Pages: 176

Publisher: Kensington Books

Published: March 2021

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: NetGalley

Jill will be the first to admit she is not crafty, artsy, or creative but in the spirit of supporting other local businesses, she attends a paint-and-sip event with her local detective boyfriend. He becomes concerned with a couple who has imbed a little too much and takes them back to the local bed and breakfast. Unfortunately the next morning the wife is found dead in the art studio. To add confusion, Jill’s neighbor and fortune teller has decided to quit her job and leaves cryptic messages with Jill. Can Jill figure out what is going on before she has to walk down the aisle at her BFF’s wedding?

Another delightful read in the Tourist Trap Mystery series even if Amy, Jill’s BFF was getting on my last nerve. I do not do well with bridezillas. It must be my age. I wanted to reach in the book, give her a gentle slap and tell her to CALM DOWN.

The murder mystery was interesting with a lot of red herrings.

I only wish Jill would give us the titles of the books she reads. I like to pick up new reads from my current reads.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Kensington Books, through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.

Pages: 278

Publisher: Berkley

Published: April 2013

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: Paperback from Personal Library

The locals in Snowflake, Vermont are unhappy with a builder with ties to the town erecting a car wash in town. During the protest, a body is found but it looks to be very old. While the body is being exhumed a local has been killed and the mayor has gone missing. Will Lucky find out what is happening before she becomes the next victim?

I was a little apprehensive starting this series, especially since I started with book two. I had heard a lot of negative chatter regarding book one. Well, book two was a great read. A lot was going on and I had to keep the storylines straight with a few written notes. I am not sure I have read a cozy mystery with three murders and kidnapping before.

There are cold soup recipes included. They are not my cup of soup but I am sure they will tickle someone’s fancy. The peanut butter soup sounds interesting.

I plan on continuing this series.

Pages: 294

Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime

Published: August 2010

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: Large Print (Public Library)

A fantastic debut.

I originally read this is in April and again March 2021. I was ecstatic to learn that my original thoughts of the book were still the same. While I did not remember the murderer, I did remember a lot of the plot. The ending was dramatic and entertaining.

I am ready to re-read book 2. I am frustrated with my self for not continuing the series after book 2. I love the Charlie/Diesel combo.

Pages: 224

Publisher: Beyond the Page

Published: May 2018

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Source: E-Book (Kindle)

It has been a cold winter and Librarian James and friends are trying to get back on track with their dieting and have been discussing the upcoming reunion of a TV that was filmed locally 25 years ago. What they did not expect was the throng of people coming to town to buy land and homes. This is a result of an article extolling the perfection of small-town Qunicy’s Pass. Unfortunately, the eagerness and greediness of the one responsible for this crowd result in murder. Can James and friends solve the crime before the epic snowstorm of the century falls on the town?

I am sad I am at the end/caught up on this series. I slowly worked my way through as I loved knowing I had another book to read. I am not sure if there are more to come but I sure hope so. This book made me cry just as the book previously did. A good cry. If a book makes me cry then I know it was written beautifully.

I had no clue who the murderer was until revealed. There were plenty of red herrings and they certainly threw me off.

A great series for foodies. Recipes included.

Pages: 310

Publisher: Kensington Books

Published: March 2009

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: Paperback from Personal Library

Hannah must lose weight before her mom’s book launch and agrees to start exercising with her sister at the local gym. Unfortunately,  she finds more than willpower early one morning.  Can Hannah find the murderer before she wilts like her first cream puff attempt?

I enjoyed this entry in the Hannah Swenson series. I had not figured out the killer until it was revealed and that may have been because I was to angry with Mike. I have never been a fan of him but he really showed his scumballness in this book. Hannah has to be downright stupid to think he is the one. Grr…

I really enjoy the reading recipes in these books. I have never heard of Chocolate Sauerkraut Cake and am not sure I could try it even though I like sauerkraut.  I do want to try the egg salad recipe from Norman.

Triggers: murder (not grisly), adultery, stalking

Pages: 294

Publisher: St. Martin’s Press

Published: March 9, 2021

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: NetGalley

Watch out Cleveland, Ohio Lana Lee has decided to learn how to cook! Rather than ask those close to her she has decided to attend a cooking class at a local community college. What Lana didn’t expect was to find the chef/teacher dead. Can Lana solve the murder before becoming fried herself?

Lana is still a joy to read. She can find herself in trouble no matter what she is doing. One would think learning how to cook Chinese would be safe but oh no it is not. This time Lana finds herself as a top suspect and Detective Hottie aka boyfriend Adam is not able to help her.

I did figure out the murderer pretty quick but that did not dampen my appetite for the book. It was an enjoyable read and I loved seeing if my suspicions were correct.

I believe book 8 is already in the works. YAY!

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, St. Martin’s Press, through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.

Publisher: Gallery Books

Published: January 2021

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Source: NetGalley and Hardback through Public Library

What do you get when you have a new bookmobile driver and Amish patrons with secrets? You get A Perfect Amish Romance in more ways than one!

I admit I almost returned this book to the library without giving it a chance. Why do you ask? It was painful to read. Kayla is working through the death of her mom while caring for her dad. I am in the same boat although my caregiving is different. I am happy I stuck with the pain as I have gained so much encouragement and insight. I have written a lot down for future reference when I get overwhelmed.

This is a clean read that is also a quick read. The short chapters are perfect for those who don’t have much time to read in one sitting. I enjoyed the short chapters as they allowed me to stop, digest and reflect on the wisdom imparted.

I originally received a copy from the publisher, Gallery Books, through NetGalley but read a finished copy from my local library. All opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.

Pages: 352

Publisher: Kensington Books

Published: February 23, 2021

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Source: NetGalley

Esther has moved to Colorado for a fresh start after her parents’ death. She has settled into her house with her quiltmaking business and has made friends. One day her sister, who has been away from the faith for years, shows up with a baby and leaves the baby with Esther. Esther soon finds herself overwhelmed. Levi, the young man renovating her bathroom, realizes Esther needs help and asks his grandmother to help Esther. Settle in for a wild Amish ride of laughter and tears.

Oh my, I have found a series that is as much fun as the Huckleberry series by Jennifer Beckstrand. I love the quirky characters she creates. This book has its serious moments but plenty of laughing moments as well.

In book one of the Amish Quiltmaker, we meet Esther and Levi. Esther is hilarious between her apricot throwing and the things she puts behind her ears. “You just never know when you are going to need that item!” Levi is the perfect match for Esther in his calm manner and ability to see things from all perspectives. He reminds me of my hubby.

A fun book to read for ages teenage and above. A clean read. I listened to a bit of the audiobook and the narrator is wonderful. She really captures the essence of the characters.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Kensington, through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Pages: 336

Publisher: Zondervan

Published: March 2, 2021

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: NetGalley

I love reading these short story collections as they are comfort reading to my soul.

I always recommend these short stories to readers who want to try the Amish genre. These three stories of midwives and babies are perfect quick reading. My favorite was A Midwife for Susie but all are excellent.

I listened to a bit on my Hoopla app through my library and the narrator is perfect. She grasps the characters beautifully.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Zondervan, through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.

Pages: 288

Publisher: Poisoned Pen Press

Published: February 23, 2021

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Source: NetGalley

Shiloh has returned home to Michigan to help her dad with the ailing farm with the help of an investor. What she didn’t expect was to find the investor dead and her dad the main suspect. Can Shiloh save both her dad and the farm?

I finished Farm to Trouble at 4 am. Since then I have been trying to find a way to spin my full review positively. I have loved everything I’ve read by Amanda Flower until now.

Negatives

1. The narrator of the audiobook was definitely not for me. Too monotone. I had to stop listening.
2. Shiloh’s dad’s attitude towards her was horrible. So critical of everything. It was hard to read.
3. A lot of background information.

Positives

1. The last 25% of the book was great.
2. A secondary mystery was introduced that runs into the second book.
3. Enjoyed learning about bird migration and the dangers of wind farms.

I will for sure try the second book. My issues with the book are mine. You may find this is the best cozy mystery you’ve read and I hope you do.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Poisoned Pen Press, through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.