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Formats
Paperback Details
  • 12/2022
  • 979-8-3606916-7-9 B0BRDPJXPM
  • 397 pages
  • $12.95
Ebook Details
  • 12/2022
  • 9798987225318 B0BLLT4PR2
  • 397 pages
  • $2.99
Hardcover Details
  • 12/2022
  • 979-8-9872253-2-5 B0BRDFRYNH
  • 397 pages
  • $19.95
Audio Details
  • 12/2022
  • 979-8-9872253-3-2 B0BS2CSJX5
  • 397 pages
  • $19.95
Kris Courtney
Author, Illustrator
Florida Retirement Is Murder

Adult; Mystery/Thriller; (Market)

FLORIDA RETIREMENT IS MURDER

Snowbirds do more than just Flock


“Stewart Johnson had worked hard his entire life to reach retirement. However, his Golden Years would prove to be more of a challenge than he anticipated after his wife passed away. Seeking to find peace of mind and warmth in Florida, Stewart became surrounded by a tribe of Snowbird residents who took him on a journey of laughter and sleuthing inside a gossip riddled community filled with the humorous dysfunction of overgrown children.”

The setting is in Central Florida and the dramatic genre of "Fictional Satire Mystery Novel" appeals to both young and old. With the more-alike-than-different family ancestry, we all share some of the very same quirks and ability to laugh at ourselves. It is that level of vulnerable exposure inside the mind of senior citizens that we can all relate to with humor. This book will cause the reader to laugh out-loud and relate back to their own memories or current life history, not to mention an entertaining ‘Book Club’ experience. This colorful story will fit perfectly on every shelf and screen.

Oh, Wake Up, Earl!™ 

 

Reviews
In the wake of the murder of the HOA president, the denizens of Florida's Sun Gate Retirement Community come together to investigate her death and other local mysteries in this gently comic cozy. Stewart Johnson, the newest resident, is secretive about his past, but shows some surprising skills. He gradually makes friends, especially with his neighbor Kathy, who warns him that "[t]hese social butterflies will eat you alive and not all of them can fly!" But then another resident is found dead and the sharp-eyed Stewart begins to notice subtle and not-so-subtle problems. Fortunately, although Stewart and Co. may be getting old, they still have their wits about them.

Courtney has a wonderful eye and ear for the retirement community life, the friendships and petty squabbles such as the sneaky way the residents get around the no-pets rule by classifying them as emotional support animals. There's a running joke about Leda, a resident, who is always making bundt cakes. Stewart keeps missing them, one of many amusing and touching details that help bring this tightly knit world to life. Sometimes, the various side plots seem to take precedence over the main murders threads, but the residents and their lives are so charming that it hardly makes a difference.

Although the book is well-stocked with interesting characters, it is really Stewart's story, and Courtney deftly manages his growth while maintaining an air of mystery. We learn that Stewart "had a lifetime of experience with hardnosed men unwilling to take criticism." In several scenes we see him with his grown daughter, and their exchanges come across as funny and real, as their close relationship adapts to Stewart's aging. Although he's a widower who clearly misses his wife, by the end of the book this self-contained man is open to new relationships and even a possible romance. The wrap-up brings him, and his friends, a comfortable and sweet conclusion—but not without an ending that's both darkly amusing and appropriate.

Takeaway: Retirees show they're not past their prime when they face murder and other shenanigans.

Great for fans of: Patricia Rockwell’s Essie Cobb Senior Sleuth Mysteries, Allen B. Boyer’s Bess Bullock Retirement Home Mystery Series.

Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: B+
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: B

ARC’ Galley Reader Reviews
  • “I can’t say this about many books I read but I couldn’t put it down”   
  • Great Book!!! Loved the characters who all feel like family!! The ending was a shocker!!!”   
  • “I could visualize it and the characters!!!! I want them as my friends!!! This is how I can connect with good reads when I feel it!! I swear this would make a great weekly show.”   
  • I loved the character development, I loved the humor of the people.  I loved the suspense and I especially loved the ending! I can just imagine crazy old golf cart drivers!  Oh, and WAKE UP, EARL!™"

 

Editorial Audiobook Review

FLORIDA RETIREMENT IS MURDER

Narrator: Mari Oyaizu Carson ~ Production: Kris Courtney

 

Review by Rox Burkey

OUTSTANDING FUN! 

The Home Owners Association president dies under questionable circumstances as the story begins. Kris Courtney places the listener inside a gated Central Florida-established retirement community. The resident characters get portrayed as individuals with specific outrageous habits. These people behave like unchaperoned children at a never-ending Sadie Hawkins dance with a spiked punch.

Stewart Johnson relocates to the community with help from his daughter, the lawyer. He feels more included days after moving in than in his home years after his wife died. His new neighbors make him feel right at home. He gets caught up in investigating a neighbor’s death, finding roadblocks from the community services team at every turn. Something stinks, and it’s not the fish from the pelican’s mouth.

The antics of these silver-haired, opinionated relics will keep listeners, and readers, laughing aloud, hoping they can have this much fun in retirement. These are the ultimate unfiltered comments from those who know better but don’t care. You’ll pray your inner child will enjoy this much freedom while getting into this much trouble.

The author, Kris Courtney creates a fun, light cozy mystery with well-developed characters. The story will most likely elicit at least a chuckle if not a full-on belly laugh at the fun.   He creates a story around people and issues that we can all relate to one way or another – memories, experiences, etc. This is definitely a fun and light read.

The narration by Mari Oyaizu Carson masterfully kept the voices perfect for all the characters. The story’s pace added to the excitement and tension of this satirical murder mystery. A masterpiece of voice acting that makes listening easy and impossible to pause.

I highly recommend this cozy mystery in the audiobook format. You’ll be sipping the fruity chick drinks and toasting to new friends in no time.

 

Issued on Audible - March 13th, 2023

Readers' Favorite

Florida Retirement is Murder is the latest comedy-mystery from Kris Courtney. The book tells the story of widower Stewart Johnson after he retires to Florida and meets a group of fellow retirees who bring him into their community. As Stewart becomes part of the mischievous community of Snowbirds who refuse to act like grown-ups, a strange mystery begins to draw them in when they discover that a killer walks among them. Suddenly faced with a serious problem, this group of decidedly un-serious people must do what they can to get to the bottom of the mystery.


I’m always happy to read books where the twilight years are treated as something to look forward to, with new friends to make and adventures to go on, and fewer reasons than ever to take yourself too seriously. Kris Courtney has put together an excellent character study that humorously portrays its characters without letting them stray into clown-like caricatures, with the end result being a playful cast of well-realized people whom I would love to spend time with in real life. The mystery is particularly well designed and developed with many twists and turns that, combined with the characters, made for an exciting and unique sleuthing experience that will stick with readers well after they finish. Florida Retirement is Murder celebrates the joy of retirement with characters that will have you pausing your read to finish laughing, and tells an engaging mystery adventure whilst doing it. It is a book that I highly recommend to all readers. 

 

Red Headed Book Lover

Florida Retirement Is Murder, Kris Courtney

 

Florida Retirement Is Murder is a unique, compelling, and entertaining murder mystery novel laced with many thrilling and even funny moments that are guaranteed to hook and delight readers for many hours! The story laced between the pages of this book is one that captivated me from the beginning and if you are looking to read a book that will grasp your attention from the first page and hold it throughout then already I would implore you lovely readers to read this book because it is utterly brilliant!

Florida Retirement Is Murder is a unique book that stands out among the mystery and suspense genre and a book that hooked me with its many fascinating and thrilling moments that compelled me to read extremely fast! Florida Retirement Is Murder can only be described as the kind of book that is addictive; it is addictive because you will find yourself always thinking about it when it is not in your hands and you will long to read it and immerse yourself in it!

Florida Retirement Is Murder is a phenomenal book that will introduce the reader to a retirement community in Florida and it is here that we meet Stewart Johnson! Stewart is a new addition to the retirement community and he is looking forward to a fresh start and a change of scenery as he has been struggling since the passing of his wife.

It is here in Florida that the Snowbird residents take him under their wing and make him feel at home but a murder mystery is unraveling and it is up to Stewart and his fellow residents to solve the mystery before it is too late and what follows is an incredible mystery tale full of hilarious moments and unforgettable scenes! And this book lovers is the short premise of the incredible Florida Retirement Is Murder!

The story of Florida Retirement Is Murder is sensational, and I applaud the exceptional author Kris Courtney for putting a twist on the genre and making it exciting and not predictable! The fact that the story is so original and unique and incredibly entertaining at the same time shows us that Courtney is a talented wordsmith who knows how to be creative and think outside the box!

Florida Retirement Is Murder is quite simply an amazing book; amazing however is just one of the words I would use to describe Florida Retirement Is Murder as it is so much more than this. It is a fascinating tale laced with many incredible moments that will fascinate, shock, and thrill its readers, while these elements are also woven around a sensational tale that will have you on the edge of your seat. It makes for a memorable reading experience full of many ups and downs and will have you saying ”just one more page!” as it is that incredible book lovers.

As Florida Retirement Is Murder is a brilliant, mesmerizing, and thrilling story that will take you on an incredible and shocking, and funny adventure I, of course, have to award this excellent book five stars! So please, if you are looking to get lost in a mystery tale like no other then read this book because you will not regret it!

 

News
01/11/2023
AUDIOBOOK Release & Distribution through ACX

Available Immediately:

Produced on ACX, an Amazon Company and distributed through Audible, Best Selling Author Kris Courtney has released his Fictional Satire Mystery on Digital Entertainment as an AUDIOBOOK.  Free Sample and Promotional Downloads are ready on multiple platforms that include Amazon, iTunes and all Apple devices!

Florida Retirement Is Murder has become the Breakout Fiction for Cozy Mystery reads in 2023 since its release on New Year's Eve - December 31st, 2022. Fans from across the Globe are enjoying the Kindle, Paperback and Hardcover with sales reaching over 50,000 pages reviewed!  With the expanded reach now of an audible version that is being translated for sale in UK, FR & DE through ACX media channels.

As described, Florida Retirement Is Murder is a collection of Hysterical Characters and a sleuth journey of overgrown dysfunctional children in a Gated Florida Retirement Community that 'Will have you Laughing Out-Loud!

As stated by the Artist:
"Mari Oyaizu Carson is a theatrical designer and voice artist living in Northern California. She likes knitting and cats. She hates writing bios."

Her voice, flexible language and vocal control makes this #Audiobook on track to be 'The Best Satire Audio Novel of 2023'

LISTEN for FREE Today!

Florida Retirement Is Murder
Snowbirds do more than just Flock

If you have ever thought about becoming a Florida Snowbird, you have to read this book!
This colorful story will fit perfectly on every shelf and screen.
Great Summer Beach Book!
Laugh Out Loud – Hilarious cast of characters.


Similar Author/Book's & Genre – Market Comparable / Comparative:

  • You're Only Old Once! by Dr. Seuss
    Dying to Retire: Murder She Wrote by Jessica Fletcher
    Excuse Me While I Disappear by Laurie Notaro
    Oops, I've Fallen by Max Monroe
    Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
06/16/2023
Author Talk & Book Signing' at The Villages, Florida

 

Extremely Thrilled to Announce the 'Author Talk & Book Signing' at The Villages, Florida's Friendliest Hometown on Friday June 16th, 2023 at 10 a.m. 

 

Book Your Ticket:

Pinellas Plaza Library-The Villages

7375 Powell Road

Wildwood, FL 34785

(352) 689-4567 

 

EVENT LINK: https://sumtercounty.librarycalendar.com/event/author-kris-courtney-presents-florida-retirement-murder 

 

I will be talking and answering your questions about Stewart and all the antics of these Snowbirds who are on an Amateur Sleuthing Adventure inside a Florida Gated Retirement Community (Fictional of Course) 

Bring your Book Club Gear for "Wake Up, Earl!™" at CafePress - https://www.cafepress.com/wakeupearl 

And you can find Your Copy of 'FLORIDA RETIREMENT IS MURDER' at Amazon Kindle & Amazon.com as well Listen to the Masterpiece #Audiobook from Audible 

Available Now:  https://www.amazon.com/Florida-Retirement-Murder-Kris-Courtney/dp/B0BRDPJXPM 

 

I am looking forward to meeting all of you there!!

Blessings, Kris   www.kriscourtney.com 

 

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05/13/2023
Book Signing Event ~ Paducah Kentucky

FLORIDA RETIREMENT IS MURDER

Snowbirds do more than just Flock

 

American Artist & Author Kris Courtney will be in Paducah Kentucky on Saturday May 13th, 2023 at the Holiday Inn, Riverfront for an Exclusive Book signing for his New Release.

 

This Fictional Satire Murder Mystery has captured the attention of readers across the globe and is a 'Break-Out' bestseller on Amazon, Barnes&Noble and Audible.

 

As a previous resident and participating Artist in the 'Lowertown Arts District' in Paducah, Courtney has travelled the US since 2013 and is excited to return to a place of comfort and incredible friendships!

 

LIMIT QUANTITY of Books will be available for purchase at the event for $25 each. Attendees are encouraged to purchase your copy ahead of time for the purpose of saving time & money. Hardcover & Paperbacks are available online or can be ordered directly from your local bookstore.

 

AMAZON LINK

  • https://www.amazon.com/Florida-Retirement-Murder-Kris-Courtney/dp/B0BRDPJXPM

 

Come join, visit and get your autographed copy - See you Then!!

Holiday Inn - Riverfront
Saturday May 13th, 2023
2pm - 4pm
"River room"

12/15/2022
Florida Retirement Is Murder ~ Book Trailer

Snowbirds do more than just Flock 

12/04/2022
Florida Retirement Is Murder ~ eBook

INDIANAPOLIS & LAKELAND, Fla. - Dec. 4, 2022PRLog -- Available Immediately: 

American Artist & Author Kris Courtney has authored a 'Debut Fiction Novel' called 'FLORIDA RETIREMENT IS MURDER' that is scheduled for full release & distribution on New Years Eve 2022 in Paperback, Hardcover and additional AudioBook released through ACX. 

 

 Available LINK's Include:

https://www.amazon.com/author/kriscourtney

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/florida-retirement-is-murder-kris-courtney/1142625809   

Imprint: KCProductionDistribution: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, Audible 

12/31/2022
Official Book Launch Announcement

LAKELAND, Fla. & INDIANAPOLIS & NEW YORK
Available Immediately:

American Artist & Author Kris Courtney has authored a 'New Fictional Satire Mystery Novel'


Editorial Review:
The book is well-stocked with interesting characters...one of many amusing and touching details that help bring this tightly knit world to life. It is really Stewart's story, and Courtney deftly manages his growth while maintaining an air of mystery.

A comfortable and sweet conclusion...an ending that's both darkly amusing and appropriate.
Booklife ~ Publishers Weekly

  • Irreverent fun, class-act, above the rest!
  • This would make a great weekly TV show!
  • Filled with mischievous characters!
  • Highly recommend!

BARNES & NOBLE 5Star Debut (ARC)

With this Official Book Launch on New Year's Eve, December 31st 2022, Courtney has published his 'Debut Fiction Novel' with resounding results. With Paperback and Hardcover Listed on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and available in eBook/ePub form on Rakuten Kobo, Apple, iTunes and all eReader & Kindle Formats are available!  The Reviews are both strong and descriptive to reflect the Hilarious Cast of Characters.

Considered "Best reads of the Year" Florida Retirement Is Murder has already become a top ranked favorite among the Cozy Mystery, Satire & Literary Fiction books on Amazon.

Learn More about additional details, reviews, giveaways and promotions by exploring our page and following our social media accounts on Facebook & Twitter. And you can always find us at:  www.kriscourtney.com 

 

Formats
Paperback Details
  • 12/2022
  • 979-8-3606916-7-9 B0BRDPJXPM
  • 397 pages
  • $12.95
Ebook Details
  • 12/2022
  • 9798987225318 B0BLLT4PR2
  • 397 pages
  • $2.99
Hardcover Details
  • 12/2022
  • 979-8-9872253-2-5 B0BRDFRYNH
  • 397 pages
  • $19.95
Audio Details
  • 12/2022
  • 979-8-9872253-3-2 B0BS2CSJX5
  • 397 pages
  • $19.95
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