Welcome to the southern small town with endearing citizens, adorable animals, a smidgen of gossip with a touch of humor where there are twists and turns around every corner as they solve a local murder.Mail carrier, Bernadette (Bernie) Butler, along with the Front Porch Ladies, are curious of their new neighbor, Courtney Gaines, who is the niece of Florence Gaines, the wealthiest widow in Sugar … in Sugar Creek Gap. Florence lets it be known that she is seeing Zeke Grey, which doesn’t set well with the Front Porch Ladies. They were all in competition for Zeke’s attention.
Shortly after learning that Florence, who announced it rather loudly, that she and Zeke got married, while delivering the mail, Bernie overhears what could be the first marital spat.
As Bernie is happily awaiting the birth of her first grandchild, her best friend shares a feeling that something isn’t right between Bernie’s son, Grady, and her daughter-in-law, Julia. Grady seems to be very chummy with Courtney, which has Bernie singing high praise of Julia and how there is a new baby on the way.
When Florence turns up dead in mulch, coupled with what Sheriff Angela Hafley mentioned, Bernie can’t help but want to get involved and when Sheriff Angela requests Bernie to be a ‘snoop consultant’, she readily agrees. Bernie’s snooping leads her to information that hits a little too close to home and Bernie enlists her best friend, Iris for help.
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All She Wrote
A Mail CarrierCozy Mystery, Book #3
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Welcome to the southern small town with endearing citizens, adorable animals, a smidgen of gossip with a touch of humor where there are twists and turns around every corner as they solve a local murder.
Mail carrier, Bernadette (Bernie) Butler, along with the Front Porch Ladies, are curious of their new neighbor, Courtney Gaines, who is the niece of Florence Gaines, the wealthiest widow in Sugar Creek Gap. Florence lets it be known that she is seeing Zeke Grey, which doesn’t set well with the Front Porch Ladies. They were all in competition for Zeke’s attention.
Shortly after learning that Florence, who announced it rather loudly, that she and Zeke got married, while delivering the mail, Bernie overhears what could be the first marital spat.
As Bernie is happily awaiting the birth of her first grandchild, her best friend shares a feeling that something isn’t right between Bernie’s son, Grady, and her daughter-in-law, Julia. Grady seems to be very chummy with Courtney, which has Bernie singing high praise of Julia and how there is a new baby on the way.
When Florence turns up dead in mulch, coupled with what Sheriff Angela Hafley mentioned, Bernie can’t help but want to get involved and when Sheriff Angela requests Bernie to be a ‘snoop consultant’, she readily agrees. Bernie’s snooping leads her to information that hits a little too close to home and Bernie enlists her best friend, Iris for help. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Bernie and Iris are great friends, and I enjoyed reading about their adventures. When Iris has a bad feeling about Bernie’s son and daughter-in-law, she cannot help but be concerned. And when someone is killed and it looks like a member of her family is blamed, Bernie has to solve the murder or die trying.
The writing style flows smoothly and it defines the characters very clearly by their actions and words. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning.
The mystery was well plotted and carried on well throughout the book. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider and it was not easily solved, which is how I like my mysteries.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With engaging characters, a warm southern setting and an engaging mystery, pick up your copy and enjoy.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.
Twists and turns around every corner. Bernadette finds herself in the middle of a big mess. This time she is asked to consult with the police. New neighbor, marriage, break-up & more. Well written with great characters. I look forward to more in this series.
All She Wrote by Tonya Kappes is the 3rd A Mail Carrier Cozy Mystery. This fun tale can be read on its own if you are new to the series (but why would you want to). It contains Tonya Kappes engaging writing style which draws a reader right in. Bernadette Butler is a great protagonist. I like that she is my age and starting over with her life. The Front Porch Ladies, Vince, and Bernie’s family are other enjoyable characters. They are likeable and realistic. The southern setting of Sugar Creek Gap, Kentucky is charming. I enjoy the descriptions of this cozy southern town where everybody knows your name and your business. The mystery suited the story. It is straightforward with a couple of suspects and a red herring. There are good clues to aid readers in solving the whodunit. I enjoyed the humor that is scattered throughout this appealing tale. All She Wrote is well-written with relatable characters in a welcoming southern town. I would expect nothing less from this author. I look forward to Bernadette’s next adventure in Return to Sender. All She Wrote is a fetching cozy mystery with clan concerns, a plethora of packages, gossip galore, tasty treats, and murderous mulch.
All She Wrote is the third instalment in the Mail Carrier Mystery Series by Tonya Kappes. I loved returning to Sugar Creek Gap Kentucky and visiting Bernadette, the Front Porch Ladies and we can’t forget Buster and Rowena.
One quote in book I resonated with was when iris and Bernadette say “We can be just two old biddies together.” Iris winked at me. “Promise?” I knew Iris and I would always be together no matter what. Through thick and thin. (My BFF and I are always saying this )
I enjoyed this instalment so much, it was even better than the first Stamped Out! Tonya Kappes has done it again writing another wonderful story with characters I love and want to get to know better. I love that Bernadette aka Bernie is in her 50’s I can relate to her, and I want to learn to knit at the Social Knitwork ! Hell I want to rent the house next to Bernie and hang out with them.
I always know that if I need to escape for a little while that I can pick up one of Tonya’s books and be transported into a town with people I want as neighbors and friends. The stories are well written, filled with humour and a little murder.
There were just enough suspects, twists and turns to keep me guessing and not wanting to put the book down! I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves cozy mysteries.
I’m looking forward to book four Return to Sender releasing in June, there’s so much more I want to know…
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
All She wrote
Bernie, Iris and the Front Porch Ladies are back for another mystery. A not-exactly beloved member of Sugar Creek Gap is found murdered in her niece’s backyard. Florence has also just married to none other than Zeke, much to the dismay of the older ladies in town. A marriage that certainly didn’t last too long! Bernie definitely is right in the middle of this one since she lives right next door to where the body was found! A delight from the first to the last page and enough suspects to keep you guessing. I love seeing the track Bernie is taking with her family and Mac. Not sure where things are going with Mac but can’t wait to see how this plays out in the next book. Bernie is easy to identify with and you will want to read more about her. Every book gives you more insight into Sugar Creek Gap and the lovable citizens. I hope we get to see more Mac and Vince coming up and of course Harriette. I am going to have to work in my favorite Harriette quote into my next conversation, “Don’t that bet a hen-a-scratchin’.” Excerpt From: Tonya Kappes. “ALL SHE WROTE.” Apple Books.
Can’t wait for the next adventure!
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book. I am not required to leave a review. The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.*
The third book in the Mail Carrier Cozy Mystery finds mail carrier Bernadette Butler, along with the Front Porch Ladies, doing some investigating on their own after The dead body of Florence Gaines turns up. I love the characters in this book! Each one has their own personality and quirks. The mystery is well written. The book is a fun read!
It is always fun to return to the town of Sugar Creek Gap, home to mail carrier Bernadette (Bernie) Butler and the Front Porch Ladies. In this third book of the series we meet Courtney, Bernie’s new neighbor who has moved to town to keep an eye on her Aunt Florence, who is wealthy widow. Bernie learns that her son, Grady, has been helping Courtney, and this concerns her since he and his wife are expecting a baby. Oh, the baby is why Bernie is learning to knit.
Bernie’s relationship with long term friend Mac Tabor has hit a rocky patch, and she learns that he has started seeing somebody else. This gives her more time to investigate when Florence’s body is found in Courtney’s yard. But who could be the killer? Could Courtney have done it? Or could her brand-new husband be responsible? After all, he had lost his money to gambling debts and could use her money to pay them off.
The reader is taking for quite a ride as we try to figure out who is guilty. There appears to be a motive for everyone suspected and the investigation of each person seems reasonable – until we find out why he/she did not do it.
I enjoyed becoming reacquainted with the residents of Sugar Creek Gap and the way the Front Porch Ladies once again jump in to help solve the crime.
If you enjoy a good cozy mystery, then I recommend you purchase your copy today.
This is the third book in a new series, A Mail Carrier Cozy Mystery, written by Tonya Kappes. Bernadette Butler, a mail carrier, from Sugar Creek Gap again ends up nosing around after the murder of Florence Gaines. Shortly after marrying Zeke Grey, Florence was killed right next door to Bernie. This series has so many colorful characters and you’ll definitely enjoy her helpers, the Front Porch Ladies. A great story to immerse yourself in these days. It’s a quick, enjoyable tale to immerse yourself in during these stressful times.
I finally got out of my murder solving funk!! I knew who, and why before the reveal!! Sorry just really happy for me. The grandbaby is here, early but doing good. So part happy ending, but Mac Tabor. Oh I don’t have a nice thing to say about him or his floozy. Loved the story except Mac and I really can’t wait to read the next!
Terrific characters with many laugh out loud moments, makes this new series a smashing hit! I am thoroughly enjoying the mail carrier series.
LOVED IT.
A mail carrier as the main character sure is original, I at least have not read other cozy mysteries with such a character. Plus she is a middle age woman finding her way in life. Just as things are booking along, murder is tossed in the mix.
Third in the series, this is a fun easy to follow story line. Tonya Kappes keeps you reading wy past your bed time because you an loving the story so much!
Fun reading!! I truly enjoy Bernadette and the Front Porch Ladies of this series. They are a true delight! I enjoy the small town and how Bernadette can really get to know the people on her mail route. This book was truly interesting when Florence Gaines is murdered at her niece’s house, right next door to Bernadette. Many people had issues with the woman and Bernadette is on the hunt for the killer. I totally did not see the identity of the killer coming and was very surprised. I am looking forward to more adventures with Bernie and her friends and I really hope that she and Mac can work things out. I love these two together!
This is such a great series! In this installment, Bernie the mail carrier gets caught up in another murder. She is actually recruited by the Sheriff, Angela, to help out on this one; she is given permission to nose around and try to figure out who committed the murder. Sadly, also in this book Bernie and the man she has always loved and who has always loved her, Mac, break up. Bernie just cannot commit. The Front Porch Ladies are such a fun group and play a big part in helping to solve this murder. I highly recommend this one!
There is a lot going on in Sugar Creek Gap these days. Mail Carrier, Bernadette Butler’s son and daughter-in-law are expecting their first child. Florence Gaines, the richest widow in town, will soon be awarding a College Scholarship to one lucky high school graduate. Florence’s niece, Courtney Gaines, has recently moved to town and taken a job at the same school where Grady teaches. Courtney has also rented the house next door to Bernadette from Mac Tabor.
When the scholarship winner is announced, many people are shocked and upset about the selection. Immediately following the scholarship announcement, Florence left the church and joined Zeke Grey at city hall, where they got married. Later, while delivering mail to Zeke’s house, Bernie overhears part of what appears to be a marital spat.
Bernie expects Mac to show up Saturday evening, but her friend, Harriette, shows up first. While Bernie and Harriette are talking in the kitchen, Bernie hears a loud scream outside. Going to investigate, she sees Courtney out in the rain. When a lightning flash lights up the area, Bernie notices a pair of shoes sticking out of some newly laid mulch. Under the mulch is Florence’s body and she is definitely dead.
Who killed Florence? Why was she killed? Was the killing related to the scholarship program? Can Bernie figure out what really happened?
This latest addition from Tonya Kappes has plenty of plot twists and side issues to keep a reader engaged from beginning to end.
All She Wrote earns 5/5 Packages & Gossip…Entertaining Fun!
Tonya Kappes has definitely penned another delightful murder mystery on which Bernadette Butler and the Front Porch Ladies can focus in this third book in her Mail Carrier Cozy. Harriette Pearl, one of the Front Porch Ladies, has set her sights on the very eligible Zeke Grey, however, Florence Gaines, the wealthiest woman in Sugar Creek Gap, is keen on Zeke, too. She’s also not shy about flaunting it, her philanthropy, and her lunch date with Zeke. Harriette’s reaction…bright green! Florence’s niece is new in town having taken a position at the high school, but her real “mission” is to keep an eye on Florence. Then Iris Peabody, Bernadette’s long-time friend, is known to have “special feelings,” nothing psychic since most are more miss than hit. Today it’s hard to dismiss her prognostications when she mentions Bernie’s son: “High school. Teacher. Grady. I don’t know what, but something is off.” And Bernadette, our delightful mail carrier, is once again learning her position is much like a bartender or therapist, she is privy to so much information from the packages residents receive, the relationships they have, and the gossip they share, but the shocking marriage and murder in the mulch was not something typical on her route! It seems Florence has an enemy, but which one—New husband? Niece? Green-eyed Nemesis? It is a delightful puzzle perfect for a bit of “snooping.”
I so enjoy that the lead characters are of a mature age, and the running around questioning, gathering clues, and predicaments are developed with good sense and realism. The mystery, Kappes-style, always occurs a little later in the story providing plenty of time to build up the suspense around the victim, then cleverly exposing the suspects to mull over when the body is finally uncovered…in the mulch! Greed? Secrets? Along with the engaging murder mystery, Bernie is the consummate mother, in a positive way; when it comes to her son Grady, she wants him happy, but adult children can often be a challenge to manage. All is delightful fun! Recipes, of course, are my favorite treat…literally and figuratively. In this book, I can’t wait to enjoy Southern Strawberry and Cream Cupcakes, Hummingbird Cake, and Turtle Bars.
A little extra…I also enjoy the clever names given to titles, series, towns, and businesses, and Tonya is one to always provide a nice giggle with the names she creates: the Social Knitwork Shop for a knitting class, Leaf and Petal for wheelbarrows full of mulch, and the Pie in the Face Bakery for a sweet treat. Lots of fun.
I am a volunteer advance book reader. All She Wrote is just one of many books in a series by Tonya Kappes. She captivates you from the very beginning of the book until the very end. You are turning pages to find out who knows what and who is actually all involved. The gossip is thick, relationships are a little rocky is your neighbor who they really say they are? Who knows but if you start this series you will surely want to know. Because you won’t want to put the book down. Come on a visit with the Front Porch Ladies and your friendly mail lady Bernie.
All She Wrote is Tonya Kappes’ third entry in the Mail Carrier Cozy Mystery Series. One of the best parts of this newer series is that the protagonist, Bernie Butler, is closer to my age. Finally! Books that show you don’t have to be in your twenties to enjoy a full and happy life!! Loving this new trend!!!
Bernie Butler is a Postal Mail Carrier, on a walking route through most of downtown Sugar Creek Gap. She’s expecting her first grandchild when rumors start about her son and a new neighbor, Courtney Gaines. When Courtney’s mother is found dead, and the Sheriff enlists Bernie and her amateur snooping skills, she has to call on all her friends to help snoop.
Mrs. Kappes has a way of telling a story so that you see, you hear, and you care about the characters and their adventures. If you haven’t discovered her books yet, why not? Definitely a must have on your auto-1-click list!! Total 5-star read!
This is the 3rd in the Mail Carrier series this is fast becoming my favorite Tonya Kappes series. I love that Bernardette is an older sleuth. I highly recommend anything by this author
I read an advanced copy for an honest review
All She Wrote by Tonya Kappes is the 3rd in the Mail Carrier’s Cozy Mystery Series.
This time the suspects hit too close to home after the latest murder. Can Bernadette find out the truth in time?
Another winner by Author Tonya Kappes that keeps you reading until the very end!!