Pages: 352

Publisher: Zondervan

Published: April 6, 2021

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: NetGalley

These collections of Amish novellas from Zondervan are always filled with love, faith, and hope. This one was no different. I liked how each was completely different from but all had the same theme of being centered around a barn raising.

The perfect book for new readers of Amish fiction/romance or for the busy reader.

Pages: 336

Publisher: Kensington

Published: April 27, 2021

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Source: NetGalley

What do you get when you combine a cooking competition at a secluded book retreat? A murder with as many suspects as available books. Will Jane be able to figure this out before her beloved Storyton Hall is ruined forever?

Every time I don’t think the series can surprise me, it does. I loved the addition of Olivia Limoges from Adams’ Books by the Bay series. (If you haven’t read that series what are you waiting for???) I think Jane and Olivia teamed up is a duo not to be rivaled.

As always, Adams shares wonderful books that I must put on my radar immediately. Over the weekend I read Strawberry Girl by Lois Lenski, an author I had never heard of. A great read to show what early Florida was like for farmers.

Although this book can be read as a standalone, I would suggest you read the series in order.

Another five-star but one of the best cozy mystery authors.

Pages: 320

Publisher: Barbour Publishing, Inc.

Published: March 2021

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: NetGalley

The Amish Greenhouse trilogy was exciting. My suggestion is to read the three books in succession as you won’t want to wait to find out the mysterious troublemaker. Needless to say, I was shocked when it was revealed in The Robin’s Greeting.

The series takes place roughly over a two-year time period. You follow the King family as they work through their grief after losing several loved ones in a single accident. You will need plenty of tissues and be prepared to stay up late with each book.

The Robin’s Greeting ties every loose end up and you are left with hope and love. If you are experiencing grief as I am this series is perfect. You realize your feelings are normal and happy days will come again. It just takes time.

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

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.