Review: Killer Research

 

* Book 12 in the Library Lover's series *

The mayor race is heating up in Briar Creek. The Lemon, Ms. Cole, has a definite advantage. But things take a turn when a body's discovered in her car. She has no idea what happened, but rumors are flying.

Lindsey and Beth vow to uncover the truth before Ms. Cole does something she'll regret- like drop out of the race. Lindsey can't believe that Ms. Cole had a rebellious youth, but sometimes rumors don't lie. Could someone be targeting Ms. Cole to keep her from becoming the next mayor?

My Thoughts: I loved this one. I loved learning more about Ms. Cole. I must admit I've grown to like her and even admire her. Which if you told me when I read the first book, I would have laughed. But she's grown on me. And I really hope that she becomes Mayor and shakes things up for the town. As always, it was great to see my favorite characters and catch up with them. I always love the chatter about books and authors (especially the Pride and Prejudice conversation). And there was even a Castle (tv show) reference!   I can't wait to see what happens next. 

Cover Thoughts: Fantastic

Source: My library

Library Recommendation: A must have series for your library's mystery collection.

Cozy Review: Buried to the Brim

* Book 6 in the Hat Shop Mystery Series * 

Scarlett and the gang are back! Harrison's aunt comes into the hat shop looking for a way to make her corgi stand out in the Pets and Wellness Society's annual dog show. Aunt Betty and Freddy have been previously been the runner's up. But this year they are determined to be the winners. Aunt Betty wants matching hats for her and her dog.

But Aunt Betty gets into trouble with the society when she announces that the dog food supplied by the sponsor made her dog sick and it's contaminated. Her paperwork goes missing and Scarlett's forced to step in as the Freddy's handler.

When Freddy discovers the sponsor dead on the course, Aunt Betty's the prime suspect. Scarlett and her friends are determined to uncover the truth and clear Aunt Betty.

My Thoughts: I was so happy to hear about this newest installment of the Hat Shop Mysteries! I love this series. And this book was super cute. I loved the dog show and reading about all the cute dogs. I loved reading about my favorite characters, especially Harrison and Scarlett after their engagement. I would be happy reading more in this series (including a wedding story!)

Cover Thoughts: Charming as always
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: This cozy series is an excellent addition to the library's mystery section.

Top Ten Tuesday: Summer Vibes

This week's topic is all about the summer vibe. So I'm picking books that I would love to sit by the pool/beach and read this summer. Especially with a big glass of lemonade.

Here we go:

And I would have included this one:

But I've already read it. Read why I loved it!

Blog Tour: Candy Cane Caper

The Candy Cane Caper
Author: Josi S. Kilpack
Publication Date: 10/1/19
Paperback ISBN: 9781629726014
Retail Price: $15.99
Page Count: 320
Fiction / Mystery and Detective / Cozy / Culinary
Book Design: © Shadow Mountain Art Direction: Richard Erickson  Design: Kimberly Kay


About the Book:

This Christmas, Sadie Hoffmiller Cunningham is making a list and checking it twice. For the first time since she and Pete married five years ago, their combined families are gathering for the holidays in Fort Collins, Colorado, for a party that would make Santa and Mrs. Claus proud.

She just has to bake the famous Cunningham Candy Cane Cake, make sure the looming snowstorm doesn't derail everyone's travel plans, and oh, yes, solve one teensy-tiny mystery before the big day.

At ninety-four and nearly blind, Mary, Sadie's friend and neighbor, knows this will be her last Christmas. When Sadie learns that someone has stolen antique Christmas ornaments from Mary's tree, she vows to find the thief, no matter what. The ornaments had been appraised at more than $40,000, but they were worth even more to Mary, who had intended to bequeath them to her great-granddaughter, Joy, as a final gift.

With Pete in Arizona wrapping up a case of his own, it's up to Sadie to question the residents of Nicholas House, where Mary lives, and deduce who had the means and the motive to steal heirloom ornaments during what should be the most wonderful time of the year.

When stories of other thefts surface, Sadie feels like she's creating a "naughty" list that could rival Santa's. Identifying the thief, recovering the ornaments, and restoring them to Mary's tree in time will take a Christmas miracle—and maybe a few extra-special cookies.

My Thoughts: I didn't realize this book was part of a series. To be honest, the cover pulled me in. And although the book referenced other moments in the previous books, I was fine without reading the prior twelve books. I enjoyed this cozy Christmas mystery. Sadie's trying to help create a magical Christmas for her new blended family. I love how she was trying to make dishes from both sides of the family to make this holiday special for everyone. And I love how that turned out. I enjoyed learning more about these special holiday ornaments. I enjoyed watching Mary's family interact with each other, knowing that this would be the last holiday for Mary. A fun cozy that's perfect to read in front of the fire with a warm cup of cocoa.

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: ARC sent for review

About the Author: 

Josi S. Kilpack is an accomplished and prolific author of nearly two dozen novels including the Sadie Hoffmiller Culinary Mystery Series. She has won multiple Whitney Awards for Myster/Suspense, Romance, and Novel of the Year as well as the Utah Best of State Fiction Winner. She lives with her family in Utah.

Follow the author on Instagram @authorjosiskilpack

Advance Praise/Endorsements:

“A warmhearted mystery.” -Kirkus

“Sadie Hoffmiller dishes up a fresh serving of Christmas cheer. An inspirational cozy whose feel-good vibe will be perfect for fans of Julie Hyzy's and Nancy J. Parra. Readers with a sweet tooth will be sure to enjoy Sadie's family recipes, sprinked throughout the book.” -Booklist

“Kilpack represents a nice range of ages in this story, and the relationships feel both real and aspirational. The clues and solution are complex enough to keep readers guessing. Recipes are included, making this a fun choice for cookbook discussion groups as well as general readers. Twelve previous "Culinary Mystery" titles precede this entry, which can be read on its own.” -Library Journal

Review: Raspberry Danish Murder

* Book 22 in the Hannah Swensen series *

After the cliff hanger in the last book, Hannah's still alone with no idea where her new husband could have vanished. With Thanksgiving drawing near, the cold is coming back to Minnesota. Hannah's trying to distract herself with work - and it's helping.

When her sister's friend and her husband's assistant dies on video, Hannah's more that interested in solving the murder. She also can't help but think the murder victim might have been her husband instead.

My Thoughts: I really like this series - reading one of these books always makes my mouth water and I want to bake something wonderful.  I felt terrible for Hannah, how she had to deal with her new husband's vanishing. I'm curious to see where that plot point goes given all the new discoveries this book and that cliff hanger ending making me want the next book immediately. I enjoyed seeing old favorite characters. I enjoyed watching the mystery unfold, though the murderer wasn't a surprise to me. Another fun book in this series.

Cover Thoughts: Delicious
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: A Great series for public libraries.

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.

Mysterious Saturday Review: Caught Bread Handed

 * Book 4 in the Bakeshop Mystery Series * 

Drama comes to Ashland - in the form of Jules's husband and in a new restaurant. Jules isn't sure what to do about her relationship. Should she forgive Carlos? Should they be reunited? She loves seeing him in her hometown, but is that enough?

The new restaurant in town is making everyone miserable. A fast food joint shouldn't be part of the community, especially without blending into the Shakespeare theme. When the owner is found dead - suspicions arise on the angry business owners.

Jules walked in after the murder. With so many people angry at the victim, it's going to hard looking for just one person who committed the crime.  

My  Thoughts: I really love this series - I love the town, the people, and the bakeshop. I love how Jules is torn between Carlos and the town and what direction her life will take. I love the new ideas for the bakeshop, especially for the chocolate festival (which means I can't wait to read the next book). With all the food describe, this book makes my mouth water. I admit that I enjoyed learning more about Carlos. I'm starting to warm up to him a bit more. A fantastic addition to the series.

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Highly recommended for cozy sections at all public libraries.

Mysterious Saturday Review: On Thin Icing

* Book 3 in the Bakeshop Mystery series *

Winter is tough in Ashland after the tourists leave. The locals come together to support each other. Jules and her mother are looking to branch out their business at Torte, so Jules is happy to receive a catering job.

She and Sterling head to a resort to provide the food for a board retreat. After arrival, they love the kitchen set-up, but it's clear this business might be too much for the owners. The place needs some serious work and the bartender should be fired immediately.

Jules is ready to make the best of the situation. Then her husband arrives, six months after they separated. A major storms hits the resort, knocking out power. To top it off, Jules discovers the body of the bartender stuffed in a freezer.

My Thoughts: I really enjoy this series - for the bakeshop knowledge, the food details, and the small town charm. I like watching the new relationship unfold between Jules and her mother. I like learning more about Jules' past and how it relates to her future. 

I really like how the characters were snowed in for the majority of the novel. It helped build tension in the mystery. You could feel the cold in the air - and of course the warmth of the fire. 

The characters pull the story together and leave you wondering what's going to happen next. I'm eager to see what happens with the Professor and Jules' mother. Jules herself has some life choices to make. I admit that I'm not a huge fan of Carlos, but I'm interested to see what's going to happen next in their relationship. I liked learning more about Sterling; he's a great character. Looking forward to the next book in the series.

Cover Thoughts: Love it -from the winter wonderland to the fireplace - so many details
Source: My Library

Final Thoughts: A mouth-watering read with lots of relationship drama and plot twists to keep you guessing until the very end. 

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!

Books I'm Dying to Read: February Edition

With cooler weather, I'm looking forward to reading these books on the longer nights inside, maybe in front of the fire with some adult hot chocolate and a snuggling dog.

 

Friday with the Wizards: I can't wait to see what happens next to Celie

Simon Thorn and the Wolf's Den: Simon isn't normal. When his mother is kidnapped - his powers of changing into animals kicks in. 

Pilfer Academy: Boarding school for thieves in training

Lincoln Project: Traveling back in time to document the past - what could possibly go wrong?

Beatrix Potter: Based on a true episode of the author's life.

Burning Midnight: Four teens - an evil billionaire - and a race to uncover and protect priceless artifacts

Assassin's Heart: A family of assassins murderer except for one - who seeks Revenge

Rebel, Bully, Geek, Pariah: Breakfast Club inspired: 1 night + 4 unlikely friends

The Word for Yes:  Three sisters and the one night that changed everything

The Last Place on Earth: Daisy and Henry are best friends - until he mysteriously disappears leaving just a note. Now Daisy's on a mission to save him

Reign of Shadows: A tale of Rapunzel - complete with forbidden love

Shadow Queen: A Snow White retelling - with the Huntsman and Snow White form an attaachment

Forbidden Wish: Aladdin retelling where your heart could be your greatest enemy 

Kingdom of Ashes: Sequel to a Wicked Things where Aurora breaks the Sleeping Beauty mold

Forbidden Orchid: Elodie has never left her village, but now she's going on a quest to save her family

Vicious Masks: Jane Austen meets X-men in Victorian London

For Cheddar or Worse: A festival brings murder to town and a friend into trouble

A Disguise to Die For: A new series start off with a killer party

Wedding Cake Murder: Hannah's getting married and attending a killer reality dessert chef contest.

Fogged Inn: A strange turns up - murdered in the center of Julia's life.

Remembrance: Susannah graduated from college  but her past come back to haunt her. Part of the Mediator series!

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.

Cozy Crossover for YA

I'm over at the YALSA Hub Blog talking about cozies that will interest teens for the third year in a row.

Check it out!

Mysterious Saturday Review: Meet Your Baker

With trouble in her life, Jules decides to come home for an extended visit to straighten out her head. She's unsure what she wants to do with her life after being shaken to the core. But it's not easy being home either.

For one, her mother's hiding something - something to do with the family bakery.  When someone's murdered in the bakery, things go from bad to worse. Luckily Jules, her mother, and their staff aren't the prime suspects, but it's unsettling nonetheless.

Jules can't seem to keep her mind off the murder. So she starts poking around after a little prodding from the police. Someone doesn't like the questions she's been asking. Could Jules be next on the list?

My Thoughts: A charming start to a sweet new series, which I really enjoyed reading. I loved the bake shop and hearing about all the treats made; they made my mouth water. I loved how Jules starts acclimating back into her home town and seeing old friends. I liked how she and her mother started becoming more honest with each other and less superficial. The small town charm stood out from other towns with the theater productions and theater people. The conclusion took me by surprise and made my heart race. I can't wait to see what happens next for Jules and her mother. 

Cover Thoughts: Cute
Source: My Library
Next book: Out in July