Cozy Up with "Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries": A Delightful Dive into a New Mystery
When I first stumbled upon Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries, the title immediately piqued my curiosity. As a lover of cozy mysteries, the idea of a protagonist named Mae West navigating through financial ruin and the murky waters of crime in a rundown campground had my imagination racing. I was eager to see if Tonya Kappes could weave the vibrant tapestry of characters and adventure that I crave in a good read, and she did not disappoint.
This charming debut (the first in the Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery Series) introduces us to Mae, who finds herself penniless after her husband orchestrates a Ponzi scheme that leaves her holding the bag—and a dilapidated campground in Normal, Kentucky. Kappes crafts Mae’s character with authenticity—she is relatable, kind, and undergoing a profound transformation as she confronts not just financial despair, but also her husband’s dark legacy. The humor sprinkled throughout, alongside Mae’s earnest attempts to make a new life, invites readers to root for her as she faces the absurdity of her circumstances.
One of the absolute high points of Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries is the lively setting, a character in its own right. Kappes paints a vivid picture of the Happy Trails Campground, aptly reflecting Mae’s emotional ups and downs. From the lake, which is “full of green slime,” to encounters with quirky local residents, the author immerses us in a community that, albeit chaotic, is imbued with an inviting charm. The humor and warmth of the townsfolk had me chuckling more than once, reminding me of the cozy vibe we adore in classic mysteries.
Kappes’s writing style is accessible and engaging, though it sometimes suffers from a few grammatical missteps—a point echoed in reviews by others. However, these minor distractions did little to dampen my enjoyment as I bolted through the pages with glee. The pacing felt just right, with twists and turns that kept my excitement high as Mae sought to prove her innocence when her husband’s body floats up in the very lake she had been trying to restore.
The heart of Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries is its exploration of redemption. Mae’s character arc—from a scorned wife to an empowered woman ready to right her husband’s wrongs—is particularly poignant. As one reviewer aptly noted, Mae’s transformation is a journey of "self-discovery," which many readers will find inspiring. The blend of mystery and character development resonated deeply with me, and despite my suspicions about the murderer being confirmed early on, the unfolding of events was gripping enough to keep me glued to my seat.
To top it all off, the book includes delightful recipes and camper tips that feel like a warm invitation to jump into the camping lifestyle. It’s a small gesture, but a heartwarming one, inviting readers to not just consume the story, but to engage with it and perhaps try something new.
In conclusion, Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries is a breath of fresh air for fans of cozy mysteries, particularly those who love quirky characters and lighthearted tales that still promise a bit of suspense. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to curl up with a heartwarming and humorous story about personal growth and the ties of community. If you’re looking for a fun escape that combines mystery with relatable life challenges, then this book is a delightful place to start. As I closed the final pages, I couldn’t help but feel a little lighter—and eagerly anticipating the next adventure in Normal.
You can find Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries (A Camper & Criminals Cozy Mystery Series) here >>