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A Kelly Jackson Mystery #6
Murder in the Wine Country
Weeding out killers wasn’t part of the job description
. . .
Kelly Jackson, manager of the Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast, is excited to participate in an event to raise awareness for the plight of struggling veterans in their Northern California coastal community. Local wineries are sponsoring tastings, and to prepare for a culinary competition, professional chefs will forage for wild edible greens. Kelly plans to come along, despite a warning to beware of poachers, who have been stealing the highly valued succulent Dudleya farinosa. The senior sleuths who call themselves the Silver Sentinels join forces with environmental activists known as the Succulent Saviors to thwart the poaching operation. When a consultant for the sale of a local winery is murdered, the poachers are suspected—but so is a wine merchant, Kelly's friend Phil. As Kelly and the Silver Sentinels attempt to root out the real killer, what she digs up might just put her permanently underground . . .
Kelly Jackson, manager of the Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast, is excited to participate in an event to raise awareness for the plight of struggling veterans in their Northern California coastal community. Local wineries are sponsoring tastings, and to prepare for a culinary competition, professional chefs will forage for wild edible greens. Kelly plans to come along, despite a warning to beware of poachers, who have been stealing the highly valued succulent Dudleya farinosa. The senior sleuths who call themselves the Silver Sentinels join forces with environmental activists known as the Succulent Saviors to thwart the poaching operation. When a consultant for the sale of a local winery is murdered, the poachers are suspected—but so is a wine merchant, Kelly's friend Phil. As Kelly and the Silver Sentinels attempt to root out the real killer, what she digs up might just put her permanently underground . . .
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2020
About the author
Janet Finsilver
6 books224 followersJanet Finsilver and her husband reside in the San Francisco Bay Area. She worked in education for many years as a teacher, a program administrator, and a workshop presenter. Janet loves animals and has two dogs—Kylie and Ellie. She has ridden western style since she was a child and was a member of the National Ski Patrol. One of the highlights of her life was touching whales in the San Ignacio Lagoon. Her debut mystery, MURDER AT REDWOOD COVE, released in October 2015. MURDER AT THE MANSION and MURDER AT THE FORTUNE TELLER'S TABLE followed. MURDER AT THE MUSHROOM FESTIVAL is scheduled for April 17, 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 49 reviews
April 29, 2020
The sixth book in the Kelly Jackson Mystery series by Janet Finsilver. Kelly Jackson is the manager of Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast. In this book, Kelly is happy to be involved with an event to help struggling veterans. During the event, chefs are foraging for edible greens for the culinary competition and local wineries are sponsoring tastings.
Kelly joins in with some of the activities, and all goes well until crime happens. The crimes include theft and murder. In the previous books, a lot of the sleuthing is done by the Silver Sentinels, a group of crime-solving senior citizens. In this book, Kelly takes on more of a sleuth role.
An entertaining cozy mystery series. Charming setting. Interesting characters. Well-crafted plot. Delightful and fun.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Kelly joins in with some of the activities, and all goes well until crime happens. The crimes include theft and murder. In the previous books, a lot of the sleuthing is done by the Silver Sentinels, a group of crime-solving senior citizens. In this book, Kelly takes on more of a sleuth role.
An entertaining cozy mystery series. Charming setting. Interesting characters. Well-crafted plot. Delightful and fun.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2020
I am a fan of this series so I was looking forward to visiting Redwood Cove Inn Manager Kelly Jackson and the Silver Sentinels again. I was not disappointed and found this sixth book in the series to be just as entertaining and engaging as the previous five books. There is a lot going on in this book and it hooked me right from the beginning. Ms. Finsilver has a wonderful, descriptive writing style that allows the reader to clearly picture the setting. Her characters are hitting their stride and have become like old friends. As with previous books, there are some new secondary characters, that while temporary, fit in with the story nicely. The only criticism for me is that I felt like we didn't get enough of the Silver Sentinels this time around. It seemed like the sleuthing and investigating fell on Kelly's shoulders in this book.
There are actually two different mysteries running parallel in this book. It takes a bit of time to determine if they are related or just two different mysteries to solve. The author does a great job of sending her reader foraging for clues trying to figure out which one will lead to the killer's identity. Both are wrapped up with different climactic conclusions.
I always finish a book in this series having been entertained and looking forward to the next adventure for these characters.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley.
There are actually two different mysteries running parallel in this book. It takes a bit of time to determine if they are related or just two different mysteries to solve. The author does a great job of sending her reader foraging for clues trying to figure out which one will lead to the killer's identity. Both are wrapped up with different climactic conclusions.
I always finish a book in this series having been entertained and looking forward to the next adventure for these characters.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley.
February 21, 2020
Murder in the Wine Country by Janet Finsilver is the sixth book in her Kelly Jackson cozy series and did not disappoint.
The story immediately engaged my interest from the first chapter. Ms. Finsilver's smoothly paced and well-crafted plot kept me turning the pages. The descriptive writing makes me feel right at home in this northern California coastal community now. I confess that I want to join forces with the Silver Sentinels in each investigation. There is actually more than one mystery in this book that needs to be solved and Kelly manages to be involved in all of them. I love this series and look forward to each book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Lyrical Press via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
The story immediately engaged my interest from the first chapter. Ms. Finsilver's smoothly paced and well-crafted plot kept me turning the pages. The descriptive writing makes me feel right at home in this northern California coastal community now. I confess that I want to join forces with the Silver Sentinels in each investigation. There is actually more than one mystery in this book that needs to be solved and Kelly manages to be involved in all of them. I love this series and look forward to each book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Lyrical Press via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
June 22, 2020
“Plant poaching? Who knew?”
Murder in the Wine Country is the first book I’ve read by Janet Finsilver – and, therefore, the first book I’ve read in the Kelly Jackson mysteries. While there was a little bit of a learning curve as far as learning who everyone was & how they were connected, overall I think it works perfectly well as a standalone.
Kelly is a very likable heroine, the kind of amateur sleuth who wisely calls the police when needed… though she certainly also has moments where she jumps in to save the day at risk of her own life. She’s also the kind of character who genuinely seems to care about other people, and even as a fairly recent transplant to the area she has a wide circle of friends. These friends – from romantic interest Scott (any mystery purists needn’t worry – it’s a very very light romance thread) to local law enforcement, wine people (makers & tasters), Helen & Tommy (and of course doggy Fred), and the Silver Sentinels. The latter – a group of senior citizen amateur sleuths – is a delight to follow. Their dedication to crime solving and their intuitive natures, as well as their unique personalities, keep a smile on your face anytime they are on the page.
The mystery in Murder in the Wine Country is actually multi-layered. There’s a murder (as the title suggests) but also plant poaching in the area, wine theft, and a couple of missing people. Kelly & the Sentinels certainly have their jobs cut out for them as they race to clear a friend & solve the crimes before anyone else gets hurt! I enjoyed the progression of the clues & the reveal of the culprit(s) – it all was presented with a steady pace and clever plotting that easily holds your attention & keeps you engaged in the outcome.
Bottom Line: Murder in the Wine Country by Janet Finsilver is a smooth, easy read with charming characters and a picturesque setting. From exotic plant poaching to murder and everything in between, the mysteries in this cozy keep Kelly & the Sentinels busy and readers on their toes too. A delightful installment for fans of this genre and of the series!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Murder in the Wine Country is the first book I’ve read by Janet Finsilver – and, therefore, the first book I’ve read in the Kelly Jackson mysteries. While there was a little bit of a learning curve as far as learning who everyone was & how they were connected, overall I think it works perfectly well as a standalone.
Kelly is a very likable heroine, the kind of amateur sleuth who wisely calls the police when needed… though she certainly also has moments where she jumps in to save the day at risk of her own life. She’s also the kind of character who genuinely seems to care about other people, and even as a fairly recent transplant to the area she has a wide circle of friends. These friends – from romantic interest Scott (any mystery purists needn’t worry – it’s a very very light romance thread) to local law enforcement, wine people (makers & tasters), Helen & Tommy (and of course doggy Fred), and the Silver Sentinels. The latter – a group of senior citizen amateur sleuths – is a delight to follow. Their dedication to crime solving and their intuitive natures, as well as their unique personalities, keep a smile on your face anytime they are on the page.
The mystery in Murder in the Wine Country is actually multi-layered. There’s a murder (as the title suggests) but also plant poaching in the area, wine theft, and a couple of missing people. Kelly & the Sentinels certainly have their jobs cut out for them as they race to clear a friend & solve the crimes before anyone else gets hurt! I enjoyed the progression of the clues & the reveal of the culprit(s) – it all was presented with a steady pace and clever plotting that easily holds your attention & keeps you engaged in the outcome.
Bottom Line: Murder in the Wine Country by Janet Finsilver is a smooth, easy read with charming characters and a picturesque setting. From exotic plant poaching to murder and everything in between, the mysteries in this cozy keep Kelly & the Sentinels busy and readers on their toes too. A delightful installment for fans of this genre and of the series!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
May 16, 2020
Murder in the Wine Country by Janet Finsilver takes us back to Red Cove, California. Kelly Jackson, manager of Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast, is participating in an event to raise awareness on the plight of veterans. Kelly is looking forward the foraging expedition to look for edible greens. She is surprised when the game warden advises them to go in pairs because of poachers making off with a rare succulent, Dudleya farinose. The Silver Sentinels need a new project, so they begin looking into the poaching problem. Before the events can begin, a friend of Phil’s, Eric Stapleton is killed. Eric was acting as a consultant on the sale of the Sagatini Winery. Everyone is shocked when Phil ends up at the top of the suspect list. Kelly and the Silver Sentinels set out prove his innocence. Murder in the Wine Country is the 6th A Kelly Jackson Mystery. Each book in this charming series can be read on its own. I like the variety of characters in this series especially the Silver Sentinels. Tommy, Helen’s son, is a cutie who is full of energy. The setting of Redwood Cove is just lovely. The author’s vivid word imagery brings the setting to life. I found Murder in the Wine Country to be well-written and engaging with the story moving along at a steady pace. It was interesting learning about edible greens. The chefs make some tasty dishes with their foraged ingredients. I appreciate that the romance between Scott and Kelly moves along slowly. The spend time together when they can, and they are taking their time getting to know each other. The mystery had a couple of different components to it (which I loved). I liked that Kelly took a more active sleuthing role in this book. It is always entertaining following Kelly and the Silver Sentinels as they dig up clues and uncover the guilty party. Murder in the Wine Country has a great conclusion that nicely wraps up the mysteries. Murder in the Wine Country is a diverting cozy mystery with foraging for flora, wonderful wines, succulent stealers, valiant veterans, and a perplexing puzzle.
May 6, 2020
I feel like this series is one of those extremely well kept secrets and we need to get the secret out!!
I love everything about the Kelly Jackson Mysteries... the plot, the setting, the characters, and the mysteries. This series has something for everyone. The setting of Redwood Cove is to die for, no pun intended. The characters are all very well developed, likable, and they all play their part in the stories. From Tommy, the child with Asperger Syndrome, and his dog Fred to all the Silver Sentinels, there is definitely a character for you. There is always a new hobby or event to explore in town and Janet Finsilver has a way of making you feel like you are experiencing it with the cast.
In this installment, its a wine tasting event. When an accident and burglary turn out to be more sinister than originally suspected, Kelly and Silver Sentinels are on the case.
One other thing that really sticks out in the later novels, the charity developed for the aid and care of Veterans. This is a subject near and dear to my heart and the author does a great job bringing awareness.
This series is one of my favorite Cozy Mystery Series, it is carefree and entertaining. I love a series with senior sleuths. These books are easily one sitting reads and I highly recommending binging this series.
I had an advanced digital copy from NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corporation. I also had this book in audio format. The narrator, Reba Buhr, did a fabulous job.
I am looking forward to a book 7 and more adventures at Redwood Cove.
I love everything about the Kelly Jackson Mysteries... the plot, the setting, the characters, and the mysteries. This series has something for everyone. The setting of Redwood Cove is to die for, no pun intended. The characters are all very well developed, likable, and they all play their part in the stories. From Tommy, the child with Asperger Syndrome, and his dog Fred to all the Silver Sentinels, there is definitely a character for you. There is always a new hobby or event to explore in town and Janet Finsilver has a way of making you feel like you are experiencing it with the cast.
In this installment, its a wine tasting event. When an accident and burglary turn out to be more sinister than originally suspected, Kelly and Silver Sentinels are on the case.
One other thing that really sticks out in the later novels, the charity developed for the aid and care of Veterans. This is a subject near and dear to my heart and the author does a great job bringing awareness.
This series is one of my favorite Cozy Mystery Series, it is carefree and entertaining. I love a series with senior sleuths. These books are easily one sitting reads and I highly recommending binging this series.
I had an advanced digital copy from NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corporation. I also had this book in audio format. The narrator, Reba Buhr, did a fabulous job.
I am looking forward to a book 7 and more adventures at Redwood Cove.
May 4, 2020
This was one of the most exciting books in the series with several places where I just couldn't read fast enough to see what happened. Needless to say, reading this book makes a person not want to budge and do anything else. I really enjoyed that Kelly's boss Michael got a much bigger part in this book than I ever remember from before. His work with the veterans especially those with PTSD was so admirable, and being the nice guy that he was, he never tried to talk up his own achievements.
I had the killer pegged fairly early on, but my reason was completely off. It was really cool how three couples may have been brought together by this whole ordeal. And as always, I just love the seniors who make up the Silver Sentinels, the group that welcomed Kelly into their meetings and enjoyed a good investigation. They definitely had their hands full this time with a murder, missing persons, someone being framed and plant poaching.
I had the killer pegged fairly early on, but my reason was completely off. It was really cool how three couples may have been brought together by this whole ordeal. And as always, I just love the seniors who make up the Silver Sentinels, the group that welcomed Kelly into their meetings and enjoyed a good investigation. They definitely had their hands full this time with a murder, missing persons, someone being framed and plant poaching.
May 9, 2020
Murder with a local flavor. Now firmly established as the manager of the Redwood Cove B&B, Kelly Jackson has also been accepted as one of the locals. When a new acquaintance dies under mysterious circumstances while helping to plan a wine tasting event, Kelly jumps in to help solve the mystery. At the same time, she's up to her ears in fungus poachers, wine theft and goat yoga. Once again the California coast is a major character and I enjoyed reading about familiar places. A worthy addition to this fun series.
May 3, 2020
Murder in the Wine Country
is the sixth book in the 'A Kelly Jackson Mystery' series. In this instalment, an event to raise awareness for the plight of struggling veterans is taking place in Redwood Cove, Northern California. Kelly Jackson, manager of the Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast, is excited to be participating. Local wineries are sponsoring tastings, and professional chefs will forage for wild edible greens to prepare for a culinary competition. Michael Corrigan from Resorts International, the organisation responsible for hosting the event, has brought in advisers warning the community to be vigilant as plant poachers have been operating in the area. The succulent Dudleya farinosa, a popular plant and a status symbol of Chinese middle-class families, is very highly priced. In addition to the problem of poaching, a wave of crimes occur in the area, and Kelly and the Silver Sentinels (the name a bunch of senior sleuths and town residents have given themselves) find they have to decide which crime to focus on.
Although this was my first book in the series, I adored this novel and I had no trouble keeping up with the events and the characters! It had a great setting - I love books that have a seaside location, as I live near the coast myself so there is always a connection there. Janet Finsilver made great use of the locale - there was a real sense of community and a general buoyant vibe. This, as well as a town full of misdeed, made it a brilliant backdrop for a murder investigation.
Murder in the Wine Country saw the return of protagonist Kelly, who had the necessary attributes of any great sleuth - intelligence, curiosity and attention to detail. This book had many of the components that make a really good story: from the mood and undercurrents to the very clever writing. The details of the plot were brilliantly executed and every chapter left me with a compelling need to read on. The finale is perfectly satisfactory, with all loose ends neatly tied up. I highly recommend Murder in the Wine Country to those who appreciate well-written cozy mysteries. This is a novel I really enjoyed, and I very much look forward to my next outing with Kelly and the Silver Sentinels!
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
Although this was my first book in the series, I adored this novel and I had no trouble keeping up with the events and the characters! It had a great setting - I love books that have a seaside location, as I live near the coast myself so there is always a connection there. Janet Finsilver made great use of the locale - there was a real sense of community and a general buoyant vibe. This, as well as a town full of misdeed, made it a brilliant backdrop for a murder investigation.
Murder in the Wine Country saw the return of protagonist Kelly, who had the necessary attributes of any great sleuth - intelligence, curiosity and attention to detail. This book had many of the components that make a really good story: from the mood and undercurrents to the very clever writing. The details of the plot were brilliantly executed and every chapter left me with a compelling need to read on. The finale is perfectly satisfactory, with all loose ends neatly tied up. I highly recommend Murder in the Wine Country to those who appreciate well-written cozy mysteries. This is a novel I really enjoyed, and I very much look forward to my next outing with Kelly and the Silver Sentinels!
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
May 17, 2020
Murder in the Wine Country.is the sized book in the Kelly Jackson Mystery series. This installment is excellent, the perfect cozy mystery. This series seems to get better with each new book. I look forward to the next book in this series.
July 7, 2022
An enjoyable book providing the reader with several interwoven storylines. Even though murder and kidnappings overlap, the author keeps them all straight and provides a satisfying conclusion.
All recurring characters are here. The Silver Sentinels do not play as central a role as in previous books. There are times Kelly finds herself in danger but the drama comes naturally and is not brought about by the too often seen “too dumb to live” behavior.
At six books into the series, the author is still not providing any “character” to the characters. They’re there on the page but none are given personalities the reader can embrace. Everyone seems very cardboard. A section concerning panic attacks seems like it was written from information from a textbook. Worse than that, resolving a situation of an abusive husband with a talking-to when therapy hadn’t previously helped was so ridiculous it brought this reader out of the story with a “Wait! what?! What just happened?”
All recurring characters are here. The Silver Sentinels do not play as central a role as in previous books. There are times Kelly finds herself in danger but the drama comes naturally and is not brought about by the too often seen “too dumb to live” behavior.
At six books into the series, the author is still not providing any “character” to the characters. They’re there on the page but none are given personalities the reader can embrace. Everyone seems very cardboard. A section concerning panic attacks seems like it was written from information from a textbook. Worse than that, resolving a situation of an abusive husband with a talking-to when therapy hadn’t previously helped was so ridiculous it brought this reader out of the story with a “Wait! what?! What just happened?”
April 7, 2020
I've always enjoyed these light escape reads, though this was not one of my favorites. The writing felt a little clunkier than usual, and the ridiculous minor subplot where Kelly gives a good talking to and solves the problems of a borderline abusive husband went beyond ridiculous to offensive, in my opinion. Oh, if we just *tell* someone they're handling things the wrong way, they'll fix it. Good to know. I'm hoping the series is back in stride with its next entry.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 16, 2020
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
I've enjoyed the previous books in this series, so when I was in the mood for a familiar cozy mystery series I decided to pick this one up. Returning to this series always feels like spending time with familiar characters and it's always fun to pick up another book in this series. This was again a great read and I liked seeing all the plot lines develop.
Murder in the Wine Country has a lot going on, at times I thought it might be too much for one book, but it sure made for an engaging read. There is this big event that the main character's boss is putting together which forms the backdrop for a lot of the story. Then there are poachers who are active and a dead body. Kelly and the Silver Sentinels have to band together again to help solve this mystery. And then there are plenty of smaller side plot lines regarding the characters that are progressing as well.
So this book actually had multiple mysteries sort of running alongside each other, at first it was unclear what was related and what not, but that worked to keep the mystery up. I enjoyed seeing how everything developed, but looking back it did feel like a certain mystery was put on the back burner for most of the middle of the book and then got resolved rather quickly toward the end. There wasn't as much figuring out suspects and finding clues, both mysteries were rather straightforward and most of the tension was in seeing how it all played out. With everything going on it definitely held my attention even with the mystery being not as strong as in some of the other books.
As this is book 6 in the series I really enjoy spending time with the by now familiar characters. Seeing the silver sentinels and Kelly try and solve the mysteries and seeing the intricacies of each of the characters. Then there is Helen and her son Tommy, the local law enforcement officer, Scott, as well as Phill, Daniel and other characters Kelly knows through her work. It has a rich cast of characters and it's a joy spending time with all of them. Through the previous books I've gotten to know all of them, so even tough it's a large amount of characters it's never confusion. Then there is a whole new group of characters related to the event and some side plot lines regarding them that progress throughout the story.
To summarize: I enjoyed returning to this series for another great cozy mystery read and spending time with the by now familiar characters. This book has a lot going on with some main mysteries as well as various side plot lines, but it all works out and made for an engaging read. Looking back I did feel like one of the mysteries was put on hold for a large section of the book. The murder mystery was resolved rather easily by the end and lacked the longer looking for clues parts other books have due to the other mystery going taking place as well. It still made for a great read and I liked the unique twist to have two mysteries going on in the same book. One of my favorite parts of this series is spending time with all the characters again and seeing what's going on. There are some character related side plot lines as well and I liked reading it and seeing how everything developed.
I've enjoyed the previous books in this series, so when I was in the mood for a familiar cozy mystery series I decided to pick this one up. Returning to this series always feels like spending time with familiar characters and it's always fun to pick up another book in this series. This was again a great read and I liked seeing all the plot lines develop.
Murder in the Wine Country has a lot going on, at times I thought it might be too much for one book, but it sure made for an engaging read. There is this big event that the main character's boss is putting together which forms the backdrop for a lot of the story. Then there are poachers who are active and a dead body. Kelly and the Silver Sentinels have to band together again to help solve this mystery. And then there are plenty of smaller side plot lines regarding the characters that are progressing as well.
So this book actually had multiple mysteries sort of running alongside each other, at first it was unclear what was related and what not, but that worked to keep the mystery up. I enjoyed seeing how everything developed, but looking back it did feel like a certain mystery was put on the back burner for most of the middle of the book and then got resolved rather quickly toward the end. There wasn't as much figuring out suspects and finding clues, both mysteries were rather straightforward and most of the tension was in seeing how it all played out. With everything going on it definitely held my attention even with the mystery being not as strong as in some of the other books.
As this is book 6 in the series I really enjoy spending time with the by now familiar characters. Seeing the silver sentinels and Kelly try and solve the mysteries and seeing the intricacies of each of the characters. Then there is Helen and her son Tommy, the local law enforcement officer, Scott, as well as Phill, Daniel and other characters Kelly knows through her work. It has a rich cast of characters and it's a joy spending time with all of them. Through the previous books I've gotten to know all of them, so even tough it's a large amount of characters it's never confusion. Then there is a whole new group of characters related to the event and some side plot lines regarding them that progress throughout the story.
To summarize: I enjoyed returning to this series for another great cozy mystery read and spending time with the by now familiar characters. This book has a lot going on with some main mysteries as well as various side plot lines, but it all works out and made for an engaging read. Looking back I did feel like one of the mysteries was put on hold for a large section of the book. The murder mystery was resolved rather easily by the end and lacked the longer looking for clues parts other books have due to the other mystery going taking place as well. It still made for a great read and I liked the unique twist to have two mysteries going on in the same book. One of my favorite parts of this series is spending time with all the characters again and seeing what's going on. There are some character related side plot lines as well and I liked reading it and seeing how everything developed.
November 19, 2020
Redwood Cove is an isolated community in northern California. The wealthy Michael Corrigan, owner of Resorts International, is not the stereotypical rich businessman with cutthroat motives and actions. He is boss to Scott, manager of Redwood Cove Community Center, and to Kelly, manager of Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast. Always looking for ways to help others, especially veterans, Michael is hosting an exclusive event for other wealthy philanthropists with the goal of providing a model of community support that he hopes will inspire them to implement similar programs in their own communities.
Problems have arisen in the little town with the presence of plant poachers who are digging up a certain plant that is popular in China and smuggling them out of the country. In the midst of this event, wardens warn visiting chefs, who are encouraged to forage for edible plants in the area to showcase in their culinary creations, of potential danger from these smugglers. When there is a death, a robbery, and three missing people, Kelly and the Silver Sentinels, a group of seniors who use their skills to help solve crimes, gather at Kelly’s B&B and get to work.
Other mainstay characters are involved in Janet Finsilver’s Murder in the Wine Country. My favorites are Tommy, a sweet boy with Asperger’s, and his Basset hound Fred. Deputy Stanton enjoys spending time with Tommy working on projects and with Tommy’s mom Helen, a widow who works at the inn. There is certainly potential for romance between them in future books. Scott and Kelly also have romantic inclinations, but the author doesn’t rush the characters into relationships. Another interesting character is Julie, a visiting chef who has a service dog Rex, who is not only a faithful companion, but can warn her of an impending epileptic seizure. He plays an important role in the story.
The plot moves along at a nice pace. Kelly’s investigations are successful to the point of putting her in danger of losing her life. The Silver Sentinels are ready to help at a moment’s notice as are other community members who aren’t even involved. The setting is great, but it’s the people who make Redwood Cove the kind of place you might want to live.
I would like to extend my thanks to Netgalley and to Lyrical Underground (Kensington Press) for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Problems have arisen in the little town with the presence of plant poachers who are digging up a certain plant that is popular in China and smuggling them out of the country. In the midst of this event, wardens warn visiting chefs, who are encouraged to forage for edible plants in the area to showcase in their culinary creations, of potential danger from these smugglers. When there is a death, a robbery, and three missing people, Kelly and the Silver Sentinels, a group of seniors who use their skills to help solve crimes, gather at Kelly’s B&B and get to work.
Other mainstay characters are involved in Janet Finsilver’s Murder in the Wine Country. My favorites are Tommy, a sweet boy with Asperger’s, and his Basset hound Fred. Deputy Stanton enjoys spending time with Tommy working on projects and with Tommy’s mom Helen, a widow who works at the inn. There is certainly potential for romance between them in future books. Scott and Kelly also have romantic inclinations, but the author doesn’t rush the characters into relationships. Another interesting character is Julie, a visiting chef who has a service dog Rex, who is not only a faithful companion, but can warn her of an impending epileptic seizure. He plays an important role in the story.
The plot moves along at a nice pace. Kelly’s investigations are successful to the point of putting her in danger of losing her life. The Silver Sentinels are ready to help at a moment’s notice as are other community members who aren’t even involved. The setting is great, but it’s the people who make Redwood Cove the kind of place you might want to live.
I would like to extend my thanks to Netgalley and to Lyrical Underground (Kensington Press) for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2020
Murder in the Wine Country is the sixth book in Janet Finsilver’s Kelly Jackson Mystery series. The series takes place in a small town on the coast of Northern California with caring, well developed, and affable characters and a well-plotted storyline that flows at a steady pace. A lot is happening in this book, but the Silver Sentinels, a group of five senior citizens who enjoy solving mysteries, take a back seat to the protagonist, who monopolized the sleuthing and investigating in this installment.
Kelly Jackson is the manager of Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast and loves her job, the people she works with, and the community she lives in. Kelly’s boss, Michael Corrigan, is hosting an event at the Community Center to raise awareness of the plight veterans face with the hope of encouraging others to use his program as a guideline to recreate the model throughout the country to help veterans and their local communities. One of the activities planned is to have a group of professional chefs go on foraging hikes to get natural ingredients from the area to use in their dishes. Michael brings in Warden Luis Rodriguez of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to advise the group to be aware to advise the group to be cautious because the area has been experiencing plant poaching. While no violence has been reported, the succulent, Dudleya farinose, has become a popular plant as a status symbol of Chinese middle-class families, and a lot of money is involved. In addition to the poaching, a rash of crimes, including murder, thefts, disappearances, and kidnapping erupt in the area, and Kelly and the Silver Sentinels find themselves having to decide which crime to focus their attention on.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Kelly Jackson is the manager of Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast and loves her job, the people she works with, and the community she lives in. Kelly’s boss, Michael Corrigan, is hosting an event at the Community Center to raise awareness of the plight veterans face with the hope of encouraging others to use his program as a guideline to recreate the model throughout the country to help veterans and their local communities. One of the activities planned is to have a group of professional chefs go on foraging hikes to get natural ingredients from the area to use in their dishes. Michael brings in Warden Luis Rodriguez of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to advise the group to be aware to advise the group to be cautious because the area has been experiencing plant poaching. While no violence has been reported, the succulent, Dudleya farinose, has become a popular plant as a status symbol of Chinese middle-class families, and a lot of money is involved. In addition to the poaching, a rash of crimes, including murder, thefts, disappearances, and kidnapping erupt in the area, and Kelly and the Silver Sentinels find themselves having to decide which crime to focus their attention on.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
May 2, 2020
This has become one of my favorite cozy series and it was a pleasure to escape our real world problems to spend time with Kelly and the Silver Sentinels in Redwood Cove. This time Kelly is front and center regarding the investigating with assistance from the Silver Sentinels. She is the manager of the Redwood Cove B&B and is involved with a charity event to aid veterans. It will involve wine tasting and various chefs will go out into the woods to forage for edible plants. Sounds harmless enough but they are warned that there have been plant poachers in the area and they might be trouble. Do they have something to do with the recent local crime wave and a murder? Kelly sets out to find the killer when the police focus on a friend of hers as their prime suspect. The wonderful group of seniors are ready to give her all the help she needs. I have to say, I wouldn't find hanging out with them myself.
This is a very well crafted mystery series with well developed characters and complex puzzles to unravel. Twists, turns and red herrings abound and each mystery has left me a very satisfied reader. If you are new to this delightful series, don't hesitate to start with this entry. It stands alone very well but you will probably want to get your hands on the previous five mysteries so you can play catchup.
My thanks to the publisher Lyrical Underground and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
This is a very well crafted mystery series with well developed characters and complex puzzles to unravel. Twists, turns and red herrings abound and each mystery has left me a very satisfied reader. If you are new to this delightful series, don't hesitate to start with this entry. It stands alone very well but you will probably want to get your hands on the previous five mysteries so you can play catchup.
My thanks to the publisher Lyrical Underground and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 31, 2020
Princess Fuzzypants here: I have enjoyed the previous books in the series. Kelly is a very capable, strong lady who runs the B & B owned by a very rich philanthropist businessman. She is a transplanted cowgirl whose skills on the range come in very handy when dealing with the bad guys in this book. And there are two sets of bad guys she must deal with.
One set are poachers who steal a rare but treasured plant for the Chinese market and manage to veer into kidnapping in the process to avoid being caught. Since the kidnapped people are close to Kelly, she feels compelled to help find them. She enlists the help of her extremely capable seniors and between them, Kelly is able to hunt down the villains and free the captives. It’s a pretty exciting story line but it is resolved fairly early in the book.
The tougher one to solve is the theft of wine for which her friend is being framed. There is also an “accident’ that kills another friend and Kelly believes the two events are related. She is absolutely correct but when she realizes who is responsible, she is put in another dicey situation. Again, Kelly must have been a Boy Scout because she is always prepared. It’s nice to see a heroine who doesn’t go foolishly into dangerous situations but when they occur, is able to think her way out. Kudos for finding the fine line.
Five purrs and two paws up.
One set are poachers who steal a rare but treasured plant for the Chinese market and manage to veer into kidnapping in the process to avoid being caught. Since the kidnapped people are close to Kelly, she feels compelled to help find them. She enlists the help of her extremely capable seniors and between them, Kelly is able to hunt down the villains and free the captives. It’s a pretty exciting story line but it is resolved fairly early in the book.
The tougher one to solve is the theft of wine for which her friend is being framed. There is also an “accident’ that kills another friend and Kelly believes the two events are related. She is absolutely correct but when she realizes who is responsible, she is put in another dicey situation. Again, Kelly must have been a Boy Scout because she is always prepared. It’s nice to see a heroine who doesn’t go foolishly into dangerous situations but when they occur, is able to think her way out. Kudos for finding the fine line.
Five purrs and two paws up.
August 29, 2023
Kelly’s boss is bringing in others to get a vision of what he’s accomplished in Redwood Cove in the hopes of replicating it around the country. Part of this is a wine tasting, and Eric is supposed to be assisting with it. However, not too long after Kelly meets him, Eric turns up dead. Could it have to do with the poachers in the area looking for a rare and expensive plant?
This teaser doesn’t even mention a storyline that starts part way into the book and really takes over. I get why it does, but it makes the resulting story feel way more rushed than it should have been. There was enough here for two books. Plus, there’s a sub-plot that is resolved way too easily (and unrealistically). But, as always, I loved the characters and watching their relationships grow. I was smiling as I read about them. Likewise, I enjoyed revisiting the setting. If you are new to the series, don’t start here. Fans will enjoy it even if it is the weakest in the series.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This teaser doesn’t even mention a storyline that starts part way into the book and really takes over. I get why it does, but it makes the resulting story feel way more rushed than it should have been. There was enough here for two books. Plus, there’s a sub-plot that is resolved way too easily (and unrealistically). But, as always, I loved the characters and watching their relationships grow. I was smiling as I read about them. Likewise, I enjoyed revisiting the setting. If you are new to the series, don’t start here. Fans will enjoy it even if it is the weakest in the series.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
April 27, 2020
Murder in the Wine Country by Janet Finsilver is the sixth book in her Kelly Jackson cozy series . I have read the prior books in the series and always enjoy returning to this wonderful series. Thank you to the author, the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. My review opinions are my own.
We return to Kelly and the Redwood Cove Inn in coastal Northern California. Kelly loves her job managing the Inn and enjoys living in her small town with a solid group of friends. Some of her most enjoyable friends in this series are the "Silver Sentinels", a group of five senior citizens who enjoy solving mysteries with Kelly. Kelly is preparing for an event at a community center to help veterans. When a murder occurs Kelly and the Silvers are on the case once again. Amid the murder is a theft to solve and a domestic abuse situation that Kelly feels compelled to take on .
This is a pleasing mystery series that I always enjoy returning to . The sleuth was well crafted. The charcters are richly drawn and the setting is enjoyable. I look forward to the next in series.
We return to Kelly and the Redwood Cove Inn in coastal Northern California. Kelly loves her job managing the Inn and enjoys living in her small town with a solid group of friends. Some of her most enjoyable friends in this series are the "Silver Sentinels", a group of five senior citizens who enjoy solving mysteries with Kelly. Kelly is preparing for an event at a community center to help veterans. When a murder occurs Kelly and the Silvers are on the case once again. Amid the murder is a theft to solve and a domestic abuse situation that Kelly feels compelled to take on .
This is a pleasing mystery series that I always enjoy returning to . The sleuth was well crafted. The charcters are richly drawn and the setting is enjoyable. I look forward to the next in series.
April 28, 2020
Kelly Jackson and her colleagues are working with their boss, Michael, to highlight the benefits of working with the Veteran community to their business owners. They’ve planned a Western themed event with several chefs preparing recipes using locally forage foods. When two of the chefs disappear along with Michael it looks like they may have been kidnapped.
The Silver Sentinels decide to help look for the missing people, as well as helping to solve a murder, find the thieves who are stealing protected plants, and clearing a friend of a theft charge that he was set up to take the fall for. As they start sleuthing things look more and more like they are all related to the plant thieves and solving one will help to solve the others as well. But Kelly seems to have a knack for finding trouble, or trouble finding her, meaning the team needs to act quickly before they need to add Kelly to their list of things lost.
Another fabulous entry in this series. Looking forward to seeing what cupid has in store for Kelly as we move ahead.
The Silver Sentinels decide to help look for the missing people, as well as helping to solve a murder, find the thieves who are stealing protected plants, and clearing a friend of a theft charge that he was set up to take the fall for. As they start sleuthing things look more and more like they are all related to the plant thieves and solving one will help to solve the others as well. But Kelly seems to have a knack for finding trouble, or trouble finding her, meaning the team needs to act quickly before they need to add Kelly to their list of things lost.
Another fabulous entry in this series. Looking forward to seeing what cupid has in store for Kelly as we move ahead.
May 25, 2020
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
What a great addition to this book wonderful cozy mystery series! Kelly is all excited for an upcoming event that will have a wide range of activities. One of them includes foraging for edible ingredients but they all receive a warning about poachers in the area after a rare yet valuable plant. As if that is not bad enough during their first excursion they are met by a group that claims to be protecting the area only they come off rather intimidating instead. Hoping for the best the itinerary moves forward until a consultant for the sale of a winery is found murdered making both the group and a wine merchant the main suspects. Kelly knows the merchant so she starts investigating in between her duties at the B&B as well as the events. What follows is a fantastic blend of food, wine tasting, clues, and a variety of characters that create a story readers can really love. A must read for fans of cozy mysteries. I totally loved it so I give it 5/5 stars.
What a great addition to this book wonderful cozy mystery series! Kelly is all excited for an upcoming event that will have a wide range of activities. One of them includes foraging for edible ingredients but they all receive a warning about poachers in the area after a rare yet valuable plant. As if that is not bad enough during their first excursion they are met by a group that claims to be protecting the area only they come off rather intimidating instead. Hoping for the best the itinerary moves forward until a consultant for the sale of a winery is found murdered making both the group and a wine merchant the main suspects. Kelly knows the merchant so she starts investigating in between her duties at the B&B as well as the events. What follows is a fantastic blend of food, wine tasting, clues, and a variety of characters that create a story readers can really love. A must read for fans of cozy mysteries. I totally loved it so I give it 5/5 stars.
April 21, 2023
"Kelly Jackson, manager of the Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast, is excited to participate in an event to raise awareness for the plight of struggling veterans in their Northern California coastal community. Local wineries are sponsoring tastings, and to prepare for a culinary competition, professional chefs will forage for wild edible greens. Kelly plans to come along, despite a warning to beware of poachers, who have been stealing the highly valued succulent Dudleya farinosa. The senior sleuths who call themselves the Silver Sentinels join forces with environmental activists known as the Succulent Saviors to thwart the poaching operation. When a consultant for the sale of a local winery is murdered, the poachers are suspected—but so is a wine merchant, Kelly's friend Phil. As Kelly and the Silver Sentinels attempt to root out the real killer, what she digs up might just put her permanently underground."
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
February 19, 2021
This follows the Silver Sentinels and Kelly Jackson find themselves introducing new people to things offered at the Redwood Cove B and B along the way Michael whose idea it was for the bed and breakfast among other things and a chef visiting end up kidnapped and another chef disappears Kelly finds herself deep in a search and rescue situation.
They also learn about poachers in the area stealing plants that are worth quite a penny on the market. While avoiding the poachers Kelly uses her witt and a dog to get to the bottom of what is going. They also help Phil get out from under a murder wrap of his friend.
Will Kelly and the Sentinels figure out in time or will she be checking out next? This book is such fun I love the Sentinels and what they bring to the story and I love how Kelly is like a dog with a bone and won't give up until she figures it out! Definitely a series I will continue if you haven't read it your missing out a fabulous mystery!
August 25, 2021
This book is the sixth book in the Kelly Jackson mystery series. This book had an interesting spin on the traditional cozy mystery, as it included missing people and poachers. I enjoyed the story quite a bit and had no problem getting to the know the characters despite this being the first novel in the series I've read. Kelly Jackson utilizes the help of the Silver Sentinels, a group of seniors who are interested in solving crimes. I really liked that these seniors seemed to have distinct personalities and were not the typical quirky seniors complaining of aches and pains and getting away with acting strange because of their age.
I thought this was an interesting premise for the book with the multiple layers and I would be interested to read the other books in this series.
A copy of this book was provided to me by #NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for my honest opinion.
I thought this was an interesting premise for the book with the multiple layers and I would be interested to read the other books in this series.
A copy of this book was provided to me by #NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 17, 2020
Helping veterans should have made for an easy fundraiser but noooo. This latest installment in a fun series (and don't worry- it's fine as a standalone) features arguments over foraging, dishonesty at a winery, and, of course, murder. Kelly, manager of the Redwood Cove B&B, might be the lead named character but the Silver Sentinels, a group of crime solving seniors, are the heart. When Eric is murdered, Kelly's friend Phil is a suspect but she, and the Sentinels, are on the case. There's a couple of things going on as well as the usual number of red herrings but it all pulls together in the end. Kelly's also got a nice little relationship going with Scott. Thanks to Netgalley for the ArC. For cozy fans looking for a diversion from the news.
June 14, 2020
Another good book in this series. I enjoy the setting in Northern California and using the resort business was a good choice since it will bring in outsiders constantly so you are not left with feeling like every local character has a shady side. And the author’s characters ring true from seniors wanting to be involved and not set aside; military veterans struggling to come to turns with both their own personal changes and how the country has changed (not always for the better); people dealing with things like single parenthood, seizures, and other problems...all help me get interested in and relate to her stories. Will look forward to the next one. Free ebook from the library.
May 28, 2022
This is book 6 in a series set at the Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast in Northern California. I have only read this book and had no problem reading it as a stand alone novel but will consider going back to read the original books in this series.
Main character, Karen Jackson, manages the Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast in a small Northern Community established to assist veterans suffering from PTSD. The story begins with an event featuring local wineries and chefs to introduce wealthy philanthropists to the concept of the Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast in the hopes that others will establish similar communities to help veterans throughout the Country.
The murder of a real estate broker, issue of poaching illegal plants, romance, and a medley of charming characters creates a good story that keeps readers engrossed in the outcome.
Main character, Karen Jackson, manages the Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast in a small Northern Community established to assist veterans suffering from PTSD. The story begins with an event featuring local wineries and chefs to introduce wealthy philanthropists to the concept of the Redwood Cove Bed and Breakfast in the hopes that others will establish similar communities to help veterans throughout the Country.
The murder of a real estate broker, issue of poaching illegal plants, romance, and a medley of charming characters creates a good story that keeps readers engrossed in the outcome.
March 16, 2023
Love this Series! A favorite new cozy author!!
I just discovered Janet Finsilver’s Kelly Jackson series. Constantly keeping me guessing, and always something interesting— no dull spots. The other thing that is impressive is the books don’t seem rushed as if it’s more important to keep to a schedule to pump out more books rather than making each book as good as it can be. Author seems to put her all into it. Only one problem: Ive read through book 6 and now have to wait for the next one.
I just discovered Janet Finsilver’s Kelly Jackson series. Constantly keeping me guessing, and always something interesting— no dull spots. The other thing that is impressive is the books don’t seem rushed as if it’s more important to keep to a schedule to pump out more books rather than making each book as good as it can be. Author seems to put her all into it. Only one problem: Ive read through book 6 and now have to wait for the next one.
January 30, 2021
A cozy mystery with recalcitrant baby goats? What could be better? Oh yeah, not one, but two mysteries, a little light romance, and awesome dogs. I love Janet's cast of characters and she doesn't drop them and keeps their unique characteristics through each book in this series. You can't help but love each one. I listened to the audiobook and she does a great job of bringing each character to life.
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