** spoiler alert **
Shannon Hammer tries her hand at reality T.V. and surprisingly makes for an enchanting home makeover host. Time to quit her side job as an amateur investigator in my opinion. While the Makeover Madness subplot was entertaining, the mystery featured in "A Wrench in the Works" is the weakest to-date in this series.
Shannon is so concerned about her sister Chloe (who stayed away from Lighthouse Cove for all these years because someone else stole film canisters and she felt bad--yes, this is the actual explanation she gives) that she forgets to have a brain throughout this entire book. I really like Shannon as a heroine in previous Fixer Upper books, so it was tough to read the endless passages of her hemming and hawing over the suspects. I thought author Kate Carlisle was setting readers up for an inventive, surprise villain at the end, but it is the most obvious suspect, which was a huge disappointment.
The only good thing to come out of this installment is Chloe's relationship with Eric Jensen. The hunky Chief has been ogled by the townsfolk for too long to honestly not have found a romantic interest by this point in the series. Their relationship is the only thing bringing a little steam to this book. Shannon and Mac's relationship continues to just exist. Shannon had more chemistry with a gorgeous T.V. carpenter named Deigo in two sentences than she and Mac have in the whole book. I like Mac, but everything he and Shannon do together just sounds too fake and cutesy. I picture them as a brother and sister duo, more than lovers.
I felt let down by this installment. Shannon is so focused on Chloe and the craft services table that she seems totally out of touch with the rest of the world. She doesn't even meet up with her friends until the second to last chapter of the book. And if you were hoping for some real sleuthing, you'll be disappointed. All of Shannon's investigating is done in her head with endless questions and thoughts. Author Kate Carlisle proves she's watched HGTV before and knows a bit about home renovation, but there were a few too many paragraphs about wood. It reads as an HGTV show script, rather than a mystery novel.
As much as I have loved Lighthouse Cove in the past, I'm not looking forward to returning. I will continue to read the series, to see what happens with Chloe and Eric, but I certainly won't be jumping at the bit to preorder the next book. There are plenty of other cozies in the world with clever plotlines that have shot to the top of my reading list over this series.
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Dollycas’s ThoughtsThe television cameras have arrived in Lighthouse Cove along with Shannon’s sister Chloe. She is the co-host of a home renovating show, Makeover Madness, and is thrilled to be taping back in her hometown. Shannon also gets in on the fun by making some guest appearances. The hammer comes down on all the fun though before they even start filming. Executive producer Bree is found dead in the house chosen for the big makeover and the whole crew including Chloe are now suspects. Even Shannon saw with her own eyes the way Bree always through a major wrench in the productions. But then a real estate agent from Lighthouse Cove is found dead, again at the makeover house and the suspect pool widens. What is really scary is that Chloe could be the next victim. Shannon, Mac, and their friends are nailing down every clue to keep her safe and catch the killer.The author has created characters that are very likable and realistic. Both Shannon and Chloe grew up working construction with their dad and know their way around a job site and every tool in the box. Determined women but Chloe hasn’t been back to Lighthouse Cove since she left for Hollywood. We learn along with Shannon the secret that has kept Chloe away all these years. I really enjoyed this subplot woven throughout the mystery as we see so much evolve for Chloe. Shannon is so proud of her sister and her accomplishments. Their strong bond is heartwarming. The relationship between Mac and Shannon is getting more comfortable too. He really is a great boyfriend. He understands Shannon and her need to jump into these murder mysteries and is happy to help her in any way he can. The supporting cast is captivating too and made me feel like I was visiting old friends.The backdrop of Lighthouse Cove, oceanside and all the old Victorian homes is a perfect setting for this series. Big enough to handle all the dead bodies, small enough to allow our amateur sleuth to nose her way into the investigation. I truly enjoy all the descriptions of the homes. The makeover house had so much wrong with it, novices would think the only answer would be to tear it down, but in the hands of Shannon, Chloe, and their teams you know they are going to turn it into a real jewel.The mystery is well plotted and written. All the drama brought by the television people along with the added drama of some current Lighthouse Cove residents flows together to bring a story that sets a very nimble pace. There is always something happening, a twist, a turn, a curve, that diverts attention or sends everything in another direction. It is impossible not to totally be pulled into this story. I did solve the mystery just a little bit before Shannon but the entire story was totally entertaining.This story does read well on its own. I always recommend reading the series in order for maximum enjoyment. The movies are great too but could never replace these wonderful stories.Picturesque setting, terrific characters, and a delightful mystery. A Perfect Escape for all cozy lovers.
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