Reviews

Valleys, Vehicles & Victims by Tonya Kappes

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theavidreaderandbibliophile's review

4.0

Valleys, Vehicles and Victims by Tonya Kappes is the ninth A Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery. For those new to the series, the book can be read alone by why would you want to do that. I always enjoy visiting Normal, Kentucky to catch up with Mae, Dottie, Hank, and the rest of the gang. Tonya Kappes has created a delightful cast of quirky characters. Mae is a spunky woman who has found her place in life which is in Normal. Mae is happy with the campground, her camper, friends, boyfriend, and her little dog, Fifi. Normal, Kentucky is a charming town with quaint shops and friendly residents. It is situated next to the Daniel Boone National Park which is currently showcasing reds, oranges, and yellows for fall and the area is enjoying cooler temperatures. Tonya’s conversational writing style draws a reader right into the story (it is like talking to an old friend). The story moves along at a peppy pace. I liked that we get to learn more about Mae’s childhood and her parents. The murder does not occur until after the halfway point. By the time Tom is axed, there is a slew of suspects (he was not a pleasant man). There is misdirection along with a twist or two. I enjoyed how it all came together at the end. Hank’s attitude, though, needs an adjustment. He needs to accept the fact that Mae is going to meddle and there is no stopping her. In the future, though, May might be forced to make a choice. I loved the drama and humor in this engaging tale. A story that can make me laugh is special indeed. Valleys, Vehicles and Victims is an appealing cozy mystery with a ritzy RV, a robbed recipe, a bratty bride, a relentless reporter, and greedy graspers.