A Very Woodsy Murder

By: Ellen Byron

Narrated by: Daniela Acitelli

Down-on-her-luck sitcom writer Dee Stern is flipping the script. Twice divorced and wasting her talents on an obnoxious kids' show, the lifelong Angeleno embraces the urge to jump in her car and keep driving. It's a road trip with no destination—until she pulls into a mid-century motel filled with cobwebs and retro charm. Nestled in the shadow of a national park, it's a time capsule of a place that, like her, could use some work. So, in the most impulsive move of her life, Dee teams up with best friend, Jeff Cornetta—who happens to be her first ex-husband—to transform the aging ranch into the Golden Motel-of-the-Mountains, a hiker's oasis on the edge of the wilderness . . .

But Dee and Jeff soon realize there couldn't be two people more unprepared for the hospitality business. There's also the panic-inducing reality of prowling bears and a general store as the only shopping spot for miles. Living and working in the middle of nowhere takes some getting used to—especially when a disrespectful guest ends up murdered! Now, with the motel duo topping the suspect list, Dee must steer clear of a meddling park ranger, face her past in show biz, and determine if the killer is a local or tourist. Because as she quickly finds out, there are many things worse than a one-star review.

©2024 Ellen Byron (P)2024 Tantor

Fun, but not my favorite of Ellen Byron's books

This was a fun cozy mystery. A good listen for a relaxing time. The setting was great, and the story kept up a good pace. This one didn't have the feel of a polished Ellen Byron story. It felt like a first-time author's first book. It was a little on the clunky and predictable side. The narrator does not help the flow. But still worth a listen.

The breathiness in the reader’s voice. Very distracting.

I think the book is a good first in a series. The characters have potential. The setting is fun. I really found the voice of the narrator distracting and a real minus. I’ll probably listen to the next in the series if she narrates the next one.

3 and a half

I'm not sure about this one. The main character, Dee, is awkward and the pacing is slow. I might get the next one.

Such a Fun Read

I love the setting in, an old motel in the Sierra mountains near a national park, and the characters. The theme is a fun one and different. Can’t wait for the rest.

Reads like a sitcom

Loved the mystery and the characters. Really entertaining. Can’t wait to read the next one. I hope the series continues