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Roxy Reinhardt #1
Mardi Gras Madness
A timid traveler. A New Orleans adventure. A Mardi Gras murder...
Roxy believed that life never gives you more than you can handle. But when she's fired from her wage-slave job, bullied by her co-workers, and her boyfriend abandons her, she decides she’s handled quite enough. Eager for a change of scene, Roxy with her white Persian cat Nefertiti head off to New Orleans.
The exotic sights, smells, and food of Mardi Gras coax the shy young woman out of her shell. Booking a room at a rundown guesthouse, Roxy is surrounded by a colorful cast of local characters. From tattooed waitresses to mystical tarot card readers, she quickly makes new friends and leaves her old life behind.
But she soon discovers that the Big Easy isn’t all beignets and jambalaya. A wealthy developer is eager to buy the guesthouse where Roxy lives and tear it down… until he turns up dead as a doornail! Before she can say ‘Mon Dieu!’, Roxy is caught up in a diabolical murder mystery… and her new friends are the prime suspects!
Roxy is determined to protect her pals, and save her new home. But is this anxious adventurer up to the challenge of solving a murder? Or will she become the killer’s next victim…
Cozy mystery fans will love this delicious new series from author Alison Golden. No foul language, no sex, and no gore…Just quirky characters, Cajun food, and a puzzling mystery that will keep readers guessing. Mardi Gras Madness is the first book in the Roxy Reinhardt series. Grab your copy today!
Roxy believed that life never gives you more than you can handle. But when she's fired from her wage-slave job, bullied by her co-workers, and her boyfriend abandons her, she decides she’s handled quite enough. Eager for a change of scene, Roxy with her white Persian cat Nefertiti head off to New Orleans.
The exotic sights, smells, and food of Mardi Gras coax the shy young woman out of her shell. Booking a room at a rundown guesthouse, Roxy is surrounded by a colorful cast of local characters. From tattooed waitresses to mystical tarot card readers, she quickly makes new friends and leaves her old life behind.
But she soon discovers that the Big Easy isn’t all beignets and jambalaya. A wealthy developer is eager to buy the guesthouse where Roxy lives and tear it down… until he turns up dead as a doornail! Before she can say ‘Mon Dieu!’, Roxy is caught up in a diabolical murder mystery… and her new friends are the prime suspects!
Roxy is determined to protect her pals, and save her new home. But is this anxious adventurer up to the challenge of solving a murder? Or will she become the killer’s next victim…
Cozy mystery fans will love this delicious new series from author Alison Golden. No foul language, no sex, and no gore…Just quirky characters, Cajun food, and a puzzling mystery that will keep readers guessing. Mardi Gras Madness is the first book in the Roxy Reinhardt series. Grab your copy today!
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2019
1203 people are currently reading
497 people want to read
About the author
Alison Golden
105 books331 followersAlison Golden is the USA Today bestselling author of the Inspector David Graham mysteries, a traditional British detective series, and two cozy mystery series featuring main characters Reverend Annabelle Dixon and Roxy Reinhardt. As A. J. Golden, she writes the Diana Hunter thriller series.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
May 5, 2020
This is a 4.5 star read.
Another cosy winner from author Alison Golden with this first in a new series about character Roxy Reinhardt, a young woman with nothing to lose who follows her gut instinct to move to New Orleans. A fun, fast read, we are introduced to a host of weird and wonderful characters as Roxy is immersed in the traditions and flavours of The Big Easy - all whilst trying to solve a murder! It's going to be hard to pick a series favourite from the works of Ms. Golden but Roxy is definitely right up there.
Another cosy winner from author Alison Golden with this first in a new series about character Roxy Reinhardt, a young woman with nothing to lose who follows her gut instinct to move to New Orleans. A fun, fast read, we are introduced to a host of weird and wonderful characters as Roxy is immersed in the traditions and flavours of The Big Easy - all whilst trying to solve a murder! It's going to be hard to pick a series favourite from the works of Ms. Golden but Roxy is definitely right up there.
October 4, 2019
Wonderful new series from Alison Golden. Roxy Reinhardt's adventure is emotional, challenging and most of all fun! There is even a little bit of romance in here. I really enjoyed how New Orleans became a character of its own; the culture, food, music and excitement. The relationships are great and I liked the surprise in the mystery. I am looking forward to reading more of this series!
October 5, 2019
Roxy Reinhardt feels really down. Her co-workers constantly torment her, her boss is a terror and her boyfriend has left her for somebody else. On a whim, she leaves Ohio and heads to New Orleans.
In New Orleans, she has booked a room for a month at Evangeline's Guesthouse. The Guesthouse is in desperate need of repair, but Roxy loves the atmosphere, as well as the people who run it, Evangeline and Nat. Like Roxy, Louise is another guest recovering from a relationship disaster. Elijah runs a bake shop and Sam is a handy man who also runs a laundry facility. Together, they give Roxy a feeling of camaraderie and friendship she has never known before.
Just as she is starting to feel comfortable, Roxy's whole world is turned upside-down again. Evangeline is thinking of selling the Guesthouse to a developer, Richard Lomas. The situation goes from bad to worse, when Lomas is found dead in a nearby cemetery, from a gunshot wound. The detective on the case, Detective William Johnson, seems to have a grudge against Evangeline.
Who killed Richard Lomas? Why was he killed? Will Detective Johnson let his feelings for Evangeline sway his investigation? What will happen to the Guesthouse now? What can Roxy do to help solve the mystery and help Evangeline?
Alison Golden has a fantastic start to this new series. There are wonderful characters, with vivid descriptions and situations that we can all relate to. The mystery is guaranteed to keep you guessing clear to the end and with short chapters, the book is an easy read, but difficult to put down.
In New Orleans, she has booked a room for a month at Evangeline's Guesthouse. The Guesthouse is in desperate need of repair, but Roxy loves the atmosphere, as well as the people who run it, Evangeline and Nat. Like Roxy, Louise is another guest recovering from a relationship disaster. Elijah runs a bake shop and Sam is a handy man who also runs a laundry facility. Together, they give Roxy a feeling of camaraderie and friendship she has never known before.
Just as she is starting to feel comfortable, Roxy's whole world is turned upside-down again. Evangeline is thinking of selling the Guesthouse to a developer, Richard Lomas. The situation goes from bad to worse, when Lomas is found dead in a nearby cemetery, from a gunshot wound. The detective on the case, Detective William Johnson, seems to have a grudge against Evangeline.
Who killed Richard Lomas? Why was he killed? Will Detective Johnson let his feelings for Evangeline sway his investigation? What will happen to the Guesthouse now? What can Roxy do to help solve the mystery and help Evangeline?
Alison Golden has a fantastic start to this new series. There are wonderful characters, with vivid descriptions and situations that we can all relate to. The mystery is guaranteed to keep you guessing clear to the end and with short chapters, the book is an easy read, but difficult to put down.
March 13, 2021
Once again I have found a good book in this story. I found it hard to put it down until the end.
January 30, 2022
Fun little mystery. I got hooked in the first few pages and had a hard time putting it down.
July 25, 2021
Fun Interesting
From the beginning I truly liked the main character. Immediately I was part of her story. The mystery was presented so well that there was no way I could guess whodunit or why. Excellent! This is a heartfelt recommendation to anyone who understands what it is like not to want to put a book down until it is finished.
From the beginning I truly liked the main character. Immediately I was part of her story. The mystery was presented so well that there was no way I could guess whodunit or why. Excellent! This is a heartfelt recommendation to anyone who understands what it is like not to want to put a book down until it is finished.
October 8, 2019
Roxy is living a safe, no-risks life in Cleveland, working a dull but reliable call center job, and living with her boyfriend. Or so she thinks.
But she feels bullied by her co-workers, and one day, after a really difficult customer complains to her boss, she gets indefinitely suspended from it. Then she arrives home to find that her boyfriend has moved out, leaving her for another woman. While reeling from the cumulative events, she sees an ad on tv touting the pleasures of going to New Orleans for Mardi Gras.
Never-impulsive Roxy has reached her breaking point. In short order, she and her cat Nefertiti, are on their way to New Orleans, to stay in a guesthouse called Evangeline's.
It's not long before Evangeline and the regulars at her guesthouse--Nat, the young woman who helps with the cooking, cleaning, and general care of the guests; Elijah, who runs the bakery across the street; Sage, who does the guesthouse's website; Sam, who runs the laundry that handle the guesthouse's laundry as well as providing handyman services. There's also another guest, Louise, who seems nice enough, but also hung up on Sam to a degree that Sam clearly finds unwelcome and embarrassing.
Roxy is enjoying the New Orleans cuisine, her new friends, and her first-ever New Orleans Mardi Gras parade, and is thinking about how she can stay in the city. What reason does she have to go back to Cleveland?
Then the body of a real estate developer who has been pushing Evangeline to sell her, after all, barely profitable, guesthouse, is found shot dead in the cemetery not far from the guesthouse. And the police detective on the case has had run-ins with Evangeline before. Will he find the real killer? Or will he find a way to pin it on Evangeline?
Roxy can't let that happen. And New Orleans is bringing out a side of her she's kept buried for a long time.
This is a light, fun, engaging story, and Roxy and her new friends are a delight. Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the author, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
But she feels bullied by her co-workers, and one day, after a really difficult customer complains to her boss, she gets indefinitely suspended from it. Then she arrives home to find that her boyfriend has moved out, leaving her for another woman. While reeling from the cumulative events, she sees an ad on tv touting the pleasures of going to New Orleans for Mardi Gras.
Never-impulsive Roxy has reached her breaking point. In short order, she and her cat Nefertiti, are on their way to New Orleans, to stay in a guesthouse called Evangeline's.
It's not long before Evangeline and the regulars at her guesthouse--Nat, the young woman who helps with the cooking, cleaning, and general care of the guests; Elijah, who runs the bakery across the street; Sage, who does the guesthouse's website; Sam, who runs the laundry that handle the guesthouse's laundry as well as providing handyman services. There's also another guest, Louise, who seems nice enough, but also hung up on Sam to a degree that Sam clearly finds unwelcome and embarrassing.
Roxy is enjoying the New Orleans cuisine, her new friends, and her first-ever New Orleans Mardi Gras parade, and is thinking about how she can stay in the city. What reason does she have to go back to Cleveland?
Then the body of a real estate developer who has been pushing Evangeline to sell her, after all, barely profitable, guesthouse, is found shot dead in the cemetery not far from the guesthouse. And the police detective on the case has had run-ins with Evangeline before. Will he find the real killer? Or will he find a way to pin it on Evangeline?
Roxy can't let that happen. And New Orleans is bringing out a side of her she's kept buried for a long time.
This is a light, fun, engaging story, and Roxy and her new friends are a delight. Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the author, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
October 3, 2019
MARDI GRAS MADNESS is the first in a new cozy mystery series by author Alison Golden. Roxy Reinhardt is not your typical heroine, but she won my heart early on.
First Roxie gets let go from her stressful, dead end call center job where she has to deal with a couple "mean girl" co-workers and a very controlling boss. Then she gets home to find out her boyfriend has left her. She is estranged from her mother, so she really has no ties to bind her. Her cat calls her attention to a TV commercial about a guest house in New Orleans. Roxie takes her savings and hops on a bus for the Big Easy.
The guest house is not quite as elegant as it was advertised, but Roxie meets some friendly, but quirky characters including the owner, Evangeline. Mardi Gras is starting and Roxie joins her new buddies for some fun that is spoiled by the discovery of a murder victim.
I love how the author developed Roxie. She goes to being somewhat of a doormat to a woman who can take chances and build a new life for herself in a much different location.
Speaking of location, I love how this story was set in New Orleans. There is so much charm and a mixture of old and new. I could almost smell the delicious food and taste the beignets. I have been to New Orleans twice and had to make a trip to Cafe' Du Monde for beignets and cafe au lait both times.
I have read some of Alison Golden's other cozy mystery series novels, but hope to have them all read in the near future.
I really look forward to more adventures with Roxie in the very near future.
First Roxie gets let go from her stressful, dead end call center job where she has to deal with a couple "mean girl" co-workers and a very controlling boss. Then she gets home to find out her boyfriend has left her. She is estranged from her mother, so she really has no ties to bind her. Her cat calls her attention to a TV commercial about a guest house in New Orleans. Roxie takes her savings and hops on a bus for the Big Easy.
The guest house is not quite as elegant as it was advertised, but Roxie meets some friendly, but quirky characters including the owner, Evangeline. Mardi Gras is starting and Roxie joins her new buddies for some fun that is spoiled by the discovery of a murder victim.
I love how the author developed Roxie. She goes to being somewhat of a doormat to a woman who can take chances and build a new life for herself in a much different location.
Speaking of location, I love how this story was set in New Orleans. There is so much charm and a mixture of old and new. I could almost smell the delicious food and taste the beignets. I have been to New Orleans twice and had to make a trip to Cafe' Du Monde for beignets and cafe au lait both times.
I have read some of Alison Golden's other cozy mystery series novels, but hope to have them all read in the near future.
I really look forward to more adventures with Roxie in the very near future.
May 14, 2020
Mardi Gras Madness - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Mardi Gras is traditionally a time for shedding one's inhibitions, dancing in the street in your finery and having the time of your life. What it shouldn't include is murder, yet that's exactly what happens to MC Roxy Reinhardt in Mardi Gras Madness, Book 1 in Queen of the Cozy Mystery, Alison Golden's great new A Roxy Reinhardt Cozy Mystery series, set in N'awlins, as the natives call it.
A tumultuous change in her personal life and career leads young and trusting Roxy to go on a month's get-away-from-it-all break, at Evangeline's ramshackle guest house in downtown New Orleans, at the start of Mardi Gras 'season'. Bewitched by the friendliness of the locals and staff at the boarding house, Roxy's convinced she's chosen the best location to get some much-needed R&R - until Evangeline drops the bombshell that she's being harassed to sell her treasured home and may be on the point of yielding, then local visionary and fortune-teller Sage reads the cards and is shocked by the answers.What did Sage see in the cards? Who is found in the local cemetery by Louise? Who is William Johnson and how does he react with Evangeline?A cozy mystery that will delight and entertain you for sure, with its quirky characters, quaint location and the celebrations of Mardi Gras are the cherries on the top of Alison Golden's wonderful tale, Mardi Gras Madness - it'll get your toes tapping and your taste buds tingling too (with its delicious-sounding food). Get it soon!
Mardi Gras is traditionally a time for shedding one's inhibitions, dancing in the street in your finery and having the time of your life. What it shouldn't include is murder, yet that's exactly what happens to MC Roxy Reinhardt in Mardi Gras Madness, Book 1 in Queen of the Cozy Mystery, Alison Golden's great new A Roxy Reinhardt Cozy Mystery series, set in N'awlins, as the natives call it.
A tumultuous change in her personal life and career leads young and trusting Roxy to go on a month's get-away-from-it-all break, at Evangeline's ramshackle guest house in downtown New Orleans, at the start of Mardi Gras 'season'. Bewitched by the friendliness of the locals and staff at the boarding house, Roxy's convinced she's chosen the best location to get some much-needed R&R - until Evangeline drops the bombshell that she's being harassed to sell her treasured home and may be on the point of yielding, then local visionary and fortune-teller Sage reads the cards and is shocked by the answers.What did Sage see in the cards? Who is found in the local cemetery by Louise? Who is William Johnson and how does he react with Evangeline?A cozy mystery that will delight and entertain you for sure, with its quirky characters, quaint location and the celebrations of Mardi Gras are the cherries on the top of Alison Golden's wonderful tale, Mardi Gras Madness - it'll get your toes tapping and your taste buds tingling too (with its delicious-sounding food). Get it soon!
April 19, 2020
Mardi gras madness - Roxy Reinardt Book 1 by Alison Golden.
My thoughts:
I liked the main character of Roxy and the supporting cast of colourful albeit predictable quirky characters. Roxy's back story is a bit sketchy and I prefer the story being told in first person, rather than third person as I felt removed from Roxy as the story unfolded.
Spoiler alert:
I read in disbelief at the end of the story when Roxy was given half of the property and the job of running the day to day business of the guest house. Why? Roxy has lived in the guest house as a paying guest for a week or so, she had paid for a month. She has no experience running a small hotel according to her limited back story. Why give her half a share of the hotel? She is not putting in any money, not for the purchase price, not for the costs of the structural improvements, not for the costs of the furniture that has been purchased, not for the cost of employing the 1 employee who is in the country without a green card. Why? Because the person who does put up all the money for the purchase and all associated costs is sweet on her?
Roxy at the end of the story is supposed to have her confidence back and be more positive about her self and her self image and because she is a nice girl she gets a half share of the property for no other reason that she will be the love interest for the other owner of the hotel?
A nice cozy mystery story if you overlook these questions. 3 stars.
My thoughts:
I liked the main character of Roxy and the supporting cast of colourful albeit predictable quirky characters. Roxy's back story is a bit sketchy and I prefer the story being told in first person, rather than third person as I felt removed from Roxy as the story unfolded.
Spoiler alert:
I read in disbelief at the end of the story when Roxy was given half of the property and the job of running the day to day business of the guest house. Why? Roxy has lived in the guest house as a paying guest for a week or so, she had paid for a month. She has no experience running a small hotel according to her limited back story. Why give her half a share of the hotel? She is not putting in any money, not for the purchase price, not for the costs of the structural improvements, not for the costs of the furniture that has been purchased, not for the cost of employing the 1 employee who is in the country without a green card. Why? Because the person who does put up all the money for the purchase and all associated costs is sweet on her?
Roxy at the end of the story is supposed to have her confidence back and be more positive about her self and her self image and because she is a nice girl she gets a half share of the property for no other reason that she will be the love interest for the other owner of the hotel?
A nice cozy mystery story if you overlook these questions. 3 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2019
Roxy having recently lost her job and her boyfriend left her for another woman decides to start anew somewhere else. Roxy and her cat Nefertiti head to New Orleans for exotic sights, sounds, and food. When Roxy arrives she finds that the guesthouse she rented is run down. Although the house appears to be falling down the people staying there are quirky but nice and the food is wonderful. Soon Roxy finds out the there is more to NOLA than food and parades when the body of a real estate developer who has been trying to buy the guest house is found dead.
This is a great start to a new series. The mystery is full of well-placed red herrings to keep the reader in suspense and guessing whodunit. The characters are wonderfully quirky and lovable. The storyline is well-plotted and moves at a quick steady pace. The descriptions of the setting are vivid, I had no problems picture exactly what Roxy and the others were experiencing. I recommend this book to cozy mystery fans, fans of author Alison Golden, and New Orleans.
I received a copy of this book at my request, and I have voluntarily left this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
This is a great start to a new series. The mystery is full of well-placed red herrings to keep the reader in suspense and guessing whodunit. The characters are wonderfully quirky and lovable. The storyline is well-plotted and moves at a quick steady pace. The descriptions of the setting are vivid, I had no problems picture exactly what Roxy and the others were experiencing. I recommend this book to cozy mystery fans, fans of author Alison Golden, and New Orleans.
I received a copy of this book at my request, and I have voluntarily left this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
September 30, 2019
Getting into the swing
A good start. Yes the main character doesn't come over as strongly as the others (surprised me too) but altogether they are vibrant and full of live. Each with their own story that lends a bit more soul into the read. The plot is based on that great standby - greed. Greed in it's most basic form.
She's lost her boyfriend and her job. Now taking a chance, her suitcase and her cat she's off to New Orleans. Staying at a shabby, rundown but enchanting hotel run by it's elderly owner and her rather outspoken, goth inspired assistant. The only other guests is a woman who has left her cheating husband. Throw in a property developer, a mystic, a baker, a laundry owner and just one too many breakdowns at the hotel for the owner to bear? An agreement to sell the hotel that ends in murder. But who is the guilty party? Unable to bear the thought of one of the people being wrongly accused, our rather timid mouse starts to investigate. Will she find the killer? What will happen to the hotel? Where will she go next?
A good start. Yes the main character doesn't come over as strongly as the others (surprised me too) but altogether they are vibrant and full of live. Each with their own story that lends a bit more soul into the read. The plot is based on that great standby - greed. Greed in it's most basic form.
She's lost her boyfriend and her job. Now taking a chance, her suitcase and her cat she's off to New Orleans. Staying at a shabby, rundown but enchanting hotel run by it's elderly owner and her rather outspoken, goth inspired assistant. The only other guests is a woman who has left her cheating husband. Throw in a property developer, a mystic, a baker, a laundry owner and just one too many breakdowns at the hotel for the owner to bear? An agreement to sell the hotel that ends in murder. But who is the guilty party? Unable to bear the thought of one of the people being wrongly accused, our rather timid mouse starts to investigate. Will she find the killer? What will happen to the hotel? Where will she go next?
October 7, 2019
Roxy Reinhardt is done with her current life. She's unhappy with her job and her boyfriend walked out on her. It's time for a new start. I loved that she's willing to change everything based on an unusual TV commercial. New Orleans and Evangeline's Guesthouse opened up new possibilities for Roxy. I loved how she and her cat settle in immediately. She met so many new people who quickly became friends. The only downside was the murder of an aggressive developer who was going to buy Evangeline's property. Did one of her new friends kill him because of his plans? I liked the magic woven into the story. It was easy to care about the characters. There were numerous suspects and motives for the murder. Roxy decided to investigate. It was such a brave thing for her to do. The story had unexpected twists as well as a sweet touch of romance. This book is a great introduction to this new series. I'm looking forward to Roxy's next adventure.
September 30, 2019
I love this new series! The protagonist is a timid, young, strong-willed woman who travels to New Orleans to see if she can make a new life for herself. It was intriguing to watch her meet new people and see New Orleans through their eyes. She has a lot of doubts about her new friends and her surroundings. The story was intriguing and kept my attention throughout. The storyline has a lot of twists and turns and an unexpected ending. If you like strong female protagonists, anything New Orleans and a good mystery, then I would recommend this book to you.
September 30, 2019
I really like Roxy and the crew. Her life is falling apart and so she decides to change it. She sees a commercial for Mardi Gras and decides that would be a good place to get her head together. Once there, she meets a group of people who make her feel a part of things for the first time in her life. Things are still iffy, but she thinks she has found a home. Then an investor turns up dead and the owner of the place she is staying is suspected of murder. She has never done anything like that before, but she decides she will investigate.
October 4, 2019
Mardi Gras Madness (A Roxy Reinhardt Cozy Mystery Book 1) by Alison Golden is a wonderfu story to read. This is book number one in this wonderful start to a brand new series that I have loved reading. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about cozy mysteries.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
October 4, 2019
Another great. Roxy has had it. Off to New Orleans with her cat she goes. Mystery, a bit of humour, everything to make it enjoyable.
March 3, 2024
I loved this book. The fun and colour of New Orleans comes across loud and clear in this book and it feels like you have been transported to the party capital of the US to make friends and solve a murder while you are there. I just loved it and once I started listening I couldn't stop. I really liked the characters and spending time with them, I think they (and the book) made a great start to a new series. The mystery was easy to solve (despite the number of suspects) but I think it was more about the characters in this book and why they have come together, than the who done it. Which is a surprise because I am a mystery fan at heart. I can't wait for the next book.
On the same day she loses her job, her boyfriend leaves her, which gives Roxy the push to make a change. So she packs up her cat and travels to New Orleans to stay in a guest house for a month, on a whim. The whim has her questioning her sanity when the run down guest house doesn't look like the promised advertisement but the people seem friendly enough, she can afford it and most importantly her cat can stay. Before she can get too comfortable there is talk of the owner having to sell to a developer who wants to knock it down, that is until someone knocks him down. Did one of her roommates kill him? Roxy hopes not because she likes New Orleans and she finally feels at home with these people. Can she find the killer before the police arrest the owner and she has to move on?
I loved the narrator. She is a big part of why I felt I was in New Orleans, with all the fun accents she used to make the characters and story come to life.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
On the same day she loses her job, her boyfriend leaves her, which gives Roxy the push to make a change. So she packs up her cat and travels to New Orleans to stay in a guest house for a month, on a whim. The whim has her questioning her sanity when the run down guest house doesn't look like the promised advertisement but the people seem friendly enough, she can afford it and most importantly her cat can stay. Before she can get too comfortable there is talk of the owner having to sell to a developer who wants to knock it down, that is until someone knocks him down. Did one of her roommates kill him? Roxy hopes not because she likes New Orleans and she finally feels at home with these people. Can she find the killer before the police arrest the owner and she has to move on?
I loved the narrator. She is a big part of why I felt I was in New Orleans, with all the fun accents she used to make the characters and story come to life.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
April 19, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Mardi Gras Madness starts off the Roxy Reinhardt Mystery series with a fun Cozy Mystery that will have you longing for a visit to New Orleans.
As with any Cozy Mystery I review I'm very careful about spoilers so... with a touch of worldbuilding (that's really necessary) we're off on an adventure with Roxy as she begins her new life far away from the world she knew. In New Orleans, she's feeling the pull of this Grand Dame of a city full of history, magic, promises, and... murder.
The story flows smoothly as the tensions are slowly ratcheted up as murder shatters the plans of several people who not only visit but live in the old, historic, rundown guesthouse where Roxy is staying. I'd say that there really is no huge arrow pointing to the villain here, you may get a feel for some and then discard them for another character so in that sense Mardi Gras Madness will keep you guessing until the reveal. There's a wide variety of characters who show off the delights of New Orleans with a native's ease, and others who have made the Big Easy their new home. Each is unique, has a slightly different backstory and as the series continues I'm hoping to get to know all the regulars much better. Plus there's a hint of a future romance.
I enjoyed my time in this world and will definitely be following the series. If you love a really good Cozy Mystery that captures your attention and draws out the 'whodunit' skillfully then you'll want to pick up Mardi Gras Madness and get started at the beginning of a charming, enjoyable series.
I own a Kindle edition of this title.
Mardi Gras Madness starts off the Roxy Reinhardt Mystery series with a fun Cozy Mystery that will have you longing for a visit to New Orleans.
As with any Cozy Mystery I review I'm very careful about spoilers so... with a touch of worldbuilding (that's really necessary) we're off on an adventure with Roxy as she begins her new life far away from the world she knew. In New Orleans, she's feeling the pull of this Grand Dame of a city full of history, magic, promises, and... murder.
The story flows smoothly as the tensions are slowly ratcheted up as murder shatters the plans of several people who not only visit but live in the old, historic, rundown guesthouse where Roxy is staying. I'd say that there really is no huge arrow pointing to the villain here, you may get a feel for some and then discard them for another character so in that sense Mardi Gras Madness will keep you guessing until the reveal. There's a wide variety of characters who show off the delights of New Orleans with a native's ease, and others who have made the Big Easy their new home. Each is unique, has a slightly different backstory and as the series continues I'm hoping to get to know all the regulars much better. Plus there's a hint of a future romance.
I enjoyed my time in this world and will definitely be following the series. If you love a really good Cozy Mystery that captures your attention and draws out the 'whodunit' skillfully then you'll want to pick up Mardi Gras Madness and get started at the beginning of a charming, enjoyable series.
I own a Kindle edition of this title.
January 4, 2024
Entering Alison Golden's literary realm through "Mardi Gras Madness," was like stepping into a cosy haven for mystery lovers. The book is part of a series but can be read alone. You are enveloped in her narrative embrace, I devoured this one very quickly, each page offering a delightful escape into a world where suspense and comfort perform a delightful dance.
Golden's prose is a comforting melody, smoothly flowing through the pages like a warm cup of cocoa on a chilly evening. Her characters, crafted with endearing charm, feel like old friends, and the quirky storylines add a touch of whimsy to the mystery genre. It's as if the book is a puzzle, and Golden masterfully weaves clues into the fabric of her tales, inviting readers to join in the delightful unravelling.
Alison Golden's signature style creates an atmosphere that's not just engaging but warmly inviting. It's the kind of writing that makes you want to curl up in your favourite reading nook, sipping your favourite warming drink, and losing yourself in the unfolding mysteries. If you're a fan of cosy mysteries, Golden's books are a must-read. A delightful blend of charm, suspense, and warmth, her stories will leave you eagerly anticipating the next inviting adventure.
Golden's prose is a comforting melody, smoothly flowing through the pages like a warm cup of cocoa on a chilly evening. Her characters, crafted with endearing charm, feel like old friends, and the quirky storylines add a touch of whimsy to the mystery genre. It's as if the book is a puzzle, and Golden masterfully weaves clues into the fabric of her tales, inviting readers to join in the delightful unravelling.
Alison Golden's signature style creates an atmosphere that's not just engaging but warmly inviting. It's the kind of writing that makes you want to curl up in your favourite reading nook, sipping your favourite warming drink, and losing yourself in the unfolding mysteries. If you're a fan of cosy mysteries, Golden's books are a must-read. A delightful blend of charm, suspense, and warmth, her stories will leave you eagerly anticipating the next inviting adventure.
September 3, 2021
Roxy is a timid person. She is working to put money in her savings which makes her feel secure. In one day, she lost her job and comes home to see her boyfriend has moved out. She is saddened and doesn’t know what to do now. Nefertiti (cat) is sitting like a statue watching TV. Roxy comes to see what has her cat mesmerized and sees a commercial. There is so much color and people having a good time. The commercial seems to be calling her. Roxy needs a change of scenery. She packs and with Nefertiti, heads out to New Orleans. Taking money from her nest egg, she books a month at Evangeline’s Guesthouse. Roxy meets a variety of people, people that treat her as family. Then a realtor is found dead in the back of the guesthouse. Everyone is a suspect but the policeman is trying to pin it on Evangeline. Roxy can’t let that happen and begins investigating. Allison Golden describes the people, colors and smells so well you feel you are there. I enjoyed the story and the odd mix of characters.
June 2, 2024
Loved it!!
I was recommended this book based on my love of New Orleans stories, and I'm extremely happy they did!! It was a great read that I'll be recommending to others. Some might say the book had a slow start, but I disagree. There was a lot of character-building and introducing you to the city, the culture, the food and just New Orleans period. I feel all this is especially important in the first book of a new series, therefore you can grow to love everything about it from the beginning and you're not guessing about stuff. We went into the book knowing someone was going to get killed but it took a while for that to happen and finding out what happened wasn't exactly the main goal, although it was still very important. You got to enjoy a light-hearted background story, and solve a murder. Let me just tell you, I never saw that twist coming and was completely blown away!! Anyway, I'm off to read the next one...you should grab this one though!!
I was recommended this book based on my love of New Orleans stories, and I'm extremely happy they did!! It was a great read that I'll be recommending to others. Some might say the book had a slow start, but I disagree. There was a lot of character-building and introducing you to the city, the culture, the food and just New Orleans period. I feel all this is especially important in the first book of a new series, therefore you can grow to love everything about it from the beginning and you're not guessing about stuff. We went into the book knowing someone was going to get killed but it took a while for that to happen and finding out what happened wasn't exactly the main goal, although it was still very important. You got to enjoy a light-hearted background story, and solve a murder. Let me just tell you, I never saw that twist coming and was completely blown away!! Anyway, I'm off to read the next one...you should grab this one though!!
January 31, 2020
New Beginnings
Foxy leaves her past behind and goes where the lights seemed to beckon her and her cat,Nefertiti. Off she goes to New Orleans where she is vacationing to start but things do not always go as planned. At the guesthouse where she is staying things start out interesting but a murder changes everything.
She meets several people including the owner of the guesthouse Evangeline. They are an interesting group of people but things change when Roy decides to find out who killed the real estate developer.
Plenty of action and bit of humor with an small tickle of possible romance. You will find the story very interesting and the twists will keep you alert. I do like when the author gives you clues but drags The Who-dun-it out until practically the end!
Excellent story, Alison Golden! I look forward to reading the next in the series!
Foxy leaves her past behind and goes where the lights seemed to beckon her and her cat,Nefertiti. Off she goes to New Orleans where she is vacationing to start but things do not always go as planned. At the guesthouse where she is staying things start out interesting but a murder changes everything.
She meets several people including the owner of the guesthouse Evangeline. They are an interesting group of people but things change when Roy decides to find out who killed the real estate developer.
Plenty of action and bit of humor with an small tickle of possible romance. You will find the story very interesting and the twists will keep you alert. I do like when the author gives you clues but drags The Who-dun-it out until practically the end!
Excellent story, Alison Golden! I look forward to reading the next in the series!
July 7, 2021
Another great series by Alison Golden! Life is giving Roxy Reinhardt a hard time these days: she lost her job, her boyfriend and thus her apartment all on one day! An ad on TV for New Orleans catches her eye and she decides it’s time for a change! She books a room for a month at Evangeline’s Guesthouse, packs up her things and her cat, Nefertiti, and hops a bus to New Orleans. Evangeline’s isn’t exactly what Roxy imagined, looking old and decrepit, but she meets so many colorful and slightly crazy characters, I wish I was there! When a rich developer trying to buy the Guesthouse is found dead, Roxy fears her newfound life might end. But instead she decides to figure out who the murderer is. A fun romp through the streets of the Big Easy during Mardi Gras, and some interesting lessons on creole cooking (like how to purge crawfish)! Highly recommended!
March 3, 2024
Audiobook: I enjoyed the first book in the "Roxy Reinhardt Cozy Mystery" series. Roxy's life was in turmoil as her boyfriend had moved out without telling her, and she wasn't sure whether she still had a job or not. Roxy decided to travel to New Orleans to see if the change in scenery would help to clarify her thinking about what to do with her life. While in New Orleans, Roxy was drawn into a murder investigation. The story was entertaining. I liked the quirky characters and the cat named Nefertiti. I enjoyed the setting as New Orleans during Mardi Gras seemed like a beautiful place to visit, and the descriptions added realism to the story. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. Marissa Pistone's narration was great, and her performance enhanced the story's entertainment. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
October 11, 2024
This is a review of the new Audio Book version
Alison Golden is one of my favorite Cozy Mystery authors. Her plot lines will keep you guessing with characters that are engaging, growing and developing throughout a series – and the Roxy Reinhardt Mysteries are no exception. I read the print version of “Mardi Gras Madness”, the first in the series, several years ago and was so excited to have the opportunity to preview the audio version. The narration is very good with easily identifiable voices for each character and I found that the narrator’s interpretation of the roles really fleshed out my mental picture over and above what I had envisioned when reading the original print. I’m going to enjoy listening to this series.
I received a free Audible link for this audio book and this is my honest review.
Alison Golden is one of my favorite Cozy Mystery authors. Her plot lines will keep you guessing with characters that are engaging, growing and developing throughout a series – and the Roxy Reinhardt Mysteries are no exception. I read the print version of “Mardi Gras Madness”, the first in the series, several years ago and was so excited to have the opportunity to preview the audio version. The narration is very good with easily identifiable voices for each character and I found that the narrator’s interpretation of the roles really fleshed out my mental picture over and above what I had envisioned when reading the original print. I’m going to enjoy listening to this series.
I received a free Audible link for this audio book and this is my honest review.
April 27, 2020
Roxy Reinhardt is fired from her wage-slave job, bullied by her co-workers, and her boyfriend abandons her, she decides she’s handled quite enough. Eager for a change of scene, Roxy with her white Persian cat Nefertiti head off to New Orleans.
This is a big change for Roxy and I think this is just what she needs. Roxy gets the whole New Orleans experience of exotic sights, smells, and food of Mardi Gras. Roxy is coming out of her shell by booking a room at a rundown guesthouse, Roxy is surrounded by a colorful cast of local characters from tattooed waitresses to mystical tarot card readers, she quickly makes new friends and leaves her old life behind.
This was a nice read to travel in reading to New Orleans with Roxy.
This is a big change for Roxy and I think this is just what she needs. Roxy gets the whole New Orleans experience of exotic sights, smells, and food of Mardi Gras. Roxy is coming out of her shell by booking a room at a rundown guesthouse, Roxy is surrounded by a colorful cast of local characters from tattooed waitresses to mystical tarot card readers, she quickly makes new friends and leaves her old life behind.
This was a nice read to travel in reading to New Orleans with Roxy.
September 26, 2023
You will absolutely love this book if you like fun characters and a terrific mystery. Roxy hits dumps all in one day. She feels so defeated and then abruptly does an about face to find out who she really is.
A group of people so different from each other meld into an amazing relationship. And you’ll never guess whodunnit with all the twists of the plot.
As someone who grew up not far from New Orleans, I’ve been disappointed many times with how it’s portrayed in books. Alison Golden pulled it all together from the nitty gritty to the glitz and glamour of New Orleans!! The descriptions of the true sweet nature of Evangeline, the city of New Orleans and the food was spot on. You’ll take a little southern charm with you when you finish.
A group of people so different from each other meld into an amazing relationship. And you’ll never guess whodunnit with all the twists of the plot.
As someone who grew up not far from New Orleans, I’ve been disappointed many times with how it’s portrayed in books. Alison Golden pulled it all together from the nitty gritty to the glitz and glamour of New Orleans!! The descriptions of the true sweet nature of Evangeline, the city of New Orleans and the food was spot on. You’ll take a little southern charm with you when you finish.
May 21, 2020
These authors are GOLDEN indeed!
Such an amazing read! The plot and the characters are as richly complex and satisfying as New Orleans and the fabulous cuisine it's known for. The murder mystery twists and misdirects as a good puzzler should. Roxy is completely relatable and fully realized as a character while leaving more to be discovered. Sam, Nat, and Sage are sufficiently intriguing to leave the reader curious for more background. Evangeline and Elijah complete this lively cast ensuring the truth that Roxy and Nefertiti have landed on their feet. I look forward to uncovering what the Crescent City has in store for us next!
Such an amazing read! The plot and the characters are as richly complex and satisfying as New Orleans and the fabulous cuisine it's known for. The murder mystery twists and misdirects as a good puzzler should. Roxy is completely relatable and fully realized as a character while leaving more to be discovered. Sam, Nat, and Sage are sufficiently intriguing to leave the reader curious for more background. Evangeline and Elijah complete this lively cast ensuring the truth that Roxy and Nefertiti have landed on their feet. I look forward to uncovering what the Crescent City has in store for us next!
February 23, 2022
A very entertaining story with a good mystery. The flavor of New Orleans really comes through. The fun of Mardi Gras, the people and events are on display. But the real story is about a young woman, Roxy, who is down on her luck and comes to N.O. to start a new life. She meets wonderful, loving, different people. Her feelings about them, however, are turned upside down when a murder occurs and everyone is a suspect. But Roxy is determined to help find out who the real killer is. Along the way so many things in her life change, that she truly blossoms into a different person. The transformation is fun to watch, and the ending of the book made me eager for more.
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