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Bakeshop Mystery #2
A Batter of Life and Death
Welcome to Torte-a small-town family bakeshop where the coffee is hot, the muffins are fresh, and the cakes are definitely to die for...
It's autumn in Ashland, Oregon-'tis the season for a spiced hot apple cider with a serving (or two) of Torte's famous peach cobbler. It's also the perfect time for Jules Capshaw to promote her family's beloved bake shop by competing in The Pastry Channel's reality show, Take the Cake. The prize is $25,000. But as Jules quickly learns, some people would kill for that kind of dough. Literally.
Then, just as Jules dusts off her Bavarian Chocolate Cake recipe and cinches up her apron, the corpse of a fellow contestant is discovered-death by buttercream. What began as a fun, tasteful televised adventure has morphed into something of a true-crime detective show for Jules and everybody else on set. Who could have killed Chef Marco, and why? Can Jules sift out the killer before someone else gets burned?
It's autumn in Ashland, Oregon-'tis the season for a spiced hot apple cider with a serving (or two) of Torte's famous peach cobbler. It's also the perfect time for Jules Capshaw to promote her family's beloved bake shop by competing in The Pastry Channel's reality show, Take the Cake. The prize is $25,000. But as Jules quickly learns, some people would kill for that kind of dough. Literally.
Then, just as Jules dusts off her Bavarian Chocolate Cake recipe and cinches up her apron, the corpse of a fellow contestant is discovered-death by buttercream. What began as a fun, tasteful televised adventure has morphed into something of a true-crime detective show for Jules and everybody else on set. Who could have killed Chef Marco, and why? Can Jules sift out the killer before someone else gets burned?
277 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 30, 2015
509 people are currently reading
3084 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Alexander
78 books3,035 followersEllie is a voracious storyteller and a lover of words and all things bookish. She believes that stories have the ability to transport and transform us. With over forty published novels and counting, her goal is to tell stories that provide points of connection, escape, and understanding.
She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_alexa...
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https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_alexa...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elliealexande...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elliealexande...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliealexand...
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 496 reviews
April 15, 2019
"What was the deal with these contestants... Was everyone putting on an act?"
Welcome (again) to Ashtown: a small, cozy town in Oregon which seems to have acquired a special taste... for murder 😈
In this second book of the series, Jules and her precious bakery have been chosen to host a baking competition, which brought four other chefs in town. Everyone is very excited for the prize and the opportunity to be seen on TV... until the first course is served... and it's dead cold...
I know what you are thinking. After everything Jules have been through since she came back home, what are the chances that not only another person is murdered in her cozy hometown but also that she would be the one to find the body again? 😱 But as our Bard would say,
"What are you doing sister? / Killing swine"
PS: this book was actually cool. Sorry i got carried on with gifs. I will retire now.
or
NOT
Welcome (again) to Ashtown: a small, cozy town in Oregon which seems to have acquired a special taste... for murder 😈
In this second book of the series, Jules and her precious bakery have been chosen to host a baking competition, which brought four other chefs in town. Everyone is very excited for the prize and the opportunity to be seen on TV... until the first course is served... and it's dead cold...
I know what you are thinking. After everything Jules have been through since she came back home, what are the chances that not only another person is murdered in her cozy hometown but also that she would be the one to find the body again? 😱 But as our Bard would say,
"What are you doing sister? / Killing swine"
PS: this book was actually cool. Sorry i got carried on with gifs. I will retire now.
or
NOT
August 3, 2022
Book two in the Bakeshop mystery series takes us back to Ashland Oregon. Jules and her mother have agreed to let a pastry baking competition show use their kitchen for some much needed extra income now that tourist season is ending. When Jules finds one of the contestants dead she gets roped into the show and the investigation. I thought the parts about the show were a little over the top, but I believe that could be how those shows are (despite my love of them). I found the ending to be a little jarring but the mystery was good. I especially liked this series because it truly captures the vibe of Ashland and it’s always fun to read about places you know.
March 20, 2017
Good story. I am liking this series. Jules is interesting and once the love triangle gets dropped I'll be much happier, as will she. Her investigations are subtle and the townspeople interesting. This time there is a TV cooking competition in town and it seems all the chefs have secrets.
December 27, 2023
I really enjoyed this second installment in the series. I enjoyed the baking show story line. It was a lot of fun and kept me on my toes guessing the culprit. I really like Jules and the bakeshop setting. Her love life is annoying me but that's about it. I'd love to try one of Andy's pumpkin spice lattes, they sound to die for. The recipe is included at the end but let's face it, mine won't be as good. I did make a copy of the Torte chili recipe that was included and might actually make it, it also sounds really yummy.
January 8, 2022
.
I was able to access this series on my Kindle through my local Public Library. I am forever grateful for all the books I have been able to access in my exploration of the literary arts.
After discovering there was a deep, dark secret between her husband and someone else, Jule had managed to use steel and determination to guard her heart, by separating herself from her husband and her dream job on the cruise ship.
Inside Jule's hometown, the reader finds mystery, intrigue, camaraderie, and solidarity. The family restaurant, Torte, has an exotic name to accompany their diverse offerings.
In this book, you will find another mystery and awareness of the unique individuals that make up This community.
This is a clean and entertaining cozy mystery. thank you, Natalia, for recommending this book to me. It was very entertaining and I enjoyed it immensely.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is interested in foody, cozy mysteries.
.
I was able to access this series on my Kindle through my local Public Library. I am forever grateful for all the books I have been able to access in my exploration of the literary arts.
After discovering there was a deep, dark secret between her husband and someone else, Jule had managed to use steel and determination to guard her heart, by separating herself from her husband and her dream job on the cruise ship.
Inside Jule's hometown, the reader finds mystery, intrigue, camaraderie, and solidarity. The family restaurant, Torte, has an exotic name to accompany their diverse offerings.
In this book, you will find another mystery and awareness of the unique individuals that make up This community.
This is a clean and entertaining cozy mystery. thank you, Natalia, for recommending this book to me. It was very entertaining and I enjoyed it immensely.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is interested in foody, cozy mysteries.
.
December 7, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Can Jules Capshaw Take the Cake? The Pastry Channel’s show has come to Ashland, Oregon and she is representing the family’s bakeshop, Torte, as a contestant against four other pastry chefs. Her family sure could use the $25000 prize to continue their improvements to their business.
Jules has baked a Bavarian Chocolate Cake for the day’s challenge but when she arrives on the set she finds one of the competing chefs dead. The powers that be commit to continuing the show as soon as the police release the set, but Jules wants to know – Who killed the chef? Are the rest of the chefs in danger? and most importantly – Is one of the chefs the killer? She starts doing a little snooping on her own to find answers before another chef gets frosted.
___
Ms. Alexander’s characters are so likable. Jules, her mom, their employees, Thomas, the Professor, and more all make me wish I could visit Torte and meet them all. All are genuine and believable. They are joined this time by a group of pastry chefs that are diverse in their specialties along with the small crew from The Pastry Channel who each have something to prove. All these new visitors are viable suspects and seem to have secrets. I liked that some of the chefs ended using Torte’s kitchen to create their show entries. It allowed both Jules and us readers to get to know them better. It also made clear how patient Jules and mom, Helen could be with strangers in their kitchen. They also handled a little strife between two employees with time and patience.
Readers are treated to a little romance too, as relationships evolve through normal everyday life. Jules is still trying to sort things through will Carlos as the clock ticks down on their break.
I love watching shows like Take the Cake so I was thrilled with this theme. The author created a marvelous whodunit around that theme giving Jules plenty of opportunity to sift through the clues and follow them as need be. Several twists spin to keep everyone guessing. With Helen and Jules’ tight connection to the chief of police, aka, The Professor and Detective-In-Training, Thomas, they keep them informed in everything they find and don’t hesitate to call for help when needed. I like that.
I can’t forget to mention the food. Most of the luscious pastries and desserts. I say most because there are a couple that clearly were not baked by the chef that presented them. Daily life at the bakeshop also adds more delightful treats and morning breakfast ideas. The schedule and the workings of the shop are also interesting. The realistic fact it is a hard business on a tight budget is also appreciated and grounds the whole series in reality.
Awesome characters, a fantastic setting, and a wonderful mystery all make A Batter of Life and Death a delectable cozy mystery and A Perfect Escape. The sample taste of On Thin Icing included at the end of the story has whet my appetite to read more of this series soon.
Can Jules Capshaw Take the Cake? The Pastry Channel’s show has come to Ashland, Oregon and she is representing the family’s bakeshop, Torte, as a contestant against four other pastry chefs. Her family sure could use the $25000 prize to continue their improvements to their business.
Jules has baked a Bavarian Chocolate Cake for the day’s challenge but when she arrives on the set she finds one of the competing chefs dead. The powers that be commit to continuing the show as soon as the police release the set, but Jules wants to know – Who killed the chef? Are the rest of the chefs in danger? and most importantly – Is one of the chefs the killer? She starts doing a little snooping on her own to find answers before another chef gets frosted.
___
Ms. Alexander’s characters are so likable. Jules, her mom, their employees, Thomas, the Professor, and more all make me wish I could visit Torte and meet them all. All are genuine and believable. They are joined this time by a group of pastry chefs that are diverse in their specialties along with the small crew from The Pastry Channel who each have something to prove. All these new visitors are viable suspects and seem to have secrets. I liked that some of the chefs ended using Torte’s kitchen to create their show entries. It allowed both Jules and us readers to get to know them better. It also made clear how patient Jules and mom, Helen could be with strangers in their kitchen. They also handled a little strife between two employees with time and patience.
Readers are treated to a little romance too, as relationships evolve through normal everyday life. Jules is still trying to sort things through will Carlos as the clock ticks down on their break.
I love watching shows like Take the Cake so I was thrilled with this theme. The author created a marvelous whodunit around that theme giving Jules plenty of opportunity to sift through the clues and follow them as need be. Several twists spin to keep everyone guessing. With Helen and Jules’ tight connection to the chief of police, aka, The Professor and Detective-In-Training, Thomas, they keep them informed in everything they find and don’t hesitate to call for help when needed. I like that.
I can’t forget to mention the food. Most of the luscious pastries and desserts. I say most because there are a couple that clearly were not baked by the chef that presented them. Daily life at the bakeshop also adds more delightful treats and morning breakfast ideas. The schedule and the workings of the shop are also interesting. The realistic fact it is a hard business on a tight budget is also appreciated and grounds the whole series in reality.
Awesome characters, a fantastic setting, and a wonderful mystery all make A Batter of Life and Death a delectable cozy mystery and A Perfect Escape. The sample taste of On Thin Icing included at the end of the story has whet my appetite to read more of this series soon.
January 26, 2020
⭐⭐⭐ 1/2
Jules solves another case
My favorite bit’s are the Professor’s quotes
“King Henry VI, Part III”
Best one of all
"As You Like It"
Something I don’t like about the series so far is
Cozies Reading Challenge
Jules solves another case
My favorite bit’s are the Professor’s quotes
“As the bard says, ‘suspicion always haunts the guilty mind.’
“King Henry VI, Part III”
Best one of all
“A Fool Thinks Himself to Be Wise, but a Wise Man Knows Himself to Be a Fool.”
“Is that Shakespeare?” I asked, pointing to the quote.
“None other than the bard himself could have such wise words,
"As You Like It"
Something I don’t like about the series so far is
Cozies Reading Challenge
January 15, 2021
It’s autumn, which means that tourist season is winding down in Ashland, Oregon. Fortunately, The Pastry Channel has come to town to film the newest season of Take the Cake. They’ve asked Jules Capshaw to use Torte’s kitchen as a location some of the contestants use to prepare their pastries. Then they ask Jules to be a last-minute contestant. She’s thrilled until she finds Chef Marco, one of the other contestants, dead before the first day of filming. Since she is part of the show, she can’t help but learn things about her fellow contestants. Can she figure out which one is a killer?
It’s been too long since I read the first book in the series, but I was quickly back in Jules’s world with this fun second in the series. The pacing was a bit off at times, but overall there is an enjoyable mystery with plenty of secrets for Jules to uncover. The suspects are good and do their part to keep us guessing. Jules has some personal stuff she is trying to work through, and I enjoyed seeing the growth in her here. This book really made me want to visit Ashland at some point in the future. We get seven recipes at the end for a wide variety of things. It’s easy to see why this series is so popular. I need to pick up the next soon.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
It’s been too long since I read the first book in the series, but I was quickly back in Jules’s world with this fun second in the series. The pacing was a bit off at times, but overall there is an enjoyable mystery with plenty of secrets for Jules to uncover. The suspects are good and do their part to keep us guessing. Jules has some personal stuff she is trying to work through, and I enjoyed seeing the growth in her here. This book really made me want to visit Ashland at some point in the future. We get seven recipes at the end for a wide variety of things. It’s easy to see why this series is so popular. I need to pick up the next soon.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
April 10, 2020
This series is becoming one of my favorite cozies. I love all the characters but my favorite character hands-down is Richard Lord. He's annoying as well as funny, the chapters on the first two competitions were so funny just because of him. I hope there's a mystery revolved around the Merry Windsor Hotel in the upcoming books, where Jules partners with him to solve the murder, that would be really fun to read. The mystery was good with a lot of clues and red herrings. And I'm liking where Jules love life is headed.
May 2, 2019
Solid addition to the series. Jules is a likable protagonist.. but sometimes it is hard to gauge her personality. Other than being stubborn. She quiet, smart and sweet. I guess we will see more development as the series progresses.
The baking show plot was fun. Not sure how I felt about the end. The who and why seemed a little of a stretch. but overall fun read.
The baking show plot was fun. Not sure how I felt about the end. The who and why seemed a little of a stretch. but overall fun read.
February 21, 2025
When Jules Capshaw returned home to Ashland, Oregon, it was only supposed to be temporary as she regained control of her life. Her broken marriage is behind her, and her life has many opportunities to offer. One thing that brings her joy is the fact that she’s working alongside her mother at her mother’s bake shop,Torte. Hoping to increase sales and to have continued repeat customers, Jules has an idea that might accomplish these things.
Unfortunately, this plan comes along with envy from an unknown source, bringing murder into the scene. The fact that there was to be a televised event makes it a public situation. Jules is determined to find answers and to get these answers as soon as possible. Only hampered from an old high school crush, the deputy on the case named Thomas, might be enough to slow her down.
This is book two in a now long-running series, one I look forward to binging over the next month or so.
Unfortunately, this plan comes along with envy from an unknown source, bringing murder into the scene. The fact that there was to be a televised event makes it a public situation. Jules is determined to find answers and to get these answers as soon as possible. Only hampered from an old high school crush, the deputy on the case named Thomas, might be enough to slow her down.
This is book two in a now long-running series, one I look forward to binging over the next month or so.
December 15, 2025
This second installment felt a little too similar to the first book, which made it less enjoyable for me. While I still like the author’s writing and the cozy small-town setting, the added reality TV show element didn’t quite make up for the repetition.
There was also a police mistake that I found hard to overlook — it really pulled me out of the story. On top of that, I’m worried this series may be heading toward a love triangle, which I absolutely hate. I’m not particularly fond of either Carlos or Thomas, and Carlos in particular left a bad impression on me. His wife ends up in the hospital twice, and he doesn’t even visit her — that was a big no for me.
Overall, it wasn’t terrible, but it didn’t live up to the charm of the first book, and it made me more cautious about continuing the series.
There was also a police mistake that I found hard to overlook — it really pulled me out of the story. On top of that, I’m worried this series may be heading toward a love triangle, which I absolutely hate. I’m not particularly fond of either Carlos or Thomas, and Carlos in particular left a bad impression on me. His wife ends up in the hospital twice, and he doesn’t even visit her — that was a big no for me.
Overall, it wasn’t terrible, but it didn’t live up to the charm of the first book, and it made me more cautious about continuing the series.
July 11, 2018
Jules Capshaw left her cruise ship job to go home and work with her mother at the family pastry shop, Torte. She's also separated from her husband, who kept a secret from her during their marriage that she thought she'd never be able to forgive, which is the main reason she returned home.
When a reality film crew comes to town, they're going to film their cooking show in Ashland, but unfortunately, one of the celebrity chefs is murdered and she's pretty much railroaded to take his place. While she's not happy about the situation, she has another train of thought and that is the fact that Torte will get some publicity from the show, so she agrees.
But it's not long after that her shop is vandalized, and it's obvious the person who killed Chef Marco might not be done with the job. Can Jules discover the killer - even as Thomas has warned her away from the crime - before someone else is killed, maybe even her...
Well, I should have known there would be problems with this book when I read that while the chefs were staying in a hotel, the film crew would be staying in the theater. Really? Are the crew sleeping on cots on the stage? Or is there an accompanying inn with the same name attached? Nothing is mentioned aside from this fact.
Next, all the chefs are cooking at various kitchens around town instead of a central one, which makes no sense at all. With this arrangement, no one is watching them bake; therefore, there are no witnesses as to whether or not they're using the ingredients they said they were, or if they baked their own products or not. Television cooking shows have the chefs actually cook while they're filming, so the audience can watch the action, as it were; not bring in a dish and say they made it. What is this, a potluck? Unbelievable.
Then, when Jules finds Chef Marco's body, she says as how she just witnessed a murder. Um, no. She found a dead body, she definitely did not witness a murder. These are two very different things (and I don't know why the editor wouldn't catch this gaffe). If she'd witnessed the murder, chances are the book would be over very quickly since she would have seen the killer.
The producer of the show brings Richard Lord in as one of the chefs...except Richard isn't a chef, and he doesn't even make his own food. So why? This alone doesn't make any sense. Let's just say the idiotic viewers of this show (because they'd have to be to believe this nonsense) would Google the man and discover he wasn't a chef. Wouldn't that hurt the credibility - and viewership - of the production? Any producer who would allow him onto the show should be fired. Not to mention that cooking shows are as much about the chefs as they are the food - people watch to see tempers flare, tension rise, etc., and if they're all cooking off stage, none of that would occur. You're otherwise basically watching people pick up a prize for 'best of,' and who really cares?
Jules also won't tell the other female chefs to clean up after themselves - they're obviously pigs (but Jules and her crew are clean as a whistle) yet keeps complaining and saying she'll tell Phillip about it. Again, um, no. She owns Torte, she needs to tell them they can't cook there anymore if they aren't going to clean up after themselves. If they don't want to do it, kick them out.
At the last, I should have known better when the book began with, 'They say that time heals a broken heart.' Through the entire book she's wondering about her feelings for Thomas, and anyone can see he has feelings for her, yet from what I gather about later books in the series, she's also still wondering about her feelings for Carlos. Carlos just needs to go. He wasn't that interesting to begin with, and Jules obviously wants to stay at Torte. What kind of marriage would that be? For someone who's supposed to be savvy and intelligent, she's screwed up in the romance department.
It's not just that I hate wishy-washy women; I also hate the fact that readers are 'teased' with scenarios that never come to pass; and all of the things I've stated above that don't make sense make me wonder if future books also have details that are nonsense. For this I couldn't give it above two stars.
When a reality film crew comes to town, they're going to film their cooking show in Ashland, but unfortunately, one of the celebrity chefs is murdered and she's pretty much railroaded to take his place. While she's not happy about the situation, she has another train of thought and that is the fact that Torte will get some publicity from the show, so she agrees.
But it's not long after that her shop is vandalized, and it's obvious the person who killed Chef Marco might not be done with the job. Can Jules discover the killer - even as Thomas has warned her away from the crime - before someone else is killed, maybe even her...
Well, I should have known there would be problems with this book when I read that while the chefs were staying in a hotel, the film crew would be staying in the theater. Really? Are the crew sleeping on cots on the stage? Or is there an accompanying inn with the same name attached? Nothing is mentioned aside from this fact.
Next, all the chefs are cooking at various kitchens around town instead of a central one, which makes no sense at all. With this arrangement, no one is watching them bake; therefore, there are no witnesses as to whether or not they're using the ingredients they said they were, or if they baked their own products or not. Television cooking shows have the chefs actually cook while they're filming, so the audience can watch the action, as it were; not bring in a dish and say they made it. What is this, a potluck? Unbelievable.
Then, when Jules finds Chef Marco's body, she says as how she just witnessed a murder. Um, no. She found a dead body, she definitely did not witness a murder. These are two very different things (and I don't know why the editor wouldn't catch this gaffe). If she'd witnessed the murder, chances are the book would be over very quickly since she would have seen the killer.
The producer of the show brings Richard Lord in as one of the chefs...except Richard isn't a chef, and he doesn't even make his own food. So why? This alone doesn't make any sense. Let's just say the idiotic viewers of this show (because they'd have to be to believe this nonsense) would Google the man and discover he wasn't a chef. Wouldn't that hurt the credibility - and viewership - of the production? Any producer who would allow him onto the show should be fired. Not to mention that cooking shows are as much about the chefs as they are the food - people watch to see tempers flare, tension rise, etc., and if they're all cooking off stage, none of that would occur. You're otherwise basically watching people pick up a prize for 'best of,' and who really cares?
Jules also won't tell the other female chefs to clean up after themselves - they're obviously pigs (but Jules and her crew are clean as a whistle) yet keeps complaining and saying she'll tell Phillip about it. Again, um, no. She owns Torte, she needs to tell them they can't cook there anymore if they aren't going to clean up after themselves. If they don't want to do it, kick them out.
At the last, I should have known better when the book began with, 'They say that time heals a broken heart.' Through the entire book she's wondering about her feelings for Thomas, and anyone can see he has feelings for her, yet from what I gather about later books in the series, she's also still wondering about her feelings for Carlos. Carlos just needs to go. He wasn't that interesting to begin with, and Jules obviously wants to stay at Torte. What kind of marriage would that be? For someone who's supposed to be savvy and intelligent, she's screwed up in the romance department.
It's not just that I hate wishy-washy women; I also hate the fact that readers are 'teased' with scenarios that never come to pass; and all of the things I've stated above that don't make sense make me wonder if future books also have details that are nonsense. For this I couldn't give it above two stars.
August 27, 2016
This is the second book in the "Bakeshop Mysteries". Juliet (Jules) Montague Capshaw is settling back into life in her hometown of Ashland, Oregon after leaving her husband Carlos for a year break. The summer tourist season is coming to an end and Jules is trying to find ways to bring money into the family bakery, Torte, during the off season. She has found an exciting opportunity of letting a bake show "Take The Cake" use the bakery kitchen while they are in town filming. Jules was in for a surprise when she found out that one of the contestants had backed out and that she would be persuaded to be a contestant herself. Of course, the $25,000.oo prize was a great incentive as well as the opportunity to showcase her hometown on television. The unexpected happens when on the first day of filming, Jules finds another contestant dead on the set face down in butter cream frosting.
Thomas, the local police detective (and Jules' ex-boyfriend) along with "the Professor" the police chief both warn Juliet to stay away from any involvement in investigating what happened to the chef. Even though she found him, Jules does not want to get involved, especially when she remembers what happened last time she did. Unfortunately, it just seems as though circumstances keep putting her in the center of the mystery. As Jules tries to get her baking done for both the show and the bakery in the cramped kitchen, deals with her emotions involving both Carlos and Thomas and tries to keep her staff from hating one another, the mystery unfolds around her and once again, she finds herself in danger.
The characters in this series are wonderful. They are extremely realistic, warm and caring to one another. They are not obnoxious, except perhaps Richard Lord, and have their ups and downs that they need to deal with. Jules, the main character, is strong and independent without being annoying. Some cozies have the main character in your face, actively seeking out the culprit and doing things they should not be doing. Jules is kind, helpful and just seems to be in the right place at the right time. People confide in her because of her caring nature.
I am very much enjoying this series. The recipes at the back are an added treat. They are not too complicated and seem like they would be very good to try. I recommend this book anyone who enjoys a well-written cozy mystery with lots of food.
Thomas, the local police detective (and Jules' ex-boyfriend) along with "the Professor" the police chief both warn Juliet to stay away from any involvement in investigating what happened to the chef. Even though she found him, Jules does not want to get involved, especially when she remembers what happened last time she did. Unfortunately, it just seems as though circumstances keep putting her in the center of the mystery. As Jules tries to get her baking done for both the show and the bakery in the cramped kitchen, deals with her emotions involving both Carlos and Thomas and tries to keep her staff from hating one another, the mystery unfolds around her and once again, she finds herself in danger.
The characters in this series are wonderful. They are extremely realistic, warm and caring to one another. They are not obnoxious, except perhaps Richard Lord, and have their ups and downs that they need to deal with. Jules, the main character, is strong and independent without being annoying. Some cozies have the main character in your face, actively seeking out the culprit and doing things they should not be doing. Jules is kind, helpful and just seems to be in the right place at the right time. People confide in her because of her caring nature.
I am very much enjoying this series. The recipes at the back are an added treat. They are not too complicated and seem like they would be very good to try. I recommend this book anyone who enjoys a well-written cozy mystery with lots of food.
February 11, 2024
They say that time heals a broken heart.
This is a very nice welcome back to Torte in Ashland, Oregon. Summer is winding down and Jules is headed into Autumn with some yummy new creations. Since the shop is a bit slow, Jules agrees to be a contestant on Take The Cake, a reality cooking show with a $25,000 prize. Much to her dismay, Jules discovers an obnoxious contestant face down in buttercream. She really doesn't want to get drawn into another murder but still slips into sleuth mode.
I love Torte! I can just smell the pastries as they are described in the book. And the coffee! I think I drooled over it more than i would have just because I've had to give up coffee for a bit.
Jules is a very well written character. She is trying to recover from a messy breakup and has reconnected with her high school sweetheart. I like that she is not rushing into anything. I like that she still has uncertain feelings towards Carlos and is starting to have new feelings for Thomas.
There are lots of undercurrents swirling in Torte as staff has issues with each other and the show's contestants. The contestants are are quirky lot with secrets galore.
I enjoy that the characters feel like friends and neighbors. Ellie Alexander writes with such warmth that I feel at home. For those of you that don't follow her on social media you really should. I look forward to the Five Things Friday on IG. And her recipes! Gracious! I want to try them all.
The mystery was well done and kept me guessing. It's hard to have sympathy for a character like Chef Marco and you can imagine several people wanting to do him in.
This is such a good series and I need to keep reading it. I love the Pacific Northwest and would fit in well at Torte.
This is a very nice welcome back to Torte in Ashland, Oregon. Summer is winding down and Jules is headed into Autumn with some yummy new creations. Since the shop is a bit slow, Jules agrees to be a contestant on Take The Cake, a reality cooking show with a $25,000 prize. Much to her dismay, Jules discovers an obnoxious contestant face down in buttercream. She really doesn't want to get drawn into another murder but still slips into sleuth mode.
I love Torte! I can just smell the pastries as they are described in the book. And the coffee! I think I drooled over it more than i would have just because I've had to give up coffee for a bit.
Jules is a very well written character. She is trying to recover from a messy breakup and has reconnected with her high school sweetheart. I like that she is not rushing into anything. I like that she still has uncertain feelings towards Carlos and is starting to have new feelings for Thomas.
There are lots of undercurrents swirling in Torte as staff has issues with each other and the show's contestants. The contestants are are quirky lot with secrets galore.
I enjoy that the characters feel like friends and neighbors. Ellie Alexander writes with such warmth that I feel at home. For those of you that don't follow her on social media you really should. I look forward to the Five Things Friday on IG. And her recipes! Gracious! I want to try them all.
The mystery was well done and kept me guessing. It's hard to have sympathy for a character like Chef Marco and you can imagine several people wanting to do him in.
This is such a good series and I need to keep reading it. I love the Pacific Northwest and would fit in well at Torte.
April 13, 2021
Jules (Juiliet) and her mom own a bake shop Torte. After Jules finds out her husband has a kid she left her husband Carlos ( her husband) moved back to Oregon to help her mom with the bakeshop. Now Jules is trying to get recognition for Torte. They hired 3 employees Stephinie the aloof baker with purple streaks in her hair, Sterling the mysterious and sexy. guy with tattoos ( who has it bad for Stephanie) and Andy the fun loving guy that is their barista who makes his own creations. Book 2 is about a Baking contest going on in Ashland( the winner get 10,000) that Jules and Phillip the producer of the show Take the Cake and they want Jules to have a chef Marco be at her bake shop to work his creations for the contest in Torte. They will get paid for him to be there. And Phillip says they want to have an appearance in Torte on tv. But when chef Marco gets there. He is so drunk and dispicable. Marco wants all of Jules helpers to help him make the things he suppose to make and bosses everyone around. All of the contestants have secrets that they are keeping. Nina, Linda, Sebastian and Marco. Well then something happens to Marco and Phillip the producer asks Jules to take his place. ( Jules would like to have 10,000 but she wonders how can they still film after someone is dead) She does it and things get even more weird. I have read to many contest stories and it was alright. But I will still read some of her other books in series. The first one alright too. I do like Jules though ( she reminds of Gwenth Patrow)
February 8, 2016
A second in a series I can see that I'm going to love; A Batter of Life and Death was a wonderful book that I enjoyed.
The characters are wonderful; they're three-dimensional, not obnoxious, and realistic, which are all things that I look for in characters. The MC, Jules is strong and independent without being annoying. There's kind of a love triangle going on, but it works because one corner of the triangle is literally hundreds of miles away. However, I still with Jules would sever ties with him, instead of dragging it out.
The mystery was wonderful. Jules investigated without the "in your face" attitude many MCs have and the mystery wrapped up nicely. There were sufficient clues to point you to the killer, but even with them I didn't guess the real killer.
Overall a wonderful book. I'll be continuing this series!
The characters are wonderful; they're three-dimensional, not obnoxious, and realistic, which are all things that I look for in characters. The MC, Jules is strong and independent without being annoying. There's kind of a love triangle going on, but it works because one corner of the triangle is literally hundreds of miles away. However, I still with Jules would sever ties with him, instead of dragging it out.
The mystery was wonderful. Jules investigated without the "in your face" attitude many MCs have and the mystery wrapped up nicely. There were sufficient clues to point you to the killer, but even with them I didn't guess the real killer.
Overall a wonderful book. I'll be continuing this series!
November 10, 2019
3.5 Stars!
A Bakeshop Mystery #2
I am now a self-proclaimed sucker for these cozy bake shop murder mysteries. 😆 They’re simple yet fast paced, light yet contemplative, and cheesy yet entertaining. The food descriptions are too much for me, though! I’m hungry and want to bake all the time.
A Bakeshop Mystery #2
I am now a self-proclaimed sucker for these cozy bake shop murder mysteries. 😆 They’re simple yet fast paced, light yet contemplative, and cheesy yet entertaining. The food descriptions are too much for me, though! I’m hungry and want to bake all the time.
June 10, 2015
A fun cozy mystery tailor-made for people like me who are as addicted to baking shows as they are to eating baked treats. The mystery was pretty good too.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine for the July 2015 issue. http://affairedecoeur.com.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine for the July 2015 issue. http://affairedecoeur.com.
May 31, 2021
Excellent second entry in this series! I'm really enjoying the characters and the mystery. So nice knowing I've got so many additional titles to look forward to!
March 24, 2024
A Batter of Life and Death, A BAKESHOP MYSTERY #2, by Ellie Alexander. This is a great second book.
The Pastry Channel will be filming their competition reality show “Take the Cake” in Ashland, Oregon. Jules Capshaw has been invited to join the competition when a previously approved contestant drops out. Jules takes on the challenge because she believes it will be a boost for Torte and also for Ashland. The first night she meets all of the other contestants things do not go smoothly. Contestant, Chef Marco is completely drunk and being belligerent. The first day of judging/taping the show Jules arrives early to the theater to find all of the desserts brought in the night before have been ruined. As she steps into the set kitchen she finds Chef Marco dead, his face in a bowl of buttercream frosting. Jules inquisitive nature and sense of responsibility have her doing some amateur sleuthing, even though she promised her mother and Thomas she wouldn’t investigate.
Ms. Alexander has a great pool of suspects, each with a motive, (some more plausible than others). Between the baking, film production and Jules’ personal life upheaval the story is fast paced and kept me involved thinking “just one more chapter”. It was hard to put down.
I love the eclectic cast of artists, employees, friends and family and Jules hottie ex-high school boyfriend turned cop, Thomas. (Can I just say yum.)
This is a series I will return to again and again.
The Pastry Channel will be filming their competition reality show “Take the Cake” in Ashland, Oregon. Jules Capshaw has been invited to join the competition when a previously approved contestant drops out. Jules takes on the challenge because she believes it will be a boost for Torte and also for Ashland. The first night she meets all of the other contestants things do not go smoothly. Contestant, Chef Marco is completely drunk and being belligerent. The first day of judging/taping the show Jules arrives early to the theater to find all of the desserts brought in the night before have been ruined. As she steps into the set kitchen she finds Chef Marco dead, his face in a bowl of buttercream frosting. Jules inquisitive nature and sense of responsibility have her doing some amateur sleuthing, even though she promised her mother and Thomas she wouldn’t investigate.
Ms. Alexander has a great pool of suspects, each with a motive, (some more plausible than others). Between the baking, film production and Jules’ personal life upheaval the story is fast paced and kept me involved thinking “just one more chapter”. It was hard to put down.
I love the eclectic cast of artists, employees, friends and family and Jules hottie ex-high school boyfriend turned cop, Thomas. (Can I just say yum.)
This is a series I will return to again and again.
July 7, 2016
A cute cozy mystery.
Jules is still helping out her mother in their bakery, Torte. A reality series bake off is being filmed in their tiny town and Jules ends up being selected as a part of the show! Things on the show start off rocky when one of the mean spirited, drunk contestants is found murdered. Is another contestant to blame?
I like Jules and her relationship with her mother and her ex-boyfriend, detective Thomas. The mystery was good and there were lots of secrets that the cast and crew were hiding. Many questions from the first book still weren't answered, so I'm hoping they will come soon!
Jules is still helping out her mother in their bakery, Torte. A reality series bake off is being filmed in their tiny town and Jules ends up being selected as a part of the show! Things on the show start off rocky when one of the mean spirited, drunk contestants is found murdered. Is another contestant to blame?
I like Jules and her relationship with her mother and her ex-boyfriend, detective Thomas. The mystery was good and there were lots of secrets that the cast and crew were hiding. Many questions from the first book still weren't answered, so I'm hoping they will come soon!
May 22, 2023
Juliet has got to be, hands down, the most annoying character I've ever come across. I tried to change my own mindset going into this second book, reminding myself it's supposed to be fun and fluff but Juliet is so long-winded and really does stick her nose where it doesn't belong. The fact that both the killers had Juliet as their target in the end was ridiculous as well; I prefer the heroines just stumbling into a mess not being the cause of it. The idea of a cooking show was an interesting twist for the setting and I thought it was refreshing for sure.
I already own the next two books in this series so I'll try pushing through those before officially tapping out.
I already own the next two books in this series so I'll try pushing through those before officially tapping out.
February 20, 2021
I am enjoying this series. The characters and the small town setting are cute. The mystery/murder aspect isn't too complicated but it's entertaining. I like the combination of chick lit /mystery in this series. The book was a light and quick read. I think it is a cute idea how she includes the recipes that are a part of of story at the end of the book. Also, reading this series makes me want to eat baked goods , LOL.
August 31, 2025
A Batter of Life and Death by Ellie Alexander is the second book in A Bakeshop Mystery series. Ashland is hosting Take the Cake, a reality TV baking competition, with Jules as one of the competitors, when she comes across the body of one of the other competitors. The best parts of the book are the delicious soundong pastries and recipes and it was interesting to learn a little about various cooking techniques. An interesting mystery, fun and likeable characters and a superb setting.
January 10, 2019
3.5 stars.
Everything that was crammed onto the last 50 pages could have benefited from being a little more fleshed out over 100 pages but this series is quickly becoming my go to when I want something light, cosy and entertaining.
Everything that was crammed onto the last 50 pages could have benefited from being a little more fleshed out over 100 pages but this series is quickly becoming my go to when I want something light, cosy and entertaining.
July 25, 2019
I didnt enjoy this as much as the first in the series. It was too long and repetitive. Needed better editing. I will read the 3rd in the series to make my final decision on how much I like this author.
February 16, 2016
Rather abrupt ending.
September 28, 2023
I’m enjoying this cozy mystery series so much 🥰
June 5, 2015
Four stars: A delightfully sweet and cozy mystery.
Jules is adjusting to life in her hometown, Ashland, Oregon, after years of living on a cruise ship. After an unexpected end to her marriage, Jules has settled into working at her family bakery. She is content with baking and finding a way to heal, but there are bills to pay. When an opportunity to appear on a baking show is presented to Jules, she can't resist as Torte could use the money to update their ovens, plus it would be an added boost to sales during the winter months. What Jules doesn't expect is for one of the contests to be murdered during the first days of shooting. Jules once again finds herself in the middle of another murder investigation. Who would to murder Chef Marco?
What I Liked:
*There is something so relaxing about reading a good cozy mystery, especially one set in the cozy confines of a bakery, and a small town. I adore the town of Ashland, Oregon, and I love reading about all the sweet treats that are served in the Torte bakery. If you enjoy a cozy mystery packed full of decadent food descriptions, this is a read for you. I found it to be a pleasant read, perfect for when you need something light and cozy.
*This book is packed full of all things sweet. I love reading about all the treats that Jules and the gang bake up in Torte. There are cookies, cakes, breads, pies and puddings and even some savory dishes as well. Best of all, many of the treats featured in the book have recipes at the end. I can't wait to try the Amaretto Dream Cookies as well as the Banana Pudding and Pumpkin Latte. If you are a reader who likes recipes and reading about food, this is a wonderful read.
*For all of you who like vegan food, there is even a nod to all things vegan with a vegan baker. The book also includes a recipe for vegan butter.
*Normally in a cozy mystery, the murder mystery is the driving plot of the book, but that wasn't the case with this book. Yes, there is a murder investigation, but I found it to be the story line that I was interested in the least. I was more engaged in the every day ongoings of the bakery. I also liked the baking competition as well as meeting the contestants. There are some interesting story lines that I thought were more engaging than the murder, and I was pleased by all the additional engaging story lines.
*The murder mystery is one of the main plots, and there were plenty of suspects and lots of strange behavior that had me guessing as to who the culprit was. I liked that there were several red herrings before the killer was unmasked.
*Cozy mysteries are also known for romances and lots of times the romance is thick with tension and trouble and there tends to be love triangles. Surprisingly, this series is still without a romance. Jules is currently separated from her husband, and she hasn't resolved her feelings one way or another regarding him. Meanwhile, being back in Ashland, there are still some sparks between Jules and her one time boyfriend, but at this point, there is nothing but hints as far as a romance. I am perfectly happy without a romance, and when one does solidify, I hope that it is without drama and that this series remains love triangle free. One can hope.
*I like the strong cast of characters in this series. They are realistic and flawed. Especially this time out with the added contestants from the bake show. It took awhile to warm up to them, but I did in the end. All of the characters have their secrets and troubles, and I like that I am always guessing when it comes to the characters. The characters who work at Torte are pleasant, and I like the way they all look out for one another. I am also loving the mother daughter relationship in this series. The characters along with the bakery make this series shine.
*I was actually surprised at the turn of events in this one, I won't go into too many details here to avoid spoilers, but I was a little shocked with the way the game show and everything turned out in a good way. That leaves a lot of possibilities still for the gang at Torte. I am interested to see where things are headed from here.
This is the type of read that I crave. It is relaxing cozy, and there is something so deliciously wonderful when reading on all things food. I love all the detail and description when it comes to the food and the bakery and even the town. Ms. Alexander makes the town of Ashland and the Torte bakery leap off the pages. I can practically smell the treats. This is a book you can grab when you need something soothing to read after a long day.
*I appreciate that all the major story lines are wrapped up at the end of the book. Yes, there are ongoing threads regarding Jules and her future and the bakery, but as far as the story lines involving the murder and the bake show, they are all resolved at the end. No nagging story threads or cliffhanger.
And The Not So Much:
*I felt that the murder mystery in this installment was weak. I actually found that I wasn't invested in the whole murder mystery, which isn't an issue as I was engaged with the bakery and the contestant on the bake show. The killer is unmasked in a typical scene with the heroine in a battle of wits, fighting for her life as the villain does the whole this is why I did it and how I am going to get away with it speech. You know how it goes.
*Once the motives for the killing were revealed, I thought they were a bit ridiculous and not very realistic. Just a personal opinion, but then again, this is a cozy, so you can expect a not so plausible murder mystery.
*I was left wondering what the deal was between Stephanie and Sterling. Not a big part of the story, but it is brought up over and over, and I was never clear as to why they were bickering.
Batter of Life and Death is the second book in the Bakeshop Mysteries. I am already a fan of this delightfully, delicious little series set in a cozy, small town in Southern Oregon. If you like a pleasant cozy mystery with lots of decadent food and some top notch recipes, this is definitely a series to try. It is terrific for when you need a palate cleanser, or something light and easy. This has fast become one of my favorite cozy series. A must for any hard core cozy mystery connoisseur. I am eagerly awaiting book three.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Jules is adjusting to life in her hometown, Ashland, Oregon, after years of living on a cruise ship. After an unexpected end to her marriage, Jules has settled into working at her family bakery. She is content with baking and finding a way to heal, but there are bills to pay. When an opportunity to appear on a baking show is presented to Jules, she can't resist as Torte could use the money to update their ovens, plus it would be an added boost to sales during the winter months. What Jules doesn't expect is for one of the contests to be murdered during the first days of shooting. Jules once again finds herself in the middle of another murder investigation. Who would to murder Chef Marco?
What I Liked:
*There is something so relaxing about reading a good cozy mystery, especially one set in the cozy confines of a bakery, and a small town. I adore the town of Ashland, Oregon, and I love reading about all the sweet treats that are served in the Torte bakery. If you enjoy a cozy mystery packed full of decadent food descriptions, this is a read for you. I found it to be a pleasant read, perfect for when you need something light and cozy.
*This book is packed full of all things sweet. I love reading about all the treats that Jules and the gang bake up in Torte. There are cookies, cakes, breads, pies and puddings and even some savory dishes as well. Best of all, many of the treats featured in the book have recipes at the end. I can't wait to try the Amaretto Dream Cookies as well as the Banana Pudding and Pumpkin Latte. If you are a reader who likes recipes and reading about food, this is a wonderful read.
*For all of you who like vegan food, there is even a nod to all things vegan with a vegan baker. The book also includes a recipe for vegan butter.
*Normally in a cozy mystery, the murder mystery is the driving plot of the book, but that wasn't the case with this book. Yes, there is a murder investigation, but I found it to be the story line that I was interested in the least. I was more engaged in the every day ongoings of the bakery. I also liked the baking competition as well as meeting the contestants. There are some interesting story lines that I thought were more engaging than the murder, and I was pleased by all the additional engaging story lines.
*The murder mystery is one of the main plots, and there were plenty of suspects and lots of strange behavior that had me guessing as to who the culprit was. I liked that there were several red herrings before the killer was unmasked.
*Cozy mysteries are also known for romances and lots of times the romance is thick with tension and trouble and there tends to be love triangles. Surprisingly, this series is still without a romance. Jules is currently separated from her husband, and she hasn't resolved her feelings one way or another regarding him. Meanwhile, being back in Ashland, there are still some sparks between Jules and her one time boyfriend, but at this point, there is nothing but hints as far as a romance. I am perfectly happy without a romance, and when one does solidify, I hope that it is without drama and that this series remains love triangle free. One can hope.
*I like the strong cast of characters in this series. They are realistic and flawed. Especially this time out with the added contestants from the bake show. It took awhile to warm up to them, but I did in the end. All of the characters have their secrets and troubles, and I like that I am always guessing when it comes to the characters. The characters who work at Torte are pleasant, and I like the way they all look out for one another. I am also loving the mother daughter relationship in this series. The characters along with the bakery make this series shine.
*I was actually surprised at the turn of events in this one, I won't go into too many details here to avoid spoilers, but I was a little shocked with the way the game show and everything turned out in a good way. That leaves a lot of possibilities still for the gang at Torte. I am interested to see where things are headed from here.
This is the type of read that I crave. It is relaxing cozy, and there is something so deliciously wonderful when reading on all things food. I love all the detail and description when it comes to the food and the bakery and even the town. Ms. Alexander makes the town of Ashland and the Torte bakery leap off the pages. I can practically smell the treats. This is a book you can grab when you need something soothing to read after a long day.
*I appreciate that all the major story lines are wrapped up at the end of the book. Yes, there are ongoing threads regarding Jules and her future and the bakery, but as far as the story lines involving the murder and the bake show, they are all resolved at the end. No nagging story threads or cliffhanger.
And The Not So Much:
*I felt that the murder mystery in this installment was weak. I actually found that I wasn't invested in the whole murder mystery, which isn't an issue as I was engaged with the bakery and the contestant on the bake show. The killer is unmasked in a typical scene with the heroine in a battle of wits, fighting for her life as the villain does the whole this is why I did it and how I am going to get away with it speech. You know how it goes.
*Once the motives for the killing were revealed, I thought they were a bit ridiculous and not very realistic. Just a personal opinion, but then again, this is a cozy, so you can expect a not so plausible murder mystery.
*I was left wondering what the deal was between Stephanie and Sterling. Not a big part of the story, but it is brought up over and over, and I was never clear as to why they were bickering.
Batter of Life and Death is the second book in the Bakeshop Mysteries. I am already a fan of this delightfully, delicious little series set in a cozy, small town in Southern Oregon. If you like a pleasant cozy mystery with lots of decadent food and some top notch recipes, this is definitely a series to try. It is terrific for when you need a palate cleanser, or something light and easy. This has fast become one of my favorite cozy series. A must for any hard core cozy mystery connoisseur. I am eagerly awaiting book three.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
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