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Abby McCree Mystery #3
Death by Auction
Not only did Abby McCree inherit her aunt's house in Snowberry Creek, Washington, she inherited a handsome tenant and a whole lot of trouble . . .
It's hard to say no to Tripp Blackston. That's how Abby found herself on yet another committee, organizing a bachelors' auction to raise money for Tripp's veterans group. The former Special Forces soldier is mortified when Abby enlists him to be one of the prizes, but she has a covert plan to bid on him herself. Before she can, she's foiled by a sniper bid from a gorgeous stranger, who turns out to be Tripp's ex-wife, Valerie.
Still reeling from the shock that Tripp was married and wondering what his ex is suddenly doing in town, Abby goes looking to pay the auction's emcee, radio personality Bryce Cadigan. She finds him in the parking lot, dead in his car. Valerie appears to be the last one to have seen Bryce alive, so she's the cops' best bid for suspect. When she asks Tripp for help--and lodgings--it's Abby's turn to block by inviting Val to stay with her. But did she just open her home to a murderer?
It's hard to say no to Tripp Blackston. That's how Abby found herself on yet another committee, organizing a bachelors' auction to raise money for Tripp's veterans group. The former Special Forces soldier is mortified when Abby enlists him to be one of the prizes, but she has a covert plan to bid on him herself. Before she can, she's foiled by a sniper bid from a gorgeous stranger, who turns out to be Tripp's ex-wife, Valerie.
Still reeling from the shock that Tripp was married and wondering what his ex is suddenly doing in town, Abby goes looking to pay the auction's emcee, radio personality Bryce Cadigan. She finds him in the parking lot, dead in his car. Valerie appears to be the last one to have seen Bryce alive, so she's the cops' best bid for suspect. When she asks Tripp for help--and lodgings--it's Abby's turn to block by inviting Val to stay with her. But did she just open her home to a murderer?
320 pages, Paperback
First published May 26, 2020
93 people are currently reading
2328 people want to read
About the author
Alexis Morgan
97 books999 followersAlexis Morgan grew up near St. Louis and received a B.A. in English from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. She and her husband have made the Pacific Northwest their home for more than thirty years, where she launched her career as a writer. She is published in paranormal romance, fantasy romance, American West historicals, and most recently, contemporary romances with her new Snowberry Creek series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
May 1, 2020
I received an advance copy of this book from net galley and the publisher in return for an honest review. Release date for this book is 26 May 2020
You really have to love a small town cozy murder mystery and Alexis Morgan delivers. The Author has a way of making the main characters very likable as well as making the villain someone you love to hate. This is a great easy read in a series that I hope goes on for a long time. You won’t regret picking up this book.
You really have to love a small town cozy murder mystery and Alexis Morgan delivers. The Author has a way of making the main characters very likable as well as making the villain someone you love to hate. This is a great easy read in a series that I hope goes on for a long time. You won’t regret picking up this book.
May 16, 2020
In this third installment in Alexis Morgan's Abby McCree Mystery series, Abby has found herself on yet another committee, organizing a bachelor's auction for Tripp's veteran group. Tripp, who is Abby's tenant and friend, is mortified to be one of the prizes, but what he doesn't know is that Abby plans to win the bid for him. However, her plans are foiled when a gorgeous woman wins the auction with a five thousand dollars bid. It turns out that the woman is Tripp's ex-wife, Valerie, who Abby didn't know existed. Later in the evening, Abby finds her emcee dead in his car and Valerie, who was seen arguing with him, becomes the main suspect. Tripp is determined to prove Valerie's innocence and enlists Abby to help him investigate.
This is definitely my favorite book of the series so far. It was delightful, humorous, and I enjoyed it immensely. Abby is a wonderful character. She's smart, sassy, caring, independent, and has a knack for organizing events and solving mysteries. Her relationship with Tripp is progressing nicely. They have great chemistry together, and I always enjoy their flirty banter and inside jokes about Jean's tuna casseroles. Tripp's ex-wife, Valerie, added plenty of drama and entertainment to the story. I thought it was hilarious that Abby called her "the barnacle". She was so obviously jealous but being the kind-hearted person that she was, she never let it stopped her from helping Valerie. My only small complaint is that it was way too easy to figure out the culprit's identity, which is a lot coming from me because I'm usually terrible at solving mysteries.
Overall, I absolutely love this series and look forward to the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is definitely my favorite book of the series so far. It was delightful, humorous, and I enjoyed it immensely. Abby is a wonderful character. She's smart, sassy, caring, independent, and has a knack for organizing events and solving mysteries. Her relationship with Tripp is progressing nicely. They have great chemistry together, and I always enjoy their flirty banter and inside jokes about Jean's tuna casseroles. Tripp's ex-wife, Valerie, added plenty of drama and entertainment to the story. I thought it was hilarious that Abby called her "the barnacle". She was so obviously jealous but being the kind-hearted person that she was, she never let it stopped her from helping Valerie. My only small complaint is that it was way too easy to figure out the culprit's identity, which is a lot coming from me because I'm usually terrible at solving mysteries.
Overall, I absolutely love this series and look forward to the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2021
Death by Jack-o’-Lantern by Alexis Morgan is the second book in the cozy Abby McCree Mystery series. As with most cozy series each book in the Abby McCree Mystery series has it’s own mystery that is solved within the book so each can be read in any order or as a standalone if choosing to do so. Those that follow along from the beginning of the series will have some character development that carries over from book to book though.
This series introduces readers to Abby McCree who had just gotten divorced and had to sell her half of the business she shared with her husband over to him when she found out what her Aunt Sybil left her in her will. Needing a fresh start Abby decided to move into her Aunts former home and make it her own in small town Snowberry Creek, Washington. After arriving in the small town Abby found herself surrounded by her aunt’s old friends who are turning to her to fill the hole that her aunt had also left in their lives and trying to get Abby to volunteer for project after project.
Now Abby’s tenant, the very handsome Tripp Blackston, has asked Abby to volunteer on yet another committee. Tripp is helping to raise money for his veterans group by organizing a bachelor auction. Abby jumps in and the event is a success with only one little snag, a woman outbids Abby when Tripp is up for bid and Abby finds out in this way that Tripp was once married. Abby doesn’t have time to dwell on this news however when Abby goes to pay the auction emcee and instead finds him murdered and with another killer on the loose Abby begins to investigate.
I have followed the Abby McCree Mystery series from the beginning and have really enjoyed it. This series is one that I’ve found has some laughs, likable characters, a darling dog and even a bit of romance included in the stories. This third book also had yet another fun mystery to be solved yet again making this one another series that I will have no problem coming back to time and time again.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
This series introduces readers to Abby McCree who had just gotten divorced and had to sell her half of the business she shared with her husband over to him when she found out what her Aunt Sybil left her in her will. Needing a fresh start Abby decided to move into her Aunts former home and make it her own in small town Snowberry Creek, Washington. After arriving in the small town Abby found herself surrounded by her aunt’s old friends who are turning to her to fill the hole that her aunt had also left in their lives and trying to get Abby to volunteer for project after project.
Now Abby’s tenant, the very handsome Tripp Blackston, has asked Abby to volunteer on yet another committee. Tripp is helping to raise money for his veterans group by organizing a bachelor auction. Abby jumps in and the event is a success with only one little snag, a woman outbids Abby when Tripp is up for bid and Abby finds out in this way that Tripp was once married. Abby doesn’t have time to dwell on this news however when Abby goes to pay the auction emcee and instead finds him murdered and with another killer on the loose Abby begins to investigate.
I have followed the Abby McCree Mystery series from the beginning and have really enjoyed it. This series is one that I’ve found has some laughs, likable characters, a darling dog and even a bit of romance included in the stories. This third book also had yet another fun mystery to be solved yet again making this one another series that I will have no problem coming back to time and time again.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
April 6, 2020
Thank you Kensington Press, as always, and NetGalley for providing me with a free ARC in return for an honest opinion. This is the 3rd book in this series and while I have not read the first two, as of yet, the book can easily be a stand alone read, since there are only a very few times that prior stories or background is necessary to enjoy this book. Let me saw that I found this book extremely well written and does not have all the cutesy cozy trappings that ruin so many other books. The only really coziness is that the town is named Snowberry Creek, oh well. The plot is good, as are the characters. It is fast paced and even though I was able to figure out the killer way in advance there certainly are enough red herrings to keep us guessing. The plot is simple. A celebrity returns to town to MC an auction and ends up being killed. We have HS friends, HS enemies, angry women and whole host more. What makes this book even better is that our narrator/heroine Abby calls her friends ex-wife "the barnacle" and that is just a hoot. And she refers to her throughout most of the book as "the barnacle." I really enjoyed this book and have Book 2 of the series on my Kindle and will be reading shortly. And if you want a treat, I highly recommend this author and series.
January 30, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Abby McCree’s new project is organizing a fundraiser for Tripp Blackston’s veteran’s group. She has planned a bachelors’ auction to followed by a dinner event 2 weeks later. It took a bit of convincing but Tripp will be one of the bachelors up for auction and Abby hopes to win with her bid. Her plan goes awry when a beautiful woman takes the prize with an astounding bid of her own. Afterward, she learns the woman is Tripp’s ex-wife Valerie. Say What!?
Okay, Tripp has some explaining to do but she needs to focus on her event. She needs to pay the emcee, Bryce Cadigan, a radio personality that grew up in Snowberry Creek. He has been spending time catching up with people he knows and the last time she saw him he was going outside with Tripp’s ex. She is back glued to Tripp’s side but Bryce is nowhere to be found. She heads to the parking lot hoping he hasn’t left without his check. She finds him in his car and he is going anywhere. He is dead and she has to tell the police she saw him go outside with Valerie. Is Tripp’s ex-wife a killer? Valerie begs Tripp for help and a place to stay now that she can’t leave town. His place is too small for overnight guests so he asks Abby “his landlord” to put Valerie up in one of her guest rooms while they try to track down the real killer. The scary thing is the real killer may be the person moving into her house.
Abby is much more comfortable in Snowberry Creek as she has gotten to know more and more people. Most were friends of her now-deceased aunt but she is finding her place in town in her own right. This time she meets some of Tripp’s military friends as she is working on a veteran’s fundraiser. They come in handy as she tries to find out who killed Bryce Cadigan. Her budding romance with Tripp hits a bump or two with his ex in town. Her friendship with Chief of Police Gage Logan gets stretched as she keeps butting into his case. Jean, Louise, and Glenda, friends of her Aunt Sybil are still pushing and shoving Abby around but she has learned how to deal with them. Jean’s infatuation with Tripp has tamed a bit, again, the ex, but she still is baking him her “famous tuna casseroles. And of course, the lovable mastiff Zeke is around to steal our hearts. I really am a fan of the way these characters continue to evolve. We learn new things about them in every book and I get further invested in their lives as this series continues.
Ms. Morgan has crafted another strong mystery with several suspects. Abby had to really dig deep to find all the connections and press people to reveal secrets or remember past events that would give people reasons to kill off Bryce. Her sleuthing took her to some interesting places. I had a great time following along with her. I had winnowed my list down to two as we headed into the home stretch.
Again the author focuses on helping veterans. I love that the theme continues from the last book which shows it is an important cause for her.
Death by Auction is another great addition to this series. I loved the abundance of humor included throughout the story. I had planned on reading this book when it came out but my breast cancer treatments were wreaking hell in my life last May. Now I am ready for book number 4 Death by Intermission. I will be reviewing it on February 10. I am very excited to visit these characters again so soon.
Abby McCree’s new project is organizing a fundraiser for Tripp Blackston’s veteran’s group. She has planned a bachelors’ auction to followed by a dinner event 2 weeks later. It took a bit of convincing but Tripp will be one of the bachelors up for auction and Abby hopes to win with her bid. Her plan goes awry when a beautiful woman takes the prize with an astounding bid of her own. Afterward, she learns the woman is Tripp’s ex-wife Valerie. Say What!?
Okay, Tripp has some explaining to do but she needs to focus on her event. She needs to pay the emcee, Bryce Cadigan, a radio personality that grew up in Snowberry Creek. He has been spending time catching up with people he knows and the last time she saw him he was going outside with Tripp’s ex. She is back glued to Tripp’s side but Bryce is nowhere to be found. She heads to the parking lot hoping he hasn’t left without his check. She finds him in his car and he is going anywhere. He is dead and she has to tell the police she saw him go outside with Valerie. Is Tripp’s ex-wife a killer? Valerie begs Tripp for help and a place to stay now that she can’t leave town. His place is too small for overnight guests so he asks Abby “his landlord” to put Valerie up in one of her guest rooms while they try to track down the real killer. The scary thing is the real killer may be the person moving into her house.
Abby is much more comfortable in Snowberry Creek as she has gotten to know more and more people. Most were friends of her now-deceased aunt but she is finding her place in town in her own right. This time she meets some of Tripp’s military friends as she is working on a veteran’s fundraiser. They come in handy as she tries to find out who killed Bryce Cadigan. Her budding romance with Tripp hits a bump or two with his ex in town. Her friendship with Chief of Police Gage Logan gets stretched as she keeps butting into his case. Jean, Louise, and Glenda, friends of her Aunt Sybil are still pushing and shoving Abby around but she has learned how to deal with them. Jean’s infatuation with Tripp has tamed a bit, again, the ex, but she still is baking him her “famous tuna casseroles. And of course, the lovable mastiff Zeke is around to steal our hearts. I really am a fan of the way these characters continue to evolve. We learn new things about them in every book and I get further invested in their lives as this series continues.
Ms. Morgan has crafted another strong mystery with several suspects. Abby had to really dig deep to find all the connections and press people to reveal secrets or remember past events that would give people reasons to kill off Bryce. Her sleuthing took her to some interesting places. I had a great time following along with her. I had winnowed my list down to two as we headed into the home stretch.
Again the author focuses on helping veterans. I love that the theme continues from the last book which shows it is an important cause for her.
Death by Auction is another great addition to this series. I loved the abundance of humor included throughout the story. I had planned on reading this book when it came out but my breast cancer treatments were wreaking hell in my life last May. Now I am ready for book number 4 Death by Intermission. I will be reviewing it on February 10. I am very excited to visit these characters again so soon.
April 6, 2020
Thank you Kensington Press, as always, and NetGalley for providing me with a free ARC in return for an honest opinion. This is the 3rd book in this series and while I have not read the first two, as of yet, the book can easily be a stand alone read, since there are only a very few times that prior stories or background is necessary to enjoy this book. Let me saw that I found this book extremely well written and does not have all the cutesy cozy trappings that ruin so many other books. The only really coziness is that the town is named Snowberry Creek, oh well. The plot is good, as are the characters. It is fast paced and even though I was able to figure out the killer way in advance there certainly are enough red herrings to keep us guessing. The plot is simple. A celebrity returns to town to MC an auction and ends up being killed. We have HS friends, HS enemies, angry women and whole host more. What makes this book even better is that our narrator/heroine Abby calls her friends ex-wife "the barnacle" and that is just a hoot. And she refers to her throughout most of the book as "the barnacle." I really enjoyed this book and have Book 2 of the series on my Kindle and will be reading shortly. And if you want a treat, I highly recommend this author and series.
March 31, 2020
Abby's friend and tenant, Tripp, persuaded her to co-chair a committee to raise money for his veterans group. In addition to bidding on baskets of various donated items, attendees participate in a "bachelor auction" as part of the fundraising effort. Abby secretly plans to bid for Tripp so that they'll be each other's dates to the upcoming veterans group dance. Before Abby can even place a bid, a gorgeous stranger wins the date with Tripp with an astronomical $5,000 bid. The stranger is Tripps ex-wife Valerie, who he has never mentioned.
Abby's romantic plans are wrecked but the show must go on. She has to pay the auction's emcee, a popular radio personality who grew up in the area, before she can leave and as the social butterfly bounces from conversation to conversation he's not making it easy to track him down. She finally finds him in his car, dead. Valerie appears to have been the last to see the emcee alive - and she was furious with him from what Abby saw - making her a top murder suspect. Tripp wants to protect Valerie and enlists Abby to investigate, and convinces Abby to let Valerie move into her house.
The mystery is well-written and interesting. I liked the book and plan to go back and read the earlier ones in the series. I would, however, recommend that you read them in order; although this book works perfectly fine as a standalone, I didn't connect with or like Tripp once Valerie showed up. He consistently placed his e-wife's happiness and safety over Abby's, and believed his ex-wife's statements about her interaction with the emcee over Abby's eye witness account, making him seem like a poor partner match for her. But it is clear Abby and Tripps friendship has progressed through the series and I think anyone who reads in order will be attached to Tripp and wiling to cut him more slack than I was.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. The opinions in this review are honest and my own.
Abby's romantic plans are wrecked but the show must go on. She has to pay the auction's emcee, a popular radio personality who grew up in the area, before she can leave and as the social butterfly bounces from conversation to conversation he's not making it easy to track him down. She finally finds him in his car, dead. Valerie appears to have been the last to see the emcee alive - and she was furious with him from what Abby saw - making her a top murder suspect. Tripp wants to protect Valerie and enlists Abby to investigate, and convinces Abby to let Valerie move into her house.
The mystery is well-written and interesting. I liked the book and plan to go back and read the earlier ones in the series. I would, however, recommend that you read them in order; although this book works perfectly fine as a standalone, I didn't connect with or like Tripp once Valerie showed up. He consistently placed his e-wife's happiness and safety over Abby's, and believed his ex-wife's statements about her interaction with the emcee over Abby's eye witness account, making him seem like a poor partner match for her. But it is clear Abby and Tripps friendship has progressed through the series and I think anyone who reads in order will be attached to Tripp and wiling to cut him more slack than I was.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. The opinions in this review are honest and my own.
March 13, 2021
The Abby McCree Mystery series seems to get better with each book. Abby inherited her Aunt's estate, including her large home. With the home came her tenant, veteran Tripp Blackston. When Tripp asks Abby to help organize his veteran's group fundraiser, she can't say no. It is a bachelor auction and Abby insists that Tripp be one of the eligible bachelors. Abby hires Bryce Cadigan, a radio personalty and hometown boy made good, to be the emcee of the event. The glitch is that after the auction when she goes looking for him to pay him, he is dead. The other interesting event is to find out that Tripp has a wife, or ex-wife, who has shown up and won the date with Tripp. Abby is thrown for a loop and when it seems like Valerie is the main suspect, Tripp is asked to put her up until she is cleared. Abby steps in and insists Valerie stay with her as she has more room, but is she harboring a killer? Can she find proof that Valerie is innocent so she will leave town and Tripp?
Abby is a wonderful protagonist. She's smart, sassy, caring, independent, and has a knack for organizing events and solving mysteries. I am enjoying her developing relationship with Tripp and she is ready to make her move in this story. I enjoy their banter and humour, that shows what great chemistry they have. Tripp's ex-wife, Valerie, added drama and entertainment to the story, as well as some humor. I giggled every time Abby referred to her as the barnacle. I enjoyed the mystery and the steps Abby and the police took to solve it. I was actually surprised that I figured out who the killer was relatively early in this one, but it still held my attention right to the end. Proving who the murderer is plays a large part in this book and the final reveal was well done. There was a great ending and tying up of all loose ends that pleased me. I will definitely continue reading the Abby McCree series.
Abby is a wonderful protagonist. She's smart, sassy, caring, independent, and has a knack for organizing events and solving mysteries. I am enjoying her developing relationship with Tripp and she is ready to make her move in this story. I enjoy their banter and humour, that shows what great chemistry they have. Tripp's ex-wife, Valerie, added drama and entertainment to the story, as well as some humor. I giggled every time Abby referred to her as the barnacle. I enjoyed the mystery and the steps Abby and the police took to solve it. I was actually surprised that I figured out who the killer was relatively early in this one, but it still held my attention right to the end. Proving who the murderer is plays a large part in this book and the final reveal was well done. There was a great ending and tying up of all loose ends that pleased me. I will definitely continue reading the Abby McCree series.
June 11, 2020
Book three in the "An Abby McCree Mystery" amateur sleuth cozy series is available now. Written by Alexis Morgan, and published by Kensington Books, Death by Auction will steal your heart.
Abby has a hard time saying no when people ask for her help, and this makes her a genuinely loving person that readers have come to understand and care about. Her amateur sleuthing keeps things exciting and entertaining. Her tenet and love interest, Tripp, is strong, handsome, and extremely private. He is also the man of Abby's dreams. Even when they are at odds, they are careful not to hurt the other or cause them to be hurt by another person. These are characters that make a book, and this series worth reading.
In this third book, Abby is forced to confront her thoughts and feelings for Tripp. It also finds her embroiled in another murder investigation. Sometimes being nosy, and a non-licensed sleuth has its drawbacks. She can't ask the questions she would like and has to be careful of those questions she does ask. Once again, Abby finds herself in the middle of an investigation that could end her future and her life.
The story moves smoothly. The victim is what a victim should be; some even say he got what was coming to him. The suspects aren't as easy to define; they vary from the indifferent to the overly emotional. The killer, once revealed, is easy to believe and may even be a surprise to some readers. Our amateur sleuth gets to the bottom of the case and finds herself almost becoming the next victim. In the end, alls well, Abby and Tripp have a better understanding of each other, and readers can see a clearer path to what is to become of the two characters, or at least where they hope they will end up.
I enjoyed Death By Auction very much and look forward to the continuing story of Abby and Tripp, not to mention Zeke, Abby's happy, slobbering, lovable pet. I am happy to recommend this book and series to mystery lovers who like their sleuths smart, funny, and easy to like.
Abby has a hard time saying no when people ask for her help, and this makes her a genuinely loving person that readers have come to understand and care about. Her amateur sleuthing keeps things exciting and entertaining. Her tenet and love interest, Tripp, is strong, handsome, and extremely private. He is also the man of Abby's dreams. Even when they are at odds, they are careful not to hurt the other or cause them to be hurt by another person. These are characters that make a book, and this series worth reading.
In this third book, Abby is forced to confront her thoughts and feelings for Tripp. It also finds her embroiled in another murder investigation. Sometimes being nosy, and a non-licensed sleuth has its drawbacks. She can't ask the questions she would like and has to be careful of those questions she does ask. Once again, Abby finds herself in the middle of an investigation that could end her future and her life.
The story moves smoothly. The victim is what a victim should be; some even say he got what was coming to him. The suspects aren't as easy to define; they vary from the indifferent to the overly emotional. The killer, once revealed, is easy to believe and may even be a surprise to some readers. Our amateur sleuth gets to the bottom of the case and finds herself almost becoming the next victim. In the end, alls well, Abby and Tripp have a better understanding of each other, and readers can see a clearer path to what is to become of the two characters, or at least where they hope they will end up.
I enjoyed Death By Auction very much and look forward to the continuing story of Abby and Tripp, not to mention Zeke, Abby's happy, slobbering, lovable pet. I am happy to recommend this book and series to mystery lovers who like their sleuths smart, funny, and easy to like.
March 2, 2021
Just when Abby believes she and Tripp might get a little closer than landlord and tenant someone from Tripp's past shows up. Once the shock of Tripp's visitor wears, Abby goes back to work to wrap up the fundraiser which she is managing. Abby once again stumbles onto a suspicious death.
The characters are well-developed, likable, and relatable. The characters also have great chemistry. The mystery is well-plotted and moves at a smooth steady pace. While there are not a lot of suspects there are enough red herrings to keep you guessing whodunit until the big reveal. I recommend this book and the rest of the series to cozy mystery fans
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
The characters are well-developed, likable, and relatable. The characters also have great chemistry. The mystery is well-plotted and moves at a smooth steady pace. While there are not a lot of suspects there are enough red herrings to keep you guessing whodunit until the big reveal. I recommend this book and the rest of the series to cozy mystery fans
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
June 12, 2023
Rated 3.5
April 29, 2020
This is third book in the Abby McCrea series set in Snowberry Creek, Washington featuring Abby McCrea and Tripp Blackstone.
Tripp has asked Abby to organizing a auction for the local veteran's community where bachelors will be on display for bidding and the highest bidder gets to go to the World War II themed dance the following weekend.
Abby is able to get Bryce Cadigan to emcee the event the hometown football hero. The auction is going great until Abby is ready to bid on Tripp when a woman shouts out $ 5000. And walks away with Tripp.
Come to find out it is none other than Tripp's ex wife.
Not everyone is happy to see Bryce in town. Abby sees him arguing with many people including Tripp's ex wife. Abby needs to pay Bryce for his services and follows him outdoors only to find him dead in his car. When Abby tells Gage that Valerie was the last person seen with Bryce she becomes the number one suspect. Things go down hill for Abby when she is released on bail and moves into her house while the investigation unfolds.
I truly enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one in the series.
A little romance a cute dog and great characters keep me coming back!!
Tripp has asked Abby to organizing a auction for the local veteran's community where bachelors will be on display for bidding and the highest bidder gets to go to the World War II themed dance the following weekend.
Abby is able to get Bryce Cadigan to emcee the event the hometown football hero. The auction is going great until Abby is ready to bid on Tripp when a woman shouts out $ 5000. And walks away with Tripp.
Come to find out it is none other than Tripp's ex wife.
Not everyone is happy to see Bryce in town. Abby sees him arguing with many people including Tripp's ex wife. Abby needs to pay Bryce for his services and follows him outdoors only to find him dead in his car. When Abby tells Gage that Valerie was the last person seen with Bryce she becomes the number one suspect. Things go down hill for Abby when she is released on bail and moves into her house while the investigation unfolds.
I truly enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one in the series.
A little romance a cute dog and great characters keep me coming back!!
April 25, 2020
I love this series.
Divorcee Abby Cree helps organizations raise money, quilts and generally keeps busy. She's inherited property from an aunt that includes a rental, so with the buyout from her ex-husband, she's doing okay...well...except for finding a body or two.
Her tenant, Tripp Blackston is a good friend, and she is helping with a fundraiser to aid veterans like him and his friends.
When she finds her DJ for the event dead in the parking lot, she's shocked and dismayed. She calls the police and tells them all she knows, but when Tripp's ex-wife comes under suspicion, she feels obligated to help him investigate, he swears she couldn't kill anyone.
The pair find out plenty to bring to the police and get into more than a few humorous situations. We can see their budding romance...so can his ex, who does not like it.
Abby's innocent questions puts the killer's cross hairs on her and barely evades getting murdered herself with Tripp's help.
I requested and received a NetGalley ARC, much to my delight and enjoyed every word. I recommend it to anyone who loves a cozy with bit of romance along with their intrigue and humor.
Divorcee Abby Cree helps organizations raise money, quilts and generally keeps busy. She's inherited property from an aunt that includes a rental, so with the buyout from her ex-husband, she's doing okay...well...except for finding a body or two.
Her tenant, Tripp Blackston is a good friend, and she is helping with a fundraiser to aid veterans like him and his friends.
When she finds her DJ for the event dead in the parking lot, she's shocked and dismayed. She calls the police and tells them all she knows, but when Tripp's ex-wife comes under suspicion, she feels obligated to help him investigate, he swears she couldn't kill anyone.
The pair find out plenty to bring to the police and get into more than a few humorous situations. We can see their budding romance...so can his ex, who does not like it.
Abby's innocent questions puts the killer's cross hairs on her and barely evades getting murdered herself with Tripp's help.
I requested and received a NetGalley ARC, much to my delight and enjoyed every word. I recommend it to anyone who loves a cozy with bit of romance along with their intrigue and humor.
October 10, 2020
I'm still having a problem warming up to the characters. I really don't think Abby and Tripp have much chemistry and I think that cozies really rely on character chemistry (not necessarily romantic chemistry, I generally prefer minimal to no romance in cozies) since they tend to be shorter and have simpler plots than standard mysteries.
I like the variety of committees the author comes up with for Abby, but since we've had three in a row, it would be nice to see something different for #4.
Again, I think we know who the murderer is because it is telegraphed in a variety of ways similar to the first 2 books. I won't list them in case you haven't picked up on the pattern I see.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I like the variety of committees the author comes up with for Abby, but since we've had three in a row, it would be nice to see something different for #4.
Again, I think we know who the murderer is because it is telegraphed in a variety of ways similar to the first 2 books. I won't list them in case you haven't picked up on the pattern I see.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
April 28, 2020
4 Stars
This is the third book in the Abby McCree mystery series by Alexis Morgan.
Basic premise: Abby sets up a Bachelor Auction at the request of her friend, Tripp. The master of ceremonies is not such s nice guy and he ends up dead in the parking lot right after the event and Abby finds his body.
Abby McCree is a complex character. She has taken over a large house after the death of her Aunt Sybil who was pretty notorious in her day. Her Aunt had a tenant named Tripp and a large Mastiff named Zeke. These two were pretty much forced upon her in the beginning (book one). Now Abby is starting to have feelings for Tripp and wants to bid for him at the Bachelor Auction. But Tripp’s ex-wife, Val, shows up and offers a whopping $5,000 bid for the luxury of dancing with him at the event. When Abby is looking later to give Brandon, the master of ceremonies, his check, she sees Valerie and the MC have heated words and go outside to talk. Not long later Brandon is found dead by Abby still in his car from a fast acting poison.
This book is easy to follow and the mystery whodunit part was well done. But I don’t completely understand the dynamic between Abby and Tripp. I can’t decide if they like each other or just tolerate each other. It would be nice to have a second male love interest available in town to shake things up a bit. I wonder how old Chief Gage is Tripp is still in college and taking classes but that does not necessarily mean he is young. So it is difficult to ferret out an age here. Maybe a secondary character romance would be nice. Abby seems like a singular person who doesn’t really have a lot of interaction with people. Even though she organized this bachelor event, the sense of real community is missing. I wonder why Abby’s quilt guild isn’t mentioned more. I think they were more of a presence in book one.
The ex wife was brought in as a foil to Abby and her true intention and details about her were left till the bitter end and it made it harder to guess who was and wasn’t a suspect. I wish Abby had been a bit more nosey. I think we need something added to shake up this series. It is a good read. I enjoyed it but it felt a little on the bland side. I do, however, look forward to reading the other books in this series.
If you are looking for a good cozy mystery, definitely check this one out.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the third book in the Abby McCree mystery series by Alexis Morgan.
Basic premise: Abby sets up a Bachelor Auction at the request of her friend, Tripp. The master of ceremonies is not such s nice guy and he ends up dead in the parking lot right after the event and Abby finds his body.
Abby McCree is a complex character. She has taken over a large house after the death of her Aunt Sybil who was pretty notorious in her day. Her Aunt had a tenant named Tripp and a large Mastiff named Zeke. These two were pretty much forced upon her in the beginning (book one). Now Abby is starting to have feelings for Tripp and wants to bid for him at the Bachelor Auction. But Tripp’s ex-wife, Val, shows up and offers a whopping $5,000 bid for the luxury of dancing with him at the event. When Abby is looking later to give Brandon, the master of ceremonies, his check, she sees Valerie and the MC have heated words and go outside to talk. Not long later Brandon is found dead by Abby still in his car from a fast acting poison.
This book is easy to follow and the mystery whodunit part was well done. But I don’t completely understand the dynamic between Abby and Tripp. I can’t decide if they like each other or just tolerate each other. It would be nice to have a second male love interest available in town to shake things up a bit. I wonder how old Chief Gage is Tripp is still in college and taking classes but that does not necessarily mean he is young. So it is difficult to ferret out an age here. Maybe a secondary character romance would be nice. Abby seems like a singular person who doesn’t really have a lot of interaction with people. Even though she organized this bachelor event, the sense of real community is missing. I wonder why Abby’s quilt guild isn’t mentioned more. I think they were more of a presence in book one.
The ex wife was brought in as a foil to Abby and her true intention and details about her were left till the bitter end and it made it harder to guess who was and wasn’t a suspect. I wish Abby had been a bit more nosey. I think we need something added to shake up this series. It is a good read. I enjoyed it but it felt a little on the bland side. I do, however, look forward to reading the other books in this series.
If you are looking for a good cozy mystery, definitely check this one out.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
June 10, 2020
Death by Auction is the third book in Alexis Morgan’s Abbey McCree Mystery series. The storyline is well written, and the characters well developed and likable. The steadily paced murder mystery is a clean read, with several suspects and lots of red herrings to keep readers engaged and guessing. I was quite surprised by the reveal.
When Abby McCree’s Aunt Sybil passed away, she left her home and most of her personal property in Snowberry Creek, Washington. She also inherited former Special Forces soldier, Tripp Blackston, the tenant in her small cottage, who pays reduced rent in return for doing odd jobs around the property, her aunt’s adopted mastiff mix, Zeke, and her aunt’s friends, Jean, Louise, and Glenda. As a favor to Tripp, Abby agreed to organize a fund-raiser for his veterans’ group, including a bachelor/bachelorette auction and World War II-themed dance. Abby had hired Bryce Cadigan, a former Snowberry Creek resident and current Seattle radio personality, to run the auction. Abby intends to bid on Tripp at the auction, so imagine her surprise when a gorgeous woman shows up and bids $5,000 for him, and her shock when she learns the woman is Tripp’s ex-wife, Valerie Brunn. Abby and Tripp have become good friends and even shared a kiss or two, and yet he never even hinted he was married. Abby’s pleased that the auction and gift basket bidding exceeded their expectations, but her happiness is short-lived when she finds his body in his car in the parking lot. As Gage Logan, the local chief of police and an army veteran, and his team investigate the murder, evidence points to Valerie. When she’s arrested, Tripp is determined to prove Valerie’s innocence and enlists Abby to help him investigate.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
When Abby McCree’s Aunt Sybil passed away, she left her home and most of her personal property in Snowberry Creek, Washington. She also inherited former Special Forces soldier, Tripp Blackston, the tenant in her small cottage, who pays reduced rent in return for doing odd jobs around the property, her aunt’s adopted mastiff mix, Zeke, and her aunt’s friends, Jean, Louise, and Glenda. As a favor to Tripp, Abby agreed to organize a fund-raiser for his veterans’ group, including a bachelor/bachelorette auction and World War II-themed dance. Abby had hired Bryce Cadigan, a former Snowberry Creek resident and current Seattle radio personality, to run the auction. Abby intends to bid on Tripp at the auction, so imagine her surprise when a gorgeous woman shows up and bids $5,000 for him, and her shock when she learns the woman is Tripp’s ex-wife, Valerie Brunn. Abby and Tripp have become good friends and even shared a kiss or two, and yet he never even hinted he was married. Abby’s pleased that the auction and gift basket bidding exceeded their expectations, but her happiness is short-lived when she finds his body in his car in the parking lot. As Gage Logan, the local chief of police and an army veteran, and his team investigate the murder, evidence points to Valerie. When she’s arrested, Tripp is determined to prove Valerie’s innocence and enlists Abby to help him investigate.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
June 27, 2020
DEATH BY AUCTION by Alexis Morgan
The Third Abby McCree Mystery
Ever since inheriting her aunt's home and moving to Snowberry Creek, Washington, Abby McCree's life has been a hectic one full of committees. She's enjoying her current project to benefit the local veterans, however. Not only is it for a great cause, she has dream committee members making her work as chair easy, plus she gets to tease her tenant and friend Tripp, who will be auctioned off as one of the bachelors at the event. The auction primed to be a huge success as bids are going fast and high. The gaiety doesn't last as Abby and Tripp are both stunned by the surprise arrival of a woman from Tripp's past, not to mention the discovery of yet another dead body.
Forget about the dead body. The most troublesome part of the third Abby McCree Mystery is a new character by the name of Valerie. Of course, I despised her immediately and was aghast at what Abby was forced to deal with. I never would have put up with that, and dealing with it as graciously as she did...I absolutely love Abby, but boy, she is a much better person than I! Feelings of righteous indignation swept over me causing me to yell out loud at my book. More than once!
Aside from me yelling and wanting to cause bodily harm to a fictional character, I was intrigued by the mystery and the slow reveal as to how much of a jerk the victim truly was. I was also introduced to a new character I did like and hope we get to see more of in the future. It's the characters and their relationships with each other that really cement the book. These are complex people who you want to get to know and be around.
DEATH BY AUCTION was almost perfect. Unfortunately, at the very end the author used that too familiar and most annoying trope regarding the mental state of the killer. I was so disappointed as I couldn't have asked for more in a mystery before that point.
DEATH BY AUCTION is a mystery that will grab you and won't let go! The characters become family and it's a joy, albeit sometimes nerve-wracking, to read about their lives.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
The Third Abby McCree Mystery
Ever since inheriting her aunt's home and moving to Snowberry Creek, Washington, Abby McCree's life has been a hectic one full of committees. She's enjoying her current project to benefit the local veterans, however. Not only is it for a great cause, she has dream committee members making her work as chair easy, plus she gets to tease her tenant and friend Tripp, who will be auctioned off as one of the bachelors at the event. The auction primed to be a huge success as bids are going fast and high. The gaiety doesn't last as Abby and Tripp are both stunned by the surprise arrival of a woman from Tripp's past, not to mention the discovery of yet another dead body.
Forget about the dead body. The most troublesome part of the third Abby McCree Mystery is a new character by the name of Valerie. Of course, I despised her immediately and was aghast at what Abby was forced to deal with. I never would have put up with that, and dealing with it as graciously as she did...I absolutely love Abby, but boy, she is a much better person than I! Feelings of righteous indignation swept over me causing me to yell out loud at my book. More than once!
Aside from me yelling and wanting to cause bodily harm to a fictional character, I was intrigued by the mystery and the slow reveal as to how much of a jerk the victim truly was. I was also introduced to a new character I did like and hope we get to see more of in the future. It's the characters and their relationships with each other that really cement the book. These are complex people who you want to get to know and be around.
DEATH BY AUCTION was almost perfect. Unfortunately, at the very end the author used that too familiar and most annoying trope regarding the mental state of the killer. I was so disappointed as I couldn't have asked for more in a mystery before that point.
DEATH BY AUCTION is a mystery that will grab you and won't let go! The characters become family and it's a joy, albeit sometimes nerve-wracking, to read about their lives.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
August 21, 2023
Abby is helping the local veterans' group raise money by running a bachelore/bachelorette auction, to be followed in two weeks by a dance. She's secretly planning to bid on her tenant Tripp, but before she can do it, a strange woman appears and casts the winning bid. She turns out to be Tripp's ex-wife, who wants to ask him for a favor. Before she can ask, the hired emcee for the event is found dead. Police think that the ex-wife is guilty, but Tripp is sure she is innocent, although he doesn't realize that she's interested in more than his help. Tripp naturally persuades Abby to help clear the woman's name.
August 8, 2020
This was another excellent installment in this likable series. I really enjoyed this mystery and the surprise blast from Tripp's past. It made for an intriguing story and was hard to put down. It's a quick easy read with lots of suspects to narrow down. All in all, I am looking forward to more adventures with Abby, Zeke and the rest of the gang.
April 14, 2023
So this one I didn’t figure out quite as early - well, I knew the killer right away but at least the motive took me 3/4 of the book. But I still really enjoyed it, and I think that’s because of this wonderful tension between the main character and her tenant. And there was a biker gang bar fight, which I could have used more details on but enjoyed. I hope that character comes back later.
May 28, 2020
I really enjoyed this third installment in the Abby McCree series. Abby is great, and though I love Tripp, here he is a bit obtuse at times. The quilt ladies do not have much to do with this tale, but the mystery is well paced. The killer is relatively easy to pinpoint, but their motive is harder to figure out. Highly recommended.
March 26, 2020
Abby and Tripp are back in Death by Auction, the newest installment in this fantastic series.
Abby is looking forward to bidding on Tripp at the bachelor auction, an event designed to raise funds for the local vets.
Before Abby has a chance to make her bid, a seductive voice makes a bid, stunning the crowd and shocking Tripp.
The winner? Tripp’s ex wife, Valerie!
An upset Abby searches for the emcee, giving him his check is the last thing she has to do, then she can put this night behind her.
Unfortunately for Abby, she finds the emcee has checked out, literally.
Join Abby and Tripp as they piece together the puzzle, while trying to keep Valerie out of jail.
Abby is looking forward to bidding on Tripp at the bachelor auction, an event designed to raise funds for the local vets.
Before Abby has a chance to make her bid, a seductive voice makes a bid, stunning the crowd and shocking Tripp.
The winner? Tripp’s ex wife, Valerie!
An upset Abby searches for the emcee, giving him his check is the last thing she has to do, then she can put this night behind her.
Unfortunately for Abby, she finds the emcee has checked out, literally.
Join Abby and Tripp as they piece together the puzzle, while trying to keep Valerie out of jail.
May 21, 2022
Another great story! I love this series. This one picks up just where the last book left off; goes right into action and keeps you turning the pages as quick as you can to see what happens next. Love all the characters. Can't wait to see what happens in the next book(s). Keep them coming.
April 6, 2020
I liked this installment of the series. The twist at the beginning was shocking, I'm glad it got worked out quickly. The mystery kept me guessing. I do like the characters without any over the top quirkiness.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review
May 18, 2020
Death by Auction by Alexis Morgan is the 3rd book in the Abby McCree Mystery series, and a great addition. I really loved this book/series and can't wait for the next book. Abby McCree moved to Snowberry Creek, after inheriting her Aunt Sybil home. Abby also inherited a tenant Tripp, who helps her around the property. Abby is running a bachelor's auction to raise money for Tripp's veteran group. Abby plans on bidding on Tripp herself, until his ex-wife, Valarie, outbid her. Abby had no idea he even had an ex wife. When Valarie is a suspect in a murder, can Abby find the truth? This book is very well written full of great characters, and a well thought out plot. When I started this book, it kept me reading page after page. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, I strongly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 24, 2020
This is third book in the Abby McCree Mystery series by Alexis Morgan, set in Snowberry Creek, Washington featuring Abby McCree and Tripp Blackstone.
Divorcée Abby McCree helps organisations to raise money, as well as making quilts and generally keeping herself busy. She is in a good place, her tenant, Tripp Blackston is a great friend, and she is currently lending a hand with a fundraiser to aid veterans like Tripp and his friends. The former Special Forces soldier is discomfited when Abby enlists him to be one of the prizes, but she has a covert plan to bid on him herself. However, she's foiled by a generous bid from a gorgeous stranger, who turns out to be Tripp's ex-wife, Valerie. Abby goes to pay the auction's compère, radio personality Bryce Cadigan, but instead finds him in the parking lot, dead in his car. Valerie, who was seen arguing with him, becomes the prime suspect and Tripp, determined to prove Valerie's innocence, enlists Abby to help him investigate.
I liked Abby right away with her smart and sassy attitude, though she is also a bit of a soft touch when it comes to her fundraising. Alexis Morgan has surrounded Abby with a great supporting cast. I found myself warming to Tripp Blackston and the connection and chemistry between him and Abby was evident. Abby also has a true friendship and understanding with Police Chief Gage Logan and of course Zeke, Abby's lovable Mastiff mix, deserves a mention. Tripp's ex-wife, Valerie added plenty of drama and entertainment to the story.
The author has written a very strong here mystery too. With its great plot, the pacing is comfortable and even though I was able to figure out the identity of the killer, there were enough red herrings to keep me guessing awhile. Alexis Morgan's abundant humorous touches and side-splitting moments helped to make Death by Auction a really compelling, fun read. A marvellous addition to this series, I was totally entertained from beginning to end. Bring on Book #4!
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
Divorcée Abby McCree helps organisations to raise money, as well as making quilts and generally keeping herself busy. She is in a good place, her tenant, Tripp Blackston is a great friend, and she is currently lending a hand with a fundraiser to aid veterans like Tripp and his friends. The former Special Forces soldier is discomfited when Abby enlists him to be one of the prizes, but she has a covert plan to bid on him herself. However, she's foiled by a generous bid from a gorgeous stranger, who turns out to be Tripp's ex-wife, Valerie. Abby goes to pay the auction's compère, radio personality Bryce Cadigan, but instead finds him in the parking lot, dead in his car. Valerie, who was seen arguing with him, becomes the prime suspect and Tripp, determined to prove Valerie's innocence, enlists Abby to help him investigate.
I liked Abby right away with her smart and sassy attitude, though she is also a bit of a soft touch when it comes to her fundraising. Alexis Morgan has surrounded Abby with a great supporting cast. I found myself warming to Tripp Blackston and the connection and chemistry between him and Abby was evident. Abby also has a true friendship and understanding with Police Chief Gage Logan and of course Zeke, Abby's lovable Mastiff mix, deserves a mention. Tripp's ex-wife, Valerie added plenty of drama and entertainment to the story.
The author has written a very strong here mystery too. With its great plot, the pacing is comfortable and even though I was able to figure out the identity of the killer, there were enough red herrings to keep me guessing awhile. Alexis Morgan's abundant humorous touches and side-splitting moments helped to make Death by Auction a really compelling, fun read. A marvellous addition to this series, I was totally entertained from beginning to end. Bring on Book #4!
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
August 1, 2021
If I could give a more accurate rating of this book I would give it a 3.5/5. The way the book was written, you knew that the suspected killer wasn't accurate throughout the entire story. The fact that it took over 200 pages to reveal the killer in 2 paragraphs was a little bit of a let down because by that point, it was really obvious who the killer was.
There was a lot of extra fluff written throughout the book too. The main character would repeat all the information she had learned to everyone even though us as the reader had already figured all of that out. I like it so much better when the author tells the information to us, then when the main character reconvenes with everyone else they just say "and I gave them a recap of everything I had just learned" or something to that effect. It just felt very repetitive at some points which took away from the suspense of who the murderer was.
I was also very disappointed that nothing happened between the two main characters. There was SO much sexual tension throughout the entire book between them and nothing happened. That was somewhat of a let down since the author really leaned into more of the murder mystery aspect of the story. Adding that component would have made the story more compelling. Overall, very good read- I finished this book in two days.
There was a lot of extra fluff written throughout the book too. The main character would repeat all the information she had learned to everyone even though us as the reader had already figured all of that out. I like it so much better when the author tells the information to us, then when the main character reconvenes with everyone else they just say "and I gave them a recap of everything I had just learned" or something to that effect. It just felt very repetitive at some points which took away from the suspense of who the murderer was.
I was also very disappointed that nothing happened between the two main characters. There was SO much sexual tension throughout the entire book between them and nothing happened. That was somewhat of a let down since the author really leaned into more of the murder mystery aspect of the story. Adding that component would have made the story more compelling. Overall, very good read- I finished this book in two days.
June 20, 2020
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an Thoroughly enjoyable well-plotted mystery with engaging characters that you care about. Abby McCrea was wrangled into organizing an auction and dance to benefit veterans when the death of the emcee put a blight on the night. And to top it off, the gorgeous ex of her tenant, Tripp, becomes suspect number 1 and is using that to find her way back to him. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2020
https://openbooksociety.com/article/d...
Death by Auction
Abby McCree Mystery #3
By Alexis Morgan
ISBN#9781496719553
https://www.alexismorgan.com/
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
Not only did Abby McCree inherit her aunt’s house in Snowberry Creek, Washington, she inherited a handsome tenant and a whole lot of trouble ….
It’s hard to say no to Tripp Blackston. That’s how Abby found herself on yet another committee, organizing a bachelors’ auction to raise money for Tripp’s veterans group. The former Special Forces soldier is mortified when Abby enlists him to be one of the prizes, but she has a covert plan to bid on him herself. Before she caDeath by Auction
Abby McCree Mystery #3
By Alexis Morgann, she’s foiled by a sniper bid from a gorgeous stranger, who turns out to be Tripp’s ex-wife, Valerie.
Still reeling from the shock that Tripp was married and wondering what his ex is suddenly doing in town, Abby goes looking to pay the auction’s emcee, radio personality Bryce Cadigan. She finds him in the parking lot, dead in his car. Valerie appears to be the last one to have seen Bryce alive, so she’s the cops’ best bid for suspect. When she asks Tripp for help–and lodgings–it’s Abby’s turn to block by inviting Val to stay with her. But did she just open her home to a murderer? (Goodreads)
Review:
Death by Auction, the third cozy mystery featuring Abby McCree, is the best yet in the series. Though the mystery is easy to solve, the entertaining dialogue and chemistry between the protagonist and her tenant more than make up for it.
Abby finds herself in charge of yet another committee fundraiser, this time organizing an auction and dance benefitting Tripp’s veterans group. She is looking forward to sweeping in with the high bid for Tripp but is outdone by a gorgeous stranger. Abby is shocked to learn that Valerie is Tripp’s ex-wife. When the auction’s emcee Bryce is found dead, Valerie becomes the prime suspect, and Abby must set aside her feelings to track down the real killer…even if that means it is Valerie.
I like Abby a lot. She is practical and engaging, inquisitive without being pushy and nosy. She is genuinely nice, along with being a great hostess, and cares about those around her. She does struggle just like the rest of us, though, and opening her home up to Valerie is hard. I do find it hilarious that she calls Valerie “the barnacle” because she is always hanging on Tripp. Catty barbs are exchanged throughout providing loads of entertainment. As much as I like Tripp, he is a bit insensitive and obtuse to Valerie’s effect on Abby. Valerie is easy to root against, and I really wanted to smack her more than once. The older ladies that make up Abby’s quilting group are not featured as much this time, and I miss them.
The mystery is quite easy to crack, but I did not figure out the killer’s full motive until late in the book. The victim Bryce is a local celebrity but smarmy enough that readers will not feel too bad that he met an unfortunate end. There are few suspects and really not that many clues for Abby to weed through, but her journey to the truth is fun all the same.
I really enjoyed Death by Auction and hope there are many more mysteries to solve alongside Abby, her dog Zeke, and friends.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Death by Auction
Abby McCree Mystery #3
By Alexis Morgan
ISBN#9781496719553
https://www.alexismorgan.com/
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
Not only did Abby McCree inherit her aunt’s house in Snowberry Creek, Washington, she inherited a handsome tenant and a whole lot of trouble ….
It’s hard to say no to Tripp Blackston. That’s how Abby found herself on yet another committee, organizing a bachelors’ auction to raise money for Tripp’s veterans group. The former Special Forces soldier is mortified when Abby enlists him to be one of the prizes, but she has a covert plan to bid on him herself. Before she caDeath by Auction
Abby McCree Mystery #3
By Alexis Morgann, she’s foiled by a sniper bid from a gorgeous stranger, who turns out to be Tripp’s ex-wife, Valerie.
Still reeling from the shock that Tripp was married and wondering what his ex is suddenly doing in town, Abby goes looking to pay the auction’s emcee, radio personality Bryce Cadigan. She finds him in the parking lot, dead in his car. Valerie appears to be the last one to have seen Bryce alive, so she’s the cops’ best bid for suspect. When she asks Tripp for help–and lodgings–it’s Abby’s turn to block by inviting Val to stay with her. But did she just open her home to a murderer? (Goodreads)
Review:
Death by Auction, the third cozy mystery featuring Abby McCree, is the best yet in the series. Though the mystery is easy to solve, the entertaining dialogue and chemistry between the protagonist and her tenant more than make up for it.
Abby finds herself in charge of yet another committee fundraiser, this time organizing an auction and dance benefitting Tripp’s veterans group. She is looking forward to sweeping in with the high bid for Tripp but is outdone by a gorgeous stranger. Abby is shocked to learn that Valerie is Tripp’s ex-wife. When the auction’s emcee Bryce is found dead, Valerie becomes the prime suspect, and Abby must set aside her feelings to track down the real killer…even if that means it is Valerie.
I like Abby a lot. She is practical and engaging, inquisitive without being pushy and nosy. She is genuinely nice, along with being a great hostess, and cares about those around her. She does struggle just like the rest of us, though, and opening her home up to Valerie is hard. I do find it hilarious that she calls Valerie “the barnacle” because she is always hanging on Tripp. Catty barbs are exchanged throughout providing loads of entertainment. As much as I like Tripp, he is a bit insensitive and obtuse to Valerie’s effect on Abby. Valerie is easy to root against, and I really wanted to smack her more than once. The older ladies that make up Abby’s quilting group are not featured as much this time, and I miss them.
The mystery is quite easy to crack, but I did not figure out the killer’s full motive until late in the book. The victim Bryce is a local celebrity but smarmy enough that readers will not feel too bad that he met an unfortunate end. There are few suspects and really not that many clues for Abby to weed through, but her journey to the truth is fun all the same.
I really enjoyed Death by Auction and hope there are many more mysteries to solve alongside Abby, her dog Zeke, and friends.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
November 5, 2020
Alexis Morgan’s “Death by Auction” is a cozy mystery. I’ve only read three cozies in recent years (2 published, one in manuscript form) and am still figuring out their characteristics. I think of them as mysteries light. They seem to involve more interpersonal relationships than actual crime solving. For some reason, in all three I’ve read, a group of four women meet over muffins to discuss the crimes and otherwise offer emotional support for one or more of their members. Death by Auction has its foursome.
I don’t read many romance novels, either; but this one seems to be as much a romance novel as a mystery.
Basic Story: Two novels back, Abby McCree inherited a house with a built-in tenant in a little house out back, a handsome guy named Tripp. Abby and Tripp have a close but platonic relationship (at least in the beginning of Death by Auction).
Abby finds out Tripp was once married when his ex-wife, Valerie, shows up unexpectedly and unannounced at a big auction. Surprise! Another unpleasant surprise is the emcee/auctioneer is murdered at the auction. Abby is the one who discovers his body. Tripp’s ex-wife, Valerie, is a primary suspect. Against her better judgement, at Tripp’s request, Abby lets Valerie stay in a spare bedroom in her house until the police complete their investigation .
It seems the novel spends most of its time on these storylines in this order:
1. Tension between Abby and Valerie because each has strong feelings for Tripp. (Hint: Abby in her mind thinks of Valerie as “barnacle.”)
2. Baking and eating cookies, buying and eating muffins, cooking eggs and bacons and making coffee for breakfasts.
3. Warming of the platonic relationship between Abby and Tripp.
4. Walking, petting, feeding and playing with Abby’s dog, Zeke.
5. Solving the mystery (To her credit Abby cannot do much since Detective Gage keeps telling her to stay out of the investigation).
Most of the crime solving is done by the police off-stage. Despite Gage's threatening Abby with jail time if she investigates the case, Abby still gets involved.
Alexis Morgan gives readers enough clues to solve the mystery (I identified the murderer and the reason for the murder after two subtle clues).
If you like cozy mysteries (and/or romance novels), you‘ll very likely enjoy Death by Auction. Reader reviews on Goodreads almost all give it four and five star ratings. It’s a quick read that flows very well. There’s clever bit near the end that impressed me.
I’ll give it four stars to join other readers. There’s no noticeable plot holes and it held my interest.
Note to Alexis Morgan: In 8-Ball, the winner is the pool player who sinks the 8 ball, not the 9 ball. That's why it's called 8-ball. That error doesn’t affect the plot, but it was a jarring error.
I don’t read many romance novels, either; but this one seems to be as much a romance novel as a mystery.
Basic Story: Two novels back, Abby McCree inherited a house with a built-in tenant in a little house out back, a handsome guy named Tripp. Abby and Tripp have a close but platonic relationship (at least in the beginning of Death by Auction).
Abby finds out Tripp was once married when his ex-wife, Valerie, shows up unexpectedly and unannounced at a big auction. Surprise! Another unpleasant surprise is the emcee/auctioneer is murdered at the auction. Abby is the one who discovers his body. Tripp’s ex-wife, Valerie, is a primary suspect. Against her better judgement, at Tripp’s request, Abby lets Valerie stay in a spare bedroom in her house until the police complete their investigation .
It seems the novel spends most of its time on these storylines in this order:
1. Tension between Abby and Valerie because each has strong feelings for Tripp. (Hint: Abby in her mind thinks of Valerie as “barnacle.”)
2. Baking and eating cookies, buying and eating muffins, cooking eggs and bacons and making coffee for breakfasts.
3. Warming of the platonic relationship between Abby and Tripp.
4. Walking, petting, feeding and playing with Abby’s dog, Zeke.
5. Solving the mystery (To her credit Abby cannot do much since Detective Gage keeps telling her to stay out of the investigation).
Most of the crime solving is done by the police off-stage. Despite Gage's threatening Abby with jail time if she investigates the case, Abby still gets involved.
Alexis Morgan gives readers enough clues to solve the mystery (I identified the murderer and the reason for the murder after two subtle clues).
If you like cozy mysteries (and/or romance novels), you‘ll very likely enjoy Death by Auction. Reader reviews on Goodreads almost all give it four and five star ratings. It’s a quick read that flows very well. There’s clever bit near the end that impressed me.
I’ll give it four stars to join other readers. There’s no noticeable plot holes and it held my interest.
Note to Alexis Morgan: In 8-Ball, the winner is the pool player who sinks the 8 ball, not the 9 ball. That's why it's called 8-ball. That error doesn’t affect the plot, but it was a jarring error.
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