poisoned pen press – Cuddle Up With a Cozy Mystery

In the Blink of a Pie review

October 24, 2024 Tari Hann

This is the third book in the Maple Syrup Mysteries by another fave cozy author, Catherine Bruns. She’s got several cozy series and I’ve read something from all of those series. I always really enjoy what she’s written. This series just pulled me in from the beginning and now I’m hoping for more in it after reading this book. Isn’t little Toast the cat adorable on that cover? He sure didn’t know that that point how helpful he’d end up being!

My Goodreads review:

In the Blink of a Pie by Catherine Bruns
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Who knew a pie contest could turn into someone getting poisoned who wasn’t even advertised as being a judge? Leila and Heather set out to prove the maple farm was innocent of any responsibility in this as well as catch a wily killer. Little Emma’s side story was so super cute and really adorable when it was resolved.

When Leila came into the crosshairs of a crazed killer once more, the most unlikely (but super cute) little team came to the rescue by summoning the authorities. And what an awesome Thanksgiving Leila and her family had. I absolutely loved the ending of this book and can’t wait for more in the series!

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Crime and Cherry Pits review

February 23, 2024February 23, 2024 Tari Hann

This is the fourth in the Farm to Table Mysteries by well-known cozy mystery author Amanda Flower, and main character Shiloh had yet another murder on her hands and tried to prove her disagreeable cousin innocent. Family’s everything to Shiloh and I can admire her for that.

I’ve never seen such a faithful relative as Shiloh, yet her cousin and dad never seem to appreciate her that much, kinda a different twist on a dad and cousin character. Usually I love most main characters’ dads (and cousins are usually cool), but this guy’s been a curmudgeon and not real lovable. Stacey’s been mean to Shiloh since she came back. Sully Bellamy makes no secret that he favors his niece over his daughter. But Shiloh’s friendship with Quinn’s daughter Hazel makes up for all that conflict. Hazel’s an awesome kid and at twelve, and she’s got probably more smarts than many adults! She could seriously be spun off in her own mystery series and I’d definitely read it!

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My Goodreads review:

Crime and Cherry Pits by Amanda Flower
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was another fun adventure with Shiloh, her quirky family and her good friends but this time most of the action happened in Traverse City for the Cherry Festival where Shiloh had a vendor booth.

Lots happened in Shiloh and others’ lives as this mystery got investigated and somehow I got the feeling this might be the last book in the series. It was a good way to give closure to all. I’ve enjoyed reading this series a lot and can only imagine what Shiloh’s life’s gonna bring her in the future.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

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Spoon to Be Dead review

November 5, 2023 Tari Hann

This is the third and final installment in the very enjoyable Shake Shop series by Dana Mentink. I was a little sad it was coming to an end, but you can definitely tell by the ending that it’s wrapping up, so it shouldn’t be a shocker. And the author’s little message afterward was super sweet. I thought she did an amazing job of giving everyone a good ending, including Noodles the Lab and Scooter the parrot Trinidad adopted.

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My Goodreads review:

Spoon to be Dead by Dana Mentink
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was definitely the adventure to end all since it did officially end this series of three books. There’s a really nice note from the author at the end of the book. Even if it wasn’t the last, I believe it’d still be my favorite. Secrets came out, but new friends were made as were apologies and new chances were given to those who might be needing them.

The showdown was really something and if you love dogs and how they can be heroes, you’ll have happy leaky eyeballs for a little bit while reading about sweet Noodles and his heroic act—and the cuddles he got afterward too. I really enjoyed this series a lot and while it’s bittersweet for it to end, it ended in the best possible way with some characters making amends where they were needed as well as some characters enjoying their happily ever after.

I voluntarily read and reviewed and ARC of this book provided by Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

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Syrup to No Good review

November 1, 2023 Tari Hann

This is the second book in the Maple Syrup Mysteries by a fave cozy author of mine, Catherine Bruns. I’ve always enjoyed any series I’ve read by her and this one is definitely no exception. I loved the key characters from the get-go in book 1 and the development of Leila and Noah’s relationship’s coming along nicely. Can’t wait for the next book in this series!

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My Goodreads review:

Syrup to No Good by Catherine Bruns
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was so awesome! A early hidden clue led me to the killer and I ended up being right, but I enjoyed everything about this story especially how much closer Noah and Leila got after she’d been faced with her romantic past. I loved that she held onto the fact that Noah’s a great guy.

After another attempt on her life, it sure didn’t seem like Leila was gonna get out from the showdown alive, but never underestimate a loving mom! Leila had gotten involved sleuthing because of her bestie’s wedding plans being threatened to be cancelled, but everything worked out great in the end, which was super sweet!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

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Murders of a Feather review

October 4, 2023 Tari Hann

This is the third book in the Dr. Kate Vet Mysteries by Eileen Brady who happens to be a veterinarian herself. I’ve only read the second and this third book but the characters grabbed hold of my heart and wouldn’t let go, so I really enjoy these key players and Kate’s story of how she came to run Oak Hills and how she relies on her team. This team of ladies is unstoppable.

And her Gramps, I just love that guy! I’m such a sucker for a girl and her grandpa. And I’m pretty sure Gramps is gonna heartily approve of Mike, the large animal vet Kate’s been seeing in this book. I can’t wait for the next book now.

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My Goodreads review:

Murders of a Feather by Eileen Brady
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was absolutely awesome and I really love these key characters! Kate has an amazing team of ladies at her vet clinic that’re more than just coworkers. They’re friends outside if work and they sleuth together sometimes as well.

After three deaths that were connected by various ways, Kate was determined to get some answers especially since the temp employee had cleverly done something hoping to point to her killer just like Kate herself did during a super exciting showdown. I think I was most excited to see just when she’d get to use the pepper spray she kept on her at all times as per her promise to Gramps. (I just love her Gramps!). Kate didn’t disappoint and neither did some furry and feathered friends of hers who did a real number on that killer!

I was so happy for Kate meeting that sweet fellow vet named Dr. Mike too. He was sure a keeper and even helped in the showdown, although he paid a price that slowed him a little but not enough to keep from making some post-Valentine’s Day plans with Kate. Her actual Valentine’s Day date was her favorite man in the entire world. 😉

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

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Murder Off the Books review

May 31, 2023May 31, 2023 Tari Hann

This is the third book in the By the Book Mysteries by cozy mystery author Tamara Berry. I’ve enjoyed this series from its beginning and am really eager for another book to come along. There’s always some comedy and funny antics going on, but Tess’s visiting mom put that way over the top. I really enjoyed her character, kinda reminded me of Castle’s mom, Martha! I wouldn’t mind if she moved closer and was able to hang out with Gertie more often. After an exciting showdown and very satisfying ending, I can only imagine what the next book might bring!

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My Goodreads review:

Murder Off the Books by Tamara Berry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another fun and wild adventure in Washington state and this time Tess had her mom to contend with along with her usual entourage. I’ve always loved Gertie’s character–she’s like fifteen going on twenty-five, lol. She might’ve had to share the comedy spotlight with her Grandma Bee this time but I’m pretty sure Gert didn’t mind. The two got along pretty well and even Tess managed to put up with her mom’s spontaneous visit, so the last thing Tess needed was for her mom to be the prime suspect in a guy’s murder. And he happened to be the much younger guy Bee was seeing along with being a probable multi-killer.

The showdown was a crazy one and Tess had help from a very unexpected person, but together they defeated Zorg, I mean the perp. 😉 I’ve always known Tess would’ve liked to date the sheriff but she wasn’t real sure how he felt. There was a cute but kinda sad side story that Victor’s sister told Tess, although everything worked out nicely and I was beyond happy with the ending! I’m excited for the next book now!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

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In Farm’s Way review

February 20, 2023February 20, 2023 Tari Hann

This is the third book in the Farm to Table Mysteries by well-known cozy mystery author Amanda Flower. I’m so crazy about that adorable pug (Huck) that Shiloh’s got. I just want to kiss his smooshy little face! My friend has Pugs and they’re too adorable–and that’s high praise from a dachshundaholic like me LOL! Just kidding, I love all dogs and kitties-dachsies just happen to be my fave 😉 Of course, I had to use a picture to represent sweet little Huck!

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My Goodreads review:

In Farm’s Way: An Organic Cozy Mystery by Amanda Flower
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Perfect winter read with the ice fishing tournament going on. I got a kick out of Sully and Hazel and how she stuck by his side determined to learn how to ice fish and eventually be the best in her age group. I really wish Quinn could get over it about not wanting Shiloh as anything but a friend–he’s really gonna be sorry if he doesn’t because a new interest was brought on board for her. I’m not a fan of triangles at all, so I hope this gets resolved quickly in the next book.

Wow that showdown was crazy and I have no idea what I’d have done if I was in Shiloh’s boots, but luckily backup came and she wasn’t in too terrible of shape. I hadn’t seen that person as the killer at all, a definite surprise. Shiloh got another surprise from her grandma when Hazel found something as she broke through the old porch. That’ll be interesting to see what happens next. I wasn’t a fan of the ending, so as I said, hopefully things get resolved in the next book.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

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Cheddar Late Than Dead review

January 31, 2023January 31, 2023 Tari Hann

This is the third book in the Grilled Cheese Mysteries by cozy mystery author Linda Reilly who also wrote the Cat Lady mysteries as well as the older Deep Fried Mysteries. Carly hadn’t been widowed too long when the series first started, so I’m happy she’s got someone like Ari who’s willing to take things slow. She’s a strong lady, but even strong people need someone sometimes. I just love her little Havarti pup! He’s adorable and I think he knows it! 😉 I can wait to read the next book whenever it’s out. Look for this book today, January 31, 2023.

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My Goodreads review:

Cheddar Late Than Dead by Linda Reilly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It was great visiting with Carly and all her friends again-and still wishing her shop was real, lol. Carly had an almost locked door type murder mystery on her hands but thanks to her pestering, er I mean tenacity in getting a videographer to show her the murder day footage more than once, she finally came up with something. Hopefully it wasn’t too late! You’ll just have to read and find out but the showdown was pretty epic! Go Carly!

The side mystery of a missing person definitely tied in so I won’t give any details on that but just wanted to say I did suspect the right person fairly early and for the right reasons. There was something else I’d thought of that wasn’t even part of it though. Another side mystery concerned Carly’s new manager, but that ended up having an awesome ending too. And I love where Carly and Ari are in their relationship. Hopefully it’ll lead to much more eventually.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own. It’s available today, January 31, 2023.

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No Parm No Foul review

July 26, 2022July 26, 2022 Tari Hann

This is the second in the Grilled Cheese Mysteries by Linda Reilly, a well-established cozy mystery author of a couple other series. Who doesn’t love a yummy and comforting grilled cheese sandwich? I knew I’d love this series when I first saw it and it’s not been a disappointment at all. There’re even some recipes at the end of the book for some of the cheesy sandwich goodness featured in the story.

I really loved this book and was thrilled to see I really won’t have to wait a year for the next book since Cheddar Late Than Dead releases January 31, 2023. (Be sure to click through to the Amazon page and read the synopsis–this sounds like another good one!) I know I can’t wait to catch back up with these book friends.

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My Goodreads review:

No Parm No Foul by Linda Reilly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this Halloween time visit to Vermont and Carly’s grilled cheese eatery. I wish that place was real! I’m not much on fancy grilled cheeses, but I bet she still would make an awesome regular one! I loved sweet Evelyn’s character and how she played a part in Carly figuring out whodunit. I’m happy that in the first book Carly reconciled with Gina and now they were the best of buddies especially when it came to sharing sleuthing secrets or tossing around case ideas.

There were a lot of possible suspects and I wasn’t sure until one clue stuck out then more started coming. The showdown was pretty exciting and help came from a super unlikely source, wait’ll you read about that, it’s pretty cool.

I’m really happy with where Carly and Ari are in their relationship especially at the end of the book! That makes me wish another book wasn’t a year away, but I guess I’ll appreciate it a lot more if I have to wait. I’ve really come to think of these characters as old friends now and once again I’m so happy that a main character actually has a good relationship with her mom and the mom is equally nice to her daughter. Even Carly’s stepdad’s a sweetie! Till next time, Carly and Crew!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

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Buried in a Good Book review

May 24, 2022 Tari Hann

This is the first book in a new series, By the Book Mysteries by Tamara Berry, and I really enjoyed it so much! The author did a great job of combining humor and a little cozy suspense into the story. I could tell Tess really liked the sheriff, so I hope there’s some sort of future in store for them even if it starts out slowly and builds. Tess’s daughter Gertie was such a great character! I really liked her a lot more than I thought I would when the book started. I’m eager to see what kinds of adventures they get into next.

Hey look what I found when I went to the series page, the next book’s coming in November! It’s called On Spine of Death.

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My Goodreads review:

Buried in a Good Book by Tamara Berry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really liked Tess and Gertie’s characters, well at first I wasn’t so sure about Gertie, but she sure made one heck of a good sleuth and surprisingly enough, she took to the remote life better than I ever thought a teen her age would. Nicki was a pretty awesome character too, and later on that was even truer! Tess met a wannabe author in Deputy Ivy from the sheriff’s department and was surprised to find out that the lady was really a good author.

There were some fun cozy mystery creepy parts but not super creepy, and I wasn’t sure who all could be trusted, but once I was pretty sure of it, I just followed as Tess and Gertie with the help of their new friends solved the case. I hadn’t quite guessed the killer until Tess did. She cracked me up with how she compared the real life sheriff to the detective character she wrote in her books. And it was even funnier that he was a fan of the books as were some of the people in town who also thought he reminded them of the fictional Detective Gonzales.

After an exciting, planned showdown, all was explained and wrapped up. There’d been some other hinky stuff going on as a side mystery, so that was looking like it’d be an ongoing mystery or investigation. Now I’m really eager to read the next book!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

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