What do you think?
Rate this book
A Baker's Treat Mystery #2
Murder Gone A-Rye
Toni Holmes is the best gluten-free baker in Oiltop, Kansas—okay, she’s the only one—but when her grandmother becomes a murder suspect, she’s more concerned with keeping Grandma free…
When Toni’s beloved—and eccentric—grandma Ruth is arrested for the murder of her archenemy, Lois Striker, it’s time for a senior moment of truth. Telltale tracks from a scooter like the one Grandma Ruth rides lead the police to suspect the outspoken oldster, but Toni knows her grandmother wouldn’t burn a cookie, let alone extinguish a life.
In fact, the case has Grandma more revved up than her infamous scooter. A former investigative journalist, she decides to solve the murder herself—with help from Toni—by digging up long-buried town secrets. But as Grandma scoots in where others fear to tread, Toni needs to make sure she not only stays out of jail but out of harm’s way…
INCLUDES GLUTEN FREE RECIPES
When Toni’s beloved—and eccentric—grandma Ruth is arrested for the murder of her archenemy, Lois Striker, it’s time for a senior moment of truth. Telltale tracks from a scooter like the one Grandma Ruth rides lead the police to suspect the outspoken oldster, but Toni knows her grandmother wouldn’t burn a cookie, let alone extinguish a life.
In fact, the case has Grandma more revved up than her infamous scooter. A former investigative journalist, she decides to solve the murder herself—with help from Toni—by digging up long-buried town secrets. But as Grandma scoots in where others fear to tread, Toni needs to make sure she not only stays out of jail but out of harm’s way…
INCLUDES GLUTEN FREE RECIPES
294 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 6, 2014
17 people are currently reading
801 people want to read
About the author
Nancy J. Parra
23 books312 followersBest known for writing plucky heroines, USA Today Bestselling Author, Nancy J. Parra has 30 books published-
Most recently Nancy has five cozy mystery book series going.
All Fudged Up, To Fudge or Not To Fudge, All You Need is Fudge, Oh Say Can You Fudge, All I want For Christmas is Fudge, Oh Fudge, Forever Fudge, Fudge Bites and Have Yourself a Fudgy Little Christmas are part of the USA Today Bestselling Candy-Coated Mystery series (Kensington) -which Nancy writes as Nancy Coco.
Also from Nancy Coco, the Oregon Honeycomb Series which includes: Death Bee Comes Her and a Matter of Hive and Death.
Writing as Nell Hampton, Kale to the Queen is the debut in the Kensington Palace Chef Mystery series.
A Case of Syrah, Syrah and Seven Deadly Zins are part of the Wine Country Tours mystery series.
Gluten for Punishment, Murder Gone A-Rye and Flourless to Stop Him are both part of the Gluten Free Baker's Treat Mystery series. (Berkley Prime Crime)
Then there is Engaged in Murder, Bodice of Evidence and Newlywed Dead, the Perfect Proposal series from Berkley Prime Crime.
Most recently Nancy has five cozy mystery book series going.
All Fudged Up, To Fudge or Not To Fudge, All You Need is Fudge, Oh Say Can You Fudge, All I want For Christmas is Fudge, Oh Fudge, Forever Fudge, Fudge Bites and Have Yourself a Fudgy Little Christmas are part of the USA Today Bestselling Candy-Coated Mystery series (Kensington) -which Nancy writes as Nancy Coco.
Also from Nancy Coco, the Oregon Honeycomb Series which includes: Death Bee Comes Her and a Matter of Hive and Death.
Writing as Nell Hampton, Kale to the Queen is the debut in the Kensington Palace Chef Mystery series.
A Case of Syrah, Syrah and Seven Deadly Zins are part of the Wine Country Tours mystery series.
Gluten for Punishment, Murder Gone A-Rye and Flourless to Stop Him are both part of the Gluten Free Baker's Treat Mystery series. (Berkley Prime Crime)
Then there is Engaged in Murder, Bodice of Evidence and Newlywed Dead, the Perfect Proposal series from Berkley Prime Crime.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
May 28, 2017
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Another delightful treat from this author.
Toni Holmes bakes up gluten free tarts, scones, breads and other goodies when she isn’t trying to keep her grandma Ruth out of trouble. I envy Ruth’s scooter myself but she can cause a commotion. Apparently the local police have given her several tickets but that doesn’t seem to slow her down. When the police find her archenemy, Lois Striker, dead in the park surrounded by tracks made by a scooter Ruth finds herself in a bunch of hot water. Her scooter is confiscated as evidence and Toni may not be able to keep her out of jail. Ruth used to be an investigative reporter so she thinks with Toni’s assistance they should be able to solve the case themselves. Needless to say their plans go very A-Rye!
It has been awhile since my last literary trip to Oiltop, Kansas but within a few pages these characters snapped right back in my memory. Again, Grandma Ruth was my favorite character. She is pushy, opinionated, “smart as a whip, but deaf in one ear”. Local Police Chief Hank Blaylock is not a big fan. Tori runs interference as best as she can. Ruth’s antics will have you shaking your head and laughing out loud. We also meet Aunt Phyllis who brings her own hilarity to the story. Tori has sworn off dating but she still has not one but two men vying for her affection. They are all terrific characters.
It is Thanksgiving to the rest of the country but in Oiltop it is Homer Everett Day. There is a parade and a carnival to honor the local war hero and pro football player. He was also Mayor of the town back in the 50’s. There are also a couple of mysteries in his past and that may be what got Lois Striker killed. Toni just needs to look back in time for suspects other than her grandmother.
This was a twisty turvy plot that diverted us and Toni is several different direction and it put a target on Tori and Ruth’s backs. It also led them to break a few laws themselves. We do spend plenty of time in the bakery too as Tori had to bake a boatload of pies for her customer’s Thanksgiving dinners.
This was a super fun whodunit that had be grinning ear to ear through most of it. Whether or not you need your treats gluten free, you will love this story.
Another delightful treat from this author.
Toni Holmes bakes up gluten free tarts, scones, breads and other goodies when she isn’t trying to keep her grandma Ruth out of trouble. I envy Ruth’s scooter myself but she can cause a commotion. Apparently the local police have given her several tickets but that doesn’t seem to slow her down. When the police find her archenemy, Lois Striker, dead in the park surrounded by tracks made by a scooter Ruth finds herself in a bunch of hot water. Her scooter is confiscated as evidence and Toni may not be able to keep her out of jail. Ruth used to be an investigative reporter so she thinks with Toni’s assistance they should be able to solve the case themselves. Needless to say their plans go very A-Rye!
It has been awhile since my last literary trip to Oiltop, Kansas but within a few pages these characters snapped right back in my memory. Again, Grandma Ruth was my favorite character. She is pushy, opinionated, “smart as a whip, but deaf in one ear”. Local Police Chief Hank Blaylock is not a big fan. Tori runs interference as best as she can. Ruth’s antics will have you shaking your head and laughing out loud. We also meet Aunt Phyllis who brings her own hilarity to the story. Tori has sworn off dating but she still has not one but two men vying for her affection. They are all terrific characters.
It is Thanksgiving to the rest of the country but in Oiltop it is Homer Everett Day. There is a parade and a carnival to honor the local war hero and pro football player. He was also Mayor of the town back in the 50’s. There are also a couple of mysteries in his past and that may be what got Lois Striker killed. Toni just needs to look back in time for suspects other than her grandmother.
This was a twisty turvy plot that diverted us and Toni is several different direction and it put a target on Tori and Ruth’s backs. It also led them to break a few laws themselves. We do spend plenty of time in the bakery too as Tori had to bake a boatload of pies for her customer’s Thanksgiving dinners.
This was a super fun whodunit that had be grinning ear to ear through most of it. Whether or not you need your treats gluten free, you will love this story.
September 11, 2015
For the most part this was a good story. There's a lot to like in this series, but there are a few really big things to heartily dislike. Those would be Toni's insistence on no dates for a year, the looming triangle and Grandma Ruth! The things that this 90+ year-old woman did in this book were, quite frankly, unbelievable! Breaking & entering among other things and dragging others into with absolutely no compunction whatsoever? If this were my grandma they'd be booking me on an elder abuse charge! The mystery was actually a good one, and if we can get around the triangle and put Grandma in a straitjacket this series has great potential.
February 16, 2015
Welcome to Oiltop, Kansas where in the middle of the Wheat Country - Toni Holmes own and operates her own successful gluten-free bakery.
I have to admit, I picked this book up because that fascinated me. I have a few friends who are gluten-free because of being allergic to gluten, so naturally that alone had my attention. That and the moment the premise mentioned a grandmother, from my experiences with cozy mysteries and grandmother's involved - it always ended up being a hoot.
I wasn't wrong. Grandma Ruth was awesome and funny. An outspoken former investigating journalist, who was trying to uncover a former Oiltop mystery murder and instead ends up being blamed for the current one. Who happens to be Grandma Ruth's archenemy, who also might have known a dirty little secret to one of the towns most celebrated public figures. I loved that it had a cold case involved tied to the murder, one that might shake a bit of the town's history.
Of course trying to keep grandma out of jail isn't easy for Toni who is found herself in the middle of the investigation in hopes of clearing her grandmother's name. While grandma is running around town breaking into buildings and getting arrested all over again, Toni is busy trying to run her bakery with Thanksgiving on the horizon.
Mmm I loved the setting, it was fun and exciting and the citizens of Oiltop really added charm to this entire story. Toni is just sweet. She has been hurt before so her love life is none existent, even if she has two men battling for her attention. I liked how level-headed she was when it came to this situation.
The book also introduces Aunt Phyllis, who was just as funny and amusing as grandma. Enjoy every second of it, with a fun plot-line that had me giggling, an engaging mystery and a cozy town to tie it all together made it into a perfect read.
I got a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
I have to admit, I picked this book up because that fascinated me. I have a few friends who are gluten-free because of being allergic to gluten, so naturally that alone had my attention. That and the moment the premise mentioned a grandmother, from my experiences with cozy mysteries and grandmother's involved - it always ended up being a hoot.
I wasn't wrong. Grandma Ruth was awesome and funny. An outspoken former investigating journalist, who was trying to uncover a former Oiltop mystery murder and instead ends up being blamed for the current one. Who happens to be Grandma Ruth's archenemy, who also might have known a dirty little secret to one of the towns most celebrated public figures. I loved that it had a cold case involved tied to the murder, one that might shake a bit of the town's history.
Of course trying to keep grandma out of jail isn't easy for Toni who is found herself in the middle of the investigation in hopes of clearing her grandmother's name. While grandma is running around town breaking into buildings and getting arrested all over again, Toni is busy trying to run her bakery with Thanksgiving on the horizon.
Mmm I loved the setting, it was fun and exciting and the citizens of Oiltop really added charm to this entire story. Toni is just sweet. She has been hurt before so her love life is none existent, even if she has two men battling for her attention. I liked how level-headed she was when it came to this situation.
The book also introduces Aunt Phyllis, who was just as funny and amusing as grandma. Enjoy every second of it, with a fun plot-line that had me giggling, an engaging mystery and a cozy town to tie it all together made it into a perfect read.
I got a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
July 30, 2015
In Murder Gone A-Rye Toni is a busy baking at her bakery before the huge Thanksgiving rush, but when her Grandma gets taken tot he police station for questioning in a murder Toni finds herself investigating the murder. I really didn't care for this book. The first book in this series, Gluten for Punishment, was a pretty good read, but this one simply wasn't. I felt like it took me forever to get through.
I really liked the main character, Toni, to begin with, but as the story progressed I liked her less and less. She just seemed to give in to her family way too often for my taste. Her Grandma Ruth was extremely annoying, she was supposedly well-respected and liked in her town, but I don't know how. She didn't listen or even try to listen to people who tried to help her, and she didn't care about what trouble she got in, thinking it was all a big joke or experiment when she did get into trouble. Tasha, Toni's best friend was also an annoying character in this book for the simple reason that her last boyfriend was a class-A jerk (it's explained in Gluten for Punishment) yet a month later she starts going out with another man and after the first date is talking about how much she loves him. I just didn't think that it was the most realistic portrayal in this situation.
However, there were some redeeming characters in this book. Meaghan is funny and I really wish she would be shown more, same with Aunt Phyllis and Bill, but how Bill can stay with Grandma Ruth I will never know. Brad and Sam are also good characters, though if the author tries to even begin a love triangle I think I'll scream.
The mystery was pretty good, I didn't know who the killers were gonna be until the reveal happened. But there were really no clues that I picked out.
Overall a below-average book. I don't know if I'll read the next one. Murder Gone A-Rye only gets 2/5 stars.
I really liked the main character, Toni, to begin with, but as the story progressed I liked her less and less. She just seemed to give in to her family way too often for my taste. Her Grandma Ruth was extremely annoying, she was supposedly well-respected and liked in her town, but I don't know how. She didn't listen or even try to listen to people who tried to help her, and she didn't care about what trouble she got in, thinking it was all a big joke or experiment when she did get into trouble. Tasha, Toni's best friend was also an annoying character in this book for the simple reason that her last boyfriend was a class-A jerk (it's explained in Gluten for Punishment) yet a month later she starts going out with another man and after the first date is talking about how much she loves him. I just didn't think that it was the most realistic portrayal in this situation.
However, there were some redeeming characters in this book. Meaghan is funny and I really wish she would be shown more, same with Aunt Phyllis and Bill, but how Bill can stay with Grandma Ruth I will never know. Brad and Sam are also good characters, though if the author tries to even begin a love triangle I think I'll scream.
The mystery was pretty good, I didn't know who the killers were gonna be until the reveal happened. But there were really no clues that I picked out.
Overall a below-average book. I don't know if I'll read the next one. Murder Gone A-Rye only gets 2/5 stars.
April 23, 2014
Murder Gone A-Rye is the second book in the A Baker's Treat Mystery series.
Toni Holmes has returned to Oiltop, Kansas and has done the unthinkable by opening a gluten-free bakery in the middle of wheat country. Her ninety year young Grandma Ruth is a retired newspaper reporter, but still enjoys writing articles and doing the investigative work. But this time she has gotten herself in jail for murder. Lois Striker, grandma's long nemesis, is found dead near the statue of local war hero Homer Everett and Ruth's scooter tracks go right to the body. Homer Everett may not be the hero everyone thought he was and Lois was going to share what information she had on Everett with Ruth, but was killed before she was able to. Grandma Ruth, being the cantankerous person she is, won't let the matter rest. About the only way to keep Grandma Ruth out of jail, and it's no guarantee, is for Toni to team up with her Aunt Phyllis, who's about as bad as Ruth, to search out the truth and to solve the murder.
Most of the characters from book one are back to help Toni and Ruth discover the truth about Everett. Grandma Ruth is joy to read about, such a spunky character for 90 some. Brad and Sam are still pursuing Toni, in hopes of being the one she will select when she decides to start dating again. The reader is introduced to Aunt Phyllis, who is every bit as bad as Ruth. These tow will keep the reader shaking their head and chuckling. Also, there is a new puppy, Aubrey, who will end up plays a part in helping to solve the murder.
Recipes, gluten free of course, are also included.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Toni Holmes has returned to Oiltop, Kansas and has done the unthinkable by opening a gluten-free bakery in the middle of wheat country. Her ninety year young Grandma Ruth is a retired newspaper reporter, but still enjoys writing articles and doing the investigative work. But this time she has gotten herself in jail for murder. Lois Striker, grandma's long nemesis, is found dead near the statue of local war hero Homer Everett and Ruth's scooter tracks go right to the body. Homer Everett may not be the hero everyone thought he was and Lois was going to share what information she had on Everett with Ruth, but was killed before she was able to. Grandma Ruth, being the cantankerous person she is, won't let the matter rest. About the only way to keep Grandma Ruth out of jail, and it's no guarantee, is for Toni to team up with her Aunt Phyllis, who's about as bad as Ruth, to search out the truth and to solve the murder.
Most of the characters from book one are back to help Toni and Ruth discover the truth about Everett. Grandma Ruth is joy to read about, such a spunky character for 90 some. Brad and Sam are still pursuing Toni, in hopes of being the one she will select when she decides to start dating again. The reader is introduced to Aunt Phyllis, who is every bit as bad as Ruth. These tow will keep the reader shaking their head and chuckling. Also, there is a new puppy, Aubrey, who will end up plays a part in helping to solve the murder.
Recipes, gluten free of course, are also included.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
March 23, 2014
I love this series!! Along with a great mystery, I find characters that make me want to be in Oiltop with them. They make me laugh out loud at their antics and I can't wait to read more. I can't wait to read what this author has in store for us next time. Fantastic.
August 31, 2014
This is an outstanding book with a touch of mystery and romance. The GF Information is superb and needed for the public to understand our problem. 's Parras has done an excellent job. Grandma Ruth's character is so well developed that she dominates the others.
Oiltown is planning a parade to honour, Oliver Everett, the lone town's hero. It is schedule on thanksgiving day. Toni is entering a float for her GF bakery and Grandma will ride on it. Grandma Ruth is investigating the 20 year old murder of Champ Rogers, his close friend. Grandma, antics might prevent her from riding in the parade unless Toni can solve the murder. I will read her romances as I enjoy her writing.
Oiltown is planning a parade to honour, Oliver Everett, the lone town's hero. It is schedule on thanksgiving day. Toni is entering a float for her GF bakery and Grandma will ride on it. Grandma Ruth is investigating the 20 year old murder of Champ Rogers, his close friend. Grandma, antics might prevent her from riding in the parade unless Toni can solve the murder. I will read her romances as I enjoy her writing.
May 12, 2014
Nancy J. Parra brings readers the second book in her Baker's Treat Mystery series. Readers looking for a small town with a lot of heart will love Oiltop, Kansas. The townspeople are close knit and full of secrets, which makes for a great mystery. Grandma Ruth is back, as well as, heroine Toni and the gang from her gluten-free bakery. Toni will have her hands full keeping Grandma Ruth out of jail and solving a cold case murder from the 1950's. Readers looking for great gluten free recipes won't be disappointed either, as Parra produces great treats and a great new whodunit.
What I liked:
My sister tries admirably to eat a gluten-free diet. She isn't necessarily allergic to gluten but it makes her feel so much better when she doesn't eat it. But let's face it gluten-free recipes are hard to find. Having a cozy mystery series with a gluten-free bakery in it was a genius idea from Nancy J. Parra. It's obvious that Parra does not know exactly what she's talking about when she describes Toni's bakery and the concoctions that she turns out for her customers. I always feel like I have learned something new about gluten-free cooking when I read her books. Her authenticity does ring true.
Grandma Ruth is one kick-butt grandma. She may be in her 90's but that certainly hasn't slowed her down or dampened her enthusiasm. She is a great character who tends to add not only great characterization to this series, but also a lot of comic relief. Her antics are not what one would expect from the average granny. Having been an investigative journalist in her past, grandma's curiosity gets her in trouble in this installment of the series. Finding out some disturbing information about a former pillar of the community isn't what some Oiltop townspeople want to here. Parra does a great job with Ruth, making her believable and entertaining.
Toni once again finds herself trying to keep grandma contained. But that doesn't stop grandma and Toni has to figure out how to keep her out of jail when her arch enemy ends up dead. Toni is so patient and loving with Ruth. I enjoy their relationship a lot. This series focuses on more than gluten-free cooking, but also family and friends and the relationships they share. Toni is central to figuring out the whodunit but it's really a family affair. I look forward to seeing who Toni chooses as her love interest. She has a couple of good guys vying for the honor. Parra knows how to write about camaraderie and family and keeps the reader interested in what will happen to Toni next.
The mystery itself including the murder of Lois and the cold case from 1959 was totally engrossing. The reader will love following all of the gluten-free bread crumbs that Parra has doled out. There were plenty of reasons someone might want Lois dead, but what does the statue of Everett have to do with it? It was really fun figuring that out. The addition of Aunt Phyllis also added to the story and the overall family atmosphere that Parra has created. A great whodunit.
What I didn't like:
There was quite a bit of repetition with this one and at times it was a little too wordy. Now I'm a fan of descriptors in my own writing, and I don't think this was a huge problem, but it did get a little annoying at times. Certainly not a deal breaker!
Bottom Line:
This is shaping up to be a very good series. I love the gluten-free angle and Grandma Ruth is a blast. I thought Parra created an entertaining mystery that was full of surprises, suspects and motives. I liked this one better than the first.
What I liked:
My sister tries admirably to eat a gluten-free diet. She isn't necessarily allergic to gluten but it makes her feel so much better when she doesn't eat it. But let's face it gluten-free recipes are hard to find. Having a cozy mystery series with a gluten-free bakery in it was a genius idea from Nancy J. Parra. It's obvious that Parra does not know exactly what she's talking about when she describes Toni's bakery and the concoctions that she turns out for her customers. I always feel like I have learned something new about gluten-free cooking when I read her books. Her authenticity does ring true.
Grandma Ruth is one kick-butt grandma. She may be in her 90's but that certainly hasn't slowed her down or dampened her enthusiasm. She is a great character who tends to add not only great characterization to this series, but also a lot of comic relief. Her antics are not what one would expect from the average granny. Having been an investigative journalist in her past, grandma's curiosity gets her in trouble in this installment of the series. Finding out some disturbing information about a former pillar of the community isn't what some Oiltop townspeople want to here. Parra does a great job with Ruth, making her believable and entertaining.
Toni once again finds herself trying to keep grandma contained. But that doesn't stop grandma and Toni has to figure out how to keep her out of jail when her arch enemy ends up dead. Toni is so patient and loving with Ruth. I enjoy their relationship a lot. This series focuses on more than gluten-free cooking, but also family and friends and the relationships they share. Toni is central to figuring out the whodunit but it's really a family affair. I look forward to seeing who Toni chooses as her love interest. She has a couple of good guys vying for the honor. Parra knows how to write about camaraderie and family and keeps the reader interested in what will happen to Toni next.
The mystery itself including the murder of Lois and the cold case from 1959 was totally engrossing. The reader will love following all of the gluten-free bread crumbs that Parra has doled out. There were plenty of reasons someone might want Lois dead, but what does the statue of Everett have to do with it? It was really fun figuring that out. The addition of Aunt Phyllis also added to the story and the overall family atmosphere that Parra has created. A great whodunit.
What I didn't like:
There was quite a bit of repetition with this one and at times it was a little too wordy. Now I'm a fan of descriptors in my own writing, and I don't think this was a huge problem, but it did get a little annoying at times. Certainly not a deal breaker!
Bottom Line:
This is shaping up to be a very good series. I love the gluten-free angle and Grandma Ruth is a blast. I thought Parra created an entertaining mystery that was full of surprises, suspects and motives. I liked this one better than the first.
January 16, 2016
Toni Holmes is done solving mysteries. She just wants to run Baker's Treat and have a successful Thanksgiving season. Unfortunately for her, eccentric Grandma Ruth has other plans... like getting arrested as a murder suspect. Can Toni make enough pies? Will her float win a prize in the parade? Will Grandma Ruth be charged with murder? Will Toni ever stop talking about man smell?! The second book of the Baker's Treat series is filled with murder, romance, desserts, and an ending you won't see coming!
April 12, 2014
Review Coming May 8th
December 26, 2014
Really enjoyed this one. The mystery was great, as was the introduction of Aunt Phyllis, hope she is around in future books. The gluten free info is also very interesting.
August 16, 2016
I normally don't give high ratings, but Aunt Phyllis' quote in the book took the cake:
"I hear of someone dying and I send flowers to someone I know who's still alive. I don't know whose idea it was to send flowers to a funeral. Seriously, have you ever noticed how alike funerals and weddings are? There are flowers, seats up front for the family, someone cries, and afterward we all eat cake." (p. 164-165)
The story starts out with Toni's Grandma Ruth getting questioned for her rival's death and is considered the prime suspect since she was the last one to see her alive and there are tire tracks that look similar to her scooter. Instead of being appalled like a normal person being accused of murder, she takes it with stride and has another family member (Aunt Phyllis) help her investigate a sixty-year-old crime linked to the murder.
This book is much better than the first one in the series. In the last book, Toni is accused of murder and all she does is constantly bitch about it. I mean I would be pissed if that happened to me, but if you're business is still doing okay and everyone in town isn't afraid of you despite thinking your the prime suspect, then I would take a little comfort in that twisted irony. Toni has one hell of a grandmother and a family that supports her, so I mean your loved ones are your anchor while you're going through this.
When I was reading this book, I had to set it down when Grandma Ruth and Aunt Phyllis came up with another crazy scheme to solve the mystery because I was laughing so hard at their antics and reactions. It is one break-in after another. Normally, this would be appalling in an actual crime scene, but I got a kick out of those two old ladies taking charge while Toni is whining in the background. Even the police are frightened by them. Brad the Hot Lawyer tries to reprehend them, but to no use. Sam the Rancher Stud puts his two cents in and jumps in at the weirdest moments, but you don't really see much of him until he comes in to save Toni. That's his only purpose.
Normally, I hate love triangles since romantic relationships aren't furthering (unless you wind up with a threesome especially in erotic novels), but you don't hear much complaint and the mystery plot is interesting enough to hold the readers' attention in this story. So, I couldn't care less about the two guys since they are there as fillers. Despite this being in first-person with Toni, I felt Grandma Ruth stole the limelight and I'm actually thrilled about that.
Kip was another character I loved. The author did okay describing Asperger's syndrome, but I felt like she did a quick google research before writing this story. At least she was smart enough to make Kip sound bright enough for his age. It was cute he found that puppy and Toni had to clean up the piddle messes. (In the first book, it was slightly more insulting towards autism, but the author redeems herself by defending them in the end because there are cruel people out there who treat them poorly and there are supporting characters who defend them.)
"I hear of someone dying and I send flowers to someone I know who's still alive. I don't know whose idea it was to send flowers to a funeral. Seriously, have you ever noticed how alike funerals and weddings are? There are flowers, seats up front for the family, someone cries, and afterward we all eat cake." (p. 164-165)
The story starts out with Toni's Grandma Ruth getting questioned for her rival's death and is considered the prime suspect since she was the last one to see her alive and there are tire tracks that look similar to her scooter. Instead of being appalled like a normal person being accused of murder, she takes it with stride and has another family member (Aunt Phyllis) help her investigate a sixty-year-old crime linked to the murder.
This book is much better than the first one in the series. In the last book, Toni is accused of murder and all she does is constantly bitch about it. I mean I would be pissed if that happened to me, but if you're business is still doing okay and everyone in town isn't afraid of you despite thinking your the prime suspect, then I would take a little comfort in that twisted irony. Toni has one hell of a grandmother and a family that supports her, so I mean your loved ones are your anchor while you're going through this.
When I was reading this book, I had to set it down when Grandma Ruth and Aunt Phyllis came up with another crazy scheme to solve the mystery because I was laughing so hard at their antics and reactions. It is one break-in after another. Normally, this would be appalling in an actual crime scene, but I got a kick out of those two old ladies taking charge while Toni is whining in the background. Even the police are frightened by them. Brad the Hot Lawyer tries to reprehend them, but to no use. Sam the Rancher Stud puts his two cents in and jumps in at the weirdest moments, but you don't really see much of him until he comes in to save Toni. That's his only purpose.
Normally, I hate love triangles since romantic relationships aren't furthering (unless you wind up with a threesome especially in erotic novels), but you don't hear much complaint and the mystery plot is interesting enough to hold the readers' attention in this story. So, I couldn't care less about the two guys since they are there as fillers. Despite this being in first-person with Toni, I felt Grandma Ruth stole the limelight and I'm actually thrilled about that.
Kip was another character I loved. The author did okay describing Asperger's syndrome, but I felt like she did a quick google research before writing this story. At least she was smart enough to make Kip sound bright enough for his age. It was cute he found that puppy and Toni had to clean up the piddle messes. (In the first book, it was slightly more insulting towards autism, but the author redeems herself by defending them in the end because there are cruel people out there who treat them poorly and there are supporting characters who defend them.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2014
http://openbooksociety.com/article/mu...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kim
murder-gone-a-rye-baker-treat-mystery-nancy-j-parraI gave this a 4 star rating because it was funny, cute with a little bit of murder and sweets thrown in. Although this is the second in the series, it can be a stand alone read but after reading this you are going to want to read the first one.
Toni Holmes is an amazing person with a big heart, especially for friends and family. Toni moved back to Oiltop, Kansas and started a gluten-free bakery. Business is going well and with Thanksgiving in a few days, she has her hands full but unfortunately her hands are about to get fuller.
What’s a girl to do with a feisty Grandmother and Aunt who are up in years but act like teenagers? Every time Toni turns around they are in trouble or Grandma Ruth is in jail.
When her Grandma Ruth gets in trouble, she really gets in trouble. Grandma has been arrested for the murder of her arch-enemy Lois Striker and it doesn’t get any better. When Toni’s grandma starts investigating the murder, breaking into courthouses and getting arrested everything gets turned upside down. Grandma Ruth, although advanced in age, her mind works faster than her body and it doesn’t help that Grandma Ruth used to be an investigative reporter and thinks she can still do the job.
Toni doesn’t want to get involved but when grandma gets hurt, broken leg, broken arm and a moose egg on her noggin, she doesn’t have a choice. There is someone out to hurt her and her family and Toni is not going to let them get away with it.
Why are they trying to hurt them and how do you stop someone or something you don’t understand?
The clues come and go but reading them correctly is the thing and reading the clues wrong could result in Grandma Ruth being sent up for murder and a family member dying or Toni herself.
Why would something in the 70′s result in the death of Lois and the attempts on those she loved? Well it takes one small mistake and one unlikely hero to finally figure it out. Nothing is ever what it seems.
Included in this are gluten-free recipes for sweets, Yum and who doesn’t like sweets. Not me I love them. I do believe you will enjoy this and I am definitely going to get the first book so enjoy coffee and sweets while you read this.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kim
murder-gone-a-rye-baker-treat-mystery-nancy-j-parraI gave this a 4 star rating because it was funny, cute with a little bit of murder and sweets thrown in. Although this is the second in the series, it can be a stand alone read but after reading this you are going to want to read the first one.
Toni Holmes is an amazing person with a big heart, especially for friends and family. Toni moved back to Oiltop, Kansas and started a gluten-free bakery. Business is going well and with Thanksgiving in a few days, she has her hands full but unfortunately her hands are about to get fuller.
What’s a girl to do with a feisty Grandmother and Aunt who are up in years but act like teenagers? Every time Toni turns around they are in trouble or Grandma Ruth is in jail.
When her Grandma Ruth gets in trouble, she really gets in trouble. Grandma has been arrested for the murder of her arch-enemy Lois Striker and it doesn’t get any better. When Toni’s grandma starts investigating the murder, breaking into courthouses and getting arrested everything gets turned upside down. Grandma Ruth, although advanced in age, her mind works faster than her body and it doesn’t help that Grandma Ruth used to be an investigative reporter and thinks she can still do the job.
Toni doesn’t want to get involved but when grandma gets hurt, broken leg, broken arm and a moose egg on her noggin, she doesn’t have a choice. There is someone out to hurt her and her family and Toni is not going to let them get away with it.
Why are they trying to hurt them and how do you stop someone or something you don’t understand?
The clues come and go but reading them correctly is the thing and reading the clues wrong could result in Grandma Ruth being sent up for murder and a family member dying or Toni herself.
Why would something in the 70′s result in the death of Lois and the attempts on those she loved? Well it takes one small mistake and one unlikely hero to finally figure it out. Nothing is ever what it seems.
Included in this are gluten-free recipes for sweets, Yum and who doesn’t like sweets. Not me I love them. I do believe you will enjoy this and I am definitely going to get the first book so enjoy coffee and sweets while you read this.
July 26, 2014
http://www.newandusedbooks.com/index....
MURDER GONE A-RYE
Nancy J. Parra
Berkley Prime Crime
May 2014
Thanksgiving Day in Oiltop, Kansas is also Homer Everett Day. Homer was a sports icon, a World War II Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, and a former mayor of Oiltop who died in 1975. Homer had already had a statue of himself erected in the center of town, so it was an easy feat two years after his death to proclaim his special Day. A big parade is held and prizes awarded to the merchants with the best float, and this recognition has always boosted sales for the winner.
This year Toni Holmes’ beloved ninetyish Grandma Ruth is a person of interest, and the only suspect, in the murder of Lois Stryker. Lois was supposedly Homer’s mistress, and possibly the mother of the current mayor, Hutch Everett. Homer, Lois, and Champ Rogers were all very close, back in the day, until Champ was shot and killed, and the gun was never recovered. Ruth Nathers, a member of Mensa and an ex-investigative reporter, is convinced that Lois was killed because she was going to confess all to Ruth, and admit that the gun is hidden between a wall in the mayor’s office at City Hall. Ruth is definitely being framed and her wheelchair scooter is being held as evidence. Ruth isn’t worried and treats this like a big joke; one of her “adopted” children, Phyllis Travers, age sixty, has come in her VW wagon from California to help Ruth get answers. Attorney Brad Ridgeway is defending Ruth; he is one of two men in Oiltop trying to convince Toni to start dating again since her bitter divorce a year ago. Sam Greenbaum is the other hopeful suitor.
Toni’s bakery, Baker’s Treat, is doing very well. Toni’s BFF, Tasha, and her autistic son, Kip, are still living in Toni’s big old family home that she inherited. Toni realizes that she has two wonderful men that want to be a part of her life; she just has to accept that all men aren’t like the jerk she was married to.
MURDER GONE A-RYE is a superb follow-up to GLUTEN FOR PUNISHMENT, and is an extremely tempting and delicious mystery. A tip of the chef’s toque to Nancy J. Parra and her wonderful characters and tantalizing plots; you can be sure this reader will be visiting Oiltop and Baker’s Treat again and again.
Betty Cox, Staff Reviewer
ReaderToReader.com
MURDER GONE A-RYE
Nancy J. Parra
Berkley Prime Crime
May 2014
Thanksgiving Day in Oiltop, Kansas is also Homer Everett Day. Homer was a sports icon, a World War II Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, and a former mayor of Oiltop who died in 1975. Homer had already had a statue of himself erected in the center of town, so it was an easy feat two years after his death to proclaim his special Day. A big parade is held and prizes awarded to the merchants with the best float, and this recognition has always boosted sales for the winner.
This year Toni Holmes’ beloved ninetyish Grandma Ruth is a person of interest, and the only suspect, in the murder of Lois Stryker. Lois was supposedly Homer’s mistress, and possibly the mother of the current mayor, Hutch Everett. Homer, Lois, and Champ Rogers were all very close, back in the day, until Champ was shot and killed, and the gun was never recovered. Ruth Nathers, a member of Mensa and an ex-investigative reporter, is convinced that Lois was killed because she was going to confess all to Ruth, and admit that the gun is hidden between a wall in the mayor’s office at City Hall. Ruth is definitely being framed and her wheelchair scooter is being held as evidence. Ruth isn’t worried and treats this like a big joke; one of her “adopted” children, Phyllis Travers, age sixty, has come in her VW wagon from California to help Ruth get answers. Attorney Brad Ridgeway is defending Ruth; he is one of two men in Oiltop trying to convince Toni to start dating again since her bitter divorce a year ago. Sam Greenbaum is the other hopeful suitor.
Toni’s bakery, Baker’s Treat, is doing very well. Toni’s BFF, Tasha, and her autistic son, Kip, are still living in Toni’s big old family home that she inherited. Toni realizes that she has two wonderful men that want to be a part of her life; she just has to accept that all men aren’t like the jerk she was married to.
MURDER GONE A-RYE is a superb follow-up to GLUTEN FOR PUNISHMENT, and is an extremely tempting and delicious mystery. A tip of the chef’s toque to Nancy J. Parra and her wonderful characters and tantalizing plots; you can be sure this reader will be visiting Oiltop and Baker’s Treat again and again.
Betty Cox, Staff Reviewer
ReaderToReader.com
May 29, 2014
While this is the second book in the series, this is the first that I have read. I loved getting to know Oiltop’s gluten-free bakery owner, Toni Holmes. Toni is preparing for the Thanksgiving rush when the unexpected happens; her grandmother becomes the prime suspect in a murder investigation. Grandma Ruth is a suspect in the murder of Lois Striker, who was formerly known as the secretary to the mayor of Oiltop, Kansas. Toni has to put her shop behind her for a little while so that she can focus on freeing her rather ornery grandmother from a fate worse than death!
The murder case in this book was very well-written. It focuses on a cold case from 1959 and was extremely suspenseful. It kept someone like me, who reads mysteries all the time, intrigued right up until the end. The characters also add to the story because of their spunk and downright hilarity. In this book we meet Aunt Phyllis and when she and Grandma Ruth get together they are so much fun and constantly had me laughing. Toni gets right in the middle of them, and seeing them all interact is a very nice touch that helps me connect to each of them. They seem like a real family, flaws and all!
The bakery was my favorite part of this book. I loved listening to Toni’s wonderful creations and the time of year was perfect. This book took place during the big Thanksgiving rush, and as we head into summer here it was a nice change of pace for me to read this. I felt very comfy and warm as I imagined all the cookies, cakes, and hot coffee being served. I am looking forward to spending more time in Toni’s bakery very soon!
***A free copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at Berkley in exchange for my honest review***
The murder case in this book was very well-written. It focuses on a cold case from 1959 and was extremely suspenseful. It kept someone like me, who reads mysteries all the time, intrigued right up until the end. The characters also add to the story because of their spunk and downright hilarity. In this book we meet Aunt Phyllis and when she and Grandma Ruth get together they are so much fun and constantly had me laughing. Toni gets right in the middle of them, and seeing them all interact is a very nice touch that helps me connect to each of them. They seem like a real family, flaws and all!
The bakery was my favorite part of this book. I loved listening to Toni’s wonderful creations and the time of year was perfect. This book took place during the big Thanksgiving rush, and as we head into summer here it was a nice change of pace for me to read this. I felt very comfy and warm as I imagined all the cookies, cakes, and hot coffee being served. I am looking forward to spending more time in Toni’s bakery very soon!
***A free copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at Berkley in exchange for my honest review***
June 4, 2014
“Toni Holmes is the best gluten-free baker in Oiltop, Kansas—okay, she’s the only one—but when her grandmother becomes a murder suspect, she’s more concerned with keeping Grandma free…
When Toni’s beloved—and eccentric—grandma Ruth is arrested for the murder of her archenemy, Lois Striker, it’s time for a senior moment of truth. Telltale tracks from a scooter like the one Grandma Ruth rides lead the police to suspect the outspoken oldster, but Toni knows her grandmother wouldn’t burn a cookie, let alone extinguish a life.
In fact, the case has Grandma more revved up than her infamous scooter. A former investigative journalist, she decides to solve the murder herself—with help from Toni—by digging up long-buried town secrets. But as Grandma scoots in where others fear to tread, Toni needs to make sure she not only stays out of jail but out of harm’s way…”
“Murder Gone A-Rye,” the second of “A Baker’s Treat Mystery” is a quick, entertaining, interesting, fun read! It was well written, the plot moves along just fine ---- the Toni’s family is truly made up of loud, boisterous, stubborn people who just make the novel more fun. Her grandmother being a 90 year old Mensa, along with her aunt really keep the story moving along. Grandma enjoying running her scooter everywhere, until the police confiscate it as they run her and her aunt in for murder! I enjoy how the author works really hard at explaining gluten-free recipes and the little boys sickness and how his finding of a puppy gets him in trouble but helps move the story along quite well. She also put in a lot of wonderful sounding recipes --- good cozy mystery. Book just made me happy and I was sorry to see this adventure end! I truly believe that anyone enjoying Cozy mysteries will enjoy this one!
When Toni’s beloved—and eccentric—grandma Ruth is arrested for the murder of her archenemy, Lois Striker, it’s time for a senior moment of truth. Telltale tracks from a scooter like the one Grandma Ruth rides lead the police to suspect the outspoken oldster, but Toni knows her grandmother wouldn’t burn a cookie, let alone extinguish a life.
In fact, the case has Grandma more revved up than her infamous scooter. A former investigative journalist, she decides to solve the murder herself—with help from Toni—by digging up long-buried town secrets. But as Grandma scoots in where others fear to tread, Toni needs to make sure she not only stays out of jail but out of harm’s way…”
“Murder Gone A-Rye,” the second of “A Baker’s Treat Mystery” is a quick, entertaining, interesting, fun read! It was well written, the plot moves along just fine ---- the Toni’s family is truly made up of loud, boisterous, stubborn people who just make the novel more fun. Her grandmother being a 90 year old Mensa, along with her aunt really keep the story moving along. Grandma enjoying running her scooter everywhere, until the police confiscate it as they run her and her aunt in for murder! I enjoy how the author works really hard at explaining gluten-free recipes and the little boys sickness and how his finding of a puppy gets him in trouble but helps move the story along quite well. She also put in a lot of wonderful sounding recipes --- good cozy mystery. Book just made me happy and I was sorry to see this adventure end! I truly believe that anyone enjoying Cozy mysteries will enjoy this one!
December 6, 2015
It's almost Thanksgiving, and Toni Holmes is not only gearing up for the holiday gluten-free baked-goods rush, she's also trying to decorate a float for the annual Homer Everett Day Parade. Homer was a local celebrity--pro football player and war hero--and the parade is a big deal. But when Grandma Ruth goes to meet with a woman claiming to have information proving Homer wasn't all he was cracked up to be, she finds the body of her would-be informant and is accused of murder. All of which Grandma Ruth finds entertaining, though Toni does not. Toni wants to leave the investigating to the police, but Grandma Ruth's antics in sleuthing force her to get involved, not only to solve the case but also save her grandmother's life.
The potential love triangle between Toni, Brad, and Sam continues in Book #2, thanks to Toni's insistence on taking a year off from relationships after her divorce. Toni will have a hard time choosing there, I think. Both men are fantastic.
Grandma Ruth's character is both amusing and irritating to me. She's supposed to be fearless and eccentric, but her lack of consideration for other people--their feelings and their property--is appalling. She rides roughshod over everyone. You'd think after 90+ years on this earth, she wouldn't be quite so self-absorbed. Other reviewers have referred to her as an elderly teenager, and I totally agree. I'm not sure why Ms. Parra describes her as being well-respected when it doesn't seem like she behaves in a manner worthy of respect.
As for the mystery itself, I came close on guessing the old secrets and current killer but had a few details wrong, so that was a nice surprise.
For readers' advisors: story and character doorways. No sex, bad language, or on-screen violence.
The potential love triangle between Toni, Brad, and Sam continues in Book #2, thanks to Toni's insistence on taking a year off from relationships after her divorce. Toni will have a hard time choosing there, I think. Both men are fantastic.
Grandma Ruth's character is both amusing and irritating to me. She's supposed to be fearless and eccentric, but her lack of consideration for other people--their feelings and their property--is appalling. She rides roughshod over everyone. You'd think after 90+ years on this earth, she wouldn't be quite so self-absorbed. Other reviewers have referred to her as an elderly teenager, and I totally agree. I'm not sure why Ms. Parra describes her as being well-respected when it doesn't seem like she behaves in a manner worthy of respect.
As for the mystery itself, I came close on guessing the old secrets and current killer but had a few details wrong, so that was a nice surprise.
For readers' advisors: story and character doorways. No sex, bad language, or on-screen violence.
May 8, 2014
It was fun getting back to Oiltop, Kansas' new gluten-free bakery in MURDER GONE A-RYE. This time around, Toni Holmes has to split time running her shop during Thanksgiving rush and keeping her ornery Grandma Ruth out of trouble. Ruth is a suspect in the murder of Lois Striker, who was the secretary of Oiltop's mayor decades earlier. The mystery was intriguing and well-crafted, blending the Lois Striker case with a cold case murder from 1959. This town has been hiding some juicy secrets over the years, and someone in particular wants them to stay buried at any cost.
The residents of Oiltop are a delightful bunch, and their antics had me giggling several times. We're introduced to Aunt Phyllis who's as quirky as Grandma Ruth. When those two get together, plenty of mischief-making ensues. Toni is her likable, down-to-earth, and patient self, running a successful gluten-free bakery in the middle of wheat country. Getting divorced has made Toni leery about love, but she's got a couple of local men with eyes on her when she's ready to date again.
A highlight of this book was getting to experience the workings of Toni's bakery as she prepared for Thanksgiving sales. I could smell the fresh coffee and sweet treats. Yum! Also included in the book are several gluten-free recipes to try.
Source: Review copy from the publisher
The residents of Oiltop are a delightful bunch, and their antics had me giggling several times. We're introduced to Aunt Phyllis who's as quirky as Grandma Ruth. When those two get together, plenty of mischief-making ensues. Toni is her likable, down-to-earth, and patient self, running a successful gluten-free bakery in the middle of wheat country. Getting divorced has made Toni leery about love, but she's got a couple of local men with eyes on her when she's ready to date again.
A highlight of this book was getting to experience the workings of Toni's bakery as she prepared for Thanksgiving sales. I could smell the fresh coffee and sweet treats. Yum! Also included in the book are several gluten-free recipes to try.
Source: Review copy from the publisher
August 26, 2016
I'm a Kansas girl through and through. And it's a rarity for a book to be set in our fine state - an even bigger one if it's fantastically written. And Nancy J. Parra has done just that - concocted a perfect combination of life in Kansas with a truly suspenseful tale. She is a wonderful author with a natural and creative knack for writing mystery, and this series is one of my absolute favorites :)
Murder Gone A-Rye is clever, fun and unique. Toni and her Grandmother are delightful, as are the rest of the supporting cast of characters. They help stir up the plot of the story, making it nearly impossible to solve the crime before you've reached the end of the book. And the gluten-free recipes that are used in the book (and conveniently given at the very end) are surprisingly delicious! (Yes, I made a few of them!)
If you're new to the cozy genre, or you're just looking for a new fun and exciting series that's in a league all of it's own, pick this one up. You'll be SO happy that you did! :)
Murder Gone A-Rye is clever, fun and unique. Toni and her Grandmother are delightful, as are the rest of the supporting cast of characters. They help stir up the plot of the story, making it nearly impossible to solve the crime before you've reached the end of the book. And the gluten-free recipes that are used in the book (and conveniently given at the very end) are surprisingly delicious! (Yes, I made a few of them!)
If you're new to the cozy genre, or you're just looking for a new fun and exciting series that's in a league all of it's own, pick this one up. You'll be SO happy that you did! :)
October 1, 2015
Not as good as the first book of the series. It is cute, but not totally interesting. The author, however, should stick to her mystery writing and not try to interpret legal issues - among other errors, there is no reason on earth for a papers from a divorce in Chicago, would show up in a county courthouse in Kansas - unless the individual actually filed the papers at the courthouse, but then the person filing would know they were there and not need to go look them up.
ADDENDUM: Having tried some of these recipes, I have to say that they are terrible, absolutely terrible. If a bakery were serving these baked goods to their customers, they would be out of business within a month. How can you put out a recipe for muffins and quick breads that contain no leavening? Recipe testing is not an option when you are including them as part of your book. Proofreading is also not an option. If you are buying this book for the gluten-free recipes, DON'T. There are plenty of other good and great cookbooks, magazines and blogs for the gluten free that have a plethora of delicious recipes.
ADDENDUM: Having tried some of these recipes, I have to say that they are terrible, absolutely terrible. If a bakery were serving these baked goods to their customers, they would be out of business within a month. How can you put out a recipe for muffins and quick breads that contain no leavening? Recipe testing is not an option when you are including them as part of your book. Proofreading is also not an option. If you are buying this book for the gluten-free recipes, DON'T. There are plenty of other good and great cookbooks, magazines and blogs for the gluten free that have a plethora of delicious recipes.
June 3, 2014
I loved her first book, but I was disappointed in this one. I liked the recipes in the back of the book and made the "Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Bars" I did not however follow the story line. The character was too reserved with not wanting to find out who the murderer was. It took almost losing her grandmother for her to finally get involved. If the character had been more involved through out the whole book it would have made better sense to how she figured out who the killer was. This was only coincidental in the end. The love interests between the two men really need to be more then just a little flirting. If her best friend can move on in this book then why can't she? Like I said I did enjoy the first book, and I would purchase the next book in the series. I would have appreciated an afterward concluding how everyone else was doing in the end.
December 15, 2016
This was a great follow up to a wonderful debut! I really enjoy Nancy Parra's writing style and the Baker's Treat series is pure fun! Toni is an enjoyable main character and her Grandma Ruth is a hoot!! We also meet Toni's Aunt Phyllis who is just as wild and reckless as Grandma and when the two decide to solve a murder mystery it takes everything Toni has to keep them out of trouble and out of jail!! On top of all of this, it's Thanksgiving and Toni is super busy whipping up tasty special orders for her gluten free customers to enjoy during the holidays. She's also working on a float for the Homer Everett Day parade... a local hero with family ties to some interesting secrets!! Add in a cute "little" pup named Aubrey, Toni's huge and eccentric family, and the makings of a quality love triangle and you've got a great story!! I can't wait to read the next in the series!!!
September 13, 2014
I have a great interest in this book because I am gluten-free. I read the first one and really enjoyed the characters and the writing. Toni Holmes is a baker who opens a gluten free bakery in the heart of wheat-country, Oiltop, Kansas. Everyone is Oiltop is gearing up for the Homer Everett (the town's claim to fame) parade. Toni has decided to enter a float into the parade, a float in which her quirky Grandma Ruth will perch atop. When Grandma Ruth's archenemy ends up dead and Grandma Ruth is hauled into the slammer, Toni finds herself back in the middle of an investigation. The problem is that Grandma Ruth, a saucy investigative journalist continues to put herself in harms way by poking her nose where it doesn't belong. This was a great read, I look forward to her next book.
May 6, 2014
This is the 2nd book in the Baker's Treat mystery Series and it was a real treat. From lovable, eccentric Grandma Ruth, to Toni and the rest of the wacky relatives this book was such fun to read. I think that Grandma was based on every grandmother that Nancy had ever met.
When Grandma is arrested for the murder of Lois Striker, all hell breaks loose. As a former investigative journalist Grandma decides that she and Toni (and a few of their friends) will be able to solve the murder. How much trouble can a feisty grandma and her granddaughter get into?
I found that the characters were all very believable, and the story line was easy to follow. An added bonus to the book are the gluten free recipes in the back of the book.
When Grandma is arrested for the murder of Lois Striker, all hell breaks loose. As a former investigative journalist Grandma decides that she and Toni (and a few of their friends) will be able to solve the murder. How much trouble can a feisty grandma and her granddaughter get into?
I found that the characters were all very believable, and the story line was easy to follow. An added bonus to the book are the gluten free recipes in the back of the book.
July 4, 2014
Grandma Ruth is not your average grandmother, but that is not a bad thing. Everyone knows she rides a scooter and when her archenemy, Lois is found dead, wouldn't you know it, there are scooter tracks right by the body. The Oiltop police arrest grandma Ruth and being a former investigative journalist, she calls in Phyllis to help her solve the mystery. Toni, loving both women, cannot let them get into any trouble, so she tries to keep them out of trouble, but ends up getting thrown right in the middle of it all.
This is a funny cozy mystery and if you have not had a chance to read the first book in this series, that is okay. Murder Gone A-Rye can still be your first to read in the series, but be ready to run out and pick up Gluten for Punishment.
This is a funny cozy mystery and if you have not had a chance to read the first book in this series, that is okay. Murder Gone A-Rye can still be your first to read in the series, but be ready to run out and pick up Gluten for Punishment.
September 18, 2014
Toni's grandmother, Ruth, shares center stage in this second, smart and funny installment of the Baker's Treat Mysteries. I really loved the play of Toni's reluctant heroine against Ruth's sheer exuberance at experiencing all things to the max. Beyond Ruth's nosy journalistic inclinations, she just loves the experience of getting arrested. If only we could all live life like that. Toni, on the other hand, has to balance her business during this peak holiday season, with tracking down a murderer if for no other reason than to keep Ruth from getting into ever increasing trouble. Add a kid with Asperger's and the fastest growing puppy ever to this cast of well-defined, colorful characters, and you get everything you could ever want in a great cozy mystery.
December 7, 2016
A murder mystery with Grandma Ruth being interviewed by the police in the death of an older but unpopular member of the community.
Thanksgiving is coming, Toni has a parade float to prepare, her friend and autistic son have taken over the the top floor of her house and she has many, many GF pies to make for the holiday!
Aunt Phoebe shows up in her old VW van and aids and abets Grandma in her search for an old town secret. Only the secret and the new murder aren't quite what she thought!
A good look at small town dynamics, local politics and a local hero who helps clean up a playground and rescues a puppy! A very large white puppy!!!!!!
Thanksgiving is coming, Toni has a parade float to prepare, her friend and autistic son have taken over the the top floor of her house and she has many, many GF pies to make for the holiday!
Aunt Phoebe shows up in her old VW van and aids and abets Grandma in her search for an old town secret. Only the secret and the new murder aren't quite what she thought!
A good look at small town dynamics, local politics and a local hero who helps clean up a playground and rescues a puppy! A very large white puppy!!!!!!
January 13, 2016
Not a month after her last dealings with death, Toni finds herself with another murder at her doorstep when all she wants to do is get through her first Thanksgiving at Baker's Treat! This series continues to deliver (just like Meghan and her pie van) when it comes to zany characters, steamy love interests, and the very best cozy heroine! While all the gluten-free ingredients were there, I didn't find this mystery as satisfying as the first in series but I can't wait to be back in Oiltop to find out what's next for Toni Holmes!
September 16, 2014
Toni is preparing a float for the annual parade for her gluten-free bakery, and to keep her grandmother Ruth, who longs to ride in the parade, happy. But investigative journalist Ruth would be even happier with a scoop revealing that a local hero is really a murderer, even though he's been dead 25 or more years. When Ruth's prime source is found dead, she becomes a suspect in the case, and Toni is forced, reluctantly, to investigate to clear Grandma's name.
July 24, 2014
Good book! I think I enjoyed this one even more than the first one in the Baker's Treat Mystery series. I just had to laugh at Grandma Ruth with her orange hair and scooter. She's always getting herself in trouble and Toni is having to chase her around all over town to keep an eye on her while trying to solve a murder.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews