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China Bayles #23
Bittersweet
New from the author of Death Come Quickly and Widow's Tears
This Thanksgiving, be grateful for China Bayles—who teams up with an old friend to solve a complex case of theft and murder in a South Texas ranching community…
It’s Thanksgiving in Pecan Springs, and China is planning to visit her mother, Leatha, and her mother’s husband, Sam, who are enthusiastically embarking on a new enterprise—turning their former game ranch into a vacation retreat for birders. She’s also looking forward to catching up with her friend, game warden Mackenzie “Mack” Chambers, who was recently transferred to the area. But Leatha calls with bad news: Sam has had a heart attack.
How will Leatha manage if Sam can’t carry his share? She does have a helper, Sue Ellen Krause. But China discovers that Sue Ellen, who is in the process of leaving her marriage to the assistant foreman at a large trophy game ranch, is in some serious trouble. Before Sue Ellen can tell China the full story, her car veers off a deserted road and she is killed.
Meanwhile, when a local veterinarian is shot in what appears to be a burglary at his clinic, Mack Chambers believes his murder could be related to fawns stolen from a nearby ranch. As Mack follows the trail, China begins to wonder if Sue Ellen’s death may not have been an accident, and if there’s a connection to the stolen animals. But their search for the truth may put their own lives in danger…
This Thanksgiving, be grateful for China Bayles—who teams up with an old friend to solve a complex case of theft and murder in a South Texas ranching community…
It’s Thanksgiving in Pecan Springs, and China is planning to visit her mother, Leatha, and her mother’s husband, Sam, who are enthusiastically embarking on a new enterprise—turning their former game ranch into a vacation retreat for birders. She’s also looking forward to catching up with her friend, game warden Mackenzie “Mack” Chambers, who was recently transferred to the area. But Leatha calls with bad news: Sam has had a heart attack.
How will Leatha manage if Sam can’t carry his share? She does have a helper, Sue Ellen Krause. But China discovers that Sue Ellen, who is in the process of leaving her marriage to the assistant foreman at a large trophy game ranch, is in some serious trouble. Before Sue Ellen can tell China the full story, her car veers off a deserted road and she is killed.
Meanwhile, when a local veterinarian is shot in what appears to be a burglary at his clinic, Mack Chambers believes his murder could be related to fawns stolen from a nearby ranch. As Mack follows the trail, China begins to wonder if Sue Ellen’s death may not have been an accident, and if there’s a connection to the stolen animals. But their search for the truth may put their own lives in danger…
294 pages, Hardcover
First published April 7, 2015
162 people are currently reading
1284 people want to read
About the author
Susan Wittig Albert
120 books2,378 followersSusan is the author/co-author of biographical/historical fiction, mysteries, and nonfiction. Now in her 80s and continuing to write, she says that retirement is not (yet) an option. She publishes under her own imprint. Here are her latest books.
A PLAIN VANILLA MURDER, #27 in the long-running China Bayles/Pecan Springs series.
Two Pecan Springs novella trilogies: The Crystal Cave Trilogy (featuring Ruby Wilcox): noBODY, SomeBODY Else, and Out of BODY; and The Enterprise Trilogy (featuring Jessica Nelson): DEADLINES, FAULTLINES, and FIRELINES.
THE DARLING DAHLIAS AND THE POINSETTIA PUZZLE #8 in the Darling Dahlias series, set in the early 1930s in fictional Darling AL
THE GENERAL'S WOMEN. Kay, Mamie, and Ike--the wartime romance that won a war but could have derailed a presidency.
LOVING ELEANOR: A novel about the intimate 30-year friendship of Eleanor Roosevelt and Lorena Hickok, based on their letters
A WILDER ROSE: the true story of Rose Wilder Lane, who transformed her mother from a farm wife and occasional writer to a literary icon
THE TALE OF CASTLE COTTAGE, #8 in the Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter
DEATH ON THE LIZARD, the 12th and last (2006) of the Robin Paige series, by Susan and Bill Albert
TOGETHER, ALONE: A MEMOIR OF MARRIAGE AND PLACE
AN EXTRAORDINARY YEAR OF ORDINARY DAYS
WORK OF HER OWN: A WOMAN'S GUIDE TO RIGHT LIVELIHOOD
WRITING FROM LIFE: TELLING YOUR SOUL'S STORY
A PLAIN VANILLA MURDER, #27 in the long-running China Bayles/Pecan Springs series.
Two Pecan Springs novella trilogies: The Crystal Cave Trilogy (featuring Ruby Wilcox): noBODY, SomeBODY Else, and Out of BODY; and The Enterprise Trilogy (featuring Jessica Nelson): DEADLINES, FAULTLINES, and FIRELINES.
THE DARLING DAHLIAS AND THE POINSETTIA PUZZLE #8 in the Darling Dahlias series, set in the early 1930s in fictional Darling AL
THE GENERAL'S WOMEN. Kay, Mamie, and Ike--the wartime romance that won a war but could have derailed a presidency.
LOVING ELEANOR: A novel about the intimate 30-year friendship of Eleanor Roosevelt and Lorena Hickok, based on their letters
A WILDER ROSE: the true story of Rose Wilder Lane, who transformed her mother from a farm wife and occasional writer to a literary icon
THE TALE OF CASTLE COTTAGE, #8 in the Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter
DEATH ON THE LIZARD, the 12th and last (2006) of the Robin Paige series, by Susan and Bill Albert
TOGETHER, ALONE: A MEMOIR OF MARRIAGE AND PLACE
AN EXTRAORDINARY YEAR OF ORDINARY DAYS
WORK OF HER OWN: A WOMAN'S GUIDE TO RIGHT LIVELIHOOD
WRITING FROM LIFE: TELLING YOUR SOUL'S STORY
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
April 28, 2015
As anyone who knows me or has followed my reading history would know, I'm a huge China Bayles fan. I've read every book in the series and its always an event for me when a new one comes out. But unfortunately I didn't enjoy this one as much. Maybe it was because a lot of the regular characters weren't in it much - people like Ruby Wilcox or Sheila Dawson. Maybe it was because it wasn't set in Pecan Springs where China Bayles has her shop Thyme and Season and where she lives. Maybe it was because there was too much about wildlife farms and canned hunts on those farms. I don't know. But this book just didn't do it for me this time. I still love China, and I love the whole idea of this wonderful series, so I will certainly consider that this book is an anomaly and will look forward to the next one just as much as I usually do. This book is set near Utopia Texas where China's mom and step dad have a ranch. The setting is in and around Thanksgiving when China and her family make the trip to her mother's ranch to celebrate the holiday. There are many strange things happening in this small community, not the least of which is the dealings and double dealings around high finance game farms where things are not always done in a law-abiding manner. China finds herself going after a killer with no scruples as he tries to protect his secret about what he and his brother are doing while trying to establish an illegal wild game farm.
April 24, 2015
Chic-lit with a botanical, conservation, murder mystery twist. The ancient tv-series "Heart to Heart" comes to mind.
Excessive information dumping, preachy interruptions, with a touch of lipstick, romance and manicures written all over it.
I might not be in the right mood for this book but it simply bored me to death, although I am personally heavily involved in conservation and botany and love a good murder mystery. But I normally read different books for different purposes.
There was simply no surprises of any kind. I did not work for me, although it might be an informative, highly exciting read for someone else.
Sorry, it's a NO.
Excessive information dumping, preachy interruptions, with a touch of lipstick, romance and manicures written all over it.
I might not be in the right mood for this book but it simply bored me to death, although I am personally heavily involved in conservation and botany and love a good murder mystery. But I normally read different books for different purposes.
There was simply no surprises of any kind. I did not work for me, although it might be an informative, highly exciting read for someone else.
Sorry, it's a NO.
April 1, 2015
Having just read and reviewed DEATH COME QUICKLY, book 22 in this series, I was eager to read BITTERSWEET. But when I read what the subject of BITTERSWEET was, trophy game ranches, places where animals are kept and raised for the purpose of hunting them for thrills and trophies, I almost choose not to read the book. I personally find such places appalling and feel they should be outlawed. But I was sent this book by the publisher to review, so I read it.
This is only the second book I have read in this series, but as with DEATH COMES QUICKLY, I found BITTERSWEET to be very well written. There is no doubt author Susan Wittig Albert knows how to draw readers into a story.
Written partly in first person with China narrating, and partly in third person with the story of China’s friend Mackenzie “Mack” Chambers being told, I wasn’t sure I was going to care for it at first, but I found myself looking forward to the spots where the POV changed (Normally at the start of a new chapter). It kept the story fresh, and I think it was a creative choice.
And even though the subject was not a favorite of mine, without giving anything away, I had reason to smile near the end when the universe had a unique revenge planned for the villain. I cheered!
Rounding out the book is very interesting information on different types of plants, and some tasty sounding recipes.
After reading books 22 & 23 in this series, I’m going to get book 1 and start this great series from the beginning.
This is only the second book I have read in this series, but as with DEATH COMES QUICKLY, I found BITTERSWEET to be very well written. There is no doubt author Susan Wittig Albert knows how to draw readers into a story.
Written partly in first person with China narrating, and partly in third person with the story of China’s friend Mackenzie “Mack” Chambers being told, I wasn’t sure I was going to care for it at first, but I found myself looking forward to the spots where the POV changed (Normally at the start of a new chapter). It kept the story fresh, and I think it was a creative choice.
And even though the subject was not a favorite of mine, without giving anything away, I had reason to smile near the end when the universe had a unique revenge planned for the villain. I cheered!
Rounding out the book is very interesting information on different types of plants, and some tasty sounding recipes.
After reading books 22 & 23 in this series, I’m going to get book 1 and start this great series from the beginning.
October 4, 2018
Although this is only my second ever book in the China Bayles series - it's actually the twenty-third in the series overall - I still liked it. I must admit that this time around I felt a bit less out of the loop. I'm actually looking forward to the next book.
July 3, 2015
If you are looking for a standard, run of the mill murder mystery where the heroine takes over the investigation because she is convinced she is the only person smart enough to find the killer, this book is not for you. This is book #23 in Susan Wittig Albert's "China Bayles" series, and yes - as others have pointed out - it is very different. Yes, there is a murder to be solved. Two in fact. In my opinion however, this story is so much more. This is about China's life. It moves at a slower pace, but feels more real as a result. As always with Ms Wittig's writing, there are messages to send, and lessons to be learned about the bounty of this planet we call our home. This is also about aging - or more precisely, growing up and dealing with change. There are new characters to meet, and (unlike other series) they can take center stage without taking anything away from China as the star of the series. I really enjoyed this book. It offers a fresh, new look at China and I can't wait for the next one to see more.
May 30, 2016
http://openbooksociety.com/article/bi...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kayt
Bittersweet is the 23rd book in the long running series China Bayles by wonderful author Susan Wittig Albert. It is amazing that this writer is able to keep each book interesting after so many installments. China Bayles runs a wonderful herbal shop in Pecan Springs, Texas. This book however, takes place mainly in Utopia another small town in Texas where her mother and her husband have a ranch. Her mother Leatha and husband Sam are excited about turning their ranch into a retreat for bird watchers. Thanksgiving is near and the whole family is planning a big dinner at the ranch. China gets bad news before she leaves when her mother calls to let her know Sam has had a heart attack.
In the China Bayles book, one of the enjoyable things is that the author writes her books with several characters telling the story. This one includes a first person account from China’s friend Mackenzie “Mack” Chambers. She is a game warden in the small town of Utopia. She is a well written and entertaining character as are all of them in this wonderful series. Mack is dealing with some strange happenings including nonnative deer, an old curmudgeon vet and sneaky ranchers. The storyline is intriguing and fast paced. Touching on the politics and ecological ethics of what is going on in Texas, Bittersweet is a truly well written, exciting mystery.
As with all of the China Bayles books, Susan Wittig Albert intersperses information concerning herbs and their uses. Bittersweet comes in two varieties and one is invasive, like the axis deer people are bringing into Utopia illegally. This book is entertaining and informative as well. The writing is fun, fast paced, entertaining and descriptive. There really are no dull or slow parts. Each character is fully developed and the setting is tempting. I always picture Texas as a big dry area, however reading about it through the eyes of China and Mack, I was transported to a lush, green area with wonderful views.
I would recommend Bittersweet to anyone that enjoys a delightful mystery with engaging characters. I do not think a reader needs to read the twenty two earlier books in this series to enjoy it. The author does a great job of getting the reader up to speed without boring those that have read the entire series. I actually find the wrap up of past books helpful even when I have read all of the others. Susan Wittig Albert is an amazing author whose writing style and characters brings the readers on a fabulous ride of fun, entertainment and mystery. I highly recommend Bittersweet!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review as part of their ongoing blog tour*
http://openbooksociety.com/article/bi...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
New from the author of Death Come Quickly and Widow’s Tears. This Thanksgiving, be grateful for China Bayles—who teams up with an old friend to solve a complex case of theft and murder in a South Texas ranching community…
It’s Thanksgiving in Pecan Springs, and China is planning to visit her mother, Leatha, and her mother’s husband, Sam, who are enthusiastically embarking on a new enterprise—turning their former game ranch into a vacation retreat for birders. She’s also looking forward to catching up with her friend, game warden Mackenzie “Mack” Chambers, who was recently transferred to the area. But Leatha calls with bad news: Sam has had a heart attack.
How will Leatha manage if Sam can’t carry his share? She does have a helper, Sue Ellen Krause. But China discovers that Sue Ellen, who is in the process of leaving her marriage to the assistant foreman at a large trophy game ranch, is in some serious trouble. Before Sue Ellen can tell China the full story, her car veers off a deserted road and she is killed.
Meanwhile, when a local veterinarian is shot in what appears to be a burglary at his clinic, Mack Chambers believes his murder could be related to fawns stolen from a nearby ranch. As Mack follows the trail, China begins to wonder if Sue Ellen’s death may not have been an accident, and if there’s a connection to the stolen animals. But their search for the truth may put their own lives in danger… (Goodreads)
Review:
There is never a boring paragraph in a China Bayles mystery! The 23rd China Bayles novel can be read as a standalone, as the author so easily includes enough background on the regular characters that it seems like the first one. Even for long-term fans of China, gentle reminders can be helpful if it has been a while since reading the last one. The story itself leaves the reader waiting eagerly for the next novel.
The author begins each chapter with information about various herbs and plants. The information is imparted in clear, concise detail related to that chapter. For example, there are two kinds of bittersweet, but I won’t *spoil* the correlations used throughout the novel. Most events are relayed from the first-person perspective of China. We also get to know “Mack” Mackenzie Chambers, a game warden for the State of Texas, and then see the mysteries specific to what is occurring in her job as they interrelate with mysteries at the ranch of China’s mother and stepfather.
China’s stepfather has been hospitalized for a heart emergency, then surgery, and her mother Leatha has had a hard time celebrating Thanksgiving when he can’t be at home. China, her hubby McQuaid, son Brian and daughter Caitlyn join Leatha for the holiday. Mack, a friend of China’s, will join them, and Susan, a friend of Leatha’s who is moving into a guest cabin to escape her husband and help at the ranch, is also present. An older veterinarian who had talked with Mack about some wildlife issues, is found murdered, then another murder occurred. These may or may not be related to a mystery and criminal activity in Mack’s location of responsibility. It is up to China, Mack, and Deputy Ethan Conroy to discover whether these pieces fit together or are simply separate events.
The author has years of planning the core men and women who compliment each other; her gift for conversation and the action throughout the novel prove her excellence at characterization. China and Mack are three-dimensional, ready to step out of the pages. Between the two, I would probably want Mack as a closer friend only because we learn more about her as a person, and I would tend to want to write down every other sentence that China speaks. It is not hero worship, but rather that much of what she talks about is the stuff that good classes or PBS programs are made of – history and uses of many plants and herbs and what she might be learning or refreshing her knowledge about in relationship to the current mystery. She and her husband compliment each other; they each have their field of expertise to share and life experiences to build on.
The plot is complex, with smaller mysteries exploding from within of a larger, deeper mystery. While we do get to see a few moments with at least one of the bad guys/ gals (without giving up their names or identifying details), those glimpses are definitely insufficient to get them behind bars for any of the crimes. The plot includes a situation that I had not heard of as yet, so it has been an educational journey as well as journey fraught with increasing suspense. The plot twists and turns kept this reader engaged throughout. If I am vague about the plot, it is to avoid accidental spoilers; I would rather encourage the cozy mystery aficionado who appreciate time-tested and strengthened relationships, intelligent female protagonists, spices and herbs, and multi-dimensional mysteries. I highly recommend ‘Bittersweet’; one will find excitement, suspense and information on using various parts of plants to enhance foods when cooking.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kayt
Bittersweet is the 23rd book in the long running series China Bayles by wonderful author Susan Wittig Albert. It is amazing that this writer is able to keep each book interesting after so many installments. China Bayles runs a wonderful herbal shop in Pecan Springs, Texas. This book however, takes place mainly in Utopia another small town in Texas where her mother and her husband have a ranch. Her mother Leatha and husband Sam are excited about turning their ranch into a retreat for bird watchers. Thanksgiving is near and the whole family is planning a big dinner at the ranch. China gets bad news before she leaves when her mother calls to let her know Sam has had a heart attack.
In the China Bayles book, one of the enjoyable things is that the author writes her books with several characters telling the story. This one includes a first person account from China’s friend Mackenzie “Mack” Chambers. She is a game warden in the small town of Utopia. She is a well written and entertaining character as are all of them in this wonderful series. Mack is dealing with some strange happenings including nonnative deer, an old curmudgeon vet and sneaky ranchers. The storyline is intriguing and fast paced. Touching on the politics and ecological ethics of what is going on in Texas, Bittersweet is a truly well written, exciting mystery.
As with all of the China Bayles books, Susan Wittig Albert intersperses information concerning herbs and their uses. Bittersweet comes in two varieties and one is invasive, like the axis deer people are bringing into Utopia illegally. This book is entertaining and informative as well. The writing is fun, fast paced, entertaining and descriptive. There really are no dull or slow parts. Each character is fully developed and the setting is tempting. I always picture Texas as a big dry area, however reading about it through the eyes of China and Mack, I was transported to a lush, green area with wonderful views.
I would recommend Bittersweet to anyone that enjoys a delightful mystery with engaging characters. I do not think a reader needs to read the twenty two earlier books in this series to enjoy it. The author does a great job of getting the reader up to speed without boring those that have read the entire series. I actually find the wrap up of past books helpful even when I have read all of the others. Susan Wittig Albert is an amazing author whose writing style and characters brings the readers on a fabulous ride of fun, entertainment and mystery. I highly recommend Bittersweet!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review as part of their ongoing blog tour*
http://openbooksociety.com/article/bi...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
New from the author of Death Come Quickly and Widow’s Tears. This Thanksgiving, be grateful for China Bayles—who teams up with an old friend to solve a complex case of theft and murder in a South Texas ranching community…
It’s Thanksgiving in Pecan Springs, and China is planning to visit her mother, Leatha, and her mother’s husband, Sam, who are enthusiastically embarking on a new enterprise—turning their former game ranch into a vacation retreat for birders. She’s also looking forward to catching up with her friend, game warden Mackenzie “Mack” Chambers, who was recently transferred to the area. But Leatha calls with bad news: Sam has had a heart attack.
How will Leatha manage if Sam can’t carry his share? She does have a helper, Sue Ellen Krause. But China discovers that Sue Ellen, who is in the process of leaving her marriage to the assistant foreman at a large trophy game ranch, is in some serious trouble. Before Sue Ellen can tell China the full story, her car veers off a deserted road and she is killed.
Meanwhile, when a local veterinarian is shot in what appears to be a burglary at his clinic, Mack Chambers believes his murder could be related to fawns stolen from a nearby ranch. As Mack follows the trail, China begins to wonder if Sue Ellen’s death may not have been an accident, and if there’s a connection to the stolen animals. But their search for the truth may put their own lives in danger… (Goodreads)
Review:
There is never a boring paragraph in a China Bayles mystery! The 23rd China Bayles novel can be read as a standalone, as the author so easily includes enough background on the regular characters that it seems like the first one. Even for long-term fans of China, gentle reminders can be helpful if it has been a while since reading the last one. The story itself leaves the reader waiting eagerly for the next novel.
The author begins each chapter with information about various herbs and plants. The information is imparted in clear, concise detail related to that chapter. For example, there are two kinds of bittersweet, but I won’t *spoil* the correlations used throughout the novel. Most events are relayed from the first-person perspective of China. We also get to know “Mack” Mackenzie Chambers, a game warden for the State of Texas, and then see the mysteries specific to what is occurring in her job as they interrelate with mysteries at the ranch of China’s mother and stepfather.
China’s stepfather has been hospitalized for a heart emergency, then surgery, and her mother Leatha has had a hard time celebrating Thanksgiving when he can’t be at home. China, her hubby McQuaid, son Brian and daughter Caitlyn join Leatha for the holiday. Mack, a friend of China’s, will join them, and Susan, a friend of Leatha’s who is moving into a guest cabin to escape her husband and help at the ranch, is also present. An older veterinarian who had talked with Mack about some wildlife issues, is found murdered, then another murder occurred. These may or may not be related to a mystery and criminal activity in Mack’s location of responsibility. It is up to China, Mack, and Deputy Ethan Conroy to discover whether these pieces fit together or are simply separate events.
The author has years of planning the core men and women who compliment each other; her gift for conversation and the action throughout the novel prove her excellence at characterization. China and Mack are three-dimensional, ready to step out of the pages. Between the two, I would probably want Mack as a closer friend only because we learn more about her as a person, and I would tend to want to write down every other sentence that China speaks. It is not hero worship, but rather that much of what she talks about is the stuff that good classes or PBS programs are made of – history and uses of many plants and herbs and what she might be learning or refreshing her knowledge about in relationship to the current mystery. She and her husband compliment each other; they each have their field of expertise to share and life experiences to build on.
The plot is complex, with smaller mysteries exploding from within of a larger, deeper mystery. While we do get to see a few moments with at least one of the bad guys/ gals (without giving up their names or identifying details), those glimpses are definitely insufficient to get them behind bars for any of the crimes. The plot includes a situation that I had not heard of as yet, so it has been an educational journey as well as journey fraught with increasing suspense. The plot twists and turns kept this reader engaged throughout. If I am vague about the plot, it is to avoid accidental spoilers; I would rather encourage the cozy mystery aficionado who appreciate time-tested and strengthened relationships, intelligent female protagonists, spices and herbs, and multi-dimensional mysteries. I highly recommend ‘Bittersweet’; one will find excitement, suspense and information on using various parts of plants to enhance foods when cooking.
November 6, 2019
First off, I’ve been a vegetarian for 42 years. Ethically, I follow more of a Jainism dogma. That said, there were many paragraphs I skipped over, as this story dealt with hunting and I just prefer not to sadden myself with the details.
Our main character, China Bayles, heads out for Thanksgiving at her mother & stepfather’s ranch. She meets up with an old friend, Mackenzie, who is the game warden. Of course, China can’t go anywhere without getting involved in a few murders, so when the local vet is shot dead shortly after mentioning an illegal predicament to Mackenzie, speculation of homicide come into play. Next is the death of a woman who had been helping China’s parents after she confides to China that her husband is involved in shady game acquisitions. China, Mackenzie & deputy, Ethan put their heads together, along with a lucky drone surveillance, and bring justice to the forefront, with a little bit of instant karma via a stately buck.
Not my favorite in this series, but not due to the writing, which was as informative and entertaining as always. I just didn’t enjoy the animal slaughter.
Herbal lore, recipes and history always add to the fun.
Our main character, China Bayles, heads out for Thanksgiving at her mother & stepfather’s ranch. She meets up with an old friend, Mackenzie, who is the game warden. Of course, China can’t go anywhere without getting involved in a few murders, so when the local vet is shot dead shortly after mentioning an illegal predicament to Mackenzie, speculation of homicide come into play. Next is the death of a woman who had been helping China’s parents after she confides to China that her husband is involved in shady game acquisitions. China, Mackenzie & deputy, Ethan put their heads together, along with a lucky drone surveillance, and bring justice to the forefront, with a little bit of instant karma via a stately buck.
Not my favorite in this series, but not due to the writing, which was as informative and entertaining as always. I just didn’t enjoy the animal slaughter.
Herbal lore, recipes and history always add to the fun.
April 24, 2015
I can honestly say I was quite disappointed in this book but yet thoroughly enjoyed it. My wish was that is wasn't a China Bayles story. As it was not set in Pecan Springs and had but only a mention of the wonderful characters there I was disappointed. I love those quirky characters and the coziness of Albert's mysteries about them. This was a well written engaging story but it did not have the same feel as her usual. It wasn't a cozy, it was more mystery, more suspense. The premise of the story was interesting, drones, Game Ranches, and the legal as well as environmental impact of them. I did feel some of the descriptiveness went beyond necessary but was informative. There was also a bit of preachiness in certain areas. I can't help but wonder if the author is going to leave Pecan Springs behind and start writing heavier suspense. While I would understand, I will miss her down home feel.
October 3, 2017
"Bittersweet," by author Susan Wittig Albert, is #23 in the "China Bayles Mystery" series. Each of Ms. Albert's books, especially the latter ones, highlight a particular theme, in this case exotic animals in Texas, especially exotic deer. Her research is excellent in weighing both sides of this very sensitive Texas' problem, looking at animal rights versus hunters' rights versus the economic impact of hunting on the state. The book is an interesting read for these reasons alone and can be a stand-alone in this series. However, the central characters, China, Ruby and the others, are still there while Ms. Albert brings in a couple of new characters that complement the old standby characters of China and Ruby. As with all of her books, the reader gets a peak of new subject matter while following a continuous thread throughout these books. Love this series and highly recommend for all mystery readers!
April 7, 2015
The only part of Texas I have ever visited is Brownsville on the border with Mexico, so it was very interesting to read more about that state in this novel, Bittersweet. The birding is glorious, but also interesting are other events, such as the craze for game hunting on special ranches that import and breed deer for this sport.
More than invasive species of plants is at stake here. Deer and fawn are being imported from other states, which is illegal. A fascinating story and an equally fascinating mystery that is tied in to game hunting in Texas. I assume that this importing and breeding of deer is factual and incorporated into the mystery. A great read on many levels.
More than invasive species of plants is at stake here. Deer and fawn are being imported from other states, which is illegal. A fascinating story and an equally fascinating mystery that is tied in to game hunting in Texas. I assume that this importing and breeding of deer is factual and incorporated into the mystery. A great read on many levels.
April 15, 2015
I've read all the China Bayles mysteries. This book was a leap forward from all the rest. I understood for the first time how computer technology changes mysteries. This book even had a drone in it, which solved the mystery, of course. I don't think any courts have ruled on whether drones could be witnesses or not, and I'm not even sure if anyone has been convicted based on a cellphone video.
In addition to that, new characters and a different location were introduced, who fit well into this series, and I'm looking forward to seeing them again. Well-written and technology to think about make this book a five star for me. Very impressed with an author I've read many times!
In addition to that, new characters and a different location were introduced, who fit well into this series, and I'm looking forward to seeing them again. Well-written and technology to think about make this book a five star for me. Very impressed with an author I've read many times!
June 27, 2015
I am getting a little more disappointed with China Bayles every year. I know the author wanted to show the point of view of new characters that might have access to information that China does not, but part of the fun of the earlier mysteries was watching China fumble her way to these discoveries by talking to new people. I guess these books with multiple points of view are easier for Susan Wittig Albert to write, and that probably leaves her time to concentrate on her other projects, which I understand. I appreciate that I learn about new things every time I read her books. This book got my dander up about staged hunting, and breeding animals for the fun and profit of tourists.
April 12, 2015
Meh...best way I can describe it. Maybe I'm getting a little burnt out on murder series? I felt like everything in this one was excruciatingly detailed and left little in the way of plot lines. Also...drones...really? Thinking this series may have done a little shark jumping for me.
October 20, 2017
3.5 stars This is a good cozy mystery.
January 28, 2022
It was great to be reading another China Bayles mystery after a very, very long time. This one took place in and around Utopia, TX, where China was headed for Thanksgiving with her mother Leatha and her husband Sam at their Bittersweet Nature Sanctuary. On Wednesday, she and daughter, Caitie, were driving from Pecan Springs in Big Red Mama with a load of plants to expand the herb garden at Jennie's Kitchen, just outside Utopia. McQuaid was picking up Brian from college to join them Thanksgiving day. An advance call from Leatha announced that Sam had had a heart attack, surgery, and was hospitalized, but that she, and he in particular, wanted everyone to still have Thanksgiving together. Leatha also had bumped into and invited Mackenzie Chambers, their local and relatively new game warden who previously had served China's county.
So, a lot of the plot revolves around Mackenzie getting the lie of the land and the people near Utopia. I appreciated reading the incredible amount of enlightening information about deer breeding and the reasons for doing so; laws and regulations about native wild deer versus biologically engineered big, meaty game deer with huge racks of antlers; the virtues of a wild hunt without electronic gizmos and surveillance versus big-dollar containment hunts for bloodthirsty trophy hunters; and the extremely profitability of genetically engineered game. On an investigation of several dead deer found by a fellow Mack had dated a few times but was unsure about romantically, she had to call in the Doc Masters, the local veterinarian known for his crustiness. Being a female game warden in Texas she already was battling acceptance, but Doc surprisingly took to Mack. He confidentially told her about something legally questionable he had seen recently on a call, having to do with possibly stolen deer. Since it was her job to investigate, she urged him to tell her where they were located, but he hesitated for non-specific reasons. Mack told him to think it over Thanksgiving day and she would call him first thing Friday morning and expected the details. But by Friday morning, Doc had been murdered in his veterinarian office.
There are multiple underlying side plots and dramas, many of which join together in solving Doc Masters' murder, and of which China ably connects bits and pieces until sense is revealed. And, as always, I thoroughly appreciate and enjoy Albert's included information about plants and their qualities and properties.
So, a lot of the plot revolves around Mackenzie getting the lie of the land and the people near Utopia. I appreciated reading the incredible amount of enlightening information about deer breeding and the reasons for doing so; laws and regulations about native wild deer versus biologically engineered big, meaty game deer with huge racks of antlers; the virtues of a wild hunt without electronic gizmos and surveillance versus big-dollar containment hunts for bloodthirsty trophy hunters; and the extremely profitability of genetically engineered game. On an investigation of several dead deer found by a fellow Mack had dated a few times but was unsure about romantically, she had to call in the Doc Masters, the local veterinarian known for his crustiness. Being a female game warden in Texas she already was battling acceptance, but Doc surprisingly took to Mack. He confidentially told her about something legally questionable he had seen recently on a call, having to do with possibly stolen deer. Since it was her job to investigate, she urged him to tell her where they were located, but he hesitated for non-specific reasons. Mack told him to think it over Thanksgiving day and she would call him first thing Friday morning and expected the details. But by Friday morning, Doc had been murdered in his veterinarian office.
There are multiple underlying side plots and dramas, many of which join together in solving Doc Masters' murder, and of which China ably connects bits and pieces until sense is revealed. And, as always, I thoroughly appreciate and enjoy Albert's included information about plants and their qualities and properties.
September 19, 2019
The blue and white Cessna 172 dropped out of the gray November sky.
It's Thanksgiving and China has plans to visit her mom and step-dad on their ranch. Sam has some hear issues and ends up in the hospital. However, Letha wants to continue with the plans to be together for the holiday.
This was an interesting addition to the series. I recently read another book that explored the "canned hunt" ranches in Texas. I had no idea that so much money was involved. It was intriguing to learn about the extents that some go to in order to have bigger and better deer. I am very much opposed to this trophy hunting.
I missed having Ruby around in this installment. I like the focus on China and her family. I enjoyed meeting game warden, Mackenzie "Mack" Chambers.
As always, there is great information about herbs and plants sprinkled throughout the book. The recipes are always good too.
You pretty much know who the bad guys are from chapter one so there were no surprises there. It is still suspenseful and well worth the read.
This is a series that I highly recommend. I strongly suggest that you start at the beginning as there is a lot of character development.
It's Thanksgiving and China has plans to visit her mom and step-dad on their ranch. Sam has some hear issues and ends up in the hospital. However, Letha wants to continue with the plans to be together for the holiday.
This was an interesting addition to the series. I recently read another book that explored the "canned hunt" ranches in Texas. I had no idea that so much money was involved. It was intriguing to learn about the extents that some go to in order to have bigger and better deer. I am very much opposed to this trophy hunting.
I missed having Ruby around in this installment. I like the focus on China and her family. I enjoyed meeting game warden, Mackenzie "Mack" Chambers.
As always, there is great information about herbs and plants sprinkled throughout the book. The recipes are always good too.
You pretty much know who the bad guys are from chapter one so there were no surprises there. It is still suspenseful and well worth the read.
This is a series that I highly recommend. I strongly suggest that you start at the beginning as there is a lot of character development.
November 4, 2022
That was a tough one for me to read, but it certainly opened my eyes to the inhumane practice of genetically engineering deer and then killing them under the guise of sport. This is not hunting, it is murder. Why is Mr Moneybags (who probably has small hands) allowed to sit in an air conditioned/heated blind and shoot an innocent animal that has been lured to a feeding station? Greed, money and bragging rights, it makes my blood boil that this is a legal hunting option all over the country.
I would love to invite all these idiots to a fancy banquet and serve them juicy venison steaks - laced with arsenic!! (Thanks, Agatha.)
Now for the book - one of the better ones. I like the new characters and was glad to see the old ones playing minor roles. Ms Albert’s writing had definitely improved with her age. As usual the reader is left hanging and just HAS to read the next book in the series #24.
I would love to invite all these idiots to a fancy banquet and serve them juicy venison steaks - laced with arsenic!! (Thanks, Agatha.)
Now for the book - one of the better ones. I like the new characters and was glad to see the old ones playing minor roles. Ms Albert’s writing had definitely improved with her age. As usual the reader is left hanging and just HAS to read the next book in the series #24.
October 12, 2017
Susan Wittig Albert writes several series and I have enjoyed reading two of them. The China Bayles series contains many recipes and interesting tidbits on spices and herbs. This novel dealt with deer hunting in Texas on preserves where the deer are genetically improved for better hunting. I guess I always thought that these preserves were for big game hunting, and that deer did not fall into this realm. After reading this book, my dislike of deer hunting greatly increased and taste for venison disappeared. Susan W Albert introduces many new characters, such as the adopted daughter of China and her husband. Bittersweet, the ranch of China's mother and step-father, provides a peaceful garden to the frantic deer hunting.
November 5, 2021
This novel takes China away from Pecan Springs for the Thanksgiving holidays to visit her mother & Sam at their ranch. While there, she renews her friendship with the local game warden who has moved to the area. So this novel uses a dual POV again, this time of China & Mack, the game warden. I like this new character & wouldn't mind seeing her again. The foundation of the mystery & the crimes is the illegal trade in exotic game & canned hunts. As China & Mack are drawn more deeply into the problem, China's mother is dealing with a health issue for Sam that is serious & will reverberate through future installments. Good story, & my only complaint is that once again, not enough McQuaid. He needs more time than just one conversation with China in the whole book!
October 27, 2024
Mainstay China Bayles only appears in this story on its periphery; most of the plot concerns a game warden, Mackenzie Chambers, investigating the shooting death of a veterinarian. Albert's skill at telling a fast-moving, involving tale is still there, however.
February 15, 2020
I Love this series but am a few books behind. Time to get caught up ;)
March 9, 2021
3.5 stars. I learned interesting facts about TX wildlife issues from this story. This author is a favorite, but this was not one of her best mysteries. Excellent narrator. (Hoopla digital)
April 10, 2015
I really liked BITTERSWEET. This is book #23 in the China Bayles series -- amazing the quality that Susan Wittig Albert maintains in her stories. Thanksgiving is just around the corner. China and her family are looking forward to Thanksgiving at her Mother (Leatha) and Step-dad's (Sam) ranch, Bittersweet. Leatha and Sam are excited about turning the ranch into a retreat for birders. Shortly before leaving for the ranch, China finds out Sam is in the hospital after a heart attack. But Leatha has found a young woman (Sue Ellen Krause) who is willing to help out while Sam is recovering. China is looking forward to seeing her Mom and Sam, meeting Sue Ellen and seeing her old friend, game warden Mackenzie "Mack" Chambers. Fascinating look at the hunting industry in Texas .... something that for me, living in Texas, I abhor. The stealing of fawns, semen, the building of eight foot high fences, and the non-native plants and animals that are dangerous to the environment. Add a murder or two and new characters Mack Chambers and Deputy Sheriff Ethan Conroy and Albert has another winner.
April 30, 2015
This series is one of my absolute favorites. The stories are always so well written! Even the few in the series that didn't appeal to me all that much were pretty good reads. This story is told by both China and her friend, Mack, a game warden in the area where China's mother & step-father live. There is interesting info in here about the effect of non-native species, both plant & wildlife, on the environment. Quite scary the damage man has done, and continues to do, in the name of "bigger & better". The story was a good one and there is some upheaval in China's life. I'll be anxiously awaiting the next in this series to see how everything turns out. If you have never read this series, you are truly missing out on some good reading! RECOMMEND!
March 9, 2021
This book centers around invasive species (plant and animal) and the trophy ranches and hunting in Texas. It felt less comfortable and more informational than some books, but still worth reading. I had the sense that a lot of future events of ongoing characters were being put in motion here.
April 16, 2015
OK, but I didn't connect with this one as much as previous books in the series. It bogged down in hot-topic discussion of canned hunting and drones and was overly detailed in some other descriptions as well.
April 20, 2015
I loved almost all of the China Bayles books that Albert writes, but this one seemed to finish in a hurry. With only a few pages left, I was wondering how things would be tied up. I was disappointed in the way things were wrapped up.
May 13, 2015
Love all her books. There is a distinctly educational aspect, to be sure, but I enjoy it for the most part and skip what I don't. The storylines are always engaging.
April 24, 2015
This was okay. I'm always a little put off when the author's personal agenda gets in the way of an otherwise very good story, and I would give this 4 stars if it hadn't bothered me.
May 23, 2015
My review for Bittersweet by Susan Wittig Albert will be linked back to Goodreads in the near future. Stay tuned!
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