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Samantha Sweet #8
Sweet Payback
New, in the Amazon #1 bestselling Samantha Sweet mystery series--Sweet Payback! Revenge is often a cold dish, but in the tiny northern New Mexico town of Sembramos emotions are running decidedly hot. When Lee Rodarte and Jessie Starkey, convicted of murdering a local girl, are released from prison after serving only a few years, their convictions overturned, the town’s old pain rises to the surface and tempers flare. Samantha Sweet has her hands full with Easter at her pastry shop, Sweet’s Sweets, while her husband, Taos County Sheriff Beau Cardwell, is charged with keeping order among the two hundred residents of Sembramos. Topping it off, as part of her sideline job, Sam is assigned another house to break into and must drive to the huge abandoned mansion daily, right through the small war zone where payback seems to be on everyone’s mind. Praise for USA Today bestseller Connie “Shelton, a major success for Intrigue, can only expand her fan base with this solid effort.” —Publisher’s Weekly “Shelton continues to combine suspenseful storytelling with sensitive portrayals of complex family relationships.” —Booklist “Shelton again has done a superb job in bringing New Mexico to life.” —Albuquerque Journal "Connie Shelton gets better with every book she writes."--The Midwest Book Review About the USA Today bestselling author Connie Shelton writes two bestselling mystery series and has had several award-winning short stories and essays. She formerly taught both fiction and non-fiction writing courses, and was a contributor to Chicken Soup for the Writer’s Soul. She and her husband and two dogs live in New Mexico. Visit her website at connieshelton.com
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2014
137 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
About the author
Connie Shelton
86 books310 followersMy love of books started with weekly trips to the library as a child and from the moment I learned to read I can't remember a time that I didn't have at least one book going. For the past 25 years, that list has grown to include what I'm reading and what I'm writing at any given time.
I began writing my Charlie Parker series when my husband and I lived on Kauai, then continued them in my home state of New Mexico. Charlie lives in Albuquerque and manages to travel to a variety of locations, wherever her investigation business and her husband's helicopter business take them. My second series featuring Samantha Sweet, the 50-ish woman who breaks into houses for a living, is set in Taos, New Mexico.
In addition to reading and writing, I've traveled quite a lot, taught writing courses, and been a speaker at a whole lot of mystery conventions and writing conferences. In my spare time I also love to paint, draw, cook and spend time at the beach.
Series:
* Charlie Parker Mystery
I began writing my Charlie Parker series when my husband and I lived on Kauai, then continued them in my home state of New Mexico. Charlie lives in Albuquerque and manages to travel to a variety of locations, wherever her investigation business and her husband's helicopter business take them. My second series featuring Samantha Sweet, the 50-ish woman who breaks into houses for a living, is set in Taos, New Mexico.
In addition to reading and writing, I've traveled quite a lot, taught writing courses, and been a speaker at a whole lot of mystery conventions and writing conferences. In my spare time I also love to paint, draw, cook and spend time at the beach.
Series:
* Charlie Parker Mystery
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 6, 2019
I meant to listen to this while driving but ended up so engrossed that I finished listening to it at home, instead. Loved it. This is a series that I started a long time ago, and, as with many old favorites, it's taking me awhile to get to the next book, then the next... Here's to reading #9 sooner rather than later!
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December 8, 2019Tempers Flare
Sam and Beau are back from their honeymoon and every is going well. Until the courts overturn murder convictions of two men. They are same town north Taos. Tempers are flaring in the town. Sam has break end of house outside of the town. The sweet shop is working on Easter deserts. Sam is trying to find out more about her box. Sam needs to be careful or her life will be forfeited. I recommend this series.
Sam and Beau are back from their honeymoon and every is going well. Until the courts overturn murder convictions of two men. They are same town north Taos. Tempers are flaring in the town. Sam has break end of house outside of the town. The sweet shop is working on Easter deserts. Sam is trying to find out more about her box. Sam needs to be careful or her life will be forfeited. I recommend this series.
February 9, 2025
Vive le difference!
I've been enjoying this series well enough, but this, the eighth installment, is amazing! First, it was nice to have Beau so spotlighted throughout the story; as Sheriff, it is a great change to see HIM as the primary character seeking justice. The tale employs a much more "police procedural" vibe without being dry while maintaining the best aspects of a cozy mystery. Clues are sprinkled throughout, creating an engaging experience (I even made notes!) for the reader. The motive is grimy and senseless (like real life crime), the climax is exciting, and the aftermath is heart-rending and hopeful.
Samantha mostly stayed in her own lane, which I appreciated (didn't appreciate the badge foolishness AT ALL, though); this offered space to show her as a supportive and caring spouse, protective mother, beleaguered daughter, and put-upon employee. So much more relatable than a snoopy part-time sleuth! Even better, there's finally time for her to devote to the box's history; this works well with the ratcheting up of the paranormal element in the story. "Sweet Payback" really delivers more than expected from a cozy (paracozy?) mystery!
I've been enjoying this series well enough, but this, the eighth installment, is amazing! First, it was nice to have Beau so spotlighted throughout the story; as Sheriff, it is a great change to see HIM as the primary character seeking justice. The tale employs a much more "police procedural" vibe without being dry while maintaining the best aspects of a cozy mystery. Clues are sprinkled throughout, creating an engaging experience (I even made notes!) for the reader. The motive is grimy and senseless (like real life crime), the climax is exciting, and the aftermath is heart-rending and hopeful.
Samantha mostly stayed in her own lane, which I appreciated (didn't appreciate the badge foolishness AT ALL, though); this offered space to show her as a supportive and caring spouse, protective mother, beleaguered daughter, and put-upon employee. So much more relatable than a snoopy part-time sleuth! Even better, there's finally time for her to devote to the box's history; this works well with the ratcheting up of the paranormal element in the story. "Sweet Payback" really delivers more than expected from a cozy (paracozy?) mystery!
August 30, 2024
This was a complex mystery of revenge, and a cautionary tale about taking the law into your own hands. For the most part, it was well written.
November 11, 2018
Sam and Beau face something new - a small town tied in knots over the release of two men accused of murdering a young woman in town. Beau calls out the state police to try to help keep order, but first one and then other man is killed. Who really killed the young woman seven years ago because it’s looking like these two are innocent of that at least. Could the new house Sam is preparing for sale for the USDA play a role in what happened so long ago?
This was a bit twisted and tense but really well done. Enjoyed Sweet Payback.
This was a bit twisted and tense but really well done. Enjoyed Sweet Payback.
February 4, 2018
Hatfield and McCoy
That's kind of the theme of this book. Two families, both experiencing a loss. Each family blaming the other. Throw in a very rich man who thinks all women are fascinated with him and you have a recipe for danger as sadness. I really enjoy the Sweets Mysteries and will be starting the next one soon.
That's kind of the theme of this book. Two families, both experiencing a loss. Each family blaming the other. Throw in a very rich man who thinks all women are fascinated with him and you have a recipe for danger as sadness. I really enjoy the Sweets Mysteries and will be starting the next one soon.
July 10, 2018
Excellent series!
This is such a great series, I love reading about Sam's adventures in breaking into homes and running a sweet shop. The mystical powers of the box are also a reason to read the next book! I highly recommend this series. I like having a love story in a small town wrapped up in crimes and
This is such a great series, I love reading about Sam's adventures in breaking into homes and running a sweet shop. The mystical powers of the box are also a reason to read the next book! I highly recommend this series. I like having a love story in a small town wrapped up in crimes and
October 11, 2021
The box
This book dives more into the mystery of the box. Intrigue also comes to play with a new house to go on the auction block, witches, good or bad? Who started the killings? Will Beau and Sam figure it all out in time? I was on the edge of my chair. Highly recommend reading the whole series, I am completely addicted to these characters and their story. Happy reading.
This book dives more into the mystery of the box. Intrigue also comes to play with a new house to go on the auction block, witches, good or bad? Who started the killings? Will Beau and Sam figure it all out in time? I was on the edge of my chair. Highly recommend reading the whole series, I am completely addicted to these characters and their story. Happy reading.
February 19, 2023
Great story!
I have never been to Taos or anywhere else in N.M. This series makes me visualize what it is like. The descriptions are just enough to make you feel that you are right there in the story with Sam. It was a good mystery with great character development. Can't wait to read the next book in series
I have never been to Taos or anywhere else in N.M. This series makes me visualize what it is like. The descriptions are just enough to make you feel that you are right there in the story with Sam. It was a good mystery with great character development. Can't wait to read the next book in series
January 2, 2024
Samantha Sweet owns a pastry shop and her husband is the county sheriff. When 2 men are released from jail after spending several years behind bars because their conviction was overturned, the town’s people are enraged. The sheriff and his deputies have their hands full keeping things from getting out of control. Samantha does her share of sleuthing behind the scene to find answers.
May 7, 2017
More mystery than baking but a fully detalled
Story. Connie is an excellent writer. She wraps up every thing that goes on without leaving you wondering. Her next book continues to add to the adventure!
Story. Connie is an excellent writer. She wraps up every thing that goes on without leaving you wondering. Her next book continues to add to the adventure!
July 1, 2018
This is #8 in the Samantha Sweet mystery series, and I've read all 8 in order, totally binging on this great series. A great story, compelling characters and a solution to a mystery with many clues that take Sam and Beau awhile to connect but come together in a thrilling conclusion.
September 28, 2020
Love Samantha Sweet and enjoy getting to know Taos
Not as readable as the others in this series. But as usual justice wins in the end . A bit flat in places but still readable
Not as readable as the others in this series. But as usual justice wins in the end . A bit flat in places but still readable
June 16, 2022
Awesome Cozy Mystery
What a fun and engaging cozy mystery…great work by Connie Shelton! I really enjoyed it! Treat yourself to a great book and enjoy😀
What a fun and engaging cozy mystery…great work by Connie Shelton! I really enjoyed it! Treat yourself to a great book and enjoy😀
September 24, 2022
Always A Favorite
I really enjoy this series and this one was just as good, if not better than the first seven. Definitely enjoying these clean cozy mysteries.
I really enjoy this series and this one was just as good, if not better than the first seven. Definitely enjoying these clean cozy mysteries.
February 9, 2024
Captured my attention from start to finish!
June 3, 2024
Getting ready for Easter at the bakery in Taos, New Mexico.
July 13, 2018
Hoopla good series
December 21, 2015
Shelton does it again! This series just keeps delivering! In this one, a couple of men who were convicted of the kidnapping and murder of one of their neighbors have been exonerated and set free from prison only to return home to be murdered themselves. Since the two men had been friends until the murder of the young lady that started this whole mess, but one had confessed and named the other as his accomplice, where the two men murdered by their warring families or by someone else? Beau has to solve this one, while Sam is trying to discover some of the history of her mystery box. Sam ends up helping with the case, while also working the bakery, looking into the box's past and all the other stuff she is always swamped with. The are lots of twists and turns in the story and the ending is not exactly what one might expect.
March 20, 2014
Beau Cardwell has his hands filled, when the two convicted of killing a teenage in a small down are released from prison. The families of the convicted men take sides, reminding the reader of the Hatfields and McCoys. When both men are found dead, Beau must work twice as fast to learn the truth and capture the killers. While Sam is cleaning an abandoned mansion on the edge of town, no one has ever lived there. When she learns its own by the husband of a missing woman, Sam can't help but wonder what actually happened to her. Sam stumbles on to evidence in the murder of one of the convicted men, only to come face to face with the killer of all.
August 21, 2014
Another Good Read From Shelton
Sam is doing her thing with her bakery. All is hectic as usual. Then she gets a call to get a home ready for auction, this is her side job. In a little town not from where she and her husband, Beau live. In a town near them a feud is brewing. Two men who were accused of killing a teenager had their convictions overturned because the old sheriff didn't do his job. Now Beau is stuck in the middle trying to keep the peace and solving an old murder.
I enjoyed the book. Easy read.
Sam is doing her thing with her bakery. All is hectic as usual. Then she gets a call to get a home ready for auction, this is her side job. In a little town not from where she and her husband, Beau live. In a town near them a feud is brewing. Two men who were accused of killing a teenager had their convictions overturned because the old sheriff didn't do his job. Now Beau is stuck in the middle trying to keep the peace and solving an old murder.
I enjoyed the book. Easy read.
January 13, 2017
Another Winner for Connie Shelton
Connie Shelton continues to become a better writer with each of her books. I see good changes in her two main characters. Sam seems like she is far more comfortable in her own skin than she has been in the previous books. We are finally getting to know Beau: lover, friend, good cook, honest, trustworthy, a wise sheriff with lots of knowhow. Looking forward to the next book!
Connie Shelton continues to become a better writer with each of her books. I see good changes in her two main characters. Sam seems like she is far more comfortable in her own skin than she has been in the previous books. We are finally getting to know Beau: lover, friend, good cook, honest, trustworthy, a wise sheriff with lots of knowhow. Looking forward to the next book!
August 14, 2014
2014-08-13. I really enjoyed this. Rather strange to be reading it when the news is full of the riots near St. Louis. This one was a great combination of Beau and Sam working to solve the cold case as well as the current murders. Lots of suspects, many twists and a satisfying conclusion to all the unrest.
April 6, 2015
You won't gain weight and don't start with #8..!
Go back to number one and hope she keeps at her writing. I've come to the end of this series with great regrets.
The characters are accurate and the plots move quickly to satisfy, but keep the reader guessing.
Mystery, magic, and murder twinned together- very satisfying to this fan of Connie Shelton.
Go back to number one and hope she keeps at her writing. I've come to the end of this series with great regrets.
The characters are accurate and the plots move quickly to satisfy, but keep the reader guessing.
Mystery, magic, and murder twinned together- very satisfying to this fan of Connie Shelton.
October 23, 2014
I really enjoyed this book and have read all the books by Connie Shelton. This was the 8th in a series, but could be read as a stand alone. The lacy is a baker of fancy baked goods and her husband is a policeman. This time a man is let out of jail and it causes an uproar in the whole town
January 3, 2016
Sweet Payback another great mystery
This one will keep you guessing until the very end. Samantha Sweets and her Sheriff husband get embroiled in a small towns tragic past. You just never know what can happen in those small out of the way places
This one will keep you guessing until the very end. Samantha Sweets and her Sheriff husband get embroiled in a small towns tragic past. You just never know what can happen in those small out of the way places
June 30, 2014
Another winner in the Samantha Sweet series. Keep them coming, Connie!
September 6, 2016
Great read
As always this author keeps you interested until the very end. She then reveals the final outcome but slips a tiny word or phrase to wet your appetite for the next book
As always this author keeps you interested until the very end. She then reveals the final outcome but slips a tiny word or phrase to wet your appetite for the next book
November 8, 2016
I really enjoy how Beau is being incorporated more and more in the books! This one is definitely worth the read!
April 29, 2017
I'm ready for answers
I've really enjoyed the series and it's a quick read, but I really am ready for answers. In book 7 when they go to Ireland she has the vision and sees 3 boxes. It's time to start tying things in and connecting things together or I'm going to loose interest. In "Payback" she sees auras in rooms at the home she's working in. Yes she helps solve murder mysteries, but are we going to receive the box Uncle Terry had and learn about box number three? Are we just going to hold this box and heal achy muscles? Are we going to meet someone who can finally answer her question of why me and train her of its uses? Can we come up with something soon to answer these questions?
I've really enjoyed the series and it's a quick read, but I really am ready for answers. In book 7 when they go to Ireland she has the vision and sees 3 boxes. It's time to start tying things in and connecting things together or I'm going to loose interest. In "Payback" she sees auras in rooms at the home she's working in. Yes she helps solve murder mysteries, but are we going to receive the box Uncle Terry had and learn about box number three? Are we just going to hold this box and heal achy muscles? Are we going to meet someone who can finally answer her question of why me and train her of its uses? Can we come up with something soon to answer these questions?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews