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Succulent Sleuth #1
The Broken Bridge
An abandoned backpack. A damaged walking stick. A broken bridge. What happened on the Buckeye Trail?
Succulent-savvy sleuth, Molly Green spends her day tending her eco-friendly garden center, inherited from her beloved grandmother. She wants nothing more than to nurture her nursery and share her plant passion with the world.
When a hiker goes missing on the Buckeye Trail that runs behind the garden center and a bridge on the trail is damaged, the police suspect foul play. As clues mount up, Molly fears she may know who is to blame, perhaps someone in her own family.
To make matters worse, Molly must navigate the inconvenient appearance of a loquacious colleague, pulling her from her path to uncover the mystery of the broken bridge.
Can she discover what really happened that day on the trail? Or will the spikes and thorns surrounding this mystery take Molly out as well? Find out in the first book of the Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery series, The Broken Bridge.
Succulent-savvy sleuth, Molly Green spends her day tending her eco-friendly garden center, inherited from her beloved grandmother. She wants nothing more than to nurture her nursery and share her plant passion with the world.
When a hiker goes missing on the Buckeye Trail that runs behind the garden center and a bridge on the trail is damaged, the police suspect foul play. As clues mount up, Molly fears she may know who is to blame, perhaps someone in her own family.
To make matters worse, Molly must navigate the inconvenient appearance of a loquacious colleague, pulling her from her path to uncover the mystery of the broken bridge.
Can she discover what really happened that day on the trail? Or will the spikes and thorns surrounding this mystery take Molly out as well? Find out in the first book of the Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery series, The Broken Bridge.
252 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2024
29 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
September 7, 2023
I got what I expected when I cracked open The Broken Bridge: A Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery (Succulent Sleuth Series Book 1) by Iris March. While there was nothing earth shattering about the story, it is well written, with fun characters, and some eco friendly gardening tips that add a little bit extra to the story.
We are at Patty’s Plant Place (try saying that three times fast), an eco friendly garden center. The twins, Molly and May, and their cousin, Shannon, inherited it from their grandparents. May is the numbers person with an outgoing personality. Molly is more of an introvert and loved playing with the plants. Shannon only stops by to complain.
The Broken Bridge is a pretty laid back cozy mystery. We do have a little bit of danger and the kitty that makes it’s home at the garden center. We have characters that can’t help but put their nose where others don’t want them to be, and people who aren’t what they appear to be.
If you are looking for an easy reading, laid back mystery, The Broken Bridge by Iris March may be fore you. I have another book by Iris March, The Story That Made Us Stronger, that I will be starting very soon.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of The Broken Bridge by Iris March.
We are at Patty’s Plant Place (try saying that three times fast), an eco friendly garden center. The twins, Molly and May, and their cousin, Shannon, inherited it from their grandparents. May is the numbers person with an outgoing personality. Molly is more of an introvert and loved playing with the plants. Shannon only stops by to complain.
The Broken Bridge is a pretty laid back cozy mystery. We do have a little bit of danger and the kitty that makes it’s home at the garden center. We have characters that can’t help but put their nose where others don’t want them to be, and people who aren’t what they appear to be.
If you are looking for an easy reading, laid back mystery, The Broken Bridge by Iris March may be fore you. I have another book by Iris March, The Story That Made Us Stronger, that I will be starting very soon.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of The Broken Bridge by Iris March.
March 26, 2023
This new cozy series has a lovely setting, fun characters, and just the right amount of tension when it comes to the murder.
Molly and May are twins that co-own a plant store with their cousin Shannon. It was inherited from their grandmother, but Molly and May are the driving force that keeps this store running and profitable. I like that Molly is very eco-friendly in her approach to gardening and plants. I also liked that she created unique arrangements using succulents.
There isn't a large cast of characters, so it was fairly easy for me to narrow down the potential murderer. There were not a lot of clues to point the reader in any one direction.
We learn some things about Molly and May, but I feel like there will be more divulged in future books. I like both of their husbands and felt they helped round out the story.
I had to crack up when Molly came face to face with the killer and her actions and reactions. She does everything you think you shouldn't do when facing a killer.
This series has great potential, and I look forward to reading future books and learning more about these characters and the box of keys.
We give the book 4 paws up.
Molly and May are twins that co-own a plant store with their cousin Shannon. It was inherited from their grandmother, but Molly and May are the driving force that keeps this store running and profitable. I like that Molly is very eco-friendly in her approach to gardening and plants. I also liked that she created unique arrangements using succulents.
There isn't a large cast of characters, so it was fairly easy for me to narrow down the potential murderer. There were not a lot of clues to point the reader in any one direction.
We learn some things about Molly and May, but I feel like there will be more divulged in future books. I like both of their husbands and felt they helped round out the story.
I had to crack up when Molly came face to face with the killer and her actions and reactions. She does everything you think you shouldn't do when facing a killer.
This series has great potential, and I look forward to reading future books and learning more about these characters and the box of keys.
We give the book 4 paws up.
October 31, 2022
The succulent theme isn't one I've read before and there's tips and ideas scattered throughout. The characters are inviting and the mystery suspenseful and intriguing. While the main points are tied up, we get a few teasers of plots to come. Looking forward to seeing where it goes from here.
November 17, 2022
A delightful new series set in a nursery run by twin sisters and their silent partner who happens to be their cousin with potential to be an outstanding series! Fast paced with intriguing characters and a twist I didn’t see coming at the end.
May 12, 2022
A very promising first book in a new series.
I enjoyed this book, it was good. Nice. The conversations felt natural and were well-balanced with descriptions. It was a pleasant read, with a suspenseful ending. This sure has the potential to become a great series.
I enjoyed this book, it was good. Nice. The conversations felt natural and were well-balanced with descriptions. It was a pleasant read, with a suspenseful ending. This sure has the potential to become a great series.
June 11, 2022
THE BROKEN BRIDGE by Iris March
The First Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery
Molly Green loves everything horticulture: plants, gardening, and running her late Grandmother's garden center along with her twin sister. When she gets involved with a missing hiker she starts to suspect someone she knows may be involved. Could it possibly be her cousin? Or maybe her online editor who she's meeting for the first time. As she questions what happened to the missing young man she uncovers questionable items in her own shop. Will Molly find answers, or will someone put a stop to her?
An intriguing mystery, suspicious characters, and an exciting finale make the first Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery a solid start to a new series.
I love the green setting in THE BROKEN BRIDGE. The eco-friendly lifestyle, the Buckeye Trail, and the very plants of the garden center provide a lush and relevant setting in today's world. I like Molly and May and, in a break from the usual cozy novel, the primary character is already married. I appreciate the relationship of Molly and her husband, although we get a hint of something that could be an issue. I also like the relationship between May and her husband as well as the genuine dislike of their cousin.
THE BROKEN BRIDGE is a charming, fast paced mystery. While the primary mystery is solved, readers are given clues telling of other storylines to come. I look forward to exploring these in future books.
The First Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery
Molly Green loves everything horticulture: plants, gardening, and running her late Grandmother's garden center along with her twin sister. When she gets involved with a missing hiker she starts to suspect someone she knows may be involved. Could it possibly be her cousin? Or maybe her online editor who she's meeting for the first time. As she questions what happened to the missing young man she uncovers questionable items in her own shop. Will Molly find answers, or will someone put a stop to her?
An intriguing mystery, suspicious characters, and an exciting finale make the first Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery a solid start to a new series.
I love the green setting in THE BROKEN BRIDGE. The eco-friendly lifestyle, the Buckeye Trail, and the very plants of the garden center provide a lush and relevant setting in today's world. I like Molly and May and, in a break from the usual cozy novel, the primary character is already married. I appreciate the relationship of Molly and her husband, although we get a hint of something that could be an issue. I also like the relationship between May and her husband as well as the genuine dislike of their cousin.
THE BROKEN BRIDGE is a charming, fast paced mystery. While the primary mystery is solved, readers are given clues telling of other storylines to come. I look forward to exploring these in future books.
November 7, 2022
Great cast of characters, and two of my favorite hobbies – running and gardening. This mystery makes me want to explore the trails in Ohio, while also providing great tips for my garden. Molly Green spends her day tending her eco-friendly garden center, inherited from her beloved grandparents. She met the missing hiker shortly before his disappearance and follows the clues in hopes of finding out what happened to him. The mystery in this tale is not revealed till the end but other “family” mysteries arise during the story, which will lend themselves well to further adventures with Molly. Looking forward to more Succulent mysteries with Molly.
March 28, 2023
“The Broken Bridge” introduces readers to Molly, one of the three family members who inherited a plant store from their grandmother, who gets caught up in a mystery involving a runner on the trail behind the plant store. Molly, her twin Mia, and their family members try to help the police in attempting to figure out what happened to a missing runner, a broken bridge, and a found earring. Will Molly and her family be able to solve the mystery before Molly loses her life?
“The Broken Bridge” is a great debut cozy mystery. It has likeable main characters along with several sub characters who have their own unique personalities. Molly is a strong lead and this book shows the great connections that she has with her employees and family members, even including her cousin, Shannon who is not the easiest to like. There are enough twists and suspects to add to the mystery of the runner and the broken bridge. The only complaint that this reader has is that there was not enough of an explanation as to the “why” of what happened to the runner and the suspect. A little bit more of an explanation of the history would be beneficial to the story and would make it stronger.
The setting is perfect and slightly unique. This reader does not know of any other cozy mystery series that are set within a plant store with middle-aged owners who are the ones that are looking for clues. The small town plant shop is relatable to many readers and addresses the climate change issues without being in your face about the issues. The setting also includes a known long trail in Ohio that is explained in the story and exists in the real world.
Overall, “The Broken Bridge” is a fun cozy mystery. It has everything a cozy mystery reader will enjoy and what makes a cozy, cozy. It is shorter than most other cozies but it really is not missing much that other mysteries have in their books. It is also the perfect book for a non-cozy mystery reader to start with if they are interested in reading one. It is a great example of a cozy mystery.
“The Broken Bridge” is a great debut cozy mystery. It has likeable main characters along with several sub characters who have their own unique personalities. Molly is a strong lead and this book shows the great connections that she has with her employees and family members, even including her cousin, Shannon who is not the easiest to like. There are enough twists and suspects to add to the mystery of the runner and the broken bridge. The only complaint that this reader has is that there was not enough of an explanation as to the “why” of what happened to the runner and the suspect. A little bit more of an explanation of the history would be beneficial to the story and would make it stronger.
The setting is perfect and slightly unique. This reader does not know of any other cozy mystery series that are set within a plant store with middle-aged owners who are the ones that are looking for clues. The small town plant shop is relatable to many readers and addresses the climate change issues without being in your face about the issues. The setting also includes a known long trail in Ohio that is explained in the story and exists in the real world.
Overall, “The Broken Bridge” is a fun cozy mystery. It has everything a cozy mystery reader will enjoy and what makes a cozy, cozy. It is shorter than most other cozies but it really is not missing much that other mysteries have in their books. It is also the perfect book for a non-cozy mystery reader to start with if they are interested in reading one. It is a great example of a cozy mystery.
November 14, 2022
Molly Green runs an eco-friendly garden center with her twin sister, May, and wants to share her love of plants with everyone. When a hiker goes missing from the trail near their center, Molly's curiosity has her doing some investigating. But when clues start adding up, she's afraid a family member could be responsible.
This was a quick, fun read and I loved the garden center aspect. I enjoyed reading the book and "hearing" about the creations made with succulents. The mystery was a good one and will draw you in. I recommend this book and look forward to more.
This was a quick, fun read and I loved the garden center aspect. I enjoyed reading the book and "hearing" about the creations made with succulents. The mystery was a good one and will draw you in. I recommend this book and look forward to more.
January 6, 2023
Great cozy mystery with interesting theme and characters. Loved becoming immersed in the characters lives and sleuthing out the murder mystery. Very well written plot with intrigue, suspense, interactions, and twists.
November 20, 2022
This cozy mystery has an original theme, or at least it’s one I haven’t seen—a plant shop. The mystery itself is very good and I really like the main characters. Having twin sisters and a cousin, plus the best friend of one of the twins added in, plus the husbands of the twins, makes a good dynamic. Even the workers in the shop had real personalities. I discovered an author who is new to me too. I can definitely recommend this book; I was provided a copy of the book, but these opinions are my own.
May 20, 2022
This was a wonderful intro to a new cozy series for me! The characters were fun and believable, plus there was a resident kitty who hung out at the garden center. The climax and reveal was suspenseful and well-written. I'm looking forward to future books in the series!
January 30, 2024
I received a free copy through BookSirens and voluntarily reviewed it.
The broken Bridge caught my eye when I saw it on BookSirens as I love cozy mysteries and the plant theme as well as the hiking trail theme sounded fun and interesting. It took me a bit of time to get into the book and get used to the writing style, but when I did I was able to enjoy it. The book also feels just a bit different from most cozies which took some getting used to, but mostly worked well. I liked reading about Molly, the garden center and the hiking trail that starts at the parking lot next to the garden center.
The mystery felt a bit slow to start, there's a tense prologue of a runner finding sinister clues on the trail he's running and then the story goes back in time to show Molly in the shop and her meeting the hiker that later goes missing. Which was a bit confusing until I realized it went back in time. Even then it took a while before it really felt like the mystery got going. I did like how Molly handled things and ruled out some suspects throughout the book, it felt satisfying when she ruled someone out. The mystery did keep me guessing, but some of the events and thoughts of Molly felt a bit strange at times or I didn't quite get why she thought certain things or how she made certain mental leaps. The events that led her to confront the killer also felt a bit too convenient and I felt she acted a bit recklessly at times. I did like the twist and reveal about who the killer was and their motive.
I liked reading about Molly and the garden center she runs with her twin May. There are some other employees as well and Molly and May both have a family, May has two twins and a husband. And Molly has a husband already as well, which was quite refreshing as I haven't read many cozies where the main character already is in a relationship. It took me some time to get a grip on all the characters and their relationship to each other. There also is an interesting sort of side plot line about some mysterious items Molly finds in the store and it doesn't get resolved by the end of the book yet, so maybe that will continue in future books.
To summarize: The Broken Bridge is a solid start to this series. It took me some time to get into the book at first and get the hang of who everyone is, but after that I enjoyed it more. The mystery also took some time to get going, but I liked how things progressed. I enjoyed how Molly actually clears some possible suspects of suspicion during her investigation and the reveal of who the killer is was a nice twist. I did feel Molly acted a bit recklessly toward the end and it was a bit too convenient at times. I liked reading about Molly and her twin running the garden center as well as the theme of the hiking trail nearby. I thought it was interesting Molly already has a husband at the start of the series as I haven't read many cozies with that. I enjoyed reading this one and plan to continue the series.
The broken Bridge caught my eye when I saw it on BookSirens as I love cozy mysteries and the plant theme as well as the hiking trail theme sounded fun and interesting. It took me a bit of time to get into the book and get used to the writing style, but when I did I was able to enjoy it. The book also feels just a bit different from most cozies which took some getting used to, but mostly worked well. I liked reading about Molly, the garden center and the hiking trail that starts at the parking lot next to the garden center.
The mystery felt a bit slow to start, there's a tense prologue of a runner finding sinister clues on the trail he's running and then the story goes back in time to show Molly in the shop and her meeting the hiker that later goes missing. Which was a bit confusing until I realized it went back in time. Even then it took a while before it really felt like the mystery got going. I did like how Molly handled things and ruled out some suspects throughout the book, it felt satisfying when she ruled someone out. The mystery did keep me guessing, but some of the events and thoughts of Molly felt a bit strange at times or I didn't quite get why she thought certain things or how she made certain mental leaps. The events that led her to confront the killer also felt a bit too convenient and I felt she acted a bit recklessly at times. I did like the twist and reveal about who the killer was and their motive.
I liked reading about Molly and the garden center she runs with her twin May. There are some other employees as well and Molly and May both have a family, May has two twins and a husband. And Molly has a husband already as well, which was quite refreshing as I haven't read many cozies where the main character already is in a relationship. It took me some time to get a grip on all the characters and their relationship to each other. There also is an interesting sort of side plot line about some mysterious items Molly finds in the store and it doesn't get resolved by the end of the book yet, so maybe that will continue in future books.
To summarize: The Broken Bridge is a solid start to this series. It took me some time to get into the book at first and get the hang of who everyone is, but after that I enjoyed it more. The mystery also took some time to get going, but I liked how things progressed. I enjoyed how Molly actually clears some possible suspects of suspicion during her investigation and the reveal of who the killer is was a nice twist. I did feel Molly acted a bit recklessly toward the end and it was a bit too convenient at times. I liked reading about Molly and her twin running the garden center as well as the theme of the hiking trail nearby. I thought it was interesting Molly already has a husband at the start of the series as I haven't read many cozies with that. I enjoyed reading this one and plan to continue the series.
December 27, 2023
Manage Your Emotions People
Well this is my first cozy by March and I really enjoy her characters. Also the storyline kept me guessing who dundidit? A hiker’s trail, a broken bridge and an abandoned backpack sounds more like a children’s hand clap song then ingredients for a murder.
Molly and May are twins that co-own a plant store with their cousin Shannon. Which they inherited from their grandmother, but Molly and May keeps this store running and profitable. But they are as different as chocolate and vanilla both sweet but have their own flavors.
The first book of the Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery series, The Broken Bridge was a delight and I absolutely enjoyed many of the character especially Molly and her husband, Scott. You can tell from the banter between them that he has her back. I laughed out loud when he said he would go have Sushi with Archie ( the man flirting with Molly) and make eyes at her during the meal so Archie would know he does have a chance with her. So funny.
Right in the middle of a murder mystery March has the reader intrigued by a box of old keys the twins found at the shop. I was in cozy heaven two mystery in one. Yesss but Molly I will tell you this, when you resolved to stop being the “Succulent Sleuth I didn’t think it would last.
I’m definitely.poking forward to book two. I love how Iris March can add lighthearted banter in the middle of two mysteries. I received a review copy of this book in exchange for my thoughtful and honest review.
Well this is my first cozy by March and I really enjoy her characters. Also the storyline kept me guessing who dundidit? A hiker’s trail, a broken bridge and an abandoned backpack sounds more like a children’s hand clap song then ingredients for a murder.
Molly and May are twins that co-own a plant store with their cousin Shannon. Which they inherited from their grandmother, but Molly and May keeps this store running and profitable. But they are as different as chocolate and vanilla both sweet but have their own flavors.
The first book of the Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery series, The Broken Bridge was a delight and I absolutely enjoyed many of the character especially Molly and her husband, Scott. You can tell from the banter between them that he has her back. I laughed out loud when he said he would go have Sushi with Archie ( the man flirting with Molly) and make eyes at her during the meal so Archie would know he does have a chance with her. So funny.
Right in the middle of a murder mystery March has the reader intrigued by a box of old keys the twins found at the shop. I was in cozy heaven two mystery in one. Yesss but Molly I will tell you this, when you resolved to stop being the “Succulent Sleuth I didn’t think it would last.
I’m definitely.poking forward to book two. I love how Iris March can add lighthearted banter in the middle of two mysteries. I received a review copy of this book in exchange for my thoughtful and honest review.
March 24, 2023
The Broken Bridge by Iris March is a cozy mystery that captured my attention from the very first page. Following the story of Molly, the succulent sleuth as she tries to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of an out-of-town college student who visited her plant shop, the book promises a riveting read.
As the plot unfolds, the story delves deeper into the mystery, and Molly’s journey to find out what happened becomes all the more engaging. With the discovery of a gold earring and her cousin’s possible involvement, the twists and turns in the plot keep the reader hooked till the very end. Furthermore, the strange behavior of her editor adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story.
The Broken Bridge is a warm-hearted mystery that offers not only a thrilling read but also a charming and informative one. Author Iris March has done an excellent job in crafting an easy-to-read page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I think this is one of the best books I have read this year so far.
This intriguing crime fiction story is highly recommended for anyone who loves mystery novels with a heart, plants, and small-town friendships. The story is so well-written that it makes you feel like you are right in the middle of it all. I cannot wait for Molly and her friends to take on more cozy mysteries in my home state of Ohio.
As the plot unfolds, the story delves deeper into the mystery, and Molly’s journey to find out what happened becomes all the more engaging. With the discovery of a gold earring and her cousin’s possible involvement, the twists and turns in the plot keep the reader hooked till the very end. Furthermore, the strange behavior of her editor adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story.
The Broken Bridge is a warm-hearted mystery that offers not only a thrilling read but also a charming and informative one. Author Iris March has done an excellent job in crafting an easy-to-read page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I think this is one of the best books I have read this year so far.
This intriguing crime fiction story is highly recommended for anyone who loves mystery novels with a heart, plants, and small-town friendships. The story is so well-written that it makes you feel like you are right in the middle of it all. I cannot wait for Molly and her friends to take on more cozy mysteries in my home state of Ohio.
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May 24, 2022Do you like cozy mysteries?
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I’ve only read a few, but they are always a great escape. I read this brand new one in one sitting with a few cups of tea, and it was just such a nice break from some of the darker and more intense things I’ve been reading lately.
Summary: in a small town, a young hiker goes missing, leaving behind a broken walking stick and a trail of blood. Molly, co-owner of a local plant shop, is immediately intrigued and concerned…especially when some clues point to someone close to her.
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For me, the most notable part of this book is the small town. It reminded me a lot of ones in the 50s, like Mayberry... or even the one in the Thursday Murder Club. Maybe it’s because I’m from one myself or because I just finished watching Wandavision (so good!!) but all the neighbors popping in and out, gossiping about the hiker, felt almost sinister to me. I don’t think it was intended that way, but personally I loved thinking about it like that.
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Also, having worked in a florist in a small town, this was quite a fun read for me. I almost want to call it a “sweet little murder” but that doesn’t seem quite appropriate haha.
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Thanks to the author for sending me a copy of her first book! This is such an accomplishment, and I’m so happy to be included in the process!
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I’ve only read a few, but they are always a great escape. I read this brand new one in one sitting with a few cups of tea, and it was just such a nice break from some of the darker and more intense things I’ve been reading lately.
Summary: in a small town, a young hiker goes missing, leaving behind a broken walking stick and a trail of blood. Molly, co-owner of a local plant shop, is immediately intrigued and concerned…especially when some clues point to someone close to her.
.
For me, the most notable part of this book is the small town. It reminded me a lot of ones in the 50s, like Mayberry... or even the one in the Thursday Murder Club. Maybe it’s because I’m from one myself or because I just finished watching Wandavision (so good!!) but all the neighbors popping in and out, gossiping about the hiker, felt almost sinister to me. I don’t think it was intended that way, but personally I loved thinking about it like that.
.
Also, having worked in a florist in a small town, this was quite a fun read for me. I almost want to call it a “sweet little murder” but that doesn’t seem quite appropriate haha.
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Thanks to the author for sending me a copy of her first book! This is such an accomplishment, and I’m so happy to be included in the process!
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August 25, 2025
Twin sisters, Molly and May and their cousin Shannon inherited Patty's Plant Place garden center which Molly and May run. It is ideally located where the Buckeye Trail runs behind their shop. When a young college hiker, who had stopped for a drink at their store goes missing on the trail. Molly was walking on the trail when she found the hiker's backpack on the ground and the bridge railing broken with a little blood on it. But where was the hiker? And so begins an investigation by Molly with the support of her husband. Who could have done something to the hiker? Where was he? We are taken on a roller coaster ride with few possible suspects and few clues. But when she finds an object on the trail, it throws her. It appeared to be her cousin Shannon's earring. But she would never hurt the hiker, why would she, and was it really her earring? She doesn't hike. Could it be Molly's boss at the magazine she writes for? But the she gets threatened. Should she leave it to the police? Add to the mystery a cute kitten that just happened to find a home at the garden center. This is a really good book that keeps you totally engaged from beginning to a surprising ending and I highly recommend it. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
August 16, 2025
Molly Green spends her day in the guarded though it’s not a chore nor an hobby . More of a vocation looking after those succulents and all in the eco friendly garden centre left by her grandparents. When an happenstance occurred though it be absurd , Molly casts her net a bit close to home . Well she thinks she knows who’s roamed this way and left a broken bridge in their wake. Is it a mistake to go it alone when she is forlorn? The police suspect foul play and Molly does too, but she keeps getting sideswiped at every turn . A colleague tries to steer her away but she’s having no bar of it. The thorns are deadly but it can’t be as simple as all that and what of the bridge that could have gone splat…Great immersive writing skills by Iris March . The story bends and weaves to deceive but the truth will out …Of that there is no doubt with a perfectly written book under her belt ,I’m looking forward to the next in line . Simply divine
May 24, 2022
A cozy mystery for plant lovers (and more!): THE BROKEN BRIDGE by Iris March is a delightful plant-themed cozy with lovable characters. 🌱
When a hiker goes missing along the Buckeye Trail not far from Molly Green’s gardening center, Molly finds herself wrapped up in the case. I loved the strong community aspect to this one—the supporting cast is just that (supportive!) and the gardening center location is so cute and unique. The author made sure to sprinkle in some fun plant knowledge and tips for sustainable living, and the writing is clear and well-edited. It’s a quick and enjoyable read.
This is the first installment in the Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery series and a promising start to the series. I’m looking forward to book two!
Thank you to Iris March and Wandering Gingko Press for this eARC.
When a hiker goes missing along the Buckeye Trail not far from Molly Green’s gardening center, Molly finds herself wrapped up in the case. I loved the strong community aspect to this one—the supporting cast is just that (supportive!) and the gardening center location is so cute and unique. The author made sure to sprinkle in some fun plant knowledge and tips for sustainable living, and the writing is clear and well-edited. It’s a quick and enjoyable read.
This is the first installment in the Succulent Sleuth Cozy Mystery series and a promising start to the series. I’m looking forward to book two!
Thank you to Iris March and Wandering Gingko Press for this eARC.
October 26, 2022
Iris March has a winner with The Broken Bridge. Whether you love plants or kill them, whether you hike or not, you will enjoy this book! Molly and her twin, May and their cousin, Shannon inherited their grandparents' store, Patty's Plant Place. Molly has a chance meeting with a young hiker when he comes into the plant store before hiking the Buckeye Trail. When the hiker goes missing, the mystery begins. With her friend, Claudia, and her husband, Scott and her twin, May, Molly begins to look into this mystery while making succulent gardens and running the Plant Place. References to the trail and hiking and plants add so much to this delightful cozy mystery. The characters are fun and very down to earth and there are twists just like the twists that Molly adds to her small garden pots. This book makes you want to visit your local garden center and start hiking!
May 14, 2025
3.5 stars
This really is a cute little bit of escapism which I needed. It is quite a short read, perfect to take a break away from other heavier reads.
It is part of The Succulent Sleuth series and it was well written and full of interesting characters. I loved the setting of the garden centre, it felt perfect to read in the sunshine this time of year.
Another good thing about it too were some of the eco friendly garden tips. The advice is subtly done without forcing it down your neck, just making you feel inspired to do more for the planet.
The murder mystery itself is quite restrained and I had some idea from the start who the murderer was as it had quite a small cast of characters but it was still a comforting cosy feeling when reading it that it was still enjoyable. There was tension and heartwarming moments that all blended together seamlessly.
It had a great ending and it left a few open questions ready for the next book.
This really is a cute little bit of escapism which I needed. It is quite a short read, perfect to take a break away from other heavier reads.
It is part of The Succulent Sleuth series and it was well written and full of interesting characters. I loved the setting of the garden centre, it felt perfect to read in the sunshine this time of year.
Another good thing about it too were some of the eco friendly garden tips. The advice is subtly done without forcing it down your neck, just making you feel inspired to do more for the planet.
The murder mystery itself is quite restrained and I had some idea from the start who the murderer was as it had quite a small cast of characters but it was still a comforting cosy feeling when reading it that it was still enjoyable. There was tension and heartwarming moments that all blended together seamlessly.
It had a great ending and it left a few open questions ready for the next book.
August 18, 2025
A very good mystery. People are hiking and running on the Buckeye Trail, when one-man notices a backpack sitting by itself and a broken walking stick nearby. Then he sees the bridge has damage on it, and he knows that he has to report the problem. The backpack belonged to a young man who had been in Molly's store, and he is nowhere to be seen. Is he still alive? He was such a nice person and Molly feels she has to look into the matter. As she investigates, she finds some surprising suspects. One of them is her cousin. She seems to be hiding something, and Molly really doesn't get along with her, but she is sure her cousin would not harm someone. When Molly receives a threat, she decides to leave it up to the police to figure it out. But will that be enough? Will the culprit still come after her?
August 29, 2025
The Broken Bridge is the first installment of the Succulent Sleuth cozy mystery series by Iris March. The book is set in a gardening center and was an interesting quick read. Molly and May are identical twins who have inherited Patty’s Plant Place from their grandparents. Patty’sPlant Place is situated along the Buckeye Trail where a hiker goes missing. I am the mom of twins so I always enjoy reading a book where twins are the main characters. Along with the twins, the employees of the garden center are like family and they all work together to solve the mystery. I do not have a green thumb but I enjoyed the gardening tips sprinkled through the book. This was a fun, clean mystery with an enjoyable story and I’m interested in reading other books in the series.
May 24, 2022
The Broken Bridge is an engaging mystery with a clever plot, well-drawn characters, and plenty of charm! I loved meeting the twins, Molly and May, who run the family-owned garden center located next to the Buckeye Trail. Family secrets, local rumors, and out-of-town visitors set the stage for plenty of suspects. Meanwhile, eco-friendly hints are sprinkled throughout the story. The final chapters of the book are filled with nail-biting suspense, followed by that wonderful “I should have known, but I didn’t” moment that all cozy mystery readers love!
I received an ARC of this book, but I enjoyed the book so much I also bought a copy of the book online. This is my honest opinion.
I received an ARC of this book, but I enjoyed the book so much I also bought a copy of the book online. This is my honest opinion.
November 12, 2022
This is a cozy mystery with hints of environmental conscientiousness. A hiker goes missing. A runner discovers potential foul play. Everyone is behaving oddly.
Molly and May are twins who run their grandparents garden center. They also co-own it with their cousin Shannon, who is less than endearing. It is nice to read a cozy mystery where the main character is not recently divorced or falling in love with the detective. There are lots of intertwining relationships, a weird boss, and many family mysteries that come to light. This story was an enjoyable read, but I look forward even more to unraveling the family mysteries that appeared throughout the story in the next book.
Molly and May are twins who run their grandparents garden center. They also co-own it with their cousin Shannon, who is less than endearing. It is nice to read a cozy mystery where the main character is not recently divorced or falling in love with the detective. There are lots of intertwining relationships, a weird boss, and many family mysteries that come to light. This story was an enjoyable read, but I look forward even more to unraveling the family mysteries that appeared throughout the story in the next book.
January 10, 2023
This story pulls you in quickly and doesn’t let you go! I loved the setting of a plant shop as well as the adjoining Buckeye Trail. Twins Molly and May, along with their cousin Shannon, inherited the plant shop from their grandmother. A person goes missing on the Buckeye Trail and Molly and May are trying to figure out what happened. I loved all the characters and the plot. The suspense at the end kept me turning the pages. This is a new author to me but I will now be looking for her books! An excellent read!
I received a copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
I received a copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
January 7, 2024
The Broken Bridge is a decent start to what can potentially be a promising series. I found Molly and the cast of characters to be relatable and interesting. I also enjoyed the setting of the plant shop and surrounding nature trails. It was a great location for the murder mystery. However, I found the actual mystery to be a little lacking. There needed to be more, and better, suspects and more sleuthing. There was so much world building that the actual sleuthing seemed to be secondary and they just happened upon the solution rather than actually figuring it out. I think with a little more plot development, this series has potential and I'm interested to see how it evolves.
June 17, 2024
From the setting in Northeast Ohio to the plot and characters this book is a winner. The characters are believable. The author did a great job of creating characters and the interactions between that could be neighbors, friends or local vendors the reader would like to know (except for Shannon maybe). While the main plot was well-done (didn't figure out the villain until it was revealed) the sub-plots were intriguing as well. The mysteries of Shannon's true motives in helping Brooks and of the box of keys, money and grandma's journals are the cliffhangers that will have me waiting impatiently for the next book in the series.
June 30, 2024
This was very well written and drew me in quickly. I knew I wanted more after the first few pages. This one kept me on my toes guessing and reading without success. A few people looked like suspects to me, but I was proven wrong in the end. It was very envigorating following along for clues. In the end I was just a happy cozy mystery reader without a clue. I was beyond sad when the story ended and with the reason for the murder. I hate the phrase " it was an accident ". You did what you did and the result was murder. I'm sad and angry at the killer. This was a great read.I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion .
January 18, 2023
Always looking for a good cozy mystery and Iris March delivers.
Her 'succulent Sleuth' Molloy runs a garden center with her twin sister. When a hiker goes missing on a trail near the garden center, her inquisitive nature kicks in and she gets caught up in the investigation.
The story is well-written and the characters are likable, with a suspenseful ending. Can see this developing into a great series. Love the plant-themed mystery. Wanted to go to the nursery and shop around after reading this book.
Will be looking for more stories by Iris March!
Her 'succulent Sleuth' Molloy runs a garden center with her twin sister. When a hiker goes missing on a trail near the garden center, her inquisitive nature kicks in and she gets caught up in the investigation.
The story is well-written and the characters are likable, with a suspenseful ending. Can see this developing into a great series. Love the plant-themed mystery. Wanted to go to the nursery and shop around after reading this book.
Will be looking for more stories by Iris March!
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