Cliff Hanger (A Maggie McDonald Mystery)

I enjoyed this fifth Maggie McDonald cozy mystery, set just-for-fun in a coastal California resort town replete with peaceful ocean views, marine wildlife . . . and murder, of course. Who, what, how on earth (and sand) did a popular and meticulously careful young pilot crash his ultralight plane into a sea cliff? And why, after offering Good Samaritan assistance, are Maggie’s teenage sons suddenly accused of hastening this death?Author Mary Feliz has penned another enjoyable story, keeping this reader quickly turning the pages. I especially liked that Maggie’s boys, David and Brian, are more front-and-center this time, and that they—and the family’s lovable Golden Retriever, Belle—seem to have caught the amateur sleuthing bug as well. In fact, the group dynamic of Mom, Dad, boys and dog, is warm, humorous, and especially delightful. I chuckled aloud more than a few times.As a Californian, I can relate to subplot conflict involving ecology and humanitarian issues; as a birdwatcher and wildlife enthusiast, I appreciated that the author (a recently Certified California Naturalist) added descriptions of the coastal terrain and marine life; as a mom (and grandmother), I savored the descriptions of food—right down to Max’s warm chocolate chip cookies. A cozy with food, even cozier!Ms. Feliz kept me guessing, threw plenty of curves, made me laugh, offered interesting new characters (oh my, we need more of the elusive, dark-ops Rocket!), fun organizational tips, and delivered a satisfying ending. In all, a perfect summer read.I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next Maggie McDonald mystery.

After meeting Mary Feliz at a mystery conference, I wanted to read all her books. She is personable, knowledgeable and friendly. Her books will grab you from the first lines. Cliff Hanger is the best! I think Feliz' plotting and characterization improves with each book in her series. The character development is exemplary as you get to know the family of Maggie McDonald in this 5th book better than you did in her other books. The mystery is realistic and there are many clues to solve the puzzle. The setting on the beach in northern California is another character you will see in your mind as you read Cliff Hanger. Dog lovers will appreciate the character of Belle who adds to the plot.I cannot wait to read more mysteries about this interesting family of Maggie McDonald, professional organizer. I wish I could hire her for myself.

I've read all of the books in this series. Unfortunately, Cliff Hanger is not up to the others. For me, there are just too many things going on...too many people and too many plots. I also found it difficult to believe that Maggie and Max would actually allow their sons to place themselves in so many dangerous situations. These are high schoolers! I finished the book, but just barely; toward the end, it became tedious.

Just like the first 4 in the series, I was immediately sucked into the story and compelled to keep reading until the mystery was resolved. Poor Maggie can't catch a break. Even on a work/vacation, she gets sucked into murder and ugly local politics.While I missed our "friends" in Orchard View, Feliz makes up for it by introducing us to the beautiful CA coast. She clearly knows the area well, so her descriptions of the local flora and fauna are a treat. She also uses her local knowledge to highlight many (too many?) current issues from immigration to agriculture., giving the book a bit more weight than your garden-variety mystery.

I've enjoyed all of Mary Feliz's books and this is not an exception . I've enjoyed this mystery very much ! I love the people and the location , felt like I was there ! Her mysteries are so good , I can't wait for the next one !(

I suggest starting with the first book in this series, but they can be read as standalones. The characters are engaging, the plot is interesting, and Northern California is the star of the show.

This is a fun, entertaining series. I am enjoying Maggie McDonald as a character along with her boys.

I like the way the story unfolds. The characters are real everyday people. I can't find anything to dislike in the story.