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Bought-the-Farm Mystery #13
Between a Squawk and a Hard Place
Someone’s life depends on a parrot’s saucy secrets.
Ivy has always wanted to meet Hannah Pemberton, the first owner of Runaway Farm and a generous patron of animal causes. When Hannah arrives at the farm unexpectedly, however, it’s anything but a joyful occasion.
Duncan, the chatty parrot Hannah left in her aunt’s care, has flown the coop. What’s more, her aunt is in serious trouble.
Hannah has helped Ivy with many a tricky situation and it’s time to return the favor. Solving the mystery takes them deep into the world of bird enthusiasts. Is Hannah’s aunt the victim of a terrible crime... or the perpetrator? Only the saucy secrets of a winged wisecracker can help the team get answers before someone else flies.
The next book in the Bought-the-Farm Mystery Series is a perfect page-turner for lovers of animals and funny, spunky amateur sleuths.
Ivy has always wanted to meet Hannah Pemberton, the first owner of Runaway Farm and a generous patron of animal causes. When Hannah arrives at the farm unexpectedly, however, it’s anything but a joyful occasion.
Duncan, the chatty parrot Hannah left in her aunt’s care, has flown the coop. What’s more, her aunt is in serious trouble.
Hannah has helped Ivy with many a tricky situation and it’s time to return the favor. Solving the mystery takes them deep into the world of bird enthusiasts. Is Hannah’s aunt the victim of a terrible crime... or the perpetrator? Only the saucy secrets of a winged wisecracker can help the team get answers before someone else flies.
The next book in the Bought-the-Farm Mystery Series is a perfect page-turner for lovers of animals and funny, spunky amateur sleuths.
- GenresCozy MysteryMystery
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 28, 2022
209 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
April 3, 2023
3.75 stars
Hannah Pemberton returns incognito to Runaway Farm but not even a blond wig can disguise her from her doting menagerie. Ivy feels a little threatened, worried Hannah has returned to take the farm back. Hannah reassures Ivy that all is well at the farm but she has a problem she needs Ivy and Keats to help her solve. Hannah's aunt, Cilla Pemberton Tombler, has been incommunicado for nearly a week and Hannah is worried. She's especially worried about her beloved parrot, Duncan, who she was unable to take to Europe with her. Hannah wants reassurance Duncan is well with Aunt Cilla but how can Hannah know for sure if Aunt Cilla doesn't answer her calls? Last she heard, Aunt Cilla had a new boyfriend, Dennis Bodle, whom Hannah thinks is bad news. Did Dennis harm Aunt Cilla? What about Duncan? When the posse arrive at Aunt Cilla's house, Dennis refuses to let them in. Percy says otherwise. When threatened with Gertie's beloved Minnie, Dennis agrees to pack and skedaddle. He claims he doesn't know what happened to Cilla and Duncan but no one believes him. When his deadline for leaving is up, Percy discovers Dennis's deadline for living is up. Dennis was stabbed with a sharp wooden object and the perpetrator nowhere to be found. The Dorset Hills sheriff won't allow Kellan to take the case and Kellan is frustrated by the lack of cooperation. He wants Ivy and gang to back off but when Duncan is found, traumatized and unhappy, Ivy knows it's time for her to step in and help Duncan. If helping Duncan leads her to Dennis's killer, then so be it.
I didn't love this one as much as I had hoped. I loved Hannah and Duncan the first time around in Great and Small in Dog Town and was eager to see them again. This story had way too much drama over motherhood vs. sleuthing. It would be more pleasing for me if Jilly and Asher were destined to be parents but Ivy and Kellan were less interested. Ivy should be happy with her fur, feathered and hooved babies! There was also a lot of romantic tension that was luckily resolved quickly. I was worried it would go on for a few more books. I also don't like the growing threat in Hill Country, whatever it is. I DID like that the plot refocused back on animal rights, where it should be. I was very surprised by the identity of the killer. I never guessed it was that person at all. It seemed a little strange, like the killer came out of thin air. Their motive was a bit weak too. I think they were acting greedy and selfish rather in the best interest of the parrots.
Ivy annoyed me in this book with her whiny drama. She and Kellan need to have some serious conversations ASAP! They can't go on avoiding it forever. Ivy is so full of self-doubt it's turned into self-loathing. She's still a fierce defender of animals though but that's her dilemma. How can she be a good wife and mother and ALSO pursue mysteries? The one who provides her with a pep talk is a huge surprise. I was really happy Jilly is sweet but a little too nice. She too is avoiding having a tough talk with Asher. Asher was very disappointing. He's either been appointed bodyguard or has appointed himself bodyguard. He's smothering Jilly and causing drama with his mother, putting Ivy in the middle. Kellan is complicated. He's trying to do his job. He just wants to be safe, have everyone he loves be safe and protected. I don't blame him. It's why he became a cop in the first place. I do think he loves Ivy, menagerie and all. I think he knows who Ivy is and accepts it and loves her BECAUSE of her quirks but is just frustrated by her behavior. Personally I think everyone should listen to Edna. There's no room for babies in a bunker. Let the zombies get 'em. This is no time to be bringing new humans into the world. Edna is great and she really does have a good heart under her bulletproof vest. Gertie is a little less intense and knows when to pause and take a break. She's content with Fleecy as her companion and they enjoy a good nap now and again but Minnie is always at the ready.
I feel bad for Hannah. She tried to do the right thing for Duncan but seems to have failed. She feels awful and just wants her pet's love back. She's also struggling with work and her desires to be a mother. It's obvious to everyone what's going on with her. I find it hard to believe Nick is that clueless. She sounds like a good mother to Mila and since her father is feeling better, I think she should be allowed to come home. She shouldn't feel pressured to stay or do anything she doesn't want. The Rescue Mafia have her back no matter what she decides.
Dennis Bodle was clearly a lowlife who associated with the wrong people. Why Aunt Cilla, a supercilious woman who always spoke her own mind, took up with him I don't know. Dennis claimed to be a parrot enthusiast but he wouldn't let Duncan speak with Hannah on the phone and then Duncan took off. I don't think Duncan thought Dennis was a real animal lover. Dennis was bad news. Poor Duncan. He's a riot but he's hurting. He feels he was Hannah's first baby and then came Mila and then she left. Hannah left Duncan for his own good. She didn't think she would be able to travel freely around Europe with him and left him with her aunt, an experienced and loving parrot owner. The arrangement should have worked were Duncan not the Einstein of the parrot world. (Or the avian equivalent of Keats). He's hurt he was left behind and being in a toxic situation didn't help. He bonds with Ivy very quickly and then Keats has cause to be jealous! Ivy falls in love with Duncan and it's easy to see why. He's charming.
The Dorset Hills police chief, Chief Boodle, is not Kellan. Chief Boodle seems rather arrogant and sees things in black and white - not sheepdog black and white. He doesn't appreciate Keats's help and doesn't even want Kellan butting into his investigation. Kellan's reputation hangs by a thread because of all the help Ivy and Keats have given him. Kellan fears that soon the Hill Country town police departments will need to be allies and this case isn't helping that friendship develop. It's not HIS fault. Chief Boodle and the others should learn to keep an open mind.
There's a host of new quirky characters in this story. Justine Schalow is the nosy reporter still tailing Ivy. This time she seems to have a lead Ivy doesn't and it might just get them killed this time. Justine has moments when she's a sympathetic character but then she becomes unlikable again. She's going to be a thorn in Ivy's side until she gets her big story. Arlita Cobb, a parrot enthusiast, is Ivy's first point of contact. She shares a lot of good information about a parrot playgroup. It used to be all fun and games but then some wanted to formalize it and egos clashed. The group soon attracted the "wrong" crowd, snobby people who judged one bird against the other. A ha! Could one of those egos have killed Dennis and his ego? Holt Hibbard owns Beaks, Barks and Beyond, a pet store. He's a Millennial with a man bun, passionate about parrots, parrot rescue and quite knowledgeable. He seems nice for a pet store owner. The store made me sick to my stomach though and I'm glad we don't have such things here. He does lie convincingly though and doesn't tell Ivy what he knows or doesn't know. She has to find out the hard way he knows all about this parrot playgroup!
Sybil Ragan, a companion bird enthusiast, is one of those playgroup egos. She does not want Ivy and co. to come to the bird meeting, not even for Duncan's sake. She's rude, snooty and doesn't appreciate Keats. I wouldn't be surprised if she was the murderer. Della Yonder is the group's documentarian. I don't know what a documentarian is supposed to be but sounds like registrar to me. She keeps all the group records. She's devoted to her annoying Cockatiel who isn't very friendly. Her house is a wreck because of her bird but she seems more friendly than Sybil and willing to help. Doctor Gates Smalley, a noted ornithologist and professor, has an even bigger ego than Sybil. He thinks he's awesome because he's a specialist in parrot research and a big shot in the parrot world. Yet he comes across as smarmy and somewhat creepy. I'm sure he's involved in the disappearance of other parrots in the neighborhood.
Bobbie Knuckles was a neighbor and girlfriend of Dennis Bodle. She's the only one mourning his loss and doesn't seem to know what got him killed. Does Ivy believe her? Oddly, yes. Yet there is evidence in the trailer park and in her actions that she DID seem to know more than she's sharing. I can't say how much if anything she really knew! That would spoil the story.
We meet another elderly recluse who makes Gertie look tame. Buckley Brackens is a mean old coot who shoots first and asks questions later. He doesn't take kindly to strangers poking around, not even Edna and Gertie! He was scary but showed a surprising amount of depth. I rather like him, I think. Unless he was serious about the shallow grave out back... He'd be a good match for Gertie but she insists she had her love and that's it for her. Maybe Edna?
Who killed Dennis? Where is Aunt Cilla? Will Hannah return to Hill Country? I'm eager to see what happens next!
Hannah Pemberton returns incognito to Runaway Farm but not even a blond wig can disguise her from her doting menagerie. Ivy feels a little threatened, worried Hannah has returned to take the farm back. Hannah reassures Ivy that all is well at the farm but she has a problem she needs Ivy and Keats to help her solve. Hannah's aunt, Cilla Pemberton Tombler, has been incommunicado for nearly a week and Hannah is worried. She's especially worried about her beloved parrot, Duncan, who she was unable to take to Europe with her. Hannah wants reassurance Duncan is well with Aunt Cilla but how can Hannah know for sure if Aunt Cilla doesn't answer her calls? Last she heard, Aunt Cilla had a new boyfriend, Dennis Bodle, whom Hannah thinks is bad news. Did Dennis harm Aunt Cilla? What about Duncan? When the posse arrive at Aunt Cilla's house, Dennis refuses to let them in. Percy says otherwise. When threatened with Gertie's beloved Minnie, Dennis agrees to pack and skedaddle. He claims he doesn't know what happened to Cilla and Duncan but no one believes him. When his deadline for leaving is up, Percy discovers Dennis's deadline for living is up. Dennis was stabbed with a sharp wooden object and the perpetrator nowhere to be found. The Dorset Hills sheriff won't allow Kellan to take the case and Kellan is frustrated by the lack of cooperation. He wants Ivy and gang to back off but when Duncan is found, traumatized and unhappy, Ivy knows it's time for her to step in and help Duncan. If helping Duncan leads her to Dennis's killer, then so be it.
I didn't love this one as much as I had hoped. I loved Hannah and Duncan the first time around in Great and Small in Dog Town and was eager to see them again. This story had way too much drama over motherhood vs. sleuthing. It would be more pleasing for me if Jilly and Asher were destined to be parents but Ivy and Kellan were less interested. Ivy should be happy with her fur, feathered and hooved babies! There was also a lot of romantic tension that was luckily resolved quickly. I was worried it would go on for a few more books. I also don't like the growing threat in Hill Country, whatever it is. I DID like that the plot refocused back on animal rights, where it should be. I was very surprised by the identity of the killer. I never guessed it was that person at all. It seemed a little strange, like the killer came out of thin air. Their motive was a bit weak too. I think they were acting greedy and selfish rather in the best interest of the parrots.
Ivy annoyed me in this book with her whiny drama. She and Kellan need to have some serious conversations ASAP! They can't go on avoiding it forever. Ivy is so full of self-doubt it's turned into self-loathing. She's still a fierce defender of animals though but that's her dilemma. How can she be a good wife and mother and ALSO pursue mysteries? The one who provides her with a pep talk is a huge surprise. I was really happy Jilly is sweet but a little too nice. She too is avoiding having a tough talk with Asher. Asher was very disappointing. He's either been appointed bodyguard or has appointed himself bodyguard. He's smothering Jilly and causing drama with his mother, putting Ivy in the middle. Kellan is complicated. He's trying to do his job. He just wants to be safe, have everyone he loves be safe and protected. I don't blame him. It's why he became a cop in the first place. I do think he loves Ivy, menagerie and all. I think he knows who Ivy is and accepts it and loves her BECAUSE of her quirks but is just frustrated by her behavior. Personally I think everyone should listen to Edna. There's no room for babies in a bunker. Let the zombies get 'em. This is no time to be bringing new humans into the world. Edna is great and she really does have a good heart under her bulletproof vest. Gertie is a little less intense and knows when to pause and take a break. She's content with Fleecy as her companion and they enjoy a good nap now and again but Minnie is always at the ready.
I feel bad for Hannah. She tried to do the right thing for Duncan but seems to have failed. She feels awful and just wants her pet's love back. She's also struggling with work and her desires to be a mother. It's obvious to everyone what's going on with her. I find it hard to believe Nick is that clueless. She sounds like a good mother to Mila and since her father is feeling better, I think she should be allowed to come home. She shouldn't feel pressured to stay or do anything she doesn't want. The Rescue Mafia have her back no matter what she decides.
Dennis Bodle was clearly a lowlife who associated with the wrong people. Why Aunt Cilla, a supercilious woman who always spoke her own mind, took up with him I don't know. Dennis claimed to be a parrot enthusiast but he wouldn't let Duncan speak with Hannah on the phone and then Duncan took off. I don't think Duncan thought Dennis was a real animal lover. Dennis was bad news. Poor Duncan. He's a riot but he's hurting. He feels he was Hannah's first baby and then came Mila and then she left. Hannah left Duncan for his own good. She didn't think she would be able to travel freely around Europe with him and left him with her aunt, an experienced and loving parrot owner. The arrangement should have worked were Duncan not the Einstein of the parrot world. (Or the avian equivalent of Keats). He's hurt he was left behind and being in a toxic situation didn't help. He bonds with Ivy very quickly and then Keats has cause to be jealous! Ivy falls in love with Duncan and it's easy to see why. He's charming.
The Dorset Hills police chief, Chief Boodle, is not Kellan. Chief Boodle seems rather arrogant and sees things in black and white - not sheepdog black and white. He doesn't appreciate Keats's help and doesn't even want Kellan butting into his investigation. Kellan's reputation hangs by a thread because of all the help Ivy and Keats have given him. Kellan fears that soon the Hill Country town police departments will need to be allies and this case isn't helping that friendship develop. It's not HIS fault. Chief Boodle and the others should learn to keep an open mind.
There's a host of new quirky characters in this story. Justine Schalow is the nosy reporter still tailing Ivy. This time she seems to have a lead Ivy doesn't and it might just get them killed this time. Justine has moments when she's a sympathetic character but then she becomes unlikable again. She's going to be a thorn in Ivy's side until she gets her big story. Arlita Cobb, a parrot enthusiast, is Ivy's first point of contact. She shares a lot of good information about a parrot playgroup. It used to be all fun and games but then some wanted to formalize it and egos clashed. The group soon attracted the "wrong" crowd, snobby people who judged one bird against the other. A ha! Could one of those egos have killed Dennis and his ego? Holt Hibbard owns Beaks, Barks and Beyond, a pet store. He's a Millennial with a man bun, passionate about parrots, parrot rescue and quite knowledgeable. He seems nice for a pet store owner. The store made me sick to my stomach though and I'm glad we don't have such things here. He does lie convincingly though and doesn't tell Ivy what he knows or doesn't know. She has to find out the hard way he knows all about this parrot playgroup!
Sybil Ragan, a companion bird enthusiast, is one of those playgroup egos. She does not want Ivy and co. to come to the bird meeting, not even for Duncan's sake. She's rude, snooty and doesn't appreciate Keats. I wouldn't be surprised if she was the murderer. Della Yonder is the group's documentarian. I don't know what a documentarian is supposed to be but sounds like registrar to me. She keeps all the group records. She's devoted to her annoying Cockatiel who isn't very friendly. Her house is a wreck because of her bird but she seems more friendly than Sybil and willing to help. Doctor Gates Smalley, a noted ornithologist and professor, has an even bigger ego than Sybil. He thinks he's awesome because he's a specialist in parrot research and a big shot in the parrot world. Yet he comes across as smarmy and somewhat creepy. I'm sure he's involved in the disappearance of other parrots in the neighborhood.
Bobbie Knuckles was a neighbor and girlfriend of Dennis Bodle. She's the only one mourning his loss and doesn't seem to know what got him killed. Does Ivy believe her? Oddly, yes. Yet there is evidence in the trailer park and in her actions that she DID seem to know more than she's sharing. I can't say how much if anything she really knew! That would spoil the story.
We meet another elderly recluse who makes Gertie look tame. Buckley Brackens is a mean old coot who shoots first and asks questions later. He doesn't take kindly to strangers poking around, not even Edna and Gertie! He was scary but showed a surprising amount of depth. I rather like him, I think. Unless he was serious about the shallow grave out back... He'd be a good match for Gertie but she insists she had her love and that's it for her. Maybe Edna?
Who killed Dennis? Where is Aunt Cilla? Will Hannah return to Hill Country? I'm eager to see what happens next!
June 24, 2022
Author Ellen Riggs has another hit on her hands with her latest book, "Between A Squawk and A Hard Place." In it, we are treated to a visit from Hannah, the former owner of Runaway Farm as she searches for her missing aunt with the help of her parrot who had been left with the aunt when Hannah and her family moved to the UK to deal with family matters.
There are several new characters in this book, a few of whom may become members of Ivy's posse as she and her friends and family work to clear Clover Grove of evildoers.
I LOVED this book! It's another fun cozy, packed with plenty of action and twists and turns. And it has some very special moments that old and new readers of Ms Riggs' book alike will find touching and entirely swoon-worthy. It really is something to squawk about!
There are several new characters in this book, a few of whom may become members of Ivy's posse as she and her friends and family work to clear Clover Grove of evildoers.
I LOVED this book! It's another fun cozy, packed with plenty of action and twists and turns. And it has some very special moments that old and new readers of Ms Riggs' book alike will find touching and entirely swoon-worthy. It really is something to squawk about!
September 9, 2022
Book. 13. This story is about exotic bird trafficking. Hanna ( The owner of the farm before Ivy) came to visit Ivy. But not just to see how her and the farm life were doing. She wanted Ivy help at finding her Aunt Cilia. Hannah tried calling her but all she got was it ringing. So she decided to come back home.. Also Aunt Cilia was seeing a man that was shady. Hannah also wanted to find out where her Beautiful African Grey Parrot Duncan was. ( Hanna let Aunt Cilia have him for awhile while she and her husband were in Europe) So Ivy and her crew including her pets. Keats, and Percy. Went on a more Asian to find her Aunt and Duncan the Grey. There is a nice surprise In this book 13. It is neat that Ivy can communicate with her Birdie Collie Keats and Percy the Orange Marmalade Cat. Love these series.
July 9, 2022
This is always a favorite series, and I loved this one! It was an excellent mystery, full of twists and surprises. The critters helped with solving and got their usual chance to shine!
November 27, 2022
Good
When Hannah Pemberton, the billionaire heiress who chose Ivy as the new owner for her farm, turns up at Runaway Farm, Ivy knows trouble is sure to follow.
Hannah’s aunt Cilla is missing, and when Cilla’s boyfriend ends up dead, all fingers point to her. It’s unfortunate that the murder occurs in Chief Coots’ jurisdiction, because it means Ivy’s brother Asher, and her beau Kellan, can’t help them here.
With Hannah’s parrot Duncan in tow, Ivy and her something team take point on finding Cilla.
Still waters run deep though, and it’s not long before Ivy discovers that the crime has a few more nuances than they anticipated.
This book finds the beloved team struggling… with jurisdiction, journalists, and a few annoying bird lovers.
Star of the book award this time goes to Duncan, a most chatty parrot who manages to steal the limelight from Keats a time or two.
There are also some significant events for Ivy in this book, it’s one that fans of the series have been waiting for too!
It’s an enjoyable tale, with some truly satisfying moments, and one or two laugh out loud ones too.
Recommended for cosy mystery lovers and dog genius fans!
When Hannah Pemberton, the billionaire heiress who chose Ivy as the new owner for her farm, turns up at Runaway Farm, Ivy knows trouble is sure to follow.
Hannah’s aunt Cilla is missing, and when Cilla’s boyfriend ends up dead, all fingers point to her. It’s unfortunate that the murder occurs in Chief Coots’ jurisdiction, because it means Ivy’s brother Asher, and her beau Kellan, can’t help them here.
With Hannah’s parrot Duncan in tow, Ivy and her something team take point on finding Cilla.
Still waters run deep though, and it’s not long before Ivy discovers that the crime has a few more nuances than they anticipated.
This book finds the beloved team struggling… with jurisdiction, journalists, and a few annoying bird lovers.
Star of the book award this time goes to Duncan, a most chatty parrot who manages to steal the limelight from Keats a time or two.
There are also some significant events for Ivy in this book, it’s one that fans of the series have been waiting for too!
It’s an enjoyable tale, with some truly satisfying moments, and one or two laugh out loud ones too.
Recommended for cosy mystery lovers and dog genius fans!
July 6, 2022
I love this series! Always a different mystery and well done. This one was lots of fun and hard to guess the culprit! Can't wait until the next one!
Amazon synopsis:
Ivy has always wanted to meet Hannah Pemberton, the first owner of Runaway Farm and a generous patron of animal causes. When Hannah arrives at the farm unexpectedly, however, it’s anything but a joyful occasion.
Duncan, the chatty parrot Hannah left in her aunt’s care, has flown the coop. What’s more, her aunt is in serious trouble.
Hannah has helped Ivy with many a tricky situation and it’s time to return the favor. Solving the mystery takes them deep into the world of bird enthusiasts. Is Hannah’s aunt the victim of a terrible crime... or the perpetrator? Only the saucy secrets of a winged wisecracker can help the team get answers before someone else flies.
Amazon synopsis:
Ivy has always wanted to meet Hannah Pemberton, the first owner of Runaway Farm and a generous patron of animal causes. When Hannah arrives at the farm unexpectedly, however, it’s anything but a joyful occasion.
Duncan, the chatty parrot Hannah left in her aunt’s care, has flown the coop. What’s more, her aunt is in serious trouble.
Hannah has helped Ivy with many a tricky situation and it’s time to return the favor. Solving the mystery takes them deep into the world of bird enthusiasts. Is Hannah’s aunt the victim of a terrible crime... or the perpetrator? Only the saucy secrets of a winged wisecracker can help the team get answers before someone else flies.
June 16, 2022
The lovebirds, Jilly and Asher, are home from their honeymoon and things are relatively quiet at the farm. Hannah comes back for a surprise visit but she has a puzzle for Ivy to solve. She has been unable to reach her aunt Cilla and she seems to be missing. Cilla is the caretaker of Duncan, Hannah’s African gray parrot while she is overseas, and when they go to Cilla’s house, he is loose in the yard. As they begin to investigate, it’s clear their is some avian mischief going on. Duncan is a hoot, his language salty, sassy and a bit risqué at times and his constant verbiage really adds to the story! Another wonderful story from the Bought the Farm series. I’m on the author’s ARC team and write this review voluntarily.
June 24, 2022
I absolutely loved this page-turner. If you’re looking for a suspenseful read with a side of laugh out loud moments, you’ll definitely enjoy this book. In this book, the animal introduced is Duncan, an African grey parrot. He is quiet the conversationalist, lol. Of course, we know there’s a murder to be solved, I enjoy trying to solve the case before the culprit is actually revealed. Sometimes, I’m right, but at other times I’m wrong. Grab you copy and find out what Ivy, Keats, and Percy are up too, along with Ivy’s friends and family.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
June 27, 2022
A new animal works his wiles in this new book in a great series. Hannah, the former owner of Ivy's farm shows up unexpectedly, but to Ivy's relief, isn't there to take back the farm. She hasn't heard from her aunt in a while and is worried – also for her African Gray parrot named Duncan, in her aunt's care while Hannah was away. The investigations lead them to more towns and places and what appear to be nefarious doings in the parrot world. The drives to avoid the reporter are still a hoot, Keat and Percy have their moments of glory, and the whole story is absolutely marvellous. - I received an advance copy and freely leave this honest review.
June 27, 2022
Between a Squawk and a Hard Place is an awesome addition to a great series! I love these animal centric books. I will not rehash the plot but will say that I stayed up way too late because I could not put the book down! Duncan, the parrot, is truly amazing. Hannah visits the farm because she is worried about her aunt who turns out to be missing while he parrot is flying free. With Ivy's usual group of helpers, both four and two legged, she and Hannah set out to solve this case. This well written book has an extra dose of romance.
July 10, 2022
Between A Squawk And A Hard Place - Another Win!
Another cute & crazy story! I never get tired of Ivy, Keats, & their escapades! I hope they never come to an end! I have loved most of the stories, liked them all, but this time I read straight through! It has all the running around & getting into trouble as ever. Ivy still makes rash decisions, regretting them too late!! Keats leads her into many of them,, but they both have the best intentions!! There are several major surprises in this installment,, but one question remains...what about Aphrodite??
Another cute & crazy story! I never get tired of Ivy, Keats, & their escapades! I hope they never come to an end! I have loved most of the stories, liked them all, but this time I read straight through! It has all the running around & getting into trouble as ever. Ivy still makes rash decisions, regretting them too late!! Keats leads her into many of them,, but they both have the best intentions!! There are several major surprises in this installment,, but one question remains...what about Aphrodite??
June 12, 2022
I absolutely love this series. But this one just had me over the moon. I finished it and just sat there in awe.
I love African Grey parrots. This just made the storyline more fun.
Hannah Pemberton came back to Runaway Farm in disguise. Her grandmother and her beloved parrot are missing. She needed Ivy and Jilly's help.
And there is a beautiful surprise in the end.
I received this book from the author and am given my honest review.
I give it a 10 and 100 gold stars.
I love African Grey parrots. This just made the storyline more fun.
Hannah Pemberton came back to Runaway Farm in disguise. Her grandmother and her beloved parrot are missing. She needed Ivy and Jilly's help.
And there is a beautiful surprise in the end.
I received this book from the author and am given my honest review.
I give it a 10 and 100 gold stars.
June 24, 2022
A wonderful laugh-out-loud read from the talented Ellen Riggs. In this story, Ivy and her pets are on the case of missing birds after a special someone comes to town. If you are a fan of “The Dog Town” series, you will recognize the visitor. Along with the comedic adventures from Ivy, Keats, Percy, and the rest of her rescue crew there was a heartwarming romance.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
October 15, 2022
the best one yet and my favorite
I absolutely love the Bought-the Farm mystery books and this is my favorite right now. I love how Ellen Riggs brings animals into her stories and Duncan the grey parrot is adorable.
Ivey and the gang try to break up a exotic bird selling ring and it is exciting. I couldn’t put it down it’s that good and gets intense. Something really wonderful happens at the end. But I’m not giving it away.
I absolutely love the Bought-the Farm mystery books and this is my favorite right now. I love how Ellen Riggs brings animals into her stories and Duncan the grey parrot is adorable.
Ivey and the gang try to break up a exotic bird selling ring and it is exciting. I couldn’t put it down it’s that good and gets intense. Something really wonderful happens at the end. But I’m not giving it away.
June 15, 2022
Love, love, love this book. Murder , a missing aunt and a parrot playgroup. Hannah makes an appearance along with an African Gray parrot, Duncan . Keats, Percy and all the familiar characters are involved in making this another fun, page turning book. I was given a free ARC by the author. My review is freely and honestly given
June 28, 2022
First of all, I just LOVE Duncan! Makes me want a parrot ALMOST. His vocabulary is so entertaining!! Keats, Percy, and Ivy’s band of friends & foes made for another great story for Ellen! I’m am so happy to have the privilege of reading these Clover Grove Runaway Far(m) adventures! I hope this author never runs out of ideas!
June 30, 2022
I love this series. Ivy gets to meet her benefactor and finds a new creature to comfort. Duncan, an African Grey parrot, is quite the spoiled baby. With a tremendous vocabulary, he entertains while perched on Ivy's shoulder as her team investigate a bird smuggling team and murder. Gertie is more than up for the challenge. There's lots of humor and even more action in this tale.
August 1, 2022
Wonderful Story
This is my favorite Bought the Farm adventure to date.
Lots of characters, including the former owner of Faraway Farm, and lots of action.
Fun plot to follow, and great character development.
I strongly recommend this series, and can't wait for the next adventure with Ivy and company!
This is my favorite Bought the Farm adventure to date.
Lots of characters, including the former owner of Faraway Farm, and lots of action.
Fun plot to follow, and great character development.
I strongly recommend this series, and can't wait for the next adventure with Ivy and company!
January 2, 2023
Love love loved this book
I loved everything about this book. It kept me up all night, like all her books do. I'm so happy that she has written another one. Even with a murder or two, her characters and plots are terrific. Its 5am and I read most of the day, and all night. They make me happy.
I loved everything about this book. It kept me up all night, like all her books do. I'm so happy that she has written another one. Even with a murder or two, her characters and plots are terrific. Its 5am and I read most of the day, and all night. They make me happy.
July 1, 2022
Excellent
Another terrific book in one of my favorite series. Might actually be one of my favorites in this series with a lovely guy ending and at great cast of characters. Duncan, the parrot was intriguing and so much fun! Great job!!
Another terrific book in one of my favorite series. Might actually be one of my favorites in this series with a lovely guy ending and at great cast of characters. Duncan, the parrot was intriguing and so much fun! Great job!!
July 1, 2022
Between a Squawk And A Hard Place
Wonderful writing! Even better reading! This author is amazing! I really enjoy these books and the author. She makes the stories feel like you are right beside her a she tries to rescue and/save ever animal possible!!
Wonderful writing! Even better reading! This author is amazing! I really enjoy these books and the author. She makes the stories feel like you are right beside her a she tries to rescue and/save ever animal possible!!
July 11, 2022
Funny and heartwarming
We learn
We learn a bit more about the local history and the villains who’ve lived here. Then we meet a new feathered friend. I love the banter among the animals and, of course, who wouldn’t love a cheeky parrot!
We learn
We learn a bit more about the local history and the villains who’ve lived here. Then we meet a new feathered friend. I love the banter among the animals and, of course, who wouldn’t love a cheeky parrot!
August 1, 2022
Love at first squawk
Ivy keeps picking up strays this time it’s a parrot. You never know what is going to happen in hill country. A death, absolutely. Suspense, yes. Fun with the girls, super. An exasperated chief of police, always.
Ivy keeps picking up strays this time it’s a parrot. You never know what is going to happen in hill country. A death, absolutely. Suspense, yes. Fun with the girls, super. An exasperated chief of police, always.
August 2, 2022
Good animal stories
I love these books by Ellen Riggs. Hard to lay the Kindle down. I am a dog lover and we have a border collie mix and a lab mix. Border collie mix is a smart dog. There is a lot of excitement in the crime solving.
I love these books by Ellen Riggs. Hard to lay the Kindle down. I am a dog lover and we have a border collie mix and a lab mix. Border collie mix is a smart dog. There is a lot of excitement in the crime solving.
August 7, 2022
Best in series yet!
This ties up the series with a true sheepdog love knot, and leaves you panting for more. The huge birds that so many Clover Grove folks have adopted take starring roles away from their humans as they help take down the illegal trade in stolen birds.
This ties up the series with a true sheepdog love knot, and leaves you panting for more. The huge birds that so many Clover Grove folks have adopted take starring roles away from their humans as they help take down the illegal trade in stolen birds.
Read
October 4, 2022Fantastic series
This book is awesome. The whole series is great. It has animals, unusual people,a great mystery, and humor. It is ok for younger readers with no bad language or improper scenes.
This book is awesome. The whole series is great. It has animals, unusual people,a great mystery, and humor. It is ok for younger readers with no bad language or improper scenes.
February 21, 2023
Parrot Love
A parrot is the catalyst for this book. The culprits are meant to be the most powerful ones that can be used.
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
A parrot is the catalyst for this book. The culprits are meant to be the most powerful ones that can be used.
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
February 28, 2023
I learned a few things about large birds such as parrots in this book. What an unusual animal to need to work with when they are far from their normal habitat. Lots of twists and turns and we get to see Hannah Pemberton in this book too.
April 14, 2023
I laughed out loud...
And yeah I shed a few tears too. I loved Dahlia on the manure pile. Hannah and Duncan were great additions to the team in this case. Can't wait for Buckley to take Edna on a date. 😁
And yeah I shed a few tears too. I loved Dahlia on the manure pile. Hannah and Duncan were great additions to the team in this case. Can't wait for Buckley to take Edna on a date. 😁
July 8, 2023
That's it. I'm hooked on these stories. I love it all! I wish I lived on a farm with my husband by m
I love the setting and the animals. It is the best barnyard Story with all the animals. And now the hero is going to marry this beautiful woman. I love it!
I love the setting and the animals. It is the best barnyard Story with all the animals. And now the hero is going to marry this beautiful woman. I love it!
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