What do you think?
Rate this book
Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries #2
Hard Dough Homicide
Spice Isle Bakery owner Lyndsay Murray is always looking for new ways to grow her family's business. But she already regrets agreeing to host the retirement dinner for local high-school principal Emily Smith. The tyrant used to be her mother's boss, and they did not get along. Six guests arrive for the celebration, but only five survive. Emily starts convulsing, right after eating the curry chicken, and dies soon after. It's not long before the police are knocking on Spice Isle's door, bringing the Murray family back into the heart of another murder investigation, driving away customers in the process. Lyndsay can't help but wonder if this is the end of the bakery, even though it's just begun. She must put aside her reservations about investigating another crime, because the Murrays refuse to go down without a fight.
Audio CD
First published May 23, 2023
29 people are currently reading
1339 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Matthews
21 books243 followersOlivia Matthews is a pseudonym for Patricia Sargeant.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 242 reviews
April 14, 2023
"Anything that can go wrong will go wrong.” Murphy’s Law
Spice Isle Bakery is in its second month of operation. Business has been doing extremely well. Even after that scandalous murder investigation the month prior. Thanks to part owner, full time baker, and amateur sleuth Lyndsay Murray.
So when the bakery is yet again involved in another investigation into the murder occurring on bakery premises, Lyndsay leads the charge to save not only her mother’s reputation, but the bakery’s reputation as well.
Hard Dough Homicide is the second book in the Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries. Even though it is the second installment, it is possible to read as a standalone since enough background information is provided for a seamless flow.
The characters are cute with personalities that reflect their Carribean roots. And being a cozy mystery, the amateur sleuth is the no nonsense type woman surrounded by wannabe detectives.
The plot follows a whodunit theme. But unlike other adrenaline filled mysteries, it is a little slow. But that’s what cozy mysteries are. It’s all about the journey and atmosphere. And Hard Dough Homicide will take the reader on a tasty journey full of Carribean atmosphere. Four tasteful stars.
I received a digital ARC from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
Spice Isle Bakery is in its second month of operation. Business has been doing extremely well. Even after that scandalous murder investigation the month prior. Thanks to part owner, full time baker, and amateur sleuth Lyndsay Murray.
So when the bakery is yet again involved in another investigation into the murder occurring on bakery premises, Lyndsay leads the charge to save not only her mother’s reputation, but the bakery’s reputation as well.
Hard Dough Homicide is the second book in the Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries. Even though it is the second installment, it is possible to read as a standalone since enough background information is provided for a seamless flow.
The characters are cute with personalities that reflect their Carribean roots. And being a cozy mystery, the amateur sleuth is the no nonsense type woman surrounded by wannabe detectives.
The plot follows a whodunit theme. But unlike other adrenaline filled mysteries, it is a little slow. But that’s what cozy mysteries are. It’s all about the journey and atmosphere. And Hard Dough Homicide will take the reader on a tasty journey full of Carribean atmosphere. Four tasteful stars.
I received a digital ARC from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 31, 2023
NetGalley ARC.
When reading this, I remembered something about the first book that irked me too, it's so repetitive. And why do I care that everything in the bakery is blond wood? And Lyndsay is STILL talking about being bullied in high school. Get. Over. It. Also, this bakery serves a lot more than baked goods, it should just be a restaurant.
When reading this, I remembered something about the first book that irked me too, it's so repetitive. And why do I care that everything in the bakery is blond wood? And Lyndsay is STILL talking about being bullied in high school. Get. Over. It. Also, this bakery serves a lot more than baked goods, it should just be a restaurant.
June 4, 2023
Dollycas's Thoughts
The newly opened Spice Isle Bakery has weathered one murder investigation and the last thing they need is another.
After declining to cater a retirement dinner for Lyndsay's mother's awful former boss several times, Lyndsay finally quoted an astronomical price hoping they will finally move on to someone else. She is shocked when the woman's assistant accepts and signs the contract. The guests arrive and appear to be as unhappy to be there as Lyndsey and her family are unhappy to host the event.
Dinner is served and within moments the guest of honor is dead - right after taking a bite of the curry chicken. Soon the police are collecting all the food and questioning Lyndsay and her family. They decide Lyndsay's mom is their prime suspect which frightens away most of the bakery's customers. Lyndsay knows to save her mother and their business she has to solve the mystery of who killed the mean high school principal and fast.
___
The Murray family is close-knit, all owning the bakery with Lyndsay owning the majority because it was her dream. Her parents do most of the baking and cooking while her grandmother helps Lyndsay serve the customers. She also helps out in the kitchen and is giving Lyndsay baking tutorials to help her bake all the restaurant's specialties. Her brother takes time from his job of being a lawyer to help out wherever he can. He's also very involved when police target his family. All the characters have grown since the first book. I really appreciate learning about their culture and how family means everything to them. The way they start every day in prayer before opening the bakery's doors is heartwarming.
I really enjoy the setting of Brooklyn's Little Caribbean neighborhood. The Murrays have a lot of support with the exception of a certain committee. I admired the way Lyndsay handled the situation with that committee. She also was more assertive when it came to dealing with a certain detective. The Lyndsay at the start of the first book would have acted much differently.
Knowing the wonderful Murray family had nothing to do with high school principal Emily Smith's death leaves the table of guests as suspects and they all appear to have motive, means, and opportunity. The victim was cruel to everyone, but who would have the nerve to kill her? It was great the way the whole extended family comes together to talk over theories and work through ways to get to the truth. Some are kinda crazy but everyone's heart is in the right place. I had fun trying to solve the mystery myself but I was led astray and focused in the wrong direction. I loved the reveal and showdown. Lyndsay was in fine form. I wanted to reach into the book and give her a high five.
Hard Dough Homicide is a strong character-driven cozy mystery. I enjoy the way Ms. Matthews tells a story. The theme is fresh, the characters are interesting and entertaining. She uses humor in all the right places and there may be a romance, even a triangle, on the horizon. I am looking forward to visiting the Murrays and the Spice Isle Bakery again soon. Coconut Drop Dead is set to be released in December.
The newly opened Spice Isle Bakery has weathered one murder investigation and the last thing they need is another.
After declining to cater a retirement dinner for Lyndsay's mother's awful former boss several times, Lyndsay finally quoted an astronomical price hoping they will finally move on to someone else. She is shocked when the woman's assistant accepts and signs the contract. The guests arrive and appear to be as unhappy to be there as Lyndsey and her family are unhappy to host the event.
Dinner is served and within moments the guest of honor is dead - right after taking a bite of the curry chicken. Soon the police are collecting all the food and questioning Lyndsay and her family. They decide Lyndsay's mom is their prime suspect which frightens away most of the bakery's customers. Lyndsay knows to save her mother and their business she has to solve the mystery of who killed the mean high school principal and fast.
___
The Murray family is close-knit, all owning the bakery with Lyndsay owning the majority because it was her dream. Her parents do most of the baking and cooking while her grandmother helps Lyndsay serve the customers. She also helps out in the kitchen and is giving Lyndsay baking tutorials to help her bake all the restaurant's specialties. Her brother takes time from his job of being a lawyer to help out wherever he can. He's also very involved when police target his family. All the characters have grown since the first book. I really appreciate learning about their culture and how family means everything to them. The way they start every day in prayer before opening the bakery's doors is heartwarming.
I really enjoy the setting of Brooklyn's Little Caribbean neighborhood. The Murrays have a lot of support with the exception of a certain committee. I admired the way Lyndsay handled the situation with that committee. She also was more assertive when it came to dealing with a certain detective. The Lyndsay at the start of the first book would have acted much differently.
Knowing the wonderful Murray family had nothing to do with high school principal Emily Smith's death leaves the table of guests as suspects and they all appear to have motive, means, and opportunity. The victim was cruel to everyone, but who would have the nerve to kill her? It was great the way the whole extended family comes together to talk over theories and work through ways to get to the truth. Some are kinda crazy but everyone's heart is in the right place. I had fun trying to solve the mystery myself but I was led astray and focused in the wrong direction. I loved the reveal and showdown. Lyndsay was in fine form. I wanted to reach into the book and give her a high five.
Hard Dough Homicide is a strong character-driven cozy mystery. I enjoy the way Ms. Matthews tells a story. The theme is fresh, the characters are interesting and entertaining. She uses humor in all the right places and there may be a romance, even a triangle, on the horizon. I am looking forward to visiting the Murrays and the Spice Isle Bakery again soon. Coconut Drop Dead is set to be released in December.
January 10, 2024
Lyndsay Murray has a lot more on her plate besides running the bakery she owns, she also plunges headfirst into solving a murder yet again. The last time her new bakery, located in Little Caribbean in Brooklyn, catered an event, a man died. This time around, she has been hired to cater a retirement dinner for a retiring school principal, Emily Smith. This does not please her mother as she worked under the Emily and they had a contentious relationship.
In fact, with only five guests invited to this dinner, it becomes more than apparent that none of them like Emily either. Dinner is served, and shortly afterwards Emily drops dead. Since it was more than apparent that Lyndsay's mother utterly disliked Emily, she becomes the prime suspect. Having had great success in solving a murder previously, she proves determined to prove her mother's innocence, and to find the killer herself.
Lyndsay's family has a lot of faith in her finding the means, motive and opportunity to commit the murder. Despite running headlong into the detective in charge, Bryce, Lyndsay is growing more fond of him as time goes on. This was an excellent second book in an already delightful series by Olivia Matthews.
Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
In fact, with only five guests invited to this dinner, it becomes more than apparent that none of them like Emily either. Dinner is served, and shortly afterwards Emily drops dead. Since it was more than apparent that Lyndsay's mother utterly disliked Emily, she becomes the prime suspect. Having had great success in solving a murder previously, she proves determined to prove her mother's innocence, and to find the killer herself.
Lyndsay's family has a lot of faith in her finding the means, motive and opportunity to commit the murder. Despite running headlong into the detective in charge, Bryce, Lyndsay is growing more fond of him as time goes on. This was an excellent second book in an already delightful series by Olivia Matthews.
Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
August 6, 2024
A somewhat decent mystery - though lacking in comparison to the first book - that was torpedoed by its protagonist.
Lyndsay was absolutely insufferable. Her entire character revolved around being needlessly rude and purposely obtuse.
Bryce - the kind of love interest from the first book who was one of the detectives on the case - returns in this one once more as the detective. Despite telling her constantly (and I mean, every single time he talks to her ) that he has to follow procedure, that he doesn't really think her mother committed the murder, that his boss is the one keeping her on the list of suspects, Lyndsay just refused to be reasonable.
It was infuriating how she'd take on this superior attitude like 'I could never be involved with a man who accused my mother of murder' when that's literally not what happened at all?
This man has a job to do. If he or his partner don't do their due diligence, that puts their livelihoods on the line. Plus it actually would hurt her mother's case if they removed her early as the opposition could come down hard on her later in the process or it could look like favoritism considering their friendly-ish relationship to one another. He never ‘accuses’ her mother of anything. She’s simply a suspect because she was literally at the scene of the crime and not only has motive, she has means as well.
I'm not saying Lyndsay has to like the situation or him. I couldn’t date the lead investigator on an investigation that could pin a murder on my mother either. But, I do expect her to actually listen to what people tell her and not operate off of something she has made up in her own mind. Especially when she is the only one acting so childishly.
Her mother and grandmother at separate occasions not even in ear shot of one another both say that the man is only doing his job. Yet for whatever reason she is taking the whole experience personally as if Bryce is specifically singling her family out when that is so obviously not true.
Again, she could be mad at the situation. Heck, she could even have misplaced anger towards Bryce because he is the face of her worst nightmare. But the key word here is misplaced.
I don’t think the author intends for you to think Lyndsay is actually reasonable - mostly because the groundwork is being laid for Lyndsay to date Bryce in the future. Even so, Bryce deserved an apology and Lyndsay should actively have acknowledged she was blowing things out of proportion. There are fewer things that burn me up more than fully grown adults dodging accountability like toddlers.
There's also a lot of allusion to the police not really doing their job which I found irritating.
I'm all for ACAB but this book didn't actually give me any reason to believe they weren't doing their jobs. Since Bryce is a love interest the police can't be made out to be too incompetent or else he wouldn't be viable. Except without any cartoonish evil or ineptitude, I was left feeling like the police were getting an unfair rep.
If the police are actually doing their jobs to the best of their ability then that means they have a set procedure to follow which the police in this book are actively abiding by. And if they’re actively, conscientiously putting in the work then why are they being villainized?
More than that by not following procedure Lyndsay - as an amateur simply blustering through - is putting the entire operation at risk because her lack of tact means that the potential murderer will obviously be tipped off. Lyndsay’s first order of business whenever she investigates a person is to simply tell that person what she knows in an attempt to force their hand to tell her more, but that’s so silly since assuming this person is the murderer she’s providing them further intel to cover their tracks better.
I was disappointed with the revelation of the murderer. I would have much preferred if .
I’m in my Black cozy mystery era right now so having read like 6 in a week and a half, all the complaints I have are applicable for the genre as a whole (at least for me). Therefore, if you love cozy mysteries in general, then you might have a higher tolerance for what I view as its inherent flaws.
Lyndsay was absolutely insufferable. Her entire character revolved around being needlessly rude and purposely obtuse.
Bryce - the kind of love interest from the first book who was one of the detectives on the case - returns in this one once more as the detective. Despite telling her constantly (and I mean, every single time he talks to her ) that he has to follow procedure, that he doesn't really think her mother committed the murder, that his boss is the one keeping her on the list of suspects, Lyndsay just refused to be reasonable.
It was infuriating how she'd take on this superior attitude like 'I could never be involved with a man who accused my mother of murder' when that's literally not what happened at all?
This man has a job to do. If he or his partner don't do their due diligence, that puts their livelihoods on the line. Plus it actually would hurt her mother's case if they removed her early as the opposition could come down hard on her later in the process or it could look like favoritism considering their friendly-ish relationship to one another. He never ‘accuses’ her mother of anything. She’s simply a suspect because she was literally at the scene of the crime and not only has motive, she has means as well.
I'm not saying Lyndsay has to like the situation or him. I couldn’t date the lead investigator on an investigation that could pin a murder on my mother either. But, I do expect her to actually listen to what people tell her and not operate off of something she has made up in her own mind. Especially when she is the only one acting so childishly.
Her mother and grandmother at separate occasions not even in ear shot of one another both say that the man is only doing his job. Yet for whatever reason she is taking the whole experience personally as if Bryce is specifically singling her family out when that is so obviously not true.
Again, she could be mad at the situation. Heck, she could even have misplaced anger towards Bryce because he is the face of her worst nightmare. But the key word here is misplaced.
I don’t think the author intends for you to think Lyndsay is actually reasonable - mostly because the groundwork is being laid for Lyndsay to date Bryce in the future. Even so, Bryce deserved an apology and Lyndsay should actively have acknowledged she was blowing things out of proportion. There are fewer things that burn me up more than fully grown adults dodging accountability like toddlers.
There's also a lot of allusion to the police not really doing their job which I found irritating.
I'm all for ACAB but this book didn't actually give me any reason to believe they weren't doing their jobs. Since Bryce is a love interest the police can't be made out to be too incompetent or else he wouldn't be viable. Except without any cartoonish evil or ineptitude, I was left feeling like the police were getting an unfair rep.
If the police are actually doing their jobs to the best of their ability then that means they have a set procedure to follow which the police in this book are actively abiding by. And if they’re actively, conscientiously putting in the work then why are they being villainized?
More than that by not following procedure Lyndsay - as an amateur simply blustering through - is putting the entire operation at risk because her lack of tact means that the potential murderer will obviously be tipped off. Lyndsay’s first order of business whenever she investigates a person is to simply tell that person what she knows in an attempt to force their hand to tell her more, but that’s so silly since assuming this person is the murderer she’s providing them further intel to cover their tracks better.
I was disappointed with the revelation of the murderer. I would have much preferred if .
I’m in my Black cozy mystery era right now so having read like 6 in a week and a half, all the complaints I have are applicable for the genre as a whole (at least for me). Therefore, if you love cozy mysteries in general, then you might have a higher tolerance for what I view as its inherent flaws.
May 4, 2023
Lyndsay Murray is back in the second Spice Isles book, Hard Dough Homicide.
The unique family bakery is catering their first party, and everyone has mixed feelings about it.The celebration is a retirement party, and the guest of honor belongs to Lyndsay's mom's former boss, high school principal, Emily Smith.
Emily is not well liked, and her sudden death puts Lyndsay and her family at the top of the suspect list.
I like this series, it's a fresh look for traditional cozy mysteries, and all the characters are funny and colorful.
The family dynamics are well done, portrayed in way everyone can relate to.
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 by Olivia Matthews.
The unique family bakery is catering their first party, and everyone has mixed feelings about it.The celebration is a retirement party, and the guest of honor belongs to Lyndsay's mom's former boss, high school principal, Emily Smith.
Emily is not well liked, and her sudden death puts Lyndsay and her family at the top of the suspect list.
I like this series, it's a fresh look for traditional cozy mysteries, and all the characters are funny and colorful.
The family dynamics are well done, portrayed in way everyone can relate to.
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 by Olivia Matthews.
August 5, 2023
We are back at the hip new Caribbean bakery in Brooklyn. It has been a rocky start for this little bakery, but they are making strides and filling a need for many in this neighborhood. However, this time around, Lyndsay's mom is the suspected killer when her former principal ends up dead. Of course, Lyndsay can't have that and sets out to investigate and clear her mother's name.
There are many things to like about this series - the food, the location, and the strong family ties. This is evident in both books when the whole family comes out to help clear their family of any wrongdoing. I mean aunts, uncles, cousins, and more. This is a close-knit family, which is a blessing and a curse.
There are just enough clues provided, if you catch them, to suss out the killer. I think I was a little surprised since many red herrings are thrown into the mix for good measure.
There is a potential romance between Lyndsay and her high school crush, but only if he stops investigating her family. I'm sure she doesn't stop to think they must investigate everyone to clear the family and those not involved. Hopefully, she will move past this and allow love to blossom.
This series is still working on its place, which means some of the characters may be annoying, or there is a lot of repetition. I think that is somewhat needed at the beginning of a series to the reader can get a feel for the scene, characters, and more.
The food descriptions make my mouth water, and I might have gained a few pounds just reading this book!
We give this book 4 paws up.
There are many things to like about this series - the food, the location, and the strong family ties. This is evident in both books when the whole family comes out to help clear their family of any wrongdoing. I mean aunts, uncles, cousins, and more. This is a close-knit family, which is a blessing and a curse.
There are just enough clues provided, if you catch them, to suss out the killer. I think I was a little surprised since many red herrings are thrown into the mix for good measure.
There is a potential romance between Lyndsay and her high school crush, but only if he stops investigating her family. I'm sure she doesn't stop to think they must investigate everyone to clear the family and those not involved. Hopefully, she will move past this and allow love to blossom.
This series is still working on its place, which means some of the characters may be annoying, or there is a lot of repetition. I think that is somewhat needed at the beginning of a series to the reader can get a feel for the scene, characters, and more.
The food descriptions make my mouth water, and I might have gained a few pounds just reading this book!
We give this book 4 paws up.
Read
May 20, 20234 Solid Stars!
I really loved this. The setting, the cast of characters, the food, the family 🥰🥰🥰🥰
This is just cozy in every way.
I really loved this. The setting, the cast of characters, the food, the family 🥰🥰🥰🥰
This is just cozy in every way.
May 23, 2023
3.5 rounded up. This is the second book in the. Spice Isle Bakery, mystery series. I read the first book a few months back, and once again, I would like to think the publisher and. Netgalley for the advanced reader copy I received. After overcoming the murder investigation, a month previous when the bakery was celebrating its grand opening and owner Lyndsay Murray was suspected as the murderer, things are starting to get much better and business is picking up. however, in this new installment, they are excited for their first catering event, taking place in the dining area. It’s a retirement dinner for a local principal who is not very well liked. When the victim, Emily Smith, collapses and dies after eating the entrée, another murder investigation is underway. This time it is Lindsey‘s mother who is the focus of the police. She is a former educator and Emily was her boss and it is well known the two did not get along. with the help of her family and friends Lindsay makes it her mission to clear her mothers name, and that of the bakery, which is suffering from bad press.
This series relies on a big familial connection, and also highlights the Caribbean culture of the family, which I find refreshing and original. I enjoyed the murder plot involving Lindsey‘s mother, and her former colleagues. And thought the pacing was done well, and the new characters were interesting and quite believable. Lindsay has come along way since the first book in becoming such a strong, professional woman with much more confidence in herself. There are a few other sub plots brewing in the background that give promise to future stories. For one, Lindsey‘s high school crush is one of the police detectives investigating the murder. In her teen years, he didn’t seem to notice her, but he sure notices her now for the woman she is becoming. Her brother also has a new love interest and has changed his career as a lawyer to become more involved in the bakery, which he finds more joy in. These two scenarios hopefully will take their turns, making it into future installments. If you’re looking for a new cozy mystery, this one is sure to please. The author also shares recipes, which is always a plus for this foodie reader. I’m not familiar with a lot of Caribbean food, so this is some thing I enjoy.
This series relies on a big familial connection, and also highlights the Caribbean culture of the family, which I find refreshing and original. I enjoyed the murder plot involving Lindsey‘s mother, and her former colleagues. And thought the pacing was done well, and the new characters were interesting and quite believable. Lindsay has come along way since the first book in becoming such a strong, professional woman with much more confidence in herself. There are a few other sub plots brewing in the background that give promise to future stories. For one, Lindsey‘s high school crush is one of the police detectives investigating the murder. In her teen years, he didn’t seem to notice her, but he sure notices her now for the woman she is becoming. Her brother also has a new love interest and has changed his career as a lawyer to become more involved in the bakery, which he finds more joy in. These two scenarios hopefully will take their turns, making it into future installments. If you’re looking for a new cozy mystery, this one is sure to please. The author also shares recipes, which is always a plus for this foodie reader. I’m not familiar with a lot of Caribbean food, so this is some thing I enjoy.
April 17, 2023
Book two in the Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries series is my first time reading Olivia Mathews and I am happy to report it won't be my last. I'll be grabbing the previous book, Against the Currant, as soon as possible. From the family dynamic to the building plot I had the best time. I'm a big fan of Lyndsay's voice and view. I'm very much drawn to her and the relationships she has with a certain detective. I can't wait for more. A fun cozy mystery that boasts family, love, and a drive to solve the unsolvable!
~Tanja
*ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
Follow me on
✿KTBookReviews✿Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿TikTok
~Tanja
*ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
Follow me on
✿KTBookReviews✿Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿TikTok
May 26, 2023
Another wonderful mystery set at the Spice Isle Bakery. I love the setting and the constant mention of the food makes my mouth water. The main character, Lindsey, is strong (not a pushover) and professional when it comes to her bakery. Where I get annoyed, however, is her treatment of the detective/her high school crush. There are several conversations where she tells him she can’t date someone investigating her family. As an avid mystery reader (which she also mentions a few times), she should know that they have to investigate everyone. I get it’s a gut reaction but it’s tiresome to mention it repeatedly. The mystery itself is well-plotted and had me guessing until the very end. This is quickly becoming a favorite series for me.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
January 8, 2025
These are fun. I do like Spice Isle Bakery. The characters really care and Lyndsey does not rest when one of her family comes under suspicion. Recipes included at the end.
April 8, 2023
“Hard Dough Homicide” was one of my most anticipated reads of 2023 and it did not disappoint!!
Picking up where “Against the Currant” left off, the Murray family is busy running their family restaurant. Things have just settled down when the Spice Isle Bakery is connected to another suspicious death and members of the family are again under investigation. To save her family and their business Lyndsay hangs up her apron and puts on her sleuthing cap to solve the mystery and catch the killer. Full of twists, turns, comedic relief, amazing characters and delicious recipes - “Hard Dough Homicide” is a 5⭐️ read!
I absolutely LOVE this series and cannot wait to see what Olivia Matthews has in store for the next installment!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
Picking up where “Against the Currant” left off, the Murray family is busy running their family restaurant. Things have just settled down when the Spice Isle Bakery is connected to another suspicious death and members of the family are again under investigation. To save her family and their business Lyndsay hangs up her apron and puts on her sleuthing cap to solve the mystery and catch the killer. Full of twists, turns, comedic relief, amazing characters and delicious recipes - “Hard Dough Homicide” is a 5⭐️ read!
I absolutely LOVE this series and cannot wait to see what Olivia Matthews has in store for the next installment!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
June 23, 2023
The Spice Isle Bakery is doing great despite the murder of Claudio and being a prime suspect in the case. Things seem to be getting back to normal. A man who works for the Early College high school has been calling multiple times to set up a catered event. They've declined and he keeps insisting. The principal Emily Smith who is retiring wants to have it at the bakery. They decide to go ahead with it. After sitting everyone down, Emily dies. Of course the police suspect the bakery and Lyndsays mom as the culprit.
The family must investigate again to clear their names and help the business stay afloat.
I really enjoyed this mystery. I had no clue who the killer was until the end. I love the family dynamic and Granny is hilarious. I can't wait to see what happens next.
The family must investigate again to clear their names and help the business stay afloat.
I really enjoyed this mystery. I had no clue who the killer was until the end. I love the family dynamic and Granny is hilarious. I can't wait to see what happens next.
May 24, 2023
Thanks to St. Martin's Press for the free book.
This is book two in this cozy mystery series, and they do need read in order. It was fun to be back with Lyndsay and her family in their bakery. I enjoyed how the author always has such healthy, strong familial relationships in these books, and I know spending time with these characters always leaves me feeling hopeful. The mystery aspect of this book was intriguing. I think the author came up with a unique plot that unfolded at just the right speed to keep me hooked into trying to figure out who committed the murder. It was a fun book, and I can't wait for the next one.
This is book two in this cozy mystery series, and they do need read in order. It was fun to be back with Lyndsay and her family in their bakery. I enjoyed how the author always has such healthy, strong familial relationships in these books, and I know spending time with these characters always leaves me feeling hopeful. The mystery aspect of this book was intriguing. I think the author came up with a unique plot that unfolded at just the right speed to keep me hooked into trying to figure out who committed the murder. It was a fun book, and I can't wait for the next one.
May 23, 2023
I have to first start by stating my woes. 1) the narrator is 27 years old and refers to her parents, even in conversations, as Mommy and Daddy. I just couldn’t. I almost DNFed on that alone 2) she is VERY entitled and immature. I really couldn’t stand her as an MC the only thing that kept me reading was the Agatha Christie like plot. I just wish the MC had been somehow a detective and not just a bakery owner impeding on an investigation. I also enjoyed some of the writing style. The nuggets given to readers along the way kept me totally guessing on who the murder was. I don’t think I’ll pick up another book by this author but it was entertaining even if it was in how much it annoyed me.
January 19, 2024
I listened to this audiobook in one day. Olivia Matthews is one of my favorite cozy mystery authors. I can't wait until #3 in the series comes out.
Series: Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries
#1 Against the Currant
#2 Hard Dough Homicide
#3 Coconut Drop Dead
Series: Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries
#1 Against the Currant
#2 Hard Dough Homicide
#3 Coconut Drop Dead
May 28, 2023
Hard Dough Homicide Earns 5/5 Curry Conundrums … Clever Cozy Gem!
Spice Isle Bakery has become quite popular as a gathering hub for Brooklyn’s Little Caribbean neighborhood with regulars ranging from an eclectic group of visitors, neighbors, and Lyndsay’s least favorite homicide detective, Bryce Johnson. Yet, as busy as they, Lyndsay is compelled to turn down business. Guy Law has been pestering Lyndsay as he’s bent on reserving the bakery for an upcoming retirement dinner. The guest of honor, Emily Smith, used to work at the same high school as Lyndsay’s mother boss, and the time was fraught with enough conflict her mother opted for early retirement. To dissuade him, Lyndsay quotes a jaw-dropping fee, but it backfires. The quote is accepted, and since the money would go well paying bills and loans, Lyndsay’s mother agrees, too. Of course, serving dinner to one who you don’t like is nothing compared to what happens next … murder!
What an interesting question is posed in Olivia Matthews’ second book in her Spice Isle Bakery series: would you host a dinner for one who made your life miserable; even if the money is an inflated windfall? It’s important to remember that any issues could put you at the top of a suspect list. So, it’s easy, but ill-advised, for Detective Johnson place his attentions on Lyndsay’s mother when Emily collapses during dinner and later dies. But many cozy fans know, karma is unforgiving and Emily’s arrogant, dismissive, and cruel attitude makes her the ideal target. Plenty of people, all at the party, see Emily as a bully, and her outburst at the party targeting her ill on them proves their possible culpability. The investigation is very engaging with Lyndsay running into many obstacles, including the police, the local business leaders, the press, and the killer, but the final perilous predicament reveals clever details, motive, and a surprise arrest. Definitely a favorite series … Don’t miss this, Cozy Fans!
Olivia Matthews’ writing style is very entertaining. I enjoyed the references to the West Indies culture, the close family dynamic, and a healthy mix of romantic angst. Lyndsay is admirable as she stands by her family, presents a hardworking mindset, and performs as a pretty good amateur snoop including partnering with Granny, a delightful matriarch. Detective Johnson harbors a soft spot for Lyndsay making his mandate to solve the crime problematic when he has Lyndsay’s mother on his suspect list, and the local reporter who has his eye on Lyndsay, too, keeps writing misleading articles … nice triangle dilemma. I am, however, firmly on Team Bryce to break through Lynds’ emotional brick wall. A next book topic, I hope!
Recipes, Please!
Like the old adage, “It’s not over til the fat lady sings,” a cozy mystery is “not over til” the recipes show up. Straight from Spice Isle Bakery, you can enjoy a taste of the Caribbean with a Hard Dough Bread Recipe and Coconut Drops! Yum!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from St. Martin’s Press thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Spice Isle Bakery has become quite popular as a gathering hub for Brooklyn’s Little Caribbean neighborhood with regulars ranging from an eclectic group of visitors, neighbors, and Lyndsay’s least favorite homicide detective, Bryce Johnson. Yet, as busy as they, Lyndsay is compelled to turn down business. Guy Law has been pestering Lyndsay as he’s bent on reserving the bakery for an upcoming retirement dinner. The guest of honor, Emily Smith, used to work at the same high school as Lyndsay’s mother boss, and the time was fraught with enough conflict her mother opted for early retirement. To dissuade him, Lyndsay quotes a jaw-dropping fee, but it backfires. The quote is accepted, and since the money would go well paying bills and loans, Lyndsay’s mother agrees, too. Of course, serving dinner to one who you don’t like is nothing compared to what happens next … murder!
What an interesting question is posed in Olivia Matthews’ second book in her Spice Isle Bakery series: would you host a dinner for one who made your life miserable; even if the money is an inflated windfall? It’s important to remember that any issues could put you at the top of a suspect list. So, it’s easy, but ill-advised, for Detective Johnson place his attentions on Lyndsay’s mother when Emily collapses during dinner and later dies. But many cozy fans know, karma is unforgiving and Emily’s arrogant, dismissive, and cruel attitude makes her the ideal target. Plenty of people, all at the party, see Emily as a bully, and her outburst at the party targeting her ill on them proves their possible culpability. The investigation is very engaging with Lyndsay running into many obstacles, including the police, the local business leaders, the press, and the killer, but the final perilous predicament reveals clever details, motive, and a surprise arrest. Definitely a favorite series … Don’t miss this, Cozy Fans!
Olivia Matthews’ writing style is very entertaining. I enjoyed the references to the West Indies culture, the close family dynamic, and a healthy mix of romantic angst. Lyndsay is admirable as she stands by her family, presents a hardworking mindset, and performs as a pretty good amateur snoop including partnering with Granny, a delightful matriarch. Detective Johnson harbors a soft spot for Lyndsay making his mandate to solve the crime problematic when he has Lyndsay’s mother on his suspect list, and the local reporter who has his eye on Lyndsay, too, keeps writing misleading articles … nice triangle dilemma. I am, however, firmly on Team Bryce to break through Lynds’ emotional brick wall. A next book topic, I hope!
Recipes, Please!
Like the old adage, “It’s not over til the fat lady sings,” a cozy mystery is “not over til” the recipes show up. Straight from Spice Isle Bakery, you can enjoy a taste of the Caribbean with a Hard Dough Bread Recipe and Coconut Drops! Yum!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from St. Martin’s Press thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
February 25, 2024
When Lindsay hosts a retirement dinner in her newly opened bakery for a woman whom nobody likes, she is appalled when the woman dies at the table. Of course the bakery and its owners are suspects, but when Lindsay investigates, she discovers many more people who hated the woman and would have a motive to kill her. This is the second in the bakery series, and is definitely a good read.
June 3, 2023
Very enjoyable series. This one did tend to repeat itself a bit but I love the characters and the sense of community in these books.
May 27, 2023
3.5 stars - I know it’s cultural for a lot of adults to refer to their parents as mommy and daddy but it is like nails on a chalkboard to me - both irl and in this book. In the last book you could ignore it but in this book they are the main characters so it is said A LOT.
Two murders in two months seems like a really fast timeline. Overall it was entertaining.
Two murders in two months seems like a really fast timeline. Overall it was entertaining.
April 27, 2023
In the second Spice Island Bakery mystery, Lyndsay and her family need to clear her mother's name when the principal who was the cause of her retirement dies in the bakery. The Murrays had been hired to cater Emily Smith's retirement party which they reluctantly agreed to do since Della disliked the woman.
Their first surprise came when they found out how few people had been invited to attend. The second surprise was the animosity that filled the air when the guests assembled. The third surprise was when Emily suffered a medical emergency and later died.
Rumors spread that the food was poisoned which didn't do anything to build the clientele of the new business. Even after the food was tested and proven not to be the source of the poison, rumors were still flying since Della Murray was declared a person of interest in the crime.
Lyndsay needs to clear her mother's name in order to save the business that all the family had invested in. She decides to investigate herself when she learns that the cops, including the hot guy she had a crush on in high school, aren't investigating fast enough or paying attention to the clues she uncovers and shares with them.
This was an entertaining mystery filled with Caribbean culture, fashion, and food.
Their first surprise came when they found out how few people had been invited to attend. The second surprise was the animosity that filled the air when the guests assembled. The third surprise was when Emily suffered a medical emergency and later died.
Rumors spread that the food was poisoned which didn't do anything to build the clientele of the new business. Even after the food was tested and proven not to be the source of the poison, rumors were still flying since Della Murray was declared a person of interest in the crime.
Lyndsay needs to clear her mother's name in order to save the business that all the family had invested in. She decides to investigate herself when she learns that the cops, including the hot guy she had a crush on in high school, aren't investigating fast enough or paying attention to the clues she uncovers and shares with them.
This was an entertaining mystery filled with Caribbean culture, fashion, and food.
May 17, 2023
Opening the Spice Isle Bakery has always been Lyndsay Murray’s dream. With the help of her huge family, her dreams are coming true. Unfortunately, there have been a couple of snags along the way. Right after opening day, a murder occurs, and her bakery is implicated. Once the crime was solved, the bakery began doing well. Now, tragedy has struck once again.
Against her better judgment, Lyndsay accepts a hosting job to celebrate Emily Smith’s retirement as the local high school principal. Lyndsay’s mom used to work for her. To say they didn’t get along would be an understatement. However, her family agrees to host the event as it would be good for business. It turns out to be a very small affair that turns into a nightmare. Suddenly, Emily has convulsions after eating the food and dies.
The police have their eyes on Lyndsay’s mom as the prime suspect. Word gets out that the bakery is a dangerous place to eat and business starts to sink. Worried for both her mother and the bakery, Lyndsay does her own investigation. With the help of her family, they search for a killer. Although the police are only focusing on one suspect, Lyndsay finds there were quite a number of people who had stronger motives than her mother.
This is the second book in the series. I loved the first and this is even better. The first thing I love with this series is the closeness of the Murray family. It even includes extended family - aunts, uncles, cousins. They are all there for each other and help Lyndsay whenever they can. Each one has a distinct personality from her protective brother to her feisty grandmother.
The author does a great job of painting the setting with a Caribbean flavor in a small Brooklyn neighborhood. The love the town shows for Lyndsay and her family comes right through each page.
The storyline moves at a nice pace. It’s fun to try and put this jigsaw puzzle of a mystery together along with Lyndsay and her investigative team. I was convinced I had it all figured out pretty early in the book, but I was totally off base. It took me by surprise and that made me enjoy it even more.
Olivia Matthews is fast becoming a favorite of mine. I love her writing style and the way she has built up the family drama. There’s even a hint of romance in the air. We’ll have to see how that goes in future books.
I’m looking forward to another exciting entry into this series. I hope it will be soon. I’m already missing these characters.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Against her better judgment, Lyndsay accepts a hosting job to celebrate Emily Smith’s retirement as the local high school principal. Lyndsay’s mom used to work for her. To say they didn’t get along would be an understatement. However, her family agrees to host the event as it would be good for business. It turns out to be a very small affair that turns into a nightmare. Suddenly, Emily has convulsions after eating the food and dies.
The police have their eyes on Lyndsay’s mom as the prime suspect. Word gets out that the bakery is a dangerous place to eat and business starts to sink. Worried for both her mother and the bakery, Lyndsay does her own investigation. With the help of her family, they search for a killer. Although the police are only focusing on one suspect, Lyndsay finds there were quite a number of people who had stronger motives than her mother.
This is the second book in the series. I loved the first and this is even better. The first thing I love with this series is the closeness of the Murray family. It even includes extended family - aunts, uncles, cousins. They are all there for each other and help Lyndsay whenever they can. Each one has a distinct personality from her protective brother to her feisty grandmother.
The author does a great job of painting the setting with a Caribbean flavor in a small Brooklyn neighborhood. The love the town shows for Lyndsay and her family comes right through each page.
The storyline moves at a nice pace. It’s fun to try and put this jigsaw puzzle of a mystery together along with Lyndsay and her investigative team. I was convinced I had it all figured out pretty early in the book, but I was totally off base. It took me by surprise and that made me enjoy it even more.
Olivia Matthews is fast becoming a favorite of mine. I love her writing style and the way she has built up the family drama. There’s even a hint of romance in the air. We’ll have to see how that goes in future books.
I’m looking forward to another exciting entry into this series. I hope it will be soon. I’m already missing these characters.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 1, 2023
A murder has occurred, and the Spice Isle Bakery is, once again, at the forefront of the excitement. Lyndsay's mother is one of the prime suspects, and Lyndsay doesn't feel that the police are working fast enough to remove her mother's name from the suspect list. As usual, Lyndsay inserts herself into the investigation and wraps things up for the detectives.
While the first installment of this series was entertaining, this second book now feels childish and campy. Lyndsay all but throws a tantrum every time she sees Bryce and accuses him of not working hard enough to clear her mother's name. She lashes out at Jose, the reporter, because he wrote a seemingly one-sided piece, even though Lyndsay refused to give a quote and say her mom was innocent. Over and above Lyndsay's outbursts, she consistently calls her parents "mommy" and "daddy," and she is in her mid-20s... it's just bizarre, seeing as her older brother calls them "mom" and "dad," as any other adult would.
I have the third book in this series but, if the prose goes downhill even more than in this second book, I don't think I will be continuing this series.
This ARC was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
While the first installment of this series was entertaining, this second book now feels childish and campy. Lyndsay all but throws a tantrum every time she sees Bryce and accuses him of not working hard enough to clear her mother's name. She lashes out at Jose, the reporter, because he wrote a seemingly one-sided piece, even though Lyndsay refused to give a quote and say her mom was innocent. Over and above Lyndsay's outbursts, she consistently calls her parents "mommy" and "daddy," and she is in her mid-20s... it's just bizarre, seeing as her older brother calls them "mom" and "dad," as any other adult would.
I have the third book in this series but, if the prose goes downhill even more than in this second book, I don't think I will be continuing this series.
This ARC was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2023
While Hard Dough Homicide is the second in a series, I had no problem following the story, despite not having read the first book. There were a few things that lowered my rating:
1. Despite having been open only about 2 months, the bakery has been the scene of 2 murders. This seems awfully quick, and I question whether people would continue to patronize the business.
2. I don’t enjoy reading a portrayal of investigating police as incompetent.
3. Our main character, Lyndsay, seems rather immature for her age.
That being said, there were many things about the story that I really liked:
1. Strong family bond among Lyndsay’s extended family. They even prayed together in the morning before opening the shop, which I loved.
2. There were plenty of potential suspects in the death of the unlikable Emily Smith, which definitely added to my enjoyment
Thanks go to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
1. Despite having been open only about 2 months, the bakery has been the scene of 2 murders. This seems awfully quick, and I question whether people would continue to patronize the business.
2. I don’t enjoy reading a portrayal of investigating police as incompetent.
3. Our main character, Lyndsay, seems rather immature for her age.
That being said, there were many things about the story that I really liked:
1. Strong family bond among Lyndsay’s extended family. They even prayed together in the morning before opening the shop, which I loved.
2. There were plenty of potential suspects in the death of the unlikable Emily Smith, which definitely added to my enjoyment
Thanks go to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 15, 2023
3-3.5 stars
A cozy mystery set in a bakery in the Little Carribean neighborhood of Brooklyn. I enjoyed the setting, especially the food and the cultural aspects. But I didn't love how the author portrayed the police as doing next to nothing to investigate the murder and naming a woman with no reasonable motive as the prime suspect, leaving the bakery owner to do all the detective work. Just didn't seem plausible.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free e-ARC of this book.
A cozy mystery set in a bakery in the Little Carribean neighborhood of Brooklyn. I enjoyed the setting, especially the food and the cultural aspects. But I didn't love how the author portrayed the police as doing next to nothing to investigate the murder and naming a woman with no reasonable motive as the prime suspect, leaving the bakery owner to do all the detective work. Just didn't seem plausible.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free e-ARC of this book.
May 30, 2023
Hard Dough Homicide by Olivia Matthews
Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries #2
.
Lyndsay Murray co-owns Spice Isle Bakery with her family in Little Carribean, Manhattan. Against her better judgement she agrees to host a retirement party for her Mother’s awful former boss. When the retirement party ends in a trip to the hospital, Lyndsay’s family once against comes under police questioning.
.
I really enjoyed the first book in this new cozy mystery series (Against the Currant), so I was very excited to receive an ebook for Hard Dough Homicide.
These books always make me hungry, I LOVE Baked goods!
This was a fun cozy mystery.
-Lyndsay and her whole family are a loveable group, they care for each other and help each other out.
-The mystery was good and kept me invested in the storyline.
-I loved where the story for Lyndsay’s brother went in this one. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 And my adoration for grandma is still through the roof! 🙌🏻
.
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Honestly I shy away from cozy mysteries but there is something about this series that will keep me coming back. Please send me book three! 😇
Spice Isle Bakery Mysteries #2
.
Lyndsay Murray co-owns Spice Isle Bakery with her family in Little Carribean, Manhattan. Against her better judgement she agrees to host a retirement party for her Mother’s awful former boss. When the retirement party ends in a trip to the hospital, Lyndsay’s family once against comes under police questioning.
.
I really enjoyed the first book in this new cozy mystery series (Against the Currant), so I was very excited to receive an ebook for Hard Dough Homicide.
These books always make me hungry, I LOVE Baked goods!
This was a fun cozy mystery.
-Lyndsay and her whole family are a loveable group, they care for each other and help each other out.
-The mystery was good and kept me invested in the storyline.
-I loved where the story for Lyndsay’s brother went in this one. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 And my adoration for grandma is still through the roof! 🙌🏻
.
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Honestly I shy away from cozy mysteries but there is something about this series that will keep me coming back. Please send me book three! 😇
July 26, 2024
In general, I had fun with this cozy mystery. This genre is perfect for summer reading and easy enjoyment for my heat addled brain. That being said, I didn’t love this one as much as Against the Currant. This one was more repetitive and all the characters came off as one note with not as much depth as I was hoping. Will still likely continue on the series though!
May 7, 2023
Thanks Netgalley for allowing me to read this book. Lyndsay enjoys working at the restaurant. When an incident happens her mother becomes a suspect. Lyndsay is unsure of what to do. I liked the different characters in this book.
January 21, 2025
2.5
While I love the representation of Grenadian culture and the love for Brooklyn, specifically Little Caribbean, this book was just sooo repetitive. Nothing happens for so much of the book it just goes in circles. Also cop love interest yuck.
While I love the representation of Grenadian culture and the love for Brooklyn, specifically Little Caribbean, this book was just sooo repetitive. Nothing happens for so much of the book it just goes in circles. Also cop love interest yuck.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 242 reviews