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Cannabis Café Mysteries #3
A Cold Dose of Murder
With her cannabis café getting higher-than-high online reviews--and skyrocketing sales--Chloe Barnes discovers that sudden success can leave one killer burn . . .
Chloe still can't believe the magic carpet ride her life has become. From a career-and-romantic crash-and-burn as a Parisian pastry chef, she turned things around by starting the Baked by Chloe cannabis café in her seaside hometown of Azalea Bay, California. Now one of the town’s hottest spots, the café has earned a coveted booth in the Bay's famous summer ice cream festival and Chloe is excited to introduce her cannabis-infused flavors. Plus, a rave review by influential podcaster and food critic Calista Bryant is sending Chloe's sales into orbit—with no bad vibes in sight . . .
. . . Until Chloe finds Calista sprawled toes-up under an ice cream food truck—as dead as the Wicked Witch of the West. With so much already on her plate, Chloe is determined to avoid sleuthing this go-round. But when rival café owner and suspect Starr Bright asks Chloe to help prove she’s innocent, she’s soon hip-deep in the many enemies, competitors, and ex-friends the ruthlessly opinionated Calista was expert at racking up. And now Chloe is heading for what could be a life-ending buzz-kill—courtesy of one insidious murderer . . .
[Cannabis and CBD-infused Recipes Included (always consume responsibly)!]
Praise for A Half-Baked Murder
“This fun and fact-filled thematic entry into the cozy mystery genre has it a twisty murder investigation, a charming small town, a potential romance with the single guy next door, and recipes. . . . Highly recommended.” —Library Journal, Starred Review
“A richly drawn mystery . . . George has laid the foundation for a series that feels fresh, young, and full of surprises.” —First Clue, Starred Review
Chloe still can't believe the magic carpet ride her life has become. From a career-and-romantic crash-and-burn as a Parisian pastry chef, she turned things around by starting the Baked by Chloe cannabis café in her seaside hometown of Azalea Bay, California. Now one of the town’s hottest spots, the café has earned a coveted booth in the Bay's famous summer ice cream festival and Chloe is excited to introduce her cannabis-infused flavors. Plus, a rave review by influential podcaster and food critic Calista Bryant is sending Chloe's sales into orbit—with no bad vibes in sight . . .
. . . Until Chloe finds Calista sprawled toes-up under an ice cream food truck—as dead as the Wicked Witch of the West. With so much already on her plate, Chloe is determined to avoid sleuthing this go-round. But when rival café owner and suspect Starr Bright asks Chloe to help prove she’s innocent, she’s soon hip-deep in the many enemies, competitors, and ex-friends the ruthlessly opinionated Calista was expert at racking up. And now Chloe is heading for what could be a life-ending buzz-kill—courtesy of one insidious murderer . . .
[Cannabis and CBD-infused Recipes Included (always consume responsibly)!]
Praise for A Half-Baked Murder
“This fun and fact-filled thematic entry into the cozy mystery genre has it a twisty murder investigation, a charming small town, a potential romance with the single guy next door, and recipes. . . . Highly recommended.” —Library Journal, Starred Review
“A richly drawn mystery . . . George has laid the foundation for a series that feels fresh, young, and full of surprises.” —First Clue, Starred Review
305 pages, Paperback
First published February 25, 2025
8 people are currently reading
542 people want to read
About the author
Emily George
3 books150 followersEmily George is an Australian author who writes modern murder mysteries that feature her favourite F words: female friendships, family and furry friends. She also likes alliteration.
Like her sleuths, she’s an elder Millennial who grew up on a steady diet of late 90’s romantic comedies, Spice Girls songs and Babysitter’s Club books. When she’s not figuring out creative ways to kill people (fictionally, of course) she enjoys knitting, baking, playing video games, and listening to true crime podcasts.
She resides in Canada with her husband.
Like her sleuths, she’s an elder Millennial who grew up on a steady diet of late 90’s romantic comedies, Spice Girls songs and Babysitter’s Club books. When she’s not figuring out creative ways to kill people (fictionally, of course) she enjoys knitting, baking, playing video games, and listening to true crime podcasts.
She resides in Canada with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 18, 2025
Chloe’s cannabis café, Made by Chloe is heading forward in leaps and bounds, and when she is on a podcast by Calista Bryant, which is very successful just before the ice-cream festival, it is looking like a very busy weekend especially since Chloe has worked hard and created some very yummy cannabis ice-cream for the weekend. Everything is moving smoothly and it looks like it is not only going to be busy but a fun weekend, that is until Chloe and her boyfriend Jake discover a body under one of the food trucks the opening day of the festival and it is podcaster and food critic Calista Bryant.
Chloe does not want to get involved in sleuthing this time but when fellow business owner Starr Bright is the person the police are looking at for the murder, Starr comes to Chloe and begs her to help clear her name and soon Chloe is uncovering so many clues she cannot help but get involved and of course this puts her in danger again, will she discover the real killer before any more people are hurt?
I did thoroughly enjoy this one, catching up with the characters that we have met in the first two books was so good and I do love Chloe she is one very caring and determined woman who wants to see justice done, there are so many fabulous characters in this series if you have not tried this series then I do highly recommend them, not only are they great mysteries but they are very informative regarding how cannabis is used in cooking and why and of course Chloe who is a French trained chef creates the most delectable deserts, they sound yummy.
Thank you MS George for another fabulous read.
My thanks to Kensington Cozies and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
Chloe does not want to get involved in sleuthing this time but when fellow business owner Starr Bright is the person the police are looking at for the murder, Starr comes to Chloe and begs her to help clear her name and soon Chloe is uncovering so many clues she cannot help but get involved and of course this puts her in danger again, will she discover the real killer before any more people are hurt?
I did thoroughly enjoy this one, catching up with the characters that we have met in the first two books was so good and I do love Chloe she is one very caring and determined woman who wants to see justice done, there are so many fabulous characters in this series if you have not tried this series then I do highly recommend them, not only are they great mysteries but they are very informative regarding how cannabis is used in cooking and why and of course Chloe who is a French trained chef creates the most delectable deserts, they sound yummy.
Thank you MS George for another fabulous read.
My thanks to Kensington Cozies and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
August 5, 2025
While this one was not my favorite in the series, it was still very good. Emily George did a good job at the end of wrapping the series up in a pretty little bow, while still leaving room for more potential books. I'm glad that this book really saw an upgrade in Chloe and Jake's relationship, and I'm glad everyone was able to be happy in the end (except the deceased lol).
I will say, though, it was getting pretty tiring to constantly be reminded that cannabis should only be consumed under safe circumstances and that the main purpose of everything was pain relief and symptom control and nothing else. It almost felt that the author was pointing a finger at recreational cannabis users, and it felt off. I didn't feel this so much in the other books. While I agree with the statement that cannabis should be used safely, as with any other mind-altering substance, we get it. It's not that serious that I need to be reminded that it's "potentially dangerous" to consume cannabis every chapter. This book still does a good job at highlighting fun recipes for edibles to try and explaining how to bake with cannabis. But again, this one just had a different vibe than the other two.
I will say, though, it was getting pretty tiring to constantly be reminded that cannabis should only be consumed under safe circumstances and that the main purpose of everything was pain relief and symptom control and nothing else. It almost felt that the author was pointing a finger at recreational cannabis users, and it felt off. I didn't feel this so much in the other books. While I agree with the statement that cannabis should be used safely, as with any other mind-altering substance, we get it. It's not that serious that I need to be reminded that it's "potentially dangerous" to consume cannabis every chapter. This book still does a good job at highlighting fun recipes for edibles to try and explaining how to bake with cannabis. But again, this one just had a different vibe than the other two.
March 8, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
We arrive in Azalea Bay just in time for their Summer Ice Cream Festival and Chloe Barnes is thrilled that her Baked by Chloe Cannabis Café has landed a booth in one of the prime spots. Her cannabis-infused ice cream flavors should be a big hit, especially after the rave review she received from influencer, food critic, and podcaster Calista Bryant.
Before the festival opens Chloe is making the rounds and makes a dreadful discovery. Calista Bryant is dead – under a food truck in a scene that could be right out of The Wizard of Oz. Chloe decides to just chill and focus on her business and let the police worry about the influencer’s murder but then Starr Bright, a rival café owner begs her to help clear her name. It seems the outspoken critic was a buzzkill for so many people. Chloe has her hands full trying to catch a killer while bringing her Baked by Chloe treats to the masses.
As a breast cancer survivor, I identify with Chloe’s Grandma Rose. Chemo and radiation take such a toll on your body. I wish I had had a Baked by Chloe cannabis café nearby when I was going through treatment. I love that Chloe came back to help her grandmother and continues to learn and try new processes and recipes. Her Aunt Dawn is a great business partner and fun with her various hobbies. The Dungeons and Dragons crew are great friends and give Chloe support whenever she needs it. She and Jake are still trying to have some kind of romantic relationship, it finally seems to take hold by the end of the story.
Chloe and Starr were by no means friends but Chloe is a good person and can’t say no. The author does a good job of blending Chloe’s everyday life with her sleuthing. Sleuthing that sometimes gets her into trouble. She has plenty of clues to follow and tries to follow them quickly while on breaks from her booth at the festival. Thankfully she has plenty of backup help. Even Jake lent a hand. I was delighted to tag along with Chloe everywhere she went. There were some interesting twists and Chloe got help from someone unexpected. The guilty party was on my shortlist and I found the showdown both exciting and emotional.
I have really enjoyed the cannabis café theme. It was entertaining and educational. Reading the Acknowledgements this appears to be the final book in this series and Ms. George does leave Chloe and the other characters in a good place but it felt like there could be 1 more book with Dawn and Chloe talking about a Breast Cancer Awareness event in October and Grandma Rose needing one more round of treatment. So I hope to visit these wonderful characters again.
A Cold Dose of Murder is a lighthearted mystery filled with true-to-life characters and a unique theme. I have enjoyed all three books in the series and fingers crossed there will be more.
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.
We arrive in Azalea Bay just in time for their Summer Ice Cream Festival and Chloe Barnes is thrilled that her Baked by Chloe Cannabis Café has landed a booth in one of the prime spots. Her cannabis-infused ice cream flavors should be a big hit, especially after the rave review she received from influencer, food critic, and podcaster Calista Bryant.
Before the festival opens Chloe is making the rounds and makes a dreadful discovery. Calista Bryant is dead – under a food truck in a scene that could be right out of The Wizard of Oz. Chloe decides to just chill and focus on her business and let the police worry about the influencer’s murder but then Starr Bright, a rival café owner begs her to help clear her name. It seems the outspoken critic was a buzzkill for so many people. Chloe has her hands full trying to catch a killer while bringing her Baked by Chloe treats to the masses.
As a breast cancer survivor, I identify with Chloe’s Grandma Rose. Chemo and radiation take such a toll on your body. I wish I had had a Baked by Chloe cannabis café nearby when I was going through treatment. I love that Chloe came back to help her grandmother and continues to learn and try new processes and recipes. Her Aunt Dawn is a great business partner and fun with her various hobbies. The Dungeons and Dragons crew are great friends and give Chloe support whenever she needs it. She and Jake are still trying to have some kind of romantic relationship, it finally seems to take hold by the end of the story.
Chloe and Starr were by no means friends but Chloe is a good person and can’t say no. The author does a good job of blending Chloe’s everyday life with her sleuthing. Sleuthing that sometimes gets her into trouble. She has plenty of clues to follow and tries to follow them quickly while on breaks from her booth at the festival. Thankfully she has plenty of backup help. Even Jake lent a hand. I was delighted to tag along with Chloe everywhere she went. There were some interesting twists and Chloe got help from someone unexpected. The guilty party was on my shortlist and I found the showdown both exciting and emotional.
I have really enjoyed the cannabis café theme. It was entertaining and educational. Reading the Acknowledgements this appears to be the final book in this series and Ms. George does leave Chloe and the other characters in a good place but it felt like there could be 1 more book with Dawn and Chloe talking about a Breast Cancer Awareness event in October and Grandma Rose needing one more round of treatment. So I hope to visit these wonderful characters again.
A Cold Dose of Murder is a lighthearted mystery filled with true-to-life characters and a unique theme. I have enjoyed all three books in the series and fingers crossed there will be more.
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.
May 12, 2025
Such a fun twist on the cozy bakery! A cannabis bakery! What started as a way to alleviate her grandmother's suffering during cancer treatments turned into a family bake shop that has become quite popular in the small tourist town. Unfortunately, not only is Chloe a great chef/baker, but she is also quite good at finding dead bodies and becoming involved in investigating the murder! An ice cream festival is about to start with Chloe featuring some creative ice cream features in the adults only section of the festival when once again she finds a body, but whodunit and can she figure it out before someone else is iced! Great characters, wonderful setting, detailed mystery with ample twists, turns and red herrings! I have to say this is a really fun series and I have learned a lot about cannabis as well as cooking with cannabis which has been an interesting twist to the books. I can't wait to see what adventures Chloe and friends get into when the next book comes out!
March 7, 2025
Another fun addition to the series! I love the characters in this one; they are realistic and quirky without overdoing it as is the case in some cozies. The settings are always interesting, this time an ice cream festival, and the mysteries definitely keep me guessing. What I love about this series, though, is the creativity with recipes that, though not something I will be trying, make cannabis-infused food sound approachable and tempting. I’m also a huge fan of the fact that Chloe goes to work, a huge pet peeve of mine in cozies, where the sleuth often spends more time sleuthing than actually attending to their business, and there are some great nuggets of business advice sprinkled throughout. Looking forward to their next adventure!
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
February 26, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
What a cozy cannabis mystery! This book has everything you need - murder, mystery, romance, family and funny.
This book takes place is the sunny small town of Azalea Bay, California. Emily Barnes is the owner of a local cannabis bakery - Baked by Chloe- taking her prestigious culinary background and making her own twist on it. When Chloe’s cafe receives a glowing review from a famous podcaster and celebrity influencer - Calista Bryant - she feels on top of the world. However, Calista is known for her blunt feedback and while Chloe got a gold star, others weren’t so lucky. When Calista is found dead, everyone is left wondering if she finally took it too far. Chloe promised to leave the investigating to detectives but the facts of this case keep pulling her in. As more comes to light, you learn Calista held alot of secrets in her hands. Secrets people would be willing to kill for. Can Chloe catch the killer without becoming the next victim?
When I first started, I did not realize that this book is the third in a series. Although parts of the previous books are referenced, it didn’t impact my ability to read and enjoy this book. I loved Chloe’s family, the reason she started her bakery and all of the fun characters introduced.
If you are looking for a fun beach mystery this would be a great one!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC opportunity.
What a cozy cannabis mystery! This book has everything you need - murder, mystery, romance, family and funny.
This book takes place is the sunny small town of Azalea Bay, California. Emily Barnes is the owner of a local cannabis bakery - Baked by Chloe- taking her prestigious culinary background and making her own twist on it. When Chloe’s cafe receives a glowing review from a famous podcaster and celebrity influencer - Calista Bryant - she feels on top of the world. However, Calista is known for her blunt feedback and while Chloe got a gold star, others weren’t so lucky. When Calista is found dead, everyone is left wondering if she finally took it too far. Chloe promised to leave the investigating to detectives but the facts of this case keep pulling her in. As more comes to light, you learn Calista held alot of secrets in her hands. Secrets people would be willing to kill for. Can Chloe catch the killer without becoming the next victim?
When I first started, I did not realize that this book is the third in a series. Although parts of the previous books are referenced, it didn’t impact my ability to read and enjoy this book. I loved Chloe’s family, the reason she started her bakery and all of the fun characters introduced.
If you are looking for a fun beach mystery this would be a great one!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC opportunity.
March 26, 2025
3.5 ⭐️/5
Another adventure with our dear Chloe and her Cannabis cafe, Baked by Chloe! A Cold Dose of Murder begins with Chloe receiving a rave review on a food podcast, which is bringing a staggering amount of business to her new pastry shop. She is so thankful for the publicity, especially coming from someone as critical and influential as Calista Bryant.
However, Sprout, the health and wellness café in town did not get such a glowing review and its owner Starr Bright, took to Facebook to vent her frustrations and conspiracies about how other businesses got in Calista’s good graces.
Shortly after, Azalea Bay is hosting an ice cream festival and Baked By Chloe has a booth in the Adults Only section selling cannabis infused ice cream treats. Calista is back in town reviewing treats and hosting a book signing… however, before the festival begins, Calista’s body is found dead on the grounds, and signs are pointing to foul play.
I previously read the first two books in this series and this story just didn’t have me as interested as the others. It felt a bit long and there were a lot of new characters to keep track of (in addition to the ones from the first two instalments). There were also too many suspects with very real motives, that made it difficult to guess alongside Chloe as she sleuthed to find the answers the police couldn’t.
Thank you Kensington Publishing and Net Galley for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Another adventure with our dear Chloe and her Cannabis cafe, Baked by Chloe! A Cold Dose of Murder begins with Chloe receiving a rave review on a food podcast, which is bringing a staggering amount of business to her new pastry shop. She is so thankful for the publicity, especially coming from someone as critical and influential as Calista Bryant.
However, Sprout, the health and wellness café in town did not get such a glowing review and its owner Starr Bright, took to Facebook to vent her frustrations and conspiracies about how other businesses got in Calista’s good graces.
Shortly after, Azalea Bay is hosting an ice cream festival and Baked By Chloe has a booth in the Adults Only section selling cannabis infused ice cream treats. Calista is back in town reviewing treats and hosting a book signing… however, before the festival begins, Calista’s body is found dead on the grounds, and signs are pointing to foul play.
I previously read the first two books in this series and this story just didn’t have me as interested as the others. It felt a bit long and there were a lot of new characters to keep track of (in addition to the ones from the first two instalments). There were also too many suspects with very real motives, that made it difficult to guess alongside Chloe as she sleuthed to find the answers the police couldn’t.
Thank you Kensington Publishing and Net Galley for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2025
Another really fun book in this series! An ice cream festival sounds like a DREAM location and I would spend my whole weekend there in a second. I loved all the description of the fun things being sold there and cannabis ice cream?! So inventive and intriguing. This book was as mouth watering as the previous books and I love Chloe's commitment to branching out and growing her business. I also love her support system and how close she is with her employees and family. And the romance YAY I am just so happy for her. The mystery had me stumped and I loved all the twists and turns!
I can't wait to continue this series!
Note: thanks to the publisher for a free ARC; my thoughts and review are my own.
I can't wait to continue this series!
Note: thanks to the publisher for a free ARC; my thoughts and review are my own.
May 6, 2025
I absolutely loved this series, and I’m sad to see it come to an end! I’m going to miss Chloe, Jake, Grandma Rose, Aunt Dawn, and all the wonderful characters that made up Azalea Bay.
I hope one day Emily George decides to revisit Chloe’s Cannabis Cafe…or perhaps a spinoff series?
One can hope…..
I hope one day Emily George decides to revisit Chloe’s Cannabis Cafe…or perhaps a spinoff series?
One can hope…..
April 19, 2025
Adorable, funny, charming, educational, and surprising. Everything you need for a fantastic cozy!
August 13, 2025
A COLD DOSE OF MURDER is wrapping up this short series about a new cannabis cafe in a small town. Chloe is warned not to interfere with the murder case of a foodie podcaster, but is drawn in by a fellow cafe owner who is the prime suspect.
This third installment gives us a peek into a bright future for Chloe.
Check out Emily George's alter egos SJ Short and Stefanie London for new thrillers!
This third installment gives us a peek into a bright future for Chloe.
Check out Emily George's alter egos SJ Short and Stefanie London for new thrillers!
September 14, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for providing this book, with my honest review below.
A Cold Dose of Murder was such a unique little mystery that I am so eager to pick up more books in this series by Emily George! I hadn’t thought of the possibilities of a story focusing on not a traditional bakery but a cannabis focused one, and yet the way the story played with the concept read true not just for the fictional main character, Chloe’s, mission with her cafe, but also for the book and I am guessing for the series.
Chloe is a bit of an unintended sleuth, hitting her stride with her cannabis focused cafe after a series of life shaking events. When she gets showcased on a controversial podcast she starts getting the fame for her cafe her great baking deserves but quickly gets caught up in another mystery when the podcast host is murdered at Chloe’s town’s ice cream fair (please tell me this exists somewhere near me).
The mystery read well as did Chloe, her caring family, and the town’s cast of characters and visitors. This managed to be both light hearted and charming while keeping me engaged with the intrigue around the murder. I felt both hungry and satisfied throughout! The only element to this book I felt wasn’t as well explored was Chloe’s conflict around her feelings for love interest Jack. He was perfect, and her hesitance to grow close felt realistic, but her hesitance showing in her action and her ability to move past it didn’t come off in a way I could believe, it just felt shallow. I’m going to chalk this up as something that may have been better explored and setup in a previous book, though outside of this the book can easily be read as a standalone. And please do read it if you’d like a cozy mystery with a very unique setting given the cannabis cafe, or some delicious sounding recipes which are included.
A Cold Dose of Murder was such a unique little mystery that I am so eager to pick up more books in this series by Emily George! I hadn’t thought of the possibilities of a story focusing on not a traditional bakery but a cannabis focused one, and yet the way the story played with the concept read true not just for the fictional main character, Chloe’s, mission with her cafe, but also for the book and I am guessing for the series.
Chloe is a bit of an unintended sleuth, hitting her stride with her cannabis focused cafe after a series of life shaking events. When she gets showcased on a controversial podcast she starts getting the fame for her cafe her great baking deserves but quickly gets caught up in another mystery when the podcast host is murdered at Chloe’s town’s ice cream fair (please tell me this exists somewhere near me).
The mystery read well as did Chloe, her caring family, and the town’s cast of characters and visitors. This managed to be both light hearted and charming while keeping me engaged with the intrigue around the murder. I felt both hungry and satisfied throughout! The only element to this book I felt wasn’t as well explored was Chloe’s conflict around her feelings for love interest Jack. He was perfect, and her hesitance to grow close felt realistic, but her hesitance showing in her action and her ability to move past it didn’t come off in a way I could believe, it just felt shallow. I’m going to chalk this up as something that may have been better explored and setup in a previous book, though outside of this the book can easily be read as a standalone. And please do read it if you’d like a cozy mystery with a very unique setting given the cannabis cafe, or some delicious sounding recipes which are included.
November 14, 2024
3.5 stars
Unusual setting for a cozy mystery: a cannabis themed cafe on the California coast. Cordon Bleu graduate Chloe Barnes left a life and career in Paris after her relationship went astray and moved home to help her grandmother, recently diagnosed with cancer.
When Chloe discovered the helpfulness of cannabis with chemo side effects, she decided to open a cafe. With her aunt as her financial backer, Chloe creates an out of the ordinary business. This is not a stoner story -- careful consumption is the theme.
Chloe is a nice person who is trying to settle in to the community and create a niche for herself, personally and professionally. In the way of cozies, she is hampered by the fact that she keeps stumbling over dead bodies. She is one of those heroines who refuses to heed the many warnings of the police to butt out of the investigation and to keep out of harm's way.
The body this time is a very popular food podcaster who gives Chloe's business a rare rave review. This sets off some jealousy by other local restaurateurs, one in particular. The podcaster's body shows up at a local food festival and is found by Chloe.
These are readable. There is some character development here. The ending almost sounded like a wrap of the series, so we'll see what comes next. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Unusual setting for a cozy mystery: a cannabis themed cafe on the California coast. Cordon Bleu graduate Chloe Barnes left a life and career in Paris after her relationship went astray and moved home to help her grandmother, recently diagnosed with cancer.
When Chloe discovered the helpfulness of cannabis with chemo side effects, she decided to open a cafe. With her aunt as her financial backer, Chloe creates an out of the ordinary business. This is not a stoner story -- careful consumption is the theme.
Chloe is a nice person who is trying to settle in to the community and create a niche for herself, personally and professionally. In the way of cozies, she is hampered by the fact that she keeps stumbling over dead bodies. She is one of those heroines who refuses to heed the many warnings of the police to butt out of the investigation and to keep out of harm's way.
The body this time is a very popular food podcaster who gives Chloe's business a rare rave review. This sets off some jealousy by other local restaurateurs, one in particular. The podcaster's body shows up at a local food festival and is found by Chloe.
These are readable. There is some character development here. The ending almost sounded like a wrap of the series, so we'll see what comes next. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 25, 2025
A Cold Dose of Murder is the next installment of A Cannabis Cafe Mystery series. Chloe, thoroughly enjoying her new life in Azalea Bay, can't wait to showcase her new cannabis recipes at the local ice cream festival. She's hoping that her spot on a famous foodie's podcast will increase her popularity and sales at the fairgrounds. Unfortunately, when the podcaster is discovered murdered under a food truck, Chloe's hopes for a fun and successful weekend are diminished. While Starr is not Chole's favorite Azalea Bay local, she does respect her, and when Starr is arrested for the murder, Chloe knows she must once again throw on her amateur sleuthing hat.
A Cannabis Cafe Mystery series is such a great cozy series with fantastic characters, a charming setting, delicious recipes, and intriguing mysteries. I highly recommend these books to anyone looking for a foodie-inspired, cozy mystery series with all the charming aspects of a hallmark movie.... and cannabis! I will absolutely be following Chloe and her friends on all of their next adventures!
A Cannabis Cafe Mystery series is such a great cozy series with fantastic characters, a charming setting, delicious recipes, and intriguing mysteries. I highly recommend these books to anyone looking for a foodie-inspired, cozy mystery series with all the charming aspects of a hallmark movie.... and cannabis! I will absolutely be following Chloe and her friends on all of their next adventures!
February 1, 2025
This seems to be the last book in this series, as it felt like a definite wrap on the story. This book continues with Chloe, Her Aunt, Grandma and boyfriend Jake and their adventures in small town Azealea Bay. Chloe runs a bakery that uses cannabis in her baked goods. The bakery does not figure in this story as much as the previous ones. This one is set at an ice cream festival where a murder occurs.
Chloe, of course, tries to solve the murder. The story then follows her mis-adventures as she follows different clues, some of which place her in danger. The hardest thing about this type of cozy mystery is they tend to follow the same story line, and that does occur here. I wish there had been more character involvement and development. There was a bit at the end where Chloe moves forward with her relationship with Jake and realizes sleuthing it is not worth dying over. This did seem to conclude the series.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington for the ARC.
Chloe, of course, tries to solve the murder. The story then follows her mis-adventures as she follows different clues, some of which place her in danger. The hardest thing about this type of cozy mystery is they tend to follow the same story line, and that does occur here. I wish there had been more character involvement and development. There was a bit at the end where Chloe moves forward with her relationship with Jake and realizes sleuthing it is not worth dying over. This did seem to conclude the series.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington for the ARC.
March 6, 2025
I absolutely love this series, and A Cold Dose of Murder is another fun, cozy mystery that had me hooked from start to finish! This book truly has everything I enjoy—murder, mystery, cannabis, and delicious food. The setting of the ice cream festival was such a treat (I’d totally go to that in real life!), and I’m already planning to try the ice cream recipe included at the end.
One of the things that makes this series stand out is the creative way cannabis is woven into the story, especially through the café and all the infused recipes. As someone who supports medicinal cannabis use, I really appreciate how it's featured in such a positive and normalized way.
The small-town vibes are perfect, and I love seeing the characters grow with each book. Honestly, Azalea Bay sounds like the dream place to live—if you can doge the occasional murder. 😆
Overall, this was a quick, cozy, and super enjoyable read with a unique plot. I can't wait for the next one!
One of the things that makes this series stand out is the creative way cannabis is woven into the story, especially through the café and all the infused recipes. As someone who supports medicinal cannabis use, I really appreciate how it's featured in such a positive and normalized way.
The small-town vibes are perfect, and I love seeing the characters grow with each book. Honestly, Azalea Bay sounds like the dream place to live—if you can doge the occasional murder. 😆
Overall, this was a quick, cozy, and super enjoyable read with a unique plot. I can't wait for the next one!
September 1, 2024
#AColdDoseofMurder #NetGalley is a great addition to this unique cozy mystery series.
Chloe is participating in Azalea Bay's summer ice cream festival, and she's excited to share her cannabis infused treats with everyone.
After receiving much praise from well known podcaster, Calista Bryant, Chloe is over the moon, but not everyone is happy with her cannabis cafe.
When a murder takes place at the festival, Chloe steps up and begins asking questions, she's determined to bring the killer to justice.
I really like this series, especially as someone who joys the medicinal benefits of cannabis.
I love Chloe's friends and family and I'm looking forward to recommending this book to other readers.
I'm looking forward to the next book!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Chloe is participating in Azalea Bay's summer ice cream festival, and she's excited to share her cannabis infused treats with everyone.
After receiving much praise from well known podcaster, Calista Bryant, Chloe is over the moon, but not everyone is happy with her cannabis cafe.
When a murder takes place at the festival, Chloe steps up and begins asking questions, she's determined to bring the killer to justice.
I really like this series, especially as someone who joys the medicinal benefits of cannabis.
I love Chloe's friends and family and I'm looking forward to recommending this book to other readers.
I'm looking forward to the next book!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
February 18, 2025
Chloe Barnes, a French-trained pastry chef, returns to Azalea Bay to care for her ailing grandmother and heal from her heartbreak after her fiancé’s infidelity. Her cannabis café, established in the first book, is thriving. Just as Chloe is basking in the excitement of a rave review from the renowned food blogger Calista Bryant, which could boost her business, her crew stumbles upon Calista’s body. Amidst the investigation, the police’s fixation on Chloe’s frenemy, Starr Bright, complicates matters. Determined to uncover the truth, Chloe must navigate the complexities of her personal life and the culinary world to find the culprit. This delightful addition to the series promises to captivate readers with its intriguing plot and well-developed characters. I received an arc of this book from NetGalley for my honest review.
February 26, 2025
Baked by Chloe has a spot in the towns, famous ice cream festival. Having received glowing reviews in a influencers podcast, Chloe is ready for everyone to experience her ice cream and products at the event. However, when site influencer is found dead, it leaves a bad taste in Chloe’s mouth.
Not everyone growing reviews from the influencer, and that leaves quite a few disgruntled people I suspects. Can Chloe suss out who dun it before they strike again?
I really enjoy this series. First, I love that the author has developed the characters and really brings them to life. I also love how she brings cannabis along for the ride and helps to mainstream it across her readership the universe. Come for the solid mystery filled with twist and curves, but stay for the recipes at the end. You won’t regret it.
Not everyone growing reviews from the influencer, and that leaves quite a few disgruntled people I suspects. Can Chloe suss out who dun it before they strike again?
I really enjoy this series. First, I love that the author has developed the characters and really brings them to life. I also love how she brings cannabis along for the ride and helps to mainstream it across her readership the universe. Come for the solid mystery filled with twist and curves, but stay for the recipes at the end. You won’t regret it.
March 11, 2025
A Cold Dose of Murder starts out with the local ice cream festival, where a famous foodie podcaster, Calista, who had just featured Baked by Chloe on her show is found dead (by Chloe herself of course). Suspects are everywhere as part of Calista’s claim to fame was her skewering of businesses on her show for maximum drama. Chloe does her best to stay out of it, but one the locals becomes the top suspect and yanks Chloe back in to help.
I like the Cannabis Cafe series a lot, the California beach town setting is fun and I love when cozy mysteries make me want to travel-slash-relocate there. The food descriptions were absolutely delectable, and really makes you respect the process of a trained pastry chef. Chloe is truly settling in to the town now, supporting her Grandma Rose’s cancer fight, making new friends and finding romance with her new neighbor. It’s a sweet series that I hope to see continue!
I like the Cannabis Cafe series a lot, the California beach town setting is fun and I love when cozy mysteries make me want to travel-slash-relocate there. The food descriptions were absolutely delectable, and really makes you respect the process of a trained pastry chef. Chloe is truly settling in to the town now, supporting her Grandma Rose’s cancer fight, making new friends and finding romance with her new neighbor. It’s a sweet series that I hope to see continue!
September 3, 2024
Kindle Copy for Review from NetGalley and Kensington Publishing.
I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Chloe cannabis foray has been a booming success as her popularity has sky rocketed with the help of a food critic. Her cannabis infused ice cream is keeping her ice cream truck with long lines. But things quickly turned deadly when the food critic is found dead by her truck. What nefarious activity s is going on? It will be up to Chloe to figure out as she must find a way to clear her name and reputation if she wants to stay in the business.
I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Chloe cannabis foray has been a booming success as her popularity has sky rocketed with the help of a food critic. Her cannabis infused ice cream is keeping her ice cream truck with long lines. But things quickly turned deadly when the food critic is found dead by her truck. What nefarious activity s is going on? It will be up to Chloe to figure out as she must find a way to clear her name and reputation if she wants to stay in the business.
February 10, 2025
We are back in Azalea Bay, California with Chloe for the ice cream festival. She has a booth for her cannabis cafe. A famous food podcast is about to drop an episode with Chloe. Luckily it was a good review but Calista the podcaster gave a bad review to Starr. Chloe accidentally stumbles upon Calista's dead body. Starr is a prime suspect and she asks Chloe to investigate to clear her name.
I really enjoyed following the clues with Chloe. Also, learning more about baking with cannabis. I'm wondering if this is the end of the series. Which makes me very sad. I really enjoyed the characters and the quirky town.
I really enjoyed following the clues with Chloe. Also, learning more about baking with cannabis. I'm wondering if this is the end of the series. Which makes me very sad. I really enjoyed the characters and the quirky town.
May 2, 2025
Very nice cozy crime book.
What I like about these books is the vibe and the atmosphere.
You basically feel at home in this Californian coastal town.
We as the readers are part of the unfolding family story, take part in the highs and lows of Chloe's family and friends. The characters are likeable, the writing is engaging and on the side, one learns a lot about cooking and baking with Cannabis, about responsible use, dosage and safety.
In the previous books, there were even recipes, these are not included this time.
Oh, and there is also a murder mystery to be solved, with several twists and turns and a bunch of suspects.
What I like about these books is the vibe and the atmosphere.
You basically feel at home in this Californian coastal town.
We as the readers are part of the unfolding family story, take part in the highs and lows of Chloe's family and friends. The characters are likeable, the writing is engaging and on the side, one learns a lot about cooking and baking with Cannabis, about responsible use, dosage and safety.
In the previous books, there were even recipes, these are not included this time.
Oh, and there is also a murder mystery to be solved, with several twists and turns and a bunch of suspects.
February 11, 2025
Pastry chef Chloe’s cannabis café is thriving until a food critic turns up dead. Drawn into the murder investigation, Chloe must uncover the killer before she becomes the next victim.
I love the warm relationships in this novel. Chloe is a wonderful character who puts love into everything she bakes. She’s a reluctant sleuth who can’t help stepping in when the police come to the wrong conclusions. The mystery is suspenseful and full of twists.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I love the warm relationships in this novel. Chloe is a wonderful character who puts love into everything she bakes. She’s a reluctant sleuth who can’t help stepping in when the police come to the wrong conclusions. The mystery is suspenseful and full of twists.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
February 16, 2025
Chloe is thrilled to be at the ice cream festival and even more so about the rave review for her cannabis infused treats by podcaster Calista. Except that someone has murdered Calista! Chloe had sworn off investigating but she can't not especially since her family is there to help (love Chloe's family). While this is very much a classic cozy, with a victim hated by many, it's got a big heart and a younger and quite intrepid protagonist. This is the third in the series but entirely enjoyable as a standalone. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. A good cozy read.
September 6, 2025
I didn’t read the previous books in the series, as I didn’t realize it was a series! So I did feel like I was missing something at the beginning until I realized. But I don’t think that affected the book too much. It felt a little long and dragged on a bit. I didn’t love it, but also didn’t hate it. Happy little ending!
November 12, 2024
A Cold Dose of Murder is the third and final book in the Cannabis Cafe Mystery series. I enjoyed these books so much - I'm sorry I won't get to have new adventures with them!
Chloe's nemesis, Starr, is accused of murdering a podcaster in town for a food festival. Now it's up to Chloe to discover the facts and potentially clear Starr's name.
This book has all of the charm of its predecessors - sweet small-town vibes, Chloe's fantastic group of friends, her quirky Aunt Dawn and Grandma Rose, and all of the delicious-sounding baked goods. The murder was twisty and intriguing. Fast-paced, cozy fun!
I can't wait to see what Emily George writes next!
Chloe's nemesis, Starr, is accused of murdering a podcaster in town for a food festival. Now it's up to Chloe to discover the facts and potentially clear Starr's name.
This book has all of the charm of its predecessors - sweet small-town vibes, Chloe's fantastic group of friends, her quirky Aunt Dawn and Grandma Rose, and all of the delicious-sounding baked goods. The murder was twisty and intriguing. Fast-paced, cozy fun!
I can't wait to see what Emily George writes next!
March 21, 2025
3/20/2025 3.5 stars. I hope this isn't the last of the series, tho it's certainly written that way! Full review tk at CriminalElement.com.
April 2, 2025
4.5 Stars
Enjoyable third book in the series! I loved that Chloe ends up with a new "partner" to try and solve the murder. I wasn't sure how it was going to play out but I guessed wrong. I hope this series continues with more adventures for the crew!
Enjoyable third book in the series! I loved that Chloe ends up with a new "partner" to try and solve the murder. I wasn't sure how it was going to play out but I guessed wrong. I hope this series continues with more adventures for the crew!
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August 8, 2025A quick summer read
Fun, easy read by the pool. Her series are always funny, charming and full of interesting characters. Chloe solves another murder mystery, all the while baking and making weedy goods!
Fun, easy read by the pool. Her series are always funny, charming and full of interesting characters. Chloe solves another murder mystery, all the while baking and making weedy goods!
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