Death At Inishmore Castle: A Mercy McCarthy Mystery Book 3 by Lucy Connelly

(Thank you Bookouture for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book:

A grand castle, a glass of Irish whiskey, a good book by the fire… and a rather mysterious murder?

Historic Inishmore Castle is opening its doors for the first time, hosting a charming weekend of whiskey tasting and soda bread baking. Sisters Mercy and Lizzie McCarthy are badly in need of a break, but their relaxing trip takes a decidedly unrestful turn when Mercy finds fellow guest Father Brennen slumped over the desk in the library… Did he have one glass too many or did someone want him dead? 

Even more curiously, Mercy swiftly learns that the priest was no priest at all. So why was he searching through dusty old journals? Can the legend of Inishmore’s lost treasure possibly be true?

Mercy’s suspicions of foul play are confirmed when another of their party is found drowned in the lake at the edge of the manor’s estate. It can’t be a coincidence! Someone in this idyllic Irish castle is up to no good and Mercy is determined to find out who’s behind it, accompanied by her reluctant fellow sleuth and beloved dog Mr. Poe.

With a host of frightened guests and worried staff, and a storm closing in, Mercy soon has more suspects than bedrooms in the castle. Could it be the unconvincing nun, the busybody birdwatcher, or are the owners hiding something sinister? When Mercy realises there are secret passages in the walls, she thinks she might have cracked the case… but will she track the killer down, or will Inishmore be her resting place forever more? 

A completely delightful Irish cozy mystery, full of warmth and wit. Fans of Agatha Christie, Carlene O’Connor and Faith Martin will love Mercy McCarthy! 

my thoughts:

Love, love, love! I am a huge fan of cozy mysteries and Lucy Connelly's A Mercy McCarthy Mystery series is one of my favorites. So, you can imagine my joy when I received the third book - Death At Inishmore Castle. Hurrah! Another fantastic story to get wrapped up in - murder, mystery, Ireland, and the McCarthy sisters - what more could I want? 

This time round, Mercy and Lizzie, along with a few of their neighbors from Shamrock Cove head to nearby Inishmore Castle for a whiskey tasting weekend. The two sisters are in need of a break and have plans to relax, relax, relax. Except, that their idea of a fun getaway takes a turn when a dead body is found in the library. Yep, murder has arrived at Inishmore Castle and it looks like Mercy is on the case. Especially as another body is found in the lake. Yikes! An old castle, stormy weather, and bodies piling up - talk about a weekend gone wrong. And that's all I'll share about this captivating mystery - it's one you won't want to miss out on. Make sure to grab a copy ASAP! 

I'm happy to recommend Connelly's wonderful series - A Mercy McCarthy Mystery. The stories are so much fun to read. The characters are a treat to get to know. Ireland is the perfect setting to fall in love with. And, the whodunits are such great mysteries to solve. All in all, this series is top notch and not to be missed!

Thank you to Bookouture for my copy of this book!

Death By The Book: A Mercy McCarthy Mystery Book 2 by Lucy Connelly

(Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

Irish scones, shamrock shortbread, a local literary festival… and a rather dead author? Join Mercy McCarthy on her next case! 

Mercy and Lizzie McCarthy are settling in to the charming seaside village of Shamrock Cove on the west coast of Ireland. Lizzie throws herself into organizing a book festival and mystery writer Mercy even agrees to come out of her bookish hidey-hole to get involved. But then the star author for the event is found dead. James Brandt was killed by a falling bookshelf in his own cottage… 

The local detective is not convinced by Mercy’s suspicion of murder but when someone else turns up dead, the police cannot ignore it. There’s just one problem: Mercy and Lizzie’s beloved dog Mr. Poe sniffs out the second body in the storeroom of their own bookstore. And now all of the gossips seem determined to pin the murder on Mercy!

Convinced the police are focusing on a red herring in this real-life case, Mercy needs to act fast to clear her name. A meddling mayor, a cheerful chef and a bashful botanist make her suspect list, but it’s not until Mercy discovers a tatty old photograph in the local library archive that she is onto the killer’s trail.

With the police keen to shut her out of the murder investigation, can Mercy play this case by the book, or will she be the next to fall off the shelf…? 

A totally gripping and twisty cozy crime novel, perfect for readers who love Agatha Christie, Carlene O’Connor or Faith Martin! This incredibly fast-paced and fun murder mystery will whisk you off to Ireland and won’t let you go until the final page! 

my thoughts:

I am LOVING the Mercy McCarthy Mystery series to bits! Written by Lucy Connelly, Death By The Book, is the second book in her popular cozy mystery series and it is FANTASTIC! The writing is top notch, the characters are familiar and unforgettable, and the story itself is unputdownable. I am hooked on these stories and can't wait for the next book in the series. They are just so much fun to read. Make sure to grab a copy ASAP - you are going to fall in deep with this story and the series. 

Set in Ireland, we get to armchair travel to the beautiful seaside village of Shamrock Cove. Mercy and her twin sister, Lizzie, are adjusting to village life and settling in to their new surroundings. The town's annual literary festival is in full planning mode and Lizzie has thrown herself her and her bookshop into it all. Plus, Mercy, has decided to join in as a panelist and one of the authors - she's a famous mystery writer with a looming deadline. Of course, nothing goes as planned when the headlining author is found dead in his cottage thanks to a falling bookshelf. Whoa! Talk about a bookish nightmare. Except, Mercy is convinced the author was killed and that it wasn't an accident. The police don't agree with Mercy until another her body is found. The only problem is that all eyes are on Mercy as the culprit - Yikes! So, what's a mystery writer to do...sleuth it up and solve the murders FAST! 

Connelly has created something special with, A Mercy McCarthy Mystery series, and I am here for it. I am really enjoying getting to know Mercy and Lizzie (even more), along with the townsfolk of Shamrock Cove. And, Ireland is just so gorgeous, that getting to read about it makes for a fun time. Plus, the mystery itself is always full of shocking twists and turns, which makes the story thrilling and exciting. I love getting caught up in the drama and sleuthing - makes me eager to finger out whodunit before the big reveal. This series is truly a treat to read. 

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!

An Irish Bookshop Murder: A Mercy McCarthy Mystery Book 1 by Lucy Connelly

 

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

An utterly gripping cozy crime murder mystery

Meet Ireland’s newest daring she’s a bookstore owner, a coffee lover, and a crime writer. Now Mercy McCarthy needs a little Irish luck as she takes on her first case! 

After receiving unexpected inheritance from her grandfather, Mercy and her twin sister Lizzie are now the proud owners of a charming antique bookshop in the tiny Irish village of Shamrock Cove. But before they can take in the beautiful view of the sea, one of their neighbors drops dead! 

Mercy finds the Judge, a well-respected man who lives next door, dying on his own doorstep. She rushes to help, but with his final words, he accuses Mercy of murder! Most of their new neighbors hear his words and, with suspicion pointing at Mercy, she decides to investigate the case to clear her name.

Searching amongst the Judge’s old books, Mercy uncovers letters proving several of the townsfolk had reason to dislike the judge—but was it the local pub landlord, the kindly cook or neighborly knitter who killed him? 

Then Mercy’s chief suspect turns up dead and she receives a threatening note, typed on paper from her own bookstore… Ireland was supposed to be a fresh start for Mercy and Lizzie, but dead bodies keep turning up.

Does Mercy have what it takes to nail the culprit or will the killer close the book on her time in this charming Irish village?

my thoughts:

Love, love, loved the first book, An Irish Bookshop Murder, in the new series, A Mercy McCarthy Mystery Book by Lucy Connelly. It reminded me of a Hallmark Mystery movie, which I LOVED - those are some of my favorites! This book was a cozy mystery through and through, which is my favorite genre lately. We have twin sisters Mercy and Lizzie - Mercy writes mystery novels and Lizzie runs a lavender ranch. Both have just had their lives upended. So, upon inheriting a cottage and antique bookshop from their grandfather, the sisters find themselves eager for a fresh start. Relocating to Shamrock Cove, Ireland is just the ticket. They soon find themselves in a beautiful new place being welcomed by their grandfather's friends and neighbors. Life is looking up for both sisters until the Judge, their ornery neighbor dies on his front porch. Unfortunately, right before he dies he accuses Mercy of murder. Say what? Yep, Mercy is now involved in quite the conundrum. Being a mystery writer, she is determined to solve the Judge's murder and his suspicions of her. The only question is, will she be able to clear her name and figure out who is the murder before her and Lizzie get hurt, or worse? Yikes! And, woo hoo! This book was such a treat to read! I really enjoyed getting to know Mercy and Lizzie, along with their new neighbors and friends. Plus, trying to figure out whodunnit was such a fun puzzle. Connelly has created a terrific new series that I can't wait to read more of. 

I would happily recommend An Irish Bookshop Murder to anyone and everyone looking for a new cozy mystery to fall in love with - you are going to devour this first book with gusto! It is perfect for the upcoming fall season - snuggled up with a cuppa and this book, you won't want for anything else. Well, maybe a sweet treat. Seriously though, you are going to really enjoy Connelly's writing, characters, and mystery - they all come together to make an amazing story that you won't be able to put down until you turn that last page.  Make sure to check out An Irish Bookshop Murder ASAP! I know I can't wait to get my hands on book 2. 

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!

Death At The Dress Rehearsal: A Lowe and Le Breton Mystery by Stuart Douglas

(Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

Two ageing actors attempt to solve a murder after a body is found on the set in this witty, fun whodunnit, perfect for fans of Thursday Murder Club and Death & Croissants .

In 1970, on the set of downmarket sitcom 'Floggit and Leggit', leading man Edward Lowe stumbles across the body of a woman, apparently the victim of a tragic drowning accident. But there's something about her that rings the faintest of bells in Edward's head and, convinced the woman has been murdered, he enlists the help of his co-star John le Breton to investigate further. 

Crossing the country and back again during gaps in filming, the two men uncover both a series of murders in the modern day, and links to another unfortunate death during the War. As the body count mounts, Edward and John face a race against time to save the innocent victims of a serial killer...

my thoughts:

What a fun and clever mystery! I LOVED Death At The Dress Rehearsal by Stuart Douglas. It's the first book in his new series, A Lowe and Le Breton Mystery, and it was terrific! I can't wait to read the next book, Death At The Playhouses. 

So, what's to love about this delicious new series? Well...

1. I love the book's cover and the title - they both intrigued me. 

2. I love the idea of two aging actors solving murders - how kooky does that sound? Sounds like a right treat to me.

3. Cozy mysteries are my jam, so I knew I would have fun reading this book. 

4. I enjoyed visiting a BBC tv set and the English countryside as the two pseudo-dectectives threw themselves into their new job - investigators.

5. I love that the murder traces back to WWII and that it may connect to even more murders - meaning a serial killer is on the loose and our 'odd couple' duo must hurry if they want to stop any more killings from happening. Crikey!

6. All in all, I really enjoyed the story. It was just such a great read with loads of twists and turns, and fascinating characters. The writing was top notch and the story was riveting. I would consider Death At The Dress Rehearsal a definite must-read! Make sure to check it out!

And, now I'm off to continue reading Eruption by Michael Crichton and James Patterson. Happy reading!

Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!

How To Solve Your Own Murder: A Novel by Kristen Perrin

(Thank you to Dutton Books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

For fans of Knives Out and The Thursday Murder Club , an enormously fun mystery about a woman who spends her entire life trying to prevent her foretold murder only to be proven right sixty years later, when she is found dead in her sprawling country estate.... Now it's up to her great-niece to catch the killer. 

It’s 1965 and teenage Frances Adams is at an English country fair with her two best friends. But Frances’s night takes a hairpin turn when a fortune-teller makes a bone-chilling prediction. One day, Frances will be murdered. Frances spends a lifetime trying to solve a crime that hasn’t happened yet, compiling dirt on every person who crosses her path in an effort to prevent her own demise. For decades, no one takes Frances seriously, until nearly sixty years later, when Frances is found murdered, like she always said she would be.
 
In the present day, Annie Adams has been summoned to a meeting at the sprawling country estate of her wealthy and reclusive great-aunt Frances. But by the time Annie arrives in the quaint English village of Castle Knoll, Frances is already dead. Annie is determined to catch the killer, but thanks to Frances’s lifelong habit of digging up secrets and lies, it seems every endearing and eccentric villager might just have a motive for her murder. Can Annie safely unravel the dark mystery at the heart of Castle Knoll, or will dredging up the past throw her into the path of a killer?
 
As Annie gets closer to the truth, and closer to the danger, she starts to fear she might inherit her aunt’s fate instead of her fortune.

my thoughts:

Wow! What a fun and enjoyable read! I absolutely LOVED Kristen Perrin's novel, How To Solve Your Own Murder. 

Here's why:

1. Book's cover. I LOVE IT! The colors, the font and the images - they are perfect! It screams English village, estate, murder, and mystery. I would buy the book based on the cover. 

2. Book's summary. Frances goes to a fair with her besties and finds out she will be murdered thanks to a fortune teller. Talk about a misfortune. She's sixteen at the time. Fast forward sixty years and she is murdered. Her great-niece, Annie, decides to make it her mission to find out who killed her. The only thing is, her investigation may just lead to her own murder. Yikes!

3. Cozy murder mysteries are where it's at! I think that is why I enjoyed this story so much. I loved the atmosphere of the small village, Frances' journals (she spent her life trying to figure out who wanted to kill her), odd characters which made for a great list of suspects, and that is just a few of the pros about this book. Did I mention the writing - top notch! I found myself easily transported to the village of Castle Knoll and joining alongside Annie's investigation - such a treat!

4. Characters. LOVED them!! 

5. Overall, this book was a gem. It was so much fun trying to figure out whodunit. I loved how quickly you get caught up in the story. It was just a really great book. And I would happily recommend it to anyone and everyone looking for their next read - you will LOVE this book to bits!

Thank you to Dutton Books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!

My Current Read...

 

I am a huge fan of this popular series, The Marlow Murder Club, by Robert Thorogood. The Queen of Poisons is the third book in the series and it sounds like it's going to be a fun read - woo hoo! I'm excited to reunite with favorite, familiar characters - Judith, Susie, Becks, and Tanika. The plot of the story centers on the murder of Marlow's beloved mayor, Geoffrey Lushington. I can't wait to find out who the culprit is and how the clever trio will solve the murder. Talk about the perfect read for a Monday evening. 

I was lucky enough to get an early copy thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley - woo hoo! The book will be out on June 4th - make sure to check it out! 

And now, I'm off to get some work done. Hope you have a terrific start to the week. Happy reading!

Fatal Fudge Swirl: An Ice Cream Shop Mystery by Meri Allen

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

A movie production brings drama―and murder―to a close-knit New England village, forcing Riley Rhodes to scoop out the suspects.

Former CIA librarian and amateur sleuth Riley Rhodes is loving her fresh start as the manager of the Udderly Delicious Ice Cream Shop. The leaves are turning, tourists are leaf-peeping, and Penniman, Connecticut is putting finishing touches on the weekend long Halloween Happening. But the village is also buzzing. Former child star Cooper Collins is overseeing the production of a romantic comedy that’s filming on the town green and his domineering socialite mother, Diantha, is planning her lavish Halloween themed wedding at her Inn on the Green. Her fiancé has run the Inn's kitchen for years, ably aided by his recent ex-wife, chef Mary Ann Dumas. An old friend of Riley’s, Mary Ann turns to her when the bride requests a spooky ice cream wedding cake.

But the weekend takes a frightful turn when Diantha is found dead and suspicion falls on Mary Ann. The cast of potential suspects is long―each wedding guest had a chilling motive to kill the vicious heiress. Can Riley unmask the murderer before another guest ends up on ice?

my thoughts:

Cozy mysteries are my jam. I love them to bits! They are always such a fun treat to read. I was so excited to dive into Meri Allen's latest story, Fatal Fudge Swirl, the third book in her popular series, An Ice Cream Shop Mystery. I found myself indulging in a yummy sundae as I read the story - talk about a delicious combination!

Allen has created an entertaining story chock full of the usual suspects that go hand in hand to make a terrific murder mystery: a quaint New England village, quirky characters, a librarian/sleuth, an ice cream shop, Fall season - Halloween, a murder, and a best friend accused of the murder - yikes! How exciting does that sound? I know I enjoyed every minute I spend with this story. Loved it!

I would happily recommend Fatal Fudge Swirl to fans of Meri Allen and to anyone looking for their next great read - you will LOVE this book! Make sure to check it out!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

Blackmail and Bibingka: A Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mystery by Mia P. Manansala

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

When her long lost cousin comes back to town just in time for the holidays, Lila Macapagal knows that big trouble can't be far behind in this new mystery by Mia P. Manansala, author of Arsenic and Adobo.

It's Christmastime in Shady Palms, but things are far from jolly for Lila Macapagal. Sure, her new business, The Brew-ha Cafe, is looking to turn a profit in its first year. And yes, she's taken the first step in a new romance with her good friend, Jae Park. But her cousin Ronnie is back in town after ghosting the family fifteen years ago, claiming that his recent purchase of a local winery shows that he's back on his feet and ready to give back to the Shady Palms community. Tita Rosie is thrilled with the return of her prodigal son, but Lila knows that wherever Ronnie goes, trouble follows.

She's soon proven right when Ronnie is accused of murder, and secrets and rumors surrounding her shady cousin and those involved with the winery start piling up. Now Lila has to put away years of resentment and distrust to prove her cousin's innocence. He may be a jerk, but he's still family. And there's no way her flesh and blood could actually be a murderer...right?

my thoughts:

Cozy mysteries are where it's at! Packed full of suspense, mystery, thrills, Christmas, family, and yummy food - Blackmail and Bibingka by Mia P. Manansala is the perfect holiday cozy mystery! The third book in Manansala's popular Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mystery series, this story takes place during Christmas time and it makes for the perfect setting. Not only does the holiday season provide the perfect atmosphere to get lost in, but it also highlights all of the delectable Filipino treats Lila and her family enjoy baking and cooking at Christmas time. Plus, I just love Christmas, so any book set during my favorite holiday is usually a win for me. Luckily, Blackmail and Bibingka also has a gripping story that will hook you right from the start. And the characters are the kind you want to root for and befriend. All in all, this is one book you do not want to miss out on. In fact, it will make you want to reach for the first two books in the series - after all, how can you not want to read more about Lila and her unforgettable family. Plus, I love the name of the town the book is set in - Shady Palms. How non-cozy does that sound? It makes me think that mysteries will be need to be solved all the time, which I just love. 

Okay, so what is this book about? Well, it's about Lila's cousin Ronnie coming back home just in time for Christmas. He's bought a winery and is ready to give back to his hometown. Except, Lila is not buying it and worries that his return will ruin the holiday season. And she may just be right when Ronnie is accused of murder. Say what? Yep, someone is killed and Ronnie is the prime suspect. Plus, rumor after rumor is spreading around town about him, along with some killer secrets. Yikes! Will Lila be able to prove her cousin's innocence, or will she find out that her cousin is capable of murder? Yowza! Talk about a dysfunctional family! And, that is all I will write about this fun and entertaining story - you need to check it out for yourself! 

I would definitely recommend you check out Blackmail and Bibingka by Mia P. Manansala - it's a great read you will fall in love with. 

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

Because I Could Not Stop for Death: An Emily Dickinson Mystery by Amanda Flower

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book:

Emily Dickinson and her housemaid, Willa Noble, realize there is nothing poetic about murder in this first book in an all-new series from USA Today bestselling and Agatha Award–winning author Amanda Flower.

January 1855 Willa Noble knew it was bad luck when it was pouring rain on the day of her ever-important job interview at the Dickinson home in Amherst, Massachusetts. When she arrived late, disheveled with her skirts sodden and filthy, she'd lost all hope of being hired for the position. As the housekeeper politely told her they'd be in touch, Willa started toward the door of the stately home only to be called back by the soft but strong voice of Emily Dickinson. What begins as tenuous employment turns to friendship as the reclusive poet takes Willa under her wing. 

Tragedy soon strikes and Willa's beloved brother, Henry, is killed in a tragic accident at the town stables. With no other family and nowhere else to turn, Willa tells Emily about her brother’s death and why she believes it was no accident. Willa is convinced it was murder. Henry had been very secretive of late, only hinting to Willa that he'd found a way to earn money to take care of them both. Viewing it first as a puzzle to piece together, Emily offers to help, only to realize that she and Willa are caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse that reveals corruption in Amherst that is generations deep. Some very high-powered people will stop at nothing to keep their profitable secrets even if that means forever silencing Willa and her new mistress....

my thoughts:

Wow! What a thrilling new mystery series by Amanda Flower! I fell in deep with Because I Could Not Stop for Death: An Emily Dickinson Mystery - it was an exciting and powerful story. Definitely dark at times and much more of a murder mystery than a cozy mystery. I loved how history was woven into the story and the characters felt so authentic and well-developed. The story was intriguing and unputdownable. And, the writing was superb. Such a great book!

It's 1855 in Amherst, Massachusetts and Willa Noble is needing a job. She has just interviewed at the Dickinson house and is thinking it did not go well. And, then she hears a voice calling out to her. Yep, Emily Dickinson decides to hire Willa and the two wind up forming a friendship. Tragedy soon strikes in Willa's family - her brother, Henry dies. Except, well, Willa believes Henry was murdered. Seems that he was keeping secrets from her and now she's convinced these secrets are what killed him. So, she turns to Emily and soon the two form a dynamic sleuthing duo who are set on figuring out what really happened to Henry.  Of course, danger shows up and the two women find themselves dealing with secrets that are much more sinister than they could have imagined. The question is, are they willing to risk their lives to get to the truth? Yikes!

Because I Could Not Stop for Death is a must-read! Anyone and everyone looking for an amazing new mystery series to become obsessed with should make sure to get their hands on a copy of Flower's new book - you don't want to miss out!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

The Secret of Bow Lane: A Below Stairs Mystery by Jennifer Ashley

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

A stranger who appears on Kat's doorstep turns out to be one Charlotte Bristow, legal wife of Joe Bristow, the man Kat once believed herself married to—who she thought died at sea twelve years ago. Kat is jolted by Charlotte’s claims that not only was Joe murdered, but he had amassed a small fortune before he died. Charlotte makes the cook an offer she cannot refuse—if Kat can discover the identity of Joe's murderer, Charlotte will give her a share of the fortune Joe left behind. 

With the help of Daniel McAdam, her attractive and charismatic confidante, Kat plunges into her own past to investigate. When it becomes apparent that the case of Joe’s death goes far deeper than simple, opportunistic theft, Kat and Daniel's relationship is put to the test, and Kat herself comes under scrutiny as her connection to Joe is uncovered. She must race to catch the real killer before she loses her job and possibly her life.

my thoughts:

The Secret Of Bow Lane by Jennifer Ashley is the sixth book in her popular series, A Below Stairs Mystery - and it is fantastic! I loved getting to know Kat and Daniel - what a dynamic duo! Kat is a cook who solves crimes with the help of her confidante, Daniel. In this latest installment, Kat is confronted by her past in the form of Charlotte Bristow - she's the legal wife of the man Kat thought she was married to and who fathered her child. Yep, DRAMA! Talk about uncomfortable truths and conversations, right? Kat was under the impression that her 'husband' had died several years ago, but Charlotte is now telling her that he was recently murdered. She wants Kat to find the killer and if successful, she will share her inheritance with Kat. Whoa! So, now Kat must dig deep into her past and try to figure out what happened, and she will need the help of Daniel to get through it all. Talk about putting your relationship to the test, eh? Will Kat and Daniel survive this new case? Will their romance remain intact once the killer has been caught? Yikes! So much is at stake...will Kat survive it all? 

Ashley has written a terrific story that makes the perfect addition to her series. It's chock full of drama and mystery. You can't help but get caught up with the story - it's just soooo good! The Secret of Bow Lane is a must-read for fans of the series and for anyone looking to get lost in a delicious cozy mystery - what a treat!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!
 

The Paper Caper: Bibliophile Mystery #16 by Kate Carlisle

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

San Francisco book-restoration expert Brooklyn Wainwright is back with an intriguing new mystery in the New York Times bestselling Bibliophile Mystery series.

Joseph Cabot is a very popular wealthy San Franciscan who owns the main newspaper in town, as well as radio stations and TV. Years ago, Brooklyn’s husband Derek and his security team rescued Joseph from an assassination attempt and now the man and his wife are friendly with Derek and Brooklyn. The friendship is helped along by the fact that Joseph is a big book lover and contributes lavishly to the Covington Library. His favorite author is Mark Twain (another newspaperman) and he’s underwritten the first annual Mark Twain Festival at the Covington.

As part of the festival activities, Brooklyn will spend a few hours every day at the Library, giving demonstrations of her work at re-binding an old copy of The Prince and the Pauper. There will be events all week, all around town, celebrating the time Twain spent in the city. But the biggest event is being run by Joseph’s newspaper: a citywide contest based on The Prince and The Pauper—they want to find someone who looks like Joseph! The two men will trade places for a week as part of a huge publicity campaign to raise money for the Covington Library. But the fun turns frantic when a murder occurs right before Brooklyn’s eyes! Now Brooklyn and Derek will have to chase clues all over their beloved city to solve the murder before another death becomes front-page news.

my thoughts:

What a fun and entertaining story! I just loved The Paper Caper by Kate Carlisle. It's the sixteenth book in her best-selling series, Bibliophile Mystery. And it is fantastic!

It's the first annual Mark Twain Festival and everyone is excited! Brooklyn and her husband, Derek, will be participating at the event. There are going to be children's actives, demonstrations of re-binding books, and a look-a-like contest. Yep, the sponsor of the Mark Twain Festival, Joseph Cabot, wants to hold a contest to find his look-a-like. Well, he does and the two men agreed to switch places for the remainder of the festival. Except, murder happens and well, it looks like maybe the intended target is still in danger. Yikes! Brooklyn and Derek soon have their hands full trying to find whodunit. Whoa!

Carlisle has written a terrific mystery tale chock full of suspense and twists and turns. I just love the charm of the cozy mystery and found myself snuggling up with my copy on a rainy night. The Paper Caper was such a treat to read!

I would happily recommend this book to fans of the series and to anyone looking for their next great read - check it out!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

Curses, Boiled Again! A Lobster Shack Mystery by Shari Randall

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

Welcome to the seaside hamlet of Mystic Bay, where the fish is always fresh, the folks are ever-friendly, and murder is on a roll. . .

Allie Larkin was living her dream as a ballet dancer when a bad fall put her out of business. Now she’s back home in Mystic Bay to heal a broken ankle while also helping her dear Aunt Gully get her Lazy Mermaid Lobster Shack off the ground. Nothing would help Gully more than winning the local food festival’s Best Lobster Roll contest. The competition is sure to be killer―especially after one of the contest judges dies after eating a roll from one of Gully’s biggest rivals.

Soon, all eyes fall on Gully as the prime suspect. Allie may only have one good leg to stand on, but she’s not going to let her aunt go down for a crime she never could have cooked up. Can Allie, along with her devoted crew of friends, family, and customers, find a way to trap the killer and claw herself out of this hard-boiled murder case?

my thoughts:

Cozy mysteries are where its at! They are fun, quick and easy reads that hook you in right from the start.  Chock full of quirky characters living in a small town, you can't help but get caught up in their dramas, town gossip, and murder mysteries.  I know that I love to gobble up these stories as often as I can - they always seem to cheer me up with their light, engaging stories.  Plus, there are so many to choose from, which I just love.  The latest series is a new one called, A Lobster Shack Mystery and the first book is Curses, Boiled Again!  How fun is that title?!  I have to admit to cracking up when I saw the cover and the title - I just knew I was going to be in for a treat.

Allie is a ballet dancer who is living her dream, when a bad fall leaves her with a broken ankle and out of work.  So, she travels back home to Mystic Bay to recuperate and help out her Aunt Gully, who is trying to get her lobster shack off the ground.  There's going to be a food festival and Aunt Gully is aiming to win the Best Lobster Roll contest - she knows it will do wonders for her business.  Unfortunately one of the judges dies after eating a lobster roll from Gully's biggest rival, which leaves everyone to believe she is behind the deadly lobster roll.  How crazy is that?!  Allie knows she has to save her Aunt Gully from these false charges, so she rustles up her friends and family to help her solve the mystery of whodunit. 

Talk about a fun and cute story! I just loved getting to know the citizens of Mystic Bay through their dramas, town gossip, and this murder mystery.  This book was such a delight to read.  The twists and turns made the murder/mayhem aspect thrilling, while the descriptions of the town and its people made for some light humor.  I really enjoyed trying to figure out who the culprit was, along with cheering on Allie as she worked to solve this crime. 

I would definitely recommend this book to fans of cozy mysteries - you will LOVE this new series!! 



Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

Another One Bites the Crust: A Bakeshop Mystery by Ellie Alexander

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

Torte―the beloved small-town bakeshop run by Jules Capshaw―is set to hit the stage. But who would have guessed that murder would makes a surprise appearance?

It’s the role of a lifetime for Jules. The Shakespeare Festival has returned to Ashland, Oregon, for the season and Torte has been cast as the supplier of Elizabethan-era treats for the main event. But on the eve of opening night, a brawl between Jules’s friend Lance, the artistic director, and a strapping young thespian named Anthony almost brings down the house. . .and the next morning, Anthony is dead. Jules knows that Lance loves his drama―and his just desserts―but she also knows that murder is way off-script for him. Now it’s up to Jules to cut through a bevy of backstage betrayals and catty co-stars who all have their own secrets―before the curtain drops on someone else. . .

my thoughts:

I am seriously loving cozy mysteries this winter - they are my jam! I especially love when I'm reading a series - the familiar characters and setting always make for a fun read.  So, I was super excited when I received a copy of Ellie Alexander's latest book, Another One Bites the Crust, from her popular series, A Bakeshop Mystery.  Its the seventh book in the series and I think it may just be my favorite one.

The Shakespeare Festival is in town and Jules' bakeshop, Torte, will be providing the yummy treats - get ready for some mouthwatering descriptions of delectable desserts.  Reading about all that delicious food is one of the highlights of these books - I just love that the recipes are included, too.  Jules is a foodie and its obvious how much she enjoys her bakery.  Of course, she is super busy getting ready for the festival and dealing with the renovations on her basement - she's planning on expanding her shop even more.  So, she's a bit surprised to say the least when she notices how weird her BFF, Lance, is behaving.  He's directing the play at the festival - Antony and Cleopatra - but he's not happy with the actor playing Antony.  In fact, the two get into a huge fight on the eve of opening night - DRAMA! Unfortunately for Lance, the actor is found dead the next morning and he is considered to be the "prime suspect" - ack!! Jules knows her friend is innocent and sets out to find the real killer.  Talk about a suspense-filled mystery! I just loved learning more about Jules and her BFF; reading about all of the craziness behind the scenes of the Shakespeare Fetival; and trying to figure out whodunit.  This book is a terrific addition to the series - the characters seem to grow and develop more and you can't help but fall even more in love with Ashland, Oregon.  I absolutely LOVED Another One Bites the Crust.  I would happily recommend it to fans of the series and anyone looking for a new cozy mystery to get lost in - you will LOVE this book!!



Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW of Fudge & Jury: A Bakeshop Mystery by Ellie Alexander

(Thank you to TLC Book Tours and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

about book:

Welcome to Torte–a friendly, small-town family bakery where the pastries are delicious…and, now, suspicious.

It’s almost spring in Ashland, Oregon, and the town is preparing for the Shakespeare and the annual Chocolate Festival. Business is cookin’ at Torte, and the store is expanding as Jules’ team whips up crèpes filled with mascarpone cheese and dark chocolate. Torte stands a chance of being this year’s confectionery belle of the ball! Life couldn’t be sweeter—unless murder taints the batter.

Evan Rowe, of Confections Couture, makes a chocolate fountain that would put Willy Wonka to shame, and his truffles are to die for—literally? Yes, the world-renowned chocolatier has just turned up dead…right after sampling a slice of Jules’ decadent four-layer chocolate cake. Now all eyes are on Jules as she tries to find the mysterious ingredient in her own recipe. Can she sift out the truth before another contestant bites the buttercream?
my thoughts:

Cozy mysteries are quickly becoming my go-to reads when I'm looking for something light and fun to read.  They are the perfect antidote to a grey and rainy day, especially when the winds are howling like mad.  Imagine my delight when this little tome found its way into my hands during one of the very rare cold fronts South FL has experienced this winter.  I grabbed me a cuppa, a warm blanket and settled in for the afternoon with Ellie Alexander's latest book in her popular Bakeshop Mystery series, Fudge & Jury.  Talk about bliss!  I devoured this book in one sitting and wished that I had more to read.  I just fell in love with Ashland, Oregon and its quirky inhabitants - they truly made for quite an entertaining read.

In this fifth book (in a six-book series), I met Jules, baker and owner of her family's bakery, Torte.  She's gearing up for the annual Chocolate Festival, while simultaneously getting her kitchen in order.  After saving up enough money, Jules and her mom are finally able to purchase new ovens for Torte.  Plus, they plan on painting and installing a new register.  They are excited and thrilled to refresh their bakery.  Of course, their top priority is getting everything made for the festival - they are one of the four showcase vendors, so they have to be ready in time.  Talk about stress and excitement combined. Unfortunately, Jules and Torte get thrown in the 'hot seat' when Evan, one of the other showcase vendors, dies after sampling Jules' confections.  Ack!  Death by chocolate?!  Well, nuts to be exact - seeing as he was allergic to them.  Uh oh!  What is Jules to do?  Apparently, she'll put on her sleuthing cap and get to figuring out what really happened to Evan.  Who killed him and why?

Alexander has written an engaging and rather delicious 'whodunit' story.  Filled with choco-tastic sweets, this book had my mouth watering non-stop.  I couldn't help but find myself craving all of Jules' yummy desserts.  Luckily, Alexander has included the recipes at the back of the book - hurrah!  Of course, I also found myself trying to figure out who was behind Evan's murder - I enjoyed all the twists and turns woven throughout the story.  Fudge & Jury was truly a fun read.  I plan on reading all of the other books in the series and can't wait to learn more about Jules and her sleuthing adventures.  I just know that I'm in for quite a treat.

I would happily recommend Fudge & Jury to fans of Ellie Alexander's, A Bakeshop Mystery series, and fans of cozy mysteries with a foodie bent - you will DEVOUR this book!!

Here's the link to the TLC Book Tour schedule for: Fudge & Jury

GIVEAWAY:  Thanks to the publisher I am able to give away one (1) copy of this book! All you have to do to enter the giveaway is leave me a comment. Don't forget to include your email address - that way I can contact you, if you win the book.  Last date to enter is January 20th.  US/Canada residents only.  Good luck!!

Thank you to TLC Book Tours and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

Currently reading...

and absolutely loving it! As a huge fan of Wingate's cozy mystery series, A Potting Shed Mystery (and her other series, A Birds of a Feather Mystery), I was thrilled to get approved for an ARC of her latest book in the series - thank you, NetGalley!  Last time (in Between a Rock and a Hard Place) Pru Parke was planning her wedding to DCI Christopher Pearse, while tackling a new short-term gig working at the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh.  Of course, everything turns to chaos when Pru stumbles upon a dead body and she's suddenly being questioned as the possible suspect. Ack!  In the end, she's finally married to her true love Christopher, and her investigative skills have helped to  capture the real murderer. Talk about a happy ending!

Well, this time round, Pru's Texan roots will be showcased in the latest mystery, The Bluebonnet Betrayal - hurrah!  According to the summary from NetGalley:

"Pru's life in England is coming full circle. A Texas transplant, she's married to the love of her life, thriving in the plum gardening position she shares with her long-lost brother, and prepping a Chelsea Flower Show exhibit featuring the beloved bluebonnets of the Texas hill country. Technically, Twyla Woodford, the president of a gardening club in the Lone Star State, is in charge of the London event, but Pru seems to be the one getting her hands dirty. When they finally do meet, Pru senses a kindred spirit—until Twyla turns up dead.

Although Twyla's body was half buried under a wall in their display, Pru remains determined to mount a spectacular show. Twyla would have insisted. So Pru recruits her husband, former Detective Chief Inspector Christopher Pearse, to go undercover and do a bit of unofficial digging into Twyla's final hours. If Pru has anything to say about it, this killer is going to learn the hard way not to mess with Texas."

How exciting does that sound?  Well, it is!  I am just loving catching up with Pru and her husband DCI Pearse.  And now, I'm off to continue reading The Bluebonnet Betrayal by Marty Wingate.  Happy reading!!

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: The Rhyme of the Magpie: A Birds of a Feather Mystery by Marty Wingate

(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

For readers of Laura Childs, Ellery Adams, and Jenn McKinlay, the high-flying new Birds of a Feather mystery series from Marty Wingate begins as a British woman gets caught up in a dangerous plot when her celebrity father disappears.

With her personal life in disarray, Julia Lanchester feels she has no option but to quit her job on her father’s hit BBC Two nature show, A Bird in the Hand. Accepting a tourist management position in Smeaton-under-Lyme, a quaint village in the English countryside, Julia throws herself into her new life, delighting sightseers (and a local member of the gentry) with tales of ancient Romans and pillaging Vikings.

But the past is front and center when her father, Rupert, tracks her down in a moment of desperation. Julia refuses to hear him out; his quick remarriage after her mother’s death was one of the reasons Julia flew the coop. But later she gets a distressed call from her new stepmum: Rupert has gone missing. Julia decides to investigate—she owes him that much, at least—and her father’s new assistant, the infuriatingly dapper Michael Sedgwick, offers to help. Little does the unlikely pair realize that awaiting them is a tightly woven nest of lies and murder.

my thoughts:

As a HUGE fan of Wingate's Potting Shed Mystery series, I was super excited to find out that she had started a new series titled, Birds of a Feather.  How fun!  A new cast of characters to fall in love with and a whole new theme involving birds to get invested in - talk about a treat.  I couldn't wait to dive right in!  

In The Rhyme of the Magpie, we meet Julia.  She's just moved to Smeaton-under-Lyme and taken on the post of Tourist Manager.  She eager for a fresh start after quitting her last job as her father's assistant on his famed television show, A Bird in Hand.  Julia's upset with her dad for marrying her mum's best friend immediately after she passed away.  This quickie marriage makes her think that perhaps her dad was not as in love with her mum as she once thought.  When he comes to visit her at her new place, she rebuffs him.  And then the unthinkable happens.  Her dad goes missing. Ack!  Talk about father issues.

Feeling overwhelmed with guilt, Julia decides to investigate her father's disappearance.  She knows the coppers are working on it, but feels that she should be doing something as well.  So, with the help of Michael (her father's new assistant) the two get to working on gathering clues and figuring out who would want to harm her beloved father.  As the two work close together, they can't help but find themselves falling in love with one another.  Of course, Julia soon learns that Michael is not who he seems.  Drama!

Wingate has once again written a superb cozy mystery filled with suspense, red herrings, danger, romance, and magpies.  Yep, magpies do provide a clue or two.  This story draws on an old nursery rhyme involving magpies, so whenever Julia happens to see some it becomes a thing.  Makes sense since Julia and her father are obsessed with birds - hence the title of the series.  Apparently if you see two magpies that means joy and if you see four that means a new baby boy (Julia's sis is preggers!).  Pretty nifty, eh?  I absolutely loved this aspect of the novel and found myself looking forward to any mention of magpies - you never knew what they would mean in connection with the mystery.  As for whodunit - I won't say a peep.  Just know that you will love reading this story and meeting all of the quirky characters involved.  The Rhyme of the Magpie is a must-read for fans of Wingate's novels and fans of cozy mysteries.  You will LOVE this book!!

Here's the link to the TLC Book Tour schedule for: The Rhyme of the Magpie

GIVEAWAY:
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Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!