Bakeries and Buffoonery Review Spotlight

 

 Bakeries and Buffoonery by Elizabeth Pantley is the fourth installment in her Magical Mystery Book Club series, and for readers of this series – you’re not going to want to miss out on this book. Paige, Glo, and the gang are back! Along with Mollie the ghost if you forgot. It’s time for a new book club meeting, and for a new mystery novel to be chosen! When the group finds a book about the drama surrounding a cake competition, it sounds like the perfect choice! Right?! Who wouldn’t want to investigate a mystery that swirls around an annual cake competition? But! Are they prepared for the twists and surprises that are in store for them? Well, there is definitely going to be a lot of cake, so dive in to see where the crumbs will lead them!

Bakeries and Buffoonery is a deliciously delightful addition to the series. The end of book three saw the entire book club come back to “reality” together, though with one new addition – Molly, the ghost. So the question will arise – will this new adventure see someone end up staying behind? Guess you’ll have to wait and see what happens. But brace yourself for the frosting to fly! Now, let the choosing begin!

This book, as the title suggests, the characters decide on a fun cozy mystery novel called “The Great Cake Rivalry.” Sounds like a fun choice right? Well, it’s all fun and games until someone gets murdered. What’s really different about this book is that you “meet” the killer in the first few pages. Don’t get too excited, you don’t “meet them meet them.” You get to see or hear things from their perspective. What once started out as a small humble baking competition got out of hand rather quickly and someone isn’t a fan of it. So, they’ve taken things into their own hands. A little mischief here and there, but when the contest refuses to be tamed, well, bigger plans must be made. Can the group step in and find out who the perpetrator is before they do more harm? Or will they not be able to figure things out before it’s too late?

The humor element of this novel is well done. You get sprinkles of it in the right places to keep the story entertaining without going overboard. Frank, especially himself gets into a couple of “predicaments” but they are really funny. Plus, he lets slip a little secret! Will we get to find out more about this tidbit of information that he lets slip out? Guess time will only tell, but for now be prepared to wait, because answers won’t be forthcoming in this book!

Vee takes center stage with this book in key moments in this book. Since Vee is an experienced baker she’s the go-to person for the other characters when it comes to the baking competition that is the focal point of the mystery. This competition isn’t solely for the pros, there’s a part that amateurs get to participate in as well! You’re going to be drooling over the descriptions of the various cakes described in this book. The confections described in this book will be a feast for your mind and have you wishing that you could have a taste. Man, these characters are so lucky to get to sample the various confectionery works. I know I’m going to be doing some research to find recipes or something similar to create myself. LOL!

The variety of characters in this book really helps this book shine. You’re always wondering – who is the culprit that they are looking for? Why do they (the culprit/killer) hate cake so much? If they hate cake so much, why haven’t they found some other place to live? I mean, I get it – the town used to be called “Lake Pleasant.” It’s understandable that not everyone is going to be pleased with the change to “Frosting.” There are quite a few red herrings scattered throughout this book though. You have the main “danger,” and then there is someone else who has an issue with...(gasp) pies?! Now THAT is an outrage! LOL! Who doesn’t like pie?! Brace yourself for quite a few surprises in this book.

Hoping for some sparks of romance? Great news! There is some in this book! What will it mean for the book club though? Will everyone be happy with the budding romance? Well, as we all know, things typically work out in the end, and this book will be no different. You will get a little teary-eyed though, so make sure you grab a kleenex.

With the addition of new elements, the author helps to keep this series fresh and from going stale. The characters come off as realistic and quite often relatable. You won’t be able to help laughing at some of their antics, and agreeing when one tries to “direct” another in more appropriate tactics. The characters really make the story enjoyable as they are often simply trying to one-up each other with their silliness.

Vee takes the cake with this book though. She shines brightly with her baking skills and dedication to the contest overall, even though there is no “grand prize” for the amateurs. Even when things go awry she never loses her cool! There are a couple of scenes where you’re going to expect her to get upset, but she never does. Tip of the hat to you Vee. You’re awesome and way better than me. LOL!

Packed with ups and downs, new discoveries, and pleasant surprises this book is a must-read for those who have enjoyed the series to this point. New to the series? You can dive into this book if you want to, but it’s always a good choice to start the series from the beginning and dive in so that you get the full immersive experience.

I’m rating this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.

My thanks to the author, Elizabeth Pantley, and the Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the opportunity to read and review this book.

A Hint of Mischief Spotlight Review

 A Hint of Mischief is the third book in Daryl Wood Gerber’s A Fairy Garden Mystery series. This light fantasy cozy mystery novel is an engaging page-turner that will keep you on your toes as you try to piece together – whodunnit?

A Hint of Mischief is the first book that I have read in this series, but the book is so enjoyable that I can’t complain about not having read the previous books. That being said, I will still recommend that you read the previous books before you dive into this one just so that you can enjoy the full experience of Courtney, her fairy – Fiona, and the myriad of other characters featured in this series.

When Courtney is commissioned to throw a fairy party for a sorority sister’s birthday, she has no idea what she’s getting herself into. It’s a bit last minute, but Courtney has faith that with some help from a few friends she can get it done. What she doesn’t expect is to be roped into the group of “friends” and begin to discover that not all is well within the group. A spa day ends up taking a left turn and things only get worse from there when one of the attendees, famous Farrah Lawson, ends up dead. The big questions? Who did and why? Can Courtney find her way to the truth?

A Hint of Mischief is, for me, a moderately paced cozy mystery novel. I love the twists and turns in this book. There is drama right from the beginning with a strange thief making their way through the various shops in the square. Then along comes the bigger mystery of the big murder that happens. While Courtney isn’t the one to find the body or anything she’s determined to find the truth as to what happened and why. Of course, as is typical, she has the local PD warning her off the case and to “let the professionals handle it.” If that warning didn’t work the first few times she’s stumbled into a case, I don’t think it’s going to work this time either. Do you? LOL! I have to admit that I both admire Courtney’s sleuthing skills, and feel that she needs to fine tune them a bit. Columbo she is not. LOL! But it’s not like she’s a dyed in the wool sleuth. She follows the signs where the point and some...she just kinda makes up along the way.

The one thing that I love the most about this book is the attention to detail. I absolutely appreciate how the author takes into consideration that some readers might not have read the previous books. So what does she do? She gives readers little details in the right places to fill in some of the gaps and questions that we might have as we read this book. In just the right place you’ll get a little tidbit of information to flesh out the story and make it more engaging. Then we get some backstory in the right spots to give us more about certain characters to better understand them, and in some cases...even suspect them.

There were a couple of characters that I felt that Courtney gets a bit hung up on in suspecting them. One in particular I had a hard time suspecting her of really being the killer. She just didn’t fit the profile no matter the drama that she had to go through with Farrah. Then add in some surprises that I would have never seen coming of certain characters making an appearance. I have to say that Courtney dodged a bullet with her ex. I mean...yikes! Self-centered much? If I had to say, I think that he was my least favorite character – even his stint was brief. LOL! Well, him and Farrah. Just wait until you learn more about her! OMG!

My favorite character? Besides Pixie? What?! I love cats and she sounds absolutely adorable! LOL! Okay, okay, seriously, my favorite character was probably – Fiona. She’s striving so hard to be better and get better. She’s also pretty helpful in quite a few moments of this book. If it weren’t for her, I think that things would have taken a bit of a dark turn for Courtney as she plays detective.

I loved the various relationships between the characters in this book. They are all so well done. You immediately get the familial connections between some and then you get the community connections with others. It’s so enjoyable as each individual gets a moment to shine. Of course, they also get lots of moments to gossip, but I love the connected feel that I get from all of them. I also liked the romance angle between Courtney and Brady. I love that it’s not rushed and that things gradually are developing between them, with some sweet surprises tucked in as well.

If you are a fan of cozy mystery novels with some fantasy elements sprinkled in then this the book to pick up. If you have been reading this series and enjoying every second of it, then I highly recommend you grab this book and continue reading. I’m looking forward to book four for sure! I fully intend to catch up with the two previous books in this series as well.

I am choosing to rate this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. I did feel that the pace of this story could have used a little pep to speed it up a little bit, this book was an absolute delight to read. There are some delicious recipes at the end to try, I just wish there were more! All of the food described sounded absolutely delicious. I look forward to more of Courtney’s and Fiona’s adventures and sleuthing!  

 

Five Belles Too Many Review Spotlight

 

 Five Belles Too Many by Debra H. Goldstein is the fifth book in her Sarah Blair mystery series. Sarah is back in this newest mystery and she’s going to find herself embroiled in yet another murder.

Sarah’s mother, Maybelle, has been picked as one of the contestants to participate in the Southern Belles reality show. To be in compliance of the rules, Sarah is designated to be her mother’s chaperone. Sarah has no clue of the trouble that is brewing, but she’s going to get a front row seat when someone from the crew winds up dead.

Five Belles Too Many is an engaging novel that keeps me guessing as to who the killer is almost to the very end of this story. As this book is the fifth in the series, it does help to have read the previous books to really understand what has been transpiring between the characters throughout the series. As you read, you get the sense that there is something going on with Sarah and one of her friends. Things seem to be a little rocky, but a little conversation and understanding goes a long ways.

While Sarah isn’t too keen on being a chaperone for her mother, I can understand why. While promised that it won’t interfere with her day job, you just never know. When it comes to shooting “reality t.v.” anything can happen or change last minute and the next thing you know, you’re whole day is impacted. I appreciate how the author does such a good job with that particular element of the story. It gives off the element of where you just don’t know what to expect. It really keeps you on your toes concerning this story.

The variety of characters in this book really make it engaging, and gives you plenty to either like or dislike depending on your tastes. While Maybelle may be classified as “high maintenance” I really enjoyed her in this book. She’s engaging and brings a bit of humor as well. I like the backstory that is sprinkled in in the right places for some of the other characters, and the drama that is going on between them. While the drama is subtle, it’s not too hard to spot when you get down to it.

Some of the delicious foods in this book really had me flipping to the back to see if that particular recipe would be featured. You can bet that I was thrilled when Chef Bernardi’s breakfast biscuits are included. The author’s descriptions of the biscuits had me craving some. LOL! I’m always up for something tasty.

The mystery angle of this book is really well done. I did feel that Sarah was a bit absent-minded in a couple places of the story. I pieced together certain things before she did when things begin to go downhill concerning Jane. I expected Sarah to remember things a bit better than she does, but it all plays together in the story to come together in the right moments. In certain scenes of the book she’s more observant than others, but to be honest, it all works. I really like how the murder had me thinking and trying to piece together how it was carried out. I have to say it was a real stroke of genius all the way around. The thought process behind it and how it was executed. The author lays some red herrings to tease you into looking in one direction when the answer is closer than you think.

Of course, there is more going on than meets the eye. You see one thing over here, but there is something else going on that you just don’t expect until the author begins to point it out to you. I have to admit that I found some humor in Sarah’s animals’ interactions with Jane. RahRah especially was amusing since those of us who are owned by cats know just how they can be towards certain people.

I think that if I had to choose a favorite character in this book it would Cliff. He’s a really interesting character, and he sounds like such a good person. Things are complicated right now between him and Sarah, but who knows what the future holds? He really contributes in this book to helping piece together some elements that point in the right direction to catching a murderer.

My least favorite character? Well, you don’t even need to guess on that one. LOL! While she may not be guilty of murder, Jane manages to stand out as the number one least favorite. I really wish I understood her issues a bit better, but I honestly don’t think that even she understands her issues that well.

This book has a bit of a slow-start, but once it gets going it’s a real page-turner. There were moments that I really struggled to put this book down, because I just had to know what was going to happen next. The twists in this cozy mystery kept me guessing and I enjoyed every second of it. I’m really looking forward to what comes next with Sarah.

I’m choosing to rate this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. My favorite part of this book, besides the tasty foods described, was the mystery. It was so well done, and I enjoy a good surprise. If you enjoy cozy mystery novels, or have been reading this series then I highly encourage you to pick this book up and dive in.  

A Murder Yule Regret Review

 

 A Murder Yule Regret is yet another wonderful return to Winnie Archer’s “A Bread Shop Mystery” series. I think it’s pretty safe to say that I’m in love with these books and this series. Ivy Culpepper is about to be back on the case when a young actress finds herself at the center of a murder that happens at her holiday party. A tabloid reporter is found dead outside and the culprit? Could be any of the guests who were in attendance.

A Murder Yule Regret by Winnie Archer is another delightful addition to this author’s series. This series is like returning to old familiar friends who greet you warmly each time they see you. Ivy is such an engaging character and does not disappoint in this installment either. Things get a bit topsy-turvey when Olaya agrees to bake bread for Eliza Fox’s holiday party at the last minute. Talk about a lot of work to tackle in a short period of time. Of course, Ivy is called on to help, but Ivy gets double duty when she’s also hired to photograph the event and all the guests. She has no idea that Eliza Fox has a secret past, and that there are those around her with their own secrets as well.

This book is so much like a delicious croissant. You encounter so many layers of delectable storyline that pull you deeper by the page. This cozy mystery has more than just the original mystery that starts up which is the murder. Things become deeper and more complex as characters reveal secrets, hidden agendas, and eventually the truth behind it all. Not only do you get a fantastic story that keeps you page-turning, but you also get delicious treats that will have your mouth watering jealousy as the characters get to sample yummy baked goods.

Ivy and Mrs. Branford are easily my favorite characters in this book. Mrs. Branford is such a fun character, and I truly aspire to be as energetic and active as she is when I’m her age. LOL! Mrs. Branford is really one of the most clever characters hands down. When she says something, pay attention because the odds are that she’s going to be right! I will probably never cease to be amazed by this character. LOL! I love how level-headed Ivy is. She’s really showing a lot of growth throughout this series, and each book just gets better and better. Ivy may make a misstep here and there, but she doesn’t let her derail her in finding out the truth and helping someone out.

Let me just say this...thank GOD York is only minimally in this book. After the last book and his overly aggressive behavior towards Miguel, I was ready to go off on him! LOL! Granted, he's up to his usual tactics in this book, manipulating things, but it only adds to the drama, so I can’t complain too much. I must say that there isn’t much if anything that I can complain about concerning this book. I enjoyed it so much! I will say this...when you get to that final chapter...grab some tissues! It is truly the perfect ending to this book and I LOVED it!

Now that I’m done gushing over this book, I am...rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. Did you already guess that? LOL! I loved this book. It was such a delight to read and the characters are truly well written. You’d think that you could go there and meet them visiting this town. If only, right? The mystery is well done, I enjoyed the characters, and I love seeing some of the tempting recipes that were featured in the story as well. I truly cannot wait for the next book in this series. I look forward to reading more of Ivy, Agatha, and all the characters I have come to know and love.  

Deck the Donuts Review

 

Deck the Donuts is the sixth book in Ginger Bolton’s Deputy Donut cozy mystery series and is the perfect holiday-themed novel to get you in the holiday spirit!

While this book is part of a series, it can be, in my opinion, be read as a stand-alone and be thoroughly enjoyed. Though I will warn you, that if you’re like me and have missed out on the delectable previous novels, you’re going to want to read them all to truly enjoy the full storyline that is weaved together with the connection that all of the characters have established a page at a time.

It’s Christmastime in Fallingbrook up in snowy Wisconsin, and everyone is excited. But some passengers on a tour bus are about to have their Christmas derailed just a bit with a scary accident that leaves them stranded, and the driver, later that night, murdered. Alcohol is suspected to be the culprit, but who was drinking? The driver? The tour guide? Both? They both deny it, but is there more to the story than what they are telling? When the driver is found dead, the questions are – who did it and why? Get ready for some twists as suspects present themselves and seem like viable candidates, but just wait for the proof to rise and the truth will surprise you.

Deck the Donuts is the first book that I have read by Ginger Bolton and let me just say, I was absolutely delighted with this novel. I loved this book so much that I fully intend to go back and grab the rest. They are that good! This book is packed with lots for readers to enjoy. Emily is a clever sleuth, but I love that she’s not too dogmatic about her part in the investigation. Of course, her husband used to be a cop, so she’s familiar with most if not all of the cops in Fallingbrook. But I appreciate her tact when she is asking questions and trying to figure out exactly what happened starting with the tour bus accident.

This book is so well-balanced. It was a little slow for me in the beginning, and that might be because of my lack of familiarity with the characters, but like donut dough proofing, as it begins to develop and rise I found myself eagerly page-turning to get to the good stuff. The author gives readers a nice dose of everyday life as the investigation progresses, and in some instances stalls. When one lead falls through, a little digging reveals another that once again begins to move things forward. You get a nice amount of a variety of characters that help bring this book to delightful life. The author tempts you with thoughts of deliciously decadent treats that will have your mouth watering as you read and craving a donut or two. As a baker myself, I’m eager to look up some recipes for some of the treats talked about in this novel so that I can make them or create my own recipes. LOL! Yes, they sound that good!

Now, I pride myself on figuring out who the bad guy is before the big reveal, but the author kept me buried in drift with the way so many could have had a motive. It’s not until nearly the end that the truth is revealed! Let me tell you, I was caught off guard! LOL! With each potential suspect, I was sorting through the clues. With a couple of the characters, I was sure of their guilt in some form or another with certain things. With one character in particular though I was so sure that their motive was it, the truth is always something different. I have to admit I was more than a little delighted with how the author kept me on my toes and revealed who the killer is and they admitted their story.

When I say that this book is packed, I mean it is packed! You get the small-town feel of Fallingbrook. You get the holiday feel of the season with the snow, the celebration, the lights, and the decorations. You get the sweet hints of romance waiting to bloom that has slowly been developing and is now waiting for just the right moment. You get the mystery that will keep you page-turning, and the delightful donuts that will tempt you as the author include some tasty recipes at the end of her novel.

This book is so much like a tasty donut. The appearance is beautiful, but since it’s new, you’re hesitant to take that first taste. What if you don’t like it? What if it’s not as good as it looks? Then you take that first taste, and you're taken by surprise. It’s so good! But regrettably, so like when you only have the one donut, you have to restrain yourself from devouring it in two bites, so you draw out the donuts demise, but savoring each bite until that last morsel passes your lips. This describes Ginger Bolton’s novel perfectly. I enjoyed the book like the tasty treat that it is, but I’m sad that it’s over. LOL! The good news? There are more books to be discovered, tasted, and enjoyed and that is exactly what I intend to do.

I am rating this book a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars. I could not get enough of this book. Deck the Donuts is the perfect holiday novel to get you in the spirit for Christmas and to have you craving some delicious donuts as well. Packed with holiday cheer, delicious treats, a cuddly kitty, some sweet romance, and a tantalizing mystery this book is sure to keep you page-turning. You’ll enjoy this book from beginning to end whether you’ve read the entire series to this point, or just finding this author for the first time. If you have read the previous books, you’re not going to want to miss this one. If you are looking for a delightful holiday novel, but are new to the series, dive in! You’ll find lots to enjoy that will have you coming back for more. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.  

Death Gone A-Rye

 

Death Gone A-Rye is the 6^th book in Winnie Archer’s A Bread Shop Mystery series. This is the second book that I have read by this author in her cozy mystery series and I enjoyed it from start to finish. A school board member is found murdered, but who did it? The list of suspects is long and wide as Nessa Renchrik had no shortage of enemies and very few friends. Her relationships with her family are even strained to the breaking point, so who commited the crime?

Death Gone A-Rye was such an enjoyment to read and I practically devoured it like a tasty bread. I love that the author gives readers Em’s wedding to Ivy’s brother. Of course, that sets the perfect stage for the “perfect” interruption to come in. I’m glad that the murder announcement doesn’t derail the wedding though with Em rushing off to head the investigation. A new character is introduced, a new police hire, but I have to say that I wasn’t too keen on him from the beginning. I mean...who attends a wedding and spends most of their time on the phone? Okay, probably someone looking to prove themselves, but still…

There is so much tasty goodness in this book. From the mentions of all the delightful bread offers at Yeast of Eden to the building and layering of the mystery in this novel. The mystery is so well done. I was eager to discover who the possible suspect could be and their motive. The funny thing with this book is that there is no shortage of suspects, and the one who committed the crime...is the one you’ll least suspect. Tiny spoiler...you’re heart will break.

The characters in this book are so well done and I enjoyed the nice mix that the author gives me. I will say that I would have loved to see more of Mrs. Bradford. She is such a delightful character and I love that she is always so quick to come to Ivy’s aid in one way or another. The author has me literally wishing that Olaya Solis was real because I would love to go to Yeast of Eden to not only taste her delightful breads but learn from her as well. LOL!

I am rating this book a high 5 out of 5 stars. This book is tasty perfection. There is just the right amount of twists, surprises, and romance. I love the recipes (though I want more lol) and I can’t wait to try out a couple of them as well. If you love this series and these characters grab this book. It will delight you to no end and have you coming back for more. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.

Dough or Die

 Dough or Die is the fifth book in Winnie Archer's A Bread Shop Mystery series. While this book is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone novel. This book takes readers on a plot-driven mystery to discover the truth behind the near-death hit and run of a cameraman in front of Yeast of Eden bakery. With the encouragement from the local sheriff Ivy is on the hunt to figure out who tried to kill him, and why. But she's going to have her own issues from the past to come and put her on the lookout for her own dangers to come.

Dough or Die really caught my attention since I am an avid baker myself so I was excited to read this book and really enjoy the ride. The book all in all is a good read. The book is easy to get into and follow along with what is going on with the different characters. What I enjoyed the most about this book is the mystery element of it all. The cameraman is the victim of a hit and run and then the legwork of trying to discover what could possibly drive (no pun intended) to want to harm him. He seems to have such a clean record, but it's not the past that is trackable that holds the answers in this case. I love the small-town vibe of this book and how there are some real-life tie ins as well. It helps to elevate the story in places to really keep readers engaged. 

The pacing of the story is good, but I also found it a bit flat. There isn't a lot of drama and tension that I have come to expect and anticipate with a mystery, even a cozy mystery. It left me a bit disappointed. Since this book is fifth in a series, all of the relationships have already been established and so there is very little of that build in this book, so it left me feeling a bit disconnected from their relationships. There are some references to past situations and issues as well, but the author doesn't go in-depth with them. I'm sure so as to not confuse the readers on things that don't truly get addressed or have any connection to the storyline now. I was also disappointed that we didn't get a proper description of Billy's fiancee Em earlier in the book. We get multiple descriptions of Ivy, but only when Ivy asks Em how she is going to do her hair for her wedding do I get any clue that she's a black woman. 

Overall, I enjoyed this book, but it wasn't a really gripping mystery that had me frantically page-turning to learn the truth behind all the events that happened in this book. I am rating this book 4 out of 5 stars. The truth behind all the tragedy is truly heartbreaking, but the ending is decent enough. I may go back and read the series from the beginning and maybe I'll enjoy it more. But for those who enjoy a nice quiet cozy mystery with just a hint of danger here and there then this book would be a perfect fit for them. Plus, the author includes a couple of delicious sounding bread recipes at the end as well. 

Succubus Hunted

Succubus Hunted is book four in L.L. Frost’s Succubus series and things are getting intense. While Adie has finally hit her stride with her men, a new danger in town threatens all of it. An old demon “friend” of her men is in town and he’s not one to be trifled with. But there’s more…Adie is quick to warn her cousins of the lurking danger from the demon, but few seem to take her seriously. Now, Adie’s problems are being compounded with the addition of Hunters in the area. Somehow they have found her and decided to target her. Adie is in a fight…not just for her life…but for those who are closest to her.

Succubus Hunted contains the serials for Succubus Harem 16-22. Adie is confronted with danger from the Hunters and the Librarian gives her a clue to her salvation. The planning process begins, but the guys really don’t want her anywhere near the action. It’s a tangled web being woven by the characters. Tally’s men are more deeply involved in this book as Adie is trying her best to stay a step ahead of the danger that stalks her.

I like that she actually focuses more on this book on the more important issues. Now, I’m not saying that she doesn’t still have a few childish moments of being overly jealous. I honestly appreciate that there are fewer incidents with this book because it shows that she’s growing as a character. I understand…mildly…one scene of where she has a major dose of jealous outrage, but when the practicality is explained…it seems so obvious. I was a bit torn with that scene, but I honestly did end up feeling that she was once again overreacting to an extent. She’d made her point, but then she continued to push the situation instead of getting a grip.

This book/collection of the serial is darker than the previous books. Adie is faced with some hard decisions that will bring about changes to her. There was one moment where I got teary-eyed when tragedy strikes. The author really brings a lot to the table with this book from the seeds of love growing bigger, to the shock of loss and betrayal. Then Adie putting on her big girl britches and really beginning to understand that…sometimes…certain steps must be taken…for the love and safety of all.

I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. The character development and growth are well done. The characters really shine with this book and the author expertly closes the chapter on this section well. But, while the author wraps it up in a nice neat package it doesn’t stop me from wondering…what will the backlash be for the choices that were made? If you’re like me…you’ll be eager to read the next serial and/or books to find out what happens next. This is one hard to put down series, so if you’ve read this far…I encourage you to continue and pick this book up. Adie is becoming a true force…I’m eager to see where the author takes her next.

Succubus Mission

And so Adie Boo Pond’s (mis) adventures continue in L.L. Frost’s third book compilation of her Succubus series. Succubus Mission contains Succubus Harem serials 11-15. Adie is being faced with quite a bit as the serial gains even more traction and Adie is thrown into some serious situations that she honestly wasn’t expecting. The hag snags her and shoves a mission on her, but with a carrot of her own…a book to help her get stronger. How can Adie resist that? Her relationships with the guys are growing and developing further, but there are going to be some hiccups along the way and one big one that could threaten to derail her relationship with one. A new “player” or two is in town as well and Adie is about to find her very existence in danger.

Succubus Mission hits the ground running and hyper speeds readers along as they follow Adie’s struggles to grow as a demon. She’s learning new things about herself and the one who helped raise her. While the author focuses on Adie growing as a character, the author shows the growth of Adie’s little cupcake shop and her fellow characters. I love how much of Torch and Tac we get in this book. As I stated before in a previous review, I absolutely adore Tac. Torch, Adie’s little ignis demon is absolutely delightful and after the whole debacle with him, I’m glad that Adie really doesn’t hold any fear towards him. Instead, she’s attentive and learns from the previous situation and how things go out of control.

I can easily say that this book is balanced with humor, steamy, soft moments, and danger. There were some moments in this book of where I literally laughed out loud. One of my favorite scenes is, of course, with Tac when he decides to be “helpful.” Once again…I’ll say it…I’d love to have a “cat” like him. LOL! Some of the situations that Adie finds herself in are humorous, but then there are some that will have you on the edge of your seat. I like that Adie shows a bit more maturity with this book, but she still has her “childish” moments and tantrums. I understand a couple of them, but at the same time, I want her to handle them better.

Now, if you’ve read this serial/series then you know that this book ends on a major cliffhanger as Adie has a nasty revelation dropped on her concerning some recent issues she’s started having at the bakery. If you’ve NOT read the serial/series…get ready because the ending will have you scrambling to grab the next book or serial to learn what happens next. All I’ll say is this…Adie’s problems are beginning to build, and either she’s going to prepare and survive or she’s going to lose this fight.

I have to say that this book is the best one yet of the series and so I’m rating it 5 out of 5 stars. Things are getting intense and I’m looking forward to what the author brings next. Adie started out as a “broken” succubus, but she’s slowly coming into her own and healing what has been broken inside her. The sky is the limit if she can just survive the next twist Fate has thrown her way.

Succubus Bargain

Succubus Bargain by L.L. Frost is the compilation of the first five serials in her The (Un)Lucky Succubus series. This book is perfect for readers who enjoyed the serials but want to be able to read them all in one large book and thoroughly enjoy them from start to finish. Readers get to experience Adie’s beginnings all the way to the bargain being made with the three demons and the acquiring of her bakery that will be her dream.

Adie Boo Pond, succubus, a new demon to the human plane, but the last thing that she wants to do is to drain down a human. All she wants to do is bake treats in a bakery, soak up the energies that humans give off as they indulge and live a happy life. Too bad fate has a different plan for her. Adie seems to get herself into quite a bit of trouble from the beginning. Hence why the author coins the phrase (Un)Lucky succubus. Adie has her lucky moments, but it does seem like…she has more Unlucky moments.

Adie is a fun character, but really immature in how she handles several situations. She’s starved for energy more often than not, but when she gets energy she burns it like she has a fresh source to truly feed on. Of course, the demons that she becomes roommates with have no qualms telling her that she’s incompetent for a demon…and a succubus. Yeah, it sounds like the same thing and on a level it is, but there are degrees/levels to this and they are quick to point that out as well. A succubus would take the energy the guys have with fewer qualms than Adie and a demon would know how to properly negotiate deals.

Now, while Adie does annoy me with her immaturity I can’t put the whole blame on her. Honestly, how can you fault someone when they have been set up to fail? Adie isn’t the only sex demon in town, and I like that the author keeps things interesting with Adie’s cousins. I have to admit that I’m intrigued by the one who is the most dangerous. Is it wrong that I want to know more about her? Haha! She really does intrigue me because of how much she scares all of the others.

Plus, the guys have a giant demon cat!!! I want him! Granted he could probably eat me and have no qualms doing so, but still!! I love cats. LOL! The characters are well done overall. The author does a good job showing that while the guys may be destruction demons they are not immune to thinking with their LOWER heads more than their top heads. Most of the situations well done, but there are a few that I felt were a bit of a stretch. It is fiction though so I honestly can’t say that it “stretches the imagination.”

Adie stretches my patience at times, but there is a method to the madness. It’s the groundwork to show her development as a character in the future books because if she has nowhere to grow and develop…where would the story go? Not very far that’s for sure. These book blends – hints of romance, steamy temptations, humor, and drama to create a delightful concoction that will leave you wanting more. This book is a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. Adie annoys me with her immaturity and at times frivolous naïve nature, but as the pieces come together to show her the truth…I know there is hope for her yet. If you like a good reverse harem novel and enjoyed the serials but didn’t want to wait to read them then this book compiling the first five will be the perfect fit for you.

Succubus Studies

Succubus Studies by L.L. Frost is the second book in her The (Un)Lucky Succubus serial/series. This book picks up where book one left off with Adie working towards her dream of opening up her bakery and dealing with the three men that she now calls roommates. Of course, they aren’t the first thing giving her a headache when the book starts. Remember Julian? Well, he’s up to some mischief and Adie needs him to cooperate. Too bad she doesn’t seize the moment to strike a bargain with him so that everyone wins all the way around. Things start getting amped up in this book, which I absolutely love, and bring on the steamy! Adie is growing and beginning to become what she is meant to be piece by piece, so bring on the entertainment!

Succubus Studies sees Adie beginning to grow as a character. Don’t jump ahead here and think that she lets go of some of her childish behavior because she still clings to certain things for a while, but she’s beginning to develop and better understand exactly how things work. Adie is multi-tasking on various fronts. She’s struggling to truly embrace who and what she is, so she’s visiting the library and trying to learn, but as the librarian tells her…until she learns…TRULY learns how to be a demon…she’ll not be able to understand the books that are there. I mean…let’s be real…she’s already discovered through all of her hard work that the demon language translated to Latin, translated to English just doesn’t work. I can only imagine the type of headache that must be to try and decipher what’s been translated into something that makes sense.

I like how things are beginning to develop between her and the guys. Plus, the author is adding in quite a few new characters and I’m excited to see where things go. Is it fair to say that I’m a touch jealous of Tally? She’s one of the characters that get added into the series. She can go and eat people’s dreams and learn the skills that they have. I want that ability! LOL I’m also really liking the introduction of the imps. The author portrays them as completely innocent and malleable which is to the liking of both Julian and Adie, but if it Adie isn’t careful it’s going to create some bigger problems for her down the line.

This book takes things up a notch with the introduction of danger that could shake the worlds of all characters involved. I like to think of the situation that presents itself as a “moment of enlightenment.” I honestly can’t help getting annoyed with Adie when she wants to get offended behind honest truths though. She already knows she’s lacking, so why get offended when the further dangers of your ineptness are pointed out? She’s growing, but she still has a ways to go.

At the end of the day, this book elevates further on the first and brings in some twists and some much desired steamy as well. I scowl when Adie wants to whine and huffs like a child, but I have to applaud when she puts on her big girl britches and buckles up for what must be done. She’s seeing what she can truly be and I look forward to her embracing it in the coming books. I am rating this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. I can’t wait to see what happens next.

The Offer: Succubus Harem Book 1

The Offer is the first installment in L.L. Frost’s The (Un)Lucky Succubus series/serial. These short installments will follow Adie’s journey as she strives to accomplish her dream of owning a bakery and being able to sustain herself on the human plane without harming humans but living in harmony with them.

Adie is a young succubus who has a problem…she’s not good at BEING a succubus. She won’t take from humans and drain them down and she can’t get back to Dreamland where she came from to feed either. Talk about big problems right? Since she has refused to feed she’s starved herself to the point of where she might be in big trouble, but she’s hopeful that a little “pick-me-up” will help get her through her meeting with a bank for a loan. What she doesn’t expect are two “chance” encounters with two powerful demons that will set in motion a series of chain reactions that are going to change her life.

The Offer is short, sweet and leaves readers on a cliffhanger. Adie is made an offer and it’s one that she flat out refuses. But when you get to the end…you’ll see what she’s really up against. Now, let me remind readers…this book is a SERIAL. At this time, the author has created a second version of this series with 1-5 of the serials compiled inside it and she also has an omnibus with the first three books collected inside it as well. So for those who want a good deep dive story then those would be better choices for you to read.

The Offer as a serial is a delightful little treat for those who don’t have a lot of time to read and want something short and sweet to dive into. It will of course leave you wanting more, but that’s the point. Right? I am rating this short treat 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s a good starter  for the series and shows a lot of promise for what is to come. 

Fireworks, A Firecracker & Foul Play Review

Fireworks, A Firecracker & Foul Play is the fifth book in D.E. Haggerty’s Death By Cupcake series. This book is a fast-paced wild ride of a story that follows Anna and her two friends along as they race against the clock to prove that Anna’s fiancé Logan isn’t the guilty party in the murder of the gang leader before her big wedding happening on the 4^th of July.

Fireworks, A Firecracker & Foul Play is the first book that I have read by D.E. Haggerty, but this book can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. The author hits the ground running with this story and doesn’t let off the gas all the way to the end. Anna is eager for her wedding to take place and claim her man for life, but things aren’t going to go as planned. Anna is a real firecracker! She’s small like a pixie and her bright hair color adds to the effect, but she’s not one to take things lying down. So when her wedding preparations are threatened she goes into full steam ahead mode to solve a murder.

Overall I enjoyed this story and how quickly it moves. It’s fun to read and you get plenty of cupcakes to go with it. I have to admit that I’m amused at how Anna’s friends are so addicted to the cupcakes. Anna basically has to keep an eye on them or have cupcakes set aside so that they don’t eat the ones that she has set aside for “bribes.” LOL! It makes me wonder… just how good are these cupcakes? I mean…I like cake…but I can only deal with so much of it before I’m sick of it. Now cookies on the other hand…LOL!

Now, while this book is a lot of fun I felt that Anna was a bit over the top. As I’ve not read the other books in this series I’m not sure if this is her normal character style or if this is her hyped up because of her upcoming nuptials. There are times in the book when she comes off as more than a little juvenile and I wonder…just how old is this girl? There are moments in the book where she really comes off as a teenager when I’m sure that she has to be in her 20s. I feel that one of the perfect examples of this is when they are talking to the ME in the cupcake shop and he's concerned about losing his job. I immediately empathized in my head, but Anna was only concerned about her wedding. What?! I was like...wait...are you serious?! This man could lose his job and standing in his professional community, but the only thing you're concerned about is making sure your wedding goes forward and not in jail?! I hate to say it, but she annoyed me with that. I just wanted a bit more adult behavior out of her.

My only other complaint is that there is no bad guy tie in. It just happens out of the blue, which I was a bit disappointed by. I wanted some bad guy build up. A threatening note, something to point out

that the bad guy has heard rumblings about them "investigating." Because I mean, this isn't their first time doing this, so it wouldn't be a surprise that they are out there sleuthing. I’m pleased to say that I did not notice any editorial errors in this book, so that is a definite plus to this story.

All in all, I am rating this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. For readers who have read this series to this point then I am sure that you are going to enjoy this book. For new readers, this book can be read as a stand-alone, but I think that I will be going back and checking out the first books and the characters that they focus on and see if this is just how everyone is. Haha! If you like a fun, fast-paced cozy mystery with truly animated characters then I encourage you to pick this book up.