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Coffee & Cream Café Mystery #1
Murder A La Mode
From author Lena Gregory comes a delicious new series that will warm your heart and leave you guessing until the very end...
When twenty-five-year-old Danika Delaney, black sheep of the Delaney clan, returns home to Long Island to take over Jimmie's, her eccentric uncle’s old fashioned malt shop on eastern Long Island, she’s not exactly thrilled. But things start to look up when her uncle tells her she can do whatever she’d like with the shop, and it seems she might realize her dream of a small trendy café. That is, until she discovers the body of her ex-boyfriend’s estranged wife in a melted puddle of rocky road in the malt shop basement. With her two sidekicks, her sister and a good childhood friend, in tow, Dani searches for–or stumbles upon—one clue after another. But as she narrows down the suspect list, she realizes if she’s not careful she may end up in a puddle of her own...
What critics are saying about Lena
"Ms. Gregory does an amazing job...her writing style makes every mystery enjoyable."
~ Moonlight Rendezvous
"This cozy was fast-paced and I didn’t want to put it down once I started."
~ Brooke Blogs
"Author Lena Gregory sure didn’t disappoint. She cooked up tale so tasty I devoured it!"
~ Lisa Ks Book Reviews
When twenty-five-year-old Danika Delaney, black sheep of the Delaney clan, returns home to Long Island to take over Jimmie's, her eccentric uncle’s old fashioned malt shop on eastern Long Island, she’s not exactly thrilled. But things start to look up when her uncle tells her she can do whatever she’d like with the shop, and it seems she might realize her dream of a small trendy café. That is, until she discovers the body of her ex-boyfriend’s estranged wife in a melted puddle of rocky road in the malt shop basement. With her two sidekicks, her sister and a good childhood friend, in tow, Dani searches for–or stumbles upon—one clue after another. But as she narrows down the suspect list, she realizes if she’s not careful she may end up in a puddle of her own...
What critics are saying about Lena
"Ms. Gregory does an amazing job...her writing style makes every mystery enjoyable."
~ Moonlight Rendezvous
"This cozy was fast-paced and I didn’t want to put it down once I started."
~ Brooke Blogs
"Author Lena Gregory sure didn’t disappoint. She cooked up tale so tasty I devoured it!"
~ Lisa Ks Book Reviews
197 pages, Paperback
Published July 22, 2023
156 people are currently reading
521 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
August 6, 2023
This is a great start to a new series, Coffee & Cream Mysteries, by a new to me author, Lena Gregory. Danika returns home to run her uncle's ice cream shop after being away for several years. What she didn't expect is to feel like she has dropped back into high school and the theatrics of a group of trouble making friends from back then. Things get really dicey when she discovers the body of the ringleader in the basement of the shop. The mean girl, now Dani's ex-boyfriend's wife, has lots of people who might have wanted her dead. This is a good mystery to unravel with likable characters and laugh out moments. But there are also moments when Dani and her friend Gwen get into some dangerous and sticky situations. I am looking forward to reading more in the series.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review, and these are my thoughts.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review, and these are my thoughts.
April 26, 2024
I enjoyed this new series and look forward to more. While I wavered on who did the killings I did not figure it was who it was.
August 19, 2023
Dollycas's Thoughts
Twenty-five-year-old Danika Delaney didn't follow the plan her parents wanted but now her dream career in advertising is gone along with the guy she thought she was going to marry and the apartment she was subletting. So now her family has decided she is the perfect person to take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop. Jimmie's is an old-fashioned malt shop on Main Street in Watchague, a small town on the south shore of eastern Long Island.
While reluctantly learning the ropes from her uncle he does tell her she can make any updates she wishes to the place but when she finds her ex-high school boyfriend's soon-to-be ex-wife's dead body in the basement a pool of rocky road she realizes whatever changes she planned on making aren't going to happen. Especially with the gossip running rampant around town that she and her ex were back together and she or he killed his wife so that they could be together.
Dani sets out to clear her name truly not sure of her ex's innocence with her sister, Meghan, and her friend since childhood, Gwen. They come up with several other suspects but can they get the scoop on the killer before the killer ices Danika?
______
In this first Coffee & Cream Cafe Mystery we meet Danika who has really had a string of bad luck or as she thinks Karma. I liked her right away but her sleuthing skills need a lot of work. She is very genuine, kind, and funny. She hooks back up with her best friend Gwen as if no time had passed at all. Her sister Meghan, the "favored child" manages her Aunt Florence's very successful boutique. She has always "toed the family line", went to a local college and earned a business degree, and is all set up to find the perfect man, have perfect kids, and even the perfect dog. We also meet the hunky Detective Jake Barlow, Danika's high school boyfriend Luca, who cheated on her at the prom, and several other members of Danika's family and residents of the small town. All of Ms. Gregory's characters are vividly written and get fleshed out well throughout the story. There is a romantic triangle in the making and already I am all in for Team Jake!
Well plotted and written, the mystery ties into a mystery from the past that draws readers deeper into the story. The victim was a real witch which means there were plenty of suspects and a variety of motives. Danika listened to all the gossip and she and Gwen did their best to follow all the clues. Danika and Gwen reminded me a little of Lucy and Ethel and they usually had a lot ‘splainin’ to do! But they didn't give up. Danika wasn't sure until the very end who the guilty party was and I was right there with her. I really enjoyed the showdown and who bought the criminal down.
Murder A La Mode was such a fun read! I mean who doesn't love ice cream? along with an entertaining mystery with a surprising reveal? and interesting characters? I love the way Ms. Gregory tells a story! I am very happy that we don't have to wait long for the next book in the series. Grounds for Murder is set to be released on November 21. I already have the date saved on my calendar.
Twenty-five-year-old Danika Delaney didn't follow the plan her parents wanted but now her dream career in advertising is gone along with the guy she thought she was going to marry and the apartment she was subletting. So now her family has decided she is the perfect person to take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop. Jimmie's is an old-fashioned malt shop on Main Street in Watchague, a small town on the south shore of eastern Long Island.
While reluctantly learning the ropes from her uncle he does tell her she can make any updates she wishes to the place but when she finds her ex-high school boyfriend's soon-to-be ex-wife's dead body in the basement a pool of rocky road she realizes whatever changes she planned on making aren't going to happen. Especially with the gossip running rampant around town that she and her ex were back together and she or he killed his wife so that they could be together.
Dani sets out to clear her name truly not sure of her ex's innocence with her sister, Meghan, and her friend since childhood, Gwen. They come up with several other suspects but can they get the scoop on the killer before the killer ices Danika?
______
In this first Coffee & Cream Cafe Mystery we meet Danika who has really had a string of bad luck or as she thinks Karma. I liked her right away but her sleuthing skills need a lot of work. She is very genuine, kind, and funny. She hooks back up with her best friend Gwen as if no time had passed at all. Her sister Meghan, the "favored child" manages her Aunt Florence's very successful boutique. She has always "toed the family line", went to a local college and earned a business degree, and is all set up to find the perfect man, have perfect kids, and even the perfect dog. We also meet the hunky Detective Jake Barlow, Danika's high school boyfriend Luca, who cheated on her at the prom, and several other members of Danika's family and residents of the small town. All of Ms. Gregory's characters are vividly written and get fleshed out well throughout the story. There is a romantic triangle in the making and already I am all in for Team Jake!
Well plotted and written, the mystery ties into a mystery from the past that draws readers deeper into the story. The victim was a real witch which means there were plenty of suspects and a variety of motives. Danika listened to all the gossip and she and Gwen did their best to follow all the clues. Danika and Gwen reminded me a little of Lucy and Ethel and they usually had a lot ‘splainin’ to do! But they didn't give up. Danika wasn't sure until the very end who the guilty party was and I was right there with her. I really enjoyed the showdown and who bought the criminal down.
Murder A La Mode was such a fun read! I mean who doesn't love ice cream? along with an entertaining mystery with a surprising reveal? and interesting characters? I love the way Ms. Gregory tells a story! I am very happy that we don't have to wait long for the next book in the series. Grounds for Murder is set to be released on November 21. I already have the date saved on my calendar.
August 13, 2023
Danika Delaney returns to her hometown of Watchogue, Long Island to take over her uncle’s ice cream shop. It’s not what she originally planned to do with her life, but the idea of turning it into a cafe has her excited. Of course, returning to your old hometown means running into old friends (and a few enemies, too!)
Her ex-boyfriend is one of the first people she sees. He is now getting a divorce from one of her former enemies, Heather. When Dani discovers Heather’s dead body in the basement of the ice cream shop, her life is totally turned upside down. The police have sealed off her shop and many people close to her are now under suspicion.
Dani can’t sit quietly by and wait for the cops to figure it out. She decides to do some snooping on her own. Fortunately, she has a good friend willing to help her out.
This is the first book in a new cozy mystery series, and I loved it right from the start. I found the characters interesting and well developed. Dani is a strong amateur sleuth. Although she makes your typical amateur sleuth hasty decisions, she has good motivation and intentions. There’s a possible romantic triangle in Dani’s future but doesn’t take over the book. The mystery is the main story and should be.
I devoured this book. It’s captivating with wonderfully portrayed characters. I, also, enjoyed that it was set on Long Island where I spent most of my life. It’s always enjoyable to me to read books set in areas I know.
Murder A La Mode has everything I look for in a cozy - strong characters, a good storyline, many possible suspects and a surprise ending. It all worked well for me, and I look forward to the next book in this series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Her ex-boyfriend is one of the first people she sees. He is now getting a divorce from one of her former enemies, Heather. When Dani discovers Heather’s dead body in the basement of the ice cream shop, her life is totally turned upside down. The police have sealed off her shop and many people close to her are now under suspicion.
Dani can’t sit quietly by and wait for the cops to figure it out. She decides to do some snooping on her own. Fortunately, she has a good friend willing to help her out.
This is the first book in a new cozy mystery series, and I loved it right from the start. I found the characters interesting and well developed. Dani is a strong amateur sleuth. Although she makes your typical amateur sleuth hasty decisions, she has good motivation and intentions. There’s a possible romantic triangle in Dani’s future but doesn’t take over the book. The mystery is the main story and should be.
I devoured this book. It’s captivating with wonderfully portrayed characters. I, also, enjoyed that it was set on Long Island where I spent most of my life. It’s always enjoyable to me to read books set in areas I know.
Murder A La Mode has everything I look for in a cozy - strong characters, a good storyline, many possible suspects and a surprise ending. It all worked well for me, and I look forward to the next book in this series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 12, 2023
So good! Danika Delaney is back on Long Island after 7 years in NYC, to take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop. On her second day home, Dani discovers her ex boyfriend's soon to be ex wife, dead on the shop's basement floor. As the town grapevine's stories about what happened get more outrageous, Dani sets out to try to discover who would have wanted her dead.
This is the first in a new series, and I really enjoyed it! Dani is a likeable MC, and her family reminds me of others I have known. I enjoyed the small town dynamic, and the group of friends who had "stayed behind and close" when others went off to school was interesting. There is a hint that there might be a romantic choice to be made, but I might just be reading that into the plot. I puzzled over the killer almost to the end. I will be eagerly awaiting the next in this series!!
This is the first in a new series, and I really enjoyed it! Dani is a likeable MC, and her family reminds me of others I have known. I enjoyed the small town dynamic, and the group of friends who had "stayed behind and close" when others went off to school was interesting. There is a hint that there might be a romantic choice to be made, but I might just be reading that into the plot. I puzzled over the killer almost to the end. I will be eagerly awaiting the next in this series!!
May 14, 2024
I am not usually a fan of this author’s writing but I thought I would reserve judgment until I tried the new series. Her series usually start out OK but there’s more of an emphasis on romance and less on the mysteries and this is where she loses me. This one starts out the same way and while I enjoyed this one, I am afraid this one will also go down that path (it already seems to have a love triangle forming). I liked the characters and will continue with the series for now.
August 19, 2023
I have loved every single book I’ve read by this author, and Murder A La Mode is no exception. Right from the beginning, I was drawn in by all the things I love about Lena Gregory’s books – the engaging writing voice, the fantastic characters, the close relationships, the doses of humor, and of course the intriguing mystery.
Dani Delaney’s life hasn’t gone the way she hoped, certainly not in the recent past but honestly not since she caught her ex-boyfriend kissing someone else way back when at their high school prom. She hasn’t had anything to do with Luca since then, but that’s not what the gossip around Watchogue says. Instead of quietly running her uncle’s ice cream shop, Dani finds herself embroiled in a scandal involving rumors of adultery (not true… at least not on her part) and her ex-boyfriend’s soon-to-be ex-wife (she, of the prom debacle) dead in the basement.
I loved everything about Murder A La Mode – the layered mystery, the swoony detective (whose chemistry with Dani practically sizzles off the page), the adorable stray-no-longer kitten, the still-there feelings simmering between Dani and Luca, and Dani’s family dynamics. But my absolute favorite part of this book – and the reason for 99.9% of my laughter while reading it – is Dani’s relationship with her best friend Gwen. These two give Lucy and Ethel a run for their money, particularly a certain scene involving an impromptu stakeout complete with nightshirts, clay facial masks, pedicure toe separators (no shoes), and lots of mud that had me laughing out loud. The author wrote this scene so well that I could picture it in my mind like I was watching it play out on TV.
Bottom Line: Murder A La Mode by Lena Gregory is lots of fun and a great way to kick off a brand new series. I am firmly invested in Dani’s life – and was from the first chapter – and can’t wait to follow this series for many more books. The romantical possibilities have me all twitterpated, and I am interested to see who she ends up with as the series progresses. I genuinely like both options but I’m pulling for one more than the other, at least for now. The mystery had several layers that kept me guessing, and I really liked how the author wove several different threads together in the process. Another fabulous read from Lena Gregory, and a yummy new series to follow!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Dani Delaney’s life hasn’t gone the way she hoped, certainly not in the recent past but honestly not since she caught her ex-boyfriend kissing someone else way back when at their high school prom. She hasn’t had anything to do with Luca since then, but that’s not what the gossip around Watchogue says. Instead of quietly running her uncle’s ice cream shop, Dani finds herself embroiled in a scandal involving rumors of adultery (not true… at least not on her part) and her ex-boyfriend’s soon-to-be ex-wife (she, of the prom debacle) dead in the basement.
I loved everything about Murder A La Mode – the layered mystery, the swoony detective (whose chemistry with Dani practically sizzles off the page), the adorable stray-no-longer kitten, the still-there feelings simmering between Dani and Luca, and Dani’s family dynamics. But my absolute favorite part of this book – and the reason for 99.9% of my laughter while reading it – is Dani’s relationship with her best friend Gwen. These two give Lucy and Ethel a run for their money, particularly a certain scene involving an impromptu stakeout complete with nightshirts, clay facial masks, pedicure toe separators (no shoes), and lots of mud that had me laughing out loud. The author wrote this scene so well that I could picture it in my mind like I was watching it play out on TV.
Bottom Line: Murder A La Mode by Lena Gregory is lots of fun and a great way to kick off a brand new series. I am firmly invested in Dani’s life – and was from the first chapter – and can’t wait to follow this series for many more books. The romantical possibilities have me all twitterpated, and I am interested to see who she ends up with as the series progresses. I genuinely like both options but I’m pulling for one more than the other, at least for now. The mystery had several layers that kept me guessing, and I really liked how the author wove several different threads together in the process. Another fabulous read from Lena Gregory, and a yummy new series to follow!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
March 17, 2024
Fun new series
I enjoyed this first in a new series. Danika is a fun character, and I think she's going to find herself wrapped up in many more murder investigatons.
I'm looking forward to reading more.
I enjoyed this first in a new series. Danika is a fun character, and I think she's going to find herself wrapped up in many more murder investigatons.
I'm looking forward to reading more.
August 8, 2023
Danika Delaney returns home to Watchogue, New York, to take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop. She bumps into her high school boyfriend Luca, who dumped her on prom night for Heather, whom he married and is now in the midst of a divorce. When Heather accuses Dani of canoodling with Luca and is later found dead in the basement of the ice cream shop, the gossip amongst the townsfolk is that Danika is the culprit.
I truly enjoyed this advanced copy immensely. After all, who does NOT love ice cream? If you are one of those who don't, then there must be something wrong with you!! :-D Nevertheless, I enjoy how the characters seemed really fleshed out. Dani's reunion with her childhood BFF Gwen (and fellow partner in amateur sleuthing) is priceless -- it's like they were never separated by time and circumstances. Their friendship is one to be admired.
I really look forward to the next entry in the series to find out whether Dani manages to make a success of the ice cream shop and whether anything develops between Luca or even the detective, in addition to reading about Dani's continuing budding friendship with Gwen.
I received an ARC from the publisher for purposes of an unbiased review.
I truly enjoyed this advanced copy immensely. After all, who does NOT love ice cream? If you are one of those who don't, then there must be something wrong with you!! :-D Nevertheless, I enjoy how the characters seemed really fleshed out. Dani's reunion with her childhood BFF Gwen (and fellow partner in amateur sleuthing) is priceless -- it's like they were never separated by time and circumstances. Their friendship is one to be admired.
I really look forward to the next entry in the series to find out whether Dani manages to make a success of the ice cream shop and whether anything develops between Luca or even the detective, in addition to reading about Dani's continuing budding friendship with Gwen.
I received an ARC from the publisher for purposes of an unbiased review.
August 9, 2025
Col caldo che fa vorrei mangiarmi quel gelato che c'è in copertina... OK, sto divagando ancor prima di iniziare. Questo è il primo libro della serie, quindi bisogna ancora conoscere la protagonista (con cui non sono sempre stata in sintonia) e tutti i personaggi di contorno (no, il triangolo no!), come pure l'ambientazione (va bene che è un paesino, ma il gossip mi sembra veramente esagerato): sarà per questo che non li ho tutti apprezzati. La storia non era male, anche se avevo capito subito , quindi la cerchia dei possibili colpevoli si è subito ristretta a un paio di nomi. Credo che darò una possibilità a questa serie, tanto ho già il secondo libro (comprato quando scontato).
August 19, 2023
Bought for the cover and my challenge to read ice cream related cozies this August, unfortunately this didn’t involve much ice cream and focused mostly on the characters, their high school backstories and the current investigation.
August 18, 2023
Wow! What a great start to this new cozy mystery series!
Murder A La Mode is the first book in veteran author Lena Gregory's new cozy series, the Coffee & Cream Café Mysteries, and I couldn't ask for a more delightful debut. With an appealingly likable main character, two hunky potential love interests, and a "ride or die" best friend-sidekick, I was quickly immersed in this intriguing tale of jealousy, murder, and deadly long-hidden secrets.
The main character, Danika Delaney, had followed her dreams of college and a career in advertising to the City, but a tough job market had relegated her to waiting tables to make ends meet. So, when she lost her apartment sublet and a cheating boyfriend one after the other, she returned to her hometown of Watchogue on Long Island to take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop. But while her family is overjoyed she's come home, not everyone in the small town is glad she's back. Her first day working at Jimmie's is marred by a confrontation with her high school sweetheart's soon-to-be ex-wife, who accuses Dani of coming home to steal Luca back. Rumors spread like wildfire about what Heather said, and when she's found murdered in the ice cream shop's basement the very next day, all eyes turn to Dani, including the cops.Danika Delaney is extremely likable and sympathetic, and I was behind her from the start. She's a worthy underdog and grows over the course of the story, discovering the truth of what happened between Luca and Heather on that long-ago prom night and finally realizing her own contribution to her heartbreak. She's a wonderful amateur sleuth, and her old friend, Gwen, is the perfect companion in her investigation. Dani even makes the transition from child to adult in the eyes of her strong-willed and intimidating mother.
There are two tantalizing love interests to complicate matters: Luca, Dani's high school sweetheart, and Detective Jake Barlow, the lead investigator on the murder case. While I liked both of these potential romantic partners for Danika, I leaned toward Team Jake early on. I look forward to future adventures, not only for more mystery but to see how these relationships pan out.The Long Island town of Watchogue is Danika's charming hometown, and I got a good feel for its personality and townspeople. It's a perfect setting for a cozy mystery series. Close enough for the residents to head to the City for major things, there's still a little of everything in town: a busy Main Street business district, rural spaces, beaches, and a super-efficient small-town pipeline for gossip. There's even the old clique for high school with its mean girls and guys still holding sway over their peers.
The mystery is well-plotted, and the action and investigation move quickly. I liked that the police investigation was kept separate and pretty much out of sight for most of the book. Detective Barlow holds his card close to the vest with not too much unrealistic "quid pro quo," as Dani called it, or sharing of confidential information. As Dani seeks answers from the central members of the victim's old friends' group, she uncovers several good suspects and plausible motives for the murder. I wasn't sure of "who done it" until the obvious reveal occurred, and I was highly satisfied with that.I recommend MURDER A LA MODE to cozy mystery readers looking for a charming new series, especially those who enjoy a culinary theme in their reading.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours.
August 10, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from Great Escapes Book Tours. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Murder a la Mode by Lena Gregory is a page-turner that keeps you guessing.
Will Danika figure out who killed the ex?
Danika Delaney
Danika Delaney is the black sheep of her family because she didn't stay in their small town on Long Island. She is coming back after a bad breakup, and the fact that she doesn't really have a job or a place to stay. I felt bad for Danika in that sense, but at least she has a family that owns some businesses that they can leave to others. Dani ends up in the middle of a lot of different rumors, thanks to her ex-boyfriend's future ex-wife. I loved Danika in here, and I was laughing at some of the things that were being said. Maybe now that Dani is back in town, she will become a bit more aware of her surroundings so that in the future, when she finds more dead bodies, it will be easier to find the clues.
The Mystery
Danika Delaney ends up finding the dead body of an ex-classmate and an almost certain ex to a man that she may still have feelings for. She is pushed to investigate to clear her name and her uncle's name from this heinous crime. A lot comes up when the victim dies about the past that Dani just didn't realize happened. I have to say I solved the mystery before Dani did, and I might have done so with some evidence as well. Ms. Gregory still did an awesome job of setting everything up!
Five Stars
I am giving five stars to Murder a la Mode by Lena Gregory and recommending it. This is my first book from Ms. Gregory, but it won't be the last, as I loved everything about this story and how the author set everything up. I also can't not read a book that references Nancy Drew, and I Love Lucy! Danika is going to have some fun back in her hometown, especially setting up her uncle's ice cream shop with her own touches.
Thank you for dropping by! What do you think of Murder a la Mode by Lena Gregory?
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
Will Danika figure out who killed the ex?
Danika Delaney
Danika Delaney is the black sheep of her family because she didn't stay in their small town on Long Island. She is coming back after a bad breakup, and the fact that she doesn't really have a job or a place to stay. I felt bad for Danika in that sense, but at least she has a family that owns some businesses that they can leave to others. Dani ends up in the middle of a lot of different rumors, thanks to her ex-boyfriend's future ex-wife. I loved Danika in here, and I was laughing at some of the things that were being said. Maybe now that Dani is back in town, she will become a bit more aware of her surroundings so that in the future, when she finds more dead bodies, it will be easier to find the clues.
The Mystery
Danika Delaney ends up finding the dead body of an ex-classmate and an almost certain ex to a man that she may still have feelings for. She is pushed to investigate to clear her name and her uncle's name from this heinous crime. A lot comes up when the victim dies about the past that Dani just didn't realize happened. I have to say I solved the mystery before Dani did, and I might have done so with some evidence as well. Ms. Gregory still did an awesome job of setting everything up!
Five Stars
I am giving five stars to Murder a la Mode by Lena Gregory and recommending it. This is my first book from Ms. Gregory, but it won't be the last, as I loved everything about this story and how the author set everything up. I also can't not read a book that references Nancy Drew, and I Love Lucy! Danika is going to have some fun back in her hometown, especially setting up her uncle's ice cream shop with her own touches.
Thank you for dropping by! What do you think of Murder a la Mode by Lena Gregory?
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
August 8, 2023
Murder A La Mode by Lena Gregory is the first book in her new Coffee & Cream Cafe Mystery series and I can tell you right now that this series is going to be a huge success !!!
In Murder A La Mode main character Danika Delaney is moving back home from New York City after her boyfriend dumps her. Luckily Danika has a huge family in her hometown of Watchogue which is a very small town in eastern Long Island. As soon as Danika moves back into her old bedroom in her famiy house, she is going to be taking over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop so he can retire. It's something that happens in the family....her younger sister Meghan is managing their Aunt Flo's shop. The difference is that Meghan loves it and Danika had bigger dreams for herself.
And before Danika can adjust to moving back home she runs into her ex-boyfriend Luca who broke her heart on prom night by kissing their classmate Heather who he eventually married !! So Danika runs into Luca in the shop and when she leaves, he grabs her wrist to stop her only to have his soon to be ex-wife, Heather walk in and get hysterical !! And if that isn't the worst.....when Danika and Meghan are checking out the shop and getting ideas on how to make it more Danika's style, they find Heather dead in the basement !!
Even though Danika has been away for seven years it doesn't stop the rumor mill from generating a lot of rumors involving Luca, Heather and herself. So Danika teams up with her old best friend from high school, Gwen, and they begin their own investigation into Heather's dead......even though the hot detective on the case warns her off of it.
Danika and Gwen have no idea that by looking into Heather's death they will be uncovering secrets involving a classmate that went missing right before graduation. Danika cannot stop investigating if she ever wants to walk in that basement again and turn Jimmie's into her own successful creation.
Readers are going to fall in LOVE with Murder A La Mode and will watch for the next book to be released in the Coffee & Cream Mystery Cafe series and grab it as soon as possible. You are going to want to keep an eye on what Danika will do with the shop and if her and Luca can move forward in their relationship or is she going to make a move on the hot detective......
In Murder A La Mode main character Danika Delaney is moving back home from New York City after her boyfriend dumps her. Luckily Danika has a huge family in her hometown of Watchogue which is a very small town in eastern Long Island. As soon as Danika moves back into her old bedroom in her famiy house, she is going to be taking over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop so he can retire. It's something that happens in the family....her younger sister Meghan is managing their Aunt Flo's shop. The difference is that Meghan loves it and Danika had bigger dreams for herself.
And before Danika can adjust to moving back home she runs into her ex-boyfriend Luca who broke her heart on prom night by kissing their classmate Heather who he eventually married !! So Danika runs into Luca in the shop and when she leaves, he grabs her wrist to stop her only to have his soon to be ex-wife, Heather walk in and get hysterical !! And if that isn't the worst.....when Danika and Meghan are checking out the shop and getting ideas on how to make it more Danika's style, they find Heather dead in the basement !!
Even though Danika has been away for seven years it doesn't stop the rumor mill from generating a lot of rumors involving Luca, Heather and herself. So Danika teams up with her old best friend from high school, Gwen, and they begin their own investigation into Heather's dead......even though the hot detective on the case warns her off of it.
Danika and Gwen have no idea that by looking into Heather's death they will be uncovering secrets involving a classmate that went missing right before graduation. Danika cannot stop investigating if she ever wants to walk in that basement again and turn Jimmie's into her own successful creation.
Readers are going to fall in LOVE with Murder A La Mode and will watch for the next book to be released in the Coffee & Cream Mystery Cafe series and grab it as soon as possible. You are going to want to keep an eye on what Danika will do with the shop and if her and Luca can move forward in their relationship or is she going to make a move on the hot detective......
August 13, 2023
MURDER A LA MODE by Lena Gregory
The First Coffee & Cream Cafe Mystery
Danika Delaney never intended to return to Watchogue, New York, let alone take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop, but here she is. As her uncle shows her the ropes who should come into the shop but, Luca, the boy who broke her heart on prom night, followed by his wife, Heather, who accuses Danika of having an affair with him. Brushing that aside, Danika to make plans as she's been given free reign, almost, to make whatever changes she wants to the shop. But a check of the basement leads to the discovery Heather's dead body. What was she doing in Jimmie's after hours? Who killed her? It couldn't be Luca. Could it? Danika, with the help of her sister and best friend, will not only prove Danika's innocence, but find the real killer.
A new Lena Gregory Mystery? Sign me up! One of my favorite authors has come up with a completely charming and funny new series and I couldn't be more delighted! Danika is a great protagonist. She's taken quite a few hits, but keeps on going. She's loyal, perhaps too loyal, funny, with lots of ideas. She also has a great team, with best friend Gwen and sister Meghan, who give emotional support and plenty of laughs. I'm still giggling over Danika and Gwen's unexpected tailing of a suspect. Then there's a hint of romance...with the possibility of a love triangle. I'll just say this-Danika, pick the new guy! I also love Danika's family, another source of humor. Don't cross her mom! And of course I'm enamoured with Danika's new roommate.
The mystery in the first Coffee & Cream Mystery was intriguing and I loved the fact that Danika wasn't 100% sure of Luca's innocence. Heather was a royal...well, you know what, so there were plenty of suspects with plenty of motives. I love how the relationships evolved while some remained the same and details emerged, slowly painting the picture of what happened...and why.
Funny, charming, and filled with great characters MURDER A LA MODE is a delightful start to a new series.
The First Coffee & Cream Cafe Mystery
Danika Delaney never intended to return to Watchogue, New York, let alone take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop, but here she is. As her uncle shows her the ropes who should come into the shop but, Luca, the boy who broke her heart on prom night, followed by his wife, Heather, who accuses Danika of having an affair with him. Brushing that aside, Danika to make plans as she's been given free reign, almost, to make whatever changes she wants to the shop. But a check of the basement leads to the discovery Heather's dead body. What was she doing in Jimmie's after hours? Who killed her? It couldn't be Luca. Could it? Danika, with the help of her sister and best friend, will not only prove Danika's innocence, but find the real killer.
A new Lena Gregory Mystery? Sign me up! One of my favorite authors has come up with a completely charming and funny new series and I couldn't be more delighted! Danika is a great protagonist. She's taken quite a few hits, but keeps on going. She's loyal, perhaps too loyal, funny, with lots of ideas. She also has a great team, with best friend Gwen and sister Meghan, who give emotional support and plenty of laughs. I'm still giggling over Danika and Gwen's unexpected tailing of a suspect. Then there's a hint of romance...with the possibility of a love triangle. I'll just say this-Danika, pick the new guy! I also love Danika's family, another source of humor. Don't cross her mom! And of course I'm enamoured with Danika's new roommate.
The mystery in the first Coffee & Cream Mystery was intriguing and I loved the fact that Danika wasn't 100% sure of Luca's innocence. Heather was a royal...well, you know what, so there were plenty of suspects with plenty of motives. I love how the relationships evolved while some remained the same and details emerged, slowly painting the picture of what happened...and why.
Funny, charming, and filled with great characters MURDER A LA MODE is a delightful start to a new series.
August 21, 2023
This first book in a new series makes a big splash...or perhaps a dip into the cozy realm. Lena Gregory has written many series, and all have been quite enjoyable.
This new series features an ice cream shop (yum!) in New York. While this book doesn't focus a lot on the ice cream portion of the business, I think that might come in future books.
Danika returns home after being told she is taking over her uncle's shop. Could she have turned it down? Maybe, but she didn't have much else going on in her life, so why not go back to your roots and try something new? What she doesn't expect is to find her first boyfriend's wife dead in the shop. While she never really intended to become a sleuth, she is thrown into it and actually does a remarkable job uncovering the clues and the killer. Well, almost. She nearly becomes a victim, but a special character saves the day. Read the book to find out who!
I really enjoyed Gwen, Danika's friend. These two are quite a pair. I do have to question their judgment sometimes, but that is what good friends do, crazy things for one another.
I don't know if I suspected this character was the killer. I don't think I had any specific character in mind, but there were several I wish it would have been just because they are not nice characters. But you need that tension to make a story successful.
There could be a potential love triangle in future books. There is Danika's first boyfriend, Luca, and the police detective, Jake Barlow. There were misunderstandings in the past between her and Luca, but does that mean she wants to restart a new relationship with him? Especially now that his wife is dead? Only time will tell if they will rekindle their relationship or just be friends.
I really enjoyed this start to a new series, and I can't wait to see what she has planned for the makeover of the ice cream shop. I am hoping for more ice cream flavors and dishes to whet my appetite.
We give this book 5 paws up.
This new series features an ice cream shop (yum!) in New York. While this book doesn't focus a lot on the ice cream portion of the business, I think that might come in future books.
Danika returns home after being told she is taking over her uncle's shop. Could she have turned it down? Maybe, but she didn't have much else going on in her life, so why not go back to your roots and try something new? What she doesn't expect is to find her first boyfriend's wife dead in the shop. While she never really intended to become a sleuth, she is thrown into it and actually does a remarkable job uncovering the clues and the killer. Well, almost. She nearly becomes a victim, but a special character saves the day. Read the book to find out who!
I really enjoyed Gwen, Danika's friend. These two are quite a pair. I do have to question their judgment sometimes, but that is what good friends do, crazy things for one another.
I don't know if I suspected this character was the killer. I don't think I had any specific character in mind, but there were several I wish it would have been just because they are not nice characters. But you need that tension to make a story successful.
There could be a potential love triangle in future books. There is Danika's first boyfriend, Luca, and the police detective, Jake Barlow. There were misunderstandings in the past between her and Luca, but does that mean she wants to restart a new relationship with him? Especially now that his wife is dead? Only time will tell if they will rekindle their relationship or just be friends.
I really enjoyed this start to a new series, and I can't wait to see what she has planned for the makeover of the ice cream shop. I am hoping for more ice cream flavors and dishes to whet my appetite.
We give this book 5 paws up.
November 26, 2024
Dani leaves her less than glamorous life in NYC to return to her home in Long Island to take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop. It's not how she envisioned her homecoming, but after breaking up with her boyfriend and being unable to land a job in her chosen field, it's better than nothing. Dani enjoys reconnecting with family and old friends, until her first encounter with her ex-boyfriend from high school. Luca broke her heart when he kissed Heather at the prom, which is the main reason Dani hightailed it to NYC afterwards. Things only get worse when Dani finds Luca's estranged wife, Heather, dead in the basement of Jimmie's. Now everyone in town is convinced she bumped Heather off so she could reclaim Luca. Dani isn't one to sit back and let things unfold; therefore, she begins asking questions and doing some of her own sleuthing. If she's not careful, however, she may end up as dead as Heather.
This was an entertaining story that kept my attention. There were layers of subplots going on, most of which involved Heather's clique. It was annoying to read how the local gossip mill could weave an entire sordid story out of one small thing. Characterizations were good, and the plot made sense. A few things bugged me:
SPOILERS!!!
- Was Harry Luca's father or his uncle? At various times, Heather was referred to as his daughter-in-law.
- If Dani is still carrying a torch for Luca, why does Detective Barlowe set her lady bits tingling?
- If Heather was the catalyst for breaking Luca and Dani up, lo those many years ago, why did he marry the bitch?!
Very good, and I'd read more in the series. Four stars.
This was an entertaining story that kept my attention. There were layers of subplots going on, most of which involved Heather's clique. It was annoying to read how the local gossip mill could weave an entire sordid story out of one small thing. Characterizations were good, and the plot made sense. A few things bugged me:
SPOILERS!!!
- Was Harry Luca's father or his uncle? At various times, Heather was referred to as his daughter-in-law.
- If Dani is still carrying a torch for Luca, why does Detective Barlowe set her lady bits tingling?
- If Heather was the catalyst for breaking Luca and Dani up, lo those many years ago, why did he marry the bitch?!
Very good, and I'd read more in the series. Four stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2023
Great start to what promises to be a winning series. When Dani's dream of a marketing career in NYC goes bust, Dani, tail between her legs, goes back to her small town in Long Island to run her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop. She'd left Long Island after her high school love, Luca, broke her heart.
Dani expects lots of ice cream but doesn't expect that ice cream to be flavored with murder. When Luca's soon-to-be ex-wife is found murdered in the shop's basement, Luca becomes the prime suspect. Dani turns sleuth to find the real murderer.
She and her friend Gwen, aka Lucy and Ethel, find themselves in danger as they pursue clues leading to the killer.
I love Dani's voice, a little snarky, little self-deprecating, lots of humor. Murder A La Mode is filled with wit, family, small town gossip mills. And danger to Dani. Hints of romance blend with the promise of love rekindled between Dani and Luka. But Luka has competition from studly Detective Barlow. Stay tuned.
An amusing, fast-paced page-turner filled with likable characters, mystery, and danger that churn together to concoct a delicious story.
Dani expects lots of ice cream but doesn't expect that ice cream to be flavored with murder. When Luca's soon-to-be ex-wife is found murdered in the shop's basement, Luca becomes the prime suspect. Dani turns sleuth to find the real murderer.
She and her friend Gwen, aka Lucy and Ethel, find themselves in danger as they pursue clues leading to the killer.
I love Dani's voice, a little snarky, little self-deprecating, lots of humor. Murder A La Mode is filled with wit, family, small town gossip mills. And danger to Dani. Hints of romance blend with the promise of love rekindled between Dani and Luka. But Luka has competition from studly Detective Barlow. Stay tuned.
An amusing, fast-paced page-turner filled with likable characters, mystery, and danger that churn together to concoct a delicious story.
December 28, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a solid 3 star read. I didn't love or hate it. The premise is decent. A down on her luck MC, Danika moves back to her small home town after moving to the big city when her less than stellar boyfriend dumps her and loses her apartment all in one fail swoop with all the trappings of an immature 25 year old, only to be sucked into a murder mystery that takes place in her uncles old fashioned ice ream shop.
Of course, in a small town where gossip spreads faster than wild fire, things get interesting because everyone is a suspect, including the popular crowd from high school and Danika's old flame who broke her heart on prom night - and who she clearly is not over 7 years later.
Most of the plot is pretty see through but its the type of read that it's so predictable it's comforting.
The only thing I found annoying were several consistency issues. The author would write something and then contradict themselves in another chapter (forgetting they said the opposite previously). However, all in all if you can ignore that, it's a decent read and I wouldn't discourage anyone from taking a chance on it.
There's a pretty good twist at the end.
This is a solid 3 star read. I didn't love or hate it. The premise is decent. A down on her luck MC, Danika moves back to her small home town after moving to the big city when her less than stellar boyfriend dumps her and loses her apartment all in one fail swoop with all the trappings of an immature 25 year old, only to be sucked into a murder mystery that takes place in her uncles old fashioned ice ream shop.
Of course, in a small town where gossip spreads faster than wild fire, things get interesting because everyone is a suspect, including the popular crowd from high school and Danika's old flame who broke her heart on prom night - and who she clearly is not over 7 years later.
Most of the plot is pretty see through but its the type of read that it's so predictable it's comforting.
The only thing I found annoying were several consistency issues. The author would write something and then contradict themselves in another chapter (forgetting they said the opposite previously). However, all in all if you can ignore that, it's a decent read and I wouldn't discourage anyone from taking a chance on it.
There's a pretty good twist at the end.
April 30, 2024
Family, Friends, A Murder & A Cozy Mystery
Murder A La Mode is the debut book in Lena Gregory's Coffee & Cream Cafe Mysteries and it is a great start. The main characters are likable and I wasn't sure who the culprit was. Danika (Dani) Delaney returns to her hometown and is going to take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop. Unfortunately a mean girl from high school ends up dead and her husband is Danika's former boyfriend Luca. There are only a few suspects but all of them had motive including Luca. The Detective on the case is handsome Jake Barlow. Danika's friend Gwen is a great character and a good sidekick. It is nice to have Danika's family in the story and they add humor and warmth. My only issue was that there was no closure to the subplot. I want to know what happened with the other suspects. This was an enjoyable cozy mystery.#MurderALaMode #Coffee&Creamercafemysteries #GemmaHallidayPublishing
Murder A La Mode is the debut book in Lena Gregory's Coffee & Cream Cafe Mysteries and it is a great start. The main characters are likable and I wasn't sure who the culprit was. Danika (Dani) Delaney returns to her hometown and is going to take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream shop. Unfortunately a mean girl from high school ends up dead and her husband is Danika's former boyfriend Luca. There are only a few suspects but all of them had motive including Luca. The Detective on the case is handsome Jake Barlow. Danika's friend Gwen is a great character and a good sidekick. It is nice to have Danika's family in the story and they add humor and warmth. My only issue was that there was no closure to the subplot. I want to know what happened with the other suspects. This was an enjoyable cozy mystery.#MurderALaMode #Coffee&Creamercafemysteries #GemmaHallidayPublishing
September 23, 2024
I enjoyed reading this first book in the Coffee & Cream Cafe mystery series by Lena Gregory. Twenty-five year old Danika Delaney left her dream of advertising in New York City after getting dumped by her boyfriend Carl. Her family wants her to come home and take over Jimmie's Ice Cream Parlor--Jimmie is her eccentric uncle. His mom-and-pop ice cream shop sits on Main Street in Watchogue on the South shore of eastern Long Island. Once back in Watchogue, she sees several people she went to high school with, including her old boyfriend Luca Martinelli. Luca broke her heart when he ended up with cheerleader Heather Teague at the prom. Now Luca and Heather are married! When Danika discovers Heather's body in the shop's basement, she knows that she has to solve the murder if she ever wants to reopen the shop as a cafe and get her life going again. I liked the characters in this book and the small town feel. I think it'll be fun to read future books and see how Danika decides to run her cafe and live in the apartment above it.
May 20, 2023
A new mystery series featuring a lot of family, friends, and frenemies. It was fast paced and engaging, making it difficult to stop reading! The main character, Danika, was returning to her home town in her mid-twenties. Given the chance to take over her uncle's ice cream parlor is a multi edge sword situation. An opportunity that is a plus comes with many negative or neutral conditions as well, including discovering a dead body in the shop's basement! In spite of the suspicion and negativity, the book works through many difficult and awkward situations to a positive ending. The author did a terrific job of moving the book along without giving any hints along the way. It was funny at times, heart pounding at other times, and an excellent mystery. A terrific book and great start to a new series! I'm looking forward to more!
August 8, 2023
One of my favorite authors has done it again!
Lena Gregory has dished up a winner with Murder A La Mode. A cleverly crafted mystery, delightful characters, and a fun small town with the infamous busybodies.
The murder mystery was well-developed and the author provided a large number of potential suspects, including our own budding amateur sleuth, and main protagonist, Danika Delaney. There are so many twists and turns, every time I thought I had a bead on who did it, the arc shifted and we were chasing down someone else.
I loved every single page of this book from the characters, the setting, the mystery, and the author's writing style. I found myself totally immersed in every facet of Murder A La Mode. The pacing was perfect and once I started the book, I just couldn't put it down.
Lena Gregory has dished up a winner with Murder A La Mode. A cleverly crafted mystery, delightful characters, and a fun small town with the infamous busybodies.
The murder mystery was well-developed and the author provided a large number of potential suspects, including our own budding amateur sleuth, and main protagonist, Danika Delaney. There are so many twists and turns, every time I thought I had a bead on who did it, the arc shifted and we were chasing down someone else.
I loved every single page of this book from the characters, the setting, the mystery, and the author's writing style. I found myself totally immersed in every facet of Murder A La Mode. The pacing was perfect and once I started the book, I just couldn't put it down.
December 18, 2023
Danika or Dani as she’s better known, is back in Watchogue, Long Island after a time away for college, a disastrous relationship, etc. She plans to take over Uncle Jimmies ice cream shop, with his blessing. She runs into Heather, her high school nemesis and the person who stole her high school sweetheart, Luca, whom she subsequently married. It turns out that Luca is in the process of divorcing her because of her affairs, but in a rather loud voice she blames it all on Dani! When Dani finds Heather dead in the ice cream shop’s basement, she and Luca are both on the suspect list, along with a few others, as the spiteful Heather was pretty universally disliked! So despite the warning from the Detective, she starts investigating to prove their innocence. A fast-paced, often funny and well written cozy which I received a free copy of. I write this review voluntarily.
December 20, 2023
This was a likable mystery. I liked Danika, I liked the premise of the book, coming home, taking over the family business, finding a fur baby. There was even a good mystery, although sometimes she crossed the line in doing reasonable things to find answers. My main problem with the book was lack of details, we don't really get to know Danika, her family and friends, just a brief list of characteristics. We learn almost nothing about this business she is supposed to be taking over, she does nothing but make a brief list of what she may do, like Google Starbucks drinks and how to make them. She meets up with old high school friends, and frienemies and has a brief conversation to answer her questions and then just moves on. To me this was a good outline for a story but I felt cheated. If you like a fast moving mystery with limited details then this story is definitely for you!
June 29, 2024
I felt like the wrap-up at the end was lacking. Did she tell the police the truth about Ollie? What happened to the friend group responsible for that situation? Anything? I assume Ryan went to prison but would have liked a little more confirmation on that. What happened to his wife...did she divorce him because she found out how truly crappy he is? Or since she was pretty crappy herself, maybe they stayed together in crappiness? What was the point of dangling potential with Officer Good-looking? It seemed to disrupt that "one true love" thing the author kept hinting at with Luca. And then there was no follow up on the officer; did she try? decide against pursuing anything once there was no reason to be around him all the time anymore? he wasn't interested? Anyway, for me, the ending fell flat. The whole book was light and kind of corny, but the end was extra unimpressive.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2023
Returning home after moving out in defiance is never easy.
Breaking off a relationship is always stressful.
Having to face a community who only seems to remember you leaving in disgrace... well, sometimes hard choices seem to be your only choices.
When Dani returns to take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream and coffee shop, all except for Harry's stool, she understands it won't be easy. When she has to face her high school boyfriend on her first day back, and comes face to face with her high school nemesis who happened to marry said boyfriend, sparks fly.
Small towns, long memories and lots of accusations and gossip keep this plot tangled.
Will Dani stay or will she be run out of town before she can even sweep the cobwebs clear?
An enjoyable start to a series with potential.
Breaking off a relationship is always stressful.
Having to face a community who only seems to remember you leaving in disgrace... well, sometimes hard choices seem to be your only choices.
When Dani returns to take over her Uncle Jimmie's ice cream and coffee shop, all except for Harry's stool, she understands it won't be easy. When she has to face her high school boyfriend on her first day back, and comes face to face with her high school nemesis who happened to marry said boyfriend, sparks fly.
Small towns, long memories and lots of accusations and gossip keep this plot tangled.
Will Dani stay or will she be run out of town before she can even sweep the cobwebs clear?
An enjoyable start to a series with potential.
August 15, 2023
Murder A La Mode is the first book in the brand new Coffee & Cream Cafe Mystery Series from Lena Gregory, and I loved it! It’s always fun being able to read a series right when it starts because you get to see how the characters develop throughout the series. And Murder A La Mode has some great characters!
Danika Delaney’s life hasn’t turned out exactly like she planned…for instance, she didn’t plan on being back in her childhood home working with her uncle in his ice cream shop. But, hey, she’s only 25. That’s how old my baby is!! I thought I knew so much when I was 25…didn’t we all? Well, Danika soon discovers that there’s no way she can handle sharing a bathroom with her family again, so she talks to her uncle about making the upper floor of the shop into an apartment. Fun, right? Well, yeah, but then a body turns up in the basement, and it’s not so much fun anymore! There are multiple suspects with Dani among them! She knows she didn’t do it, so she starts playing amateur detective to clear her name and to be able to create her vision of what the ice cream shop could be.
Murder A La Mode was so good! I love series with quirky characters, and this one definitely has those. Dani is a likable main character which is good since sometimes when I read a book, I end up liking a minor character a lot more than the main one! All of the characters are well-written, and I look forward to “seeing” them again. The mystery had lots of suspects, so it kept me guessing. It’s a really quick read because you won’t want to put it down!
I highly recommend Murder A La Mode! The well-written characters, multiple suspects, and laugh out loud moments will keep you turning the pages. Cozy mystery fans are going to love it! I can’t wait to read the next book!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Danika Delaney’s life hasn’t turned out exactly like she planned…for instance, she didn’t plan on being back in her childhood home working with her uncle in his ice cream shop. But, hey, she’s only 25. That’s how old my baby is!! I thought I knew so much when I was 25…didn’t we all? Well, Danika soon discovers that there’s no way she can handle sharing a bathroom with her family again, so she talks to her uncle about making the upper floor of the shop into an apartment. Fun, right? Well, yeah, but then a body turns up in the basement, and it’s not so much fun anymore! There are multiple suspects with Dani among them! She knows she didn’t do it, so she starts playing amateur detective to clear her name and to be able to create her vision of what the ice cream shop could be.
Murder A La Mode was so good! I love series with quirky characters, and this one definitely has those. Dani is a likable main character which is good since sometimes when I read a book, I end up liking a minor character a lot more than the main one! All of the characters are well-written, and I look forward to “seeing” them again. The mystery had lots of suspects, so it kept me guessing. It’s a really quick read because you won’t want to put it down!
I highly recommend Murder A La Mode! The well-written characters, multiple suspects, and laugh out loud moments will keep you turning the pages. Cozy mystery fans are going to love it! I can’t wait to read the next book!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
August 10, 2023
Danika returns home to run Jimmie’s, her uncle’s old ice cream parlor. She’s not really thrilled about it. Things look up a bit when Jimmie tells her that she can do whatever she wants with the shop. In exploring the top floor, she sees the potential to make a cute apartment for herself which is much better than living with her family. When exploring the basement, she finds a dead body! It’s her high school nemesis who is currently getting divorced from Danika’s high school boyfriend. Things haven’t changed much in town. Rumors abound and it seems that many of her former classmates haven’t changed all that much. I loved the characters and am looking forward to the next book in the series.
March 17, 2024
I would say 3.5 - 4⭐️ I really enjoyed the relationship Danika had with Luca and Gwen. OMG and LIVE LAUGH PATCHES 🫶🫶🫶 and the way Luca kissed Danika near the end like kicking my feet and I did kinda guess it was Ryan because from the start I just had this off feeling, I was not expecting the whole kill/choke hold at the end but I did think he killed Heather. I also feel like Quinn and Avery should go to jail with Ryan because they technically didn't kill Ollie but they were there and also I really don't like them to be honest.... and technically that means Noah too, but like, I feel like he should like pay a fine and then be good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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