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Sunflowers, Scarecrows, and Scandal
From author Erica Wynters comes a hauntingly good Camelot Flowers Mystery...
It’s Halloween in Star Junction, and the town is gearing up for a spooky good time. That is, until florist Gwen Stevens discovers the dead body of her neighbor Trevor—dressed as a scarecrow in the Halloween display in front of City Hall with an ominous note from the killer tucked into the pocket of his costume!
Murder investigations are always complicated, but when the friends of Trevor’s wife all confess to murdering him, the local police detective Finn Butler is stuck sorting through their conflicting confessions, leaving Gwen to dig up the truth.
Ghosts and goblins aren’t the only things that go bump in the night as Gwen searches for the murder weapon, sorts through enough suspects to fill a kid’s trick-or-treat bag, and finally makes a decision between dating Finn or her long-time best friend and crush, Chris. As Halloween approaches, can Gwen unmask a murderer or will this unsolved case haunt the small, peaceful town of Star Junction forever?
"Small Town Gem! 5/5 Bouquets … Engaging & Clever! Delightful fun!"
~ Kings River Life Magazine
It’s Halloween in Star Junction, and the town is gearing up for a spooky good time. That is, until florist Gwen Stevens discovers the dead body of her neighbor Trevor—dressed as a scarecrow in the Halloween display in front of City Hall with an ominous note from the killer tucked into the pocket of his costume!
Murder investigations are always complicated, but when the friends of Trevor’s wife all confess to murdering him, the local police detective Finn Butler is stuck sorting through their conflicting confessions, leaving Gwen to dig up the truth.
Ghosts and goblins aren’t the only things that go bump in the night as Gwen searches for the murder weapon, sorts through enough suspects to fill a kid’s trick-or-treat bag, and finally makes a decision between dating Finn or her long-time best friend and crush, Chris. As Halloween approaches, can Gwen unmask a murderer or will this unsolved case haunt the small, peaceful town of Star Junction forever?
"Small Town Gem! 5/5 Bouquets … Engaging & Clever! Delightful fun!"
~ Kings River Life Magazine
- GenresMystery
261 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
9 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
September 15, 2024
This book goes great with the start of pumpkin spice latte season.
This is my first book of the Camelot Flowers mystery series, so I didn't have all the background on the characters, but I didn't feel like I was missing anything (I'm definitely going back to read the others now though).
Gwen lives in a cozy Gilmore Girls/Virgin River-esque town and discovers the body of her nasty neighbor, Trevor, who's been killed, dressed like a scarecrow and placed in a Halloween display in front of city hall.
Gwen works with detective and semi boyfriend Finn to narrow down suspects and solve the crime.
This was a quick read with short chapters and had a great mix of mystery, humor and romance. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a cozy fall read.
I received an advanced reader copy but give this review voluntarily.
This is my first book of the Camelot Flowers mystery series, so I didn't have all the background on the characters, but I didn't feel like I was missing anything (I'm definitely going back to read the others now though).
Gwen lives in a cozy Gilmore Girls/Virgin River-esque town and discovers the body of her nasty neighbor, Trevor, who's been killed, dressed like a scarecrow and placed in a Halloween display in front of city hall.
Gwen works with detective and semi boyfriend Finn to narrow down suspects and solve the crime.
This was a quick read with short chapters and had a great mix of mystery, humor and romance. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a cozy fall read.
I received an advanced reader copy but give this review voluntarily.
November 14, 2024
Book 3 of the Camelot Flowers Mysteries.
I want to start by saying that in my opinion you do not need to read the previous two books to enjoy this fun Fall/Halloween mystery. (I have not read them but plan on doing so because in really enjoyed the FMC and her best friend Penny) Although, you are more than likely going to understand the relationships and history with the FMCs family and friends, as well of mention of previous mysteries solved, if you do. That being said...
If you're looking for an easy, fun, and cozy Fall/Halloween read to enjoy then I would recommend this book. The cover is beautiful for one thing... To be quite honest that's what captured me first. Then you start diving into the story and fall into a small Midwest town murder mystery. All the businesses in Star Junction are preparing their Halloween displays for the season and our FMC Guinevere discovers one of the scarecrows featured in the City Hall display is not quite what it seems. The body of her neighbor who was highly un-liked by many in the town due to him not treating his wife and family very well, and not getting along with his neighbors, had been murdered and displayed for all to see. Gwen takes it apon herself to try and help solve this mystery. Which proves to be a rather difficult task seeing as many people disliked this man and five of his wifes best friends have already confessed to the crime. What a mess.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. Guinevere and her best friend Penny's humor and relationship had me laughing throughout the book. You also get a dash of romance. *eyebrow wiggle* Gwen struggles a bit with her decision to date the detective in town that she has come to have feelings for or a long time childhood friend that has come to realize his feelings for her. Gwen Also struggles to solve this mystery but she's determined to help Detective Finn and her community figure out who committed this crime. You don't get a lot of answers a long the way and there is a lot of back and fourth about who could have done it and why or why not. I was fairly happy with the outcome and I got all the answers I was looking for by the time the book ended. But the overall feel for the book was enjoyable to me and I liked the characters. This felt to me like more of a 'feel good' read. I honestly think it would be a good book to pick up on a nice crisp fall day. A quick read that left me feeling good at the end.
I also want to disclose that this was an ARC read for me. My opinions and thoughts on this book are genuine and honest. Happy reading to you all.
I want to start by saying that in my opinion you do not need to read the previous two books to enjoy this fun Fall/Halloween mystery. (I have not read them but plan on doing so because in really enjoyed the FMC and her best friend Penny) Although, you are more than likely going to understand the relationships and history with the FMCs family and friends, as well of mention of previous mysteries solved, if you do. That being said...
If you're looking for an easy, fun, and cozy Fall/Halloween read to enjoy then I would recommend this book. The cover is beautiful for one thing... To be quite honest that's what captured me first. Then you start diving into the story and fall into a small Midwest town murder mystery. All the businesses in Star Junction are preparing their Halloween displays for the season and our FMC Guinevere discovers one of the scarecrows featured in the City Hall display is not quite what it seems. The body of her neighbor who was highly un-liked by many in the town due to him not treating his wife and family very well, and not getting along with his neighbors, had been murdered and displayed for all to see. Gwen takes it apon herself to try and help solve this mystery. Which proves to be a rather difficult task seeing as many people disliked this man and five of his wifes best friends have already confessed to the crime. What a mess.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. Guinevere and her best friend Penny's humor and relationship had me laughing throughout the book. You also get a dash of romance. *eyebrow wiggle* Gwen struggles a bit with her decision to date the detective in town that she has come to have feelings for or a long time childhood friend that has come to realize his feelings for her. Gwen Also struggles to solve this mystery but she's determined to help Detective Finn and her community figure out who committed this crime. You don't get a lot of answers a long the way and there is a lot of back and fourth about who could have done it and why or why not. I was fairly happy with the outcome and I got all the answers I was looking for by the time the book ended. But the overall feel for the book was enjoyable to me and I liked the characters. This felt to me like more of a 'feel good' read. I honestly think it would be a good book to pick up on a nice crisp fall day. A quick read that left me feeling good at the end.
I also want to disclose that this was an ARC read for me. My opinions and thoughts on this book are genuine and honest. Happy reading to you all.
September 4, 2024
"You won't lose me. Ever. It's me and you. That's my whole world." Sunflowers, Scarecrows, and Scandals by Erica Wynters
In Sunflower, Scarecrows, and Scandals, the third book in the Camelot Flower Mysteries series, Erica Wynters continues to charm with her blend of cozy mystery and quirky characters. Guinevere, our floral aficionado with a nose for trouble, ends up in the middle of yet another murder investigation; In comes neat, flirty "new to town" Detective Griffin comes to get her out of trouble yet again. The annual display judging around the corner, they go through not only the motions of their relationship but, with a murderer on the loose, trouble seems to find Gwen wherever she may roam, at least her feline friend, Delilah is there to keep her safe when two boys aren't fighting over her.
Wynters has a gift for weaving humor into her mysteries, and this book is no exception. Guinevere’s interactions with Finn are as entertaining as ever, with their witty banter providing a perfect counterpoint to the tension of the investigation. The dialogue sparkles, and the dynamic between the characters is as refreshing as a summer breeze through the sunflower fields.
The mystery itself is well-paced and engaging, with enough twists to keep even the most seasoned Star Junction resident at bay. Wynters’ world is populated with endearing characters and picturesque settings, making this a delightful read for anyone who enjoys their mysteries with a side of humor and a bouquet of charm. The highlight of a platonic friendship was an element that was very refreshing to read not only between Penny and Gwen but between two important characters, the fear of losing is always very real.
So, if you’re in the mood for a cozy mystery that’s equal parts flower-filled fun and clever crime-solving, grab a copy of Sunflower, Scarecrows, and Scandals. Guinevere and Griffin’s latest adventure is sure to make your reading list bloom with delight. I myself, will be reading the first two installments because Who is Justin? and why was he murdered? who tried to frame Chris for murder? so many questions!! Thank you so much Erica for the ARC opportunity!!
In Sunflower, Scarecrows, and Scandals, the third book in the Camelot Flower Mysteries series, Erica Wynters continues to charm with her blend of cozy mystery and quirky characters. Guinevere, our floral aficionado with a nose for trouble, ends up in the middle of yet another murder investigation; In comes neat, flirty "new to town" Detective Griffin comes to get her out of trouble yet again. The annual display judging around the corner, they go through not only the motions of their relationship but, with a murderer on the loose, trouble seems to find Gwen wherever she may roam, at least her feline friend, Delilah is there to keep her safe when two boys aren't fighting over her.
Wynters has a gift for weaving humor into her mysteries, and this book is no exception. Guinevere’s interactions with Finn are as entertaining as ever, with their witty banter providing a perfect counterpoint to the tension of the investigation. The dialogue sparkles, and the dynamic between the characters is as refreshing as a summer breeze through the sunflower fields.
The mystery itself is well-paced and engaging, with enough twists to keep even the most seasoned Star Junction resident at bay. Wynters’ world is populated with endearing characters and picturesque settings, making this a delightful read for anyone who enjoys their mysteries with a side of humor and a bouquet of charm. The highlight of a platonic friendship was an element that was very refreshing to read not only between Penny and Gwen but between two important characters, the fear of losing is always very real.
So, if you’re in the mood for a cozy mystery that’s equal parts flower-filled fun and clever crime-solving, grab a copy of Sunflower, Scarecrows, and Scandals. Guinevere and Griffin’s latest adventure is sure to make your reading list bloom with delight. I myself, will be reading the first two installments because Who is Justin? and why was he murdered? who tried to frame Chris for murder? so many questions!! Thank you so much Erica for the ARC opportunity!!
September 4, 2024
This is such a cute cozy mystery! And perfect for fall with it being set around Halloween! Love the writing style. Easy to read and keeps you entertained and wanting to know more the entire time!
The FMC is so cute and her bff is someone I would love to have as mine!! The closeness of the small town and how everyone knows everyone is cute and wholesome.
I did receive an ARC but gave this review voluntarily
I am now going to go and read more from this author, as this was my first book by her!
The FMC is so cute and her bff is someone I would love to have as mine!! The closeness of the small town and how everyone knows everyone is cute and wholesome.
I did receive an ARC but gave this review voluntarily
I am now going to go and read more from this author, as this was my first book by her!
August 30, 2024
Sunflowers, Scarecrows and Scandal by Erica Wynters @ericawyntersbooks
5/5
This is my first visit to Star Junction and I loved it. Gwen discovers her neighbour, Trevor’s dead body, dressed up as a scarecrow outside City Hall and we follow her as she investigates whodunnit!
A cosy murder mystery with a hint of cosy romance #TeamFinn the story flows well with likeable characters, some of their dialogue did make me laugh pulling odd looks from my husband! A nice easy read and a great story. Now I’m going to go find the previous two Camelot Flowers Mystery stories.
I received an ARC copy of this book. This is my honest review.
#bookgram #book #books #bookgramuk #bookstagram #bookstagramuk #reading #readingforfun #readingforpleasure #booksta #ARCreview #advancereadercopy #camelotflowers #halloweenreading
5/5
This is my first visit to Star Junction and I loved it. Gwen discovers her neighbour, Trevor’s dead body, dressed up as a scarecrow outside City Hall and we follow her as she investigates whodunnit!
A cosy murder mystery with a hint of cosy romance #TeamFinn the story flows well with likeable characters, some of their dialogue did make me laugh pulling odd looks from my husband! A nice easy read and a great story. Now I’m going to go find the previous two Camelot Flowers Mystery stories.
I received an ARC copy of this book. This is my honest review.
#bookgram #book #books #bookgramuk #bookstagram #bookstagramuk #reading #readingforfun #readingforpleasure #booksta #ARCreview #advancereadercopy #camelotflowers #halloweenreading
September 13, 2024
This is my first book by Erica Wynters and I was lucky to receive an advance reader copy. Despite this being the 3rd book in this series I don't feel that I'd missed anything by not reading the others first.
The book was an easy read with good characters and I'll definitely be looking for the others in the series.
The book was an easy read with good characters and I'll definitely be looking for the others in the series.
September 21, 2024
Not my normal genre but this was fun! Concise story that kept to the point and was the perfect length.
September 2, 2024
Fantastic read! Loved the quirky characters, the friendly banter, the small town setting, and the love triangle. I am like Gwen - I think I made my choice early on but still found myself rooting for both of the guys! Be sure to check out the first two books in the series as well.
October 3, 2024
Cozy little mystery. Third book in series featuring Gwen, her family and friends. Perfect fall mystery with a bit of humor and romance. Enjoyable light breezy read.
August 30, 2024
I didn't read the first two in the set. I think I'm going to though. However, it didn't effect the story that much. There were a couple places that mentioned last events that triggered more of a curiosity than confusion.
This was a cute small town fall/Halloween story. Slow burn, no spice.
This was a cute small town fall/Halloween story. Slow burn, no spice.
August 28, 2024
A wonderful cozy mystery with a Halloween theme. This is the third book in the series, but my first book by this author, and I did not feel lost at all by not having read books 1 and 2. Held my interest and was a good story.
August 24, 2024
What a great story set around my favorite time of the year....Halloween! The detail in this book had me stepping into it and forgetting my surroundings as I was reading. I felt like I was there alongside Gwen as she investigated the murder mystery in her quaint little town.
The characters in this book are so likable, and the way they all come together shows the true genuine way of life small town brings!
This was my first Erica Wynters book, and I plan on going back and reading the first 2 in this series!
The characters in this book are so likable, and the way they all come together shows the true genuine way of life small town brings!
This was my first Erica Wynters book, and I plan on going back and reading the first 2 in this series!
October 1, 2024
Can we make a sub-genre called cozy horror? Because that’s what this is. It’s giving PG-13 teen horror movie.
Our FMC finds the body of her neighbor on display as a scarecrow while the town it’s getting ready for the Halloween festival. There’s a little romance and a lot of mystery as to who killed her neighbor and why. The FMC tries to investigate the murder and it’s set back a little because five of the victim’s wife’s friends all confess to being the killer.
The book is very vibey and is perfect for fall!
Our FMC finds the body of her neighbor on display as a scarecrow while the town it’s getting ready for the Halloween festival. There’s a little romance and a lot of mystery as to who killed her neighbor and why. The FMC tries to investigate the murder and it’s set back a little because five of the victim’s wife’s friends all confess to being the killer.
The book is very vibey and is perfect for fall!
July 11, 2024
Book three in this series which I loved! It’s nearing Halloween in Star Junction and the Garden Club had set up a fall display in front of city hall with sunflowers, hay ales and two scarecrows. When Gwen stops by city hall to drop off a form, she mentions to Debra at the desk that the display with two scarecrows is really cute. Debra states adamantly that there should only be one scarecrow and they go outside to check. Uh oh, it turns out the second scarecrow is Gwen’s dead neighbor Trevor! Trevor was not exactly a nice man, who bullied his wife, Sandra, and his kids and was generally disliked. Gwen remembers hearing 5 women joking about killing him in the hair salon that week. When they all confess to the murder, she and Detective Finn have their work cut out for them! A highly enter book, of which I received a free advance copy of. I write this review voluntarily.
July 12, 2024
The town of Star Junction is once again the site of a murder. Along with Halloween decorations, Gwen Stevens, daughter of Camelot Flowers owners, discovers a costumed dead body in front of Town Hall. When the body is of a not-so-nice neighbor of hers, she's all in on helping Finn (police detective) figure out the murder.
A highly entertaining book where Gwen (frequently joined by her very pregnant best friend) joins in trying to solve the murder. At the same time she makes an important decision, survives a home break-in, and "learns" to shoot a gun. Without making light of the seriousness of murder, there are loads of funny moments and sweet moments for readers to enjoy. This series continues to get better with each book. I'm hooked and looking forward to the next book already!
A highly entertaining book where Gwen (frequently joined by her very pregnant best friend) joins in trying to solve the murder. At the same time she makes an important decision, survives a home break-in, and "learns" to shoot a gun. Without making light of the seriousness of murder, there are loads of funny moments and sweet moments for readers to enjoy. This series continues to get better with each book. I'm hooked and looking forward to the next book already!
October 19, 2024
This is my favorite Camelot Flowers Mystery yet, and not just because our intrepid sleuth Gwen has come to a decision regarding romance. It is my favorite because it happens during the time leading up to Halloween. Much like Gwen, I like the decorations but can do without things that go bump in the night or cackle in the dark. I am pretty sure that if my neighbor put up a witch that had a motion sensor and a loud, make that a very loud, cackle that scared the bejesus out of me every time, there would be some larceny taking place. Of course that wouldn’t scare me nearly as much as finding an obnoxious neighbor staged as a scarecrow in front of town hall. Poor Gwen, she is starting to get a bit of a reputation for finding dead bodies and now her mom is thinking that Gwen may be cursed because her dad named her Guinevere and death followed the fictional Arthurian character.
Chances are you chuckled about Gwen having a cursed name. Be prepared to chuckle quite a bit while reading this entertaining cozy. Chuckles start right away with the opening scene of BFF and very pregnant Penny trying to convince Gwen that she would look great with a perm. Penny is a force to be reckoned with but the permed looks is a hard NO for Gwen; there are better ways to determine if a man really likes you for you. Even the way Gwen process finding a dead body (again) is a bit humorous. Gwen has no intentions of getting involved, detective Finn, aka Gwen’s love interest, is more than capable of handling this one. At least she was going to ignore the situation until it had negative repercussions to Finn’s free time.
Thankfully Gwen has good friends and a healthy dose of curiosity aka nosiness. I am not sure that her friends would confess to a killing that she may or may not have done, but they are good friends none the less. As you can see, the characters are, especially our sleuth, are engaging and relatable. The mystery is engaging with red herrings placed in all the right places. I second guessed myself more than once and was completely wrong as to motive. I read the story in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. This is a perfectly penned cozy with an engaging sleuth, a supportive family, a friend who may or may not be an instigator, and a little good bit of romance to round things out.
Chances are you chuckled about Gwen having a cursed name. Be prepared to chuckle quite a bit while reading this entertaining cozy. Chuckles start right away with the opening scene of BFF and very pregnant Penny trying to convince Gwen that she would look great with a perm. Penny is a force to be reckoned with but the permed looks is a hard NO for Gwen; there are better ways to determine if a man really likes you for you. Even the way Gwen process finding a dead body (again) is a bit humorous. Gwen has no intentions of getting involved, detective Finn, aka Gwen’s love interest, is more than capable of handling this one. At least she was going to ignore the situation until it had negative repercussions to Finn’s free time.
Thankfully Gwen has good friends and a healthy dose of curiosity aka nosiness. I am not sure that her friends would confess to a killing that she may or may not have done, but they are good friends none the less. As you can see, the characters are, especially our sleuth, are engaging and relatable. The mystery is engaging with red herrings placed in all the right places. I second guessed myself more than once and was completely wrong as to motive. I read the story in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. This is a perfectly penned cozy with an engaging sleuth, a supportive family, a friend who may or may not be an instigator, and a little good bit of romance to round things out.
August 23, 2024
2.5-3 /5 ⭐
Book read as an ARC review.
This book has a lot of potential. I want to start this off by saying that this is book 3. Perhaps the characters have already been introduced in previous books but picking this up felt blind. Who were these people? Why did they matter? What did they Look like??
Dialogue felt stuff and very awkward.
Dialogue constantly being like
"Hi" they said
"Hi" she whispered.
"How are you" he said with a smile.
"I'm okay " I replied.
It feels very jarring to read and leaves very little innuendo or subtly between characters to develop more personality.
FMC behaves a bit like a teenager but she's an adult. There's this weird tension where she follows her family around while also working at her parents shop. Familial work places aren't a bad thing, but to mix it with the awkward tension, the chronically klutzy mannerisms ,it feels very high-school.
I had a very hard time relating to any of these characters or caring about any of them. They felt very superficial and slightly tone deaf.
A lot of characters felt placed for a purpose and very little other reason for them. FMC has two possible suitors and we only talk about ONE for the majority of this book. The other guy is not a suitor at that point. He is filler. He served no purpose to really furthering the plot.
Unfortunately ,lot of this book felt like filler.
We establish who wasn't the killer early on and by 80% of the book we were still talking about about the original suspects and STILL deciding they aren't the killer. Suspects do bounce around as you're solving crimes but we kept going back to the same facts and stating why that person wasn't the suspect. The facts didn't change so why are we still discussing them?
I think if these characters felt deeper, the dialogue was smooth, FMC wasn't always"nervous chuckling" and there was a bit more depth to the story , it would actually work really well.
For me, I wasn't really sold on it but I feel like some deeper changes could really help.
Book read as an ARC review.
This book has a lot of potential. I want to start this off by saying that this is book 3. Perhaps the characters have already been introduced in previous books but picking this up felt blind. Who were these people? Why did they matter? What did they Look like??
Dialogue felt stuff and very awkward.
Dialogue constantly being like
"Hi" they said
"Hi" she whispered.
"How are you" he said with a smile.
"I'm okay " I replied.
It feels very jarring to read and leaves very little innuendo or subtly between characters to develop more personality.
FMC behaves a bit like a teenager but she's an adult. There's this weird tension where she follows her family around while also working at her parents shop. Familial work places aren't a bad thing, but to mix it with the awkward tension, the chronically klutzy mannerisms ,it feels very high-school.
I had a very hard time relating to any of these characters or caring about any of them. They felt very superficial and slightly tone deaf.
A lot of characters felt placed for a purpose and very little other reason for them. FMC has two possible suitors and we only talk about ONE for the majority of this book. The other guy is not a suitor at that point. He is filler. He served no purpose to really furthering the plot.
Unfortunately ,lot of this book felt like filler.
We establish who wasn't the killer early on and by 80% of the book we were still talking about about the original suspects and STILL deciding they aren't the killer. Suspects do bounce around as you're solving crimes but we kept going back to the same facts and stating why that person wasn't the suspect. The facts didn't change so why are we still discussing them?
I think if these characters felt deeper, the dialogue was smooth, FMC wasn't always"nervous chuckling" and there was a bit more depth to the story , it would actually work really well.
For me, I wasn't really sold on it but I feel like some deeper changes could really help.
September 22, 2024
I had the absolute pleasure of reading the ARC for book 3 in the Camelot flowers series by Erica Wynters this week.
The book is released on the 1st of October, and trust me, you're going to want to give it a read.
It's a murder mystery mixed with humour and some romance. Perfect book for the beginning of the Halloween season. Pumpkins, scarecrows, and a murder.
The book is set in fall in a small town. All local businesses are preparing their Halloween displays for a local contest. One display has a scarecrow within its display. However, the scarecrow isn't meant to be there and isn't really a scarecrow.....
Gwen is a flower shop owner who has a reputation for accidentally becoming part of a murder investigation. She has a personal relationship with new detective Finn and spends some of the story trying to figure out her feelings for him, and her longtime friend Chris. Gwen quickly gets into detective mode and tries her hardest to help the local police to find the murder of the laster murder in town.
There's a good mix of humour and found family relationships within the book. Gwen ropes in many of the locals into her detective work and even quickly gets to work exploring leads when a group of friends confess to the murder. Will she find the murder or become the victim of another murder?
If you are looking for a book with fall/Halloween vibes, this is the book for you. This is book 3 in the series but can easily be read as a standalone. I personally hadn't read any of the other books in the series, but I've literally just added the other two books to my basket. This series is MUST READ.
I have fell in love with the main character Gwen and her relationship with those in her circle. Can't wait to read more!
The book is released on the 1st of October, and trust me, you're going to want to give it a read.
It's a murder mystery mixed with humour and some romance. Perfect book for the beginning of the Halloween season. Pumpkins, scarecrows, and a murder.
The book is set in fall in a small town. All local businesses are preparing their Halloween displays for a local contest. One display has a scarecrow within its display. However, the scarecrow isn't meant to be there and isn't really a scarecrow.....
Gwen is a flower shop owner who has a reputation for accidentally becoming part of a murder investigation. She has a personal relationship with new detective Finn and spends some of the story trying to figure out her feelings for him, and her longtime friend Chris. Gwen quickly gets into detective mode and tries her hardest to help the local police to find the murder of the laster murder in town.
There's a good mix of humour and found family relationships within the book. Gwen ropes in many of the locals into her detective work and even quickly gets to work exploring leads when a group of friends confess to the murder. Will she find the murder or become the victim of another murder?
If you are looking for a book with fall/Halloween vibes, this is the book for you. This is book 3 in the series but can easily be read as a standalone. I personally hadn't read any of the other books in the series, but I've literally just added the other two books to my basket. This series is MUST READ.
I have fell in love with the main character Gwen and her relationship with those in her circle. Can't wait to read more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2024
Thoughts: This was a fun mystery set at Halloween in a small town that is the standard for cozies. Gwen helps her parents at their flower shop and plays sleuth when she has time. This is the third in the series, but I don’t feel like I’ve lost anything by not reading the first two (though I will now). There is a bit of a romance triangle as Gwen’s high school crush has decided he’s interested in her now, but she is more interested in Finn, the town detective. I loved how Gwen’s father is obsessed with King Arthur times (even naming the flower shop Camelot Flowers).
Gwen’s across-the-street neighbor, Trevor, is as nasty a person as you can have—and also the body. But it’s the suspects who are piling up as five of Trevor’s wife’s (Sandra) all line up to confess to the murder. Finn goes to work on the case, but it’s Gwen who follows the perp and ends up in serious trouble.
This was a quick, easy read with a satisfying ending.
Recommended
Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Gwen’s across-the-street neighbor, Trevor, is as nasty a person as you can have—and also the body. But it’s the suspects who are piling up as five of Trevor’s wife’s (Sandra) all line up to confess to the murder. Finn goes to work on the case, but it’s Gwen who follows the perp and ends up in serious trouble.
This was a quick, easy read with a satisfying ending.
Recommended
Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
September 11, 2024
So if you love cozy fall mysteries you will like this. I was kinda nervous I wouldn’t follow it due to it being the third one in the series but you don’t need to read the other ones to understand the characters relationships.
The main character Gwen was very relatable . I think I loved Gwen because I really saw a lot of myself in her from being clumsily and kinda awkward to trying to solve a murder without any qualifications to do so. 😂
I loved how it was a cute small town, so everyone knew everyone and the little shops Halloween decoration contest was so cute. Gwen has the reputation of always finding dead bodies. She has a best friend Penny who is completely supportive in her detective endeavors and is such a funny side character.
The mystery it self was okay. It was not a huge shock at all but it still was good to follow along and try and solve it. There was no huge plot twist, so if you like that in mystery u might not like this. But it is messy seeing as the five best friends of the victims wife confessed to the murder .. which complicated things. But overall it was just an easy and cozy read with a touch of cute clean romance and I can’t wait to read more from her! I kinda would love a Christmas one next 😂
The main character Gwen was very relatable . I think I loved Gwen because I really saw a lot of myself in her from being clumsily and kinda awkward to trying to solve a murder without any qualifications to do so. 😂
I loved how it was a cute small town, so everyone knew everyone and the little shops Halloween decoration contest was so cute. Gwen has the reputation of always finding dead bodies. She has a best friend Penny who is completely supportive in her detective endeavors and is such a funny side character.
The mystery it self was okay. It was not a huge shock at all but it still was good to follow along and try and solve it. There was no huge plot twist, so if you like that in mystery u might not like this. But it is messy seeing as the five best friends of the victims wife confessed to the murder .. which complicated things. But overall it was just an easy and cozy read with a touch of cute clean romance and I can’t wait to read more from her! I kinda would love a Christmas one next 😂
October 8, 2024
In "Sunflowers, Scarecrows, and Scandals," the third installment of Erica Winter's Camelot Flowers Mysteries, Gwen Stevens becomes entangled in a murder investigation when her unpopular neighbor, Trevor, is discovered dead just before Star Junction’s Halloween Festival. With many eager to claim responsibility for the obnoxious man's death, Gwen must navigate a tangled web of suspects and misleading clues while juggling her feelings for her longtime crush, Chris, and the charming Detective Finn Butler. The book skillfully blends humor, friendship, and romance with a captivating mystery that keeps readers on their toes.
Although I hadn’t read the first two books, I found this installment easily enjoyable as a stand-alone. The characters are endearing, and the witty exchanges between Gwen and Finn add a charming element. With a well-structured plot set against a delightful autumn backdrop, this cozy mystery is a thoroughly enjoyable read that has me excited to delve into the earlier books in the series..
Although I hadn’t read the first two books, I found this installment easily enjoyable as a stand-alone. The characters are endearing, and the witty exchanges between Gwen and Finn add a charming element. With a well-structured plot set against a delightful autumn backdrop, this cozy mystery is a thoroughly enjoyable read that has me excited to delve into the earlier books in the series..
November 16, 2024
Thank you to Erica Wynters for the opportunity to read this arc!
@ericawyntersbooks 🎃🍂🍁
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was the perfect cozy fall mystery! It was a quick read with short chapters. I appreciated the humor throughout and enjoyed the characters. It was a fun light hearted read! It’s the 3rd book of her Camelot Flowers Mysteries. I definitely plan to read the others as well.
Gwen is a florist that lives in a small town. She discovers that her nasty neighbor Trevor has been murdered. His body is dressed up like a scarecrow and becomes part of the Halloween display in front of City Hall. There is a note from the killer tucked in the pocket of his costume. Who did this? Will they find the murderer or will the town be haunted without knowing?
#read #book #booksbooksbooks #readmore #cozy #mystery #readersgonnaread #booklove #bookworms #fall #pumpkinspice #booknerds #ericawynters #bookaddiction #bookstagram #saturday #bookish #tbr #spooky
@ericawyntersbooks 🎃🍂🍁
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was the perfect cozy fall mystery! It was a quick read with short chapters. I appreciated the humor throughout and enjoyed the characters. It was a fun light hearted read! It’s the 3rd book of her Camelot Flowers Mysteries. I definitely plan to read the others as well.
Gwen is a florist that lives in a small town. She discovers that her nasty neighbor Trevor has been murdered. His body is dressed up like a scarecrow and becomes part of the Halloween display in front of City Hall. There is a note from the killer tucked in the pocket of his costume. Who did this? Will they find the murderer or will the town be haunted without knowing?
#read #book #booksbooksbooks #readmore #cozy #mystery #readersgonnaread #booklove #bookworms #fall #pumpkinspice #booknerds #ericawynters #bookaddiction #bookstagram #saturday #bookish #tbr #spooky
September 8, 2024
This book was adorable. I did not read the first two, but I do not feel like I missed anything by beginning here.
The author had me missing my mom, she was a lot like Gwen’s mom wanting to have the best display and wanting to win the competition:). So thank you for that.
I could also taste the cafe’s drinks and the confectionery chocolates. I throughly enjoyed the yoga class, the MFC attended to try and find out more about the murder.
The drawback for me was, I knew who did it rather quickly…there was a pivotal scene that clinched it for me.
I feel like this series, is pointed toward the Hallmark channel. I could see a few of the well known actresses and actors cast for the roles.
Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader. I really did enjoy this work, I just wish I hadn’t figured it out so quickly.
The author had me missing my mom, she was a lot like Gwen’s mom wanting to have the best display and wanting to win the competition:). So thank you for that.
I could also taste the cafe’s drinks and the confectionery chocolates. I throughly enjoyed the yoga class, the MFC attended to try and find out more about the murder.
The drawback for me was, I knew who did it rather quickly…there was a pivotal scene that clinched it for me.
I feel like this series, is pointed toward the Hallmark channel. I could see a few of the well known actresses and actors cast for the roles.
Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader. I really did enjoy this work, I just wish I hadn’t figured it out so quickly.
September 29, 2024
This is book 3 in the Camelot Flowers Mysteries series but I promise you don’t need to read the first two books to enjoy this one!
Sunflowers, Scarecrows, and Scandal is a delightful cozy mystery. The characters are likeable and funny. Having not read the first two books, I was worried I might feel out of the loop but I didn’t feel that way at all! The author does a great job at telling their history without taking you out of the current story if that makes sense?
The story moves at good pace with some twists and turns. Plus, I can’t resist small town autumn vibes 🍂
If you enjoy watching Hallmark mysteries, I know you’ll enjoy reading this book! Curl up on the couch, sip your tea and crack open this book for a cozy evening 🧡
Thank you to Erica Wynters for providing an arc copy in exchange of an honest review.
Sunflowers, Scarecrows, and Scandal is a delightful cozy mystery. The characters are likeable and funny. Having not read the first two books, I was worried I might feel out of the loop but I didn’t feel that way at all! The author does a great job at telling their history without taking you out of the current story if that makes sense?
The story moves at good pace with some twists and turns. Plus, I can’t resist small town autumn vibes 🍂
If you enjoy watching Hallmark mysteries, I know you’ll enjoy reading this book! Curl up on the couch, sip your tea and crack open this book for a cozy evening 🧡
Thank you to Erica Wynters for providing an arc copy in exchange of an honest review.
September 2, 2024
This was a cozy fall mystery.
It was a quick read for me that kept me entertained the whole way through. There were things in there that didn't really lead anywhere such as her shooting lesson and the second possible murder weapon was the red herring that wasn't. It basically said someone else who may have done it had one but we won't follow up on that at all. Why the costume? Also I could've also done without the love letter to taylor swift at the end.
I had not read the first 2 book in the series and based on this one I think that I would be interested in reading them but this book is okay to read as a stand alone.
I received an ARC of this book for free and this is an unbiased voluntary review.
It was a quick read for me that kept me entertained the whole way through. There were things in there that didn't really lead anywhere such as her shooting lesson and the second possible murder weapon was the red herring that wasn't. It basically said someone else who may have done it had one but we won't follow up on that at all. Why the costume? Also I could've also done without the love letter to taylor swift at the end.
I had not read the first 2 book in the series and based on this one I think that I would be interested in reading them but this book is okay to read as a stand alone.
I received an ARC of this book for free and this is an unbiased voluntary review.
September 4, 2024
The cover and title sucked me in.....I was intrigued and wanted to love this one. I'm not sure if it is meant to be a short story or simply a quick read but I wanted more. More descriptions, more build up, more believable conflict. I understand this is book 3 of a series, however I feel this one would read the same way whether I've read the first two books or not.
I felt there was a lot of repetition in the writing, also that the main character seemed younger than her written age - however that might be small town characteristics. I'm not sure a citizen would be able to be so involved in a murder case either so that seemed a little Nancy Drew to me.
I did enjoy the character of Penny and also the gun range scene.
Thank you for the opportunity of this ARC.
I felt there was a lot of repetition in the writing, also that the main character seemed younger than her written age - however that might be small town characteristics. I'm not sure a citizen would be able to be so involved in a murder case either so that seemed a little Nancy Drew to me.
I did enjoy the character of Penny and also the gun range scene.
Thank you for the opportunity of this ARC.
September 7, 2024
Such a cozy read, perfect for the upcoming spooky season. Just a hot drink, a cozy blanket and this book, is all you need.
This is I believe the 3rd book in a series but can be read as a standalone, I didn't read the other ones but didn't feel lost (although am curious about Gwen and Chris past relation).
I gathered from this book, that Gwen seems to find more dead bodies than the average person 🤣. She finds one, of what seems to be the most hated man in town. And this is the story of her trying to figure out who murdered him and getting herself in danger in the meantime. We also have a love interest I found very cute and family and friendship relations.
I didn't guess who committed the murder so win for the author eheh.
This is I believe the 3rd book in a series but can be read as a standalone, I didn't read the other ones but didn't feel lost (although am curious about Gwen and Chris past relation).
I gathered from this book, that Gwen seems to find more dead bodies than the average person 🤣. She finds one, of what seems to be the most hated man in town. And this is the story of her trying to figure out who murdered him and getting herself in danger in the meantime. We also have a love interest I found very cute and family and friendship relations.
I didn't guess who committed the murder so win for the author eheh.
September 18, 2024
What a fun Halloween time cozy mystery set in the small town of Star Junction, where everyone knows everyone and all the goings on in the town. The most recent talk of the town is the murder of Trevor, a not so liked man who has given a quite a few people a reason to kill him. Gwen finds herself in the middle of another murder investigation when she discovers his body disguised as a scarecrow in the city’s Halloween display. The sweet flirting banter between Gwen and Finn (a police detective) was fun to read while they worked together to unmask who murdered Trevor.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward reading more from Erica Wynters!
*I received an advanced reader copy and voluntarily give this review*
I really enjoyed this book and look forward reading more from Erica Wynters!
*I received an advanced reader copy and voluntarily give this review*
October 8, 2024
Guinevere is on the trail of who murdered Trevor, one of her neighbors. Sunflowers,scarecrows and scandal gives you all the fall feels and adds a little crime solving in the mix. This is a cute less than 300 pages read that follows the thought process of solving the mystery of who killed Trevor. Guinevere is the one who discovered the body and along with her detective skills ( she is not a detective but works in a flower shop that her mom owns) we see her look into who killed Trevor. Finn is her beau but it doesn’t start off as that they are just good friends. This book allowed you to go on the trail with Guinevere and Finn too and see if the crime could be solved. I found this book to be super cute and put a strong emphasis on friendship and family values.
January 31, 2025
I received a ARC copy of the book and I'm so sorry for the late review. I have been feeling horrible because this was a hard book for me to focus on reading. Thankfully I learned about the text to speech future and was able to complete the story.
Despite the book being hard for me to focus on, it's really entertaining. This was the first book in the series for me and I missed out on some key development from previous books but I was not lost. The mystery was decent. I enjoyed the side characters. I definitely will go back to listen/ read the other two. I'm also interested in reading more about Finn and Gwen story. I might also be invested in Penny's pregnancy and Chris's love life as well.
Despite the book being hard for me to focus on, it's really entertaining. This was the first book in the series for me and I missed out on some key development from previous books but I was not lost. The mystery was decent. I enjoyed the side characters. I definitely will go back to listen/ read the other two. I'm also interested in reading more about Finn and Gwen story. I might also be invested in Penny's pregnancy and Chris's love life as well.
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