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Fixer-Upper Mystery #9
Absence of Mallets
Contractor Shannon Hammer steels her nerve to pin down a killer in the latest Fixer-Upper Mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of Premeditated Mortar�
Shannon could not be happier that her hunky thriller-writing boyfriend, Mac, has moved in, and it is a good thing they are living together because they are both busier than ever. Mac is hosting writing retreats at his now vacant lighthouse mansion, while Shannon and her crew build Homefront, a quaint Victorian village of tiny homes for veterans in need. Mac’s latest guests are proving to be a handful though, and Shannon has heard some grumbling from the luminaries of Lighthouse Cove about her latest passion project. But nothing can throw a wrench in their plans except a malicious murder.
When one of Shannon’s new friends is found brutally bludgeoned with a mallet near the lighthouse on Mac’s property, the couple hammers out a suspect list and searches for a motive. As they drill deeper for clues, more violence strikes and a new victim winds up in a coma. The pressure is on, and Shannon and Mac will have to move fast to find an unhinged killer dead set on demolishing anyone who gets in their way�
Shannon could not be happier that her hunky thriller-writing boyfriend, Mac, has moved in, and it is a good thing they are living together because they are both busier than ever. Mac is hosting writing retreats at his now vacant lighthouse mansion, while Shannon and her crew build Homefront, a quaint Victorian village of tiny homes for veterans in need. Mac’s latest guests are proving to be a handful though, and Shannon has heard some grumbling from the luminaries of Lighthouse Cove about her latest passion project. But nothing can throw a wrench in their plans except a malicious murder.
When one of Shannon’s new friends is found brutally bludgeoned with a mallet near the lighthouse on Mac’s property, the couple hammers out a suspect list and searches for a motive. As they drill deeper for clues, more violence strikes and a new victim winds up in a coma. The pressure is on, and Shannon and Mac will have to move fast to find an unhinged killer dead set on demolishing anyone who gets in their way�
294 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 7, 2021
135 people are currently reading
857 people want to read
About the author
Kate Carlisle
99Ìýbooks2,774ÌýfollowersGolden Heart and Daphne du Maurier Award winning author Kate Carlisle spent over twenty years working in television production as an Associate Director for game and variety shows, including The Midnight Special, Solid Gold and The Gong Show. She traveled the world as a Dating Game chaperone and performed strange acts of silliness on The Gong Show. She also studied acting and singing, toiled in vineyards, collected books, joined a commune, sold fried chicken, modeled spring fashions and worked for a cruise ship line, but it was the year she spent in law school that finally drove her to begin writing fiction. It seemed the safest way to kill off her professors. Those professors are breathing easier now that Kate spends most of her time writing near the beach in Southern California where she lives with her perfect husband.
A lifelong love of old books and an appreciation of the art of bookbinding led Kate to create the Bibliophile Mysteries, featuring rare book expert Brooklyn Wainwright, whose bookbinding and restoration skills invariably uncover old secrets, treachery and murder. Kate is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers and Romance Writers of America. She loves to drink good wine and watch other people cook.
Despite the appearance of overnight success, Kate's dream of publication took many, many years to fulfill.
A lifelong love of old books and an appreciation of the art of bookbinding led Kate to create the Bibliophile Mysteries, featuring rare book expert Brooklyn Wainwright, whose bookbinding and restoration skills invariably uncover old secrets, treachery and murder. Kate is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers and Romance Writers of America. She loves to drink good wine and watch other people cook.
Despite the appearance of overnight success, Kate's dream of publication took many, many years to fulfill.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews
March 6, 2022
Absence of Mallets is the 9th book in the Fixer-Upper Mystery series written by Kate Carlisle. I've previously read all the other books, plus I'm halfway through another series by the author. I enjoy her writing style, character creation, creative settings, and murder plots. In this latest installment, contractor Shannon and author Mac are hosting a writers' retreat while building homes for veterans. The two projects collide, and someone ends up dead. But who and why is a very complicated mess!
While I enjoyed this book a lot, I do think the mystery was lighter than most of the past ones in the series. The connections between the guilty party and the person who died was present, but it didn't have a ton of history or complex levels to unwind. There were several red herrings and potential leads that kept us on our toes, yet ultimately, this was more of a feel-good story that had some murderish elements to it. Still totally okay, just not the standout of the series, in my mind. The author's tone and descriptions are always on point. I walked away happy and eager to devour the next one too.
It's a quick read. I started it in bed Thanksgiving night around 9pm. Yes, I was up early and ate a lot and decided to relax for the evening. By 11:15, I'd finished the book and was turning off the iPad. When I woke up this morning, I smiled and ordered the next book in the author's other series (about a San Francisco book repair business) and will definitely read that in the next few weeks. A generally high recommendation from me; however, as always, start with the first in the series and read them in order for maximum connection.
While I enjoyed this book a lot, I do think the mystery was lighter than most of the past ones in the series. The connections between the guilty party and the person who died was present, but it didn't have a ton of history or complex levels to unwind. There were several red herrings and potential leads that kept us on our toes, yet ultimately, this was more of a feel-good story that had some murderish elements to it. Still totally okay, just not the standout of the series, in my mind. The author's tone and descriptions are always on point. I walked away happy and eager to devour the next one too.
It's a quick read. I started it in bed Thanksgiving night around 9pm. Yes, I was up early and ate a lot and decided to relax for the evening. By 11:15, I'd finished the book and was turning off the iPad. When I woke up this morning, I smiled and ordered the next book in the author's other series (about a San Francisco book repair business) and will definitely read that in the next few weeks. A generally high recommendation from me; however, as always, start with the first in the series and read them in order for maximum connection.
January 8, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Shannon and Mac are both super busy but now that they are living together they are assured of running into each other eventually. He is in the throes of writing a new book and trying to keep a handle on the latest group of authors staying at the lighthouse mansion for a two-week writing retreat. Sharon has a huge new project that is near and dear to both her and Mac. Shannon’s crew is building 50 tiny Victorian-style homes for needy veterans. The little village already has a community center addressing all kinds of needs for the veterans including classes both Shannon and Mac are teaching. Shannon’s sister is also back in town willing to help Shannon in any way she can. Sadly, Shannon is going to need her help for more than her building and decorating expertise. She is going to need her to help find the killer who bludgeoned her new tile artist and friend to death and left her lying on the beach just waiting for the tides to wash her out to sea. Shannon, Mac, and Chloe need to hammer out the details quickly because more violence takes place and someone else gets hurt. The mallets are the key, if they find those they know they will find the killer.
I really enjoy this series and there were so many great things in this story. Shannon and Mac are in a really good and comfortable place. Chloe is taking major steps in her career so she will be in town more as she and police chief Eric plan their wedding. The town is taking a huge step to help homeless veterans even though they are getting a little interference from a few residents. These core characters truly feel like old friends. I live a little vicariously through Shannon remembering the short time I worked in home construction. Being in an occupation dominated by men isn’t easy but Shannon is killing it and goes out of her way to help more women get into the field. Her class at the community center in this story really made me happy.
Of course, with the good comes the bad. Mac’s current writing group is so bad. Selfish, irresponsible, and creepy doesn’t really cover the group but it’s a start. Then we have the murder of a woman who seemed to be a wonderful human being and an attack on another with a huge heart. This cast of characters was so well written. They invoked all the emotions the author intended so easily. I had a hard time adjusting after the victim was revealed. We just met her and just started to see her artistry and she was gone. This was nicely played by the author. Readers and characters alike were invested in seeing her get justice.
That being said there really were a limited number of truly viable suspects. Being new in town she knew only a few people so I found it easy to hone in on the right individual after a few clues were revealed. What I really enjoyed was the way Eric, Mac, Shannon, and Chloe worked together. Eric has learned to trust Shannon’s instincts and that makes the story even better.
I really appreciated the message/theme of the story. The plight of homeless vets is heartbreaking and Lighthouse Cove has made them a priority building the village of Homefront. The community center is wonderful with classes, counselors, and even a cafe, plus there is room to offer more services. If only more communities in real life could follow in these footsteps.
While the mystery wasn’t as complex as other books in this series, Absence of Mallets is my favorite book so far. Murder and mayhem aside, it is a feel-good story. The perfect book to read after the holiday season. It warmed my heart seeing what good people can do and as I turned the last page I had a huge smile on my face.
Shannon and Mac are both super busy but now that they are living together they are assured of running into each other eventually. He is in the throes of writing a new book and trying to keep a handle on the latest group of authors staying at the lighthouse mansion for a two-week writing retreat. Sharon has a huge new project that is near and dear to both her and Mac. Shannon’s crew is building 50 tiny Victorian-style homes for needy veterans. The little village already has a community center addressing all kinds of needs for the veterans including classes both Shannon and Mac are teaching. Shannon’s sister is also back in town willing to help Shannon in any way she can. Sadly, Shannon is going to need her help for more than her building and decorating expertise. She is going to need her to help find the killer who bludgeoned her new tile artist and friend to death and left her lying on the beach just waiting for the tides to wash her out to sea. Shannon, Mac, and Chloe need to hammer out the details quickly because more violence takes place and someone else gets hurt. The mallets are the key, if they find those they know they will find the killer.
I really enjoy this series and there were so many great things in this story. Shannon and Mac are in a really good and comfortable place. Chloe is taking major steps in her career so she will be in town more as she and police chief Eric plan their wedding. The town is taking a huge step to help homeless veterans even though they are getting a little interference from a few residents. These core characters truly feel like old friends. I live a little vicariously through Shannon remembering the short time I worked in home construction. Being in an occupation dominated by men isn’t easy but Shannon is killing it and goes out of her way to help more women get into the field. Her class at the community center in this story really made me happy.
Of course, with the good comes the bad. Mac’s current writing group is so bad. Selfish, irresponsible, and creepy doesn’t really cover the group but it’s a start. Then we have the murder of a woman who seemed to be a wonderful human being and an attack on another with a huge heart. This cast of characters was so well written. They invoked all the emotions the author intended so easily. I had a hard time adjusting after the victim was revealed. We just met her and just started to see her artistry and she was gone. This was nicely played by the author. Readers and characters alike were invested in seeing her get justice.
That being said there really were a limited number of truly viable suspects. Being new in town she knew only a few people so I found it easy to hone in on the right individual after a few clues were revealed. What I really enjoyed was the way Eric, Mac, Shannon, and Chloe worked together. Eric has learned to trust Shannon’s instincts and that makes the story even better.
I really appreciated the message/theme of the story. The plight of homeless vets is heartbreaking and Lighthouse Cove has made them a priority building the village of Homefront. The community center is wonderful with classes, counselors, and even a cafe, plus there is room to offer more services. If only more communities in real life could follow in these footsteps.
While the mystery wasn’t as complex as other books in this series, Absence of Mallets is my favorite book so far. Murder and mayhem aside, it is a feel-good story. The perfect book to read after the holiday season. It warmed my heart seeing what good people can do and as I turned the last page I had a huge smile on my face.
December 14, 2021
This may be the ninth book in the series but Ms. Carlisle keeps producing first rate mysteries that never disappoint! I love visiting Lighthouse Cove and seeing Shannon, Mac and the other characters that I've gotten to know from the first book. Although I figured out "who done it" about halfway through the book, I couldn't figure out the why. This crafty plot kept me turning the pages as I chased red herrings and even missed a few clues as the suspects were interrogated. Shannon and Mac make a terrific team and I enjoyed watching Chloe and Eric join in on the Scooby Doo game that Shannon and Mac use when trying to figure out a mystery. I'm already wishing for the next one in the series.
September 29, 2021
Shannon runs a construction business in Lighthouse Cove, and she and her crew are working on a tiny house community exclusively for veterans. Her boyfriend, Mac, is a well-known author who is giving a writing workshop as he's done before. This new group, however, seems to be obnoxious and entitled, and after they arrive, a sweet woman from the village is brutally murdered; Shannon is determined to learn who killed her friend. Who could be trying to frame one of the veterans in the community for the murder? Shannon is certain that he's innocent, and when someone sabotages her worksite, inuring Shannon and her sister, the police, Shannon, and Mac are more determined than ever to find the culprit. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
December 5, 2021
Shannon Hammer is back. Shannon and her crew are busy working on the veteran’s village project. They are near completion and then they will be moving on to renovate Mac’s lighthouse. Mac Sullivan has a writing retreat coming into town that day. The group will be staying for two weeks. At the end of the first day, it is obvious that this writing group is going to be a handful. Shannon and Mac are both busy with their various projects. It is a good thing they live together, or they might never see each other. Life takes a dark turn when a new acquaintance of Shannon’s is murdered near Mac’s lighthouse. Shannon and Mac dive into investigative mode to discover who committed this heinous act. Unfortunately, this is only the beginning. Shannon and Mac need to work quickly if they are to stop this unhinged killer. Absence of Mallets by Kate Carlisle is the 9th A Fixer-Upper Mystery. It can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series, but I recommend reading all the books in this entertaining cozy mystery series. I always enjoy visiting Lighthouse Cove to spend time with Shannon Hammer, Mac, and the rest of the great characters in A Fixer-Upper Mystery. The characters are developed and relatable. I love Shannon and Mac together. They are a cute couple. They really get each other. Shannon’s sister, Chloe is back in town. I am glad the sister’s relationship is going well. The members of the writing retreat are unique. I can understand why Mac is rethinking having writer’s retreats after this bunch. The whodunit is well-plotted with several suspects, good clues, and misdirection. Shannon and Mac actively work the case. There is plenty of action which had me quickly turning the pages to get to the enjoyable reveal. I do wish, though, that the mystery had been more complex. I did not feel it was at the same level as the past A Fixer-Upper Mysteries. Absence of Mallets is a feel-good story that will leave you smiling. I liked the epilogue that gives us a hint of what will take place in the next book. Absence of Mallets takes us back to Lighthouse Cove where there are cute couples, a veteran’s village, a newcomer is nailed, a murderous mallet, a soothing staple gun, a lethal lighthouse, a wonky writer’s retreat, and killer clues.
November 20, 2021
This is the ninth book in the author's "Fixer-Upper" series; my acquaintance - and love - began with the sixth, and I've remained a loyal and happy reader ever since. It's refreshing to find a cozy mystery heroine, in this case professional contractor Shannon Hammer (yep, that's her real last name), who isn't oblivious to anyone other than herself and actually listens to reason. Growing up with a father who could build and/or repair just about anything, as did Shannon, gives me yet another way to relate - I just wish he'd taught me more than how to drive a nail and paint fence boards.
This one brings a happy circumstance: Shannon and hunky thriller writer Mac Sullivan are cohabitating. Shannon, who specializes in Victorian style, is working on a project to build 50 tiny houses for homeless or needy veterans, with half - plus a community center- already in place and occupied. In addition to writing his next book, the wealthy Mac has turned the historic lighthouse mansion into a retreat for writers. Still another project, started in a previous book, is restoration of part of a former insane asylum to become a posh hotel for Shannon's friend Jane. Shannon's sister Chloe, also a contractor but one who hosts a popular TV show on the West Coast, is married to local police chief Eric and commutes on occasion to visit Shannon (and, of course, her husband).
As this one begins, work is progressing on the veterans' project, and Shannon is about to start teaching a class on building basics for women. Mac is hosting a small group of writers, one of whom turns out to be a boorish loudmouth named Lewis, who rankles just about every human he meets, including Mac and Shannon. Chloe is home for a visit, and everything seems to be going along swimmingly until the unthinkable happens: Shannon's new friend, a female veteran who's agreed to lend her talents to the housing project, turns up dead near Mac's shuttered-for-restoration lighthouse. The weapon appears to be one of the mallets the woman used in her art projects (hence the title of the book, I assume).
It's pretty clear there's a murderer among them all, but no one wants to think it's one of the veterans. Could it be one of Mac's guests at the writers' retreat? Or even Shannon's old nemesis from back in high school, who's beyond obnoxious to everyone? Everyone, from Shannon to Mac to Chloe and Eric, start investigating - but their efforts don't turn up much except the possibility that one or more of them may be the killer's next target.
Of course, all the details get hammered out in the end, but not without a bit of breath-holding on the part of this reader, at least. I have to say a couple of the characters in this one seemed borderline silly, but the whole thing was a treat as always (I love reading details of the construction trade) so I don't hesitate to recommend it. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to read and review a pre-release copy.
This one brings a happy circumstance: Shannon and hunky thriller writer Mac Sullivan are cohabitating. Shannon, who specializes in Victorian style, is working on a project to build 50 tiny houses for homeless or needy veterans, with half - plus a community center- already in place and occupied. In addition to writing his next book, the wealthy Mac has turned the historic lighthouse mansion into a retreat for writers. Still another project, started in a previous book, is restoration of part of a former insane asylum to become a posh hotel for Shannon's friend Jane. Shannon's sister Chloe, also a contractor but one who hosts a popular TV show on the West Coast, is married to local police chief Eric and commutes on occasion to visit Shannon (and, of course, her husband).
As this one begins, work is progressing on the veterans' project, and Shannon is about to start teaching a class on building basics for women. Mac is hosting a small group of writers, one of whom turns out to be a boorish loudmouth named Lewis, who rankles just about every human he meets, including Mac and Shannon. Chloe is home for a visit, and everything seems to be going along swimmingly until the unthinkable happens: Shannon's new friend, a female veteran who's agreed to lend her talents to the housing project, turns up dead near Mac's shuttered-for-restoration lighthouse. The weapon appears to be one of the mallets the woman used in her art projects (hence the title of the book, I assume).
It's pretty clear there's a murderer among them all, but no one wants to think it's one of the veterans. Could it be one of Mac's guests at the writers' retreat? Or even Shannon's old nemesis from back in high school, who's beyond obnoxious to everyone? Everyone, from Shannon to Mac to Chloe and Eric, start investigating - but their efforts don't turn up much except the possibility that one or more of them may be the killer's next target.
Of course, all the details get hammered out in the end, but not without a bit of breath-holding on the part of this reader, at least. I have to say a couple of the characters in this one seemed borderline silly, but the whole thing was a treat as always (I love reading details of the construction trade) so I don't hesitate to recommend it. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to read and review a pre-release copy.
December 15, 2021
I really enjoyed this novel! Shannon is so lucky; she is running the business and crews, and she also gets to do construction work for the company her father started and retired from! After having worked many years in construction admin, this series is always fun for me. Kate Carlisle has put together a construction crew that shows their pride of workmanship and are team players. I would love to visit both Lighthouse Cove and the veterans� village at the heart of this novel. The mystery was full of surprises! While whodunit almost seems like a no-brainer, it definitely is not.
Shannon’s boyfriend Mac is a retired Navy Seal and a best-selling author with a series about a retired Navy SEAL. He purchased the land that a decommissioned lighthouse and lighthouse mansion are on, and now uses the refurbished Victorian for retreats for writers. Six writers arrive for the current retreat, four men and two women who are friends and plotting partners.
Mac is very involved with the Homefront veterans� village that Shannon’s company won the bid to build. I appreciated being an armchair worker at Homefront. It felt good to settle in and see the projects Shannon builds and the class she will teach for female veterans. I like focus being on the needs of the veterans. They are halfway through building the contracted fifty tiny houses where veterans will live, and the community center for the project is almost complete. Travis is one of Shannon’s employees, a close friend of the sheriff, and as a veteran, someone who loves living in one of the tiny houses.
Mac is teaching a writing class for veterans, and his current group of writers on retreat will attend. Shannon is teaching a class on basic construction for lady veterans living there, and a couple more who don’t live there. Linda is a veteran who will attend classes. She is an artisan gifted in designing and installing mosaics. She will do some work in the tiny houses. She went to the beach one morning to select shells and other goodies to use in those mosaics. She never made it to Homefront that day, which was unusual. Shannon is concerned about her new friend and tried calling her without response. That night, when she joined Mac on one of his lessons for the writers, Linda’s body was found. She had been murdered. And Travis, one of the veterans living at Homefront, has been set up to take the fall.
The suspect list is short when whodunit plants the bloody murder weapon in Travis’s house. There are people in town who would love to see the veterans� village closed and the vets sent somewhere else. There is also a man who is jealous of the Travis, who was becoming a close friend of Linda. Shannon is devastated because she had been happy about their new friendship. As someone who has helped find several criminals in the past few years, she plans to help find whodunit. Eric, the police chief and fiancé of Shannon’s sister, welcomes any information she comes across, which is much different than when they first met and he was interrogating her as a suspect in another murder.
I very much liked the regular characters. Reading this was like visiting old friends, so well are they uniquely described. Whodunit was a surprise, and the motive even more of a surprise. All loose ends were tied up. I highly recommend this mystery and series to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries, construction, writing, and veterans.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel, and this is my honest review.
Shannon’s boyfriend Mac is a retired Navy Seal and a best-selling author with a series about a retired Navy SEAL. He purchased the land that a decommissioned lighthouse and lighthouse mansion are on, and now uses the refurbished Victorian for retreats for writers. Six writers arrive for the current retreat, four men and two women who are friends and plotting partners.
Mac is very involved with the Homefront veterans� village that Shannon’s company won the bid to build. I appreciated being an armchair worker at Homefront. It felt good to settle in and see the projects Shannon builds and the class she will teach for female veterans. I like focus being on the needs of the veterans. They are halfway through building the contracted fifty tiny houses where veterans will live, and the community center for the project is almost complete. Travis is one of Shannon’s employees, a close friend of the sheriff, and as a veteran, someone who loves living in one of the tiny houses.
Mac is teaching a writing class for veterans, and his current group of writers on retreat will attend. Shannon is teaching a class on basic construction for lady veterans living there, and a couple more who don’t live there. Linda is a veteran who will attend classes. She is an artisan gifted in designing and installing mosaics. She will do some work in the tiny houses. She went to the beach one morning to select shells and other goodies to use in those mosaics. She never made it to Homefront that day, which was unusual. Shannon is concerned about her new friend and tried calling her without response. That night, when she joined Mac on one of his lessons for the writers, Linda’s body was found. She had been murdered. And Travis, one of the veterans living at Homefront, has been set up to take the fall.
The suspect list is short when whodunit plants the bloody murder weapon in Travis’s house. There are people in town who would love to see the veterans� village closed and the vets sent somewhere else. There is also a man who is jealous of the Travis, who was becoming a close friend of Linda. Shannon is devastated because she had been happy about their new friendship. As someone who has helped find several criminals in the past few years, she plans to help find whodunit. Eric, the police chief and fiancé of Shannon’s sister, welcomes any information she comes across, which is much different than when they first met and he was interrogating her as a suspect in another murder.
I very much liked the regular characters. Reading this was like visiting old friends, so well are they uniquely described. Whodunit was a surprise, and the motive even more of a surprise. All loose ends were tied up. I highly recommend this mystery and series to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries, construction, writing, and veterans.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel, and this is my honest review.
November 26, 2021
Barbara’s rating: 4 of 5 stars
Series: Fixer-Upper Mystery #9
Publication Date: 12/7/21
Period: Contemporary Lighthouse Cove, California, USA
Number of Pages: 304
I love it when the authors I follow on social media post about their writer’s retreats, so it was great fun to see that this book featured writer’s retreats. As always, the writing is excellent and while the mystery isn’t terribly mysterious, it is interesting to see it unfold.
Between the last book and this one, Mac has moved in with Shannon and has turned his home, known as the lighthouse mansion, into a retreat for writers. Shannon and Mac are loving their lives and couldn’t be happier, especially with Mac’s writer retreats going so well. This latest batch of writers, however, seems very different from all of the others. There is an odd dynamic within the group and they are disrespectful of Mac and others within Lighthouse Cove. There is something � off � about them and they are definitely proving to be a handful.
Shannon and her crew are almost through with Homefront, the set of fifty tiny homes and service center dedicated to veterans. All of the completed homes are occupied and there is a waiting list for those on which the crew is still working. Shannon’s crew includes both her normal work crew and some of the veterans with building skills and they’ve really meshed into a finely tuned machine. With the homes going up at a rapid pace, Shannon adds a mosaic artist to the crew so the backsplashes in the last few houses will be something really special. Sadly, that artist is murdered before she’s hardly begun her work.
With a large work crew, a village full of veterans, the writers from the retreat, and the entire town of Lighthouse Cove available as suspects, it isn’t going to be an easy case to solve. Except, in her heart, Shannon is almost sure of who it is, but confirming that suspicion and finding proof that would satisfy a court will take the combined skills of Shannon, Mac, Eric (the police chief), and Chloe (Shannon’s sister).
BTW � I loved the new group of writers who come to the retreat at the end of the book. It is a group of successful, multi-published, Romance Writers known as the No Drama Queens.
I hope you’ll give Shannon and Mac’s adventures in Lighthouse Cove a read and that you’ll enjoy it as much as I do. Happy reading!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Fixer-Upper Mystery #9
Publication Date: 12/7/21
Period: Contemporary Lighthouse Cove, California, USA
Number of Pages: 304
I love it when the authors I follow on social media post about their writer’s retreats, so it was great fun to see that this book featured writer’s retreats. As always, the writing is excellent and while the mystery isn’t terribly mysterious, it is interesting to see it unfold.
Between the last book and this one, Mac has moved in with Shannon and has turned his home, known as the lighthouse mansion, into a retreat for writers. Shannon and Mac are loving their lives and couldn’t be happier, especially with Mac’s writer retreats going so well. This latest batch of writers, however, seems very different from all of the others. There is an odd dynamic within the group and they are disrespectful of Mac and others within Lighthouse Cove. There is something � off � about them and they are definitely proving to be a handful.
Shannon and her crew are almost through with Homefront, the set of fifty tiny homes and service center dedicated to veterans. All of the completed homes are occupied and there is a waiting list for those on which the crew is still working. Shannon’s crew includes both her normal work crew and some of the veterans with building skills and they’ve really meshed into a finely tuned machine. With the homes going up at a rapid pace, Shannon adds a mosaic artist to the crew so the backsplashes in the last few houses will be something really special. Sadly, that artist is murdered before she’s hardly begun her work.
With a large work crew, a village full of veterans, the writers from the retreat, and the entire town of Lighthouse Cove available as suspects, it isn’t going to be an easy case to solve. Except, in her heart, Shannon is almost sure of who it is, but confirming that suspicion and finding proof that would satisfy a court will take the combined skills of Shannon, Mac, Eric (the police chief), and Chloe (Shannon’s sister).
BTW � I loved the new group of writers who come to the retreat at the end of the book. It is a group of successful, multi-published, Romance Writers known as the No Drama Queens.
I hope you’ll give Shannon and Mac’s adventures in Lighthouse Cove a read and that you’ll enjoy it as much as I do. Happy reading!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 26, 2021
I am always excited to return to Lighthouse Cove to see what Author Kate Carlisle has in store for Shannon Hammer and the rest of the cast. This was a terrific addition to this series. These characters have grown so much since the first book and they all have started to feel like old friends. Ms. Carlisle has done a terrific job with characters; the evolution of the characters and their relationships feel natural and right on target. Mac and Shannon make a terrific couple and I love that Shannon's sister Chloe is returning to Lighthouse Cove and settling into her relationship with Eric. The whole team works well together to solve each new mystery that they encounter with each new story. I also like how Eric has come to respect Shannon's insights and thoughts with each new case. He doesn't encourage her, but he has come to the point that he respects what she has to offer and considers her input seriously.
The mystery kept my attention. I was really saddened by the identity of the victim in this book. It was a new character but it still struck me in a way I wasn't expecting. It hit Shannon the same way and so she and Mac, along with Chloe decide that they owe it to this person to find justice for their murder. There is a new group of authors staying at the lighthouse for a retreat and they are all, for the most part, unlikable. However, they do serve as very viable suspects in the murder. I was able to figure out the motive for the murder but was a bit off on my guess for the killer's identity.
I love the premise of Homefront - a complete village for veterans that has all the services they need to transition back to civilian life. It is something that we could use in real life.
This is a series that I highly enjoy. It is entertaining, has great characters, the mysteries keep me engaged and the writing just flows. I always look forward to each new book and hope that the series will continue for many more books to come.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Berkley, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were in no way impacted by the manner in which I received this book.
The mystery kept my attention. I was really saddened by the identity of the victim in this book. It was a new character but it still struck me in a way I wasn't expecting. It hit Shannon the same way and so she and Mac, along with Chloe decide that they owe it to this person to find justice for their murder. There is a new group of authors staying at the lighthouse for a retreat and they are all, for the most part, unlikable. However, they do serve as very viable suspects in the murder. I was able to figure out the motive for the murder but was a bit off on my guess for the killer's identity.
I love the premise of Homefront - a complete village for veterans that has all the services they need to transition back to civilian life. It is something that we could use in real life.
This is a series that I highly enjoy. It is entertaining, has great characters, the mysteries keep me engaged and the writing just flows. I always look forward to each new book and hope that the series will continue for many more books to come.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Berkley, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were in no way impacted by the manner in which I received this book.
February 25, 2023
"Absence of Mallets" the 9th instalment in the "Fixer Upper" Mystery series by Kate Carlisle. I really enjoy both of Kate Carlisle’s mystery series but I think this one is my favourite.
Contractor Shannon Hammer steels her nerve to pin down a killer
As I have said before the setting of Lighthouse Cove on the northern coast of California is so beautiful and this time we are on a acreage of tiny homes for veterans. I love this idea and am glad it’s a real thing in some areas.
I love Shannon and Mac together and seeing how their relationship is progressing. I also really enjoy the interaction with Shannon and Chloe and am happy Chloe is returning to the cove. I love all the side characters with exception of Whitney who we are meant to not like.
There were some really diabolical characters in this book meaning the group of authors at the retreat. Overall the mystery was interesting and well plotted, and had lots of suspects.
I feel like the characters are taking on some life changing events and I cant wait for the next book to see how things have progressed.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Contractor Shannon Hammer steels her nerve to pin down a killer
As I have said before the setting of Lighthouse Cove on the northern coast of California is so beautiful and this time we are on a acreage of tiny homes for veterans. I love this idea and am glad it’s a real thing in some areas.
I love Shannon and Mac together and seeing how their relationship is progressing. I also really enjoy the interaction with Shannon and Chloe and am happy Chloe is returning to the cove. I love all the side characters with exception of Whitney who we are meant to not like.
There were some really diabolical characters in this book meaning the group of authors at the retreat. Overall the mystery was interesting and well plotted, and had lots of suspects.
I feel like the characters are taking on some life changing events and I cant wait for the next book to see how things have progressed.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 3, 2023
Ho divorato questo libro, non perché particolarmente presa dalla storia (ancora prima dell'omicidio era ovvio dove andassero cercati i colpevoli), ma perché mi piace il cast dei personaggi principali (la protagonista, sua sorella e i compagni delle due).
November 18, 2021
This was a very entertaining cozy mystery. It is the ninth book in the Fixer-Upper cozy mystery series. The setting is a Victorian beach town in Northern California. The main character is Shannon Hammer who is a contractor. Her current project is called Homefront and is a settlement of tiny homes being built for Veterans.
Her famous successful boyfriend is Mac who is an investor in the project. Mac was a Navy SEAL before beginning his career as an author. He has decided, since he's now living with Shannon, to use his former home as a place for a writer's retreat.
His current crop of authors are not at all like he was expecting. First of all, they seem weirdly dependent on one another. The most famous of them had his first book go to bestseller status and is now supposed to be working on his second. He is quite an unpleasant person who hits on one of the female Veterans who is taking Shannon's classes on construction for women. The woman is Linda who is also a mosaic artist with her own set of mallets which Shannon admires. She is rather known for her own pink tools.
When Linda is found bludgeoned to death, Shannon and Mac along with their friends are determined to find out who killed her. They have quite a few suspects among the authors, but someone is trying to frame one of the Veterans in the village. That Veteran is Travis who has been doing some writing to help with his PTSD and who is also working on Shannon's crew. When his tablet goes missing, Shannon and Mac think that clue leads back to he author's - especially the one who is late turning in his next book.
The story was filled with great characters. I really liked the setting and the Homefront project too. I liked the details about doing construction and liked that Shannon used her staple gun to relieve stress. I haven't read earlier books in this series yet and am eager to give more of them a try.
Her famous successful boyfriend is Mac who is an investor in the project. Mac was a Navy SEAL before beginning his career as an author. He has decided, since he's now living with Shannon, to use his former home as a place for a writer's retreat.
His current crop of authors are not at all like he was expecting. First of all, they seem weirdly dependent on one another. The most famous of them had his first book go to bestseller status and is now supposed to be working on his second. He is quite an unpleasant person who hits on one of the female Veterans who is taking Shannon's classes on construction for women. The woman is Linda who is also a mosaic artist with her own set of mallets which Shannon admires. She is rather known for her own pink tools.
When Linda is found bludgeoned to death, Shannon and Mac along with their friends are determined to find out who killed her. They have quite a few suspects among the authors, but someone is trying to frame one of the Veterans in the village. That Veteran is Travis who has been doing some writing to help with his PTSD and who is also working on Shannon's crew. When his tablet goes missing, Shannon and Mac think that clue leads back to he author's - especially the one who is late turning in his next book.
The story was filled with great characters. I really liked the setting and the Homefront project too. I liked the details about doing construction and liked that Shannon used her staple gun to relieve stress. I haven't read earlier books in this series yet and am eager to give more of them a try.
December 1, 2021
Since I'm a fan of fixer upper cozies, especially ones presenting a strong female protagonist, I knew this series would become a fast favorite.
Shannon and her guy, Mac are adjusting to living together, but this new writer's group that Mac is hosting is over the top.
Shannon feels things are going to take a bad turn, and she finds out quickly that she was right.
The death of a friend shakes up Lighthouse Cove, and especially those working and living at the Homefront.
I found myself caught up in the mystery and while parts were a little telling, I still enjoyed the end and the reveal.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#AbsenceofMallets #NetGalley
Shannon and her guy, Mac are adjusting to living together, but this new writer's group that Mac is hosting is over the top.
Shannon feels things are going to take a bad turn, and she finds out quickly that she was right.
The death of a friend shakes up Lighthouse Cove, and especially those working and living at the Homefront.
I found myself caught up in the mystery and while parts were a little telling, I still enjoyed the end and the reveal.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#AbsenceofMallets #NetGalley
January 2, 2022
The rating only goes up to five stars, this book deserves a TEN. Kate has delivered a story that will not only move your heart, but have you thinking about how you can help veterans in need. I'm from a military family. At least five generations that I can actually count..
This story is about Shannon and Mac's latest joint venture. They are building a whole community of tiny homes for fifty Vets including a center where they can get needed services. Mac is also welcoming six authors to his retreat for a two week stay. And there is where the poison will come from.
So I'll just say it YA GOTTA READ THIS BOOK! I own the book (part of my Carlisle collection) and it's the best one ever.
This story is about Shannon and Mac's latest joint venture. They are building a whole community of tiny homes for fifty Vets including a center where they can get needed services. Mac is also welcoming six authors to his retreat for a two week stay. And there is where the poison will come from.
So I'll just say it YA GOTTA READ THIS BOOK! I own the book (part of my Carlisle collection) and it's the best one ever.
May 11, 2023
Another bang up murder mystery in the Shannon Hammer series! A wonderful plot with lots of moving parts to keep you entertained and intrigued as the various parts start to mesh together into a cohesive mosaic creating a vivid story that is easy to follow! I love the characters and the way they are created to feel like real people that you might encounter in the real world. I can't wait to read what happens in the next book! FYI: For audio lovers this book is also in audio format!
December 24, 2021
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
I always look forward to reading a new mystery in this series, as I think it is great that women are more accepted in construction now than ever. Shannon now oversees the company that her father started many years ago, and business is excellent. Shannon’s father taught her and her sister how to use tools and how to build or repair things when they were growing up. It is fascinating to see the results of their father’s mentorship as we catch an inside glimpse of life as a successful contractor and as the star of a home improvement show. Regarding Shannon’s boyfriend, Mac, it is equally interesting to see the life of a bestselling author.
Shannon’s biggest ongoing project is called Homefront, where a community center and half of the fifty tiny houses for veterans to live in are underway. The community center includes various services for the veterans. Shannon is giving a construction class to women veterans, and one of their projects will be doing much of the work on a tiny house. She is happily surprised when her sister, Chloe, could leave her Hollywood set to spend a couple weeks in Lighthouse Cove with her family and her fiancé, even sitting in on a class and helping on the site.
Mac is working on the next thriller in his book series about a former Navy SEAL. He had purchased the property on which a historic mansion and a decommissioned lighthouse sits. The mansion has been remodeled, and Shannon’s crew will soon begin to shore up and refurbish the gorgeous old lighthouse. Mac hosts writers� retreat groups at the mansion. This time he has a group of six, all of whom are long term friends. They can take advantage of a quiet time, appreciate the ocean and beach, and write. Mac will invite them into a writing class he is leading for the veterans at Homefront.
One of the women Shannon meets at the veteran’s village is Linda, an artist who designs incredible mosaics. She is not a resident at Homefront, but as a veteran, will take a couple classes. Shannon and Linda became friends almost instantly. Shannon even offers her a job doing mosaics on some of the kitchen backsplashes. There is also a friendship budding between Linda and Travis, one of the veterans who works for Shannon. One of the writers is also attracted to Linda, coming to the site when least expected to talk with her.
Linda is found dead at the beach not far from the writers� retreat. It is believed she was attacked with one of her own mallets that is missing from her tools. Whoever did it is framing Travis for the murder. Just because he is a veteran with PTSD, some people believe he is capable of murder, but he is devastated by her death. Shannon had been sure she and Linda would be lifelong friends from the short time they knew each other, and is grieving her loss. Shannon won’t rest until finding who killed Linda.
The primary characters are easy to be invested in, as are some of the secondary characters. I enjoyed getting to know Shannon’s sister Chloe better. I loved meeting some of the veterans at Homefront, and seeing the dignity afforded to them. Each person is defined according to their roles. I admit, it was hard to read the story at times since I liked and had hoped to see more of the victim.
The author has hit a home run with Homefront, which Shannon calls a refuge for heroes. Seeing how well planned and uniquely designed Homefront is, and the services currently available at the community center, the author has an excellent vision for how our veterans need to be treated. In this case, the setting is as important as the mystery!
Shannon, Mac, Chloe, and their friends will go to any length to get justice for Linda and get Travis off the hook, especially when Shannon barely avoids serious injury from the sabotage of work in place. It has been very finely plotted and executed, with twists and turns that continue to change the possible suspect list. There were some unexpected results in the excellent resolution to the novel. I highly recommend this, and any of the other stories in the series!
September 19, 2023
Absence of Mallets by Kate Carlisle is the 9th book in the Fixer-Upper Mystery series. Contractor Shannon Hammer is busy building Homefront, a series of small houses for veterans in need, while her boyfriend writer Mac Sullivan is hosting a writing retreat, when one of their friends is found murdered on the beach. An enjoyable mystery, more about catching up with events in Lighthouse Cove. The culprits were rather obvious and particularly stupid with their crimes in this book which was a bit of a let-down compared to others in this series. I enjoyed learning bits and pieces of the building process along the way. An interesting, light cozy mystery.
August 16, 2021
The fixer up mystery books have become my favorite cozy series, even more than Carlisle’s Bibliophile books which I also love.
They’re intelligent, highlighting the skill of women contractors and each one covers and addresses contemporary problems in our country today. The last book was about taking an old abandoned asylum with sad and tragic memories and repurposing it as a hotel and offices making it a new and happier place. In Absence of Mallets the many plights of veterans are highlighted as Shannon, Mac and others are building a compound filled with tiny homes, community center, health resources, among other things for the vet.
The characters are nuanced and intelligent and I enjoy learning more about them and their lives in each book.
Today there are so many lackluster cozy mysteries published in hardcover so for the life of me I’ll never understand why this series is only in Paperback. I’m going to keep repeating that after each book until this series finally becomes published in hardcover. It’s one of the best cozy mysteries, bar none.
Shannon and her crew are building 50 tiny homes for veterans, and the construction details are interesting to read. I learn so much about construction in each book and the detail and knowledge Carlyle has on the subject is fascinating. From tools to techniques there always something new and wonderful to learn. One of Shannon’s new friends working on the project is murdered, and Mac has to deal with an obnoxious group of writers using his home as a retreat.
Great story line, great mystery, and I’m already eagerly waiting for the next installment.
They’re intelligent, highlighting the skill of women contractors and each one covers and addresses contemporary problems in our country today. The last book was about taking an old abandoned asylum with sad and tragic memories and repurposing it as a hotel and offices making it a new and happier place. In Absence of Mallets the many plights of veterans are highlighted as Shannon, Mac and others are building a compound filled with tiny homes, community center, health resources, among other things for the vet.
The characters are nuanced and intelligent and I enjoy learning more about them and their lives in each book.
Today there are so many lackluster cozy mysteries published in hardcover so for the life of me I’ll never understand why this series is only in Paperback. I’m going to keep repeating that after each book until this series finally becomes published in hardcover. It’s one of the best cozy mysteries, bar none.
Shannon and her crew are building 50 tiny homes for veterans, and the construction details are interesting to read. I learn so much about construction in each book and the detail and knowledge Carlyle has on the subject is fascinating. From tools to techniques there always something new and wonderful to learn. One of Shannon’s new friends working on the project is murdered, and Mac has to deal with an obnoxious group of writers using his home as a retreat.
Great story line, great mystery, and I’m already eagerly waiting for the next installment.
July 25, 2022
This story is set at the community of tiny houses that Shannon is building for vets in her hometown. It also involves the group of writers who are on a writing retreat at Mac's house. The murder doesn't happen until half way through the book. The characters keep evolving with each book in the series. It was an easy quick read.
February 11, 2022
This book isn't really about the mystery and that is okay. This is a book about helping those of us who are dealing with horrors most of us will never know and bringing to light how easy it is to help. This is a book about Veterans and how we as communities can work together to help them, give them some independence as well as a safe place to live. And it is encouraging, uplifting and inspiring.
There IS a mystery and it is really horrifying and I am not just talking the psychopath who picks and chooses whom to kill, but a good chunk of the surrounding characters as well. Their actions are absolutely abhorrent and I was completely disgusted by them by the end of the book. And by the time you get to the reveal and the epilogue, you just want to smack every single one of them and I cannot even say what went through my head in regards to the killer.
ALL of this is awesome because it shows just what a really good writer can do - and Kate Carlisle is a really good writer. She has a real heart for people and a real talent to tell stories within a genre that isn't always about the mystery [and sometimes it is] and about people at their most vulnerable [see book #8 for another example of this, but I recommend you read that one in the daylight. With all the lights in the house on. I STILL think about that book and I STILL shudder over some of the events that happen in it]. Very well done Ms. Carlisle. Very. Well. Done.
There IS a mystery and it is really horrifying and I am not just talking the psychopath who picks and chooses whom to kill, but a good chunk of the surrounding characters as well. Their actions are absolutely abhorrent and I was completely disgusted by them by the end of the book. And by the time you get to the reveal and the epilogue, you just want to smack every single one of them and I cannot even say what went through my head in regards to the killer.
ALL of this is awesome because it shows just what a really good writer can do - and Kate Carlisle is a really good writer. She has a real heart for people and a real talent to tell stories within a genre that isn't always about the mystery [and sometimes it is] and about people at their most vulnerable [see book #8 for another example of this, but I recommend you read that one in the daylight. With all the lights in the house on. I STILL think about that book and I STILL shudder over some of the events that happen in it]. Very well done Ms. Carlisle. Very. Well. Done.
June 27, 2022
Another excellent episode in the Fixer Upper series, we have Shannon Hammer and Mac happily living together, Shannon's sister Chloe is engaged to Eric (the Chief of Police) and she is in the process of moving back to Lighthouse Cove, and to top this off Hammer Construction is restoring the lighthouse AND building a small settlement of tiny houses for Veterans (a cause close to the hearts of both Mac and Eric).Ìý So everything in the garden is rosy? well sadly not so, as Mac is no longer in his house that has been turned into a writing retreat but the latest group are putting the backs up various people (Mac and Shannon among them), and the other thing that has gone wrong is the death/murder of one of the Veterans with one of the other Veterans being accused of the act.
Now with Eric being too close to the accused, his deputy, Tommy, has to take the lead (the only problem is that Tommy's wife wants the Tiny House project shut down and the Veterans moved on!), so Shannon, Chloe and Mac are determined to find out the truth, before anyone else is killed.
Now with Eric being too close to the accused, his deputy, Tommy, has to take the lead (the only problem is that Tommy's wife wants the Tiny House project shut down and the Veterans moved on!), so Shannon, Chloe and Mac are determined to find out the truth, before anyone else is killed.
November 21, 2021
Kate Carlisle’s ninth book, Absence of Mallets, in the Fixer-Upper Mysteries series enraptures the reader from its onset. Shannon, Mac et al. are a dynamic group who break down and solve the most complex of mysteries. In this book, with the emphasis of Military Veterans and the Homefront project as its driving force, the message along with the mystery makes for an exceptional story.
As with her other books in this series, Ms Carlisle provides an unique look into the building progressions and the intricacies that are involved, bringing a unique element to her stories. With dynamic and relatable characters, a smart and engaging dialogue and with subtle humor strategically laced throughout, the story moves at a rapid pace. Add in the perfect amount of moving parts to keep you guessing and I couldn’t ask for a better “Who Done It� to loose myself in.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
As with her other books in this series, Ms Carlisle provides an unique look into the building progressions and the intricacies that are involved, bringing a unique element to her stories. With dynamic and relatable characters, a smart and engaging dialogue and with subtle humor strategically laced throughout, the story moves at a rapid pace. Add in the perfect amount of moving parts to keep you guessing and I couldn’t ask for a better “Who Done It� to loose myself in.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
December 11, 2021
Shannon is thrilled that her boyfriend, Mac, who's also a bestselling author has moved in. They're both staying busy as he hosts writing retreats in his former home and she's working on Homefront, a village of tiny Victorian houses for veterans. But when a new friend is murdered, it hits Shannon hard and she does some sleuthing to find a killer.
This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series and this book is a prime example of why. I love that Shannon is a contractor and an extremely capable woman in a field of work dominated by men. The book was well-written with well-rounded characters, some of whom you'll like and others you won't. I was brought to tears in places and full of joy in others as the book drew me in and kept me hooked from beginning to end. The story is fast-paced and the mystery will keep you on your toes. I highly recommend both book and series which I suggest you read in order for the most benefit and enjoyment.
This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series and this book is a prime example of why. I love that Shannon is a contractor and an extremely capable woman in a field of work dominated by men. The book was well-written with well-rounded characters, some of whom you'll like and others you won't. I was brought to tears in places and full of joy in others as the book drew me in and kept me hooked from beginning to end. The story is fast-paced and the mystery will keep you on your toes. I highly recommend both book and series which I suggest you read in order for the most benefit and enjoyment.
May 21, 2022
Shannon Hammer runs a construction company. Her current project is building 100 tiny homes for homeless veterans.
That includes a community center building for all the services they might need as well.
Her boyfriend, Mac is a thriller writer and helped get the funding for the project as well as donated supplies and furniture.
So of course they are busier than ever.
Meanwhile, Mac is hosting a writers retreat and 6 writers have come to attend. But something is off with this group. They seem to not care about anything but themselves, they all act like kids having a fight in the playground. Noone cares for them and they are ugly people. So what are they doing at a writers retreat?
Meanwhile, a new woman who is helping with the veterans community gets killed.
Now Shannon and Mac are trying to figure out what happened and who is responsible.
A bit darker than a typical cozy but moves along well and the characters are interesting.
That includes a community center building for all the services they might need as well.
Her boyfriend, Mac is a thriller writer and helped get the funding for the project as well as donated supplies and furniture.
So of course they are busier than ever.
Meanwhile, Mac is hosting a writers retreat and 6 writers have come to attend. But something is off with this group. They seem to not care about anything but themselves, they all act like kids having a fight in the playground. Noone cares for them and they are ugly people. So what are they doing at a writers retreat?
Meanwhile, a new woman who is helping with the veterans community gets killed.
Now Shannon and Mac are trying to figure out what happened and who is responsible.
A bit darker than a typical cozy but moves along well and the characters are interesting.
September 4, 2021
Shannon and her construction crew are excited to be building a tiny home community for veterans who need support and help. Mac is busy working on his next thriller and hosting writers retreats. His latest writers group is enough to make him question whether he wants to continue the retreats. They are all self-centered, manipulative, and entitled. When a murder is linked to the veteran’s community, Shannon is determined to clear the veterans.
I especially liked the attention given to the difficulties that veterans can face and in this fixer-upper mystery, not only are they building tiny houses for the vets, they also plan to provide counseling and other services. Shannon also is actively teaching women construction skills and getting more women into a traditionally male field.
I enjoy the fixer-upper series, and Absence of Mallets is excellent.
I especially liked the attention given to the difficulties that veterans can face and in this fixer-upper mystery, not only are they building tiny houses for the vets, they also plan to provide counseling and other services. Shannon also is actively teaching women construction skills and getting more women into a traditionally male field.
I enjoy the fixer-upper series, and Absence of Mallets is excellent.
November 12, 2021
Thanks to netgalley.com for the privilege of reading the book for an honest review.
Mac has moved in with Shannon, and the lighthouse mansion is now used as a writer's retreat. Shannon and her crew are working on building a community of tiny houses for homeless vets, and all is right with the world. Until a local mosaic artist is found bludgeoned to death on the beach. Now Shannon has to find out who did the deed before one of the homeless vets is wrongly accused of murder.
I love these books not for the mystery, though they aren't bad, but really for the character development. Just learning how things change and progress in their fictional lives really is the point of reading the next in the series. I love learning the bits and pieces of construction that are sprinkled throughout the book as well.
Mac has moved in with Shannon, and the lighthouse mansion is now used as a writer's retreat. Shannon and her crew are working on building a community of tiny houses for homeless vets, and all is right with the world. Until a local mosaic artist is found bludgeoned to death on the beach. Now Shannon has to find out who did the deed before one of the homeless vets is wrongly accused of murder.
I love these books not for the mystery, though they aren't bad, but really for the character development. Just learning how things change and progress in their fictional lives really is the point of reading the next in the series. I love learning the bits and pieces of construction that are sprinkled throughout the book as well.
December 18, 2021
Absence of Mallets is Kate Carlisle's 9th book in the Fixer Upper series. This book can very easily be read as a standalone. Shannon and Mac are finally living together. They are both very involved in the Home front project which is building tiny homes for veterans. It was heartwarming to see how the new community pulls together to support each other. Mac has turned his house into a writers retreat. His latest group of writers are an odd bunch. They attend a workshop at the community center and this is how they get tied in with the Homefront project. I was really sad about the character that was found murdered as I felt they would have made a great character addition. But Mac and Shannon with the help of Shannon's sister pulled together with the local police to solve the murder. I enjoyed this book and love the series. Can't wait for the next one.
December 10, 2021
This series is one that I've read from the beginning and I love when there is a new book. This one didn't disappoint!
I love the characters and their relationships and that they feel like friends. I also liked the premise of a village for veterans in need and think every town needs one of these.
It's well-written and kept me up pretty late to finish it. Now I'll impatiently wait for the next one.
Note: I received a copy for review.
I love the characters and their relationships and that they feel like friends. I also liked the premise of a village for veterans in need and think every town needs one of these.
It's well-written and kept me up pretty late to finish it. Now I'll impatiently wait for the next one.
Note: I received a copy for review.
January 4, 2022
I can't decide if I like this series more than the Bibliophile Mystery series or not, but you sure can't go wrong with either. If you haven't read them, go for it!
Shannon and Mac tackle the latest case as an official couple, and the relationship is as great as ever. I loved the plot, the setting featuring a tiny home village for vets, and the vet characters. These books are great fun, and I'm eager for the next one!
Shannon and Mac tackle the latest case as an official couple, and the relationship is as great as ever. I loved the plot, the setting featuring a tiny home village for vets, and the vet characters. These books are great fun, and I'm eager for the next one!
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