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The Early Bird Cafe Mystery #5
Smashed Potatoes and Gravy
Kori Cooke is excited for Thanksgiving. Not only is she hosting Thanksgiving at The Early Bird Café, but she’s also throwing a baby shower that same week for her good friend Jenna Rhodes. But when Jenna is late to her own shower, Kori knows something is wrong.A dead body is found on Jenna’s property and she suddenly finds herself in jail, and nearly ready to pop she’s so pregnant. Kori knows Jenna can’t be guilty, but then who is?Kori gets dragged into the investigation and is hot on the trail to the real killer, only to find out it’s a dead end. As she looks for more and more clues, she starts questioning if she might know the murderer, and even be their friend. Kori isn’t sure who could be guilty, but she knows for sure she has to find out before the killer notices her tracks.Will one of Kori’s friends go to jail for a crime they didn’t commit? Or could she be blind to the truth because she doesn’t want to see who the real killer is? In The Kitchen with Ginny Gold—Thanksgiving Day Menu!**Smashed Potatoes and Gravy is approx. 32K words and is volume 5 in The Early Bird Café Cozy Mystery Series. Ginny Gold books can be read and enjoyed in any order.
188 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2014
67 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
About the author
Ginny Gold
13 books16 followersGinny Gold lives in the high Rockies and wouldn't trade it for the world. She loves anything outdoors--especially skiing, cycling, and gardening, though living at over 9,000 feet does make for a short growing season. You can also find her volunteering with local nonprofits and schools when she's not cooking up her next cozy mystery for her loyal readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
April 7, 2019
3.5 stars, 1.5 heat
Smashed Potatoes and Gravy was pretty cute and full of all kinds of yummy treats.
The Gist: Thanksgiving, Baby Showers, Dead Bodies! Woo! Kori has a busy week on her hands running the cafe and getting ready to host a slew of events and things get even crazier when a friend finds a dead body on her property and gets arrested. Of course, Kori has to help clear her name.
I like Kori. She's a nice lady, enjoys cooking and taking care of people, has a pup. She's easy and pleasant and so are most of the people around her. The cutie cop boyfriend, her cafe help and friends.
The mystery was entertaining as the police and Kori both uncovered clues and suspects.
Overall, Smashed Potatoes and Gravy was a nice little read. These are very easy stories that move quickly and are just light and fun. They're not all that layered or complex, though. It's a simple town and pretty simple writing but it's a nice easy diversion.
Smashed Potatoes and Gravy was pretty cute and full of all kinds of yummy treats.
The Gist: Thanksgiving, Baby Showers, Dead Bodies! Woo! Kori has a busy week on her hands running the cafe and getting ready to host a slew of events and things get even crazier when a friend finds a dead body on her property and gets arrested. Of course, Kori has to help clear her name.
I like Kori. She's a nice lady, enjoys cooking and taking care of people, has a pup. She's easy and pleasant and so are most of the people around her. The cutie cop boyfriend, her cafe help and friends.
The mystery was entertaining as the police and Kori both uncovered clues and suspects.
Overall, Smashed Potatoes and Gravy was a nice little read. These are very easy stories that move quickly and are just light and fun. They're not all that layered or complex, though. It's a simple town and pretty simple writing but it's a nice easy diversion.
December 6, 2015
I received this ebook free on Bookbub. I'm not sure what to rate this story. It wasn't terrible, but it wasn't really good. It was really basic. There were a lot of unnecessary details and the story didn't have much mystery. I learned more about what was being served at her café and her dog's daily walks, than the case. Although she seemed to be more involved in the murder investigation than a civilian should be, it didn't have enough information about the mystery to really make it appear that she helped solve it. Perhaps if I had read the first 4 books it'd have helped me understand the characters a little more and a little more about why she came to her conclusions.
December 5, 2015
Enjoyable for a cozy mystery, but lacks pizzazz
While the actual mystery here was enjoyable, I found that the story would have been even better if the cast of characters had been more fleshed out. It is difficult to imagine these characters when there are no descriptions of them. More depth needed everywhere.
While the actual mystery here was enjoyable, I found that the story would have been even better if the cast of characters had been more fleshed out. It is difficult to imagine these characters when there are no descriptions of them. More depth needed everywhere.
November 2, 2018
Coming across Thanksgiving holiday themed books is something of a rarity for me, but I was happy to try this new to me author and cozy mystery series set in a small town and a cafe owner amateur detective.
Smashed Potatoes and Gravy is book five in The Early Bird Cafe' series. These all work fine standalone though there is the ongoing story of regular characters from what I could tell.
Kori owns and operates a cafe in her small, but well-loved familiar New England home town. Her Thanksgiving week is shaping up to be a doozy with a friend Jenna's baby shower, her business, Thanksgiving, and her mom's wedding. But, that's nothing when a murder mystery involving her friend gets added to the to-do list.
This one read fast and fun. It was a light weight spending as much time in Kori's kitchen and on her walks with her dog as much as the mystery. She shrugs off her mom's sudden remarriage while taking a keen interest in her boyfriend, Zach's case since it involves Jenna. I was relieved to see that while she nosed in on the case that the police weren't painted as incompetent. Kori helps, but she wasn't the only brains which is how I prefer mysteries that mingle amateur and professionals detecting on a case.
Kori is a likable lead character and I enjoyed spending time with her though, good night, I was seriously hungry reading this. The Thanksgiving element was part of it all and I liked how the theme was blended into the story as Kori mingled with her family and neighbors and helped out where she could.
The mystery was only one of the elements and was interesting, but there wasn't enough to go on clue-wise for the reader until late in the story so it's not one that can be solved early. Though, that said, it was a relatively uncomplicated one.
I found this book a light and easy read with easygoing characters and a cute feel to it all. I'd definitely read more from the series.
Smashed Potatoes and Gravy is book five in The Early Bird Cafe' series. These all work fine standalone though there is the ongoing story of regular characters from what I could tell.
Kori owns and operates a cafe in her small, but well-loved familiar New England home town. Her Thanksgiving week is shaping up to be a doozy with a friend Jenna's baby shower, her business, Thanksgiving, and her mom's wedding. But, that's nothing when a murder mystery involving her friend gets added to the to-do list.
This one read fast and fun. It was a light weight spending as much time in Kori's kitchen and on her walks with her dog as much as the mystery. She shrugs off her mom's sudden remarriage while taking a keen interest in her boyfriend, Zach's case since it involves Jenna. I was relieved to see that while she nosed in on the case that the police weren't painted as incompetent. Kori helps, but she wasn't the only brains which is how I prefer mysteries that mingle amateur and professionals detecting on a case.
Kori is a likable lead character and I enjoyed spending time with her though, good night, I was seriously hungry reading this. The Thanksgiving element was part of it all and I liked how the theme was blended into the story as Kori mingled with her family and neighbors and helped out where she could.
The mystery was only one of the elements and was interesting, but there wasn't enough to go on clue-wise for the reader until late in the story so it's not one that can be solved early. Though, that said, it was a relatively uncomplicated one.
I found this book a light and easy read with easygoing characters and a cute feel to it all. I'd definitely read more from the series.
December 29, 2015
This book was such a good book. When I purchased it, I didn’t realize that it was part of a series. I don’t think that you have to read them all in order though (Just my opinion). The book does reference other stories, but just for a moment here and there. It was a great read, I learned how homemade cranberry sauce is made, and I learned about frying muffins (who knew). I will definitely be reading the other books now.
The characters are real. You see them and hear their interactions. Kori is an awesome leading female and Zach makes the perfect other half.
If you love cozy mysteries, this is definitely one series to read.
Reviewed by Cryssy
The characters are real. You see them and hear their interactions. Kori is an awesome leading female and Zach makes the perfect other half.
If you love cozy mysteries, this is definitely one series to read.
Reviewed by Cryssy
February 20, 2016
This was a very good booK how ever I do wish the author had done more to maKe it more interesting. I looK forward to reading more of this author's worK.
December 8, 2015
Owner of the Earl Bird Cafe, Kori Cook is not only excited about Thanksgiving coming but she is hosting Thanksgiving at her Cafe for family and friends but she is also throwing a baby shower for her good friend the same week. With all this going on her mom announces she is not only engaged but she is getting married in a few days and wants Kori to provide the food for her. If Kori wasn't busy enough it gets worse when her friend is late for her own baby shower Kori gets worried and knows something is wrong. Kori finds out that a dead body was found on her friends piece of land and now her friend is a murder suspect. Kori has to find the real killer and get her friend out of jail.
This is a fun real quick read.
This is a fun real quick read.
December 22, 2015
This was an interesting book. I liked the main character of the book Kori along with her sidekick Idris her dog. I believe I spelled that correctly.
I liked the book. Basic storyline. Kori is the mystery buff. Has solved murders in the past. Her pregnant friend is arrested for murder and Kori looks for the murderer. Kori's boyfriend is the cop investigating the murder. Kori is dwindling down the leads to see who is guilty with the help of Zachary her boyfriend the cop on the case.
I liked the book. Only problem was they left a couple of unanswered questions. Why was Jenna out on her property at that time of morning?
What was the name of the women Victor got pregnant in his youth.
I liked the book. Basic storyline. Kori is the mystery buff. Has solved murders in the past. Her pregnant friend is arrested for murder and Kori looks for the murderer. Kori's boyfriend is the cop investigating the murder. Kori is dwindling down the leads to see who is guilty with the help of Zachary her boyfriend the cop on the case.
I liked the book. Only problem was they left a couple of unanswered questions. Why was Jenna out on her property at that time of morning?
What was the name of the women Victor got pregnant in his youth.
March 19, 2016
Turkey dinner with a side of murder
I enjoy these easy read books. It seemed this book focused on more about thanksgiving dinner than the murder. But for the first time Kori wasn't smack in the middle and in danger. I was surprised by the mom being out of character. She typically barges into her kids lives non stop. She is self absorbed and pays little attention to how she affects them. With a sudden upcoming wedding I expected her to be even worse than normal. Has she changed? If so why hasn't anyone in the book noticed?
I enjoy these easy read books. It seemed this book focused on more about thanksgiving dinner than the murder. But for the first time Kori wasn't smack in the middle and in danger. I was surprised by the mom being out of character. She typically barges into her kids lives non stop. She is self absorbed and pays little attention to how she affects them. With a sudden upcoming wedding I expected her to be even worse than normal. Has she changed? If so why hasn't anyone in the book noticed?
November 2, 2017
Smashed Potatoes and Gravy is an adorable cozy mystery! Kori Cooke is a sweet-as-pie main character. She is the owner/cook of the Early Bird Cafe - a popular breakfast restaurant . She loves her job and community of customers. The story opens just before Thanksgiving. Kori is in full on planning mode for the two Thanksgiving meals she will serve at the cafe and for her friend, Jenna's, baby shower.
When Jenna find a body, Kori is called on to help solve the murder.
Smashed Potatoes and Gravy is a fluffy, fun seasonal cozy mystery.
When Jenna find a body, Kori is called on to help solve the murder.
Smashed Potatoes and Gravy is a fluffy, fun seasonal cozy mystery.
November 2, 2016
This was the typical cozy mystery. It was okay.
Kori Cooke is excited for Thanksgiving. Not only is she hosting Thanksgiving at The Early Bird Café, but she’s also throwing a baby shower that same week for her good friend Jenna Rhodes. But when Jenna is late to her own shower, Kori knows something is wrong.
A dead body is found on Jenna’s property and she suddenly finds herself in jail, and nearly ready to pop she’s so pregnant. Kori knows Jenna can’t be guilty, but then who is?
Kori Cooke is excited for Thanksgiving. Not only is she hosting Thanksgiving at The Early Bird Café, but she’s also throwing a baby shower that same week for her good friend Jenna Rhodes. But when Jenna is late to her own shower, Kori knows something is wrong.
A dead body is found on Jenna’s property and she suddenly finds herself in jail, and nearly ready to pop she’s so pregnant. Kori knows Jenna can’t be guilty, but then who is?
January 31, 2015
Thanksgiving is a favorite of mine.
Lots of reasons to be thankful during holidays but I'd never be ambitious enough to cook Thanksgiving dinner for half the town. A murder to solve, friends to clear, a baby shower, a killer to catch and a wedding. How much more could you stuff into a weekend?
Lots of reasons to be thankful during holidays but I'd never be ambitious enough to cook Thanksgiving dinner for half the town. A murder to solve, friends to clear, a baby shower, a killer to catch and a wedding. How much more could you stuff into a weekend?
November 26, 2015
oh my gosh such a cute little cozy mystery and perfect for Thanksgiving! I absolutely loved how the author described each of the dishes being made so that I can try making some of the delicious food!!! I have never read a "cozy mystery" before but I am a fan, especially this series! I highly recommend if you're looking for a super cute and quick read!!!!
November 9, 2015
Entertaining but not very different from Laura Childs' tea mystery series.
Entertaining but not very original. A clone of other kitchen table mysteries. I will stick with Ms Childs But if you like the familiar this is for you.
Entertaining but not very original. A clone of other kitchen table mysteries. I will stick with Ms Childs But if you like the familiar this is for you.
November 30, 2015
This was the 5th book in a series and the 1st one I've read. To be fair I think I would have given the book at least 4 stars had I read the prior ones. There were a lot of references to prior murders and characters without history. But all in all it was a decent read.
December 3, 2015
This book was a good mystery to read around the Thanksgiving holiday. It had a great plot and characters, but there was a lack of excitement. And, it seemed like the protagonist didn't really put herself out or risk anything to solve the mystery.
November 28, 2015
Gobble ?
Very quick read but I'm a little confused. I don't know why the murderer committed the murder. I'll reread this again. Good characters with lots of possibilities for future stories.
Very quick read but I'm a little confused. I don't know why the murderer committed the murder. I'll reread this again. Good characters with lots of possibilities for future stories.
November 27, 2015
Fun to read
The mystery pays a price to the excellent development of characters. The plot proceeds like a smoothly flowing stream. I must admit that I like more rapids along the way.
The mystery pays a price to the excellent development of characters. The plot proceeds like a smoothly flowing stream. I must admit that I like more rapids along the way.
December 3, 2015
You'll enjoy this especiAlly as its the holidays t
This was a good read. The people are interesting and mature
I liked the story.,the setting and the different types of businesses represented
This was a good read. The people are interesting and mature
I liked the story.,the setting and the different types of businesses represented
December 7, 2015
This is a fun cozy mystery. I do wish the author had given a brief synopsis (just a paragraph or two) when she refers to what are obviously other books in this series. Otherwise, it was well written.
December 7, 2015
Real quick easy read, which filled in a couple of journeys to work on the train. I'm just not sure about the mystery solving skills here. I guess I was actually expecting more of a detective story rather then someone stumbling over clues and cooking a lot.
April 22, 2016
I received this book free from Bookbub. I enjoyed reading this book and would like to read other books in the series. It is a mystery story with romance and cooking. I consider the book to be a " candy read"... not deep or insightful, just easy reading. 4⭐️
February 5, 2016
I think I am getting use to Ginny Gold's writing style as I thought this was a pretty good installment in the series. Although the actual mystery solving was light, I still enjoyed reading more about Hermit Cove.
May 1, 2015
I want BREAKFAST!!!!
It's always a neat little murder and the food descriptions are to die for. Love this series!!!!! I don't get bored with a fast paced mystery!!!
It's always a neat little murder and the food descriptions are to die for. Love this series!!!!! I don't get bored with a fast paced mystery!!!
November 27, 2015
Fun, Thanksgiving themed mystery. Enjoyable characters and the food sounded amazing.
November 29, 2015
Ok
This was not the best nor was it the worst cozy I've ever read. The characters were likable enough too.
This was not the best nor was it the worst cozy I've ever read. The characters were likable enough too.
November 30, 2015
Read
Very interesting book, enjoyed very much. I would love to read another one from this Author. I finished the book in no time.
Very interesting book, enjoyed very much. I would love to read another one from this Author. I finished the book in no time.
Read
November 25, 2015very good
November 27, 2015
Cute fun read for the holiday :-)
November 29, 2015
This was the perfect book to read over Thanksgiving. This is the first book I have read in this series and I really enjoyed it. Fun characters and also some humor.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews