Vows and Villainy: The Cambridge Bookshop Series, by Elizabeth Penney

 

Publication Nov. 25, 2025

I chuckled to myself at the sheer serendipity of starting this book that features the Ophelia amidst the lilies image just as mega-star Taylor Swift released her song using the symbol. I'm not quite sure Swift will create a huge number of new Shakespeare readers but it was fun to see. Even better, it works well as a standalone. In any case, our main character Molly Kimball is busy helping best friend Daisy plan her wedding at Hazelhurst House manor, the ancestral home of Molly's boyfriend Kieran. Daisy wants to utilize a Shakespeare theme and Molly is having great fun pulling things together, including a troupe of players who'll perform a Shakespeare work, until, well, no surprise for series' readers, there's a murder. Molly discovers one of the theatre (we're in Cambridge, England) troupe dead in the moat. Yes, there's a moat. Kieran's older brother Alan jumps in to try to save Sir Nigel but, alas, he's long gone. Then, to add to the drama, one of the players accuses Alan of being the murderer. Yep, things are going to get complicated real fast. Will Daisy's dream wedding happen? Or, gulp, will there be other murders?

This has quickly become a "must read" series for me. It's strongly character driven and it's been fun to see the growth and changes of the regular cast over the length of the series.  Toss in not one but two weddings in the work (oops, forgot to mention that Molly's aunt is about to be married, too, to a long time romantic interest? Grin), a bookshop to run, friends and family to give her time to, and suspicious accidents, Molly is one busy lady. Honestly, I think I enjoyed watching the very human aspects of Molly's life evolve around her more than I did trying to figure out whodunit. I like the usual cast and they feel a bit like family, albeit with mostly British accents, I'm sure. Let's face it, just imagining the life Kieran had growing up in this manor, moat, maze, and all, and getting to know his mother, not to mention Molly's family better, was a delight. Toss in the imagined Shakespeare sonnets and play snippets and it was a bit like Molly wasn't the only one getting to visit the Globe Theatre in London. 

Bottom line, I won't rehash the plot, it's an intriguing one that you can enjoy while not visualizing the setting and stage actions. As is often the case, the past has a role to play, too, not to mention the Thomas Marlow bookshop Molly runs which has been around for over 400 years. Molly makes mention of her love of the smells of the bookshop, including old paper, leather, wood, and glue, giving you a bit of a virtual sensory experience. And, hey, we get to spend some time finding our way through a maze. Good thing Kieran grew up knowing the way, including the shortcut Alan and he had devised. And, of course, you'll spend time trying to figure out whodunit before Molly, I'm sure. Alan? Surely not. One of the players? Someone from Sir Nigel's not always sparkling clean past? Or, well, maybe the geese shoved him into the moat? Nah, just kidding. You'll love the ending, I do know. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for, first, introducing me to these wonderful characters, and, two, giving me an early peek at how life in Cambridge is treating Molly and her mom after their move from America.  

Five Golden Wings: A Meg Langslow Mystery, by Donna Andrews, Bernadette Dunne (Narrator)

 

Publication Oct. 14, 2025      Audio version  9h 26m 25s

This is one of my favorite series. If you like your cozy mysteries with humor and well-developed characters, this one should be on your list. Meg Langslow is smart, super organized, maybe because of her little book that tells her what she's supposed to be doing at any given time, and never seems to lose her cool even when surrounded by a quirky group of family and friends that keep her busy. It's been fun to watch her develop and see her interact with not just husband Michael and their two sons, but the likes of her nephew Kevin, the computer hacker, er, geek, er, wiz, who seems to spend more time hidden away in his computer heavy area in the family home than out and about but is now working with the police. The same police who, when things get a bit crazy in the town of Caerphilly, seem to always depend on Meg to take care of things they can't find the time to deal with. In the process, she's turned into a superb solver of crimes, particularly murder. 

It's when she's faced with more mundane tasks, such as keeping her warring cousins who are getting married on the same day in the same place from open warfare. Actually, she's only partially successful at keeping the open warfare in check before the cousins strangle each other. What no one expected was to find the wedding photographer dead. I'm not going to share more of the plot other than to say Meg is front and center and that one wonders why the Caerphilly police haven't set up a working office space at the house, too. By now surely Kevin has a camera on everything although we do learn how sheer luck comes into play against the best of modern technology. Lots of suspects, even the almost-grooms, and you'll get a bit of an education on eagles, ie the "golden wings" of the title. Just keep Rob from singing, okay. 

Bottom line, this is a fun lead up to Christmas with a reminder of how hectic it can be, even without dueling weddings. You'll also perhaps learn a few things about what not to do if you're having a blog worthy wedding. Thanks #MacmillanAudio for allowing me this early listen. As always, narrator Bernadette Dunne does an excellent job bringing not just Meg but the entire community of Caerphilly to life in this offering. I'm already antsy for the next installment. 

Rolling Up Revenge, by Emmie Lyn

 Publication April 30, 2025

I came for the dogs and stayed with the series for the characters. You'll get to meet and know them early on as the initial chapters seem to be dealing with setting up the situation and introducing us to the cast of characters. In other words, even if new to the series, you'll quickly feel at home. In this case, the situation as we open is set in Misty Harbor's annual Blueberry Festival, hosted on property belong to Luke's family. He's being run rather ragged dealing with everything but shows his ability cope and deal with just about anything, even a murder. Who killed food truck owner Harvey and dumped his body in the fields? He's a nasty sort, a troublemaker, someone who has made Dani's employee Christy's life miserable for some time. Parked barely ten paces from Christy's tent at the festival where she planned to debut her vinegar focused creations, he'd just destroyed much of her inventory before stomping off and, ultimately, winding up dead. Needless to say, that make Christy a prime suspect. Dani isn't having that, though, and though distracted by her own booth and issues, promises to help investigate. After all, it was Dani and best friend Maggie the PI who found Harvey's body, well, with the help of their barking dogs. Trust me, that's not the last you'll hear of these dogs as the plot progresses though much of it is far more fun.

 I won't detail the plot, there are plenty of twists and turns.  AJ is caught up in the investigation as is his detective girlfriend, Maggie.  Her energy and focus is enough to wear me out just reading. Good thing she has her trusty Labrador, Sherlock Bones, at her side. Or, maybe not. Nope, not explaining that one. You'll just have to read to see what happens. Dani finds herself ping-ponging from one suspect to the next, discovering how very disliked Harvey was by so many. Even an ex-girlfriend has nothing good to say about him. It was interesting to see Dani's focus shift gears from one suspect to the other, never quite deleting them from the suspect list. In fact, seems like that list grew rather than shrank. Christy isn't helping, either, being secretive and nervous. Does she know who did it? Heck, did she do it? If not, why does she go missing at one point? Will Dani's trusty Jack Rusell Pip and his trusty nose sniff out any clues? I honestly think AJ needs to add him to the police force. He's that good. Protective, too, fortunately for Dani. And, who....oh, enough teasers. 

Bottom line, it's a fun, relatively quick read. You'll like the characters and want to scratch those doggies' ears before all is said and done. And, oh, stay tuned at the end for a fun gathering. Shh, it's a secret. You'll find out why, too. Thanks #BookSirens and author #EmmieLyn for allowing me an early peek at what's going on at the Little Dog Diner and around Misty Harbor. All that blueberry talk makes me want some!

Olive You to Death (A Tourist Trap Mystery, #16), by Lynn Cahoon

 Publication June 4, 2024

Let's see, missing bride, hidden treasure, and, oh, yeah, a dead body. I mean, it isn't like Jill doesn't have anything else to worry about, like her own upcoming wedding and finishing her MBA degree. And, oh, yeah, her aunt's pending retirement that will leave the Coffee, Books, and More shop solely in Jill's hands. Toss in a girl's weekend to celebrate the upcoming wedding and shop, not to mention have fun, and Jill's calendar is full. 

So, what happened to Mandy Jenson, the missing soon-to-be bride? Joel, her husband-to-be, is obviously a suspect but he's frantic and, quite frankly, driving Greg, Jill's future hubby and detective, crazy. How crazy? Crazy enough to pawn him off on Jill to keep him out of his hair. And, this is just the beginning of the story. Lots more happening, including miscommunications and loyalties being stretched, making the side-stories interesting, too. 

Bottom line, I like Jill and the supporting cast although Greg seemed to be a side-character throughout most of the story, go figure. I also like the fact that we see Jill reminded not to jump to conclusions, both about the murder and personal matters. A fun story with unique characters and intriguing side stories. Lots of romance and wedding talk in this installment, so be prepared to talk wedding sites, snafus, and more. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonPublishing - #LyricalPress for letting me catch up with Jill and Greg again. Looking forward to the wedding!

Torn Asunder (Maine Clambake Mystery, #12), by Barbara Ross

 

Publication April 23, 2024

Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened.

That phrase kept coming back to me as I read through "Torn Asunder" knowing it was perhaps the finale of a favorite series. I'd heard the rumors, of course, which probably made me delay reading to delay the inevitable, but I found a smile on my face as I finished Ross' last acknowledgements page. Yes, the rumors were true. No more Clambake books. That said, the good news for new readers is you have a wonderful reading experience ahead of you as you savor the twelve books of the series. This book was a satisfying conclusion. That said, I can't help hoping maybe Barbara Ross will do a Debbie Macomber on us and discover that as wonderful as being a full time grandmother is, there are more stories in her and we'll get the occasional glimpse into the lives she's left us knowing they'll live. Even if she doesn't, my thanks to her for allowing us to share time with her grandkids while serving up the series.

As for the final mystery, well, you just know Zoey's dream wedding isn't going to come off without a hitch. Who is that dead man on the floor at the wedding rehearsal dinner? Was he allergic to clams? If not, why is he dead? And, who the heck is he? Seems no one claims to know him. Julia finds that odd since she saw several guests talking to him throughout the evening and he even sat with the groom's family. Some of the conversations seemed rather heated, too, not the norm for casual conversation with a stranger. Julia's detective boyfriend Tom and even the groom-to-be, Jamie, also with the police, find themselves dealing with a dead body when a torrential lightning and wind storm hits. Even the Coast Guard can't prioritize a dead body over the needs of the living in the area. As a result, Tom and Jamie, then Pete and Sonny, spend the evening alternately guarding the body and questioning guests who remained on the island after some departed before they became aware it wasn't a regular death. 

With no internet or phone services, they're on their own. Julia joins in the questioning rounds as it becomes more and more apparent that perhaps the man wasn't as unknown to some as they said. He seemed to have connections to several, including Zoey, the bride-to-be. I won't detail that as it's best read in it's entirety but will admit to being far more sympathetic to the eventually revealed murderer than the victim. And that's just the main plot line. Lots of romance and family relationships explored, both romantic and not, as well as the work involved in keeping the on-going Snowden Family Clambake business healthy and profitable. Despite all the intrigue, lying, and mystery, however, the sense of a close-knit family and circle of friends will make the reader feel as if they're being embraced by that closeness as the tension rises. Finally, you'll smile at the ending but don't stop reading quite yet. Make sure you check out not only the recipe contributed by Barbara Ross' husband but the closing acknowledgements. My thanks to her for tying things up so neatly and hopefully for us readers. And, also thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for allowing me this last, charming visit with the extended Snowden Family. I'll miss my visits to Busman's Harbor, Maine.

Baffling Bachelorettes, by Mildred Abbott

I love this series. I've been reading it since it first appeared and though I'm sure I've missed the occasional installment, I'm always delighted to return to Estes Park for a visit with Fred/Winifred and Watson. I enjoyed that we get lots of grumpy corgi Watson this go-round. The regulars are there, too, of course, and Katie's upcoming wedding is the pseudo-focus of the book although, let's face it, there's always a murder mystery to solve that takes center stage. The last thing either Katie or Fred expected, however, was a murder during their outing to Denver for a bachelorette party. Fred, who seems to have the luck of stumbling over bodies frequently, walks in just in time to see a possible suspect standing over the murdered body. Seems simple, right? Nope. And finding out the details and whodunit is half the fun. The other half is getting to watch the beyond grumpy Watson pouting and shunning Fred, his unforgiving personality leading Fred to think he may never come out of his hidey hole in time to go home. And, that's just the tip of the iceberg. 

When I began to think of why this series has appealed to me so much, the first reason is, of course, rather obvious. I, too, own a corgi mix and although she's not even remotely as grumpy as Watson, like him she has a strong personality and when she's displeased with me, I know it.  Second, the humans, of course, are well-fleshed out and quite individual, from the town gossips to the usually bubbly Katie and usually grumpy police chief, Susan. Let's just say, Susan isn't at all pleased when Fred somehow manages to get involved in a murder out of town that finds its way back to Susan's attention. I'll leave it for readers to discover the role of Lassie here but, well, Susan is not pleased with Lassie. The friend-enemy status of Fred and Susan continues, with Susan alternately willing to listen to Fred's takes on the investigation and Susan's exasperation with Fred's meddling flowing over. It makes for some fun, if intense scenes, though I note that Fred has gotten better at refraining from the snappy retorts bound to anger Susan even more. That said, I like Susan and am pretty sure you will, too, as you'll like all the regulars. So, it's a toss up between my corgi fixation and the intriguing, well-rounded characters that somehow feel like old friends that kept me coming back.

As for the murder, well, although few seem to mourn the victim's passing, there are some surprising moments there as well. One of the amusing aspects of this book is that Fred is somehow surprised to discover that the suspects she visits to question have been expecting her. Talk about your reputation being widely known. That doesn't stop her, of course, although Watson's shunning of her at the moment means he doesn't have her back as usual. Will he decide to forgive Fred her transgressions in time to be helpful? Seriously, I know I keep coming back to the grumpy Watson but it was such fun to "see". That said, will Fred survive Susan's wrath? Lassie? What does a pink Cadillac have to do with anything? How many business places will Fred be unwelcome at before this is all over? Which of those involved in the victim's wedding plans killed her or, wait, who was that red-head? And, oh, just read the book. It's a fun read and, hey, there's always a recipe or two to make your mouth water.

Overdue or Die (The Haunted Library Mysteries, #7), by Allison Brook

 

Publication October 3, 2023

After a slow build, we find ourselves in the midst of not just pressing wedding planning but murder, organized crime, and art forgery. While art issues seem more husband-to-be Dylan's forte, Carrie finds herself right in the middle of not just one but, whoa, three murder investigations. And, oh, poor Dylan is whacked over the head and an inherited painting stolen, too, not to mention they're dealing with Uncle Otto's hospitalization for a heart attack. No wonder Carrie's finding it difficult to focus of wedding plans.

The blurb does an excellent job sharing the plot, so won't get into that here. I'll note, however, that I missed library ghost Evelyn, who doesn't seem to have any real part to play in this story other than encouraging Carrie to investigate the death of her old friend Martha, who was killed in her family's art gallery. The art talk was interesting, but it's the characters that always draw me back, so missed Evelyn. Actually, maybe it was the stress, but Carrie didn't appear her usual rather focused self. She seemed almost happy to shove aside wedding plans to look into the murder, jumps to several conclusions, then insists she isn't investigating when pressed by several others. 

One of her worries is art based, however, as she fears her extraordinary library staff member, Susan, may be being lured away by the art world. Friends and family are important. Carrie's dad, a retired, uh, criminal, or should I say reformed criminal now working for the right side of the law, gets involved in the main investigation, well, sorta, but is a help to Dylan as they try to sort through the art forgery ring. In other words, there are a great deal things going on, some seemingly related, some seemingly not. There are several suspects and, oh, yeah, many, many red herrings. 

Bottom line, although I wasn't quite as tuned into this one as usual, I did enjoy the read and recommend it to others. While it works as a standalone, if you've read other books in the series it'll help you sort out the relationships and connections more quickly, I think. Dementia is involved in one situation, btw, so be aware. Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for inviting me to the opening of the library extension. It's been a long time coming! Now, let's get those wedding plans solidified, Carrie, now that you've found a perfect setting.

Wedding Bells Brew Murder, by Carolyn Arnold

 

Publication August 29, 2023

Fast paced with suspect upon suspect. Lots of suspects. Some four hundred. All in a closed room, so to speak. Not quite a locked room, but security was on every door and invitations were required to be allowed inside. Inside for what, you ask? Apparently the wedding of the year, at least as far as Cotton Spring Falls is concerned. 

Sara and Sean are moments away from walking down the aisle when the woman who baked their wedding cake appears at the door where Sara and her bridesmaids are preparing. And, yikes, it isn't for a cake emergency. Cake maker Darlene has a knife in her back and dies after uttering just one word, "icing". Needless to say, that's the end of the wedding and the beginning of investigating. 

This was a new series to me and although I quickly grasped the basics, I did feel I would have benefited from reading previous books. Sara's relationship with the detective she herself calls to the scene, Ryan, for instance. I didn't fully warm up to Sara, however, feeling more annoyed with her than empathy. For a former police officer, she flaunts rules she'd have had a fit about had they happened to her during a case. She and Sean worked together prior to falling in love and retiring, not to mention Sean, whoa, inheriting a billion dollars. Both jump at the chance to sleuth. 

So, who killed Darlene? What does a feather, man with a limp, and black, laced shoes have to do with anything? What pretty obvious clue do the police seem to ignore? Why did Trinity and Darlene argue just prior to Darlene's death? Greed? Ambition? How did someone get past security? What does the pushy reporter know? Does she have explosive news? Who....oh, enough teasers. Read the book.

I should note that the viewpoint jumps back and forth a few times between Sara and Sean, too, allowing us to be privy to their individual findings and feelings. Actually, we even get to spend some time seeing through the eyes of Jimmy, a friend and still with the police. He seems to be a good guy, however, with doggie treats perpetually available in a pocket for Magnum, Sara's Beagle. 

Overall, I enjoyed the mystery despite feeling a bit lost about relationships at times. Thanks #NetGalley and #Hibbert&StilesPublishingInc for introducing me to Sara and Sean and life in Cotton Spring Falls. I'll definitely be looking for their next adventure and, time permitting, catching up on that background.

In Stitchness and in Health, by Reagan Davis and narrated by Zim Avaltrades AUDIO

 

 A Knitorious Murder Mystery, Book 10     AUDIO -- 6h and 3m

 

It's been awhile since I read the print version of this one, so it was fun to revisit Harmony Lake and hang out with Meg and her circle of friends. I won't detail the plot as others will have done so, so will simply say it starts with  celebrity wedding planning and ends up with a murder investigation, all while Meg and Eric finalize their whirlwind wedding plans. I grew to love the people of Harmony Lake and bet you will, too, so it was fun to hear their voices, so to speak. Narrator Zim Avaltrades does an admirable job given the size of the cast. The beginning of each chapter is simply announced, ie "Chapter 4", and the only voice I could quibble with was that of Eric, whose dialogue seemed a bit too measured, for lack of a better word. Then again, he's a cop, so a thoughtful, measured rate does seem an appropriate choice even if it threw me. 

 

As for the mystery, as noted, it was satisfactory if a bit sad. I'd actually forgotten whodunit since it's been some time since I read the book but even then it took me some time to put the clues in order again, so kept even a former, albeit forgetful reader guessing. Sophie the dog, a corgi, is, of course, a favorite of mine, especially with her newfound bilingual abilities. You're just going to have to trust me on that but it'll all make sense at the end. You'll also marvel at Meg's relationship with ex-husband Adam, father of daughter Hannah.

 

Bottom line, it was fascinating to see the community members come forward to support Meg and Eric when they....oh, oops, never mind. I almost gave away a plot twist and, trust me, there were a few as well as parallel story lines and viable suspects. Author Reagan Davis, who provided me with the audio code, weaves a good story with likable people who could be out own neighbors, an adorable corgi, and intriguing mystery. Put it all together and you've got another winner. 

Muddled Matrimonial Murder (Cupcake Catering Mystery Series Book 6), by Kim Davis

 

Publication June 13, 2023

This was a new-to-me series, so it was interesting to get to know new people and their community. Although the beginning seemed slow to me, that was probably simply because of my newness and the unfamiliarity of the various characters as they were introduced in rather quick order in the opening chapter. In the grand scheme of things, other than slowing me down briefly, it works as a standalone as the author does an excellent job filling us in on who is who and what their connections are. 

As the book is opening, main character Emory Martinez is working on finalizing plans for the wedding of friend Brad to police detective Gabe. Unexplainably, Gabe is awol and Brad is worried. As it turns out, he had cause to be worried. Brad and Emory find a dead body the next day when the go to his grandparent's home to drop of some of the wedding gifts. Never mind that the wedding invitation said no gifts. People will do what they deem is right. One of the gifts, a muddler, which I admit to having to look up, was the murder weapon. Gabe's prints are on the muddler but, wait, he admits to being the one to put the muddler on the counter. Surveillance video shows him entering the estate but not exiting, albeit that may be due to a community power failure at the time. 

So, where is Gabe? What's his story? Why has he been avoiding Brad? Does he have feeling for Colin? What's the story on the dead woman, who Brad had a restraining order out on due to past stalking encounters? Did unrequited love play a role? How did she find him? Could Brad have actually killed her? His alibi is non-existent for the estimated time of death. How did the woman get into a gated, security gated community anyway? What secrets are being kept? Will the past invade the present? Will family bonds hold? Will Emory every learn to delegate? Will she find herself in danger due to her "snooping"? Oh, come on. You at least know the answer to that one. 

Who....nope, enough teasers. Bottom line, although I was doubtful about this book initially due to my own slowness in grasping the many characters and relationships, I warmed to it quickly. I liked Emory and, btw, wish she were real so I could taste test some of her baking, The supporting cast was equally easy to like and, hey, she has two rescue dogs, Piper and Missy. Now that I've been introduced to them all, I'm looking forward to a return visit. Thanks to #BookSirens and #Cinnamon&SugarPress for the introduction and will definitely be back. Heck, I'm probably going to be doing catch-up reading of the entire series, now that I think about it.

Blueberry Blunder (An Amish Candy Shop Mystery #8), by Amanda Flower

 

 

Publication May 23,2023

 

Somehow, somewhere, I think there's a book in the joke name "The Great Parakeet Attack" episode. Seriously, Jethro? Is there any kind of mischief you can't manage to get into?

 

Anyway, on to the current mystery: Who killed Bailey's contractor, Wade? Why? Was it somehow tied to Aiden's first PI case? Why is Charlotte so sad as her wedding day approaches? Did you know most Amish don't even have Social Security numbers, let alone credit cards? Why is Aiden's return to town a bit awkward? How can nasty Sheriff Marshall keep his job? Why is a film crew following Bailey around? Is Devon always this obnoxious of is she up to something? Who....oh, way too many teasers. 

 

This is one of my favorite Amanda Flowers' series. Full of fully developed characters, whose background is deftly provided early on, with touches of romance and humor, it's a fun read. Heck, the antics of Jethro the polka-dot pig are always a hoot, so no wonder the first chapter opens with Jethro, well, being Jethro.  It's an easy read, too, that will keep you turning pages with Bailey seemingly always involved in something, even if it's just pig-sitting. I found it hard to put down once I started reading. The ending of this one is particularly satisfying, so give it a read. Even if you haven't read other books in the series, you'll quickly come to feel at home.

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me to that amazing Blueberry Festival. After the sweet ending, already looking forward to my next invite to Harvest, Ohio.

Death Knells and Wedding Bells (Lighthouse Library Mystery #10), by Eva Gates

 

Publication June 6, 2023

Although they're postponing the Paris honeymoon due to other obligations, Lucy and Conner's wedding is perfect.  Well, aside from the body in the hotel closet after the next morning's wedding breakfast. Who killed Wayne Fortunaba? Aunt Joyce was already regretting asking him to be her plus one at the wedding but surely she didn't dislike him enough to kill him? Where did Eddie go? Could the stereotypical absent-minded professor have killed him and shoved him in the closet before disappearing? Why is Lucy asking questions? She's supposed to be enjoying married life and planning the killer, er, bad word choice. Make that dream Paris honeymoon. And, hmm, is she already trying to hide her overwhelming drive to investigate from Conner? As she keeps reassuring herself, she's just asking a few (few?) questions. Yet, somehow, she always winds up in danger.

Nags Head is a lovely setting. You'll feel like you're in the car riding along as Gates describes the scenery Conner drives Lucy and Bertie through to Rodanthe. You'll enjoy meeting Lucy and Conner's extended circle of family and friends, not to mention Charles (for Dickens) the library cat. Romance and troubled romance rear their heads, too, There are multiple suspects and, of course, red herrings, not to mention detective Sam is somewhat distracted dealing with a new to  the area detective. Nothing like complicating things, huh? And, hmm, how many coincidences are too many? What the heck does Edgar Allen Poe have to do with anything? Who....oh, enough hints. Eva Gates never disappoints with well drawn characters and the spider's webs that often connect them one to another. Give this one a read.

Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for inviting me to Nags Head once again. Looking forward, I hope, to seeing Paris through Lucy's eyes next visit.

A Killer Unleashed, by Jackie Layton

 

Publication Feb.14, 2023

Lots going on in this one besides murder. Like what? Oh, dog-napped dog, drugs, crooked lawyers, hurricanes, and on the plus side, fun dogs, wedding planning and family. 

Andi Grace Scott, who owns what I'd call an all-purpose doggie day care, rescue, grooming, and training facility, is also a dog-walker. As such, she doesn't think twice about putting wedding planning talk off with groom-to-be Marc and going to check on a customer's dog when she calls. Good think Marc's a dog lover, too, huh? In any case, while she expected to find the dog home-alone, somehow forgotten in the haste of her customer's husband's rush to leave for a family outing, she wasn't expecting to find the overdue husband dead, strangled by a fancy dog leash. Nor did she expect the dog to have seemingly been dog-napped.

That's all I'm going to say about the plot. In the process, however, everything from mob involvement, drug rings, crooked lawyers, and preparing for a hurricane pop up. It was a reasonably quick, interesting read as one suspect after another appeared and/or was eliminated. Oh, and, can't forget, there's a country music star neighbor and his daughter, whose story would appear to be an evolving one for not just them but the community. That's the strength of this series. The people. Well, and the dogs. The people care about each other and their dogs, not to mention those less advantaged than some. 

Despite what seemed to me to be a bit too much repetition of the clues/facts as Andi found them, not to mention her cola craving, I thoroughly enjoyed the read. My hunch is this series will get only stronger as it goes along. Thank you #NetGalley and #BeyondThePagePublishing for inviting me over to see how Andi's dream of the perfect dog faciity is going, not to mention the wedding plans. Looking forward to the next episode.

Dedication to Murder (A Beyond the Page Bookstore Mystery Book 9), by Lauren Elliott

 

Publication April 25, 2023

Wow, I didn't see this coming. I loved that the book started with Addie, already dressed in her wedding gown, stopping at the bookstore to find dog Pippa's favorite stuffed bear, Baxter. It gave a sweet, light feel to the story, one that quickly changed however. Never mind that Simon, the groom-to-be, made her feel like all was right with the world, not to mention believe in Camelot and fairy tales, he's.....already married? And, there's more.

I definitely won't spoil the plot for you but will say that author Lauren Elliott just keeps getting better and better, her stories stronger and stronger, with layers of content and character. Check out her use of rain/raindrops to help convey the mood post wedding fiasco. Also, although bad me, I didn't jot it down at the time, her line comparing Addie's brain fog and inability to shake off the deep emotions dredged up by the wedding failure to dust mites floating in the air as Martha and she set out to clean out her attic as a diversion and, thus, discovers another mystery, stuck with me. Actually, there is more than one mystery to this story, one very old, threads that Elliott skillfully weaves into the plot to bring them all to a satisfactory conclusion at the end. 

Actually, satisfactory might be the wrong term as Addie, despite having regained her equilibrium at the end, is still searching for solid ground to move forward. We're happy for her but curious about what will happen, just as her friends are. And, just as at the beginning, while preoccupied with a jumble of feelings, she worries about dog Pippa's reaction to some of her decisions, too. 

Bottom line, this book (and the entire series) is a winner. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for the wedding invite. I'm already pondering what the future will bring for Addie.

Primer and Punishment (House-Flipper Mystery #5), by Diane Kelly

 

Publication Feb.20,2023

"I confess. I did it."

Normally Whitney Whitaker's detective boyfriend, Collin, would be happy to have someone confess early on to a crime. This time, however, he has three people claiming they are the guilty party. So, who literally blew up Grant Hardisty, who was living on the boat docked beside their latest rehab project, an old houseboat dubbed the Skinny Dipper? 

With, let's see, six ex-wives, countless people he owed money to, and Grant's using people, there are obviously quite a few suspects. For the record, this one kept me guessing until the end. Let's just say, the red herrings just kept on coming, leaving me uncertain until the big reveal who was really guilty. The plot moved along smoothly, managing to fit in hints and bits about the process of going about the rehab of a boat, such as the specialty paint needed for both the above and below water portions, not to mention the best paint rollers for the job. There's humor, too, another plus.

For me, as intriguing as trying to sort out who blew up Grant's boat to kill him was, it was the sense of family and friends that made this book a winner. Whitney and her cousin Buck work long, physical hours, but still find time(and energy) to spend with those they care about. Heck, the whole book is a build-up, pun intended, to Buck's wedding to Whitney's cousin Collette, with various characters popping in and out to assist with shower and bachelor/bachelorette parties, among other things. Even Sawdust the cat gets to share his views on happenings, among them his unexpected friendship with JoJo the neighbor dog. You'll also get a crash course, of sorts, for a boating license exam, which Buck is understandably not real focused on despite Whitney's frequent oral quizzing. 

Will he pass? Will Whitney's curiosity help solve the investigation of who literally blew Grant to bits? Why so many confessions? Will Sawdust ever forget his unexpected dip into the water? Maybe he will learn to appreciate that cat life jacket, which I thought was a nice, subtle reminder to those who might want to take their pets out on the water with them. 

Bottom line, this one (and the whole series) is a winner. Thanks #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for inviting me over to check out the Skinny Dipper. After that ending, I can't wait. Well, maybe I'll try the Mermaid Paradise Punch recipe while I am.

Murder at a Scottish Wedding, by Traci Hall

 

Publication Jan. 24, 2023

I bet you quickly find yourself reading with a Scottish accent, ye ken? Understand? Seriously, although I found myself hesitating initially as I ran across the phonetically written Scottish phrases, without knowing it, I picked up on them quickly and it flowed nicely. All was guid. 

The plot, well, the main plot, revolves around the question of "Who poisoned the brooch that killed Felice?" A secondary plot, which I felt might make a solid, separate book itself, dealt with main character Paislee's missing uncle and his involvement with either Scotland Yard or a deadly criminal gang of thieves, or maybe both. It remained fuzzy until the end. This side-plot rather threw me at first as it seemed like in the blink of an eye we were taken from pondering who and how the heirloom brooch that ultimately caused Felice's death was poisoned to DI Zeffer appearing and questioning Paislee and her grandfather about not just Felice's death but the whereabouts of the long missing uncle. In this case, I might have benefited from reading previous books in the series although this was only a momentary issue. Dinnae fret. It is all explained as we go along.

There's a long list of suspects, including a mega-superstitious almost-mother-in-law of Paislee's best friend Lydia, who has taken a strong dislike to Lydia, and a fortune telling librarian. Was it an accident or sabotage that caused Lydia's car to wreck? Who left the threatening photos and message in Lydia's apartment? Family ties are strong, both in Lydia's real and almost family, as well as Paislee's bonds and loyalty to her own and love for her son. And, yikes. Explosions?

Cannae tell you more, sairy. You're just going to have to read the book. Although I found it a bit disconcerting to switch between two such strong story lines, they are both interesting and, nae, didn't guess whodunit though the clues were all there. Despite this, I liked the story and will most definitely be back. Treats for Wallace the Scottish terrier!

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for letting my latent Scottish ancestry flourish for a bit with this nod tae/to Scotland and the accent. Loved that the author wrote this during the planning for her own wedding.

The Next Best Day, by Sharon Sala

 

Publishes Nov. 8, 2022

Although the opening is intense, involving not just getting left at the altar but being seriously wounded in a terrifying school shooting, this one has the usual Sala themes of hope and healing. I must admit, as a former teacher, albeit one who was never involved in any lock down other than for weather, the section involving the school shooter left me shaken. Sadly, while this is fiction, this is also the reality nowadays for too many students and teachers. That Katie McGrath is able to survive not just these events but a childhood of being shunted from foster home to foster home and abuse is amazing. Even more so, she seems to be a wonderful teacher, kind and caring, and, as one character describes her, nice. You'll root for her. Katie is a survivor in all senses of the word.

Fresh starts is another common Sala theme and this one involves not just Katie, who moves after the shooting incident, but her neighbor Det. Sam Youngblood and his two young, twin daughters, Evie and Beth. He's raised them alone after his wife died giving birth to them. Like Katie, he's opening up to more and they are immediately attracted, particularly as Katie proves adept at not just telling the twins apart easily but sensing their moods and needs. How these two wounded souls come together forms the basis of the story and it's a good one. 

The only jarring aspect of the book, as in jarring because it took me out of the story, was the side-story following Katie's almost husband, Mark. Well, that and a sad acknowledgement that Sam simply couldn't be that perfect, nor could Katie.... but I liked them just the way they are. It's occasionally nice to read about people who aren't twisted up by inner demons (as if Katie's PTSD from the shooting isn't enough). Bottom line, I thoroughly enjoyed this one and found myself thinking about it as I went about my daily life. That is a sign for me that a book has made an impression, in this case a good one. Give it a read but, sigh, be sure you're ready for the gut wrenching intro to how they get to their "next best day".

Thanks to #NetGalley and #Sourcebooks - #Casablanca for introducing me to Katie, Sam, and the rest of Borden's Gap, TN. I wish they were real and my neighbors.

Round Up the Usual Peacocks, by Donna Andrews

 

Publishes Aug. 2, 2022

This series never disappoints.

Despite the chaos about her, Donna Andrews' Meg Langslow always seems to maintain her almost zen-like calm while dealing with the bad guys. In this, the 31st book of the series, she actually solves three cold cases. Her nephew Kevin and Casey, a friend, were doing a true crime podcast, a very modern touch to the plot, and had managed to rile up someone enough to make them attempt to run down Casey. Spooked and more at home in front of a computer than dealing with people, Kevin asks Meg to help investigate. Since helping Kevin sounds like a great excuse to avoid some of the wedding planning chaos going on, Meg readily agrees.

I won't detail the plot, it's readily available elsewhere, but will say that the wedding hoopla takes a backseat to the investigation although, quite frankly, is the source of some absolutely hilarious scenes involving Meg. Who knew herding dogs could herd peacocks? Or that peacocks make great watchdogs, er, watch...birds? Well, when they're not attacking you. Have you ever heard a peacock shriek? It isn't a pleasant sound, so just the image conjured up of their possible participation in the wedding program is amusing. Beautifully feathered, yes. Peaceful and serene, no.

So, first, what is the Clay County involvement in the cases? Why the heck are they stalking Meg's movements? Second, in this day and age, why would any college department resist converting its records to digital files? Could the answer to the death of a professor be hidden there? Third, what happened to the talented singer/college girl who simply seems to have disappeared? Did her stalker kill her? If not, could she still be around to be found? And, will Meg really wind up creating a gargoyle collection, so to speak, for Ragnor? Sounds like they're fit right in.

These questions are only the tip of the iceberg as Meg organizes and does errands for the upcoming wedding, listens to the previous podcasts, talks to Chief Burke, keeps her guests safe, wrangles peacocks, avoids Spike's bad tempered bites, and dodges bad guys. This is a can't-put-it-down read, full of both tense and hilarious moments with lots of critters. My friends who have herding dogs will love it, I'm sure. Lad, you're my furry hero in this one.

Thanks #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for my "wedding invite". It was fun to see Meg come full circle from the beginning as she dealt with a wedding, quirky relatives one can't help but love, and helps put the bad guys away.

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.

Bound by Murder (Antique Bookshop Mystery #3), by Laura Gail Black

  

Publication date Sept. 6, 2022.

Wow, so much going on here. Jenna is having a great day until her ex-boyfriend, Blake Emerson, shows up with his bride-to-be, Missy Plott. But, why is he still professing his eternal love for Jenna, especially after turning his back on her during a previous hard time? Although this series is new to me, the author effortlessly fills us in on that injustice which wound up with Jenna spending some three months in jail charged with murder and embezzlement. When released, Jenna is met at the door to their home by Blake, coldly handing her the key to a storage locker, and left alone to start a new life.

Just to add another complication to the current situation, while Blake is harassing Jenna, Missy's ex, Tom, shows up vowing that Missy and he are meant to be. He makes a very public spectacle of getting down on his knee and proposing. Let's just say, Missy isn't kind. Seems Blake is far richer. In the span of just a few days, Missy also manages to alienate many of the other historic town's shop owners with her entitled attitude and nasty nature. Is it any surprise she eventually turns up dead, or that it's Jenna who finds the body? This is where things begin to get even more complicated.

Why are Blake and Missy even there? What is he telling Missy that makes her beyond angry at Jenna? What mad skill does Jenna display to discourage Blake? Why is policeman boyfriend Keith so unsure of Jenna's love? Why isn't even Jenna sure of her own motives or feelings, be it love or revenge? How will the previously traumatized Eddy handle all the stress? Is there any limit to a mother's love? Why is Blake just standing by while Missy is so loudly being beyond rude to his mother? Come to think of it, why didn't Jenna ever meet his mother? Why does the destruction of one particular book in her shop, Twice Upon a Time, by what seems arson, so saddening for Jenna? How is all this connected to Jenna's past? Who had a reason to kill Missy? What does Blake have to say about all this? What is the significance of a key? And, well, to find out you'll just have to read the book.

I wound up loving this book and plan to read the previous installments asap. Jenna is likable, cares about others, and growing in confidence in her life and friendships. The supporting cast is excellent and seem like people we'd all enjoy having in our own lives. Having the chance to overhear both their idle chatter and deeper conversations pulls us into the story, making us want to know what happens next, not to mention what really happened in Jenna's past that brought her here. Jenna's romance with Keith, though new, seems solid and able to grow in the future. And, of course, there is Eddy. I'm a sucker for dogs anyway but Eddy captured my heart, healing from past trauma just as Jenna is. This series is a winner.

Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for introducing me to Jenna, Keith, and her friends. And, hey, I'm sending Eddy a virtual treat. Good boy, Eddy.