Hospitality and Homicide, by Lynn Cahoon

Hospitality and Homicide by Lynn Cahoon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars. I really liked it.

Book 8 in the series. You'll be fine if you start here, but do yourself a favor and go back and read them all!

I love this series, I really do. I love Jill's shop, the perfect combination of Coffee, Books and More. The characters are all well developed and it's like going to spend a weekend with some old friends. Meanwhile, someone is dead, and the obvious suspect just doesn't feel right. Jill is a typical small business owner, with more than enough to do in any given day, yet she still manages to snoop, haha.

This was a good, fast read, that I didn't want to put down. My only complaint is that I now have a long wait 'til next year and another visit to South Cove!

ETA: I just found out that there's another Tourist Trap mystery out in JULY, Killer Party! I get to go back to South Cove in a few short months! Haha.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley*

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Uncorking a Lie, by Nadine Nettman

Uncorking a Lie by Nadine Nettmann
My rating: 2 of 5 stars, it was okay.

Book 2 in a series. I haven't read the first in the series, but that didn't matter.

I liked the premise, and most of the story. I'm not entirely thrilled with the main character. I don't know diddly about wine, I just know what I like. Kate is that wine snob that bugs the crap out of me in real life, I don't really want to listen to her in a cozy. She's not always so pretentious, and at those times I sort of wanted to like her, but all in all, I can't really bring myself to care about her or her companions in this book.

I think I will give anymore books in this series a miss.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book received from the publisher, via NetGalley.

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The Final Vow, by Amanda Flower

The Final Vow by Amanda Flower
My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

Book 3 in the series.

I didn't realize at the start that this was 3 books in. I felt as though I was missing a little something, because the relationships all seemed very well established. The story itself though, is absolutely a stand alone story and I enjoyed it immensely.

I love the unique setting, especially since I am a big history buff. I admit to being a little disappointed at who the murder victim was, since there were a few characters I wouldn't have minded being knocked off, haha.

The story was solid, and I loved the main character, Kelsey and her son, Hayden, along with most of the museum staff. I will certainly be seeking out the first two books.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley.

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Magic & Mayhem, by Sharon Pape

Magick & Mayhem by Sharon Pape
My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

A fun series debut.

Kailyn Wilde inherits her magical potion shop from her mother and grandmother, though they're not entirely gone, since they visit regularly in ghost form.

What I liked: Kailyn, her aunt and the cats. The misfiring spells were also intriguing, though I felt at though we were kind of left hanging about them. Obviously, something is causing problems with magic, and I want to know what's going on, haha.

What I wasn't so "Wilde" about: Kailyn's ghosts. The constant bickering between them got old fast. Merlin. He comes off as kind of bumbling, rather than a great magician. And his refusal to understand that he couldn't use magic in front of others bugged me. Then again, did they ever explain to him how it could be dangerous to all of them to be exposed?

All in all, it was an amusing book that I enjoyed. The characters could use some fleshing out, maybe tone down the bickering mother/daughter ghosts and bring the issues with magic a bit more to the forefront, since I am not entirely convinced Merlin fixed the issue (and frankly, it would be too easy if he had!).

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.

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No Charm Intended, by Mollie Cox Bryan

No Charm Intended by Mollie Cox Bryan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Book 2 in the series.

I liked No Charm Intended better than book 1. I love the premise and the changing "cast" of characters each retreat is fun. The mystery was unusual and interesting, the activities fun and engaging.

But I found myself pulled out of the story by a few things:

I found the two main characters, Cora and Jane, at times totally interchangeable and got them confused, because sometimes one spoke so out of character that I'd have go back and re-read the passage to make sure I had the right person. Jane seemed to be more cynical and less trusting, and openly distrusted Paul, then suddenly she was crying because she was worried about him. Wait, what? Things like that happened several times through out the book, leaving me a little confused each time.

Jane and Cora have just started a business, money is obviously a concern, and yet they have meals catered? That doesn't seem practical. And what exactly does Cora bring to the retreats? She doesn't seem to teach anything, just spends her time blogging...

I'm also having a problem with the fact that Cora seems to have so many of the men in town attracted to her, including a married police officer. Because the love triangle isn't bad enough, Cora gets to be in a love square!

It was an enjoyable enough read that I will read book three, but I'd really like to see the main characters a bit more fleshed out and individualized in the next one.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the author*

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A Killer Keepsake, by Ellery Adams and Parker Riggs

A Killer Keepsake by Ellery Adams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars, I really liked it.

Book 6 in the series.

I only recently discovered this series, and I haven't read all of the books yet, but it is safe to start here. I always think you should start with book 1 in a good series, but you wouldn't be lost if you read this first.

This is my favorite book, so far, in the series. The characters are well developed and likeable. Molly just can't keep away from solving murders, especially when she finds the body. I liked that this book had two story-lines running simultaneously, one present, one past. Both story-lines were well meshed, so neither felt forced, instead each added to the other.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.

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Every Body on Deck, by G.A. McKevett

Every Body on Deck by G.A. McKevett

My rating: 3 of 5 stars. I liked it.

Book 22 in the series. Do yourself a favor and start at book 1. You can start here, and you won't be lost, but you'll miss out on a lot of fun!

I love Savannah. She's a plus-sized gal, and she doesn't care one bit what anyone else thinks. There's no body shaming here!

The whole crazy cast of character just adds to the fun. This time around they combine business with pleasure as Savannah's favorite author hires her to protect her, on a cruise. It was a nice, light read, if a little predictable.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.

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Cozy Case Files: A Cozy Mystery Sampler, Volume 1, Various Authors

Cozy Case Files: A Cozy Mystery Sampler, Volume 1 by Ellie Alexander (and various other authors)

My rating: 5 of 5 stars, it was exactly what it claimed to be, a sampler of cozy mysteries that I highly enjoyed.

This is nice sampler of 14 cozy mysteries published by St. Martin's Press in the spring/summer of 2017. I had only read books by a few of the authors with excerpts in this book, so it was a nice introduction to the other authors' work.

This sampler did as it was intended, and whetted my appetite for these new releases. Of course, now I am quite impatient to read the complete stories, haha.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley*


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Give the Devil His Due, by Steve Hockensmith

Give the Devil His Due by Steve Hockensmith

My rating: 2 of 5 stars, it was okay.

Book 3 in the series.

I've given the series a chance, but this one just didn't work for me. I can't find it in me to care about Alanis or her sister and the plot was just ridiculously convoluted. Way too much going on, too many characters to keep up with. When it starts to feel like you need a spreadsheet to keep track, it's just too much.

I don't think I will be looking for book 4.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley*


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Southern Fried, by Tonya Kappes

Southern Fried by Tonya Kappes

My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

Book 2 in the series.

A fast, fun read featuring Sheriff Kenni Lowry, her dead granddad, Duke the dog and of course the hot deputy, Finn. It's a little bit silly, but an enjoyable romp through Southern small town life full of family secrets and kooky characters.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.


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Lost Souls, by Kelley Armstrong

Lost Souls by Kelley Armstrong
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I was a bit of a fish out of water in this story, at least for a bit, since I've not read any of the novels in this series (though that's about to change, I now have books one and two). Probably not the best place to start the series. This apparently occurs between books three and four, so you might want to read 1-3 before this novella.

The characters are interesting, though Gabriel is a little tough to like at times. I did like it enough that I want to know more, especially about Patrick.

Edited to add: I have now read books 1-3, although read is an understatement, I pretty much devoured them in the last few days. I like Gabriel a lot more now, and Patrick a lot less, haha. But I strongly suggest reading the whole series before reading this novella. You won't be sorry you did!

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this story received from the publisher, via NetGalley*

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Kale to the Queen, by Nell Hampton

Kale to the Queen by Nell Hampton

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

First in the series.

I liked it, mostly. It reminded me a bit of Julie Hyzy's White House Chef mysteries, in that it's obviously set in a real place where there really is a Duke & Duchess of Cambridge, though in the book they are fictionalized. I think, like Hyzy's series, this series will work best if the Cambridges stay mostly in the background.

It took me a while to warm up to Carrie Ann, but after a bit she kind of grew on me. There were a few little nit picky things that bugged me (tea gets MILK, not cream, in England. My husband is English, and every English person I've ever met, including strangers I waited on in restaurants when I was younger, sent the cream back and/or asked for milk! (A Cream Tea is known for clotted cream and scones, not cream in the tea.), and yes, the Queen herself is said to drink her Twining's English Breakfast tea with MILK (but no sugar, haha).

There were moments where the dialogue made me feel like I was watching a bad gangster film, "Are you going to the coppers with what you know?" Does anyone even really call them "coppers" anymore??

Aside from the little things, I did enjoy it and look forward to the next in the series.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley*

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The Skeletons of Scarborough House, Kitty French

The Skeletons of Scarborough House by Kitty French

My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars, I liked it, but...

I have to say that the description on the cover of the book calling it "An absolutely hilarious cozy mystery" made me a bit skeptical, it's a pretty lofty claim, haha. And truly, it was amusing, but I would never say absolutely hilarious... But I did enjoy it. It was a light, fluffy read that went quickly.

The biggest drawback to this book was the stupid love triangle. Both guys were jerks, and I am so over the whole, "Will she, won't she," crap of cozies lately. And as a result, Melody and Marina often come off like they're still in junior high, rather than 27!

I'd read another book in the series for sure, but I'd certainly be happy to see the love triangle disappear.

*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley.*


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When the Grits Hit the Fan, by Maddie Day

When the Grits Hit the Fan by Maddie Day

My rating: 4 of 5 stars, I really liked it!

Book 3 in the series.

My favorite so far. Can be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading the entire series, though, because they're all good!

Robbie has made her place in South Lick, and even with the winter slow down, she's doing well and staying busy, even if it's just remodeling the area above her store. The saying is, "If these walls could talk, they would tell you the story," and as she tears walls down, Robbie is uncovering long hidden secrets.

One thing I love about this series is that Robbie doesn't spend the whole book running off and leaving her business for someone else to run while she solves the mystery. It honestly makes the whole thing more believable. Many small businesses, especially restaurants, just can't afford to have too many employees.

This book did have a bit of a darker end to it than most cozies, but I think it was a fitting end. I look forward to more from Robbie and South Lick.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.


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Elementary, She Read, by Vicki Delaney

Elementary, She Read by Vicki Delany

My rating: 1 of 5 stars, I really didn't much care for it

First in the series.

This book just wasn't what I wanted it to be. I've enjoyed Ms. Delaney's other books and I loved the idea of a Sherlock bookstore, but I disliked the reality. Mostly, because I didn't really care for Gemma. There were a lot of little nit-picky things that all added up to make me dislike her. She was snooty and came off as condescending several times. I get that she's supposed be kind of a female version of Sherlock, but it's just too much. On and on she goes and then, "I only wanted to point out the obvious facts." Which of course I imagined being said in a really snarky voice. Plus she's one of those people that never orders their own food, just says, "I'll have some of yours." UGH.

Add in the extremely unpleasant police officer and I finally just ended up skimming through the story.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley*


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Cruel Winter, by Sheila Connolly

Cruel Winter by Sheila Connolly

My rating: 4 of 5 stars, I really liked it.

Book 5 in the series.

I really enjoyed this book in the series, the Cold Case aspect really appealed to me, since it didn't have the "oh we're a tiny village and here's another dead body since you've arrived" aspect that sometimes makes a reader cringe at the unlikelihood of it. I think it is so far my favorite book in the series and I read it quickly and in one sitting.

I loved the character movement with Jimmy and Rose and I would love to see more of Rose's interests be featured. I would also be ok with less Jimmy, he's really a jerk and taking advantage of the pub.

The one turn off about this series is that Maura still needs some character development. I am tired of hearing about how she never meant to stay, never meant to run a pub, etc as an excuse for why she doesn't know how to do things.

She's been in Ireland long enough now that really, she should be taking the time to learn some basic things about the pub. Ordering, heating, taxes, etc, she needs to know it instead of depending on other people to do it for her, and she needs to keep on top of stuff like that. For her own sake as well as her employees. I also don't understand how she could be so unprepared for a serious snow storm, she's from Boston, which typically gets a ton of snow every winter!

All in all, this is another good cozy mystery by Sheila Connolly and I am actually a bit sad that she doesn't have anything new coming out again for a while now, haha.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley*


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Death by Chocolate Lab, by Bethany Blake

Death by Chocolate Lab by Bethany Blake
My rating: 2 of 5 stars, it was just barely okay.

Book 1 in a series.

I loved the premise, but frankly, I didn't find the characters very likable. The main character, Daphne, came across as flighty and immature, and well, ditsy. Her sister, Piper, felt uptight and condescending and their mother was a snooty woman who obviously played favorites. Piper, of course, is the Golden Child, which gave me all the more reason to not like her.

Meanwhile, the reader is supposed to believe that Daphne has a PhD (even if it's in a "throw away" subject like philosophy) that took brains and commitment to get.

Add all that to the slooooow pace of the book and I really struggled to get through it. Towards the end things picked up, and that's the only reason it gets a second star.

Not sure I would bother reading the second book in the series.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley*

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Kneaded to Death, by Winnie Archer

Kneaded to Death by Winnie Archer
My rating: 2 of 5 stars, it was okay.

Winnie Archer is a pseudonym for Melissa Bourbon. I love her Magical Dressmaking series, so I wanted to love this new series. Unfortunately, I had a hard time liking Ivy. She came off as whiny and immature. There were moments where I felt like she was in high school, and she's supposed to be 31.

As a result, this book just didn't keep my attention for long, I kept putting it down and picking up something else to read. I did finally slog through it, and the ending was satisfying, even if the road there was a little too long and curvy.

I am hoping that now that the mystery of Ivy's mom's death is solved, Ivy and company can move on and develop in to more likeable characters in book 2.

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Fatality by Firelight, Lynn Cahoon

Fatality by Firelight by Lynn Cahoon

My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

Book 2 in the series.

I am enjoying this series. The Colorado setting, the writer's retreats, the main mystery, I loved it. The writing is tight, the characters are well developed and mostly likeable.

What I am not loving is the secondary plot-line that is dragging on and dragging more people in. I am not a fan of "To Be Continued" in anything. In the first book, it was a bit more subtle. With book 2, it's as much a part of the book as the current murder and I am not liking that so much. I would really like to see it given its own book and wrapped up so Cat can move on.

As a result, I just can't give this book more than a 3 star rating. I liked it, but I didn't love it. I am still looking forward to reading book 3 in the series.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book received from the publisher, via NetGalley*



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Death of a Ghost, by M.C. Beaton

Death of a Ghost by M.C. Beaton
My rating: 1 of 5 stars, did NOT finish! I would give this ZERO stars if it would let me.

I read many of the early Hamish Macbeth books and I loved them. This one, though? I hated it. Hamish has turned into a condescending pig that I do not like. I finally just skipped to the end and it made say, "WTF??"

The entire epilogue (which was way too long) storyline with Fox and Blair was just so far out there. Is Beaton even writing these books herself anymore or has she just gone barmy?

Absolutely abysmal book and I highly doubt I will ever read an MC Beaton book again.

In case I was not clear enough, I DO NOT RECOMMEND this book. Thank goodness I got it free from NetGalley.

By the way, this is the first time I have not finished a NetGalley book. Sad day.

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A Darkness Absolute, by Kelley Armstrong

A Darkness Absolute by Kelley Armstrong
My rating: 4 of 5 stars, I REALLY liked it.

Book 2. I hadn't read the first book, and I knew I was missing some backstory, but it was still a completely satisfying read.

This book was a lot more thriller/mystery than I usually read, but I love Kelley Armstrong's Otherworld series, so I thought I would give it a try.

It sucked me in! From the moment Casey got stranded in a freak snowstorm, I was hooked. Every little bit that unfurled after that just made me NEED to know more, RIGHT NOW! So I kept reading and stayed up far too late to finish it.

A Darkness Absolute is creepy, enthralling and fast paced. Unlike Ms. Armstrong's Otherworld series, there's no supernatural element to this book, but everyone in Rockton is still somewhat "other" in that they all have secrets, some of which are downright dangerous. And yet the main characters at least are very likeable, flawed, humans trying to make a life off the grid.

As a result of reading this book, I immediately read The Lost City as well, just to fill in the background (It was excellent as well!). Now I will wait, rather impatiently, for the next book in the series!

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book received from the publisher, via NetGalley.

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Terror In Taffeta, by Marla Cooper

Terror in Taffeta by Marla Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A fast, fun read. I grabbed this book out of its mailer and sat down to read a bit before starting dinner. Suddenly I was on the last chapter and dinner ended up delivery, haha.

During a destination wedding in Mexico, one of the bridesmaids drops dead during the ceremony and the bride's sister is arrested for murder. The Momzilla Mother of the Bride insists wedding planner Kelsey find the real killer, and Kelsey can't afford to say no.

I liked Kelsey, the suspects were plenty and varied and the plot twisty. And photographer Brody made a great sidekick for Kelsey. The location made me want to run off to Mexico.

A good start to a new series, I am looking forward to book 2.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book that I received from the author

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Death in Advertising, by Laura Bradford

Death in Advertising by Laura Bradford
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Tobi's newest slogan proves to be truth in advertising. A great start to a new series!

I will admit to starting this book with a bit of skepticism. I haven't been a fan of this author. I am glad I decided to give her another chance.

I liked Tobi quite a bit, she was a bit more realistic than previous protagonists from Ms. Bradford. The supporting "cast" were a lot of fun, and it's always nice to have a love interest who is NOT a law enforcement official.

The plot was fast and fun. Looking forward to the next book in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.

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A Measure of Murder, by Leslie Karst

A Measure of Murder: A Sally Solari Mystery by Leslie Karst
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Book 2 in the series.

I liked it. But there are a few things that still annoy me. I've worked in restaurants and I know the profit margin is slim to none. Most restaurant owners I know work loooong days, every day, working the front of the house, in the kitchen, doing paperwork, where ever they are needed, because payroll is tight. Yet Sally can manage TWO restaurants, go on bike rides, sing with a chorus and investigate a murder, all without passing out from exhaustion.

But I guess the average reader doesn't have that background. Once I managed to suspend my disbelief about that, the story line was interesting and fun. I like Sally, I like the other primary characters, and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book, provided by the publisher via NetGalley.

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Some Kind of Magic, by Mary Ann Marlowe

Some Kind of Magic by Mary Ann Marlowe
My rating: 2 of 5 stars, it was okay.

Not very magical. After reading the book blurb and seeing all the 4 and 5 star reviews, all I can say is, I was really disappointed in this book.

It's a typical formulaic romance, but from the blurb and title I thought it would have a bit of a twist. All it really had was pure silliness. Low self esteem wanna be musician girl meets famous musician guy but has no idea who he is. Then she finds out and of course the guy couldn't possibly want to be with a girl like her if it wasn't for the crazy perfume she's wearing. Misunderstandings occur, couple splits, each is miserable without the other, blah, blah, blah. They get back together and have their HEA.

All in all, it's a fast read with some funny bits, but pretty predictable and formulaic.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.

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Murder Go Round, by Carol J. Perry

Murder Go Round by Carol J. Perry
My rating: 4 of 5 stars, I really liked it.

Book 4 in the series, and the best yet!

After book 3, I swore I was done with this series, so I had to really think long and hard about requesting this one from NetGalley. I am so glad I did! Lee totally redeemed herself in this book. She wasn't the bland, boring character she was in the previous book, but more fleshed out and fun. Maybe part of that is that she's more open to her gift now.

The book is still filled with kooky characters, it's set in Salem, after all. But I found I didn't mind them so much this time around. They fit the story better and some of the usual characters only briefly appear, so they aren't overwhelming.

Murder Go Round was a quick, fun romp through Salem with a bit of history thrown in. I absolutely enjoyed it.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley.

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Pressed to Death, by Kirsten Weiss

Pressed to Death by Kirsten Weiss
My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

To be published March 2017. Book 2.

There's a lot going on! I love the premise, and the paranormal museum. The present day murder mystery, combined with the mystery attached to the haunted wine press were interesting and fun. The small town has the typical kooky citizens that made me laugh.

But I felt distracted at times by the kooky cast of characters and their betting pool, Maddie's love life and the annoying police officer with a long held grudge. A few less off beat characters and a little more focus on the mystery wouldn't be a bad thing.

Pressed to Death was a fun read and I am looking forward to more.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reading Copy of this book

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Murder Wears White, by Stephanie Blackmoore

Murder Wears White by Stephanie Blackmoore
My rating: 2 of 5 stars, it was okay.

Book 2 in the series.

What I did like: Mallory's family and the way they all worked together. I love the location and the concept.

What I didn't like: Too much going on! Instead of a relaxing read, I felt like I was running to catch up all the time. And some of it just felt forced. "Ooo, we have a ghost. Call in a paranormal team!" Because it's not just vandalism?? (By the way, vandalism that nearly kills someone is NOT a prank...) My mind would have gone straight to, "How is someone getting into my building?" not "It's a GHOST!" and I love ghost stories, but this was just too silly.

All in all, the things I liked are enough to get me to read the next in the series. It just needs a bit of tightening up, rather than running in every direction.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via NetGalley.

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Scheduled to Death, by Mary Feliz

Scheduled to Death by Mary Feliz
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Book 2 in the series.

I have to be up front and admit I didn't quite like this book as much as I liked the first one. The inept and frankly nasty, police detective who replaced Jason after his accident was completely unlikable and annoying. Not to mention, distracting.

I still enjoyed the story, but Detective Awful pulled me out of it more than he moved the story along and it got to the point where any time he showed up, I skipped ahead.

It was still a fun, fast moving story, with Maggie and Co. figuring out the real killer and tying up a few other interesting little side-plots.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

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Time Out, by Suzanne Trauth

Time Out by Suzanne M. Trauth
My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

Book 2 in the series.

I like Dodie, and the way the restaurant she runs does a "dinner and a show" along with the local theater group. But I felt a little disappointed in this book. Dodie's "love interest," police chief Bill, is busy with a rash of burglaries, and doesn't seem too interested in a suspicious death (?! I would have thought a death would take priority, but what do I know?) or Dodie, for that matter.

All in all, I enjoyed this book, but felt there was a bit more filler than needed, which made the story drag a little at times. I still like the quirky characters and look forward to the next book in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

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Fudge and Jury, by Ellie Alexander

Fudge and Jury by Ellie Alexander

My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

Book 5 in the series.

I love the setting for this series, a small Oregon town with a fondness for Shakespeare (and of course the main character is Juliet!).

The mystery and characters are all strong, and I love the Torte crew. My only complaint about the series is Juliet's on again/off again husband, Cruise Ship Casanova Carlos. I'd really like to see that relationship wrapped up, one way or the other. When they are off again, he's just a distraction. Jules seems to have decided that Ashland is where she belongs, so why is C.S.C. Carlos even still an issue? Of course, the end of the book certainly gives a reason for him still being in the picture and I am not sure I like it, but that's all I will say about that so as to not give anything away.

Overall, this was a quick, enjoyable read with fun characters and an interesting plot, and oh yeah! Chocolate! ;)

*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via NetGalley.

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Dead and Breakfast, by Kate Kingsbury

Dead and Breakfast by Kate Kingsbury
My rating: 2 of 5 stars, it's an okay book.

This is the first in a new series. And, well, it feels like it. The characters are a bit one-dimensional. This book is also quite formulaic; The hot law enforcement guy (they're always either hot or grumpy with an axe to grind, haha), the animal and of course the haunted B&B. It all left me feeling a bit let down, and as a result it took me longer to read than it really should have, just because I kept putting it down to go do something else.

That said, I do like the premise of the series and hopefully things will get fleshed out a bit more in the next book. But please, Ms. Kingsbury, if you're going to stick to a formula, please DO NOT throw in a competing male. I'm absolutely sick of that trope.

All in all, an okay start to a series with a fun premise, in need of some fleshing out.

*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.*

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Iced Under, by Barbara Ross

Iced Under by Barbara Ross
My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

Book 5 in the series.

I have struggled with this series, mostly because I wasn't a huge fan of the way Julia swooped in to "save the day" with her family business in the first book. I did not like her much at all in that book. But I continued to keep reading the series, because I love the location. And Julia is so much better now, and this is the best I have read so far. I am glad I stuck with the series.

It's winter in Maine, and most smart folks have gone south for the winter, but with Julia's sister mere moments away from giving birth to her second child, that's not going to happen for her. Even Julia's boyfriend has headed to Florida on a Guy Trip. So when a mysterious package carrying a family heirloom turns up, Julia jumps at something other than staring at the ever-present snow.

It was a fun, quick read that introduced some interesting new characters while obtaining some long sought answers for Julia's mother.

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Something Foul at Sweetwater, by Sandra Bretting

Something Foul at Sweetwater by Sandra Bretting

My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.


Book 2 in the series.

Loaded with Southern Charm. I love Missy, she is what I think of when I think of a Southern woman, a true Steel Magnolia, strong and independent, yet feminine as all get out. Sometimes however, her brain takes a back seat and she rashly rushes in to things that maybe she shouldn't, but what cozy protagonist doesn't?

I enjoyed every bit of this book, although every once in a while the stereotypical southern phrases made me cringe, instead of laugh (Butter my butt and call me a biscuit! Dag-gum-it! Urgh.), but they were scattered a through out the book, so it wasn't quite as noticeable as in Murder at Morningside.

And I absolutely love the name of book 3, Someone's Mad at the Hatter, haha, so I can't wait until it comes out!

*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book*

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Ill Met by Murder, by Elizabeth J. Duncan

Ill Met by Murder by Elizabeth J. Duncan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars, I really liked it.

Book 2 in the series, but don't worry if you haven't read book 1 yet. There are a few references to it, but they're barely noticeable.

I quite enjoyed this book. It was a quick and entertaining read that kept me hooked all the way through. It was the perfect read for a cold, snowy November day.

I like Charlotte and Rupert, and I love the theater aspect. I would actually like to see a bit more of that and the Cascades location in future books.

My only complaint is that there were a few little things that were a touch predictable and too easy.

I look forward to more in this series.

*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book*

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First Degree Mudder, by Kate E. Dyer-Seeley

First Degree Mudder by Kate E. Dyer-Seeley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

4th book in the series.

To be honest, I didn't like this book as much as the previous ones. A big part of that is because I am never going to run any sort of race, and certainly not a mud run. Blech. And no way in heck would I pay for a Boot Camp to get me in shape for a run of any kind, haha. It's not really my cup of tea, even as an armchair participant!

I do like Meg though, she's a strong female character who isn't afraid to fake it until she makes it (or she'd never have gotten a job writing about extreme sports and certainly wouldn't have kept it, haha.). The mystery itself was well plotted and kept me hooked.

I absolutely love the setting of the series, the Pacific Northwest location is definitely what keeps me coming back.

The one thing I don't really care for is the other murder mystery sub-plot that has so far run through the entire series. I would like to see the mystery of Meg's dad's murder come to a conclusion soon.

*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book*

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A Killer Location, by Sarah T. Hobart

A Killer Location: A Home Sweet Home Mystery by Sarah T. Hobart

My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

Officially book 2 in the series, but there are actually 2 previous stories about Sam written under a different name.

This is better than the previous book. I didn't feel like so much was missing as I did with Death at a Fixer-Upper. I had some laugh out loud moments. Sam's neighbors are quirky and fun and Sam is still her acerbic self. She still has some Too Stupid To Live moments and the Open House might have been a touch over the top crazy.

Not a bad way to spend a few hours.

*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book*


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Haunted Is Always in Fashion, by Rose Pressey

Haunted Is Always in Fashion by Rose Pressey
My rating: 2 of 5 stars, It was ok.

Book 4 in the series.

Quick read with nice characters, though the cat angle is a little silly. This series reminds me a lot of Annette Blair's Vintage Magic series, but not nearly as good.

The endless fashion descriptions get old fast. And I have to mark it down a star, just because of the love triangle trope. When are editors and writers going to figure out that readers are over this forced stupidity?? We want strong female characters, not someone who can't make up her mind which man she wants. And why are two men stupid enough to let her keep waffling? It's a cheap plot device and I despise it.

Sadly, I think this will be the last book I read in this series because I just can't get past the love triangle and it shows no signs of letting up any time soon.

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Search for the Dead, by Sheila Connolly

Search for the Dead by Sheila Connolly
My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

Book 5 in the series, but can be read as a stand alone.

Abby and her boyfriend have the ability to see their dead relatives, though Abby's "gift" seems to be stronger than Ned's. Ned has known about his ability since childhood, Abby is quite new to her ability. In this book, Abby decides that she needs to learn more about what is happening and along with Ned's mother, goes to a psychic fair to check things out.

She also convinces Ned that it's time to look into the scientific aspect of their connection.

It was a quick and interesting read and advanced Abby and Ned's story a bit, filling in some blanks that have persisted through out the previous books.

There were a few things I didn't like, however. The scientific side was a bit too detailed and I am really getting tired of Leslie's attitude. I would like to see that storyline get some resolution.

I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book*

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Cat Got Your Diamonds, by Julie Chase

Cat Got Your Diamonds by Julie Chase
My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

First in a series.

I have to start off by saying that I really dislike the trend of dressing pets up. They're not dolls and they're not children and forcing them in to clothing seems mean.

That said, I actually did enjoy this debut mystery. It was fast paced and fun. There were a few scenes that had me laughing out loud. I liked the main character, she's smart, yet fanciful in a good way, and a strong female character. The supporting "cast" was the usual eccentric mix you tend to expect in cozies and they added to the fun feel of the story.

I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book*

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The Good, the Bad and the Guacamole, by Rebecca Adler

The Good, the Bad and the Guacamole by Rebecca Adler
My rating: 1.5 of 5 stars, I wasn't a huge fan.

Book 2 in a series.

I wanted to like this book, I really did. The town is cute, the location could be brilliant, but the author never really makes use of the area of Texas the book is set in, other than to talk up Tex-Mex cooking, which just left me hungry.

I just couldn't get into this book. A book that should have taken me just hours to read took me 10 days to wade through, because it just didn't hold my interest. I kept putting it down to read something new.

The fact is, I just don't really like Josie. She's bland. And I am starting to get annoyed with books that anthropomorphize animals. I don't mind the ones where the animal has a personality, or even a special talent, but when you start dressing up your dog and treating it like your baby, I have to draw the line.

Sadly, I admit to finally just skimming the rest of the book just to get to the end. I won't be reading anything else in this series.

*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.*

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Beignets, Brides and Bodies, by J.R. Ripley

Beignets, Brides and Bodies: A Cozy Mystery Set in Smalltown Arizona by J.R. Ripley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Book 2 in the series. I was able to jump right in without feeling like I was missing anything by not reading the first book.

A light, fun read, full of eccentric characters. Maggie and Mr. Markey had me laughing out loud. It was a fast moving romp through the wacky world of weddings and bridezillas (and Momzillas, too, haha).

The only thing I didn't particularly care for was the cover. It feels too dark for a cozy mystery to me. Luckily, this is one book I didn't judge by the cover!

If you are looking for another fun series, check out the Bird Lover's series by this author too.

I was given an ARC of this book by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.

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Send in the Clowns, by Julie Mulhern

Send in the Clowns by Julie Mulhern
My rating: 4 of 5 stars, I really liked it.

Book 4 in the series.

Ellison and co. are back. After going to a haunted house with friends, Ellison's daughter Grace misses curfew. Ellison sets off to find her, but finds two scary clowns instead. One's covered in blood and dies right in front of her, after calling her name! The other is holding a knife. When Ellison comes back with help, they've both disappeared.

Now Ellison is faced with several protective men, a killer clown and a missing murder victim.

Having lived in Kansas during my teen years (80s though, not the the 70s), I have a pretty good idea what area of KC these are set in, so that's a huge plus for me. I love mysteries set in real places.

Ellison is a nice strong female character and I really enjoy the humor in this series. My only peeve about this series so far is the terrible love triangle trope as two men vie for Ellison's attention. I'm heartily sick of this plot device in everything!

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.

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Dying for Strawberries, by Sharon Farrow

Dying for Strawberries by Sharon Farrow
My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

A bit darker than the usual cozy, I still enjoyed it. It's a good first in the series, with characters I mostly liked and would like to see more of. The one character I didn't really like (besides the murder victim, who was just awful), was Ryan, the main character's fiance. Something about him grated.

I'll definitely give book 2 in the series a chance.

*I was provided an ARC of this book by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.*

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Frontier Grit: The Unlikely True Stories of Daring Pioneer Women, by Marianne Monson

Frontier Grit: The Unlikely True Stories of Daring Pioneer Women by Marianne Monson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

I live in the West, so stories about life on the Frontier fascinate me, especially stories about the women who braved long, hard, travels. The women in this book were all new to me, and I enjoyed learning about them and in fact may see if I can find out even more about a few of them.

What I did NOT enjoy was the author chiming in at the end of each chapter and blathering at me about why each woman was important and what she felt I should take away with me. It totally read like a high school essay, with the student trying to explain to the teacher why their essay was so good it deserved an A. After the first one, I just skipped them and moved on.

The author's style is a bit dry and academic at times, rather than that of a true storyteller, but for the most part I learned a lot about these women and enjoyed reading about them.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from the publisher, via NetGalley.

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Cast in Flight, by Michelle Sagara

Cast in Flight by Michelle Sagara
My rating: 4 of 5 stars, I really liked it.

Book 12 in the series.

I LOVE this series. I read this book in one go, I didn't want to put it down. The only negative is now I have to wait another year for the next book!

In this book we finally get some progress, in both Kaylin and plot. We get the promised dinner with the Emperor, and I loved it. Kaylin is growing as a character, but she still has relatively few filters and doesn't think before she speaks, which is often amusing for the reader, if not for her.

This book focused on the Aerians and Kaylin is forced to actually see them as the not perfect individuals that they are, rather than the perfect beings she's pretty much placed on a pedestal until now. I love seeing Kaylin's fierce loyalty to her friends/family.

I have to admit though, that I'd like to see an end to the Nightshade and his brother's squabbling, it's not going anywhere and it's just annoying. Frankly, I would be okay if Nightshade didn't appear for a few books.

*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley in return for a fair and honest review.*

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Saddle Up For Murder, by Leigh Hearon

Saddle Up For Murder by Leigh Hearon
My rating: 2 of 5 stars, it was okay.

Book 2 in a series.

This book just didn't hold my interest. I found myself putting it down and doing something else instead of reading it. The mystery was ok, it was more of Annie and her personal life that bugged me. I like strong women characters, but Annie seemed too determined to go it on her own, even to the point of getting involved in a long distance relationship. I found it sad that she really only seems to care about her animals and really only tolerate most people. By the end of the book she seems to have softened a little, which made her a little more likeable.

I would read the next book in the series, but only if I can get it from the library.

I was given an ARC of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.


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All I Want for Christmas, by Jenny Hale

All I Want for Christmas: A feel good Christmas romance to warm your heart by Jenny Hale

My rating: 3 of 5 stars, I liked it.

Single mom Leah's future plans are messed up by her dead match-making grandmother when the home/business she expects to inherit must be split with a man she barely knows.

I felt bad for Leah when the plans she'd made with her grandmother to reopen a wedding venue in her childhood home fall through when David inherits half the house.

The story was a little slow moving, but still sweet, if predictable. David was a bit stiff, and even a little entitled, but the ending was satisfying.

*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.*


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Killing Thyme, by Leslie Budewitz

Killing Thyme by Leslie Budewitz

My rating: 5 of 5 stars, the best yet!

Book 3 in the series.

This is truly one of my favorite cozy series! I love visiting Pepper in Seattle and the Pike Place Market, which is one of the most amazing places I have ever been. And I don't have to deal with Seattle traffic to get there!

In Killing Thyme, always busy Pepper has even more on her plate, with a visit from her mother and a blast from the past that ends in murder. Pepper vows to stay out of it, but with her mother connected to the victim and secrets from Pepper's childhood coming to light, she feels she has to find justice for the dead woman.

I read this book in one sitting, because I did not want to put it down. One thing happens after another, keeping things moving at a satisfying pace. The mystery within the mystery was intriguing, and I loved the resolution of everything. The characters are strong and well developed, and most importantly, likeable!

As always, the recipes in the book sound delicious. I really want to make the Herbed Black Bean Pasta Salad, which sounds both yummy and EASY, haha.

*I received an advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review*


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