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Beacon Bakeshop #6
Murder at the Lemonberry Tea
Lindsey Bakewell’s iconic lighthouse bakeshop in beautiful Beacon Harbor, Michigan, is hosting a celebrity cookbook author from the UK—but the notorious diva is now DOA . . . Lindsey’s patrons have a new outdoor patio where they can eat their treats in the glorious summer weather. But even more exciting is that the Beacon Bakeshop is going to host British celebrity chef Vivi Lemonberry—and what could be a more appropriate event than a tea party? What Lindsey didn’t realize is that Vivi is here to put some distance between herself and her recent professional and personal scandals. Despite assurances that Vivi is as sweet as a chocolate-dipped strawberry, Lindsey is cooling rapidly toward the culinary icon . . . especially after she banishes Lindsey’s beloved dog, Wellington, from the bakeshop and then flirts outrageously with Lindsey’s boyfriend. She’s not the only one feeling hostile, though. While Vivi’s in the middle of making a tart in front of the cameras, a woman runs up and slaps her. Soon, Vivi’s nowhere to be found, and folks are speculating on whether she’s run off with her secret lover or just laying low due to embarrassment. That is, until Lindsey finds a body bobbing near the surface of Lake Michigan. It’s a sour ending for the diva, but Lindsey is determined to squeeze the truth out of every clue until she finds the killer . .
368 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published November 26, 2024
389 people are currently reading
4402 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 155 reviews
November 26, 2024
Murder at the Lemonberry Tea is a fun sixth addition to the Beacon Bakeshop series, set in an old lighthouse on the shores of Lake Michigan. I have enjoyed the whole series. Lindsey, owner of a bakery in the lighthouse, is gearing up for a tea with a famous baker from the UK promoting her new cookbook, brought in by her best friend Kennedy. Even Kennedy's mom, sister, and grandmother are visiting for the tea. And so are a few more UK celebrities follow across the pond. But when things go awry with the discovery of a body in the lake by Lindsey and her boyfriend Rory, they are suspects. There are many other possible suspects for the gang to weed through. This one has many twists and keep to one guessing. Great read!
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
December 9, 2024
This is book 6 in the Beacon Bakeshop Mystery series and while I have read one or two I haven’t read them all and still enjoyed this one with see. I liked the characters and the setting quite a lot. I could have done with a little bit less drama between the characters, but I suppose it fit the plot. Lindsey and her bakery are hosting one of Britain’s best bakers for a collaboration for her show that will benefit them both. Until Vivi is found dead and Lindsey is the prime suspect. The mystery was pretty good but it took a while to really get into it. I thought the herrings were interesting and were pretty twisty. I enjoyed this one a lot will be reading more in this series.
March 15, 2025
This is the first in the series I’ve read, but I think it’s the sixth book. The mystery was good all the people I liked. It was hard to keep track of them, but I think it was a bit longer than it needed to be. I would read another. There was a slight ghost element added to it. I wish there would’ve been more.
December 22, 2024
An entertaining addition to a fun series. I've read and enjoyed them all. Lindsey and the Beacon Bakeshop are hosting a tea party with celebrity chef Vivi Lemonberry, until Lindsey finds Vivi floating in Lake Michigan. Lindsey and her pals get involved with the investigation, this time with the blessing of local law enforcement. Drama queen and bf Kennedy are along again, this time with Kennedy's family, visiting from "across the pond". I always look forward to a new book in this fun series.
October 31, 2024
It's fun as always to be back in Beacon Harbor, with the lighthouse and bakery crews. Lindsey is hosting a cooking show and tea for an English baker, making a comeback after a series of scandals. Vivi Lemonberry gets her comeback, Lindsey and the bakery get some good publicity, and the completed boathouse gets its debut for the tea. Things start so well then Vivi bans Welly from the premises as she hates dogs and at the end of the cooking demonstration Vivi gets slapped by a rival, Gretta Gardiner, who has claimed that Vivi stole her recipes. When Vivi fails to show up for the tea the next day, Lindsey is seriously angry, and she stays that way until the next day, when on a scuba diving lesson with Rory, they discover Vivi's body. This was a very long and convoluted mystery with many suspects, actually maybe too many, and a lot of chaos. Adding to this sense of a little bit too much intensity was the addition of all of Kennedy's family staying at the lighthouse for a visit and the festivities. I am all for quirky, but this family was a bit too much for me at times. In spite of these things, I still enjoyed my visit to Beacon Falls, and I hope Lindsey gets a vacation soon. Thank you to #Netgalley, #KensingtonCozies, and the author for an opportunity to read! #MurderattheLemonberryTea #DarciHannah #BeaconBakeshopMysteries #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
August 7, 2024
#MurderattheLemonberryTea #NetGalley is another addition to this series that is written by Darci Hannah.
Lindsey owns a bakery in a lighthouse, which sounds amazing and I would live to visit it.
As she prepares to host Vivi Lemonberry, a British celebrity chef, but she puts a sour taste in everyone's mouth.
From talking down to her assistant to banishing Lindsey's dog from the bakery , Vivi leaves unpleasantness wherever she goes.
Someone has had enough of the chef's bad attitude and silences her, forever.
Join Lindsey and all her friends as she works relentlessly to find the answers before she finds herself locked up for the divas death.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Lindsey owns a bakery in a lighthouse, which sounds amazing and I would live to visit it.
As she prepares to host Vivi Lemonberry, a British celebrity chef, but she puts a sour taste in everyone's mouth.
From talking down to her assistant to banishing Lindsey's dog from the bakery , Vivi leaves unpleasantness wherever she goes.
Someone has had enough of the chef's bad attitude and silences her, forever.
Join Lindsey and all her friends as she works relentlessly to find the answers before she finds herself locked up for the divas death.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
December 4, 2024
This is one of my favorite series, and with good reason! The characters are well-developed and likeable (Kennedy is better in this one; I could barely tolerate her in the last one); the setting is idyllic, and the mystery is well-paced and usually keeps me guessing. Though I did figure out early one who the guilty party was, there were plenty of clues that made me second-guess myself a few times. I highly recommend this series, but start at the beginning to really get to know the characters and the town.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #Kensingtonbooks for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #Kensingtonbooks for an honest review.
September 29, 2024
Review coming soon.
November 30, 2024
Dollycas’s Thoughts
It’s summer in Beacon Harbor, Michigan and Kennedy has arranged for British celebrity chef Vivi Lemonberry to launch her new cooking series from the Beacon Bakeshop. Lindsey is excited to meet the chef and will be hosting a tea party in her new event space in addition to baking with her for her show. Then Lindsey learns about the chef’s past personal and professional scandals and is told she was openly flirting with her boyfriend Rory. Vivi also hates dogs and demands Lindsey’s lovable Newfoundland, Wellington is rehomed for the duration of her stay. She is no longer as excited about the woman’s visit.
While taping the first episode of Vivi’s new show Lindsey finds out the “sweet” British chef has enemies in town when a woman comes onto the patio and slaps Vivi across the face. Vivi leaves the set and disappears. She’s not answering her phone or her door at the hotel. She may be with her “secret lover” or maybe she is embarrassed and staying out of sight. When she fails to show up for the tea party in her honor Lindsey is reasonably vexed.
Ready to wash her hands of Vivi and her drama Lindsey heads to the pier for her scuba lesson with Rory. She was actually enjoying herself until “something solid bumps her leg” and it was not a big fish. She now knows why the celebrity chef missed her tea party. Hard to attend when you’re dead. With evidence pointing in Lindsey and Rory’s direction they have no choice but to help the police hook the real killer.
This is one of my favorite series!
The core characters Ms. Hannah has created for this series are so genuine and engaging. Lindsey continues to top herself with new recipes and new venues while her relationship with ex-Navy Seal boyfriend Rory continues to grow. They had one obstacle or should I say 4 obstacles when Kennedy was joined by her grandmother, mother, and sister. They are all be staying at Lindsey’s lighthouse so Rory vacates while they are visiting. The “British Invasion” was timed to coincide with British celebrity chef Vivi Lemonberry’s visit to Beacon Harbor. These new characters were so entertaining each in their own way. Additional new characters came in the chef’s entourage. Lindsey’s parents are also back in town for the warmer months. They add so much to the story. As always, Wellington is just the best dog ever even if he is getting into a bit of mischief.
Lindsey’s visitors are all interested in her “haunted” lighthouse. I loved the meetings in the light room even if at times they were squeezed in there pretty tight. Lindsey’s new Boathouse Event Center is also a fabulous place. It is a wonderful addition to the community and the perfect place to hold luncheons, weddings, and meetings. I appreciate the author’s descriptive details. She takes her readers into each scene. It is so easy to visualize each person, place, and thing. I escaped right into the story.
Some of those things include all the treats that were baked within the pages of this book. Check out that book cover! The cravings I had for lemon bars were real. Thankfully I didn’t have to search for a recipe because it was the first recipe in the back of the book with several more.
Again, Ms. Hannah has penned a complex mystery with a variety of suspects all withholding or hiding something. Just when I eliminated one another twist put them right back on the list. There is a scene in the book where Lindsey gets advice about the case from an unexpected source that was so good. It gave her a new determination and clues started to fall into place. I enjoyed trying to solve this mystery right along with Lindsey. The reveal was complicated. The chase and takedown were terrific.
Murder at the Lemonberry Tea was such an entertaining read! I LOVED IT! Exceptional characters and a compelling mystery set in a delightful Midwest town with perfect amounts of suspense, humor, romance, small-town life, and ghostly elements set this story apart. It is my new favorite book in the series and one of the best cozy mysteries I have read this year. I am excited to say it deserves more than 5 stars and has earned a place on my Best Reads List for 2024! I highly recommend the whole series.
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.
It’s summer in Beacon Harbor, Michigan and Kennedy has arranged for British celebrity chef Vivi Lemonberry to launch her new cooking series from the Beacon Bakeshop. Lindsey is excited to meet the chef and will be hosting a tea party in her new event space in addition to baking with her for her show. Then Lindsey learns about the chef’s past personal and professional scandals and is told she was openly flirting with her boyfriend Rory. Vivi also hates dogs and demands Lindsey’s lovable Newfoundland, Wellington is rehomed for the duration of her stay. She is no longer as excited about the woman’s visit.
While taping the first episode of Vivi’s new show Lindsey finds out the “sweet” British chef has enemies in town when a woman comes onto the patio and slaps Vivi across the face. Vivi leaves the set and disappears. She’s not answering her phone or her door at the hotel. She may be with her “secret lover” or maybe she is embarrassed and staying out of sight. When she fails to show up for the tea party in her honor Lindsey is reasonably vexed.
Ready to wash her hands of Vivi and her drama Lindsey heads to the pier for her scuba lesson with Rory. She was actually enjoying herself until “something solid bumps her leg” and it was not a big fish. She now knows why the celebrity chef missed her tea party. Hard to attend when you’re dead. With evidence pointing in Lindsey and Rory’s direction they have no choice but to help the police hook the real killer.
This is one of my favorite series!
The core characters Ms. Hannah has created for this series are so genuine and engaging. Lindsey continues to top herself with new recipes and new venues while her relationship with ex-Navy Seal boyfriend Rory continues to grow. They had one obstacle or should I say 4 obstacles when Kennedy was joined by her grandmother, mother, and sister. They are all be staying at Lindsey’s lighthouse so Rory vacates while they are visiting. The “British Invasion” was timed to coincide with British celebrity chef Vivi Lemonberry’s visit to Beacon Harbor. These new characters were so entertaining each in their own way. Additional new characters came in the chef’s entourage. Lindsey’s parents are also back in town for the warmer months. They add so much to the story. As always, Wellington is just the best dog ever even if he is getting into a bit of mischief.
Lindsey’s visitors are all interested in her “haunted” lighthouse. I loved the meetings in the light room even if at times they were squeezed in there pretty tight. Lindsey’s new Boathouse Event Center is also a fabulous place. It is a wonderful addition to the community and the perfect place to hold luncheons, weddings, and meetings. I appreciate the author’s descriptive details. She takes her readers into each scene. It is so easy to visualize each person, place, and thing. I escaped right into the story.
Some of those things include all the treats that were baked within the pages of this book. Check out that book cover! The cravings I had for lemon bars were real. Thankfully I didn’t have to search for a recipe because it was the first recipe in the back of the book with several more.
Again, Ms. Hannah has penned a complex mystery with a variety of suspects all withholding or hiding something. Just when I eliminated one another twist put them right back on the list. There is a scene in the book where Lindsey gets advice about the case from an unexpected source that was so good. It gave her a new determination and clues started to fall into place. I enjoyed trying to solve this mystery right along with Lindsey. The reveal was complicated. The chase and takedown were terrific.
Murder at the Lemonberry Tea was such an entertaining read! I LOVED IT! Exceptional characters and a compelling mystery set in a delightful Midwest town with perfect amounts of suspense, humor, romance, small-town life, and ghostly elements set this story apart. It is my new favorite book in the series and one of the best cozy mysteries I have read this year. I am excited to say it deserves more than 5 stars and has earned a place on my Best Reads List for 2024! I highly recommend the whole series.
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.
November 21, 2024
4.25⭐
While Lindsey Bakewell is thrilled to host culinary diva, Vivi, for an event at the Beacon Bakeshop, the excitement quickly turns sour after she banned Lindsey's beloved dog from the Bakeshop then proceeded to outrageously flirt with her boyfriend. Next thing you know, Vivi is murdered and Lindsey seems to be at the top of the suspect list. Pulling together friends and family, Lindsey set out to prove her innocence. The mystery is cleverly plotted, but the true joy here is the sharply drawn characters, both suspects and "investigators." And the lengths they go to get info. Don't miss the tea trolley scene. Fun cozy and solid additions to a great series. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
While Lindsey Bakewell is thrilled to host culinary diva, Vivi, for an event at the Beacon Bakeshop, the excitement quickly turns sour after she banned Lindsey's beloved dog from the Bakeshop then proceeded to outrageously flirt with her boyfriend. Next thing you know, Vivi is murdered and Lindsey seems to be at the top of the suspect list. Pulling together friends and family, Lindsey set out to prove her innocence. The mystery is cleverly plotted, but the true joy here is the sharply drawn characters, both suspects and "investigators." And the lengths they go to get info. Don't miss the tea trolley scene. Fun cozy and solid additions to a great series. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2025
Summer in Beacon Harbor means lemon and berry treats at the Beacon Harbor Bakeshop and tourists flocking to the lakeshore and flooding the town. Tourists include Kennedy's grandmother, mother and sister who are staying at the lighthouse with Lindsey and Kennedy, causing Rory to flee from all the estrogen. The Kapoor women are visiting for an exclusive tea party with their favorite celebrity chef, Vivi Londonberry. Kennedy has booked an exclusive baking segment at the Beacon Harbor bakeshop for Vivi's new show and a ticketed tea party which has sold out. Everyone in Beacon Harbor is excited by Vivi's arrival but things go awry when Vivi insists on touring the lighthouse and without waiting for Lindsey, opens the door and accidentally lets out Welly. Vivi is terrified of dogs and Welly, who never met a stranger who didn't love him, chases Vivi through the yard before landing on her with his usual exuberance and drool. Vivi then demands Welly be banished from the "set" as in the lighthouse - his home and Lindsey agrees to keep the peace and even offers to close down the pup cafe on the patio while Vivi is there. Next, after learning to bake a Bakewell tart from Vivi, Lindsey doesn't even get a chance to taste it before the next drama happens. A woman rushes up to Vivi claiming Vivi stole her recipes, slaps Vivi hard across the face and smashes the Bakewell tart in Vivi's face. Vivi runs off deeply upset and doesn't return to set the next day. No one can get her out of her hotel room. The night before, Lindsey and Rory spotted the ghost lights of Beacon Harbor and in the morning, they learn one of Vivi's crew is in the hospital after being hit on the head. Vivi is a no-show at her own tea party and rumor has it she's run off with her lover- her married lover, movie star Henry Worthington! While on a diving lesson with Rory, Lindsey discovers Vivi's whereabouts - tied with an anchor to a boat at the bottom of the lake- very much dead! Uh-oh! Because Vivi had a tennis ball stuffed in her mouth and a dog leash wrapped around her neck, Lindsey becomes the prime suspect - on paper only. Sergeant Stacy Murdoch needs Lindsey's help to ferret out the killer. She allows Lindsey, Rory and Kennedy to assist Officer Tuck McAllister to solve this case and also needs Lindsey to convince Kennedy not to screw up her second chance with Tuck before he leaves town for good!
This mystery was not as enjoyable as the last. At first I figured the murderer had to be someone who was at the lighthouse when Welly chased Vivi. Who else would know to frame Lindsey? Why would someone even frame Lindsey when she's gone out of her way to arrange this special baking episode and tea party for Vivi who needs it as much as Lindsey? Could the murderer actually be a local jealous of Lindsey? Then Captain Willie Riggs gives Lindsey a clue leading to other suspects. The mystery turned out to be complicated and more convoluted than necessary but not entirely surprising.
Once again Kennedy sticks her business where it doesn't belong only this time it sounds like she did do her homework and she did clear it with Lindsey. She just missed the crucial detail that Vivi hates dogs and no one on Vivi's team thought to ask. Kennedy is a little less self-centered and annoying in this one, while Lindsey becomes a pushover. I would not have tolerated kicking my dog out of his home! Vivi didn't ask, she just barged in and opened the door to Lindsey's home. Oh no! Private residence- off limits. Lindsey needs this tea party to be a success. It's already sold out but should she prioritize business over her private life? Rory's brand of toxic masculinity doesn't sit right with me and I've never been a fan of his. I do like how supportive he is of Lindsey. Uncle Finn is supportive too. He's surprisingly supportive and devoted to his current girlfriend. He's sweet although he does like to build drama or forgets to share crucial information.
Kennedy's drama comes from having her family nearby. Her Granny Gladstone, Rose, is lovely. She seems to have a twinkle in her eye and I think Kennedy gets her vivaciousness from Granny Gladstone. Rose is supportive of her granddaughters and accepts they are who they are without trying to change them. She also really likes Officer Cutie Pie and is supportive of Kennedy's maybe kind of sort of hopefully on again relationship with him. Kennedy's mother, Poppy, is haughty and snobby. She is not supportive of Kennedy and very critical, paying backhanded compliments to Lindsey as well. Kennedy's little sister, Pippa, is a hoot but I can see why she annoys Kennedy. Seven years younger, Pippa feels like she's in competition with Kennedy but in her own way. She's the opposite of Kennedy's fashionista influencer personality, with her own sense of style but also like Kennedy in her love for a good investigation involving role playing. She does her part quite well and I think she could have a future as an actress but after this week of stars, I'd steer clear of that world!
Lindsey's baking assistant Teddy is like Kennedy when it comes to celebrity gossip. He's eager to share what he knows and quick to cave in to Lindsey's request. He's aware his wife will kill him if she finds out what he's done! She's surprisingly OK with it and has a request in return. They're a nice couple even though he's annoying as heck. Welly is the star of this story. He's so adorable! I love his begging/therapy dog act LOL! He's also a hero. Of course he's concerned when he seems his favorite human under water. That's not natural and his instinct is to rescue her. He can't help himself around water. He's a dog and behaves naturally according to his instincts. Welly is a big, goofy sweetheart and I wish I could reach in and hug him.
None of the new characters are all that likable. Vivi is a washed up diva who demands perfection and is not very nice to anyone. She treats her assistant like a slave and everyone else exists to serve her. She has a temper and everyone walks around on eggshells making excuses for Vivi. She's emotionally fragile, trying to launch a comeback after a rough patch. She needs this comeback. However, she was never a very nice person if what her rival, Gretta, claims is true. Gretta claims Vivi stole her recipes and became famous over Gretta when Gretta is the trained chef. Vivi clearly has the personality for fame but seems to rely on sex appeal to make herself and the food look attractive. Vivi even hits on Rory, making him uncomfortable and Lindsey's dad upset. Rory rebuffed her advances but it doesn't look good for Lindsey when Vivi is found dead. Tuck should realistically be recused from the investigation and someone from the city or state brought in to investigate but this isn't the most realistic series in that respect. I don't know who wouldn't want to kill Vivi.
Vivi's assistant Millie appears meek and mild. She puts up with Vivi's demands and mood swings. It's always the assistant who snaps and kills the mean boss so I'm going with Millie as the killer. I also think she has another motive. I don't get the impression she's entirely genuine. Lindsey feels since Mille's success is tied to Vivi's success, Millie probably isn't the killer. Vivi's manager, Oliver, has put a lot of money into making Vivi a star again. He made her a star the first time and he's going to do it again. I don't know why he didn't find someone younger to replace her when she lost her show. I mean good for hiring a 40-something woman and giving her a second chance, I'm all for that, but not THIS woman. She was toxic. I think Oliver just couldn't quit Vivi. He loved her once, made her a star and possibly loves her still. Or maybe he likes a challenge? Oliver doesn't have the nicest personality. He's demanding of his stars and may be up to shady business behind the scenes. What did he do to get Vivi where she is and get her a second chance? No one seems to be looking into that. Piers Jenson, head cameraman, is quick to point fingers at Lindsey. Cameraman Tyler admits Vivi was harsh to work for but they have choices and could quit if they wanted to. What about Clint? He couldn't have hit himself in the head. Did he see something he shouldn't have? Did he know who the killer is? Unfortunately he can't remember what he was doing or who he saw before he was injured but then evidence comes to light he may not be entirely truthful and a whole new motive emerges.
Steffi Stanhope-Worthington, BBC's "it" girl of the moment, a waifish woman, has every good reason to want Vivi out of the way. Her new husband, Henry, has been hooking up with Vivi and everyone knows it. Steffi can't understand why Henry would want an older woman when he can have her. She's angry and humiliated and out for a divorce so she can take Henry for half of everything he has. Henry may be sexy and a star but he's vanished along with Vivi. For a time, it was believed they had run off together and maybe they did, making Steffi the prime candidate for murderer. Henry doesn't really have an alibi unless killing Vivi would keep Steffi from divorcing him? If he's caught it wouldn't help his career. If he's a suspect it will make the tabloids and hurt his career. I simply don't see him as a murderer. I think ALL of these people are complicit in Vivi's death somehow. Maybe a Murder on the Orient Express situation?
I didn't like any of the recipes in this book and wanted different recipes for treats mentioned in the story. I don't like lemon and lemon and berries don't go together. Too tart. Lemon belongs in lemonade with water and lots of sugar but nowhere else.
I will probably look for the next book in the series if there is one.
This mystery was not as enjoyable as the last. At first I figured the murderer had to be someone who was at the lighthouse when Welly chased Vivi. Who else would know to frame Lindsey? Why would someone even frame Lindsey when she's gone out of her way to arrange this special baking episode and tea party for Vivi who needs it as much as Lindsey? Could the murderer actually be a local jealous of Lindsey? Then Captain Willie Riggs gives Lindsey a clue leading to other suspects. The mystery turned out to be complicated and more convoluted than necessary but not entirely surprising.
Once again Kennedy sticks her business where it doesn't belong only this time it sounds like she did do her homework and she did clear it with Lindsey. She just missed the crucial detail that Vivi hates dogs and no one on Vivi's team thought to ask. Kennedy is a little less self-centered and annoying in this one, while Lindsey becomes a pushover. I would not have tolerated kicking my dog out of his home! Vivi didn't ask, she just barged in and opened the door to Lindsey's home. Oh no! Private residence- off limits. Lindsey needs this tea party to be a success. It's already sold out but should she prioritize business over her private life? Rory's brand of toxic masculinity doesn't sit right with me and I've never been a fan of his. I do like how supportive he is of Lindsey. Uncle Finn is supportive too. He's surprisingly supportive and devoted to his current girlfriend. He's sweet although he does like to build drama or forgets to share crucial information.
Kennedy's drama comes from having her family nearby. Her Granny Gladstone, Rose, is lovely. She seems to have a twinkle in her eye and I think Kennedy gets her vivaciousness from Granny Gladstone. Rose is supportive of her granddaughters and accepts they are who they are without trying to change them. She also really likes Officer Cutie Pie and is supportive of Kennedy's maybe kind of sort of hopefully on again relationship with him. Kennedy's mother, Poppy, is haughty and snobby. She is not supportive of Kennedy and very critical, paying backhanded compliments to Lindsey as well. Kennedy's little sister, Pippa, is a hoot but I can see why she annoys Kennedy. Seven years younger, Pippa feels like she's in competition with Kennedy but in her own way. She's the opposite of Kennedy's fashionista influencer personality, with her own sense of style but also like Kennedy in her love for a good investigation involving role playing. She does her part quite well and I think she could have a future as an actress but after this week of stars, I'd steer clear of that world!
Lindsey's baking assistant Teddy is like Kennedy when it comes to celebrity gossip. He's eager to share what he knows and quick to cave in to Lindsey's request. He's aware his wife will kill him if she finds out what he's done! She's surprisingly OK with it and has a request in return. They're a nice couple even though he's annoying as heck. Welly is the star of this story. He's so adorable! I love his begging/therapy dog act LOL! He's also a hero. Of course he's concerned when he seems his favorite human under water. That's not natural and his instinct is to rescue her. He can't help himself around water. He's a dog and behaves naturally according to his instincts. Welly is a big, goofy sweetheart and I wish I could reach in and hug him.
None of the new characters are all that likable. Vivi is a washed up diva who demands perfection and is not very nice to anyone. She treats her assistant like a slave and everyone else exists to serve her. She has a temper and everyone walks around on eggshells making excuses for Vivi. She's emotionally fragile, trying to launch a comeback after a rough patch. She needs this comeback. However, she was never a very nice person if what her rival, Gretta, claims is true. Gretta claims Vivi stole her recipes and became famous over Gretta when Gretta is the trained chef. Vivi clearly has the personality for fame but seems to rely on sex appeal to make herself and the food look attractive. Vivi even hits on Rory, making him uncomfortable and Lindsey's dad upset. Rory rebuffed her advances but it doesn't look good for Lindsey when Vivi is found dead. Tuck should realistically be recused from the investigation and someone from the city or state brought in to investigate but this isn't the most realistic series in that respect. I don't know who wouldn't want to kill Vivi.
Vivi's assistant Millie appears meek and mild. She puts up with Vivi's demands and mood swings. It's always the assistant who snaps and kills the mean boss so I'm going with Millie as the killer. I also think she has another motive. I don't get the impression she's entirely genuine. Lindsey feels since Mille's success is tied to Vivi's success, Millie probably isn't the killer. Vivi's manager, Oliver, has put a lot of money into making Vivi a star again. He made her a star the first time and he's going to do it again. I don't know why he didn't find someone younger to replace her when she lost her show. I mean good for hiring a 40-something woman and giving her a second chance, I'm all for that, but not THIS woman. She was toxic. I think Oliver just couldn't quit Vivi. He loved her once, made her a star and possibly loves her still. Or maybe he likes a challenge? Oliver doesn't have the nicest personality. He's demanding of his stars and may be up to shady business behind the scenes. What did he do to get Vivi where she is and get her a second chance? No one seems to be looking into that. Piers Jenson, head cameraman, is quick to point fingers at Lindsey. Cameraman Tyler admits Vivi was harsh to work for but they have choices and could quit if they wanted to. What about Clint? He couldn't have hit himself in the head. Did he see something he shouldn't have? Did he know who the killer is? Unfortunately he can't remember what he was doing or who he saw before he was injured but then evidence comes to light he may not be entirely truthful and a whole new motive emerges.
Steffi Stanhope-Worthington, BBC's "it" girl of the moment, a waifish woman, has every good reason to want Vivi out of the way. Her new husband, Henry, has been hooking up with Vivi and everyone knows it. Steffi can't understand why Henry would want an older woman when he can have her. She's angry and humiliated and out for a divorce so she can take Henry for half of everything he has. Henry may be sexy and a star but he's vanished along with Vivi. For a time, it was believed they had run off together and maybe they did, making Steffi the prime candidate for murderer. Henry doesn't really have an alibi unless killing Vivi would keep Steffi from divorcing him? If he's caught it wouldn't help his career. If he's a suspect it will make the tabloids and hurt his career. I simply don't see him as a murderer. I think ALL of these people are complicit in Vivi's death somehow. Maybe a Murder on the Orient Express situation?
I didn't like any of the recipes in this book and wanted different recipes for treats mentioned in the story. I don't like lemon and lemon and berries don't go together. Too tart. Lemon belongs in lemonade with water and lots of sugar but nowhere else.
I will probably look for the next book in the series if there is one.
November 26, 2024
"Murder at the Lemonberry Tea (Beacon Bakeshop #6)" by Darci Hannah has the gang all back together at Lindsey's bakeshop. Well sort of, Kennedy's mom, grandma and younger sister are staying with Lindsey. This means Rory is staying with his Uncle and Cousin, too much female energy is one lighthouse for him. Tucker is frequently at the lighthouse too. Do Kennedy and him still have something going on? Kennedy's sister may just snap him up if she doesn't.
All that under one roof and a British celebrity chef with her film crew visiting town. Vivi Lemonberry is in town to work with Lindsey and attempt to bring back her own show. To say that Vivi is a hot mess is putting it lightly and someone is done putting up with her antics.
The mystery follows some of the usual paths this series likes to take. It does get a moment of paranormal activity that seems more paranormal than previous books. However, was it really? Or, is it all in Lindsey's head and her subconscious is just telling her things she didn't realize she already had figured out?
All that under one roof and a British celebrity chef with her film crew visiting town. Vivi Lemonberry is in town to work with Lindsey and attempt to bring back her own show. To say that Vivi is a hot mess is putting it lightly and someone is done putting up with her antics.
The mystery follows some of the usual paths this series likes to take. It does get a moment of paranormal activity that seems more paranormal than previous books. However, was it really? Or, is it all in Lindsey's head and her subconscious is just telling her things she didn't realize she already had figured out?
August 4, 2024
Murder at the Lemonberry Tea by Darci Hannah is a great culinary cozy mystery that is the sixth book in A Beacon Bakeshop mystery series.
I have really enjoyed all six books thus far in this adorable series. Lindsey and this great cast of characters that are part of this adorable town, Beacon Harbor, right on Lake Michigan make for a wonderful series. If one is an amateur sleuth, they should know that they cannot host a polarizing celebrity chef…things will go awry.
A lovely cozy mystery that is a great addition to a wonderful series.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 11/26/24.
I have really enjoyed all six books thus far in this adorable series. Lindsey and this great cast of characters that are part of this adorable town, Beacon Harbor, right on Lake Michigan make for a wonderful series. If one is an amateur sleuth, they should know that they cannot host a polarizing celebrity chef…things will go awry.
A lovely cozy mystery that is a great addition to a wonderful series.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 11/26/24.
September 12, 2025
Ooh this was a lot of fun. I love love love the setting of this series and honestly the lighthouse sounds like the perfect place to live (yes ghost and all). I love how Lindsey has not only come to terms with her haunted house, but actually sits down to chat with her ghost. That tiny piece of the paranormal somehow makes this book feel even cozier. I always love a baking show and of course the celebrities are never what we wish they were. This book had a lot of twists and turns and I truly loved meeting Kennedy's family! I sped through this because I neeeeded answers. I cannot wait to continue this series!
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it was fabulous!
Note: I listened to the audiobook and it was fabulous!
October 28, 2024
Summer at the Beacon Bakeshop is proving as glorious as usual, but this year, it's extra exciting as well. Lindsey Bakewell's best friend, Kennedy Kapoor's family, is over from England for a visit and British cooking legend, Vivi Lemonberry is filming her new TV series at the Bakeshop.
With special, highly publicised events taking place, the discovery of a dead body is the last thing everyone needs, especially as all the clues point to Lindsey and boyfriend Rory as the killers! With so much at stake for both of them their own investigation is soon underway but the deeper they dig the more they begin to realise that quite a few people had reason to want Vivi out of the way permanently!
Book six in this series doesn't disappoint in any way. Kennedy's family was great, and the investigation had twists and turns aplenty to keep the most picky cosy crime fan happily content! The recipes at the end all sound delicious and definitely need taste testing!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cosies, but the opinions expressed are my own. This was cosy reading at its most satisfying, and I loved it!
With special, highly publicised events taking place, the discovery of a dead body is the last thing everyone needs, especially as all the clues point to Lindsey and boyfriend Rory as the killers! With so much at stake for both of them their own investigation is soon underway but the deeper they dig the more they begin to realise that quite a few people had reason to want Vivi out of the way permanently!
Book six in this series doesn't disappoint in any way. Kennedy's family was great, and the investigation had twists and turns aplenty to keep the most picky cosy crime fan happily content! The recipes at the end all sound delicious and definitely need taste testing!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cosies, but the opinions expressed are my own. This was cosy reading at its most satisfying, and I loved it!
November 17, 2024
Murder at the Lemonberry Tea (Beacon Bakeshop, #6) by Darci Hannah opens with Lindsey preparing for her best friend's family to stay with her in the lighthouse because they're on holiday to support Kennedy PR attempt for Lindsey's bakery to appear on a celebrity cooking show. When one of the people associated with the show turns up dead, Lindsey and Kennedy team up once again to investigate.
I'd like to thank NetGalley for the Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) of this cozy mystery that they gave me for free in exchange for my honest review. I've read at least one book in this series and enjoyed it, so I was very appreciative to be approved to read Murder at the Lemonberry Tea (Beacon Bakeshop, #6).
I really enjoyed most of the characters in this book, especially the reoccurring ones. Although I'm a cat person, I think Welly was one of my favorites, especially when he gets caught swimming in the lake when he isn't supposed to be. It gave me such a giggle. The only character I didn't care for initially was Vivi Lemonberry, but by the end of the book, I did feel a little sorry for her.
What I loved is that there were a lot of people who had motives, and it kept me guessing and wondering if the person I thought was the murderer was a correct guess. I was partially correct but not entirely. The person who actually committed the murder wasn't one I thought it would be.
Engaging, fun, and entertaining are words I'd use to describe Murder at the Lemonberry Tea (Beacon Bakeshop, #6). I plan on trying a couple of the recipes out at the end of the book. Five out of five stars.
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November 13, 2024
I normally adore this series but something about this particular book did not sit well with me. I felt frustrated and that the story kept going on for too long with far too many suspects. I realize it's a mystery trope when the list of who hated the victim is longer than who did not but this plot had one after another after another and it just got super old and annoying, to be frank.
Lindsey Bakewell's BFF Kennedy has arranged for a celebrity baker to host an episode of her new show at the Beacon Bakeshop. The baker is riddled with past scandals and is attempting to reinvent herself. Unfortunately, she lives up to most of the hype of what an awful person she is and it is no wonder she ends up in the lake with an anchor around her ankles. The laundry list of suspects keeps piling up and the gang is left with more questions than answers for 85% of the book.
I kept hoping the end AHA whodunit reveal would make me feel like my slog through the pages was worth it. Some spicy tidbit wrap up that would feel like weeding through all those potential suspects would be so clever I'd forget that the book actually made me bored. Spoiler, I'm still disappointed,
Hopefully the next offering in the series will be better. I have been purchasing the books in the series after they are published but I will be skipping this one.
Thank you to Kensington Cozies and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lindsey Bakewell's BFF Kennedy has arranged for a celebrity baker to host an episode of her new show at the Beacon Bakeshop. The baker is riddled with past scandals and is attempting to reinvent herself. Unfortunately, she lives up to most of the hype of what an awful person she is and it is no wonder she ends up in the lake with an anchor around her ankles. The laundry list of suspects keeps piling up and the gang is left with more questions than answers for 85% of the book.
I kept hoping the end AHA whodunit reveal would make me feel like my slog through the pages was worth it. Some spicy tidbit wrap up that would feel like weeding through all those potential suspects would be so clever I'd forget that the book actually made me bored. Spoiler, I'm still disappointed,
Hopefully the next offering in the series will be better. I have been purchasing the books in the series after they are published but I will be skipping this one.
Thank you to Kensington Cozies and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2025
This one was not a favorite. The dialogue was lacking something I can't quite put my finger on. The murder plot itself was pleasantly twisty, and I enjoyed that quite a bit. Overall though, I think this one missed the mark.
December 5, 2024
Well, Babe, I gave this book 2 stars because, Babe, I thought there was just so much repetition. Babe, it just felt like filler. You know, Babe? You understand, Babe?
September 14, 2025
Lindsey Bakewell’s lighthouse bakeshop in Beacon Harbor, Michigan, is hosting a celebrity cookbook author from the UK, British celebrity chef Vivi Lemonberry. Ms. Lemonberry is trying to renew her career after several scandals. When Lindsey finds her dead body, she realizes that the scandals may have followed her across the pond. Can Lindsey find the true culprit?
This was an enjoyable cozy mystery filled with delicious food and dastardly characters. Lindsay is a great amateur sleuth with a penchant for finding dead bodies. All of the side characters and suspects were interesting, and I wasn't able to figure out whodunit. I was surprised when the murderer was revealed in the end. The paranormal aspect was not at all scary but just be warned there is a ghost. I enjoyed this story and can't wait to read the next one in the series. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
This was an enjoyable cozy mystery filled with delicious food and dastardly characters. Lindsay is a great amateur sleuth with a penchant for finding dead bodies. All of the side characters and suspects were interesting, and I wasn't able to figure out whodunit. I was surprised when the murderer was revealed in the end. The paranormal aspect was not at all scary but just be warned there is a ghost. I enjoyed this story and can't wait to read the next one in the series. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
April 5, 2025
A Fun Cozy Mystery Series
I love the mystery and all the characters, except Kennedy! She is getting on my last nerve. I feel like I mention how much I can’t stand her in every review. I enjoy cozy mysteries because they’re relaxing, but with Kennedy in it this one is NOT relaxing.
I love the small town, the lighthouse and its resident ghost, so many of the characters…especially Rory and Lindsey. I’d definitely recommend this series, but with the Kennedy warning.
I love the mystery and all the characters, except Kennedy! She is getting on my last nerve. I feel like I mention how much I can’t stand her in every review. I enjoy cozy mysteries because they’re relaxing, but with Kennedy in it this one is NOT relaxing.
I love the small town, the lighthouse and its resident ghost, so many of the characters…especially Rory and Lindsey. I’d definitely recommend this series, but with the Kennedy warning.
December 2, 2024
Murder at the Lemonberry Tea is the 6th book in Darci Hannah’s Beacon Bakeshop series is a great addition. The characters are likable and the mystery kept me guessing. Lindsey Bakewell owns a lighthouse and bakeshop. Her best friend Kennedy, Kennedy’s grandmother, mother and sister and staying with Lindsey. They add humor and a little drama and are a fun addition to the story. Vivi Lemonberry is a celebrity chef. She is in town and Beacon Bakeshop is hosting Vivi. Vivi causes problems and then ends up dead. Lindsey, her boyfriend Rory and friends need to figure out what happened. This was a very enjoyable cozy mystery and the addition of Kennedy and her family really added to the story. I received an advance copy for free from NetGalley and Kensington Cozies and I voluntarily leave this review.
#MurderAtTheLondonberryTea #BeaconBakeshop #NetGalley #KensingtonCozies
#MurderAtTheLondonberryTea #BeaconBakeshop #NetGalley #KensingtonCozies
February 11, 2025
Ahhhh....this book felt like coming home. I have missed these characters so much! This is the 6th book in the Beacon Bakeshop series and I grow more attached to the characters with each book I read.
What I loved:
Kennedy coming back. I was afraid we weren't going to see her again.
The potential for Kennedy and Tuck to get back together.
That scary Sargent Murdoc allowed Kennedy, Lindsay, and Rory to play an active role in this murder investigation, instead of telling them to mind their own business and stay out of it (even though that happening in real list would be highly unlikely). She finally realized their snooping way are helpful, yet outside the boundaries of what she as Law Enforcement would be allowed to do.
What I didn't like:
I don't think having Kennedy's family visiting really added much to the storyline. It did give us some insight into Kennedy's upbringing and her relationship with them, especially her sister. I feel like we could have done with just the sister visiting. The mother and grandmother didn't add much.
Hopes:
I would love to see Lindsay hosting her own baking show!
I am patiently waiting for Lindsay and Rory to get engaged already! They need to get married before the series ends.
What I loved:
Kennedy coming back. I was afraid we weren't going to see her again.
The potential for Kennedy and Tuck to get back together.
That scary Sargent Murdoc allowed Kennedy, Lindsay, and Rory to play an active role in this murder investigation, instead of telling them to mind their own business and stay out of it (even though that happening in real list would be highly unlikely). She finally realized their snooping way are helpful, yet outside the boundaries of what she as Law Enforcement would be allowed to do.
What I didn't like:
I don't think having Kennedy's family visiting really added much to the storyline. It did give us some insight into Kennedy's upbringing and her relationship with them, especially her sister. I feel like we could have done with just the sister visiting. The mother and grandmother didn't add much.
Hopes:
I would love to see Lindsay hosting her own baking show!
I am patiently waiting for Lindsay and Rory to get engaged already! They need to get married before the series ends.
September 7, 2024
This is the next installment in the delightful Beacon Bakeshop mysteries. I absolutely adore the setting on the shore with bakery in an old timey lighthouse and I love the main character Lindsey, her boyfriend Rory, and her playful dog Welly. However, in this one, like others in the series, her friend Kennedy is completely off-putting. She’s constantly putting Lindsey into unwanted situations and doesn’t seem to care how she feels about it.
Overall I enjoyed my return to this cozy town although I certainly preferred others in the series more. The mystery was interesting but not too hard to guess with plenty of tv show drama along the way.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this early advanced copy!
Overall I enjoyed my return to this cozy town although I certainly preferred others in the series more. The mystery was interesting but not too hard to guess with plenty of tv show drama along the way.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this early advanced copy!
January 23, 2025
The sixth installment the Beacon Bakeshop Mystery Series by Darci Hannah, this book is well written and well paced, very entertaining and incredibly hard to put down. Better than expected. The books in this series seem to be getting better and better. Well worth the time to read.
July 14, 2025
I loved this installment of the Beacon Bakeshop Mysteries! I had so much fun with this one. The British baking side of things really made me want to watch The Great British Bakeoff.
Highly recommend!
I can't wait for the next one to come out!
Highly recommend!
I can't wait for the next one to come out!
January 2, 2025
1st book of 2025! A great starter. This is a very enjoyable series with great characters. I had my suspicions about the murderer and I got it partially right 😉
November 10, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨/ 5 ⭐
January 13, 2025
This is the delicious new book number six in the Beacon Bakeshop Mystery series. Lindsey Bakewell left the hectic life of Wall Street and has successfully set up her bakeshop and home in a lighthouse so she knows how much a new start can mean to a person. Her BFF Kennedy Kapoor, a well-regarded influencer, has convinced the producer for the new baking show, Nibbles From Across the Pond, hosted by Vivi Lemonberry, British baking diva, to come to Beacon Harbor to film the show’s first episode. This was supposed to be a fresh start for Vivi, a step away from the scandals and drama. This woman has baggage, scandalous designer baggage. She is described by one of the film crew as “a tyrant, a flirt, a husband snatcher, a plagiarist, and a kiss-up.” So of course she is the victim.
This is a fun story which might sound odd because there is a murder involved but the characters just make it so enjoyable. Lindsey is easy to relate to and she has a big dog, who doesn’t love a big dog? Oh, that’s right, Vivi doesn’t. Then there are the Kapoor ladies, Kennedy’s mom, little sister (27 years old) and Granny Gladstone. Who wouldn’t want to spend a few days with the gals, listening to Kennedy and Pippa trade snarky remarks while both flirt with Officer Tucker aka Officer Cutie Pie? Oh, that’s right; Rory doesn’t, so he moved in with his uncle and cousin for the duration of the British invasion. There are so many nuances to the story that it grabs your attention and keeps you turning pages, before, and after the murder is committed.
Suspects include the ex-husband who is her producer, the ex-lover who is the head cameraman, her personal assistant who is a victim of her rants, the rival baker who is slapping her with plagiarism, and the A-list starlet who is newly married to Vivi’s current lover. Sergeant Murdock has no choice but to consider Lindsey as a person of interest because of Vivi’s issue with Welly, Lindsey’s beloved Newfie and the shameless flirting with Rory, Lindsey’s guy. Vivi might just have been more trouble than she was worth.
One of the best aspects of this cozy is that there are multiple red herrings and a few rabbit holes. Each suspect is blaming another suspect talk about a puzzling conundrum. Thankfully, Lindsey has a great group of friends who come up with original ideas on how to get the clues that lead to the solution. The other awesome aspect of this book is all of the yummy lemon based recipes from a Lemon Drop Martini to Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Garlic Chicken; I’m not sure which one to make first. This is another great Beacon Bakeshop Mystery and I will just have to console myself with a lemon bar while I wait for the next one to come out.
This is a fun story which might sound odd because there is a murder involved but the characters just make it so enjoyable. Lindsey is easy to relate to and she has a big dog, who doesn’t love a big dog? Oh, that’s right, Vivi doesn’t. Then there are the Kapoor ladies, Kennedy’s mom, little sister (27 years old) and Granny Gladstone. Who wouldn’t want to spend a few days with the gals, listening to Kennedy and Pippa trade snarky remarks while both flirt with Officer Tucker aka Officer Cutie Pie? Oh, that’s right; Rory doesn’t, so he moved in with his uncle and cousin for the duration of the British invasion. There are so many nuances to the story that it grabs your attention and keeps you turning pages, before, and after the murder is committed.
Suspects include the ex-husband who is her producer, the ex-lover who is the head cameraman, her personal assistant who is a victim of her rants, the rival baker who is slapping her with plagiarism, and the A-list starlet who is newly married to Vivi’s current lover. Sergeant Murdock has no choice but to consider Lindsey as a person of interest because of Vivi’s issue with Welly, Lindsey’s beloved Newfie and the shameless flirting with Rory, Lindsey’s guy. Vivi might just have been more trouble than she was worth.
One of the best aspects of this cozy is that there are multiple red herrings and a few rabbit holes. Each suspect is blaming another suspect talk about a puzzling conundrum. Thankfully, Lindsey has a great group of friends who come up with original ideas on how to get the clues that lead to the solution. The other awesome aspect of this book is all of the yummy lemon based recipes from a Lemon Drop Martini to Parmesan-Crusted Lemon Garlic Chicken; I’m not sure which one to make first. This is another great Beacon Bakeshop Mystery and I will just have to console myself with a lemon bar while I wait for the next one to come out.
August 27, 2024
Lindsey Bakewell owns the Beacon Bakeshop, a bakery inside a delightful lighthouse that sits on the edge of Lake Michigan. She's excited because a British celebrity baker, Vivi Lemonberry, is coming to her shop to bake Vivi's famous Bakewell Tart as part of a promo for her new cookbook. She's had her share of scandals, but is now ready to start anew with a new attitude as well...but it doesn't last long. Lindsey soon finds out that Vivi is a diva of the first water and expects Lindsey to change everything to her own specifications. This includes banning Welly, Lindsey's beloved Newfoundland, from his home until she leaves.
On top of this, Rory, Lindsey's love, also moves out because Lindsey's best friend, Kennedy's family, is coming to stay at the lighthouse -- her grandmother, mother, and sister Pippa. This is almost as complicated as it gets, until while filming, a woman comes up and slaps Vivi, sending her off in hysterics, not to return.
Now everyone wants to know where Vivi is, and when -- or if -- the show will continue. Unfortunately, while learning to scuba dive with Rory, Lindsey is thrown into a terror by finding a body just below the surface of the water. Now there's a search for a killer, and even the police are so stumped that Sergeant Murdock has asked for Lindsey's help. What else could go wrong?...
This is the sixth book in the series and I have read them all. I have also loved them all. This one has just as much appeal as all the others. While the search is on for a killer, it's obvious that the murderer has intended to frame someone else, and that doesn't sit well with Lindsey or her friends. Unfortunately, Kennedy's sister "wants in on the action", which doesn't sit well with Kennedy, but what can she do?
Once they start investigating, they discover that everyone has secrets. But which ones led to the murder? And with so many people with motives, how to sift through the suspects to find out who had the nerve -- and anger -- to kill in such a fashion?
The book is filled with enough intrigue, secrets, and lies to keep anyone interested, but there are not so many people that you can't keep the suspects straight. I pretty much had most of it figured out before Lindsey did; but in the end even I was surprised by the whole truth.
At the last, we are given a wonderful ending that leaves us wanting to read the next book in the series right now. I am not-so-patiently waiting for that! Highly recommended.
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
On top of this, Rory, Lindsey's love, also moves out because Lindsey's best friend, Kennedy's family, is coming to stay at the lighthouse -- her grandmother, mother, and sister Pippa. This is almost as complicated as it gets, until while filming, a woman comes up and slaps Vivi, sending her off in hysterics, not to return.
Now everyone wants to know where Vivi is, and when -- or if -- the show will continue. Unfortunately, while learning to scuba dive with Rory, Lindsey is thrown into a terror by finding a body just below the surface of the water. Now there's a search for a killer, and even the police are so stumped that Sergeant Murdock has asked for Lindsey's help. What else could go wrong?...
This is the sixth book in the series and I have read them all. I have also loved them all. This one has just as much appeal as all the others. While the search is on for a killer, it's obvious that the murderer has intended to frame someone else, and that doesn't sit well with Lindsey or her friends. Unfortunately, Kennedy's sister "wants in on the action", which doesn't sit well with Kennedy, but what can she do?
Once they start investigating, they discover that everyone has secrets. But which ones led to the murder? And with so many people with motives, how to sift through the suspects to find out who had the nerve -- and anger -- to kill in such a fashion?
The book is filled with enough intrigue, secrets, and lies to keep anyone interested, but there are not so many people that you can't keep the suspects straight. I pretty much had most of it figured out before Lindsey did; but in the end even I was surprised by the whole truth.
At the last, we are given a wonderful ending that leaves us wanting to read the next book in the series right now. I am not-so-patiently waiting for that! Highly recommended.
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
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