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Bad Hair Day #13
Facials Can Be Fatal
A wealthy socialite is found dead at a day spa in this killer cozy.
During the frenzy of the December holidays, the last thing salon owner Marla Vail needs is a dead body slathered in a green facial mask at her new day spa.
The victim, Valerie Weston, had been a major donor for Friends of Old Florida, a nonprofit historic preservation society. Marla's stylists are scheduled to work backstage at their upcoming gala fashion show, but Val's demise might put a crimp in their plans.
Hoping to salvage her reputation, Marla determines to track down the suspects. Although Val had been well liked by most people, she may have stumbled onto secrets that others would kill to keep. What are the connections between a greedy land developer, a dress designer whose husband may have links to the Asian mob, a mortician who might be involved in the human hair trade, and members of the nonprofit group's board of directors? Are the latter as dedicated to their cause as they'd like Marla to believe, or do they have their own self-interests at heart?
Sparks are sure to fly when this smart stylist joins forces with her sexy detective husband to solve a decades-old mystery that includes a secret journal, pirate tales, and shipwrecks along the Florida coast. With the rollercoaster excitement, you might need a trip to the day spa to relax.
During the frenzy of the December holidays, the last thing salon owner Marla Vail needs is a dead body slathered in a green facial mask at her new day spa.
The victim, Valerie Weston, had been a major donor for Friends of Old Florida, a nonprofit historic preservation society. Marla's stylists are scheduled to work backstage at their upcoming gala fashion show, but Val's demise might put a crimp in their plans.
Hoping to salvage her reputation, Marla determines to track down the suspects. Although Val had been well liked by most people, she may have stumbled onto secrets that others would kill to keep. What are the connections between a greedy land developer, a dress designer whose husband may have links to the Asian mob, a mortician who might be involved in the human hair trade, and members of the nonprofit group's board of directors? Are the latter as dedicated to their cause as they'd like Marla to believe, or do they have their own self-interests at heart?
Sparks are sure to fly when this smart stylist joins forces with her sexy detective husband to solve a decades-old mystery that includes a secret journal, pirate tales, and shipwrecks along the Florida coast. With the rollercoaster excitement, you might need a trip to the day spa to relax.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 14, 2020
23 people are currently reading
750 people want to read
About the author
Nancy J. Cohen
40 books667 followersNancy J. Cohen writes the Bad Hair Day Mysteries featuring South Florida hairstylist Marla Vail. Titles in this series have been named Best Cozy Mystery by Suspense Magazine, won the Readers’ Favorite Book Awards and the RONE Award, placed first in the Chanticleer International Book Awards and third in the Arizona Literary Awards. Her nonfiction titles, Writing the Cozy Mystery and A Bad Hair Day Cookbook, have won the FAPA President’s Book Award, the Royal Palm Literary Award, and IAN Book of the Year. Nancy’s imaginative romances have proven popular with fans as well. These books have won the HOLT Medallion and Best Book in Romantic SciFi/Fantasy at The Romance Reviews. Active in the writing community, Nancy is a past president of Florida Romance Writers and Florida Chapter of Mystery Writers of America. When not busy writing, she enjoys reading, fine dining, cruising, and visiting Disney World. Visit her at NancyJCohen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 3, 2017
Dollycas’s Thoughts
The Friends of Old Florida, a historic building preservation society, have a huge gala planned including a fashion show. Marla Vail was so excited because her shop has been contracted to do the hair styling for the models. It would be great promotion for the Cut ‘N Dye. But her planned may be cut.. A major donor for the group actually has died in the Cut ‘N Dye while having a facial at the new day spa.
She is also feeling a lot of stress on the home front. She and Dalton have been married less than a year and everyone is asking about a baby/grandchild. Marla is happy with Dalton’s teenage daughter and thought everyone understood there was going to be No Baby, but Dalton is even talking about it and her best friend’s baby is sooooo cute… but until she gets this murder/s solved she has no time for a baby discussion.
I am so happy that I have caught up on this series. (Hair Brained comes out September 12.) I really do enjoy these characters. They have continued to grow in each story and are genuine. The story takes place during the Christmas and Hanukkah season. I liked how the family worked together to have a combined celebration. Also Dalton’s daughter is learning to drive, something every parent looks forward to, 🙂 Both Dalton and Marla may be coloring gray hairs before she gets her license.
The plot is pretty intense as more people get killed and we learn about a man who may be involved with the Asian Mob, another may be selling human hair on the black market, and members of the Friends of Old Florida all seem to be hiding something. Val’s murder may even have something to do with a man’s disappearance years ago. The suspects are plenty and the motives run the gambit. Cohen pulls us in and doesn’t let go. I loved her twists and the way the clues were discovered. I liked that the clues led Marla and Dalton on a day trip to the Florida Keys. A place I would love to visit as well.
With the right amounts of romance and humor Ms. Cohen does this mystery up right. Compelling characters in dicey situations always get my attention. This Bad Hair Day Mystery should not be missed.
All the books in this series stand on their own but for maximum enjoyment check out the earlier books as soon as you can.
The Friends of Old Florida, a historic building preservation society, have a huge gala planned including a fashion show. Marla Vail was so excited because her shop has been contracted to do the hair styling for the models. It would be great promotion for the Cut ‘N Dye. But her planned may be cut.. A major donor for the group actually has died in the Cut ‘N Dye while having a facial at the new day spa.
She is also feeling a lot of stress on the home front. She and Dalton have been married less than a year and everyone is asking about a baby/grandchild. Marla is happy with Dalton’s teenage daughter and thought everyone understood there was going to be No Baby, but Dalton is even talking about it and her best friend’s baby is sooooo cute… but until she gets this murder/s solved she has no time for a baby discussion.
I am so happy that I have caught up on this series. (Hair Brained comes out September 12.) I really do enjoy these characters. They have continued to grow in each story and are genuine. The story takes place during the Christmas and Hanukkah season. I liked how the family worked together to have a combined celebration. Also Dalton’s daughter is learning to drive, something every parent looks forward to, 🙂 Both Dalton and Marla may be coloring gray hairs before she gets her license.
The plot is pretty intense as more people get killed and we learn about a man who may be involved with the Asian Mob, another may be selling human hair on the black market, and members of the Friends of Old Florida all seem to be hiding something. Val’s murder may even have something to do with a man’s disappearance years ago. The suspects are plenty and the motives run the gambit. Cohen pulls us in and doesn’t let go. I loved her twists and the way the clues were discovered. I liked that the clues led Marla and Dalton on a day trip to the Florida Keys. A place I would love to visit as well.
With the right amounts of romance and humor Ms. Cohen does this mystery up right. Compelling characters in dicey situations always get my attention. This Bad Hair Day Mystery should not be missed.
All the books in this series stand on their own but for maximum enjoyment check out the earlier books as soon as you can.
February 22, 2017
This is the 13th book in Nancy J. Cohen’s Bad Hair Day Mystery series. I’ve read the previous three books and still have to make my way through the backlist, but I do enjoy this series. This one is the best of the ones I’ve read so far. I’ve enjoyed them all.
Marla Vail comes to life more and more with each passing book. She’s now married to her detective husband, Dalton, and settled into family life with his teenage daughter. Her business is booming, but things take a terrible turn when a customer, Valerie Weston, is murdered while having a facial. Valerie had been a high profile customer, which could spell major trouble for Marla’s salon business.
To add to Marla’s troubles, her entire family is pressuring her to have a child, including her husband. She’s not ready and doesn’t think she ever will be. She’s satisfied being a step-mother and wants to concentrate on her career. For now, that means finding out who killed Weston before Marla’s business suffers for the murder.
Marla and Dalton make a wonderful sleuthing team. They, as well as the secondary characters, are realistic, well-written and well-developed. Marla is someone readers can connect with. She’d make a great friend. She’s an everyday person who finds herself in not everyday situations.
The storyline is fast-paced and keeps readers guessing to the end. There were several different twists and turns this story could have taken. I was surprised at the outcome. I’m looking forward to reading more of Marla’s adventures.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Marla Vail comes to life more and more with each passing book. She’s now married to her detective husband, Dalton, and settled into family life with his teenage daughter. Her business is booming, but things take a terrible turn when a customer, Valerie Weston, is murdered while having a facial. Valerie had been a high profile customer, which could spell major trouble for Marla’s salon business.
To add to Marla’s troubles, her entire family is pressuring her to have a child, including her husband. She’s not ready and doesn’t think she ever will be. She’s satisfied being a step-mother and wants to concentrate on her career. For now, that means finding out who killed Weston before Marla’s business suffers for the murder.
Marla and Dalton make a wonderful sleuthing team. They, as well as the secondary characters, are realistic, well-written and well-developed. Marla is someone readers can connect with. She’d make a great friend. She’s an everyday person who finds herself in not everyday situations.
The storyline is fast-paced and keeps readers guessing to the end. There were several different twists and turns this story could have taken. I was surprised at the outcome. I’m looking forward to reading more of Marla’s adventures.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 12, 2017
Meet Marla Shore, owner of the Cut 'N Dye hair salon in Palm Haven, Florida. Marla is a savvy business woman who has worked hard to achieve her current success. When a death occurs next door in her newly opened day spa and turns out to be murder, Marla works with her husband of almost one year, Detective Dalton Vail, to find out who did it and why! Valerie Weston was a huge supporter of Friends of Old Florida, a nonprofit historic preservation group. Marla and her stylists are doing the hair of the fashion models working the groups biggest fund raiser of the year, a fund raiser entirely underwritten by Valerie. As Marla and Dalton quietly investigate the members and officers of the group, several suspects come to light. There is the greedy land developer whom Valerie has been butting heads with, the fashion designer whose husband may have ties to the Asian Mob, the local funeral director who is involved in the human hair trade, one of the officers in the preservation group or is it someone else who has ties to her past. When Marla receives a journal written by Valerie's father, she discovers that he was involved in a decades old treasure discovery and murder. Was this another piece of the puzzle? This is another entertaining adventure in this series and it delivers everything I love in a great cozy mystery! Well drawn and developed characters. An entertaining theme that highlights the inner workings at a beauty salon and the wonderful background scenery of Southern Florida. This is a series that stays fresh and provides a well done murder plot with each new book in the series. I highly recommend every book in this long running series for any cozy fan who wants an adventure and a glimpse of what goes on behind the shampoo sink in their favorite salon!
March 28, 2017
Fatally Fantastic
Death comes knocking at Marla's new spa when a well known socialite dies during a procedure. Accompany Marla as she tries to clear a treasured employees name, while also dealing with work and personal issues. Who could the killer be? A new hire that has quit coming to work, a bitter brother-in-law, or a fellow committee member? Get started so you can find out!!! Nancy has done such a brilliant job in growing Marla's character from book to book. You get such a sense of who she was in the beginning and how she has changed throughout each read. I look forward to what will come next!!!
Death comes knocking at Marla's new spa when a well known socialite dies during a procedure. Accompany Marla as she tries to clear a treasured employees name, while also dealing with work and personal issues. Who could the killer be? A new hire that has quit coming to work, a bitter brother-in-law, or a fellow committee member? Get started so you can find out!!! Nancy has done such a brilliant job in growing Marla's character from book to book. You get such a sense of who she was in the beginning and how she has changed throughout each read. I look forward to what will come next!!!
April 1, 2017
Author Nancy J. Cohen once again takes readers on a tantalizing ride of mystery, murder, mayhem, and humor in FACIALS CAN BE FATAL.
This delightful story centers around a day spa facility, one place you might think of as being stress-free. Through rich details and vivid descriptions readers get the feel of the facility and the protagonist’s beauty salon, as well as the South Florida setting.
Cohen’s characters are quirky and well-developed, the type of friends you wish lived down the street. The setting quickly draws you in and the twists and turns hold you spellbound until the end. The author blends the murder mystery with family life and drama for a well-balanced story with touches of romance and humor.
New readers to the series aren’t left in the dark when reading this 13th installment to the Bad Hair Day Mystery collection. At the same time, Cohen doesn’t overdo the background so much returning fans are inundated with repetitive information.
FACIALS CAN BE FATAL is entertaining, intriguing, and captivating. You’ll never look at a cream facial mask quite the same ever again.
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the author. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
This delightful story centers around a day spa facility, one place you might think of as being stress-free. Through rich details and vivid descriptions readers get the feel of the facility and the protagonist’s beauty salon, as well as the South Florida setting.
Cohen’s characters are quirky and well-developed, the type of friends you wish lived down the street. The setting quickly draws you in and the twists and turns hold you spellbound until the end. The author blends the murder mystery with family life and drama for a well-balanced story with touches of romance and humor.
New readers to the series aren’t left in the dark when reading this 13th installment to the Bad Hair Day Mystery collection. At the same time, Cohen doesn’t overdo the background so much returning fans are inundated with repetitive information.
FACIALS CAN BE FATAL is entertaining, intriguing, and captivating. You’ll never look at a cream facial mask quite the same ever again.
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the author. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
April 21, 2017
Again so many twists and turns. They all come together so smoothly to build the story. Always interesting, never disappointing. I can8 believe I caught up with the end of the series already, sad. Can't wait for next case. What will happen, who will it involve.
Wonderful twists and turns. Can't believe how they always connect so smoothly to build the story. End of series already, hurry up next adventure.
Wonderful twists and turns. Can't believe how they always connect so smoothly to build the story. End of series already, hurry up next adventure.
December 20, 2016
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Marla Vail, of the Bad Hair Day Mystery series, is one tough cookie. The adventures which surround Marla are fun and exciting. This title has to do with a run-in with an historic preservation group known as the Friends of Old Florida. There are old journals, pirates and shipwrecks as well as the Asian mob in this title. The story is very well written and the stories within the story are very well woven. Author Nancy Cohen is always an enjoyable read!!
Marla Vail, of the Bad Hair Day Mystery series, is one tough cookie. The adventures which surround Marla are fun and exciting. This title has to do with a run-in with an historic preservation group known as the Friends of Old Florida. There are old journals, pirates and shipwrecks as well as the Asian mob in this title. The story is very well written and the stories within the story are very well woven. Author Nancy Cohen is always an enjoyable read!!
May 30, 2017
Newly wed, first holidays as a joint interfaith unit, Marla Vail has a lot on her plate as is. Throw in the pressure to have children and a murder that puts her business in the middle of a scandal, it would be too much for most to handle. But this tough cookie wades herself through red herrings to uncover a treasure that might just be valuable enough to kill for.
March 4, 2017
Another great Bad Hair Day Mystery! I throughly enjoyed reading this book. If you haven't read this series I would highly recommend it!
February 25, 2017
Pirates, hidden treasures, secret identities, murder..... Book 13 in Nancy J. Cohen's Bad Hair Day Mystery series has that and a whole lot more !!
As this is the 13th book in the series and the first one that I have read, I was worried that I may have a difficult time following the story.... But I worried for nothing. As soon as I started reading and getting to know Marla I felt like I have known her forever. This is the first cozy mystery that I've read where the main character is married to the sexy detective on the case and I love that !! Now I realize that the series didn't start off that way and Cohen orchestrated that through her story telling and I love the path that she takes the reader on. I only wish I had time to go back and read the first 12 books.
Marla, who owns a hair salon and day spa, has a customer die while receiving a facial. The customer, they learn has a allergy to latex and therefore was murdered !! Marla wants to solve the case and insure that the salon doesn't lose business over this. Unfortunately when more deaths occur, the suspect list grows and grows. There are too many possibilities and leads to follow. And as the holidays are fast approaching Marla is determined to have the case solved so they can all enjoy the holidays and start the new year off murder/crime free !! Is Marla hoping for too much ?
If you've read any or all of the previous books in this series, you know that the Bad Hair Day Mystery series books are captivating and exciting. If you haven't read any, what are you waiting for.......
It only took reading one book for me to become a fan. What about you ?
As this is the 13th book in the series and the first one that I have read, I was worried that I may have a difficult time following the story.... But I worried for nothing. As soon as I started reading and getting to know Marla I felt like I have known her forever. This is the first cozy mystery that I've read where the main character is married to the sexy detective on the case and I love that !! Now I realize that the series didn't start off that way and Cohen orchestrated that through her story telling and I love the path that she takes the reader on. I only wish I had time to go back and read the first 12 books.
Marla, who owns a hair salon and day spa, has a customer die while receiving a facial. The customer, they learn has a allergy to latex and therefore was murdered !! Marla wants to solve the case and insure that the salon doesn't lose business over this. Unfortunately when more deaths occur, the suspect list grows and grows. There are too many possibilities and leads to follow. And as the holidays are fast approaching Marla is determined to have the case solved so they can all enjoy the holidays and start the new year off murder/crime free !! Is Marla hoping for too much ?
If you've read any or all of the previous books in this series, you know that the Bad Hair Day Mystery series books are captivating and exciting. If you haven't read any, what are you waiting for.......
It only took reading one book for me to become a fan. What about you ?
February 24, 2017
Plan to spend all weekend at the day spa! With all the twists and turns between these covers you will need to plan a relaxation day to recover. The book starts with a scream and the action never slows.
Still in their honeymoon phase, Marla and her hunky detective husband are about to celebrate their first anniversary, along with combined Christmas and Hanukkah. Add in numerous special events and holiday parties as well as meddling in-laws and a teenager learning to drive.
And you thought your holidays were stressful??
We are treated to the inner workings of the beauty industry and more facts about hair than I ever thought I'd need to know. All of the experiences and facts were fascinating.
For a while I suspected a few of the long term friend/employees of the salon. This story is indeed a treasure hunt. I know it will be difficult to wait for the next adventure as I am sure Marla has not given up her snooping.
Still in their honeymoon phase, Marla and her hunky detective husband are about to celebrate their first anniversary, along with combined Christmas and Hanukkah. Add in numerous special events and holiday parties as well as meddling in-laws and a teenager learning to drive.
And you thought your holidays were stressful??
We are treated to the inner workings of the beauty industry and more facts about hair than I ever thought I'd need to know. All of the experiences and facts were fascinating.
For a while I suspected a few of the long term friend/employees of the salon. This story is indeed a treasure hunt. I know it will be difficult to wait for the next adventure as I am sure Marla has not given up her snooping.
June 7, 2018
I didn't enjoy this book as much as others in the series. It started off good with Salon Owner Marla finding a dead body in her spa. The customer had a latex allergy and somehow latex had gotten in the facial mask. Marla is trying to get ready for Christmas, decide if she wants to try out for a new job tht involves travel and resist the pressure to have a baby. It went downhill in the last half where there was too many people and different things made it confusing.
February 23, 2017
Great Mystery!
Nancy Cohen weaves an excellent mystery that kept me engaged from beginning to end! I love the relationship Marla has with new hubby Dalton & stepdaughter Brianna. There were lots of twists & turns to the plot leading to a surprising ending with just a bit of a cliff hanger to keep me eager for the next installment.
Nancy Cohen weaves an excellent mystery that kept me engaged from beginning to end! I love the relationship Marla has with new hubby Dalton & stepdaughter Brianna. There were lots of twists & turns to the plot leading to a surprising ending with just a bit of a cliff hanger to keep me eager for the next installment.
November 11, 2016
This is the 13th Bad Hair Day Mystery by Nancy J. Cohen and she still keeps coming up with great ideas for a story. This one drew me in right from the beginning and with all the possible suspects, the twists and turns, I had no idea who was responsible for killing Val Weston in the Spa.
Marla Vail, business owner, has recently opened a day spa attached to her salon. When one of their clients dies from a latex reaction, she is on the hot seat as well as her stylist. Due to the vacation time period the police are short handed so Marla's husband and his partner are on the case. Marla can not sit idly by, it is her reputation and business at stake. As well, the dead client, Val Weston, is the driving force behind the upcoming gala and fashion show where Marla has been hired to do the hair for the models. As Val begins her investigation, people open up to her and approach her with information that even the police do not have. As more victims appear, the case becomes more dangerous for Marla. Dalton urges her to be careful and stop her investigation, but then takes her along while he is questioning people and following new leads. As this case gets more and more complicated you have to wonder if they will ever solve this one. Is it due to greed? Is it to hide family secrets? Does someone just want to keep their reputation intact? Where do the pirates come in? Lots of questions get answered as this story comes to a surprising ending. A fun cozy read with mystery, family drama and some romance. Check this one out. The author generously provided me with a copy of this book which I chose to review.
Marla Vail, business owner, has recently opened a day spa attached to her salon. When one of their clients dies from a latex reaction, she is on the hot seat as well as her stylist. Due to the vacation time period the police are short handed so Marla's husband and his partner are on the case. Marla can not sit idly by, it is her reputation and business at stake. As well, the dead client, Val Weston, is the driving force behind the upcoming gala and fashion show where Marla has been hired to do the hair for the models. As Val begins her investigation, people open up to her and approach her with information that even the police do not have. As more victims appear, the case becomes more dangerous for Marla. Dalton urges her to be careful and stop her investigation, but then takes her along while he is questioning people and following new leads. As this case gets more and more complicated you have to wonder if they will ever solve this one. Is it due to greed? Is it to hide family secrets? Does someone just want to keep their reputation intact? Where do the pirates come in? Lots of questions get answered as this story comes to a surprising ending. A fun cozy read with mystery, family drama and some romance. Check this one out. The author generously provided me with a copy of this book which I chose to review.
February 23, 2017
Marla has her hands full over the holidays. There is more than one dead body and several mysteries to solve. The trip to Key West provided a pleasant diversion. Florida and its unique features add interest. The fashion show was an intriguing backstage treat. An advance reader copy was provided for my voluntary review. I do so enjoy this series.
December 29, 2016
I received a free advanced reader’s copy and am voluntarily reviewing this work. This is the first book I have read of the series and feel the book can standalone. Valerie, the victim is into preservation of historical buildings. The case revolves around Marla’s husband who is a detective and she trying to solve the crime. Not like your usual mystery, her husband appreciates her input even though he wants her to stay out of it and remain safe. The dynamics between their family life and trying to solve the mystery is well-balanced. I enjoyed the mystery but feel a little let down about not resolving the issues with Tally, Marla’s best friend. Maybe in the next story. Looking forward to the next adventure.
December 9, 2016
I received an ARC copy of this book in return for my honest review.
If you love lots of suspects and conspiracy theories, this is the book for you. Nancy J Cohen has a unique way of writing and her story line has many twists and turns. I personally found it a little more work than I usually like to keep up with who's who but I imagine any follow up books will be easier as main characters will already be familiar. Nancy certainly has a talent for bringing all the theories together in the end so the reader is not left wondering.
If you love lots of suspects and conspiracy theories, this is the book for you. Nancy J Cohen has a unique way of writing and her story line has many twists and turns. I personally found it a little more work than I usually like to keep up with who's who but I imagine any follow up books will be easier as main characters will already be familiar. Nancy certainly has a talent for bringing all the theories together in the end so the reader is not left wondering.
December 19, 2016
I received this ARC book for my honest review.
I have read all the stories in A Bad Hair Day Mystery. Facials Can Be Fatal is the 13th book in the series. It held my interest from the beginning. Marla always gets herself in the middle of murder and she helps her husband Dalton, a police detective to solve the case. There are so many twists in the story I actually did not figure out who did until the end. if you read it, I know you will love it.
I have read all the stories in A Bad Hair Day Mystery. Facials Can Be Fatal is the 13th book in the series. It held my interest from the beginning. Marla always gets herself in the middle of murder and she helps her husband Dalton, a police detective to solve the case. There are so many twists in the story I actually did not figure out who did until the end. if you read it, I know you will love it.
March 14, 2017
“Facials Can Be Fatal” earns 5/5 Relaxing Citrus-Scented Facials!
Marla Vail is looking forward to a nice day, but screaming coming from her spa next door shatters that. Covered with a green facial mixture Valerie Weston lies dead on the table. Marla tries to calm her staff and customers, but is very worried herself about her reputation and the new educator opportunity set to further her success. Ok, she is embarrassed to be thinking of herself amidst a dead body, but she is relieved that Detective Dalton Vail, her husband, is set to investigate despite his conflicts of interest.
Valerie Weston, is a major donor to the Friends of Old Florida, the local historical building preservation society, and the hostess of the annual fundraiser. Marla and her stylists are set do to the hair for the fashion show which would boast their reputation, but with Val’s death all this could be in jeopardy. Marla can’t let another obstacle interfere with her business and her life, so she decides to ask around. Dalton won’t matter that much since he has referred to her as his sidekick. In the process, she discovers an employee conveniently missing on the day of Val’s death, a pushy land developer, appointment changes, and questions are raised about the charitable society itself.
This is the thirteenth book in Nancy J. Cohen’s Bad Hair Day Mystery series, and I was again entertained as ‘bad luck’ finds Marla Vail. Nancy writes a clever mystery using in part the contemporary debate of development vs historic image, and although the clues were there, I thought the final solution put someone else behind bars. Oh, well, I'm not Sherlock Holmes. I enjoyed the dilemma Marla found herself in as she balances her thoughts of finding justice for the victim with maintaining her reputation and business. Long time fans of the series will be totally engaged in the continuing life story between Marla and her husband as they celebrate one year of marriage, dealing with a teenager on the verge of a driver’s license, and finding ways to partner in the investigation without contaminating the case. However, newbies don’t fret, there are enough details with this book that you will not be missing out. There are a few reference to the murder in book 1 “Permed to Death” that may wet your whistle enough to go back and start at the beginning. I highly recommend the entire Bad Hair Day Mystery series...take one of the books to your next salon appointment and watch the curious eyes. LOL!
"Disclosure: An advanced review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own."
Marla Vail is looking forward to a nice day, but screaming coming from her spa next door shatters that. Covered with a green facial mixture Valerie Weston lies dead on the table. Marla tries to calm her staff and customers, but is very worried herself about her reputation and the new educator opportunity set to further her success. Ok, she is embarrassed to be thinking of herself amidst a dead body, but she is relieved that Detective Dalton Vail, her husband, is set to investigate despite his conflicts of interest.
Valerie Weston, is a major donor to the Friends of Old Florida, the local historical building preservation society, and the hostess of the annual fundraiser. Marla and her stylists are set do to the hair for the fashion show which would boast their reputation, but with Val’s death all this could be in jeopardy. Marla can’t let another obstacle interfere with her business and her life, so she decides to ask around. Dalton won’t matter that much since he has referred to her as his sidekick. In the process, she discovers an employee conveniently missing on the day of Val’s death, a pushy land developer, appointment changes, and questions are raised about the charitable society itself.
This is the thirteenth book in Nancy J. Cohen’s Bad Hair Day Mystery series, and I was again entertained as ‘bad luck’ finds Marla Vail. Nancy writes a clever mystery using in part the contemporary debate of development vs historic image, and although the clues were there, I thought the final solution put someone else behind bars. Oh, well, I'm not Sherlock Holmes. I enjoyed the dilemma Marla found herself in as she balances her thoughts of finding justice for the victim with maintaining her reputation and business. Long time fans of the series will be totally engaged in the continuing life story between Marla and her husband as they celebrate one year of marriage, dealing with a teenager on the verge of a driver’s license, and finding ways to partner in the investigation without contaminating the case. However, newbies don’t fret, there are enough details with this book that you will not be missing out. There are a few reference to the murder in book 1 “Permed to Death” that may wet your whistle enough to go back and start at the beginning. I highly recommend the entire Bad Hair Day Mystery series...take one of the books to your next salon appointment and watch the curious eyes. LOL!
"Disclosure: An advanced review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own."
February 25, 2017
http://openbooksociety.com/article/fa...
Title: Facials Can Be Fatal
Series: Bad Hair Day Mystery, #13
By: Nancy J. Cohen
ISBN: 1432832824 (ISBN13: 9781432832827)
Author’s Website: http://nancyjcohen.com
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Summary:
During the frenzy of the December holidays, the last thing salon owner Marla Vail needs is a dead body slathered in a green facial mask at her new day spa. The victim, Valerie Weston, was a major donor for Friends of Old Florida, a historic building preservation society. Marla’s stylists are scheduled to work backstage at their upcoming gala fashion show, but Val’s demise might put a crimp in their plans. Hoping to salvage her reputation, Marla determines to track down the suspects. As she learns more about Val, she realizes the benefactress might have stumbled onto secrets others would kill to keep. She’d better prepare for a body count that has nothing to do with hot stone massages and everything to do with murder.
Review
Another delightful cozy mystery by Nancy J. Cohen. It never ceases to amaze me how Marla gets caught up in these situations. I find it pretty incredible really that Nancy J. Cohen has been able to come up with 13 stories for this series. As I have probably said in past reviews of books in the Bad Hair Day mystery series, I really like that there is a “Cast of Characters” listed in the beginning of the book. Definitely helps me keep all the players straight.
This book (as many in the past in this series) kept me guessing as to whodunit. The twists kept coming and there was a plethora of suspects to choose from for the more than one murder! The first victim, Valerie Weston, is a donor for Friends of Old Florida, a historic building preservation society. I found the method of murder intriguing and handled really well, though who wants a dead body in their salon chair during the Christmas holidays…that can’t be good for business!
I found it interesting that Marla’s husband, homicide detective Dalton Vail, takes the information Marla passes on to aide in his investigation readily. He does worry about her safety, but he never indicates he does not want nor appreciate her help and in fact takes her along to question individuals with knowledge that may help in the investigation.
The path to finding the killer leads to more deaths….which certainly complicate the whole “whodunit” thing. Marla follows her leads to answer more than one puzzle. I enjoyed the pirate tangent a lot. It seemed to add a historical twist (beyond the obvious Friends of Old Florida tie in) which I found interesting. As the body count increases, one has to wonder why and what relationship do the dearly departed have to one another, if any?
The fashion show provided a small glimpse into that sort of event as Marla and her hairdressers prepare the models for their turn on the runway. With this also supplied the venue for the second (but not last) murder. And of course, many new potential suspects to add to the ever growing list to investigate.
I also quite liked the respect and importance that Marla and Dalton gave to their family over the holiday season. The mingling of Christian and Jewish holiday cultures was wonderful. Never did they make solving the crime interfere with their holiday plans with family, a bonus as far as I am concerned.
If you would like to read an enjoyable, entertaining and engaging cozy mystery, with some romance thrown in (though this one did have a few more dead bodies than in previous books), then Facials Can Be Fatal is your book!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Title: Facials Can Be Fatal
Series: Bad Hair Day Mystery, #13
By: Nancy J. Cohen
ISBN: 1432832824 (ISBN13: 9781432832827)
Author’s Website: http://nancyjcohen.com
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Summary:
During the frenzy of the December holidays, the last thing salon owner Marla Vail needs is a dead body slathered in a green facial mask at her new day spa. The victim, Valerie Weston, was a major donor for Friends of Old Florida, a historic building preservation society. Marla’s stylists are scheduled to work backstage at their upcoming gala fashion show, but Val’s demise might put a crimp in their plans. Hoping to salvage her reputation, Marla determines to track down the suspects. As she learns more about Val, she realizes the benefactress might have stumbled onto secrets others would kill to keep. She’d better prepare for a body count that has nothing to do with hot stone massages and everything to do with murder.
Review
Another delightful cozy mystery by Nancy J. Cohen. It never ceases to amaze me how Marla gets caught up in these situations. I find it pretty incredible really that Nancy J. Cohen has been able to come up with 13 stories for this series. As I have probably said in past reviews of books in the Bad Hair Day mystery series, I really like that there is a “Cast of Characters” listed in the beginning of the book. Definitely helps me keep all the players straight.
This book (as many in the past in this series) kept me guessing as to whodunit. The twists kept coming and there was a plethora of suspects to choose from for the more than one murder! The first victim, Valerie Weston, is a donor for Friends of Old Florida, a historic building preservation society. I found the method of murder intriguing and handled really well, though who wants a dead body in their salon chair during the Christmas holidays…that can’t be good for business!
I found it interesting that Marla’s husband, homicide detective Dalton Vail, takes the information Marla passes on to aide in his investigation readily. He does worry about her safety, but he never indicates he does not want nor appreciate her help and in fact takes her along to question individuals with knowledge that may help in the investigation.
The path to finding the killer leads to more deaths….which certainly complicate the whole “whodunit” thing. Marla follows her leads to answer more than one puzzle. I enjoyed the pirate tangent a lot. It seemed to add a historical twist (beyond the obvious Friends of Old Florida tie in) which I found interesting. As the body count increases, one has to wonder why and what relationship do the dearly departed have to one another, if any?
The fashion show provided a small glimpse into that sort of event as Marla and her hairdressers prepare the models for their turn on the runway. With this also supplied the venue for the second (but not last) murder. And of course, many new potential suspects to add to the ever growing list to investigate.
I also quite liked the respect and importance that Marla and Dalton gave to their family over the holiday season. The mingling of Christian and Jewish holiday cultures was wonderful. Never did they make solving the crime interfere with their holiday plans with family, a bonus as far as I am concerned.
If you would like to read an enjoyable, entertaining and engaging cozy mystery, with some romance thrown in (though this one did have a few more dead bodies than in previous books), then Facials Can Be Fatal is your book!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
April 5, 2017
It’s the holiday season in Southern Florida and Marla Vail is making preparations for Hanukkah and Christmas. It’s also a busy time for the hair salon and day spa. Unfortunately things take a turn when a woman dies in the day spa. The victim is a major donor for a local preservation society. Marla and her stylists are set to work on models at a big fashion show that Valerie helped support every year. Marla wonders if plans will change due to Valerie’s death. It is soon discovered that the death was not accidental and Marla is determined to track down the person or persons responsible. Marla begins to unravel the many secrets of the people surrounding Valerie in her final days.
I have loved this series since I read the first book. Although this book could stand alone it is worth going back and reading in order to read them. The characters develop with each book. The plot moves a steady pace and keeps your attention throughout. New characters are developed enough that you either like them or love to hate them. I continue to recommend this series to others. I'm already looking forward to the next book.
I have loved this series since I read the first book. Although this book could stand alone it is worth going back and reading in order to read them. The characters develop with each book. The plot moves a steady pace and keeps your attention throughout. New characters are developed enough that you either like them or love to hate them. I continue to recommend this series to others. I'm already looking forward to the next book.
July 3, 2017
Salon owner Marla is upset when a woman is found dead in her new spa after receiving a facial. The victim is a major contributor to a building preservation society. Marla and her detective husband interview many and varied characters who knew the victim and might have had reason to want her dead. Old secrets are revealed and more people are murdered as the December holidays approach in South Florida.
March 11, 2017
When one of Marla Vail's salon customers ends up dead during a scheduled facial, she finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery. But when the body count increases, she and her police detective husband, Dalton, are concerned that Marla may be in the killer's sights. This is book #13 in the Bad Hair Day Mystery series. I have to admit that I have not read the previous books in this series, but it was easy to slip into the characters and their interactions with each other. The story provided several possible suspects, varying motives, and twists in Marla's search for the truth. The reader is kept busy between haircare, fashion shows, holiday celebrations, pirates and hidden treasure and, of course, murder...all blended into the final solution. I am looking forward to going back and reading more of this series. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing an Advance Reading Copy of this book.
February 24, 2017
Nancy Cohen "Facials can be Fatal"
What a wonderful series by Nancy, so many twists and turns. So many suspects, loved the beginning, were she lists a summary of the characters... a must read.
What a wonderful series by Nancy, so many twists and turns. So many suspects, loved the beginning, were she lists a summary of the characters... a must read.
March 25, 2017
Facials Can be Fatal is the 13th book in Nancy J. Cohen’s Bad Hair Day Mystery Series. Marla Vail is the owner of the Cut 'N Dye hair salon in Palm Haven, Florida. She is a savvy businesswoman who has worked hard to achieve her current success, and she has plenty on her plate right now. Besides running her salon, she has just opened a day spa next door, she and her stylists will be working backstage at an upcoming gala fashion show, she is in the running for a challenging educator position, has just been slapped with a lawsuit by a client who claims Marla burned her scalp, and this is just the business side. In Marla’s personal life, she is approaching her first anniversary with husband Dalton, is stepmother to student-driver teenager Brianna, and is planning holiday celebrations for Christmas and Hanukkah with family and friends.
What Marla doesn’t need is a murder at the day spa. But that is just what happens, and as always Marla is thrown into the middle of things. The reputation of her spa and salon are at stake, and in addition the murder victim was a major donor for Friends of Old Florida, the nonprofit historic preservation society sponsoring the fashion show where her stylists are set to work. As Marla and Dalton begin to investigate they discover this mystery has a little bit of everything and an almost endless list of possible suspects: a greedy land developer, a dress designer whose husband may have links to the Asian mob, a mortician who might be involved in the human hair trade, members of the nonprofit group's board of directors, along with a missing employee and a stolen headpiece that changes color with the mood of its wearer. They also stumble upon a decades-old mystery that includes a secret journal, pirate tales, and shipwrecks along the Florida coast.
Once the action starts it doesn’t stop. The story is complicated, but not so much so that you can’t follow what is happening. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, something happens and you have to stop and think – who is the killer?? You have to pay close attention, but it all comes satisfyingly together in the end.
Nancy J. Cohen’s hot, humid Florida setting is authentic and the mystery-solving journey is exciting, but she also reintroduces us to an interesting, believable recurring cast of characters we have grown to know and (mostly) love. There is Marla’s friend Talley and her husband Ken. Ken always seems to maybe be up to something, and right now Talley doesn’t seem very happy, more so than just the adjustment to having new baby Luke to care for. Maybe a future mystery to solve? And everyone in this cast of characters, including Marla’s mother, in-laws, and Dalton, seems to want Marla to have a baby – except Marla. She has a very firm plan for her and Dalton’s future and a baby does not fit in. But wait – Luke is such a sweet baby and what’s with the warm, fuzzy feeling she gets every time she holds him?
The mysteries in the Bad Hair Day series are great, always fresh and exciting, but Nancy J. Cohen’s real strength is in the people and how she has made Marla grow throughout the series. Marla is still Marla, your typical cozy mystery amateur sleuth – she has good problem-solving skills and wants to set things right, but is not quite as clever as she thinks she is and recklessly gets herself into danger several times. She is independent and strong-willed, which can be hard to take. At times her determination and focus come across as selfish, and her thoughts about and remarks to others are not always kind. But she is loyal and trustworthy and fearless. She and Dalton are a perfect match. He values her opinions and participation in his cases, but he treats her as an equal, which means not always giving in to her. He brings out a softer side of her while acknowledging her strength. She has matured and developed a strong, loving relationship with Dalton and a close, sharing relationship with Brie. It is always exciting to wonder what changes there will be in Marla and rewarding to see how she becomes a better and better person, and happier to boot.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can’t wait to see what happens to Marla and the crew next. I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
What Marla doesn’t need is a murder at the day spa. But that is just what happens, and as always Marla is thrown into the middle of things. The reputation of her spa and salon are at stake, and in addition the murder victim was a major donor for Friends of Old Florida, the nonprofit historic preservation society sponsoring the fashion show where her stylists are set to work. As Marla and Dalton begin to investigate they discover this mystery has a little bit of everything and an almost endless list of possible suspects: a greedy land developer, a dress designer whose husband may have links to the Asian mob, a mortician who might be involved in the human hair trade, members of the nonprofit group's board of directors, along with a missing employee and a stolen headpiece that changes color with the mood of its wearer. They also stumble upon a decades-old mystery that includes a secret journal, pirate tales, and shipwrecks along the Florida coast.
Once the action starts it doesn’t stop. The story is complicated, but not so much so that you can’t follow what is happening. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, something happens and you have to stop and think – who is the killer?? You have to pay close attention, but it all comes satisfyingly together in the end.
Nancy J. Cohen’s hot, humid Florida setting is authentic and the mystery-solving journey is exciting, but she also reintroduces us to an interesting, believable recurring cast of characters we have grown to know and (mostly) love. There is Marla’s friend Talley and her husband Ken. Ken always seems to maybe be up to something, and right now Talley doesn’t seem very happy, more so than just the adjustment to having new baby Luke to care for. Maybe a future mystery to solve? And everyone in this cast of characters, including Marla’s mother, in-laws, and Dalton, seems to want Marla to have a baby – except Marla. She has a very firm plan for her and Dalton’s future and a baby does not fit in. But wait – Luke is such a sweet baby and what’s with the warm, fuzzy feeling she gets every time she holds him?
The mysteries in the Bad Hair Day series are great, always fresh and exciting, but Nancy J. Cohen’s real strength is in the people and how she has made Marla grow throughout the series. Marla is still Marla, your typical cozy mystery amateur sleuth – she has good problem-solving skills and wants to set things right, but is not quite as clever as she thinks she is and recklessly gets herself into danger several times. She is independent and strong-willed, which can be hard to take. At times her determination and focus come across as selfish, and her thoughts about and remarks to others are not always kind. But she is loyal and trustworthy and fearless. She and Dalton are a perfect match. He values her opinions and participation in his cases, but he treats her as an equal, which means not always giving in to her. He brings out a softer side of her while acknowledging her strength. She has matured and developed a strong, loving relationship with Dalton and a close, sharing relationship with Brie. It is always exciting to wonder what changes there will be in Marla and rewarding to see how she becomes a better and better person, and happier to boot.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can’t wait to see what happens to Marla and the crew next. I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
March 13, 2017
When a well-to-do client dies mid-facial, Marla Vail decides to track down a killer to save her salon’s reputation. This cozy has a great cast of characters and suspects galore. It’s a fast moving story that will keep you guessing, and rooting for Marla all the way through. While it is the 13th Bad Hair Day Mystery series, you’ll be able to catch on and not feel lost even if you haven’t read the previous 12 books. You will most likely want to go back and read them when you’re done, however!
May 5, 2017
Marla Vail runs a local hair salon and day spa. When a client is found dead during her appointment a the spa, Marla's husband, Detective Dalton Vail, is assigned to the case. A fundraiser for the Friends of Old Florida preservation group, the victim was a promoter of historic preservation. Marla is involved further, as the FOF is having a gala, and her salon is hired to do the hair styling for the models in the runway show. A murder and theft at the gala deepens the mystery.
February 6, 2025
Facial treatments can be fatal, the face reflects more than just beauty; it is a reflection of care and tranquility. Immersing oneself in the atmosphere of a beauty spa is not only a luxury, but a revitalizing experience that renews body and mind. Through its pages, the book reminds us how important it is to take a moment to relax and pamper ourselves, because wellness is also noticeable on the skin.
August 24, 2019
I love this series! So much going on with Marla and Dalton soon to celebrate their first anniversary. Then Chanukah, Christmas and New Years! A customer is found dead at Marla's spa and brings with it more mystery, suspense and along with more dead bodies. New interesting and complex characters and lots of detailed scenes of Florida. So many suspects! I'm on to the next escapade of Marla!
March 4, 2017
I really enjoyed the setting of this cozy mystery. What better place for chaos and murder to happen while at a spa. I loved the description of the spa and salon . The author made you feel like you were there with the other customers. You could hear the scissors snipping away and smell the scents of the facials as they were placed smoothly on faces. I have been to a spa before and loved how relaxed you feel.
Marla is a smart business woman. She owns a salon and now has expanded and opened a day spa next door. Things are going well until a scream shatters the tranquil atmosphere. As Marla rushes next door she finds out why there was a loud scream. A customer lays dead in one of the rooms. As the investigation begins they find out that Val Weston died from latex poisoning. The spa keeps very detailed files on each client. Everyone was aware of Val's allergy to latex. Who put the latex drops in the facial? Should other customers be worried about their safety?
I really liked Marla's husband. He is very smart, patient and has his hands full with the investigation. There seems to be a theme in most cozy mysteries where the main character in the story gets involved in the investigation. I always find them to be funny, intuitive and determined. Marla is that and much more. Along with her husband they will find themselves with many suspects to clear and a mystery that keeps readers guessing. Will Marla heed her husband's warning and try to stay save? Who is after her and what information did she stumble on? The story is full of great action and a cast of characters that really make the story intriguing.
What ties did Val have with the upcoming gala? Was she hiding something that could have caused someone to murder her? When more bodies start piling up, the investigation really heats up. I loved the fast pace of the story and how the author throws curve balls just as you think you have solved the mystery. Marla and Dalton are a great couple and I love the interaction between the two. I never could figure out who the killer was, but I loved the ending. I was quite surprised when the killer was revealed .
I received a copy of the book from Great Escapes Book Tour. The review is my own opinion.
Marla is a smart business woman. She owns a salon and now has expanded and opened a day spa next door. Things are going well until a scream shatters the tranquil atmosphere. As Marla rushes next door she finds out why there was a loud scream. A customer lays dead in one of the rooms. As the investigation begins they find out that Val Weston died from latex poisoning. The spa keeps very detailed files on each client. Everyone was aware of Val's allergy to latex. Who put the latex drops in the facial? Should other customers be worried about their safety?
I really liked Marla's husband. He is very smart, patient and has his hands full with the investigation. There seems to be a theme in most cozy mysteries where the main character in the story gets involved in the investigation. I always find them to be funny, intuitive and determined. Marla is that and much more. Along with her husband they will find themselves with many suspects to clear and a mystery that keeps readers guessing. Will Marla heed her husband's warning and try to stay save? Who is after her and what information did she stumble on? The story is full of great action and a cast of characters that really make the story intriguing.
What ties did Val have with the upcoming gala? Was she hiding something that could have caused someone to murder her? When more bodies start piling up, the investigation really heats up. I loved the fast pace of the story and how the author throws curve balls just as you think you have solved the mystery. Marla and Dalton are a great couple and I love the interaction between the two. I never could figure out who the killer was, but I loved the ending. I was quite surprised when the killer was revealed .
I received a copy of the book from Great Escapes Book Tour. The review is my own opinion.
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