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Fenway Stevenson Mysteries #3
The Candidate Coroner
Two contentious elections. One dead philanderer. A monumental conspiracy. In the midst of Acting Coroner Fenway Stevenson’s reelection campaign, the body of a successful business owner is found in a pedestrian underpass—and she discovers that her young, hated stepmother is the prime suspect. As if that’s not bad enough, further digging only exposes a money-laundering scheme that could implicate dozens of residents in the coastal town she calls home. Each clue she uncovers puts her in more danger. After an attempt on her life, and with more bodies piling up, how will Fenway solve the mystery, win the election—or simply save her own life?
584 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 16, 2019
197 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Paul Austin Ardoin
32 books126 followersPaul Austin Ardoin is the author of the Fenway Stevenson Mysteries. A California native with a degree in creative writing from UC Santa Barbara, Ardoin has also published short fiction and humorous essays in Bottomfish and Sweet Fancy Moses. His non-fiction articles about computer security have appeared in California Computer News and European Communications. He lives in the Sacramento area with his wife, two teenagers, and a menagerie of animals.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
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June 23, 2025I do dislike when a book ends with a cliffhanger
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2020
Whew! Book 3 was quite exciting. On to book 4.
April 10, 2020
No disappointment here…
As I had indicated in my review of book #1 of this series, I love a good mystery, a well-developed plot, interesting characters, intrigue and adventure and most of all, a well-written story that holds my attention. Once again, this book had it all. Paul Austin Ardoin successfully weaves more than one unsolved crime into a well-rounded novel. We learn more about the main characters, experience their moods while dealing with mayhem and follow along as they examine the clues, interview the suspects and continue to dig deeper into getting at the right answers. This is an enjoyable read that leaves you satisfied but opens the door to more to come in the series. No spoilers here, however, I look forward to developing relationships as well as the quick turn of events that tend to occur and keep you engrossed in the story.
As I had indicated in my review of book #1 of this series, I love a good mystery, a well-developed plot, interesting characters, intrigue and adventure and most of all, a well-written story that holds my attention. Once again, this book had it all. Paul Austin Ardoin successfully weaves more than one unsolved crime into a well-rounded novel. We learn more about the main characters, experience their moods while dealing with mayhem and follow along as they examine the clues, interview the suspects and continue to dig deeper into getting at the right answers. This is an enjoyable read that leaves you satisfied but opens the door to more to come in the series. No spoilers here, however, I look forward to developing relationships as well as the quick turn of events that tend to occur and keep you engrossed in the story.
November 29, 2022
Another unputdownable read.
Having stumbled across the first book in a box set, I am now hooked on this series. The characters are engaging and well developed, yet still have the potential to surprise. The plots have twists and turns throughout. Quite often a trail hints towards something that is important but doesn't relate immediately, just a teaser for the next book. Complex emotions and feelings are well defined with sensitivity but not a maudlin dwelling on them. Fenways self doubt is refreshing and humanizing.
There is a touch of Agatha Christie, with hints of Sally Spencer in these books. The use of imagery is excellent and the author uses words eloquently to draw that imagery.
Initially I wasn't sure I would enjoy an American detective book but am very happy to have been proved wrong.
Can't wait to start the next book.
Having stumbled across the first book in a box set, I am now hooked on this series. The characters are engaging and well developed, yet still have the potential to surprise. The plots have twists and turns throughout. Quite often a trail hints towards something that is important but doesn't relate immediately, just a teaser for the next book. Complex emotions and feelings are well defined with sensitivity but not a maudlin dwelling on them. Fenways self doubt is refreshing and humanizing.
There is a touch of Agatha Christie, with hints of Sally Spencer in these books. The use of imagery is excellent and the author uses words eloquently to draw that imagery.
Initially I wasn't sure I would enjoy an American detective book but am very happy to have been proved wrong.
Can't wait to start the next book.
May 13, 2024
Ahh, cliffhanger warning!! Plus an unresolved case. I was not prepared for that ending but it makes me want to jump right into the next book. This is the third book in this series and it had me hooked from the get go. I found myself questioning everyone and everything the more twists and turns evidence they uncovered. Also, this helps prove my point of why I would never want to run for office. The campaign process sounds dreadfully complicated.
Fenway proved yet again to be a badass who in her relatable fashion does not always make the best decisions. She deals with a few tough situations with impressive grace and humility yet sometimes I swear she isn’t thinking at all. I love her character and the fact that she seems more realistic than characters you find by other authors.
Another great addition to the series and I cannot wait for book four.
Fenway proved yet again to be a badass who in her relatable fashion does not always make the best decisions. She deals with a few tough situations with impressive grace and humility yet sometimes I swear she isn’t thinking at all. I love her character and the fact that she seems more realistic than characters you find by other authors.
Another great addition to the series and I cannot wait for book four.
March 17, 2019
Fenway doesn't have time for politics; she has a murder to solve.
The latest victim on Fenway's turf hits home when her step-mother is arrested for the murder. In addition to complicating this case, this does nothing to help the father-daughter relationship Fenway is trying to mend. Fenway must juggle solving the murder, running for coroner, and participating in family counseling all the while a murderer is on the loose.
Car bombs, complicated family dynamics, and nail-biting suspense! I love the Fenway series. Her character is a captivating combination of toughness and weakness entwined in spunky cohesiveness. I've read every book in the series and will continue to follow the author on his road of success.
The latest victim on Fenway's turf hits home when her step-mother is arrested for the murder. In addition to complicating this case, this does nothing to help the father-daughter relationship Fenway is trying to mend. Fenway must juggle solving the murder, running for coroner, and participating in family counseling all the while a murderer is on the loose.
Car bombs, complicated family dynamics, and nail-biting suspense! I love the Fenway series. Her character is a captivating combination of toughness and weakness entwined in spunky cohesiveness. I've read every book in the series and will continue to follow the author on his road of success.
March 22, 2019
Forget 5 stars, this is 10
Wow, I loved this book so much. The plot is amazing and finishes well, then there are two more storyline’s in it as well, one smacks you in the face in the last sentences of the book, and the other has deep international undercurrents, wow wish the next book was out already! There is romance, drugs, delusions, murder and innocence lost, all written about so well to be able to ‘see’ it all play out, it is all very real and cleanly written about. I loved it and easily recommend this book.
Wow, I loved this book so much. The plot is amazing and finishes well, then there are two more storyline’s in it as well, one smacks you in the face in the last sentences of the book, and the other has deep international undercurrents, wow wish the next book was out already! There is romance, drugs, delusions, murder and innocence lost, all written about so well to be able to ‘see’ it all play out, it is all very real and cleanly written about. I loved it and easily recommend this book.
April 17, 2023
Exceptional!
Great read! Would read in order. I'm starting on the 4th book in series. You get background so you could read out of order. But that would be spoilers for the earlier book. Very well written you don't want to spoil any fun Definitely read in order. I said in my last review Mr. Ardoin impressed me with the female lead. Still impressed I'd share a couple Tacos with Fenway any day. Keep writing please! I feel i'll read a book a day till the 8th book and be seriously depressed at no more books! Thoroughly enjoyable ! Start the Fenway Stevenson mysteries Today!
Great read! Would read in order. I'm starting on the 4th book in series. You get background so you could read out of order. But that would be spoilers for the earlier book. Very well written you don't want to spoil any fun Definitely read in order. I said in my last review Mr. Ardoin impressed me with the female lead. Still impressed I'd share a couple Tacos with Fenway any day. Keep writing please! I feel i'll read a book a day till the 8th book and be seriously depressed at no more books! Thoroughly enjoyable ! Start the Fenway Stevenson mysteries Today!
March 19, 2019
“The Candidate Coroner” is my favorite of the Fenway series. I should note that I’m not actually a mystery reader, I read for characters and dialogue, but the Fenway books have all of this and more. In fact, whenever I finish one of Ardoin’s books I’m left thinking that maybe I should read more mysteries. I love the fast-paced story, the propulsive plot, the series of questions that keep me turning pages. I’m already looking forward to the next one!
August 18, 2021
5+++++* stars REALLY
I LOVE THIS SERIES, THE CHARACTERS ARE INTERESTING AND DIFFERENT, THE MYSTERY STORYLINE IS CHALLEGING. I MUST SAY WITH THIS ONE I FIGURED OUT WHO-DUN-IT EARLY ON. I LOVE THE WRITING STYLE; I WILL BE READING MORE OF THIS SERIES AND CHECK OUT MORE FROM THIS AUTHOR. I CHECKED OUT CHATHERINE THE GREAT, SHE DIED OF A STROKE WHILE SITTING ON THE TOILET, NOT FROM A HORSE CRUSHING HER (SAYS THAT’S A MYTH). CHUCKLE! ;D
I LOVE THIS SERIES, THE CHARACTERS ARE INTERESTING AND DIFFERENT, THE MYSTERY STORYLINE IS CHALLEGING. I MUST SAY WITH THIS ONE I FIGURED OUT WHO-DUN-IT EARLY ON. I LOVE THE WRITING STYLE; I WILL BE READING MORE OF THIS SERIES AND CHECK OUT MORE FROM THIS AUTHOR. I CHECKED OUT CHATHERINE THE GREAT, SHE DIED OF A STROKE WHILE SITTING ON THE TOILET, NOT FROM A HORSE CRUSHING HER (SAYS THAT’S A MYTH). CHUCKLE! ;D
October 12, 2021
I enjoyed this book as much as the first two. I really enjoy the author's style of writing. It makes the characters come alive. I found myself really liking some of them and then there were those I totally disliked. And there were those in between who I found myself calling names while reading. The author managed to keep you guessing and even when I suspected he managed to make me change my mind. I will definitely be buying the rest of this series.
September 16, 2020
I'm enjoying this series. Fenway makes some pretty questionable choices regarding the simple things. I don't think it's too much to ask that she keep her phone on her, especially since she felt lost without it initially. I liked the bigger mystery running in the background. That kept me going even though I had the baddie from the more immediate murder figured out fairly quickly.
December 19, 2022
A page turner:
I rated the third book of the series a five star. It's definitely a page turner never knowing what's going to happen next. The excitement plus finding love, attraction . All the characters wondering who done it and what's next to come. All she wanted is to win And become coroner.
I rated the third book of the series a five star. It's definitely a page turner never knowing what's going to happen next. The excitement plus finding love, attraction . All the characters wondering who done it and what's next to come. All she wanted is to win And become coroner.
May 5, 2023
great series and great book.
I just tried the first book in the series because I was looking for something new and different. It was good and I could not wait to read the second one. It was really good too. This book is third in the series and is the best one so far. Totally different than I expected. Can’t wait to get the next one in the series!
I just tried the first book in the series because I was looking for something new and different. It was good and I could not wait to read the second one. It was really good too. This book is third in the series and is the best one so far. Totally different than I expected. Can’t wait to get the next one in the series!
August 3, 2024
3.5 Rounded up to 4 stars. The whole family drama is getting to be too much. Don’t care for the father character and especially dislike the step mother.Fenway is a grown woman that’s accomplished a lot but she’s portrayed like an immature teenager. Don’t know if I will continue the series other than I would like to know what happens with sheriff McVie.
October 17, 2019
Another great read
Fenway is an amazing character, a strong woman with a tender heart and a passion for her calling in coroner office. McVie is equally important to the story line and an interesting hero. I can't wait to read more.
Fenway is an amazing character, a strong woman with a tender heart and a passion for her calling in coroner office. McVie is equally important to the story line and an interesting hero. I can't wait to read more.
April 3, 2020
Again I couldn’t put it down!
If you are looking for an action packed story with interesting well developed characters, you are in for a treat! The book ends with the lead on to the case leaving you ready to grab the next book. And I am.
If you are looking for an action packed story with interesting well developed characters, you are in for a treat! The book ends with the lead on to the case leaving you ready to grab the next book. And I am.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2020
I just love this series! I can't wait to read the next book. I just happened to find this author because I belong to Bookbub. I got the first book in the series for free and now I am hooked! It has mystery as well as some romance which makes it great to read.
October 12, 2020
Another edge of the seat thriller
Fenway Stevenson is running for the office of Coroner. She's supposed to be campaigning, but people are dying around her. She has to find out who is killing people before it's her family being threatened.
Fenway Stevenson is running for the office of Coroner. She's supposed to be campaigning, but people are dying around her. She has to find out who is killing people before it's her family being threatened.
December 28, 2020
As always- great read
This third book in the Fenway Stevenson series is fun to read. The characters and plot(s) are so real, I have a difficult time putting the book down when I should be working on something else.
This third book in the Fenway Stevenson series is fun to read. The characters and plot(s) are so real, I have a difficult time putting the book down when I should be working on something else.
December 14, 2021
A TOTALLY AWESOME READ!!
This is one of those books, that are hard to put down!! Fenway is stuck, working on a Coroner case that is totally crazy, with odd clues showing up!! With herself being thought as if she was responsible for the crime!
This is one of those books, that are hard to put down!! Fenway is stuck, working on a Coroner case that is totally crazy, with odd clues showing up!! With herself being thought as if she was responsible for the crime!
August 18, 2023
3 for 3!!
This has been an amazing series for me. Right off the bat. The investigations are carried out with professionalism and know how. Nothing and no one are slighted. Off to book 4!
This has been an amazing series for me. Right off the bat. The investigations are carried out with professionalism and know how. Nothing and no one are slighted. Off to book 4!
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September 19, 2023On the one hand, this isn't a terrible book. On the other, the racism story line did not need to be told by a white man. Instead
Just, no. Especially not that word. Really, really … that word does not belong to a white man. This is not your story to tell.
Just, no. Especially not that word. Really, really … that word does not belong to a white man. This is not your story to tell.
March 24, 2019
Wonderful books!
I need the next book, as soon as possible! Fenway just gets better and better. Well, I guess I can read about Dez while I’m waiting. She’s great, too.
I need the next book, as soon as possible! Fenway just gets better and better. Well, I guess I can read about Dez while I’m waiting. She’s great, too.
March 24, 2019
I loved this book, and I love Fenway, McVie and Dez And Rachel and ... Let’s face it; this is a great series! Action packed, good mystery, and clean romance!
March 28, 2020
I love these characters! I want to read the rest of the series without any delay!
April 9, 2020
I thought his other books were better, but still rated 4 stars. Now, I am ready for the next one and if it is not the last one, I hope he writes fast!!
August 6, 2020
A thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable read. Already got the next one in the series downloaded.
August 29, 2020
I’ve bumped this series up to a 3, the writing is improving with each book and I do like the characters
October 13, 2020
Great read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews