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Beacon Bakeshop #5
Murder at the Blarney Bash
Follow the aroma of shamrock sugar cookies to the Beacon Bakeshop, a lighthouse on the shores of Lake Michigan where amateur sleuth Lindsey Bakewell is busy preparing for Beacon Harbor’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities – with a little help from her adorable Newfoundland, Wellington, of course!
Lindsey is baking up a storm—shamrock sugar cookies, Guinness chocolate cupcakes, Irish soda bread—for the well-timed grand opening of the Irish import gift shop, the Blarney Stone, owned by her boyfriend’s uncle, Finnigan O’Connor, recently relocated from the Emerald Isle.
But it’s Uncle Finn himself who seems full of blarney when he gleefully reveals a pot of real gold he claims he stole from an actual leprechaun. And Finn’s fortune takes a turn for the worse when he’s arrested for the bludgeoning of a small unidentified man dressed as a leprechaun—the murder weapon alleged to be his now-missing shillelagh.
Eccentric Uncle Finn may enjoy believing he’s outwitted a leprechaun, but he would never be so deluded as to clobber one with his walking stick. Now Lindsey will need more than the luck of the Irish to seize a golden opportunity to catch the real killer . . .
Lindsey is baking up a storm—shamrock sugar cookies, Guinness chocolate cupcakes, Irish soda bread—for the well-timed grand opening of the Irish import gift shop, the Blarney Stone, owned by her boyfriend’s uncle, Finnigan O’Connor, recently relocated from the Emerald Isle.
But it’s Uncle Finn himself who seems full of blarney when he gleefully reveals a pot of real gold he claims he stole from an actual leprechaun. And Finn’s fortune takes a turn for the worse when he’s arrested for the bludgeoning of a small unidentified man dressed as a leprechaun—the murder weapon alleged to be his now-missing shillelagh.
Eccentric Uncle Finn may enjoy believing he’s outwitted a leprechaun, but he would never be so deluded as to clobber one with his walking stick. Now Lindsey will need more than the luck of the Irish to seize a golden opportunity to catch the real killer . . .
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 23, 2024
391 people are currently reading
4068 people want to read
About the author
Darci Hannah
15 books765 followersCozy mystery author, Darci Hannah, is a native of the Midwest and currently lives in a small town in Michigan. Darci is a lifelong lover of the Great Lakes, a natural wonder that inspires many of her stories. When Darci isn't baking for family and friends, hiking with her furry pals, Ripley and Finn, or concocting her next cozy mystery, she can be found wandering around picturesque lakeside villages with her hubby, sampling baked goods, and breaking for coffee more often than she should.
In addition to cozy mysteries, Darci's other passion is writing historical fiction. She is the author of The Exile of Sara Stevenson
(Ballantine Books, 2010, 2nd edition by Piffle & Bombast 2016) and The Angel of Blythe Hall (Ballantine Books, 2011)
In addition to cozy mysteries, Darci's other passion is writing historical fiction. She is the author of The Exile of Sara Stevenson
(Ballantine Books, 2010, 2nd edition by Piffle & Bombast 2016) and The Angel of Blythe Hall (Ballantine Books, 2011)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
January 17, 2024
Holidays in Beacon Harbor, Michigan can be dangerous. St. Patrick's Day is no exception. The elementary school children are enjoying the day with a leprechaun parade and then a stop at the Beacon Bakeshop, owned by Lindsey Bakewell, for treats. But the children aren't the only leprechauns around. A small man dressed as a leprechaun clubs a city worker, hits Lindsey's car as she is driving along, is spotted by many townspeople, and later found dead.
Lindsey's boyfriend Rory is happy that his uncle and cousin from Ireland are opening an Irish gift shop and pub in town in time for the holiday. Uncle Finn is a character and when he finds a pot of gold left by a leprechaun, it is too much. Then the body of a small man dressed like a leprechaun is found, Uncle Finn is the main suspect. Lindsey and Rory set out to find the real killer. What a time they have!
Things get really awkward when Lindsey's British friend Kennedy is in town with her wealthy boyfriend from London. Tuck, police officer and friend, used to date Kenndy. Now he and Colleen are getting interested in each other. What a mess with a murder mystery and jealousy going around.
This is another fun mystery with twists, turns, funny moments, and surprises. I enjoy the setting of an old lighthouse turned into a bakery and home on the shores of Lake Michigan and the likable recurring characters. I did not guess this one until near the end.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
Lindsey's boyfriend Rory is happy that his uncle and cousin from Ireland are opening an Irish gift shop and pub in town in time for the holiday. Uncle Finn is a character and when he finds a pot of gold left by a leprechaun, it is too much. Then the body of a small man dressed like a leprechaun is found, Uncle Finn is the main suspect. Lindsey and Rory set out to find the real killer. What a time they have!
Things get really awkward when Lindsey's British friend Kennedy is in town with her wealthy boyfriend from London. Tuck, police officer and friend, used to date Kenndy. Now he and Colleen are getting interested in each other. What a mess with a murder mystery and jealousy going around.
This is another fun mystery with twists, turns, funny moments, and surprises. I enjoy the setting of an old lighthouse turned into a bakery and home on the shores of Lake Michigan and the likable recurring characters. I did not guess this one until near the end.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
January 29, 2024
I adore this series, I really do. I gave 5 stars to all the previous books in the series. But, not this one. I had a very difficult time with Kennedy. She was mean, rude and obnoxious. I admit to skimming through scenes she was in. I just could not tolerate her nastiness. I was sorry Kennedy is not going back to London. She just ruined this book for me. And if she and Tuck get back together, sadly I will give up on this series.
January 25, 2024
I love this series – the setting and the characters are so inviting, the mysteries are always solid and well-paced, and the writing will draw you in and keep you invested in the story the whole way through. I liked the addition of Rory’s uncle and cousin, as well as the leprechaun sightings. My disappointment in this one was with Kennedy and her attitude throughout the book; she wasn’t fun and carefree as she usually is; instead she was demanding and bratty, which may be because of what happened in the last book, but it made her unlikeable. Otherwise, a great addition to the series and I look forward to the next.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for an honest review.
November 17, 2024
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Beacon Harbor is going all out for St. Patrick’s Day. Lindsey Bakewell and her staff are pulling out all the stops filling the shelves at the Beacon Bakeshop but also making Guinness chocolate cupcakes with Bailey’s buttercream frosting, shamrock cupcakes and cookies, creme de menthe brownies, and a Bailey’s cheesecake for the grand opening of the Irish import gift shop and the Blarney Stone micropub. The new businesses are owned by Finnigan O’Connor, uncle of Lindsey’s boyfriend Rory who has moved to town straight from the Emerald Isle.
The celebration starts out with the annual grade school Leprechaun Parade with Uncle Finn, his daughter Colleen, and their gorgeous dog Bailey leading the way. Every student marching in the parade receives a free shamrock good luck charm from the Blarney Stone.
Uncle Finn is quite the storyteller, most get grander with each telling. The latest is that he stole a pot of gold from a real leprechaun on his way home. Not sure what to believe Rory and Lindsey know there is more to the story. Bad luck comes when a small man dressed like a leprechaun is killed, beaten to death with a shillelagh, that appears to belong to Uncle Finn. He is taken into custody and while he may have tricked the leprechaun out of his gold, he never would have killed him. Lindsey will need all the good luck she can get to bring the killer to justice and free Finn.
I am loving this series. In this 5th installment, it’s about St Patrick’s Day and all things Irish. With an Irish grandfather, I have a wee bit of the Irish in me so this story delighted me.
Lindsey and Rory’s relationship is growing so naturally. Tuck is a little broken-hearted because Kennedy left town, but she is back and she didn’t come alone. The staff at the Beacon Bakeshop are working together like a well-oiled machine and Lindsey knows she can count on them. Her parents leave Beacon Harbor for the colder months and are spending two weeks in Maui, but the local gossip mill works fine. They sometimes find out what’s going on before Lindsey. I was happy to see some of Rory’s relatives come to town. The introduction of Finn and Colleen gave the character of Rory more depth. All the core characters continue to develop and are always engaging. I was happy to see Kennedy back but she tested my patience a time or two. I am so excited to see Lindsey’s Newfoundland, Wellington has a new friend in Finn and Colleen’s Great Pyrenees Bailey.
This story is so well-plotted and executed. Finding the right connections between the victims and the suspects. Lindsey went above and beyond to follow the clues and find key pieces of evidence to move the investigation forward. Thinking she had it figured out but no, there was another twist. The pressure to move when time was of the essence. The scene witnessed followed the fabulous team takedown with a fantastic assist which was then followed by a funny situation while waiting for the killer to be taken away. This was all perfectly paced and my eyes were glued to the pages.
I love the detailed descriptions Ms. Hannah gave throughout the story. Truthfully with the lighthouse having a resident ghost, a leprechaun running around town peeking in windows, and hiding pots of gold was a true possibility. We learn in the acknowledgments that the author’s son gave her the inspiration for this story. Like his mother, he must have a keen imagination. It is what makes her stories so much fun to read.
Trust me, you will be craving St. Patrick’s Day treats. There are 5 tempting recipes following the story.
Murder at the Blarney Bash has extraordinary characters taking on a perplexing mystery with a side of leprechaun lore and a bunch of Blarney. I escaped right into the pages and was completely entertained. Next up Murder at the Lemonberry Tea. It has a November 26, 2024 release date.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Beacon Harbor is going all out for St. Patrick’s Day. Lindsey Bakewell and her staff are pulling out all the stops filling the shelves at the Beacon Bakeshop but also making Guinness chocolate cupcakes with Bailey’s buttercream frosting, shamrock cupcakes and cookies, creme de menthe brownies, and a Bailey’s cheesecake for the grand opening of the Irish import gift shop and the Blarney Stone micropub. The new businesses are owned by Finnigan O’Connor, uncle of Lindsey’s boyfriend Rory who has moved to town straight from the Emerald Isle.
The celebration starts out with the annual grade school Leprechaun Parade with Uncle Finn, his daughter Colleen, and their gorgeous dog Bailey leading the way. Every student marching in the parade receives a free shamrock good luck charm from the Blarney Stone.
Uncle Finn is quite the storyteller, most get grander with each telling. The latest is that he stole a pot of gold from a real leprechaun on his way home. Not sure what to believe Rory and Lindsey know there is more to the story. Bad luck comes when a small man dressed like a leprechaun is killed, beaten to death with a shillelagh, that appears to belong to Uncle Finn. He is taken into custody and while he may have tricked the leprechaun out of his gold, he never would have killed him. Lindsey will need all the good luck she can get to bring the killer to justice and free Finn.
I am loving this series. In this 5th installment, it’s about St Patrick’s Day and all things Irish. With an Irish grandfather, I have a wee bit of the Irish in me so this story delighted me.
Lindsey and Rory’s relationship is growing so naturally. Tuck is a little broken-hearted because Kennedy left town, but she is back and she didn’t come alone. The staff at the Beacon Bakeshop are working together like a well-oiled machine and Lindsey knows she can count on them. Her parents leave Beacon Harbor for the colder months and are spending two weeks in Maui, but the local gossip mill works fine. They sometimes find out what’s going on before Lindsey. I was happy to see some of Rory’s relatives come to town. The introduction of Finn and Colleen gave the character of Rory more depth. All the core characters continue to develop and are always engaging. I was happy to see Kennedy back but she tested my patience a time or two. I am so excited to see Lindsey’s Newfoundland, Wellington has a new friend in Finn and Colleen’s Great Pyrenees Bailey.
This story is so well-plotted and executed. Finding the right connections between the victims and the suspects. Lindsey went above and beyond to follow the clues and find key pieces of evidence to move the investigation forward. Thinking she had it figured out but no, there was another twist. The pressure to move when time was of the essence. The scene witnessed followed the fabulous team takedown with a fantastic assist which was then followed by a funny situation while waiting for the killer to be taken away. This was all perfectly paced and my eyes were glued to the pages.
I love the detailed descriptions Ms. Hannah gave throughout the story. Truthfully with the lighthouse having a resident ghost, a leprechaun running around town peeking in windows, and hiding pots of gold was a true possibility. We learn in the acknowledgments that the author’s son gave her the inspiration for this story. Like his mother, he must have a keen imagination. It is what makes her stories so much fun to read.
Trust me, you will be craving St. Patrick’s Day treats. There are 5 tempting recipes following the story.
Murder at the Blarney Bash has extraordinary characters taking on a perplexing mystery with a side of leprechaun lore and a bunch of Blarney. I escaped right into the pages and was completely entertained. Next up Murder at the Lemonberry Tea. It has a November 26, 2024 release date.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
December 28, 2023
“Murder at the Blarney Bash” by Darci Hannah the 5th instalment in the "A Beacon Bakeshop Mystery" series. Follow the aroma of shamrock sugar cookies to the Beacon Bakeshop, a lighthouse on the shores of Lake Michigan where amateur sleuth Lindsey Bakewell is busy preparing for Beacon Harbor’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities – with a little help from her adorable Newfoundland, Wellington, of course!
I absolutely love this series, Lindsey, Rory, Kennedy, Tuck, and her co-workers at the Beacon Bakeshop are lots of fun to hang out with and now we have uncle Finn and Colleen from Ireland. I enjoyed seeing how the characters of Lindsey, Rory and Kennedy have progressed since the last book and am glad she came back to Beacon Harbor.
I love Wellington the big Newfie who loves everyone and now Bailey the Great Pyrenees . I also love the idea of living along the lakeshore in a haunted lighthouse where the ghost is watching over you and seems to have your back.
It was entertaining, full of twists and turns and I didn’t completely guess whodunnit until Lindsey did. Plus all the descriptions of the Irish themed baked goods made my mouth water. ( recipes included in back of book)
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends and I can’t wait for book 6
I requested and received an advanced readers copy from Kensington and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
I absolutely love this series, Lindsey, Rory, Kennedy, Tuck, and her co-workers at the Beacon Bakeshop are lots of fun to hang out with and now we have uncle Finn and Colleen from Ireland. I enjoyed seeing how the characters of Lindsey, Rory and Kennedy have progressed since the last book and am glad she came back to Beacon Harbor.
I love Wellington the big Newfie who loves everyone and now Bailey the Great Pyrenees . I also love the idea of living along the lakeshore in a haunted lighthouse where the ghost is watching over you and seems to have your back.
It was entertaining, full of twists and turns and I didn’t completely guess whodunnit until Lindsey did. Plus all the descriptions of the Irish themed baked goods made my mouth water. ( recipes included in back of book)
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends and I can’t wait for book 6
I requested and received an advanced readers copy from Kensington and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
October 29, 2023
I received a free copy of, Murder at the Blarney Bash, by Darci Hannah, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book 5 of 5, in the Beacon Bakeshop Mysteries. Finnigan O"Connor recently came from Ireland to open an Irish shop, but he has not having an luck since he arrived. Can baker Lindsey solve the mystery? I really liked the characters and the plot. Good cozy mystery.. I also love the recipes in the back of the book.
April 21, 2024
A clever mystery with some crazy shenanigans. Lindsey's boyfriend's Uncle has moved from Ireland to Beacon Harbor and causes a stir when he claims to have found a pot of gold. Then, a man is attacked by a person who appears to be a leprechaun. That same leprechaun is found murdered later. It sounds outrageous, but the mystery is good and actually makes sense in the end.
October 9, 2023
#MurderattheBlarneyBash #NetGalley featuring Lindsey Bakewell is the newest addition to this fun series.
Lindsey is baking away as excitement grows for the grand opening of The Blarney Stone, an Irish Import gift shop, owned by Finnegan O'Connor, her boyfriend's uncle.
Finn is an outlandish character, who really made this story exciting, with his lore of leprechauns. Finn insists he's seen a leprechaun and that's he's taken his pot of gold, which certainly has a lot of eyebrows raising.
When a village employee is found, severely injured, and another man is found, dead, Finn becomes the main suspect, but his stories about the little man dressed in green has everyone making up their own sightings.
It's up to Lindsey to uncover the truth, and what she finds is an unbelievable story of lies and greed.
I really liked this story, especially the drama Kennedy adds to it, she certainly knows how to get her way.
I'm happy to recommend this book and the entire series to other readers.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
Lindsey is baking away as excitement grows for the grand opening of The Blarney Stone, an Irish Import gift shop, owned by Finnegan O'Connor, her boyfriend's uncle.
Finn is an outlandish character, who really made this story exciting, with his lore of leprechauns. Finn insists he's seen a leprechaun and that's he's taken his pot of gold, which certainly has a lot of eyebrows raising.
When a village employee is found, severely injured, and another man is found, dead, Finn becomes the main suspect, but his stories about the little man dressed in green has everyone making up their own sightings.
It's up to Lindsey to uncover the truth, and what she finds is an unbelievable story of lies and greed.
I really liked this story, especially the drama Kennedy adds to it, she certainly knows how to get her way.
I'm happy to recommend this book and the entire series to other readers.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
November 1, 2023
Murder at the Blarney Bash by Darci Hannah is a great cozy mystery that is the fifth book in the Beacon Bakeshop series.
I just LOVE this series and have read all five books now. Lindsey Bakewell, Wellie, and her bakery are just so adorable. I love the small town coastal vibe, the murder/mysteries, and well the whole thing.
I also am a total sap for holiday-themed books, and making this out with St Patrick’s Day, just hits the spot. It is everything I can ask for in a cozy mystery.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 1/23/24.
I just LOVE this series and have read all five books now. Lindsey Bakewell, Wellie, and her bakery are just so adorable. I love the small town coastal vibe, the murder/mysteries, and well the whole thing.
I also am a total sap for holiday-themed books, and making this out with St Patrick’s Day, just hits the spot. It is everything I can ask for in a cozy mystery.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 1/23/24.
July 8, 2025
Lindsey is excited to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Beacon Harbor by baking up shamrock cookies, creme de menthe brownies, chocolate Guinness cake with Bailey's frosting and more! Plus Rory's Uncle Finn and cousin Colleen have arrived from Ireland to open Finn's new mircrobrewery and Colleen's Irish gift shop. Kennedy is also back with a new man and refusing to stay at the lighthouse. Lindsey and Welly are looking forward to the children's leprechaun parade this afternoon but Welly is in no shape to greet visitors after a close encounter with a skunk! After an emergency trip to the groomer's, he's ready to go but Lindsey is confused because the groomer claims she saw a leprechaun peering in the window of her shop. At first Lindsey dismisses the story as simply a child from the parade wearing a mask but on her way home, a leprechaun man hits her car! When she stops to check on him, there's no one there. A cry from the village hall alerts Lindsey to danger. Fred Landry, the village treasurer, has been attacked and covered in green and gold glitter. Mrs. Hinckle swears it was the work of... a leprechaun! What on earth? Rory's Uncle Finn believes in leprechauns and is certain one followed him from Ireland and on St. Patrick's Day, Uncle Finn serves up green beer and leprechaun trap mix to trick the leprechaun into giving up his pot of gold. Uncle Finn arrives on Rory's doorstep late at night carrying a dirty pot filled with gold coins. He won't say where he got it but he's positive it is the leprechaun's treasure. However, the next morning, the leprechaun is found dead, bashed in the head with a shillelagh just like Uncle Finn's. Sergeant Murdock has to hold Uncle Finn for murder and it's up to Lindsey, Rory, Kennedy and Colleen to help free him. Kennedy's boyfriend, Niall, may be involved and Lindsey feels the need to investigate him as well. There are a lot of unanswered questions in this latest case: who was the leprechaun? Where did he come from? Why glitter? Where did the gold come from? Where did Uncle Finn find it? Will Kennedy admit she made a mistake dumping Tuck and that she's jealous he seems to be moving on with Colleen?
There's lots going on in this story and it doesn't come together until late in the book. That was Ok with me. At first I was thinking "First ghosts, now leprechauns?" but I got into the mystery and almost wanted to believe Uncle Finn's story! After all, if there are ghosts among us, why not fairy folk? I thought I figured out whodunit when the motive clue was revealed but I was totally wrong. I had a second suspect in mind and it wasn't until Lindsey gets that person taken in by the police that I knew who it had to be. That was a real surprise. I was disappointed because I was hoping for a little more. There are some unanswered questions left at the end though.
Lindsey has improved a lot. I like her. She's a devoted dog mom and she's settled into village life like a native. Her bakery is beloved by all and she is happy to bake treats for town events. Welly is adorable and the best character in this series. He's so friendly and goofy. Welly has a new best friend, Bailey, the Great Pyrenees, who comes with Uncle Finn and Colleen. Bailey is sweet and a little less chaotic than Welly. She's smart and devoted to Uncle Finn. The dogs help with the investigation. I question Lindsey's taste in friends. I'm not at all fond of Rory. His macho manliness is a little icky and if any man called me "babe" constantly instead of my name, I'd toss him out on his ear. He's practically living at the lighthouse in order to maximize Lindsey's available time but they do their own thing and live independent lives. Rory is a good nephew and even though he is sometimes exasperated by his uncle, he's under no illusions about his uncle. Rory and Kennedy squabble like siblings and it's super immature and annoying.
I was hoping Kennedy would stay away for good. She's even more obnoxious than ever. She's dating a new guy, a British businessman, Niall, who is rich and snobby. He won't stay at the lighthouse. Kennedy is using him for business purposes but also in hopes of finally doing something that would please her mother. I almost feel bad for her but this is Kennedy we're talking about. She earns a new nickname in this story, one that suits her but once it got shortened, I forgot what it stood for. Niall claims he has an alibi for the time of the leprechaun's murder. It's not a good one and who does that? He's weird and not very nice to Kennedy. I don't think he's the type to actually get his hands dirty though and if he was going to kill someone, he would hire a hit man. I don't think he's off the hook though. He knows a lot about Irish folklore for a snooty upper class Brit. Poor Tuck! He is still heartbroken over Kennedy and is trying to move on or maybe make her jealous. Or maybe he's just a sucker and can't say no when a lady asks him out? He's a great officer and with help from Rory and Lindsey, Lindsey's parents, Betty Vanhoosen and of course Welly, he can solve murders in a reasonable amount of time. There's no denying he's going places professionally but his love life needs work.
Uncle Finn is a fun character but he's obnoxious too. Uncle Finn was down on his luck in Ireland and has decided to try to make it in America. He's perpetually drunk and believes in fairy folk, as many Irish do, but he believes a leprechaun has followed him from Ireland AND he can easily trick the leprechaun into giving up his gold? I doubt a leprechaun would be so stupid but there's no ID on this body and no fingerprints or DNA in the system. COULD he be a leprechaun? Cousin Colleen is nice but she's spent a lifetime taking care of her dad and trying to keep him in line. That's not an easy task. She loves him but she's not unaware of his faults. She does not believe in leprechauns and is furious her father won't even tell HER where he found the gold when she's trying to save him. Colleen is also a savvy business owner and she sells top of the line Irish made goods in her store and that brings her into contact with another new character. I'm not sure if Colleen would get mad enough and kill a supposed leprechaun for tricking her dad into stealing the coins and if she's not superstitious, she wouldn't fear a lifetime of bad luck. I want to trust her because she's Rory's cousin but I don't totally trust her because I don't know her yet.
Uncle Finn is attractive to the ladies. Molly Butterfield, the local florist, is friendly with Lindsey but REALLY friendly to Uncle Finn. She's embarrassing the way she throws herself at him. Uncle Finn is a stereotypical Irishman, always drunk and charming the ladies. Molly should guard her heart unless she's just flirting too. At least she latches on to him before he finds the gold, unless the whole thing was a set up she orchestrated? Molly has an assistant, Lisa, who is quiet and seems more level-headed. Not level-headed is Teddy, Lindsey's baking assistant. He's like a kid with his interest in the supernatural. Yeesh. Lindsey needs new friends. Someone her own age, not Kennedy, someone sensible.
This was a fun, twisty mystery. I have the last one on my TBR pile on my nightstand and will be reviewing that one soon.
Fred Landry was hit in the head by... a leprechaun? What on earth? Fred was a mild mannered accountant who loved his wife and kept work at work. He must have seen something he wasn't meant to see or interrupted something? Or was he a random target of an angry leprechaun? This whole case is so weird!
There's lots going on in this story and it doesn't come together until late in the book. That was Ok with me. At first I was thinking "First ghosts, now leprechauns?" but I got into the mystery and almost wanted to believe Uncle Finn's story! After all, if there are ghosts among us, why not fairy folk? I thought I figured out whodunit when the motive clue was revealed but I was totally wrong. I had a second suspect in mind and it wasn't until Lindsey gets that person taken in by the police that I knew who it had to be. That was a real surprise. I was disappointed because I was hoping for a little more. There are some unanswered questions left at the end though.
Lindsey has improved a lot. I like her. She's a devoted dog mom and she's settled into village life like a native. Her bakery is beloved by all and she is happy to bake treats for town events. Welly is adorable and the best character in this series. He's so friendly and goofy. Welly has a new best friend, Bailey, the Great Pyrenees, who comes with Uncle Finn and Colleen. Bailey is sweet and a little less chaotic than Welly. She's smart and devoted to Uncle Finn. The dogs help with the investigation. I question Lindsey's taste in friends. I'm not at all fond of Rory. His macho manliness is a little icky and if any man called me "babe" constantly instead of my name, I'd toss him out on his ear. He's practically living at the lighthouse in order to maximize Lindsey's available time but they do their own thing and live independent lives. Rory is a good nephew and even though he is sometimes exasperated by his uncle, he's under no illusions about his uncle. Rory and Kennedy squabble like siblings and it's super immature and annoying.
I was hoping Kennedy would stay away for good. She's even more obnoxious than ever. She's dating a new guy, a British businessman, Niall, who is rich and snobby. He won't stay at the lighthouse. Kennedy is using him for business purposes but also in hopes of finally doing something that would please her mother. I almost feel bad for her but this is Kennedy we're talking about. She earns a new nickname in this story, one that suits her but once it got shortened, I forgot what it stood for. Niall claims he has an alibi for the time of the leprechaun's murder. It's not a good one and who does that? He's weird and not very nice to Kennedy. I don't think he's the type to actually get his hands dirty though and if he was going to kill someone, he would hire a hit man. I don't think he's off the hook though. He knows a lot about Irish folklore for a snooty upper class Brit. Poor Tuck! He is still heartbroken over Kennedy and is trying to move on or maybe make her jealous. Or maybe he's just a sucker and can't say no when a lady asks him out? He's a great officer and with help from Rory and Lindsey, Lindsey's parents, Betty Vanhoosen and of course Welly, he can solve murders in a reasonable amount of time. There's no denying he's going places professionally but his love life needs work.
Uncle Finn is a fun character but he's obnoxious too. Uncle Finn was down on his luck in Ireland and has decided to try to make it in America. He's perpetually drunk and believes in fairy folk, as many Irish do, but he believes a leprechaun has followed him from Ireland AND he can easily trick the leprechaun into giving up his gold? I doubt a leprechaun would be so stupid but there's no ID on this body and no fingerprints or DNA in the system. COULD he be a leprechaun? Cousin Colleen is nice but she's spent a lifetime taking care of her dad and trying to keep him in line. That's not an easy task. She loves him but she's not unaware of his faults. She does not believe in leprechauns and is furious her father won't even tell HER where he found the gold when she's trying to save him. Colleen is also a savvy business owner and she sells top of the line Irish made goods in her store and that brings her into contact with another new character. I'm not sure if Colleen would get mad enough and kill a supposed leprechaun for tricking her dad into stealing the coins and if she's not superstitious, she wouldn't fear a lifetime of bad luck. I want to trust her because she's Rory's cousin but I don't totally trust her because I don't know her yet.
Uncle Finn is attractive to the ladies. Molly Butterfield, the local florist, is friendly with Lindsey but REALLY friendly to Uncle Finn. She's embarrassing the way she throws herself at him. Uncle Finn is a stereotypical Irishman, always drunk and charming the ladies. Molly should guard her heart unless she's just flirting too. At least she latches on to him before he finds the gold, unless the whole thing was a set up she orchestrated? Molly has an assistant, Lisa, who is quiet and seems more level-headed. Not level-headed is Teddy, Lindsey's baking assistant. He's like a kid with his interest in the supernatural. Yeesh. Lindsey needs new friends. Someone her own age, not Kennedy, someone sensible.
This was a fun, twisty mystery. I have the last one on my TBR pile on my nightstand and will be reviewing that one soon.
Fred Landry was hit in the head by... a leprechaun? What on earth? Fred was a mild mannered accountant who loved his wife and kept work at work. He must have seen something he wasn't meant to see or interrupted something? Or was he a random target of an angry leprechaun? This whole case is so weird!
November 8, 2023
Well anyone who loves a good Irish tale will definitely get into this latest tale by Darci Hannah. We have leprechauns, green beer and pots of gold in this latest visit Beacon Harbor. With Rory's uncle Finn and cousin Colleen coming over to the states to open an Irish goods shop and a micro pub things are about to get interesting. After a successful opening day, Uncle Finn follows a leprechaun, and recovers his gold. Unfortunately the next day the "leprechaun" is found dead with a shillelagh, like the one Uncle Finn owns beside him, covered in blood and glitter. This is just the beginning of a wild ride that will leaving you questioning what's real and what's fantasy. Thanks to #NetGalley and #Kensington Publishing for a chance to read.
February 8, 2024
A dead leprechaun is found on the shores of Lake Michigan. Rory's Uncle Finn claims to have found a pot of gold by following a leprechaun. This book is filled with St. Patrick's day shenanigans. I loved that the mystery had many layers. Rory & Lindsey had to alot of digging to find the killer. I really enjoy this book. It feels like coming back home to see what my favorite characters are up too. I especially love Wellington. I had to look up an Irish walking cape and I agree with Lindsey they do look fantastic but are a tad pricey.
January 23, 2024
Rory’s Uncle Finn was quite a character, a real hoot who cracked me up quite a bit while reading. Since he’s part of Beacon Harbor now I’m sure he’ll make another appearance or so in future books.
I was totally wrong on whodunit, maybe because I wanted a particular person to be guilty, who knows. It was fun getting the gang back together to sleuth this one out, a perfect reunion for Lindsey and her bestie. I just love sweet Welly and how that big pup always ends up helping with the case by either sniffing something out, looking intimidating, or both! It’ll be interesting to see what Lindsey and her crew gets into next!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an AFC of this book, and my opinions are my own.
I was totally wrong on whodunit, maybe because I wanted a particular person to be guilty, who knows. It was fun getting the gang back together to sleuth this one out, a perfect reunion for Lindsey and her bestie. I just love sweet Welly and how that big pup always ends up helping with the case by either sniffing something out, looking intimidating, or both! It’ll be interesting to see what Lindsey and her crew gets into next!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an AFC of this book, and my opinions are my own.
July 22, 2024
St Patrick's Day in Beacon Harbor for bakery owner Lindsey Bakewell means shamrock sugar cookies, an enormous amount of green icing, and Guinness cupcakes! Her boyfriend Rory's leprechaun obsessed Uncle Finn and cousin Colleen have recently arrived from Ireland and are living nearby. This means Lindsey is looking forward to the celebrations more than ever, especially as they will be running an Irish pub called the Blarney Stone and a themed gift shop.
Unfortunately, the celebrations are marred by a murder which means Lindsey and Rory are about to begin another investigation alongside their friend and local cop, Tuck. Can they discover the truth before anyone else dies, or has the luck of the Irish disappeared from Beacon Harbor far too soon?
Book five in Darci Hannah's lovely series introduces two new characters with a link to Lindsey and boyfriend Rory as well as a new canine companion for her Newfoundland, Wellington. The storyline is fun with various blind alleys and red herrings to confuse and enthrall, while there are some delicious sounding recipes included at the end after the big reveal.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. I enjoyed this fun read, which is easy to recommend.
Unfortunately, the celebrations are marred by a murder which means Lindsey and Rory are about to begin another investigation alongside their friend and local cop, Tuck. Can they discover the truth before anyone else dies, or has the luck of the Irish disappeared from Beacon Harbor far too soon?
Book five in Darci Hannah's lovely series introduces two new characters with a link to Lindsey and boyfriend Rory as well as a new canine companion for her Newfoundland, Wellington. The storyline is fun with various blind alleys and red herrings to confuse and enthrall, while there are some delicious sounding recipes included at the end after the big reveal.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. I enjoyed this fun read, which is easy to recommend.
January 19, 2024
I adored and devoured the first two books in this series, liked the third, and feel “meh” about this most recent installment. I very much wanted to love it, as the series had so much potential, and I love Darci Hannah’s writing.
Negatives: Unfortunately, the leprechaun thing is way overdone, and the Irish dialogue is written ridiculously (think “Lucky Charms” commercial). It was silly and distracting. I’d much prefer if the Irish characters dialogued as the Irish actually speak, and not an exaggerated cartoony manner.
Kennedy!!! Ugh!!!! She was strong, cute, and supportive early on in the series. In this installment, I wished that she had been the murder victim! She’s become negative, abrasive, and sheer awful.
Positives: Lindsay, Finn, Welly, and the strength of writing about the Beacon Lighthouse. Basic outline of the mystery was a cute idea overall.
I’ll continue to look out for future installments of the series, simply because it was so wonderful in the beginning. I have high hopes that it will turn around, and I hate that I didn’t love this one.
Thank you to both NetGalley and Kensington Books for granting access to a digital ARC.
Negatives: Unfortunately, the leprechaun thing is way overdone, and the Irish dialogue is written ridiculously (think “Lucky Charms” commercial). It was silly and distracting. I’d much prefer if the Irish characters dialogued as the Irish actually speak, and not an exaggerated cartoony manner.
Kennedy!!! Ugh!!!! She was strong, cute, and supportive early on in the series. In this installment, I wished that she had been the murder victim! She’s become negative, abrasive, and sheer awful.
Positives: Lindsay, Finn, Welly, and the strength of writing about the Beacon Lighthouse. Basic outline of the mystery was a cute idea overall.
I’ll continue to look out for future installments of the series, simply because it was so wonderful in the beginning. I have high hopes that it will turn around, and I hate that I didn’t love this one.
Thank you to both NetGalley and Kensington Books for granting access to a digital ARC.
November 21, 2023
St. Patrick’s Day has arrived and Beacon Harbor is welcoming its newest business, an Irish gift shop and pub. With Uncle Finn, weaving tales of leprechauns and gold, he becomes the prime suspect when a little person dressed as a leprechaun is found murdered.
Lindsey and the gang jump into their next investigation to find out who the murdered man was, who killed him, and why. There may be no luck at the end of this rainbow, but if they can clear Uncle Finn’s name and find a true culprit, they’ll be dancing a jig.
Another great entry in this series. I love the haunted lighthouse as the homebase for the bakery and the series. Wellington is, of course, one of my favorite, cozy mystery pups, and always lands an air of cuteness and slobber to each and every entry. If you have not read one in this series, yet, this is a great starting point. After all, who doesn’t love leprechauns gold in Murder?
Lindsey and the gang jump into their next investigation to find out who the murdered man was, who killed him, and why. There may be no luck at the end of this rainbow, but if they can clear Uncle Finn’s name and find a true culprit, they’ll be dancing a jig.
Another great entry in this series. I love the haunted lighthouse as the homebase for the bakery and the series. Wellington is, of course, one of my favorite, cozy mystery pups, and always lands an air of cuteness and slobber to each and every entry. If you have not read one in this series, yet, this is a great starting point. After all, who doesn’t love leprechauns gold in Murder?
January 28, 2024
These people are supposed to be “friends” but are just casually cruel to each other. This series started so strong and has devolved. The mystery was interesting but was overshadowed by passive aggressive behavior by all characters.
September 21, 2024
Very slow read
March 13, 2025
This was festive but oh so silly!!!
November 6, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨/5 ⭐
April 28, 2025
Review coming soon.
January 24, 2024
Murder At The Blarney Bash is the fifth book in the Beacon Bakeshop Mystery series by Darci Hannah.
It’s St. Patrick’s Day in Beacon Harbor, and everybody is seeing leprechauns–it seems.
Lindsey is on her way to the groomer's to pick up her dog Wellington, who had gotten skunked earlier. The grocer tells Lindsey she had just seen a leprechaun looking in the salon window. Then, as Lindsey was passing a group of children dressed as leprechauns, a leprechaun ran into the side of her car. She stops to see if the person is hurt, but he has run off. Mrs. Hinkle comes running from Village Hall, calling out to Lindsey that Fred Landry has been brutally beaten.
At the Beacon Bakeshop, Lindsey’s boyfriend, Rory, is visiting with his Uncle Finn and cousin, Colleen, who have just moved to Beacon Harbor from Ireland. Uncle Finn plans to open a pub, while Colleen will open a gift shop featuring Irish goods. An evening meal is planned to welcome Finn and Colleen to Beacon Harbor. Uncle Finn doesn’t arrive until the dinner is almost over. He tells everyone that he is late because he tricked a leprechaun and took his pot of gold, which he put on the table. But when a man dressed as a leprechaun is found dead on a sand dune with Uncle Finn’s shillelagh near his body. Uncle Finn will become the prime suspect, and Lindsey and Rory must set off to find the killer.
This is a delightful series with a wonderful cast of characters. They are well-developed, believable, and enjoyable. In the previous books, I had enjoyed Kennedy, Lindsey’s BFF, who has returned for a visit. But in this one, I was put off by her. She seemed protective of her boyfriend, Niall, while simultaneously being jealous that Tuck, a local policeman, and Colleen were showing interest in each other. The book is well-written, plotted, and descriptively written, and I felt I was there with the characters. The book reads at a good pace. Wellington has a new playmate, Bailey, Finn, and Colleen’s dog. Hopefully, the next book will be in the Spring/Summer, so Lindsey’s parents will be in town along with their two Westies.
Delicious-sounding recipes are also included in the book.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this engaging series.
It’s St. Patrick’s Day in Beacon Harbor, and everybody is seeing leprechauns–it seems.
Lindsey is on her way to the groomer's to pick up her dog Wellington, who had gotten skunked earlier. The grocer tells Lindsey she had just seen a leprechaun looking in the salon window. Then, as Lindsey was passing a group of children dressed as leprechauns, a leprechaun ran into the side of her car. She stops to see if the person is hurt, but he has run off. Mrs. Hinkle comes running from Village Hall, calling out to Lindsey that Fred Landry has been brutally beaten.
At the Beacon Bakeshop, Lindsey’s boyfriend, Rory, is visiting with his Uncle Finn and cousin, Colleen, who have just moved to Beacon Harbor from Ireland. Uncle Finn plans to open a pub, while Colleen will open a gift shop featuring Irish goods. An evening meal is planned to welcome Finn and Colleen to Beacon Harbor. Uncle Finn doesn’t arrive until the dinner is almost over. He tells everyone that he is late because he tricked a leprechaun and took his pot of gold, which he put on the table. But when a man dressed as a leprechaun is found dead on a sand dune with Uncle Finn’s shillelagh near his body. Uncle Finn will become the prime suspect, and Lindsey and Rory must set off to find the killer.
This is a delightful series with a wonderful cast of characters. They are well-developed, believable, and enjoyable. In the previous books, I had enjoyed Kennedy, Lindsey’s BFF, who has returned for a visit. But in this one, I was put off by her. She seemed protective of her boyfriend, Niall, while simultaneously being jealous that Tuck, a local policeman, and Colleen were showing interest in each other. The book is well-written, plotted, and descriptively written, and I felt I was there with the characters. The book reads at a good pace. Wellington has a new playmate, Bailey, Finn, and Colleen’s dog. Hopefully, the next book will be in the Spring/Summer, so Lindsey’s parents will be in town along with their two Westies.
Delicious-sounding recipes are also included in the book.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this engaging series.
January 2, 2024
3.5/5 ⭐️
The next Beacon Bakeshop mystery finds Lindsey celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. Her boyfriend’s uncle and cousin have settled in their town and are opening their Irish gift shop when the uncle, Finn, claims to have seen a leprechaun who led him to a literal pot of gold. When a man dressed as a leprechaun winds up dead, Lindsey just investigate to clear Finn’s name.
This was probably my least favorite of the series so far, although I still did enjoy it. I think there wasn’t enough sleuthing, which is partly because for such a long time we didn’t know who the murder victim was. There wasn’t a bunch of questioning of suspects, etc. like there normally is. I’m also surprised (but not sad) that Kennedy is back so soon. I’m not sure why she even left except maybe to create a future love triangle? Regardless, still a good read, and hopefully in the next one we get more sleuthing!
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The next Beacon Bakeshop mystery finds Lindsey celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. Her boyfriend’s uncle and cousin have settled in their town and are opening their Irish gift shop when the uncle, Finn, claims to have seen a leprechaun who led him to a literal pot of gold. When a man dressed as a leprechaun winds up dead, Lindsey just investigate to clear Finn’s name.
This was probably my least favorite of the series so far, although I still did enjoy it. I think there wasn’t enough sleuthing, which is partly because for such a long time we didn’t know who the murder victim was. There wasn’t a bunch of questioning of suspects, etc. like there normally is. I’m also surprised (but not sad) that Kennedy is back so soon. I’m not sure why she even left except maybe to create a future love triangle? Regardless, still a good read, and hopefully in the next one we get more sleuthing!
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2024
The fifth in one of my favorite series is just as fresh and exciting as the first. St Patrick's Day in Beacon Harbor brings a leprechaun of all things. But when Finn follows it he ends up in a murder investigation. Filled with rich characters and a solid mystery this is a reader's delight! Thanks#Netgalley and #Kensington for the eARC in exchange for a honest review. All opinions are mine.
November 16, 2024
This one came out without a lot of fanfare, so I didn't learn about it until I got approved for the new book and realized that I hadn't read book #5. This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series, so I was super excited to see how she handles St. Patrick's Day and what goodies Lindsay has for me to read about and drool over.
While this still has the famous cast that I've come to know and love, things aren't quite the same as they have been in previous books. Lindsay and Rory are two of my favorite characters, and I have loved seeing the friendship between them develop into something more. Lindsay's parents are still away being snowbirds, but Rory has family that recently moved to town, and Kennedy is back for a cameo in this book as well, so there's a good mix of old and new characters.
I didn't love Kennedy in this book - she's kind of snobby and condescending for a lot of the book, but it was overshadowed by how much of an absolute tool her new boyfriend is. And Kennedy doesn't even seem to care, but she spends a lot of time making excuses for him. Plus, I hated how she treated Tuck (aka Officer Cutie Pie), and it reinforced that feeling from high school, when the gorgeous and stylish and popular girls were busy making fun of girls like me. Clearly I've never really gotten over that blow to my self-esteem.
The plot was a good one, with a few red herrings throughout the story. I was especially impressed by how well disguised the real killer was, and how the plot pulled the most insignificant-seeming details together to wrap everything up and point us to the killer. I listened to this on audiobook, and the narrator is fantastic.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, but I found the constant ruminating about the case to be a bit repetitive when discussing clues and potential suspects. I still love the little paranormal thread running through the story with Lindsay's haunted lighthouse, and I'm excited for the next book.
While this still has the famous cast that I've come to know and love, things aren't quite the same as they have been in previous books. Lindsay and Rory are two of my favorite characters, and I have loved seeing the friendship between them develop into something more. Lindsay's parents are still away being snowbirds, but Rory has family that recently moved to town, and Kennedy is back for a cameo in this book as well, so there's a good mix of old and new characters.
I didn't love Kennedy in this book - she's kind of snobby and condescending for a lot of the book, but it was overshadowed by how much of an absolute tool her new boyfriend is. And Kennedy doesn't even seem to care, but she spends a lot of time making excuses for him. Plus, I hated how she treated Tuck (aka Officer Cutie Pie), and it reinforced that feeling from high school, when the gorgeous and stylish and popular girls were busy making fun of girls like me. Clearly I've never really gotten over that blow to my self-esteem.
The plot was a good one, with a few red herrings throughout the story. I was especially impressed by how well disguised the real killer was, and how the plot pulled the most insignificant-seeming details together to wrap everything up and point us to the killer. I listened to this on audiobook, and the narrator is fantastic.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, but I found the constant ruminating about the case to be a bit repetitive when discussing clues and potential suspects. I still love the little paranormal thread running through the story with Lindsay's haunted lighthouse, and I'm excited for the next book.
April 7, 2024
"Murder at the Blarney Bash (Beacon Bakeshop #5)" by Darci Hannah is as St. Patrick's Day as a cozy mystery can get. Did a real leprechaun turn up murdered? Why was a city employee seriously injured with a shillelagh, and a small leprechaun like creature seen running from the scene? All this and more gets thrown at the Beacon Bakeshop crew.
I had a person in mind the once the mystery got really rolling. However, I also had a niggling towards one other person as well. It ended up being that second person. However, all the Kennedy caused drama was quite distracting too. I hope she calms back down to her normal level of drama in the next book. I just really couldn't stand her for most of this one.
January 30, 2024
I love this series. The only negative I can say is that Lindsey’s friend Kennedy is starting to be really irritating.
May 17, 2024
Murder at the Blarney Bash is the fifth book in the Beacon Bakeshop Mystery series. The series is set in Beacon Harbor, Michigan and Lindsey Bakewell runs a bakery out of the old Beacon Lighthouse. It is almost St. Patrick's Day and the Bakery team are preparing cookies for the school children when they finish their parade. On her way to the bakery, Lindsey thinks she hits a child, but it is a small man dressed up as a leprechaun and he ran into her. He picks himself up and runs off. Lindsey isn't sure if she is seeing things. Rory's uncle, Finnigan O’Connor, and his cousin have recently relocated from the Emerald Isle and opened an Irish Gift Shop called the Blarney Stone. He believes in Leprechauns and is sure he also saw one in town. When he sets a leprechaun trap and follows the little man, he finds buried gold and this only confirms his belief. Unfortunately for Finnegan, the little man in his leprechaun outfit is found dead, bludgeoned by a shillelagh, and with Finnegan being the last person to see him alive, he is the main suspect. What is going on in Beacon Harbor? Who buried the gold and where did it come from?
This was a great addition to this series. I really enjoyed seeing how Lindsey puts together the clues and ignores the red herrings. She knows that Finnegan couldn't have killed anyone, so you have to follow the money. There was another murder before the leprechaun, a man who worked for the town, so trying to figure out why he was killed might be the key to solving both deaths. In the last book, Kennedy, Lindsey's BKK left town, but she is back and Linsey and her are a great team to bounce ideas off one another, but also to get into trouble while investigating. I really like the characters in this series from Lindsey, Kennedy, Rory, Tuck and of course Wellington, Lindsey's Newfoundlander, I would love to celebrate with them. I enjoyed the well-plotted mystery, and have to say, that I did not have the culprit on my radar at all. This was a great story and I can't wait to see what they all get up to next. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Amy Melissa Bentley. She has narrated the previous books in this series and I enjoy her performance. If you enjoy a good cozy mystery, I recommend this series in whatever format you enjoy.
This was a great addition to this series. I really enjoyed seeing how Lindsey puts together the clues and ignores the red herrings. She knows that Finnegan couldn't have killed anyone, so you have to follow the money. There was another murder before the leprechaun, a man who worked for the town, so trying to figure out why he was killed might be the key to solving both deaths. In the last book, Kennedy, Lindsey's BKK left town, but she is back and Linsey and her are a great team to bounce ideas off one another, but also to get into trouble while investigating. I really like the characters in this series from Lindsey, Kennedy, Rory, Tuck and of course Wellington, Lindsey's Newfoundlander, I would love to celebrate with them. I enjoyed the well-plotted mystery, and have to say, that I did not have the culprit on my radar at all. This was a great story and I can't wait to see what they all get up to next. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Amy Melissa Bentley. She has narrated the previous books in this series and I enjoy her performance. If you enjoy a good cozy mystery, I recommend this series in whatever format you enjoy.
January 24, 2024
Murder at the Blarney Bash
(Beacon Bakeshop 5)
Darci Hannah
Darci Hannah is the author of two historical novels, and two mystery series Very Cherry and the Bakeshop mysteries. August 2024 will also find her debuting a new mystery series called Food & Spirits.
I love Wellie, Lindsey, Rory, and the gang. So, I’m happy to return to Beacon Harbor at every opportunity! We arrive with the story already in progress. Uncle Finn and his daughter Colleen are putting the final touches on the new store slash pub, as well as getting ready to lead the kid's St. Paddy’s parade. Lindsey thinks someone is playing a prank after hearing about a leprechaun being sited. Sadly, she quickly learns there is something a miss with the sightings after a town official is attacked!
While I think the two new characters, Colleen and Uncle Finn, could become wonderful additions to the community. I just don’t feel like I was able to get more than a passing glimpse of their possibilities.
I don’t feel like this is the best out of the five. It’s a really good book, entertaining and laughable, with a curvy mystery. It just doesn’t stand out. 4****
(Beacon Bakeshop 5)
Darci Hannah
Darci Hannah is the author of two historical novels, and two mystery series Very Cherry and the Bakeshop mysteries. August 2024 will also find her debuting a new mystery series called Food & Spirits.
I love Wellie, Lindsey, Rory, and the gang. So, I’m happy to return to Beacon Harbor at every opportunity! We arrive with the story already in progress. Uncle Finn and his daughter Colleen are putting the final touches on the new store slash pub, as well as getting ready to lead the kid's St. Paddy’s parade. Lindsey thinks someone is playing a prank after hearing about a leprechaun being sited. Sadly, she quickly learns there is something a miss with the sightings after a town official is attacked!
While I think the two new characters, Colleen and Uncle Finn, could become wonderful additions to the community. I just don’t feel like I was able to get more than a passing glimpse of their possibilities.
I don’t feel like this is the best out of the five. It’s a really good book, entertaining and laughable, with a curvy mystery. It just doesn’t stand out. 4****
March 23, 2024
4.5 stars
Murder at the Blarney Bash is the 5th book in the Beacon Bakery series by Darci Hannah. This is such a charming, engaging addition to this magical, creative, cozy mystery series. It is obviously themed and immensely festive, which makes it SO much fun. We get leprechauns and pots of gold, Irish treats, walking capes and Shillelaghs, alongside some interesting folklore. Of course there is also murder, mayhem and thievery at it’s core. We get a continuation of the ongoing, over-arching stories featuring our favorite characters, although admittedly, Kennedy is not on that list for me.
This story is cleverly plotted with various twists that keep you guessing and is yet another entertaining tale. I eagerly look forward to the next installment in this delightful series and can’t wait to see which holiday, or season, is featured next.
Murder at the Blarney Bash is the 5th book in the Beacon Bakery series by Darci Hannah. This is such a charming, engaging addition to this magical, creative, cozy mystery series. It is obviously themed and immensely festive, which makes it SO much fun. We get leprechauns and pots of gold, Irish treats, walking capes and Shillelaghs, alongside some interesting folklore. Of course there is also murder, mayhem and thievery at it’s core. We get a continuation of the ongoing, over-arching stories featuring our favorite characters, although admittedly, Kennedy is not on that list for me.
This story is cleverly plotted with various twists that keep you guessing and is yet another entertaining tale. I eagerly look forward to the next installment in this delightful series and can’t wait to see which holiday, or season, is featured next.
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