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Country Store Mystery #13
Scone Cold Dead
After a body is found in a local farmer’s field, country store and café owner Robbie Jordan suspects that a newcomer in South Lick, Indiana, may not be a stranger to everyone in town . . .
Robbie is just weeks away from giving birth. While her husband Abe scrambles to get the house ready for their baby’s arrival, Robbie makes last minute arrangements to keep her shop and restaurant, Pans ’N Pancakes, up and running when she’s on maternity leave. And it seems Robbie and Abe aren’t the only ones grappling with anxiety—a stranger is causing a stir in town and Robbie’s Aunt Adele appears unusually preoccupied at the baby shower . . .
But when someone finds a body in the ram field on Adele’s sheep farm, it’s Robbie’s turn to be worried. Especially after Chief Buck Bird uncovers a troubling link between Adele and the possible murder victim. Robbie has no choice but to knit the clues together and solve this mystery before anything else gets flocked up . . .
Includes Recipes for You to Try!
Robbie is just weeks away from giving birth. While her husband Abe scrambles to get the house ready for their baby’s arrival, Robbie makes last minute arrangements to keep her shop and restaurant, Pans ’N Pancakes, up and running when she’s on maternity leave. And it seems Robbie and Abe aren’t the only ones grappling with anxiety—a stranger is causing a stir in town and Robbie’s Aunt Adele appears unusually preoccupied at the baby shower . . .
But when someone finds a body in the ram field on Adele’s sheep farm, it’s Robbie’s turn to be worried. Especially after Chief Buck Bird uncovers a troubling link between Adele and the possible murder victim. Robbie has no choice but to knit the clues together and solve this mystery before anything else gets flocked up . . .
Includes Recipes for You to Try!
321 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2025
330 people are currently reading
4152 people want to read
About the author
Maddie Day
29 books1,560 followersMaddie Day is a pseudonym for Agatha Award-winning mystery author Edith Maxwell.
As Maddie Day, Edith writes the Country Store Mysteries, from Kensington, set in southern Indiana. Maddie lived in the area some years ago and loves writing the adventures of Robbie Jordan, a country store owner and chef in South Lick, Indiana.
She also writes the Cozy Capers Book Group Mysteries, with bike shop owner Mackenzie Almeida and her cozy mystery book group solving murders in a fictional Cape Cod village.
Her new Cece Barton Mysteries series, set northern California wine country, releases in fall, 2023
Please see Edith Maxwell's author page for more information about her other mystery series and her award-winning short stories.
As Maddie Day, Edith writes the Country Store Mysteries, from Kensington, set in southern Indiana. Maddie lived in the area some years ago and loves writing the adventures of Robbie Jordan, a country store owner and chef in South Lick, Indiana.
She also writes the Cozy Capers Book Group Mysteries, with bike shop owner Mackenzie Almeida and her cozy mystery book group solving murders in a fictional Cape Cod village.
Her new Cece Barton Mysteries series, set northern California wine country, releases in fall, 2023
Please see Edith Maxwell's author page for more information about her other mystery series and her award-winning short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
February 21, 2025
Such a wonderful series with memorable characters and moments. Robbie is a great lead, and I love her different personas... niece, friend, business owner, server, mother, stepmother, wife, amateur sleuth. When so often her friends are accused of murder, one wonders if she's in their life to maintain the order. That said, she does much of it from her restaurant/store given she's 8+ months pregnant, tho she takes a few too many risks in my opinion. But unmask the killer she does, and I am so thrilled to see the progress in her journey over 13 books. I found myself wondering tho... it ends on a note where the series could be ending. I hope not, but if it does, I am a big fan. There is hope, it may just be a quiet conclusion before her new role as a mother who investigates!
January 10, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
I’ve read a couple of books in this series, but it’s been a while and things have moved along considerably since then. Robbie, our leading sleuth, is just about to have her first baby. Some of the team are about to move on, and new central characters will take place in future books.
Now, while I enjoyed revisiting Pans and Pancakes, this book felt like a bridging novel. It’s hard to have a cozy mystery without the actual murder being confirmed, and in this case, didn’t actually happen. There’s also so much cooking and stopping to put her feet up and peeing (so pretty much an accurate pregnancy) that the book gets a bit bogged down. I think I’d like to read the next one and see where this story goes from here.
If you’re a long time reader of the series then I suspect you’ll enjoy this one too. However if this series is new to you, it’s better to go back and read some of the previous additions.
I’ve read a couple of books in this series, but it’s been a while and things have moved along considerably since then. Robbie, our leading sleuth, is just about to have her first baby. Some of the team are about to move on, and new central characters will take place in future books.
Now, while I enjoyed revisiting Pans and Pancakes, this book felt like a bridging novel. It’s hard to have a cozy mystery without the actual murder being confirmed, and in this case, didn’t actually happen. There’s also so much cooking and stopping to put her feet up and peeing (so pretty much an accurate pregnancy) that the book gets a bit bogged down. I think I’d like to read the next one and see where this story goes from here.
If you’re a long time reader of the series then I suspect you’ll enjoy this one too. However if this series is new to you, it’s better to go back and read some of the previous additions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2025
Scone Cold Dead is a cute cozy mystery, with a seasoned sleuther FMC, and a very mysterious murder.
Robbie, the FMC of the story, is hoping for no more murders as she approaches her baby's due date. But lo and behold, a mysterious murder occurs anyway, and the body is found on her Aunt's farm! Robbie tries her best not to get involved with solving another murder, but she cannot help herself and does some investigating of her own, while also sharing any clues she finds with the local police.
The case of the mysterious murder continues to get more mysterious as more and more members of the small town seem to have had some connection to, or knew the victim, from their past.
Robbie works in and owns Pans N Pancakes, a breakfast and lunch diner that provides comfort food for locals and tourists. I really enjoyed the cafe, where most of the story takes place, and all the descriptions of the yummy food being made or served, I kept wanting breakfast and pastries! I love that the end of the story does have recipes for some of the delicious sounding food items that Robbie made in her restaurant during the story. I enjoyed the other main side characters as well, the Police Buck, he was funny, I could not imagine how he would eat so much food every day, and sometimes twice a day! There was some suspense too with Robbie and one of the other town newcomers, that keeps you on your toes.
While I haven't read the other stories in this series, I really enjoyed reading Scone Cold Dead. I recommend this for any cozy mystery fan, and especially those who enjoy a cozy mystery that includes recipes!
Thank you to Netgalley, Kensington Books, and the author for a review copy of this book!
Robbie, the FMC of the story, is hoping for no more murders as she approaches her baby's due date. But lo and behold, a mysterious murder occurs anyway, and the body is found on her Aunt's farm! Robbie tries her best not to get involved with solving another murder, but she cannot help herself and does some investigating of her own, while also sharing any clues she finds with the local police.
The case of the mysterious murder continues to get more mysterious as more and more members of the small town seem to have had some connection to, or knew the victim, from their past.
Robbie works in and owns Pans N Pancakes, a breakfast and lunch diner that provides comfort food for locals and tourists. I really enjoyed the cafe, where most of the story takes place, and all the descriptions of the yummy food being made or served, I kept wanting breakfast and pastries! I love that the end of the story does have recipes for some of the delicious sounding food items that Robbie made in her restaurant during the story. I enjoyed the other main side characters as well, the Police Buck, he was funny, I could not imagine how he would eat so much food every day, and sometimes twice a day! There was some suspense too with Robbie and one of the other town newcomers, that keeps you on your toes.
While I haven't read the other stories in this series, I really enjoyed reading Scone Cold Dead. I recommend this for any cozy mystery fan, and especially those who enjoy a cozy mystery that includes recipes!
Thank you to Netgalley, Kensington Books, and the author for a review copy of this book!
October 10, 2024
Scone Cold Dead by Maddie Day is a great culinary cozy mystery that is the 13th book in the Country Store Mystery series.
This is a cute series that I have followed from the very beginning. I feel like Robbie and her family are almost part of my own at this point.
Try as she might, she just cannot shake the amateur sleuthing despite trying to tow the line in the last few weeks of her pregnancy. However, when potential connections between a murder victim and one of her own come into light…a girl has to do what a girl has to do.
A nice addition to the series.
4/5 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.
This is a cute series that I have followed from the very beginning. I feel like Robbie and her family are almost part of my own at this point.
Try as she might, she just cannot shake the amateur sleuthing despite trying to tow the line in the last few weeks of her pregnancy. However, when potential connections between a murder victim and one of her own come into light…a girl has to do what a girl has to do.
A nice addition to the series.
4/5 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.
May 3, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Robbie and Abe are so excited as the birth of their baby gets closer. Abe is finishing up getting everything ready at home while Robbie gets her staff at Pans ’N Pancakes ready for her to go on maternity leave.
Then, a mysterious man comes to town looking for Robbie’s Aunt Adele. Others seem to know him, too. Before he can meet with Adele, his body is found on Adele’s sheep farm in the ram field. When Chief Buck Bird learns the man had a past connection to Adele, he needs answers. Adele becomes pretty tight-lipped about the whole situation.
Could Adele be responsible for the man’s death? The last thing Robbie needs at eight and a half months pregnant is another murder investigation, but she has to clear her Aunt Adele any way she can.
The characters Maddie Day has created for this series are stellar. I became invested in them in Book 1, Flipped for Murder. In every installment of this series, they have grown in realistic ways. New characters were introduced, and all had a purpose and made the series stronger. Robbie has made a true home in South Lick, Indiana. She made new friends and fell in love. She has become a beloved member of the community and made her Pans ’N Pancakes a welcoming place for South Lick residents and tourists. The woman has a huge heart and will help anyone in need, even if they are a suspect in a murder. This time, she scared me a bit with “practice contractions” and her little ventures to check some things out.
The mystery in Scone Cold Dead is a little different and has a slower pace, mostly due to Robbie’s delicate condition. She stopped herself several times, thinking about the baby she was carrying, trying to be extra careful when she went off to investigate. There were several twists to unravel, but I closed in on the final one a bit before the characters.
The birth of Robbie and Abe’s baby had a bit of excitement, but everyone ended the story just fine. With this being the final book in the series, Ms. Day left all the characters in good places. Some moving on to new adventures, others are firmly in place where they are meant to be, and one with some exciting news. I am really sad that this will be my last visit to the wonderful little town of South Lick.
Scone Cold Dead is filled with well-developed characters and a well-plotted mystery. I have looked forward to each new book in this series and enjoyed them all. I highly recommend the entire Country Store Mystery series. If you have missed it, please start at the beginning and enjoy seeing the characters evolve and grow. If you are a fan, you will love this story and be both happy and sad at the end.
Thank you, Maddie Day, for taking us along on Robbie’s journey. It has been quite a run. She is a character I won’t forget. She is right: She “had a knack for solving murders, but that has no place in a baby’s life” – A perfect ending for the series and a Perfect Escape.
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 the author, Kensington Cozies, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Robbie and Abe are so excited as the birth of their baby gets closer. Abe is finishing up getting everything ready at home while Robbie gets her staff at Pans ’N Pancakes ready for her to go on maternity leave.
Then, a mysterious man comes to town looking for Robbie’s Aunt Adele. Others seem to know him, too. Before he can meet with Adele, his body is found on Adele’s sheep farm in the ram field. When Chief Buck Bird learns the man had a past connection to Adele, he needs answers. Adele becomes pretty tight-lipped about the whole situation.
Could Adele be responsible for the man’s death? The last thing Robbie needs at eight and a half months pregnant is another murder investigation, but she has to clear her Aunt Adele any way she can.
The characters Maddie Day has created for this series are stellar. I became invested in them in Book 1, Flipped for Murder. In every installment of this series, they have grown in realistic ways. New characters were introduced, and all had a purpose and made the series stronger. Robbie has made a true home in South Lick, Indiana. She made new friends and fell in love. She has become a beloved member of the community and made her Pans ’N Pancakes a welcoming place for South Lick residents and tourists. The woman has a huge heart and will help anyone in need, even if they are a suspect in a murder. This time, she scared me a bit with “practice contractions” and her little ventures to check some things out.
The mystery in Scone Cold Dead is a little different and has a slower pace, mostly due to Robbie’s delicate condition. She stopped herself several times, thinking about the baby she was carrying, trying to be extra careful when she went off to investigate. There were several twists to unravel, but I closed in on the final one a bit before the characters.
The birth of Robbie and Abe’s baby had a bit of excitement, but everyone ended the story just fine. With this being the final book in the series, Ms. Day left all the characters in good places. Some moving on to new adventures, others are firmly in place where they are meant to be, and one with some exciting news. I am really sad that this will be my last visit to the wonderful little town of South Lick.
Scone Cold Dead is filled with well-developed characters and a well-plotted mystery. I have looked forward to each new book in this series and enjoyed them all. I highly recommend the entire Country Store Mystery series. If you have missed it, please start at the beginning and enjoy seeing the characters evolve and grow. If you are a fan, you will love this story and be both happy and sad at the end.
Thank you, Maddie Day, for taking us along on Robbie’s journey. It has been quite a run. She is a character I won’t forget. She is right: She “had a knack for solving murders, but that has no place in a baby’s life” – A perfect ending for the series and a Perfect Escape.
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 the author, Kensington Cozies, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
February 20, 2025
I received a free copy from the publisher through Netgalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Scone Cold Dead is the thirteenth book in this series already and as one of my favorite cozy mystery series I was excited to return to this series for another mystery. My favorite part of this series is seeing Robbie live her life and how this developed and changes throughout the series. I also liked reading about the restaurant she runs and I like how much of the book takes place there. In this book Robbie is heavily pregnant and being due soon when another dead body appears.
The mystery was a good one mostly. I liked how it made sense for Robbie to get involved when people close to her were involved in the mystery. Although I always feel a bit conflicted when a main character who is pregnant gets into danger as it just doesn't seem smart or right to jump into danger with a baby in them. I did appreciate how Robbie was even more careful in this book and took her safety seriously, she told people were she went or took someone with her and did most of her sleuthing with other people around. I liked the secrets and history that came up throughout the mystery with people who had known the dead man in his past. I wasn't quite sure what to think of the reveal at the end as it felt a bit anticlimactic to me, but I could also see why the author decided to end it that way.
I liked reading more about Robbie, although I always feel a bit uncomfortable reading about pregnant main characters as I don't like reading about pregnancy and babies. Despite that I still had a great time with this book. Robbie is preparing for this change in her life and I also liked seeing the restaurant doing well, although some changes are going on there as well. It's fun to read more about all the familiar side characters and see how close all these characters are. This town and the character in it feel familiar and I like reading about them.
To summarize: I had a great time reading this one. While pregnancy and babies isn't a topic I like reading about I still enjoyed this book despite that. There is another mystery Robbie gets involved in and I liked all the history and secrets that were revealed after the dead body is found. I especially like the daily life parts with Robbie's life developing and changing throughout the series and reading about her running her restaurant and interacting with her fiends, family and employees. All in all this was another great book in the series and I hope there will be more to come.
Scone Cold Dead is the thirteenth book in this series already and as one of my favorite cozy mystery series I was excited to return to this series for another mystery. My favorite part of this series is seeing Robbie live her life and how this developed and changes throughout the series. I also liked reading about the restaurant she runs and I like how much of the book takes place there. In this book Robbie is heavily pregnant and being due soon when another dead body appears.
The mystery was a good one mostly. I liked how it made sense for Robbie to get involved when people close to her were involved in the mystery. Although I always feel a bit conflicted when a main character who is pregnant gets into danger as it just doesn't seem smart or right to jump into danger with a baby in them. I did appreciate how Robbie was even more careful in this book and took her safety seriously, she told people were she went or took someone with her and did most of her sleuthing with other people around. I liked the secrets and history that came up throughout the mystery with people who had known the dead man in his past. I wasn't quite sure what to think of the reveal at the end as it felt a bit anticlimactic to me, but I could also see why the author decided to end it that way.
I liked reading more about Robbie, although I always feel a bit uncomfortable reading about pregnant main characters as I don't like reading about pregnancy and babies. Despite that I still had a great time with this book. Robbie is preparing for this change in her life and I also liked seeing the restaurant doing well, although some changes are going on there as well. It's fun to read more about all the familiar side characters and see how close all these characters are. This town and the character in it feel familiar and I like reading about them.
To summarize: I had a great time reading this one. While pregnancy and babies isn't a topic I like reading about I still enjoyed this book despite that. There is another mystery Robbie gets involved in and I liked all the history and secrets that were revealed after the dead body is found. I especially like the daily life parts with Robbie's life developing and changing throughout the series and reading about her running her restaurant and interacting with her fiends, family and employees. All in all this was another great book in the series and I hope there will be more to come.
August 24, 2025
The resonant sound of the antique “cow bell “ bellows as customers enter “Pans & Pancakes”, for their home style meals.
It’s a place, Buck, the police chief, and many others frequent in the small town of South Lick, Indiana.
“Scone Cold Dead” is a Culinary cozy mystery!
In a town where everyone knows each other things go awry when a stranger appears and is then found dead in a field. It’s a mystery of who done it. Robbie, who not only owns Pans & Pancakes but is her own PI of sorts, is 9 months pregnant and finding it hard to relax when everyone is looking over their shoulder to figure out who killed Ivan.
Despite a suspected murder, “Scone Cold Dead” is a delicious wave of food, a ripple of true love, a small town bundle of family and friends abiding to support each other in the best and worst of times.
A fun read, highly recommend this waft of baked goods and down home cookin as the town of South Lick uncovers this mystery. Stars 4/5
Thanks to @kensington @netgalley @authormaddieday for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
It’s a place, Buck, the police chief, and many others frequent in the small town of South Lick, Indiana.
“Scone Cold Dead” is a Culinary cozy mystery!
In a town where everyone knows each other things go awry when a stranger appears and is then found dead in a field. It’s a mystery of who done it. Robbie, who not only owns Pans & Pancakes but is her own PI of sorts, is 9 months pregnant and finding it hard to relax when everyone is looking over their shoulder to figure out who killed Ivan.
Despite a suspected murder, “Scone Cold Dead” is a delicious wave of food, a ripple of true love, a small town bundle of family and friends abiding to support each other in the best and worst of times.
A fun read, highly recommend this waft of baked goods and down home cookin as the town of South Lick uncovers this mystery. Stars 4/5
Thanks to @kensington @netgalley @authormaddieday for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 30, 2025
Things are really heating up in Robbie Jordan's cafe! A baby on the way, winter storms possible, strangers causing many locals to behave oddly and of course a dead body has appeared. As always, a wonderfully woven plot and characters to delight and entertain! I honestly would love to be able to visit the crew at Pans and Pancakes! They are all so unique and interesting that I wish I could sip tea and visit with them. The mystery is well crafted and overlayed with other potential mysteries as well as the life events of each individual cast member. This is a wonderful cozy mystery series that you absolutely must start with the first book and enjoy reading each book to get the full enjoyment and connection to all the characters. I am already eagerly awaiting the next book in the series!
December 8, 2024
Scone Cold Dead (Country Store Mystery, #13) by Maddie Day opens with Robbie and her husband Abe preparing for the birth of their first child in a few weeks. When a stranger comes into Robbie's restaurant, Pans 'N Pancakes, asking about her aunt, Robbie is a bit uneasy about the situation. Then, the stranger is found dead in her aunt's field, and Robbie knows she must clear her aunt's name off the suspect list.
NetGalley, thank you for the Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) of this book. I really enjoy the author's writing, and I was ecstatic to receive a copy for free in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this story in the Country Store Mystery series, and I am looking forward to start it from the beginning after this latest edition so I can really get to know the backstory of each character. Most of the characters are likable, and it's not too hard to pick up on things from previous books despite me not reading a lot of the series. It definitely can be read as a stand alone book.
I found myself drawn into the story like I was really there with the rest of the characters. To me, that is what makes a book enjoyable ... forgetting that I am reading a book. Whenever I came up for air, it took me a couple of minutes to come back to reality.
Although there were a few slow spots, they didn't last for long, and I found myself wanting to rush through the story to find out what happened. The only complaint I do have is how often the main character talked about having pregnancy brain.
All in all, Scone Cold Dead (Country Store Mystery, #13) by Maddie Day is absolutely fantastic and perfect to escape reality. The expected publication date is April 1, 2025. I gave the story four out of five stars.
NetGalley, thank you for the Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) of this book. I really enjoy the author's writing, and I was ecstatic to receive a copy for free in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this story in the Country Store Mystery series, and I am looking forward to start it from the beginning after this latest edition so I can really get to know the backstory of each character. Most of the characters are likable, and it's not too hard to pick up on things from previous books despite me not reading a lot of the series. It definitely can be read as a stand alone book.
I found myself drawn into the story like I was really there with the rest of the characters. To me, that is what makes a book enjoyable ... forgetting that I am reading a book. Whenever I came up for air, it took me a couple of minutes to come back to reality.
Although there were a few slow spots, they didn't last for long, and I found myself wanting to rush through the story to find out what happened. The only complaint I do have is how often the main character talked about having pregnancy brain.
All in all, Scone Cold Dead (Country Store Mystery, #13) by Maddie Day is absolutely fantastic and perfect to escape reality. The expected publication date is April 1, 2025. I gave the story four out of five stars.
December 27, 2025
I THINK THIS IS MY 2ND 'FINAL BOOK IN A SERIES' IN A ROW. THAT SAID, THIS IS UNDOUBTABLY THE BEST BOOK IN THE SERIES!
SERIES PREMISE: In this series we follow Robbie Jordan who runs a part B&B, Part Country Store and Part Diner in Sout Lick in Indiana.
In this book: Robbie meets a stranger at her Diner 'Pans & Pancakes'. This is not out of the norm, given many tourists stop by all the time. However, what is surprising is that many seem to know the man they just can't recall where from. However, when his body is found dead on Robbie's Aunt's sheep farm, Robbie's mind goes into over-drive trying to work out what happened given she knows her Aunt did not kill him but would wind up a suspect.
THOUGHTS: It's incredibly sad that my only 5 star book for this entire series just so happened to be this 13th and final one.
The ending made it obvious that the series is over and while I initially planned to end my journey here anyway (not having enjoyed the majority of the latest works) I definitely would have continued on if this wasn't the last book.
Maddie Day put her all into this one making it the cozies of all 13 books by far. The mystery was also very intriuging.
I also want to take this opportunity to thank Laural Merlington for her amazing work narrating the series and hope to read more of not only Maddie Day's works in furture but also listen to more from Merlington too.
Thank you for an incredibly fitting conclusion to this series Maddie Day!
5 Stars!
xoxo.
SERIES PREMISE: In this series we follow Robbie Jordan who runs a part B&B, Part Country Store and Part Diner in Sout Lick in Indiana.
In this book: Robbie meets a stranger at her Diner 'Pans & Pancakes'. This is not out of the norm, given many tourists stop by all the time. However, what is surprising is that many seem to know the man they just can't recall where from. However, when his body is found dead on Robbie's Aunt's sheep farm, Robbie's mind goes into over-drive trying to work out what happened given she knows her Aunt did not kill him but would wind up a suspect.
THOUGHTS: It's incredibly sad that my only 5 star book for this entire series just so happened to be this 13th and final one.
The ending made it obvious that the series is over and while I initially planned to end my journey here anyway (not having enjoyed the majority of the latest works) I definitely would have continued on if this wasn't the last book.
Maddie Day put her all into this one making it the cozies of all 13 books by far. The mystery was also very intriuging.
I also want to take this opportunity to thank Laural Merlington for her amazing work narrating the series and hope to read more of not only Maddie Day's works in furture but also listen to more from Merlington too.
Thank you for an incredibly fitting conclusion to this series Maddie Day!
5 Stars!
xoxo.
February 16, 2025
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, the weather is getting colder, and South Lick resident Robbie Jordan is very excited and fearful in equal measure! In just a couple of weeks, she and husband Abe will welcome their first child and, as the owner of Pans 'N Pancakes, probably half the town, are also counting down the days! So, when the body of a newcomer to the area is found in one of her Aunt Adele's fields, she is adamant, she's definitely not getting involved! But somehow, these things just seem to happen!
Book thirteen in Maddie Day's Country Store Mystery Series is a delightful read. The worries Robbie has as a first-time mom who has to hand over the reins of her beloved restaurant, if only for a few months, and then look after a new baby were just great! Added to that were some changes her friends and family were making, some impacting her directly, others not so much. Add the investigation to the mix, and taking it easy was not something Robbie was succeeding at! This was such a feel-good story that I wonder if the series is coming to a conclusion. I hope not, but if it is, it's a great way to end 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. This was very good and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Book thirteen in Maddie Day's Country Store Mystery Series is a delightful read. The worries Robbie has as a first-time mom who has to hand over the reins of her beloved restaurant, if only for a few months, and then look after a new baby were just great! Added to that were some changes her friends and family were making, some impacting her directly, others not so much. Add the investigation to the mix, and taking it easy was not something Robbie was succeeding at! This was such a feel-good story that I wonder if the series is coming to a conclusion. I hope not, but if it is, it's a great way to end 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. This was very good and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
February 8, 2025
I always love a trip back to South Lick and Pans and Pancakes! Robbie and her crew always make everyone feel welcome. When an older man, a stranger, shows up for lunch asking for her aunt and seems to make other long-term residents uncomfortable, Robbie has some questions. As she tries to behave herself with her due date only two weeks away, we know that Robbie is a curious lady regardless of her condition. When the gentleman ends up dead in her aunt Adele's sheep pasture questions must be asked and answered as Adele, Corrine, and others in town don't want to talk about the dead man. Was this murder or an accident? How is this man's past tied to various prominent citizens in town, and can Robbie stay out of trouble and keep her baby safe while still finding answers? This was a very satisfying read on many levels, I enjoy that Robbie is a smart woman with a wonderful support group. Is this the end of the series, I don't know, but it could be, and it would leave long-time readers satisfied. Many thanks to #Netgally, #KensingtonCozies, and the author for a chance to read. #SconeColdDead #CountryStoreMysteries, #MaddieDay #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
October 8, 2025
Robbie Jordan is days away from giving birth. While her husband Abe scrambles to get the house ready for their baby’s arrival, Robbie makes last minute arrangements to keep her shop and restaurant, Pans ’N Pancakes, up and running when she’s on maternity leave. When a body is found in the ram field on a relatives' sheep farm, it’s Robbie’s turn to be worried. Robbie has no choice but to knit the clues together and solve this mystery before anything else gets flocked up.
Even though I enjoyed reading this story, I felt really let down because it wasn't really a mystery. The biggest suspense of the novel was if and when Robbie would have her baby. Throughout most of the book, I went on the assumption that there was a murder while reading how Robbie was looking for clues and trying to figure out what happened. But the ending was a letdown, even though the baby arrived safely. I love this series and want to know what happens next and I hope there's going to be more installments. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
Even though I enjoyed reading this story, I felt really let down because it wasn't really a mystery. The biggest suspense of the novel was if and when Robbie would have her baby. Throughout most of the book, I went on the assumption that there was a murder while reading how Robbie was looking for clues and trying to figure out what happened. But the ending was a letdown, even though the baby arrived safely. I love this series and want to know what happens next and I hope there's going to be more installments. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
April 7, 2025
Maddie Day is one of those authors whose books I will always read. I read them because they are smart, funny, and enjoyable. The Country Store Mystery series is just one of those that I never want to see end. I love the characters, the setting, and, most of all, the mysteries. And there is nothing better than a pregnant Robbie waddling around to give me a chuckle. It does not come as a surprise that even getting ready to give birth, Robbie can’t help but get involved in another murder investigation. The mystery unravels, and the killer is found, but not before Robbie, as usual, finds herself in the middle of mayhem and madness. Catching the killer isn’t all that difficult, but doing it while pregnant makes things much more interesting and enjoyable. Readers who love this series will enjoy this book and the conclusion of the investigation.
April 9, 2025
Ooooh I loved this book so much. This is my comfort cozy series and this book just gave me all the warm and fuzzies. I am so excited for Robbie and honestly am so impressed by her strength and fortitude because I was exhausted just following her. I love all the honesty that she conveyed and how much love she had for her found family. Every character in this book had big growth steps in this one, which is why I keep coming back to series like these. I enjoyed (and so appreciated) seeing Robbie sleuth with her friends. The answers and result just seemed perfect somehow for the tone of this book and I love all twists along the way. Honestly, Robbie is such an open-minded caring person! The next book is going to be quite different (hopefully there is one!) and I cannot wait to see how it goes.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts are review are my own.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts are review are my own.
March 23, 2025
I just love good old Buck Bird in this series which I’ve enjoyed since its beginning! He’s got about as many colorful, colloquial sayings as a certain campground manager in another of my fave series. Buck always cracks me up how he can put away so much food, lol. Adele’s a pretty cool character but for a while, she was having a hard time when the death of someone happened that she knew but wouldn’t admit to knowing.
Robbie had her sleuthing cut out for her but at least she wasn’t chasing down anyone. It was kinda cool how she and Lou got one last before-baby hurrah when they did a little snooping together. Lou’s an awesome friend and really came through when Robbie and the restaurant needed her. It’ll be interesting to see what directions Robbie’s investigations go now that her baby’s here. There were others who got some good news as well and one who had some bittersweet news, but even with baby on the brain, Robbie came up with a darn good solution.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
Robbie had her sleuthing cut out for her but at least she wasn’t chasing down anyone. It was kinda cool how she and Lou got one last before-baby hurrah when they did a little snooping together. Lou’s an awesome friend and really came through when Robbie and the restaurant needed her. It’ll be interesting to see what directions Robbie’s investigations go now that her baby’s here. There were others who got some good news as well and one who had some bittersweet news, but even with baby on the brain, Robbie came up with a darn good solution.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
August 27, 2025
It's great catching up with the whole family again. Naturally, there's another murder and more intrigue. What makes this series better than most is that nobody is stagnant. There is character growth to go along with the mystery.
April 10, 2025
A low stakes mystery.
April 24, 2025
This book was really good! Another enjoyable installation of the Country Store Mystery series by Maddie Day, this one was better than the previous editions. Well written and well paced, entertaining and incredibly hard to put down. Better than expected! Well worth the time to read.
June 19, 2025
Did not expect to like this, but it starts out fun. First encounter with the author, and its easy to skim over the obvious points that were included to remind readers of recurring characters.
More than a few sections make frustrating reading. Characters enter, are introduced, then leave. No direct plot relevance, but the reader is certain something will be revealed later that makes it significant. Then it becomes clear that no, its just an endless parade of people MC knew, knows, might have known, but MC is having a baby so its old home week.
The 'look at me, I'm being GOOD!' tone is saccharine and over the top.
The attempts at exciting the reader about the upcoming delivery are tiresome, and the 'pregnancy symptoms' seem AI generated. All the story lines seem forced, like someone had a list of "what might draw readers in." And the reveals are forced.
Finally gave in and speed read the last 1/3 to 1/2. Couldn't take even one more 'old friend' showing up, endless speculation about relationships and lovers. Another BIG reveal: People who are grandparents or of that age have generally had several romantic relationships, and some will have ended nicely and others will have loose ends. The details might be significant sometimes, but the fact of people having pasts isn't a shocker.
This tale disappoints. It misses the likely intent of making the reader feel like part of the scene - all the detail about rolling silverware in napkins or prepping food makes it seem like the author's daily journal (not an exciting one) rather than a great story.
The recipes at the end are also, unfortunately, not special. These aren't unusual or unique items; a simple web search offers better. The prose in the end recipes, the directions, are quite specific, and in some ways as interesting as the story lines. With all the detail and steps written throughout the book, why not include them in the text, with one character perhaps coaching another on the steps?
Even more, why use something as common as scones and the (common) Italian Wedding Soup, when the tale mentions stuffed squash, cranberry bread, Biscuits and Slashed Browns? Apple cider muffins? Why not cover those more unusual items, that fit the location and the story? (Or are scones a special cultural fit to rural Indiana? Biscuits and gravy, sure, but ... scones?)
These characters could be engaging, but the interactions and story are limp enough that this seems an author to avoid. Unfulfilled potential.
More than a few sections make frustrating reading. Characters enter, are introduced, then leave. No direct plot relevance, but the reader is certain something will be revealed later that makes it significant. Then it becomes clear that no, its just an endless parade of people MC knew, knows, might have known, but MC is having a baby so its old home week.
The 'look at me, I'm being GOOD!' tone is saccharine and over the top.
The attempts at exciting the reader about the upcoming delivery are tiresome, and the 'pregnancy symptoms' seem AI generated. All the story lines seem forced, like someone had a list of "what might draw readers in." And the reveals are forced.
Finally gave in and speed read the last 1/3 to 1/2. Couldn't take even one more 'old friend' showing up, endless speculation about relationships and lovers. Another BIG reveal: People who are grandparents or of that age have generally had several romantic relationships, and some will have ended nicely and others will have loose ends. The details might be significant sometimes, but the fact of people having pasts isn't a shocker.
This tale disappoints. It misses the likely intent of making the reader feel like part of the scene - all the detail about rolling silverware in napkins or prepping food makes it seem like the author's daily journal (not an exciting one) rather than a great story.
The recipes at the end are also, unfortunately, not special. These aren't unusual or unique items; a simple web search offers better. The prose in the end recipes, the directions, are quite specific, and in some ways as interesting as the story lines. With all the detail and steps written throughout the book, why not include them in the text, with one character perhaps coaching another on the steps?
Even more, why use something as common as scones and the (common) Italian Wedding Soup, when the tale mentions stuffed squash, cranberry bread, Biscuits and Slashed Browns? Apple cider muffins? Why not cover those more unusual items, that fit the location and the story? (Or are scones a special cultural fit to rural Indiana? Biscuits and gravy, sure, but ... scones?)
These characters could be engaging, but the interactions and story are limp enough that this seems an author to avoid. Unfulfilled potential.
April 8, 2025
I wish Pans and Pancakes was located in my town! I would be eating there every day and visiting with Robbie and the rest of the gang in South Lick. This was a wonderful addition to the Country Store series and will have you sitting on the edge of your seat while you cheer Robbie on as she tries not to get involved in solving the murder mystery and deliver her baby safely. The characters are well developed and your mouth will be watering with the delightful items they put on the menu each day. Such a sense of family and community as everyone supports each other and encourages people to grow and achieve life goals. This is a great series in which to get lost in the lives and activities of the people.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!
May 9, 2025
Wait, what?? This was hardly a mystery at all! And it loses another star for the author's constant fat phobia. If you think she'd stop because the main character is pregnant, you'd think wrong!
March 31, 2025
"Sconed to Death (Country Store Mystery #13)" by Maddie Day is a lot about the end of Robbie's pregnancy with hint of Thanksgiving time. Robbie is getting her restaurant ready for when she goes on parental leave and having her baby. Lot of things are changing for the restaurant soon too. Then someone from Robbie's aunt's past shows up but is then found dead before he has a chance to talk to her aunt.
Unfortunately, his death is suspicious and it happened in Robbie's aunt's field. Which means that until how he died is figured out Robbie is investigating. At about to pop level pregnancy. Things turn out a bit differently this time around. It seems to finally make Robbie realize that she can't keep putting herself in danger because she's got a baby to think about now.
The book ended in a way that this could be the last one. At least the last of this particular era for the characters. Maybe it'll continue or maybe a nee series will pick up when Robbie's baby is a teenager or adult.
Unfortunately, his death is suspicious and it happened in Robbie's aunt's field. Which means that until how he died is figured out Robbie is investigating. At about to pop level pregnancy. Things turn out a bit differently this time around. It seems to finally make Robbie realize that she can't keep putting herself in danger because she's got a baby to think about now.
The book ended in a way that this could be the last one. At least the last of this particular era for the characters. Maybe it'll continue or maybe a nee series will pick up when Robbie's baby is a teenager or adult.
April 18, 2025
SCONE COLD DEAD by Maddie Day is the thirteenth book in the Country Store Mystery series. It’s the fabulous, magnificently written cozy mystery centered around Robbie Jordan, her husband Abe O’Neill, Pans ‘N’ Pancakes, the close-knit community of South Lick, Indiana, and the mysterious death of a newcomer in town – who just might not be a stranger to the town or some of its residents.
Robbie is the owner of Pans ‘N’ Pancakes, a favorite eatery, of both the locals and visitors to town, six days a week. It’s where you are as apt to see the Police Chief Buck Bird sitting at his favorite flat top back in the corner, a tour bus full of senior citizens enjoy breakfast, lunch or looking over the antique cooking utensils in the small store area or a group of cyclists grabbing a bite before taking off on the next great adventure. While the business runs like a well-oiled machine with the help of employees like Dana, Turner and Len, it seems it will soon be time for change as some will soon to be taking off to further their culinary education, one is dealing with an ailing father and one is about to get married. Robbie considers them all as more than employees – friends. Change can be good for everyone and Robbie knows it’ll all work out, but being almost full term pregnant, she just wishes this wasn’t the time she was going to have to contend with it.
Abe works for the Brown County State Park, but he tries to help out at home as much as he can. With Robbie fixing meals all day, he’s usually the one to fix supper so the love of his life can get off her feet and enjoy someone else’s cooking. Now that Robbie is pregnant his protection for her is always on guard for possible problems and how he can solve them. They just about have the nursery ready as they anxiously await the arrival of their little girl into this world. Their midwife assures them that all will go well, but with the unpredictability of the weather, distance to the nearest hospital or any possibility of medical issues for them to be aware that a home birth might be a possibility. Abe was hoping that the pregnancy would put trying to help the police solve murders completely out of Robbie’s mind. However, it did not.
When a man named Ivan Sheluk crosses Robbie’s path twice in one day (once at the bank and once in her establishment when he asked her if she knew how he could get in contact with Adele) and then is found dead in her aunt’s ram enclosure, her defensive nature kicked in when Detective Sergeant Juanita McWilliams is looking at Robbie’s Aunt Adele as a suspect in the death. It soon becomes evident the deceased man had once lived in South Lick, had ties to many of the locals and had recently been released from prison. But who knew he was in town or that wanted him dead?
Is it a coincidence or something else when a second man shows up asking about Ivan? What was the heated discussion Robbie overheard part of between Ivan and the manager of the bank? Is it connected? Why did that same bank manager feel he had to threaten Robbie to keep her nose out of things that she doesn’t belong nosing about in? Why is it taking so long to get the medical examiner to give them a cause of death? Will the clues she gives the detective and Buck help in their investigation? With people leaving or off for emergency reasons, can Robbie find suitable replacements to keep Pots ‘N’ Pancakes open during her maternity leave? During it all, will Robbie’s onset of Braxton-Hick contractions turn into the real ones before she’s ready? Both Robbie and Abe will do anything and everything to give this baby girl a safe delivery and the best life possible.
SCONE COLD DEAD is the type of story all cozy mystery readers love to read because you can feel the friendships and love of family both by blood and by choice and has the reader feeling as if they are part of them. It also gives the reader the chance to put their amateur sleuth skills to work trying to figure out whodunit. Maddie Day is a real pro at doing this. SCONE COLD DEAD brings us another episode inside Robbie’s life, another time within the workings of Pots ‘N’ Pancakes and a head scratching, puzzling death to solve the who, what, when and why’s of as we find clues and narrow the suspects list. I recently learned, through an interview Maddie Day had recently given, that this is sadly the last book in the Country Store Mystery series. I say sadly because I have loved each and every book in this series and highly recommend each of them including SCONE COLD DEAD. I am thankful for this last journey into South Lick and getting to meet up with old friends once more. While part of a series each book in this series can be read as a standalone book. Check out SCONE COLD DAY, this newest book, for some wonderful FIVE STAR READING! Then take my suggestion and read each of the other 12 books in the series. I am positive that you will love them all too!
I receive a copy of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#SconeColdDead #CountryStoreMystery #MaddieDay #cozymystery
Robbie is the owner of Pans ‘N’ Pancakes, a favorite eatery, of both the locals and visitors to town, six days a week. It’s where you are as apt to see the Police Chief Buck Bird sitting at his favorite flat top back in the corner, a tour bus full of senior citizens enjoy breakfast, lunch or looking over the antique cooking utensils in the small store area or a group of cyclists grabbing a bite before taking off on the next great adventure. While the business runs like a well-oiled machine with the help of employees like Dana, Turner and Len, it seems it will soon be time for change as some will soon to be taking off to further their culinary education, one is dealing with an ailing father and one is about to get married. Robbie considers them all as more than employees – friends. Change can be good for everyone and Robbie knows it’ll all work out, but being almost full term pregnant, she just wishes this wasn’t the time she was going to have to contend with it.
Abe works for the Brown County State Park, but he tries to help out at home as much as he can. With Robbie fixing meals all day, he’s usually the one to fix supper so the love of his life can get off her feet and enjoy someone else’s cooking. Now that Robbie is pregnant his protection for her is always on guard for possible problems and how he can solve them. They just about have the nursery ready as they anxiously await the arrival of their little girl into this world. Their midwife assures them that all will go well, but with the unpredictability of the weather, distance to the nearest hospital or any possibility of medical issues for them to be aware that a home birth might be a possibility. Abe was hoping that the pregnancy would put trying to help the police solve murders completely out of Robbie’s mind. However, it did not.
When a man named Ivan Sheluk crosses Robbie’s path twice in one day (once at the bank and once in her establishment when he asked her if she knew how he could get in contact with Adele) and then is found dead in her aunt’s ram enclosure, her defensive nature kicked in when Detective Sergeant Juanita McWilliams is looking at Robbie’s Aunt Adele as a suspect in the death. It soon becomes evident the deceased man had once lived in South Lick, had ties to many of the locals and had recently been released from prison. But who knew he was in town or that wanted him dead?
Is it a coincidence or something else when a second man shows up asking about Ivan? What was the heated discussion Robbie overheard part of between Ivan and the manager of the bank? Is it connected? Why did that same bank manager feel he had to threaten Robbie to keep her nose out of things that she doesn’t belong nosing about in? Why is it taking so long to get the medical examiner to give them a cause of death? Will the clues she gives the detective and Buck help in their investigation? With people leaving or off for emergency reasons, can Robbie find suitable replacements to keep Pots ‘N’ Pancakes open during her maternity leave? During it all, will Robbie’s onset of Braxton-Hick contractions turn into the real ones before she’s ready? Both Robbie and Abe will do anything and everything to give this baby girl a safe delivery and the best life possible.
SCONE COLD DEAD is the type of story all cozy mystery readers love to read because you can feel the friendships and love of family both by blood and by choice and has the reader feeling as if they are part of them. It also gives the reader the chance to put their amateur sleuth skills to work trying to figure out whodunit. Maddie Day is a real pro at doing this. SCONE COLD DEAD brings us another episode inside Robbie’s life, another time within the workings of Pots ‘N’ Pancakes and a head scratching, puzzling death to solve the who, what, when and why’s of as we find clues and narrow the suspects list. I recently learned, through an interview Maddie Day had recently given, that this is sadly the last book in the Country Store Mystery series. I say sadly because I have loved each and every book in this series and highly recommend each of them including SCONE COLD DEAD. I am thankful for this last journey into South Lick and getting to meet up with old friends once more. While part of a series each book in this series can be read as a standalone book. Check out SCONE COLD DAY, this newest book, for some wonderful FIVE STAR READING! Then take my suggestion and read each of the other 12 books in the series. I am positive that you will love them all too!
I receive a copy of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#SconeColdDead #CountryStoreMystery #MaddieDay #cozymystery
June 6, 2025
https://openbooksociety.com/article/s...
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
his was a perfect thirteenth installment in the Country Store Mystery series! As the characters grow and thrive, I continue to learn about them. Each are skillfully described by realistic conversations and actions with the exception of Robbie’s mother, who we relearn about through Robbie’s and Aunt Adele’s memories.
Robbie and Abe are only a couple weeks from welcoming their first baby, possibly even on Thanksgiving, and they couldn’t be happier. Robbie has reduced her hours a tad, but she continues to work every day. In overall excellent health, she wants to work as close to delivery as possible, and with one employee/ friend leaving before the next semester begins, there are concerns she needs to address.
One day at the bank, Robbie saw a man she didn’t know in a verbal disagreement with one of the managers. A short time later, the man is in Pans ‘N Pancakes to be seated, and she spoke with him briefly. He recently came to town to look for some people, in part to make amends. One of those people is Robbie’s Aunt Adele. She won’t give anyone Adele’s phone number and tried to call and text Adele that evening, but Adele didn’t respond.
Two other ladies, Corrine, the mayor and mother of one of Robbie’s employees, and Hope, the woman who bakes all of the desserts Robbie sells, saw Ivan and reacted. Corrine was very surprised to see him, but Hope walked out. Buck, everyone’s favorite chief of police, joined Ivan at his table as the diner was full.
The following morning, Samuel, Adele’s gentleman friend, arrived late at the diner for the weekly men’s prayer group he leads. When he did arrive, he spoke quietly with Robbie before meeting his friends. Early that morning, alerted by their barking dog, Samuel found a dead man in Adele’s pasture. Adele seemed to recognize him and showed strong feelings of either grief or anger. She refused, however, to talk with anyone about it, including Samuel and Adele. Samuel saw no obvious cause of death, but the police collected evidence all around the area as a “suspicious death”. Samuel’s description of the man matched up perfectly with Ivan.
When Detective Sergeant Juanita McWilliam arrived from the state, she was very by-the-book. She behaved as if Adele had killed him, even without knowing yet whether he had been murdered. Adele finally revealed the truth of the man to Buck and the state detective, knowing that both Samuel and Robbie have her back. Knowing Ivan, however, could possibly give her a motive in their eyes.
Even with her due date near, Robbie won’t abandon her dear aunt, the only sister of her late, beloved mother. She was clearly limited in what she could do, other than ask questions of people who might have known Ivan. To his credit, Buck knows that Adele, a former mayor, would never kill anyone, but he has to do his job while walking a fine line with the state police. It is the same for Corrine, the current mayor, who will defend Adele no matter what. I have so appreciated Buck and Corrine, for their down-home expressions, outlooks on life, and their extraordinary minds that peacefully coexist with their aw-shucks personalities. Those who underestimate Corrine, Buck, and Robbie will quickly repent of their error.
It is almost a relief for them to have a couple other suspects, especially when someone threatens Robbie. It takes a cold-hearted person to threaten a young pregnant woman! Robbie has a logical mind when it isn’t flooded with pregnancy hormones, but she is determined to keep Adele from being charged with something she didn’t do.
This was a great example of a cozy mystery, with the small-town setting, challenging mystery, engaging primary characters, and the loving relationship between Adele, her hubby Abe, and his son, Sean, and his sweet nickname for her. Adele and Robbie also have a special relationship that has grown throughout Robbie’s life. Finally, there are a couple potential suspects, one of which is a huge red herring. The resolution was the ultimate surprise, one I would never have come to on my own. I also had great appreciation for Robbie’s new hire! I highly recommend this to all who enjoy challenging cozy mysteries, including “foodies” and those who enjoy the Midwest and the charm of small-town life.
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
his was a perfect thirteenth installment in the Country Store Mystery series! As the characters grow and thrive, I continue to learn about them. Each are skillfully described by realistic conversations and actions with the exception of Robbie’s mother, who we relearn about through Robbie’s and Aunt Adele’s memories.
Robbie and Abe are only a couple weeks from welcoming their first baby, possibly even on Thanksgiving, and they couldn’t be happier. Robbie has reduced her hours a tad, but she continues to work every day. In overall excellent health, she wants to work as close to delivery as possible, and with one employee/ friend leaving before the next semester begins, there are concerns she needs to address.
One day at the bank, Robbie saw a man she didn’t know in a verbal disagreement with one of the managers. A short time later, the man is in Pans ‘N Pancakes to be seated, and she spoke with him briefly. He recently came to town to look for some people, in part to make amends. One of those people is Robbie’s Aunt Adele. She won’t give anyone Adele’s phone number and tried to call and text Adele that evening, but Adele didn’t respond.
Two other ladies, Corrine, the mayor and mother of one of Robbie’s employees, and Hope, the woman who bakes all of the desserts Robbie sells, saw Ivan and reacted. Corrine was very surprised to see him, but Hope walked out. Buck, everyone’s favorite chief of police, joined Ivan at his table as the diner was full.
The following morning, Samuel, Adele’s gentleman friend, arrived late at the diner for the weekly men’s prayer group he leads. When he did arrive, he spoke quietly with Robbie before meeting his friends. Early that morning, alerted by their barking dog, Samuel found a dead man in Adele’s pasture. Adele seemed to recognize him and showed strong feelings of either grief or anger. She refused, however, to talk with anyone about it, including Samuel and Adele. Samuel saw no obvious cause of death, but the police collected evidence all around the area as a “suspicious death”. Samuel’s description of the man matched up perfectly with Ivan.
When Detective Sergeant Juanita McWilliam arrived from the state, she was very by-the-book. She behaved as if Adele had killed him, even without knowing yet whether he had been murdered. Adele finally revealed the truth of the man to Buck and the state detective, knowing that both Samuel and Robbie have her back. Knowing Ivan, however, could possibly give her a motive in their eyes.
Even with her due date near, Robbie won’t abandon her dear aunt, the only sister of her late, beloved mother. She was clearly limited in what she could do, other than ask questions of people who might have known Ivan. To his credit, Buck knows that Adele, a former mayor, would never kill anyone, but he has to do his job while walking a fine line with the state police. It is the same for Corrine, the current mayor, who will defend Adele no matter what. I have so appreciated Buck and Corrine, for their down-home expressions, outlooks on life, and their extraordinary minds that peacefully coexist with their aw-shucks personalities. Those who underestimate Corrine, Buck, and Robbie will quickly repent of their error.
It is almost a relief for them to have a couple other suspects, especially when someone threatens Robbie. It takes a cold-hearted person to threaten a young pregnant woman! Robbie has a logical mind when it isn’t flooded with pregnancy hormones, but she is determined to keep Adele from being charged with something she didn’t do.
This was a great example of a cozy mystery, with the small-town setting, challenging mystery, engaging primary characters, and the loving relationship between Adele, her hubby Abe, and his son, Sean, and his sweet nickname for her. Adele and Robbie also have a special relationship that has grown throughout Robbie’s life. Finally, there are a couple potential suspects, one of which is a huge red herring. The resolution was the ultimate surprise, one I would never have come to on my own. I also had great appreciation for Robbie’s new hire! I highly recommend this to all who enjoy challenging cozy mysteries, including “foodies” and those who enjoy the Midwest and the charm of small-town life.
October 8, 2025
Book 13 of the Country Store Mysteries comes with many changes looming on the horizon for more than one of the residents of South Lick, Indiana. If this is your first time picking up a Maddie Day cozy mystery you are in for a treat with both the mystery and the sweet and savory recipes found at the conclusion of the story. Don't worry if you "met" Robbie Jordan before now, she is easy to like and makes some great meals in her Pans and Pancakes, breakfast and lunch country store. Each book can be read as a stand-alone mystery with plenty of descriptions and back story to keep the reader from getting lost amidst the characters or clues.
Robbie is usually elbow deep in pancake prep or up to her neck in a murder mystery, but things have changed in the last eight or so months. In the previous book, Deep Friend Death, Robbie learned that she and her husband, Abe were going to be parents, and it changed Robbie's perspective on sleuthing. She became much more careful, thinking of her welfare or rather her baby's welfare, not that she has ever been one of those folks who are "too dumb to live." This time around we continue to see this same cautious attitude. Robbie steers away from the dark alleys but not from asking the hard and sometimes intrusive questions or brainstorming scenarios with local law enforcement.
Speaking of local law enforcement, Chief Buck Bird, has quite a way with words. This time around, I think that my favorite Buck saying was "you musta been scareder than a sinner in a cyclone." It is the characters who really add the flavor to this series. There is a unique blend of people of different ages such as Robbie's aunt Adele, who finds a dead body of a man she once knew, in the goat pasture. There are young people too, like Robbie's coworkers, Danna Beedle and Turner Rao. Danna, Mayor Corrine's daughter, has red dreadlocks and a flair for colorful clothes. Turner literally adds Southeast Asian flavor to the dishes he cooks. Even the "guest stars" bring interesting aspects to the stories. This time around, a man comes to town, a man who, to Buck, looks like he has been in the criminal justice system. And not on the side of the law." A man who is asking for Adele, who seems to be known by several of the regulars, someone who incites strong emotions. Obviously, this man is going to be the victim and there are plenty of good suspects and some not so good. Adele is not a good suspect but because she has history with Ivan, and he was found in her pasture, Robbie will need to start asking questions.
Robbie asks great questions, the kind of questions that kept me turning pages to find out what the answers were going to be. The clues are so well placed and the herrings so red that I was completely caught off guard by the solution. I was coming up with scenarios like Robbie that sometimes seemed a little more over the top than the one before it. My attention was held all the way to the end and then I got to enjoy some delicious Pecan Scones.
Robbie is usually elbow deep in pancake prep or up to her neck in a murder mystery, but things have changed in the last eight or so months. In the previous book, Deep Friend Death, Robbie learned that she and her husband, Abe were going to be parents, and it changed Robbie's perspective on sleuthing. She became much more careful, thinking of her welfare or rather her baby's welfare, not that she has ever been one of those folks who are "too dumb to live." This time around we continue to see this same cautious attitude. Robbie steers away from the dark alleys but not from asking the hard and sometimes intrusive questions or brainstorming scenarios with local law enforcement.
Speaking of local law enforcement, Chief Buck Bird, has quite a way with words. This time around, I think that my favorite Buck saying was "you musta been scareder than a sinner in a cyclone." It is the characters who really add the flavor to this series. There is a unique blend of people of different ages such as Robbie's aunt Adele, who finds a dead body of a man she once knew, in the goat pasture. There are young people too, like Robbie's coworkers, Danna Beedle and Turner Rao. Danna, Mayor Corrine's daughter, has red dreadlocks and a flair for colorful clothes. Turner literally adds Southeast Asian flavor to the dishes he cooks. Even the "guest stars" bring interesting aspects to the stories. This time around, a man comes to town, a man who, to Buck, looks like he has been in the criminal justice system. And not on the side of the law." A man who is asking for Adele, who seems to be known by several of the regulars, someone who incites strong emotions. Obviously, this man is going to be the victim and there are plenty of good suspects and some not so good. Adele is not a good suspect but because she has history with Ivan, and he was found in her pasture, Robbie will need to start asking questions.
Robbie asks great questions, the kind of questions that kept me turning pages to find out what the answers were going to be. The clues are so well placed and the herrings so red that I was completely caught off guard by the solution. I was coming up with scenarios like Robbie that sometimes seemed a little more over the top than the one before it. My attention was held all the way to the end and then I got to enjoy some delicious Pecan Scones.
March 21, 2025
Although I’ve read other books from the wonderful Maddie Day, Stone Cold Dead is the first book I’ve read from her Country Store Mysteries series. While I enjoy starting a series with Book One, I couldn’t resist the chance to read this, the 13th installment of the series! Ms. Day does a great job of giving the reader just enough of a backstory to get caught up to speed. While this book can be read as a stand-alone, in my case, she piqued my curiosity enough to want to go back and start at the beginning of this lovely series. I’m looking forward to learning the backstories of all the characters and spending much more time with them.
The main character is Robbie Jordan, the owner of Pans ‘N Pancakes, a local restaurant, and an amateur sleuth. Oh yes, there are lots of delicious passages about the food at the restaurant (and elsewhere), which I loved. The only drawback to that was that it made me hungry, and I wanted to go to the restaurant for one of Robbie’s famous breakfast feasts. The other part of the story I loved was reading about how Robbie, and her husband, Abe, were preparing for the birth of their first child in less than a month!
In this installment, a stranger comes to the town of South Lick, Indiana and walks into Pans ‘N Pancakes, asking about a woman who is also Robbie’s beloved aunt, Adele. That starts the mystery rolling, and when the stranger is discovered deceased in her aunt’s field, Adele becomes a suspect.
The chapters are brief, which, yes, kept me going long into the night because I wanted to know what happened next! I not only felt invested in the story (including Robbie’s safety so close to her due date), but thoroughly enjoyed all the characters, including Robbie’s restaurant staff, Buck, the town sheriff, Corrine, the mayor, and of course Aunt Adele. This story also addresses grief, second chances, making amends, and the power of love and friendship, without being overwrought or preachy. The dialogue is sparkling and realistic, and the characters are all well-written. There were a few twists that I also really enjoyed, especially focusing on a new character named Oliver.
Thank you, NetGalley and Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, for the opportunity to read this book. I have voluntarily left this review, and all opinions are my own.
The main character is Robbie Jordan, the owner of Pans ‘N Pancakes, a local restaurant, and an amateur sleuth. Oh yes, there are lots of delicious passages about the food at the restaurant (and elsewhere), which I loved. The only drawback to that was that it made me hungry, and I wanted to go to the restaurant for one of Robbie’s famous breakfast feasts. The other part of the story I loved was reading about how Robbie, and her husband, Abe, were preparing for the birth of their first child in less than a month!
In this installment, a stranger comes to the town of South Lick, Indiana and walks into Pans ‘N Pancakes, asking about a woman who is also Robbie’s beloved aunt, Adele. That starts the mystery rolling, and when the stranger is discovered deceased in her aunt’s field, Adele becomes a suspect.
The chapters are brief, which, yes, kept me going long into the night because I wanted to know what happened next! I not only felt invested in the story (including Robbie’s safety so close to her due date), but thoroughly enjoyed all the characters, including Robbie’s restaurant staff, Buck, the town sheriff, Corrine, the mayor, and of course Aunt Adele. This story also addresses grief, second chances, making amends, and the power of love and friendship, without being overwrought or preachy. The dialogue is sparkling and realistic, and the characters are all well-written. There were a few twists that I also really enjoyed, especially focusing on a new character named Oliver.
Thank you, NetGalley and Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, for the opportunity to read this book. I have voluntarily left this review, and all opinions are my own.
March 15, 2025
SCONE COLD DEAD is the thirteenth book in the Country Store Mysteries by Maddie Day. This newest release finds protagonist Robbie, heavily pregnant with her first child. The book explores the theme of transitioning and close family ties, be they blood ties or those of friendship. Robbie is a hard worker, dedicated to her restaurant and shop, Pans ‘N Pancakes, but with her upcoming baby, finds her focus shifting. I admire all the core characters and the way they pitch in to support each other, both emotionally and physically. It is often heartwarming as they celebrate the good things that come their way and commiserate over things that are painful. The author captures the descriptions of the restaurant and the setting, as well as the individual personalities of the characters and brings the story to life on the pages.
With such a joyous occasion coming up, Robbie and her family are looking forward to welcoming the new baby into the family. No one expects tragedy to strike but, unfortunately, a man, newly arrived in town, is found dead on Robbie’s aunt’s farm. With her aunt being investigated as a suspect, Robbie can’t stand by and wait for law enforcement to clear her name. Yet, being so close to delivery, Robbie knows she has to be as safe as possible to protect herself and her child. It’s not such an easy thing to do when investigating a potential murder, but she does her best asking questions around town and digging into the deceased past. There are several twists I didn’t see coming, but given Robbie’s “delicate” condition, there was less action than in previous books. Despite the slower pace, the author makes up for it with the wonderful characters and the emotional depth they display, resulting in a highly satisfying read.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
With such a joyous occasion coming up, Robbie and her family are looking forward to welcoming the new baby into the family. No one expects tragedy to strike but, unfortunately, a man, newly arrived in town, is found dead on Robbie’s aunt’s farm. With her aunt being investigated as a suspect, Robbie can’t stand by and wait for law enforcement to clear her name. Yet, being so close to delivery, Robbie knows she has to be as safe as possible to protect herself and her child. It’s not such an easy thing to do when investigating a potential murder, but she does her best asking questions around town and digging into the deceased past. There are several twists I didn’t see coming, but given Robbie’s “delicate” condition, there was less action than in previous books. Despite the slower pace, the author makes up for it with the wonderful characters and the emotional depth they display, resulting in a highly satisfying read.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 18, 2025
The Country Store Mystery series by Maddie Day has so much to love !! And with Scone Cold Dead being the thirteenth book in the series, there is something for all readers to love. As with any series that has multiple books, fans become honorary members of the family, the community and the story ... and boy or girl ('cuz main character Robbie Jordan is pregnant) I have moved in to South Lick and will remain until the end.
I could go on and on about the series but let's just concentrate on Scone Cold Dead. Robbie and her husband are expecting their first child together. Abe already has a son, Sean, who adores Robbie and vice versa. But before Robbie can give birth, she has to make sure her business, Pans 'N Pancakes, is ready to run without her. Robbie has the best employees so she should be okay as long as nothing gets in the way those last few weeks.
Unfortunately, as we all know, that is not gonna happen. There is a newcomer to town, Ivan, and Robbie meets him at the restaurant and soon learns that he is looking for her aunt Adele. Then she finds out Adele's boyfriend, Samuel, found Ivan dead in one of the animal enclosures on the property.
Robbie also finds out that there are a number of people who knew Ivan a long time ago and there are secrets every where. Not only is that troubling for Robbie who cannot help wanting to solve things, especially ones surrounding her loved ones, but her little bundle of joy is letting her know that they want out ... but there are still too many things that need addressing before that can happen.
Oh how I could go on and on about more things but if you are a fan of this series, you don't need me telling you things you already know. And if you aren't a fan yet, I am holding you up from opening the books up and digging in. Happy reading !!!
I could go on and on about the series but let's just concentrate on Scone Cold Dead. Robbie and her husband are expecting their first child together. Abe already has a son, Sean, who adores Robbie and vice versa. But before Robbie can give birth, she has to make sure her business, Pans 'N Pancakes, is ready to run without her. Robbie has the best employees so she should be okay as long as nothing gets in the way those last few weeks.
Unfortunately, as we all know, that is not gonna happen. There is a newcomer to town, Ivan, and Robbie meets him at the restaurant and soon learns that he is looking for her aunt Adele. Then she finds out Adele's boyfriend, Samuel, found Ivan dead in one of the animal enclosures on the property.
Robbie also finds out that there are a number of people who knew Ivan a long time ago and there are secrets every where. Not only is that troubling for Robbie who cannot help wanting to solve things, especially ones surrounding her loved ones, but her little bundle of joy is letting her know that they want out ... but there are still too many things that need addressing before that can happen.
Oh how I could go on and on about more things but if you are a fan of this series, you don't need me telling you things you already know. And if you aren't a fan yet, I am holding you up from opening the books up and digging in. Happy reading !!!
April 9, 2025
Scone Cold Dead by Maddie Day is an interesting book which brings upsets to Robbie’s little world. A man had arrived that a few people seem to recognize, not Robbie. As it turns out he is a former beau of Robbie’s aunt Adele. That isn’t discovered until after his body turns up in one of Adele’s sheep pens. Adele didn’t know he’d returned and she had a story to tell. Robbie is eight and half months pregnant which makes everything far more difficult, especially investigating, and chasing down her aunt, who is always busy. Plus, members of her staff were deserting her to move forward in their own lives. Always a staple in her life was Buck Bird, the sheriff, who turned up at least once a day to eat more than a human should be able to. A lot of people recognized this mystery man. The reviews were mixed. So how did he end up dead behind her aunt’s house?
Robbie and her husband, Abe, are good characters: well-written and empathetic. Abe worries about Robbie’s investigating but never tries to rein her in. The people who work for her always understand that this investigating is a compulsion and are always cooperative. The sheriff is the best character, always spouting mid-western names for things and odd comparisons. He is a character. Every cozy needs one. The new woman investigator is a little too by-the-book and is ruffling feathers. All in all, a good cozy: good characters, forward movement, decent mystery with a good outcome, and a fabulous setting.
I was invited to read Scone Cold Dead by Kensington Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #KensingtonPublishing #MaddieDay #SconeColdDead
Robbie and her husband, Abe, are good characters: well-written and empathetic. Abe worries about Robbie’s investigating but never tries to rein her in. The people who work for her always understand that this investigating is a compulsion and are always cooperative. The sheriff is the best character, always spouting mid-western names for things and odd comparisons. He is a character. Every cozy needs one. The new woman investigator is a little too by-the-book and is ruffling feathers. All in all, a good cozy: good characters, forward movement, decent mystery with a good outcome, and a fabulous setting.
I was invited to read Scone Cold Dead by Kensington Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #KensingtonPublishing #MaddieDay #SconeColdDead
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