Cozy Mystery, Fiction

Act Like you’re murdered by Daisy Belle

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Title: Act Like You’re Murdered
Author: Daisy Belle
Series: Sammy Brooks #4
Location: Bar Harbor, Maine
Main Character: Sammy, Jax, Emily
Other Characters: Emily, Toria, Ben, Sherrif Donovan, Maude, Arthur, Mrs. Finch, Mr Finch, Mrs. Gable, Brayden, Trevor, Brenda, Detective Summers, Gary, Penelope, Marge, Sarah, Jessie
Pets: Cinnamon, Sammy’s Golden Retriever
Rating: 4

I have enjoyed Sammy Brooks’s since the very first book, and this one was no exception. I was captivated from the start—the premise was clever, the writing was sharp, and the main character drew me in completely. However, around the middle, the story began to feel a bit crowded. New characters kept appearing, which made it difficult for me to remember who was who, pulling me out of the whodunnit.

The scenario unfolds as a movie crew arrives in Bar Harbor, only for the high school bully to be found dead during her final scene. When Sammy’s best friend becomes the prime suspect, she must take action to clear her name. This sparks chaos, introduces a host of other suspects, and brings into the spotlight a golden retriever named Cinnamon, who certainly deserves her own spin-off series. I loved the small-town charm and how Sammy navigates the mystery with both heart and comical blunders. It’s like watching your best friend to attempt to solve a murder while balancing a latte, a planner, and a dog that sniffs out clues better than the sheriff. (Honestly, Cinnamon should run for office.)

It’s not quite a five-star for me—there were a couple slow patches—but overall, it was still an entertaining mystery with plenty of attitude and a few twists I didn’t see coming. If you like your mysteries with a side of coffee and a dash of sass, You will enjoy this book. You can never go wrong with a dog as one of the main characters—it’s always my favorite!

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery

A Wisteria Manor Murder by Lilly Gibbs

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Title: A Wisteria Manor Murder
Author: Lilly Gibbs
Series: A Lila Lawson Cozy Mystery
Main Character: Lila
Other Characters: Edgar, Agnes, Detective Harper, Douglas, Clementine, Thonas, Langston, Tobias, Mae, Annabell, Vincent, EleanoR
Pets: Lila’s Collie Ella
Rating: 3-1/2

“A murder, an inheritance, and a big ol’ manor full of secrets? That’s enough to spoil anyone’s week!”

I truly wanted to love A Wisteria Manor Murder. The setting was beautifully depicted, and the author’s writing style was smooth and easy to follow. The atmosphere of the old manor and the charm of the small town were definite highlights. I particularly liked Lila’s Collie, Ella.

That said, the story a bit too slow for my taste, and I found myself anticipating a big twist that never materialized. The mystery felt straightforward, lacking the suspense and surprise I was hoping for. I felt it dragged on longer than necessary, and there were moments when it seemed excessive.

Overall, it’s a enjoyable cozy read, featuring vivid descriptions and likable characters. However, it didn’t captivate me as much as I had hoped for a murder mystery. That said, I admire the author’s talent for crafting atmosphere and tone, and I look forward to seeing how her writing develops in future books.

“Legacy is not a choice. It is a calling.”

Happy Reading!

Romance, Women's Fiction

The Uncomplicated Cafe by Rachael Bloome

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Title: The Uncomplicated Cafe
Author: Rachael Bloome
Series: Blessings Bay book 4
Location: Blessings Bay
Main Character: Cece, Jace, Abby, Logan
Other Characters: Sam, Max, Stacy, Gretchen, Verna, Sage, Iris, Paul
Pets: Cece’s cat Spock (Yes, she is a Star Trek fan)
Rating: 5

“Aqua is my favorite color of sea glass. According to legend, it’s the color most coveted by mermaids and is thought to bring good luck.”

Rachael has once again captivated us with “The Uncomplicated Cafe.” Her storytelling draws you in and makes you fall in love with the characters. Visiting Blessing Bay feels like returning home to catch up with old friends.

I thoroughly enjoyed Cece and Jayce’s story. Their friendship began in childhood in Blessing Bay, but now Jayce is a big Hollywood star, while Cece remains in Blessing Bay, running her own bakery. There have always been sparks between them, so when Jayce asks Cece to fake an engagement for a publicity stunt, she hesitantly agrees. What starts as a pretense soon evolves into something much deeper, filled with lingering touches and nearly kisses that feel anything but fake.

Although I absolutely adore Cece and Jayce, it was Abby and Logan’s story that truly tugged at my heartstrings. From the very beginning, I have loved Abby and Logan, especially their relationship with their foster son, Max. They form such a beautiful family, but a surprise visitor at the Bed & Breakfast threatens their happiness and creates drama leading up to their wedding. This situation becomes quite emotional as they navigate the challenges to find a resolution that works for everyone involved.

Rachael has a talent for crafting heartwarming stories that explore small-town romance, second chances, and family dynamics, captivating readers from the very first page. Whenever I pick up a book by Rachael Bloome, I know I’m in for a treat.

Just a warning: Have your tissues ready for this heart-wrenching story of slow-burn romance, second chances, love, faith, hope, surprises, and determination.

I recommend reading this series in order to fully appreciate and understand each character.

Fiction, Mystery

Take the Wheel by Denise Grover Swank

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Title: Take the Wheel
Author:Denise Grover Swank
Series: Maddie Baker #1
Location: Cockamamie, Tennessee
Main Character: Maddie Baker
Other Characters: Noah, Mallory, Lance, Aunt Deidre, Margarete, Peter, Ernie, Martin, Dawn, Adam, Roscoe, Colleen
Rating: 4

Denise Grover Swank presents a charming, slow-burn mystery featuring a heroine who is both relatable and resilient.

Maddie is rebuilding her life in her quirky hometown of Cockamamie, Tennessee. She returned to care for her aunt, who raised her and now has dementia. To make ends meet, Maddie drives for Uber, but her life takes an unexpected turn when one of her passengers is found dead, drawing her into a murder investigation.

Detective Noah Langley, a former big-city cop from Memphis, has recently relocated to the small town of Cockamamie in search of a quieter life. He arrives to take on his first case, a murder with Maddie as the prime suspect. As the investigation unfolds, long-buried secrets from the town’s past resurface, prompting Maddie to realize that this case may be more personal than she ever anticipated.

Maddie is a relatable and resourceful protagonist. Her challenge of balancing family obligations, financial pressures, and the suspicion cast upon her is convincingly portrayed. The plot offers a well-balanced mix of red herrings and surprises, although some twists are predictable. Some sections of the book felt a bit slow and seemed to drag on, particularly in the middle. I even found myself skipping a few pages to keep moving forward.

I recommend Take the Wheel to readers who enjoy a mystery infused with slow-burn romance and a strong female lead. Although some parts were predictable and there were a few slow sections in the middle, it serves as a well-crafted introduction to the Maddie Baker series, filled with enough intrigue to entice readers to pick up the next installment.

If you have read this book, please share your thoughts in the comments.

Happy Reading!

Fiction, Mystery

Luck of the Devil by Denise Grover Swank

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Title: Luck of the Devil
Author: Denise Grover Swank
Series: Harper Adams Mystery #3
Location: Arkansas
Main Character: Harper Adams & James Malcolm
Other Characters: Paul Adams, Hanna, Harper’s grandparents, Carter
Rating: 5

Luck of the Devil is the third installment in the Harper Adams Mystery series. Like the first two books, it offers a compelling mix of suspense and emotion, making it difficult to put down.

Despite her flaws, former detective Harper Adams is a protagonist readers can’t help but root for. In this installment, she struggles with her sobriety after her mother’s suspicious death. The reader embarks on a tense, thrilling journey filled with determination, grief, and danger. Harper’s relentless pursuit of the truth, regardless of the potential cost, adds depth and complexity to her character, making her journey both intriguing and engaging. The scene is shrouded in suspicion, featuring faded skid marks, a packed suitcase, and a toxicology report that doesn’t add up. This mystery series is truly addictive.

The chemistry between Harper and Malcolm, a crime boss turned tavern owner whom she reluctantly trusts, is magnetic. Their dynamic is electrifying and complex; he acts as her protector while also being a wildcard, and she confronts her inner turmoil with unwavering determination. I loved their dialogue and the interactions between these two characters, and I can’t wait to see where their story leads in future books in the series.

If you love a mystery with a flawed complicated but interesting protagonist, slow burn romance, with twists and turns to solve a mystery, you are going to fall in love with this series.

Reasons for my five-star rating of this book…

  • Harper experiences profound emotional depth and growth as she navigates her sobriety following the suspicious death of her mother.
  • The unforgettable slow-burn dynamic between Harper and Malcolm.
  • The characters are authentic; they are flawed yet very interesting, making it impossible for the reader not to root for them.
  • A true page-turner, this book was difficult to put down once I started reading it.
  • Harper and Malcolm navigate the twists and turns of the mystery surrounding Harper’s mother’s death, all while uncovering the true nature of their relationship.

If you have read this book, please share your thoughts in the comments.

Happy Reading!

Fiction, Mystery

Long Gone by Denise Grover Swank

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Title: Long Gone
Author: Denise Grover Swank
Series: Harper Adams Mystery #2
Location: Jackson Creek, Arkansas
Main Character: Harper Adams
Other Characters: James Malcolm, Clarice, Anton, Brett Colter, Skip Martin, Carter Hale, Paul Adams
Rating: 5

“I’m a daydream dressed as a nightmare.”

Long Gone, the second installment of the Harper Adams mystery series, draws readers back into Harper’s world, now filled with heightened emotion and expertly crafted pacing. Set in the small town of Jackson Creek, Arkansas, the story reveals its secrets in vivid detail, as Swank skillfully weaves tension into a mystery that’s impossible to put down.

Harper is a complex and determined protagonist, despite her flaws. Her journey from disgrace to the heart of investigative grit captivates readers. Harper’s internal struggles and relentless pursuit of truth make her a compelling character with grit and determination.

The plot draws you in from the very first page.. Five years ago, Hugo disappeared without a trace, and now his wife seeks to have him declared dead for closure and to collect his life insurance. She hires Harper to investigate her husband’s disappearance. What begins as a simple case quickly evolves into a complex and unexpected narrative. Swank skillfully reveals clues, introduces red herrings, and crafts an atmosphere of uncertainty, keeping readers guessing until the very end.

The supporting characters are equally captivating. The return of James Malcolm, the reformed crime boss turned tavern owner, is a welcome addition. Harper struggles to trust Malcolm, yet something about him draws her in. The reader feels the same attraction and can’t help but root for both him and Harper. I’m anxious to see where this leads.

This is the second book I’ve read by this author, and her storytelling has already captivated me. She skillfully balances suspense, pacing, and character development in her writing. I can’t wait to dive into the third book in the series to discover what Harper and Malcolm will investigate next.

If you enjoy a small-town mystery featuring a flawed but captivating protagonist, an engaging plot, and emotional depth, you’ll love this series.

Happy Reading!

Fiction, Mystery

Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank

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Title: Little Girl Vanished
Author: Denise Grover Swank
Series: Harper Adams Mystery #1
Location: Jackson Creek, Arkansas
Main Character: Harper
Other Characters: Louise, Malcome, Nate, Drew, Ava, Vanessa, T.J., Sarah Jane, Hale, David
Rating: 5

This is the first book in the Harper Adams Mystery series and my first read by this author, but it certainly won’t be my last. This book has all the elements of a compelling mystery: it is beautifully written and expertly crafted, delivering an emotional punch. I was kept on the edge of my seat until the final word, thanks to its witty dialogue, well-developed characters, and engaging storyline. The narrative includes sweet moments, thrilling action, danger, family drama, painful pasts, mystery, plot twists, and imperfect characters filled with secrets and missteps, all interspersed with laughs and deep emotions.

Harper Adams has returned to her hometown of Jackson Creek and is currently living in her parents’ garage apartment. She is trying to determine her next steps after losing her job at the Little Rock Police Department. When the daughter of her sister’s childhood friend goes missing, it stirs up unpleasant memories from Harper’s past. The local police dismiss it as a runaway case, but Harper’s instincts tell her that this child has been kidnapped, and she is determined to find her.

Harper teams up with James Malcolm, the former crime boss who serves as the perfect foil—morally gray, resourceful, and unexpectedly sympathetic. Their reluctant alliance adds a captivating tension to the story.

If you love a captivating mystery filled with twists and turns that lead to a surprising conclusion, I highly recommend this book. You won’t be disappointed. It exemplifies how a great mystery should be crafted. I literally couldn’t put it down. With its twists and turns, it kept me guessing from start to finish. I have already downloaded the second book to find out what Harper’s next mystery will be.

Please share your thoughts in the comments if you’ve read this book.

Happy Reading!

Classic, Fiction

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

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Title: To Kill a Mockingbird
Author: Harper Lee
Location: Maycomb, Alabama
Main Character: Atticus, Scout, Jen, Dill, Boo Radley, Tom Robinson, Calpurnia
Rating: 5

“Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy. They don’t eat up people’s gardens, don’t nest in corncribs, they don’t do one thing but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” – Miss Maudie

To Kill a Mockingbird  by Harper Lee is one of  my all-time favorite books; It is a masterclass in storytelling, seamlessly blending moral clarity with emotional depth. Set in the racially charged town of Maycomb, Alabama, the novel follows young Scout Finch as she navigates the complexities of childhood innocence amid injustice and prejudice.

Harper Lee’s prose is deceptively simple yet profoundly moving. Through Scout’s perspective, readers witness the quiet heroism of Atticus Finch, whose defense of Tom Robinson serves as a powerful statement on integrity and empathy. The characters are richly developed, particularly the resilient women—Scout, Calpurnia, and the elusive Boo Radley—each adding layers to the story’s emotional impact.

What makes this novel unforgettable is its ability to confront difficult truths while maintaining a sense of hope. It’s not just a book; it’s a mirror held up to society, urging us to strive for improvement.

A timeless classic that truly deserves its acclaim.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Mystery, Women's Fiction

Now & Then by Kay Bratt

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Title: Now & Then
Author: Kay Bratt
Series: Hart’s Ridge #13
Location: Indiana & Hart’s Ridge
Main Character: Taylor, Sam, Anna
Other Characters: Janelle, Clem, Ed, Julie, Shelly, Thatcher, Jack, Rosana, Vernelle, Kelsey, Pete
Rating: 5

I have loved this series and its characters since the very first book, and this episode is no exception. Now and Then is the 13th installment of the Hart’s Ridge series.

This book swept me back into the world of Hart’s Ridge with the emotional depth I’ve come to expect from Kay Bratt. Taylor’s transition into private investigations felt seamless, and her pursuit of justice in a long-buried case was compelling and intricately layered. The pacing kept me engaged without feeling rushed, and I appreciated the gradual unveiling of twists that were both surprising and well-earned.

Janelle is Sam’s aunt, and her husband was convicted of murder ten years ago. She is convinced of his innocence and believes he did not commit this heinous crime. Recently, Sam and his wife Taylor have launched their private investigation business, and Janelle seeks their help to prove her husband’s innocence and uncover the real killer. The story takes several twists and turns as they work to determine whether Clem truly committed the crime.

In a subplot, we revisit Taylor’s sister, Anna. Since her divorce, Anna has faced numerous challenges and has worked diligently to rebuild her life for herself and her children. Her storyline adds tension and emotional depth to the narrative. Her determination to clear her name amid complicated accusations—especially those tied to her ex-husband’s powerful family—is compelling. I admire her resilience and the quiet strength she consistently demonstrates.

Kay Bratt excels at creating compelling female leads who balance vulnerability with determination. I appreciate the recurring family themes, emphasizing that even in difficult times, family always comes first and stays united. I couldn’t put this book down and stayed up late to finish it.

This book reminded me why I keep returning to this series: its emotional depth, compelling storytelling, and unwavering sense of justice. I highly recommend this installment to anyone who enjoys a mystery with heart.

Although this series can be read in out of order, I highly recommend beginning with book one so you can get to know the characters and their backstories.

Anyone who enjoys a compelling mystery featuring a strong female lead, brimming with heart and determination, will love this series.

Most of Ms. Bratt’s stories are inspired by real-life events, so be sure to read the end to discover the true experiences that this book is based on.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

Murder, Music & Mischief by Greta Sinclair

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Title: Murder, Music & Mischief
Author: Greta Sinclair
Series: Hattie & Moose Cozy Mystery
Location: Nashville, TN
Main Character: Hattie
Other Characters: Gracie, Ruby Dean, Detective Bo, Velma, Lyle, Toby, Nico, Xavier, Laney
Pets: Moose the Chow, Cecil the Cat & a Yorkie named Minnie Pearl
Rating: 5

This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and it certainly won’t be the last. I chose it because it is set in Nashville, Tennessee, a city I know well.

This book is a charming cozy mystery that surpassed my expectations! From the very first page, I was drawn in by the Nashville setting, the quirky and lovable characters, and a plot that kept me guessing until the end. Sinclair’s writing is witty and engaging, perfectly balancing humor, suspense, and just the right amount of mischief.

Hattie, a private investigator in Nashville, lives above a country bar called The Crooked Note. One night, she and her friend Gracie go to hear their favorite country artist perform, but the evening takes a deadly turn. As soon as Ruby Dean steps up to the microphone, she collapses and dies. The autopsy reveals that she was poisoned, making Gracie the prime suspect. Determined to clear her friend’s name, Hattie teams up with the local detective to uncover the truth behind Ruby’s murder and discover who would want to kill the country star.

This book offered all the elements I love in a cozy mystery: engaging characters, a fun protagonist, a charming detective, a loyal best friend, a touch of humor, a hint of romance, a captivating mystery that keeps readers guessing, and, of course, pets. I especially adored Moose, the dog, as I always enjoy when a canine character is included in the story.

If you enjoy clever whodunits filled with humor and heart, along with witty pets, you’ll love Murder, Music & Mischief. I can’t wait to read more from Greta Sinclair!

Happy Reading!