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The Bellhop Only Stalks Once
Lies, secrets, and a sinister plot hide in broad daylight at the heart of the Club Pacifica.
A beautiful tropical resort, exciting new friends, and a handsome guest liaison – it’s the perfect getaway for Chloe, a free-spirited Baltimore girl just getting to know herself. But the vacation of a lifetime quickly takes a dark turn when a young, overly flirty bellhop starts following her everywhere. It gets even worse when he disappears, and Chloe is the sole witness.
As bellhop after bellhop goes missing, she struggles to figure out what’s happening. When suspicion falls upon her, Chloe must not only try to rescue the kidnapped bellhops, but also to clear her name.
Complicating things further is the relationship she forms with Mateo, Club Pacifica’s guest liaison. Charming and easygoing, he is everything that her fiancé at home is not, and she finds herself fighting a growing attraction to him. But can he be trusted?
She soon discovers that she’s landed herself in a world of secrets, and, worse, that these are not just those of others, but also the secrets she keeps from herself.
Can Chloe find her way through all the lies to finally discover the truth before it’s too late?
A beautiful tropical resort, exciting new friends, and a handsome guest liaison – it’s the perfect getaway for Chloe, a free-spirited Baltimore girl just getting to know herself. But the vacation of a lifetime quickly takes a dark turn when a young, overly flirty bellhop starts following her everywhere. It gets even worse when he disappears, and Chloe is the sole witness.
As bellhop after bellhop goes missing, she struggles to figure out what’s happening. When suspicion falls upon her, Chloe must not only try to rescue the kidnapped bellhops, but also to clear her name.
Complicating things further is the relationship she forms with Mateo, Club Pacifica’s guest liaison. Charming and easygoing, he is everything that her fiancé at home is not, and she finds herself fighting a growing attraction to him. But can he be trusted?
She soon discovers that she’s landed herself in a world of secrets, and, worse, that these are not just those of others, but also the secrets she keeps from herself.
Can Chloe find her way through all the lies to finally discover the truth before it’s too late?
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 6, 2020
249 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
November 7, 2020
I went in , agog to read this quirky book after coming across interesting reviews about it but this book turned out to be dense and lacklustre, could not hold my attention for more than a few minutes.
DNFed at 20%
DNFed at 20%
July 27, 2020
A very entertaining romantic mystery in a spectacular setting which had me enthralled
August 8, 2020
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“The Bellhop Only Stalks Once” is a mystery that is out of the box and bizarre, but very entertaining.
The story is so strange and different, but funny with a touch of dark humor. The author tells the story in a very quirky manner where you roll your eyes at times, but you still find it entertaining and want to know what happens. I don’t think I have ever read a book that got me scared one scene, and made me laugh in the next. Some of the scenes are very eerie, like when Chloe and Mateo witness the creepy ritual in the woods with people wearing chicken costumes. Yet, some scenes were so fun and lively, like how the gang handled Strawberry.
Chloe is awesome in the lead as she tries to figure out what is happening. Most of the characters she meets are creepy, weird, and secretive. Sopie and Kaia are hilarious as Chloe’s new friends. In fact, I felt Sopie was the best character in the book. She is peculiar, but very entertaining with her actions. On a side note, I loved the exotic backdrop of Costa Rica and thought it made the story very atmospheric.
However, the reveal at the end to the missing bellhops felt far-fetched and disconnected from reality. Also, I wasn’t keen on Chloe and Mateo’s romance. It felt forced, and would have been nice if they had just been friends. But I loved the way Chloe resolved her situation with Cooper.
Nevertheless, this was a memorable read. Overall, if you want to read an exotic mystery novel that will make you laugh and keep you guessing, this is the book to read!
August 2, 2020
This is a great, easy read, contemporary mystery with an added touch of romance!
Chloe has gone on holiday alone to the Club Pacifica in Costa Rica, leaving her work focussed fiancé at home. She certainly didn't anticipate a young child disturbing her morning yoga session or that the bellhop who comes to her rescue keeps turning up to flirt with her. However, when he appears and then mysteriously disappears whilst she's on a jungle excursion she can't work out what's happened to him. Then it seems he isn't the only bellhop to go missing! Her fiancé would just tell her off for getting involved and instruct her to return home but as her attraction to Mateo, the Club's guest liaison, grows Chloe finds herself embroiled in the mysterious disappearances, developing a friendship with two other yogi, wanted by the police and inadvertently in great danger! Can she help solve the mystery of the disappearing bellhops and clear her name? You'll just have to read it for yourself to find out!
This is an engaging romantic suspense with plenty of mystery and red herrings to keep you guessing. There are lots of great characters and the plot has some laugh out loud incidents as well as plenty of twists and turns. It is a lovely page turner and delightful story to escape into.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
Chloe has gone on holiday alone to the Club Pacifica in Costa Rica, leaving her work focussed fiancé at home. She certainly didn't anticipate a young child disturbing her morning yoga session or that the bellhop who comes to her rescue keeps turning up to flirt with her. However, when he appears and then mysteriously disappears whilst she's on a jungle excursion she can't work out what's happened to him. Then it seems he isn't the only bellhop to go missing! Her fiancé would just tell her off for getting involved and instruct her to return home but as her attraction to Mateo, the Club's guest liaison, grows Chloe finds herself embroiled in the mysterious disappearances, developing a friendship with two other yogi, wanted by the police and inadvertently in great danger! Can she help solve the mystery of the disappearing bellhops and clear her name? You'll just have to read it for yourself to find out!
This is an engaging romantic suspense with plenty of mystery and red herrings to keep you guessing. There are lots of great characters and the plot has some laugh out loud incidents as well as plenty of twists and turns. It is a lovely page turner and delightful story to escape into.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
July 10, 2020
I was hooked by the description of the creepy child on the first page. It’s such an original plot – why are all the bellhops disappearing? I really felt Chloe’s awkwardness as a lone traveller in a new environment and squirmed at the scenes with Jaimie, the bellhop. There’s humour, especially in the interactions between Sopie and Kaia, but the idea that there’s a sinister cult worshipping Tlaloc keeps up the suspension. The descriptive detail of the journeys into the jungle with biting ants, rope bridges and volcanoes is very evocative. This is such a great mix of intrigue and romance all wrapped up in an exotic Costa Rican setting. I loved it.
July 29, 2020
I received a copy for an honest review.
I find it hard to describe this book as it totally wasn't what I expected - in a good way! Chloe is at a retreat, alone, away from her domineering and mean fiance. She has only been there a little while when one of the young bellhops, Jaime, starts to show an unhealthy interest and it starts to creep her out a little. You'd be forgiven for thinking that, given the title, he stalks her and she has to deal with it, but just a short while later, he goes missing - and so do the other two bellhops from the resort.
Originally thinking that they have just skived work together, the staff and guests aren't too worried but it soon becomes clear that bellhops from different resorts are going missing too - but why - and where are they going?
The read was enthralling once we got into it - it was a little slow to start with- and I really liked Chloe as a character, you could see she was a bird trying to break free and spread her wings but Cooper would not allow her to. You could see she needed this retreat and you feel such awkwardness and pity for her when she is drawn into this mess.
The author describes the location and the scenery incredibly well, the characters are interesting and descriptive too and whilst I had an inkling of the culprits towards the end , the reasons how and why blew me away!
I'll definitely be checking out more from the author in the future.
I find it hard to describe this book as it totally wasn't what I expected - in a good way! Chloe is at a retreat, alone, away from her domineering and mean fiance. She has only been there a little while when one of the young bellhops, Jaime, starts to show an unhealthy interest and it starts to creep her out a little. You'd be forgiven for thinking that, given the title, he stalks her and she has to deal with it, but just a short while later, he goes missing - and so do the other two bellhops from the resort.
Originally thinking that they have just skived work together, the staff and guests aren't too worried but it soon becomes clear that bellhops from different resorts are going missing too - but why - and where are they going?
The read was enthralling once we got into it - it was a little slow to start with- and I really liked Chloe as a character, you could see she was a bird trying to break free and spread her wings but Cooper would not allow her to. You could see she needed this retreat and you feel such awkwardness and pity for her when she is drawn into this mess.
The author describes the location and the scenery incredibly well, the characters are interesting and descriptive too and whilst I had an inkling of the culprits towards the end , the reasons how and why blew me away!
I'll definitely be checking out more from the author in the future.
August 30, 2020
Through Net Galley, I read an advance copy of #TheBellhopOnlyStalksOnce by Cat Hickey.
This light, entertaining mystery follows Chloe, a young lady vacationing in Costa Rica by herself. She has traveled to Costa Rica to relax and ponder her future with Cooper, her fiancée that she left at home. Chloe is a bit of a free spirit while Cooper is the polar opposite … are they right together? While on vacation, she befriends a couple of other tourists staying at Club Pacifica as well as several of the resort staff, most notably Mateo, the good looking and affable Guest Liaison. A bunch of bellhops around the area have disappears including one sweet on Chloe. The mystery is afoot.
While the mystery is not particularly difficult to figure out, there is a lot fun to be had along the way. This one feels like a NetFlix romcom just waiting to be made. Drug dealers, performance artists, the local police and a ditzy blue haired yoga instructor with anger issues all factor in to the fun. At times very funny, the book is at its best when depicting the absurd situations Chloe and friends get themselves into.
Overall, this is a enjoyable piece of escapism fiction makes a great pool or beach read. We’ll rate this one a very solid 4 stars.
An e-book copy of The Bellhop Only Stalks Once was the only compensation received in exchange for this review. My thanks to Net Galley and darkstroke/Crooked Cat for the opportunity to read this book and provide feedback.
This light, entertaining mystery follows Chloe, a young lady vacationing in Costa Rica by herself. She has traveled to Costa Rica to relax and ponder her future with Cooper, her fiancée that she left at home. Chloe is a bit of a free spirit while Cooper is the polar opposite … are they right together? While on vacation, she befriends a couple of other tourists staying at Club Pacifica as well as several of the resort staff, most notably Mateo, the good looking and affable Guest Liaison. A bunch of bellhops around the area have disappears including one sweet on Chloe. The mystery is afoot.
While the mystery is not particularly difficult to figure out, there is a lot fun to be had along the way. This one feels like a NetFlix romcom just waiting to be made. Drug dealers, performance artists, the local police and a ditzy blue haired yoga instructor with anger issues all factor in to the fun. At times very funny, the book is at its best when depicting the absurd situations Chloe and friends get themselves into.
Overall, this is a enjoyable piece of escapism fiction makes a great pool or beach read. We’ll rate this one a very solid 4 stars.
An e-book copy of The Bellhop Only Stalks Once was the only compensation received in exchange for this review. My thanks to Net Galley and darkstroke/Crooked Cat for the opportunity to read this book and provide feedback.
January 29, 2021
It was an ok book
What's the locater boring at times candle was main spots but the ending was really good I'd like to twist and turns that they use to get your attention at the end of the book wish they wasn't soul drawing out in spots but overall it was a good book
What's the locater boring at times candle was main spots but the ending was really good I'd like to twist and turns that they use to get your attention at the end of the book wish they wasn't soul drawing out in spots but overall it was a good book
August 11, 2020
Chloe has taken herself on a break away to Costa Rica to figure out her feelings for her ‘fiancé’. What she doesn’t expect is to get mixed up in the mystery of the missing Bellhops. After one of the Bellhops Jaime, takes a liking to her and appears to stalk her, he then goes missing – and she’s the last person to have seen him. But persuaded to keep her sighting quiet by her new yogi friends, Chloe keeps it to herself – and then finds herself under suspicion….
While her feelings for the guest liaison guy, Mateo are getting stronger she embarks on a mission with him to try to uncover the truth. But she’s digging herself in deeper…..will she find the missing bellhops? Are people what they seem? Can she trust Mateo? What will she decide about her future with her fiancé? And how will it all end?
This was a fab mystery that kept me turning the pages. The setting of a luxurious resort in Costa Rica made me want to go on holiday and enjoy the sun, sea, sand and smoothies! Although I don’t think I’d want to leave the resort…… Chloe’s expeditions off site seem to be doomed, so I think I’d just stay there and relax!
I really like Chloe, although I feel like she’s a little naive. There are quite a few hints throughout the book as to who the culprits are, and although I picked up on them, it seems Chloe was a little slower off the mark!! I really felt for her as she experienced her conflicting feelings about her fiancé and Mateo, and was pleased with the way things turn out for her. The other characters in this are also fab – Kaia, Sopie (pronouced Soapy!), Juan, Fiona and Patty are all brilliant in their own ways too, but I”m not saying anymore!
There are some aspects to this story that were creepy! Getting in bed to read it at night when you think it will clear your mind after a horror movie was not the best idea when you visit a house with dolls heads hanging on string! Needless to say, these creepy bits bring a brilliant creepy atmosphere to parts of the story and will put you on edge!
The overall mystery was unique and enjoyable. The plot was easy to follow with some bizarre twists and escapades that will keep you reading. Overall, this was a fab crime/mystery and I look forward to reading more from this author. Recommended by me.
While her feelings for the guest liaison guy, Mateo are getting stronger she embarks on a mission with him to try to uncover the truth. But she’s digging herself in deeper…..will she find the missing bellhops? Are people what they seem? Can she trust Mateo? What will she decide about her future with her fiancé? And how will it all end?
This was a fab mystery that kept me turning the pages. The setting of a luxurious resort in Costa Rica made me want to go on holiday and enjoy the sun, sea, sand and smoothies! Although I don’t think I’d want to leave the resort…… Chloe’s expeditions off site seem to be doomed, so I think I’d just stay there and relax!
I really like Chloe, although I feel like she’s a little naive. There are quite a few hints throughout the book as to who the culprits are, and although I picked up on them, it seems Chloe was a little slower off the mark!! I really felt for her as she experienced her conflicting feelings about her fiancé and Mateo, and was pleased with the way things turn out for her. The other characters in this are also fab – Kaia, Sopie (pronouced Soapy!), Juan, Fiona and Patty are all brilliant in their own ways too, but I”m not saying anymore!
There are some aspects to this story that were creepy! Getting in bed to read it at night when you think it will clear your mind after a horror movie was not the best idea when you visit a house with dolls heads hanging on string! Needless to say, these creepy bits bring a brilliant creepy atmosphere to parts of the story and will put you on edge!
The overall mystery was unique and enjoyable. The plot was easy to follow with some bizarre twists and escapades that will keep you reading. Overall, this was a fab crime/mystery and I look forward to reading more from this author. Recommended by me.
August 24, 2020
The Bellhop Only Stalks Once is a quirky mystery that is unique, and probably not like anything I have read previously. “Strange” is probably the best descriptior for it. And I live for strange reads!
Cat Hickey has a unique writing style. This novel is full of dark humor as well as suspense, which I find refreshing. One minute, you’re on the edge of your seat and the next you’re giggling. The atmosphere is perfectly eerie. The feelings I had while reading this book were rea entertaining.
I absolutely love Chloe. She is a fantastic lead to follow. The people she meets along the way are very intriguing. Some more creepy than others. I think the characters really made this book feel alive.
If you’re looking for something unlike anything you’ve read, check this one out. Highly recommended.
Rating:
5/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
Cat Hickey has a unique writing style. This novel is full of dark humor as well as suspense, which I find refreshing. One minute, you’re on the edge of your seat and the next you’re giggling. The atmosphere is perfectly eerie. The feelings I had while reading this book were rea entertaining.
I absolutely love Chloe. She is a fantastic lead to follow. The people she meets along the way are very intriguing. Some more creepy than others. I think the characters really made this book feel alive.
If you’re looking for something unlike anything you’ve read, check this one out. Highly recommended.
Rating:
5/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
August 9, 2020
Review originally posted on my blog: I Heart Fictional People
INITIAL THOUGHTS
So, I’m tempted all the time by the blog tours created by Rachel’s Random Resources. I have to hold myself back A LOT from signing up for each and every one of them. But when I saw this one, I recognized the author’s name. She and I follow each other on Twitter already! I had never read any of her books, so I jumped at the chance to read this. And that title definitely had me interested!
WHAT I LIKED
The mystery, the suspense, and the…humor! I don’t usually read mysteries, and I don’t know why! I definitely will start reading more. I loved trying to figure out what was going on and who was behind it all. And the suspense kept me intrigued throughout the whole book. Plus, the humor was unexpected! I was literally laughing out loud. And it wasn’t over-the-top comedy. It was subtle comments here and there. Loved that!
The writing. I am so impressed by the very talented Cat Hickey. I never know what to expect from new authors, but I’m glad I took a chance on her. It was perfectly written. She did a great job creating this very realistic setting and including just enough details in the plot and descriptions of everything. I really enjoyed her writing style, and I can’t wait to read more by her.
WHAT DIDN’T WORK FOR ME
Not enough background info. I wanted to know more about Chloe. We were just kind of thrown into her vacation, but I don’t really know much about her.
The end was just okay for me. I have mixed feelings. I’ll leave it at that.
OVERALL THOUGHTS
I was thoroughly entertained reading this book. This book had it all! A good mystery-driven plot, suspense, laugh-out-loud moments, and BRILLIANT writing! What an impressive debut novel for Cat Hickey. More please!
*I received an eBook copy of this book from the author via Rachel's Random Resources in exchange for an honest review*
INITIAL THOUGHTS
So, I’m tempted all the time by the blog tours created by Rachel’s Random Resources. I have to hold myself back A LOT from signing up for each and every one of them. But when I saw this one, I recognized the author’s name. She and I follow each other on Twitter already! I had never read any of her books, so I jumped at the chance to read this. And that title definitely had me interested!
WHAT I LIKED
The mystery, the suspense, and the…humor! I don’t usually read mysteries, and I don’t know why! I definitely will start reading more. I loved trying to figure out what was going on and who was behind it all. And the suspense kept me intrigued throughout the whole book. Plus, the humor was unexpected! I was literally laughing out loud. And it wasn’t over-the-top comedy. It was subtle comments here and there. Loved that!
The writing. I am so impressed by the very talented Cat Hickey. I never know what to expect from new authors, but I’m glad I took a chance on her. It was perfectly written. She did a great job creating this very realistic setting and including just enough details in the plot and descriptions of everything. I really enjoyed her writing style, and I can’t wait to read more by her.
WHAT DIDN’T WORK FOR ME
Not enough background info. I wanted to know more about Chloe. We were just kind of thrown into her vacation, but I don’t really know much about her.
The end was just okay for me. I have mixed feelings. I’ll leave it at that.
OVERALL THOUGHTS
I was thoroughly entertained reading this book. This book had it all! A good mystery-driven plot, suspense, laugh-out-loud moments, and BRILLIANT writing! What an impressive debut novel for Cat Hickey. More please!
*I received an eBook copy of this book from the author via Rachel's Random Resources in exchange for an honest review*
August 4, 2020
Okay, so this book has THE most bizarre plot I think I have ever come across in a novel. It is a mystery story, but to say ‘with a difference’ does not really do justice to just how different this story is. I can honestly say, I have never read anything quite like it and I am still trying to work out where to file it away amidst my past reading experiences and how on earth the author came up with it.
I was really drawn to this book with its setting in a luxury beach resort in Costa Rica. This is a country that fascinates me and I am desperate to visit, and I always love a mystery book set in an exotic location, hence my addiction to Death in Paradise. I think this plot might be even too mad for them to use though! I did really enjoy the setting of the book, and Chloe’s escapades into the Costa Rican jungle, exploring volcanoes and other places of interest.
Chloe’s character is quite endearing, even if she is extremely slow on the uptake. Honestly, I could not believe she wasn’t more suspicious of a couple of the characters she met earlier on. The author left plenty of clues as to who might be behind the disappearances of the bellhops (although, you’ll NEVER get the why, I’ll eat my hat if you saw that coming before the end!) but she was slow on the uptake. Too distracted by the delectable Mateo and trying to pluck up courage to do what needs to be done with regards to cooper I suppose, which is understandable. I really enjoyed the romantic element of the book.
This book is bizarre, but in a really fun way. I was strangely compelled all the way through to keep reading, even though I was just bemused by what was happening. It kept me intrigued, because I could not see at all where it was going. There are lots of twists and turns, and some really… unusual…. happenings, which will have you questioning your sanity, and possibly that of the author, but you should read it with your tongue firmly in cheek, which I suspect is how it was written. There were times where some of Chloe’s internal musings could have done with a bit of a trim, but all in all, it was a fun and original read.
Unique, amusing and entertaining, if you are looking for a book that is really out of the ordinary, maybe give this a go. You won’t have spent a couple of hours like this before!
I was really drawn to this book with its setting in a luxury beach resort in Costa Rica. This is a country that fascinates me and I am desperate to visit, and I always love a mystery book set in an exotic location, hence my addiction to Death in Paradise. I think this plot might be even too mad for them to use though! I did really enjoy the setting of the book, and Chloe’s escapades into the Costa Rican jungle, exploring volcanoes and other places of interest.
Chloe’s character is quite endearing, even if she is extremely slow on the uptake. Honestly, I could not believe she wasn’t more suspicious of a couple of the characters she met earlier on. The author left plenty of clues as to who might be behind the disappearances of the bellhops (although, you’ll NEVER get the why, I’ll eat my hat if you saw that coming before the end!) but she was slow on the uptake. Too distracted by the delectable Mateo and trying to pluck up courage to do what needs to be done with regards to cooper I suppose, which is understandable. I really enjoyed the romantic element of the book.
This book is bizarre, but in a really fun way. I was strangely compelled all the way through to keep reading, even though I was just bemused by what was happening. It kept me intrigued, because I could not see at all where it was going. There are lots of twists and turns, and some really… unusual…. happenings, which will have you questioning your sanity, and possibly that of the author, but you should read it with your tongue firmly in cheek, which I suspect is how it was written. There were times where some of Chloe’s internal musings could have done with a bit of a trim, but all in all, it was a fun and original read.
Unique, amusing and entertaining, if you are looking for a book that is really out of the ordinary, maybe give this a go. You won’t have spent a couple of hours like this before!
August 16, 2020
Note: I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was comical and predictable at best and not meaty enough to engage my interest for more than a few minutes at a time.
The characters to me were not likeable and there was little to information on the back story of the main character Chloe, we start on her holiday, knowing she has a fiancé at home. The back story of Chloe and Cooper was not touched on.
The outcome was so predictable, I felt this book did not keep me guessing or leave me on the edge of my seat. The scenes that I believe were intended to be somewhat creepy were quite comical.
If I had paid for this book, I would have been disappointed, as I only persisted with it due to my promise of an honest review.
This book was comical and predictable at best and not meaty enough to engage my interest for more than a few minutes at a time.
The characters to me were not likeable and there was little to information on the back story of the main character Chloe, we start on her holiday, knowing she has a fiancé at home. The back story of Chloe and Cooper was not touched on.
The outcome was so predictable, I felt this book did not keep me guessing or leave me on the edge of my seat. The scenes that I believe were intended to be somewhat creepy were quite comical.
If I had paid for this book, I would have been disappointed, as I only persisted with it due to my promise of an honest review.
August 3, 2020
An anonymous shrieking toddler and an annoying, overly attentive, flirtatious young bellhop not only interrupt a young woman’s morning yoga routine on the beach, but they’re just the beginning of the vacay-from-hell.
Chloe’s already on edge, proven when Cooper, the steadfast and dependable… and controlling and boring fiancé back home continues to intrude into her thoughts.
Determined to enjoy her Costa Rican getaway, Chloe pushes the negativity from her mind and goes on a guided tour of the island’s volcano trails a few hours away the next day.
However, during her outing, the pesky bellhop, Jaime, shows up again, waving his arms and calling her name. Perturbed, before Chloe can respond, Jaime disappears… without a trace. No one else saw Jaime. Not the park ranger or the resort employees escorting her, but they all discount anything serious happening to the errant bellhop.
Unable to shake her feelings of dread, especially after finding a pendant of Tlaloc—referred to by locals as the God of Death—on the spot where Jaime disappeared, Chloe’s fears are realized when other bellhops go missing from Club Pacifica and other surrounding resorts.
Before the mystery is solved, Chloe will make two new friends, confront a drug dealer, assault a chicken, take a mind-altering drug, become a prime suspect in the case, and develop feelings for one of the resort employees.
And Cooper shows up.
As Chloe plays private investigator, she’s also on a path to self-discovery. One she’s avoided for far too long… and may not live long enough to enjoy.
While I would have liked more details about Chloe’s backstory, her growth during the story made up for what I didn’t know. She’s surrounded by a great cast of characters who may or may not be worthy of her trust.
Despite the dark overtones of kidnapping, The Bellhop Only Stalks Once is a fun read. Well-written with a smooth pace, it was an easy one-sitting read as I needed to know “what happened next.” Mystery readers will enjoy Chloe’s journey.
Enjoy!
Chloe’s already on edge, proven when Cooper, the steadfast and dependable… and controlling and boring fiancé back home continues to intrude into her thoughts.
Determined to enjoy her Costa Rican getaway, Chloe pushes the negativity from her mind and goes on a guided tour of the island’s volcano trails a few hours away the next day.
However, during her outing, the pesky bellhop, Jaime, shows up again, waving his arms and calling her name. Perturbed, before Chloe can respond, Jaime disappears… without a trace. No one else saw Jaime. Not the park ranger or the resort employees escorting her, but they all discount anything serious happening to the errant bellhop.
Unable to shake her feelings of dread, especially after finding a pendant of Tlaloc—referred to by locals as the God of Death—on the spot where Jaime disappeared, Chloe’s fears are realized when other bellhops go missing from Club Pacifica and other surrounding resorts.
Before the mystery is solved, Chloe will make two new friends, confront a drug dealer, assault a chicken, take a mind-altering drug, become a prime suspect in the case, and develop feelings for one of the resort employees.
And Cooper shows up.
As Chloe plays private investigator, she’s also on a path to self-discovery. One she’s avoided for far too long… and may not live long enough to enjoy.
While I would have liked more details about Chloe’s backstory, her growth during the story made up for what I didn’t know. She’s surrounded by a great cast of characters who may or may not be worthy of her trust.
Despite the dark overtones of kidnapping, The Bellhop Only Stalks Once is a fun read. Well-written with a smooth pace, it was an easy one-sitting read as I needed to know “what happened next.” Mystery readers will enjoy Chloe’s journey.
Enjoy!
August 18, 2020
I received this through Voracious Readers. Actually the blog should have warned me that this was candyfloss. The lead character, Chloe, drove me batty. She was such cream puff. Although she fondly imagined that she was leading any action, in fact, she merely tagged along while others did the work. She was amazingly unaware and accepted the most unlikely people at face value. The plot was not believable and the characters two dimensional.
August 11, 2020
What a quirky imaginative story this was! Chloe is on holiday on her own, having for once left her slightly sinister and controlling fiancé back home. This is the catalyst for Chloe to have an adventure and finally learn to stand on her own two feet. Will she do it? Well her holiday gives her plenty of opportunities. There’s a bellhop who stalks her, then he mysteriously disappears… along with all the resort’s other bellhops. Something strange is definitely going on. So Chloe decides to investigate with the help of two new unusual friends. From a luxury tropical resort to a dormant volcano in the jungle, and a sinister cult’s secret hideaway, this story takes the reader on a roller-coaster ride. If you’re looking for a story with a difference, laced with humour, suspense, and intrigue, this might be just what you need.
August 10, 2020
This story has intrinsic dark humour with vivid characters and lots of action. The plot is imaginative with good use of sensory imagery. The pacing is frenetic at times, as the bellhops disappear without a trace. Chloe, investigates the mystery, but who can she trust?
Chloe is a likeable character on an emotional journey. Despite the abductions and accusations that define her holiday, it lets her step back from her life. Finally discovering she wants something different.
Fun, danger, mystery and romance are all found in this engaging and unusual story.
I received a copy of this book from Dark Stroke Books in return for an honest review.
Chloe is a likeable character on an emotional journey. Despite the abductions and accusations that define her holiday, it lets her step back from her life. Finally discovering she wants something different.
Fun, danger, mystery and romance are all found in this engaging and unusual story.
I received a copy of this book from Dark Stroke Books in return for an honest review.
July 29, 2020
The Bellhop Only Stalks Once is a cracking crime mystery set in an exotic location, featuring a cast of colourful and diverse characters and presenting the reader with a puzzling case to solve.
Chloe is an American lass on a solo holiday in Costa Rica. Things start going terribly wrong with firstly just one overzealous bellboy from Chloe’s hotel going missing, soon followed by another two. Chloe is the only person to have witnessed his bizarre disappearance. One minute he was there waving to her, the next he sauntered into the jungle. He had made a nuisance of himself prior to his vanishing act, and consequently suspicion falls on Chloe. You feel for her. She is in a foreign country and quite out of her comfort zone. But she is one feisty gal, determined and smart, and she has some allies, such as Juan as well as the charming Mateo, until he too is gone, that is.
Apart from the relatable and likeable characters, the setting also plays its part in the story. The deep and dangerous Costa Rican jungle, the heat and the beautiful but precarious crossings create a thrilling ambience. Amulets and accessories featuring mysterious local deities add more mystery. Little hairs stand up on the back of your neck as you dive into that world with Chloe.
Although there is humour and adventure, there is also an element of grim, brutal reality and pure unrepentant evil. You certainly wouldn’t want to send your child on a holiday where they could end up just like those missing bellboys.
A thrilling and clever book. Highly recommended.
Chloe is an American lass on a solo holiday in Costa Rica. Things start going terribly wrong with firstly just one overzealous bellboy from Chloe’s hotel going missing, soon followed by another two. Chloe is the only person to have witnessed his bizarre disappearance. One minute he was there waving to her, the next he sauntered into the jungle. He had made a nuisance of himself prior to his vanishing act, and consequently suspicion falls on Chloe. You feel for her. She is in a foreign country and quite out of her comfort zone. But she is one feisty gal, determined and smart, and she has some allies, such as Juan as well as the charming Mateo, until he too is gone, that is.
Apart from the relatable and likeable characters, the setting also plays its part in the story. The deep and dangerous Costa Rican jungle, the heat and the beautiful but precarious crossings create a thrilling ambience. Amulets and accessories featuring mysterious local deities add more mystery. Little hairs stand up on the back of your neck as you dive into that world with Chloe.
Although there is humour and adventure, there is also an element of grim, brutal reality and pure unrepentant evil. You certainly wouldn’t want to send your child on a holiday where they could end up just like those missing bellboys.
A thrilling and clever book. Highly recommended.
August 10, 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Voracious Readers Only and the author. This story took me a couple of chapters to get into it. But once I was into it, I could not put it down. I really liked Chloe and her strength and courage. I look forward to reading more stories by this author, and hope that Chloe is in them.
August 3, 2020
edit to add review
This started off a little slow for my liking, but it soon picked up and I soon found myself engrossed with mysterious disappearance of the bellhops.
Chloe is a solo traveller in the beautiful Costa Rica at this amazing retreat, when one of the young bellhops, Jaime, starts to show an unhealthy interest in her and it starts to creep her out a little, which is understandable, I would feel creeped 0ut as well. She befriends Mateo the resorts guest liaison and heads on a day trip that see's hr being the only guest going from the resort along with Mateo.
Jamie makes an appearance whilst she is on the trip and he seems a little agitated but when he apparently disappears from the track, the trip guide tried to reassure Chloe that he is probably headed back the resort and sure he fine. But once she returns it is clear that Jamie has not made it back, and not only that but the other bellhops have also not turned up for work.
What on earth could be going in this little part of paradise? And how can Chloe stop the fingers pointing at her for Jamie's disappearance? And how are all the vanished bellhops connected? You will have to read to find out!
4 stars
This started off a little slow for my liking, but it soon picked up and I soon found myself engrossed with mysterious disappearance of the bellhops.
Chloe is a solo traveller in the beautiful Costa Rica at this amazing retreat, when one of the young bellhops, Jaime, starts to show an unhealthy interest in her and it starts to creep her out a little, which is understandable, I would feel creeped 0ut as well. She befriends Mateo the resorts guest liaison and heads on a day trip that see's hr being the only guest going from the resort along with Mateo.
Jamie makes an appearance whilst she is on the trip and he seems a little agitated but when he apparently disappears from the track, the trip guide tried to reassure Chloe that he is probably headed back the resort and sure he fine. But once she returns it is clear that Jamie has not made it back, and not only that but the other bellhops have also not turned up for work.
What on earth could be going in this little part of paradise? And how can Chloe stop the fingers pointing at her for Jamie's disappearance? And how are all the vanished bellhops connected? You will have to read to find out!
4 stars
July 25, 2020
Chloe is at a retreat, enjoying herself when a bellhop named Jaime starts to show that he's interested in her, only for things to get strange when not even 24 hours later resort bellhops are missing.
It starts off kind of slow and sorry to say, a little boring at some parts. But it is a good read, the characters seemed kind of bland but the plot seemed to make up for it. The ending was alright.
It starts off kind of slow and sorry to say, a little boring at some parts. But it is a good read, the characters seemed kind of bland but the plot seemed to make up for it. The ending was alright.
July 25, 2020
DNF. Just could not get into it. I liked the idea behind it.
I liked how realistic the author made the characters though.
I liked how realistic the author made the characters though.
December 18, 2020
Note: I received a free copy of this for an honest review.
This book is about Chloe, who takes a holiday by herself in Costa Rica. She attracts the attention of a bellhop who starts to pop up wherever she goes. He goes missing quickly into the book, as do several other bellhops. Chloe and a couple of girls that she meets undertake the mission to find out what’s happened to them.
I just couldn’t get into this book at all. It didn’t click with me. I found it so overly descriptive that I got bored with what I was reading. I also found the book very unrealistic. There was very little in the way of Chloe’s life, apart from mentioning a controlling fiancé. Chloe seemed to be very naive, forming bonds with people very quickly and jumping feet first into eg searching for the local drug dealers in the nearest city, and even when she was drugged by one of her new friends, she wasn’t particularly annoyed. The book, for me, had no substance. I wouldn’t have finished it if I hadn’t agreed to write a review.
This book is about Chloe, who takes a holiday by herself in Costa Rica. She attracts the attention of a bellhop who starts to pop up wherever she goes. He goes missing quickly into the book, as do several other bellhops. Chloe and a couple of girls that she meets undertake the mission to find out what’s happened to them.
I just couldn’t get into this book at all. It didn’t click with me. I found it so overly descriptive that I got bored with what I was reading. I also found the book very unrealistic. There was very little in the way of Chloe’s life, apart from mentioning a controlling fiancé. Chloe seemed to be very naive, forming bonds with people very quickly and jumping feet first into eg searching for the local drug dealers in the nearest city, and even when she was drugged by one of her new friends, she wasn’t particularly annoyed. The book, for me, had no substance. I wouldn’t have finished it if I hadn’t agreed to write a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2021
Bellhop
Chloe goes on Holiday by herself leaving her boyfriend at home, where he'd rather be. Out on the beach one morning, doing her yoga a child screams at her (she doesn't know why). A bellhop named Jamie sees her and starts flirting (badly) with her, grabbing her towel and not letting go. Thank goodness the liaison for the hotel sees this and reprimands him, sending him on his way. Jamie is not dissuaded, Chloe finds him with a key card trying to go into her room "with a gift" he says. Once again the hotels liaison see this and frightens him away.
Chloe has booked a hike to a volcano and as she and the Park Ranger are trekking through the jungle, Jamie is behind them and calling, only to disappear, like magic, or a quick attack. Returning to the hotel they find that not only has Jamie dissapeared, but all of the bellhops are gone! And yes, she can't help but go searching...
Chloe goes on Holiday by herself leaving her boyfriend at home, where he'd rather be. Out on the beach one morning, doing her yoga a child screams at her (she doesn't know why). A bellhop named Jamie sees her and starts flirting (badly) with her, grabbing her towel and not letting go. Thank goodness the liaison for the hotel sees this and reprimands him, sending him on his way. Jamie is not dissuaded, Chloe finds him with a key card trying to go into her room "with a gift" he says. Once again the hotels liaison see this and frightens him away.
Chloe has booked a hike to a volcano and as she and the Park Ranger are trekking through the jungle, Jamie is behind them and calling, only to disappear, like magic, or a quick attack. Returning to the hotel they find that not only has Jamie dissapeared, but all of the bellhops are gone! And yes, she can't help but go searching...
June 16, 2021
Nope. I went in for a quirky romantic mystery but ended up dragging my feet through it. Plot was boring and Chloe was just stupid, as far as you can get from a detective material that she kept comparing herself with. Not impressed.
September 10, 2020
Who could have thought that such an unusual outcome could lead from Cleo having a short vacation at a resort on Costa Rica where she became pals with two other young women who enjoyed yoga? And what did the missing bellhops have to do with anything?
Her budding romance with Mateo, an employee at the resort, is not so surprising as vacation romances abound in literature. And, of course, Cleo is becoming disenchanted with her rather controlling, but absent, boyfriend.
In all, the mix of mystery, scenery, yoga and romance makes a good brew that keeps the reader guessing all the way.
I received my review copy from Voracious Readers and thank them and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
Her budding romance with Mateo, an employee at the resort, is not so surprising as vacation romances abound in literature. And, of course, Cleo is becoming disenchanted with her rather controlling, but absent, boyfriend.
In all, the mix of mystery, scenery, yoga and romance makes a good brew that keeps the reader guessing all the way.
I received my review copy from Voracious Readers and thank them and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
April 4, 2021
Chloe is enjoying her vacation at a tropical resort. When she has a bellhop be a little to overly friendly towards her she just shakes it off. When all the bellhops go missing she is worried and tries to help find out what happens to them. When she meets two other women interested in yoga they decide to be detectives and find them.
This book has plenty of twists and it was fun to see what Chloe would get herself into next. The mystery of the missing bellhops ends with a twist that I did not see coming.
This book has plenty of twists and it was fun to see what Chloe would get herself into next. The mystery of the missing bellhops ends with a twist that I did not see coming.
September 23, 2020
Cloe take another vacation away from her fiancé to a volcano paradise.
Cloe takes another vacation away from her fiancé Conner to a volcano paradise. While there she gets mixed up in murder and kidnapping. This book is rather convoluted and twisted. You know who did it early but have to wait till the end to find out how and why. And any underlying motives. Good but not great. Would pass on to friends to read but not give a five star.
Cloe takes another vacation away from her fiancé Conner to a volcano paradise. While there she gets mixed up in murder and kidnapping. This book is rather convoluted and twisted. You know who did it early but have to wait till the end to find out how and why. And any underlying motives. Good but not great. Would pass on to friends to read but not give a five star.
October 13, 2020
I received this book on Voracious Reader.
Easy read that kept me turning the pages but several things are bothering me now that I've finished.
First, on Chloe's hike to the volcano. She had on long socks when she left the resort . During the hike she had on sandals???
Second, whatever happened with the crazy toddler. I needed some closure or at least more details with this character.
I found the plot fun and new... Who would have thought that's what happened to the bellhops.
Easy read that kept me turning the pages but several things are bothering me now that I've finished.
First, on Chloe's hike to the volcano. She had on long socks when she left the resort . During the hike she had on sandals???
Second, whatever happened with the crazy toddler. I needed some closure or at least more details with this character.
I found the plot fun and new... Who would have thought that's what happened to the bellhops.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2020
I’m struggling to put my thoughts on this book into words. It was an incredibly unique sort of mystery with an ending that I thought I had figured out part way through the book, but I was wrong. Chloe, the main character, is quite likeable and relatable, which had me invested in the book.
My one complaint is that there is a consistency error near the beginning that was pretty obvious, however it does not effect the storyline.
My one complaint is that there is a consistency error near the beginning that was pretty obvious, however it does not effect the storyline.
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