January 2020 Cozys

Thank you to NetGalley and various Publishers for making these advanced reader copies available for review.

The Book of Candlelight
By Ellery Adams
Published by Kensington Books

This was a little edgier than my usual cozy choices. I had not read the previous book but did not feel that I was out of the loop and in fact it looked like at least one new main character was added as well as a few side characters.  I liked how it wove a forgotten history into the modern mystery. The addition of Cherokee lore as part of the story makes it stand out as well. I would absolutely LOVE to see a bookstore set up like Nora's Miracle Books complete with train car effect and with similar staff.  I have always used the world of cozy fiction to brighten my day or relax after a bit of stress, so I can see how of bibliotherapy would be a viable and remarkable talent. Nora has a great depth of character and chances are that I will search out the earlier book to get her whole back story. She seems very "girl power" and her book club friends are like family, while at the same time she doesn't discount Jed's attention and efforts but shows a vulnerable side that has doubts. Without giving away too much I will say that several poignant topics are approached from honesty, hate (and not the way you might think), to greed,  the stigma of having a debilitating autoimmune issue that flairs and subsidies, as well as redemption, and hope.  The Reader's Guide at the back of the book makes this a great choice for any book club. My only request would be that the recipe for the Comfort Scones and the book pockets be included in the next edition.

Much Ado About Nutmeg
By Sarah Fox
Published by Lyrical Press

Marley and the Pancake House gang are cooking up some delicious meals for the Golden Oldies athletes as well as preparing for Marley and Brett's upcoming beach wedding. With the influx of visitors and competitors, there is rarely an empty seat at least until the back to back deaths that couldn't possibly be related other than by location.  Marley cannot help but ask questions although this time the pancake flipper is in the other hand when Sienna, one of her waitstaff wants to play Nancy Drew as well. Like the ones before it, this latest pancake house mystery kept me enthralled and entertained not to mention the pancake cravings. I cannot wait to make the Banana Nut Pancakes this weekend. The author does a great job of reminding the reader of how and why Marley feels and does the things she does so it is not necessary to have read the previous books to be able to follow the storyline or character development. You don't have to read the early books but after you have one, they are like the tempting pancake and crepe meals described in the stories, you are going to want more.  

There's Murder Afoot (A Sherlock Holmes Bookstore Mystery)
By Vicki Delaney
Published by Crooked Lane Books

Gemma Doyle takes her amazing powers of observation on a brief holiday across the pond bringing her entourage with her to a Sherlockian convention where she is set to present as well as accept honors on behalf of her Great Uncle. The last thing she expects to do is meet her Mother's estranged younger brother and have to solve his murder and thereby saving her father suspicion of murder. One doesn't have to be familiar with back stories to understand the players or know which game is afoot. The author does a nice job of creating a parallel between the main Sherlock characters and the main characters in the Sherlock Holmes bookshop mysteries. This latest one definitely gave a nod to the Mycroft character. Don't expect these to be modern day adaptations, no these are completely new and interesting stories with a new and interesting main character. I would love to have a fraction of the powers of observation that Gemma not only posses but also makes great use of while systematically hunting for clues with her Dr. Watson aka Jayne and the romantic aspect with West London Detective Ryan Ashburton. The only thing missing is some recipes from Mr. Hudson's Tea Room.

Bound for Murder (A Blue Ridge Library Mystery)
By Victoria Gilbert
Published by Crooked Lane Books

Amy Webber, Blue Ridge Library director and #1 researcher should be researching wedding venues for her upcoming nuptials but instead  is asked to dig into the archives in hopes of assisting the police department with the recent discovery of a skeleton found on Sunny's grandparents organic farm, formerly a hippie commune in the 60"s. History tells of some unsavory events and people coming and going from the commune back in the day and  Amy wants to do all she can to help the Grans, but she gets the feeling that they aren't being completely honest with her even though they have asked her to give their former commune residents a "heads up" as to the investigation. Turns out the skeleton is a local boy/musician who was supposed to have left for California. This small town story attracts the attention of a free lance reporter who is also looking into missing persons from the 60's involving drug related activities. While it isn't necessary to have read previous books, it does help you understand the nuances with each character a little bit better. Amy's romance with her neighbor now fiancé Richard, her Aunt Lydia, the mysterious Kurt Kendrick, Sunny Davis her able bodied assistant and best friend, as well as some of the other characters. All in all this is an enjoyable series with a librarian who is more than your average book worm.

Tweet Cute
By Emma Lord
Published by Wednesday Books

Tweet Cute was Too Cute! I do like a good YA book with a little snark and a lot of he said/she said. Today's generation knows how to navigate the social media waters like it's a kiddie pool but Pepper and Jake are definitely seasoned swimmers.  What starts out as a media campaign between a Big Burger post and the Mom & Pop sandwich shop turns into a roller coaster ride of thrills and a test of wills. Pepper is a hard-working, get it done girl who is trying to keep Mom happy, keep her Dad happy, and keep her sister from being mad at her Mom because of the breakdown of the relationship with her Dad.  Between school, swim team, getting into a top-notch college, and Big Burger social media there isn't much time for Pepper to focus on Pepper. On the other side is Jack, dive team star, class clown, and hardest worker at his parents' sandwich shop. Jack is in charge of social media for the shop as well as his twin brother's keeper as it would seem. Sparks fly when Big Burger seems to have stolen the secret recipe to Jack's Grandmother's grilled cheese sandwich. As the tweets twitter, Pepper and Jack's snark turns to more, but wait, there is an illegal chat app that has been banned by the school that plays a part in this story as well. I'm not one for spoilers so you will have to read the book when it comes out on January 21, 2020, to see just how good it is. 

Giving Thanks for Holiday Cozys

Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for making these books available for reading and reviewing.

A Very Mummy Holiday
By Lynn Cahoon
Published by Lyrical Press

Who would have thought that a simple preholiday vacation would turn out to be a murder mystery. Murder does not go on holiday or maybe it's just that  Jill Gardner and her crew  can't take one with out a little drama.   Jill, Greg, and a couple of friends, Kathi Corbin and Blake Jennings went to the coast for some fun and relaxation. Who doesn't like a little dune buggy joy riding. That is until a diamond ring is found with a body still attached to it..
Keep in mind this is a novella so it will be a quick ride to solve the heart wrenching mystery of what happened to the bride before the wedding. The criminal element seemed obvious but I did like the character interaction as always with this group. Be sure to give the pie recipe a chance, you will be glad you did, not only did it come out as pretty as a picture but it also very flavorful.

Cozy Christmas Holidays & New Year's Eve

These unbiased reviews are given in exchange for NetGalley and multiple publisher access

Murder in the First Edition
By Lauren Elliot
Published by Kensington Publishing

Let me start by saying that I am loving this series, BUT....Addie needs to make a choice.  I realize that making a choice means moving on and the holidays are a difficult  time, full of memories  of what was and dreams of what could have been. Her mysterious almost father in law doesn't help things with his unexpected  arrival. Of course neither does a murder compounded by the loss of a rare 1st edition Christmas Carol, by Dickens that was to be auctioned at a charity benefit for the hospital. So many loose and crazy threads in this one. Almost like there are multiple plots, multiple suspects, and multiple issues, both life threatening and heart wrenching. Addie needs the support of her friends if she is going to figure this one out, support and a little of that Christmas spirit. Not a fan of multiple leading men suffice to say, I agree with Serena that a choice needs to be made before someone else makes it for her. Team Simon.

Southern Harm
By Caroline Fardig
Published by Alibi

The Ghosts of High School past come back to haunt the Christmas present. Quinn and Tucker were constructing a fire pit for Tucker's Aunt Lela as her Christmas present and they dig up a skeleton. It was believed that  Ester Sinclair had skipped town, perhaps to get away from her very parochial parents, right after graduation. Ester and her parents were in the same class and even ran in the same circles. The discovered body does not bode well for Aunt Lela, whose fiery temper from days past makes her suspect #1. Quinn and her vivacious sister Delilah start digging up the past and soon other suspects come to life which does not make the situation any better. I love the way Quinn wants to do all she can to help Tucker and his Aunt, especially  since Tucker's parents are to good to be bothered with such scandal. This story features mean girls, high school high jinx, ancient history, and even a family history. People are hiding secrets, including the girls' parents, but that won't stop the Bellandini sisters from investigating. Although this time they promise to be more careful. My only request of these stories is that those wonderful breakfast pastries be featured at the end of the story in recipe form! Held my attention all the way through with well placed tidbits of info and an engaging storyline.

A Legacy of Murder (A Kate Hamilton Mystery)
By Connie Berry
Published by Crooked Lane Books

Kate Hamilton is back across the pond visiting her daughter on Holiday for the Christmas Holiday. Which times perfectly with a rendezvous with Detective Inspector Thomas Mallory of the Suffolk Constabulary, or Tom as he prefers Kate to call him. After their chance encounter and murder mystery in Scotland the two have decided to get to know each other better. Unfortunately it looks like this will be a case of deja vu in a new locale. In addition to the death of an intern, there is the Finchley family scandal, missing jewels, some new relationship friction, and Christine's boy drama. I am surprised that Kate is able to keep all the players straight. The character development is "spot on" and the location history certainly adds to the intrigue of the story. The only thing this story needs is some true quality time for the couple, but I am sure that will be left for another novel.

Tide and Punishment
By Bree Baker
Published by Poisoned Pen Press

Charm, North Carolina is absolutely charming and as sweet as the tea that Everly brews in her tea shop. Equally sweet and a little bit sassy are her Great-Aunts Clara and Fran, especially Fran who planned to run against the current Mayor. Clara has a goal of her own as she has plans to create and give away a multitude of gnomes this holiday season. Unfortunately neither the gnomes or Mayor Dunfree survive to see Christmas and Aunt Fran is suspect #1. Officer Grady Hays must do his job regardless of what he might feel for Everly and Everly will not stop pursuing the killer until her Aunt Fran is exonerated. To make matters worse the local gossip column the Town Charmer  is not helping matters as the pot gets stirred up. Then on top of that, the Outer Banks is blanketed in snow and the honorable Senator Denver, Hays' deceased wife's mother is coming to town to make sure her Grandson Denver is doing well given the new home and recent loss of his mother. So many moving parts, but that won't stop Everly from getting to the bottom of this next installment of a Seaside Café mystery. You have to admire that kind of dedication to family and to her heart. Great read and an unexpected villain to boot.

Have a Deadly New Year
By Lynn Cahoon
Published by Lyrical Underground

This is a Farm to Fork cozy novella, which means it is short an sweet and a little sour. Actually, the recipe at the end of the story is sweet and sour and I would definitely suggest trying it since it involves bacon and everything is always better with bacon. There is one thing that isn't better with bacon, and that is murder. A little post holiday catering job and a week of recipe/menu tweaking is all Angie and the staff of County Seat had in mind when agreeing to work for Cliff Henry and his band the Postal Mutiny. The last thing they expected was rocker drama and murder. Since this is a novella the clues come fast and furious as the story unfolds. Plenty of suspects plenty of motives and worst of all is that the County Seat crew are stuck with a murderer in a mountain cabin because of a snow storm which makes it impossible to leave right away. I was somewhat surprised as to how the book ended and a little disappointed that Ian was not a part of the story. Strictly speaking, you wouldn't need to have read a previous Farm to Fork mystery but they are excellent stories with a great cast of characters and recipes to boot!

Cozys that pair well with beverages

Thank you to NetGalley  and the various publishers who provide advanced copies for unbiased reviews.

Sauvigone for Good (The Wine Trail Mysteries)
By J.C. Eaton
Published by Lyrical Press

Norrie is desperately trying to get her latest screen play written while also running the family winery while her sister Francine, is in South America looking at bugs, with her entomologist husband. Of course this would be at the same time as the Wine Trail's Wine and Chocolate Extravaganza complete with prima donna chocolatiers, sabotage, and murder. Was it death by bonbon, a sleep aid, or suffocation? The contest is getting cutthroat and Norrie is desperate to figure out who did it since Grizzly Gary doesn't seem to be able to piece the clues together.  One doesn't have to be familiar with the characters to enjoy the story line as you can easily pick out the main characters who are quite the characters. I do think that Norrie needs to stick to the lawyer and not dwell on the entomologist. Of course I also think that the there should recipes for food pairings to go with those wonderful sounding wines. Looking forward to the next installment!

An Ale of Two Cities
By Sarah Fox
Published by Kensington Books

Sarah Fox has crafted another great series, this time she has murder on tap at the Inkwell, a literary inspired pub owned and operated by Sadie Coleman. It's the Christmas season and time for Shady Creek, Vermont, to hold it's annual Winter Carnival complete with an ice sculpting competition. The competition heats up when a former local now renowned chef, Freddie Mancini shows up to compete while looking down his nose at everyone and everything. Makes you wonder why he chose to return and complete in the first place. He certainly wasn't missed now will he be when he is found dead in an alley, stabbed by Mel Costas carving tools that were taken to impede her in the contest. Sadie knows that there is no way her bartender Mel could possibly have anything to do with Freddie's death and there is no shortage of suspects from Freddie's heartbroken high school sweetheart who deserved better, his own half brother, to his over worked and under appreciated personal assistant. This is the second book in the series and you do not need to have already read the first to enjoy the second. The characters are well developed through out the story and  I found it particularly entertaining that the main character becomes a little bit of mess around her possible love interest, making this a more realistic story as well. Last and certainly the best aspect of this new series is that there are recipes included, not only for the cocktails but more importantly for the food! I cannot wait to test out the recipes and share on Instagram!

Angel's Share
By Ellen Crosby
Published by Minotaur Books

I absolutely  love a good wine cozy, especially one that takes the time to explain something new and interesting about wine. I was not familiar with Madiera or Williamsburg for that matter. As luck would have it, our latest vacation took us to historic Williamsburg to meet up with my in-laws for a family celebration. We walked along the cobblestone sidewalk and explored Bruton Parish church much like Lucy and Quinn. This was my first Wine Country Mystery and I thoroughly enjoyed the National Treasure aspect of the story to the point where I was looking up the history and learning as well as enjoying. Great story line and an excellent  cast of characters.

Beyond a Reasonable Stout (A Sloan Krause mystery #3)
By Ellie Alexander
Published by Minotaur Books

I am overwhelmed by the amount of microbrewery information that just flows from this story and the fact that Leavenworth, Washington is an actual place as depicted. It is now on the travel bucket list! I have always been a fan of craft beer and love a venue that offers local brew and great snacks. I would have REALLY liked it if there were a couple of recipes in the back of the book but cannot rave enough about the character development or plot line. This was my first Ellie Alexander book and I really like Sloan. You don't need to know the back story to be able to appreciate this most recent novel and it is a cliff hanger to be sure! Not that I wouldn't have wanted to read about Mac's attempts to win Sloan back or what new information her former social worker Sally has as to Sloan's MIA parents. As for this current installment, plenty of people were not sad that the Councilman met his end but only one of them was truly guilty. Chances are the Sloan would not have even gotten involved if not for the Chief insisting that self appointed town Ambassador April was in need of a friend. Or rather a frenemy, which what Sloan considered herself. With winter batches to make, a teenager to mother, an impending divorce to figure out, and the need for a new homestead, Sloan is a busy bar keep.

Scottish Cozys

The Loch Ness Papers (A Scottish Bookshop Mystery #4)
By Paige Shelton
Published by Minotaur Books

In the midst of wedding plans in a quaint Scottish village, Delaney finds herself in the middle of a mystery as old as Loch Ness itself. While hunting for a replacement pastor to officiate her wedding to pub owner, Tom Shannon, Delaney meets local Nessie expert Norval Fraser. Norval takes a liking to Delaney and the fact that she is willing to listen to his story and look at his "work". Norval is later found dead, murdered in his flat amidst his collection of all things Nessie related. Norval swears that the beast took his Dad away but his family and former neighbors tell a different tale, a sad story of abandonment and a young boys attempt to cope with a heart breaking truth. Delaney is one smart researcher, which is what landed her the job at The Cracked Spine, taking care of all things antique especially books as she manages the "warehouse" and looks for the who and why someone would do harm to such a harmless old man. While his collection might have fetched a pretty penny was it worth killing for? His nephew and sometime caretaker is suspect due to questionable investment dealings. There is the other Nessie expert, did he do it to acquire something new to his collection that he coveted from Norval's collection?  Delaney's family has hopped across the pond and are ready to help her sleuth as well. Thoroughly entertaining book with a great cast of characters especially the bookstore staff. I  look forward to reading another very soon!

Dream of Death
By Connie  Berry
Published by Crooked Lane Books

Kate Hamilton, antiques whisperer, and widower has returned to her late husband's childhood home in Scotland at the request of his distraught sister and just in time for the Tartan Ball and big news. It has been 3 years since Kate's husband died of a heart attack while sailing. Memories and ghosts seem to haunt her with a promise to look after a sister in law who hasn't spoken to her since that fateful day. The same sister in law who is found dead with an arrow through her throat just like a historic figure and possible ghost of the manor. Kate finds herself drawn to this mystery and there is the promise she made her late husband to watch after his sister. Kate also finds herself drawn to the handsome Chief Inspector Tom Mallory from England, staying at the hotel on holiday (he too is a surviving  spouse). Plenty of motive in this one from claims of ancestral rights to loss of livelihood by the workers of the hotel upon learning of the impending sale to a Swedish  company of all things. The least likely suspect, simple and naive  Bo is taken in for questioning which spurns Kate on to finding the killer and solving not only her sister in laws murder but also the historic unsolved crime based on a local legendary hero. Great read, characters were developed nicely and had I not already read the second installment first I would have been questioning the motives of a few of the characters. Great descriptions that elicited an emotional response. Be sure to read my next entry to see where Kate ends up for Christmas. 

Crafting Cozys

Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity  to give an unbiased review in exchange for access to the books.

Murders No Votive Confidence
By Christin Brecher
Published by Kensington Publishing

Excellent start to a new series! I enjoy reading about small business sleuths. The New England whale oil history was interesting as well. The idea of a personal scent for a wedding is a novel idea and if I would have known I would have been sure to have my unity candle crafted by someone as talented as Stella Wright. of Wick & Flame. This story is full of twists and turns as Stella vows to get to the bottom of the mystery in order to save her fledgling business and clear family friend Bill Duffy. Who would use a wedding candle to bludgeon a man to death? Needless to say, in a town the size of Nantucket Island, word gets out fast and that word is murder by unity candle. Stella is on the trail of the killer as she eliminates suspects and manages to get a couple of dates with the new reporter Peter Bailey who is hot on the trail of story. Of course those dates have included climbing trees, following leads, and small picnic snacks. I think that this storyline is the beginning of a great series and I am ready for the next book I also enjoyed reading the note regarding Candles 101 workshop notes at the end of the book.

Thread on Arrival (A Mainely Needlepoint Mystery #8)
By Lea Wait
Published by Kensington Books

Haven Harbor, a quaint new Englad town with quaint new Englanders. At least most of them are quaint and one of them is a murderer. Ike, a native Mainer and a son of Haven Harbor has been taking care of himself as long g as people can remember. He keeps to himself, collecting bottles to recycle and living in his family's  garage. Not everyone appreciates Ike, and while the "chambers" are out to relocate him to a home, someone decides to remove him altogether.  The least likely suspect, a young boy whom Ike has taken under his wing, offering shelter and shared bottle duties, is under suspicion for Ike's murder. As Angie starts looking for answers, she and Dave (local school teacher and willing foster parent) retrace Ike's route and routine, it becomes apparent that Ike saw everything and was outspoken, however he also didn't always see the whole story so did he see something he shouldn't have? This was a very good story with a plot that moved at a good pace and who wouldn't  like a story with recipes included. Such excellent  recipes that I am inspired to make lobster chowder on our next cold weather day.

Down in Flames (A Webb's Glass Shop Mystery)
By Cheryl Hollon
Published by Kensington Books

Newlywed Nicole Borawski, assistant manager of the Queen's Head pub was an angel to those less fortunate. So why was she run down in the road right outside of Webb's Glass Shop? Savannah's apprentice Jacob is the only witness and he is so traumatized by it that his autism has made him mute as a coping mechanism. Savannah asks a couple of questions and manages to make a connection between Nicole and a street artist named SNARK. Savannah is brought on as a consultant with local law enforcement giving her a little more credibility but an investigation is the last thing she needs between Edwards's Best Burger in the Berg contest compounded with his grief cooking (some recipes are not such a good idea), Amanda's Mom is in hospice, the new glass bead making class has started with a full class, Jacob's trauma, and last but not least is the fact that she needs to pick a date for her upcoming wedding to Edward.  This story once again illustrates that you don't have to have relatives to have a family. Great story and kudos to the inclusion of Jacob as a main character to illustrate the challenges and successes that are possible with autism. 

Hooks Can Be Deceiving
By Betty Hechtman
Published by Crooked Lane Books

The Tarzana Hookers spend their Tuesday and Thursday nights at Happy Hour working on their latest crochet project, at least they did until the Craftee Channel's cable talk show decides to incorporate their weekly meeting into a segment complete with TV personality and Make n Take demo project. So many moving parts for group member and bookstore event coordinator Molly Pink to take care of. Between events, the Hookers, and basic yarn department responsibilities, Molly barely has time to see her significant other, Mason Fields (middle-age relationship titles are tricky). To top it off, the last thing Molly has time for is the death of a crochet member's companion. Was the companion's death a weird accident, was she the intended victim, could the heavily medicated Marianne have set it up. This story is as complicated as a granny square but tug just enough and the whole thing comes apart. Molly is tugging and this time it is with permission of Tarzana's own man in blue (and Molly's former man), Barry who has asked her to keep her eyes and ears open for any clues. Every cozy reader knows that once you give permission to a cozy sleuth, she is knot going to stop until she figures out the pattern. I enjoyed the back and forth between Molly and Dinah as they played the "Sherlock Holmes" game. I did not guess correctly as to the culprit which makes this a very good one and it doesn't hurt that there are some sweet treat recipes at the end plus if you can read crochet there are two patterns as well.

Crafter Hooks a Killer

By Holly Quinn

Published by Crooked Lane Books

Sammy is back at it and if you read the first book you'll know that there is one really big unanswered questions regarding Kate's unfortunate and deadly accident. Was it really and accident or was the last killer trying to pull the wool over her eyes. On top of that, Craft Queen and published author, Jane Johnson; is conducting a book signing and is giving tribute to Kate and what she had created with the Craft Connection store in the next crafting book. Jane tells Sammy that she must meet with her, that something about Kate's accident wasn't accidental. Of course this is where the murderer comes in before Sammy has a chance to learn what Jane knows. Now she has two mysteries to solve, plus an old crush is back in town, and she still isn't sure about Detective Nash and his infuriating charm. This has been a great series so far, new characters are introduced in just the right way and the theory behind a craft store that is also like a community center is novel and heart warming. Definitely a page turner!

Southern Cozys

Murder at Royale Court
By G.P. Gardner
Published by Lyrical Underground (Kensington Publishing)

Cleo Mack has found her place as the director of Harbor Village, an active adult community in Alabama. In addition to over seeing the over haul of the facilities she is also involved in overseeing the planned activities. In the midst of renovations is the classic car symposium and guest speaker. I must say that even though I am not into cars, the historical info was interesting and the guest speaker would have most likely had me enthralled by such a wealth of knowledge. Completely unrelated is the death of an investment banker at least it seems unrelated until there is talk of shady dealings and a possible one of a kind mystery investment long lost car being to unsuspecting people. Chances are Cleo wouldn't have become involved if not for the fact that she was there when the body was discovered and her ex-husband/current boss (weird, right LOL) is a possible suspect and she knows that her daughter's father is many things but a murderer, he is not. From real estate deals to controlling siblings, this story has it all and a little romance as well. Highly entertaining and a nice look at how one can be retired without being tired!

Fatal Cajun Festival

By Ellen Byron

Published by Crooked Lane Books

Local girl does well and comes back for a country music festival in the Big Easy. In addition to a really good story there are pralines and recipes for pralines at the back of the book! Not only is this simply southern is also a delicious distraction. Your basic storyline but with a little high school drama added in. You would think that once a girl makes it to the big time she lets go of pettiness from the past. Gaynell and the Gator Girls are ready to rip it up at the Jazz Fest, and Maggie thinks she is ready to host the now famous Tammy Barker and her band at the Crozat Plantation B&B. Neither lady is ready for the mayhem that ensues when one of the band members is found dead and Gaynell becomes a suspect. Ghosts from the past threaten to harm dreams of the future, not to mention that Maggie has a lot on her plate as it is from selling pralines at the festival to planning her wedding to a certain local lawman named Bo Durand on top of helping Grand-mere with a little mystery of her own. Great characters who proves that family is not just blood. Great plot development and I LOVE trying out the recipes.

Spooky, Charming, and Cozy for October

Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for making these books available for reading and reviewing.

Fudge Bites

By Nancy Coco

Published by Kensington  Books

It's  Halloween on Mackinac Island and time for the annual Zombiefest. The last thing Allie expects to find is a dead zombie. This fudge making master plus historic hotel caretaker, has plenty on her to-do list which includes deciding if she should brave the harsh winter or travel south to stay with her BFF in Chicago. Sure that this is a case of mistaken identity,  Allie works through the clues like she works through her fudge recipes. Incidentally,  those recipes are out of this world, I would suggest starting with the flourless brownies. Great story filled with suspects, secrets, sweets, and surprises. 

Mulberry Mischief (A Berry Basket Mystery Book 4)
By Sharon Farrow
Published by Kensington Books

It is Halloween in Oriole Point and the Piper, the Mayor's wife has set up an impressive line up for the Harvest Health Fair. From professional athletes to diet gurus and world famed beauty consultants this fair will have it all including a break out session on the importance of berries and their health benefits given by Marlee. Of course the last thing Marlee imagined was that the mysterious Lake Lady would solicit her aid in the form of mulberries, a whole lot of mulberries to protect her and the ghost from the shadow people. As Mr. Charles Chesnutt would say, "sins like chickens come home to roost," sins of the past. A past that involves love, loss, lies, sorrow, and murder. Marlee and her friends do a great job getting to the bottom of the murders both old and new while providing some interesting facts about mulberries and a couple of great recipes that I can't wait to try out the mulberry muffins recipe. This is my second Berry Basket mystery so I need to go back and find out what happened to the fiancé, although I never really liked him and am happy to read that Marlee is with Officer Kit Holt.

Halloween Trifecta of short stories

Haunted House Murder

By Leslie Meier

Grandmother Lucy Stone, reporter for the Pennysaver gets the opportunity for some quality time with her grandson Patrick. While Patrick's life doesn't skip a beat even with the change in school and soccer team. Lucy has forgotten how much time and energy it can take to take care of a child who has fractions homework and soccer practice. In addition to Mom duties, Lucy is balancing her investigative reporting duties which include looking into the strange goings-on at the old house across from the school and the strange new owners. Moon is abrupt and his wife is a pale willowy creature who is rarely seen. This story definitely has a twist and is good for putting one in the Halloween mood. I only wish that Lucy and Bill had been portrayed as the loving couple from the earlier stories.

Death by Haunted House

By Lee Hollis

Hayley Powell, journalist, Mom, wife, and good neighbor is plunged into a who done it, when she and her husband stumble upon a local real estate agent dead and buried in the forest when looking for their run away puppy. Halloween fun to be sure!  In addition to the murder mystery is the mystery of the strange family that has moved in next door. Hayley's husband is sure that the neighbors are up to no good and must be involved. The ensuing hijinks are rather comical but over all I was not a fan of this Hayley Powell book. The last one I read, Death of the Wedding Cake Baker was much more light hearted and did not seem to be quite so contrary with regards to kids and husband. 

Hallowed Out

By Barbara Ross

Definitely the best was saved for last. Thoroughly enjoyed this short story of a reenactment gone wrong during a haunted trolley tour. Julia Snowden, an easy to like character is front and center for a "lights go out and then a shot rings out" staged scene from history. Only it wasn't staged and she must figure out who killed the actor. It becomes a bit twisted as it turns out that several people could have done it and it seems like the clues are adding up a bit too quickly. Highly entertaining and my first Busman Harbor mystery so I will be sure to look up others.

 Pawsitively Cursed (Witch of Edgehill Mystery #2)
Written by Melissa Erin Jackson
Published by Ringtail Press

Something wicked this way comes and it isn't just wickedly cool teen fashions and Olaf Betzen. Amber, our worrisome witch (you would be too if a cursed Penhallow witch was after you) is determined to solve the mystery of her parents' death. Thankfully she is able to work with local law enforcement . Aunt Gretchen and sister Willow show up unannounced and much earlier than expected to team up with Amber to save not only themselves but the whole town as well. In addition to taking chances with  a  cursed face-changing witch, Amber  thinks she might be ready to take a chance with her heart. Will it be Connor the reporter or Jack the baker and will she need a spell to not only ward her home but also her heart. Great story and I enjoyed how the sisters supported each other. This book also introduces Aunt Gretchen who to be one tough old witch as well, even though she drives Amber crazy with her secrets. Lastly, you get to meet the only other Henbane, cousin Edgar who lives like a hermit who just wants to be left along but is also a crucial part of the mystery surrounding the death of Bella and Theo Blackwood. I pawsitively enjoyed this one just as much as the first and cannot wait to read what is in store for Amber and her blossoming powers.

A Spell of Murder (Lost Maidens Loch)
By Kennedy Kerr
Published by Bookouture

This is the "maiden" book for this new cozy series and I think is most becoming! The Love sisters and their interestingly named pets are wonderfully different and fully embrace their witch heritage and even better is that their sleepy Scottish town fully embraces it. Temerity has the gift of psychometry and Tilda is gifted with the ability to brew up something to fix that which/witch ails you. So needless to say, Temerity is handy to have around when you need to know where an item came from or who it is associated with such as the black scrying mirror with the thistle motif. The only one who doesn't seem to get how important Temerity is to the investigative process is new arrival, Constable Angus Harley, sent to take over for soon to retire Investigator Kim Hyland. A murdered teacher, a stalking co-worker, a disgruntled roommate, a shifty seeming maid, and all sorts of secrets and portent to be sifted through. Temerity is trying to avoid distraction while working with the new Constable and I especially like the one sided conversations she has in her head with the "Wolfman". I literally laughed out loud every time. It can be hard to let go of the past and move onto the future but this might just be what Temerity needs. Hope this is the start of many more books to come!

Dressed to Kill
By
Published by Seven House Publishers

Halloween can be a scary enough day but what would you do if a bank robber in a clown costume pointed a gun at you? What would you do if this same person shot your nephew, the local Chief of Police? I'm not sure what I would do but apparently Miss Mary and her canine side-kick Millie are hot on the trail. With Chief Dan out recovering from a shot to the shoulder, Detective Sean Ryan is sent on loan from the big city of San Luis Obispo and the locals would really like to see the heavy handed interrogator to go back ASAP. Mary is wise and well connected local whom people respect, unlike Detective Ryan whose arrogant attitude makes him miss vital clues. Miss Mary definitely reminds me of Miss Marple as she ascertains what seems obvious to her but not so much to everyone else as the case becomes convoluted with another death, the retired bank manager who has dementia and is in a care facility. There has to be a pattern, a connection between the two and Miss Mary is sure she can figure it out. Very enjoyable read with really good character development. I was able to figure out the who and why before the end of the book even with the odd red herring here and there.

Late Checkout (Witch City Mystery #9)
By Carol J. Perry
Published by Kensington Books

It's October in Salem, Massachusetts and the busiest time of the year with parades, pumpkin everything, tours, and parties which means plenty to report on. Unless the boss's wife has a nephew fresh out of college wanting to break into the news business. Lee is working part time for the station so she decides to do some part time volunteer work for Aunt Ibby at the library. Last thing Lee expected was to end up finding a story while re-shelving books. Okay so she found a story and a dead body....Willie Wallace found dead with a pile of sports collectible reference books scattered around him in a locked area...Willie once worked at WICH-TV and Lee is in charge of the anniversary special research, tying both events together nicely. Of course she should have known what she would find while up in the stacks, she say the shiny swirling image after all. It seems like Willie wore many hats and worked with many people back in the day and he was not very reputable. So which is his former coworkers finished him off? What is it about the reference book about the "Boys of Summer" and when is Lee going to be able to go back to working full time? The snoop sisters are at it again and Officer Pete as learned to value their intuition as well as their research skills. Old forgot files might hold the key or maybe just a great new marketing idea to sell advertisement air time. Either way Lee is hot on the trail of a story involving her childhood TV heroes. Perfect book to read this month and I have now added Salem in October to my travel bucket list to be sure!

Designs on Murder (A Ghostly Fashionista Mystery #1)
By Gayle Leeson
Produced by Grace Abraham Publishing

The only thing better than starting your own business is starting it with a new friend. Amanda Tucker decides to put her passion for classic designs and seamstress ability to work for herself and happens upon an office space for rent in a historic multi-use house known as Stores on Main. Shortly after securing her spot for a dress boutique called Designs on You, a "neighbor" the programmer/web designer is found shot dead. Oh and I almost forgot, the new store came complete with a new friend, a special friend, a dead friend. It seems that Max took a tumble down the stairs many, many moons or was it moonshine, ago. "Max" Englebright is a very fashionable ghost who can only be seen by Amanda and Grandpa Dave. Max is the "elephant's eyebrows" to be sure and a frisky fun character plus a true friend to Amanda. Grandpa Dave is the sort of Grandpa that everyone would like to have with his words of support and pleasant disposition. All of Amanda's "neighbors" seem to be nice people but one of them is not so nice which has Amanda jumping at shadows and questioning everyone with the exception of Jason the talented and attractive photographer who only recently moved into his own Shop on Main as well. Max believes that it is up to Amanda and her to solve this mystery to not only put their minds at ease but to keep Amanda in her new shop. Nice story line and wonderful attention to period detail in the description of the clothes that Amanda designs. The author definitely did her research from all aspects of this story. I cannot wait to read the next one!

Shopping on Amazon for FREE

Do you have patience? Can you wait 35 days if you know you are going to get a check in the mail? Rebate Key. Used in conjunction with Amazon, sellers who are eager to move their merchandize and could use some ratings will give you a discount  to buy now and hopefully review later. Start by setting up your account on Rebate Key just like you would set one up on Amazon with basic information. You aren't going to be purchasing through Rebate Key, just using it as a shopping portal that will finish up on Amazon. The only other catch to this most excellent shopping experience is that there are amount limits and time limits. Each item will have a certain number for sale per day and when the limit is reached that is it. There is the option to be "notified" when the item's time slot comes up and it is available. Items change often so be sure that if you see something you like to set up the notification and maybe even a separate alarm on your phone or calendar as to not miss the great deal. You can search for a wide variety of categories like "pets" or by % , highest rebate, newest or even ending.  

Do you like getting bargains? Do you have a gift closet where you store potential presents that you've collected over the year when you see a great price or that special something? Then you need to take a look at

Once you find your something special you'll need to complete the following steps:

1. Buy the product at FULL price - Do NOT use discount codes. Click on "buy product" and you will be redirected to Amazon where you will select the same item at full price. If you get it discounted you will not receive your Rebate Key rebate.

2. Complete the purchase and confirm your "Rebate Key" within ONE hour. After making the purchase look at the order and copy and paste the Order ID number on Rebate Key this is how the purchase is confirmed with the seller.

3. When the Rebate Key is provided the rebate is automatically pre-approved and on hold for 30 days. You will receive your order within the time frame you selected when ordering. After 35 days you will receive a check in the mail for the amount of the rebate.

YES it is that easy and YES it works! We have already started gearing up for the holiday gift giving season as well as replacing old worn out garden hoses. I even bought a new self inflating air mattress in case we have hurricane or ice storm evacuees. 

Cozy Tales of Foodies

Muffin but Trouble
By Victoria Hamilton
Published by Beyond the Page

Merry Grace Wynter is an amazing lady. Her tenacity and level head inspires me to breathe deeply and count slowly when I would want to do otherwise. This was a very interesting story with a unique cast of characters. The best part, in my opinion, is the recipes at the end of the story that I cannot wait to test out in my kitchen.  Without giving too much of the plot away, I will say that it was developed at a nice even pace and I did not completely figure it out. So many possible suspects. I was also intrigued by the idea that this scenario could quite possibly take place in this day and age in or around any small town. Some authors use their books to make a statement about social injustices or their personal beliefs regarding politics or religion. When those ideals are very strong it can take away from the light-hearted aspect of a cozy mystery. I do not think that is the case with Muffin but Trouble. Much like a good recipe, the blending of the topics, the characters, and the plot created a wonderful final product. I look forward to reading more Merry Muffin Mysteries and trying out more Merry Muffin recipes in my new silicone muffin pans.

The Hidden Corpse (Food Blogger Mystery #2)
by Debra Sennefelder
Published by Kensington Books

Full time blogger and part-time cook, Hope Early finds herself embroiled in another murder mystery. A house fire that leads to the death of a neighbor and the finding of a missing body was not on Hope's "to-do" list. She doesn't set out to stir up trouble but what is a blogger to do when her best friend is an investigative reporter egging her on to help him get the scoop first. Then there is her sister who wants Hope to host a proper English tea to help Claire's mayoral campaign by way of supporting a new potential member of the planning and zoning board. In the midst of all things that are not food blog or food photo related, Before too long Hope gets not one but two warnings, to cool it. In Hope's defense, it does help to  know the Chief of police, especially when he is easy on the eyes and makes Hope's heart feel all mixed up. Highly entertaining and the recipes are AWESOME!

Murder with Collard Greens and Hot Sauce (Mahalia Watkins Mystery)
by A.I. Herbert
Published by Kensington Books

Soul Food and Soul Sisters mix murder with Suave Styling and Hair by Monique. Halia ( to her friends), owner of Sweet Tea southern comfort food at its best has a nose for a good mystery a side-kick cousin Wavonne, who is as sassy and saucy as the house-blend hot sauce. There is quite a variety of suspects each with unique personalities not unlike Ms. Monique Dupree, out beauty mogul victim. Local law enforcement does not take kindly to the caterer with a nose for clues and a great ability to create culinary diversions while eliciting tidbits of information. Too many secrets and they all seem so very scandalous, not unlike Wavonne's wardrobe. The story took a little while for me to get into it but once the groundwork was well laid I started to truly enjoy each every character from the stylist such n such Maurice to Halia's Momma who makes the best sweet treats. Of course, Halia is new type of cozy character for me and I truly enjoy hearing the thoughts in her head especially when she is thinking about what Wavonne is going on and on about.

Strangled Eggs and Ham (A Country Store Mystery #6)
By Maddie Day
Published by Kensington Books

The grass is always greener, especially when it's a parcel of land that a developer wants to replace with a high-end resort. Robbie's Aunt Adele is the leader of the resistance group wanting to save the town of South Lick from urbanization. A visiting eco lawyer and bike enthusiast is more than happy to wade in and fight, at least until he is found dead on the property in question. The developer is your typical city slicker, Fiona Closs, polished and all about the progress. Aunt Adele is your typical down to earth matron who doesn't back down to anyone or anything, which has Robbie worried about Adele's safety as the protesting starts. I'm not sure how Robbie manages to run a successful restaurant with delectable dishes (recipes included YUM), B&B, country store, and find time for a steady guy plus a little side sleuthing.  Although, it would seem that local law enforcement does help to keep the bottom line healthy since Officer Buck is pretty much a fixture when it comes to meal times offering both tidbits of info and tidbits of comedy and local flavor. The story was as engaging as its predecessors and I look forward to the next installment.

Guilty as Charred
By Devon Delaney
Published by Kensington Publishing

The only thing better than a cozy with great characters and yummy recipes is a cozy with creative characters, great recipes, and cooking tips! Sherry Oliveri (love her name) professional cooking contest winner/participant, Ruggery retail worker, Community Garden board member, tennis player, and part time sleuth. After cooking the winning entry in a multi-state competition, Sherry returns home to the news that the Garden coordinator/owner has been murdered and worse yet is under character assasination. Sherry not only mixes up wonderful recipes and helpful hints, she also has quite a knack for putting clues together like a new recipe. A nice variety of suspects from sibling rivalry to not so neighborly complaints and even political malfeasance. I must say that this is the first time I have read a cozy where it seemed like every other character encouraged the main one to actively pursue the murder investigation. Everyone except for local law enforcement of course. Looking forward to trying the artichoke hummus recipe and so happy that they are at the end of the story.

Risky Biscuits
By Mary Lee Ashford
Published by Lyrical Press

Sugar and Spice Publishing is made up of two dynamite ladies with most excellent names. Rosetta Sugarbaker Calloway aka Sugar and Dixie Spicer aka Spice or Spicy (but most people just call her Dixie) have my dream job, putting together cookbooks and testing the recipes. Speaking of recipes, you will find 3 must try breakfast recipes at the end of the book. Before you get those yummy recipes you will be tantalized by the descriptions of Dixie's cooking which must be good because Disco their retail neighbor seems to make an almost daily appearance. Everyone is quite neighborly as would be expected in a small town where everyone knows your name and if you skipped your usual muffin at breakfast they will be talking about before brunch rolls around. Small town but big secrets. Talking about rumors, the mill is churning when the prodigal Marchant boy comes home driving his fancy jag and fighting with his twin. In addition to being the designated taste tester, Sugar is also a designated driver for a group of lively seniors who take care of their own and fully expect Sugar to get to detecting when Alma becomes the victim of a hit and run.....with her own car...Needless to say, local law enforcement does not agree with Ms. Greer and her gang. You have got to love a story with lively seniors, they add a great touch of zest and small town seniors are the best! Great story line excellent characters!

Pet Cozies

Honest reviews are given in exchange for access to new stories via NetGalley and various publishers.

Homicide by Horseshow
By Arlene Kay
Published by Lyrical Press

Perri Morgan is back and this time she will need to do more than create exquisite riding harnesses for horses. Babette, Perri's socialite BFF wanted to help a horse farm but what she got was murder. Babette's personal assistant winds up dead, in her unmentionables, in Babette's bed and there is no way that Perri is going to let Babette take the fall for this. Of course, Perri isn't alone on her fact-finding mission as Wing Pruett, her hunky paramour and D.C.'s most eligible bachelor is hunting for his story. There are some viable suspects, some valuable horses, and some very funny goings on in this latest installment. I did feel that Peri should have been more confident in her relationship with Pruett after the first book. It seems as though the relationship progress that was made in the first book is gone and Peri is back to second guessing herself and Pruett's feelings for her. As always, I do love the care and effort that is made with regards to Peri's dogs and hope to one day see a Belgian Malinois as they sound quite regal.

Cat Got Your Crown
Written by Julie Chase
Published by Crooked Lane Books

Debutante turned Furry Godmother seamstress to pets and successful pupcake/tuna tart bakery owner. Lacy Crocker is a fun character who does her best to not embarrass her socialite Mother who would love nothing more than to have Lacy married to a socially responsible and eligible former volleyball star and practicing attorney bachelor named Chase Hawthorne. Chase is a childhood friend who always has her back but he isn't the one who raises her pulse. That would be handsome and financially well off Detective Jack Oliver, who would really like it if Lacy could keep herself out of his investigation and danger, just once. What is a Furry Godmother to do when the pageant MC falls down dead on the buffet table and before the body is even cold, Lacy manages to get herself threatened. Too many suspects thanks to the disreputable character

Death by Dog Show
Written by Arlene Kay
Published by Lyrical Press

Persephone "Perri" Morgan is a former Army K-9 unit officer and currently a leather smith crafting various useful and attractive dog and horse items that are all the rage. Her latest selling spot is a Massachusetts dog show venue. Accompanying her BFF the very posh Babette and her favorite little person, Ella, the daughter of Wing Pruett, DC's sexiest man, investigative reporter, and keeper of Perri's heart. Perri didn't expect to be involved in a murder investigation but when she stumbles upon a body shortly after Pruett she knows that she will do anything it takes to keep him off the suspect list. Perri and her ex-military Malinois boys Keats and Poe are on the trail of a killer who is no stranger to the dog show world. The victims have their fair share of enemies unlike Perri who is as down to earth and as likable as can be with a heart of gold and a mind like a steel trap. Great set of characters and I can't wait to read the next adventure Homicide by Horse Show available on October 15, 2019.

Left Fur Dead (Jules and Bun Mystery #1)
by J.M. Griffin
Published by Kensington Books

This was a new one for me, a bunny rescuing/yarn selling sleuth with a telepathic bunny side-kick. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and was able to guess part of the who done it but not the complete story or the why.  There did seem to be some back story that was missing or would be helpful to know so I am hoping that the next book dives into that a little bit more. The small-town feel and the character development between Jules and the Sheriff was a nice one, almost like a father/daughter feel to it. Jules is a fiercely independent gal and Bun is too cute for words. Just imagine a bulldog attitude and a wiggly bunny nose, absolutely precious in my mind. This story definitely gives a nod to therapy animals without explicitly getting into it but I could see how one aloof Andrew Stone could become a  regular if he doesn't wander off.