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Rylie Sunderland Mysteries #2
Vengeance in the Vines
Secrets can be deadly. When the owner of a local bar is found dead in his home after eating at her best friend’s husband’s restaurant, veterinarian Rylie Sunderland is determined to uncover the truth to save her friend in this intriguing small town cozy mystery.
This suspenseful cozy mystery is perfect for fans of Kate Carlisle, Ellie Alexander, and Lauren Elliott.
Rylie’s thrilled when she gets a long-term locum veterinarian job in the beautiful Napa Valley wine country where her best friend Sophie lives, and she’s looking forward to enjoying the area and spending time with Sophie and Sophie’s husband, Lucien.
That is until the owner of a local bar is found dead in his home after having eaten at Lucien’s restaurant during the Chamber of Commerce awards dinner.
Evidence piles up against Lucien, but Rylie is certain he’s innocent. She feels compelled to do whatever she can to help clear Lucien of suspicion.
When Rylie meets Alex, the handsome son of the man who died after eating in Lucien’s restaurant, they can’t deny their attraction to each other. And they’re both motivated to find out who killed Alex’s father. Alex believes Lucien’s innocent. And he has some ideas of his own as to who may have had motive to kill his father.
Rylie goes to the detective in charge of the case with each new piece of information she finds that she thinks could be relevant to the murder investigation. But the detective seems laser focused on the mounting evidence against Lucien and doesn’t seem swayed by any of the information Rylie brings him.
The pressure increases as Rylie’s best friend Sophie struggles to deal with the stress of the investigation involving her husband. Will the secrets of the past prevent the truth from being revealed?
This suspenseful cozy mystery is perfect for fans of Kate Carlisle, Ellie Alexander, and Lauren Elliott.
Rylie’s thrilled when she gets a long-term locum veterinarian job in the beautiful Napa Valley wine country where her best friend Sophie lives, and she’s looking forward to enjoying the area and spending time with Sophie and Sophie’s husband, Lucien.
That is until the owner of a local bar is found dead in his home after having eaten at Lucien’s restaurant during the Chamber of Commerce awards dinner.
Evidence piles up against Lucien, but Rylie is certain he’s innocent. She feels compelled to do whatever she can to help clear Lucien of suspicion.
When Rylie meets Alex, the handsome son of the man who died after eating in Lucien’s restaurant, they can’t deny their attraction to each other. And they’re both motivated to find out who killed Alex’s father. Alex believes Lucien’s innocent. And he has some ideas of his own as to who may have had motive to kill his father.
Rylie goes to the detective in charge of the case with each new piece of information she finds that she thinks could be relevant to the murder investigation. But the detective seems laser focused on the mounting evidence against Lucien and doesn’t seem swayed by any of the information Rylie brings him.
The pressure increases as Rylie’s best friend Sophie struggles to deal with the stress of the investigation involving her husband. Will the secrets of the past prevent the truth from being revealed?
- GenresCozy MysteryMystery
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 11, 2025
32 people are currently reading
1072 people want to read
About the author
Rachele Baker
4 books503 followersRachele Baker is a veterinarian and the author of the Rylie Sunderland cozy mystery series. She lives in northern California close to Lake Tahoe and the Napa Valley wine country where the Rylie Sunderland cozy mystery series takes place. She drew on her many years of experience as a practicing veterinarian to develop the main character for this series, Rylie, who is also a veterinarian. Rachele’s golden retriever Savanna was the inspiration for Rylie’s golden retriever Bella.
In her free time, Rachele enjoys exploring northern California wine country, Lake Tahoe, and areas along the California coast like Mendocino, Monterey, and Big Sur. Some of her favorite things include freshly brewed coffee in the morning, walks in nature, and, of course, golden retrievers.
You can sign up for Rachele’s monthly Cozy Chat e-newsletter (link below) to get info about her books, photos from her adventures, news for book lovers, and the opportunity to participate in fun contests and giveaways.
Connect with Rachele:
Website: https://www.rachelebaker.com/
Monthly Cozy Chat e-newsletter: https://www.rachelebaker.com/newslett...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachele.bake...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelebake...
X: https://x.com/RacheleBakerDVM
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rache...
In her free time, Rachele enjoys exploring northern California wine country, Lake Tahoe, and areas along the California coast like Mendocino, Monterey, and Big Sur. Some of her favorite things include freshly brewed coffee in the morning, walks in nature, and, of course, golden retrievers.
You can sign up for Rachele’s monthly Cozy Chat e-newsletter (link below) to get info about her books, photos from her adventures, news for book lovers, and the opportunity to participate in fun contests and giveaways.
Connect with Rachele:
Website: https://www.rachelebaker.com/
Monthly Cozy Chat e-newsletter: https://www.rachelebaker.com/newslett...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachele.bake...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelebake...
X: https://x.com/RacheleBakerDVM
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rache...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 11, 2025
"Vengeance in the Vines (Rylie Sunderland Mysteries #2)" by Rachele Baker has Rylie in yet another new location working as a fill in Veterinarian in the town her college best friend lives in. This move may be more permanent since she's making friends and has two possible love interests. One she seems very serious about. Like, that's a bit crazy how fast they move but at least she realizes it.
Rylie's main love interest's father is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Unfortunately, Rylie's bff's husband is one of the top suspects. There are a couple other suspects as well. However, the culprit ended up being someone I wasn't expecting until the reveal was happening.
Rylie's main love interest's father is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Unfortunately, Rylie's bff's husband is one of the top suspects. There are a couple other suspects as well. However, the culprit ended up being someone I wasn't expecting until the reveal was happening.
January 11, 2025
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Rachele Baker for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Vengeance in the Vines coming out January 11, 2025. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Rylie’s thrilled when she gets a long-term locum veterinarian job in the beautiful Napa Valley wine country where her best friend Sophie lives, and she’s looking forward to enjoying the area and spending time with Sophie and Sophie’s husband, Lucien.
That is until the owner of a local bar is found dead in his home after having eaten at Lucien’s restaurant during the Chamber of Commerce awards dinner.
Evidence piles up against Lucien, but Rylie is certain he’s innocent. She feels compelled to do whatever she can to help clear Lucien of suspicion.
When Rylie meets Alex, the handsome son of the man who died after eating in Lucien’s restaurant, they can’t deny their attraction to each other. And they’re both motivated to find out who killed Alex’s father. Alex believes Lucien’s innocent. And he has some ideas of his own as to who may have had motive to kill his father.
Rylie goes to the detective in charge of the case with each new piece of information she finds that she thinks could be relevant to the murder investigation. But the detective seems laser focused on the mounting evidence against Lucien and doesn’t seem swayed by any of the information Rylie brings him.
The pressure increases as Rylie’s best friend Sophie struggles to deal with the stress of the investigation involving her husband. Will the secrets of the past prevent the truth from being revealed?
I didn’t actually read the first book so I need to go back and read it. This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I really enjoy cozy mysteries. I’ve read a ton of them. I thought the setting was really good. I enjoyed the aspects of Italian culture. I feel like the romance moved really fast in a short period of time. I wasn’t totally into that. Usually it’s more of a slow burn with cozy mysteries that have romance. I’m not sure if I completely trust that. But I would check out more books in the series.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries!
Rylie’s thrilled when she gets a long-term locum veterinarian job in the beautiful Napa Valley wine country where her best friend Sophie lives, and she’s looking forward to enjoying the area and spending time with Sophie and Sophie’s husband, Lucien.
That is until the owner of a local bar is found dead in his home after having eaten at Lucien’s restaurant during the Chamber of Commerce awards dinner.
Evidence piles up against Lucien, but Rylie is certain he’s innocent. She feels compelled to do whatever she can to help clear Lucien of suspicion.
When Rylie meets Alex, the handsome son of the man who died after eating in Lucien’s restaurant, they can’t deny their attraction to each other. And they’re both motivated to find out who killed Alex’s father. Alex believes Lucien’s innocent. And he has some ideas of his own as to who may have had motive to kill his father.
Rylie goes to the detective in charge of the case with each new piece of information she finds that she thinks could be relevant to the murder investigation. But the detective seems laser focused on the mounting evidence against Lucien and doesn’t seem swayed by any of the information Rylie brings him.
The pressure increases as Rylie’s best friend Sophie struggles to deal with the stress of the investigation involving her husband. Will the secrets of the past prevent the truth from being revealed?
I didn’t actually read the first book so I need to go back and read it. This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I really enjoy cozy mysteries. I’ve read a ton of them. I thought the setting was really good. I enjoyed the aspects of Italian culture. I feel like the romance moved really fast in a short period of time. I wasn’t totally into that. Usually it’s more of a slow burn with cozy mysteries that have romance. I’m not sure if I completely trust that. But I would check out more books in the series.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries!
September 3, 2025
Readers fall in love with Rylie Sunderland immediately !! Author Rachele Baker has created an amazing main character in Rylie. You got to know Rylie in Tragedy in Tahoe, the first book in the Rylie Sunderland Mystery series and, well yeah, she was a bit of a mess. The veterinary hospital that she worked at burned down and when she went away to try to figure things out, she was thrown into a murder investigation.
Now in Vengeance in the Vines Rylie has taken a job as a temporary veterinarian in the Napa Valley. She will be working part of the week for a doctor who is recovery from surgery. Her and Bella, her dog, have a beautiful house they are staying in and her best friend from college Sophie and her husband live nearby.
Unfortunately after Sophie's husband's restaurant hosts an event and one of the people in attendance is found dead in his home from poisoning, Lucien is on the suspect list.
While Rylie wants to help Sophie and Lucien, this time around she has a group of woman that she became fast friends with and they meet weekly and show her around as well as try to help with the case. Rylie has also met Aaron, the detective on the case, and they become friends as well. It doesn't hurt that Rylie and Aaron have dogs in common,
The best part is when Rylie becomes friends with Alex, whose father is the murder victim, and they hit it off instantly !!!
One thing I really liked about Vengeance in the Vines is that it isn't all about the murder, you have love, friendship, fun outings, clothes, food, food and more food !!!
When you are reading this book, have a snack handy !!!!
Now in Vengeance in the Vines Rylie has taken a job as a temporary veterinarian in the Napa Valley. She will be working part of the week for a doctor who is recovery from surgery. Her and Bella, her dog, have a beautiful house they are staying in and her best friend from college Sophie and her husband live nearby.
Unfortunately after Sophie's husband's restaurant hosts an event and one of the people in attendance is found dead in his home from poisoning, Lucien is on the suspect list.
While Rylie wants to help Sophie and Lucien, this time around she has a group of woman that she became fast friends with and they meet weekly and show her around as well as try to help with the case. Rylie has also met Aaron, the detective on the case, and they become friends as well. It doesn't hurt that Rylie and Aaron have dogs in common,
The best part is when Rylie becomes friends with Alex, whose father is the murder victim, and they hit it off instantly !!!
One thing I really liked about Vengeance in the Vines is that it isn't all about the murder, you have love, friendship, fun outings, clothes, food, food and more food !!!
When you are reading this book, have a snack handy !!!!
January 11, 2025
Want a book that combines small town mystery with drama and romance? Then Vengeance in the Vines is for you.
Rylie, along with her Golden Retriever Bella, is thrilled to get a job filling in as a vet in NAPA Valley. This allows her to be near her BFF Sophie and Sophie’s husband Lucien. Turns out, Lucien owns a restaurant and unfortunately a local bar owner is found dead after eating there. Naturally Lucien becomes a prime suspect. Rylie then embraces the role of amateur sleuth where she works to uncover clues and dig into secrets. During this process she meets the dead man’s son Alex who she develops a relationship with fairly quickly.
I found this book to provide good character development, vivid descriptions and some pretty cool food details. At the end the killer is somewhat of a surprise. I highly recommend this quality read.
I received a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Rylie, along with her Golden Retriever Bella, is thrilled to get a job filling in as a vet in NAPA Valley. This allows her to be near her BFF Sophie and Sophie’s husband Lucien. Turns out, Lucien owns a restaurant and unfortunately a local bar owner is found dead after eating there. Naturally Lucien becomes a prime suspect. Rylie then embraces the role of amateur sleuth where she works to uncover clues and dig into secrets. During this process she meets the dead man’s son Alex who she develops a relationship with fairly quickly.
I found this book to provide good character development, vivid descriptions and some pretty cool food details. At the end the killer is somewhat of a surprise. I highly recommend this quality read.
I received a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.
January 11, 2025
Rylie goes to St. Helena’s for a temporary job as a vet, she is happy to be there because her friend lives there with her husband. When her friend’s husband is a suspect in a murder she uses her skills to try to find the murderer. While trying to find who did it she also finds love. This was an enjoyable read, I liked how she went to different places, tried new things and made friends. It made you want to visit the Napa Valley. I was hoping that she would go for the police officer, instead she went for the bartender. I received an arc and the views and opinions are my own.
April 21, 2025
vengeance in the vines
I read both books one and two they were very good I didn’t know who the murderer was till the very end , didn’t even have a clue.
I read both books one and two they were very good I didn’t know who the murderer was till the very end , didn’t even have a clue.
February 14, 2025
The Rylie Sunderland mysteries are entertaining with a smart heroine. Good characters and great locations. Makes me want to travel to experience those places.
October 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this second addition to the series! I love hearing about the veterinarian aspect of the main character, as well as the mystery. I hope there will be more in the series!!
January 11, 2025
I received an arc from the author and this is turning out to be an enjoyable series.
Rylie Sutherland is a traveling veterinarian who has taken on a temporary part time job which happens to be in the same town as her best friend Sophie and husband Lucien. Rylie is enjoying being close to Sophie again and meeting new friends.
However it is not long before Rylie becomes mixed up in a murder when it is learned that someone was poisoned from food eaten in Lucien’s upscale restaurant.
If you love a good mystery, adorable dogs and a touch of romance I hope you pick up this book due to be published January 11th.
Rylie Sutherland is a traveling veterinarian who has taken on a temporary part time job which happens to be in the same town as her best friend Sophie and husband Lucien. Rylie is enjoying being close to Sophie again and meeting new friends.
However it is not long before Rylie becomes mixed up in a murder when it is learned that someone was poisoned from food eaten in Lucien’s upscale restaurant.
If you love a good mystery, adorable dogs and a touch of romance I hope you pick up this book due to be published January 11th.
January 1, 2025
Vengeance in the Vines by Rachele Baker is an engaging and suspenseful cozy mystery set in the picturesque Napa Valley wine country. As the second book in the Rylie Sunderland Mysteries series, it weaves together intrigue, charming characters, and small-town secrets that will keep readers hooked from start to finish.
Veterinarian Rylie Sunderland is thrilled about her new long-term locum position in Napa Valley, especially because it allows her to reconnect with her best friend, Sophie, and Sophie's husband, Lucien, who owns a renowned local restaurant. However, their reunion is overshadowed when a local bar owner is found dead shortly after dining at Lucien's restaurant. The police quickly zero in on Lucien as the prime suspect, threatening to upend the lives of those closest to Rylie.
Determined to clear Lucien’s name, Rylie steps into the role of amateur sleuth, uncovering clues and digging into secrets that might explain the victim’s death. Along the way, she finds an unexpected ally—and potential romance—in Alex, the victim’s son. Their shared determination to uncover the truth adds layers of tension and intrigue, as they navigate a maze of suspects and motives.
Rachele Baker skillfully blends a compelling murder mystery with richly drawn characters and the charm of the Napa Valley setting. The vivid descriptions of the area, the delectable food details, and the realistic dynamics between the characters make the story come alive. While the mounting evidence against Lucien adds a sense of urgency, the revelations about hidden secrets and past grievances keep readers guessing until the end.
Fans of cozy mysteries by Kate Carlisle and Ellie Alexander will appreciate Baker’s approachable writing style and the relatable yet tenacious protagonist in Rylie Sunderland. The book balances suspense with heart, making it a perfect pick for those who enjoy small-town mysteries with a side of personal drama and budding romance.
Thank you to Rachele Baker for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Vengeance in the Vines. I highly recommend it to cozy mystery enthusiasts looking for an engaging, well-paced read with twists that will keep them guessing.
Veterinarian Rylie Sunderland is thrilled about her new long-term locum position in Napa Valley, especially because it allows her to reconnect with her best friend, Sophie, and Sophie's husband, Lucien, who owns a renowned local restaurant. However, their reunion is overshadowed when a local bar owner is found dead shortly after dining at Lucien's restaurant. The police quickly zero in on Lucien as the prime suspect, threatening to upend the lives of those closest to Rylie.
Determined to clear Lucien’s name, Rylie steps into the role of amateur sleuth, uncovering clues and digging into secrets that might explain the victim’s death. Along the way, she finds an unexpected ally—and potential romance—in Alex, the victim’s son. Their shared determination to uncover the truth adds layers of tension and intrigue, as they navigate a maze of suspects and motives.
Rachele Baker skillfully blends a compelling murder mystery with richly drawn characters and the charm of the Napa Valley setting. The vivid descriptions of the area, the delectable food details, and the realistic dynamics between the characters make the story come alive. While the mounting evidence against Lucien adds a sense of urgency, the revelations about hidden secrets and past grievances keep readers guessing until the end.
Fans of cozy mysteries by Kate Carlisle and Ellie Alexander will appreciate Baker’s approachable writing style and the relatable yet tenacious protagonist in Rylie Sunderland. The book balances suspense with heart, making it a perfect pick for those who enjoy small-town mysteries with a side of personal drama and budding romance.
Thank you to Rachele Baker for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Vengeance in the Vines. I highly recommend it to cozy mystery enthusiasts looking for an engaging, well-paced read with twists that will keep them guessing.
May 31, 2025
this is a good news cozy mystery series. I am looking forward to more adventures with the main character Rylie and her dog, Bella
December 31, 2024
Rylie is happy to be close her friend Sophie in Napa Valley. She recently got a long term veterinarian job. Sophie’s husband, Lucien, owns a restaurant and a local bar owner is found dead after eating there. While the police are only looking at Lucien as a suspect, Rylie determines to find the true killer. But who wanted the bar owner dead? Join Rylie as she investigates the murder and saves Lucien’s restaurant.
December 27, 2025
Vengeance in the Vines is the second book in the Rylie Sunderland Mystery series by Rachele Baker.
The amateur sleuth is Rylie Sunderland, a female veterinarian who just moved with her faithful golden retriever, Bella, to St. Helena in the Napa Valley to take a temporary job at a veterinarian hospital.
Rylie is staying in a cute one-bedroom home on a hill near a vineyard. She plans on catching up with her good pal Sophie and experiencing some of the sights and food, including the tasty dishes at Vinterre, a restaurant owned by Sophie's husband Lucien.
Rylie gets pulled into a mystery when one of Vinterre's patrons dies after eating Lucien's food. Evidence piles up against Lucien and the detective on the case has no interest in investigating anyone else. Rylie feels compelled to step in to help her friend and clear his name.
She investigates with the help of Alex, the handsome son of the victim. Sparks fly when Rylie and Alex are together, and neither can deny their attraction to each other.
Vengeance in the Vines is a suspenseful, entertaining cozy mystery with a hint of romance. It has a beautiful setting, interesting characters, a cute doggo, and a solid mystery.
Author Rachele Baker does a really nice job of world building and character building. The setting is pretty and cozy, and the sleuth is interesting and easy to root for.
This is a great mystery for people who enjoy amateur sleuths, animal friendly cozies, gorgeous settings, and suspense mixed with a dash of romance.
Thanks to the Fleur De Soleil and Net Galley for the ARC!
The amateur sleuth is Rylie Sunderland, a female veterinarian who just moved with her faithful golden retriever, Bella, to St. Helena in the Napa Valley to take a temporary job at a veterinarian hospital.
Rylie is staying in a cute one-bedroom home on a hill near a vineyard. She plans on catching up with her good pal Sophie and experiencing some of the sights and food, including the tasty dishes at Vinterre, a restaurant owned by Sophie's husband Lucien.
Rylie gets pulled into a mystery when one of Vinterre's patrons dies after eating Lucien's food. Evidence piles up against Lucien and the detective on the case has no interest in investigating anyone else. Rylie feels compelled to step in to help her friend and clear his name.
She investigates with the help of Alex, the handsome son of the victim. Sparks fly when Rylie and Alex are together, and neither can deny their attraction to each other.
Vengeance in the Vines is a suspenseful, entertaining cozy mystery with a hint of romance. It has a beautiful setting, interesting characters, a cute doggo, and a solid mystery.
Author Rachele Baker does a really nice job of world building and character building. The setting is pretty and cozy, and the sleuth is interesting and easy to root for.
This is a great mystery for people who enjoy amateur sleuths, animal friendly cozies, gorgeous settings, and suspense mixed with a dash of romance.
Thanks to the Fleur De Soleil and Net Galley for the ARC!
May 10, 2025
Enjoyed this one!
Loved the descriptions of the scenery & the characters. I didn’t figure out the murderer but it didn’t take long to find out. I may have read this in 1 day!
Loved the descriptions of the scenery & the characters. I didn’t figure out the murderer but it didn’t take long to find out. I may have read this in 1 day!
February 22, 2025
Vengeance in the Vines is the follow up to series starter Tragedy in Tahoe from the Rylie Sunderland Mystery series. This book picks up right where the first one stopped, with Rylie, a displaced veterinarian giving consideration to trying her hand at being a locum veterinarian which means she is a substitute vet, like a substitute teacher. The vet office aspect of the story was a nice touch, I have not read a cozy with a sleuth who is a vet before and it gave an outsider a quick way to meet a few of the locals. That’s right, Rylie is not from St. Helena, and while her best friend Sophie is a local, she is very busy with her remodeling business leaving Rylie to discover much of the locale and locals on her own. That is not to say that Rylie is completely alone, she has Bella, her golden retriever. Bella needs exercise so Rylie is able to meet other dog owners at the dog park. Owners like Patricia Davenport who introduces Rylie to a ladies group. Being a dog owner also gives her something in common with Alex Marchetti, son of the victim as well as detective Aaron Michelson who has been assigned to the case.
I really enjoyed learning about St. Helena and the surrounding area through the eyes of Rylie. I have wanted to check out the Napa Valley Wine Train for years so this has inspired me to really start planning a trip. Likewise, her visit to the CIA (Culinary Institute of America) for lunch and bread making class has me adding those to my bucket list as well. I do wish she had included one of the appetizer recipes that the students were given or a focaccia bread recipe.
There are some good suspects and some even better misdirection. The only people whom I was sure had not killed the victim was Rylie, her bff Sophie, and Sophie’s husband, Lucien. The fact that Lucien made for an excellent person of interest is all the more reason for Rylie to do all she can to help detective Aaron (you can call me Aaron) Michelson, solve the crime. I was sure that each of the suspects did it including Alex, the dark and handsome love interest.
The romance was a little more quick and intense than an average cozy but still very (PG rated) cozy friendly. I will say that I was happy to see that decisions were made since I am not a fan of love triangles. All in all this is a good follow-up to the series starter and works well as a stand-alone.
I really enjoyed learning about St. Helena and the surrounding area through the eyes of Rylie. I have wanted to check out the Napa Valley Wine Train for years so this has inspired me to really start planning a trip. Likewise, her visit to the CIA (Culinary Institute of America) for lunch and bread making class has me adding those to my bucket list as well. I do wish she had included one of the appetizer recipes that the students were given or a focaccia bread recipe.
There are some good suspects and some even better misdirection. The only people whom I was sure had not killed the victim was Rylie, her bff Sophie, and Sophie’s husband, Lucien. The fact that Lucien made for an excellent person of interest is all the more reason for Rylie to do all she can to help detective Aaron (you can call me Aaron) Michelson, solve the crime. I was sure that each of the suspects did it including Alex, the dark and handsome love interest.
The romance was a little more quick and intense than an average cozy but still very (PG rated) cozy friendly. I will say that I was happy to see that decisions were made since I am not a fan of love triangles. All in all this is a good follow-up to the series starter and works well as a stand-alone.
March 27, 2025
Vengeance in the Vines by Rachele Baker is a satisfying cozy mystery set in the lush and scenic Napa Valley, where wine flows, secrets simmer, and a murder turns one woman’s visit into a suspenseful investigation.
Veterinarian Rylie Sunderland takes a locum job in St. Helena, excited to reconnect with her best friend Sophie and Sophie’s husband, Lucien, a talented chef and restaurateur. But her relaxing wine country plans are derailed when a bar owner is found dead after dining at Lucien’s restaurant—launching Lucien into the center of a murder investigation.
Refusing to stand by while her friends suffer, Rylie steps up as an amateur sleuth. With the local detective zeroed in on Lucien, Rylie and the victim’s son, Alex, form an unlikely alliance to uncover the real killer. As they follow a trail of clues through tangled motives and local gossip, sparks fly between Rylie and Alex, adding just the right amount of romantic tension to the mystery.
The story blends suspense, charm, and warmth, all set against a beautifully drawn small-town backdrop. Rylie is smart, determined, and relatable—a protagonist you’ll root for as she risks her safety to help those she loves. And let’s not forget Bella, her loyal golden retriever, who adds that extra dose of cozy.
Rachele Baker’s writing is crisp, the pacing tight, and the setting vivid enough to make you want to book a wine country getaway. With food, friendship, and a murder to solve, Vengeance in the Vines hits all the right notes for fans of feel-good mysteries with real stakes.
Veterinarian Rylie Sunderland takes a locum job in St. Helena, excited to reconnect with her best friend Sophie and Sophie’s husband, Lucien, a talented chef and restaurateur. But her relaxing wine country plans are derailed when a bar owner is found dead after dining at Lucien’s restaurant—launching Lucien into the center of a murder investigation.
Refusing to stand by while her friends suffer, Rylie steps up as an amateur sleuth. With the local detective zeroed in on Lucien, Rylie and the victim’s son, Alex, form an unlikely alliance to uncover the real killer. As they follow a trail of clues through tangled motives and local gossip, sparks fly between Rylie and Alex, adding just the right amount of romantic tension to the mystery.
The story blends suspense, charm, and warmth, all set against a beautifully drawn small-town backdrop. Rylie is smart, determined, and relatable—a protagonist you’ll root for as she risks her safety to help those she loves. And let’s not forget Bella, her loyal golden retriever, who adds that extra dose of cozy.
Rachele Baker’s writing is crisp, the pacing tight, and the setting vivid enough to make you want to book a wine country getaway. With food, friendship, and a murder to solve, Vengeance in the Vines hits all the right notes for fans of feel-good mysteries with real stakes.
January 7, 2025
Vengeance in the Vines is a new cozy mystery by Rachele Baker and it is off to a great start. It is part cozy mystery and part romance. Rylie Sunderland is a visiting veterinarian and she is excited about being near her best friend Sophie and Sophie's husband Lucien. Lucien owns an upscale restaurant and the Chamber of Commerce Awards Dinner is held there. It's a nice event until a local who was there ends up dead. Lucien is the prime suspect. Rylie meets several locals at the dog park with her golden retriever, Bella. It's a fun way to introduce characters. Detective Aaron Michelson is in charge of the investigation and they work together to solve the murder. She meets several ladies who she becomes friends with. They get together every week and the descriptions of their activities are detailed and excessive. I kept waiting for something to happen. She meets Alex and they have chemistry. Alex's father is the man who was murdered. Their relationship moves very quickly (especially for a cozy). Alex is a likable character but the focus of the story is as much on their romance as it is on the mystery of who killed Alex's father. There are only a few suspects and the mystery kept me guessing. The reveal was low-key and not suspenseful. I enjoyed this story and the characters. I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Fleur de Soleil Books and I voluntarily leave this review. #VengeanceInTheVines #RylieSunderlandMysteries #FleurDeSoleilBooks
December 30, 2025
Locum vet Rylie Sunderland is happy to be sent to a small town in Napa Valley for a temporary job since it's where her best friend Sophie lives with her husband. Rylie and her dog Bella settle into their rental house when tragedy strikes. At the restaurant Sophie's husband, Lucien, owns, a prominent local business owner attends a large community event. Soon afterwards, the man dies and the police are able to determine he was poisoned -- likely by something he ate at the dinner. As Lucien falls under suspicion, Rylie determines to do everything she can to prove his innocence. This includes getting close to both the dead man's hot son, Alex, and the handsome lead detective.
I enjoyed the cozy setting and the frequent dog walks that happened throughout the book. There was a lot of attention paid to what everyone was wearing and what they were eating. There was also a lot of repetition -- at least 3 times on the correct way to throw a frisbee to a dog, and long lists of items that needed to be taken along on walks. Rylie also "let out a breath she didn't know she was holding" a few times . . . The story was pleasant enough, if a bit slow-moving.
I received a copy of this book from a GoodReads giveaway.
I enjoyed the cozy setting and the frequent dog walks that happened throughout the book. There was a lot of attention paid to what everyone was wearing and what they were eating. There was also a lot of repetition -- at least 3 times on the correct way to throw a frisbee to a dog, and long lists of items that needed to be taken along on walks. Rylie also "let out a breath she didn't know she was holding" a few times . . . The story was pleasant enough, if a bit slow-moving.
I received a copy of this book from a GoodReads giveaway.
January 10, 2025
This was my first cozy mystery with the MC being a veterinarian. It was interesting to read and get a little insight on a vet’s perspective. I really enjoyed the plot and the storyline. The base of the story was good but there were a few things that would have brought it to the next level. I did feel like people’s names were used a bit much. I thought it was a little repetitive with certain things Rylie would explain. Some of the statements seemed a little too formal for me, especially when talking with friends. I am all for romance in cozies, but I thought Rylie moved a little too fast. I was not expecting some of the things for someone she just met. Rylie seems a little reserved, so it felt a little off character for me. Overall, I did enjoy the story, the mystery and the investigation. This would be a 3.5 rounded up to a 4 for me.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the chance to read in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the chance to read in exchange for my honest review.
January 12, 2025
Vengeance in the Vines is a simply written and easy to read story that takes place in the scenic Napa Valley. Riley is a veterinarian who travels to St. Helena to fill in for a doctor who is on medical leave. The good news is her best friend, Sophie, lives in town. The bad news is that someone is murdered in Sophie's husband's restaurant and her husband is a suspect. However, Sophie has discovered a few interesting facts and may be able to help clear him from suspicion.
The main character is likable and relatable, making it easy to get invested in her journey. However, there is a moment when she makes an extremely impulsive personal choice that feels unrealistic and detracts from the overall believability of the story. Despite this, the book is an enjoyable read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The main character is likable and relatable, making it easy to get invested in her journey. However, there is a moment when she makes an extremely impulsive personal choice that feels unrealistic and detracts from the overall believability of the story. Despite this, the book is an enjoyable read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 13, 2025
Enjoyable quick read. I wish the author spent time explaining what a locum vet was as I've never heard of it and I have been volunteering with rescue dogs for over a decade encountering numerous vets! Eventually many chapters in, it was explained. Additionally when Rylie, the vet,encountered different breeds of dogs, it was their owners who described what they were with Rylie acting as if she never encountered or heard of that breed before making her seem a bit incompetent. To me, Rylie was a hot mess: drinking a bit much before seeing pets the next day, and making a hasty relationship decision while not even exploring her attraction to the other man interested in her! However, as judgy as I sound, Rylie is likable enough for me to want to read her next installment and see what comes next.
January 23, 2025
I enjoyed this second in series set in atmospheric Napa Valley and St. Helena area. Thank you to the publisher , Net Galley and the author for the opportunity. My review opinions are my own.
Riley is a vet who took a short term job in Napa Valley with a vet office. She is enjoying the area and being close to her best friend and sightseeing. The author included much here about the Napa Valley which is a fun part of this book. When a murder occurs and her friends husband is primary suspect Riley becomes involved to try to save him . She is on the case with red herrings and clues abound as she closes in on the rightful suspect.
The sleuth was well crafted to conclusion. I enjoy the characters, the location and the delightful dog. Well done to the author.. I look forward to the next in series.
Riley is a vet who took a short term job in Napa Valley with a vet office. She is enjoying the area and being close to her best friend and sightseeing. The author included much here about the Napa Valley which is a fun part of this book. When a murder occurs and her friends husband is primary suspect Riley becomes involved to try to save him . She is on the case with red herrings and clues abound as she closes in on the rightful suspect.
The sleuth was well crafted to conclusion. I enjoy the characters, the location and the delightful dog. Well done to the author.. I look forward to the next in series.
October 20, 2025
I enjoyed this book. It has lots of my favorite things… dogs, good food and of course good wine. Rylie keeps herself busy with work, her dog, newly made friends and eventually a new boyfriend. The only thing I found to be slightly negative was some phrases/thoughts that were repeated often. Ex: (and not to be quoted) placing the stethoscope around her neck, having the mineral water w/lime, the repetition of things she found out about the murder, etc. we know this already and she could have worded it in another way, shorter. It wasn’t that it was bad. Just made the book longer with same info. But maybe that was the intention. 🤣. But I did enjoy the book and would recommend it. Thank you Goodreads for the free book.
January 12, 2025
Vengeance in the Vines is book #2 in the Rylie Sunderland Mysteries series by Rachele Baker.
Rylie Sunderland is a veterinarian who goes to St. Helena to cover for another vet. She’s in the same town as her best friend, Sophie. Sophie’s husband is a suspect in a murder and Rylie wants to clear his name. I liked the characters in this book and that Rylie is a veterinarian. Rylie takes advantage of the opportunity to enjoy the new location and meet new people. I enjoyed the mystery. Plus, there are sweet dogs in the book.
Thank you to the author, Fleur de Soleil Books, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Rylie Sunderland is a veterinarian who goes to St. Helena to cover for another vet. She’s in the same town as her best friend, Sophie. Sophie’s husband is a suspect in a murder and Rylie wants to clear his name. I liked the characters in this book and that Rylie is a veterinarian. Rylie takes advantage of the opportunity to enjoy the new location and meet new people. I enjoyed the mystery. Plus, there are sweet dogs in the book.
Thank you to the author, Fleur de Soleil Books, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 21, 2025
With her long-term position in Napa, close to her best friend, Rylie find herself enjoying her new position. But when a man dies after eating at Lucien’s restaurant, and he becomes a prime, suspect, Rylie finds herself having to prove her best friend‘s husband‘s innocence. Can she show the police that they’re barking up the wrong vine, or will Rylie be the murderer next victim?
A great second entry in this series. I love that Rylie has close runs and 11 interest along with all of the critters that are included in the story. A solid mystery each and every time makes us a series not to be missed.
A great second entry in this series. I love that Rylie has close runs and 11 interest along with all of the critters that are included in the story. A solid mystery each and every time makes us a series not to be missed.
January 10, 2025
Rylie is new to town, as a locum veterinarian. Her best friend Sophie lives there so now they can get together more. Then Sophie's husband is suspected of murder and Rylie jumps in to help. This is a fun read and there are lots of little side adventures as well. You get a really good feel for the are with the descriptive writing. This looks to be a fun series.
January 13, 2025
Rylie is now in Napa as an interim vet. She is drawn into a new investigation when a local restaurant owner dies after eating at her friends restaurant. I enjoyed this story. I was a bit put off by the romantic turn in the book. It seemed hasty and out of character for Rylie. I hope the series continues but not sure about the romance.
January 6, 2025
Rylie is working a temporary locum veterinarian job in Napa Valley wine country, where her best friend, Sophie, lives with her husband, Lucien, owner of a local restaurant. The three attended college together years before and have remained close.
When a local bar owner is found dead after having attended an awards dinner at Lucien's restaurant, Lucien becomes the prime suspect. Rylie believes he’s innocent and is determined to help find who the real killer is. As she uncovers clues and information, she informs the detective in charge of the case, but Lucien remains under suspicion.
Secrets are revealed, more suspects come to light, and Lucien might lose the restaurant if the case isn’t solved soon.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When a local bar owner is found dead after having attended an awards dinner at Lucien's restaurant, Lucien becomes the prime suspect. Rylie believes he’s innocent and is determined to help find who the real killer is. As she uncovers clues and information, she informs the detective in charge of the case, but Lucien remains under suspicion.
Secrets are revealed, more suspects come to light, and Lucien might lose the restaurant if the case isn’t solved soon.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 8, 2025
Short and sweet, a mystery that no one wants to miss. This second book won’t disappoint, Rylie is on the job again. This time she tries to solve a crime that involves her friend. Who and why did this happen. Can’t wait for the next book.
January 2, 2025
A charming cozy mystery. Food, dogs, and friends are at the heart of the story. The murder mystery kept me guessing. Thanks to the author for providing a copy. My review is voluntary.
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