A Legend in the Baking by Jamie Wesley - 5 Stars!

August Hodges was the silent partner in Sugar Blitz Cupcakes. That is until his rant about how women bakers are the backbone of the industry and baking cupcakes isn’t a threat to masculinity goes viral. With a new location in the works, August and his partners decide to capitalize on this opportunity. But the hiring of his best friend’s sister was as much of a shock as his fame. Social media manager Sloane Dell fell hard for her brother’s best friend more than a decade ago, but that infatuation cost her dearly. Still, she accepts her brother’s request to revamp the bakery’s social media presence and take advantage of August’s newfound popularity. Now, if she can only ignore her attraction to August. They vow to leave the past in the past. But can they ignore the feelings they still share? As they’re both about to find out, all’s fair in love and cupcakes.

I absolutely love this story. It's a contemporary romance about two people who have baggage from prior relationships, coming together and finding a way to be happy. And it has cupcakes! The main characters were adorable, and I could feel the chemistry between them jumping off the page. There was just enough heat to make it interesting without going overboard. Even though this romance was part of a series, I didn't feel like I was missing anything, as this was the first story I read by this author. I definitely will read another story from this author. Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Look Before You Leap by Virginia Heath - 3 Stars!

Years ago, Lord Guy Harrowby, Viscount of Wennington, was humiliated when a romantic gesture went wrong. Since then, he hasn't wanted to date, let alone get married and have children, despite the promise he made to his mother. His heart now lies with his land and work. In desperation, his mother decides to bring society to him via a weeklong house party so that she can find a suitable match for him. After failing as a governess, Lottie Travers isn’t proving to be any better at being a lady’s companion. As the only girl in an all-male household growing up, she’s developed several bad habits. Even after years of Miss Prentice’s teachings, Lottie still climbs a tree better than she embroiders and can't seem to curb the desire to ride a horse in breeches. But with the family farm in trouble, and her father in need of her wages, she’s determined to concentrate on her career. There is only one woman that catches Guy’s eye. And Lottie can't seem to stop thinking about the grumpy Lord. Can these two open their eyes and realize that they may just be the perfect match?

When I first started reading this story, I was entranced. I loved the main characters, and how totally opposite they were from each other. I was able to see the romance between them come alive. The plot was why I continued to read this story until the end. What made it utterly frustrating though was how much descriptive language there was. When describing what one character was wearing took three pages, and each chapter was at least 25 minutes long, it became one of the slowest reads I've ever had to deal with. I love reading romance, both historical and contemporary, but when the pacing is off, it makes it harder for me to enjoy it. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Maybe This Once by Sophie Sullivan - 3 Stars!

Charlotte “Charlie” Ashford has worked hard. Tired of living in the shadow of her parents, she left behind a life of prestige to become a counselor. However, when a viral video upends Charlie’s plans, she wonders if the real key to discovering herself is through taking a vacation from herself. Grayson Keller has finally found his footing. He’s settled in one place, surrounded by family, and secure in his business. Whatever happens, Grayson is perfectly content with his quiet life and careful heart. That is, until he meets Charlie. Maybe this once, they can see past the hurt in their hearts to what, or who, is on the other side waiting for them.

This was a good contemporary sweet romance to read on the beach having a lazy day. I loved the setting, with the lodge and the small lake town. I loved the characters and understood the relationships between them even though this is the first story I've read from this author. I felt that the pacing was off, and some chapters seemed too wordy. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Essence of Foul Play by Daryl Wood Gerber - 5 Stars!

Emma Brennan is opening her new spa business, Aroma Wellness in Carmel, California, and everything is going well until a rival spa owner has been bludgeoned with an item from the goodwill basket Emma gave her. She's now the prime suspect and left with no choice but to conduct her own investigation. Emma is determined to uncover the essence of foul play before she’s cold-pressed for murder.

This was a wonderful start to a great cozy mystery series. Readers who enjoyed this author's other series, The Fairy Garden Mystery series, will recognize some characters. I love the crossover aspects because the characters were familiar to me and it gave me that cozy vibe I look for in a mystery. The plot was very intriguing, and I couldn't figure out who the culprit was. The ending was very satisfying, and I can't wait to read the next installment to this series. There are also some yummy recipes at the back of the book that I would love to try. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

The Reflection Room by Cindy Kirk - 4 Stars!

Hope owns a bridal shop that has a unique gift. She places an intended bride on a pedestal in front of a special mirror that shows Hope the right dress for the bride. But she wonders why she never sees herself in a wedding gown. Hope is an independent minded woman who fears opening her heart because she doesn't want to get hurt. But what happens when the right man comes along?

I really liked this contemporary romance with a touch of magic. Hope is an interesting character, and I loved reading about her perspective on the relationships in her life. The setting was very well described, and I enjoyed reading about the festivals and local events. I will definitely read more from this series.

 

A body at the Irish Book Club by Lucy Connelly - 4 Stars!

It's the Shamrock Cove Autumn Festival, and Mercy McCarthy is delighted to see neighbors and friends come to the bookstore to support her sister’s book club. But as the evening ends, she stumbles across local grandmother Eva, lifelessly slumped in an armchair at the back of the store. Even though she looks peaceful, Mercy notices a suspicious mark on her neck. She knows this wasn't an accident. Someone at the book club could be the killer. Then after Mercy reads a suspicious entry for the festival’s fiction writing contest, another body is found. Could it be the same culprit? It’s up to Mercy and her canine companion Mr. Poe to sniff out the truth.

I really like this cozy mystery set in Ireland. Mercy McCarthy is a great amateur sleuth who is very likable and works with the police to help solve the mysteries, although sometimes they would like her not to get involved. All of the side characters were fun to read about and helped the coziness of the setting. The plot was confounding. I thought I knew who the culprit was but was surprised in the end. Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

A Death in the Dark by Ellie Alexander - 5 stars!

When beloved teacher and track coach Josh Bynum stumbles into the Secret Bookcase with no memory of the previous night, Annie and Fletcher’s instincts tell them something doesn’t add up. As they delve deeper into the world of high school athletics, they uncover a web of secrets. They will need all their skills and the support from their Redwood Grove friends if they’re to solve this mystery.

Ms. Alexander has done it again. The second book in the Novel Detectives Mystery series is full of wonderful characters, a setting that is both cozy and suspenseful, and plot twists that had me turning the pages until the wee hours of the morning. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a fabulous cozy mystery series to sink their teeth into. Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

The Diva Hosts a Murderer by Krista Davis - 5 Stars!

With her family visiting her Northern Virginia home, it’s a good thing Sophie Winston is an expert at entertaining. But, meeting the man her widowed Aunt Melly married in Las Vegas is a little awkward. Especially when her longtime secret admirer is there too, which could lead to some fireworks. Then, Sophie’s favorite tour guide is murdered, and evidence points to her own father. And what’s the real story with her new uncle and the mysterious pal he’s brought along with him? Some of the secrets Sophie’s uncovering is leading her to an unexpected treasure hunt. Can Sophie find the truth and the murderer before her father is arrested? 

This is another great installment to a fabulous cozy mystery series. I love Sophie and her friends who help her with her investigations. I love how she works with the police. Even though there are good and bad people in this story, the police are usually put in a favorable light. They are not made to look unintelligent. The food and the setting of the story make it fun to read because it brings a coziness factor that is prevalent in this series. And I'm always in the mood for a snack as I am reading. I recommend these stories to anyone who loves a cozy mystery. Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Killer Cupid by Laurien Berenson - 5 Stars!

Melanie Travis is happy to spend three days with Sam, her Standard Poodle, Faith, and their friends Bertie and Frank at the White Birch Inn; a New England resort nestled at the foot of a snow-covered mountain. The inn has a full slate of couples' activities planned for the Valentine's weekend. But, after the first night, a body is found. The sheriff launches an investigation, but at the inn keeper’s urging, Melanie tries to sneak a little detective work into her romantic getaway. But with the resort sold out for the holiday weekend, there's no shortage of suspects, and Melanie’s sleuthing is already attracting the wrong kind of attention. But if she doesn’t catch the killer soon, another innocent victim may get the kiss of death.

I am pleasantly surprised about my feelings for this cozy mystery. This was a wonderful holiday read, and I enjoyed this book thoroughly. Melanie is a wonderful amateur sleuth, she's smart, capable and tenacious all throughout her investigation. She's also careful and doesn't take risky chances that could put her in jeopardy. Her friend Bertie and the other side characters helped build a picture of who Melanie is, and I would love to learn more about all of them. The plot was very confounding. I thought I knew who the murderer was, but I was surprised by the culprit's identity in the end. I have found a new cozy mystery series, and I can't wait to read all of these stories. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

A Pose Before Dying by Alex Erickson - 5 Stars!

Ashley Branson has a lot to prove with her new cat yoga studio, A Purrfect Pose. It's a place to find inner wellness and adopt adorable cats from the local shelter. It’s also a chance for Ash to run her own life, out from under her overbearing mother. Everything was going well until she discovers one of her new clients, a college professor, dead in her studio. Then, Ash’s brother, Hunter, becomes the prime suspect. Determined to clear his name and save her business, Ash does a deep dive into the connections the victim had with her other clients. But countless suspects, and contradictory leads mean Ash will have to stretch to the max to outthink a clever killer who’s ready to strike her down.

This was a wonderful new cozy mystery series that I hope to continue reading. I love the main character and how she's striving to make her own way in the world and not living under her family's assumptions. She's not compromising on what she wants, but taking her life day by day to making it what she believes is for the best. And I respect her for that. The plot is well written, and the mystery was confounding enough that I was surprised by the big reveal in the end. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion. 

From This Moment On by Bella Andre - 5 Stars!

For thirty-six years, Marcus Sullivan has been the responsible older brother. But when the future, he's planned turns out to be nothing but a lie, Marcus needs one night to shake free from it all. Nicola Harding is known as Nico, the pop star. Only her sexy image is totally false. After a terrible betrayal, she vows not to let anyone else get too close or hurt her again. Especially not the gorgeous stranger she meets at a nightclub. One night is all Nicola and Marcus agree upon. But nothing goes as they plan when they find a deeper connection than they anticipated. Can Nicola and Marcus open their heart and find their happily ever after?

This was a fabulous contemporary romance that I found on my Kindle after organizing it. I am so glad that I was able to read this wonderful story. The characters were fun to read about, and I felt their romantic connection all the way through the story. The Sullivan family is large enough that there will be more books for me to read. I can't wait; my TBR just became much larger!

 

A Spirited Supper at Dundoon Castle by Darci Hannah - 3 Stars!

When chef Bridget “Bunny” MacBride got a role on the reality show Food & Spirits, she thought cocktails would be served with her food. Instead, she’s cooking up dinners for the dearly departed. She also discovers abilities to connect with the beyond, which helps her find murderers. Now, she's heading for a haunted Scottish castle where an annual bagpipe competition is being held. As Bunny and her costars hunt for the ghost piper, they hear a scuffle and a body is found at the bottom of the cliff. Can Bunny find the killer before he vanishes into thin air?

This was a very interesting cozy mystery. Even though there was a major paranormal element, I liked that the main character solved the mystery without relying too much on her extrasensory perception. All of the characters were fun to read about and helped move the plot along. The plot dragged in a few spots and made it hard to continue reading until the end. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Nancy Drew: Password to Larkspur Lane - 5 Stars!

People are seeing blue lights in the sky, and a carrier pigeon furnishes Nancy with a clue to a mysterious retreat. Can these two instances be connected? Nancy Drew is on the case!

This was one of my favorite Nancy Drew stories because it had action and suspense and at times left me at the edge of my seat. I will always recommend these stories to cozy mystery lovers of all ages.

 

Shock and Paw by Cate Conte - 5 Stars!

It’s the holiday season on Daybreak Island, and Maddie James is looking forward to the Christmas festivities. Word gets out that Donna Carey, the publisher of the island’s only daily newspaper, may be selling the business. Becky, Maddie's friend and local journalist, is appalled that her boss is entertaining the idea. Maddie is sympathetic, but she has her own problems, like getting pulled into the Christmas event committee, and solving the case of a cat breeder trying to sell designer cats as gifts on the island. Then Donna winds up dead. And Becky becomes the main suspect. Maddie is thrown into another murder investigation in order to save her best friend from a Christmas behind bars.

I absolutely love this cozy mystery, and I found a new series that I can devour. I love Maddie James and her family and all the side characters. The plot was very engrossing, and I kept on turning the pages long into the wee hours of the morning. I was surprised with who the culprit was in the end. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Stealing Home by Sherryl Woods - 5 Stars!

Maddie Townsend's life in Serenity has been turned upside down when her husband leaves her for a younger woman. With her three children heartbroken, Maddie has to return to the workforce, and take charge of her best friends' newest project, the town's only fitness spa for women. When her son's anger issues begin to affect his love for baseball, Maddie steps in to help. But she didn't expect to develop feelings for her son's coach, Cal Maddox, and learn he has feelings for her, too. But their new relationship may threaten both their reputations and careers. Could he be the one man in all of South Carolina who can help her find serenity?

One day a friend came over to my house. She told me about this series she found on Netflix that had been running for a couple of seasons, and it was called Sweet Magnolias. I had never heard of it and so we decided to watch. And it's now one of my favorite shows. When I found out it was a book series I wanted to read it and I have to say I loved this book. Even though it's slightly different than the TV show, the plot and the setting came alive in my mind as if I was watching the show. I enjoyed this book thoroughly, and I recommend it to anyone who loves the series.

 

Death at the Door by Olivia Blacke - 4 Stars!

Ruby Young is adjusting to her new life in Boston. A big part of that is her roommate—the ghost of the woman who lived there before. For Cordelia Graves, she may no longer be breathing, but it’s still her apartment. They’re both happy they’ve become friends. Cordelia even set Ruby up with her old job. But, when Ruby discovers the body of a delivery guy at work, Cordelia is hesitant to start an investigation for fear that Ruby will be hurt or worse. It will take both of them working together to navigate the fine line between the dead and the living to bring a killer to light.

This was a good cozy mystery, and the characters were very unique. I felt the author was very imaginative with the rules she put on the ghost characters. It lent a bit of suspense when the ghost character had to do something, not knowing whether she was going to be hurt or there was going to be a consequence for it. I felt that the plot was a little drawn out with some dull moments in the middle of the story. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

The Whisking Hour by Ellie Alexander - 5 Stars!

Fall has arrived in the hamlet of Ashland, Oregon, where theater director Lance’s production of Perfect Crime has been met with rave reviews. He has put his own spin on the Broadway classic, opting for an intimate experience. Jules and the team at Torte are whipping up a murderous crime scene feast for the cast party. But, when the director is found murdered, can Jules help the police find the real culprit before someone else dies off-stage?

As always, Elie Alexander writes wonderful cozy mysteries that I love to devour. Jules is one of my favorite amateur sleuths. I find this story another example of a perfect cozy mystery. All of the elements are there, the only thing that there was too much of was the description of the food served. Personally, I am trying to lose some weight and reading her delectable mysteries makes it hard because I always end the chapters a little hungrier. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Truffle Trouble by Amanda Flower - 5 Stars!

Summer is upon the village of Harvest, Ohio, and folks are abuzz over Bailey King’s upcoming June wedding. The Amish Candy shop owner is marrying Holmes County Sheriff Aiden Brody. At the reception, a wedding guest dies after sampling the hors d'oeuvres. Café owner and new caterer Darcy Woodin is pegged as the number one suspect. And the victim is one of Darcy's ex-boyfriends. Bailey is certain the young woman is innocent. Can she help solve it in time for her honeymoon?

I love this series and this installment is a great addition to it. I love how Bailey works with her husband to solve the mystery. There were so many diabolical characters and red herrings to make guessing the culprit a wonderful challenge, and I was surprised by the big reveal in the end. I hope there will be many more Amish Candy Shop Mysteries in the future. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

Spellbound By Murder by Stacie Ramey - 2 Stars!

When her grandmother suffers a fall and asks for help managing the family bookstore, single mother Veronica Blackthorne moves her sixteen-year-old daughter to Mystic Hollow, Connecticut. Hoping to save Mystic Hollow Books from a big box rival, Veronica enlists popular author Adam Whitford as the keynote speaker to kick off a literary festival. But when Adam turns up dead, Veronica becomes the prime suspect in his murder. As the local sheriff investigates, Veronica takes matters into her own hands to solve the case and clear her name. Then her gran reveals a secret: the bookstore is magical. Can Veronica use the store's magic to get her out of this predicament?

When I read the blurb, I got excited. I wanted to see how they would use the elements of magic in the investigation and solving of a cozy mystery. But what I found didn't agree with my tastes. There wasn't a lot of action in the plot and there seemed to be more of a mystery in the magic than the actual death of the victim. I loved the characters and the way they related to each other. The bookstore setting was intriguing. It's one of my favorite settings for a cozy mystery. I just felt that the magic took away from the realistic nature of finding the culprit. Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.

 

High Tea and Misdemeanors by Laura Childs - 5 stars!

Theodosia Browning and her tea sommelier, Drayton Conneley, are tapped to cater the wedding of Bettina and Jamie. Theodosia and Drayton are setting up when they hear a crash from the greenhouse. They discover that part of the roof has collapsed trapping the maid of honor and groom. He will pull through, but she didn't make it. Can Theo find the truth behind this tragedy?

This was a beautifully written cozy mystery. Theo and Drayton are great amateur sleuths that will do anything to protect their friends. One of the things I like most about this story is the descriptions of the various tea parties at the Indigo Tea Shop. I would love to go to Charleston and visit a tea shop. The plot was very clever, and I couldn't figure out whodunit until the big reveal in the end. I will definitely read more of this series.