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theavidreaderandbibliophile's review against another edition
4.0
Ax to Grind by Tonya Kappes is the third story in A Kenni Lowry Mystery series. Kenni Lowry is the sheriff in Cottonwood, Kentucky. It is time to start her re-election campaign and her mother is pulling out all the stops (imagine giant sign and a bull horn—just for starters) since Kenni’s former deputy, Lonnie Lemar is running against her. Kenni is at an award ceremony honoring her dog, Duke when she is approached by Cecily Hoover, Beryle Stone’s assistant. Beryle, a famous author, passed away a week ago and her estate is to be auctioned off. Beryle had finished a tell-all book that will expose secrets and Cecily is afraid someone will try to steal it. The one problem is Beryle hid the manuscript and Cecily has been unable to locate it. Before the book can be found, Cecily turns up dead in the alley behind Ruby’s Antiques and Paige Lemar is unconscious inside. Poppa, Kenni’s grandfather, returns to help her with the case. The killer obviously does not wish the manuscript to see the light of day (much less be published). Kenni along with Deputy Finn Vincent (and let’s not forget Poppa) dig into Beryle’s past to find Cecily’s killer.
Ax to Grind may be the third installment in A Kenni Lowry Mystery series, but it can be read alone. The author provides the necessary background on Kenni as well as summaries of what occurred in the first two books in the series. I found the book to be a slow starter, but the pace picked up the further I got into the story. The zaniness factor was ramped up in Ax to Grind (much to my disappointment). Kenni’s mother needs to be reined in (my mother thought her antics were hysterical, and she told me I lack a sense of humor). If I was Kenni, I would change my house locks (using an out-of-town locksmith) and get an untraceable phone number (to thwart her mother). The mystery was cleverly set up, but I wish there had been a good twist to surprise me. I identified the killer before the third chapter in the book. There are a limited number of suspects and there are big clues that point to the killer. Most readers will be able to solve the crime before the reveal. I love the paranormal element (Poppa) and wish there was more of it in the story. I feel that Poppa would be a great resource to Kenni if used properly. A Kenni Lowry Mystery series portrays what life is like in small Southern towns. For those readers who enjoy light, comical cozy mysteries, pick up a copy of Ax to Grind.
Ax to Grind may be the third installment in A Kenni Lowry Mystery series, but it can be read alone. The author provides the necessary background on Kenni as well as summaries of what occurred in the first two books in the series. I found the book to be a slow starter, but the pace picked up the further I got into the story. The zaniness factor was ramped up in Ax to Grind (much to my disappointment). Kenni’s mother needs to be reined in (my mother thought her antics were hysterical, and she told me I lack a sense of humor). If I was Kenni, I would change my house locks (using an out-of-town locksmith) and get an untraceable phone number (to thwart her mother). The mystery was cleverly set up, but I wish there had been a good twist to surprise me. I identified the killer before the third chapter in the book. There are a limited number of suspects and there are big clues that point to the killer. Most readers will be able to solve the crime before the reveal. I love the paranormal element (Poppa) and wish there was more of it in the story. I feel that Poppa would be a great resource to Kenni if used properly. A Kenni Lowry Mystery series portrays what life is like in small Southern towns. For those readers who enjoy light, comical cozy mysteries, pick up a copy of Ax to Grind.
life1sg00d's review against another edition
4.0
This book is a lot better than the last one. Kenny was so incompetent in the last one, I just couldn't believe she was ever elected sheriff.
katreader's review against another edition
4.0
AX TO GRIND by Tonya Kappes
The Third Kenni Lowry Mystery
Cottonwood, Kentucky is abuzz. Not only are tourists and fans flocking to the town for the estate sale of late author Berlye Stone, but with election for Sheriff not yet two years away campaigning as begun in earnest. Sheriff Kenni Lowry gets a bad feeling when Berlye's assistant demands higher security measures until Berlye's most recent manuscript, a book which is a tell-all about the real residents of Cottonwood, can be found. When the assistant is found dead behind the antique store with another woman injured inside Kenni knows she has to act fast. It's a good thing she has Deputy Finn Vincent and the ghost of her Poppy, Cottonwood's last Sheriff, to help her!
The Kenni Lowry Mystery series is filled with Southern charm and gossip with just the right touch of danger. Kenni Lowry is a woman I'd be right pleased to not only call my friend, but my Sheriff. She's competent and knows how to do her job and deal with the residents of her small town. Yet she doesn't have all the answers and can fall victim herself, professionally and in matters of the heart!
AX TO GRIND is a great addition to the series as Kenni is faced with another murder and accused, not only of not being able to keep her town safe, but playing kissy face with her deputy! There are plenty of laughs, especially from Kenni's mama, and lots of fun, such as saving Hettie from mysterious critters and doing a little matchmaking. Tonya Kappes includes the right amount of police procedure, a little romance, and a lot of gossip to create a great mystery.
The Third Kenni Lowry Mystery
Cottonwood, Kentucky is abuzz. Not only are tourists and fans flocking to the town for the estate sale of late author Berlye Stone, but with election for Sheriff not yet two years away campaigning as begun in earnest. Sheriff Kenni Lowry gets a bad feeling when Berlye's assistant demands higher security measures until Berlye's most recent manuscript, a book which is a tell-all about the real residents of Cottonwood, can be found. When the assistant is found dead behind the antique store with another woman injured inside Kenni knows she has to act fast. It's a good thing she has Deputy Finn Vincent and the ghost of her Poppy, Cottonwood's last Sheriff, to help her!
The Kenni Lowry Mystery series is filled with Southern charm and gossip with just the right touch of danger. Kenni Lowry is a woman I'd be right pleased to not only call my friend, but my Sheriff. She's competent and knows how to do her job and deal with the residents of her small town. Yet she doesn't have all the answers and can fall victim herself, professionally and in matters of the heart!
AX TO GRIND is a great addition to the series as Kenni is faced with another murder and accused, not only of not being able to keep her town safe, but playing kissy face with her deputy! There are plenty of laughs, especially from Kenni's mama, and lots of fun, such as saving Hettie from mysterious critters and doing a little matchmaking. Tonya Kappes includes the right amount of police procedure, a little romance, and a lot of gossip to create a great mystery.
inmyhumbleopinion's review against another edition
5.0
Crime is much more fun in small town Kentucky. Sheriff Kenni Lowry has a murder to solve and a town full of suspects including her Poppa except he is already dead and so has an alibi. In Ax To Grind we have murder, mystery, small town gossip and a bit of romance. This is the perfect book for a cool autumn afternoon’s escape.
kidisitor's review against another edition
5.0
*Received a ARC for honest review
Really like this series and the southern aspects of it... the way they talk (all those saying's,) the food they eat, the things they do, and let's not forget their loyalty! ;)
The characters are fun and... ummm... interesting. ;) There is a paranormal bit, but not the vampire and werewolf type. The mystery was suspenseful enough and there were plenty of culprits. There were a couple other scenarios/situations (aside from the mystery itself) that will undoubtedly lead us into future books.
This is book 3 in the series, but can be read as a stand alone (but you will get better understanding of the characters and their history if you read the previous books... at the very least, the first book (Fixin' to Die.) It is clean and safe for all ages. It is easy to read and can be read pretty quickly.
Really like this series and the southern aspects of it... the way they talk (all those saying's,) the food they eat, the things they do, and let's not forget their loyalty! ;)
The characters are fun and... ummm... interesting. ;) There is a paranormal bit, but not the vampire and werewolf type. The mystery was suspenseful enough and there were plenty of culprits. There were a couple other scenarios/situations (aside from the mystery itself) that will undoubtedly lead us into future books.
This is book 3 in the series, but can be read as a stand alone (but you will get better understanding of the characters and their history if you read the previous books... at the very least, the first book (Fixin' to Die.) It is clean and safe for all ages. It is easy to read and can be read pretty quickly.
mpr2000's review against another edition
4.0
When the sheriff Kenni Lowry sees her ghost father again, knows that a killing will be done soon, but who and why? All the village seem to be gossiping about a mysterious book, could be the killing related? Continue reading and you will discover all the dark secrets of this small village! ;)
Kenni loves to be the sheriff and help the people in her hometown, what she doesn't like is being the cover in the newspapers and the main theme of all the gossips... if you add a murder and a hot kiss you can understand that she needs some relax time, but before she will have to discover who is the killer!
Let me say that I read this book in one stand, the quick dialogues, the funny gossiping and the charming neighbour makes this book a funny and interesting read at the same time. The writing is quick and full of dialogues that kept you wanting for more.
I missed a little of background about Kenni's family, but I suppose this was explained in the previous books... but I need to know more about the noisy mother and her ghostly father, that seem to be very present and put a lot of fun in the plot. I can't wait to read in the next book when the things will start warming up between Kenni and her colleague Finn (or I expect they'll be...) that Edna (the reporter) will have some very interesting news to share on the newspaper!
If you are searching for a mystery with charming characters and very noisy neighbours this is your book, it will keep you entertained, for sure.
This is the third book of "The Kenni Lowry Mystery Series", but you can read it as standalone.
Ready to search a secret book?
Kenni loves to be the sheriff and help the people in her hometown, what she doesn't like is being the cover in the newspapers and the main theme of all the gossips... if you add a murder and a hot kiss you can understand that she needs some relax time, but before she will have to discover who is the killer!
Let me say that I read this book in one stand, the quick dialogues, the funny gossiping and the charming neighbour makes this book a funny and interesting read at the same time. The writing is quick and full of dialogues that kept you wanting for more.
I missed a little of background about Kenni's family, but I suppose this was explained in the previous books... but I need to know more about the noisy mother and her ghostly father, that seem to be very present and put a lot of fun in the plot. I can't wait to read in the next book when the things will start warming up between Kenni and her colleague Finn (or I expect they'll be...) that Edna (the reporter) will have some very interesting news to share on the newspaper!
If you are searching for a mystery with charming characters and very noisy neighbours this is your book, it will keep you entertained, for sure.
This is the third book of "The Kenni Lowry Mystery Series", but you can read it as standalone.
Ready to search a secret book?
meezcarrie's review against another edition
5.0
I really love this series from Tonya Kappes, and Ax to Grind may be my favorite so far.
Kenni Lowry is a delightful heroine – sometimes feisty, sometimes awkward, always the kind of character you’d want as a friend. Her loyal dog Duke has his own quirky personality and tends to steal the scene. Speaking of quirky, Kenni’s Poppa pops up to help her solve the crimes. Poppa used to be sheriff of Cottonwood before Kenni… he’s also deceased. While this paranormal twist to the series is lighthearted and sweet, I also think it’s ingenious. Poppa can go places Kenni can’t – and this gives us insight and clues we might not otherwise gain.
And then of course there is Finn – Kenni’s deputy and resident hunk. I really like the way their relationship continues to develop, and Kenni’s Mama’s antics regarding their potential romance will make you smile. Not to mention everyone else’s opinions. And in a small Kentucky town like Cottonwood, there are plenty of opinions – and plenty of fun characters to match.
Bottom Line: Ax to Grind by Tonya Kappes is fun, witty, and well-plotted. The mystery is full of twists and turns and a town full of suspects – and I had no idea whodunit until the big reveal. Kappes’ writing voice perfectly captures the nuances of small town Kentucky life, treating her roots with fondness as well as a bit of tongue-in-cheek humor. I can’t wait for the next installment!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Kenni Lowry is a delightful heroine – sometimes feisty, sometimes awkward, always the kind of character you’d want as a friend. Her loyal dog Duke has his own quirky personality and tends to steal the scene. Speaking of quirky, Kenni’s Poppa pops up to help her solve the crimes. Poppa used to be sheriff of Cottonwood before Kenni… he’s also deceased. While this paranormal twist to the series is lighthearted and sweet, I also think it’s ingenious. Poppa can go places Kenni can’t – and this gives us insight and clues we might not otherwise gain.
And then of course there is Finn – Kenni’s deputy and resident hunk. I really like the way their relationship continues to develop, and Kenni’s Mama’s antics regarding their potential romance will make you smile. Not to mention everyone else’s opinions. And in a small Kentucky town like Cottonwood, there are plenty of opinions – and plenty of fun characters to match.
Bottom Line: Ax to Grind by Tonya Kappes is fun, witty, and well-plotted. The mystery is full of twists and turns and a town full of suspects – and I had no idea whodunit until the big reveal. Kappes’ writing voice perfectly captures the nuances of small town Kentucky life, treating her roots with fondness as well as a bit of tongue-in-cheek humor. I can’t wait for the next installment!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
cservat129's review against another edition
I struggled through this book. I just couldn’t connect with the plot or the characters. I do enjoy this authors books though and look forward to her next book
lilyelement's review against another edition
4.0
Ax To Grind is book 3 in the Kenni Lowry series. I've been loving this series so far but this one was probably my favorite installment yet. I'm thankful my library seems to be upping their game recently and putting out some great books I've been wanting. I need to check if they have the next two books soon!
Kenni Lowry, the sheriff of Cottonwood, KY is back and has a doozy of a case this time around. A famous local author, Berlye Stone passed away and there's rumors of a manuscript she left behind that is a tell all. She's used the locals as inspiration in her novels and someone isn't above murder to get their hands on it before their shocking truth is revealed. With plenty of misdirection and entertaining events, this whodunit kept me on my toes. Some secrets from the locals of Cottonwood come to light during the investigation and I was pointing the finger at everyone trying to guess the killer, I didn't figure it out before it was revealed which I appreciate as always.
Ax To Grind is my favorite in the series so far, I cannot wait to see what the next book brings us. The mystery element is always well done and the potential romance is blossoming so I'm excited. The paranormal element was great as always since her grandfather's ghost helps guide Kenni towards the right path in the investigation and he always has something humorous to say. If you like cozy mystery novels with a touch of paranormal you'll love this series.
Kenni Lowry, the sheriff of Cottonwood, KY is back and has a doozy of a case this time around. A famous local author, Berlye Stone passed away and there's rumors of a manuscript she left behind that is a tell all. She's used the locals as inspiration in her novels and someone isn't above murder to get their hands on it before their shocking truth is revealed. With plenty of misdirection and entertaining events, this whodunit kept me on my toes. Some secrets from the locals of Cottonwood come to light during the investigation and I was pointing the finger at everyone trying to guess the killer, I didn't figure it out before it was revealed which I appreciate as always.
Ax To Grind is my favorite in the series so far, I cannot wait to see what the next book brings us. The mystery element is always well done and the potential romance is blossoming so I'm excited. The paranormal element was great as always since her grandfather's ghost helps guide Kenni towards the right path in the investigation and he always has something humorous to say. If you like cozy mystery novels with a touch of paranormal you'll love this series.
lunifur's review against another edition
5.0
**I voluntarily read this ARC**
Oh my gosh that was amazing! I did not see that coming at all. I really enjoyed seeing some of Kenni's day to day sheriff duties, including keeping her mother's campaigning under control. The mystery was awesome, and I loved how Poppa had a personal connection to the case.
Oh my gosh that was amazing! I did not see that coming at all. I really enjoyed seeing some of Kenni's day to day sheriff duties, including keeping her mother's campaigning under control. The mystery was awesome, and I loved how Poppa had a personal connection to the case.