This is the twenty-seventh book in this series, one of the longest-running cozy mystery series that I’ve read. Joanne Fluke had a real winner on her hands when she started the Hannah Swensen series, that’s for sure along with more yummy recipes than anyone could ever imagine. For awhile, the later books didn’t seem to have the right feeling, vibe or even the right-sounding conversations to them, but this book was right back there where I’ve always felt like Hannah books should be. Just comfortable, not stilted dialogue and still all the usual neighborly town things going on.
When you read one of the Hannah Swensen series, it’s like the old “don’t go to the grocery store hungry” thing, only it’s “I wouldn’t read one of these books while hungry if I were you.” ::wink::
My Goodreads review:
Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Murder by Joanne Fluke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It’s always great to get back to Lake Eden and characters I’ve come to think of as old friends. This time, the most unlikely person was the suspect in the mayor’s death…Andrea! And of course, that made Bill have to step away from it leaving Mike and Lonnie to investigate with their now-asked-for help from Hannah. Michelle sometimes stepped in to help, since she’s involved with Lonnie.
I loved that this book started with some real interest and action too. Usually (and I adore that silly Moishe kitty, don’t get me wrong) it’s Moishe waking Hannah and Hannah thinking it’s someone in her dream. It started off with a stronger than usual story and kept it all the way through. You have to be used to this series to realize that along with a little mystery, you get a heaping helping of neighbor talk and some of the yummiest-sounding recipes you’ll ever come across. It’s all part of the charm though, and this book had the feel of the earlier books that I came to love so much.
There was a really good twist that I had started suspecting at one point. As always, it was well-explained by everyone with a wrap up at the end. The showdown was rather peaceful although it could have taken a bad turn. I’m sure Bill and Andrea were two of the most relieved people when the mystery was solved.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
Cuddle Up With a Cozy Mystery 