Cozy Review: Better Late Than Never

 * Book 7 in the Library Lovers Series *

Much to the dismay of Miss Cole, Lindsey decides to host an Amnesty Day at the library. People are returning tons of books. When a copy of Catcher in the Rye turns up after twenty years, the staff is pleased with the condition - until Miss Cole realizes who checked out the book.

It was checked out by a local teacher - on the day of her murder twenty years ago. More than a little curious, Lindsey takes the book the police, wondering if the clue can help solve a cold case. She's not above asking questions and sniffing out answers.

But could twenty years be too late? Or is the returning of the book proof that the murderer is back in town?

My Thoughts: I loved this book - for the library scenes, for the Nancy Drew mention, for the Cupcake series  shout out, for the friendships, and for the romance. I love the characters in this book series, especially the library workers. They complete the series for me. I loved the plot line of a twenty year old book reopening a murder case. I love how Lindsey searched for clues with the help of Robbie. I loved meeting the high school librarian (and her flirtation). I loved the moments between Lindsey and Sully. This series is always entertaining and enjoyable reads. I can't wait for the next one.

Cover Thoughts: Love it!
Source: My Library

Library Recommendation: A must have series for all cozy collections.

Christmas Book Review: Deck the Hallways

* Book 4 in the Fixer-Upper Mystery series *

Shannon's having a hard time getting into the Christmas spirit, but working on the Forester House project where she's in charge of carving up a beautiful Victorian home into 10 apartments for homeless folks. The apartments will be ready just before Christmas. It's a lot of work just organizing all the workers and the volunteers.

But when a man from the bank is found on site, murdered with her father's tools, it's enough to make anyone feel like Scrooge - especially since this man could get under anyone's skin. The list of suspects grows by the minute.

Shannon knows her father isn't a murderer, but proving it will take time. Plus with the house a crime scene, it puts everyone further behind schedule. Can the house be finished and a murdered caught in time for Christmas?

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this installment of the series. I loved how the whole town pitched in to help create these apartments. It was so thoughtful and heartwarming. I loved the Santa brigade and how they came dressed to impress. I liked learning more about Shannon's father. I didn't like the romance turn in this book, but I'm glad things changed. I adored the teenage girls and their helpfulness. The moments with the baby made me tear up. Another winner in this great series; I can't wait to read more. 

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Purchase for this series for your cozy collection, it's unique and entertaining. 

Mysterious Saturday Review: Premonition of Murder

 * Book 3 in the Dream Club Mystery series *

When Taylor and Ali are invited to lunch at the famous Beaux Reeves mansion, they couldn't be happier. Unfortunately, they're only shown the outside of the house. It's reclusive heiress wants to pick their brains.

She's had a premonition of her death. The sister reassure her that dream interpretation can take on many forms. Relief eases the heiress's mind.

However, her dream becomes reality. Ali and Taylor are heartbroken and determined to discover the culprit. Could this death be connected to the past?

My Thoughts: I really love this series - for the Southern mentions, the candy shop, the sisters, and the dream club. I love that differences between the Dream Club members. I adored learning more about the displays in the candy story. Dana is amazing! I loved learning more about the mansion and items inside. I enjoyed the moments with Noah. Of course the food mentioned at the dream club meeting make my mouth water. Looking forward to the next addition in the series.

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Recommended for your cozy section

Mysterious Saturday Review: Newlywed Dead

* Book 3 in the Perfect Proposal series *

Pepper wants to make sure her sister has the perfect wedding - and she almost pulls it off. Luckily for her, the happy couple left before the bartender was murdered.

Pepper spent time talking with the bartender and she didn't seem disoriented. Yet when the tox screen comes back, it shows signs of drugs.

Pepper knows in her heart that Ashley was murdered - she just has to prove it.

My Thoughts: I really love this series - for the parties and proposals Pepper plans, for the relationships, and for the romance. I like how ethical Pepper is with her business and setting up people. I love how she plans parties for people - adding personal details to make it perfect for them. She has a kind heart, which allows her to make personal connections and great friendships. 

I like how she struck up a conversation with the bartender and how this murder became personal to her. I like her determination and her ability not to assume the worst of people.  I hope there are many more to this mystery series!

Cover Thoughts: Adorable
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Great series - recommended for the collection

Mysterious Saturday Review: Diva Serves High Tea

 * Book 10 in the Domestic Diva series *

Sophie attends a high tea event at a new shop - The Parlour. She's loving the tea and goodies. Gossip flows between friends and she learns about Robert, the owner of the new antique store in town. He's caught the eye of several ladies.

When Sophie finds him near death, she becomes suspicious. As she calls for help, he chokes out one last word. Rosie.

What could he mean?  Who is Rosie?

Before long, the neighborhood's getting jumpy with dark shadows and misunderstandings. Could there be a killer on the loose?

My Thoughts: I adore this series for the small town charm, the amusing neighbors, the food, the romance, and the friendships. This installment of the series hits the spot. The interactions between the neighbors adds layers to the plot, woven perfectly with moments from the past. I love the personal side details between Sophie and Natasha. I'm not a huge fan of Natasha, but I love her as a character. I can't wait to read the next book! 

Cover Thoughts: Charming as always
Source: Book sent for review

Final Thoughts: Great food and great friends make this series a winner - add this cozy to your list of books to read this summer. 

Mysterious Saturday Review: Vanilla Beaned

* Book 8 in the Cupcake Bakery mystery series *

Against her better judgement, Mel decided to look into the possibility of franchising her bakery. She and Angie and Tate are headed to Vegas to check things out.

Only Tate and Angie miss the first meeting. It ends quickly as the building blows up killing one person and injuring another. That's all it takes for Mel to want to back out of the whole idea (besides the fact that Holly looks nothing like a baker.)

When they look at a shop the next day, another accident happens. At first Mel thinks it's just a coincidence, but then she's not too sure. Someone doesn't want this deal to go through...

My Thoughts: I love this series! I really liked the field trip to Vegas and the idea of opening a new bakery. I loved meeting Holly - I like how she explained her life and how she saw the bakery as a opportunity to be a better parent. I really loved her daughter Sydney. She was adorable, sassy, and smart. Of course I love the baking moments. I adored that ending - both the sweet and the cliffhanger. Now I need the next book immediately!

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: If you're a cozy reader and you haven't read this series yet, get yourself to a library and grab these mouthwatering reads. You won't regret it!

Mysterious Saturday Review: Copy Cap Murder

* Book 4 in the Hat Shop Mystery series *

Scarlett's missing home, but she's happy to have a party as a distraction. It's her first Guy Fawkes day celebration. The night promises fun and adventure - but turns out deadly.

Scarlett has a man attack her. Luckily she's able to escape. But later the man turns up murdered. It's no leap of faith for the police to suspect her or Harrison as the murderer.

Scarlett knows that she and Harrison are both innocent. When the police reveal that Harrison is their prime suspect, Scarlett and her cousin get to work.They won't rest until his name is clear. But someone is more interested in keeping them from figuring out the truth. 

My Thoughts: I love this series - for the friendship and the romance. I love seeing Scarlett get closer with Harrison. They have some great moments together. I love learning more about Viv's romantic life. I liked the twists and turns as the mystery unraveled. I'm really looking forward to uncovering more answers in the next book (maybe on a road trip to Paris?)

Cover Thoughts: I like seeing all the hats and the shop from the inside looking out
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: Another charming installment in this must read cozy series!

Mysterious Saturday Review: Dream A Little Scream

 * Book 2 in the Dream Club Mystery series *

Taylor and Ali can't believe their good fortune when celebrity chef Sonia Scott is forced to stay in town one more day and wants to do a book signing at their shop. They're excited for the publicity the event will bring - until Sonia dies in a horrible manner.

At first, it appears she died from an allergy attack, but as the clues separate, it appears that someone deliberately murdered her. Now Taylor and Ali attempt to pick up the pieces of their store's reputation by solving the murder so their live can return back to normal.

With a few dead ends, it's time to call their dream club in to help figure out what really happened that morning.

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed the second book in this southern series. I liked the questions surrounding the death or celebrity chef and learning more of her background. I loved learning more about the candy shop and their plans to drum up business for the future. Of course I love reading about the desserts the dream club eats. I really like learning more about dreams and their meanings. I wouldn't mind attending one of these sessions, just as long as my life isn't in danger. So looking forward to the next book in the series!

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: Another mouth watering read filled with friendship, family drama, a little romance, and of course murder. Be sure to add this one to your list!

Mysterious Saturday Review: Death is Like a Box of Chocolates

* First Book in a Series * 

Michelle and Erica got roped into hosting the Great Fudge Cook-off - partly to promote the town and partly to promote their combine chocolate and bookstore business.

When a body is discovered inside the shop with a chocolate stuffed in the victim's mouth - everything could change in a heartbeat.

Michelle's worried that her shop won't last and that her business customers will cancel their orders. Just as she's finally found herself, she faces losing everything.

Michelle starts looking into the murder in order to get her life back on track.

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this mystery with the small town charm, the chocolate and bookstore business, the friendships, and the potential romance. I loved learning more about Michelle and her chocolate making - this book made my mouth water. I craved chocolate while reading it (who wouldn't). I liked both Michelle and Erica's brothers and I'm interested in learning more about them. I really enjoyed the Great Fudge Cook-off and how it came together. I'm looking forward to learning more about these characters. 

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: If you're looking for a fun mystery with lots of chocolate and great friends, look no further. 

Mysterious Saturday Review: Foreign Eclairs

 * Book 9 in the White House Chef Mystery series *

Strange events are happening to the White House staff. First a member takes personal time without an explanation. Ollie is mugged on the way home. Then there's news of a bombing of a federal prison - a prison in which a resident currently resides thanks to Ollie.

Soon it becomes clear that all three events are connected. Ollie's targeted in a revenge plot - someone wants her to pay. At first, the revenge plots start small, but quickly they escalate. Even Ollie isn't sure she's going to survive this one...

My Thoughts: I loved this series! This installment of the series reminds me of the show 24. I liked that every time they thought the revenge plot was finished, the book took another turn.  Lots of action, danger, and plot twists in this one. I devoured this book, not wanting to let go of the world and these characters. I needed to know what happened!

I liked how Gav and Ollie worked together to figure out and attempt to untangle this mess. 

As always, I love the background bits in the White House and I really enjoyed the search for a new chef. The interviews and candidates were entertaining. 

I really liked the scenes between Ollie and Josh. I like how she helped him and how he talked with his parents. I think being a kid/teen in White House would be very difficult. 

A wonderful series and as much as I want to know what happens next, I can imagine too.

Cover Thoughts: Love them
Source: Book sent for Review

For news about the series that's hard (but understanding to read) - here's the author to explain about the Ollie's future.

Final Thoughts: Reading this series is like getting together with old friends. I shall be very sad next January without them.

Mysterious Saturday Review: A Likely Story

* Book 6 in the Library Lovers Mystery Series *

On her way to an island to deliver library books to two isolated brothers takes a deadly turn. When Stuart fails to meet them on the dock, Lindsey and Sully get nervous. They make their way to the house - avoiding all the booby traps.

In the house, they discover one brother missing and one brother murdered.

There's not much evidence, but it points to Stuart. Lindsey knows that he wouldn't kill his brother, but with him missing, he looks guilty. Lindsey hopes to find him and uncover the truth before it's too late for both brothers.

My Thoughts: I love this series - for the inside look at libraries, library co-workers, and love of books. 

I love the small town and the people of the town - reading a new installment is like visiting old friends.

I liked learning more about the islands and the history of the town. I felt horrible for the brothers and for all they went through. I can't imagine living isolated on an island for my whole life and rarely seeing people. 

I really enjoyed watching Beth start to date again - I hope that works out this time. Her story line provided humorous moments.

Of course, I enjoyed Mrs. Cole and look forward to seeing new developments in her story in regards to the new hire. 

I can't wait to read what happens next.

Cover Thoughts: Love it
Source: ARC sent for review

Final Thoughts: A perfect story for this series full of danger, suspicion, friendship, and romance. 

Mysterious Saturday Review: Bodice of Evidence

 * Book 2 in the Perfect Proposals series *

Pepper's sister is getting married and she's looking for the perfect dress. After three shops, Felicity is feeling discouraged. The sisters and their mother take a quick break before heading to their last appointment.

When they arrive late, they're surprised to see no one in the shop. Pepper goes searching for anyone to help them and discovers the owner lying in the alley - murdered.

She struggles to understand the reason for the murder. Pepper convinces her sister to return to the store for another appointment. She has some questions to ask.

With Pepper's new business starting to take off, she doesn't have much time for snooping, but she doesn't let that stop her. Could she find out something that will land her in hot water?

My Thoughts: I really love this series. I love the relationship between Pepper and her sister. I liked seeing the women of the family shop for wedding dresses together. I love that Pepper's starting up her own business and I love watching it grow. It was interesting to see the wedding business from both the dress side and the proposal side (maybe the next one will take place in a bakery). I enjoyed the relationship that Pepper has with the police detective and wonder how that will start to change. I really like Gage and watching his relationship with Pepper grow. He seems smart, sweet, and willing to wait for her to find herself. I love that she's not just jumping into another relationship, that she's taking some time to find herself after her last relationship. 

Cover Thoughts: Love it
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: A great new series to start with a young character finding her way in the world, one wedding proposal (and murder) at a time.

Mysterious Saturday Review: As Gouda Dead

* Book 6 in the Cheese Shop Mystery series *

It's coming up on Valentine's Day; the perfect time for a wedding. Charlotte and Jordan will be tying the knot. The night of Charlotte's surprise bachelorette party brings things to a screeching halt.

A phone triggers a search for Tim (owner of the bar.) Charlotte and Deputy Devon O'Shea find him dead on Jordan's farm. He's been murdered.

With the death in the community, the two love birds decide to postpone their wedding. Unhappy at the postponement, Charlotte can't help to theorize about Tim's murder. 

My Thoughts: I really enjoy this series. It does make my mouth water too. I love the bits in the cheese shop, learning about cheeses and talking about food.  I loved the day dates Jordan planned out and the notes he left for Charlotte. He really is a sweetheart! I liked Rebecca branching out a bit - especially with the play. I think she's one of my favorite characters of this series.  The list of suspects for the murder grows with each person Charlotte talks with, making it hard to discover the real murderer. Another great installment for the series.

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: My library

Mysterious Saturday Review: Spoonful of Murder

* First in a series *

Lucky Jamieson's parents died leaving her their soup cafe in Vermont. Lucky hasn't been back in years, but she puts her life on hold to return home.  As she's struggling to get her feet underneath her, someone's murdered behind the restaurant.

As the numbers of customers dwindle, Lucky begins to lose hope of maintaining the cafe.  She's worried about being able to pay the bills. She decides to poke around in the murder to see if she can uncover any answers. When her cook's arrested for the murder, customers stop coming in all together. The murder needs to be solved - and quickly. The more questions, Lucky asks, the more she riles up town people. Could she be next on the list?

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this cozy mystery - especially the setting. As a Vermont girl, I felt like going home and hunkering down for the cold winter nights. I loved the small town and the local people.

I liked Lucky, although I thought she made several questionable decisions. I did like how she attempted to patch things up with her former friend. I also admired how she's attempting to re-imagine her life back in Vermont, even without her parents.

I loved Lucky's grandfather.He was smart, sweet, and a gentlemen. I hope to see much more of him in the series. 

I loved the moments of cooking in the cafe, it made me want to eat a delicious sandwich and a hot bowl of soup.

Cover Thoughts: Perfectly cozy
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: A good mystery to curl up with on cold winter's night with a bowl of soup in front of the fire. 

Mysterious Saturday Review: Diva Steals a Chocolate Kiss

* Book 9 in the Domestic Diva series *

Sophie's helping out with Amore Chocolates 50th Anniversary party. She's in charge of making sure things run smoothly with all the contest winners.

When the CEO, Joe Merano goes missing, the family asks Sophie to look for him. He would never miss his party - unless something was really wrong.

When she discovers the body of their main competition after one event, things start getting ugly. As Sophie digs around, she uncovers some family secrets that might have been better off hidden...

My Thoughts: I really love this series! This new addition didn't disappoint; it's perfectly fantastic centered around a chocolate festival. I loved learning more about the chocolate business. 

I felt bad for the Merano family - they had so many secrets and terrible things that happened between them. My heart went out to all of them.

I liked the new addition to the usual crew with the contest winners in town - especially the former police woman. She and her friend livened up the story. 

As usual, I had mixed feelings about both Mars and Natasha. I can never decide if I feel sorry for them or if they bring everything upon themselves. Still, they lighten the plot and add humor to the story...

Cover Thoughts: Charming as always
 Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: Great addition to this fantastic series with fleshed out secondary characters, friendship, a dash of romance, recipes, and of course murder.Check out this series immediately if you haven't read it! 

Mysterious Saturday Review: Grace Cries Uncle

 * Book 6 in the Manor House Mystery series * 

Grace has finally agreed to DNA testing to prove if she and her boss are in fact related. Since she started work at Marshfield Manor, she's felt a connection to Bennett, but she isn't interested in being his heir. She doesn't want anything to change, but she would like to keep this information private.

With people showing up at the house asking questions, Grace becomes uneasy, especially when one of them turns up murdered behind her house.

So she's thrown for a loop when out of the blue her estrange sister appears on her doorstep. Liza claims that she left Eric (the man who was once engaged to Grace) and needs a place to stay. Grace reluctantly allows her sister to stay with them. Could her sister have something to do with this mess?

My Thoughts: I adore this series. I love the connection between Grace and Bennett. In this addition to the series, I enjoyed getting to know Liza. I was surprised by her and a little stunned by her actions. I hope we get more details in the next book.

I really enjoy the secondary characters - especially Frances (she's smart, sarcastic, almost thoughtful, a gossip, and loyal.) I admit even Hillary is growing on me. 

This book took a turn I didn't expect, which intrigued me all the more. I can't wait to see what happens next and how everything shakes out.

Cover Thoughts: Love this cover!
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: Another win for Julie Hyzy. I love this series - great characters and enough actin and danger to keep me quickly turning the pages. If you haven't started this series, get on it!

Mysterious Saturday Review; Dark Chocolate Demise

* Book 7 in the Cupcake Bakery Mystery Series *

Mel and Angie are participating in the first annual Old Town Zombie Walk - in full costume. The day is going well, until disaster strikes. At first, Mel thinks Angie's playing a trick on her. Soon she realizes that the body in their coffin display isn't fooling around.

A sigh of relief goes around the bakery crew, when they realize Angie isn't dead. But someone who looks similar and dressed in the same costume is dead.

Now Joe and Angie's brothers have created around the clock surveillance on the bakery. The death could have been a mob hit and it could be in relation to the case Joe is currently working on. Could Mel and Angie be in danger or was this murder unrelated?

My Thoughts: I love this series - for the friendship, for the romance, for the quirky secondary characters, and for the cupcakes. Seriously my mouth waters every time I read one of these books and I always crave cupcakes.

I love the moments between Mel and Tate and Mel and Angie. They've funny, sweet, and supportive. Mel tries to calm Angie after the murder, even putting herself in danger to get answers.

I liked the return of Roach and his need for closure with Angie. His moments with Tate were priceless. The moments between Joe and Mel were both sweet and frustrating - I can't wait to see what happens next.

I really loved getting to know more of Angie's brothers. They added comic relief to the tension of the book. I hope to see more of them.

As usual, that ending makes me need the next book immediately. 

Cover Thoughts: Great
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: Cupcakes, friendships, romance, and murder - how can you go wrong with this series? It's perfect. Pick up the first book and start reading. 

Mysterious Saturday Review: At the Drop of a Hat

* Book 3 in the Hat Shop Mystery Series *

Scarlett and Viv couldn't be more thrilled when a woman walks into their shop with an old hat designed by Mim. She needs it repaired for her upcoming wedding. The two cousins can't wait to get started, but when they don't hear back from Ariana, Scarlett goes to visit her office.

As soon as she arrives, Scarlett hears a scream. Following the noise, she rushes through the office to find Ariana leaning over her boss who fell from the roof. The police investigation quickly uncovers a motive for Ariana. She's soon arrested.

Deep down, Scarlett knows her new friend isn't a murderer and she's not about to let Ariana rot in jail while she has a wedding to plan.

My Thoughts: I love this series - for the hat shop, for the cousins, for the secondary characters, and for the investigations. I love the relationships in this series: between the cousins, between Ginger and Harry, between Scarlett and Andre and Nick, and between customers. I love how Scarlett embraces people and tries to help them. I love the setting. I love the differences in cultures - between Scarlett's American ways and Fee and Viv behaving more properly. A fantastic mystery filled with humor, intrigue, and a little danger. I can't believe the bombshell dropped at the end - and I can't wait to read more about that!

Cover Thoughts: Perfection
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: Reading a new hat shop mystery is like sitting down with your favorite cup of tea, always relaxing and enjoyable.

Mysterious Saturday Review: This Old Homicide

* Book 2 in the Fixer-Upper Series *

Shannon hasn't seen her next door neighbor in a few days. Uneasy, she uses her key to let herself into this house to check on him. The house is in a complete disarray. It's not long before she find Jesse's body.

At first, it looks like a heart attack killed her neighbor and her best friend's uncle. But Shannon isn't convince. Jesse would have never left his house in that shape. Could someone have tossed it?

What were they looking for? Jesse didn't have anything of value - except for that necklace he claimed to have recovered while diving. No one has seen the necklace. Or the new girlfriend he claimed to have. Everyone knows that Jesse loved telling stories - but could one of his stories have gotten him killed?

My Thoughts: I loved the second book as much as the first - with the small town charm and the characters. I really liked Jesse and was hoping to see him in many books to come, so I was saddened by his death. Although I did like how Shannon and Jane looked into this murder - how they didn't believe that he died of natural causes.

I enjoyed learning more about Jesse - from his tall tales to reality. I like how Shannon tried to include the police this time along with her mystery writer friend. I like how the two men play off each other - both as experts in the mystery world but also as romantic interests. 

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: My Library

Overall Thoughts: Another fantastic edition to this series - if you haven't read it, what are you waiting for? It's got small town charm, romantic potential, friendships, and danger! I'm a big fan.

Mysterious Saturday Review: High-End Finish

* First in a new series *

When Shannon's father had a heart-attack, she came home to take over his business. Business is booming and Shannon couldn't be happier. Until she's forced to go on a blind date. It doesn't end well and after she kicks him in the shin, she threatens to kill him if he comes near her again.

The next day she finds his body at one of her work sites. She calls the police who find the murder weapon to be a pink tool - one of hers. She's taken down to the station and interviewed for hours.

Shannon doesn't want to wait for the police to find her innocent, so she starts asking some questions. When more bodies pile up, all the evidence points towards her. Can she uncover the real murdered before her enemy ends her?

My Thoughts: I devoured this  book - it had everything: family, friendships, work details, small town charm, murder, danger, and a little romance. I'm excited to read more about Shannon's dad. He seems really fun and sweet. I love her group of friends and how they stuck by her and how they helped by asking questions around town. I love the people she works with and their banter. I liked learning more about construction. I loved the town - where secrets don't last long and everyone looks out for each other. I liked how Shannon's neighbor confided in the betting pool on her love life. 

After the first murder, I wasn't expecting more, but the plot twisted and I kept turning the pages faster to figure out the culprit. As the book continued, the danger increased for Shannon not only through her guilt by association, but also little incidents were starting to pile up. At first they were just inconvenient, but as she kept asking questions, they grew. 

I really loved meeting Mac - I loved that he was a writer of thrillers. He seemed to have a different way of looking at things than most people. He was charming and sweet but also preoccupied with his writing. I can't wait to read more about him.  The police chief was stern and serious but showed a softer side as the book progressed. He seems to have secrets from his past that I can't wait to uncover.

The relationships make the book - from family and friends to potential love interests. Everyone's connected.

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: If you read cozies, add this new series to your list to read; it's fantastic!