Book Review (and a Giveaway!): Ax to Grind by Tonya Kappes

Southerners keep their secrets swept under the rug, but what happens when that rug goes up for sale?

Bestselling author Berlye Stone, the most famous citizen to ever come out of Cottonwood, Kentucky, has died and put all her worldly possessions up for auction, but not without leaving one more manuscript behind. A hidden tell-all about Cottonwood that’s got more gossip than a ladies’ luncheon.

When Beryle’s assistant turns up with an ax in her back and the only witness is in a coma, Sheriff Kenni Lowry reckons someone in town will do anything to keep the manuscript from seeing the light of day. Her poppa’s ghost returns to help piece together the life of the Beryle he once knew, but his memory’s a little foggy, and any misstep could cause them a world of trouble.

With the help of Deputy Finn Vincent, can Kenni sort through the secrets buried in Beryle’s books, or will this be her final chapter?

SERIES: Kenni Lowry #3
GENRE: Southern Cozy Mystery
PUBLISHER: Henery Press
RELEASE DATE: September 19, 2017
PAGES: 256

Other Books In This Series

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 which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)

My Rating: 5 stars / Love it!

Reviewer’s Note: Readers may want to be aware that there are some curse words sparsely scattered throughout this book.

For years, USA Today bestselling author Tonya Kappes has been publishing numerous mystery and romance titles with unprecedented success. She is famous not only for her hilarious plot lines and quirky characters, but her tremendous marketing efforts that have earned her thousands of followers and a devoted street team of fans.

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