July New Cozy Reviews

Thank you to the authors, publishers, and NetGalley for providing these ARCs in exchange for honest reviews.

Body Over Troubled Waters
By Denise Swanson
Published by Poisoned Pen Press
Publish date July 27, 2021

Scumble River has a modern day Mayberry feel in that it is a small town with a slightly zany family, the Dooziers which adds to the fun aspect of the story even though they are not the main characters. I am also a huge fan of Uncle Charlie’s turn of phrase, like how he isn’t knocking on Death’s door, nope, he is playing doorbell ditch! Highly engaging and Skye and Wally are a well-rounded, crime solving, cozy couple. It did catch me off guard every time his Hummer was mentioned, not the standard police car, but hey, why can’t the Chief be the son of a multimillion dollar Dad? A nice blend of suspects, plenty of supportive characters that moved the story along, and a great ending. Definitely one that I will be adding to my watch list for series.  For my recipe testing I’ll be looking for a cinnamon streusel scone or sweet potato and ham casserole, or maybe both!

Murder She Edited

By Kaitlyn Dunnett
Published by Poisoned Pen Press
Publish date July 27, 2021

I do like the mature mystery solver aspect of this series. I also like how feisty Mikki is, so please do not try and compare her to Jessica Fletcher, she is a sleuth like no other. Very good storyline, easy to follow and keeps you turning the pages, even if you are not a slightly over-the-top fan girl. The murder was in the past but the danger is in the present. Nice plot development and some most excellent grammar tips!

Murder at the Lakeside Library

Series starter, with a rustic “Laker” library, you should be sure to “check it out!” I was instantly hooked by the tragic start, pulling on the heartstrings and making Rain an easy character to empathize with. She was looking for quiet reflection and what she got was a loud distraction. Engaging characters and a plot that keeps pace, not-to-mention a really nice pesto chicken recipe for grilling shared at the conclusion of the story.

June New Release Cozies

Thank you to the authors, publishers, and NetGalley for providing these ARCs in exchange for honest reviews.

Best Poppy McAllister book yet! Suffice it to say that if this is the last one we get, I will understand, I won't like it but I would understand. This episode was was like a microcosm of the series, but if it is your first Poppy novel, you need to start at the beginning to fully appreciate what this amazing character has gone through, what she has accomplished, and what she has sacrificed (especially gluten) to find her HEA. You will be able to keep up with the story line and all of the different characters, and I do mean characters LOL. From Aunt Ginny and the biddies to little Henry, the one guy who Poppy can fully give her heart to without worrying about what might happen. Oh and there is the usual mystery and intrigue as well as some highly humorous shenanigan's including glow sticks and the death of Rabbitzilla. Highly enjoyable with a mouthwatering menu follows the story that is perfect for an afternoon tea or to take to lunch during the week. I for one am looking forward to making/trying the chicken salad and hot cross buns. 

May New Release Cozies

Thank you to the authors, publishers, and NetGalley for providing these ARCs in exchange for honest reviews.

See Something (A Witch City Mystery #11)

Written by Carol J. Perry

Published by Kensington

Release date: May 25, 2021

Definitely the most suspenseful of the Witch City Mysteries, with a case of amnesia, a glimpse of a death, a reckless criminal, and some very tasty recipes. Lee has been promoted and is no longer running down the stories but that doesn't mean she isn't still racing to solve the crime, after all this isn't her first rodeo. Between shiny surfaces, O'Ryan the clever cat, Aunt Ibby and the Angels, Jane Doe is sure to recover from shock induced amnesia. Lee is content to work on her new job of programming tasks and making ready the new Ranger Rob and Katie the Clown plus a dog and pony show and she still ends up in the middle of the investigation. As good as any eagle eyed sharp shooter, Lee sees things that help to further the investigation but they also lead her further into danger. On the edge of my seat as I "turned" the pages of my Kindle app. Even if this is your first Witch City Mystery you will not have trouble keeping up with the characters and chances are that you will want to check out the other books as well. Oh and did I mention the enticing menu items mentioned throughout the story? At the end of the story you will find so many wonderful recipes. I have already tried two of them

Murder in a Scottish Garden
Written by Traci Hall
Published by Kensington 
Release date: May 25, 2021

Poor Paislee, all she wants to do is be a good Mom, run her yarn shop, help her Granddad and visit with the ladies on Knit and Sip night. You can't help but to root Paislee on as she tackles one challenge after another never thinking about herself, which is what gets her into possible legal trouble while on the field trip where the mystery really starts. There are moments when it seems like a glimmer of romance is possible but then she reminds herself and her BFF Lydia that she has her son Brody and he is all the man she needs, even when she turns heads during a night out dressed to the tens (because nines just isn't good enough).  Besides, she is rather busy helping DI Zeffer to solve crimes and this latest one had me guessing, so many suspects and red herrings. Paislee works her way through the suspects with her usual outgoing, helpful, and friendly demeanor, not to mention that she is doggedly determined. She is definitely someone who easily wins people over  You don't need to have read the series starter to be able to keep up, Paislee does a nice job of telling her story and bits of her back story as well. Looking forward to finding a chicken and leek soup or basil scone recipe. 

Mean and Shellfish (A Pennsylvania Dutch Inn Mystery)

Written by Tamar Myers

Published by Severn House Publishers

Release date: May 6, 2021

It has been a few years since I "visited" the town of Hernia run by Mayor Magdalena  Yoder, proprietress of the PennDutch Inn bed and breakfast. Mags is just as funny as I remember and not just chuckle funny but laugh out loud funny because she has a personality that is definitely bigger than her farm and the stories are filled with just as many charachters as it is with farm animals. The author does a great job of sprinkling in bits of back story so that the reader is never lost but rather  is as enticed to do the work and read the earlier stories. Doing the work is a popular theme in the PennDutch stories, after all people pay a great deal to get an honest to goodness Amish experience complete with mucking out stalls and schlepping their own luggage. This is one of the craziest PennDutch cozy yet and not just because there is a Billy Goat parade where one can throw candy at those who walk in the parade making goat noises, or because of the extremely unusual suspects, or the red herrings. Add it all together and you have a tired and true Magdalena Yoder Mystery complete with a very yummy recipe.

April New Release Cozies

 Thank you to the authors, publishers, and NetGalley for providing these ARCs in exchange for honest reviews.

Lemon Drop Dead (An Amish Candy Shop Mystery)

By Amanda Flowers

Published by Kensington

Release date: April 27, 2021

This story is very appropriately titled, Lemon Drop because the story is definitely bitter sweet but not just because of the death, no there are several different reason and several different stories going on, as usual, in this cozy. The multiple story lines woven throughout the story and the series draws you in and keeps you coming back for more. You are invested in not one character but in many and while the story would be entertaining even without the character development of Charlotte or Emily, it adds just the right flavor, like with the chocolate that Bailey works with. Although our story refers back to the series starter, you do not need to have read it to understand that Emily had a secret from her past that resurfaces in her present and will quite possibly lead to a happier future.  Cousin Charlotte has a secret of her own that comes out, although I think we all had a pretty good idea. Lastly is Baily, who is the best pig sitter ever with a heart of gold, a heart that was hurt and then mended and just maybe is ready for more. A very good storyline, great plot development, and I had no idea that the killer was the killer or why they did it until the very end. If you're wondering about the lemon drop candies, they are as easy as the sounds but you do need some patience waiting for the sugar to reach the hard ball stage and then don't wait too long when they cool before finishing them up.  

Southern Sass and Battered Bride
By Kate Young
Published by Kensington 
Release date: April 27, 2021

Every cozy protagonist needs a BFF like Betsy. She strikes me as the type who would bail you out if she wasn't already helping you hide the body, of course in this Southern Sass cozy, she is actually trying to help Marygene to find the body and trying not to strangle her cousin Alex, Marygene's former on again off again first love. There is a great depth of character in this story from the pain and anguish that Marygene feels, the lost and hopeless Alex, to the fierce loyalty of Bets and Aunt Vi. There is definitely something strange going on from the missing body to the bomb and back to the reappearing sweat suit clad bride. This one definitely twists and turns as clues surface and red herrings distract, they distract almost as well as as the suave Officer Javier, who shows Marygene something she needed to see, and her Mama told her something she needed to hear. Great story and equally great recipes, as usual!

From Port to Rigor Morte (A Wine Trail Mystery)

By J.C. Eaton

Published by Kensington

Release Date: April 20, 2021

Apparently when you stumble upon enough dead bodies, you become a bit of an expert at cadaver identification, at least in the eyes of an 11 year old.   Instead of a trip to the cost Norrie is  drawn into another murder mystery, this time it is to stop the impending arrival of  Catherine's son Steven. It seems like a lot of work, maybe it would be easier to have Bradley spend the weekend or to just point blank tell  Catherine that she is not available. It would be much much easier than dealing with Eli the kid who keeps finding dead bodies and getting into mischief. Not that Norrie needs any help or incentive to go sleuthing or in getting her friends like Theo and Don or her special friend Bradley to join in. Another wild adventure for Norrie that had me guessing about the way the pieces fit together. I like how she has tried multiple ways to keep her clues straight. Because there are way too many red herrings to not write that stuff down. How do these bodies/deaths link together and is it really about the Port or something else. It will keep you guessing so I suggest you grab something yummy from Wegmans and a glass of port or any other grape related libation and settle in for another Wine Trail Mystery. Of course the biggest mystery of all is when Norrie's sister and brother in law will be back from hunting rare bugs. I hope they stay away for at least 3 more books!

Mint Condition

By

Published by

Release date: April 20, 2021

You have just got to love it when a plan comes together, and Ellery Adams and Parker Riggs have crafted a story work of art. Molly Appleby is back and she has not one but three mysteries to solve if you include the meeting with her absent father. By absent I mean like a missing relic, the man was never a part of her life, at least she didn't think so. Even crazier than meeting the father you never knew is finding out that his Stepson is a possible suspect in the death of an antiques dealer whom Molly was supposed to interview for her job as a writer/reporter.  Thought it couldn't get any odder? Well there is a desk with a hidden drawer containing Civil War coins and a modern gun. If I don't have your attention or interest yet, I'm not sure what else I could say. Molly is an easy to relate to character who shares bits of her history with you while researching the history of items which keeps you from being lost between the suspects and the storyline. This story is accented in just the right amount of red herrings and misdirection to keep guessing until the end where you find yourself saying "wait, what did they just say?" Where you will then find yourself rereading a few pages. Great story that was born of a real life home renovation treasure find. 

Deadly Editions (Scottish Bookstore Mystery)

By Paige Shelton

Published by Kensington

Release date: April 6, 2021

A treasure hunt for a priceless first edition of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde has Delaney on a pub crawl of sorts that is being hosted by a most unusual benefactor.  has a very unique history and it seems to be clouding the present mystery. Delaney's bookish voices seemed unusually quiet this time around, but maybe it was because she had a partner in crime solving. Birk and Delaney team up to not only solve the strange case of the treasure hunt but to also work their way through the clues and red herrings surrounding the hunt's missing benefactress, Ms. Shelagh O'Conner. The usual and unusual characters of this series help to further the mystery along, Brigid and Delaney and manage to have a bit of compatible sleuthing when hunting down the history behind Mr. Hyde and the death of Shelagh's secret beau from long ago. I am not sure which part was more interesting, the treasure hunt/pub tours or the Jekyll & Hyde history that surrounded those pubs. It all worked together so well that a reader is drawn in regardless of this being their first Scottish Bookstore Mystery or their most recent. 

March New Release Cozies

Thank you to the authors, publishers, and NetGalley for providing these ARCs in exchange for honest reviews.

Big Little Spies (A Paws and Claws Mystery)

Written by Krista Davis

Published by Kensington 

Release date: March 30, 2021

Wagstail, N.C. is a town like no other, pets are pampered and attend amazing fundraising galas in cocktail collars and tasteful tiaras. The collaboration between cat, canine, and cozy sleuth. makes for an fun and furry story. Multiple story lines that intersect in unusual ways starting with oatmeal on a countertop, a missing pup, the death of a detective, and many suspects. Holly works her way through her chores at the B&B and the clues, fueled by fabulous food like a Florentine Havarti scramble and the desire to keep her boyfriend's Grandmother, Rose off of the suspect list. The past is a part of the mystery but which past and who's past plays the biggest part. This was my first Paws and Claws mystery and it will not be the last. The characters are relatable and the back story is shared, interwoven, so that the reader can follow along and enjoy the present without being familiar with the past.  

Bodies & Bows (Apron Shop Series)

Written by: Elizabeth Penney

Published by St. Martin's Paperbacks

Release date: March 30, 2021

Things are getting hectic at Ruffles & Bows, Iris Buckley's apron and linens shop, co-owned with her Grandmother. The summer is coming and tourists are pouring into Blueberry Cove, Maine, plus the group is heading up a Lighthouse Museum project that is sure to bring history to life or at least maybe give a long lost romance a second chance. It is a great place to sail or learn how to sail or even date a former Olympiad sailor, like Iris's friend Bella who was getting over the sting of divorce. This story has a plot that surges like a sewing machine, with multiple suspects and  is at the top of the list. There is no way that Iris is going to let Bella be set adrift by the obvious misdirection and blatant set up not unlike the red herrings that one needs to sift through. There is an important clue so be sure to pay attention when reading! No spoilers from me other than to tell you that it is an enjoyable book and while it is part of a series you do not need to have read the others to enjoy this one. 

Mrs. Morris and the Sorceress (A Salem B&B Mystery Book)

Written by Traci Wilton

Published by Kensington

Release date: March 30, 2021

She is a B&B host with the most and techno savvy ghost. This was my first Salem B&B Mystery but it will not be my last, it was easy to keep p with the characters thanks to the sprinkling of backstory. I will be going back and reading the series starter so I can see how Charlene met Jack and solved his mysterious death. I really enjoyed how the story included a smidge of stereotypical Salem i.e. wiccan/witch aspect through Charlene's friend, Kass. Ah but Kass is not the sorceress of which we speak, no that would be the victim, that would be Madison Boswell, who was not well liked by many but definitely captivated by others. With this group of thespians there is as much drama as there are suspects. Even the back stories have back stories. Charlene does a great job of helping Detective Sam Holden, who seems to appreciate the help she gives by passing on the info that she and Jack are able to gather from internet searches and asking questions. The story starts out with a historical play and ends with a Shakespeare classic and in between Charlene manages to take care of the B&B, provide wonderful happy hour snacks such as the warm chicken dip and white sangria. A good deal of red herrings can be found in this red, white, and blue Independence Day cozy mystery.  

Murder at the Taffy Shop (Cozy Caper Book Group)

Written by Maddie Day

Published by Kensington Books

Release date March 30, 2021

Bike shop owner Mackenzie "Mac" Almeida, bike shop owner, book group member, and tiny house resident is a character with a lot of character. Definitely a bit of character shading by adding her overwhelming need to have everything in it's place, all neat and tidy. In addition to being efficient Mac is also very friendly, which makes her a successful business person who is surrounded by a group of supportive friends and loved ones. Unlike the victim of the story, Beverly Ruchart, who does not induce warm and fuzzy feelings in others, and thereby creating multiple suspects. Mac's BFF, who clearly has no motive, falls under suspicion, making it imperative that the Cozy Capers book club get to the bottom of the mystery. As with the many cozies, local law enforcement, and the State investigator, are not too keen on the groups involvement but they are happy to be kept informed of all the local gossip and any tidbits that they amazingly efficient texting Capers can provide. In addition to a story line that does not go in a straight line, with twists and turns, red herrings, high and low emotions, there are also some wonderful recipes at the end of the story. Do not worry if this is your first Cozy Caper Book Group mystery because it was my first one and there was plenty of back story provided through out the book that I did not feel lost. Great story with great recipes at the end of the book, I tried my hand at the deviled eggs and really like the variation of avocado instead of mayo. 

Under the Cover of Murder (A Beyond the Page Bookstore Mystery)

By Lauren Elliott

Published by Kensington

Release date: March 30, 2021

Addie Greybourne is what one might refer to as a busybody but can she really help it if she finds herself in the wrong place at the right time? Stuck on a yacht with some questionable people and without Simon, Addie must #1 solve a crime #2 solve a murder #3 not get herself hurt in the process. Serena's big day goes off with a few hitches, namely a pushy Stepmom in Law with a highly questionable background, fancy title or not. If you are not familiar with this series, let me start by saying that Addie is like a pit bull, a very cute, very smart, pit bull. She knows her stuff, which the local law needs to remember...and she has a very inquisitive mind. You cannot help but to be enthralled with her rare book knowledge or to "heavy sigh" about her relationship with Simon. Yep, team Simon all the way, and looking forward to when Addie can say those words that we are all wanting to hear including Simon LOL. So, we have a crew of questionable characters, and some of them are actually members of the crew. So many sneaky people on this boat that you begin to wonder who isn't up to no good. Loads of clues and just as many red herrings! Good thing that Serena was off on her honeymoon or I am sure she would have lost it even more. 

Picture Perfect Frame (A Tourist Trap Mystery)

By Lynn Cahoon

Published by Kensington

Release date: March 16, 2021

Welcome to South Cove, a northern California coastal town where Jill and friends spend an evening at the local art studio with a little paint and sip event where tension saturates the room just as much as the paint saturates the canvas. Jill is actually pretty good with handling tension as she helps her BFF get ready for her wedding day in addition Jill not only manages a coffee/book shop but she also manages to keep honeymoon secrets, faith in her psychic friend/neighbor Esmeralda, and her wits when she is asking questions and hunting down clues. This time it seems that Jill needs to watch her back more than usual which keeps her roommate-boyfriend-Chief of Police close at hand to keep an eye on her. I found myself wanting to caution Jill but was happy to see that she did not take unnecessary risks  as she has in the past. The character is so well written/created you cannot help but to develop reactions as you read the story. I was also very happy with the ending and hope that there are still a few more Tourist Trap Mysteries in store for us readers. As always, a recipe is located at the conclusion of the story and this one looks to be quite decadent and ooey gooey!

A Sprinkle of Sabotage (A Nosey Parker Mystery)

Written by Fiona Leitch 

Published by One More Chapter

Release date: March 11, 2021

Jodie might get stuck in a potato sack as a movie extra but she is a star when comes to subbing for the on-set caterer. That is until the leading man serves blowfish at a small birthday dinner party. The story has you guessing as to whether it was a an accidental poisoning or if it was intentional. Jodie is as cheeky as always and feeling confused about what she is feeling/thinking about her best mate who does a Mr. Darcy (when did he get a 6 pack, eh?) and then there is DI Withers who causes her to ... yeah you get the picture, but he gets a great job offer from his old precinct. While on set,  Jodie knows that something just isn't quite right and all that movie drama isn't helping. For the first time Nathan realizes that it is better to work with Jodie than against her and they officially team up to solve this medieval movie mystery. I almost jumped to the end because I was so into the story and the relationship development that I was tempted to see if it was going to make me cry or make me cry.  Yep I cried, not gonna tell you why, as Jodie would say, you need to work it out yourself. I REALLY like how the recipe reads as if Jodie is reading it to you, and those tempura fritters were so good that I sampled a few before serving them to the family. Quality assurance after all! 

A Deadly Chapter (Castle Bookshop Mystery)

Written by Essie Lang

Published by Crooked Lane Books

Release date: March 9, 2021

Shelby Cox, bookseller and town newbie didn't have to go far to find a body this time, right outside her "door" and of course she is going to be curious since the victim was in her shop just a few days before looking for someone. Feeling as if she needs to get to the bottom of this mystery, after all, the victims distraught daughter is in town demanding answers and the list of suspects seems to be growing, Shelby is well on her way to irritating the local law. In addition to worrying Sheriff Stone and Aunt Edie, Shelby's boyfriend/Coast Guard investigator, Zack, who is working out of town on a secondment, begs her to be careful. You cannot help but be caught up in the sleuthing path that Shelby takes us on or agreeing with the need to ask questions. After all, this isn't her first time around murder or mystery, it is the first time it has been "dropped" almost right on her door/boat step. Shelby is completely relatable and you can't help but like her new BFF, Erica, owner of the shop Chocomania which sells the best truffles! I really wish that Erica would share a recipe or two! I was a little worried up until the end but am happy to see that it all worked out. Looking forward to the next Castle Bookshop Mystery. And I am quite serious about those truffle recipes!     

Fatal Fried Rice (A Noodle Shop Mystery)
Written by: Vivien Chien

Published by: St. Martin Paperbacks

Release date: March 9, 2021

Who would blame Lana for wanting to take a cooking class in another town? Unfortunately it looks like murder is on the menu and she still isn't going to be any closer to mastering the kitchen. To make matters worse, guess who is at the top of the suspect list? Lana gets support from all of her friends in this one, from her boyfriend, handsome Detective Adam Trudeau, to Peter the Ho-Lee Noodle House Chef and of course roommate Megan and life long friend Kimmy. Kimmy adds quite a bit of sass in this one, making it LOL funny at times. I must say that I am always surprised as to just how tight plaza community is in these books, the Mahjong Matrons are always full of great tips and the hairdressers are definitely excellent source of intel aka gossip.  A few well placed red herrings make for clever distractions not to mention how great all the foods sound. I REALLY wish there were recipes at the end of the books (HINT- HINT).

February New Release Cozies

 Thank you to the authors, publishers, and NetGalley for providing these ARCs in exchange for honest reviews.

Death by Chocolate Snickerdoodle (Death by Chocolate Mystery)

By: Sarah Graves

Published by: Kensington

Release date: February 23, 2021

Jake and Ellie should really consider getting proper PI licenses with all of the work they do, plus they could consult with Sheriff Bob, that is if he doesn't finally lock them up to keep them safe. This is one action packed sleuthing adventure and the story will have you constantly guessing as to who did in Alvin because we all know it wasn't Billy. A crazy amount of red herrings and partial solutions. As always, Jake and Ellie manage to pull each other into one situation after another. I think that this was the most action packed installment yet and it gave some excellent backstory regarding Jake's past employment with a certain unethical group of people. My only complaint is that while I really like the chocolate sauce recipe, I was hoping for the chocolate snickerdoodle recipe. 

Furbidden Fatality (A Catskills Pet Rescue)

By Deborah Blake

Published by: Berkley 

Release date: February 23, 2021

What would you do if you won the lottery, I'm not sure that I would purchase a pet rescue at the insistence of a forceful feline that needs rescuing but it sure makes for an interesting cozy setting!  Kari Stuart was living day to day, without a purpose but it seems that fortune has favored her and life is giving her a direction. A direction and a challenge as the animal shelter needs a savior, a handyman, and a sleuth when the antagonistic animal control guy ends up dead on the property while seeming to have been caught causing trouble. We know that Kari didn't do the deed and obviously this killer has hands instead of paws so her wards are off the hook, but both Kari and the former owner are high on the suspect list. The cops don't seem to want to help, or at least the lead investigator and his sidekick, the Chief is completely by the book which can be good and bad as vandals endanger the animals and set the restoration attempts back further. Fortunately for Kari, her furry companion won't let her quit and there just might be some help from the new vet as well. Highly entertaining, great red herrings, and a very nice way to remind people that there are fur babies that need help too. This story reminded me of my desire to volunteer at a local shelter, now to finish the proper paperwork. 

Hop Til You Drop (A Jules and Bun Mystery)

By: J.M. Griffin

Published by: Kensington

Release date: February 23, 2021

Juliette and Bun are back and this time they are hiding eggs and finding bodies. Jules and Bun make a dynamic and psychically linked duo, which is decidedly different and unique. This time Jules is actually invited to use her people skills by Sheriff Carver. There is also a hint of romantic interest, perhaps to be expounded on in later stories, because Jules reassures Bun that he is the only guy for her. She is entirely too busy between the rabbit sanctuary and the wool shop she is up to her ears in work and has no time for a romantic involvement even if it does seem that she is turning a few heads. Of course this does seem to happen in conjunction with finding dead bodies or finding herself injured. Truly entertaining, and who couldn't love a Bunny with "super powers" as a side-kick!

Long Island Iced Tea (A Catering 

By: Maria DiRico

Published by: Kensington Books

Release date: February 23, 2021

Mia Carina is a feisty one, and who wouldn't be if they had family with a little "f" that had to deal with the Family with a big "F".  Doing her best to get the new Belle View Banquet Manor Event/Catering venue up and running while keeping her Dad, former Family lieutenant, on the straight and narrow.  The plot is excellent and the story/character development keeps you anchored to your seat as if you wearing a pair of concrete galoshes. No one really misses Tina, and the best that can be said about her is that she was a looker. Otherwise she was something else that we cannot repeat, at least not in English. I will forever think of New York Iced Tina when I hear the words pasta puttanesca and I will most likely snicker. I am looking forward to the further driving adventures of Mia and how things work out with her new marketing manager, wink wink!

Murder at the Beacon Bakeshop (A Beacon Bakeshop Mystery#1)

By Darci Hannah

Published by

Release date: February 23, 2021

Eating a donut may be bad for your health but it most certainly should not be deadly! Lindsey Bakewell (and yes she can), former financial wonder woman and recovering baker (recovering from a jerk fiancé) has decided to leave New York for a quite lake town in Michigan, after all, she made it there, so she and her pup Wellington, can make it anywhere. Buying a dilapidated landmark lighthouse, thereby saving it from developers, and renovating it into a bake shop and home, she has her work cut out for her. You would think that the preservation society would be happy, you would think. You can tell right away that this is one determined character. She has a lot riding on opening day and doesn't help that her ex-fiancé shows up with his girlfriend and her followers/friends to cause a mess of trouble and a mess. While Lindsey might have wished that Mia would just choke on her words she did not mean for her to choke to death! Teaming up with her sexy and secretive book writing, former military, neighbor is going to get to the bottom of this mystery because there is more than just dough riding on the outcome. Your typical cozy town with some extremely awesome characters, especially her pup who Perfect series starter and the recipes, OMG, I think I gained 10 pounds just reading through them! 

Murder in an Irish Bookshop (An Irish Village Mystery)

By: Carlene O'Connor

Published by: Kensington

Release date: February 23, 2021

Siobhan is so lucky! A new bookshop and just in time for her birthday, if only she had some free time or a really good reason to go into the store and look around. Oh wait, there is a murder in the store and apparently it was the same time as her surprise birthday party. Well if that isn't a good reason to be a little bookish I am not sure what is! In addition to the new bookshop owners are a few authors who are in town for  a potential book deal with a well to do agent. Authors can oh so dramatic, but then again so is half of the couple that owns the bookshop, requiring people to quote James Joyce or other notable Irish writers to be granted entry to the store, and not allowing the usual fiction. Tsk Tsk, that sounds awfully fishy to me. Plenty of red herrings for Siobhan, Macdara, and the new recruit to chase down, and some of them are quite obvious to Siobhan.  I won't giveaway any of the plot but I will tell you that this one is a great follow up to the Christmas episode as it seems that we are getting closer to a wedding date! Oh and the Irish Beef Stew is amazing, especially when served with Siobhan's brown bread. 

Shucked Apart

By Barbara Ross

Published by:

Release date: February 23, 2021

Without giving too much away I would suggest starting at the beginning of the series because if you start with this one and you are a classic cozy reader you are going to feel a little sad at the end. This story, this sleuth. Andie Snowden, really came to life for me and even without all of the back story I had just enough to be able to navigate the river of clues. And what a  variety of clues there were and no one was above suspicion, except for Andie, who has enough experience flushing out the truth that even the state police Major Crimes unit. This quickly goes from a high priced robbery to a homicide. There are several red herring and some tasty looking recipes at the end of the story. I do hope that the story goes on. I am always amazed at how much I learn in cozies, like this one and the way oysters are grown and harvested, the different stages of development and how brackish vs fresh water influences the flavor.  

A Side of Murder (A Cape Cod Foodie Mystery Book #1)

By Amy Pershing

Published by: Kensington Books

Release date: February 23, 2021

I love series starters, you get to be there from the beginning and you also get a little of the history for context. In addition to history,  Sam has some notoriety in case you aren't up on your YouTube chef knife fights. Going back home to have a fresh start and an old house is just what this chef needed, some good friends old and new and a slobbery ginormous puppy too! You instantly take a liking to   even if she was too tall for a girl. Personally, I wouldn't mind some more height myself. This story had quite the plot patterns, definitely resembled a nest of sweet Vidalia onion rings, interlocking but still separate. Oh and the things you learn about Sam's friends, organic veggies, secret trysts, a "quiet" librarian, and the Harbor Master (swoon)! This mystery kept me guessing, except for the romance, I knew that was going just the way it needed to. I do like a happy ending and cannot wait to read the next one!

Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Murder (A Hannah Swanson Mystery)

By Joann Fluke

Published by: Kensington Books

Release date: February 23, 2021

Hannah is still getting over the death of her marriage/ex-husband/thoughts of romance. Moishe her beloved kitty refuses to set a paw back in the condo so Hannah and Moishe are staying with Norman. What Hannah needs is a distraction and Andrea's fiercely protective attitude gives Mayor Bascomb a proper slap-down for shouting disparaging things about both Andrea and her husband, police Chief Bill. Unfortunately, Andrea also  to discovers his dead body after when she returns to City Hall to apologize. This time Bill cannot investigate and Mike actually asks Hannah and Norman to help. It seems that the Mayor has made a few more enemies than friends including but not limited to his own wife. So many suspects and so many recipes, where does one start? My rational mind says to start with the chocolate because we like chocolate but my suspicious mind says that a triple chocolate cheesecake could be too decadent and I should start with the Stroganoff Light. One thing that they both can agree on is that Hannah needs to let go of her fears and look at what/who is right in front of her. Team Norman all the way! 

A Brush With Death (A Nosey Parker Cozy Mystery #2)

By Fiona Leitch

Published by: One More Chapter

Release date: February 12, 2021

There is a certain art to cooking, especially cake decorating and there is a certain art to actual art. Jodie (Nosey) Parker, former Met beat cop now a sleuthing caterer with a wicked wit, who also has excellent recipes at the end of her stories, is doing what she does best, using her nosy/investigative skills. This time though there is a little bit more involved as she feels inexplicably drawn to guest artist,  Duncan Stovall. His marriage is a joke but his art is amazing and Jodie figures that he might just be her cabbage picker, if he isn't a murderer that is. An author who said he had a hot lead dies, the book writing wife who seems like an ice princess, and a financial wizard turned art seller who is obviously the guy who defrosts the princess.  DI Withers is becoming accustomed to Jodie's help but he is sending some mixed signals on a personal level and then there's her best mate, Tony, who says he will be there to help pick up the pieces and promises not to judge when her fling is flung. So why does Jodie feel twinges of guilt? In addition to the men in her life, Jodie has her Mom, daughter Daisy, and to keep her grounded. Excellent story and ended just the way I was hoping and somewhat expecting, I was surprised by who did the deed and why. 

Hiss H for Homicide ( A Nick and Nora Mystery)

By T.C. Lotempio

Published by: Beyond the Page Books

Release date: February 9, 2021

I liked this one very much and the not so subtle nod to the iconic mystery solving married couple, Nick and Nora Chase. Furry Nick is quite the charmer and a very talented feline but his penchant for Scrabble tiles and ability to get his point across to Nora. Nora is a feisty former investigative reporter who is as smart as she is stubborn. I had no problem keeping up with the plot or the characters. I will point out that I am not a fan of the more than one romantic possibility but if Special Agent Daniel doesn't make it exclusive why shouldn't Nora go down the "what if" path with Samms. I'll tell you why, it never works out well, that is why, pick a guy and move on. Rant over.   Great story with some colorful characters and excellent sandwich recipes that I will be needing to try ASAP. I was derailed by one red herring thinking much like the Feds, that a mob boss is going to claim to be innocent, but how innocent could he really be?  Highly entertaining and even made me want to see about getting or streaming a copy of The Thin Man while enjoying one of those tasty sounding sandwiches. Gotta love the classic PI movie mojo! Oh and who is Nick Atkins anyway?? 

Murder With a View (A House-Flipper Mystery)

By Diane Kelly

Published by St. Martin's Paperbacks

Release date: February 9, 2021

Whitney Whitaker and her cousin Buck weren't expecting murder when they started the Music City Motor Court makeover. This was my first House-Flipper Mystery and it was extremely easy to get into the story and keep up with the various characters. Just enough backstory was incorporated when needed without disrupting the flow of the plot/scene. While I know nothing about remodeling a home, much less a hotel, I was able to visualize exactly what Whitney and Buck were doing as they demolished and renovated. Jimmy, the vet turned vagabond was an interesting character and a nice nod of respect to those who are or have served. Plenty of suspects from a dissed diva, some star struck groupies, the boys in the band and a mysterious JC. Just like any good cozy, this one comes with great friends, a playful per named Sawmill (too cute and all too appropriate) a little bit of romance, and a cooperative cop, who is also part of the romance portion.  Great story that kept me glued to the book like shingles on a roof!

Studying Scarlett the Grey (Undercover Cat Mysteries)

By: Kelle Z Riley

Release date: February 2, 2021

Bree is back and younger than ever, or at least her latest undercover assignment has her looking like a kid. An amazing chemist, an amazing spy, an amazing baker, an amazing girlfriend. Plenty of red herrings and some great suggestions on what to do if you get stuck in a trunk. There were quite a few bits of mystery to this one and the murder is really going to shock you. I really liked the progression of both the story and the relationships. A little bittersweet but since I am a huge fan of exclusivity I think that Bree has made the right choice, She may be a lady who can blend into any crowd and go unnoticed but that doesn't mean she isn't doesn't turning heads. The blending of science, sleuthing, and of course, baking is an amazing combination and I cannot wait to try both the cookies and the rat-loaf.

January New Release Cozies

Thank you to the authors, publishers, and NetGalley for providing these ARCs in exchange for honest reviews.

One Poison Pie

By Lynn Cahoon

Published by Kensington Books

Release date: January 29, 2021

This book has all the ingredients of a great cozy, a little paranormal, a little romance, a strong main character with super supportive friends/family and best of all its a culinary cozy! I read this story in one day, it was so good that I just could not put it down and have already downloaded the one before it so that I can start at the beginning. Not that you need to know how Mia ended up in Magic Springs or what trouble she became mixed up in shortly after she arrived. Mia is a different type of witch, a kitchen witch. I instantly think of those little stuffed dolls that were popular in the early 80s and have the sudden desire to get one and name it Mia. Mia's familiar/kitchen doll is named Gloria and I am absolutely mesmerized by the character development that went on to show the relationship between Mia and Gloria. I like how Mia makes mental lists to keep herself on track, or to at least try and keep herself on track. She is definitely wavering when it come to Trent Majors, and who could blame her after the last guy, he who shall not be named/Isaac. Magic Springs is definitely a magical place and I am eager to read the next book as well as trying out new recipes.

Death Bee Comes Her (An Oregon Honeycomb Mystery #1)
By Nancy Coco
Published by: Kensington Books
Release date: January 26, 2021

A Havana Brown, Halloweentown week, and homicide, plus an an ecologically forward thinking shop owner who is as busy as the bees she advocates for. Wren Johnson has been so busy getting her Let it Bee business up and running that she hasn't had time for much else outside of the daily walk that she and her harnessed cat,  go on each day by the beach. A very likeable main character with a supportive couple of side characters and the fact that there are recipes laced throughout the book makes this a honey of a story. The mystery itself had very few red herrings but lots of page turning action and poor was stung when it came to a little romance (there is definite potential just not sure which guy). Not sure what will develop in the next book but I am looking forward to a possible frenemy subplot and maybe a little groveling by a certain male character. I look forward to making some tasty cookies helpful home remedies. 

Death by Intermission (An Abby McCree Mystery)

By: Alexis Morgan

Published by : Kensington Books

Release date: January 26, 2021

Abby McCree is dealing with more than just a murder, this time she is also having to deal with her MOM. Amazing scene writing, made me feel like I was in the room with Abby as she tried her best to maintain her cool while also trying to be a supportive sleuth. I was almost surprised that the book didn't catch on fire between the sparks of contention from the McCree women or the sparks of romance between Abby and Trip. I will also admit that at one point in the store I sucked in my breath and thought "OH NO," when Abby and Trip had a big disagreement. Gist of the story is that Abby is still relatively new to town but she has decided that Snowberry Creek is going to be her town, her home, and her future, and her Mom needs to deal with it. At the same time, Phoebe McCree has decided that she likes spending time with the new BBQ man of mystery, Owen even if it means spending time with him in jail because he is a person of interest. Abby can't let her Mom down or the a variety of other people even though she may be putting her new and fragile relationship with Trip on the line. He hates it when she is in trouble or danger. Great story, great character development that can stand on it's own without needing to have read the three books that came before. Oh, but you will want to read them just to see how it all started.

Ink and Shadows (Secret, Book, and Scone Society Mystery #4)

By Ellery Adams

Published by: Kensington Books

Release date: January 26, 2021

The words Ink and Shadows are the perfect description for this Secret, Book, and Scone Society mystery. Ink for the tattoos and ink for the books, shadows from the past and shadows in the present.  A strong story featuring a strong group of friends who show that they will not be intimidated by the shadowy thoughts of the Women of Lasting Values as Nora and Sheldon create a jaw dropping window display featuring powerful women, fierce females as Sheldon calls them. This story shows the power of community when used for good as the Society shows to young Bren, and her mother, Celeste as well as the power of community used to intimated as we learn from Celeste's past and the WOLV of the present. We get a nice glimpse into Nora's past with the introduction of an old friend who would make a wonderful addition to the crew on occasion. Nora has a lot to deal within addition to the murder and standing up to the unreasonable prejudice against her window display, the pleading in Jed's voice is heart wrenching. Great story about support, the support you give and the support you receive. 

A Tourist Guide to Murder

By VM Burns

Published by Kensington Books

Release date: January 26, 2021

Sam and the gang go on holiday to a British B&B that incorporates a mystery centered tour. that inadvertently contributes a murder mystery as well. One would need to be on their game to have a CLUE on how to begin to solve this conundrum. Sam, aspiring writer and mystery bookstore owner must up her game. The Yanks will need to rely on their various skills as they go from room to room, suspect to suspect, and all while still enjoying their tour, good thing they each have their own skills that pair perfectly with their personality. Oh and Sam still manages to find time to work on her historical novel, which one of the reasons they are in England to begin with.

Undercover Kitty (A Second Chance Cat Mystery)

By: Sophie Ryan

Published by: Berkley

Release date: January 26, 2021

While Elvis may be a star at the Atlantic Coast Cat Show it is and the combined super sleuthing of Sarah, Rose, and Mr. P that really takes first place. Who would have thought that a cat show would be the place of so much drama? Ah, but drama there is, from mischief to murder. A well thought out plot with multiple mysteries and I was so wrapped up in the story that I, unlike Elvis, forgot to eat my tuna fish salad lunch thank goodness I was inspired to recreate Mac's lasagna rolls. I would never have guessed that you could start a fire with potato chips. In addition to this new information, each character offers much to the story, although I was wondering who Rose and Charlotte thought that should be matching Nick up with since the only other eligible character was Jess, since she wasn't really dating Sarah's brother Liam. In addition to the sleuthing aspect, I was intrigued by the Second Chance store and the wonderful repurposing ideas that Mac, Avery, Charlotte, and came up with. I might just need to find myself some tea cups and zebra plants for a fairy garden.

The Broken Spine (A Beloved Bookroom Mystery)

By: Dorothy St. James

Published by Berkley

Release date: January 19, 2021

This Southern set cozy is part murder mystery and part rescue mission, rescuing the library books that are about to end up in the landfill so the town can have a bookless library. Would you think that Trudell Becket, yes she is Beckets' girl (everyone seems to know her Dad), is a mild mannered librarian? I think not! Tru is an amazing and multifaceted character who is passionate about the the books, her friends, Dewey the formerly homeless cat, and her freedom, since she obviously did not kill the city manager. There is more than one mystery to this story and a few well crafted red herrings, plus a possible love interest. That is, if Tru, can let go the hurts and wrongs of the past.  

Murder on the Menu (A Nosey Parker Mystery)

By Fiona Leitch

Published by

Release date: January 15, 2021

She left the Met to quell her daughter's Daisy's fears, she moved back to her home town because she needed distance from her ex who was more of a donor than a Dad, and she started a catering business because cooking calmed her. She didn't expect to have to help get an old friend off the suspect list, temporarily take care of a white fluffball (like that was really going to be temporary after her daughter met the pup), or be aggravated and enticed by DCI Withers. Jodie (Nosey) Parker is an ace detective even if she isn't walking the London beat anymore, and you have have to respect her quick wit, dogged determination, and loyalty to family and friends. My first, but not my last Nosey Parker mystery.

A Curious Incident ( A Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery)

By: Vicki Delany

Published by

Release date: January 12, 2021

A pup, peonies, and partners make for a curious mystery in this latest Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery. The last thing that Gemma Doyle expected to do was take a case for $10 from a little girl, or to give temporary lodgings to her new "client." There is a lot more than flowery sentiment going on in the Garden Club where tempers flair, something definitely smells and it is not just the fertilizer. Is this a case of ivy envy or could there be a more nefarious explanation? Gemma and Jayne are hot on the trial of clues even if Detective/boyfriend Ashburton does not agree. One thing that I have noticed in this series is that as they go on, Gemma becomes just a little bit more sentimental and like a slightly overbaked macaron, her hard shell is cracking just a bit. Oh but Jayne's macarons would never be overbaked and I absolutely love the idea of tea with raspberry macarons and mini coconut cupcakes!

Room With a Roux (A Pancake House Mystery)

Written by Sarah Fox

Published by Lyrical Press

Release date: January 12, 2021

They went to the mountains for a little quiet time and what they found was a body in a snowbank. Marley, who is known for being unable to leave a mystery alone, and husband Brett plan a snowy mountain getaway at Holly Lodge only to have to cut their trip short when one of the owners is found dead, murdered. Back in Wildwood Cover and trying to get ready for Christmas with not one but four trees to decorate, Marley has plenty on her plate, and not just the yummy gingerbread muffins or cinnamon pancakes either (recipes included).  From disappearing ornaments to red headed ghost sightings and a slew of questions to be asked, Marley is definitely up to figuring out the who done its in this one.  A story with some great characters and the plot build up was like a snowball rolling down the hill, gaining speed and getting bigger until the finish and the big reveal. I was right about the murderer but not the motive.

 

Pawsitively Betrayed (A Witch of Edgehill Mystery)
By: Melissa Erin Jackson
Published by Ringtail Press
Release Date: January 10, 2021

The last book in the series and the best one yet. Little mouse, Amber, has the weight of the world on her shoulders and a very supportive cast of characters have got her back. All Amber wants to do is make her enchanted toys, enjoy her family and friends, and fall asleep watching Vamp World with her boyfriend Jack. She deserves to be able to do all those things but the Penhallows and their cursed magic will not rest until they get her family grimoires and change the past to over-write the present. The Penhallows are on the move as they go for broke or rather as they try to break Amber. Amber is the perfect cozy character, she thinks of others before herself and questions her abilities which are really quite amazing. You get a nice prologue at the start of each story which helps to lay the groundwork for the new story but you will really want to start with the first book because she grows so much as a character. There are laughs, tears, family, friends, rivals, frenemies, cats (of course) and fate of Edgehill and maybe even magic itself.. It has been a wonderful journey and while I would love for this story to continue it does have the loose ends tied up very nicely.

Killer Comfort Food ( A Farm-to-Fork Mystery)
By Lynn Cahoon
Published by:
Release date: January 5, 2021

The weather is cold and the outlook on saving the farm from rezoning is bleak. That won't stop Angie Turner, part owner at the County Seat restaurant, from getting things  accomplished including a little sleuthing. An array of characters make their way into this latest Farm to Fork Mystery from a missing daughter, ladies who yoga (instead of the ladies who lunch), land developers, an unidentified murder victim, and a shifty ex-husband.  The County Seat family gets busy not only with food prep and dinner service but also with helping Nancy, one of the cooks to protect her family. She isn't the only one who seems to need protecting, as Ian does his best body guard impression and sticks to Angie like gum on a shoe to keep her safe. Funny thing is she still manages to find trouble, but at least she keeps everyone apprised of her sleuthing. This series definitely shows illustrates that sometimes the family you choose is the best family of all. There isn't much that this crowd won't do for each other and I like the subtle faith references, not something you see much these days in most fiction. I also appreciate the various food dishes that are mentioned and look forward to making the Quick Cookies recipe found at the conclusion of the story!