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Mountain Lodge Mystery #2
A Trip with Trouble
The second in a charming and engrossing cozy series from Diane Kelly, A Trip with Trouble proves that in the Blue Ridge Mountains, life in the fast lane could end in a crash.
When the ladies of the Dangerous Curves Motorcycle Club take over the Mountaintop Lodge for their annual autumn ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Misty Murphy couldn’t be more thrilled. Every room is full and the adventurous women even invite Misty and her assistant Brynn to join them on a ride to admire the colorful fall foliage. Hotel handyman Rocky Crowder is happy to keep an eye on the lodge for the day, and the ladies set out for a fun ride on the scenic road.
The skies are clear, the air is crisp, and the leaves are gorgeous. But what starts as a perfect ride turns worrisome when the tail gunner – the last rider in their group – fails to show up at the Craggy Gardens overlook. Cell phone service is spotty in the remote, mountainous area, and the group is unable to connect with their friend. Might the missing woman have simply run out of gas? Or is something far more sinister afoot?
The ladies are determined to locate their ride or die, and Misty is equally determined to help them. But will they be able to solve the mystery when the scenic route seems intent on hiding its secrets?
When the ladies of the Dangerous Curves Motorcycle Club take over the Mountaintop Lodge for their annual autumn ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Misty Murphy couldn’t be more thrilled. Every room is full and the adventurous women even invite Misty and her assistant Brynn to join them on a ride to admire the colorful fall foliage. Hotel handyman Rocky Crowder is happy to keep an eye on the lodge for the day, and the ladies set out for a fun ride on the scenic road.
The skies are clear, the air is crisp, and the leaves are gorgeous. But what starts as a perfect ride turns worrisome when the tail gunner – the last rider in their group – fails to show up at the Craggy Gardens overlook. Cell phone service is spotty in the remote, mountainous area, and the group is unable to connect with their friend. Might the missing woman have simply run out of gas? Or is something far more sinister afoot?
The ladies are determined to locate their ride or die, and Misty is equally determined to help them. But will they be able to solve the mystery when the scenic route seems intent on hiding its secrets?
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 25, 2022
73 people are currently reading
5230 people want to read
About the author
Diane Kelly
69 books1,235 followersAward-winning author Diane Kelly writes romance and romantic mysteries featuring feisty heroines, quirky sidekicks, and sexy leading men, with humor that leaves readers laughing out loud.
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August 19, 2022
Diane Kelly brings plenty of mystery, atmosphere, and secrets to the second book in her Mountain Lodge cozy mystery series,
A Trip with Trouble
. It features 50 year-old Misty Murphy who has recently signed her divorce papers and purchased a mountain lodge in the Blue Ridge Mountains in northwestern North Carolina. A women’s motorcycle club, Dangerous Curves, has rented the entire lodge for the week to enjoy rides, hikes, and companionship during the fall season. However, things don’t go well when the last rider in their group fails to show up at an overlook during one of their rides. Cell phone service is spotty at best and there’s no response to the handheld radio. What has happened? Misty is determined to help them.
The story is mainly told from Misty’s point of view, but there are a few chapters interspersed with thoughts from her cat, Baroness Blizzard also known as Yeti. While Yeti’s chapters aren’t necessary, they provide some humor and I enjoyed them. Misty is independent, resourceful, organized, and good with people. She quickly starts to make friends. Rocky, the handyman, Brynn, her assistant, and diner owner Patty play pivotal roles as secondary characters and the club guests are a mixed group of personalities with secrets to lend a sense of realism.
The setting was perfect for this novel and Ms. Kelly does a great job of transporting readers to the mountains of North Carolina. The winding roads, the fall color, the scenic views, and even the southern foods were authentic. There are several plot twists along the way along with plenty of suspects. The dialogue and pacing were on target. The characters and humor enhance it with both relatable characters like Misty and Rocky along with some obnoxious ones and a bit of everything else in between. I also liked the fact that Misty worked with the police rather than hiding her sleuthing activities. However, it seemed like the deputy shared more information with her than he should.
I was immediately drawn into Misty’s life and enjoyed the unraveling of the mystery and the development of friendships. The story captivated me from the beginning with a good plot, great world-building details, and characters that are emotionally rich. The novel shines a light on death, relationships, friendship, family, life’s curveballs, and a bit of romance.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, which was suspenseful, engaging, and atmospheric. In all three of the books I have read by this author, I had a connection with the writing style that I found relatable, vivid, and irresistible. I can’t wait to find out what happens during the next book in the series. I recommend this to those that like cozy mysteries with a more mature main character.
St. Martin’s Press – St. Martin’s Paperbacks and Diane Kelly provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently expected to be October 25, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
The story is mainly told from Misty’s point of view, but there are a few chapters interspersed with thoughts from her cat, Baroness Blizzard also known as Yeti. While Yeti’s chapters aren’t necessary, they provide some humor and I enjoyed them. Misty is independent, resourceful, organized, and good with people. She quickly starts to make friends. Rocky, the handyman, Brynn, her assistant, and diner owner Patty play pivotal roles as secondary characters and the club guests are a mixed group of personalities with secrets to lend a sense of realism.
The setting was perfect for this novel and Ms. Kelly does a great job of transporting readers to the mountains of North Carolina. The winding roads, the fall color, the scenic views, and even the southern foods were authentic. There are several plot twists along the way along with plenty of suspects. The dialogue and pacing were on target. The characters and humor enhance it with both relatable characters like Misty and Rocky along with some obnoxious ones and a bit of everything else in between. I also liked the fact that Misty worked with the police rather than hiding her sleuthing activities. However, it seemed like the deputy shared more information with her than he should.
I was immediately drawn into Misty’s life and enjoyed the unraveling of the mystery and the development of friendships. The story captivated me from the beginning with a good plot, great world-building details, and characters that are emotionally rich. The novel shines a light on death, relationships, friendship, family, life’s curveballs, and a bit of romance.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, which was suspenseful, engaging, and atmospheric. In all three of the books I have read by this author, I had a connection with the writing style that I found relatable, vivid, and irresistible. I can’t wait to find out what happens during the next book in the series. I recommend this to those that like cozy mysteries with a more mature main character.
St. Martin’s Press – St. Martin’s Paperbacks and Diane Kelly provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently expected to be October 25, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
October 21, 2022
A Trip With Trouble is the second book in Diane Kelly’s Mountain Lodge Mystery series. It takes place in the picturesque town of Beech Mountain, North Carolina. Recently divorced Misty Murphy purchased a Mountain Lodge that specializes in hosting groups. In this story, a female motorcycle club known as The Dangerous Curves has booked rooms in the lodge so they can enjoy riding the winding roads of the Blue Ridge Parkway during the spectacular beauty of the fall season.
When one of the club’s members dies suspiciously during a ride, Misty is determined to help find out whodunit. Misty works with law enforcement and also bounces ideas off of her assistant, her handsome handyman (and possible new love interest), and her friend who owns a diner across the street. Of course, there are plenty of suspects and several red herrings before the killer is revealed. The author always infuses her stories with humor. I laughed out loud at a funny scene involving capturing a robber from a canoe on a pond.
For those of you who enjoy Diane’s books, I suggest you check out the Book Warriors Facebook group that she has with her fellow mystery writer, Melissa Bourbon. There are author interviews, book recommendations, discussions, funny posts, contests, and giveaways.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Sara Beth at St. Martin’s Press for my advanced reader copy. This novel will be published on October 25, 2022.
When one of the club’s members dies suspiciously during a ride, Misty is determined to help find out whodunit. Misty works with law enforcement and also bounces ideas off of her assistant, her handsome handyman (and possible new love interest), and her friend who owns a diner across the street. Of course, there are plenty of suspects and several red herrings before the killer is revealed. The author always infuses her stories with humor. I laughed out loud at a funny scene involving capturing a robber from a canoe on a pond.
For those of you who enjoy Diane’s books, I suggest you check out the Book Warriors Facebook group that she has with her fellow mystery writer, Melissa Bourbon. There are author interviews, book recommendations, discussions, funny posts, contests, and giveaways.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Sara Beth at St. Martin’s Press for my advanced reader copy. This novel will be published on October 25, 2022.
October 26, 2022
A Trip with Murder was a fun read. This is the second book in the Mountain Lodge Mystery. I read the first book. Missy Murphy is the main character along with the characters in the town of Beach Mountain, NC. She owns an Inn. Brynn O'Reilly works for her as Missy's assistant manager along with Rocky who owns the High Country Handyman Service. He lives at the Inn in return for keeping the Inn in good repair. He has given his house to his daughter to use so he needed a room. Patty Williamson own the Greasy Griddle Diner. She supplies breakfast at the Inn every morning.
The Dangerous Curves is a female motorcycle club from Raleigh who have come to stay the week to motor around the countryside. They arrive on their motorcycles along with an RV driven by their leader, Gerri. When they are settled Missy receives a strange call from a man asking for Sadie Hardin, There is no one there registered to that name. Katie Martin is the only one in the group who pays in cash for her room. When Gerri is out on one of their rides her step-daughter, Mariah arrives with her mother=in-law, Andrea and her husband, Sterling asking for Gerri. She was not happy to see them when she gets back. they want to speak to her about the trust that her husband set-up when he died that she oversees. Early one morning a van arrives and a man gets out to check-out the motorcycles and gives a thumbs up when he sees one of the motorcycles and then leaves.
The club is on a ride and when they stop for lunch they realize that Gerri who was taking up the back on her bike did not arrive. They check in with Missy to see if she came back. Missy, Brynn and Katie (who hurt her hand) so did not go on ride go out in Missy's car to see if they can find Gerri. They find Gerri dead Was it an accident or a murder? A Deputy Gilespie arrives to the scene. He is assigned in finding out what happened to Gerri.
This is where the story takes off with Missy trying to find out what happened to Gerri.
Another part of the story deals with Sadie Hardin, who is hiding under the name of Katie Martin. Early one morning two men with face coverings try to rob Sally while she is bringing breakfast to the Inn. They try to get away but one is caught and the other gets away. The man caught is Sadie's boyfriend. When the other man is finally caught both men blame the robberies on Sadie. The deputy looks up Kattie's name and finds out that she is really Sadie. There had been restaurants in Mississippi have been robbed. She had left and hid as a member of the motorcycle club.
I will leave the rest of the story for the reader to find out what and who killed Gerri to an exciting climax as well as what happens to Katie.
I look forward to the next adventure of Missy and her friends in the town of Beach Mountain. Will a romance between her and Rocky develop.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin Press for his ARC.
The Dangerous Curves is a female motorcycle club from Raleigh who have come to stay the week to motor around the countryside. They arrive on their motorcycles along with an RV driven by their leader, Gerri. When they are settled Missy receives a strange call from a man asking for Sadie Hardin, There is no one there registered to that name. Katie Martin is the only one in the group who pays in cash for her room. When Gerri is out on one of their rides her step-daughter, Mariah arrives with her mother=in-law, Andrea and her husband, Sterling asking for Gerri. She was not happy to see them when she gets back. they want to speak to her about the trust that her husband set-up when he died that she oversees. Early one morning a van arrives and a man gets out to check-out the motorcycles and gives a thumbs up when he sees one of the motorcycles and then leaves.
The club is on a ride and when they stop for lunch they realize that Gerri who was taking up the back on her bike did not arrive. They check in with Missy to see if she came back. Missy, Brynn and Katie (who hurt her hand) so did not go on ride go out in Missy's car to see if they can find Gerri. They find Gerri dead Was it an accident or a murder? A Deputy Gilespie arrives to the scene. He is assigned in finding out what happened to Gerri.
This is where the story takes off with Missy trying to find out what happened to Gerri.
Another part of the story deals with Sadie Hardin, who is hiding under the name of Katie Martin. Early one morning two men with face coverings try to rob Sally while she is bringing breakfast to the Inn. They try to get away but one is caught and the other gets away. The man caught is Sadie's boyfriend. When the other man is finally caught both men blame the robberies on Sadie. The deputy looks up Kattie's name and finds out that she is really Sadie. There had been restaurants in Mississippi have been robbed. She had left and hid as a member of the motorcycle club.
I will leave the rest of the story for the reader to find out what and who killed Gerri to an exciting climax as well as what happens to Katie.
I look forward to the next adventure of Missy and her friends in the town of Beach Mountain. Will a romance between her and Rocky develop.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin Press for his ARC.
December 9, 2022
This book was everything I want in a mountain lodge cozy!! Smores, fires, nature....it was great!
The Dangerous Curves women's biker club has booked a store at the lodge, and Misty takes an instant shine to the group. So did I. It was such a fun unique premise in a cozy and I loved that the women all came together from all walks of life for the love of riding.
I also really enjoyed that the victim was beloved. You don't see that too often. It was different, but the author did a great job of making it work. I was really invested in seeing justice for the victim!
I highly recommend this book to cozy lovers!
I received an arc of this book in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank netgalley, the author Diane Kelly, and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book!
My YouTube short review:
https://youtube.com/shorts/YNGzI-CigG0
The Dangerous Curves women's biker club has booked a store at the lodge, and Misty takes an instant shine to the group. So did I. It was such a fun unique premise in a cozy and I loved that the women all came together from all walks of life for the love of riding.
I also really enjoyed that the victim was beloved. You don't see that too often. It was different, but the author did a great job of making it work. I was really invested in seeing justice for the victim!
I highly recommend this book to cozy lovers!
I received an arc of this book in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank netgalley, the author Diane Kelly, and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book!
My YouTube short review:
https://youtube.com/shorts/YNGzI-CigG0
April 14, 2024
A Trip with Trouble by Diane Kelly is the second book in the cozy Mountain Lodge Mystery series. Each book of this series will contain it’s own fully solved mystery so they can be enjoyed as a standalone novel or in any order if choosing to do so. Of course there is character development that will carry over from book to book for those who choose to read the series from the beginning.
Just as Misty Murphy was turning fifty she found herself completely changing her life with her children grown and out of the house she and her husband had decided to end their marriage finding themselves to be complete opposites. One thing that always made Misty the happiest was traveling to the Blue Ridge Mountains so she decided to move there permanently and bought an old inn she was familiar with from her visits and quickly hired staff to help her out with the inn needing more repairs than she thought.
Now that Misty has her inn up and running she is excited to have a full house with the ladies of the Dangerous Curves Motorcycle Club staying during their annual autumn ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The ladies in the club even invite Misty and her assistant out for a ride and with the lodge handyman left in charge they just couldn’t resist. What was supposed to be a fun afternoon ride turns into another mystery for Misty to solve with one of the motorcycle club ladies not showing up after the ride was finished.
The Mountain Lodge Mystery series is another that I started from the beginning and quickly fell in love with. The Mountain Lodge made a wonderful remote setting that had all the small town charm I love in cozy mysteries and of course with this setting comes along some quirky characters that is also at the top of my cozy checklist. With a fun mystery again in the second book I’ll definitely be looking forward to returning to the series for book three.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Just as Misty Murphy was turning fifty she found herself completely changing her life with her children grown and out of the house she and her husband had decided to end their marriage finding themselves to be complete opposites. One thing that always made Misty the happiest was traveling to the Blue Ridge Mountains so she decided to move there permanently and bought an old inn she was familiar with from her visits and quickly hired staff to help her out with the inn needing more repairs than she thought.
Now that Misty has her inn up and running she is excited to have a full house with the ladies of the Dangerous Curves Motorcycle Club staying during their annual autumn ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The ladies in the club even invite Misty and her assistant out for a ride and with the lodge handyman left in charge they just couldn’t resist. What was supposed to be a fun afternoon ride turns into another mystery for Misty to solve with one of the motorcycle club ladies not showing up after the ride was finished.
The Mountain Lodge Mystery series is another that I started from the beginning and quickly fell in love with. The Mountain Lodge made a wonderful remote setting that had all the small town charm I love in cozy mysteries and of course with this setting comes along some quirky characters that is also at the top of my cozy checklist. With a fun mystery again in the second book I’ll definitely be looking forward to returning to the series for book three.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
July 20, 2022
Misty runs a lodge in the scenic North Carolina mountains, and her new customers are a women's motorcycle club, the Dangerous Curves. Misty's enjoying getting to know them, but then there is an unexpected death--is it an accident, or murder? One of the members seem to be hiding secrets, and one has a fiery temper, so Misty wonders if they could be involved. She also wonders about some family members who seem less than forthcoming. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC.
November 11, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
It’s a full house at the Mountaintop Lodge in the Blue Ridge Mountains when the Dangerous Curves Motorcycle Club move in for the week. The women take an annual autumn ride and this year it brings them to Misty’s lodge. Handyman Rocky Crowder offers to take care of the lodge so that Misty and her assistant Brynn can ride along one day and enjoy the women’s company and fall colors.
It is a beautiful day, perfect for leaf peeping but there is trouble on this trip when the riders pull off to stop at the Craggy Gardens overlook. One rider arrives way behind the rest of the group and their leader who was bringing up the rear doesn’t show up at all. She is not answering her radio and the cell service sucks so they find a landline to call the authorities and start a search.
Misty takes the safety of her guests seriously so she and Brynn pitch in to find the missing biker. Rocky steps up to help in any way he can too. Sadly the club leader’s body is found way off the road and her death was no accident. Is there a killer staying at the lodge? or is there someone who has been lurking in the area waiting for the opportunity to take the woman out? Misty is not going to give up until she knows who did the deed and why.
I was excited to catch up with Misty, Brynn, Rocky, and Patty. They have gotten very close after knowing each other for such a short time. Brynn and Misty work together like a well-oiled machine. Patty and Misty have a working relationship but have also become good friends that have each other’s back. Rocky is such a sweet man and I love the way his relationship with Misty is growing. They all feel true-to-life and the excellent character development from the first book continues within the pages of this book. I absolutely love the chapters from Misty’s cat Yeti’s point-of-view.
Ms. Kelly introduces readers to an interesting group of women. The Dangerous Curves Motorcycle Club is made up of women of all ages. Some have ridden together for years, one is new to the group, and the others fall somewhere in between. They appear to mesh together very well until the leader���s death when they start to think one of them may be a killer. We also meet members of the deceased “family” that were making several demands prior to her death. What a bunch! The author did a wonderful job giving each of these characters a unique personality which made it easy to keep everyone straight especially when there were several suspects among them.
The mystery was precisely plotted and flowed well with the necessary subplots. I appreciated the way Misty worked with the police. It shows the maturity of the protagonist and the supporting cast. They took some risks but never ventured into the realm of making stupid moves alone without backup. I enjoyed the way the killer was revealed and was so satisfied that while I didn’t have all the clues firmly in place I still chose the right guilty party.
The Blue Ridge Mountains especially when the leaves are changing and revealing their beautiful colors is a delightful place to set a cozy mystery. Ms. Kelly painted some extraordinary pictures with her words.
My escape into A Trip with Trouble was perfect. The characters are exceptional, the mystery is very well-written, and traveling virtually to North Carolina is always a good time. I wish I could actually visit there at any time of year.
The first book was just as good and I do recommend you read it first to enjoy these characters from the start.
It’s a full house at the Mountaintop Lodge in the Blue Ridge Mountains when the Dangerous Curves Motorcycle Club move in for the week. The women take an annual autumn ride and this year it brings them to Misty’s lodge. Handyman Rocky Crowder offers to take care of the lodge so that Misty and her assistant Brynn can ride along one day and enjoy the women’s company and fall colors.
It is a beautiful day, perfect for leaf peeping but there is trouble on this trip when the riders pull off to stop at the Craggy Gardens overlook. One rider arrives way behind the rest of the group and their leader who was bringing up the rear doesn’t show up at all. She is not answering her radio and the cell service sucks so they find a landline to call the authorities and start a search.
Misty takes the safety of her guests seriously so she and Brynn pitch in to find the missing biker. Rocky steps up to help in any way he can too. Sadly the club leader’s body is found way off the road and her death was no accident. Is there a killer staying at the lodge? or is there someone who has been lurking in the area waiting for the opportunity to take the woman out? Misty is not going to give up until she knows who did the deed and why.
I was excited to catch up with Misty, Brynn, Rocky, and Patty. They have gotten very close after knowing each other for such a short time. Brynn and Misty work together like a well-oiled machine. Patty and Misty have a working relationship but have also become good friends that have each other’s back. Rocky is such a sweet man and I love the way his relationship with Misty is growing. They all feel true-to-life and the excellent character development from the first book continues within the pages of this book. I absolutely love the chapters from Misty’s cat Yeti’s point-of-view.
Ms. Kelly introduces readers to an interesting group of women. The Dangerous Curves Motorcycle Club is made up of women of all ages. Some have ridden together for years, one is new to the group, and the others fall somewhere in between. They appear to mesh together very well until the leader���s death when they start to think one of them may be a killer. We also meet members of the deceased “family” that were making several demands prior to her death. What a bunch! The author did a wonderful job giving each of these characters a unique personality which made it easy to keep everyone straight especially when there were several suspects among them.
The mystery was precisely plotted and flowed well with the necessary subplots. I appreciated the way Misty worked with the police. It shows the maturity of the protagonist and the supporting cast. They took some risks but never ventured into the realm of making stupid moves alone without backup. I enjoyed the way the killer was revealed and was so satisfied that while I didn’t have all the clues firmly in place I still chose the right guilty party.
The Blue Ridge Mountains especially when the leaves are changing and revealing their beautiful colors is a delightful place to set a cozy mystery. Ms. Kelly painted some extraordinary pictures with her words.
My escape into A Trip with Trouble was perfect. The characters are exceptional, the mystery is very well-written, and traveling virtually to North Carolina is always a good time. I wish I could actually visit there at any time of year.
The first book was just as good and I do recommend you read it first to enjoy these characters from the start.
November 19, 2022
This captured me from the get-go! I have not read the first book in the series, but I will be remedying that soon. I love that the main character is living her best life later in life and is close in age to me. I had never heard of The Dangerous Curves Women's Motorcycle Club, but I'm excited to hear it actually exists.
As a North Carolina homeowner, I loved all the references to places I know and have been to myself. The mystery is fantastic, with many red herrings. All of the characters are so well-developed and engaging. I am absolutely looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
As a North Carolina homeowner, I loved all the references to places I know and have been to myself. The mystery is fantastic, with many red herrings. All of the characters are so well-developed and engaging. I am absolutely looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
October 17, 2022
*3-3.5 stars. This is book #2 in a cozy mystery series by Diane Kelly set in the Blue Ridge Mountains. After her divorce, Misty Murphy opened Mountaintop Lodge in Beech Mountain, North Carolina, and this week, she is hosting a group of motorcycle mamas called The Dangerous Curves, who have come up from Raleigh to enjoy the fall foliage.
About midway through the week, the rider who is running sweep on the tail end of the group, fails to meet up with them at the appointed spot. An intensive search finds her bike wrecked and her body lying further down the hillside. Who could have wanted the woman dead?
Misty, her handyman Rocky, and the cleaning lady Brynn keep their eyes and ears open. Maybe they can help the local sheriff solve the case before everyone leaves at week's end.
I have to say the Blue Ridge Mountains are one of my favorite places to visit in the fall so I thoroughly enjoyed spending some time there in these pages. The murder mystery is intriguing with lots of red herrings and the characters are fun and lively. I like how the relationship is developing between Rocky and Misty--nice and slow. I will definitely look forward to reading more in this series.
I received arc from the author and publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
About midway through the week, the rider who is running sweep on the tail end of the group, fails to meet up with them at the appointed spot. An intensive search finds her bike wrecked and her body lying further down the hillside. Who could have wanted the woman dead?
Misty, her handyman Rocky, and the cleaning lady Brynn keep their eyes and ears open. Maybe they can help the local sheriff solve the case before everyone leaves at week's end.
I have to say the Blue Ridge Mountains are one of my favorite places to visit in the fall so I thoroughly enjoyed spending some time there in these pages. The murder mystery is intriguing with lots of red herrings and the characters are fun and lively. I like how the relationship is developing between Rocky and Misty--nice and slow. I will definitely look forward to reading more in this series.
I received arc from the author and publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
June 24, 2023
Excellent cozy mystery! Author Diane Kelly writes a well thought out plot with lots of suspects and action. I enjoyed every single page!
October 24, 2022
Misty Murphy is delighted that her Mountaintop Lodge is a success. In fact, her lodge is completely booked by a women’s motorcycle club. It’s a motley group, but they are paying customers and Misty is fascinated with them. They even invite her and her assistant to join them on a ride to see the beautiful fall colors.
Then, tragedy strikes. One of the women is found dead along the side of the road. Was it an accident or murder? Everyone is puzzled as to what happened. Misty is determined to figure it out. She wonders if a murderer could be staying under her roof. She’s more than a little shocked to discover just how many suspects there are.
This book is even better than the first one in the series. I love getting to know Misty and her friends even better. This series has everything I love about cozies. A great setting, a cast of fun, quirky characters and a mystery filled with many possible culprits. There’s even a hint of romance. It’s subtle and doesn’t overpower the mystery.
It’s one of those books I kept turning the pages and guessing "whodunit" until the very end. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Then, tragedy strikes. One of the women is found dead along the side of the road. Was it an accident or murder? Everyone is puzzled as to what happened. Misty is determined to figure it out. She wonders if a murderer could be staying under her roof. She’s more than a little shocked to discover just how many suspects there are.
This book is even better than the first one in the series. I love getting to know Misty and her friends even better. This series has everything I love about cozies. A great setting, a cast of fun, quirky characters and a mystery filled with many possible culprits. There’s even a hint of romance. It’s subtle and doesn’t overpower the mystery.
It’s one of those books I kept turning the pages and guessing "whodunit" until the very end. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 8, 2023
Misty Murphy runs the Mountain Top Lodge in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Her latest booking is a women’s biker club. They invite Misty and her assistant Brynn to ride along with them as they go on a ride to enjoy the Fall foliage. When the rider at the tail end fails to arrive at the overlook, Misty has a new case to solve.
A Trip With Trouble is the second book in Mountain Lodge mystery series. This is a charming series, and I suggest starting with the first book in the series, Getaway With Murder.
A Trip With Trouble is a delightful cozy mystery with likable characters and a lovely setting. I look forward to reading more of this series.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A Trip With Trouble is the second book in Mountain Lodge mystery series. This is a charming series, and I suggest starting with the first book in the series, Getaway With Murder.
A Trip With Trouble is a delightful cozy mystery with likable characters and a lovely setting. I look forward to reading more of this series.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2022
This is book two in the Mountain Lodge mystery series.
Misty welcomes a girl biker group to the lodge. Almost from the start there’s some unexpected things happening. Phone calls, people walking sneakily in the woods and also a white van showing up. It all comes to a head when a member of the biker group is found dead.
It’s a nice cozy little mystery set in an wonderful sounding location.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
Misty welcomes a girl biker group to the lodge. Almost from the start there’s some unexpected things happening. Phone calls, people walking sneakily in the woods and also a white van showing up. It all comes to a head when a member of the biker group is found dead.
It’s a nice cozy little mystery set in an wonderful sounding location.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
November 28, 2022
A Trip with Trouble by Diane Kelly is the second A Mountain Lodge Mystery. It can be read as a standalone for those new to the series. I like Diane Kelly’s writing style. It is casual and friendly. I was quickly drawn into A Trip with Trouble. I enjoyed the picturesque descriptions of the Mountaintop Lodge and the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina. It sounds like a beautiful place to visit in the fall. Evidently, the Dangerous Curves Motorcycle Club thought so as well. They bought out the Mountaintop Lodge for the week to enjoy rides on the mountain roads and hikes on the trails. Unfortunately, one of the group ends up dead and Misty suspects foul play. Misty likes the motorcycle ladies and is determined to get justice for their fallen leader. I like Misty, Brynn, Rocky, Patty, and Yeti (Misty’s cat). It is a good cast of characters. I am glad that the author gave us an older protagonist. Misty is fifty and recently divorced. She has two sons in college. Misty is smart, independent, resourceful, and good with people. This makes her a great innkeeper. I enjoy the chapters told from Yeti’s point of view (I laugh often while reading them). Diane Kelly really captures a cat personality and antics. The mystery had several suspects which included a member or two of the Dangerous Curves and members of the victim’s “family.” I joined Misty as she set out to unravel the clues and find the victim’s killer. I like that she worked with the police. A helpful deputy may have overshared just a touch. While I had a clue as to who was behind the murder, I still had fun following Misty. The author has provided developed, realistic characters that you want to get to know better. I felt transported to North Carolina in the autumn. There is a touch of romance. Misty likes Rocky, but she is not ready to start dating. They have casual dinners at home, chats, walks, and evenings in front of the fire. I was sorry for A Trip with Trouble to come to an end. I am looking forward to Misty’s next adventure. A Trip with Trouble transports readers to the Blue Ridge Mountains with motorcycle mavens, falling leaves, greedy relatives, a hunky handyman, a scaredy cat, a fallen friend, a firebrand rider, and an indomitable innkeeper.
October 17, 2022
Rounded up ...4.5 out of 5 stars. Delightful cozy series, this is 2nd in series, but can easily be read as a standalone.
Misty Murphy celebrated a momentous 50th birthday by signing her amicable divorce papers and purchasing her dream lodge in the mountains of North Carolina. Resilient, hard-working with a zest for life, she's looking forward to this upcoming week as a female motorcycle club has book the entire lodge. Death comes to a member of the club and Misty starts investigating with the help of her engaging new posse: Rocky, her live-on-site handyman and potential love interest. Brynn, her bohemian assistant manager and sidekick. Patty, the owner of the diner next door who provides breakfast for Misty and her guests.
Well-written with good pacing and intriguing mystery.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Misty Murphy celebrated a momentous 50th birthday by signing her amicable divorce papers and purchasing her dream lodge in the mountains of North Carolina. Resilient, hard-working with a zest for life, she's looking forward to this upcoming week as a female motorcycle club has book the entire lodge. Death comes to a member of the club and Misty starts investigating with the help of her engaging new posse: Rocky, her live-on-site handyman and potential love interest. Brynn, her bohemian assistant manager and sidekick. Patty, the owner of the diner next door who provides breakfast for Misty and her guests.
Well-written with good pacing and intriguing mystery.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 22, 2022
Fall is upon us and I was in the mood for a mystery with a seasonal feel and gorgeous setting. It was serendipity when I spotted a new to me cozy mystery author I’ve been meaning to try for ages and this was only the second in a newer series.
A Trip With Trouble is the second standalone cozy mystery in the Mountain Lodge mystery series set in a small mountain North Carolina town with a middle-aged newly divorced woman lodge keeper stumbling over mysteries via her guests.
Misty Murphy is content and happy these days with her lodge renovated and getting the business, good help, developing good friendships and a potential love interest in town, and the joy of being exactly where she always wanted to be after raising her kids and parting amicably from her husband when their paths in life started deviating. She’s all set to welcome a new group of guests in the form of a women’s motorcycle club for the fall season of leaf-peeping, hot cider, scarecrows and pumpkins, and murder. Okay, perhaps that last wasn’t a welcome addition and Misty finds herself with an inside track to help the police since the victim was one of her guests and she saw a few odd things that held more significance afterward.
A Trip With Trouble was as cozy as cozy mystery gets with its detailed set up of backdrop, characters, fun side interests, and then eventually, the mystery to solve. Sometimes this can get drawn out and tedious, but not here. The author keeps a good flow of interesting clues dropping and leading to the moment and heightens curiosity and the mild suspense.
Misty is also a level-headed, observant lead character. She’s fascinated by the mystery and wants to help, but in a way that works for her situation. She does her regular work about the lodge and visits with her guests- getting to know the women who enjoy riding their own bikes and tackling scenic and difficult routes together- which is how she arrives at facts and evidence ahead of the police. She is smart though and doesn’t try to one up the law enforcement. She gives over her evidence to the police, talks it over with Rocky and her woman friends, and she doesn’t butt into the police investigation even when satisfying her own curiosity about certain people’s odd behavior or lies.
The romance with Rocky is a friendly slow build and in this installment they are contemplating a first date and a first kiss. Rocky is more friend and handyman around the lodge at this point and the pace felt good.
The mystery made sense and the clues, including the distracting ones, were solid. The plot steadily led to the finish. I wasn’t distracted by a few side mysteries and the mystery led where I thought it would, but I enjoyed the journey along the way.
Sidenote- There are some fun short chapters between the others from the point of view of Misty’s cat.
I had an awesome time for this Autumn mystery read and would definitely read more from the author and the series. Those in the mood for a fall seasonal cozy mystery should definitely grab a mug of cider and cozy up to this one.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy Sept 21.
A Trip With Trouble is the second standalone cozy mystery in the Mountain Lodge mystery series set in a small mountain North Carolina town with a middle-aged newly divorced woman lodge keeper stumbling over mysteries via her guests.
Misty Murphy is content and happy these days with her lodge renovated and getting the business, good help, developing good friendships and a potential love interest in town, and the joy of being exactly where she always wanted to be after raising her kids and parting amicably from her husband when their paths in life started deviating. She’s all set to welcome a new group of guests in the form of a women’s motorcycle club for the fall season of leaf-peeping, hot cider, scarecrows and pumpkins, and murder. Okay, perhaps that last wasn’t a welcome addition and Misty finds herself with an inside track to help the police since the victim was one of her guests and she saw a few odd things that held more significance afterward.
A Trip With Trouble was as cozy as cozy mystery gets with its detailed set up of backdrop, characters, fun side interests, and then eventually, the mystery to solve. Sometimes this can get drawn out and tedious, but not here. The author keeps a good flow of interesting clues dropping and leading to the moment and heightens curiosity and the mild suspense.
Misty is also a level-headed, observant lead character. She’s fascinated by the mystery and wants to help, but in a way that works for her situation. She does her regular work about the lodge and visits with her guests- getting to know the women who enjoy riding their own bikes and tackling scenic and difficult routes together- which is how she arrives at facts and evidence ahead of the police. She is smart though and doesn’t try to one up the law enforcement. She gives over her evidence to the police, talks it over with Rocky and her woman friends, and she doesn’t butt into the police investigation even when satisfying her own curiosity about certain people’s odd behavior or lies.
The romance with Rocky is a friendly slow build and in this installment they are contemplating a first date and a first kiss. Rocky is more friend and handyman around the lodge at this point and the pace felt good.
The mystery made sense and the clues, including the distracting ones, were solid. The plot steadily led to the finish. I wasn’t distracted by a few side mysteries and the mystery led where I thought it would, but I enjoyed the journey along the way.
Sidenote- There are some fun short chapters between the others from the point of view of Misty’s cat.
I had an awesome time for this Autumn mystery read and would definitely read more from the author and the series. Those in the mood for a fall seasonal cozy mystery should definitely grab a mug of cider and cozy up to this one.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy Sept 21.
October 25, 2022
A Trip With Trouble
The Mountain Lodge Mysteries # 2
St. Martin's Press
Review: Autumn is a perfect time for a trip to the Mountaintop Lodge in Beech Mountain, North Carolina. Author Diane Kelly takes us to the retreat for a cozy stay in her book, A Trip With Trouble, second in The Mountain Lodge Mysteries series.
Owner Misty Murphy's lodge provides a quiet and calm place for guests to recharge. That all change, however, when a female motorcycle club from Raleigh North Carolina rides in for a getaway!
The characters of Misty, her handyman Rocky, and her assistant Brynn won me over with the hospitality they provide at the lodge. Misty's instinctive cat, Yeti, is a delight to know. I can picture myself by the lodge’s firepit, sipping a mug of hot apple cider on a chilly fall evening. Author Kelly added a sense of adventure with the ladies of the club and their agenda to ride along the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway. Her character development is vivid and varied. Amid the beautiful setting, mystery, questions, and secrets unfold as the women settle in for their stay.
I loved the mountainous atmosphere and exciting suspense of the book, which can stand alone. I do look forward to reading the first in Kelly's series as well, Getaway With Murder.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for an advance reader's paperback copy of this book. I gladly provide my own review. It's an honor to be a member of the St. Martin's Press Influencer program.
The Mountain Lodge Mysteries # 2
St. Martin's Press
Review: Autumn is a perfect time for a trip to the Mountaintop Lodge in Beech Mountain, North Carolina. Author Diane Kelly takes us to the retreat for a cozy stay in her book, A Trip With Trouble, second in The Mountain Lodge Mysteries series.
Owner Misty Murphy's lodge provides a quiet and calm place for guests to recharge. That all change, however, when a female motorcycle club from Raleigh North Carolina rides in for a getaway!
The characters of Misty, her handyman Rocky, and her assistant Brynn won me over with the hospitality they provide at the lodge. Misty's instinctive cat, Yeti, is a delight to know. I can picture myself by the lodge’s firepit, sipping a mug of hot apple cider on a chilly fall evening. Author Kelly added a sense of adventure with the ladies of the club and their agenda to ride along the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway. Her character development is vivid and varied. Amid the beautiful setting, mystery, questions, and secrets unfold as the women settle in for their stay.
I loved the mountainous atmosphere and exciting suspense of the book, which can stand alone. I do look forward to reading the first in Kelly's series as well, Getaway With Murder.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for an advance reader's paperback copy of this book. I gladly provide my own review. It's an honor to be a member of the St. Martin's Press Influencer program.
August 16, 2022
A Trip with Trouble is the second Mountain Lodge Mystery by Diane Kelly. In the previous book Misty bought a mountain lodge after her marriage ended and in this installment a group of women motorcyclers, called the Dangerous Curves Motorcycle Club, has taken a trip to take in the fall scenery and ride the curvy roads in the mountains. There is already some drama upon arrival and then the leader of the group is found murdered on the side of the road after one of the group's rides. It's Misty (and Brynn and Rocky) on the case!
Once again Diane Kelly has written a mystery with an idyllic setting, I absolutely adore the mountain lodge, but if Misty gets any more popular she's going to need to hire some staff! Misty is a great protagonist and her evolving relationship with Rocky is always fun to read about. The diner across the street is a great addition to the setting and I loved reading about the owner's part in this story. She's a tough lady!
If you're looking for a new cozy series, I definitely recommend this one and I can't wait to see what's next for Misty and her crew. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for supplying me an early copy. Opinions are my own.
Once again Diane Kelly has written a mystery with an idyllic setting, I absolutely adore the mountain lodge, but if Misty gets any more popular she's going to need to hire some staff! Misty is a great protagonist and her evolving relationship with Rocky is always fun to read about. The diner across the street is a great addition to the setting and I loved reading about the owner's part in this story. She's a tough lady!
If you're looking for a new cozy series, I definitely recommend this one and I can't wait to see what's next for Misty and her crew. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for supplying me an early copy. Opinions are my own.
October 11, 2023
Rounded up ...4.5 out of 5 stars. Delightful cozy series, this is 2nd in series, but can easily be read as a standalone. Misty Murphy celebrated a momentous 50th birthday by signing her amicable divorce papers and purchasing her dream lodge in the mountains of North Carolina. Resilient, hard-working with a zest for life, she's looking forward to this upcoming week as a female motorcycle club has book the entire lodge. Death comes to a member of the club and Misty starts investigating with the help of her engaging new posse: Rocky, her live-on-site handyman and potential love interest. Brynn, her bohemian assistant manager and sidekick. Patty, the owner of the diner next door who provides breakfast for Misty and her guests. Well-written with good pacing and intriguing mystery.
October 25, 2022
Misty bought and restored a lodge in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It was a big change (when she turned 50) from her former life, to a mountain home and B&B she now loved.
A group of women bikers (motorcyclists) called The Curves reserved the lodge for a week, and she looked forward to the "cultural adventure." But they are all surprised a couple of days later when the group's older but strong and vital leader is killed!
This book has chapter headings indicating the point of view; Misty, or her cat Yeti. Although Yeti sees events that may be important, I don't believe a cat would explain everything at such length. It didn't seem like a cat's thoughts at all.
I enjoyed parts of the story--about the mountain scenery, running the lodge, and the motorcycles, etc. Others were not my favorite.
Misty's Theories:
Misty's "theories and deductions" were so changeable and often unrealistic, that I laughed (derisively) or commented aloud to no one. These reactions are uncommon and far beyond eye-rolls for me. Her brainstorming approach to theories--which we read over and over--regardless of evidence or circumstances, become ridiculous.
Then there are the chain theories: "I wonder if they find this ____, and if they do, then this ____ could be what happened." I won't use an example, because it might be a real spoiler! I kept thinking: "Use some logic and probability, woman!"
Misty's Internal Dialogue:
The longer I hear Misty's thoughts and theories, the less I like her. She is a nice enough person on the surface, but seems to require convincing to even be civil to Erika--because she believes Erika is the killer...at different times. (One suspect of MANY!)
Reading her reasoning about whether a flimsy marshmallow roasting wire could be hidden on a motorcycle and dent a motorcycle helmet was unintentionally funny.
Over all, I enjoyed the story, but Misty's theories almost reached a level of musical-chairs paranoia in my opinion. And some other details made it a slog to get back to the story. I think this book needs a good story editor, and someone with common sense to smooth out some rough spots. (Then possibly a psychologist for Misty.)
Misty is very well-meaning, but her head just doesn't seem right sometimes.
3/5 Stars
Thanks to St. Martin's Press, St. Martin's Paperbacks, and NetGalley for the temporary digital preview of this book; any review is voluntary and entirely my own opinion.
@DianeKellyBooks @StMartinsPrerss
#ATripwithTrouble #NetGalley
#StMartinsPress #StMartinsPaperbacks
#TheMountainLodgeMysteryBook2
#DianeKelly #DianeKellyAuth
#GeneralFictionAdult
#MysteryandThrillers
#SmallTownandRuralFictionKindleStore
#SmallTownandRuralFictionBooks
#AmateurSleuths
#FictionFemaleSleuth
#BedandBreakfastMystery
#BlueRidgeMountains
A group of women bikers (motorcyclists) called The Curves reserved the lodge for a week, and she looked forward to the "cultural adventure." But they are all surprised a couple of days later when the group's older but strong and vital leader is killed!
This book has chapter headings indicating the point of view; Misty, or her cat Yeti. Although Yeti sees events that may be important, I don't believe a cat would explain everything at such length. It didn't seem like a cat's thoughts at all.
I enjoyed parts of the story--about the mountain scenery, running the lodge, and the motorcycles, etc. Others were not my favorite.
Misty's Theories:
Misty's "theories and deductions" were so changeable and often unrealistic, that I laughed (derisively) or commented aloud to no one. These reactions are uncommon and far beyond eye-rolls for me. Her brainstorming approach to theories--which we read over and over--regardless of evidence or circumstances, become ridiculous.
Then there are the chain theories: "I wonder if they find this ____, and if they do, then this ____ could be what happened." I won't use an example, because it might be a real spoiler! I kept thinking: "Use some logic and probability, woman!"
Misty's Internal Dialogue:
The longer I hear Misty's thoughts and theories, the less I like her. She is a nice enough person on the surface, but seems to require convincing to even be civil to Erika--because she believes Erika is the killer...at different times. (One suspect of MANY!)
Reading her reasoning about whether a flimsy marshmallow roasting wire could be hidden on a motorcycle and dent a motorcycle helmet was unintentionally funny.
Over all, I enjoyed the story, but Misty's theories almost reached a level of musical-chairs paranoia in my opinion. And some other details made it a slog to get back to the story. I think this book needs a good story editor, and someone with common sense to smooth out some rough spots. (Then possibly a psychologist for Misty.)
Misty is very well-meaning, but her head just doesn't seem right sometimes.
3/5 Stars
Thanks to St. Martin's Press, St. Martin's Paperbacks, and NetGalley for the temporary digital preview of this book; any review is voluntary and entirely my own opinion.
@DianeKellyBooks @StMartinsPrerss
#ATripwithTrouble #NetGalley
#StMartinsPress #StMartinsPaperbacks
#TheMountainLodgeMysteryBook2
#DianeKelly #DianeKellyAuth
#GeneralFictionAdult
#MysteryandThrillers
#SmallTownandRuralFictionKindleStore
#SmallTownandRuralFictionBooks
#AmateurSleuths
#FictionFemaleSleuth
#BedandBreakfastMystery
#BlueRidgeMountains
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October 26, 2022A Trip With Trouble is the 2nd book in Diane Kelly’s Mountain Lodge Mysteries series. It is easily read as a standalone. It’s Fall in Beech Mountain, North Carolina, and the female motorcycle club, The Dangerous Curves, has arrived at the Mountain Top Lodge to spend a week enjoying the Blue Ridge Parkway. When one of the women is killed in a horrific crash, lodge owner Misty Murphy is determined to find out if it was an accident or murder.
I can’t say enough about his book. I found myself wishing I that I was a faster reader, because I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen next. Ms. Kelly’s vivid descriptions bring the exquisite beauty of fall to life. Her description of the sound of the motorcycles riding through the mountain is pure magic. I could hear it; I could feel it. There is a generous amount of information about the Blue Ridge Parkway sprinkled throughout the book. Perfect for those familiar with the Parkway, as well as for those who, like myself, have always wanted to travel the Parkway; certainly, enough to spark an interest in readers who have never given much thought to visiting the western part of North Carolina. A wide variety of strong female characters is offered, but my favorite in this story is Patty, the owner of the Greasy Griddle Diner. One scene makes her my favorite character, you’ll recognize the scene when you read it. Expertly plotted, with not one, but two mysteries. Are they connected? Plenty of twists kept me guessing until the end. I highly recommend this book to all mystery readers.
Many thanks to St. Martin’s for providing me with an advance digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
I can’t say enough about his book. I found myself wishing I that I was a faster reader, because I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen next. Ms. Kelly’s vivid descriptions bring the exquisite beauty of fall to life. Her description of the sound of the motorcycles riding through the mountain is pure magic. I could hear it; I could feel it. There is a generous amount of information about the Blue Ridge Parkway sprinkled throughout the book. Perfect for those familiar with the Parkway, as well as for those who, like myself, have always wanted to travel the Parkway; certainly, enough to spark an interest in readers who have never given much thought to visiting the western part of North Carolina. A wide variety of strong female characters is offered, but my favorite in this story is Patty, the owner of the Greasy Griddle Diner. One scene makes her my favorite character, you’ll recognize the scene when you read it. Expertly plotted, with not one, but two mysteries. Are they connected? Plenty of twists kept me guessing until the end. I highly recommend this book to all mystery readers.
Many thanks to St. Martin’s for providing me with an advance digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2022
The main character of A Trip With Trouble, Misty Murphy, is hosting a woman's motorcycle-riding group at her recently opened mountain lodge. The women have come to North Carolina to enjoy riding and seeing the beautiful fall colors in the area. The group is having fun on the trip and Misty and her assistant, Brynn, are enjoying getting to know this fun group of guests better. When tragedy strikes, Misty jumps right in to investigate the death of one of the riders.
This is a very fun series with a great setting. The mystery is interesting, with a few different possible suspects. Misty declares herself to be good at solving crimes and she is good at finding clues, but I think she jumps to conclusions a little too quickly. Luckily she has Rocky, her handyman, friend, and potential boyfriend, to keep her grounded. Most of the book is narrated by Misty, but there are a couple of chapters from the point of view of Misty's cat. Yeti's observations are cute and fun and also give the reader some information that Misty isn't aware of. The confrontation with the killer is a little far-fetched, but I think the overall ending of the book is really cute. This is the second book in the Mountain Lodge series. You don't have to read the first book to enjoy this one, but it's so good, I highly recommend it.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
This is a very fun series with a great setting. The mystery is interesting, with a few different possible suspects. Misty declares herself to be good at solving crimes and she is good at finding clues, but I think she jumps to conclusions a little too quickly. Luckily she has Rocky, her handyman, friend, and potential boyfriend, to keep her grounded. Most of the book is narrated by Misty, but there are a couple of chapters from the point of view of Misty's cat. Yeti's observations are cute and fun and also give the reader some information that Misty isn't aware of. The confrontation with the killer is a little far-fetched, but I think the overall ending of the book is really cute. This is the second book in the Mountain Lodge series. You don't have to read the first book to enjoy this one, but it's so good, I highly recommend it.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
September 14, 2024
3.75 stars
As I hoped, this book was better than the first in the series. Cosies tend to be like that, I've found. It's usually worth giving the second book a spin because everything always flows better once everything's established and "up and running" in the 2nd one.
I took some special glee away from this particular book, because it informed me that there is this thing called leaf peepers. A concept I didn't know exist, but found absolutely delightful once I googled it.
I could totally become one! Going to North America for the sole purpose of seeing colourful leaves and experience a glorious autumn? Heck, yes! I'd do that! (Or Japan.) 🍂🍁🍃🍂🍁👀
The murder in this book felt like it had unusual gravitas for a cosy mystery.
Sometimes you aren't given any chance to actually grow to like the murder victim, but that happened here - and I really felt for everyone mourning the loss. Plus, of course, cheered the murder investigation on!
Misty is the perfect mix of sly hobby sleuth and nosy busy-body. I really like her (and Yeti!) and will absolutely return to this series.
As I hoped, this book was better than the first in the series. Cosies tend to be like that, I've found. It's usually worth giving the second book a spin because everything always flows better once everything's established and "up and running" in the 2nd one.
I took some special glee away from this particular book, because it informed me that there is this thing called leaf peepers. A concept I didn't know exist, but found absolutely delightful once I googled it.
I could totally become one! Going to North America for the sole purpose of seeing colourful leaves and experience a glorious autumn? Heck, yes! I'd do that! (Or Japan.) 🍂🍁🍃🍂🍁👀
The murder in this book felt like it had unusual gravitas for a cosy mystery.
Sometimes you aren't given any chance to actually grow to like the murder victim, but that happened here - and I really felt for everyone mourning the loss. Plus, of course, cheered the murder investigation on!
Misty is the perfect mix of sly hobby sleuth and nosy busy-body. I really like her (and Yeti!) and will absolutely return to this series.
October 26, 2022
Diane Kelly is back with the second book in her Mountain Lodge Mysteries. This book did not disappoint. It's a great cozy mystery full of wonderful characters, and life in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Things become complicated when someone from the women's motorcycle club goes missing, and Misty will not rest until she is found. This is a great book to curl up with, and I'm looking forward to more of this series.
November 27, 2022
I really enjoyed returning to The Mountain Lodge and see what Misty and Yeti were up to.
This time they had group of lady bikers aka Dangerous Curves are staying with them. I really liked all the the biker chicks and especially liked Gerri.
Unfortunately trouble comes to the Mountain Lodge with the Dangerous Curves.
There is a lot of red herrings and suspense that kept me guessing to the end. I was on edge of my seat reading this book.
The ending was very satisfying and I am hopeful another book will be coming soon in this series.
Thanks NetGalley for this ARC. The opinions are totally mine
This time they had group of lady bikers aka Dangerous Curves are staying with them. I really liked all the the biker chicks and especially liked Gerri.
Unfortunately trouble comes to the Mountain Lodge with the Dangerous Curves.
There is a lot of red herrings and suspense that kept me guessing to the end. I was on edge of my seat reading this book.
The ending was very satisfying and I am hopeful another book will be coming soon in this series.
Thanks NetGalley for this ARC. The opinions are totally mine
February 9, 2023
The thought of moving up to the mountains and running a mountain lodge is very appealing to me. All the people that keep dying at said lodge, not so much, lol.
I am really enjoying the premise behind this book series and I love the characters! I will definitely continue with this series.
I am really enjoying the premise behind this book series and I love the characters! I will definitely continue with this series.
October 20, 2022
“A Trip with Trouble” the 2nd instalment in the The Mountain Lodge Mysteries series by Diane Kelly. What a great follow up to book one. A Trip with Trouble proves that in the Blue Ridge Mountains, life in the fast lane could end in a crash.
I enjoyed the protagonist Misty Murphy, and her staff Brynn and handyman Rocky. I liked How the author gave both Misty and her cat Yeti, a voice throughout the story. I also enjoyed the fall cozy vibes as the biker chicks are leaf peeping in the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina. I look forward to seeing how Misty's relationships grow in book 3.
The mystery is interesting and had lots of twists which kept me guessing. I had no idea who the killer was till Misty did.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy friends. Can’t wait to read the next instalment.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from St.Martin Press and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I enjoyed the protagonist Misty Murphy, and her staff Brynn and handyman Rocky. I liked How the author gave both Misty and her cat Yeti, a voice throughout the story. I also enjoyed the fall cozy vibes as the biker chicks are leaf peeping in the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina. I look forward to seeing how Misty's relationships grow in book 3.
The mystery is interesting and had lots of twists which kept me guessing. I had no idea who the killer was till Misty did.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy friends. Can’t wait to read the next instalment.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from St.Martin Press and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 14, 2022
What a fun series set in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina! This time, Misty's Mountaintop Lodge is visited by the Dangerous Curves, women's biker club, and they pack a whole lot of trouble in their saddlebags. Misty and her team (that includes Yeti, the sassy cat, and Molasses, the lovable dog) have to figure out who the killer is before he strikes again.
November 6, 2024
This is such a fun series. Absolutely love Yeti and reading from a cats perspective. Love the setting, the characters and the mystery. Very fun cozy mystery read.
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