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Sloan Krause #6
Beer and Loathing
Amateur sleuth Sloan Krause is back to brewing in the next installment of author Ellie Alexander's popular cozy mystery series, Beer and Loathing. Includes recipes and a travel guide to Leavenworth!
It’s ski week in everyone’s favorite Bavarian village of Leavenworth, Washington. Sloan Krause and her brewing partner in crime Garrett Strong are pouring pints of their deliciously decadent obsidian IPA and serving up slices of peanut butter chocolate pretzel bars. The mid-winter has everyone buzzing with excitement, especially Garrett. His family is arriving for a long overdue visit to Nitro. He can’t wait to show them around the village, spend afternoons skiing the surrounding alpine slopes, and curling up in front of a crackling fire with a hearty evening stout. But the cozy vibe takes a dark turn when a young doctor has a fatal fall from the ski lift. At first, everyone assumes it was a terrible accident, but Sloan isn’t convinced. Hazel Anders had insider information on medical research that could be worth killing for. Now barstool sleuth Sloan is on the case and using her nose for hops to sniff out murder.
It’s ski week in everyone’s favorite Bavarian village of Leavenworth, Washington. Sloan Krause and her brewing partner in crime Garrett Strong are pouring pints of their deliciously decadent obsidian IPA and serving up slices of peanut butter chocolate pretzel bars. The mid-winter has everyone buzzing with excitement, especially Garrett. His family is arriving for a long overdue visit to Nitro. He can’t wait to show them around the village, spend afternoons skiing the surrounding alpine slopes, and curling up in front of a crackling fire with a hearty evening stout. But the cozy vibe takes a dark turn when a young doctor has a fatal fall from the ski lift. At first, everyone assumes it was a terrible accident, but Sloan isn’t convinced. Hazel Anders had insider information on medical research that could be worth killing for. Now barstool sleuth Sloan is on the case and using her nose for hops to sniff out murder.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2023
231 people are currently reading
701 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Alexander
78 books3,035 followersEllie is a voracious storyteller and a lover of words and all things bookish. She believes that stories have the ability to transport and transform us. With over forty published novels and counting, her goal is to tell stories that provide points of connection, escape, and understanding.
She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_alexa...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elliealexande...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elliealexande...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliealexand...
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_alexa...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elliealexande...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elliealexande...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliealexand...
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
February 12, 2025
Another delightful tour through the life of Sloan and her beery family and companions.
This one is set in the backdrop of a medical study taking place in Leavenworth. Aside from having to suspend my disbelief as to the likelihood that a major medical study trying to test some massively useful life-saving drug occurring in a town of 2,000, this one was candidly one of my favorites in the series. We didn't delve into the long, drawn out backstory mystery of Sloan's parentage and all that. This time we and that was kind of cool.
I tried to guess the killer and I was pretty sure I had it and then BAM... nope... I was wrong. Wah...wah. But I loved that it was not what I guessed. Made the suspense and surprise all the cooler.
Boy, I hope this is not the last of this series. Ellie Alexander, if you see this, I hope we're not done with Sloan or the Leavenworth/Nitro mysteries here. It's pretty much my favorite cozy mystery series.
This one is set in the backdrop of a medical study taking place in Leavenworth. Aside from having to suspend my disbelief as to the likelihood that a major medical study trying to test some massively useful life-saving drug occurring in a town of 2,000, this one was candidly one of my favorites in the series. We didn't delve into the long, drawn out backstory mystery of Sloan's parentage and all that. This time we and that was kind of cool.
I tried to guess the killer and I was pretty sure I had it and then BAM... nope... I was wrong. Wah...wah. But I loved that it was not what I guessed. Made the suspense and surprise all the cooler.
Boy, I hope this is not the last of this series. Ellie Alexander, if you see this, I hope we're not done with Sloan or the Leavenworth/Nitro mysteries here. It's pretty much my favorite cozy mystery series.
September 28, 2023
As a book nerd who loves craft beer (porters + stouts all the way, baby!), this cozy mystery series is right down my alley. But you don't have to love beer to enjoy this series set in a small town in Washington state.
In this sixth book, there's (yet another) murder in the small Bavarian-inspired town and Sloan and Garrett quickly put themselves and the Nitro brewery front and centre to figure out whodunnit. I'm thankful that the on-going (and a little belabored) story arc about Sloan's past that spanned the previous 5 books is done.
In this book, there's a good balance between the murder mystery and the growing secondary cast, most of whom I love to reconnect with (except April, the over-the-top Bavarian-addict who thankfully plays a very minor role. Can we kill her off?). We get to know Garrett's family and learn a 'big secret from his past' which was a bit lackluster and seemed to come out of nowhere.
There are decent red herrings, tension (mysterious and sexual) and the possibility of a new resident coming to Leavenworth, WA. And I always enjoy the delicious beer and food descriptions (there are a few recipes in the back!).
This book can be read as a standalone and is a light, 'clean' cozy mystery that has a unique setting and a wintery feel, perfect as we head into cold weather. Cheers!
August 14, 2023
I love this series and loved getting to know Garrett’s family but this one didn’t work for me. There were so many editing errors that took me out of the story but the writing always flows well so I continued reading. It took me a long time to get through this one and I found myself not wanting to pick it up and I’m not sure exactly why; it may be how unbelievable the clinical trial was. The murderer was obvious from the beginning so there was no tension or real investigation. I will still read this author but this one just wasn’t for me.
July 14, 2024
This one was pretty predictable from the start. You knew who was gonna die and you knew who did it - or at least had an idea within the group. You knew there was going to be a secret the mom revealed. I was glad to see that didn’t send their relationship into a spiral and Sloane was actually a mature adult. I did enjoyed it and got lost into the story of this favorite setting and series.
Oh wouldn’t and Leah and Hans side series be a delight!
Oh wouldn’t and Leah and Hans side series be a delight!
December 4, 2024
I vacationed last Labor Day weekend in Leavenworth, Washington, a Bavarian-style village in the Cascade Mountains that is aimed at tourists. It has Alpine-styled buildings that include all kinds of shops and restaurants serving German food and beer. It’s unique architecture and a festive atmosphere thrives throughout the summer, Octoberfest, and Christmas seasons. It doesn’t hurt that it also serves as a gateway to nearby ski areas and wineries.
While visiting “A Book for All Seasons” bookstore that I love to hangout in, I saw a bunch of books for a mystery series based on Leavenworth by Ellie Alexander. After looking through them I made an impulsive decision to get the first one - “A Death on Tap” – to try out a new mystery series based on a location that I have been visiting for decades. The decision turned out to be a good one as I thoroughly enjoyed the lite mystery and endearing small-town characters.
… And now I have finished the sixth book in the series “Beer and Loathing” which left another enjoyable aftertaste in my reading mind. I am devouring this cozy mystery series and am unabashedly willing to admit that I am loving Sloan Krause’s world and Leavenworth setting. Each book gets better and better, building on endearing characters and compelling storylines.
In “Beer and Loathing”, Sloan Krause - wife, mother, and entrepreneur deeply imbedded in Leavenworth’s business community – finds herself with a full plate. This time she’s investigating a murder, helping her son with his college decision, meeting her boss’s family, and confronting her growing feelings for him. For Sloan, this is a normal week…
It starts off in the middle of winter ski season in the Leavenworth. A snow storm has hit just the Bavarian village as the parents and sister of Garrett Strong, owner of Nitro Brewery and Sloan’s boss, arrive for their long awaited first visit. Sloan is nervous about meeting them as her personal relationship with Garrett has been growing more serious. In addition, her son, Alex, is filling out his college applications and stressing about where to go and what to study.
At the same time, Sloan finds herself in conversation with members of a local medical team working on a research study for a new potential medicine. However, not everything seems right with the team, including one really freaked out member who privately share some vague concerns with Sloan when she loses her memory stick at Nitro. Things get worse the next day when that same team member has a horrific accident, falling off a ski lift chair to her death. When the victim’s purse and laptop go missing, foul play is suspected, and Sloan is thrust into helping the Police Chief solve another deadly mystery.
Sloan has her hands full, trying to hunt down a killer who may strike again to keep secrets from being made public, while trying to make a good impression on Garrett’s parents and sister, and discovering personal secrets about her new boyfriend’s past that make her confront her own fears. This time, finding a killer and surviving family relationship, both new and old, may be too much for Sloane….
The truth is after finishing this novel, I find myself both happy and a bit sad. “Beer and Loathing” is the sixth and most book in the Sloane Krause mysteries series written by Ellie Alexander. Although there are still two more novellas to read before I am up-to-date with everything (and I can’t wait to start on them), it is quite bittersweet to know that after plowing through six novels, one short story, and three novellas, I will have to wait until Alexander writes another one before I can continue my Sloan fix. My Leavenworth village and character storylines fix. And even my crazy, trailer park sexy, April fix. I am missing them already.
As I have mentioned in my previous reviews of this series, Alexander provides a fun and entertaining, Hallmark mystery reading experience. I have connected on a personal level with her characters, as well as enjoying the continuing storylines along with the mysteries, trying to guess what happens next as well as figuring out who the murderers are. I am fully engaged in the outcomes of both the investigations and the developing storylines of these engaging characters. I particularly appreciated the deeper exploration of Sloan and Garrett’s developing relationship in this one, as well as the surprising person who seems to have been smitten with his sister. That would be an interesting plotline…
Overall, this has become my favorite cozy mystery series. One that has given hours of pleasurable escape. Hours of enjoying Hallmark level lite mysteries to solve while engaging in the lives of small Bavarian village characters that have stolen my heart and won me over. Yes, that’s the simple truth. Alexander’s writing style was smooth, fluid, and had a natural flow to it. She made it easy to enjoy spending time with Sloan Krause, family and friends, and the Leavenworth setting. She brought them to life in an enhanced Hallmark way that I found both reassuring and hopeful.
After finding out that this series was going to be canceled by Alexander’s publishers, but due to popular feedback and support from the fans has been continued, I am both relieved and excited for more Sloan Krause mysteries in the future. However, the sooner the better. I need my cozy mystery fix. Yes, seriously. This is worse than chocolate.
So, if you are reading this, Ellie Alexander, please write more Sloane Krause mysteries. PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE! PRETTY PLEASE!
I cannot wait to solve more mysteries with her, as well as experiencing more of the family dynamics, and development of friends and Leavenworth’s citizens. This is truly guilty pleasure reading at its best.
While visiting “A Book for All Seasons” bookstore that I love to hangout in, I saw a bunch of books for a mystery series based on Leavenworth by Ellie Alexander. After looking through them I made an impulsive decision to get the first one - “A Death on Tap” – to try out a new mystery series based on a location that I have been visiting for decades. The decision turned out to be a good one as I thoroughly enjoyed the lite mystery and endearing small-town characters.
… And now I have finished the sixth book in the series “Beer and Loathing” which left another enjoyable aftertaste in my reading mind. I am devouring this cozy mystery series and am unabashedly willing to admit that I am loving Sloan Krause’s world and Leavenworth setting. Each book gets better and better, building on endearing characters and compelling storylines.
In “Beer and Loathing”, Sloan Krause - wife, mother, and entrepreneur deeply imbedded in Leavenworth’s business community – finds herself with a full plate. This time she’s investigating a murder, helping her son with his college decision, meeting her boss’s family, and confronting her growing feelings for him. For Sloan, this is a normal week…
It starts off in the middle of winter ski season in the Leavenworth. A snow storm has hit just the Bavarian village as the parents and sister of Garrett Strong, owner of Nitro Brewery and Sloan’s boss, arrive for their long awaited first visit. Sloan is nervous about meeting them as her personal relationship with Garrett has been growing more serious. In addition, her son, Alex, is filling out his college applications and stressing about where to go and what to study.
At the same time, Sloan finds herself in conversation with members of a local medical team working on a research study for a new potential medicine. However, not everything seems right with the team, including one really freaked out member who privately share some vague concerns with Sloan when she loses her memory stick at Nitro. Things get worse the next day when that same team member has a horrific accident, falling off a ski lift chair to her death. When the victim’s purse and laptop go missing, foul play is suspected, and Sloan is thrust into helping the Police Chief solve another deadly mystery.
Sloan has her hands full, trying to hunt down a killer who may strike again to keep secrets from being made public, while trying to make a good impression on Garrett’s parents and sister, and discovering personal secrets about her new boyfriend’s past that make her confront her own fears. This time, finding a killer and surviving family relationship, both new and old, may be too much for Sloane….
The truth is after finishing this novel, I find myself both happy and a bit sad. “Beer and Loathing” is the sixth and most book in the Sloane Krause mysteries series written by Ellie Alexander. Although there are still two more novellas to read before I am up-to-date with everything (and I can’t wait to start on them), it is quite bittersweet to know that after plowing through six novels, one short story, and three novellas, I will have to wait until Alexander writes another one before I can continue my Sloan fix. My Leavenworth village and character storylines fix. And even my crazy, trailer park sexy, April fix. I am missing them already.
As I have mentioned in my previous reviews of this series, Alexander provides a fun and entertaining, Hallmark mystery reading experience. I have connected on a personal level with her characters, as well as enjoying the continuing storylines along with the mysteries, trying to guess what happens next as well as figuring out who the murderers are. I am fully engaged in the outcomes of both the investigations and the developing storylines of these engaging characters. I particularly appreciated the deeper exploration of Sloan and Garrett’s developing relationship in this one, as well as the surprising person who seems to have been smitten with his sister. That would be an interesting plotline…
Overall, this has become my favorite cozy mystery series. One that has given hours of pleasurable escape. Hours of enjoying Hallmark level lite mysteries to solve while engaging in the lives of small Bavarian village characters that have stolen my heart and won me over. Yes, that’s the simple truth. Alexander’s writing style was smooth, fluid, and had a natural flow to it. She made it easy to enjoy spending time with Sloan Krause, family and friends, and the Leavenworth setting. She brought them to life in an enhanced Hallmark way that I found both reassuring and hopeful.
After finding out that this series was going to be canceled by Alexander’s publishers, but due to popular feedback and support from the fans has been continued, I am both relieved and excited for more Sloan Krause mysteries in the future. However, the sooner the better. I need my cozy mystery fix. Yes, seriously. This is worse than chocolate.
So, if you are reading this, Ellie Alexander, please write more Sloane Krause mysteries. PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE! PRETTY PLEASE!
I cannot wait to solve more mysteries with her, as well as experiencing more of the family dynamics, and development of friends and Leavenworth’s citizens. This is truly guilty pleasure reading at its best.
October 25, 2025
Big shoutout to kelly for saving me from going crazy by loaning me this after my kindle broke in hell’s canyon 🙏🏼
March 26, 2023
Fun, fast new entry into the Sloane Krause beer mystery series. You don't need to have read the others to enjoy this one, but it does add richness to the story. That's the best part of mystery series (and perhaps especially with cozy mystery series) -- the characters become friends.
April 4, 2023
aaahh
when you read an author you like, and don't connect with her book. I will read one more in the series, I'm hoping as it was the book in the series I read. Ellie Alexander is a great author of cozies.
when you read an author you like, and don't connect with her book. I will read one more in the series, I'm hoping as it was the book in the series I read. Ellie Alexander is a great author of cozies.
April 11, 2023
It was a lot of fun to go back to Leavenworth, Washington and spend time with our friends at Nitro. All the usual cast and extended family was involved as well as Garrett's family that are finally visiting. Around all the introductions and nerves we still manage to get involved when a local doctor falls off a ski lift and there are questions of foul play. Garrett's sister Leah is a resident and had spent the morning skiing with the young doctor, what really happened? With plenty of suspects, I enjoyed following the clues with our favorite beer creating "detectives"! Meeting Garrett's family was also a treat, a very enjoyable read.
April 6, 2024
An easy to read cozy mystery set in Leavenworth, Washington centering around a brew house.
February 7, 2025
Cute story and easy read
April 21, 2024
2.75⭐️
February 21, 2025
Got this book as a part of a gift from my mom and it was, well, exactly as I expected. Mediocre writing, mediocre mystery plot line, corny, and zero surprises. Sorry mom.
I did really like reading a book set in a town that is very near and dear to my heart, making it a personal and enjoyable read. Also made me miss Leavenworth in the winter and crave a good draft beer and German streudel real bad.
I did really like reading a book set in a town that is very near and dear to my heart, making it a personal and enjoyable read. Also made me miss Leavenworth in the winter and crave a good draft beer and German streudel real bad.
March 22, 2023
Copy editing made mistakes and it detracts from the story. Emergency room vs operating room. Boot vs cast. Other issues are: 1. A clinical trial would never be run as described. 2. Significant downplay of the role of the RN in a trial. I don’t know if these are spoilers or not. I really enjoy this series. Looking forward to the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2024
Is Sloane really a sleuth or someone who is present while a mystery happens? The final bar scene made no sense.
August 31, 2025
https://openbooksociety.com/article/b...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Beer and Loathing…what can I say? Well – I can say -> another wonderful addition to the Sloan Krause series by Ellie Alexander. In this sixth book in the Sloan Krause series we finally get to meet Garrett’s family – his mother, father and sister. Glad the Strong family finally came to see Nitro, a successful micro brewery business that Garrett has set up in Leavenworth, Washington.
The story line for Beer and Loathing is that Garrett’s family is visiting Leavenworth for the first time since Garrett has moved here. The family reunion is going well until a young doctor from the local hospital takes a fatal tumble from the ski lift. Was it an accident or (as inquiring minds often wonder) is it something less innocent? It seems that the young doctor may been privy to information regarding medical research going on at the hospital and that information may or may not have been worth hurting someone over! As from past books, one can surmise that Sloan will put on her amateur sleuthing hat and try to help the local constabulary figure out what really happened and why. In this edition, Sloan garners the help of Garrett’s sister (Leah) as well as Garrett himself in addition to many doctors on staff at the hospital (though that is a slippery slope as she tries to figure out who is the “good” doctor and who is the “bad” doctor J.
As I have come to expect, the mystery is filled with twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. Just the way I like my cozy mysteries. And as usual, I leave the critique and detailed discussion of the story line for each reader to enjoy for themselves! Though I can add that the slow burn of Sloan and Garrett’s relationship is at just the right speed. Not all relationships are quick to develop and this one, taking it slowly, seems more real.
I love all of the hoodie’s and T-shirts Garrett wears with all kinds of various puns. As an example:
“Garrett padded into the kitchen as I was placing a tray of sausage rolls in the oven. He wore a pair of soccer-style sweats and a pale green BOCK FROM THE DEAD hoodie. Bock was a style of dark ale. It was a classic Garrett pun.
Bock is a strong, malty German lager with a rich and robust flavor profile. It’s often characterized by notes of toasted bread, toffee, and dark fruit, and has a relatively high alcohol content compared with other styles of lagers. It’s typically brewed in the winter and its hints of sweetness made it a popular choice for those who enjoy a full-body beer.”
Throughout the six books in the series, I have come to appreciate Leavenworth as a wonderfully tight-knit community. The characters are a cohesive “family” – looking out for each other, even April! A few reader gal pals and I have even made Leavenworth, Washington a must see location on a future road trip! J
If you are a die-hard cozy mystery lover, then the Sloan Krause series by Ellie Alexander is for you. And this latest addition to the series, Beer and Loathing is a must read. Having stated this, I also must expound with gratitude and personal enjoyment for other series by Ellie Alexander as well – especially a newer one – A Secret Bookcase Mystery Series.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Beer and Loathing…what can I say? Well – I can say -> another wonderful addition to the Sloan Krause series by Ellie Alexander. In this sixth book in the Sloan Krause series we finally get to meet Garrett’s family – his mother, father and sister. Glad the Strong family finally came to see Nitro, a successful micro brewery business that Garrett has set up in Leavenworth, Washington.
The story line for Beer and Loathing is that Garrett’s family is visiting Leavenworth for the first time since Garrett has moved here. The family reunion is going well until a young doctor from the local hospital takes a fatal tumble from the ski lift. Was it an accident or (as inquiring minds often wonder) is it something less innocent? It seems that the young doctor may been privy to information regarding medical research going on at the hospital and that information may or may not have been worth hurting someone over! As from past books, one can surmise that Sloan will put on her amateur sleuthing hat and try to help the local constabulary figure out what really happened and why. In this edition, Sloan garners the help of Garrett’s sister (Leah) as well as Garrett himself in addition to many doctors on staff at the hospital (though that is a slippery slope as she tries to figure out who is the “good” doctor and who is the “bad” doctor J.
As I have come to expect, the mystery is filled with twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. Just the way I like my cozy mysteries. And as usual, I leave the critique and detailed discussion of the story line for each reader to enjoy for themselves! Though I can add that the slow burn of Sloan and Garrett’s relationship is at just the right speed. Not all relationships are quick to develop and this one, taking it slowly, seems more real.
I love all of the hoodie’s and T-shirts Garrett wears with all kinds of various puns. As an example:
“Garrett padded into the kitchen as I was placing a tray of sausage rolls in the oven. He wore a pair of soccer-style sweats and a pale green BOCK FROM THE DEAD hoodie. Bock was a style of dark ale. It was a classic Garrett pun.
Bock is a strong, malty German lager with a rich and robust flavor profile. It’s often characterized by notes of toasted bread, toffee, and dark fruit, and has a relatively high alcohol content compared with other styles of lagers. It’s typically brewed in the winter and its hints of sweetness made it a popular choice for those who enjoy a full-body beer.”
Throughout the six books in the series, I have come to appreciate Leavenworth as a wonderfully tight-knit community. The characters are a cohesive “family” – looking out for each other, even April! A few reader gal pals and I have even made Leavenworth, Washington a must see location on a future road trip! J
If you are a die-hard cozy mystery lover, then the Sloan Krause series by Ellie Alexander is for you. And this latest addition to the series, Beer and Loathing is a must read. Having stated this, I also must expound with gratitude and personal enjoyment for other series by Ellie Alexander as well – especially a newer one – A Secret Bookcase Mystery Series.
August 16, 2023
I remember the panic this book release caused... worth everybit of it...
Pros:
- Main Character development was very subtle but in a cute way, unlike other cozy mysteries the romance here is not forced.
- I like that we moved a bit away from Sloan's past, taking into consideration the previous book, I was under the impression that it might be a repeated issue.
- I am really glad that we didn't get any in-law complications, that would have ruined the story line, also that there was no stigma about sloan.
- This one of the rather"April"less books and I am so glad for that, having so many new characters with that certain one would have been really challenging.
- The argument of who is doing what is one a very smart approach in this book (If that person wasn't the murder it would have been a real nail bitter), you have a seasoned doctor who claims that by having the drug and tweaking it as she went, she would end up saving way more people than she kills. and you have the young doctor who thinks the idea of the drug itself is very risky
Which lead us to (The Trolly Paradox)
Cons:
- The focus is scattered a bit too much in this series, there's just so many characters running around in the book, the crime itself might have been an afterthought, over shadowed by the life events rolling around
- Once again, I am looking for the connection between Garrett's family and Sloan, why did he find the picture of her mother in what have been his aunt's property.
- The element of speed in this book was just, too fast, I felt like the event were rolling (x2) speed.
- Garrett past part was a bit anti-climactic for what it should have been, or more likely what I thought what it should have been.
- The disarray of the suspect list was just so annoying, up till the last chapter I was doubting that the case was over.
- The part about Leah's participation in the stakeout was so rushed, one second Leah was about to join them and the other the entire thing was over.
Am I worried about this series coming to an end, YEAH, VERY... but I am going to hop to book6.5
Pros:
- Main Character development was very subtle but in a cute way, unlike other cozy mysteries the romance here is not forced.
- I like that we moved a bit away from Sloan's past, taking into consideration the previous book, I was under the impression that it might be a repeated issue.
- I am really glad that we didn't get any in-law complications, that would have ruined the story line, also that there was no stigma about sloan.
- This one of the rather"April"less books and I am so glad for that, having so many new characters with that certain one would have been really challenging.
- The argument of who is doing what is one a very smart approach in this book (If that person wasn't the murder it would have been a real nail bitter), you have a seasoned doctor who claims that by having the drug and tweaking it as she went, she would end up saving way more people than she kills. and you have the young doctor who thinks the idea of the drug itself is very risky
Which lead us to (The Trolly Paradox)
Cons:
- The focus is scattered a bit too much in this series, there's just so many characters running around in the book, the crime itself might have been an afterthought, over shadowed by the life events rolling around
- Once again, I am looking for the connection between Garrett's family and Sloan, why did he find the picture of her mother in what have been his aunt's property.
- The element of speed in this book was just, too fast, I felt like the event were rolling (x2) speed.
- Garrett past part was a bit anti-climactic for what it should have been, or more likely what I thought what it should have been.
- The disarray of the suspect list was just so annoying, up till the last chapter I was doubting that the case was over.
- The part about Leah's participation in the stakeout was so rushed, one second Leah was about to join them and the other the entire thing was over.
Am I worried about this series coming to an end, YEAH, VERY... but I am going to hop to book6.5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2023
I enjoy the Sloan Krause series, so I get excited about each new installment. Before I get to why, let me say that I had a hard time finding a copy of BEER AND LOATHING. Neither of my local library systems had it and I couldn't find it at my local indie or at my brick-and-mortar Barnes & Noble. Turns out, Ellie Alexander self-published this book (previous books in the series were published by Macmillan), which explains why I had trouble finding it and why the cover art is different (and a lot less appealing, in my opinion) from that of all the previous entries. If you want to read this book, then, you have to buy it. It's $16 for the paperback on Amazon or Barnes and Noble and $8.99 for the e-book. I opted for the latter. I enjoy the Sloan Krause series and I'm all about supporting authors (although I am also a very frequent user of the library).
Like its predecessors, BEER AND LOATHING is a fast, fun read. Leavenworth provides a magical wintry setting that adds to the coziness of the book. Sloan and her pals are always likable. This installment adds some new characters, as Garrett's parents and sister are in town for a visit. With their warmth and kindness, they fit right in with the Sloan and the Krauses. The murder mystery at the center of the novel is pretty straightforward and predictable. Still, it's interesting enough that I wanted to know what had happened.
This isn't my favorite installment in the series by far, but I enjoyed the quick, entertaining read. I will for sure read the next book, which is a novella that's only $1.99 on Kindle. Woo hoo!
If I could, I would give this book 3 1/2 stars; since I can't, I'm rounding up.
Like its predecessors, BEER AND LOATHING is a fast, fun read. Leavenworth provides a magical wintry setting that adds to the coziness of the book. Sloan and her pals are always likable. This installment adds some new characters, as Garrett's parents and sister are in town for a visit. With their warmth and kindness, they fit right in with the Sloan and the Krauses. The murder mystery at the center of the novel is pretty straightforward and predictable. Still, it's interesting enough that I wanted to know what had happened.
This isn't my favorite installment in the series by far, but I enjoyed the quick, entertaining read. I will for sure read the next book, which is a novella that's only $1.99 on Kindle. Woo hoo!
If I could, I would give this book 3 1/2 stars; since I can't, I'm rounding up.
June 21, 2024
I like beer and I like mysteries so that's why this series has caught my eye.
Sloan has been working with Garrett in his microbrewery/pub, Nitro. Over time, they have developed feelings for each other but are taking it slowly as she recently got out of a marriage to Mac, whom she'd caught cheating on her. Because Sloan and Garret have been getting closer, she is nervous but looking forward to meeting his parents and Leah, his sister, who are coming for a visit.
There is a lot of excitement in the village because the local hospital has been working on an important advancement in medicine. Hazel, one of the doctors on the project, has been jumpy lately, though, and when she mysterious falls from a ski lift, Sloan, Garrett and Leah start asking questions to find out if Hazel's death was an accident or was she murdered.
This is the sixth in the Sloan Krause Series and I liked it. I've read all in this series and this works as a stand alone (there is enough background provided). It's written in first person perspective in Sloan's voice. It was nice to get to know more about Garrett and his back story. There is a lot of talk about beer (which I found interesting) and there are also explanations about what was being talked about (what hops are and the varieties, for example). It was a quick light read and is a "cozy mystery" so there is no swearing, violence or adult activity. There are recipes at the end.
Other than murders, Leavenworth sounds like a fun place to visit!
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2024/06...
Sloan has been working with Garrett in his microbrewery/pub, Nitro. Over time, they have developed feelings for each other but are taking it slowly as she recently got out of a marriage to Mac, whom she'd caught cheating on her. Because Sloan and Garret have been getting closer, she is nervous but looking forward to meeting his parents and Leah, his sister, who are coming for a visit.
There is a lot of excitement in the village because the local hospital has been working on an important advancement in medicine. Hazel, one of the doctors on the project, has been jumpy lately, though, and when she mysterious falls from a ski lift, Sloan, Garrett and Leah start asking questions to find out if Hazel's death was an accident or was she murdered.
This is the sixth in the Sloan Krause Series and I liked it. I've read all in this series and this works as a stand alone (there is enough background provided). It's written in first person perspective in Sloan's voice. It was nice to get to know more about Garrett and his back story. There is a lot of talk about beer (which I found interesting) and there are also explanations about what was being talked about (what hops are and the varieties, for example). It was a quick light read and is a "cozy mystery" so there is no swearing, violence or adult activity. There are recipes at the end.
Other than murders, Leavenworth sounds like a fun place to visit!
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2024/06...
April 4, 2023
I love this series. The setting is Leavenworth, WA, a quaint (and real life) Bavarian-themed town, where beer, sausage, pretzels—and crime—abound. What I like about this series is, the characters are deeper and more believable than you see in most cozies. Sloan Krause is a talented female beer maker in what has been a man’s profession. After leaving her cheating husband, Sloan goes to work at a startup microbrewery, Nitro, alongside Garrett Strong, who has left tech life in Seattle for beer making. Together, they turn Nitro into a popular craft brewery, while sorta/kinda falling in love. The descriptions of the beer making process are just detailed enough, and fascinating.
In Beer and Loathing, Sloan finally gets to meet Garret’s parents and his sister, who takes a big part in solving the mystery—the sudden, suspicious death of a medical intern involved in testing a seemingly miraculous new drug.
The mystery has some good twists, and I loved the introduction of Garrett’s family. Garrett himself becomes a more three-dimensional character with his family and then when he reveals something painful about his past. Sloan, a former foster child, gets to experience the benefits of another close-knit family—along with her ex-husband’s family, the Krauses. This is my favorite book so far in this series, which I hope is a long one.
There’s a guide to the real-life Leavenworth in the back of the book. Now I want to visit!
In Beer and Loathing, Sloan finally gets to meet Garret’s parents and his sister, who takes a big part in solving the mystery—the sudden, suspicious death of a medical intern involved in testing a seemingly miraculous new drug.
The mystery has some good twists, and I loved the introduction of Garrett’s family. Garrett himself becomes a more three-dimensional character with his family and then when he reveals something painful about his past. Sloan, a former foster child, gets to experience the benefits of another close-knit family—along with her ex-husband’s family, the Krauses. This is my favorite book so far in this series, which I hope is a long one.
There’s a guide to the real-life Leavenworth in the back of the book. Now I want to visit!
December 14, 2025
I love, love, love the Sloan Krause mystery series—not so much for the puzzling whodunits, but more for the small Bavarian town surrounded by snow-topped mountains and German-themed breweries! Be still, my heart! Here in Texas, I jump at any chance to visit our very own little German town in the Hill Country called Fredericksburg. It’s just too much fun shopping at cutesy stores and dining at my favorite German-themed microbrewery. Oh, how I love the Enchanted Rock Ale… sigh.
Anyhoo, this mystery was a little weak. The killer reveal was kind of a no-brainer, but whatevs. I enjoyed accompanying Sloan and her fellow microbrewing partner/love interest as they puzzled over the mystery whilst visiting with his family, who, of course, are as charming and lovely as Sloan’s in-laws. Naturally, it would be boring if everything worked out perfectly, so Garrett has to come clean with a secret he’s been withholding for silly reasons. This is why romance books drive me nuts—too much secrecy and miscommunication! At least this time, Sloan chose to actually communicate with him instead of holding it all in. Way to go, girl! This might be the first time she’s gotten out of her own way, and I love this for her.
Overall, this book gave me all the wintry, Bavarian village vibes that made my cozy little heart brim with joy. However, die-hard mystery lovers may feel it’s lacking, so please note that this is more of a 100-piece children’s jigsaw puzzle than a 1,000-piece brain-scratcher.
Anyhoo, this mystery was a little weak. The killer reveal was kind of a no-brainer, but whatevs. I enjoyed accompanying Sloan and her fellow microbrewing partner/love interest as they puzzled over the mystery whilst visiting with his family, who, of course, are as charming and lovely as Sloan’s in-laws. Naturally, it would be boring if everything worked out perfectly, so Garrett has to come clean with a secret he’s been withholding for silly reasons. This is why romance books drive me nuts—too much secrecy and miscommunication! At least this time, Sloan chose to actually communicate with him instead of holding it all in. Way to go, girl! This might be the first time she’s gotten out of her own way, and I love this for her.
Overall, this book gave me all the wintry, Bavarian village vibes that made my cozy little heart brim with joy. However, die-hard mystery lovers may feel it’s lacking, so please note that this is more of a 100-piece children’s jigsaw puzzle than a 1,000-piece brain-scratcher.
September 6, 2024
More of the Same
My review is more like 3.5 stars. This installment of a Sloan Krause mystery is more of the same. Another mysterious death, Sloan and Garret's relationship barely inching along, beer and food. This edition does feature a handful of recipes.
It's winter again in Leavenworth and Garrett's family has come to visit. They are so looking forward to meeting Sloan as they've heard so much about her. Sloan is nervous and wants to make a good impression.
I'm thinking the cart is before the horse as to me it seems that Sloan and Garrett's romantic relationship has barely gotten off the ground. It sounds like they do some dating, but to me the budding romance is just not blooming. The buds aren't opening. They're more like a comfortable old married couple than two single people with the hots for one another. I get that it is a cozy mystery and very G-rated, but it's a bit too quaint, like the village.
The mystery involves the local hospital personnel and a clinical trial. Everyone involved has a reason to be a suspect. At the end I still didn't understand the anesthesiologist's role in the trial. It was questioned, and never answered.
The next installment is lined up with Sloan and Kat planning a new village event, and Sloan's son making a decision on college. It remains to be seen if Sloan becoming an empty nester ramps up her love life.
My review is more like 3.5 stars. This installment of a Sloan Krause mystery is more of the same. Another mysterious death, Sloan and Garret's relationship barely inching along, beer and food. This edition does feature a handful of recipes.
It's winter again in Leavenworth and Garrett's family has come to visit. They are so looking forward to meeting Sloan as they've heard so much about her. Sloan is nervous and wants to make a good impression.
I'm thinking the cart is before the horse as to me it seems that Sloan and Garrett's romantic relationship has barely gotten off the ground. It sounds like they do some dating, but to me the budding romance is just not blooming. The buds aren't opening. They're more like a comfortable old married couple than two single people with the hots for one another. I get that it is a cozy mystery and very G-rated, but it's a bit too quaint, like the village.
The mystery involves the local hospital personnel and a clinical trial. Everyone involved has a reason to be a suspect. At the end I still didn't understand the anesthesiologist's role in the trial. It was questioned, and never answered.
The next installment is lined up with Sloan and Kat planning a new village event, and Sloan's son making a decision on college. It remains to be seen if Sloan becoming an empty nester ramps up her love life.
May 23, 2023
A lot of times, in later installments of a series, the focus shifts to self-indulgent world building, spending far too much time on the heroine's life. This series is no exception.
Overall, this series is pretty bad, but I was interested in this edition because it seemed to be better written than her previous installments. It is not. The book is poorly written. The victim, motive, suspects, and killer are immediately obvious from the start. And of course, we must have the internalized misogyny of Slutty Gossip Caricature, Who Is Crass, Mean-Spirited, And Wears Too Much Makeup. Cozies are largely written by women and for women. It is time to let go of these tired, dated, hateful, lazy tropes.
The writing is sloppy. "I chomped on a gingersnap," and then "I chomped on another gingersnap" four paragraphs later. Is Sloan taking one bite and throwing the rest away?
Sloan Krause is a series that had a lot of potential, but it is wasted by bad writing and lazy tropes.
Overall, this series is pretty bad, but I was interested in this edition because it seemed to be better written than her previous installments. It is not. The book is poorly written. The victim, motive, suspects, and killer are immediately obvious from the start. And of course, we must have the internalized misogyny of Slutty Gossip Caricature, Who Is Crass, Mean-Spirited, And Wears Too Much Makeup. Cozies are largely written by women and for women. It is time to let go of these tired, dated, hateful, lazy tropes.
The writing is sloppy. "I chomped on a gingersnap," and then "I chomped on another gingersnap" four paragraphs later. Is Sloan taking one bite and throwing the rest away?
Sloan Krause is a series that had a lot of potential, but it is wasted by bad writing and lazy tropes.
April 24, 2023
This is my favorite of the Sloan Krause series to date! I always enjoy a return trip to Leavenworth, WA and Little Bavaria, but this one was really a fun read. In addition to all the regulars, thankfully, not much April this trip, we met Garret's family. They were simply delightful and would make a great addition to the series going forward, in my opinion. One of the things I appreciate about this series is that the police chief recognizes an asset when she sees one and uses Sloan and Garret appropriately. The plot moves right along and while I did at times suspect the eventual killer, I followed a few red herring suspects along the way. Was pretty sure I had the "bad guy" identified until the real one was unmasked! I do appreciate all the tasty sounding recipes included in the back of the book and wil be trying a couple of them. Thanks!
October 25, 2024
Sloan and Garrett are dating and guess what? His parents and sister are coming to town for a week Sloan is a little on the anxious side. Add to the fact her son is going off to college soon as well what else does she need to make her even more anxious how about murder.
I love Sloan as a main character and Garrett is a wonderful love interest and friend. When a young resident doctor falls from a ski lift the Chief thinks murder and asks for Sloan and Garret's help in finding out what it is all about. A fantastic story line with intrigue around the doctors at the local hospital and a breakthrough drug. There were quite a few twists and turns and fantastic characters.
Of course we didn't see or hear much about Sloan's ex this time but it looks like Hans might have a love interest
A fantastic series and a great book.
I love Sloan as a main character and Garrett is a wonderful love interest and friend. When a young resident doctor falls from a ski lift the Chief thinks murder and asks for Sloan and Garret's help in finding out what it is all about. A fantastic story line with intrigue around the doctors at the local hospital and a breakthrough drug. There were quite a few twists and turns and fantastic characters.
Of course we didn't see or hear much about Sloan's ex this time but it looks like Hans might have a love interest
A fantastic series and a great book.
July 21, 2023
3.75 stars
Sloane Krause has weathered her share of personal challenges to find herself in a good place. She has divorced her philandering husband but they remain committed parents and have reached a place where they can be friendly. She is still involved with her in-laws who are her chosen family.
And she loves her job, at a start up brewery in a small Bavarian town in the Northwest, working with someone she respects and is drawn to.
This time around Garrett's parents and sister are in town and Sloane likes them and is comfortable. But she is thrust into yet another mystery when the body of a local doctor involved in a research prospect is found. Is the death connected to the drug trial she was working on? Meanwhile Sloane's son is preparing to go off to college and she is trying to be calm and helpful with him rather than clingy. An enjoyable series with an interesting setting.
Sloane Krause has weathered her share of personal challenges to find herself in a good place. She has divorced her philandering husband but they remain committed parents and have reached a place where they can be friendly. She is still involved with her in-laws who are her chosen family.
And she loves her job, at a start up brewery in a small Bavarian town in the Northwest, working with someone she respects and is drawn to.
This time around Garrett's parents and sister are in town and Sloane likes them and is comfortable. But she is thrust into yet another mystery when the body of a local doctor involved in a research prospect is found. Is the death connected to the drug trial she was working on? Meanwhile Sloane's son is preparing to go off to college and she is trying to be calm and helpful with him rather than clingy. An enjoyable series with an interesting setting.
March 31, 2025
So, so cute! I love this series and was sure it had ended so I put off reading book 5 for quite a while. I was so happy to find that this had been published along with the other Sloan Krause mystery shorts! I hope there will be more installments in the future.
The introduction of Garrets family was awesome and they fit right in. I really enjoyed Leah’s character. It was also great to get to know more of his back-story, it added a lot of depth to him. All of Sloan’s small wins across the series start coming full circle in this book which is very heartwarming and I liked that there is room for the story to continue if possible, but if this is it, it’s a really lovely stopping place.
As usual the setting is to die for, and a big reason I keep coming back.
The introduction of Garrets family was awesome and they fit right in. I really enjoyed Leah’s character. It was also great to get to know more of his back-story, it added a lot of depth to him. All of Sloan’s small wins across the series start coming full circle in this book which is very heartwarming and I liked that there is room for the story to continue if possible, but if this is it, it’s a really lovely stopping place.
As usual the setting is to die for, and a big reason I keep coming back.
July 21, 2025
Sloan Krause is at it again
With Garrett, the owner, and more than just friend
Garrett’s family is coming to visit
A perfect week for this - or is it?
A young doctor falls to her death
Or was it murder of the highest stealth?
This young doctor knew too much
And Sloan and friends have a hunch
Will they be able to force the truth out?
Or will the killer disappear into the crowd?
This is the sixth installment of the Sloan Alexander series - and I love it!! I absolutely adore this entire collection. The characters are warm and inviting (well, except for the murderer) and there are so many different relationships that feel both inspiring and realistic. I would highly recommend reading this series in order. It will give you stronger background and add depth to both the characters and the relationships they share.
The mystery itself was good! I guessed who the killer was, but that doesn’t take away from the enjoyment of the story. And, as a beer girlie, I really love the focus on brewing, the brewery, and the beers (not to mention the food!) that is pervasive through the series.
There are two more mini installments of this series - and I sincerely hope more full books are in the works! GIVE ME MORE LEAVENWORTH!
Do you like when food is a focus of a book?
With Garrett, the owner, and more than just friend
Garrett’s family is coming to visit
A perfect week for this - or is it?
A young doctor falls to her death
Or was it murder of the highest stealth?
This young doctor knew too much
And Sloan and friends have a hunch
Will they be able to force the truth out?
Or will the killer disappear into the crowd?
This is the sixth installment of the Sloan Alexander series - and I love it!! I absolutely adore this entire collection. The characters are warm and inviting (well, except for the murderer) and there are so many different relationships that feel both inspiring and realistic. I would highly recommend reading this series in order. It will give you stronger background and add depth to both the characters and the relationships they share.
The mystery itself was good! I guessed who the killer was, but that doesn’t take away from the enjoyment of the story. And, as a beer girlie, I really love the focus on brewing, the brewery, and the beers (not to mention the food!) that is pervasive through the series.
There are two more mini installments of this series - and I sincerely hope more full books are in the works! GIVE ME MORE LEAVENWORTH!
Do you like when food is a focus of a book?
April 10, 2023
Hooked
I loved the tour of Leavenworth at the end of this book. I have made many trips to Leavenworth. As a matter of fact, several years ago, it was at Stop Three of Sloan's tour – A Book For All Seasons that I was introduced to author Ellie Alexander. That book store was featuring the very first Sloan mystery. I was hooked and love catching up with Nitro and Torte (in her Bakeshop series).
Having lunch in one of the downstairs restaurants, enjoying God Salad, I envisioned the lovely lady fervently typing away on her laptop to be Ellie Alexander. Alas, it was not my good fortune. But maybe another time 😊
I loved the tour of Leavenworth at the end of this book. I have made many trips to Leavenworth. As a matter of fact, several years ago, it was at Stop Three of Sloan's tour – A Book For All Seasons that I was introduced to author Ellie Alexander. That book store was featuring the very first Sloan mystery. I was hooked and love catching up with Nitro and Torte (in her Bakeshop series).
Having lunch in one of the downstairs restaurants, enjoying God Salad, I envisioned the lovely lady fervently typing away on her laptop to be Ellie Alexander. Alas, it was not my good fortune. But maybe another time 😊
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