clue which I should have noticed.
Will definitely continue with the whole series.
I especially liked the main heroine and her relationship with Sam!!!
I didn't figure out the mystery surrounding a dead chef for quite a while, which is great. I kind of missed an important clue which I should have noticed.
Will definitely continue with the whole series.
March 17, 2019
Deadly Vows is the second installment in the A Britton Bay Mystery series set in Britton Bay, Oregon and featuring newspaper editor Molly Owens and adorable rescue pup, Tigger. Molly is settling into life in Britton Bay, things are going well at the Britton Bay Bulletin and now she is looking forward to the wedding her landlord, Katherine Alderich will be hosting at her Bed & Breakfast. From the comfort of her guest cottage in the backyard, Molly has the perfect view of the preparations and the first thing she notices is how difficult the mother of the bride is going to be.
Patricia Lovenly grew up in home turned B & B, and she's determined to host her daughter Chantel's wedding there to show off to the townspeople how wealthy she's become. She's planning a week long event with over the top decorations and a celebrity chef. Skyler Friessen won a TV reality competition and even though she's temperamental and abrupt, Patty is adamant that the woman prepares their food for the week, and this means that local baker Bella who supplies the B & B with pastries and breads is out a week of wages.
Residents and guests alike are shocked when Corky Templeton, homeless and mentally challenged stumbles across the body of Skyler lying in the open doorway of her hotel room. Had someone finally had enough of the nasty Chef or did she accidentally die from an allergic reaction? Despite the warnings from her boyfriend Sam and Officer Chris Beatty, Molly soon finds herself in the middle of another murder investigation.
A well crafted plot that will keep the pages turning. This series is a little too heavy on the romance for me, while I don't mind a relationship for the main character, the constant mentions of hand holding, gazing into the other person's eyes, and the sappy dialogue does take away from the mystery. I'm hoping that the author will move on from this now that a stable relationship has been formed.
I received an advanced copy of Deadly Vows from NetGalley via Lyrical Undergound a division of Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
Patricia Lovenly grew up in home turned B & B, and she's determined to host her daughter Chantel's wedding there to show off to the townspeople how wealthy she's become. She's planning a week long event with over the top decorations and a celebrity chef. Skyler Friessen won a TV reality competition and even though she's temperamental and abrupt, Patty is adamant that the woman prepares their food for the week, and this means that local baker Bella who supplies the B & B with pastries and breads is out a week of wages.
Residents and guests alike are shocked when Corky Templeton, homeless and mentally challenged stumbles across the body of Skyler lying in the open doorway of her hotel room. Had someone finally had enough of the nasty Chef or did she accidentally die from an allergic reaction? Despite the warnings from her boyfriend Sam and Officer Chris Beatty, Molly soon finds herself in the middle of another murder investigation.
A well crafted plot that will keep the pages turning. This series is a little too heavy on the romance for me, while I don't mind a relationship for the main character, the constant mentions of hand holding, gazing into the other person's eyes, and the sappy dialogue does take away from the mystery. I'm hoping that the author will move on from this now that a stable relationship has been formed.
I received an advanced copy of Deadly Vows from NetGalley via Lyrical Undergound a division of Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
April 4, 2019
Second in the Britton Bay Mystery series, this is as delightful and intriguing as the first. The characters are likable. Molly and her bouncy pup, Tigger, are a fun pair to imagine on the beach of Britton Bay, along with Sam, who she has been dating for several weeks. The mystery kept me on my toes, even though I did finally figure out whodunit.
Molly moved from SoCal after finding her live-in boyfriend entertaining one of his exes. She is now editor for the Britton Bay Bulletin, which has been in the family of her boss, Alan, for a couple generations. Good things are being said about the paper since she has become its editor in the Pacific northwest. She lives in a cottage behind the B&B owned by Katherine Alderich, Sam’s mother. Molly had found Tigger behind the Bulletin building shortly after starting work there, and he is all puppy. She has a small circle of friends that is growing.
A wedding is going to take place at the B & B, and the bride’s mother is sparing no expense to give Chantel a dream wedding. Patty, Chantel’s mother, grew up in Britton Bay, married a wealthy man, and moved away. She grew up in the home the B&B had been before it was converted. Katherine’s property is being transformed with tents and even a dance floor. Patty hired a chef, Skyler Friessen, who recently won a competition and will soon open her own restaurant. Skyler is a haughty young woman who claims to be an artist whose medium is food; she is curt and even rude to her sous chefs or anyone in “her” kitchen. Skyler is preparing all the meals for the several days leading up to the wedding as well as the wedding itself; Katherine cannot bring any outside foods in.
Molly talked Skyler into giving an interview for the Bulletin as part of the wedding special editions. She and Sam heard Skyler and an unidentified man arguing when they were headed to her cottage. The next morning, Molly found Chantel crying on the beach while walking Tigger. Then, when arriving at the hotel to meet Skyler for an interview, she learns the grumpy chef was found dead early that morning by a local homeless man, Corky. Harmless, he is clearly rattled; he saw her room door ajar when going to the pool and said Skyler fell while brushing her teeth. He kept muttering about dark stars. Molly and Jill, Sam’s cousin and a reporter at the Bulletin, begin to speculate on who the killer might be. Then the bride disappears without a word.
It was fun to get to know the characters better! I did, however, miss reminders of backstories on some of the characters (such as what Sam’s shop is) unless I didn’t see them. Calliope, Molly, and Katherine are my favorites with their kind hearts and helpful ‘tudes. I appreciate the challenges Molly faces in trusting men and settling in her new town.
The plot is complex, with suspects that most of the locals don’t know. The mystery kept me guessing throughout with twists and turns that showed a few suspects and red herrings. There was almost too much romance too quickly for my personal preference. I did, at last, figure out whodunit with an idea of the motivation barely a couple steps ahead of Molly and Sam. The ending is satisfying, and I’m looking forward to the next in series. I highly recommend Deadly Vows to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries with pets, good friends, and romance.
From a thankful heart: I received a copy of the e-ARC from the publisher through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.
Molly moved from SoCal after finding her live-in boyfriend entertaining one of his exes. She is now editor for the Britton Bay Bulletin, which has been in the family of her boss, Alan, for a couple generations. Good things are being said about the paper since she has become its editor in the Pacific northwest. She lives in a cottage behind the B&B owned by Katherine Alderich, Sam’s mother. Molly had found Tigger behind the Bulletin building shortly after starting work there, and he is all puppy. She has a small circle of friends that is growing.
A wedding is going to take place at the B & B, and the bride’s mother is sparing no expense to give Chantel a dream wedding. Patty, Chantel’s mother, grew up in Britton Bay, married a wealthy man, and moved away. She grew up in the home the B&B had been before it was converted. Katherine’s property is being transformed with tents and even a dance floor. Patty hired a chef, Skyler Friessen, who recently won a competition and will soon open her own restaurant. Skyler is a haughty young woman who claims to be an artist whose medium is food; she is curt and even rude to her sous chefs or anyone in “her” kitchen. Skyler is preparing all the meals for the several days leading up to the wedding as well as the wedding itself; Katherine cannot bring any outside foods in.
Molly talked Skyler into giving an interview for the Bulletin as part of the wedding special editions. She and Sam heard Skyler and an unidentified man arguing when they were headed to her cottage. The next morning, Molly found Chantel crying on the beach while walking Tigger. Then, when arriving at the hotel to meet Skyler for an interview, she learns the grumpy chef was found dead early that morning by a local homeless man, Corky. Harmless, he is clearly rattled; he saw her room door ajar when going to the pool and said Skyler fell while brushing her teeth. He kept muttering about dark stars. Molly and Jill, Sam’s cousin and a reporter at the Bulletin, begin to speculate on who the killer might be. Then the bride disappears without a word.
It was fun to get to know the characters better! I did, however, miss reminders of backstories on some of the characters (such as what Sam’s shop is) unless I didn’t see them. Calliope, Molly, and Katherine are my favorites with their kind hearts and helpful ‘tudes. I appreciate the challenges Molly faces in trusting men and settling in her new town.
The plot is complex, with suspects that most of the locals don’t know. The mystery kept me guessing throughout with twists and turns that showed a few suspects and red herrings. There was almost too much romance too quickly for my personal preference. I did, at last, figure out whodunit with an idea of the motivation barely a couple steps ahead of Molly and Sam. The ending is satisfying, and I’m looking forward to the next in series. I highly recommend Deadly Vows to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries with pets, good friends, and romance.
From a thankful heart: I received a copy of the e-ARC from the publisher through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.
April 21, 2019
http://openbooksociety.com/article/de...
Deadly Vows
Britton Bay Mystery, Book #2
By Jody Holford
ISBN 9781516108701
Author Website: jodyholfordauthor(.)com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Summary:
Britton Bay is buzzing with preparations for a wedding at the bed and breakfast where Molly rents a small carriage home. Molly is even helping out and plans to interview the rising star caterer—until the woman is found dead. And then the bride-to-be goes missing. To make matters worse, the venue is owned by Molly’s new boyfriend’s mother—and Molly was among the last people to see the victim alive. All of which makes solving the crime her top priority . . .
With the nuptials indefinitely on hold, Molly will have to sift through a sticky mix of suspects, including a rival caterer with a short fuse, a groom with an illicit secret, and a wedding party riddled with personal drama. And if she doesn’t discover the truth soon, Molly might be her own front-page news . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
Heavy on the romance, Deadly Vows is an enjoyable cozy mystery.
Love is in the air in Britton Bay, Oregon, as Patricia Lovenly sweeps into her hometown with intentions of throwing the wedding of the century for her daughter Chantel. Protagonist Molly has a front seat view from her cottage behind Katherine’s Bed and Breakfast as it is grown zero for all of the wedding activities. Patricia hires an up-and-coming chef to provide all of the food, but when Chef Skyler drops dead, Molly puts her investigative skills to the test to get to the bottom of the mystery.
This is the first book in the Britton Bay Mystery Series that I have read, but I easily got into the story, and soon the recurring characters felt like friends. Molly is curious by nature and smart, and her job at the local newspaper provides a plausible reason for her to investigate. The other recurring characters, including Molly’s boyfriend Sam and his mother Katherine, are likable and endearing. Molly’s dog Tigger is also a nice addition for pet loving readers. The romance between Molly and Sam is front and center, almost more emphasized than the mystery, but I did not find it distracting. And, happily, there is no love triangle here.
The mystery itself is interesting with lots of suspects and red herrings. That said, as soon as one, obvious to me, clue was revealed relatively early on I knew the identity of the killer. I wish solving the mystery had been more challenging, but it was still worthwhile. The characters central to the murder mystery are almost unanimously unpleasant, and, at times, they are exhausting. Victim Skyler is particularly prickly, and I had trouble feeling sorry that she was dead.
Overall, I liked Deadly Vows.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Deadly Vows
Britton Bay Mystery, Book #2
By Jody Holford
ISBN 9781516108701
Author Website: jodyholfordauthor(.)com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Summary:
Britton Bay is buzzing with preparations for a wedding at the bed and breakfast where Molly rents a small carriage home. Molly is even helping out and plans to interview the rising star caterer—until the woman is found dead. And then the bride-to-be goes missing. To make matters worse, the venue is owned by Molly’s new boyfriend’s mother—and Molly was among the last people to see the victim alive. All of which makes solving the crime her top priority . . .
With the nuptials indefinitely on hold, Molly will have to sift through a sticky mix of suspects, including a rival caterer with a short fuse, a groom with an illicit secret, and a wedding party riddled with personal drama. And if she doesn’t discover the truth soon, Molly might be her own front-page news . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
Heavy on the romance, Deadly Vows is an enjoyable cozy mystery.
Love is in the air in Britton Bay, Oregon, as Patricia Lovenly sweeps into her hometown with intentions of throwing the wedding of the century for her daughter Chantel. Protagonist Molly has a front seat view from her cottage behind Katherine’s Bed and Breakfast as it is grown zero for all of the wedding activities. Patricia hires an up-and-coming chef to provide all of the food, but when Chef Skyler drops dead, Molly puts her investigative skills to the test to get to the bottom of the mystery.
This is the first book in the Britton Bay Mystery Series that I have read, but I easily got into the story, and soon the recurring characters felt like friends. Molly is curious by nature and smart, and her job at the local newspaper provides a plausible reason for her to investigate. The other recurring characters, including Molly’s boyfriend Sam and his mother Katherine, are likable and endearing. Molly’s dog Tigger is also a nice addition for pet loving readers. The romance between Molly and Sam is front and center, almost more emphasized than the mystery, but I did not find it distracting. And, happily, there is no love triangle here.
The mystery itself is interesting with lots of suspects and red herrings. That said, as soon as one, obvious to me, clue was revealed relatively early on I knew the identity of the killer. I wish solving the mystery had been more challenging, but it was still worthwhile. The characters central to the murder mystery are almost unanimously unpleasant, and, at times, they are exhausting. Victim Skyler is particularly prickly, and I had trouble feeling sorry that she was dead.
Overall, I liked Deadly Vows.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
April 26, 2019
Deadly Vows is the second installment in Jody Holford’s delightful cozy mystery series, Britton Bay. This one is as much cozy as mystery, with romance taking a prominent role. Don’t get me wrong. The mystery itself is satisfying, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader interested throughout. But the book contains (in my opinion) more romance than the average cozy – and not just because the plot involves a wedding.
Molly and her team of reporters are covering an upcoming event wedding that has got the whole town talking. The bride-to-be’s mother, Patricia, has arranged for the nuptials to take place in her hometown of Britton Bay, and has taken over the local bed-and-breakfast which is run by Katherine, the mother of Molly’s boyfriend, Sam. Patricia has orchestrated everything -- from the wedding’s location to the selection of an award-winning chef (and her entourage) to cater to the wedding party – and has generally alienated most of the local residents, whom Patricia apparently deems “not good enough.”
When a local homeless man discovers the celebrity chef dead in her hotel room, the mystery begins. Molly’s reporter’s instincts and her empathy for the bride-to-be (who despite her over-the-top mother turns out to be a pretty nice person) plunge her into a quest for the truth about the chef’s murder.
Along with the mystery is the burgeoning relationship between Molly and Sam. Unlike many cozies where the protagonist’s vacillation between would-be suitors seems contrived, here, Molly’s fears seem genuine, as do her growing feelings for Sam. Sam, for his part, is more than a cardboard cutout, and there are several scenes (including a cute one involving Molly’s dog, Tigger) that display the depth of his character. And, as characters go, Katherine is one of my favorites. Despite the chaos around her at the B&B, she remains unperturbed and is kind and welcoming to everyone. The hint of romance between Katherine and the local sheriff adds to the warmth of the story.
All told, Deadly Vows is a charming cozy mystery. If you are looking for a straight-forward who-dun-it, you might be disappointed. But if you are looking for a mystery surrounded by love and hope, Britton Bay should be your next destination.
Note: I received an ARC of Deadly Vows” from NetGalley and Kensington Books/Lyrical Underground. The above is my honest review.
Molly and her team of reporters are covering an upcoming event wedding that has got the whole town talking. The bride-to-be’s mother, Patricia, has arranged for the nuptials to take place in her hometown of Britton Bay, and has taken over the local bed-and-breakfast which is run by Katherine, the mother of Molly’s boyfriend, Sam. Patricia has orchestrated everything -- from the wedding’s location to the selection of an award-winning chef (and her entourage) to cater to the wedding party – and has generally alienated most of the local residents, whom Patricia apparently deems “not good enough.”
When a local homeless man discovers the celebrity chef dead in her hotel room, the mystery begins. Molly’s reporter’s instincts and her empathy for the bride-to-be (who despite her over-the-top mother turns out to be a pretty nice person) plunge her into a quest for the truth about the chef’s murder.
Along with the mystery is the burgeoning relationship between Molly and Sam. Unlike many cozies where the protagonist’s vacillation between would-be suitors seems contrived, here, Molly’s fears seem genuine, as do her growing feelings for Sam. Sam, for his part, is more than a cardboard cutout, and there are several scenes (including a cute one involving Molly’s dog, Tigger) that display the depth of his character. And, as characters go, Katherine is one of my favorites. Despite the chaos around her at the B&B, she remains unperturbed and is kind and welcoming to everyone. The hint of romance between Katherine and the local sheriff adds to the warmth of the story.
All told, Deadly Vows is a charming cozy mystery. If you are looking for a straight-forward who-dun-it, you might be disappointed. But if you are looking for a mystery surrounded by love and hope, Britton Bay should be your next destination.
Note: I received an ARC of Deadly Vows” from NetGalley and Kensington Books/Lyrical Underground. The above is my honest review.
September 27, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up. Britton Bay is in full gossip mode as one of the residents who fled years before is back, planning to hold an elaborate wedding for her daughter at the B&B where Lucy lives in the carriage house on the property. She has brought her own team, including a well-known, up and coming chef. Molly plans to interview the celebrity chef for the paper, but before she can do that, she is found dead. Who had it out for the chef? Can Molly help solve the crime before the wrong person is arrested?
I am enjoying the Britton Bay mystery series by Jody Holford. It is a charming series with a beautiful setting, interesting characters, unpredictable mysteries and even a bit of a romance. Molly is a wonderful character. She is smart, doesn't take anything from her co-workers and is perseverant. I also like Sam Alderich. He is the son of the owner of the B&B, where Molly is living and they have begun dating. He is extremely protective of Molly and wishes she wouldn't investigate and put herself in possible danger, but he doesn't smother her. This mystery has a few suspects, some twists and red herrings that made it difficult for me to guess the actual culprit. The final reveal was an interesting showdown with some danger that was a good ending for this mystery. This was a light read without a lot of suspense, but still an enjoyable cozy mystery read. Libby McKnight narrated the audiobook and did a nice job with this story.
I am enjoying the Britton Bay mystery series by Jody Holford. It is a charming series with a beautiful setting, interesting characters, unpredictable mysteries and even a bit of a romance. Molly is a wonderful character. She is smart, doesn't take anything from her co-workers and is perseverant. I also like Sam Alderich. He is the son of the owner of the B&B, where Molly is living and they have begun dating. He is extremely protective of Molly and wishes she wouldn't investigate and put herself in possible danger, but he doesn't smother her. This mystery has a few suspects, some twists and red herrings that made it difficult for me to guess the actual culprit. The final reveal was an interesting showdown with some danger that was a good ending for this mystery. This was a light read without a lot of suspense, but still an enjoyable cozy mystery read. Libby McKnight narrated the audiobook and did a nice job with this story.
May 23, 2019
Molly Owens is savoring her life as editor-in-chief in the seaside town of Britton Bay. She loves her job, her new boyfriend Sam, and the fact that she rents a cottage on the grounds of a B&B owned by Sam's mother.
When a former resident arrives and rents out the B&B for her daughter's wedding, things are busy, busy, busy. But the celebrity chef turns up dead, and then the bride-to-be goes missing. Molly doesn't want to interfere, but it's her job to keep the town informed, so she keeps her finger in the middle of the investigation. It's up to Molly to get to the bottom of things, before she becomes a headline in her own newspaper.
Anytime I read a second book in a series after I really enjoyed the first one, I worry about a sophomore slump. But that did not happen with Deadly Vows. Jody Holford kept the action hopping, and the story fresh. The town of Britton Bay appeals to me as a reader, and I love the residents and the way they interact with each other. There is a lot of emphasis on the romance between Sam and Molly, but it did not detract from the mystery.
I figured out whodunit before the end, which was the only thing that kept this book from being a five star for me. I look forward to seeing what happens with Molly and her crew next.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
When a former resident arrives and rents out the B&B for her daughter's wedding, things are busy, busy, busy. But the celebrity chef turns up dead, and then the bride-to-be goes missing. Molly doesn't want to interfere, but it's her job to keep the town informed, so she keeps her finger in the middle of the investigation. It's up to Molly to get to the bottom of things, before she becomes a headline in her own newspaper.
Anytime I read a second book in a series after I really enjoyed the first one, I worry about a sophomore slump. But that did not happen with Deadly Vows. Jody Holford kept the action hopping, and the story fresh. The town of Britton Bay appeals to me as a reader, and I love the residents and the way they interact with each other. There is a lot of emphasis on the romance between Sam and Molly, but it did not detract from the mystery.
I figured out whodunit before the end, which was the only thing that kept this book from being a five star for me. I look forward to seeing what happens with Molly and her crew next.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
March 18, 2019
Molly Owens is finding herself in Britton Bay, Oregon. She’s happy making new friends and falling in love with Sam. Her work as the editor of the local newspaper is fulfilling. Molly with her healthy curiosity finds herself investigating when a celebrity chef is found dead. Molly gets involved. She wants to help find who committed the crime. I liked all the characters. They were easy to care about. Molly is a people person and she tries to help them by finding the truth. Her growing romance with Sam is sweet. He’s a good man. I love that he cares for her as well as her puppy, Tigger. I was sorry that a previous love had cheated on her and that it left her with trust issues. I think that these two are a perfect couple. This cozy mystery is well written and has plenty of suspects who wanted the victim dead. I liked the writing of Jody Holford. It’s easy to read. She created characters I liked as well as a setting that is filled with interesting characters. I’m looking forward to Molly’s next adventure.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
May 7, 2019
I am already looking forward to book 3!!
Britton Bay has that small shore town vibe that we all fall in love with in our cozy books and television shows. It actually has a strong Hallmark town feel to it. The protagonist, Molly Owens, had a rough start in book 1. Not only is she new in the small town, she helped solve a murder.
Settling in to her new life, slower paced reporting, small town, and budding romance; everything is just like it should be for Molly.... but for how long?
Things become a bit chaotic when a large party shows up to host a wedding at the B&B. Things get even worse when a member of the hired staff is found dead in her room at the B&B. Just doing her job for the newspaper, Molly uncovers a few things that lead her to believe the police have the wrong suspect in custody. Will she be able to find the real killer before its too late?
I will also add, I am totally in love with Sam too!!
#netgalley
Britton Bay has that small shore town vibe that we all fall in love with in our cozy books and television shows. It actually has a strong Hallmark town feel to it. The protagonist, Molly Owens, had a rough start in book 1. Not only is she new in the small town, she helped solve a murder.
Settling in to her new life, slower paced reporting, small town, and budding romance; everything is just like it should be for Molly.... but for how long?
Things become a bit chaotic when a large party shows up to host a wedding at the B&B. Things get even worse when a member of the hired staff is found dead in her room at the B&B. Just doing her job for the newspaper, Molly uncovers a few things that lead her to believe the police have the wrong suspect in custody. Will she be able to find the real killer before its too late?
I will also add, I am totally in love with Sam too!!
#netgalley
March 29, 2019
What an enjoyable read! Great plot twists and a lot of emotions with a wedding, a suspicious death, and a big whodunit. It was fun going back to Britton Bay and visiting with Molly, Sam, Katherine, Bella, and Calli, and I look forward to getting to know the characters more as the series develops. The plot was well-written and made sense. I didn't solve the mystery before it was revealed, which made it a real page turner. This book has a great combination of mystery and Molly's everyday life, including her developing relationship with Sam. I can't wait to see where the story goes from here!
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
December 20, 2023
Great Read
This was an enjoyable read. This is the second book in the Britton Bay series. In this book, Molly, now the editor-in-chief of the newspaper, is trying to interview a rising caterer for a wedding that is happening at the bed and breakfast where she rents a small cottage home. When the caterer is found dead, then the investigation is on. I thought the story was great. I like reading cozy mysteries. This book was better than the first book. I thought that Molly was a great character. I thought she was smart, witty, and interesting. I thought the romance was sweet. I really liked the other characters as well. The ending was interesting. I am wondering how book three will turn out. I cannot wait. Deadly Ride, here we come. Overall, a great read.
This was an enjoyable read. This is the second book in the Britton Bay series. In this book, Molly, now the editor-in-chief of the newspaper, is trying to interview a rising caterer for a wedding that is happening at the bed and breakfast where she rents a small cottage home. When the caterer is found dead, then the investigation is on. I thought the story was great. I like reading cozy mysteries. This book was better than the first book. I thought that Molly was a great character. I thought she was smart, witty, and interesting. I thought the romance was sweet. I really liked the other characters as well. The ending was interesting. I am wondering how book three will turn out. I cannot wait. Deadly Ride, here we come. Overall, a great read.
April 29, 2019
This book was a fast, easy read and I really liked it.
Molly is getting excited that tourist season is ending and things should slow down in Britton Bay; she is navigating her feelings for Sam; and she is enjoying her job at the paper. Things change when someone who used to live in town shows up and takes over the bed and breakfast for her daughter's wedding. People are everywhere, tensions are running high, and soon enough someone gets killed.
Molly tries to stay out of it, but can't seem to let it go. It seems the chef who was murdered was not well liked and a number of suspects appear. I was not expecting the killer to be the killer (most often the case for me), but it made sense and I enjoyed the red herrings along the way.
I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley. #netgalley #deadlyvows #jodyholford
4.8 stars
Molly is getting excited that tourist season is ending and things should slow down in Britton Bay; she is navigating her feelings for Sam; and she is enjoying her job at the paper. Things change when someone who used to live in town shows up and takes over the bed and breakfast for her daughter's wedding. People are everywhere, tensions are running high, and soon enough someone gets killed.
Molly tries to stay out of it, but can't seem to let it go. It seems the chef who was murdered was not well liked and a number of suspects appear. I was not expecting the killer to be the killer (most often the case for me), but it made sense and I enjoyed the red herrings along the way.
I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley. #netgalley #deadlyvows #jodyholford
4.8 stars
June 17, 2019
This deftly-plotted sequel to Deadly News is a charming addition to the Britton Bay Mystery series. I loved the touches of romance that were interwoven throughout the mystery, as well as the small-town feel that made me want to pack my bags and move to Britton Bay! The ending was as satisfying as it gets, so I'm more than ready for the third installment.
March 9, 2020
Read as a Nook book.
Deadly News (Book #1) was the first book I read after joining a Cozy Mystery book club on Facebook. I’d already read a handful of cozies, but that got me hooked. Deadly Vows is the second in that series and it shows our friend, Molly, settling into her new job as editor of the Britton Bay Bulletin, the small town’s newspaper. Things are going well, albeit a bit crazy, when an over-the-top wedding party comes to town for the weekend and takes over the town B&B, run by Molly’s landlady, the mother of her boyfriend, Sam.
In this book, the victim is someone connected to the wedding yet it seems to involve everyone imaginable – from members of the wedding party to chefs to some of the locals. The author does a great job of making you think it’s just about everyone BUT the person who actually did it. Oh how I love a good whodunnit!
While the overall story arc is terrific, I especially loved the interactions Molly has with all the various people in town so that we, as readers, have a real feeling of belonging to this town. I also love that the protagonist is not dating the detective. Oddly, that’s a nice change from other cozies I’ve read.
This is a super fun book that I highly recommend you read. I already have the next book in the series to read!
Deadly News (Book #1) was the first book I read after joining a Cozy Mystery book club on Facebook. I’d already read a handful of cozies, but that got me hooked. Deadly Vows is the second in that series and it shows our friend, Molly, settling into her new job as editor of the Britton Bay Bulletin, the small town’s newspaper. Things are going well, albeit a bit crazy, when an over-the-top wedding party comes to town for the weekend and takes over the town B&B, run by Molly’s landlady, the mother of her boyfriend, Sam.
In this book, the victim is someone connected to the wedding yet it seems to involve everyone imaginable – from members of the wedding party to chefs to some of the locals. The author does a great job of making you think it’s just about everyone BUT the person who actually did it. Oh how I love a good whodunnit!
While the overall story arc is terrific, I especially loved the interactions Molly has with all the various people in town so that we, as readers, have a real feeling of belonging to this town. I also love that the protagonist is not dating the detective. Oddly, that’s a nice change from other cozies I’ve read.
This is a super fun book that I highly recommend you read. I already have the next book in the series to read!
April 9, 2019
Jody Holford's Deadly Vows combines mystery and romance in a very cozy way! Molly is settling into her life in Britton Bay quite nicely - she has a job that she loves, a boyfriend who she adores and is quite smitten with her as well, and a growing number of friends. When her landlady hosts a wedding at her B&B and the chef is found dead by mysterious circumstances, Molly must once again search out the clues to discover who committed the dirty deed and restore harmony to the quiet little town. Loved it! A+
September 3, 2019
Deadly Vows is the second book in he Britton Bay Mystery Series but the first I have read. I had no trouble jumping right in without feeling like I was missing something by not reading the debut installment first. I like Molly and the other recurring characters, and Molly's journalism job provides realistic opportunities for her to investigate. The characters central to the mystery are all pretty unlikable, but it works well with the plot. Overall, this is a middle of the road cozy, and I liked it.
March 13, 2019
Molly Owens is editor in chief of the Britton Bay Bulletin, their newspaper, and she also lives in a cottage behind the B&B her boyfriend Sam's mother Katherine owns. She's watching the tents being erected for a huge wedding at the B&B, and it's quite a spectacle. On her way to work one morning she talks with the owner of the local bakery, Bella, and discovers that the wedding party has brought in their own caterer, which means that Bella, who provides the B&B with baked goods, won't be supplying them during their stay. She also discovers that the owner of the paper, Alan Benedict, knows the bride's mother and is going to run a feature. But when Patricia Lovenly (MOB) arrives at the paper she's not alone. She's brought with her the caterer, Skyler Friessen, who doesn't seem to want to be there, and comes off as thinking she's better than anyone in the town.
Later on, when Molly returns home she hopes to have an interview with Skyler, but needs to figure out a way to approach her. Reluctantly, Skyler agrees on one the next morning, but when Molly arrives at the hotel where she's staying, she finds out that Skyler is dead, and it's not long before her inquisitive nature leads her to the fact that she was poisoned.
While she insists she's not investigating the crime, she can't help but wonder who hated the woman enough to want to kill her. Why would anyone want to murder a woman who, though unpleasant at best, didn't seem to be horrible enough to kill. But someone did, and Molly, who's in a perfect place to watch the wedding guests - since they aren't allowed to leave until the murderer is caught - starts putting the clues together. But will it be in time to save herself from being the next person to get iced?
This is the second book in the series, following Deadly News, and I am happy to say that I found it to be just as good as the first one. This time out, Molly is secure in the fact that she's doing well as Editor in Chief at her job, and navigating her new relationship with Sam. She's still having trouble after her disastrous breakup with her ex, but Sam is winding himself into her life so easily that she's learning how to trust again.
But then there's the murder. And the killer is more than likely someone the bride brought with her when they arrived in Britton Bay. The only clues she has are the ramblings of a local who isn't all there mentally, and the fact that the last thing she drank came from Bella's bakery - but she does know that Bella's not a murderer. Which leaves her back to square one, trying to figure out who is, even though she's telling herself she's not investigating.
Molly is a great character; she's independent, strong, yet still scarred inside and is flawed, just like the rest of the world. She cares about the people around her, and it shows. Sam is a truly decent guy with a great sense of humor; although he's in for a surprise himself with something regarding his mother. The rest of the characters feed the story well, and even though we don't see as much of the people who work at the newspaper, their presence is still known.
The mystery was done very well. The clues are there, but they're thrown in by bits and pieces, and you just have to look for them. There are a couple of red herring that lead you to believe other people just might be guilty, but that's exactly as it is supposed to be.
In the end, when Molly discovers the identity of the killer, it all comes together nicely, giving us a tale that was entertaining and interesting; which also made Molly do some thinking of her own in the process on where her life is going. A very enjoyable book and I look forward to the next in the series. Recommended.
Later on, when Molly returns home she hopes to have an interview with Skyler, but needs to figure out a way to approach her. Reluctantly, Skyler agrees on one the next morning, but when Molly arrives at the hotel where she's staying, she finds out that Skyler is dead, and it's not long before her inquisitive nature leads her to the fact that she was poisoned.
While she insists she's not investigating the crime, she can't help but wonder who hated the woman enough to want to kill her. Why would anyone want to murder a woman who, though unpleasant at best, didn't seem to be horrible enough to kill. But someone did, and Molly, who's in a perfect place to watch the wedding guests - since they aren't allowed to leave until the murderer is caught - starts putting the clues together. But will it be in time to save herself from being the next person to get iced?
This is the second book in the series, following Deadly News, and I am happy to say that I found it to be just as good as the first one. This time out, Molly is secure in the fact that she's doing well as Editor in Chief at her job, and navigating her new relationship with Sam. She's still having trouble after her disastrous breakup with her ex, but Sam is winding himself into her life so easily that she's learning how to trust again.
But then there's the murder. And the killer is more than likely someone the bride brought with her when they arrived in Britton Bay. The only clues she has are the ramblings of a local who isn't all there mentally, and the fact that the last thing she drank came from Bella's bakery - but she does know that Bella's not a murderer. Which leaves her back to square one, trying to figure out who is, even though she's telling herself she's not investigating.
Molly is a great character; she's independent, strong, yet still scarred inside and is flawed, just like the rest of the world. She cares about the people around her, and it shows. Sam is a truly decent guy with a great sense of humor; although he's in for a surprise himself with something regarding his mother. The rest of the characters feed the story well, and even though we don't see as much of the people who work at the newspaper, their presence is still known.
The mystery was done very well. The clues are there, but they're thrown in by bits and pieces, and you just have to look for them. There are a couple of red herring that lead you to believe other people just might be guilty, but that's exactly as it is supposed to be.
In the end, when Molly discovers the identity of the killer, it all comes together nicely, giving us a tale that was entertaining and interesting; which also made Molly do some thinking of her own in the process on where her life is going. A very enjoyable book and I look forward to the next in the series. Recommended.
June 17, 2019
I really enjoyed this clean, cozy mystery. My rating 4.5 of 5.0
Molly Owens has been settling into her new life in Britton Bay. She is editor-in-chief of the local paper and has gotten a bit of a rep as an amateur sleuth after recently helping to solve a murder (book one Deadly News). During the first investigation Molly found a cute dog abandoned in an alley. Now she travels through the day, to work and about, with Tigger either at her feet or getting sitting and walking help from her new boyfriend, Sam.
Molly lives at a carriage house on the grounds of the local B&B which happens to be owned by Sam’s mother. Things are buzzing as the B&B prepares for an upcoming wedding. The wedding set up comes with tension as the Mother of the Bride, who is at odds with the groom, is dictating and controlling all aspects of the wedding, including hiring a celebrity chef rather than using local catering.
Molly and her news team are doing interviews of the wedding members and Molly manages to set up an interview with the rather solitary chef. When Molly arrives in the morning for the interview, she finds a crime scene set up around the dead body of the chef. It just so happens that Molly observed some bickering involving the lady and also overheard her in a heated argument the night before. Molly doesn’t really set out to investigate the crime but she walks a fine line seeking news and uncovering clues. The sheriff investigator gets pretty frustrated as Molly finds people keep talking to her and she comes up with clues which she gets around to sharing with him when she can/chooses.
I like how Ms. Holford has provided plenty of suspects with a variety of motives. The method of death is interesting too…a good choice rather than a usual weapon. The pacing makes for an easy and quick read.
Molly’s relationship with Sam is a strong element developing along with the sleuthing. They have a lovely friendship of respect and caring that is warming up in a nice way. This adds a fun romantic element to the mystery. I like Tigger too even if he isn’t a big part of solving the crime. I want to read more in this series and I recommend this to readers who enjoy a clean romance with a good cozy mystery.
Received from NetGalley.
Molly Owens has been settling into her new life in Britton Bay. She is editor-in-chief of the local paper and has gotten a bit of a rep as an amateur sleuth after recently helping to solve a murder (book one Deadly News). During the first investigation Molly found a cute dog abandoned in an alley. Now she travels through the day, to work and about, with Tigger either at her feet or getting sitting and walking help from her new boyfriend, Sam.
Molly lives at a carriage house on the grounds of the local B&B which happens to be owned by Sam’s mother. Things are buzzing as the B&B prepares for an upcoming wedding. The wedding set up comes with tension as the Mother of the Bride, who is at odds with the groom, is dictating and controlling all aspects of the wedding, including hiring a celebrity chef rather than using local catering.
Molly and her news team are doing interviews of the wedding members and Molly manages to set up an interview with the rather solitary chef. When Molly arrives in the morning for the interview, she finds a crime scene set up around the dead body of the chef. It just so happens that Molly observed some bickering involving the lady and also overheard her in a heated argument the night before. Molly doesn’t really set out to investigate the crime but she walks a fine line seeking news and uncovering clues. The sheriff investigator gets pretty frustrated as Molly finds people keep talking to her and she comes up with clues which she gets around to sharing with him when she can/chooses.
I like how Ms. Holford has provided plenty of suspects with a variety of motives. The method of death is interesting too…a good choice rather than a usual weapon. The pacing makes for an easy and quick read.
Molly’s relationship with Sam is a strong element developing along with the sleuthing. They have a lovely friendship of respect and caring that is warming up in a nice way. This adds a fun romantic element to the mystery. I like Tigger too even if he isn’t a big part of solving the crime. I want to read more in this series and I recommend this to readers who enjoy a clean romance with a good cozy mystery.
Received from NetGalley.
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