Saturday, February 29, 2020

Coconut Layer Cake Murder by Joanne Fluke

Coconut Layer Cake Murder (Hannah Swensen #25)
Happy February 29!  The older I get, the faster time seems to go.  Have you noticed that?  Secrets of My Heart by Tracie Peterson releases on March 3 along with The Ungodly Hour by Laura A. Egan, Love and Marriage at Harpers by Rosie Clarke, and The Numbers Game by Danielle SteelA Forgotten Murder by Jude Deveraux will be out on March 10 and Light Shines on Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard is out on March 31.  I have thirty books to read in March and nine book tours.  It will be a busy month.  Now for the book pun of the day:  What did the sketch book say to the novel?  I am drawing a blank!  
Take in Hollywood Movie History on a Paramount Pictures Studio Tour
Hannah & Delores get to visit Paramount
Coconut Layer Cake Murder by Joanne Fluke takes us back to Lake Eden, Minnesota.  Doc Knight has ordered Hannah Swensen to take a vacation and he already has everything arranged for her.  Hannah along with her mother, Delores are heading to Brentwood to help Lynne Larchmont pack up her home (this does not seem like a vacation to me).  They are almost done with the packing when Hannah receives a frantic call from her sister, Michelle.  Michelle’s beau, Detective Lonnie Murphy is the prime suspect in the murder of Darcy Hicks.  Lonnie went to the Double Eagle bar to meet Brian and Cassie Polinski.  It was Cassie’s birthday which they were celebrating with drinks and coconut layer cake that Lonnie picked up on the way.  Darcy was at a nearby table with her boyfriend, Denny.  The pair ended up fighting and Denny left Darcy without a ride home.  Lonnie drove an impaired Darcy home and helped her into her bedroom.  Lonnie wakes up on Darcy’s couch and is not sure how he got there.  Before departing, Lonnie checks on Darcy and finds her dead in her bed.  The only member of the Lake Eden police force who can investigate is Andrea’s husband, Bill.  Hannah is needed to prove Lonnie’s innocence before he must turn in his dress blues for a prison jumpsuit.
Tour Milk Jar Cookies Brick + Mortar Shop - Inspired By This
A cookie shop
Coconut Layer Cake Murder by Joanne Fluke is the twenty-fifth A Hannah Swensen Mystery.  I have read all the books in this series and there is a marked difference between Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder and Coconut Layer Cake Murder.  The mystery is not the primary focus of the story.  It seems that most of the book is devoted to cooking, baking, eating, and chatting.  More than half of the book is devoted to recipes.  I have stuck with the series this long, and I am not about to quit.  After the cliffhanger left in the last book, I wanted to know what was happening with Hannah.  I like how close Hannah is to her family and friends.  Delores, Michelle, Doc Knight, Andrea, Bill, Norman, Mike, Lonnie and all the regulars are back.  Lonnie is accused of murdering an old high school classmate and he needs Hannah’s help if he is to prove he is innocent.  Mike is Lonnie’s partner so that bans him from investigating and Lonnie’s brother is also off the case.  The lone detective left is Bill, Andrea’s husband, who lacks experience solving murders.  This time (believe it or not) Hannah’s nosiness is encouraged.  Lonnie’s fuzzy memory, though, causes some problems.  Hannah zips around town in her cookie truck asking questions, dispensing cookies, and searching for clues.  With help from family and friends, Hannah pieces together the clues and identifies the killer.  Readers will have no problem solving this whodunit before the reveal.  The story proceeds in a unique manner for cozy mysteries that was a nice change of pace, but I would not want too often.  I know that Hannah needs to recover from what happened with Ross, but I believe it is time for her to decide between Mike and Norman (my pick is Mike).  When A Hannah Swensen Mystery series ends (it is inevitable), I hope Joanne Fluke starts a new cozy mystery series.  Coconut Layer Cake Murder is a light, feel good story firm friends, mouthwatering meals, a vital vacation, scrumptious cookies, and a busy baker.
Feel like a kid again when you make these EASY Fruity Pebble Pudding Cookies! It\'s my favorite cookie recipe of all time.
Fruity Pebble Pudding Cookies (I bet Hannah has made them)
Coconut Layer Cake Murder can be found on Amazon* (as well as other major booksellers).  Christmas Cupcake Murder is the next A Hannah Swensen Mystery which comes out on September 29, 2020.  Thank you for stopping by today and reading my review.  I am featuring Journaled to Death by Heather Redmond tomorrow.  It is the debut of A Journaling Mystery series.  I hope you have a luminous day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris
The Avid Reader
In cucina si legge reading in the kitchen
*This post contains affiliate links.

Friday, February 28, 2020

On the Lamb by Tina Kashian: Giveaway and Review!


On the Lamb 


A Kebab Kitchen Mystery

by Tina Kashian

About On The Lamb

Cozy Mystery
4th in Series
Publisher: Kensington (February 25, 2020)
Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
ISBN-10: 1496726057
ISBN-13: 978-1496726056
Kindle ASIN: B07R8WVPMX
Lucy Berberian is busy preparing her family’s Mediterranean restaurant for Easter on the Jersey Shore—but a batch of sweets is to die for . . .

Bikers are thundering into the seaside town of Ocean Crest for the annual Bikers on the Beach gathering that raises funds for injured veterans. It’s a big boost for the Kebab Kitchen, as well as for local businesses like Melanie Haven’s candy shop. But Melanie is about to find herself in a sticky situation.

When Melanie and Lucy attend a beach bonfire, a local landlord is found dead after apparently choking on a piece of salt water taffy. Melanie, who was known to have a contentious relationship with the victim, is quickly skewered as the prime suspect. But Lucy is determined to prove her friend’s innocence before the real killer coasts free . . .

Recipes included!
JiLLy's Arcade | Attractions on the Ocean City Boardwalk, NJ

About Tina Kashian

Tina Kashian is a bestselling author, an attorney, and a mechanical engineer whose love of reading for pleasure helped her get through years of academia. Tina spent her childhood summers at the Jersey shore building sandcastles, boogie boarding, and riding the boardwalk Ferris wheel. She also grew up in the restaurant business, as her Armenian parents owned a restaurant for thirty years. Tina’s books have been Barnes & Noble top picks, and the first book in her A Kebab Kitchen Mystery series, Hummus and Homicide, spent six weeks on the B&N bestseller list. Please visit her website at www.tinakashian.com to join her newsletter, receive delicious recipes, enter contests, and more!
Ocean City, New Jersey - Fishing Pier (4 Sizes Art Prints, Giclees, Posters, Wood & Metal Signs, Tot

Author Links


Top 12 Things to See and Do While Visiting Wildwood New Jersey

My Thoughts


On the Lamb by Tina Kashian has Lucy Berberian enjoying a bonfire with her friends until a scream rings out.  They find Melanie Haven, the local candy maker, standing by the prone body of Gilbert Lubinski.  Melanie and Gilbert had a small altercation earlier in the evening which puts Melanie at the top of the detective’s suspect list.  Melanie asks that Lucy use her sleuthing prowess to find the guilty party.  Gilbert was not liked in the community, not even by his aunt who he was trying to oust from her home.  Lucy has her work cut out for her if she is to prove Melanie’s innocence.  On the Lamb can be read as a standalone for those new to A Kitchen Kebab Mystery series.  Everything a new reader needs to know is included in On the Lamb.  Lucy has been working hard at the family’s Mediterranean restaurant which she manages and is looking forward to evening with her friends enjoying the first bonfire of the season.  I like the descriptions of Ocean City, New Jersey.  I especially enjoy hearing about the boardwalk, the tram and the various shops.  The word imagery brings the scenes alive in my mind.  There is a nice balance between mystery and time spent with Lucy, her friends, family and boyfriend.  The main characters are established, and a unique new character is introduced.  Lucy finally moves into her own apartment.  It is right on the beach much to her delight.  Her new landlord, Eloisa Lubinski is delightful with her eccentric clothing and zest for life.  Eloisa is hoping having Lucy live there will keep her nephew, Gilbert from pestering her about moving into an assisted living facility.  Of course, Gilbert ends up dead.  Lucy, with assistance from her best friend, Katie Watson, sets out to find the real culprit.  They talk to numerous suspects, verify alibis, and do a little illegal searching (when the opportunity strikes, you cannot pass it up).  It will depend upon your sleuthing level on whether you solve this whodunit.  The clues are there for you to find.  Lucy is trying to bring the family restaurant into the twenty-first century, but her father is stubborn (if it has worked for thirty years, why change it now is his philosophy).  It is a good thing that Lucy is equally tenacious.  Her romance with Azad is moving forward (personally, I prefer Michael).  I enjoyed the mouthwatering descriptions of the food and there are recipes included at the end of the book.  On the Lamb is a charming cozy mystery that will have you wanting to visit the Jersey shore.  On the Lamb has terrific taffy, a blazing bonfire, a snappy shih tzu, mouthwatering meals, a ghastly landlord, surfeit of suspects, and a conniving killer.
Taffy pulling machine
On the Lamb is available at Amazon*, Barnes & NobleKoboGoogle Books and iBooks.  The other books in A Kebab Kitchen Mystery series are Hummus and Homicide, Stabbed in the Baklava, and One Feta in the Grave.  Would you like to win a print copy of On the Lamb?  You can click here to enter or use the Rafflecopter form below (Sorry, U.S. Only).  Leave a comment on my blog for an extra entry.  Good Luck!  I hope you take the time to visit the other stops for characters interviews, characters posts and author interviews.  Thank you stopping by today.  I hope you have a joyful day.  Tomorrow I am reviewing Coconut Layer Cake Murder by Joanne Fluke.  I hope you will join me to see what I thought about the 25th A Hannah Swensen Mystery.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

Tour Participants


February 25 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW

February 25 – Elizabeth McKenna - Author – SPOTLIGHT

February 25 – Readeropolis – SPOTLIGHT

February 26 – Baroness' Book Trove – REVIEW

February 26 – Brooke Blogs – GUEST POST

February 26 – I'm All About Books – SPOTLIGHT

February 27 – This Is My Truth Now – AUTHOR INTERVIEW


February 28 – The Book Diva's Reads – GUEST POST

February 28 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW

February 29 - Laura`s Interests – REVIEW

February 29 - Christy's Cozy Corners – CHARACTER GUEST POST

March 1 – Gimme The Scoop Reviews – REVIEW
There are so many attractions on the Ocean City New Jersey boardwalk down on the Jersey Shore for kids! Take a look! #vacation #travel #travelblog #golf #beautiful #writing #blogging #tip #summer #summervibes #beach #sunday
March 1 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW, INTERVIEW

March 2 – Literary Gold – CHARACTER GUEST POST 

March 2 – Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews – REVIEW

March 3 – Ascroft, eh? – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

March 3 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

March 4 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book - REVIEW, GUEST POST

March 4 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT

March 5 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

March 5 – Dee-Scoveries – SPOTLIGHT

March 6 – StoreyBook Reviews - REVIEW

March 6 – MJB Reviewers – REVIEW

March 7 – Melina's Book Blog – REVIEW

March 7 – A Wytch's Book Review Blog – REVIEW, CHARACTER INTERVIEW
Reading by the water.
*This post contains affiliate links.

Thursday, February 27, 2020

Al Dente's Inferno by Stephanie Cole

Welcome!  It is hard to believe that February is almost over.  There are some wonderful new books coming out in March.  The list includes The Crow's Call by Wanda E. Brunstetter (Amish Greenhouse Mystery), Am Amish Picnic by Amy Clipston, Vannetta Chapman, Kelly Irvin and Kathleen Fuller, Lavender Blue Murder by Laura Childs, Mouse of Cards by Erin Johnson, The Happy Camper by Melody Carlson, and Revenge is Sweet by Kaye George.  I have twenty-nine books I am scheduled to read and review for March (wish me luck).  Now for your pun--I am reading a novel about anti-gravity.  It is impossible to put down!
The best viewpoints in Tuscany for snapping postcard-worthy photos. #italy #tuscany #travel #traveltips
Tuscany
Al Dente’s Inferno by Stephanie Cole has Nell Valenti relocating to Tuscany.  Nell has been hired by her culinary hero, Chef Claudio Orlandini to take his small farm-to-table cooking school and make it a premiere cooking school that will attract a larger clientele especially American’s.  She is surprised upon arrival to see that nothing has been done to the aging villa.  There is to be a launch dinner the next evening and it will take all hands on deck if they are to make splash.  It does not help that Nell speaks minimal Italian.  Chef Orlandini seems more focused on bocce ball and truffle hunting than on the cooking school (plus his appearance needs as much work as the villa).  Nell garners the troops (nuns from a nearby convent) and sets about preparing for the launch dinner.  They are also expecting a filmmaker who will be making a documentary will be used to help advertise the culinary school.  Nell gets a shock when she discovers that the filmmaker is her former boyfriend (much to her mortification).  He treats everyone terribly until Nell gives him a kick in behind.  That night the filmmaker is found dead and Chef Orlandini is missing which makes him the prime suspect.  The cooking school could be over before it begins if Nell does not sniff out the killer.
Annamaria Bari--the "sous chef"
Al Dente’s Inferno by Stephanie Cole is the beginning of A Tuscan Cooking School Mystery series.  I enjoyed the word imagery of the Tuscan countryside and the dilapidated Orlandini villa.  I had to laugh when Nell found mold and a critter in the public rooms.  Nell thought she was just upgrading a farm-to-table cooking school.  Instead, it seems she is starting from scratch.  Unfortunately, the launch dinner for the local dignitaries is the next evening.  Then someone kills the filmmaker which could put the kibosh on the cooking school before it opens.  While I enjoyed the Italian setting, I was not a fan of the multiple Italian words and phrases in the story.  Some of them are explained, but many of them are not.  I quickly tired of them as it disrupted the flow of the story plus I had no clue what they meant (unless I used the translation feature on my e-book).  The clichés were another annoyance (way too many).  I believe they were meant to be humorous.  There are some interesting characters in the story, but I found background information to be lacking.  I thought Al Dente’s Inferno was a slow starter.  The murder does not occur until you are a third of the way into the story (way too late).  If you are a frequent reader of cozy mysteries, you will have already identified the killer by the time the dufus (i.e. the filmmaker and Nell’s ex-boyfriend) turns up dead.  There are good clues to aid readers in solving the crime and I liked Nell’s approach to the investigation.  It was straightforward with a Jessica Fletcher type reveal at the end.  I liked that most of the focus of Al Dente’s Inferno was on cooking and the whodunit.  I did not like when it delved into a new romantic interest for Nell.  Considering her recent breakup and taste in men, Nell needs to wait before diving into a new romantic relationship (she needs to keep her focus on the school).  I did enjoy Nell’s snarky comments.  Al Dente’s Inferno could have used a little more work before it was published (in my personal opinion).  Al Dente’s Inferno has a crumbling cloister, a pesky porcupine, a curious conveyance, mouthwatering meals, and a frustrating filmmaker.
The olive harvest in Italy (near Rome)
Pete's Olive Grove
Al Dente's Inferno is available in e-book and paperback*.  I appreciate you stopping by today.  I will be back tomorrow as part of the Great Escapes Virtual Book tour to review On the Lamb by Tina Kashian.  It is the fourth novel in A Kebab Kitchen Mystery series.  I hope you have a captivating day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris
The Avid Reader
Girl Reading Under Birch Trees on a Hillside. Alexander Köster (German, 1864-1932). Oil on canvas. Köster’s work shows a consistent development from a very realistic, detailed account in the 1890s to an ever freer, more generous painting style of the...
*This post contains affiliate links.

Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas Trilogy: Tucker by Emily March--Excerpt & Review!


About the Book

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Emily March comes the second book in the Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas trilogy, TUCKER. Two business owners come head-to-head in a feud with tulle and grit in this passionate story. This tale shows that even when life changes from the stress of a military career to working next to a wedding planner, love always finds a way to begin, even if it was never thought possible.
Meet Gillian Thacker. Her business: Bliss Bridal Salon. Her passion: Weddings. Her own wedding: It’s complicated. Life isn’t turning out like she’d planned. The last thing she wants is for a real-life hero to ride to her rescue, but an unexpected event puts her entire future in Redemption, Texas, at risk. So what’s a broken-hearted bridal expert to do? Maybe a new set of survival skills is exactly what she needs…


Tucker McBride has been proud to call himself a U.S. Army Ranger. But now that his days of service are over, he’s decided to put his expertise to use by founding a wilderness skills training school. He sets up shop in Redemption, next to Bliss Bridal, and so begins life: Part Two. Marriage has been pretty low on his agenda, but as soon as he meets Gillian, Tucker can’t help but contemplate the ultimate challenge: Convincing the reluctant bride to take his hand and leap into the adventure of a lifetime . . . until death do them part.

About the Author
Emily March is the New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty novels, including the critically acclaimed Eternity Springs series. Publishers Weekly calls March a "master of delightful banter," and her heartwarming, emotionally charged stories have been named to Best of the Year lists by Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Romance Writers of America.
A graduate of Texas A&M University, Emily is an avid fan of Aggie sports and her recipe for jalapeño relish has made her a tailgating legend.
Texas A&M Aggies Aggieland Embossed Shield Sign #texasa&m
Author Links
Twitter: @emilymarchbooks (https://twitter.com/emilymarchbooks?lang=en)
Facebook: @emilymarchbooks (https://www.facebook.com/emilymarchbooks/)
Instagram: @emilymarchbooks (https://www.instagram.com/emilymarchbooks/?hl=en
Author Website: https://emilymarch.com/
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, TX. Palo Duro is the second-largest canyon in the United States and is located just south of Amarillo, Texas.
My Thoughts
Eternity Springs:  McBrides of Texas:  Tucker by Emily March has Tucker McBride leaving the army.  He is heading to Redemption, Texas for a time of healing and decide what he wants to do with his future.  Along the way, he encounters Gillian Thacker walking along a back road.  Gillian had a fight with her fiancé, Jeremy and took off without thinking.  The pair share an intense moment before Gillian returns to Jeremy.  Three months later, Tucker is opening wilderness skills training school in the building next to Bliss Bridal owned by Gillian and her mother, Barbara.  It turns out it was the building Gillian intended to buy for her new venture, Bliss Events.  Sparks fly between the pair much to Tucker’s delight.  He has his sights set on Gillian, now he just needs to convince her.  
Caprock Canyon State Park - Camp Trend
Tucker is a cute story.  I liked the characters (well, most of them—Jeremy and an old frenemy of Gillian’s leave a lot to be desired) and the lovely setting of Redemption, Texas. Tucker McBride is handsome, kind, good hearted man who is a keeper.  I like how he helps his niece, Haley who is going through a tough time.  Gillian did get on my nerves a few times, but that made her real.   I enjoyed the beautiful descriptions of Enchanted Canyon.  I can understand why it is a place to unwind, get peace and heal.  There were definite sparks between Gillian and Tucker (it is a wonder they did not set paper on fire).  I like the survival skills fit into the story as well as the color red.  I do want to let readers know that there is foul language in the story along with intimate situations (and thoughts).   Those who read Jackson’s tale will be happy to know that him and his fiancé, Caroline are in the book.  Gillian is one of Caroline’s bridesmaids.  I enjoyed the humor in the story, and I had to laugh at the dress Tucker had Barbara create for the display window.  Tucker can be on as a standalone.  I had no trouble following the story.    Tucker is a relaxing story to read and it will delight those who love romance tales.
The Best Glamping Experiences in America
Excerpt
Tucker was a sixth-generation Texan, small-town born and bred. Certain behaviors were stamped into his DNA. A real man tipped his hat to the ladies, opened doors for females of any age, and never, ever failed to stop and assist a woman in distress.
So, of course, he had to turn around.
That this particular woman in distress was a total smoke show dressed in fire-engine red only made playing the role of Texas gentleman that much sweeter. He wondered how she’d managed to find herself out here in the middle of nowhere, no car in sight, not a house anywhere around, and the closest town a good ten miles away. Unfortunately, hot looks and a bright mind didn’t always go together.
Maternity photography Yorkshire Leeds, Bradford, York, Harrogate, Wakefield: beautiful pregnant woman in red dress walking through the countryside before the sunset
He pulled to a stop beside her and flipped up the visor of his helmet. His assessing stare met a wary gaze shining from big, periwinkle-blue eyes that were swollen and red-rimmed with tears. She had an abrasion on her cheek just above her chin. Had someone hit her? When his quick visual sweep of her body revealed additional redness on both of her arms, he reconsidered. Airbag deployment, most likely. “Do you need some help, ma’am?”

He watched her intently and saw her quietly repeat the word ma’am. After a moment’s hesitation, she licked her lips, swallowed hard, and said, “Well, um, I, um. May I borrow your phone?”

Her voice was smooth as Tennessee whiskey with just enough Texas in her drawl to sound like home to ears too far away for too long. “Yes, ma’am.”
Motorcycle For Men Ideas Guys 29 Ideas #motorcycle
She took a small step backward as he set his kick- stand and climbed off his bike. She’s scared of me.
It was a perfectly natural reaction and showed some sense, but Tucker didn’t like scaring women, so when he pulled off his helmet, he was scowling. Her eyes widened, she took another step back, and he realized he’d made the situation worse. Well, hell.
He reached deep inside him for the charm that had grown rusty with disuse, made a stab at a reassuring smile, and addressed the elephant in the cotton field. “Don’t be scared. I won’t hurt you. I came back to see if I could help. That’s all. I give you my word, and a McBride’s word is his bond.”
“That’s so old-fashioned,” she said. “Yes, well, that’s how we roll. Now, I’m going to reach into my pocket and pull out my phone.” Her gaze dropped to his hand, and she gave a nervous little laugh. “No gun?” “No gun.” That was in a different pocket.
Backroads Of East Texas in Henderson, TX
Tucker unzipped his jacket and reached into an inner pouch for his phone while trying his best to look unthreatening. Their fingers brushed as he handed it over. Her fingernail color matched her dress. “Thank you,” she said. “You’re welcome. My name is Tucker.”
“I’m Gillian.” Her teeth tugged on her bottom lip as she stared at the phone. “Do you have Google maps? I need to send a pin of my location to my—”
  She broke off abruptly, and her head came up. Those glittering blue eyes—puffy and swollen from tears and framed by long, thick lashes—went round and big. Distracted, he fell into them. “Tucker McBride? Your name is Tucker McBride?”
He blinked and pulled slightly away. Now it was his turn to be wary. “Yes.” She gave him a once over, and some of the stiffness melted from her spine. “I know Jackson. Boone too. You’re the third cousin, aren’t you?” Well, this was unexpected. “Yes, Boone and Jackson are cousins of mine. Have we met?” He didn’t think so. He’d damned sure remember her. “No.”
Crying woman by Margo Nikolskaya on @creativemarket
“I’m surprised you’d connect me to them. We’re a long way from Redemption.” “Are we?” She gave a short, strained laugh. “I wouldn’t know. I’m lost. But you look just like them, and Tucker McBride is an unusual name. Plus, I remember when the three of you arrived in Redemption the first time. You all rode motorcycles. My friend Maisy laughed that you had your own little McBride gang, so you were perfect for Ruin.”
Tucker grinned. “If you only knew.” He extended his hand toward her for a handshake. “Nice to meet you, Gillian . . . ?” “Thacker. Gillian Thacker.” Her grip was firm, her smile filled with relief. “I’m a friend of Caroline Carruthers. Are you on your way to visit Redemption?”
Caroline was the woman Jackson was seeing, Tucker knew. He nodded. “Yes, I am. So now that you know I’m not a serial killer, want to tell me what you’re doing standing in a cotton field in a sundress and stilettos? Not exactly apparel for farming.”
She glanced down at her feet. “Technically, I’m not in the field but on the shoulder of a road. A narrow, two-lane, never-ending road. And no, cotton is not my thing. I’m all about satin and lace.”
Satin and lace? A vision of Gillian in lingerie the same shade of red as her dress flashed in Tucker’s mind as she continued, “I sell wedding gowns at a bridal shop in Redemption. Bliss Bridal Salon on Main Street.”
5 Small Towns Near Houston Perfect for Shopping Day Trips
He tore his thoughts from the fantasy and listened when she began babbling about a pig and a pecan and a purse without a phone charger. When she finally wound down, she left Tucker shaking his head at her foolishness. He held up his hand. “Let me get this straight. You weren’t joking about being lost? You literally don’t know where you are?”
“No. Not exactly.” She lifted her chin, and her voice sharpened defensively. “I know I’m still in Central Texas. I’m somewhere between I-35 and I-45. I’m north of Austin. I think.”
He slowly shook his head. “Where is your car? How far have you walked?” “That way.” She hooked her thumb over her shoulder. “Maybe two or three miles. I’ve been walking a while.” “In those shoes?” She gave a rueful smile.

13 Fantastic High Heels Red And Black High Heel Knee High Boots For Women Wide Calf #shoeobsessed #shoesdaytuesday #HighHeels
Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas: Tucker is available from Amazon*, Barnes & Noble, Books-a-Million, IndieBound, Macmillan, and Powell's. You can find a complete list of the Eternity Springs novels (which begins with Angels' Rest) here. Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas Trilogy: Jackson can be found here (it is the sixteenth book in the Eternity Springs series). Thank you for visiting today. I will return tomorrow to share my review of Al Dente's Inferno by Stephanie Cole. It is the debut of A Tuscan Cooking School Mystery series. I hope you have a day full of merriment (joy does the heart and soul good). Here is a pun to help you out. I once tried illustrating currency books for a living. I never drew a dime. Take care and Happy Reading!
Kris
The Avid Reader
woman reading book in tent
*This post contains affiliate links.

Tuesday, February 25, 2020

Murder Makes Scents by Christin Brecher: Review & Giveaway!


Murder Makes Scents

Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery


by Christin Brecher

About Murder Makes Scents

Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Publisher: Kensington (February 25, 2020)
Mass Market Paperback: 272 pages
ISBN-10: 1496721411
ISBN-13: 978-1496721419
Digital ASIN: B07R6P9Z8M
Stella Wright loves creating candles at her Nantucket store—and she also has a burning passion for justice. Now, after visiting a perfume conference, she must solve a vial crime . . .

Stella and her globe-trotting mom, Millie, have come home from a perfume industry conference in Paris, where their trip was marred by witnessing the stabbing death of a young man. It’s a relief for Stella to be back on her picturesque island, with the comforting company of her cat, Tinker. But lingering danger may have followed them back across the ocean.

After someone breaks into her candle store, the Wick & Flame, Stella starts feeling spooked. And just as things threaten to ignite, Millie suffers a blow to the head. Stella receives an anonymous note claiming that her mother smuggled a secret formula out of France—and threatening her life if it isn’t returned. Now Stella’s picked up the scent of a cold-hearted criminal and an intriguing puzzle, and things are about to get wicked . . .
Nantucket Island Main Street (where Wick & Flame is located)

About Christin Brecher

Christin Brecher was born and raised in NYC, where her family and many childhood friends still reside. As such, she feels she is as much of a small-town girl as any. The idea to write the Nantucket Candle Maker series sprang from her life-long connection to the small island off the coast of Massachusetts. Spending summers there as a child, Christin read from her family’s library of mystery novels, after which she began to imagine stories inspired by the island’s whaling heyday, its notoriously foggy nights, and during long bike rides to the beach. After many years in marketing for the publishing industry, followed by years raising her children, Murder’s No Votive Confidence is Christin’s debut novel. Visit her at www.christinbrecher.com.
Paris Luxury Candle Boutique Shop Review: Cire Trudon
Cire Trudon is candle shop Stella visited in Paris (open since 1643)

Author Links


Amazon – https://amzn.to/2P9JzSj
(3542) Make Your Own Silicone Mold From Caulking & Dish Soap! - YouTube
Stella has a class on making your own silicone molds
Murder Makes Scents by Christin Brecher has Stella Wright with her mother, Millie in Paris for The World Perfumery Conference.  Before Millie gives her talk, they stop so she can check her materials one more time.  A commotion breaks out and Stella sees a man with a knife in his back.  Stella later learns that the killer was after sensitive information, but he eluded the gendarme.  Millie and Stella return to Nantucket Island where Stella notices a woman on a yacht watching them through binoculars as they depart the ferry.  Unable to sleep that night (Millie snores and hogs the bed), Stella heads to her shop to catch a cat nap with Tinker.   Before she drifts off, she can hear the bell on the door.  Someone had been in her shop, but Stella has no clue what they were after. While trying to escape the affectionate Tinker, Millie gets injured which requires an overnight stay at the local hospital.  The next morning, Stella finds a threatening note on her door.  The person wants a formula hidden in Millie’s special bag or they will harm Stella’s mother.  Stella intends to unravel this malodourous puzzle and catch the guilty party.  Murder Makes Scents is the second book in A Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery series.  It can be read as a standalone if you have not picked up Murder’s No Votive Confidence.  I like the characters and the setting of Nantucket Island.  The story moved along steadily, and I liked the action that kept things lively.  The mystery was unique for a cozy mystery which I just loved.  There was intrigue, mysterious individuals, a special formula, international espionage and action.  Your ability to solve this whodunit depends upon your sleuthing level.  I like the humor sprinkled throughout (I love a book that makes me laugh).  Tinker was a hoot.  The author captured how a cat behaves perfectly especially when they know someone does not wish to be their friend.  There is a side story involving Stella’s thirtieth birthday and the possibility that her beau might ask a certain question.  There is an excerpt from 15 Minutes of Flame, the 3rd A Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery, at the end along with a recipe and discussion on making your own candle molds.  Murder Makes Scents is an engaging cozy mystery with a funny formula, mold making masterclass, curious clues, a perplexing prowler, and a comical cat.
Candlemaking Class
Murder Makes Scents is available at Amazon*Barnes & NobleKobo, BAMIndieBoundHudson Booksellers, and Google PlayMurder's No Votive Confidence is the first A Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery15 Minutes of Flame is the third A Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery and it releases on August 25, 2020. You can pre-order it now through Amazon.  Would you like to win a copy of Murder Makes Scents?  You can enter the giveaway to win one of three print copies of Murders Makes Sense (Sorry, but U.S. Only).  Click here to enter or use the Rafflecopter form below.  Leave a comment on my blog for an extra entry.  Visit the other stops on the tour (schedule below) to read an excerpt from the book, other chances to win, and candle tips. Good Luck!  There are numerous videos on Pinterest and YouTube on how to make your own silicone molds.  I cannot wait to experiment (remember ventilation is important).  Thank you for joining me today.  I will be featuring Eternity Springs:  The McBrides of Texas:  Tucker by Emily March tomorrow.  I hope you have a creative day.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris
The Avid Reader

Tour Participants


February 24 – The Book Decoder – REVIEW

February 24 – The Power of Words – REVIEW

February 24 – A Wytch's Book Review Blog – REVIEW

February 25 – Mysteries with Character – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

February 25 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW

February 25 – I'm All About Books – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT

February 26 – FUONLYKNEW – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT

February 26 – TBR Book Blog - REVIEW

February 26 – Christy's Cozy Corners – GUEST POST

February 26 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews - REVIEW
These colorful candles in the shape of eggs add a delightful touch to any Easter display. Molded in actual egg shells and dyed with crayons, they're surprisingly easy to make.
A handmade molded candle (perfect for Easter)
February 27 – eBook addicts – REVIEW

February 27 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT

February 27 – StoreyBook Reviews – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT

February 27 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT

February 28 – Book Club Librarian – REVIEW

February 28 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW

February 28 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

February 29 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT, EXCERPT

February 29 – I Read What You Write – REVIEW

March 1 – Gimme The Scoop Reviews - REVIEW, CANDLE TIPS PAGE

March 1 – Laura`s Interests – REVIEW
Make your own candles using cookie cutters
March 1 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

March 1 – The Book's the Thing - REVIEW

March 2 – Diary of a Book Fiend – REVIEW

March 2 – Socrates Book Reviews - REVIEW

March 2 – A Holland Reads – REVIEW*

March 3 – Sneaky the Library Cat's Blog – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

March 3 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

March 3 – The Book Diva's Reads – CHARACTER GUEST POST

March 4 – Brooke Blogs – REVIEW

March 4 – Ascroft, eh? – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

March 4 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW
Three Women Read in Paris | Etsy
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