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Hart of Texas Murder Mysteries #2
Preserving the Evidence
In this small town, not everyone is who they claim to be…
When amateur baker, and now amateur sleuth, Rosie Hart finds herself embroiled in another mystery in rural Airlie Falls, Texas, she can’t believe her bad luck. Soon the town is reeling from a murder, an unidentified body, a late mayoral challenge, missing town money, and a strange group of socialites gathered at a mansion out of town.
With so many of her new friends suspected of wrongdoing, Rosie can’t sit on the sidelines any longer. She’s convinced these strange occurrences are connected, but she’s running out of time to prove how. She’ll need to unmask a murderer before there’s another body to add to the tally.
Snooping around undercover is harder than it looks, and Rosie will be lucky to get out of this one without more casualties than a batch of burned Buried Treasure Cookies.
When amateur baker, and now amateur sleuth, Rosie Hart finds herself embroiled in another mystery in rural Airlie Falls, Texas, she can’t believe her bad luck. Soon the town is reeling from a murder, an unidentified body, a late mayoral challenge, missing town money, and a strange group of socialites gathered at a mansion out of town.
With so many of her new friends suspected of wrongdoing, Rosie can’t sit on the sidelines any longer. She’s convinced these strange occurrences are connected, but she’s running out of time to prove how. She’ll need to unmask a murderer before there’s another body to add to the tally.
Snooping around undercover is harder than it looks, and Rosie will be lucky to get out of this one without more casualties than a batch of burned Buried Treasure Cookies.
Kindle Edition
Published May 23, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
July 10, 2019
Rosie was happy with Jonah, the love of her life and son of the mayor of Airlie Falls, Texas. The recent events which put her in danger were over – life had settled into calm with the usual small-town activities keeping her busy, along with her baking which was proving a real success. But the suddenness of a challenger to Jonah’s dad for the position of mayor, with the election only a week away, was the beginning of a horror run for Rosie and the people she cared for.
A dead stranger with no ID; a murdered man plus Jonah’s parents accused of dreadful things – what was going on with the normally close-knit community of Airlie Falls? Rosie wouldn’t stand back and see her friends accused of something she knew they didn’t do – so she would find the killer. The Sheriff kept telling Rosie to stay out of police business, but she had no intention of listening to him…
Danger was on the agenda for Rosie and Jonah – would they find answers before it was too late?
Preserving the Evidence is the 2nd in the Rosie Hart Mystery Series by Aussie author Kaz Delaney and it was a fun and entertaining read. There are several delicious recipes at the end (that Rosie cooks throughout the book) which are sure to tempt readers of the cozy series. A quick, easy and light read, Preserving the Evidence is one I recommend. I’m looking forward to #3 – Candy Coated Conspiracy – soon.
A dead stranger with no ID; a murdered man plus Jonah’s parents accused of dreadful things – what was going on with the normally close-knit community of Airlie Falls? Rosie wouldn’t stand back and see her friends accused of something she knew they didn’t do – so she would find the killer. The Sheriff kept telling Rosie to stay out of police business, but she had no intention of listening to him…
Danger was on the agenda for Rosie and Jonah – would they find answers before it was too late?
Preserving the Evidence is the 2nd in the Rosie Hart Mystery Series by Aussie author Kaz Delaney and it was a fun and entertaining read. There are several delicious recipes at the end (that Rosie cooks throughout the book) which are sure to tempt readers of the cozy series. A quick, easy and light read, Preserving the Evidence is one I recommend. I’m looking forward to #3 – Candy Coated Conspiracy – soon.
May 17, 2019
A fabulous second installment in this series, MS Delaney has done it again kept me guessing till the end, lots of twists and turns, there is also lots of smiles along the way as Rosie works out the mystery of murder and missing money and missing people.
After the danger and mayhem when Rosie first came to the small town of Airlie Falls Texas, she thought that life was good, her and boyfriend Jonah are happy, her friend Midge is running the newspaper and living at Rosie’s place, but things are about to be turned around when the people that she has come to love are threatened when someone arrives in town and wants to be the new mayor, and there seems to be a few more strangers in town than normal, and a luxury commune does not seem to be what it is meant to be, Rosie’s mind is ticking over.
When a stranger is found dead and then another murder happens and this man’s wife is missing Rosie is determined to get to the bottom of this mystery especially when Midge is accused of one of the murders, after all Rosie knows what that is like and goes all out to find the truth and protect her best friends.
This is another page turner in this series, so well written, engaging with wonderful characters it was like going home with Fiona and Clay, Jonah, Merline, Brenda and the fab four and I was cheering Rosie on especially with the sheriff, there are lots of smiles as he tries to tell her to stop prying but is underneath very happy with her help. There is danger coming at her and Jonah and finally the mystery is solved, I loved it and highly recommend this one, it is fabulous story.
After the danger and mayhem when Rosie first came to the small town of Airlie Falls Texas, she thought that life was good, her and boyfriend Jonah are happy, her friend Midge is running the newspaper and living at Rosie’s place, but things are about to be turned around when the people that she has come to love are threatened when someone arrives in town and wants to be the new mayor, and there seems to be a few more strangers in town than normal, and a luxury commune does not seem to be what it is meant to be, Rosie’s mind is ticking over.
When a stranger is found dead and then another murder happens and this man’s wife is missing Rosie is determined to get to the bottom of this mystery especially when Midge is accused of one of the murders, after all Rosie knows what that is like and goes all out to find the truth and protect her best friends.
This is another page turner in this series, so well written, engaging with wonderful characters it was like going home with Fiona and Clay, Jonah, Merline, Brenda and the fab four and I was cheering Rosie on especially with the sheriff, there are lots of smiles as he tries to tell her to stop prying but is underneath very happy with her help. There is danger coming at her and Jonah and finally the mystery is solved, I loved it and highly recommend this one, it is fabulous story.
November 29, 2022
A random stranger is found dead in the area of Airlie Falls, the local mayor (who's been unopposed for 20 years) suddenly has competition, and then the competition is found murdered.
Who are both of these men, and can their deaths be related?
As the mayor is Rosie's sweetheart's daddy, she's on the case once again. Strange goings on with many new folks in town, all seemingly plain-looking, similarly dressed ladies, who are somehow tied to the new mayoral candidate. This one threw me for a bit as my original guess for their presence was off base (though sadly, more realistic than the actual story...)
Easy listening while decorating and cleaning the house.
Who are both of these men, and can their deaths be related?
As the mayor is Rosie's sweetheart's daddy, she's on the case once again. Strange goings on with many new folks in town, all seemingly plain-looking, similarly dressed ladies, who are somehow tied to the new mayoral candidate. This one threw me for a bit as my original guess for their presence was off base (though sadly, more realistic than the actual story...)
Easy listening while decorating and cleaning the house.
January 31, 2023
2.75⭐️
August 20, 2022
'Preserving the Evidence' (Hart of Texas Murder Mysteries, #2) by Kaz Delaney is the second book of a series. Unfortunately I have not read book #1 but I would like to because I thoroughly loved Kaz Delaney's sense of humor and writing style. 'Preserving the Evidence' has all the right components. It has a murder, an amateur sleuth, a little love story, friends in trouble and best of all humor. I laughed right out loud when Rosie the protagonist and her hunky boyfriend have friendly banter. I recommend this book to any fan of cozy mysteries.
I received this book from BookSirens with the agreement that I would give an honest review. This book is a free advance review copy that was given to me and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks BookSirens it was a pleasure to read this book.
I received this book from BookSirens with the agreement that I would give an honest review. This book is a free advance review copy that was given to me and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks BookSirens it was a pleasure to read this book.
September 27, 2022
In book two Rosie has settled into the town quite well and has established her baking prowess to the town’s favour. Her relationship with Jonas is going well and everything is wonderful until another murder hits the town and strange things are happening and the mysteries keep piling up.
This was a slower pace than the previous book, which was fine having established our characters and Rosie in the previous novel we could afford to unfurl this new mystery in a new way. With a few things happening the focus is split and the nature of the accusations allows for a slower pace in uncovering the culprit.
As the mystery hits home and starts to affect beloved characters it’s a fun development that adds intrigue as the reader you try and work out why people are being framed and to what end. Side characters introduced in the previous story feature again, including the Fab Four who are always a delight; and the pros and cons of a small town community is reinforced as the various events play out.
There is a solid recap of the previous book without it feeling forced for those who need a refresher or who picked the books up out of order. Delaney weaves it into the story smoothly so it never feels like it’s been inserted unnaturally into the story as a reminder.
There are multiple mysteries happening side by side – the mystery body, the murder, as well as the woman that Rosie keeps seeing but can never find. I liked the sleuthing Rosie did to uncover it, there is an air of amateur detective work but a lot of it is Rosie working it out for herself, or actively becoming involved to help save her friends. As a result there are a few run-ins with local law enforcement and blundering her way through undercover operations but that is part of this charm. Rosie is never trying to be a detective but she is trying to solve mysteries in her town, especially those affecting her friends.
Delaney has included an excellent collection of misleading information, red herrings, as well as twists and turns to keep you guessing. By the end of the story as you piece all the hints and clues together the ending comes as a satisfactory surprise and one that shows that cosy mysteries can have thrilling moments of danger, excitement, and suspense. I can’t wait to see what awaits Rosie in book three.
May 27, 2022
I received this arc of Preserving the Evidence from Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review. This is book 2 in Kaz Delaney’s series, Hart of Texas Murder Mysteries. We return to Airlie Falls Texas where the heroine, Rosie Hart finds herself another case to be involved in. In book 2, there is a dead body located in a car with no identification. It is discovered and Rosie steps in to try and solve the case. In the meantime, her boyfriend Jonah’s parents are both in the middle of some hot issues. It appears the money, the records, manual and on the computer for the town market that his mom runs have vanished as if they never existed. This could be very bad for her. Then his dad, the mayor was confronted by a new guy in town who is planning on running against him. He shows up at the council meeting and sets out to provoke his dad Clay.
The mayoral candidate suddenly turns up dead. Clay was heard threatening him and Rosie’s roommate Midge seems to have a secret connection to him as well. Both had gone to see the man the night of his murder. Rosie begins her own investigation to try and prove her friends innocence. She discovers the man was owner of a strange facility outside town where wealthy women came to get away from it all. The place seemed very suspicious to Rosie. During her investigation she learns that the man’s wealthy estranged wife has been missing for a while. There are strangers in town that send up red flags for Rosie. She feels like the police are moving too slow and aren’t going to be able to prove her friends are innocent.
Once again Kaz has presented us with lots of clues and hints as to who killed the two men. It isn’t apparent whether the two deaths are related. The new people in town are adding more mystery and confusion. We don’t know Midge’s full story so we don’t know how she could be involved. Like book one, this was a great read. I was stumped and wasn’t able to figure out who had done it. It is so well written and very entertaining to read. I highly recommend this book and gave it 5 stars.
The mayoral candidate suddenly turns up dead. Clay was heard threatening him and Rosie’s roommate Midge seems to have a secret connection to him as well. Both had gone to see the man the night of his murder. Rosie begins her own investigation to try and prove her friends innocence. She discovers the man was owner of a strange facility outside town where wealthy women came to get away from it all. The place seemed very suspicious to Rosie. During her investigation she learns that the man’s wealthy estranged wife has been missing for a while. There are strangers in town that send up red flags for Rosie. She feels like the police are moving too slow and aren’t going to be able to prove her friends are innocent.
Once again Kaz has presented us with lots of clues and hints as to who killed the two men. It isn’t apparent whether the two deaths are related. The new people in town are adding more mystery and confusion. We don’t know Midge’s full story so we don’t know how she could be involved. Like book one, this was a great read. I was stumped and wasn’t able to figure out who had done it. It is so well written and very entertaining to read. I highly recommend this book and gave it 5 stars.
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July 13, 2022Prepared to be overwhelmed in characters, relationships, disasters, and, of course, murder in
Kaz Delaney’s second Rosie Hart cozy mystery, “Preserving the Evidence.”
If you’re interested in amateur sleuthing, you’ll do well to have a full ball of yarn, two push-pin packets, and an uncluttered living room wall to chart your ideas, maintain a full grasp of town relationships, and tally up the myriad clues. Of course, Rosie Hart must have an occupation, so here’s a warning: the multiple baked goods, jams, and their ingredients might distract you from detective pursuits. If you believe this setting thrives in cozy mysteries, you’re right.
In the dynamics of a small Texas town, a mayoral battle takes center stage, especially when the challenger, Fred Clausen, seems to employ unsavory written attacks and town meeting accusations to unseat the longtime incumbent, Clay Fencott. Verbal threats to Fred’s demise are witnessed by Rosie or come to her attention. When Fred is found bludgeoned, speculation and the sheriff stake out the suspects. Spice up Fred’s murder with the suspicious death of a poisoned young male stranger. His stomach contents include local fruit relish.
Add in missing market funds, a group of women all dressed the same, a woman with multiple pieces of ID, and a group of four female octogenarians. Stir these facts wisely.
“Preserving the Evidence” stars with a winning plot, although the added yeast that should be suspense has been omitted. An example is when Rosie snoops uninvited in a boarder’s room. When the boarder returns, Rosie hides on a balcony. What should be ripe for suspense, falls flat in the one paragraph. Similarly, the paucity of powerful, descriptive verbs dulls the telling.
Reviewer Donan Berg is himself a Goodreads author and an award-winning author with twelve published novels on Amazon. They include mystery, romance, and fantasy. To write this review, he received an advance review copy for free, and is leaving this review voluntarily.
Kaz Delaney’s second Rosie Hart cozy mystery, “Preserving the Evidence.”
If you’re interested in amateur sleuthing, you’ll do well to have a full ball of yarn, two push-pin packets, and an uncluttered living room wall to chart your ideas, maintain a full grasp of town relationships, and tally up the myriad clues. Of course, Rosie Hart must have an occupation, so here’s a warning: the multiple baked goods, jams, and their ingredients might distract you from detective pursuits. If you believe this setting thrives in cozy mysteries, you’re right.
In the dynamics of a small Texas town, a mayoral battle takes center stage, especially when the challenger, Fred Clausen, seems to employ unsavory written attacks and town meeting accusations to unseat the longtime incumbent, Clay Fencott. Verbal threats to Fred’s demise are witnessed by Rosie or come to her attention. When Fred is found bludgeoned, speculation and the sheriff stake out the suspects. Spice up Fred’s murder with the suspicious death of a poisoned young male stranger. His stomach contents include local fruit relish.
Add in missing market funds, a group of women all dressed the same, a woman with multiple pieces of ID, and a group of four female octogenarians. Stir these facts wisely.
“Preserving the Evidence” stars with a winning plot, although the added yeast that should be suspense has been omitted. An example is when Rosie snoops uninvited in a boarder’s room. When the boarder returns, Rosie hides on a balcony. What should be ripe for suspense, falls flat in the one paragraph. Similarly, the paucity of powerful, descriptive verbs dulls the telling.
Reviewer Donan Berg is himself a Goodreads author and an award-winning author with twelve published novels on Amazon. They include mystery, romance, and fantasy. To write this review, he received an advance review copy for free, and is leaving this review voluntarily.
September 3, 2022
A man comes to very small Texas town Airlie Falls, runs for mayor, stacks the votes, and starts a smear campaign just weeks before the election. He's a smiling, evil-hearted liar with the skills to disgrace and drain the town dry.
If he had chosen different people to target, he may have been successful. But picking on the people who are most important to Rosie (the amazing baker) was a recipe for disaster...eventually. Until then, Rosie would continue to ask questions, bake desserts, and occasionally be a little carried away with fanciful theories.
The mysteries unfold, showing some complexity, and the characters are generally good, kind people. In this second book I've read, I continue to feel some unease about Rosie. She switches between methodical and logical to disconnected, spacey, and often excruciatingly slow. I want so much to like her. She's kind, very loving to her circle of loved-ones. What's not to like? But then she charges at someone accusing them; convinced they are guilty and she alone can stop them from getting away? I think she slips a cog 2-3 times per book. It's alarming, really.
I'm all for quirky and sometimes self-doubting, but...logical, manic, extremely slow on the up-take. I would firmly encourage this friend to see a doctor.
Entertaining, but when Rosie slips a cog, I don't find it as endearing as her boyfriend does; I'm more concerned. A town full of nice people though!
3/5 Stars
Thanks to Tule Publishing and BookSirens for the temporary loan of this book preview; any review is voluntary.
#PreservingtheEvidence
#KazDelaney
#TulePublishing #BookSirens
#FictionSmallTexasTown
#CozyCulinaryMystery
#CozyCulinaryMysteries
#AmateurSleuths
If he had chosen different people to target, he may have been successful. But picking on the people who are most important to Rosie (the amazing baker) was a recipe for disaster...eventually. Until then, Rosie would continue to ask questions, bake desserts, and occasionally be a little carried away with fanciful theories.
The mysteries unfold, showing some complexity, and the characters are generally good, kind people. In this second book I've read, I continue to feel some unease about Rosie. She switches between methodical and logical to disconnected, spacey, and often excruciatingly slow. I want so much to like her. She's kind, very loving to her circle of loved-ones. What's not to like? But then she charges at someone accusing them; convinced they are guilty and she alone can stop them from getting away? I think she slips a cog 2-3 times per book. It's alarming, really.
I'm all for quirky and sometimes self-doubting, but...logical, manic, extremely slow on the up-take. I would firmly encourage this friend to see a doctor.
Entertaining, but when Rosie slips a cog, I don't find it as endearing as her boyfriend does; I'm more concerned. A town full of nice people though!
3/5 Stars
Thanks to Tule Publishing and BookSirens for the temporary loan of this book preview; any review is voluntary.
#PreservingtheEvidence
#KazDelaney
#TulePublishing #BookSirens
#FictionSmallTexasTown
#CozyCulinaryMystery
#CozyCulinaryMysteries
#AmateurSleuths
May 24, 2022
The teaser: "In this small town, not everyone is who they claim to be…
When amateur baker, and now amateur sleuth, Rosie Hart finds herself embroiled in another mystery in rural Airlie Falls, Texas, she can’t believe her bad luck. Soon the town is reeling from a murder, an unidentified body, a late mayoral challenge, missing town money, and a strange group of socialites gathered at a mansion out of town."
A mystery set in a small town with a close knit community until a murder happens. The characters are described well and are a mixed selection for a small town. The story is a cozy mystery, holding your attention with many twists and turns and an unexpected finish. The story contains a little romance, some baking descriptions to excite your senses and some logical sleuthing throughout. Although part of a series it still holds its own as a standalone read.
Recommended easy reading with a few puzzles to solve.
My review is submitted with honest insights and comments. I received an advance copy from the author and leave this review voluntarily.
When amateur baker, and now amateur sleuth, Rosie Hart finds herself embroiled in another mystery in rural Airlie Falls, Texas, she can’t believe her bad luck. Soon the town is reeling from a murder, an unidentified body, a late mayoral challenge, missing town money, and a strange group of socialites gathered at a mansion out of town."
A mystery set in a small town with a close knit community until a murder happens. The characters are described well and are a mixed selection for a small town. The story is a cozy mystery, holding your attention with many twists and turns and an unexpected finish. The story contains a little romance, some baking descriptions to excite your senses and some logical sleuthing throughout. Although part of a series it still holds its own as a standalone read.
Recommended easy reading with a few puzzles to solve.
My review is submitted with honest insights and comments. I received an advance copy from the author and leave this review voluntarily.
February 19, 2023
Preserving the Evidence is the 2nd book in the Rosie Hart mystery series by Kaz Delaney. I came into this without reading the 1st book but I am definitely going back to see what I missed. I really enjoyed this book. I'm on a Cozy Mystery streak and this one also has a touch of romance (no spicy scenes) which I love.
Rosie Hart has a reputation for getting caught up in her small towns mysteries (and murders). According to the Sheriff she is getting into things she has no business butting into. Dead bodies, strangers moving into town and causing political problems and of course all of this is causing problems for Rosie, her boyfriend Jonah and his parents.
The pacing of the story was a bit slow going but there was enough suspense, action, twists and turns to keep me interested all of the way through. The back and forth between Jonah and Rosie had me laughing out loud. I recommend this book if you enjoy sweet romance or cozy mysteries. It gets a 3.75 from me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rosie Hart has a reputation for getting caught up in her small towns mysteries (and murders). According to the Sheriff she is getting into things she has no business butting into. Dead bodies, strangers moving into town and causing political problems and of course all of this is causing problems for Rosie, her boyfriend Jonah and his parents.
The pacing of the story was a bit slow going but there was enough suspense, action, twists and turns to keep me interested all of the way through. The back and forth between Jonah and Rosie had me laughing out loud. I recommend this book if you enjoy sweet romance or cozy mysteries. It gets a 3.75 from me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 26, 2022
Book Two in Kaz Delaney’s Hart of Texas cosy mystery series, Preserving the Evidence brings readers back to the small town of Airlie Falls where cosy mystery fan Rosie Hart finds herself embroiled in another unofficial murder investigation after her best friend, journalist Midge Moylan is accused of murder.
I love this series for its baking theme as much as for Rosie’s investigative adventures. So many delicious recipes to drool over! It was almost hard to get my head in the game and focus on Rosie’s investigations, which seem to get her into hot attar more often than not. Thank goodness for her boyfriend Jonah, who has the patience of a saint as he rescues her time and again. Of course the mystery is solved at the end but it’s the journey there, complete with plenty of plot twists, that makes for entertaining reading. This was a lovely, light mystery to bring a smile to my face and I’m looking forward to book three in the series.
I love this series for its baking theme as much as for Rosie’s investigative adventures. So many delicious recipes to drool over! It was almost hard to get my head in the game and focus on Rosie’s investigations, which seem to get her into hot attar more often than not. Thank goodness for her boyfriend Jonah, who has the patience of a saint as he rescues her time and again. Of course the mystery is solved at the end but it’s the journey there, complete with plenty of plot twists, that makes for entertaining reading. This was a lovely, light mystery to bring a smile to my face and I’m looking forward to book three in the series.
July 21, 2022
I enjoyed this book. The characters and plot line were well developed and the writer keeps you engaged throughout the book. Rosie Hart is a wonderful heroine and it was refreshing that although she is a baker at heart, there wasn't an over abundance of baking tips or baker stories meshed in with the story line. The supporting characters were likable and there was a refreshing honesty about some of the "truths" encountered when someone in a small town is unfairly targeted as doing something wrong. While small town living in rural America is not for everyone, it made me miss my days living in a small town. As cozy mysteries go, this author was a hit and will remain on my to read list so I can keep up with Rosie's adventures as she tries hard to not get involved in the next one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to author, BookSirens and the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read a new author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to author, BookSirens and the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read a new author.
August 11, 2022
Preserving the Evidence is the second book in Kaz Delaney's Hart of Texas murder mysteries series. In this book in the series, we follow Rosie Hart after the events of the last novel in this series. After a stranger in the town is found dead, another murder takes place, and a bunch of strangers dressed in the same clothes start showing up in the town, Rosie decides to take the case into her own hands.
Picking this series back up was like returning home after awhile away. While small town living in rural America is not for everyone, It made me feel right at home while I read it in my small country town.
The writing is easy and fast pace, the characters are loveable and the relationships are written genuinely. Delaney does a good job to recap the events of the last novel without copy pasting the last 20 pages into the beginning of the novel like some authors.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Picking this series back up was like returning home after awhile away. While small town living in rural America is not for everyone, It made me feel right at home while I read it in my small country town.
The writing is easy and fast pace, the characters are loveable and the relationships are written genuinely. Delaney does a good job to recap the events of the last novel without copy pasting the last 20 pages into the beginning of the novel like some authors.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 8, 2022
Preserving the Evidence is the 2nd book in the Hart of Texas series by Kaz Delany, and is a fun, easy Cozy Mystery read.
Set in the small Texas town of Airlie Falls, Rosie Hart finds herself trying to help her friends who have been accused of mismanaging money that's been raised to help those in need. But all that money seems to have disappeared! A newcomer is playing dirty and trying to become the next mayor, but he turns up dead, the challenge is to find out who murdered him and why! A second dead body turns up, and a friend of Rosie's is being charged with this murder. There are so many possible suspects in the murder, as towns people find out they have been scammed .
With all this going on, Rosie is still baking delicious treats, and spending time with her boyfriend Jonah.
I want to thank the Author, the publisher and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this fun book, and to leave this review.
Set in the small Texas town of Airlie Falls, Rosie Hart finds herself trying to help her friends who have been accused of mismanaging money that's been raised to help those in need. But all that money seems to have disappeared! A newcomer is playing dirty and trying to become the next mayor, but he turns up dead, the challenge is to find out who murdered him and why! A second dead body turns up, and a friend of Rosie's is being charged with this murder. There are so many possible suspects in the murder, as towns people find out they have been scammed .
With all this going on, Rosie is still baking delicious treats, and spending time with her boyfriend Jonah.
I want to thank the Author, the publisher and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this fun book, and to leave this review.
July 12, 2022
Preserving the Evidence, the second book in the Hart of Texas Murder Mysteries series by Kaz Delaney, once again has the quirky residents of Airlie Falls, Texas embroiled in murder convoluted by a coverup, dishonesty, deceit, and greed. In between whipping up her baking creations and making herself indispensable to the town, Rosie is joined by her new love Jonah, the Fab Four…well meaning and hilarious octogenarians…and a myriad of other townspeople in uncovering the murderer of a shady and underhanded mayoral candidate, as well as a puzzling second perhaps related second murder…one of which her best friend and roommate is being held respond for.
With yummy recipes provided, this is one delectable cozy mystery that has you guessing and stumped until the very end.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
With yummy recipes provided, this is one delectable cozy mystery that has you guessing and stumped until the very end.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
July 26, 2022
2.5*
An easy to read cosy mystery to keep one mildly entertained while sunbathing.
Preserving the Evidence is set in a small Texan town. There's a lot of filler material that's suppose to help create the small southern town experience, which in my view was a bit boring and slowed down the action. I've lost track of how many times I've had to go through pages about refreshments, about home grown produce, about Fiona's contribution to the town's development, to the point I was dreading coming across the word: refreshments!!
As for the core story: I thought that has been well done. The intrigue is well developed and it did keep me engaged. Despite the various clues scattered throughout the narrative, I cannot say I've identified the killer too early, which is always a good thing in my books. Maybe that final escape was a bit ludicrous, but ...
*Book from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review!
An easy to read cosy mystery to keep one mildly entertained while sunbathing.
Preserving the Evidence is set in a small Texan town. There's a lot of filler material that's suppose to help create the small southern town experience, which in my view was a bit boring and slowed down the action. I've lost track of how many times I've had to go through pages about refreshments, about home grown produce, about Fiona's contribution to the town's development, to the point I was dreading coming across the word: refreshments!!
As for the core story: I thought that has been well done. The intrigue is well developed and it did keep me engaged. Despite the various clues scattered throughout the narrative, I cannot say I've identified the killer too early, which is always a good thing in my books. Maybe that final escape was a bit ludicrous, but ...
*Book from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review!
May 2, 2022
An enjoyable cozy mystery.
Amateur sleuth, Rosie Hart, is up to her old tricks, trying to solve the mysteries in her new town of Airlie Falls, Texas, even though she was warned her to mind her own business. But no one solves a mystery quite like Rosie.
Murders, missing money, and a group of strange women, are just a few of the crazy things happening in the second book in the Hart of Texas Murder Mysteries series.
As with the first book in this series, I thoroughly enjoyed this one too. It was fun catching up with Rosie and the gang and seeing what they were up to this time and how they solved the mysteries. Sometimes, when I read a mystery, I can usually figure out what will happen in the end. But with this author, it is always a surprise to me.
Amateur sleuth, Rosie Hart, is up to her old tricks, trying to solve the mysteries in her new town of Airlie Falls, Texas, even though she was warned her to mind her own business. But no one solves a mystery quite like Rosie.
Murders, missing money, and a group of strange women, are just a few of the crazy things happening in the second book in the Hart of Texas Murder Mysteries series.
As with the first book in this series, I thoroughly enjoyed this one too. It was fun catching up with Rosie and the gang and seeing what they were up to this time and how they solved the mysteries. Sometimes, when I read a mystery, I can usually figure out what will happen in the end. But with this author, it is always a surprise to me.
July 18, 2022
This is One Book You Don’t Want to Miss Reading
Rosie seems to land in unfortunate situations and this book is no exception. The town has had money missing leading to some of the town’s good citizens being accused of stealing money and murder. Rosie is determined to find and bring the murderer to justice.
Jonah and Rosie are a great match with a lot of love between them. It’s refreshing to se how devoted there are to each other.
The tension and action continue throughout the book which will make you not want to put it down.
There are a lot of good characters in this book who make it exciting and a definite page turner. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rosie seems to land in unfortunate situations and this book is no exception. The town has had money missing leading to some of the town’s good citizens being accused of stealing money and murder. Rosie is determined to find and bring the murderer to justice.
Jonah and Rosie are a great match with a lot of love between them. It’s refreshing to se how devoted there are to each other.
The tension and action continue throughout the book which will make you not want to put it down.
There are a lot of good characters in this book who make it exciting and a definite page turner. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 31, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A well dressed young male deceased body is found with no ID and it is apparent the body has been moved after death in Airlie Falls, Texas. Elsewhere money is found to be missing and accusations are made at the hustings for the town mayor. (P19 3rd paragraph - spelling mistake). There is also the strange appearance of an apparent cult in a large property on the edge of town. Rosie Hart, a local baker, considers herself a sleuth and believes she can solve the mystery and find out if these events are connected. In doing so she puts herself in danger and her boyfriend is injured in trying to rescue her from an attempt on her life. Did he manage it or was she killed along with any answers she had found? This book has many twists and is easy to read and would make an ideal holiday read and I would recommend it but it does annoy me that all these amateur sleuths think they can solve the problem before the police and often create danger to themselves and other people. It would be nice for a change that they work with the Police instead of trying to prove themselves and causing injury to other people and themselves while doing so.
A well dressed young male deceased body is found with no ID and it is apparent the body has been moved after death in Airlie Falls, Texas. Elsewhere money is found to be missing and accusations are made at the hustings for the town mayor. (P19 3rd paragraph - spelling mistake). There is also the strange appearance of an apparent cult in a large property on the edge of town. Rosie Hart, a local baker, considers herself a sleuth and believes she can solve the mystery and find out if these events are connected. In doing so she puts herself in danger and her boyfriend is injured in trying to rescue her from an attempt on her life. Did he manage it or was she killed along with any answers she had found? This book has many twists and is easy to read and would make an ideal holiday read and I would recommend it but it does annoy me that all these amateur sleuths think they can solve the problem before the police and often create danger to themselves and other people. It would be nice for a change that they work with the Police instead of trying to prove themselves and causing injury to other people and themselves while doing so.
August 5, 2022
Strange doings are going on in the small town of Arlie, Texas. Rosie, a baker and amateur sleuth, is determined to find out who’s behind all this! The mayor of 20 years and his wife both, who have done so much for the town, are being challenged and made to look like criminals! And the person who seem to be intimately involved I’d the one who, at the last minute, is running against the present mayor! Jonah, Rosie’s boyfriend and son of the mayor, is helping to get to the bottom of things. Who is this Clausen guy, and where did he come from? An interesting mystery that I couldn’t figure out until the end! I received a free copy of this book from BookSirens and write this review voluntarily.
May 24, 2022
Preserving the Evidence is the second in this heartwarming cozy mystery series Hart of Texas Murder Mysteries by Kaz Delaney. Rosie Hart has found a place to belong with people that welcomed her into their lives and home. Now she is a baker and amateur sleuth. Her new hometown, Airlie Falls, Texas, has another murder along with missing money. Rosie is on the case.
The characters, the mystery, and the plot twists are all wonderful. Don’t miss the enjoyable series. Perfect for an afternoon escape read.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The characters, the mystery, and the plot twists are all wonderful. Don’t miss the enjoyable series. Perfect for an afternoon escape read.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 27, 2022
Preserving the Evidence is Book 2 in the Hart of Texas Murder Mystery by Max Delaney. I thought that the book was very enjoyable with a terrific mystery. The characters are realistic and I enjoy that many of the characters in Book 1 are also in Book 2 with a sprinkling of new characters. Frederick Clause is running for mayor against Clay Fencott and his methods are not nice. There us tons of action and mystery when a dead body shows up followed by a murder. Can Rosie Hart find the murderer before anyone else dies? Maybe, but, maybe not! I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 27, 2022
I received an Advanced Reader copy from Book Siren for my honest review. I have read book one in the series and was delighted to read book two. I would have given the book 4 1/2 stars if possible. The story is well crafted. I wasn’t sure who you could trust in the cast of characters. I felt Rosie shared too much information with strangers, not knowing who they really were. Lots of subtle clues dropped throughout. I am still a bit confused about Fred, CeeCee, Jackie and Glorious. Jonah’s family is the best. They are so welcoming and leaders in the town. If you like cozy mysteries, then you will enjoy Preserving The Evidence.
September 4, 2025
In some ways the mystery was satisfyingly complex and the protagonist is very active, but in other ways it felt like ultimately it was unmotivated, not something we could have figured out, and not clear that all the investigating achieved anything at all (and she acts pretty stupidly a few times). But on top of that, the writing comes across as pretty amateurish and in need of editing, and, most egregiously, there is an entire passage describing how the lightning flashes were *following* the thunder. I almost stopped reading at that point as I have little patience for a basic fact like that being wrong in a published book, but wanted to know how it ended.
May 27, 2022
This is book 2 in the Hart of Texas Murder Mysteries cozy series. It can be read as a stand alone. I did not read book 1, A bittersweet Murder. Rosie is pretty new in town and is watching the local election with interest. When one of the candidates turns up dead she starts investigating. This is a good story with plenty of suspects and keeps the characters from book 1 helping her. This is a quick read that will hold your interest. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 18, 2022
Another great mystery.
A lot of characters to keep track of, but many become like family as it is a small town setting.
Rosie, a baker, can't help but become involved in sleuthing to determine who is committing murder and mayhem, and why, in her new town.
The book is very entertaining and characters enthralling as you try to figure who is the "good guy" and who is not.
Oh, as Rosie is a baker, she also includes some of her recipes in the end.
I was provided a review copy of this book; I give this voluntary review
A lot of characters to keep track of, but many become like family as it is a small town setting.
Rosie, a baker, can't help but become involved in sleuthing to determine who is committing murder and mayhem, and why, in her new town.
The book is very entertaining and characters enthralling as you try to figure who is the "good guy" and who is not.
Oh, as Rosie is a baker, she also includes some of her recipes in the end.
I was provided a review copy of this book; I give this voluntary review
August 4, 2022
I've never read anything by this author before and this was a good introduction. It's the second in the series but I read it fine as a standalone.
It's got a nice small town vibe to it where everyone knows everyone, and we have a mayoral election, a dead body, some suspicious characters and lots of baked goods just to whet your appetite. I found myself drawn into the charm of the setting despite the weird goings-on. Overall, it's a nice cozy mystery that keeps you entertained.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It's got a nice small town vibe to it where everyone knows everyone, and we have a mayoral election, a dead body, some suspicious characters and lots of baked goods just to whet your appetite. I found myself drawn into the charm of the setting despite the weird goings-on. Overall, it's a nice cozy mystery that keeps you entertained.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 11, 2022
Enjoyable and breezy, this book is a great summer read. The mystery is interesting enough and kept me guessing till the end. But the real charm of this book comes from the well drawn characters that made me feel I was in the town. I hadn’t read the first book in this series but within a few chapters I was fully caught up and understood the setting and people. The book starts with a lot of strangers coming to this small town, and who can blame them, reading this book makes you want to move to Airlie Falls.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 24, 2022
Rosie Hart is back with another fun mystery! I loved this book. As always, it moves fast and is a good read. Delaney is an expert at building interesting characters . Rosie is very likable and the secondary characters are well written as well. The town is a fun place. And the treats Rosie makes add to the flavor of the novel. If you like a light, amusing, well written cozy, read this book. Can be read as a standalone, but I suggest also reading the first book in the series, because it’s also excellent fun. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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