A Clue in the Crumbs (A Key West Food Critic Mystery #13) , by Lucy Burdette

Publication August 8, 2023

As always, murder aside, the characters are what draw me back to this series again and again. The pacing and dialogue flow naturally and the use of humor adds to the fun, with just enough backstory woven in to make us feel like we know the characters. In many ways, you could probably call Key West a character, too, as Burdette does such a wonderful job sharing it's sights and sounds, the heartbeat of Key West, so to speak. What a delight to have the Scottish Scone Sisters, Violet and Bettina Booth, come to visit. I think I'm jealous they got to stay on a houseboat at the pier where Hayley lives. Ah, houseboat living, so Key West.

Too bad playing tourist and their cooking show production are ruined by murder. Even worse, one of their knives was used. Red herrings galore, not to mention suspects, and if you're like me, you'll find yourself changing your mind whodunit frequently, I bet. Through it all, you'll admire the sisters' energy -- I got tired reading about all they did while visiting -- and ability to find positives. I do hope Burdette finds a way to bring them back occasionally. They are fun and the sort of fun aunts we'd all love to hang out with. 

I won't detail the plot other than to say that Hayley's husband, Nathan, already hoping for a promotion, has his hands full at the police station. I did like the little bits of logic/reasoning that Hayley shares about why, for instance, the police dislike having untrained investigators ask questions of witnesses. She's obviously learned a thing or two from Nathan. She strives hard to be the perfect hostess while still working her day job at the paper and fretting about being fair to all involved in her reviews. She also worries about her friends and family, even showing sensitivity to the "aura", so to speak, of the local Tarot card reader who appeared down spirited. In other words, she pays attention to others, always a good trait. I mean, she even feels guilty for not badgering Miss Gloria to call her sons more often. Family. Hayley's family may not all be blood-related but they are family nevertheless.

In any case, the finale is a wowzer and one I didn't see coming. Give it a read. You'll enjoy not just the rhythm and beat of Key West -- tiki boat ride, anyone? -- but the intriguing characters that people Hayley's world. And, oh, yes. Make sure you aren't hungry when you sit down to read because, oh, my, the food talk will make you so even if you eat. Toss in some great recipes at the end and you are in foodie heaven. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for letting me enjoy this virtual trip to Key West. I'll add, too, kudos to author Burdette for her respect for the elderly and family ties, both blood and of the heart. That was special.

Fatal Fudge Swirl (Ice Cream Shop Mysteries #3), by Meri Allen

 

Publication June 27, 2023

What a diabolical murder weapon! Although it took me awhile to warm to ex-CIA librarian Riley Rhodes, I've grown to look forward to her next exploit. Here she's being her usual, helpful self when she stumbles over another dead body. Sadly, on the day Diantha was to be married, not to mention on her favorite holiday, Halloween. With Diantha's almost-husband, sons and family on site, not to mention a film crew shooting the latest in the popular romantic comedy series, there are several suspects.

It was interesting to watch Riley puzzle out clues from her own observations -- she'd been asked to stay at the inn that night to help out with household duties -- and clues found. I made a good guess early on as to the murder method but couldn't put it together on how it was done, let alone pin-point the murderer. The side stories, which included, no lie, George Washington, Rome, cancer, greed, towels, family  relationships, and troubled romance, fit into the whole nicely, some even adding a clue to whodunit. Riley's own romantic life seems, well, not troubled, but Liam was rather side-lined in this one. Guess that's a topic for another installment. Oh, and let's not forget Sprinkles the cat's charisma in front of the camera. Sprinkles is a calculating hoot.

The supporting cast is solid and it was interesting to get a look into their lives. Jack the detective's troubled mind made me think of the police families I know, to be honest. A relationship with someone who puts their life on the line every day can't be easy. The characters' interconnections are intriguing and hopefully we'll hear more about that later. 

Bottom line, an interesting mystery with an unusual murder weapon that will keep you turning pages. Thanks #NetGalley and StMartinsPress - #StMartinsPaperbacks for inviting me to stop by the Udderly Delicious Ice Cream Shop once again. I'm already curious to see what flavor Brandon comes up with next.

Barkcuterie: 25 Pawsome Snack Boards Your Dog Will Love, by Hammy, Olivia

 Publication April 18, 2023

Being familiar with the fun, cute videos of Hammy and Olivia, I was expecting, well, cute and fun. It's all that and more. Not only do we get colorful photos of Hammy and Olivia to illustrate whatever the creation is celebrating, but the book is well-set and an easy guide to follow. It's very well done, especially for two adorable corgis. <insert chuckle>

You say you don't have a board or cookie shape cutters shaped like a paw print or bone? No problem. As is noted, you can certainly use what's at hand but a list of online resources is available at the end. But, with a bit of artful arrangement, you can easily use even a plate to display your results. It's just cuter and, well, more doggie with the shapes. 

As for the recipes, they are simple and easy to follow. Hammy and Olivia introduce each, though their humans do manage to get a few words in here and there, including an introduction. Ingredients and tools are listed and the recipes themselves tend to be short, easy steps. No massive reading required. You also have full color photos of not just the dogs ready to celebrate but the boards themselves to use as a visual guideline. And, yes, for those owned by cats, there are some adorable cat themed boards, too.

The authors also provide a boxed list of safe, safe but should be used only sparingly, and things you should never feed your pets. It's all handy and on one page, easy to copy and keep handy for everyday occasions, not just celebratory ones. I liked that the authors added a caution that just because a food is listed here as safe, you need to be aware of pet allergies or bad reactions to foods and substitute as needed. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #QuartoPublishingGroup- #RockPoint for making this adorable and creative barkcuterie guide available. My Daisy dog's birthday is coming up soon, not to mention her Gotcha Day , so....hmm. Daisy gives this one four paws up and a tail wag  

Quarto Publishing Group – Rock Point

The Diva Delivers on a Promise (A Domestic Diva Mystery #16), by Krista Davis

Publication May 23,2023

Don't start this one on an empty stomach. Trust me, you will soon find yourself hungry. Lots of food and food talk, not to mention recipes at the end. I'd never heard the term ghost kitchen before, so that added an interesting aspect. And, no, Sophie isn't catering to ghosts. Ghost kitchens are delivery only. No physical restaurant to go in, sit down, and stuff one's face. Order blanks/menus are available. Fill one out and, tah-dah, your food is delivered to your door. Much like many food places offer delivery nowadays but without the requirement of maintaining a kitchen and dining area. Just the food. You'll be intrigued to find out where it comes from.

While I found the complicated family ties and murder within intriguing, I must admit that the plot seemed to move along slower than I've grown accustomed. I'm honestly not sure if that was deliberate, ie to reflect the perhaps slower pace of life in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, or it was simply slow to unfold. In any case, the usual cast of characters that surround Sophie, Nina, Wolf, and Wang were there, plus assorted others. And, oh, I can't forget Sophie's furry-friends, Daisy the dog and Mochie the cat. There's a lot happening in this book, lots of players aside from the main cast, and it took me a bit to sort it all out. I loved how well Sophie dealt with all, including helping young Penelope Stansfield. Sophie is down-to-earth and caring, that's for sure.

So, who killed Russ? Why in Gerrie's kitchen? Uh-oh, why are things not where they should be in the house? Why does Gerrie trust Colleen more than her own son? As she investigates, what secrets begin to emerge about Gerrie's family and business? Why was everyone convinced Sophie had been seriously injured? Will Sophie's personal/love life ever improve? And, whoa, what is Wong's connection to all this? Who stole....oh, enough teasers. Lots going on, that's for sure, including probably illegal attempted yard sales.

Bottom line, despite the slower pace, I found the mystery interesting and, as always, was drawn to the well fleshed-out characters. While I certainly pondered who killed Russ in Gerrie's house, the side stories and how they tend to come together at the end worked well for me. Thanks #NetGalley and#KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for letting me spend a bit more time in lovely, intriguing Old Town Alexandria.

Ashes to Ashes, Crust to Crust by Mindy Quigley

 

Publication April 25, 2023

Before I say anything else, I'm just going to proclaim that if there were a contest for best ex-boyfriend ever, Sam wins. Hands down. No contest.

Nope, not telling you why. You're just going to have to read the book. You won't be sorry. I am in love with this series, all the more impressive since this is only the second book. Author Mindy Quigley has done a superb job of investing each character with a unique, relatable personality, right down to Butterball the cat, while weaving it around a murder. True, main character Delilah O'Leary still has her control-freak side, right down to annoying friends with her quest for perfectionism and can't seem to help sticking her nose into the investigation. That somehow seems to work for her, however, as she's also remarkably smart, caring, and fiercely independent. I like her, even though I'm sure she'd get on my own more laid-back nerves at times.

The plot moves along quickly with lots of talk about food and amazing drink mixes in-between trying to figure out the clever murderer. The characters we met in the first book are emerging as interesting, unique people in their own right,too. There are some new characters, too, including most intriguingly, Jarka, a woman of many talents who takes a job working for Delilah. Let's just say,whether you're in desperate need of a doctor or tasty smoothie, she's your go-to person. I'm definitely looking forward to where her story and potential new romance will take her. The mystery is intriguing and kept me guessing but it's the characters that hooked me.

I've barely touched the surface of all that is going on in this delightful book. Did I mention the hunky detective who is related to Al Capone? Or Biz's ability to make sense of numbers that might appear a jumble to most of us? Or why Sonya is avoiding the public area of the restaurant? Or Butterball "the I-hate-diets" cat's secret? Or.... well, you get my drift. Great, diverse characters you'll like, recipes shared in the voices of the characters(Love Biz's for the tomato sandwich), and a touch of romance. I mean, come on, Delilah. He ever waits tables when he isn't investigating crimes.

Bottom line, this book is a winner. Read it. Go back and read the first book,  too, if you missed it. Thank you #NetGalley, #StMartinsPress, and author #MindyQuigley for letting me spend some time in Delilah's world. I think I may skip the Pretzel Crust Deep-Dish Bratwurst Pizza, though. Well, maybe not.

Give Fudge a Chance, by Nancy CoCo

 Publication May 23, 2023

Mackinac Island has a system of tunnels? Dang, I didn't know that. Thus, Nancy Coco has been successful in checking off one of the things that makes me most enjoy a book, it teaches me something I didn't know. Mackinac Island itself sounds like a bit of a magical, unique place. Based on what I've read, both here and in a quick search, yes, the chief mode of transportation there is bicycle, foot, or via carriage. As a horse crazy kid, I'm thinking I'd love to visit.

But, oh, yeah, the mystery. Addie McMurphy and her pregnant best friend Jenn almost literally stumble across a dead body in the fair's haunted house. Soon after, Addie's delight at winning the best fudge competition is ruined even further by accusations of having cheated by the winner of the past twenty years, Christine, and when a body hurls off the top of her building. Here was where I learned something else. Are you familiar with parkour? I wasn't and have to admit that hurling myself across high spaces (just a part of it) from one high place to the next holds no appeal. But, it's a real thing.

In any case, who killed Mike, the dead man in the haunted house? Is there any connection to the death of the parkour fanatic? Why are there signs sprouting up all over town taking sides for or against Addie or Christine? Will the Book Club ladies get involved in the investigation? If you're a past reader of the series, you definitely know the answer to that one. Addie's boyfriend, Rex, town police chief, warns her away from investigating but, well, one has a hunch he knows he's wasting his breath. Addie just can't help asking questions. Will Addie manage to get her trusty dog's daily walks in? She does seem busy. Why is handsome Harry being so helpful to Addie, even talking her into....well, never mind. You'll have to read the book to find out what Harry was able to talk Addie into doing. How will all this set with Rex?

Who is....oh, enough teasers. You'll thoroughly enjoy this book, not to mention the delicious sounding recipes interspersed throughout. I liked the fact that Addie had to show up to work, too, not always true in cozies. The characters are likable, seem like people you might know, and, oh, did I mention Addie is being tailed by some popular pod casters? Bottom line, lots going on to keep you entertained and enjoying your visit to Mackinac Island. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks- #KensingtonCozies for inviting me to spend some time with Addie and the rest on Mackinac Island. I'm thinking a carriage ride is more my speed than tunnel exploration or parkour, however.

Against the Currant: A Spice Isle Bakery Mystery, by Olivia Matthews

 Publication Jan. 24, 2022

This is a promising debut for this culinary mystery but is also about family and finding the strength within you. Lyndsay Murray is neither tough nor daring.... until it comes to defending her family. She grew up a quiet, rather fearful child, one whose lack of confidence made her a target for bullies. As a result, she'd retreated to the warmth of her family circle. Now, as an adult, a quite well-educated one at that, her dream of opening a West Indian Bakery in Little Caribbean, Brooklyn, are about to come true. Her family is with her, investing much of not just their savings into Spice Isle Bakery but their time and energy into the project that will showcase their Grenadian roots and bring people together. 

So, why is Claudio Fabrizi, a baker, yes, but with very little overlap of product, so determined to shut her down? His bakery is even a few blocks away, so no direct competition. When he confronts Lyndsay/Lynds at their opening, however, he does not find her as easy as perhaps he'd expected to intimidate. While Lynds has difficulty standing up for herself as an individual, when her family and their livelihood is threatened, some of the confidence she surely gained from years of kickboxing lessons shines through. Claudio's son Enzo even stands by helplessly as Claudio blusters and threatens to shut her down, making her courage all the more impressive in front of their opening day crowd. Her mother reminds her afterward that nothing good ever comes from taunting another, however.

Unfortunately, she is proven right. While the worst thing Lynds thought had happened had been the disappearance of her beloved charm bracelet, when Claudio is found murdered, Lyndsay finds herself suspect number one. I won't detail the plot much further except to say that the thing that impressed me throughout was the strength of family and how Lyndsay stepped up to help defend herself and her family. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.

Thanks #NetGalley and#StMartin'sPress for inviting me over to check out Lyndsay's bakery. After a day of snow here in Alaska, I think some Caribbean sunshine was just what I needed. Enjoyed meeting the family, neighbors, customers, and, well, even the police. I'll be back.

Murder Served Neat (A Cocktails and Catering Mystery #2), by Michelle Hillen Klump

 Publication Feb. 21, 2023

Samantha Warren left her job as a journalist to start a career as a mixologist. While that may seem like a downward step, as it turns out she's excellent at the job. Sam and her business partner/friend, Beth, who does most of the cooking, leaving the unique drink concoctions to Sam, are building an impressive client catering and customer list. Romance is even in the air. I know which guy I'm rooting for but, dang it, liked them both. Anyway, in other words, Sam's busy and has definitely gained self-confidence and direction since I first met her in book one. 

So, how is it Sam keeps getting caught up in murder investigations? In this case, the question is, "Who killed Angela Clawson?" She was a society mover-and-shaker and involved in a community project that had both strong support and detractors. Although the police immediately zero in on a suspect, one who turns out to be her visiting mother's long-time friend Patty, it turns out the suspect list is lengthy. Patty wasn't the only one who had a heated argument with Angela.  Could it be a family member? Did fancy money handling have anything to do with the murder? Who was that snickering at the funeral? Oh, so many possibilities.

Sam is reluctant to become involved. She recalls her brush with death last time she encountered a killer. It's only when she realizes she can't turn her back on her mother, Lillian, and her concern for Patty that Sam reluctantly begins to research and ask questions. Will that lead her into danger? Oh, come on. This is a cozy mystery. Of course it will. 

In the process, there's lots and lots of food talk and, hmm, I think I even learned a thing or two about mixing drinks. There are even some delicious, intriguing recipes at the end, including one for Samantha's Sparkling Cocktail, so not just food recipes! Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for letting me drop in on Sam and friends again. Can't wait to come back!

Four Leaf Cleaver, by Maddie Day

 

Publication Jan. 31, 2023       Country Store Mystery #11 

A relatively quick, easy read that will both entertain you and leave you hungry. Never fear, there are some absolutely delicious sounding recipes at the end. Lots of food talk in the book, too, of course. You'll also get a peek at the personal lives of many involved, including Robbie and Abe.

The plot centers about Robbie's country store and restaurant, Pans 'N Pancakes, being selected to host a holiday cooking competition. In this case, the holiday is St. Patrick's Day. Gee, I'm betting you guessed that from the title and cover. <smile> In any case, even Robbie's husband, Abe, gets into the spirit and is one of the contestants. Unfortunately, Tara O'Hara, the show's hostess, is found dead the morning the show is to be filmed. As it turns out, there are ample suspects and clues and red herrings to keep Robbie's curiosity on full alert, not to mention that when, surprisingly, the show's powers that be decide the show will go on, Robbie is drafted to do the hostess duties. To be honest, although I'm not really familiar with cooking shows, that did strike me as a tad unrealistic. She not only is inexperienced, busy and distracted, but there are others handy who believe they should have gotten the nod. 

That's all I'm going to say about the plot, sorry, so you're going to have to read the book to find out not just how Robbie handles her impromptu hostessing duties but another dead body in her store. As a long time reader of this series, I just knew her curiosity and unending questions would get her in trouble and, of course.... oh, wait. I said I wasn't sharing any more of the plot.  Yep, you need to read this one. It's a fun series. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me over to watch the filming and hang out with Robbie. I was a bit startled at one of the places we went, however, but it was fun.

Death at Beresford Hall (Adam and Eve Mystery #4), by Emma Davies

 

 

Publication Dec. 6/7, 2022

This series keeps getting better and better. It was a delight to see young Adam, who once hid in a closet to avoid meeting people, take a major role in this installment. Fran, aka the Eve of the title, Francesca Eve, is roped into participating in a cooking show, giving her less time to devote to the issue at hand. Although it started with Fran and Adam responding to Detective Nell's request that they do some investigating of the delivery of disturbing gifts to the show's hostess, it evolves into a murder investigation when Miranda Appleby, face of the cooking show, is killed. Who killed Miranda? Why? And, why is the least likely killer the only suspect without an alibi? Who had the time, motive, and opportunity to kill Miranda?

Adam frequently finds himself on his own. True, he spends a quality amount of that time in the kitchen scarfing down whatever Beresford Hall's friendly, chatty cook puts in front of him, but that doesn't mean his mind isn't in overdrive. His ability to think outside the box, matched with Fran's observational skills, face a real challenge. Toss in the Fran is discovering that the raised adrenaline rush of cooking in front of cameras during a set time span and, well, she isn't quite as able to focus as usual. Far from being the benign, fun cooking show expected, they're suddenly faced with an array of suspects, some with secrets they'd just as rather remain hidden. The show has a few secrets it'd prefer remain unknown, too. 

Nope, not revealing any more of the plot. I will note that we get to see more of the human side of Nell, taxed with solving the case quickly, as well as how much she genuinely feels for those she seems to scare senseless when interrogating them. We also get an interesting look at the unreality of reality show such as this cooking competition. Let's just say, what viewers see isn't always exactly what happened, when. Bottom line, I was impressed by Fran's composure under pressure and Adam's growth from the beginning of the series until now. I mean, he's helped ascertain whether that dead body is really dead, a first for him, and is relying more on observation than his usual gadgets although, okay, there is that one time....no, nope, not telling. You're going to have to read the book. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #Bookouture for inviting me back to Adam and Fran/Eve's world again. I'm looking forward revisiting soon.

Grilled 4 Murder, by JC Eaton

 

Publication Nov. 8, 2022

JC Eaton, the pen name for the husband-wife writing team of James E. Clapp and Ann Goldfarb, wins the award for sending me on one of my weirder internet searches, ie "What does moose urine smell like?" I mean, I live in Alaska and moose stroll in and out of my yard on a regular basis -- three youngsters yesterday, in fact -- but while I'm familiar with their moose nugget droppings, I've never once pondered what their urine smelled like. Well, live and learn. It's sold in concentrate to hunters and other wildlife seekers who want to attract moose. Now, true, I wasn't curious enough to go buy some but from all I could find, yep, in concentrated form, especially in a closed area, it's pretty,, uh, strong. Let's just say that I now know more about moose urine than I need to know and move on to the review. <grin>

The plot evolves around the murder of planning committee chair Cosmo. He was pushing for a waste transfer station to be built near Sun City West. That just happens to be where Sophie/Phee's mother lives. This is where the book gets to be part hilarious and part serious investigation. I like the way Phee's new husband Marshall supports her need to not just know while dropping little bits of info on how to better investigate and focus, but keep her mother and "never met a rumor they couldn't spread and make worse" friends off her back. Let's just say, living in a retirement village with this bunch, especially the members of the mystery book club, would be part constant headache, part frustration, and always entertaining. 

And, I can't go any further without mentioning another source of constant amusement and frustration, Streetman, the little chiweenie who is infamous for bad behavior and, uh, umm, "hot to trot" activity at the dog park. This go-round, he adopts a stray kitten that Phee's mother calls Essie. You know, Essie, for S.C., for Streetman's Cat. Somehow it all makes sense, even when the two begin appearing in matching outfits and Streetman pounces on a woman at the planning committee meeting for daring to screech at Essie, never mind neither of them should have been there anyway. 

Bottom line, I love this series and this book. I won't detail the plot any further as, quite frankly, the fun is in seeing not just whodunit but how many wild plans and rumors and insane antics the Sun City West bunch can get up to while Phee tries to do some investigating while still going about her normal day-to-day activities. And, oh, there's a cooking contest. How could I almost forget about it as it is a point of agitation and rumor and even devious competition. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and #BeyondThePagePublishing for allowing me to drop in on Phee and friends again. I laughed out loud throughout.

Bread Over Troubled Water, by Winnie Archer

 

Publication Nov. 29, 2022

Wow, the first chapter wore me out. So much activity. So many people coming and going. So much drama. Maybe it's just me not being familiar with the series but I had a hard time not just sorting out who was who but how they were all connected. Once I sorted it all out it was fine but that did initially slow me down. The whole scene with Mae and her mother was, well, weird. As the book progressed, I came to understand Mae's concerns but had no clue when the story began.

That said, it was an interesting story. Josh, a seemingly well liked customer of Olaya's bread shop is murdered. Early info that he was poisoned leads many to turn on her. As the one who found the body (or her dog Agatha did), Ivy is even accused, in front of news cameras, no less. As more info about  Josh is discovered, however, attention moves elsewhere. Josh not only wasn't universally liked, he wasn't trusted by some. Why? What about that bunch of women who seemed to be following him at one point? Why? How will Olaya handle the pressure of the investigation while taking on the caretaker role for Pilar, her orphaned niece? Who was that man who followed Josh out of the bread shop the morning he was killed? Why are there poisonous plants growing openly in town? 

And, that's just the tip of the twists and turns that Ivy encounters. Some are real clues, some are red herrings, and some are, well, just confusing her. She needs to get this solved, however, as she has a wedding engagement party to plan. As a photography buff myself, I chuckled at Ivy's plan to take pictures of everything at the park where it'd be held. Visuals are important. As is a last minute light-bulb going off in one's head rather than on the camera.

Bottom line, despite my initial confusion over the number of characters and, to me, odd events going on in the bread shop, the mystery itself was a good one and, nope, didn't figure it out. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me over to try Olaya's delectable breads, not to mention the recipes!

Six Feet Deep Dish, by Mindy Quigley

 

Publication August 25, 2022

What a delight! I not only found a new-to-me author to follow but the joy of reading this fast-paced, fun cozy mystery. Delilah O'Leary is focused so much on opening her new gourmet pizzeria that the worst of her control freak side has ruined a relationship, then she discovers a dead body outside at the pizzeria's soft opening. It's her elderly Aunt Biz's caretaker, Jeremy. The murder weapon is found in her aunt's possession. Enter Geneva Bay's police detective Capone, great grandson of the legendary Al Capone. Fur is going to fly and it isn't all going to come from Butterball, Deliliah's plus-sized cat.

I found myself immediately sucked into the story. Not only is Delilah's personality one you can't ignore but her pizzeria staff is made up of equally unique characters. All have back stories and needs and depend on Delilah to one extent or the other. Oh, the pressure of being the boss. They have her back, fortunately, and the dialogue, quips, and zingers seem to flow naturally, making them someone we'd like to know. Despite having just seen Sam, her boyfriend exit, she finds herself drawn to Capone. His backstory trickles out as the book continues and you will find yourself liking him, too, I'm sure. Delilah sure did but, well, will that be enough? Maybe. Life is never perfect, alas. 

Who killed Jeremy? As it turns out, there are many legitimate suspects. Since Delilah was storming out of the pizzeria determined to fire Carson when she found the body and he was nowhere to be found, he's an obvious suspect. Biz? After all, the gun was hers. Who steals Aunt Biz's medications? Why does she wind up in the hospital? Did Sam's jaunt cleanse his heart chakra and help him reconnect with himself? Why does Veronica call Jeremy a viper? What surprise is found in Biz's shed? And, oh, so much more. The twist at the end was a stunner. Put this one on your "TBR" list and enjoy the recipes at the end, too. They were made extra special by being given in the "voices" of various characters, adding to the fun. Let's just say, I rarely do more than scan recipes. These I read with a grin.

Thanks #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for inviting me to Geneva Bay, Wisconsin, for Delilah's grand opening. It was fun and I will definitely be back.

Deceptive Designs (Cozy Corgi Mysteries Book 25), by Mildred Abbott

 

I've never made it a secret that I love this series. That said, I've grown tired of the Irons crime family connection popping up and had hoped that was behind us. Nope, they're back. Hopefully Abbott will allow them to fade away again so the focus remains on (Wini)Fred,and Watson, not to mention all the other interesting characters that have shown up over the series.

Don't get me wrong. There's absolutely nothing wrong with this book other than my own tendency to roll my eyes when the Irons topic pops up again. That also tends to mean, btw, a return appearance from.....oh, never mind. Long time readers know and we'll leave it a surprise for new readers. 

One hint, however, don't do the same thing I did, read the first three chapters, go, whoa, and put the book aside for awhile. Seriously, read at least four chapters so you don't spend time wondering what Abbott was thinking. As it turns out, phew, I was wrong and Abbott only did what any good author does, got my attention. 

It goes without saying, but there are plenty of scenes involving the ever growing dog population amidst our main characters. Phineas makes me smile jut thinking of the puppy energy and antics while, well, Watson makes me smile at his grumpy acceptance of pup antics and living for a t-r-e-a-t. Why am I typing it that way? Because that's one word you don't say unless you want to see one of Watson's moods. <insert grin>

So, all in all, despite my fatigue with the Irons thread, "Deceptive Designs" was a solid, enjoyable read. The title will make sense as you read and all our favorites are there, from Leo and Katie to the extended family and friends (and their dogs). The book will take you from Fred's sense that all was right in her world, not to mention that Katie's wedding is being planned, to a sudden darkening of mood. There are also signs that some of the characters are growing and evolving, always a plus in a long running series. 

If you enjoy dogs, family and friends who are family, not to mention a good mystery, give this one a read. Bet it'll leave you wanting to pet a puppy, well, right after you congratulate Fred for solving another crime.

A Dark and Snowy Night (Seaside Knitters Society Mystery #16), by Sally Goldenbaum

 

Publication Sept. 27, 2022

This one is as much about family and friends and the ties that bind them together, as solving a murder. Although it took me awhile to get into the story, that was what kept me reading. I found myself liking the characters, even when I had to keep flipping back to confirm who they were and how they were connected. I'm honestly not sure if that is because I am new to this series, quite frankly the author did an excellent job filling in the background, but the changing points of view confused me somewhat initially. After getting to know them, however, the final reveal was both satisfying and sad. 

Although, as noted, this was my first visit to the Seaside Knitters Society, the memories and ties that bound the friends together are strong. They genuinely care about each other and their extended families. They are delighted to reconnect with Oliver/Ollie and his celebrity chef wife, Lidia. Thus, even though they barely knew her, Lidia's murder is upsetting and unbalances their world. Toss in a peeping Tom next door to Cass' home and the sudden disappearance of her Mary Poppins like nanny, Molly, along with her beloved senior rescue dog, and Cass is even more off-balance. Then, just as suddenly, Old Dog is back and Molly reappears the morning after the murder. 

Is there some connection there? Molly's friend Shannon, who worked the party that Lidia was there to prepare the food for, had nothing good to say about one of the kitchen workers. Why has Oliver been so vague when it comes to sharing not just Lidia's background but what she was really like? Secrets? Could Lidia's plan to buy a popular restaurant and then tear it down to replace it with her own design be connected? How does this all connect to Lidia's murder, or does it? Will the murder be solved in time for everyone to enjoy Christmas? Who....oh, never mind. No more teases. Read the book. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me over to check out the Seaside Knitters Society. Even if it took me awhile to warm up to them, I liked them and will be back.

Donut Disturb (A Bakeshop Mystery #15), by Ellie Alexander

 

 I love this series! Great setting, Ashland, Oregon, something of a Shakespearean mecca, great characters who are fleshed out with back stories of their own, and lots and lots of food talk with Shakespearean quotes and references popping up frequently, and it all makes for a fun, intriguing read. Main character Juliet Montague Capshaw is smart, energetic, and cares about her friends, family, and her town, Juliet and husband Carlos operate not just popular bakery Torte but Uva, a winery. The tale of how both Carlos and Juliet came to be where they are has been fascinating but they're seemingly in a happy place as this book opens, staying very busy and, hmm, thinking of future plans. Juliet is likable and seems to be respected and trusted in her community and it's hard not to wish that the extended cast of family and friends is your own. This is #15 in the series but this can be read easily as a standalone although I encourage you to read the series because it's plain ol' good.

Juliet's also a darn good amateur sleuth. In this installment of the long running series she finds herself investigating a murder that takes place not long before good friends Kerry and Thomas are about to walk down the aisle and be married. Even worse than the timing, Kerry's father, who has shown up unexpectedly, is the main suspect. While his background is, well, shady at best, could he have gone to the great effort of being there despite obstacles only to turn right around and ruin his daughter's big day? What connection does he, not to mention some others, have to the victim, Brett? I mean, could the 80 year-old have committed this murder? Or maybe one of the other members of the jazz band the victim was bassist with? Dani does seem particularly driven. Could seemingly always cranky business neighbor Richard have done it? Why won't Nat take his information to the police himself? Why does he want Juliet to be involved? Who.....nope, not telling any more. You're just going to have to read the book. I do have one suggestion, however. Make sure you eat before you start reading. All that talk of food prep and fine wines makes you almost able to sense the smells and tastes. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for the invite to Kerry and Thomas' wedding. Glad I hung around after to taste test and see how Juliet's sleuthing was going. I'm looking forward to the next adventure which sounds like it may be a bit of a trip.

Murder at the Blueberry Festival (Beacon Bakeshop #3), by Darci Hannah

Brilliant. "Murder at the Blueberry Festival" elevates the cozy mystery genre to a new level. 

I went into this book expecting a light, fun read. It was that, true, but so much more. Kudos to author Darci Hannah for her deft, sensitive handling of a serious issue that has touched many families, including my own. That she managed to do so while doling out not just funny, clever dialogue but making me hungry with all the talk of delicious blueberry dishes and recipes is all the more impressive. 

Quite frankly, for the longest time, I expected my opening review line to be "a goat afloat on a boat, with a body". On the surface, that oft' repeated line rather nicely summed up the plot. True, it leaves out a few bewildering points, like  said body on said boat was dressed as a Viking. The boat resembled a Viking ship. Beside the body were several items, including a sword and charred arrow? Charred? And, let's not forget the hay, slightly charred but being munched on by the goat. This entire sight is discovered by main character Lindsey, who lives in a, no lie, haunted lighthouse, and boyfriend Rory, an ex-SEAL. 

All this after a series of pranks had disrupted the annual blueberry festival, not to mention the small-town parade held in its honor. The author does an excellent job of drawing you into the atmosphere. You feel the excitement in the air as children dart about, laughing and grabbing for the candy thrown from the floats. You sense the flavor of the various goodies being sold and consumed as spectators waved and applauded passing floats while chowing down. You see in your mind's eye the young musicians in the parade trying to march in step while struggling to play music. And, hey, is that choir on the float in tune? Doesn't matter. It's all in fun. 

Until it isn't. Suddenly water balloon rain down on parade participants and spectators alike. The next day a herd of rustled goats stampedes through a fashion show made up of local models showcasing designs by Lindsey's ex-model mother, who utilized pets in costumes, too. Let's just say, Lindsey's big boy Wellie must have thought he was a herding dog, one with a raucous assist from the rest. Then there were the, yuck, mice in a pie at the pie baking contest. All these are disruptive but deemed harmless....until the goat in a boat with a body turns up. 

Who killed Lars and set him afloat in a boat with a goat? Why? Lars was a member of Rory's unofficial veteran group and his death hits Rory hard. This is the third in the Beacon Bakeshop series and Lindsey and her family and friends come together to help solve the mystery. That is when things go from predictable to bewildering. I won't detail the plot more than I have since I'd like to let your approach it as blindly as I did other than to say you'll probably find yourself liking everyone involved, including the suspects and even the guilty party. They are revealed as real people, people we would enjoy knowing, with depth and quirks of their own. I mean, who else but Kennedy would outfit the goat from the boat as a unicorn? Girlie-girl or not, Kennedy, as well as the rest, have Lindsey's back and genuinely care about each other. Friendship is important. Your heart will ache for Lars' family and closest friends as the ending is revealed. There's nothing simply about this cozy mystery otherwise full of witty dialogue and set in a gorgeous place. 

Thank you #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for allowing me to attend this blueberry festival with Lindsey and the rest. Kudos to the author for her deft hand with the unexpected ending.

Murder Spills the Tea (Tea by the Sea Mystery #3), by Vicki Delany

Having reluctantly agreed to appear on a reality baking show, the show's production crew keep reminding Lily Roberts that a reality show has nothing to do with reality. Unfortunately, the dead body she discovers is very real. So, too, is the arrest of one of her staff for the murder. Lily, her grandmother Rose, and best friend Bernie must work together to find the real killer of Tommy Greene. Unfortunately, they too well know the detective in charge is one of those who tends to focus on the first suspect to come to light, meaning they need to help ensure that the truth prevails.

Lily and her friends and associates are likeable and the setting itself is a essentially a character in the book. Set in Cape Cod, you find yourself virtually traveling from the delightfully soothing beauty of the tearoom itself, with its quaint British aura and its garden, with it's tinkling teacups and drifting aromas from the flowers so lovingly tended by Simon, to the shoreline's crashing waves, rapidly rising tide, and slippery rocks. And, hey, there's a dog, too, not to mention a cat. Toss in hints of a growing romance, a budding author, and old world eloquence and it's all the more startling that a murder took place.

So, who did it? I'm obviously not telling. Could it have been the mayor's obnoxious husband? How about the mayor herself? Did one of the other judges kill Tommy for reasons not even connected to the show? Who is related to who? Does all the food talk make you hungry? Or, maybe thirsty for a cup of properly prepared tea? How far would you go to protect a member of your family? Does Lily really, really want to go where the evidence leads? Who was the mystery woman in the garden? Did Lily lock that door or not? And, what's going on with Simon? You'll have to read the book for answers to these questions and more. It's fast paced and will keep you turning the pages.

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me to Tea By the Sea to spend a bit more time getting to know Lily and friends. I'd like a table in the garden, please.

Casserole Casualty (Twister Sisters Mysteries Book 2), by Mildred Abbott

 

I just came off reading a much faster paced book, so it did take me awhile to sort out the characters and settle into the slower pace of this one. I love the use of illustrations at the beginning of each chapter. They reveal who will be the focus of that particular chapter. The Twister Sisters, sisters Cordelia and Pamela and friend Wanda, run a catering service that also delivers to the elderly and shut ins, utilizing their uniquely decorated "Hippie Wagons". Each of those is unique to the characters, too, with Cordelia's flowers, Pamela's hearts, and Wanda's stars. Unfortunately, one of their customers is found dead and it is later proven to be murder. Cordelia seems to be the one most driven to find out "whodunit", which causes even more problems than usual with some of the residents that she has had perpetual trouble with for decades. Think small town America, long time residents, long time grudges and feuds. I won't detail the plot further as it is readily available.

Despite it taking me awhile to settle into the rhythm of the story, I enjoyed my visit with the Twister Sister and those about them. Well, most of them. I'd be giving Lester a wide berth, I'm afraid. I liked that they are older, too, although the overall cast of characters seems to offer a diverse range of age, color, and attitudes. Race is addressed in the story, btw. Being set in a small town, many of the characters are related, either by blood or marriage, something I found a trifle hard to keep straight, lovely illustrations or not. This is only the second of a series, of course, so I expect all that to be better sorted as the series goes along. For those coming from the Cozy Corgi series, there is not only a dog here, Ursa, but a fun goat named Breakfast that provides humor. There is also a nod to Katie of Corgi Cozy when a shared recipe is mentioned. Two very different books but nice to see them tied together occasionally.

Bottom line, an enjoyable ride. For me it isn't quite great yet, which may be on me as much as on the book, but it was still fun to follow along as the truth is discovered bit by bit, clue by clue. Romance seems to be blooming, too. And, oh, did I mention there are a couple recipes at the end? A fun read which shows promise as the series continues.

No Parm No Foul (Grilled Cheese Mysteries #2), by Linda Reilly

Would it surprise anyone if I tell you that I simply had to have a grilled cheese sandwich while reading this one? Didn't think so. Any excuse for a grilled cheese for us grilled cheese fans works. In any case, between bites, I found the story intriguing if a bit bemusing at times. The red herrings seemed to come at us fast and furiously, pointing main character Carly and the rest to different suspects at different times. And, who knew a Halloween costume choice might make place you directly on the police's radar for murder? Or that a local, seemingly frivolous competition between businesses for the right to call themselves the best eats could be so cut-throat? Fakes ballots? Confrontations? Anger? All for a plaque and prize that most felt they'd donate on to charity? Yep, that's right.

The morning after the festive gathering and competition, one of the competitors, the winner of the past three years, is found murdered. What does a partial footprint have to do with anything? When did Ari last see his boots and the generic Dracula cape? Could the figurine clutched in the victim's hand be a clue? Why didn't Carly report the vandalism to her vehicle? Should Carly be worried that the dead man's daughter wants to work for her temporarily? Why is the school board's efforts to cut its budget important? Who'd harm sweet Evelyn? Why are the police watching Carly's home? Why.... oh, so many questions. Nope, not telling. You'll have to read the book for the answers to these and more, not to mention to find out what's in the future for talented musician/chef-wannabe Grant.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #PoisonedPenPress for inviting me over for a grilled cheese. It was fun to hang out with Carly and fun dog Havarti for awhile. Looking forward to more of their adventures.