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Bakeshop Mystery #22
The Whisking Hour
Not yet published
Expected 24 Feb 26Another delicious installment in Ellie Alexander's Bakeshop Mysteries set in Ashland, OR!
Fall is in full flush in the charming hamlet of Ashland, Oregon, and baker Juliet Capshaw is excited to celebrate the season with a night at the theatre. Lance Rousseau, Ashland’s renowned theater director and one of Jules’ closest friends, has put his own spin on a production of the Broadway classic Perfect Crime, drawing the audience into a cozy New York apartment as a nefarious set of suspects pulls off the perfect murder. As the final show approaches, Jules and the team at Torte are eagerly whipping up a murderous feast for the cast party, baking a bevy of treats like panna cotta eyeballs with blood orange coulis, deviled eggs, and savory cheese fingers with pumpkin dipping sauce.
On the day of the soirée, life seems to imitate art when a storm rolls over the Siskiyou Mountains, ushering in gusty winds and unrelenting rain. The audience buzzes with electric energy as the lights flicker and the actors take the stage. After the actors take their final bow, the cast trickles into Carpenter Hall, ready for a night of frivolity. But when an actor is discovered dead in his dressing room, Jules wonders if she’s just witnessed the real perfect murder.
Fall is in full flush in the charming hamlet of Ashland, Oregon, and baker Juliet Capshaw is excited to celebrate the season with a night at the theatre. Lance Rousseau, Ashland’s renowned theater director and one of Jules’ closest friends, has put his own spin on a production of the Broadway classic Perfect Crime, drawing the audience into a cozy New York apartment as a nefarious set of suspects pulls off the perfect murder. As the final show approaches, Jules and the team at Torte are eagerly whipping up a murderous feast for the cast party, baking a bevy of treats like panna cotta eyeballs with blood orange coulis, deviled eggs, and savory cheese fingers with pumpkin dipping sauce.
On the day of the soirée, life seems to imitate art when a storm rolls over the Siskiyou Mountains, ushering in gusty winds and unrelenting rain. The audience buzzes with electric energy as the lights flicker and the actors take the stage. After the actors take their final bow, the cast trickles into Carpenter Hall, ready for a night of frivolity. But when an actor is discovered dead in his dressing room, Jules wonders if she’s just witnessed the real perfect murder.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 24, 2026
13 people are currently reading
329 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Alexander
85 books3,045 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...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elliealexande...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elliealexande...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliealexand...
Pinterest:
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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a great cozy mystery perfect for those who enjoy baking and/or the theatre. The main character runs a bakery, and she and her husband are theatre patrons as well. The mystery of "who done it" is enough to keep you guessing for a while, and the conclusion was most satisfying. Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, for the ARC, and the opportunity to provide an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Whisking Hour is filled with delicious food being prepared at Torte bakery. The words and food are coming off the page and will make you drool. The Bakeshop mysteries are like visiting friends because I have grown to love all the characters, especially Lance my favorite. Lance has delivered a great new show for the OSF once again. However, these actors might be taking their roles too seriously. She is very pregnant, and Jules is surrounded by her friends and family - including Lance and her fellow bakers. Behind the scenes of this murder-themed play, there is a real murder taking place. As soon as I thought I knew who did it and why there was someone who had the real killing instinct, I realized I was wrong but that did not stop me from enjoying this book.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this book. This is an honest review.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this book. This is an honest review.
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January 10, 2026RTC
Publication date: February 24, 2026
Publication date: February 24, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I always feel a bit like I've overeaten at a scrumptious meal and shared lots of hugs, laughs, and good times with wonderful friends by the time I finish a book in this series. Seriously, don't even think of sitting down to read while you're hungry. I'm not even remotely a foodie but you'll almost feel like the aromas and tastes of the meals and treats being prepared throughout almost seep out of the pages. Given that my usual move is to stick something in the microwave and be done with it, that's high praise from this not-even-pretending-to-be-a-cook reader. It's been a delight to follow the saga of Juliet Capshaw over this series and I've come to think of the characters as old friends. Even those physically missing, such as Carlos' son Ramiro, who was a fun ingredient over the last few books but has returned to Spain for his final school year before college, gets space. Of course, it's always extra fun with the way over the top Lance Rousseau gets to share the spotlight with Juliet/Jules. Oh, boy, wait till you hear some of Lance's ideas for his upcoming wedding. Then there's Jules' mother, Helen, and Shakespeare quoting step-dad Doug, hardly what one expects when contacting the police, as well as officers Thomas and Kelly. And, of course, the entire crew at Torte, Jules' family's amazing bakery. Again, if you weren't hungry when you started the book, you'll be by the time you finish.
So, while I'd say it's the characters that keep me coming back book after book, but Ellie Alexander always offers up an interesting mystery to be solved, too. It was actually quite refreshing to see Jules not rushing off to confront potential murderers or putting herself deliberately in harms' way, something that we can't always say of many amateur sleuths. Maybe that has something to do with the fact Jules' is pregnant with twins and has become more aware of the need to take care of herself. Thus, while wildly curious about the "perfect murder" at the end of a performance of a Lance produced play, we get to see several others take the lead in chasing down not just the clues but suspects. Well, sorta. Nope, not telling. Let's just say that murder party had an unexpected ending and the cast is, well, let's say, all rather weirdly suspicious. True crime podcasts and even AI get their moments, as does some weird method acting. I never quite settled on my choice for whodunit, I have to admit, though. One of those where my best guess kept changing until the end, nearly the very end, in fact.
Bottom line, it's surely obvious I'm a fan of the series and loved the maturity Jules showed in not being the proverbial "too stupid to live". Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MintaurBooks for the early peek at how Jules' pregnancy and life is going, not to mention whether Lance has driven them all crazy with his impulsive ideas for his wedding. You'll also learn that running a bakery isn't all about bakery. Planning and being able to go with the flow of events, even bad ones, not to mention all the paperwork. Ugh, paperwork doesn't sound at all appetizing. The ending is a delight, too, highlighting the sense of community and family. I'm already ready for the next in the series.
So, while I'd say it's the characters that keep me coming back book after book, but Ellie Alexander always offers up an interesting mystery to be solved, too. It was actually quite refreshing to see Jules not rushing off to confront potential murderers or putting herself deliberately in harms' way, something that we can't always say of many amateur sleuths. Maybe that has something to do with the fact Jules' is pregnant with twins and has become more aware of the need to take care of herself. Thus, while wildly curious about the "perfect murder" at the end of a performance of a Lance produced play, we get to see several others take the lead in chasing down not just the clues but suspects. Well, sorta. Nope, not telling. Let's just say that murder party had an unexpected ending and the cast is, well, let's say, all rather weirdly suspicious. True crime podcasts and even AI get their moments, as does some weird method acting. I never quite settled on my choice for whodunit, I have to admit, though. One of those where my best guess kept changing until the end, nearly the very end, in fact.
Bottom line, it's surely obvious I'm a fan of the series and loved the maturity Jules showed in not being the proverbial "too stupid to live". Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MintaurBooks for the early peek at how Jules' pregnancy and life is going, not to mention whether Lance has driven them all crazy with his impulsive ideas for his wedding. You'll also learn that running a bakery isn't all about bakery. Planning and being able to go with the flow of events, even bad ones, not to mention all the paperwork. Ugh, paperwork doesn't sound at all appetizing. The ending is a delight, too, highlighting the sense of community and family. I'm already ready for the next in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Feb. 24, 2026
“The Whisking Hour” is the twenty-second book in “The Bakeshop Mysteries” series by author Ellie Alexander.
Bakery owner, and head baker, Juliet Capshaw is preparing for a murder-themed party, celebrating a new theatre production, with Juliet’s best friend, Lance, as the theatre director. But what she doesn’t expect is the tension between the actors, and most of it is directed toward the show’s director, Kean, and it takes everything Juliet has to just try and stay out of the drama for the party. Of course, this doesn’t work out so well when Kean’s body is found, thrusting all of the actors and stage crew in a different kind of spotlight. Although Juliet knows the police are doing all they can, she can’t help but look into herself, and what she discovers is not at all what she expected.
“Hour” was my first book by Alexander, and my first foray into this series in general. The characters were all new to me, but I was still able to keep up and remain engaged throughout. It is obvious that character relationships have developed throughout the series, and the details of those were shared in other books, but this particular storyline was focused on a stand-alone mystery, and less on the character relationships, which made it easier for a newbie like me to keep up with.
Juliet is a baker, so expect lots of sweet treats, as well as how she crafts them, to show up often and regularly. She continues to run her bakery, even though her pregnancy will soon have her leaving the bake shop to take maternity leave, but she seems to have a decent set of workers to support her, as the funny and quirky backup characters were a perfect complement to Juliet.
The mystery itself was well developed, but I was slightly underwhelmed by the ending. The final pages revealed the suspect, but it seemed forced and rushed, and the explanation around this discovery was brushed over. I would’ve liked to have known more of the specific details on how this particular suspect committed the crime, but at least the ending provided an answer to most of the questions.
“Hour” is a murder mystery that takes place while a murder mystery is being performed on stage, with a delicious and delectable backdrop of absolutely mouth-watering treats and delicacies. I enjoyed the fast-paced storyline and Juliet was a relatable and likable protagonist. The ending was satisfying, even if I wanted a bit more detail, and I’m invested enough in Juliet and her crew to pick up the next novel in the series.
Expected publication date: Feb. 24, 2026
“The Whisking Hour” is the twenty-second book in “The Bakeshop Mysteries” series by author Ellie Alexander.
Bakery owner, and head baker, Juliet Capshaw is preparing for a murder-themed party, celebrating a new theatre production, with Juliet’s best friend, Lance, as the theatre director. But what she doesn’t expect is the tension between the actors, and most of it is directed toward the show’s director, Kean, and it takes everything Juliet has to just try and stay out of the drama for the party. Of course, this doesn’t work out so well when Kean’s body is found, thrusting all of the actors and stage crew in a different kind of spotlight. Although Juliet knows the police are doing all they can, she can’t help but look into herself, and what she discovers is not at all what she expected.
“Hour” was my first book by Alexander, and my first foray into this series in general. The characters were all new to me, but I was still able to keep up and remain engaged throughout. It is obvious that character relationships have developed throughout the series, and the details of those were shared in other books, but this particular storyline was focused on a stand-alone mystery, and less on the character relationships, which made it easier for a newbie like me to keep up with.
Juliet is a baker, so expect lots of sweet treats, as well as how she crafts them, to show up often and regularly. She continues to run her bakery, even though her pregnancy will soon have her leaving the bake shop to take maternity leave, but she seems to have a decent set of workers to support her, as the funny and quirky backup characters were a perfect complement to Juliet.
The mystery itself was well developed, but I was slightly underwhelmed by the ending. The final pages revealed the suspect, but it seemed forced and rushed, and the explanation around this discovery was brushed over. I would’ve liked to have known more of the specific details on how this particular suspect committed the crime, but at least the ending provided an answer to most of the questions.
“Hour” is a murder mystery that takes place while a murder mystery is being performed on stage, with a delicious and delectable backdrop of absolutely mouth-watering treats and delicacies. I enjoyed the fast-paced storyline and Juliet was a relatable and likable protagonist. The ending was satisfying, even if I wanted a bit more detail, and I’m invested enough in Juliet and her crew to pick up the next novel in the series.
December 21, 2025
Ellie Alexander’s The Whisking Hour is the literary equivalent of wrapping yourself in a soft sweater while chaos politely unfolds nearby and someone, inevitably, ends up dead.
St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books, thank you so much for my gifted ARC via NetGalley, which I happily devoured with zero crumbs left behind.
This installment drops us straight into peak fall in Ashland, Oregon, and I could practically hear the rain tapping the windows while I read. There’s theatre drama, literal stage drama, and the kind of stormy atmosphere that makes you feel like something terrible is not only possible but scheduled. Jules is gearing up to cater a murder-themed cast party for a production of Perfect Crime, which is already flirting with irony before the body even drops. Add flickering lights, theatrical egos, and a cast full of secrets, and you’ve got a setup that feels both cozy and ominous in the best possible way.
Let’s talk about the food, because wow. If you read this book hungry, that’s on you. The descriptions of baked goods and savory treats are borderline aggressive, and I mean that as a compliment. Panna cotta eyeballs, cheese fingers, pumpkin sauces, comfort food layered with just enough macabre flair to fit the theme. The kitchen scenes are some of my favorites, not just because they made me crave carbs, but because they highlight how much Jules trusts her team now. There’s a real sense of growth and stability here that longtime readers will appreciate.
Jules herself is heavily pregnant in this book, and I loved that this actually mattered. She’s not sprinting into danger or ignoring common sense. She’s thoughtful, cautious, and aware of her limits, which was honestly refreshing. The mystery unfolds around her rather than because of reckless choices, and it made the story feel grounded without losing momentum.
The theatre setting adds an extra layer of fun. Everyone is already pretending to be someone else, so figuring out who’s lying feels like part of the performance. The suspect pool is solid, motives are layered, and just when I thought I had it figured out, the story nudged me sideways again. It’s not wildly shocking, but it doesn’t need to be. This is comfort reading with a pulse.
What really got me, though, was the emotional payoff. Beneath the murder and the pastries, this book is about community, friendship, and showing up for one another when it counts. The ending leans into that theme hard, and yes, it absolutely got me misty. I blame hormones. And good writing.
“Autumn comes with pumpkin spice, cinnamon rolls, and a heaping tablespoon of murder.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
#TheWhiskingHour #EllieAlexander #ABakeshopMystery #CozyMystery #BookReview #NetGalley #ARCReview #MysteryBooks #CozyReads #FallReads
St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books, thank you so much for my gifted ARC via NetGalley, which I happily devoured with zero crumbs left behind.
This installment drops us straight into peak fall in Ashland, Oregon, and I could practically hear the rain tapping the windows while I read. There’s theatre drama, literal stage drama, and the kind of stormy atmosphere that makes you feel like something terrible is not only possible but scheduled. Jules is gearing up to cater a murder-themed cast party for a production of Perfect Crime, which is already flirting with irony before the body even drops. Add flickering lights, theatrical egos, and a cast full of secrets, and you’ve got a setup that feels both cozy and ominous in the best possible way.
Let’s talk about the food, because wow. If you read this book hungry, that’s on you. The descriptions of baked goods and savory treats are borderline aggressive, and I mean that as a compliment. Panna cotta eyeballs, cheese fingers, pumpkin sauces, comfort food layered with just enough macabre flair to fit the theme. The kitchen scenes are some of my favorites, not just because they made me crave carbs, but because they highlight how much Jules trusts her team now. There’s a real sense of growth and stability here that longtime readers will appreciate.
Jules herself is heavily pregnant in this book, and I loved that this actually mattered. She’s not sprinting into danger or ignoring common sense. She’s thoughtful, cautious, and aware of her limits, which was honestly refreshing. The mystery unfolds around her rather than because of reckless choices, and it made the story feel grounded without losing momentum.
The theatre setting adds an extra layer of fun. Everyone is already pretending to be someone else, so figuring out who’s lying feels like part of the performance. The suspect pool is solid, motives are layered, and just when I thought I had it figured out, the story nudged me sideways again. It’s not wildly shocking, but it doesn’t need to be. This is comfort reading with a pulse.
What really got me, though, was the emotional payoff. Beneath the murder and the pastries, this book is about community, friendship, and showing up for one another when it counts. The ending leans into that theme hard, and yes, it absolutely got me misty. I blame hormones. And good writing.
“Autumn comes with pumpkin spice, cinnamon rolls, and a heaping tablespoon of murder.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
#TheWhiskingHour #EllieAlexander #ABakeshopMystery #CozyMystery #BookReview #NetGalley #ARCReview #MysteryBooks #CozyReads #FallReads
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jules is expecting! Ashland is a hub of activity as usual with an exciting new play at OSF, lots of catering events at Torte, and Lance deep into planning the wedding of the century to fiancé Arlo but Juliet is trying to take it easy as she prepares for maternity leave. Though Juliet knows she shouldn't be digging into any crimes with not one but two buns in the oven, she can't help herself when her murder-themed after party becomes a bit more true to theme than anyone planned.
This series is a favorite of mine. In general I read cozies in the order of release but this series I started with book 17, Catch Me If You Candy, then read book 18, A Smoking Bun, before going back to the beginning and binge-reading the first books. I was supposed to be reading them as part of a group series read but I couldn't pace myself and read them one after another long before I was supposed to read them. I might have gotten a bit more out of the later books if I'd read the series in order and seen the evolution of the characters in real-time but I don't think I enjoyed the books any less. The setting it so perfect, the characters so lovely, every visit to Ashland is a true pleasure.
There were some bittersweet things in this book, as can happen with a series you get really invested in. Ramiro has gone back to Spain and Jules misses him terribly. She's excited to welcome her two babies but their impending birth is also bittersweet because her own father won't be there to meet his new grandbabies. But while there was a hint of sadness there was also so much love. The entire community is reaching out to support Jules and Carlos and Torte, helping them make sure Torte stays up and running while Jules is on maternity leave and Jules and Lance even go so far as to attend Richard Lord's viewing of his new reality show to show their support for a man who's done nothing but cause them headaches. Because that's what you do in Ashland.
The mystery in this book was also really interesting, centering around the cast of a new play. All the actors are sus and Jules can't help but allow Lance to pull her into things, though everyone is keeping a very close eye on their favorite baker and her precious cargo. The only thing I will say about the mystery is that it all came together... until Thomas was explaining to Jules what had happened. And it didn't make any sense. As the truth was revealed previously I was on board and everything was clear but when Thomas started explaining things he added some details that didn't fit in with anything else. But easy enough to shrug off and move on.
This is definitely a series that any cozy fan needs to read!
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
This series is a favorite of mine. In general I read cozies in the order of release but this series I started with book 17, Catch Me If You Candy, then read book 18, A Smoking Bun, before going back to the beginning and binge-reading the first books. I was supposed to be reading them as part of a group series read but I couldn't pace myself and read them one after another long before I was supposed to read them. I might have gotten a bit more out of the later books if I'd read the series in order and seen the evolution of the characters in real-time but I don't think I enjoyed the books any less. The setting it so perfect, the characters so lovely, every visit to Ashland is a true pleasure.
There were some bittersweet things in this book, as can happen with a series you get really invested in. Ramiro has gone back to Spain and Jules misses him terribly. She's excited to welcome her two babies but their impending birth is also bittersweet because her own father won't be there to meet his new grandbabies. But while there was a hint of sadness there was also so much love. The entire community is reaching out to support Jules and Carlos and Torte, helping them make sure Torte stays up and running while Jules is on maternity leave and Jules and Lance even go so far as to attend Richard Lord's viewing of his new reality show to show their support for a man who's done nothing but cause them headaches. Because that's what you do in Ashland.
The mystery in this book was also really interesting, centering around the cast of a new play. All the actors are sus and Jules can't help but allow Lance to pull her into things, though everyone is keeping a very close eye on their favorite baker and her precious cargo. The only thing I will say about the mystery is that it all came together... until Thomas was explaining to Jules what had happened. And it didn't make any sense. As the truth was revealed previously I was on board and everything was clear but when Thomas started explaining things he added some details that didn't fit in with anything else. But easy enough to shrug off and move on.
This is definitely a series that any cozy fan needs to read!
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
"𝑰𝒕'𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆, 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒚, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒚 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒅𝒂𝒅 𝒊𝒔𝒏'𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒆𝒆𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎."
Ellie Alexander delivers another cozy, satisfying installment in the long-running Bakeshop Mystery series. This time around, life in Ashland is busy as ever, with Juliet juggling the demands of her family bakeshop Torte, community events, and yet another murder that disrupts the town’s otherwise charming rhythm. When a local figure turns up dead during a local production of of the Broadway classic 𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝑪𝒓𝒊𝒎𝒆, Juliet can’t help but get drawn into the investigation once again, even though her twins are getting ready to make their own debut performance.
One of the biggest pleasures of this book is how comfortable it feels to step back into this world the author has created while still noticing how much it’s grown. As the 22nd book in the series, this installment benefits from a well-established cast of beloved characters who feel like old friends. The relationships are richer, and Juliet’s instincts both as a baker and a sleuth show clear evolution. The author does a great job rewarding longtime readers with character continuity and emotional depth, without making newcomers feel completely lost if they happen to jump in mid-series.
There’s also a warm undercurrent of anticipation running through the story thanks to the imminent arrival of Juliet and Carlos’s twins. That looming life change adds tenderness and urgency to the narrative, grounding the mystery in something deeply personal. It’s refreshing to see a cozy series allow its characters to age, change, and take on new roles while still delivering the comforting storylines long-time readers expect. Many thanks to St. Martins Press for the early copy. Look for this one February 24, 2026.
Ellie Alexander delivers another cozy, satisfying installment in the long-running Bakeshop Mystery series. This time around, life in Ashland is busy as ever, with Juliet juggling the demands of her family bakeshop Torte, community events, and yet another murder that disrupts the town’s otherwise charming rhythm. When a local figure turns up dead during a local production of of the Broadway classic 𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝑪𝒓𝒊𝒎𝒆, Juliet can’t help but get drawn into the investigation once again, even though her twins are getting ready to make their own debut performance.
One of the biggest pleasures of this book is how comfortable it feels to step back into this world the author has created while still noticing how much it’s grown. As the 22nd book in the series, this installment benefits from a well-established cast of beloved characters who feel like old friends. The relationships are richer, and Juliet’s instincts both as a baker and a sleuth show clear evolution. The author does a great job rewarding longtime readers with character continuity and emotional depth, without making newcomers feel completely lost if they happen to jump in mid-series.
There’s also a warm undercurrent of anticipation running through the story thanks to the imminent arrival of Juliet and Carlos’s twins. That looming life change adds tenderness and urgency to the narrative, grounding the mystery in something deeply personal. It’s refreshing to see a cozy series allow its characters to age, change, and take on new roles while still delivering the comforting storylines long-time readers expect. Many thanks to St. Martins Press for the early copy. Look for this one February 24, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review of Uncorrected Digital Galley
Juliet Capshaw, better known as Jules, and her husband, Carlos, run the family bakeshop, Torte. Jules has agreed, despite the short time frame, to host a crime scene cast party for “Perfect Crime.” the hit show directed by her friend, Lance Rousseau.
Everything comes together and the party seems to be a success . . . and then one of the actors, Kean Armitage, is shot. Who killed the actor? And why?
=========
Twenty-second in the author’s Bakeshop Mysteries series, readers will find most of the expected characters in place as the baking crew find themselves involved in another mystery. Well-drawn characters that readers care about, interesting background, and a captivating mystery all work together to keep the reader involved in the telling of the tale.
Some unexpected twists and multiple suspects keep readers guessing as the unfolding story keeps them yearning for some of the delicious-sounding treats whipped up by the bakeshop crew. It’s nice to see Jules take a step back from solving the mystery as she is, in this story, pregnant with twins and wisely keep her involvement to a minimum.
Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries, especially those filled with yummy-sounding dishes, and charming characters who care about each other will find much to appreciate in this delicious story.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#TheWhiskingHour #NetGalley
Juliet Capshaw, better known as Jules, and her husband, Carlos, run the family bakeshop, Torte. Jules has agreed, despite the short time frame, to host a crime scene cast party for “Perfect Crime.” the hit show directed by her friend, Lance Rousseau.
Everything comes together and the party seems to be a success . . . and then one of the actors, Kean Armitage, is shot. Who killed the actor? And why?
=========
Twenty-second in the author’s Bakeshop Mysteries series, readers will find most of the expected characters in place as the baking crew find themselves involved in another mystery. Well-drawn characters that readers care about, interesting background, and a captivating mystery all work together to keep the reader involved in the telling of the tale.
Some unexpected twists and multiple suspects keep readers guessing as the unfolding story keeps them yearning for some of the delicious-sounding treats whipped up by the bakeshop crew. It’s nice to see Jules take a step back from solving the mystery as she is, in this story, pregnant with twins and wisely keep her involvement to a minimum.
Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries, especially those filled with yummy-sounding dishes, and charming characters who care about each other will find much to appreciate in this delicious story.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#TheWhiskingHour #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fall, Ashland, Oregon: Baker Juliet Capshaw is eagerly waiting the upcoming birth of her twins, when her good friend Lance Rousseau asks for her to cater a dinner for the cast of Perfect Crime. As it’s a mystery play, he’s asked her to come up with lots of gory themed dishes. He has two goals with the party: one to reward the cast for all the hard work they’ve put in to make Perfect Crime a success and two, to try and reduce some of the tension between the director and the rest of the cast. The director, it seems, believes in making his actors as uncomfortable as possible in order to get the best performance out of them. But when he’s found shot to death in one of the dressing rooms, he may have been too successful.
There’s a cast of characters (pun intended) that had motive and opportunity ranging from the soon to be ex-wife to the former friend who’s been loaning the director money and wants to be repaid. Meanwhile, Jules and friends are getting ready for the babies while trying to tame Lance’s most outrageous ideas for his wedding.
This is one of those cozy series where the lives of the characters are as important as the crime itself. And it does a fabulous job with it, rotating out characters, adding new ones while keeping tabs on the old ones. There’s a huge sense of community and family that adds to the delight of the book.
Even though this is number 22 in the series, there’s enough background details for it to work as a standalone.
Highly Recommended! I received a copy of this from NetGalley.com that I voluntarily chose to review.
There’s a cast of characters (pun intended) that had motive and opportunity ranging from the soon to be ex-wife to the former friend who’s been loaning the director money and wants to be repaid. Meanwhile, Jules and friends are getting ready for the babies while trying to tame Lance’s most outrageous ideas for his wedding.
This is one of those cozy series where the lives of the characters are as important as the crime itself. And it does a fabulous job with it, rotating out characters, adding new ones while keeping tabs on the old ones. There’s a huge sense of community and family that adds to the delight of the book.
Even though this is number 22 in the series, there’s enough background details for it to work as a standalone.
Highly Recommended! I received a copy of this from NetGalley.com that I voluntarily chose to review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Juliet Capshaw, owner of the bakery, Torte, is hosting a soiree for Lance, her good friend who works with the local theater group. Lance is producing a production of a Broadway play called "Perfect Crime". Right before the soiree is to begin, the director of the play, Kean Armitage is shot and killed. Kean is not well liked, he asks his actors to be in the mind of the character to the point of obsession, he belittles his leading lady, and is overwhelming disliked by many. Who killed him? His ex-wife, Vera? His leading lady or one of the other actors? His supposed friend, Casey? Luckily, Juliet is an amateur sleuth and with help from her friends, including Lance, her staff at the bakery and her family, including the Professor, her mother's husband, a retired police detective. Add in the yummy food references mentioned throughout the book and you have a delicious mystery.
Fun, fun read. Very enjoyable, from the descriptions of food (don't read while hungry) to the characters and their relationships, not to mention, a intriguing murder mystery, this book is a delight from the first chapter. This is my first book by Ellie Alexander, but I plan on reading more by her. If you enjoy a friendly community setting, a community full of support, delicious food descriptions/pairings, and a good mystery to boot, then pick up this book and enjoy!
Fun, fun read. Very enjoyable, from the descriptions of food (don't read while hungry) to the characters and their relationships, not to mention, a intriguing murder mystery, this book is a delight from the first chapter. This is my first book by Ellie Alexander, but I plan on reading more by her. If you enjoy a friendly community setting, a community full of support, delicious food descriptions/pairings, and a good mystery to boot, then pick up this book and enjoy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a cute read and I need to go back and read the others in this series. I absolutely loved the main character and her friend Lance. I could see living in Ashland and having this group of friends. I was a bit confused about her relationship with Carlos but that is because I came in mid series, but caught up quickly. My point being that these function within the series and standalone, so don't feel like you can't start it because you haven't read the others, just go for it. I was a bit surprised by the ending of this book. Not the killer but the explanation of how they got there, I would have probably done it a little differently but it made sense and wrapped up nicely. If you are a baker they give you details of how items are made and you could probably try to make them. If your a novice the ingredients are included but not the quantity. Reminds me a bit of the pumpkin spice series that give you recipes to try. If you ever watched the Hallmark series Murder, She Baked you will love this book (I did, and I do). Thank you to #NetGalley, #minotaur_books, and
#stmartinspress for letting me read and advanced reader copy.
#stmartinspress for letting me read and advanced reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
“The Whisking Hour” is an amusing cozy mystery. Juliet the heavily pregnant baker and Lance the artistic director of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) make for an interesting pair of amateur detectives. The mystery surrounds the death of Kean Armitage, the director of “Perfect Crime”, which is currently being staged at OSF. While he manages to get great performances from his actors, his methods are rather toxic. He has numerous enemies among the cast and crew, as well as his soon-to-be ex-wife. The story has plenty of twists as specific characters are considered the primary suspect until the behaviors and lies of other characters, as well as established alibis, switch the focus to someone else.
In addition to the murder mystery aspect, the story focuses a lot on Juliet and her family bakery, Torte, its staff, the food they serve and the inspiration behind the recipes, the changes Juliet and her husband will experience with the pending birth of twins, and connections and interactions with other family members and friends. There are a collection of close-knit relationships and a strong sense of community and belonging.
In addition to the murder mystery aspect, the story focuses a lot on Juliet and her family bakery, Torte, its staff, the food they serve and the inspiration behind the recipes, the changes Juliet and her husband will experience with the pending birth of twins, and connections and interactions with other family members and friends. There are a collection of close-knit relationships and a strong sense of community and belonging.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Warning: Do not read this book while hungry! So many delicious foods were made during this book and I wanted to eat them all! Juliet is asked by her friend Lance to cater a murder themed party for the cast and crew of the play he's working on. The director is killed the night of the party and everyone is a suspect.
I've not read anything in this series before but I am a fan of Ellie Alexander. The main character is pregnant with twins and does the right thing by not doing too much to investigate and she doesn't put herself in harm's way. So often you see the main character run head first into a situation so it was nice to see one think before acting. There were plenty of motives and opportunities to keep you guessing. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another twist would appear. When Juliet and Carlos are watching the play I was on the edge of my seat right along with them. I will be adding the previous books in this series to my TBR list!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press and Minotour Books for the ARC.
I've not read anything in this series before but I am a fan of Ellie Alexander. The main character is pregnant with twins and does the right thing by not doing too much to investigate and she doesn't put herself in harm's way. So often you see the main character run head first into a situation so it was nice to see one think before acting. There were plenty of motives and opportunities to keep you guessing. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another twist would appear. When Juliet and Carlos are watching the play I was on the edge of my seat right along with them. I will be adding the previous books in this series to my TBR list!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press and Minotour Books for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.75 stars
This long running cozy series set in a bakeshop in Ashland, Oregon is a favorite. While we have come to know the different characters and ensemble personalities over the years, I think you could comfortably read this as a standalone because a lot of background information is provided.
Owner Juliet and husband Carlos are expecting twins and are trying to prepare themselves for the transition ahead. Meanwhile Juliet's best friend Lance, artistic director of the Oregon Shakespeare festival, has his hands full with cast problems for their upcoming mystery production.
The cast is in such disarray that it's not a major surprise when one of them is murdered. There are too many suspects to count. Juliet happens to be on the scene catering the cast party and so gets involved.
These books and this series are an enjoyable read, nicely plotted, and with great character development and an appealing setting. A bonus is the mouth watering food descriptions from the bakery. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This long running cozy series set in a bakeshop in Ashland, Oregon is a favorite. While we have come to know the different characters and ensemble personalities over the years, I think you could comfortably read this as a standalone because a lot of background information is provided.
Owner Juliet and husband Carlos are expecting twins and are trying to prepare themselves for the transition ahead. Meanwhile Juliet's best friend Lance, artistic director of the Oregon Shakespeare festival, has his hands full with cast problems for their upcoming mystery production.
The cast is in such disarray that it's not a major surprise when one of them is murdered. There are too many suspects to count. Juliet happens to be on the scene catering the cast party and so gets involved.
These books and this series are an enjoyable read, nicely plotted, and with great character development and an appealing setting. A bonus is the mouth watering food descriptions from the bakery. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ellie Alexander has whisked up another delightful addition to the Bakeshop Mystery series.
Jules Capshaw is nervously preparing for the birth of her twins, getting her bakery Torte in tip-top shape for her maternity leave. When she agrees to cater the cast party for bestie Lance's play Perfect Crime, she gets more than she bargained for when a dead body turns up.
Ellie Alexander has beautifully crafted a world in Ashland, Oregon through the Bakeshop Mystery series, with characters who now feel more like friends than fiction. Lance is my favourite character in the series, and I love when he gets to be Jules' right-hand man to solve a crime (especially one that's in his own company).
Having the murder intertwined with the crime-based play is genius, and I loved all of the ways that the two meshed together. As always, the theme of food bringing us together as family hits me right in the heart in the best way possible.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press I Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
Jules Capshaw is nervously preparing for the birth of her twins, getting her bakery Torte in tip-top shape for her maternity leave. When she agrees to cater the cast party for bestie Lance's play Perfect Crime, she gets more than she bargained for when a dead body turns up.
Ellie Alexander has beautifully crafted a world in Ashland, Oregon through the Bakeshop Mystery series, with characters who now feel more like friends than fiction. Lance is my favourite character in the series, and I love when he gets to be Jules' right-hand man to solve a crime (especially one that's in his own company).
Having the murder intertwined with the crime-based play is genius, and I loved all of the ways that the two meshed together. As always, the theme of food bringing us together as family hits me right in the heart in the best way possible.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press I Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Autumn comes with pumpkin spice, cinnamon rolls and a heaping tablespoon of murder when OSF's stage production of Perfect Crime takes a deadly turn and someone is killed.
Juliet is heavily pregnant in this and takes a bit of a well-deserved backseat. We get to witness her amazing team cooking and baking up a storm throughout the book as she reflects on their growth and her different partnerships. The recipe-making scenes are the highlights of this book, the sweet potato enchiladas sounded incredible. My ARC doesn't include the recipes at the end but the final copies always do and I can't wait to make those. The ending, with a heavy emphasis on community and friendship, made me cry. My favourite cosy mystery series and always five stars.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this ARC!
Juliet is heavily pregnant in this and takes a bit of a well-deserved backseat. We get to witness her amazing team cooking and baking up a storm throughout the book as she reflects on their growth and her different partnerships. The recipe-making scenes are the highlights of this book, the sweet potato enchiladas sounded incredible. My ARC doesn't include the recipes at the end but the final copies always do and I can't wait to make those. The ending, with a heavy emphasis on community and friendship, made me cry. My favourite cosy mystery series and always five stars.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book had a lot of very fun characters. I haven't read any of the other books in this series, but I was still able to easily figure out the relationships between the main characters. There were a few minor characters who were brought up at times that it wasn't clear who they were, but overall I think this is a book that can be enjoyed without reading the other books first.
I enjoyed the mystery of the story, and liked that there were multiple suspects that all would have made sense so it was hard to guess who the actual murder was.
I felt like the pacing was a bit off. The beginning was pretty slow, then it seemed to really pick up at about the 30% mark, after that there was a lot back and forth between lots happening at once then either nothing happening for a while or a long monolog about baking.
I enjoyed the mystery of the story, and liked that there were multiple suspects that all would have made sense so it was hard to guess who the actual murder was.
I felt like the pacing was a bit off. The beginning was pretty slow, then it seemed to really pick up at about the 30% mark, after that there was a lot back and forth between lots happening at once then either nothing happening for a while or a long monolog about baking.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A light cozy read. Not earth shattering. Does not keep you on the edge of your seat. Affable characters. Lovely quaint town.
Since I’m a foodie, I delighted in the details of the bakery prep and confections being made. I can see that if that’s not your bailiwick, it could be a turn off, as I’ve read in some reviews.
I needed to skim in parts, as Carlos’s adoringly and excessively protectiveness towards Juliet, was a bit much. She’s pregnant. Okay with twins but still. She’s healthy and feels good!
The murder? I did not really care “who done it.”
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. #NetGalley, #St.MartinsPress.
Since I’m a foodie, I delighted in the details of the bakery prep and confections being made. I can see that if that’s not your bailiwick, it could be a turn off, as I’ve read in some reviews.
I needed to skim in parts, as Carlos’s adoringly and excessively protectiveness towards Juliet, was a bit much. She’s pregnant. Okay with twins but still. She’s healthy and feels good!
The murder? I did not really care “who done it.”
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. #NetGalley, #St.MartinsPress.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
DRC from Netgalley and NetGalley and St. Martin's Press / Minotaur Books
A cozy murder mystery that is #22 of the series “Bakeshop Mystery.” Jules is pregnant with twins and looking forward to a night out. Her friend, Lance, is producing the classic “perfect Crime” show in Ashland’s theatre. Jules’ bakeshop is also hosting the cast party. While Jules and her staff are busy setting up the treats and getting ready for the actors to arrive, tragedy strikes. There are many red-herrings, clues, and motives for murder. Everyone has secrets and Officers Thomas and Kelly are trying to figure out who is lying and who isn’t. But who really killed the director? Will Jules be able to help solve the crime before someone else is killed?
A cozy murder mystery that is #22 of the series “Bakeshop Mystery.” Jules is pregnant with twins and looking forward to a night out. Her friend, Lance, is producing the classic “perfect Crime” show in Ashland’s theatre. Jules’ bakeshop is also hosting the cast party. While Jules and her staff are busy setting up the treats and getting ready for the actors to arrive, tragedy strikes. There are many red-herrings, clues, and motives for murder. Everyone has secrets and Officers Thomas and Kelly are trying to figure out who is lying and who isn’t. But who really killed the director? Will Jules be able to help solve the crime before someone else is killed?
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Jules is expecting twins, but that doesn't keep her from staying busy at Torte bakery. Lance has a new show, a murder mystery, and some of the actors are taking their roles a bit too seriously. When there's a real murder, there is no shortage of suspects, and Lance wants Jules to help him investigate. Between the descriptions of all the delicious food served at Torte, the friendly familiar characters, the small town ambiance, and a mystery with multiple suspects, Ellie Alexander has provided an excellent addition to the series. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Whisking Hour by Ellie Alexander is a cozy mystery that is the twenty-second of the series.
It was easy to follow even though I have not read any in the series.
Juliet Capshaw lives and owns a bakery in Ashland, Oregon. Juliet is very pregnant with twins. She is catering for a cast party. Durning the party an actor is found murdered.
The writing is particularly good and I enjoyed the story. There were several recuring characters. After reading this one I will be reading a few more.
It was easy to follow even though I have not read any in the series.
Juliet Capshaw lives and owns a bakery in Ashland, Oregon. Juliet is very pregnant with twins. She is catering for a cast party. Durning the party an actor is found murdered.
The writing is particularly good and I enjoyed the story. There were several recuring characters. After reading this one I will be reading a few more.
January 2, 2026
This was such a cute, wholesome read. I loved that it takes place in a bakery, it reminded me of my daughter, who’s a baker, and I found myself sharing some of the cozy baking ideas with her while I was reading.
The fall setting in Oregon was beautifully done, with descriptions of changing colors really set the mood. The mystery fits perfectly with the autumn/Halloween vibes, but it stays light and upbeat rather than dark or heavy.
Overall, this felt like a quick, cozy palate cleanser. Perfect for fall reading when you want something atmospheric but not intense.
The fall setting in Oregon was beautifully done, with descriptions of changing colors really set the mood. The mystery fits perfectly with the autumn/Halloween vibes, but it stays light and upbeat rather than dark or heavy.
Overall, this felt like a quick, cozy palate cleanser. Perfect for fall reading when you want something atmospheric but not intense.
December 8, 2025
Kindle Copy for Review from NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Minotaur Books.
I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Jules theatre visit turns deadly. The production of The Perfect Crime almost becomes reality. Things heat up between the cast before they even ht the stage as a murderous feast for the cast turns poisonous. It is one deadly spread not to be miss as Jules will step n to solve case.
I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Jules theatre visit turns deadly. The production of The Perfect Crime almost becomes reality. Things heat up between the cast before they even ht the stage as a murderous feast for the cast turns poisonous. It is one deadly spread not to be miss as Jules will step n to solve case.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I admit I was drooling a little at the beginning as baker, Jules describes her delicious treats baked in Torte. For the annual Shakespeare Festival, Lance wants to hire her his cast party of "Scene of the Crime" with "bloody" dishes. But she has no real idea what will transpire and there is more blood on people than on the tables! Fast-paced and gritty, it's a wild ride!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Whisking Hour is the 22nd installment of Ellie Alexander’s Bakeshop mystery series and features a very pregnant Jules who caters a murder mystery cast party for the latest production at the OSF and the unconventional director ends up dead. With a member of the cast being the likely suspects it’s up to Ashland’s finest to solve the case before they seek out Lance and Jules as they stumble onto the twist.
Thank you publishers and netgalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
Thank you publishers and netgalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
December 6, 2025
The newest Bakeshop Mystery has the local production in trouble with an overbearing director. Juliet is in the process of pulling back from the bakery in preparation for the birth of her twins. But a little mayhem is not too much to ask her to deal with while she can. The Whisking House is another entertaining and fun entry in the series.
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December 17, 2025This has been an enjoyable series for many years, but I am starting to feel the author has run out of descriptive words for the narrative and has decided to include baking instructions instead of advancing the story. Maybe it is time for Juliette to focus on raising her soon-to-be-born twins and take a few years off between books. Really a 2.5 star book.
December 10, 2025
A welcome addition to the Bake shop Mystery series. I cannot believe this is the sand in the series you can't go wrong reading this. Excellent summary at the beginning to introduce the players to new reade
December 21, 2025
I had such a fun time with this one!! i really love the focus on the cozy vibes and also the theater vibes!! I had such a fun time. I loved the fall vibes!! i am really excited for more books in this seires. I think these books do become predicable but it was a quick read!!
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