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4.5
"For the Birds" (Rose Gardner Investigations book 2) by Denise Grover SwankLet me start out by saying this book is far from being for the birds. It was interesting, engaging, fun, serious, and any adjective in between. It was not boring or a waste of time. It is a definite must read in this new series.Violet is back; Neely Kate has reviewed some things from her quick trip she took to address her past (see Trailer Trash: Neely Kate Mystery #1); Rose and James have some conflicts and issues to work through, but are talking; the plot is Wow!! You will never guess the issues which come to light and how the novel ends.While the beginning was slightly slow, it picked up quickly after a couple chapters and then I read straight through. There is so much happening, yet the author has everything laid out so well in her writing, the reader never gets lost. The additional characters introduced to the reader are well written and added to the novel.Rose wants peace in Fenton county within the underworld and does what she can to remain neutral and make that her goal. Yet, sometimes our goals are hard to achieve or they only last a short amount of time. With all the gossip going around, it is hard for her even to attempt that goal. She is aware she is an ongoing target and that she is not safe. She is also aware that some have the wrong impression about her relationship with Skeeter, Jed, etc. Thanks to her there are some power changes, resulting in peace. How long they will last, no one knows.Aside from the landscaping business, both Rose and Neely Kate decide to take on a mission to find a parrot. That leads to something much larger, seedier and underhanded, as well as a larger investigation by the two. Now if only Neely Kate will stop using the name Sparkle Investigations. It is hard enough she has a pink sparkly pen.Both Rose and Neely Kate have some decisions to make and a lot of honest catching up to do. They both have some life issues arising which will result in changes and conflict personally and potentially via the business.A great addition to this series and a twisting turning plot will keep the reader enthralled.If you love a great mystery, strong characters (especially female ones), and looking for your next read, "For the Birds" is definitely a pick up now novel.For fans of Rose, Neely Kate and others, there will be several months before the next release in this and Neely Kate's spin off. February 13, 2018...so hang on, re-read and some great things are yet to come.Rating: 4.6⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
