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Candy-Coated Mystery #13
Fudge and Marriage
Only two things might ruin fudge maker Allie McMurphy’s wedding: murder—and her mother . . .
June is always beautiful on Mackinac Island, which is why Allie chose this month for her wedding to police officer Rex Manning—definitely Mackinac Island’s finest in more ways than one. But if her mother has her way, that’s the last choice Allie will get to make. Allie’s the furthest thing from a Bridezilla—but it looks like she has a Momzilla on her hands. Why else have her mother and extended family shown up a full two weeks before the nuptials to drive Allie to dizzying distraction?
Honestly, a murder investigation is far less stressful—and as it happens, Allie just found Velma French dead on the ground beside the rock that killed her, with her rival Myrtle sobbing nearby. Things don’t look good for Myrtle, but all may not be what it seems. Allie vows to solve the crime before she walks down the aisle. But a killer has other ideas – and they seem to be focused on Allie herself. . .
June is always beautiful on Mackinac Island, which is why Allie chose this month for her wedding to police officer Rex Manning—definitely Mackinac Island’s finest in more ways than one. But if her mother has her way, that’s the last choice Allie will get to make. Allie’s the furthest thing from a Bridezilla—but it looks like she has a Momzilla on her hands. Why else have her mother and extended family shown up a full two weeks before the nuptials to drive Allie to dizzying distraction?
Honestly, a murder investigation is far less stressful—and as it happens, Allie just found Velma French dead on the ground beside the rock that killed her, with her rival Myrtle sobbing nearby. Things don’t look good for Myrtle, but all may not be what it seems. Allie vows to solve the crime before she walks down the aisle. But a killer has other ideas – and they seem to be focused on Allie herself. . .
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 1, 2025
127 people are currently reading
258 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
April 2, 2025
Allie McMurphy and Rex Manning are planning their wedding and counting the days until the big event. Her mother unexpectedly arrives in town two weeks before the wedding and tries to change their wedding plans. But what her mother wants for her daughter’s wedding isn’t what Rex and Allie want. Her mother’s meddling has Allie stressed out and not as happy as a bride to be should feel. Then Allie finds a dead body near the library to add to her stress. She begins to get involved with the investigation hoping to help the police clear Myrtle Bautita from being the main suspect for the murder of Velma French. Who would want to kill an old lady and why would they want her dead?
I love these Candy - Coated mysteries. Fudge and Marriage is book 13 of the series. The location for these mysteries is Mackinac Island. I had the privilege of going to Mackinac Island with my husband for our honeymoon 55 years ago. Being familiar with the location makes it easy to visualize what the characters are seeing every day. I think these mysteries are witty and cute. Not the murders but how the characters go about solving who the real killer turns out to be. I was totally shocked by who the whodunnit turned out to be. Didn’t see it coming. I love it when the ending of a cozy mystery surprises me. There are recipes and a sneak peek into the next book in the series. Can’t wait for the next book.
I highly recommend this book to readers of Cozy Mystery. If you haven’t read the other books in this series you will be able to read this book without feeling like you are missing something. You might want to read the other books in the series because you enjoyed reading this one. This book is scheduled for release on 4/1/25.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
#FudgeandMarriage #NetGalley
I love these Candy - Coated mysteries. Fudge and Marriage is book 13 of the series. The location for these mysteries is Mackinac Island. I had the privilege of going to Mackinac Island with my husband for our honeymoon 55 years ago. Being familiar with the location makes it easy to visualize what the characters are seeing every day. I think these mysteries are witty and cute. Not the murders but how the characters go about solving who the real killer turns out to be. I was totally shocked by who the whodunnit turned out to be. Didn’t see it coming. I love it when the ending of a cozy mystery surprises me. There are recipes and a sneak peek into the next book in the series. Can’t wait for the next book.
I highly recommend this book to readers of Cozy Mystery. If you haven’t read the other books in this series you will be able to read this book without feeling like you are missing something. You might want to read the other books in the series because you enjoyed reading this one. This book is scheduled for release on 4/1/25.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
#FudgeandMarriage #NetGalley
April 1, 2025
"Fudge and Marriage (Candy-Coated Mysteries #14)" by Nancy Coco has Allie and Rex finally getting married. Everything is going as smoothly as it can until Allie's mom, yet again, shows up unannounced two weeks early. This time with Allie's snooty rich aunts and uncles. Of course her mom expects Allie to put them all in rooms at the McMurphy for free (kicking out paying guests) and drop everything she's doing to join them/her for lots of spa sessions, wedding planning (that's already done) and other activities. Nothing of which Allie even wants for herself or wedding.
Allie keeps saying she told her mother off about her behavior but she really doesn't. This is why her mother keeps taking over Allie's life whenever she's around. Allie may occasionally saying something but never backs it up with actions. She finally does a smidge towards the end of the book but not enough to really make her mom realize how overbearing she is.
That all being said, it just emphasizes that this book was overly dominated by the plot between Allie and her mother about the wedding. I think the mystery over a woman found dead with the supposed rock that then gets kicked in the lake by the victim's ex-husband was very overshadowed.
The victim finding scene seemed extremely familiar. I haven't figured out what book I read an almost identical body finding scene in. I know it's for sure been done before. Victim found dead with rock nearby that was clearly the weapon. Significant other is overly distraught and kicks the rock into nearby body of water. Amateur sleuth jumps in to retrieve it before evidence can be washed off.
Overall, I was kept in the story. Despite my extreme frustrations with Allie's lack of actual action towards her mother.
Allie keeps saying she told her mother off about her behavior but she really doesn't. This is why her mother keeps taking over Allie's life whenever she's around. Allie may occasionally saying something but never backs it up with actions. She finally does a smidge towards the end of the book but not enough to really make her mom realize how overbearing she is.
That all being said, it just emphasizes that this book was overly dominated by the plot between Allie and her mother about the wedding. I think the mystery over a woman found dead with the supposed rock that then gets kicked in the lake by the victim's ex-husband was very overshadowed.
The victim finding scene seemed extremely familiar. I haven't figured out what book I read an almost identical body finding scene in. I know it's for sure been done before. Victim found dead with rock nearby that was clearly the weapon. Significant other is overly distraught and kicks the rock into nearby body of water. Amateur sleuth jumps in to retrieve it before evidence can be washed off.
Overall, I was kept in the story. Despite my extreme frustrations with Allie's lack of actual action towards her mother.
January 7, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
Ah, how I love to go back to Mackinac island and solve murders with Allie! She really is one of my favourite female sleuths. Her love story with Rex is also the focus this time around, if only Allie to get time with him between planning her wedding, keeping her mom at bay and solving the island’s latest crime.
This series is one that you can read out of order, but I do recommend going back to previous books to keep track of all the characters. It helps give a background to the small town atmosphere of the books. They follow the usual cozy genre staples; small town, themed, murder mystery, female sleuth, police man love interest. But what they do is all of these things well, in that you remember them amongst the many cozies out there. You fall easily back into the familiarity of the island!
As always I had a fantastic time with this author. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Five stars.
Ah, how I love to go back to Mackinac island and solve murders with Allie! She really is one of my favourite female sleuths. Her love story with Rex is also the focus this time around, if only Allie to get time with him between planning her wedding, keeping her mom at bay and solving the island’s latest crime.
This series is one that you can read out of order, but I do recommend going back to previous books to keep track of all the characters. It helps give a background to the small town atmosphere of the books. They follow the usual cozy genre staples; small town, themed, murder mystery, female sleuth, police man love interest. But what they do is all of these things well, in that you remember them amongst the many cozies out there. You fall easily back into the familiarity of the island!
As always I had a fantastic time with this author. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Five stars.
December 16, 2024
Allie McMurphy’s hotel and fudge shop on Mackinac Island are her happy places, where her family history and personal future happily intertwine. With just two weeks to go before she marries fiance Rex Manning, Allie is shocked to find a body outside the library after returning her latest batch of wedding magazines. When her family turns up far too early for Allie’s liking, she throws herself into the murder investigation while also trying to avoid her mom's plan to reorganise the wedding to one befitting her only daughter. Can Allie find the killer before her big day, or will her and Rex's story have a far from happy ending?
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. Book 13 in this great series has everything I want in a cosy! A murder to investigate, a romance with hugs, hiccups, and misunderstandings, and a mom/daughter relationship to test the patience of a saint! I loved it.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. Book 13 in this great series has everything I want in a cosy! A murder to investigate, a romance with hugs, hiccups, and misunderstandings, and a mom/daughter relationship to test the patience of a saint! I loved it.
May 11, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Fudge maker Allie McMurphy and police officer Rex Manning’s wedding is just a couple of weeks away, and they want all their friends on Mackinac Island to attend, followed by a huge potluck. But Allie’s mother has other ideas. She expects a more fancy affair and has arrived two weeks early, along with her siblings and their spouses, to make sure the event meets her high standards. Everything from Allie’s dress to who can attend has turned her mother into a Momzilla.
While the last thing Rex and Allie need is a murder investigation, that is exactly what they get when Allie finds Velma French outside the library, dead with her bashed in and her friend/enemy Mrytle by her side, not too far from a rock/murder weapon. It isn’t long before Allie, assisted by her senior citizen friends is pulling out the stops to find out who killed Velma. Allie has her hands full, though, with her mother, who is trying to control Allie and her wedding.
Can Allie catch the killer before her wedding day? Or will the killer ruin the whole affair?
As a fan of this series, I have been waiting impatiently for this book to be released. Nancy Coco did not disappoint.
Allie McMurphy usually takes things in stride, finds solutions when needed, and holds her family fudge-making traditions dear. In Fudge and Marriage our protagonist is truly tested. Not only trying to catch a killer, but her mother is driving her absolutely crazy. Her mother is from a “quite rich… millionaire rich family,” and Allie gave up her trust fund to take over the McMurphy. We know Allie’s mother was unhappy with the life her daughter had chosen, and the man she would be marrying, but the woman was off the rails this visit. Thankfully, Allie’s Aunt Ginny is a strong woman in her own right. The author could have created two more different women, and she did an excellent job. I love the relationship that developed between Allie and her Aunt Ginny. I also loved that when her mother and her family went too far, Allie reared up and really stood up for herself, her friends, and Mackinac Island.
The wedding subplot was very well-written. There wasn’t a Bridezilla in the wedding party, but there was surely a Momzilla, and I felt so sorry for Allie. She had the wedding of her dreams planned, but the daily stress from her mother was truly over the top. Her meddling set up an expected surprise for one character that could have gone several ways. I enjoyed the real sense of community throughout the story, but especially as the wedding day arrived.
The mystery was well-plotted with many twists, turns, and suspects. Again, Allie’s bichon/poodle mix Mal makes an important discovery. Everyone, including me, thought we had nailed down the true guilty party until a huge twist turns grave, and Mal propels Allie into a serious showdown. The takedown was great too.
Fudge and Marriage is now my favorite book in this series. The characters are well-crafted and feel true to life. I felt so many emotions as Allie dealt with her mom. The story is one that will make you angry in places, joyful in others, but it will also tug at your heartstrings. The mystery will test you. The ending was perfect in its own way. The entire book was a Perfect Escape! Now I will anxiously wait for Some Like It Fudgy to be released.
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.
Fudge maker Allie McMurphy and police officer Rex Manning’s wedding is just a couple of weeks away, and they want all their friends on Mackinac Island to attend, followed by a huge potluck. But Allie’s mother has other ideas. She expects a more fancy affair and has arrived two weeks early, along with her siblings and their spouses, to make sure the event meets her high standards. Everything from Allie’s dress to who can attend has turned her mother into a Momzilla.
While the last thing Rex and Allie need is a murder investigation, that is exactly what they get when Allie finds Velma French outside the library, dead with her bashed in and her friend/enemy Mrytle by her side, not too far from a rock/murder weapon. It isn’t long before Allie, assisted by her senior citizen friends is pulling out the stops to find out who killed Velma. Allie has her hands full, though, with her mother, who is trying to control Allie and her wedding.
Can Allie catch the killer before her wedding day? Or will the killer ruin the whole affair?
As a fan of this series, I have been waiting impatiently for this book to be released. Nancy Coco did not disappoint.
Allie McMurphy usually takes things in stride, finds solutions when needed, and holds her family fudge-making traditions dear. In Fudge and Marriage our protagonist is truly tested. Not only trying to catch a killer, but her mother is driving her absolutely crazy. Her mother is from a “quite rich… millionaire rich family,” and Allie gave up her trust fund to take over the McMurphy. We know Allie’s mother was unhappy with the life her daughter had chosen, and the man she would be marrying, but the woman was off the rails this visit. Thankfully, Allie’s Aunt Ginny is a strong woman in her own right. The author could have created two more different women, and she did an excellent job. I love the relationship that developed between Allie and her Aunt Ginny. I also loved that when her mother and her family went too far, Allie reared up and really stood up for herself, her friends, and Mackinac Island.
The wedding subplot was very well-written. There wasn’t a Bridezilla in the wedding party, but there was surely a Momzilla, and I felt so sorry for Allie. She had the wedding of her dreams planned, but the daily stress from her mother was truly over the top. Her meddling set up an expected surprise for one character that could have gone several ways. I enjoyed the real sense of community throughout the story, but especially as the wedding day arrived.
The mystery was well-plotted with many twists, turns, and suspects. Again, Allie’s bichon/poodle mix Mal makes an important discovery. Everyone, including me, thought we had nailed down the true guilty party until a huge twist turns grave, and Mal propels Allie into a serious showdown. The takedown was great too.
Fudge and Marriage is now my favorite book in this series. The characters are well-crafted and feel true to life. I felt so many emotions as Allie dealt with her mom. The story is one that will make you angry in places, joyful in others, but it will also tug at your heartstrings. The mystery will test you. The ending was perfect in its own way. The entire book was a Perfect Escape! Now I will anxiously wait for Some Like It Fudgy to be released.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
November 20, 2025
Excellent cozy mystery! Great main characters! Love the smart animals! So happy about the wedding! Will never like Allie’s mother! Highly recommend this series!
March 14, 2025
“ Fudge and Marriage” book 14 in the Candy-Coated Mystery series by Nancy Coco. I really love this series and visiting Mackinac Island! Only two things might ruin fudge maker Allie McMurphy’s wedding: murder—and her mother . . .
I found myself engrossed in the story and reading in a couple days. The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and I loved the characters which are well developed.
I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. I did figure out who the villain was shortly before Allie did.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends and can’t wait for the next instalment to come out!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I found myself engrossed in the story and reading in a couple days. The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and I loved the characters which are well developed.
I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. I did figure out who the villain was shortly before Allie did.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends and can’t wait for the next instalment to come out!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 21, 2024
#FudgeandMarriage #NetGalley is a fantastic addition to this addictive series by Nancy Coco.
Allie and Rex are counting down the days until they get married, but when Allie's family show up 2 weeks early, she's ready to elope.
Allie's mother is a piece of work, and her attitude towards her daughter drove me crazy, but it was good to see her stand up to her and set her straight.
A tragic death tears the tight knit community apart and with her Aunt Ginny's help, Allie helps close another police investigation.
This series is charming, and the quiet life on Mackinac Island seems wonderful.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Allie and Rex are counting down the days until they get married, but when Allie's family show up 2 weeks early, she's ready to elope.
Allie's mother is a piece of work, and her attitude towards her daughter drove me crazy, but it was good to see her stand up to her and set her straight.
A tragic death tears the tight knit community apart and with her Aunt Ginny's help, Allie helps close another police investigation.
This series is charming, and the quiet life on Mackinac Island seems wonderful.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
March 19, 2025
I received an advance copy via NetGalley.
I've enjoyed CoCo's other work, but this is my first time delving into this series. It says a lot about the high quality of the writing that I had no problem at all getting immersed in the mystery and characters even though this was #13 in the series.
Allie runs a fudge shop on Mackinac Island. She's preparing to wed Rex, a local police officer, in a wedding that involves a public picnic and her dogs and everyone they know on the island. Complicating matters: Allie finds a local woman dead outside of the library, her long-time rival sobbing nearby with a blood-soaked rock on the ground. Complicating matters even more: Allie's elitist socialite mother shows up 2 weeks before the wedding, with other snobbish family in tow, determined that her only child will have a "proper wedding," meaning designer everything, a fancy venue, and family only. Allie needs to balance her own precarious mental health with a tricky murder investigation as the clock ticks down to her big day.
This book was such incredible fun. I've wanted to go to Mackinac Island since I was a teenager, thanks to the old movie Somewhere in Time, and I really want to try their famous fudge. This book, and this series, is probably providing the island with a tourism boost, as I want to go there even more now. Allie is a great, sympathetic character, and I love Rex and so many other cast members--but not her mother. Good grief, but the scenes with her mother gave me the kind of anxiety that most readers probably get from a horror novel. That helped contribute to a fast and breezy escapist read, which is just what I needed this week!
I've enjoyed CoCo's other work, but this is my first time delving into this series. It says a lot about the high quality of the writing that I had no problem at all getting immersed in the mystery and characters even though this was #13 in the series.
Allie runs a fudge shop on Mackinac Island. She's preparing to wed Rex, a local police officer, in a wedding that involves a public picnic and her dogs and everyone they know on the island. Complicating matters: Allie finds a local woman dead outside of the library, her long-time rival sobbing nearby with a blood-soaked rock on the ground. Complicating matters even more: Allie's elitist socialite mother shows up 2 weeks before the wedding, with other snobbish family in tow, determined that her only child will have a "proper wedding," meaning designer everything, a fancy venue, and family only. Allie needs to balance her own precarious mental health with a tricky murder investigation as the clock ticks down to her big day.
This book was such incredible fun. I've wanted to go to Mackinac Island since I was a teenager, thanks to the old movie Somewhere in Time, and I really want to try their famous fudge. This book, and this series, is probably providing the island with a tourism boost, as I want to go there even more now. Allie is a great, sympathetic character, and I love Rex and so many other cast members--but not her mother. Good grief, but the scenes with her mother gave me the kind of anxiety that most readers probably get from a horror novel. That helped contribute to a fast and breezy escapist read, which is just what I needed this week!
May 10, 2025
Awesome cozy mystery.what an adventure with the family.
August 25, 2025
Allie McMurphy is getting married to the man of her dreams at long last. It's supposed to be a simple ceremony in front of the whole island, outdoors and a pot luck reception. Allie can't help herself though and is busy reading wedding magazines and wedding planning books non-stop, when she's not making fudge and working at the hotel or walking her pup. While at the public library one day, she's rattled by the constant argument between Velma French and Myrtle Bautisa, two old ladies who have been at it since before Allie was born. No one remembers why their frenemiship got started but everyone agrees, it's a friendly rivalry marked by constant bickering. Allie thinks Myrtle may have gone too far in uttering a mean spirited comment to Velma, and when Allie leaves the library after the older women have departed, Allie discovers a trail of books leading to... Velma's dead body and Myrtle kneeling beside her old frenemy wailing! Velma's ex-husband comes yelling and kicks the stone that brutally bashed in Velma's head, which Allie feels the need to rescue for evidence. Rex believes the case is open and shut. Myrtle is guilty. Of course he'll do his job and investigate but leave it to him and don't get involved. Allie promises she won't. She's too busy with pre-wedding prep but when Irma, concerned about her friend Myrtle, begs Allie to investigate, Allie decides to help. She does it mainly because her mom and family have shown up 2 weeks early and her mom is trying to hijack Allie's wedding! Can Allie handle her family, solve the murder mystery and do everything she needs to do BEFORE the wedding and survive?
Wow! I put off reading this because I don't love Allie or Allie and Rex together but this was a great story! The mystery had enough red herrings and twists so I didn't see the reveal coming AT ALL! Allie's investigation is limited and the usual inevitable doesn't happen the way it usually does. She has a new sleuthing partner which is interesting. I could have done without the Momzilla and *itchy family subplot though. That made me grateful I never had any interest in marriage and my mom is not THAT controlling. The subplot seemed inspired by Gilmore Girls.
Allie has grown a lot since she arrived on the island after Papa Liam's death. She still only has 2 friends her own age from the island (other than Jenn) but two is better than the seniors who are her closest friends. We learn more about her childhood and what it was like growing up privileged GASP! Growing up with money comes with expectations and when a child doesn't appreciate the pressure to conform and rebels against those expectations, as Allie has done, then there are consequences. Allie doesn't mind and is happy with the life she has chosen. She has Rex, Jenn, the pets, Frances, Mr. Devaney, and the book club ladies as chosen family. Allie keeps her distance from her family of origin. Sleuthing is Allie's way of avoiding her family in this novel. Sweet Mal doesn't Rex is very swoony for a change. He really supports Allie and tries to make life easier for her. He's on the case but also getting ready for the wedding. He trusts Allie not to get involved but knows she will anyway. They experience none of their usual clashes. Rex has grown too. With this third wedding, he knows what he wants and how to be a better partner. We learn his backstory, finally. Allie didn't know which seems kind of weird. I'd like to know everything about my partner BEFORE I'd agree to marry them. No surprises on the wedding day or just before, as there are for Allie. Rex's backstory is surprising and perhaps he was drawn to Melonie because he wanted to rescue her Rex is tough and his experiences have shaped him for the better but he has a hard heart and doesn't want to make room for forgiveness.
Rex is wrong. There's no way Myrtle killed Velma. The two went at it like sisters and not mortal enemies. They had a rivalry forever so why kill her frenemy now? What would have happened to trigger that? Especially in broad daylight after everyone in the library witnessed their latest argument? That doesn't make sense. Myrtle's reaction was all too raw and real and unless she's an amazing actress and very crafty, she is not the killer. Velma's ex, Richard, is a more likely suspect. There are clues he was lying about his whereabouts at the time of murder and he kicks away the murder weapon into the water! Velma was looking into social security online and I expect he may have been stealing from her. I think Richard and/or his younger wife Julie did it. Julie seems protective of her man and greedy too. She plans a funeral for the same day as Allie's wedding and then informs Allie she better comes even though everyone on the island knows the wedding is happening and everyone is invited. This woman is rude.
Allie's family is toxic and horrid. I don't understand why, in all of these cozies, the mother is always fancy and always giving the heroine a hard time about her job/appearance/man. Allie's mother tops them all. Coming from a super wealthy family with mega generational wealth, Allie's mother chose to marry a "working class" (I'm sorry but police officer and hotel owner/fudge maker are not working class jobs) man, she has not heard the end of it from her family. Wanting a do-over, Allie's mother wants to impress her family with Allie's wedding and has invited 100 of her family and co-workers to the wedding. Allie has never met most of these people! Allie's dad and family don't even show up until later! Allie's mom is a momzilla who hijacks Allie's wedding plans. She fails to understand or accept Allie's choices because of her own fear of being shamed and shunned by her family. Mom that's your problem not Allie's. Allie doesn't give a flip! Allie's dress is beautiful boho chic, Mom's dress is vintage Dior! Allie's wedding is whole island invited to pot luck, Mom's is an intimate gathering (for 100) at The Grand with champagne. Allie's mom could care less what ALLIE, the BRIDE wants. Fortunately Allie grows a back bone eventually. I would have cut my mom off long ago.
As bad as Allie's mom is, her family is even worse. Felicity, her sister-in-law/sorority sister, is the worst. Felicity thinks the McMurphy is beneath her, Allie's unfashionable work clothes are rags and Allie's job is the worst thing in the world. She's rude and when she gets drunk, she's a mean drunk. Aunt Felicity is a *itch who needs to be banned from the island. Her husband doesn't really do anything to shut her down but seems OKish. Aunt Celeste seems like she could be OK too until they all end up insulting the entire island and Allie is livid! I would be too but Allie is for selfish reasons. SHE worked hard to prove she's not a Fudgie and belongs on the island and woe is her, her family is about to undo her hard work. She is sympathetic to the chef at least. Uncle John seems lovely. He's a farmer and understands the family mindset too. He arranges something the McMurphy doesn't offer normally because he knows the family will accept it. Aunt Ginny, dressed in designer clothes and shoes seems like she's going to be *itchy like the rest of the family but she's charming. She seems interested in Allie's work but mainly she's interested in Allie's hobby. Aunt Ginny fancies herself a Miss Marple or Jessica Fletcher and is eager to help Allie figure out who murdered Velma. Aunt Ginny fits right in with Carol, Betty and the rest of the book club.
Jenn tries to be supportive and stand up to Allie's mom but it's hard because her baby is sick and Jenn can't resist vintage Dior. So much for a gender neutral baby. Jenn has a son, Benji, who is almost one and still too young to articulate preferences. Allie loves her almost nephew and wishes for more time with him so she's understanding when Jenn can't always be there for her. Allie's friends are busy with their own lives.
This was the best mystery to date and it includes an excerpt for the next one. The recipes sound amazing too!
Wow! I put off reading this because I don't love Allie or Allie and Rex together but this was a great story! The mystery had enough red herrings and twists so I didn't see the reveal coming AT ALL! Allie's investigation is limited and the usual inevitable doesn't happen the way it usually does. She has a new sleuthing partner which is interesting. I could have done without the Momzilla and *itchy family subplot though. That made me grateful I never had any interest in marriage and my mom is not THAT controlling. The subplot seemed inspired by Gilmore Girls.
Allie has grown a lot since she arrived on the island after Papa Liam's death. She still only has 2 friends her own age from the island (other than Jenn) but two is better than the seniors who are her closest friends. We learn more about her childhood and what it was like growing up privileged GASP! Growing up with money comes with expectations and when a child doesn't appreciate the pressure to conform and rebels against those expectations, as Allie has done, then there are consequences. Allie doesn't mind and is happy with the life she has chosen. She has Rex, Jenn, the pets, Frances, Mr. Devaney, and the book club ladies as chosen family. Allie keeps her distance from her family of origin. Sleuthing is Allie's way of avoiding her family in this novel. Sweet Mal doesn't Rex is very swoony for a change. He really supports Allie and tries to make life easier for her. He's on the case but also getting ready for the wedding. He trusts Allie not to get involved but knows she will anyway. They experience none of their usual clashes. Rex has grown too. With this third wedding, he knows what he wants and how to be a better partner. We learn his backstory, finally. Allie didn't know which seems kind of weird. I'd like to know everything about my partner BEFORE I'd agree to marry them. No surprises on the wedding day or just before, as there are for Allie. Rex's backstory is surprising and perhaps he was drawn to Melonie because he wanted to rescue her Rex is tough and his experiences have shaped him for the better but he has a hard heart and doesn't want to make room for forgiveness.
Rex is wrong. There's no way Myrtle killed Velma. The two went at it like sisters and not mortal enemies. They had a rivalry forever so why kill her frenemy now? What would have happened to trigger that? Especially in broad daylight after everyone in the library witnessed their latest argument? That doesn't make sense. Myrtle's reaction was all too raw and real and unless she's an amazing actress and very crafty, she is not the killer. Velma's ex, Richard, is a more likely suspect. There are clues he was lying about his whereabouts at the time of murder and he kicks away the murder weapon into the water! Velma was looking into social security online and I expect he may have been stealing from her. I think Richard and/or his younger wife Julie did it. Julie seems protective of her man and greedy too. She plans a funeral for the same day as Allie's wedding and then informs Allie she better comes even though everyone on the island knows the wedding is happening and everyone is invited. This woman is rude.
Allie's family is toxic and horrid. I don't understand why, in all of these cozies, the mother is always fancy and always giving the heroine a hard time about her job/appearance/man. Allie's mother tops them all. Coming from a super wealthy family with mega generational wealth, Allie's mother chose to marry a "working class" (I'm sorry but police officer and hotel owner/fudge maker are not working class jobs) man, she has not heard the end of it from her family. Wanting a do-over, Allie's mother wants to impress her family with Allie's wedding and has invited 100 of her family and co-workers to the wedding. Allie has never met most of these people! Allie's dad and family don't even show up until later! Allie's mom is a momzilla who hijacks Allie's wedding plans. She fails to understand or accept Allie's choices because of her own fear of being shamed and shunned by her family. Mom that's your problem not Allie's. Allie doesn't give a flip! Allie's dress is beautiful boho chic, Mom's dress is vintage Dior! Allie's wedding is whole island invited to pot luck, Mom's is an intimate gathering (for 100) at The Grand with champagne. Allie's mom could care less what ALLIE, the BRIDE wants. Fortunately Allie grows a back bone eventually. I would have cut my mom off long ago.
As bad as Allie's mom is, her family is even worse. Felicity, her sister-in-law/sorority sister, is the worst. Felicity thinks the McMurphy is beneath her, Allie's unfashionable work clothes are rags and Allie's job is the worst thing in the world. She's rude and when she gets drunk, she's a mean drunk. Aunt Felicity is a *itch who needs to be banned from the island. Her husband doesn't really do anything to shut her down but seems OKish. Aunt Celeste seems like she could be OK too until they all end up insulting the entire island and Allie is livid! I would be too but Allie is for selfish reasons. SHE worked hard to prove she's not a Fudgie and belongs on the island and woe is her, her family is about to undo her hard work. She is sympathetic to the chef at least. Uncle John seems lovely. He's a farmer and understands the family mindset too. He arranges something the McMurphy doesn't offer normally because he knows the family will accept it. Aunt Ginny, dressed in designer clothes and shoes seems like she's going to be *itchy like the rest of the family but she's charming. She seems interested in Allie's work but mainly she's interested in Allie's hobby. Aunt Ginny fancies herself a Miss Marple or Jessica Fletcher and is eager to help Allie figure out who murdered Velma. Aunt Ginny fits right in with Carol, Betty and the rest of the book club.
Jenn tries to be supportive and stand up to Allie's mom but it's hard because her baby is sick and Jenn can't resist vintage Dior. So much for a gender neutral baby. Jenn has a son, Benji, who is almost one and still too young to articulate preferences. Allie loves her almost nephew and wishes for more time with him so she's understanding when Jenn can't always be there for her. Allie's friends are busy with their own lives.
This was the best mystery to date and it includes an excerpt for the next one. The recipes sound amazing too!
April 27, 2025
I loved this story and I love this series.
February 20, 2025
Fudge and Marriage is a strong and delightful addition to the Candy-Coated Mysteries. I love that author Nancy Coco has taken us through shifts on the island as time passes while she keeps the characters and over-all feel consistent. This combined consistency and change adds a element of reality to the cozy mystery genre that naturally stretches reality with a murder in everyone book and an amateur detective solving every crime. I love the genre, but I really need elements to be strong and realistic to balance that statistical anomaly. I adore the regular characters and would love to spend even more time with them. I enjoyed the fact that we saw a little more loving interaction between our favorite couple, not sex, love; sometimes I have wondered when they got enough time to develop a real relationship. That is as close as I come to a criticism of this fun, must-read cozy.
Between having her mother and a handful of snobbish relative arrive early and a murder that friends insist can't be the way it looks, it is a wonder that Allie can function. Her mother wants the debutant style wedding that she has always dreamed of for Allie while Allie and Rex want just the wedding they want planned, and it does not include thousands of dollars of items just to impress her wealthy relatives, nor does it exclude the community that they both love. The interpersonal relationships offer Allie a chance to stand out in a new way. I felt so sorry for how her mother makes her feel less, but I enjoyed watching her develop a strength that she usually can't find when her mom is around. Rex it too involved in the investigation to give her the backup that he would like to, but he provides the kind of support that she needs when he can. I hope we see couples time in future books.
The mystery plot follows the usual pattern for the series until it doesn't. I enjoy that pattern that includes the seniors providing bits that help the investigation come together. They are so fun!
My thanks to Net Galley and Kensington Cozies and allowing me to read an ARC of this delightful book. Fudge and Marriage is just right for the lead up to Allie and Rex's wedding. It is my favorite of the recent books, and I have loved all of them.
#NetGalley #KensingtonCozies #NancyCoco #FudgeandMarriage #CandyCoatedMystery
Between having her mother and a handful of snobbish relative arrive early and a murder that friends insist can't be the way it looks, it is a wonder that Allie can function. Her mother wants the debutant style wedding that she has always dreamed of for Allie while Allie and Rex want just the wedding they want planned, and it does not include thousands of dollars of items just to impress her wealthy relatives, nor does it exclude the community that they both love. The interpersonal relationships offer Allie a chance to stand out in a new way. I felt so sorry for how her mother makes her feel less, but I enjoyed watching her develop a strength that she usually can't find when her mom is around. Rex it too involved in the investigation to give her the backup that he would like to, but he provides the kind of support that she needs when he can. I hope we see couples time in future books.
The mystery plot follows the usual pattern for the series until it doesn't. I enjoy that pattern that includes the seniors providing bits that help the investigation come together. They are so fun!
My thanks to Net Galley and Kensington Cozies and allowing me to read an ARC of this delightful book. Fudge and Marriage is just right for the lead up to Allie and Rex's wedding. It is my favorite of the recent books, and I have loved all of them.
#NetGalley #KensingtonCozies #NancyCoco #FudgeandMarriage #CandyCoatedMystery
February 24, 2025
We are back on Mackinac island with Allie and the Hotel McMurphy. Allie and Rex are getting married in two weeks. When Allie is returning bridal magazines she happens upon two older ladies fighting over crafting books. When she leaves the library she finds one of the ladies dead. Allie's family descended on the island two weeks early. Putting a wrench into the investigation and the wedding planning. Allie's mother is pretentious and really annoying. Luckily her Aunt Ginny is wonderful and helps her deal with her mother. This book was so much fun to read and follow the clues. I love this series and I can't wait to see what happens next.
May 29, 2025
Maybe this has run it's course for me, but I found this to be more annoying than interesting.
February 27, 2025
✨ Book Review: Fudge and Marriage by Nancy Coco ✨
This was such a fun and charming cozy mystery! We’re here to celebrate Allie and Rex’s wedding, but of course, things don’t go as planned. On her way to a dress fitting, Allie stumbles upon a dead body, setting off a whirlwind of mystery, chaos, and family drama. With just weeks until the big day, she has to juggle wedding plans and solve a murder—no big deal, right?
I loved the mix of romance, humor, and suspense, and the wedding mayhem made it even more entertaining. If you love small-town mysteries with quirky characters and a dash of murder, this one’s for you!
💍🔎🍫 Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was such a fun and charming cozy mystery! We’re here to celebrate Allie and Rex’s wedding, but of course, things don’t go as planned. On her way to a dress fitting, Allie stumbles upon a dead body, setting off a whirlwind of mystery, chaos, and family drama. With just weeks until the big day, she has to juggle wedding plans and solve a murder—no big deal, right?
I loved the mix of romance, humor, and suspense, and the wedding mayhem made it even more entertaining. If you love small-town mysteries with quirky characters and a dash of murder, this one’s for you!
💍🔎🍫 Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 9, 2025
This is the thirteenth book in the candy-coated series. Allie is preparing for her wedding and her family coming to the island. A murder occurs outside of the library involving members of the senior center the Allie frequents. Allie has to balance wedding planning, family visits, and solving a murder.
I really love this series. It was great that we finally get to see Allie get marries. I did not like the things her mother was doing to change what Allie wanted for the wedding. I am glad her had her best friend, Jen, there to mediate. I love all the side characters and the setting of Mackinac Island. I can't wait to continue this series.
I really love this series. It was great that we finally get to see Allie get marries. I did not like the things her mother was doing to change what Allie wanted for the wedding. I am glad her had her best friend, Jen, there to mediate. I love all the side characters and the setting of Mackinac Island. I can't wait to continue this series.
July 2, 2025
Thank you to #Netgalley and #KensingtonCoziesr for the chance to read this book. Fudge and Marriage” book 14 in the Candy-Coated Mystery series by Nancy Coco. I fell in love with this series from the very first book. Mackinac Island sounds like a wonderful place to visit or even live and I love the characters. I highly recommend Fudge and Marriage and the whole series.
February 14, 2025
In FUDGE AND MARRIAGE, written by Nancy CoCo, Allie McMurphy, owner of the Mackinac Hotel and Fudge Shop, is getting married in two weeks to Rex Manning of the Mackinac Police. Allie leaves the Mackinac Library and finds Velma French dead on the ground with a rock, the murder weapon, next to her body. Who killed Velma and why?
This cozy mystery is number 13 in the Candy-Coated Mystery series, but it can be read as a stand-alone novel. I like that the murder victim appears early in the story, in the first chapter. The addition of recipes within the text is appreciated. I do think there are a lot of characters to keep track of. Allie’s personal problems are accentuated by her mother (a Momzilla) and her extended family arriving two weeks ahead of the wedding. I find the Mackinac setting inviting, perfect for this mystery, and I look forward to reading other books in the series. Thank you, Kensington Publishing and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of FUDGE AND MARRIAGE.
This cozy mystery is number 13 in the Candy-Coated Mystery series, but it can be read as a stand-alone novel. I like that the murder victim appears early in the story, in the first chapter. The addition of recipes within the text is appreciated. I do think there are a lot of characters to keep track of. Allie’s personal problems are accentuated by her mother (a Momzilla) and her extended family arriving two weeks ahead of the wedding. I find the Mackinac setting inviting, perfect for this mystery, and I look forward to reading other books in the series. Thank you, Kensington Publishing and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of FUDGE AND MARRIAGE.
February 15, 2025
Allie and Rex are finally getting married. Only two weeks to go, but Allie finds a body outside the library and her Mom shows up to re-do the wedding plans. Allie concentrates on the murder to avoid her managing mother, but both situations leave her a bit stymied. I found the second half of the book to be more focused and have some good tension to keep the reader interested. Love these characters and this setting and am glad Allie does get her HEA.
I received an advanced copy of the book in exchange for a review.
I received an advanced copy of the book in exchange for a review.
April 2, 2025
When Allie’s mom and relatives showed up too early for Allie and Rex’s wedding, I was ready to have a word with the woman myself, lol. But Jenn as bestie and wedding planner went to bat for Allie more than once, and I was proud of Allie herself for finally standing up to the ridiculousness her mom insisted on with some things.
And of course it wouldn’t be our Allie without her getting involved in a murder investigation. I’ve been to the Mackinac Library and thought it was really cool that some of the scenes were in there—such an awesome place! Unfortunately outside was where the murder scene ended up and this time I hadn’t guessed whodunit at all.
Allie and Rex are always gonna always remember their wedding day, that’s for sure! What a crazy showdown and Allie had a cool sleuthing buddy in the form of the only non-uppity aunt she had. I’d love to see Aunt Ginny visit again sometime, she was pretty awesome. Thanks to her good island friends and sweet Rex, Allie and he got their happily ever after as planned. I didn’t want this book to end but as always, the excerpt of the next book at the end kinda serves as a little bridge to make the Mackinac magic last just a little longer. I can’t wait to read the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
And of course it wouldn’t be our Allie without her getting involved in a murder investigation. I’ve been to the Mackinac Library and thought it was really cool that some of the scenes were in there—such an awesome place! Unfortunately outside was where the murder scene ended up and this time I hadn’t guessed whodunit at all.
Allie and Rex are always gonna always remember their wedding day, that’s for sure! What a crazy showdown and Allie had a cool sleuthing buddy in the form of the only non-uppity aunt she had. I’d love to see Aunt Ginny visit again sometime, she was pretty awesome. Thanks to her good island friends and sweet Rex, Allie and he got their happily ever after as planned. I didn’t want this book to end but as always, the excerpt of the next book at the end kinda serves as a little bridge to make the Mackinac magic last just a little longer. I can’t wait to read the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
August 28, 2025
This whole retcon of Allie and her family as extremely rich, her mother becoming a monster, the backstories changing wildly...what was the purpose? What was wrong with Allie being a normal person? Now even Rex is also rich? What is the point of any of this?
This book was marginally better, in that Aunt Ginny was a mildly interesting addition, but the mystery was pushed to the back burner and was being superficial. Instead it was endless infuriating family drama. Could not have hated it more; relieved I'm finally done with this series.
This book was marginally better, in that Aunt Ginny was a mildly interesting addition, but the mystery was pushed to the back burner and was being superficial. Instead it was endless infuriating family drama. Could not have hated it more; relieved I'm finally done with this series.
June 15, 2025
I love this series. While I rated this a 4 star, I almost rated it as a 3 star because of Allie’s mother. Her behavior was atrocious and I know if that had been my Mom, I would have disowned her. In fact, her whole family was awful with the exception of her Dad, her Aunt Ginny and her Uncle (Ginny’s husband). They made it hard to enjoy the story.
June 6, 2025
I love Mackinac Island, so I love this series set there. I like Allie and her friends and all the situations they get into. I didn’t like Allie’s mom and her stubbornness and manipulative behavior. She’s the reason I didn’t give the book 4 stars. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
June 2, 2025
This was a cute story in the series. However, Allie's mother really annoyed me, and I was kind of disappointed in the ending. The motive for the murder was kind of lame, and I did not want Allie's mother to get her way in anything related to the wedding.
October 31, 2024
OMG was this such a fun read!! Well, except for Allie's mother. Man did I want to clobber some sense into that woman for pushing her daughter away (it carries over from the previous book). I'm glad I didn't grow up like that.
The social event of the season is Allie McMurphy, hotel proprietor, fudge maker and amateur sleuth, is finally marrying Officer Rex Manning of the local Mackinac police force. Unfortunately, two weeks prior to the big event Allie finds another body. To make things worse, her mother shows up with a passel of obnoxious and judgy relatives and expects Allie to just drop everything and accommodate her (ARGH this still makes me mad just typing that). Her mother shows up 2 weeks earlier than planned and then tries to hijack the wedding. Everything Allie wants isn't proper for a society girl and her mother intends to show off to her ridiculous family. So in between trying to solve the murder, wedding planning and her overbearing mother, Allie is coming apart at the seams.
Her bachelorette party absolutely steals the show in this book (no spoilers).
I read this book in two sittings. Once again Nancy Coco manages to make the island a true supporting character to the plot. I love how she does this with almost every book. I found this cozy to be delightful and fun and I think it is definitely one I would read again in the future.
My thanks to Kensington Cozies and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The social event of the season is Allie McMurphy, hotel proprietor, fudge maker and amateur sleuth, is finally marrying Officer Rex Manning of the local Mackinac police force. Unfortunately, two weeks prior to the big event Allie finds another body. To make things worse, her mother shows up with a passel of obnoxious and judgy relatives and expects Allie to just drop everything and accommodate her (ARGH this still makes me mad just typing that). Her mother shows up 2 weeks earlier than planned and then tries to hijack the wedding. Everything Allie wants isn't proper for a society girl and her mother intends to show off to her ridiculous family. So in between trying to solve the murder, wedding planning and her overbearing mother, Allie is coming apart at the seams.
Her bachelorette party absolutely steals the show in this book (no spoilers).
I read this book in two sittings. Once again Nancy Coco manages to make the island a true supporting character to the plot. I love how she does this with almost every book. I found this cozy to be delightful and fun and I think it is definitely one I would read again in the future.
My thanks to Kensington Cozies and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2024
Fudge and Marriage
by Nancy Coco is a great culinary cozy mystery that is the the fourteenth book in the Candy-Coated Mystery series.
I’ve enjoyed this series so far, and I liked this newest one where Allie has to balance investigating a local murder/mystery while counting down the days until her wedding to Rex. Her family is driving her crazy, and I can definitely sympathize with that as wedding plans can be stressful, especially when there are feelings and family involved.
I liked the mystery, the progression, and the early summer vibe. I will definitely continue to read this series.
Here’s to the next installment!
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 4/1/25.
by Nancy Coco is a great culinary cozy mystery that is the the fourteenth book in the Candy-Coated Mystery series.
I’ve enjoyed this series so far, and I liked this newest one where Allie has to balance investigating a local murder/mystery while counting down the days until her wedding to Rex. Her family is driving her crazy, and I can definitely sympathize with that as wedding plans can be stressful, especially when there are feelings and family involved.
I liked the mystery, the progression, and the early summer vibe. I will definitely continue to read this series.
Here’s to the next installment!
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 4/1/25.
October 28, 2024
The snooty family invasion two weeks early and Allie's normal reaction to their machinations threaten to overshadow the investigation of the murder. The family drama is major in this story and makes more sense to devoted readers of the series. Allie found the body behind the library and rescued the murder weapon from the lake, much to the consternation of her fiancé, Rex, who is the top cop on the island. But investigate they do and a good investigation, too!
The book is punctuated with delicious chocolate fudge recipes every few chapters.
Mackinac Island is located between the mitten tip and the UP of Michigan and one of the things that make it so special is the ban against motorized vehicles (except emergency vehicles).
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected proof from Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you
Avail Apr 01, 2025 #FudgeandMarriage by Nancy Coco #CandyCoatedMysteriesBk13 #NetGalley @KensingtonBooks
The book is punctuated with delicious chocolate fudge recipes every few chapters.
Mackinac Island is located between the mitten tip and the UP of Michigan and one of the things that make it so special is the ban against motorized vehicles (except emergency vehicles).
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected proof from Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you
Avail Apr 01, 2025 #FudgeandMarriage by Nancy Coco #CandyCoatedMysteriesBk13 #NetGalley @KensingtonBooks
October 31, 2024
Another great mystery! This visit to Mackinac Island finds Allie only two weeks away from her wedding. While trying to find more books to help her prepare she witnesses a fight between to senior citizens. When she leaves the library, she finds one dead and a mystery that she must solve before she says "I, do." With a host of quirky characters and a mother who might drive her nuts, it is a race to find the killer and get down the aisle. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next! Thank you to Netgalley and Kennsington Publishing for the advanced copy.
May 4, 2025
This one was tough to get through. The treatment of Allie by her mother was hard to read. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one who may have been hoping that Allie's mom might be the victim in this latest installment of the series. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for review.
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