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mstall_'s review
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.25
This third book in the Pineapple Port cozy mystery series was surprisingly good! These books are great for those with anxiety or who just need a cozier story to palate cleanse between darker reads, however this third book actually had me gasping at moments! I love these books to read before bed because they are low stakes and lighthearted, despite some great plot twists.
cogsofencouragement's review against another edition
3.0
The third book in this easy read, cozy mystery series. Our heroine is in her early twenties, but circumstances have her living in a retirement community with entertaining neighbors and loyal elderly friends. She is a clever sleuth now working towards being a private detective. This fun series in included with a kindle unlimited subscription.
comedywriter's review against another edition
4.0
A humorous, surprising, fun mystery !
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for reviewing and was relieved when the characters made me laugh (I prefer a little humor with my murder), I immediately knew I could give Pineapple Puzzles a positive review. There's also a weird, darker element that slowly crept under my skin and gives more depth to Vansant's novel.
I loved the Benjamin Franklin quote used in the book, 'Three can keep a secret, if two of them are dead.'
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for reviewing and was relieved when the characters made me laugh (I prefer a little humor with my murder), I immediately knew I could give Pineapple Puzzles a positive review. There's also a weird, darker element that slowly crept under my skin and gives more depth to Vansant's novel.
I loved the Benjamin Franklin quote used in the book, 'Three can keep a secret, if two of them are dead.'
zouinthewild's review against another edition
4.0
Quick and fun. I read two of these books today. Entertaining palate cleansers. Good vacation reads.
Minus one star for poor representation (none).
Minus one star for poor representation (none).
aconitecafe's review
5.0
This installment was a bit problematic for me, but I adore the cast, and found the storyline to be unique and thrilling at points so I'm still 5 staring it.
I love that Charlotte is having to work at being a PI. Being observant, finding clues, etc. isn't coming easy to her and it makes the storyline so realistic. She had a crazy career idea and is having to work for it. Each mini case around the port that she gets is simple yet, a learning experience. I excited to watch this skill of her develop as the series goes on.
Now to the problematic stuff.
The entire Stephanie storyline is so hard to buy. I kept thinking "but why" throughout most of her chapters. I am not looking forward to her being a main character. Who just casually lets their crazy cheater ex come over, or speak to them?? I've been puzzling over this since she appeared in the last book, but now it's clear that her being allowed to stay had to happen because she needed to be in the picture to be in this book. After the scare in the last book, any logical person would have ex communicated her, not just giggled off her crazy behavior.
The added POVs to give the reader spoilers were also ugh for me. It's like the book couldn't decide who was the main character and what the main plot line was. Is it adorable Charlotte, hunting down her port mysteries. Or is it Stephanieserial killing it up just like her mom ?!?
While I loved the shocking reveal in Jamie's storyline, the connections revealed between Stephanie and Jamie were over the top for me. Like it was done for pure shock value.
I don't know, this book book left me with thoughts. lol I know I'll continue onto the next because i am curious who is lead, and the cast gives me a good laugh, but this book, and any where Stephanie's over the top storyline dominate won't be favorites of mine.
I'm also now rooting for Charlotte to leave Declan because no one has time for someone who can't push off an ex. She deserves better.
I love that Charlotte is having to work at being a PI. Being observant, finding clues, etc. isn't coming easy to her and it makes the storyline so realistic. She had a crazy career idea and is having to work for it. Each mini case around the port that she gets is simple yet, a learning experience. I excited to watch this skill of her develop as the series goes on.
Now to the problematic stuff.
The entire Stephanie storyline is so hard to buy. I kept thinking "but why" throughout most of her chapters. I am not looking forward to her being a main character. Who just casually lets their crazy cheater ex come over, or speak to them?? I've been puzzling over this since she appeared in the last book, but now it's clear that her being allowed to stay had to happen because she needed to be in the picture to be in this book. After the scare in the last book, any logical person would have ex communicated her, not just giggled off her crazy behavior.
The added POVs to give the reader spoilers were also ugh for me. It's like the book couldn't decide who was the main character and what the main plot line was. Is it adorable Charlotte, hunting down her port mysteries. Or is it Stephanie
While I loved the shocking reveal in Jamie's storyline, the connections revealed between Stephanie and Jamie were over the top for me. Like it was done for pure shock value.
I don't know, this book book left me with thoughts. lol I know I'll continue onto the next because i am curious who is lead, and the cast gives me a good laugh, but this book, and any where Stephanie's over the top storyline dominate won't be favorites of mine.
I'm also now rooting for Charlotte to leave Declan because no one has time for someone who can't push off an ex. She deserves better.
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