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Beacon Bakeshop #4
Murder at the Pumpkin Pageant
It's Halloween weekend and Beacon Harbor, Michigan, has a packed schedule of events, including the Pumpkin Pageant, featuring humans and their canine counterparts. For treats, there's plenty of pumpkin goodness from bakery/café owner and local lighthouse resident Lindsey Bakewell. But someone wants to spoil the fun with a deadly trick …
Lindsey prefers to keep her bakeshop's Halloween decor light and autumnal, rather than gruesome and ghoulish. But everyone knows her lighthouse home is haunted. Some intrepid teens have even tried to break in to witness the resident ghost themselves. Dreading Halloween night, Lindsey reluctantly allows her influencer and podcaster best friend, Kennedy, to host a live ghost-hunting investigation in the lighthouse, conducted by a professional team. Protective of her ghost, Lyndsey is understandably nervous about what they might uncover …
The segment is uneventful—until things take a terrifying turn. The team freaks out. As Kennedy joins the mad dash outside, she bumps into what looks like the prankster teens' creepy clown costume hanging from a tree. But when Lindsey's dog, Wellington, begins to whine, they make a grim the clown is no dummy. It's a corpse.
Now Lindsey and company will need to keep their cool if they want a ghost of a chance to solve the murder—and see another Halloween …
Lindsey prefers to keep her bakeshop's Halloween decor light and autumnal, rather than gruesome and ghoulish. But everyone knows her lighthouse home is haunted. Some intrepid teens have even tried to break in to witness the resident ghost themselves. Dreading Halloween night, Lindsey reluctantly allows her influencer and podcaster best friend, Kennedy, to host a live ghost-hunting investigation in the lighthouse, conducted by a professional team. Protective of her ghost, Lyndsey is understandably nervous about what they might uncover …
The segment is uneventful—until things take a terrifying turn. The team freaks out. As Kennedy joins the mad dash outside, she bumps into what looks like the prankster teens' creepy clown costume hanging from a tree. But when Lindsey's dog, Wellington, begins to whine, they make a grim the clown is no dummy. It's a corpse.
Now Lindsey and company will need to keep their cool if they want a ghost of a chance to solve the murder—and see another Halloween …
444 pages, Library Binding
First published July 25, 2023
545 people are currently reading
8448 people want to read
About the author
Darci Hannah
15 books765 followersCozy mystery author, Darci Hannah, is a native of the Midwest and currently lives in a small town in Michigan. Darci is a lifelong lover of the Great Lakes, a natural wonder that inspires many of her stories. When Darci isn't baking for family and friends, hiking with her furry pals, Ripley and Finn, or concocting her next cozy mystery, she can be found wandering around picturesque lakeside villages with her hubby, sampling baked goods, and breaking for coffee more often than she should.
In addition to cozy mysteries, Darci's other passion is writing historical fiction. She is the author of The Exile of Sara Stevenson
(Ballantine Books, 2010, 2nd edition by Piffle & Bombast 2016) and The Angel of Blythe Hall (Ballantine Books, 2011)
In addition to cozy mysteries, Darci's other passion is writing historical fiction. She is the author of The Exile of Sara Stevenson
(Ballantine Books, 2010, 2nd edition by Piffle & Bombast 2016) and The Angel of Blythe Hall (Ballantine Books, 2011)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 546 reviews
March 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -Audiobook
I loved this!! It had great characters and was the perfect amount of spooky for a Halloween cozy read. I’ll be starting this series from the beginning at some point in time. This is book #4 in the series.
I loved this!! It had great characters and was the perfect amount of spooky for a Halloween cozy read. I’ll be starting this series from the beginning at some point in time. This is book #4 in the series.
September 27, 2023
cute fall vibes but so boring since the dog was the only one with a personality in this entire book 🙄
September 23, 2024
3.5 stars
This was cute, but definitely a bit darker for a cozy mystery! I loved that the heroine was a baker and how the whole town pretty much came together to try and figure out who had committed the murder. I did want a few more fall vibes beyond the Halloween festival at the beginning of the book, but I loved the spooky, haunted lighthouse the heroine lived at and the podcast/ghost hunting aspect in the beginning!
Definitely a fun cozy, just not my favorite I've read!
This was cute, but definitely a bit darker for a cozy mystery! I loved that the heroine was a baker and how the whole town pretty much came together to try and figure out who had committed the murder. I did want a few more fall vibes beyond the Halloween festival at the beginning of the book, but I loved the spooky, haunted lighthouse the heroine lived at and the podcast/ghost hunting aspect in the beginning!
Definitely a fun cozy, just not my favorite I've read!
September 8, 2023
This cozy mystery oozes Halloween atmosphere, with a pumpkin carving party, a costume parade (the titular pageant), a haunted lighthouse and, of course, a murder.
While this is number five in the Beacon Bakeshop cozy mystery series, this was the first one I’ve read, and it worked fine for me as a standalone. I’m sure there’s backstory that I missed, but it wasn’t essential to the story. It was an enjoyable read, but it somehow didn’t fully pull me in. I loved the adorable, huge Newfoundland dog owned by the bakery and lighthouse owner, Lindsey. But I didn’t care at all for her best friend Kennedy. Among other things, her constantly calling Lindsey’s boyfriend Rory, “Sir Hunts-A-Lot,” got very annoying.
I also didn’t care for the fact that some teens were immediately suspects, just because they look and act a bit different (they were into “witchtok”). There was also some ridiculing of some beliefs, such as smudging, which rubbed me the wrong way. It’s okay to not believe in some things, but you don’t need to write characters who make fun of those beliefs. It wasn’t necessary to the story to do so.
There are quite a few descriptions of yummy-sounding baked goods (as well as a pumpkin martini!) and there are several recipes included at the back of the book, if you are inclined to try making any of them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book, although I was a bit late to it. I guess I just wasn’t in the mood to read a book set during the Halloween season when it was the middle of the summer!
While this is number five in the Beacon Bakeshop cozy mystery series, this was the first one I’ve read, and it worked fine for me as a standalone. I’m sure there’s backstory that I missed, but it wasn’t essential to the story. It was an enjoyable read, but it somehow didn’t fully pull me in. I loved the adorable, huge Newfoundland dog owned by the bakery and lighthouse owner, Lindsey. But I didn’t care at all for her best friend Kennedy. Among other things, her constantly calling Lindsey’s boyfriend Rory, “Sir Hunts-A-Lot,” got very annoying.
I also didn’t care for the fact that some teens were immediately suspects, just because they look and act a bit different (they were into “witchtok”). There was also some ridiculing of some beliefs, such as smudging, which rubbed me the wrong way. It’s okay to not believe in some things, but you don’t need to write characters who make fun of those beliefs. It wasn’t necessary to the story to do so.
There are quite a few descriptions of yummy-sounding baked goods (as well as a pumpkin martini!) and there are several recipes included at the back of the book, if you are inclined to try making any of them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book, although I was a bit late to it. I guess I just wasn’t in the mood to read a book set during the Halloween season when it was the middle of the summer!
July 11, 2023
Review coming soon.
April 12, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me this arc.
DNF at 55%
You do not need to read the other books in this series to read this one, though references are made to the other books. This is a cute cozy murder mystery in a small town. A good light read.
However, the repetitive stereotyping of the group of teens Lindsey refers to constantly as “witchtok” teens is extremely uncomfortable. She blatantly states she suspects them because they’re different. She does feel guilty later for realizing they had nothing to do with the murder, but what purpose does the stereotyping serve to the plot? How does it move the story forward? It doesn’t. The teens did nothing suspicious to warrant being the first suspects, yet because they were different she immediately looks into them first.
While uncomfortable it was something I could look past. But when Lindsey decides to sage her home with her friend Kennedy, there is constant teasing about what they’re doing. They make light of something many communities, specifically Native communities, use sage in ceremonial and cleansing rituals. Her mom even goes up to her and says “I thought I raised you normal.” Even though Lindsey very casually reprimands her mom, what purpose does this conversation have to the overall plot? How does this conversation push the plot forward? It doesn’t. It serves no reason but to be hurtful, even if the mother is corrected.
This authors writing style is very nice and the story was light, however I don’t see myself finishing this book at this time. In the future, I do hope the author finds a better sensitivity editor and continues to write cozy mysteries.
DNF at 55%
You do not need to read the other books in this series to read this one, though references are made to the other books. This is a cute cozy murder mystery in a small town. A good light read.
However, the repetitive stereotyping of the group of teens Lindsey refers to constantly as “witchtok” teens is extremely uncomfortable. She blatantly states she suspects them because they’re different. She does feel guilty later for realizing they had nothing to do with the murder, but what purpose does the stereotyping serve to the plot? How does it move the story forward? It doesn’t. The teens did nothing suspicious to warrant being the first suspects, yet because they were different she immediately looks into them first.
While uncomfortable it was something I could look past. But when Lindsey decides to sage her home with her friend Kennedy, there is constant teasing about what they’re doing. They make light of something many communities, specifically Native communities, use sage in ceremonial and cleansing rituals. Her mom even goes up to her and says “I thought I raised you normal.” Even though Lindsey very casually reprimands her mom, what purpose does this conversation have to the overall plot? How does this conversation push the plot forward? It doesn’t. It serves no reason but to be hurtful, even if the mother is corrected.
This authors writing style is very nice and the story was light, however I don’t see myself finishing this book at this time. In the future, I do hope the author finds a better sensitivity editor and continues to write cozy mysteries.
November 6, 2023
The main character was rude and unlikeable, the story made no sense and was SO repetitive. There was a weird obsession with "witch-tok" that was unfounded and uncomfortable and judgemental. The villain didn't make a whole lot of sense honestly. The writing was truly so repetitive. And the treatment of saging was so racist (Indigenous Peoples have been saging for a lot longer than the white people, and it's gross to imply it's abnormal).
The only good part of this entire book was the dog, and he was not enough to redeem it.
The only good part of this entire book was the dog, and he was not enough to redeem it.
September 30, 2023
An entertaining story with almost constant action. The protagonist’s best friend, Kennedy, gets on my nerves sometimes, and I didn’t care for her decision at the end. The protagonist and her boyfriend, Rory, are an interesting couple. I enjoy the lighthouse itself, and the ghostly happenings there. Hidden treasure is always a great addition to a story. I enjoy the pet characters, also. I highly recommend this book, and series to cozy readers!
October 20, 2025
3.5 stars
July 6, 2023
Lindsey owns a bakery in the lighthouse. It's almost Halloween and the bakery is filled with the smells of pumpkin. Her best friend Kennedy signs the lighthouse up to be investigated by the Ghostbusters guys for ghosts, a cable show. Kennedy decides to do a live video podcast showing behind the scenes of the show. They definitely get more by finding a dead body.
I really enjoyed this book. I'm liking getting to know the characters better. I'm definitely craving pumpkin muffins now. The mystery kept me intrigued and I liked following the clues with Lindsey. I can't wait to see what happens next.
I really enjoyed this book. I'm liking getting to know the characters better. I'm definitely craving pumpkin muffins now. The mystery kept me intrigued and I liked following the clues with Lindsey. I can't wait to see what happens next.
September 28, 2024
Dollycas's Thoughts
Where better to celebrate Halloween than in Beacon Harbor, Michigan, and the haunted Beacon Bakeshop? Especially when Kennedy has convinced Lindsey to host a live ghost-hunting investigation by professional ghost hunters and record it for her podcast. Lindsay is unsure if Captain Willy will make an appearance or how he will react to the ghost hunters but she never expected such a horrific happening. When a bright, eerie green light suddenly fills the lightroom it scares Kennedy and the "ghost guys" sending them scrambling down the stairs and into the night. Kennedy ran into something that knocked her off her feet. Looking up she realizes there is a creepy clown costume hanging from a tree, but it isn't just a costume, it contains a dead body!
______
Lindsey Bakewell, her family, and friends have really settled into Beacon Harbor. The town has big plans for its Halloween Bash and Lindsey is baking up all kinds of treats and making pumpkin spiced lattes to serve to the masses. She has found a new assistant baker but her former Navy SEAL boyfriend Rory and her dad still drop by to help if needed. Her friend Kennedy has started a podcast that keeps her busy when she isn't working at the boutique Ellie & Co. she owns with Lindsey's mom. Her podcast brings the "ghost guys" to town and Lindsey's haunted lighthouse. What I love about Ms. Hannah's characters is that they are so true to life. The core characters and the residents of Beacon Harbor are people you would find in small-town America with their own interests and issues. Each story feels like we are catching up with good friends. Of course, not typical of all small towns is that Captain Willy Riggs who died at the lighthouse in the 1800s still calls the Beacon Lighthouse his home, and he has various ways of making his presence known. And I can't forget Lindsey's Newfoundland, Wellington who has stolen my heart. He is such a good dog.
For purely personal reasons I had some trouble with the mystery this time, really the way the victim was found. It was too close to the way I lost my son to suicide in 2015. I thought after this much time had passed certain words wouldn't be as much of a trigger as they turned out to be. At times, it kept me from following along with the plot but I couldn't just set the book aside. I needed to know why such a good person had been killed. The author gave us several suspects to work through and many twists and turns. Scary situations led up to a chilling reveal, showdown, and rescue. I was right on the edge of my seat while it all played out.
One character was having a difficult time at the end and I truly felt for them. I am not sure they are making the right decision but they have to do what they feel is best for their well-being. I am a little anxious to see what the author has planned.
With Halloween quickly approaching you need to be sure to check out the recipes after the end of the story. Pumpkin scones, muffins, cheesecake and lattes are joined by Savory Roast Chicken and Apple Stuffing.
Murder at the Pumpkin Pageant was an entertaining read. I do love these characters and even with my personal issues, I couldn't stop reading which is a tribute to the author. She captivated my attention enough to push past what I needed to and still enjoy the story. I am now looking forward to reading Murder at the Blarney Bash. I do have a little Irish in me, so I can't wait to search for a pot of gold or another killer.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Where better to celebrate Halloween than in Beacon Harbor, Michigan, and the haunted Beacon Bakeshop? Especially when Kennedy has convinced Lindsey to host a live ghost-hunting investigation by professional ghost hunters and record it for her podcast. Lindsay is unsure if Captain Willy will make an appearance or how he will react to the ghost hunters but she never expected such a horrific happening. When a bright, eerie green light suddenly fills the lightroom it scares Kennedy and the "ghost guys" sending them scrambling down the stairs and into the night. Kennedy ran into something that knocked her off her feet. Looking up she realizes there is a creepy clown costume hanging from a tree, but it isn't just a costume, it contains a dead body!
______
Lindsey Bakewell, her family, and friends have really settled into Beacon Harbor. The town has big plans for its Halloween Bash and Lindsey is baking up all kinds of treats and making pumpkin spiced lattes to serve to the masses. She has found a new assistant baker but her former Navy SEAL boyfriend Rory and her dad still drop by to help if needed. Her friend Kennedy has started a podcast that keeps her busy when she isn't working at the boutique Ellie & Co. she owns with Lindsey's mom. Her podcast brings the "ghost guys" to town and Lindsey's haunted lighthouse. What I love about Ms. Hannah's characters is that they are so true to life. The core characters and the residents of Beacon Harbor are people you would find in small-town America with their own interests and issues. Each story feels like we are catching up with good friends. Of course, not typical of all small towns is that Captain Willy Riggs who died at the lighthouse in the 1800s still calls the Beacon Lighthouse his home, and he has various ways of making his presence known. And I can't forget Lindsey's Newfoundland, Wellington who has stolen my heart. He is such a good dog.
For purely personal reasons I had some trouble with the mystery this time, really the way the victim was found. It was too close to the way I lost my son to suicide in 2015. I thought after this much time had passed certain words wouldn't be as much of a trigger as they turned out to be. At times, it kept me from following along with the plot but I couldn't just set the book aside. I needed to know why such a good person had been killed. The author gave us several suspects to work through and many twists and turns. Scary situations led up to a chilling reveal, showdown, and rescue. I was right on the edge of my seat while it all played out.
One character was having a difficult time at the end and I truly felt for them. I am not sure they are making the right decision but they have to do what they feel is best for their well-being. I am a little anxious to see what the author has planned.
With Halloween quickly approaching you need to be sure to check out the recipes after the end of the story. Pumpkin scones, muffins, cheesecake and lattes are joined by Savory Roast Chicken and Apple Stuffing.
Murder at the Pumpkin Pageant was an entertaining read. I do love these characters and even with my personal issues, I couldn't stop reading which is a tribute to the author. She captivated my attention enough to push past what I needed to and still enjoy the story. I am now looking forward to reading Murder at the Blarney Bash. I do have a little Irish in me, so I can't wait to search for a pot of gold or another killer.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
September 9, 2024
Murder at the Pumpkin Pageant is a cozy mystery part of the Beacon Bakeshop Mystery series! This was a perfectly, cute, and cozy fall setting with apple cider donuts, a haunted lighthouse, and a murder mystery set in Beacon Harbor, Michigan.
Lindsey purchased a lighthouse and turned it into the bakeshop and home of her dreams, who cares if it’s slightly haunted by a resident ghost. For Halloween, her influencer and podcaster best friend ends up inviting a professional ghost hunting investigation crew to come join her for a filming. But things go wildly off-course when they find a murdered body on the grounds instead of the ghost they were expecting! Now Lindsey and all the small town residents help to find out why and who did the murdering.
This was a quick, easy listen and I was super into this setting and story! I liked the characters (especially her boyfriend Rory and dog Wellington) and setting more than the reveal of the murderer, but all in all, this was a fun one and perfectly fall-themed!
Lindsey purchased a lighthouse and turned it into the bakeshop and home of her dreams, who cares if it’s slightly haunted by a resident ghost. For Halloween, her influencer and podcaster best friend ends up inviting a professional ghost hunting investigation crew to come join her for a filming. But things go wildly off-course when they find a murdered body on the grounds instead of the ghost they were expecting! Now Lindsey and all the small town residents help to find out why and who did the murdering.
This was a quick, easy listen and I was super into this setting and story! I liked the characters (especially her boyfriend Rory and dog Wellington) and setting more than the reveal of the murderer, but all in all, this was a fun one and perfectly fall-themed!
August 22, 2023
Murder at the Pumpkin Patch is the fourth book in the Beacon Bakeshop Mystery series, but it can be read as a standalone story. It is coming up to Halloween in Beacon Harbor, Michigan and things are gearing up for the holiday. Lindsey Bakewell lives in the renovated lighthouse with her Newfoundland, Wellington. Everyone knows the lighthouse is haunted, so when Kennedy, Lindseys's BFF invites a group of ghost hunters to film, she plans to do a live podcast as well. While online, they stumble upon a dead body hanging from a tree outside the lighthouse. It is a favorite teacher, one Lindsey just met at the pumpkin carving festival. Who wanted her dead? Why hang her outside the lighthouse?
This was a great addition to the series. I was pulled into this story from the start and kept listening intently to see what would happen next. There were not a lot of suspects initially, but as Lindsey began her investigation, a few came to light. The mystery kept me guessing right to the end, and the killer wasn't even on my radar. The characters in this series are great, relatable and realistic. I enjoyed their easy relationships and how well they help one another. Of course, Wellie, is a great character and if any of you have ever owned a Newfoundland dog, you will agree with this portrayal. He is loyal and helpful, but also a teddy bear that loved everyone, especially if they had food. The final showdown was suspenseful and had me on the edge of my seat. I loved the part Wellie played in that part of the book. There was some bittersweet news at the end, but hopefully things might change by the next book. This was a great story and one I recommend to cozy mystery lovers. I listened to this one narrated by Amy Melissa Bentley. Although she is not one of my favourite performers, she does a nice job with this series.
This was a great addition to the series. I was pulled into this story from the start and kept listening intently to see what would happen next. There were not a lot of suspects initially, but as Lindsey began her investigation, a few came to light. The mystery kept me guessing right to the end, and the killer wasn't even on my radar. The characters in this series are great, relatable and realistic. I enjoyed their easy relationships and how well they help one another. Of course, Wellie, is a great character and if any of you have ever owned a Newfoundland dog, you will agree with this portrayal. He is loyal and helpful, but also a teddy bear that loved everyone, especially if they had food. The final showdown was suspenseful and had me on the edge of my seat. I loved the part Wellie played in that part of the book. There was some bittersweet news at the end, but hopefully things might change by the next book. This was a great story and one I recommend to cozy mystery lovers. I listened to this one narrated by Amy Melissa Bentley. Although she is not one of my favourite performers, she does a nice job with this series.
September 2, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read if you like:
🎃 baking cozy mysteries 🧁🍩🍪🥮🥧
🎃 cast of quirky characters
🎃 small town vibes
🎃 descriptive, picturesque scenery
🎃 a little bit ghosty 👻👻👻
🎃 doggy sidekick
🎃 short chapters
🎃 single POV
I have wanted to read this one for so long, I don’t know what took me so long!
Be prepared not to read this one on an EMPTY STOMACH 🤪🤪 I was soooo hungry throughout the whole thing!! All the descriptions of the treats and the smells and the sights 😍😍 I was definitely reaching for a sweet snack the whole time I read this one!!
I also really enjoyed the setting and the scenery painted in this one. I feel very fallish and Halloweeny throughout the whole book, and that’s exactly the type of book I am looking for in a spooky season read! All the festivals, and the fall contests, and treats and the scenery…. I really did feel like I was in a small Halloweeny town, and it honestly made me a little jealous there are none of these type of fall/Halloween activities & festivals in my actual hometown 😭 but it was so nice to get immersed in this book and really feel like I was there! 🩷 Some “Halloween” books just mention once that it’s Halloween time and then you don’t really see much else… but this is a HALLOWEEN book right through to the end… very very enjoyable 🩷🩷
I love small town settings because the characters all usually know and really care for each other, and it makes for a really nice, fuzzy (murder 🤪) story. The characters are more like family, and it’s a lot different from this world we’re living in right now 🤪
The author is obviously very hip and up on all the current trends and language now because there were a few things in here that made me laugh… Witchtok, cottage core 🤪
As an extreme dog lover, the missing dog part made me so much more invested in this story 🤪 Murder is totally fine, but where is the dog?? 🤪
I did not see the end coming!! That is the one thing I ask for in a mystery 🤪 and I definitely got my wish here!!
I am just finding out that this one is actually #4 in the Beacon Bakeshop Mystery series, and I now can’t wait to read the rest of the series 🩷🩷
Read if you like:
🎃 baking cozy mysteries 🧁🍩🍪🥮🥧
🎃 cast of quirky characters
🎃 small town vibes
🎃 descriptive, picturesque scenery
🎃 a little bit ghosty 👻👻👻
🎃 doggy sidekick
🎃 short chapters
🎃 single POV
I have wanted to read this one for so long, I don’t know what took me so long!
Be prepared not to read this one on an EMPTY STOMACH 🤪🤪 I was soooo hungry throughout the whole thing!! All the descriptions of the treats and the smells and the sights 😍😍 I was definitely reaching for a sweet snack the whole time I read this one!!
I also really enjoyed the setting and the scenery painted in this one. I feel very fallish and Halloweeny throughout the whole book, and that’s exactly the type of book I am looking for in a spooky season read! All the festivals, and the fall contests, and treats and the scenery…. I really did feel like I was in a small Halloweeny town, and it honestly made me a little jealous there are none of these type of fall/Halloween activities & festivals in my actual hometown 😭 but it was so nice to get immersed in this book and really feel like I was there! 🩷 Some “Halloween” books just mention once that it’s Halloween time and then you don’t really see much else… but this is a HALLOWEEN book right through to the end… very very enjoyable 🩷🩷
I love small town settings because the characters all usually know and really care for each other, and it makes for a really nice, fuzzy (murder 🤪) story. The characters are more like family, and it’s a lot different from this world we’re living in right now 🤪
The author is obviously very hip and up on all the current trends and language now because there were a few things in here that made me laugh… Witchtok, cottage core 🤪
As an extreme dog lover, the missing dog part made me so much more invested in this story 🤪 Murder is totally fine, but where is the dog?? 🤪
I did not see the end coming!! That is the one thing I ask for in a mystery 🤪 and I definitely got my wish here!!
I am just finding out that this one is actually #4 in the Beacon Bakeshop Mystery series, and I now can’t wait to read the rest of the series 🩷🩷
June 24, 2025
Fall is in the air and Halloween is fast approaching. Lindsey and the team at Beacon Bakeshop are busy baking up delectable pumpkin scones, muffins, cookies and everything! Lindsey's mom is gearing up for a Halloween party and the town will have a pageant in which Lindsey, her staff, her friends and of course, Wellie, will participate. The only thing to mar this perfect season for Lindsey is the pranks being played on her at the lighthouse. Someone, probably teens, keeps hanging a dummy in costume from a tree on the property at night. Lindsey is not amused. She's even less amused when Kennedy announces The Ghost Guys from the Travel Channel are coming to do a live investigation on Halloween and Kennedy will be hosting a live podcast at the same time. Kennedy plays up the spooky stories for the teens Lindsey invites to a pumpkin carving party so they can get to know the lighthouse and hear the history and hopefully learn a little respect. Lindsey quickly bonds with their teacher, Leslie Adams, but is spooked by the Witchtok kids into modern witchcraft. Halloween day is a lot of fun but Lindsey is anxious about the investigation. As she, Rory, and Tuck watch live at Rory's house, Lindsey and Rory are rattled when the Ghost Guys claim to hear a voice warning danger, smell pipe smoke and then... the worst happens! The eerie green ghost lights blink on and Lindsey and Rory know someone is dead. Kennedy panics and runs right into ... the dead body of Leslie Adams, still in her Halloween costume, hanging from a tree outside Lindsey's back door. This time, the body is all too real and those witchtok kids are nearby on the beach. Would they really kill someone? Their teacher who loves them and supports them? Lindsey is mostly concerned with the whereabouts of Leslie's little poodle, Trixie, who was last seen in a matching Halloween costume at the parade. Lindsey if given permission to take Wellie and hunt for his friend but not interfere. IF she happens to discover information leading to the killer... why she was authorized to investigate, right? Meanwhile, a writer has come to Beacon Harbor and he's VERY interested in the lighthouse. What he has to say could change the history of the lighthouse and the town forever.
This series is actually getting better! I REALLY didn't like the Ghost Guys plot. Please please don't base characters on people I know! I was into that until I actually met them and got an ear full about how they faked evidence, how much money they made per episode, and ... Bigfoot. (eyeroll) I wanted to slap Kennedy and send her packing too, BUT I ended up really into the plot and couldn't put the book down. The whodunit was a surprise. I suspected that person at first but then another, more viable suspect or two emerged and I thought it was someone else. One suspects leads the story in a total non-cozy direction and that felt awkward and creepy. That plotline doesn't fit this type of story. I loved all the cozy details and really want a maple pumpkin scone right now. It lacks some of the charm of the Christmas story but the plot is better.
The characters are improving in likability factor, mostly. Lindsey doesn't mention Lindseytude until confronting a villain so that's a plus. She's now a regular local, fitting in and enjoying small town life. She doesn't miss New York at all, especially now her parents are around. Her dad is currently retired as soon he and Ellie will move south for the winter but they'll stay for the holidays to spend time with their only child. Rory has improved slightly. He was so icky and weird in the first book but now he's retired and found a purpose, he's doing better. His dive shop will be a grand success if he can get it up and running by the time the weather warms up. Kennedy is just AWFUL! She's a narcissist who never thinks of anything but her own influencer status. She "forgets" to tell Lindsey about the Ghost Guys until it's a done deal and almost Halloween. She is mooching off Lindsey without paying rent or helping with household expenses or in the bakery. She doesn't seem to be doing much at Ellie & Co. except taking pictures and posting on Instagram. Rory needs to help Lindsey be assertive and kick Kennedy to the curb NOW! Kennedy causes chaos and trouble wherever she goes. Officer Tucker MacAllister is sweet, kind and a good cop. He's dazzled that a woman like Kennedy would want to be with him. Why is she still there and still with him and not in New York doing influencer stuff? Or better yet far far away in London! Wellie is such a good boy! He's smart when he has a job to do and is a friendly, happy go-lucky dog happy to greet humans and other animals alike. He's my favorite character. Clara, the goat from the previous book, is mentioned in one scene but doesn't appear regularly.
I don't like Lindsey's new assistant, Teddy. He's selfish, has a warped sense of humor and goes along with Kennedy's evil plans. He's the one with connections and never told Lindsey. He fully well expected her to look at the back of his resume and notice something. He ASSUMED she knew. Dude. You're a middle-aged adult. Grow up, put your relevant work experience on your resume and leave the rest off. I DO really like Leslie Adams. She's a great teacher who loves her kids and supports them. She's able to teach them subtle lessons without them realizing it and rather than punish kids for something she suspects they did, she helps them learn and grow. Bringing them to Beacon Bakeshop was Lindsey's idea but Leslie made it happen and serves as a bridge between Lindsey and the students. The lesson being once they get to know Lindsey and hear the history of the lighthouse, they'll appreciate it more and feel bad playing pranks on the nice baker who hosted a pumpkin carving party for them. (Until narcissistic Kennedy ruins the moment with her spooky tales). Leslie is tough, no-nonsense but really cares about the kids. She reasons they're all good, they just don't know it yet. Leslie is a widow who lives alone. Her husband, a developer, died in an ice fishing accident about 9 months ago. Uh-oh! Is this a conspiracy?
Leslie has one daughter, Cali, a grad student at U of M in Ann Arbor. Poor girl! She must be absolutely in shock and devastated losing both her parents in less than a year. Unless she's conspired with someone to get rid of her parents and get her hands on the property for some reason.... I'm not sure I fully trust her. I really don't trust Mark Whitcomb, a supposed longtime family friend and co-worker of Leslie. He's younger than Leslie and older than Cali but I get the impression he was trying to hone in on Leslie and with her gone, he is focusing his attention on Cali. He's a little too eager and friendly for my tastes.
Some of the kids are into a subculture on TikTok revolving around witchcraft. It sounds a little creepy to me but may just be the same idea as the New Age stuff people were into when I was their age. Or not. The leader, Kiley Henderson, has a mother who makes a living as a psychic medium and claims Kiley has the real gift. Kiley seems like a sweet girl, earnest and perhaps something went wrong and the teens tried to cover it up by hanging the body from the tree. Some of the teens are into forest culture. Not just fairies and making fairy houses but also foraging for mushrooms. Uh-oh! Leslie complains of her stomach feeling off. I have a bad feeling about that. I hope her students didn't kill her. I hope this isn't about grades or discipline or any weird TikTok challenges gone wrong. Jake, a teenage prankster, provides a new suspect and motive. Mr. Bartlett, the high school drama teacher, may have had reason to suspect Leslie was going to get him fired for inappropriate behavior. YES HE SHOULD BE and ARRESTED! He's a TEACHER, an ADULT, even if he's a YOUNG adult, he should know better.
Jordy Tripp, a famous novelist, has come to Beacon Harbor to research a story for a non-fiction book. I think he's a little pushy and weird. He seems to know something about the lighthouse or think he knows something that Lindsey does not. He isn't very forthcoming. Grant Fairfield is Jordy's research assistant. He's handsome, friendly and young. A professor of Great Lakes history and underwater archeology, I think he's arrogant and Lindsey describes him as "smug."
After a dramatic entrance and one I found totally rude and unnecessary, the Ghost Guys turn out to be OK. Mostly. Brett Bloom is the lead investigator. He's good looking and charming but appreciates lighthouses. He's also excitable and gets into the investigation a little too much. He is is into the history of the locations they visit and comes up with some surprising new info on the Beacon Harbor Light. Mike is the co-lead and the practical one. He wants to "debunk" (please also stop stealing words) the ghost lights. Cody is the tech guru but he falls down on the job. He is not quick enough to prevent catastrophe. Ed is the horrible one who wants to provoke Capt. Willy Riggs to show the ghost lights. Leave the poor light keeper in peace. He's probably not even an intelligent haunting.
Trixie is a sweet little pup. What happened when her Mommy was killed? Where she did go? Did someone take her? Why would someone steal Leslie's dog? That doesn't make sense unless they were afraid Trixie could identify the killer? I think she did, early on, even before Leslie died. No one noticed though! The murderer is very crafty and really sick.
I look forward to reading another book in this series next weekend.
This series is actually getting better! I REALLY didn't like the Ghost Guys plot. Please please don't base characters on people I know! I was into that until I actually met them and got an ear full about how they faked evidence, how much money they made per episode, and ... Bigfoot. (eyeroll) I wanted to slap Kennedy and send her packing too, BUT I ended up really into the plot and couldn't put the book down. The whodunit was a surprise. I suspected that person at first but then another, more viable suspect or two emerged and I thought it was someone else. One suspects leads the story in a total non-cozy direction and that felt awkward and creepy. That plotline doesn't fit this type of story. I loved all the cozy details and really want a maple pumpkin scone right now. It lacks some of the charm of the Christmas story but the plot is better.
The characters are improving in likability factor, mostly. Lindsey doesn't mention Lindseytude until confronting a villain so that's a plus. She's now a regular local, fitting in and enjoying small town life. She doesn't miss New York at all, especially now her parents are around. Her dad is currently retired as soon he and Ellie will move south for the winter but they'll stay for the holidays to spend time with their only child. Rory has improved slightly. He was so icky and weird in the first book but now he's retired and found a purpose, he's doing better. His dive shop will be a grand success if he can get it up and running by the time the weather warms up. Kennedy is just AWFUL! She's a narcissist who never thinks of anything but her own influencer status. She "forgets" to tell Lindsey about the Ghost Guys until it's a done deal and almost Halloween. She is mooching off Lindsey without paying rent or helping with household expenses or in the bakery. She doesn't seem to be doing much at Ellie & Co. except taking pictures and posting on Instagram. Rory needs to help Lindsey be assertive and kick Kennedy to the curb NOW! Kennedy causes chaos and trouble wherever she goes. Officer Tucker MacAllister is sweet, kind and a good cop. He's dazzled that a woman like Kennedy would want to be with him. Why is she still there and still with him and not in New York doing influencer stuff? Or better yet far far away in London! Wellie is such a good boy! He's smart when he has a job to do and is a friendly, happy go-lucky dog happy to greet humans and other animals alike. He's my favorite character. Clara, the goat from the previous book, is mentioned in one scene but doesn't appear regularly.
I don't like Lindsey's new assistant, Teddy. He's selfish, has a warped sense of humor and goes along with Kennedy's evil plans. He's the one with connections and never told Lindsey. He fully well expected her to look at the back of his resume and notice something. He ASSUMED she knew. Dude. You're a middle-aged adult. Grow up, put your relevant work experience on your resume and leave the rest off. I DO really like Leslie Adams. She's a great teacher who loves her kids and supports them. She's able to teach them subtle lessons without them realizing it and rather than punish kids for something she suspects they did, she helps them learn and grow. Bringing them to Beacon Bakeshop was Lindsey's idea but Leslie made it happen and serves as a bridge between Lindsey and the students. The lesson being once they get to know Lindsey and hear the history of the lighthouse, they'll appreciate it more and feel bad playing pranks on the nice baker who hosted a pumpkin carving party for them. (Until narcissistic Kennedy ruins the moment with her spooky tales). Leslie is tough, no-nonsense but really cares about the kids. She reasons they're all good, they just don't know it yet. Leslie is a widow who lives alone. Her husband, a developer, died in an ice fishing accident about 9 months ago. Uh-oh! Is this a conspiracy?
Leslie has one daughter, Cali, a grad student at U of M in Ann Arbor. Poor girl! She must be absolutely in shock and devastated losing both her parents in less than a year. Unless she's conspired with someone to get rid of her parents and get her hands on the property for some reason.... I'm not sure I fully trust her. I really don't trust Mark Whitcomb, a supposed longtime family friend and co-worker of Leslie. He's younger than Leslie and older than Cali but I get the impression he was trying to hone in on Leslie and with her gone, he is focusing his attention on Cali. He's a little too eager and friendly for my tastes.
Some of the kids are into a subculture on TikTok revolving around witchcraft. It sounds a little creepy to me but may just be the same idea as the New Age stuff people were into when I was their age. Or not. The leader, Kiley Henderson, has a mother who makes a living as a psychic medium and claims Kiley has the real gift. Kiley seems like a sweet girl, earnest and perhaps something went wrong and the teens tried to cover it up by hanging the body from the tree. Some of the teens are into forest culture. Not just fairies and making fairy houses but also foraging for mushrooms. Uh-oh! Leslie complains of her stomach feeling off. I have a bad feeling about that. I hope her students didn't kill her. I hope this isn't about grades or discipline or any weird TikTok challenges gone wrong. Jake, a teenage prankster, provides a new suspect and motive. Mr. Bartlett, the high school drama teacher, may have had reason to suspect Leslie was going to get him fired for inappropriate behavior. YES HE SHOULD BE and ARRESTED! He's a TEACHER, an ADULT, even if he's a YOUNG adult, he should know better.
Jordy Tripp, a famous novelist, has come to Beacon Harbor to research a story for a non-fiction book. I think he's a little pushy and weird. He seems to know something about the lighthouse or think he knows something that Lindsey does not. He isn't very forthcoming. Grant Fairfield is Jordy's research assistant. He's handsome, friendly and young. A professor of Great Lakes history and underwater archeology, I think he's arrogant and Lindsey describes him as "smug."
After a dramatic entrance and one I found totally rude and unnecessary, the Ghost Guys turn out to be OK. Mostly. Brett Bloom is the lead investigator. He's good looking and charming but appreciates lighthouses. He's also excitable and gets into the investigation a little too much. He is is into the history of the locations they visit and comes up with some surprising new info on the Beacon Harbor Light. Mike is the co-lead and the practical one. He wants to "debunk" (please also stop stealing words) the ghost lights. Cody is the tech guru but he falls down on the job. He is not quick enough to prevent catastrophe. Ed is the horrible one who wants to provoke Capt. Willy Riggs to show the ghost lights. Leave the poor light keeper in peace. He's probably not even an intelligent haunting.
Trixie is a sweet little pup. What happened when her Mommy was killed? Where she did go? Did someone take her? Why would someone steal Leslie's dog? That doesn't make sense unless they were afraid Trixie could identify the killer? I think she did, early on, even before Leslie died. No one noticed though! The murderer is very crafty and really sick.
I look forward to reading another book in this series next weekend.
November 3, 2025
I did like the storyline, including the dogs. The character Kennedy gets on my nerves. I love the fact that it’s a bakery and a lighthouse. The mystery was good and interesting ! Doesn’t anyone have a damn security system ?!
August 7, 2023
Murder At The Pumpkin Patch book in the A Beacon Bakeshop Mystery series by Darci Hannah.
Lindsey is busy baking in her bakery, located in her, the former lighthouse keeper. Lindsey loves Halloween, but she could do without some teenagers pranking. A customer suggests that Lindsey talk with Leslie Adams, a teacher at the local high school. A group of students arrives at the lighthouse to carve pumpkins, and Lindsey has a chance to talk with the students about who might be behind the pranks.
Teddy, Lindsey’s assistant baker, and Kennedy, her BFF, have arranged for The Ghost Guys to come and see if they can communicate with any ghosts. Kennedy plans on doing a livestream podcast at the same time as The Ghost Guys start to get some readings of the presents of a supernatural being. Then an unknown voice utters danger, and a few seconds later utters evil afoot. Then a bright, eerie light appears that sends everyone running. Lindsey watches Kennedy’s podcast as she runs outdoors and sees Kennedy come to an abrupt halt and fall backward. When Lindsey reaches Kennedy, she sees that Kennedy had run into the body of Leslie Adams, hanging from a tree limb.
Lindsey liked Leslie and couldn’t understand why anyone would want the well-respected teacher dead. Lindsey will call on her boyfriend, Rory, Kennedy, and, hopefully, Kennedy’s boyfriend, Tuck, a member of the local police department, for help finding the murderer. Lindsey soon discovers that there is no shortage of suspects.
This book is the best in the series. The book is well-written and plotted. Ms. Hannah wrote so descriptively that I had “goosebumps” several times. The book moves at a good pace and was hard to put down. There were plenty of twists and turns that I kept guessing until the end of the book as to the killer's identity.
There are delicious-sounding recipes included in the book.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in the beautiful series.
Lindsey is busy baking in her bakery, located in her, the former lighthouse keeper. Lindsey loves Halloween, but she could do without some teenagers pranking. A customer suggests that Lindsey talk with Leslie Adams, a teacher at the local high school. A group of students arrives at the lighthouse to carve pumpkins, and Lindsey has a chance to talk with the students about who might be behind the pranks.
Teddy, Lindsey’s assistant baker, and Kennedy, her BFF, have arranged for The Ghost Guys to come and see if they can communicate with any ghosts. Kennedy plans on doing a livestream podcast at the same time as The Ghost Guys start to get some readings of the presents of a supernatural being. Then an unknown voice utters danger, and a few seconds later utters evil afoot. Then a bright, eerie light appears that sends everyone running. Lindsey watches Kennedy’s podcast as she runs outdoors and sees Kennedy come to an abrupt halt and fall backward. When Lindsey reaches Kennedy, she sees that Kennedy had run into the body of Leslie Adams, hanging from a tree limb.
Lindsey liked Leslie and couldn’t understand why anyone would want the well-respected teacher dead. Lindsey will call on her boyfriend, Rory, Kennedy, and, hopefully, Kennedy’s boyfriend, Tuck, a member of the local police department, for help finding the murderer. Lindsey soon discovers that there is no shortage of suspects.
This book is the best in the series. The book is well-written and plotted. Ms. Hannah wrote so descriptively that I had “goosebumps” several times. The book moves at a good pace and was hard to put down. There were plenty of twists and turns that I kept guessing until the end of the book as to the killer's identity.
There are delicious-sounding recipes included in the book.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in the beautiful series.
May 3, 2023
This is easily one of my favorite cozy series right now. Lighthouse, bakery and Welly can't go wrong. This is the perfect fall cozy and will make you want something pumpkin flavored. Lindsey prefers to keep her bakeshop’s Halloween decor light and autumnal, rather than gruesome and ghoulish. High school pranksters and then a real body hanging from her tree. Lindsey will be happy when Halloween is over.
#MurderatthePumpkinPageant #NetGalley
#MurderatthePumpkinPageant #NetGalley
August 28, 2023
This is a good mystery set in a lighthouse bakeshop along the shores of Lake Michigan. When a beloved teacher is murdered right after she attends one of Lindsey's pumpkin events, Lindsey and her boyfriend and other friends need to solve the murder before they themselves are killed.
October 31, 2023
Perfect as standalone, but fourth in the Beacon Bakeshop series where Lindsey Bakewell left Wall Street to rehab a Michigan lighthouse into living quarters and a bakery. Halloween is on the horizon and a number of pranks have turned up around the bakery. It's only when a prank turns real that it starts to get dangerous. Peopled with an array of engaging and interesting characters, the book has red herrings and suspects galore. Great addition to the series. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2024
Hmmmm it’s sitting at 3.75 ⭐️’s for me currently, but i rounded up to 4 on here.
This cozy mystery is perfect for a Halloween and fall read! with its pumpkin carving party, costume parade, and spooky lighthouse setting. As the fifth book in the Beacon Bakeshop series, it works well as a standalone, even if you miss some of the series’ backstory. The autumn vibes are on point, and the descriptions of baked goods and recipes add a delicious touch. (Can’t wait to make some things!!)
However, the book does have some issues. I’ve talked about this on my social media platforms, but the pop culture references pretty much at the very beginning in the first few chapters nearly made me DNF the book. I just don’t like that in books. It ages them and I just find it cringey. BUT I moved and looked past that because people said that they really enjoyed it, however the mentions of witchtok did not end lol—
The constant stereotyping of teens into "witchtok" and "goblincore" groups feels off and uncomfortable. She (the mc) pretty much immediately suspects them because they're different. It is strange me that they were deemed immediately untrustworthy because they had different beliefs/religions.. And the handling of cultural practices like smudging and the use of sage is done insensitively, reducing them to a joke rather than treating them with respect.
The writing was soooo repetitive? They kept restating what was happening, what had happened, who people were, what characters were doing.. it was annoying. I found myself multiple times rolling my eyes.
The book relies too heavily on exposition as well, lacking the imagery and engaging dialogue it needed to fully captivate me. There were also numerous errors, including missing words and inconsistent spelling of character names. It disrupted the flow and bit. Despite these flaws, the pacing is nice, and it's an easy read if you can overlook the bumps along the way!! 🍂🤎
This cozy mystery is perfect for a Halloween and fall read! with its pumpkin carving party, costume parade, and spooky lighthouse setting. As the fifth book in the Beacon Bakeshop series, it works well as a standalone, even if you miss some of the series’ backstory. The autumn vibes are on point, and the descriptions of baked goods and recipes add a delicious touch. (Can’t wait to make some things!!)
However, the book does have some issues. I’ve talked about this on my social media platforms, but the pop culture references pretty much at the very beginning in the first few chapters nearly made me DNF the book. I just don’t like that in books. It ages them and I just find it cringey. BUT I moved and looked past that because people said that they really enjoyed it, however the mentions of witchtok did not end lol—
The constant stereotyping of teens into "witchtok" and "goblincore" groups feels off and uncomfortable. She (the mc) pretty much immediately suspects them because they're different. It is strange me that they were deemed immediately untrustworthy because they had different beliefs/religions.. And the handling of cultural practices like smudging and the use of sage is done insensitively, reducing them to a joke rather than treating them with respect.
The writing was soooo repetitive? They kept restating what was happening, what had happened, who people were, what characters were doing.. it was annoying. I found myself multiple times rolling my eyes.
The book relies too heavily on exposition as well, lacking the imagery and engaging dialogue it needed to fully captivate me. There were also numerous errors, including missing words and inconsistent spelling of character names. It disrupted the flow and bit. Despite these flaws, the pacing is nice, and it's an easy read if you can overlook the bumps along the way!! 🍂🤎
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2023
This was a great little cozy perfect for reading to get you in the Halloween spirit!
I'd never read any in this series previously and I didn't feel as if I was missing out .
Thank you netgally and the publisher for a chance to read and review this book
I'd never read any in this series previously and I didn't feel as if I was missing out .
Thank you netgally and the publisher for a chance to read and review this book
November 1, 2024
I tried reading a different cozy Halloween themed murder mystery, but I couldn’t shake thoughts of this series, so I had to switch back. Similar to the other one I read, I felt this story ran a bit long for what it is. However, I still really enjoyed it overall. The festive atmosphere is charming, and the baking elements are a fun touch. The town setting is absolutely cute and full of enjoyable seasonal festivities that make you wish it were all happening in your town. This series is one of my favorites in the holiday murder mystery genre. If you’re in the mood for something cozy and festive, I definitely recommend it!
July 20, 2023
Perfect as standalone, but fourth in the Beacon Bakeshop series where Lindsey Bakewell left Wall Street to rehab a Michigan lighthouse into living quarters and a bakery. Halloween is on the horizon and a number of pranks have turned up around the bakery. It's only when a prank turns real that it starts to get dangerous. Peopled with an array of engaging and interesting characters, the book has red herrings and suspects galore. Great addition to the series. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2023
Darci Hannah has written another wonderful addition to the “Beacon Bakeshop Mystery” series. Lindsey’s lighthouse features prominently and is filled with ghost hunters, pumpkin treats, and murder. Murder at the Pumpkin Pageant is a great read for the upcoming Halloween season. This one will have readers on the edge of their seats from the first to the last page.
How Lindsey let Kenndy talk her into hosting a live podcast at the lighthouse with a group of ghost hunters boggles the mind. When things go terribly wrong, as she knew they would, there is no shortage of excitement, questions, and nerve-rattling mystery.
The victim was beloved by her students, and no one appeared to have a motive for murder. There are plenty of red herrings, twists and turns, and a few surprises along the way. The lighthouse is the scene of too many mysteries, and Lindsey needs to put a few of them to rest. With the help of Kennedy, Rory, and the ghost hunters, the killer is caught after trying to kill Lindsey and ending with a wild ride. This is the best book so far in this series, and no one will be able to put it down.
How Lindsey let Kenndy talk her into hosting a live podcast at the lighthouse with a group of ghost hunters boggles the mind. When things go terribly wrong, as she knew they would, there is no shortage of excitement, questions, and nerve-rattling mystery.
The victim was beloved by her students, and no one appeared to have a motive for murder. There are plenty of red herrings, twists and turns, and a few surprises along the way. The lighthouse is the scene of too many mysteries, and Lindsey needs to put a few of them to rest. With the help of Kennedy, Rory, and the ghost hunters, the killer is caught after trying to kill Lindsey and ending with a wild ride. This is the best book so far in this series, and no one will be able to put it down.
November 5, 2023
Does Kensington Publishing employ any copy editors?
Any editors?
Other reviewers have addressed many of the bad points to this distasteful book, so I'll start here. "Murder at the Pumpkin Pageant" was littered with punctuation and spelling errors. One character even went from being "Kiley" to "Kylie" in a single chapter! It was incredibly distracting and left me unable to focus on the story.
The main characters were incredibly shallow. I cannot imagine anyone coming across the body of a murder victim - somebody they were acquainted with - and joking around about it the next morning... and again and again in the days to come. Everyone in town seemed more focused on what kind of witty conversation they could have than on the shock and grief this person's family and friends must be experiencing.
I wish negative stars were an option. How could a book this bad be part of a series?
Any editors?
Other reviewers have addressed many of the bad points to this distasteful book, so I'll start here. "Murder at the Pumpkin Pageant" was littered with punctuation and spelling errors. One character even went from being "Kiley" to "Kylie" in a single chapter! It was incredibly distracting and left me unable to focus on the story.
The main characters were incredibly shallow. I cannot imagine anyone coming across the body of a murder victim - somebody they were acquainted with - and joking around about it the next morning... and again and again in the days to come. Everyone in town seemed more focused on what kind of witty conversation they could have than on the shock and grief this person's family and friends must be experiencing.
I wish negative stars were an option. How could a book this bad be part of a series?
March 21, 2023
I loved #MurderatthePumpkinPageant #NetGalley.
Lindsey is a great character and her family and friends add a delightful bit of color to this series.
As Halloween approaches, strange events begin taking place at the bakeshop, but Lindsey just thinks it's all Halloween pranks.
When a traumatic discovery takes place, Lindsey is determined to find the answers, refusing to let the culprit get away with murder.
If you haven't read this series by Darci Hannah, you're really missing!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Lindsey is a great character and her family and friends add a delightful bit of color to this series.
As Halloween approaches, strange events begin taking place at the bakeshop, but Lindsey just thinks it's all Halloween pranks.
When a traumatic discovery takes place, Lindsey is determined to find the answers, refusing to let the culprit get away with murder.
If you haven't read this series by Darci Hannah, you're really missing!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
July 26, 2023
This is my favorite in the series so far. I love the ghost hunt and getting more information about the ghost in the lighthouse. The characters are fun and add an element of humor to murder investigations. Halloween settings are always my favorite for cozies and with the addition of the old mystery, this one checked all the boxes for me. I can’t wait to see what they get up to next (and how the cliffhanger-ish ending is resolved).
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
September 13, 2024
While this book was definitely a cozy mystery and perfect for fall, I feel like it went on for a really long time. It had its moments, but I felt like this book was never going to end.
September 12, 2025
Okay. You need to understand. You read these cozy mysteries knowing what to expect: Cozy, cheesy, comfort killings. 🤣
I give this book a 3.5 it got a .5 raise because the killer was not who I expected.
-The killer still wasn’t a shocking reveal that made me spit out my tea and drop my pumpkin scone…but still, no who I expected, so yay. It def gave the fall/halloween vibes well. I def recommend it if you need to get into the spooky spirit!
I give this book a 3.5 it got a .5 raise because the killer was not who I expected.
-The killer still wasn’t a shocking reveal that made me spit out my tea and drop my pumpkin scone…but still, no who I expected, so yay. It def gave the fall/halloween vibes well. I def recommend it if you need to get into the spooky spirit!
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