Reviews

Murder with a View by Diane Kelly

maggiemac98's review

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medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.5

It’s okay. Something to read if you want a quick and simple murder mystery. I read the first one and it was okay too. 

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sueemmy's review

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4.0

Over the past year, I have been becoming more of a fan of Diane Kelly's various cozy series. And actually this book is really 4.5 stars for me. Not perfect, but an entertaining mystery with characters you want to get to know better. Whitney Whitaker and her cousin, Buck, plan to transform a derelict old motel into a motor court condo location with the added value of a great skyline view of Nashville. Unfortunately, the discovery of the body of a rising star in country music may keep them from being able to recoup their outlay. So Whitney, along with her police detective, Collin, investigate using means that correspond to their particular strengths. While I settled on the guilty party fairly early, the getting there was quite fun. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

emilygeorges's review

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4.0

Fun & easy read! Good book to get back into reading.

reemsab's review

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5.0

This series just keeps getting better and better with each book. This latest installment is perfection! The characters, the mystery, everything nailed together to build the perfect story.

clmw85's review

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funny lighthearted sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

sunneyone's review

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5.0

I really like this series. I enjoy Whitney and her circle. The mystery in this story was a good one. I really wasn't sure who did it until toward the end. I really loved the setting of this story.
One thing was Whitney told several people about finding the body and who it was. She told her best friend in a restaurant, but she whispered it in her ear. (insert eye roll here) She told the Hartleys. She told her parents. Then it leaked to the news and she was all "How did they find out?" Gee Whitney, maybe because you told half of Nashville?! For some reason, that REALLY annoyed me, but it was the only issue I had with this story.
Looking forward to the next one.

rainbowreviewskc's review

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5.0

Gut Instinct Rating: 5
Characters: 4.75
Believability: 5
Uniqueness: 5
Writing Style: 5
Excitement Factor: 5
Story Line: 5
Title Relevance: 5
Artwork Relevance: 5
Overall: 4.97

justkeyreads's review against another edition

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lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

theavidreaderandbibliophile's review

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4.0

Murder with a View by Diane Kelly is the 3rd A House-Flipper Mystery. This engaging cozy mystery can be read on its own for those who are new to the series. Diane Kelly writes entertaining cozy mysteries. I thought the book was well-written with developed characters and steady pacing. I just love the chapters from Sawdust’s point-of-view. His methods for getting Whitney’s attention are hilarious. It is adorable that Cleo, the kitten, is Sawdust’s best friend. They are so cute together. There is humor scattered throughout the story that will have you chuckling. I was especially entertained with the lyrics to “Party in the Pasture”. The author captured Nashville with her word imagery, especially the downtown area. The mystery had several suspects who could have killed singer, Beckett Morgan. It was amusing that Sawdust found the body (again). I like that Detective Collin Flynn works with Whitney instead of telling her to stay out of the investigation. He listens to her when she has theories and when she provides helpful intel. The case may have taken a few weeks for our sleuths to solve, but the pacing was consistent. One clue was all that was needed for me to solve this whodunit. I wish it had been more of a challenge to solve. I enjoyed the dramatic and action-packed reveal. It was great that Sawdust got in on the action. I liked Navy veteran, Jimmy Weber. He is quite a character and was lively addition. Collette and Buck are interested in each other romantically, but neither one of them has made a move. I think they are perfect for each other. Collette also has a new venture with help from Buck and Whitney. I believe it will be a rousing success. I enjoyed the renovation of the motel. It was clever to make them over into condos while keeping the 1960s vibe and colors. I hope the author continues to have Whitney and Buck do unique renovations. I am eager for Buck and Whitney’s next project (and story). Murder with a View is a fun cozy mystery with kitschy colors, reno realities, a surprising squatter, a clever cat, and a snappy song.

kimlb's review

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5.0

I am really enjoying this series!