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Lucky Pie Mystery #1
A Pie to Die For
For fans of Sofie Kelly and Joanne Fluke, it’s the end of the tourist season in Split Pine– but a murder at the Lucky Pie Diner stirs up trouble for the sleepy town in this series debut.
Este March runs the family-owned Lucky Pie Diner on Split Pine Island in Northern Michigan. The pies at Lucky Pie aren’t just good, they’re magical, with a family recipe that grants certain customers their greatest hopes and dreams when they eat the pie. The remote island is closed to outsiders over the winter months, but on the last day of the season, the unpopular new produce vendor, Jeff, turns up dead on his boat, and Split Pine Island’s peace goes up in smoke.
Tom Cunningham, the local sheriff, casts suspicion onto Este, who may have been the last person to see Jeff alive. Not to mention several people witnessed her getting into an argument with the rude vendor in some of his final hours. Este decides to clear her name and her diner’s reputation by launching her own investigation, which means she must turn suspicion on her friends and neighbors, because only a local could have murdered the victim.
As Este investigates, she uncovers a deeper web of secrets, finding that many of the locals had reason to either frame her, or kill the victim. The clock is ticking to figure out the killer, and the clues in the case are flakier than an apple pie. Este will have to uncover the killer before her future crumbles.
Este March runs the family-owned Lucky Pie Diner on Split Pine Island in Northern Michigan. The pies at Lucky Pie aren’t just good, they’re magical, with a family recipe that grants certain customers their greatest hopes and dreams when they eat the pie. The remote island is closed to outsiders over the winter months, but on the last day of the season, the unpopular new produce vendor, Jeff, turns up dead on his boat, and Split Pine Island’s peace goes up in smoke.
Tom Cunningham, the local sheriff, casts suspicion onto Este, who may have been the last person to see Jeff alive. Not to mention several people witnessed her getting into an argument with the rude vendor in some of his final hours. Este decides to clear her name and her diner’s reputation by launching her own investigation, which means she must turn suspicion on her friends and neighbors, because only a local could have murdered the victim.
As Este investigates, she uncovers a deeper web of secrets, finding that many of the locals had reason to either frame her, or kill the victim. The clock is ticking to figure out the killer, and the clues in the case are flakier than an apple pie. Este will have to uncover the killer before her future crumbles.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published February 6, 2024
34 people are currently reading
567 people want to read
About the author
Gretchen Rue
10 books229 followersGretchen Rue lives in the Canadian prairies, which affords her ample time to read during six months of winter. She plays cat mom to four mostly indifferent fur children, and plant mom to roughly 100 very demanding flora. When she isn’t sipping tea and working on her next novel, she enjoys swimming, hiking, and watching baseball.
**Gretchen Rue also writes as Sierra Dean and Kate Wiley**
Dean - urban fantasy/paranormal
Wiley - gritty mystery suspense
**Gretchen Rue also writes as Sierra Dean and Kate Wiley**
Dean - urban fantasy/paranormal
Wiley - gritty mystery suspense
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
January 3, 2024
Este March runs the Lucky Pie Diner on Split Pine Island, a tourist attraction which as we begin the story is about to close for the winter season. When a man is found murdered Este was the last person to see him alive and is therefore a suspect. Of course she needs to clear her name.
I am undecided on this one. The mystery was okay but there was much too much cooking going on and the characters were also rather too aggressive. Not a place I would like to live for sure! There was also a suggestion of magic in some of the pies Este was baking but this was mostly just hinted at.
Maybe future books will feature the magical pies and what happens to the lucky people who get them.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I am undecided on this one. The mystery was okay but there was much too much cooking going on and the characters were also rather too aggressive. Not a place I would like to live for sure! There was also a suggestion of magic in some of the pies Este was baking but this was mostly just hinted at.
Maybe future books will feature the magical pies and what happens to the lucky people who get them.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 24, 2023
#APietoDieFor #NetGalley is another fantastic book in the Lucky Pie series by Gretchen Rue.
Este March is most comfortable whipping up sweet and savory pies at The Lucky Pie Diner, and, if you're just lucky enough, you, too might receive a slice of lucky pie.
It's the end of tourist season in Split Pine, Michigan, and Este and her staff are run off their feet with the usual rush of take home frozen pies.
An unexpected visit from an unfamiliar produce delivery driver sets off a whirlwind of bizarre events, including murder.
Este can't stop asking questions, and she soon finds herself trapped, with possibly no way to escape.
This book kept me guessing from beginning to end. The characters are easy to like, and the story flows smoothly, with enough details to make me feel like I was with them at The Lucky Pie Diner.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
I'm happy to recommend this series to other cozy mystery readers.
Este March is most comfortable whipping up sweet and savory pies at The Lucky Pie Diner, and, if you're just lucky enough, you, too might receive a slice of lucky pie.
It's the end of tourist season in Split Pine, Michigan, and Este and her staff are run off their feet with the usual rush of take home frozen pies.
An unexpected visit from an unfamiliar produce delivery driver sets off a whirlwind of bizarre events, including murder.
Este can't stop asking questions, and she soon finds herself trapped, with possibly no way to escape.
This book kept me guessing from beginning to end. The characters are easy to like, and the story flows smoothly, with enough details to make me feel like I was with them at The Lucky Pie Diner.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
I'm happy to recommend this series to other cozy mystery readers.
February 1, 2024
My rating 3.5 stars
“A Pie to Die For” by Gretchen Rue the 1st instalment in the "A Lucky Pie Mystery" series. I enjoyed this book and added Gretchen to my must read authors list! it’s the end of the tourist season in Split Pine– but a murder at the Lucky Pie Diner stirs up trouble for the sleepy town in this series debut.
I liked the setting of an island called Split Pine in the upper peninsula Michigan. I liked the character of Este and she has a good core group of friends as well as a possible romance in the works.
I think it was a good debut to the series as it set us up for future instalments where the luck in the pies might be more involved in the story. But I found that some things seemed repetitive with respect to telling us about how the lucky pies work and some of the pie baking.
Overall it was entertaining, full of twists and turns and I didn’t completely guess whodunnit until it was revealed.
Plus all the descriptions of all the pies had me wanting a hot cup of tea and a slice of Este’s Apple Carmel pie (luckily there are recipes in the the back of the book)
I recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends and I can’t wait for book 2 to come out!
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
“A Pie to Die For” by Gretchen Rue the 1st instalment in the "A Lucky Pie Mystery" series. I enjoyed this book and added Gretchen to my must read authors list! it’s the end of the tourist season in Split Pine– but a murder at the Lucky Pie Diner stirs up trouble for the sleepy town in this series debut.
I liked the setting of an island called Split Pine in the upper peninsula Michigan. I liked the character of Este and she has a good core group of friends as well as a possible romance in the works.
I think it was a good debut to the series as it set us up for future instalments where the luck in the pies might be more involved in the story. But I found that some things seemed repetitive with respect to telling us about how the lucky pies work and some of the pie baking.
Overall it was entertaining, full of twists and turns and I didn’t completely guess whodunnit until it was revealed.
Plus all the descriptions of all the pies had me wanting a hot cup of tea and a slice of Este’s Apple Carmel pie (luckily there are recipes in the the back of the book)
I recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends and I can’t wait for book 2 to come out!
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
October 16, 2023
Too much unnecessary description. Was trying so much to make the cosy vibe that it killed it for me. The villinising and favouring of some characters is almost child-like. Wasn't it at all for me even though I was really looking forward to a cosy fall read.
Digital copy provided by #NetGalley
Digital copy provided by #NetGalley
February 17, 2024
Dollycas's Thoughts
In this series debut, we meet Este March who runs the Lucky Pie Diner, a family-owned restaurant in Split Pine Island in Northern Michigan. Este has inherited a special way to add some magic to some of her delicious pies. The person who receives a "special" pie could have their hopes and dreams fulfilled.
We arrive just before the remote island is closing down for the winter months. You have to be a permanent resident of the island to stay there after the 1st of November. Este had placed a large order for produce because deliveries will be few and far between until the island reopens. But the new produce vendor didn't bring everything she needed and the prices were much more than she usually pays. She was upset with the man and voiced her displeasure. Later the man is found dead on his boat and the local sheriff, Tom Cunningham, has decided Este is his prime suspect.
Este knows others who met with the man before his death who were just as angry as she was so she decides to start a little investigation of her own. The problem is her suspects are her friends and neighbors. Could one of them really be the killer? She tries to be careful knowing if someone killed once they could do it again. She needs some luck to catch the killer before the killer catches her.
____
I loved the setting for this story. A remote island that is a tourist stop from spring through fall, but only residents are allowed during the winter. The residents need to stock up on everything by Halloween for the freezing cold months ahead when deliveries are rare. Halloween is a big holiday there because it signifies more than ghosts and ghouls and trick or treating. As long as I had food including Este's pies, plenty of books, a cozy chair in front of the fireplace, my husband, and my dog I would be just fine until Spring.
Este is a novice amateur sleuth with a curious nature and she does make some bad decisions but she is a heck of a baker. Este looks in on her grandfather daily as he has retired from the diner. She works side by side with Seamus, who is an incredible chef. Her friend Kitty is the manager and part owner of her brother Tom's pub. She also used to be married to Seamus and now has a crush on Bruno, the owner of the grocery store. Rosie Lewicki is Este's other full-time employee. She was born and raised on the island and has only left once to go to Chicago. Marcel is her part-time server and Patty is the part-time cook. They usually handle the evening shift. Kitty's brother Tom not only owns the pub, he is also the sheriff on the island. We meet several other island residents too. With the large cast that was introduced in this book, we didn't get a lot of depth on any of them. They all have plenty of room to grow as the series continues.
The mystery was pretty straightforward. Este did find some things the sheriff had not known about but she took some major risks following clues. She was fortunate to have a little luck of her own. I had figured out most of the mystery before Este, the showdown tied up all the loose ends. I appreciated the author's descriptive writing style as she clearly set each scene. It was easy to imagine traveling around with Este all over the island.
Este does describe in detail everything she is making or baking much like Ellie Alexander's Jules in her Bakeshop Mysteries which means you will surely be craving pies, both sweet and savory as you read this story. You may want to plan ahead.
With just a hint of magic, characters with room to grow, a unique setting, an interesting mystery, and pie, lots of pie, A Pie To Die For was a delicious debut for this series. I am looking forward to reading the next Lucky Pie Mystery.
In this series debut, we meet Este March who runs the Lucky Pie Diner, a family-owned restaurant in Split Pine Island in Northern Michigan. Este has inherited a special way to add some magic to some of her delicious pies. The person who receives a "special" pie could have their hopes and dreams fulfilled.
We arrive just before the remote island is closing down for the winter months. You have to be a permanent resident of the island to stay there after the 1st of November. Este had placed a large order for produce because deliveries will be few and far between until the island reopens. But the new produce vendor didn't bring everything she needed and the prices were much more than she usually pays. She was upset with the man and voiced her displeasure. Later the man is found dead on his boat and the local sheriff, Tom Cunningham, has decided Este is his prime suspect.
Este knows others who met with the man before his death who were just as angry as she was so she decides to start a little investigation of her own. The problem is her suspects are her friends and neighbors. Could one of them really be the killer? She tries to be careful knowing if someone killed once they could do it again. She needs some luck to catch the killer before the killer catches her.
____
I loved the setting for this story. A remote island that is a tourist stop from spring through fall, but only residents are allowed during the winter. The residents need to stock up on everything by Halloween for the freezing cold months ahead when deliveries are rare. Halloween is a big holiday there because it signifies more than ghosts and ghouls and trick or treating. As long as I had food including Este's pies, plenty of books, a cozy chair in front of the fireplace, my husband, and my dog I would be just fine until Spring.
Este is a novice amateur sleuth with a curious nature and she does make some bad decisions but she is a heck of a baker. Este looks in on her grandfather daily as he has retired from the diner. She works side by side with Seamus, who is an incredible chef. Her friend Kitty is the manager and part owner of her brother Tom's pub. She also used to be married to Seamus and now has a crush on Bruno, the owner of the grocery store. Rosie Lewicki is Este's other full-time employee. She was born and raised on the island and has only left once to go to Chicago. Marcel is her part-time server and Patty is the part-time cook. They usually handle the evening shift. Kitty's brother Tom not only owns the pub, he is also the sheriff on the island. We meet several other island residents too. With the large cast that was introduced in this book, we didn't get a lot of depth on any of them. They all have plenty of room to grow as the series continues.
The mystery was pretty straightforward. Este did find some things the sheriff had not known about but she took some major risks following clues. She was fortunate to have a little luck of her own. I had figured out most of the mystery before Este, the showdown tied up all the loose ends. I appreciated the author's descriptive writing style as she clearly set each scene. It was easy to imagine traveling around with Este all over the island.
Este does describe in detail everything she is making or baking much like Ellie Alexander's Jules in her Bakeshop Mysteries which means you will surely be craving pies, both sweet and savory as you read this story. You may want to plan ahead.
With just a hint of magic, characters with room to grow, a unique setting, an interesting mystery, and pie, lots of pie, A Pie To Die For was a delicious debut for this series. I am looking forward to reading the next Lucky Pie Mystery.
January 24, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 stars
[ thank you @netgalley for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own! ]
THOUGHTS:
Honestly, I loved this one. I can see it being a new favorite series of mine and it’s only book 1!
Set in Split Pine, Michigan, Este March runs her family-owned Lucky Pie Diner. On the last day of the season (the remote island is closed off to visitors) the new produce vendor winds up dead. Este helps solve the case to find out who did it and clear her name because the local sheriff suspects she was the last one to talk to the vendor. 🔍
I liked the island/town setting. I liked our main character, Este. I loved her diner and loved the magic with the pies, they are super special. She bakes two lucky pies everyday and doesn’t say which ones they are. Everyone wants a piece of the lucky one! ✨
And the constant food descriptions? I was dying to try some of the recipes! And guess what?! There are a bunch (8 to be exact) recipes in the back! I feel like I need to try my hand at baking a pie now. 😋
The mystery was good. It kept me guessing till the end. To say I was shocked was an understatement! Ha!
So add this book to your TBR because I think everyone needs to read this one! 🥧
[ thank you @netgalley for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own! ]
THOUGHTS:
Honestly, I loved this one. I can see it being a new favorite series of mine and it’s only book 1!
Set in Split Pine, Michigan, Este March runs her family-owned Lucky Pie Diner. On the last day of the season (the remote island is closed off to visitors) the new produce vendor winds up dead. Este helps solve the case to find out who did it and clear her name because the local sheriff suspects she was the last one to talk to the vendor. 🔍
I liked the island/town setting. I liked our main character, Este. I loved her diner and loved the magic with the pies, they are super special. She bakes two lucky pies everyday and doesn’t say which ones they are. Everyone wants a piece of the lucky one! ✨
And the constant food descriptions? I was dying to try some of the recipes! And guess what?! There are a bunch (8 to be exact) recipes in the back! I feel like I need to try my hand at baking a pie now. 😋
The mystery was good. It kept me guessing till the end. To say I was shocked was an understatement! Ha!
So add this book to your TBR because I think everyone needs to read this one! 🥧
November 19, 2023
Oh this was such a warm and cozy read. I remember having that "feel good" feeling while reading this one. the small island town setting was giving homey vibe and I loved that thing so much I guess that was my favorite part of all (well except the pies) and to me split pine felt like a place I'd like to settle in after retirement. The mystery wasn't really up to the mark like it was just meh even for a cozy mystery and the ending was absolutely disappointing. I guess I was just here for the vibes and feels so it didn't bother me as much as it usually would. But hey who cares if the mystery sucks at least I have those amazing pie recipes that I'm so going to try out. I have a feeling they're gonna turn out awesome. wish me luck guys!
May 18, 2024
Este is my new favorite character! Ok, so she makes delicious pies and runs diner, but she is also smart, witty and fixates on finding the truth! That makes her a perfect amateur sleuth in this new cozy mystery series! The author has woven a well-developed plot with ample twists and turns to keep you guessing and yes, you will also be hoping the guilty party is the town bully, but make sure you follow the clues or you just might miss an important one along the way! Great character development throughout the community and cast of characters to draw you into this small community and make you feel like one of them rather than a reader of a story! This book has the makings of a great series and I personally can't wait to see where the author takes us next!
The audiobook has outstanding narration so I highly recommend putting this series on your must listen list! Let's just hope the author brings us many more books to listen too and soon!!!
The audiobook has outstanding narration so I highly recommend putting this series on your must listen list! Let's just hope the author brings us many more books to listen too and soon!!!
October 26, 2023
I loved this little island and all its residents and especially loved Este. I thought it was very intriguing how she was running a pie speciality themed restaurant and it has a little ’magic’ to it.
This was a very good mystery and I had no idea who did it. I was totally shocked at the end!
I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Thank you NetGalley for opportunity to read and review this ARC all opinions are my own.
This was a very good mystery and I had no idea who did it. I was totally shocked at the end!
I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Thank you NetGalley for opportunity to read and review this ARC all opinions are my own.
October 16, 2023
First, a big thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read and review!
I do love a good cozy mystery. A cozy mystery with recipes? Even better!
A Pie to Die For is a great introduction to the Lucky Pie Diner and all the citizens of Split Pine Island. Este March runs the family diner and as the tourists are leaving the island, everyone starts to hunker down for the quiet season ahead. Expecting their normal winter shipment, she id surprised to find a new produce rep who has rubbed everyone the wrong way. When he is found dead the next day, Este finds herself worried about clearing not only her name, but wondering who on the island could be capable of murder. Too bad her lucky pies don't work as well for her.
There are a few little pacing issues we can usually find with any first novel is a series, but I don't think it's a huge issue. We have multiple characters that will be exciting to learn more about as things move along. Also, fo as much as we hear stories about the lucky pies, it never feels right we don't see them play out in the actual story. Parts of it feel like we get more background than current action which, again may be part of getting footing in.
I will say the jump a few minutes toward the end felt a bit odd. I do get it's the winter months and no tourists, but I always worry about how cutting so far ahead and impact so many relationships. In this case, what felt like it could have been a week or two was three months ahead. Again, may be a bit picky, but I look forward to see more about the residents of Split Pine Island.
I do love a good cozy mystery. A cozy mystery with recipes? Even better!
A Pie to Die For is a great introduction to the Lucky Pie Diner and all the citizens of Split Pine Island. Este March runs the family diner and as the tourists are leaving the island, everyone starts to hunker down for the quiet season ahead. Expecting their normal winter shipment, she id surprised to find a new produce rep who has rubbed everyone the wrong way. When he is found dead the next day, Este finds herself worried about clearing not only her name, but wondering who on the island could be capable of murder. Too bad her lucky pies don't work as well for her.
There are a few little pacing issues we can usually find with any first novel is a series, but I don't think it's a huge issue. We have multiple characters that will be exciting to learn more about as things move along. Also, fo as much as we hear stories about the lucky pies, it never feels right we don't see them play out in the actual story. Parts of it feel like we get more background than current action which, again may be part of getting footing in.
I will say the jump a few minutes toward the end felt a bit odd. I do get it's the winter months and no tourists, but I always worry about how cutting so far ahead and impact so many relationships. In this case, what felt like it could have been a week or two was three months ahead. Again, may be a bit picky, but I look forward to see more about the residents of Split Pine Island.
March 2, 2024
It was good read but the mystery seems to have taken a back seat to the descriptions of the recipes. I will try the next since this was first in series but I enjoyed her Witches’ Brew mysteries a lot more
February 8, 2024
A Cozy Mystery featuring magical pies? 100% yes! 🥧
Welcome to the Lucky Pie Diner, where the coffee is hot, the company is great and the pies are magical! With tourist season winding down in the idyllic town of Split Pine, Este is busy baking pies and running her family diner. One morning everything changes after a heated exchange, missing produce and a 💀 body leaves the town reeling, her business in jeopardy and herself at the top of the suspect list! Putting on her sleuthing cap Este must sift through the clues, stir up some suspects and rise to the occasion to save her family’s legacy and clear her name!
🥧 Magical Pies
🔍 Amateur Sleuth
📚 Cozy Mystery
🏡 Small Town
🐾 Purrfect Feline
🫶 Friendship
📋 Recipes Included
I have loved every cozy mystery Gretchen Rue has released and A Pie to Die For is no exception! Deliciously funny, mysteriously magical and purrfectly cozy - 10/10 recommend!
Method Read: 📖
Thank you Crooked Lane Books for the ARC!
February 6, 2024
This book started what seems like it’ll be a fun series with a little touch of magic. I really love the setting and the similarity to another famous Upper Peninsula island with no cars, just horses and this island had golf carts. I liked Este and her best bud Kitty as well as Grampy, once we finally got to meet him that is lol. Tom was a good and fair sheriff, and I really hope he and Este can become an official couple.
I would’ve never guessed what was going on as the reason for an outsider’s murder, and while the showdown was tense, Este was also smart about it so it was pretty short once all the details were told by the killer. Once I was done with this book, I was really wishing for some caramel apple pie lol.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book, and my opinions are my own.
I would’ve never guessed what was going on as the reason for an outsider’s murder, and while the showdown was tense, Este was also smart about it so it was pretty short once all the details were told by the killer. Once I was done with this book, I was really wishing for some caramel apple pie lol.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book, and my opinions are my own.
March 14, 2024
This is this first book in a new cozy mystery series. Este March runs the Lucky Pie Diner on Split Pine Island in Northern Michigan. The pies have a little extra luck baked into them, an ability Este inherited from her mother and grandmother.
A Pie to Die For is delightfully warm and cozy with just enough of the murder mystery added in to make it interesting. I loved the setting of this book, and Este is a likable character.I can't wait to see where this series takes her.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
A Pie to Die For is delightfully warm and cozy with just enough of the murder mystery added in to make it interesting. I loved the setting of this book, and Este is a likable character.I can't wait to see where this series takes her.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
February 9, 2024
Good start to a new series. I found the setting of a remote island interesting; the prepper in me finds it both enticing and a little scary (I like access to Amazon deliveries). The mystery itself was intriguing but this moved pretty slowly and wasn’t overly exciting. There was a lot of baking (step-by-step), which took me out of the story a few times. And there were a few of the dreaded TSTL moments (way too many for my taste). I will read the next one and will reserve judgment on if I continue with the series then.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for an honest review.
December 16, 2023
I think this book is just ok. I enjoyed the mystery part but it feels like the dialogue is really focused how much people are focused on the “lucky” pie. The explanation of how the magic happens is given many times. The people are always asking if they got the lucky pie, and how do they get one, how it is made etc. Also what kind of pies are made..… There’s also a lot of focus on how isolated the island is, how people are in fear, how hard it is to get fresh produce. It takes away from the whole mystery, investigating, even the personalities of the characters. I think the reason for everything is kind of lame, and is short and unexpected like the author wasn’t sure how to end it and just threw it in. #APietoDieFor #NetGalley
April 17, 2024
A Pie To Die For
Gretchen Rue
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved it. A great start to a new series by a great author. My January has been crazy but I loved snuggling up at night & being part of Split Pine before drifting off to sleep. Este has a good community and I loved the little bit of magic "luck" that was woven into the pies. This definitely is a place I would visit and I hope to be able to get to know the characters even better with more books.
Gretchen Rue
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved it. A great start to a new series by a great author. My January has been crazy but I loved snuggling up at night & being part of Split Pine before drifting off to sleep. Este has a good community and I loved the little bit of magic "luck" that was woven into the pies. This definitely is a place I would visit and I hope to be able to get to know the characters even better with more books.
November 23, 2023
Charming cozy debut set on an island in Northern Michigan just as the tourist season ends for the year and the full-time residents ready themselves for the long cold winter. Este March runs the Lucky Pie Diner whose pies sometimes seem to include real luck. Series has great potential with a strong cast of supporting characters waiting to play larger roles as the series develops. Lots of cooking descriptions and recipes in the tradition of Joanna Fluke and Diane Mott Davidson. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2024
A Pie To Die For is the perfect, cozy little murder mystery novel!
The novel follows Este, a woman who works in the family-owned Lucky Pie Diner in Split Pine, a sleepy island town off the upper peninsula of Michigan. The pies at Lucky Pie Diner are magical, fulfilling the dreams of the customers who eat them. This seems like a cute magical realism novel, until a murder is committed at the end of tourist season and the sheriff suspects Este, the last known person to see the victim alive. Obviously not the murderer, Este takes the investigation into her own hands and (of course!) mischief ensues.
This book has all my favorite things when it comes to the cozy genre. We've got fall vibes, a family owned small business, a sleepy lake town, gossiping neighbors, and a touch of romance. All in all, the whole book felt a bit like an episode of Gilmore Girls if Gilmore Girls had a whodunit murder mystery episode. It was full of charm and easy to like characters. All in all, A Pie To Die For is the perfect, easy to read book to curl up with after a long day.
Read if you like:
- cozy mysteries
- beautiful, descriptive cooking/baking scenes
- charming side characters
- low stakes
- Gilmore Girls
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing an advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
The novel follows Este, a woman who works in the family-owned Lucky Pie Diner in Split Pine, a sleepy island town off the upper peninsula of Michigan. The pies at Lucky Pie Diner are magical, fulfilling the dreams of the customers who eat them. This seems like a cute magical realism novel, until a murder is committed at the end of tourist season and the sheriff suspects Este, the last known person to see the victim alive. Obviously not the murderer, Este takes the investigation into her own hands and (of course!) mischief ensues.
This book has all my favorite things when it comes to the cozy genre. We've got fall vibes, a family owned small business, a sleepy lake town, gossiping neighbors, and a touch of romance. All in all, the whole book felt a bit like an episode of Gilmore Girls if Gilmore Girls had a whodunit murder mystery episode. It was full of charm and easy to like characters. All in all, A Pie To Die For is the perfect, easy to read book to curl up with after a long day.
Read if you like:
- cozy mysteries
- beautiful, descriptive cooking/baking scenes
- charming side characters
- low stakes
- Gilmore Girls
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing an advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 26, 2023
This is such a perfect start to a new cozy series. The island of Split Pine is the ideal location for a murder mystery, quaint & cut off for the season. I loved Este! She’s bright & a very strong lead to carry the whole story. Rue’s writing is everything you could want, rich, descriptive & well thought out. The Lucky Pie Diner is a true gem of an idea, the kind other writers will wish they had come up with. The mystery itself was a really well thought out one, I wasn’t sure who the guilty party was & the ending was tied up nicely. I can only hope there will be more books in the future. This is a definite recommend.
Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC of this book for an honest review.
Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC of this book for an honest review.
March 14, 2024
Rating: 3.5 stars
This was a cute start to a new series. It was a straightforward mystery and interesting characters.
What I enjoyed:
*I loved the Island in Michigan, especially as it’s shutting down for the winter after a busy summer season.
*Baking and food descriptions
What I’d like more of:
*The magic pies. They were only mention briefly. I’d love to know more about them.
This was a cute start to a new series. It was a straightforward mystery and interesting characters.
What I enjoyed:
*I loved the Island in Michigan, especially as it’s shutting down for the winter after a busy summer season.
*Baking and food descriptions
What I’d like more of:
*The magic pies. They were only mention briefly. I’d love to know more about them.
March 26, 2024
I enjoyed this debut cozy mystery. The remote island in northern Michigan is a great setting for a mystery. The characters are interesting and entertaining. As with most debut we are just getting to know the characters so I would like to see some more character development in future books. The mystery is well-plotted with plenty of twists and turns.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, I have not been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, I have not been influenced by anyone.
October 25, 2023
The book introduces us to Este March, who has a gift. She's the owner of The Lucky Pie Diner, where magic exists. But she has the little problem of not being able to keep her nose in her own business, so she ends up trying to solve a murder.
The story is a cozy mystery, perfect for the season, with an entertaining writing style. The whole time I was trying to guess what would happen and I never guessed, It made me laugh and I was also surprised to find it had a *little* hint of romance in the perfect amount.
I would warn the readers that if they can't stand a lot of descriptions, this is not a book for them. In my case, I found it sometimes repetitive, but I still love it cause it has a fast pace and I enjoyed the pie descriptions, I can't wait to make my own with one of the recipes at the end. I just wish the *lucky* pies had a little bit more relevance.
To end, I would add it has ADHD representation, but don't read it if you think that would be the main focus or if you expect a big explanation. Este is just been Este, and I love that.
(Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this book.)
The story is a cozy mystery, perfect for the season, with an entertaining writing style. The whole time I was trying to guess what would happen and I never guessed, It made me laugh and I was also surprised to find it had a *little* hint of romance in the perfect amount.
I would warn the readers that if they can't stand a lot of descriptions, this is not a book for them. In my case, I found it sometimes repetitive, but I still love it cause it has a fast pace and I enjoyed the pie descriptions, I can't wait to make my own with one of the recipes at the end. I just wish the *lucky* pies had a little bit more relevance.
To end, I would add it has ADHD representation, but don't read it if you think that would be the main focus or if you expect a big explanation. Este is just been Este, and I love that.
(Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this book.)
June 1, 2024
This was a fabulous first in series. The setting an island in Lake Michigan. It is very remote, and I can't imagine being that incredibly isolated, but I enjoyed reading about it, and seeing how Este and her friends manage. Este runs the Lucky Pie Diner on Split Pine Island. In the summer, the island flourishes with tourists, but in the winter, the population is reduced to a couple of hundred long standing residents. Este comes from a long line of women who infuse magic in to their pies. People flock to Este's diner for a chance to get a magical pie.
The setting is at the end of the season when the island is shutting down. Este's regular produce guy is replaced by someone new who threatens to price gouge Este and the other local businesses. Este and the man have words and Este becomes a prime suspect when he is found dead.
There were ceratain nuances I really enjoyed about this book. One of them was Smokey the cat and his offspring. I also enjoyed Este's friends and her grandpa.
I will definitely be reading another in this series. Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an ARC of this book.
The setting is at the end of the season when the island is shutting down. Este's regular produce guy is replaced by someone new who threatens to price gouge Este and the other local businesses. Este and the man have words and Este becomes a prime suspect when he is found dead.
There were ceratain nuances I really enjoyed about this book. One of them was Smokey the cat and his offspring. I also enjoyed Este's friends and her grandpa.
I will definitely be reading another in this series. Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an ARC of this book.
December 5, 2023
If you live in a popular tourist destination, it can sometimes get a bit overcrowded. For six months of the year, Split Pine Island's population explodes, but on the 1st of November, everyone who isn't a permanent resident leaves and peace returns for the cold and snowy winter months.
For Este March, who runs her family's popular Lucky Pie Diner, business is so good in the warmer months that she can afford to serve just locals the rest of the year. Unfortunately, as she prepares to open for her first quieter day, she learns a body has been found, and, even worse, she is the local sheriff's prime suspect! With no visitors left, the killer has to be someone she knows, but who? Determined to prove her innocence, Este begins her own investigation, but can she find out whodunnit before her reputation and that of her diner are in tatters?
The first in a new series, this had a good mystery, but for me, there was far too much other stuff! Without spoilers, it's difficult to go into detail, but there is one thread that could potentially be a good storyline for a follow-up book by itself. My biggest problem however, was the amount of detail included on how almost everything in the diner was made until it got to the point that I just didn't care about any of the soups or pies available, even the magic ones! That said, I didn't guess the culprit, which is always a plus point. There are recipes at the end of the book, which do look lovely.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Crooked Lane Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. I love the author's Witches Brew Mystery Series (I gave book 2 five stars), but unfortunately, this isn't for me.
For Este March, who runs her family's popular Lucky Pie Diner, business is so good in the warmer months that she can afford to serve just locals the rest of the year. Unfortunately, as she prepares to open for her first quieter day, she learns a body has been found, and, even worse, she is the local sheriff's prime suspect! With no visitors left, the killer has to be someone she knows, but who? Determined to prove her innocence, Este begins her own investigation, but can she find out whodunnit before her reputation and that of her diner are in tatters?
The first in a new series, this had a good mystery, but for me, there was far too much other stuff! Without spoilers, it's difficult to go into detail, but there is one thread that could potentially be a good storyline for a follow-up book by itself. My biggest problem however, was the amount of detail included on how almost everything in the diner was made until it got to the point that I just didn't care about any of the soups or pies available, even the magic ones! That said, I didn't guess the culprit, which is always a plus point. There are recipes at the end of the book, which do look lovely.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Crooked Lane Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. I love the author's Witches Brew Mystery Series (I gave book 2 five stars), but unfortunately, this isn't for me.
November 17, 2023
I received a free copy from the publisher through Netgalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
I liked the first two books in Gretchen Rue's other cozy mystery series, so I was excited when I heard about this new series and didn't hesitate to request it when I saw it on Netgalley. A Pie to Die For is an awesome start to this new series, it's set on an island in Michigan and the main character runs a diner for which she bakes the pies, both sweet and savory. There is a hint of magic, but it's really only a little touch and reads like a cozy mystery instead of a paranormal cozy mystery.
My favorite parts of this book were probably reading about Este, all the baking she did, her daily life, how she gets a kitten and gets involved in the mystery. As well as reading about the island setting. There was just something so cozy and comforting about this book and it really embodied that cozy vibe. I already look forward to returning to the island.
The mystery was a solid one too, it kept me guessing and I felt like there were enough clues to point to something bigger, but it wasn't obvious what had happened. Este is quite focused on one suspect and I wished she would broaden her suspicious, but at the same time I could see why she suspected this person. I liked seeing how it all played and I liked how Este stayed involved and how her personality was in such a way that it made sense why she couldn't let it go. I liked that as it gives her a very internal reason to get involved, as well as the external reasons of how she is questioned and is afraid she might be a suspect. The wrap up was done well, although I usually prefer it if the main character actually solved the crime instead of the villain revealing it.
Besides the mystery there was plenty of Este's daily life on the island. I really liked getting to know Este and reading about her life, from the pie baking, to her interacting with friends and family and to how she ran the diner. The island setting worked really well and gave the mystery a bit of a locked room vibe, while at the same time being a very cosy and unique setting for a cozy mystery. There is a hint of romance as well. And a cute kitten that joins Este in her house.
To summarize: This was an awesome start to this new series. I liked reading about Este and her daily life, it was so fun to read about her pie making skills and the other food she makes as well as how she runs the diner and seeing her interact with friends and family. The island made for a fun and cosy setting. The mystery was a solid one and there were enough clues and hints to keep me invested without the culprit being clear. Este had a clear reason for getting involved and I liked her determination to solve the mystery. I liked the reveal and it made sense when everything came together, although I wished Este had figured it out instead of the villain revealing things. All in all I really enjoyed this book, it felt very cosy and comforting and I already look forward to returning to the island and reading more about Este.
I liked the first two books in Gretchen Rue's other cozy mystery series, so I was excited when I heard about this new series and didn't hesitate to request it when I saw it on Netgalley. A Pie to Die For is an awesome start to this new series, it's set on an island in Michigan and the main character runs a diner for which she bakes the pies, both sweet and savory. There is a hint of magic, but it's really only a little touch and reads like a cozy mystery instead of a paranormal cozy mystery.
My favorite parts of this book were probably reading about Este, all the baking she did, her daily life, how she gets a kitten and gets involved in the mystery. As well as reading about the island setting. There was just something so cozy and comforting about this book and it really embodied that cozy vibe. I already look forward to returning to the island.
The mystery was a solid one too, it kept me guessing and I felt like there were enough clues to point to something bigger, but it wasn't obvious what had happened. Este is quite focused on one suspect and I wished she would broaden her suspicious, but at the same time I could see why she suspected this person. I liked seeing how it all played and I liked how Este stayed involved and how her personality was in such a way that it made sense why she couldn't let it go. I liked that as it gives her a very internal reason to get involved, as well as the external reasons of how she is questioned and is afraid she might be a suspect. The wrap up was done well, although I usually prefer it if the main character actually solved the crime instead of the villain revealing it.
Besides the mystery there was plenty of Este's daily life on the island. I really liked getting to know Este and reading about her life, from the pie baking, to her interacting with friends and family and to how she ran the diner. The island setting worked really well and gave the mystery a bit of a locked room vibe, while at the same time being a very cosy and unique setting for a cozy mystery. There is a hint of romance as well. And a cute kitten that joins Este in her house.
To summarize: This was an awesome start to this new series. I liked reading about Este and her daily life, it was so fun to read about her pie making skills and the other food she makes as well as how she runs the diner and seeing her interact with friends and family. The island made for a fun and cosy setting. The mystery was a solid one and there were enough clues and hints to keep me invested without the culprit being clear. Este had a clear reason for getting involved and I liked her determination to solve the mystery. I liked the reveal and it made sense when everything came together, although I wished Este had figured it out instead of the villain revealing things. All in all I really enjoyed this book, it felt very cosy and comforting and I already look forward to returning to the island and reading more about Este.
April 8, 2024
Magical Pies that change lives are you kidding me? YES.
Now, i may be biased because I live in the Midwest and I’ve visited Mackinac Island and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula before, but this novel felt so immersive to me. I felt like I was sitting at a table in this diner drinking coffee and eating a piece of pie, or taking a bowl of chowder outside to watch the boats on the lake. The fictional diner, The Lucky Pie Diner, in this book, really embodies the unique unassuming atmosphere of the diners and cafes I’ve been to in the Upper Peninsula. It may not be the most glamorous place you’ve ever seen, but the food is going to be really tasty. I think that brings a lot of authenticity to this book.
Honestly not every cozy mystery with a cute town grabs my fancy, a lot of times the town is 2-dimensional or the locals are *too* sweet/cute. The fictional island of Split Pine is a memorable one. Its local characters are quirky and well fleshed out. It kind of feels like a Gilmore girls town except in Michigan so its citizens are a bit more rugged and salt of the earth.
Este is a great amateur sleuth & main character. She’s carrying on her family’s traditions and she gets great pride out of her business. She’s also annoyed by a lot of people and tells everyone about it , which was very relatable and funny. She’s spunky and gosh darn it she’s got heart lol.
I hope there’s more books in this series coming! I would definitely return to Split Pine for another mystery, and I hope we see more of that intriguing sheriff. The magic lucky pies were really a fun twist, because they don’t magically find the murderer or serve any lazy plot device. Instead the lucky pies are like the icing on top of a cinnamon bun or a slice of cherry pie after a good meal - wonderful, but subtle enough to not overpower the main attraction.
Cheers to Gretchen Rue on a wonderful mystery, may we all find that our next slice of pie is lucky🍀
Now, i may be biased because I live in the Midwest and I’ve visited Mackinac Island and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula before, but this novel felt so immersive to me. I felt like I was sitting at a table in this diner drinking coffee and eating a piece of pie, or taking a bowl of chowder outside to watch the boats on the lake. The fictional diner, The Lucky Pie Diner, in this book, really embodies the unique unassuming atmosphere of the diners and cafes I’ve been to in the Upper Peninsula. It may not be the most glamorous place you’ve ever seen, but the food is going to be really tasty. I think that brings a lot of authenticity to this book.
Honestly not every cozy mystery with a cute town grabs my fancy, a lot of times the town is 2-dimensional or the locals are *too* sweet/cute. The fictional island of Split Pine is a memorable one. Its local characters are quirky and well fleshed out. It kind of feels like a Gilmore girls town except in Michigan so its citizens are a bit more rugged and salt of the earth.
Este is a great amateur sleuth & main character. She’s carrying on her family’s traditions and she gets great pride out of her business. She’s also annoyed by a lot of people and tells everyone about it , which was very relatable and funny. She’s spunky and gosh darn it she’s got heart lol.
I hope there’s more books in this series coming! I would definitely return to Split Pine for another mystery, and I hope we see more of that intriguing sheriff. The magic lucky pies were really a fun twist, because they don’t magically find the murderer or serve any lazy plot device. Instead the lucky pies are like the icing on top of a cinnamon bun or a slice of cherry pie after a good meal - wonderful, but subtle enough to not overpower the main attraction.
Cheers to Gretchen Rue on a wonderful mystery, may we all find that our next slice of pie is lucky🍀
October 8, 2023
What a great setting for a cosy series! Split Pine Island is a tourist island in Michigan, no cars are allowed on the island, and they basically close up shop on November 1st, shut down all of the tourist hotspots and go dormant. Unfortunately, a murderer did not get the message. Este March runs the local diner (where she makes magical pies btw), and was the last person to see the new fruit delivery man alive. Este needs to clear her name, so she embarks on a pretty sloppy investigation with her best friend, who also happens to be the sister of the handsome local sheriff. A Pie to Die For checks all of the important cosy boxes, including the cats.
June 9, 2025
There was soo much going on with this cozy that it ended up missing the mark for me. For me there was a lack of character development in regards to the main character. I feel like really getting to know them is crucial in a cozy series, since they usually aren’t just one book. I also felt like I never knew what direction we were trying to go here either. Is it a magic cozy, is it a romance cozy, or is it a cult-ish cozy..?
I’m well aware this is fiction, HOWEVER, this was so out of reality that it was difficult to be fully invested.
I’m well aware this is fiction, HOWEVER, this was so out of reality that it was difficult to be fully invested.
January 5, 2025
Characters ⭐️
Setting ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot ⭐️⭐️
Reading experience ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emotional impact ⭐️
Total Average: ⭐️⭐️
I kept some of the pie recipes in the back, and I loved the description of the pie baking, though they felt more important than the actual whodunit plot.
I hated the use of “darn” “darnest” and “stupider” - and a typo in publishing.
Setting ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot ⭐️⭐️
Reading experience ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emotional impact ⭐️
Total Average: ⭐️⭐️
I kept some of the pie recipes in the back, and I loved the description of the pie baking, though they felt more important than the actual whodunit plot.
I hated the use of “darn” “darnest” and “stupider” - and a typo in publishing.
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