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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely love getting to read about Sparky’s different adventures and the author does a great job of making each one feel fresh and original. This time she is stowed away on a cruise ship, she thought was headed for the South Seas, but it turns out to be filled with silent movie stars! She is mistaken for someone else and forced to be the lead in the all-girls chorus. As always, Sparky somehow manages to get involved with a mystery surrounding her mistaken identity as well as a passenger going overboard. The author continues to write vivid tales that really make you feel like you are back in the 1930’s and experiencing that Sparky is. The story continues to have well written characters that are easy to imagine and connect with. Another well written and researched cozy mystery from the author in a series you will want to keep reading.

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Samantha Cleaver

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky #4)The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book continues with Sparky trying to run away from her problems. This time she attempts to board a cruise ship. She overhears much gossip about one particular music director that everyone seems to detest.

This is written in the depression era and once again Barden’s descriptions are marvelous. This book has comical aspects to it as well and you’ll want to keep reading to see what happens next!

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Betsy Melano

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky #4)The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Eleven year old Sparky is on a new adventure, finding a place that’s hopefully safer but her luck seems to be on the wrong side. As always, I enjoy reading about Sparks’s life and all the adventures she seems to get into. This 4th book in the series doesn’t disappoint. The world built by the author is spot on and the characters that are around Sparky help make thieve books fun to read.

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely love getting to read about Sparky’s different adventures and the author does a great job of making each one feel fresh and original. This time she is stowed away on a cruise ship, she thought was headed for the South Seas, but it turns out to be filled with silent movie stars! She is mistaken for someone else and forced to be the lead in the all-girls chorus. As always, Sparky somehow manages to get involved with a mystery surrounding her mistaken identity as well as a passenger going overboard. The author continues to write vivid tales that really make you feel like you are back in the 1930’s and experiencing that Sparky is. The story continues to have well written characters that are easy to imagine and connect with. Another well written and researched cozy mystery from the author in a series you will want to keep reading.

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky #4)The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series of historical cozy mysteries, I was looking forward to this latest instalment. I was excited to be back with the extremely likeable eleven year old amateur sleuth Sparky. Once again the Depression era of the 1930’s was brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, and added historical details. Our heroine Sparky has stowed away on an ocean liner and is out at sea. When she is discovered she becomes involved in a dangerous case of mistaken identity. Meanwhile, the other passengers appear to be ex-silent movie actors heading off to revive their careers in a mysterious film project. Sparky is missing both her guardian Tootsie and even her ex-boss Bookie, and wonders if she will ever see them again. Sparky must investigate when a passenger tumbles overboard under strange circumstances, and the other passengers become suspicious of her. This humorous mystery adventure once again kept me hooked throughout. I love Sparky as the main character and hope she will be back with a new adventure soon!

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Jenni Bishop

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky #4)The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The South Seas Shenanigans is the fourth book in 1930’s Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series. This fun historical cozy mystery sees our amateur sleuth Sparky embroiled in another adventure.
I’ve said it before with the other books in this series but will say it again, Rosalind’s descriptive narrative paints a vivid picture of the life and times and makes it easy for us as readers to see come to life.
Sparky has had many adventures that have always led to mischief, mayhem and murder and this time it is no different except she has decided to stow away on a ship and her friends are nowhere in sight. When Sparky is discovered, she comes face to face with a group of disgruntled ex-silent movie actors anyone of which could be a killer.
Let the fun begin.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series Book #4) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Angela Hayes

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky #4)The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

The South Seas Shenanigans is the fourth book in the Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series by Rosalind Barden. I have been enjoying this cute historical cozy mystery series which is set in the 1930’s and follows Sparky, the spunky, street smart, precocious tween (11 year-old) FMC on her mystery solving adventures.
Sparky has had some interesting adventures/cases over the course of the series, and this one sees her running away- well actually stowing-away on a cruise ship that sails her right into a troublesome mystery- with a case of mistaken identity, where a whole lot of trouble is about to rain down on Sparky if she can’t uncover the truth quick-smart.
Again, as with the rest of the series, the story contains all the historical detailing, language, sights, and societal norms that you would expect from that era- it is richly detailed, and the descriptions are quite ‘visual’, adding an extra element of interest to the story/series. The characters are many and varied- but all are quirky and quite ‘colourful’ individuals. The author definitely did a great job of bringing her characters and story to life.
Another great addition to this fun series.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Rosalind Barden!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky #4)The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love these mysteries. This time Sparky is on the wrong ship. I found there is lots of drama, mystery and plenty of adventure. Sparky somehow always finds trouble. There’s a great flow to story. I had such a good time figuring out who did it. The characters, as always, are unique personlities that due to the time period of the story, are a pleasure to find in the story. I loved this story.

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Jennifer Crain

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This mystery continues the adventures of Sparky, our unconventional protagonist, who finds herself amidst a tangled web of intrigue aboard a cruise ship filled with former Hollywood legends.

From the very first page, Barden skillfully immerses us in the vibrant atmosphere of the era—complete with the unmistakable glamour of Hollywood’s golden age and the palpable tension of a murder mystery. Sparky’s voice is refreshingly authentic for her age, capturing the wit and resourcefulness of an eleven-year-old who has had to fend for herself in a tough world. The premise of a stowaway escaping the confines of school sets the stage for a lively narrative filled with both humor and suspense, and it was a quick but enjoyable read.

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden

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~☕️~📕~🔎 BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ~☕️~📘~🔍
The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Historical Cozy Mystery
Page Count – 240
Cover Designer – Tabitha Lahr Design

A high-seas adventure – or a deep-water tombstone?!
Depression-era sleuth Sparky is back in action, but this time she is out to sea! Sparky skipped it out of landlocked Bunker Hill and stowed away on an ocean liner, which turns out to be jam-packed with disgruntled ex-silent movie actors hoping the mysterious film project they are sailing toward will rejuvenate their dead careers. But when Sparky is soon discovered, she becomes hopelessly ensnared in a dangerous case of mistaken identity.
Tensions are running high. Someone tumbled overboard under strange circumstances. But Sparky didn’t do it! The passengers are suspicious of Sparky, but she’s even more suspicious of them. Will Sparky uncover what’s really going on before the vengeful passengers make her walk the plank?
Sparky misses her guardian, former silent movie star, Tootsie, and she even misses her sketchy ex-boss, Bookie. Will she ever see them again? Or will our young hero be forever lost at sea?
“The South Seas Shenanigans” by award-winning author Rosalind Barden is the fourth in the hilarious, 1930s cozy noir “Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery” series that delivers a fast, fun read for tweens to grown-ups.

~ AMAZON US ~AMAZON AU ~ AMAZON CA ~AMAZON UK ~ AMAZON DE ~

APPLE BOOKS~ BARNES & NOBLE ~ INDIGO ~ KOBO CA~ KOBO US ~KOBO WORLDWIDE ~

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Rosalind Barden has long been fascinated by the history of Los Angeles’s lost noir neighborhood, Bunker Hill. Cold Kid Case, the first in her zany, 1930s Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series has been awarded multiple accolades, including the Firebird Book Award 1st Place for Cozy Mysteries and the Literary Titan Gold Medal Book Award. Over thirty of her short mystery and horror stories have been published, including her inspiration for the Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series, “The Monkey’s Ghost,” part of the FAPA President’s Book Awards Silver Medalist anthology, History and Mystery, Oh My! She writes and continues to explore lost history in Los Angeles. Discover more at RosalindBarden.com.

Author Interview with Rosalind Barden

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Historical Cozy Mystery
Page Count – 240
Cover Designer – Tabitha Lahr Design
Goodreads – The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden

Bookbub – The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden


A high-seas adventure – or a deep-water tombstone?!
Depression-era sleuth Sparky is back in action, but this time she is out to sea! Sparky skipped it out of landlocked Bunker Hill and stowed away on an ocean liner, which turns out to be jam-packed with disgruntled ex-silent movie actors hoping the mysterious film project they are sailing toward will rejuvenate their dead careers. But when Sparky is soon discovered, she becomes hopelessly ensnared in a dangerous case of mistaken identity.
Tensions are running high. Someone tumbled overboard under strange circumstances. But Sparky didn’t do it! The passengers are suspicious of Sparky, but she’s even more suspicious of them. Will Sparky uncover what’s really going on before the vengeful passengers make her walk the plank?
Sparky misses her guardian, former silent movie star, Tootsie, and she even misses her sketchy ex-boss, Bookie. Will she ever see them again? Or will our young hero be forever lost at sea?
“The South Seas Shenanigans” by award-winning author Rosalind Barden is the fourth in the hilarious, 1930s cozy noir “Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery” series that delivers a fast, fun read for tweens to grown-ups.

~ AMAZON ~

Rosalind Barden has long been fascinated by the history of Los Angeles’s lost noir neighborhood, Bunker Hill. “The Cold Kid Case,” the first in her zany 1930s “Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery” series is a #1 Amazon New Release, #1 Amazon Bestseller in its category, and has been awarded multiple accolades, including the Firebird Book Award 1st Place for Cozy Mysteries. Over thirty of her short mystery and horror stories have been published, including her inspiration for the Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series, “The Monkey’s Ghost,” part of the FAPA President’s Book Awards Silver Medalist anthology, History and Mystery, Oh My! She writes and continues to explore lost history in Los Angeles. Discover more at RosalindBarden.com.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Kelsie Wheeler

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Set in the 1930s, this cozy mystery is set during the Great Depression era. Monkey Island Murder is full of twists and turns, capturing your attention from the start. I enjoyed this mystery and hope to read more like it.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Monkey Island Murder is Book 3 in the Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series. It is a cozy historical mystery set in the early 1930’s and centers around a rambunctious, street smart, young 11-year-old girl named Sparky. She loves to solve mysteries and on her newest adventure she finds herself caught in the middle of a mystery that involves her “boss” Bookie. He has been implicated in a murder and Sparky must really put her detective skills to work to solve this case. The ensuing adventure is full of mayhem, mystery, intrigue, witty banter, and quirky characters. The author does a fantastic job of pulling the reader into the 1930’s through her vivid descriptions and attention to detail to that period.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Monkey Island Murder was a great addition to The Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series. This is Book three. The 1930’s, depression era is not a friendly place for a young girl so she’s got to do what she’s got to do. Our main character is one again the street smart, complex, amateur sleuth Sparky. Bookie, Sparky’s boss, is of course still a criminal, but Sparky is very certain that he’s not a murderer. I enjoyed this book. The banter, mayhem, mishaps, and colorful characters made this a delight to read. I look forward to more of Sparky’s shenanigans while sleuthing.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Santana Hicks

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sparky is back and this time with a big personal adventure… going back to school. She is not happy about the decision but she knows it will be good for her in the long run. Instantly bullies make their appearance and call her names and push her around.

After her first day of school, Sparky goes to Bookie to see if he has any jobs for her. Instead he invites her to go to Monkey Island with him. Never been, Sparky is excited to go. What kind wouldn’t love to see hundreds of monkeys jumping around?! While there, Bookie talks to a man in all yellow. He looks uncomfortable so Sparky decides to keep an eye on him while also watching the monkeys. Next thing you know, the man in yellow is dead and Bookie is accused of murder. Sparky knows that he has been framed and no one is willing to help him. It is up to her to clear Bookies name and get him out of jail. She has a lot of obstacles in her way. The biggest one is school.

Sparky is like a whole different kid this time around. She actually thinks of others and has calmed down significantly. In the past, I found it hard to like her as the main character. This time, she is more caring and sweet. She no longer is homeless and it has made a huge difference mentally. This book has been my favourite so far in the series.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Betsy Melano

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sparky is once again finding herself in a situation, figuring out why her criminal boss Bookie has been arrested on Monkey Island. Sparky is certain Bookie isn’t the murderer. It’s time for Sparky to use her wits, her street knowledge, and friends to find the actual murderer. At the same time, Sparky has not quite gotten used to the care and benefits she receives from her benefactor Tootsie and Tootsie’s employee Gilbert. The author writes in such a way that you can picture the setting and connect with Sparky.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Shannen Kern

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third book in the Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series, and I think it’s our favorite so far! I have read all three of these with both of my kiddos although my 12-year-old is definitely the target audience with her ability to sit still through a couple hundred pages. Sparky is an incredible super-sleuth and such a wonderful character in the 1930s. The author painted such a vivid, detailed picture of Los Angeles in that time period and really made me feel like we were there experiencing it. Even though I am far from the target audience of teenagers, I found myself excited throughout this entire book. I highly recommend picking this up if you are a fan of cozy historical mysteries!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Kerry Carr

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 3rd book in the Sparky of Bunker Hill series. I have loved these books from the start when we first mean Sparky and her friends. This is a murder mystery series sent in the 1930s, which the author attention to detail really brings this era to life.
You can’t help but fall in love with the main character Sparky. She is an 11 Year old kid, who at times acts beyond her years. But she also has a way of viewing the world from a child’s perspective and that leads to trouble being her second name. This story is full of twists and turns as well as banter and laughter.
In this story Sparky’s friend and boss Bookie is framed for a murder that happened at the old tourist attraction of Monkey Island. Sparky knows that her boss is a criminal but he isn’t a murderer. So she now needs to find a way to prove his innocence. With so many twists and turns will she ever get to the proof she needs?
To make matters worse Sparky returning to school doesn’t go well so she is placed in an internship with no other that Officer Mug and Detective Bernie.
Could this help Sparky get to the truth and find the proof she needs to prove Bookie’s innocence?
Sparky is one determined child who will stop at nothing to prove her friends innocence. No matter what obstacles she faces or how hopeless things seem she never gives up until she gets to the truth. I can’t wait for her next adventure.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Set in 1930’s Los Angeles, 11yo orphan, Sparky, is always getting into trouble. So much so that the school enrolls her in an internship with the local police department, so they can keep an eye on her. When her friend, Bookie, is arrested for murder, Sparky has to come up with a plan to clear his name.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

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This is Book 3 of the series. I will tell you that this book kept my attention. I literally read it in a day and half. Sparky is at again, this time she was part of the murder but I don’t think she was suppose to be. The characters in this book are a little kooky. Tootsie is up for an audition and that means all the “important helpers are there”. However you need to read in between the lines to find some people and there reasoning for being there, at least in my opinion. I honestly can’t wait for the next book. Sparky is an amazing kid and isn’t so sure of herself. She tends to get into a lot of trouble with any and everything she does. She has two wonderful adults “looking” after her. She has a few friends, lets be real, her only friend is Bobby. But there is a new comer, Cornelius and he might just give Bobby a run for his money when it comes to Sparky.

The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is Book 3 of the series. I will tell you that this book kept my attention. I literally read it in a day and half. Sparky is at again, this time she was part of the murder but I don’t think she was suppose to be. The characters in this book are a little kooky. Tootsie is up for an audition and that means all the “important helpers are there”. However you need to read in between the lines to find some people and there reasoning for being there, at least in my opinion. I honestly can’t wait for the next book. Sparky is an amazing kid and isn’t so sure of herself. She tends to get into a lot of trouble with any and everything she does. She has two wonderful adults “looking” after her. She has a few friends, lets be real, her only friend is Bobby. But there is a new comer, Cornelius and he might just give Bobby a run for his money when it comes to Sparky.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Karole Petty

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this book/ story. This series reminds me of the Trixie Belden series of my youth. This is a new to me author and I can say this author has some real talent of transporting me back in time. Sparky is a well developed character, I enjoyed her loyalty and her quirky nature. The names of the characters kinda suits their personalities. Having not read I the first 2 in the series I felt like I was missing details but, I still was able to follow along. I would recommend starting at beginning of the series to get the true nature of all the characters.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Jess Engel

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another hit in this series! The reader finds themself in the middle of another mystery in need of solving and Sparky is hot on the trail!

I have just loved this series and this third installment is no different! It is a fun and engaging read! Sparky is such a wonderful character and I love seeing her development throughout the books so far and loved her growth in this one. The setting and cast of supporting characters really bring depth to the story. Sparky’s interactions with the supporting characters and the various relationships she has with those characters provide for a range emotions and experiences with the book. She is, at her core, such a kind and caring young girl, but carries the reader through the book and story with her unique spunk. She always finds trouble and lives life the way she wants. I just love her as a character. I also really enjoy the setting and that this series takes place in, bringing in the grittiness of LA but set in during the depression. Can Sparky vindicate her crime boss and find the real murderer? Read this one to find out!

This cozy mystery series is among the best I’ve read and I greatly look forward to the next one!

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In this third installment of the Sparky of Bunker Hill series, Sparky is trying to clear her boss Bookie. Bookie has been framed for a murder on Monkey Island. Also, Sparky has to deal with some not-so-fun developments like volunteering with Detective Bernie and Senior Officer Mug. This book is just as adventure-packed and fun as the first two. Sparky’s spunk is on full display. This girl is such a wonderful character. I love how determined and loyal she is. Her found family and friends make for some great interactions. The backdrop of 1932 Los Angeles is rich and engaging. It’s such a fun cozy mystery.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Sparky is back!! The Monkey Island Murder is Book 3 of the Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series and the story is quite enjoyable as ever. The story is a fun, historical cozy mystery with murder, mystery, mayhem, humor and antics. I do recommend reading this series from the beginning as you get to know the characters and build from there. Sparky is involved in a new mystery, this time trying to help Bookie proclaim their innocence as they were arrested on charge of murder on Monkey Island. Having to go back to school and now with this trying to help Bookie solved the who done it murder mystery….its bound to get crazy. Will Sparky help Bookie this time around with their super sleuth skills?

This was a fun read and quite entertaining. I look forward to what is to come with the next story in the series with all new mystery with Sparky!

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Shadel Ayerbe

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden is a great cost mystery series.

Although Bookie, Sparky’s boss, is a crook, he is not a killer! Sparky, a tenacious amateur supersleuth who is eleven years old, will stop at nothing to prove to the authorities that Bookie was set up for the murder at Monkey Island, a seedy tourist attraction in downtown Los Angeles in 1932. Sparky has to make it through returning to school on this, the worst day of her life. Sparky, who is often in trouble, is made to “volunteer” for Detective Bernie and Senior Officer Mug. While this is going on, Tootsie, a former silent cinema star, and her goblin-like sidekick Gilbert are getting ready for an audition that might help her go back into the spotlight at Sparky’s house, the Creepy House.

Every page was exciting and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. The story really brings mystery into your life. I couldn’t put the book down. I have read most of the series at this point and I absolutely love it.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As always the author does a great job of transporting you back to the 1930’s and really making you feel like you are right there in the midst of the story with her vivid descriptions and well written story telling. Sparky is back, stirring up trouble as she works to prove her boss isn’t a murderer, all while trying to juggle, school, her guardian’s potential career revival, as well as having to volunteer with cop Mug and Detective Bernie. I am still loving that the station has a police bunny, just cracks me up. As always Sparky keeps finding herself in all sorts of mischief and trouble as she sleuths her way through the murder investigation. There are definitely plenty of twists and turns, as well as humor, in this cozy noir historical mystery. Looking forward to seeing more Sparky mysteries!

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third novel in this series and we’re back with Sparky, the plucky eleven year old amateur super-sleuth. I’ve enjoyed the previous books in the series and this historical cozy mystery, set during the 1930’s in Los Angeles, had me hooked once again. Sparky is determined to prove that his boss Bookie who is a crook is not a murderer. She wants to convince the police that he’s been framed for the murder at the ratty tourist trap, Monkey Island. Sparky also has to cope with going back to school and being forced to volunteer for the police. She will be working for top cop Mug and grumpy Detective Bernie, but it’s the police station’s bunny who gives Sparky an important clue.  Meanwhile, back at Sparky’s home, the Creepy House and her guardian Tootsie and her assistant Gilbert are preparing for an audition, which could revive Tootsie’s career as a silent movie star. The quirky characters and fascinating settings came vividly to life due to the description narrative. Whilst the historical details transported me back to the Prohibition era. Once again, Sparky is a likeable and relatable character, who I felt engaged with throughout the intriguing story. I love the humour along with the mystery element of the storyline and I was gripped throughout.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Jennifer Crain

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed “The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery” by Rosalind Barden P. This lighthearted, humorous mystery is perfect for fans of 1930s-set mysteries with a touch of whimsy.

The story is full of colorful characters, including Sparky’s guardian, Tootsie, a former silent movie star; her assistant Gilbert, a.k.a. the goblin; and various eccentric suspects and allies. Then there is “Sparky” herself, as she says, her crook name because Ambrosia Brown doesn’t suit her (her real name). The characters are well-written and memorable, making it easy to become invested in their stories.

The mystery itself is engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers guessing. The author does a great job of weaving together clues and plot threads, keeping me curious until the very end.

One of the standout aspects of this book is its unique setting. The 1930s Los Angeles setting adds a fascinating layer of historical context to the story, and the inclusion of Prohibition-era gangsters and flappers adds to the atmosphere.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Kerry Baker

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is another great adventure of Sparky. It is always nice to get to see more of this character. She is feisty and always interesting to read about. Her latest adventure is just as intriguing as the others. She has to find a way to prove Bookie was framed for murder. But with so much going on around this, it definitely turns out to be a tough challenge.
This is a well written mystery story with a fun and quirky character at its centre. The book (and the series) is truly enjoyable to read and I look forward to each new book that I start. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to read the next one in the series.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have so enjoyed this series. Part of my enjoyment comes from it being set in the 1920’s. It was such a different time back then. The speech, the people, all of it was so unique to us in this current time period. Not to sound like a cliche but Sparky is one of the most spunky characters I’ve met in a book this year. For a young one, she’s got the fear but she’ll protect her people and usually finds herself in trouble. This book is a wonderful mystery. So many little twists and turns make it a fun read. I like books like that. I’m bored if I can figure out the killer in the first little bit. The story is so well done. The detail and the characters really make you feel the history as you’re reading. It’s an enjoyable read. I’d recommend for lovers of historical mysteries.

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