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A body in a graveyard shouldn’t be a problem, except when it’s found above ground… with a knife sticking out of it.
To make things even more complicated? The only clue in the murder is a comment left on a local neighborhood app that was deleted six minutes later, and the only person who knows it exists is the creator of said application.
Enter our fearless sleuth, Queenie.
Okay, okay. Actually, only one of those three things describes her.
it’s her name.
More fitting descriptors for Queenie Beane? Failed theater manager. Town pariah. Certified black cat.
But either Queenie figures out who killed the woman in the graveyard herself or she has to come clean about being the creator behind Everything’s Brine, a neighborhood app that has the potential to finally show the town that she’s worth more than they’ve always—wrongly—assumed.
So, it’s her, and her cat, against the graveyard killer. And what the two dig up is bound to make anyone a little screamish.
This series is for everyone who normally doesn’t read scary books because they’re just too—well, scary. I’m a proud member of the scaredy cat club. I still love reading eerie stories about creepy happenings. I just don’t want the gore and nightmares that usually come with those stories. So I wrote a cozy mystery series that has all the chills, but none of the gory kills. You’ll get a tingle down your spine, but after that, you’ll be fine. (Okay, you can tell this isn’t going to be too scary because I’m rhyming.) It’s the coziest creepy series you’ll ever read. I hope you enjoy!
To make things even more complicated? The only clue in the murder is a comment left on a local neighborhood app that was deleted six minutes later, and the only person who knows it exists is the creator of said application.
Enter our fearless sleuth, Queenie.
Okay, okay. Actually, only one of those three things describes her.
it’s her name.
More fitting descriptors for Queenie Beane? Failed theater manager. Town pariah. Certified black cat.
But either Queenie figures out who killed the woman in the graveyard herself or she has to come clean about being the creator behind Everything’s Brine, a neighborhood app that has the potential to finally show the town that she’s worth more than they’ve always—wrongly—assumed.
So, it’s her, and her cat, against the graveyard killer. And what the two dig up is bound to make anyone a little screamish.
This series is for everyone who normally doesn’t read scary books because they’re just too—well, scary. I’m a proud member of the scaredy cat club. I still love reading eerie stories about creepy happenings. I just don’t want the gore and nightmares that usually come with those stories. So I wrote a cozy mystery series that has all the chills, but none of the gory kills. You’ll get a tingle down your spine, but after that, you’ll be fine. (Okay, you can tell this isn’t going to be too scary because I’m rhyming.) It’s the coziest creepy series you’ll ever read. I hope you enjoy!
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 10, 2025
About the author
Eryn Scott
83 books503 followersEryn Scott is the author of heartwarming cozy mysteries. Her novels feature close friendships and strong families because those are the most important things in her life -- a little humor doesn't hurt either.
She calls the Pacific Northwest home and doesn't plan on changing that anytime soon. Eryn loves to hike, horseback ride, knit, ski, and read. She believes musicals are the greatest thing since lattes, even though she's not particularly good at singing or dancing -- hey, a girl can dream, right?
Her first cozy mystery series, Pepper Brooks, is based on some of the greats in classic literature. Each book features a different author from Shakespeare to Austen. Eryn's newest series is set in a little town called Stoneybrook. The Stoneybrook Mysteries follow local jam-maker Hadley James as she solves mysteries in her town's year-round farmers market. From deceased knitters to sabotaged florists, these crafty citizens keep Hadley and her twin brother, a deputy sheriff, on their toes. Pebble Cove Teahouse Mysteries are great for readers who love a hint of paranormal with their mysteries. These books feature a tiny town tucked between craggy coastline and rocky shores with quirky characters of both the living and non-living variety. Look for new releases from all three of these series in 2022 as well as Eryn Scott's new cozy series.
You can visit her website, erynscott.com, for more information about her books and new releases.
She calls the Pacific Northwest home and doesn't plan on changing that anytime soon. Eryn loves to hike, horseback ride, knit, ski, and read. She believes musicals are the greatest thing since lattes, even though she's not particularly good at singing or dancing -- hey, a girl can dream, right?
Her first cozy mystery series, Pepper Brooks, is based on some of the greats in classic literature. Each book features a different author from Shakespeare to Austen. Eryn's newest series is set in a little town called Stoneybrook. The Stoneybrook Mysteries follow local jam-maker Hadley James as she solves mysteries in her town's year-round farmers market. From deceased knitters to sabotaged florists, these crafty citizens keep Hadley and her twin brother, a deputy sheriff, on their toes. Pebble Cove Teahouse Mysteries are great for readers who love a hint of paranormal with their mysteries. These books feature a tiny town tucked between craggy coastline and rocky shores with quirky characters of both the living and non-living variety. Look for new releases from all three of these series in 2022 as well as Eryn Scott's new cozy series.
You can visit her website, erynscott.com, for more information about her books and new releases.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
September 29, 2025
I loved this book. Okay I was slightly put off after reading the blurb describing it for people who like eerie stories with chills because that is so not me. But I am a fan of the author and thought I would give it a go, so glad I did as I loved it. Having read the author's whiskers and words series set in the town of Button, I have heard a bit about its sister town of Brine, so it's great that the town gets its own series. It might not be as cute and sweet as button, which you don't have to have read about because the series is a separate series but it's not as dark and scary as it's made out to be.
In fact it was a perfect cozy mystery. I loved the new characters and town. Queenie might not be a Louisa Henry with lots of friends to help with her investigation but she is just as capable and has help from her app, trusted bike, a black cat and a pickle Prince.The family drama is going to prove to be fun and I liked the way they stuck together against the town's bullying. The story is mostly told by Queenie with the occasional chapter from the pickle Prince's prospective, this gives the reader insight into things Queenie doesn't know and adds a fun layer to the series. The mystery was good and I enjoyed how it played out, especially the number of clues Queenie followed up on from just one piece of information, it lead to do interesting situations. I can't wait for the next book.
The town of Brine blames the Beane family for every thing that has gone wrong in the town. Which is why Queenie doesn't want the town to know that she is the inventor of the app that is trying to help the town. The problem is somebody use the app to kill Mary and then deleted the message luring her to her death. Queenie as admin is the only one to have seen the message. Knowing the police won't believe anything she has to say, Queenie sets out to cover the killer used the only clue she has. Can she find he killer using the username from the app or by doing so is she making herself a target?
I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review
In fact it was a perfect cozy mystery. I loved the new characters and town. Queenie might not be a Louisa Henry with lots of friends to help with her investigation but she is just as capable and has help from her app, trusted bike, a black cat and a pickle Prince.The family drama is going to prove to be fun and I liked the way they stuck together against the town's bullying. The story is mostly told by Queenie with the occasional chapter from the pickle Prince's prospective, this gives the reader insight into things Queenie doesn't know and adds a fun layer to the series. The mystery was good and I enjoyed how it played out, especially the number of clues Queenie followed up on from just one piece of information, it lead to do interesting situations. I can't wait for the next book.
The town of Brine blames the Beane family for every thing that has gone wrong in the town. Which is why Queenie doesn't want the town to know that she is the inventor of the app that is trying to help the town. The problem is somebody use the app to kill Mary and then deleted the message luring her to her death. Queenie as admin is the only one to have seen the message. Knowing the police won't believe anything she has to say, Queenie sets out to cover the killer used the only clue she has. Can she find he killer using the username from the app or by doing so is she making herself a target?
I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review
September 20, 2026
Not bad. Just give me more mystery! And based on the title and cover, I expected a spooky theme, not pickles!
October 10, 2025
Things have rarely gone right for Queenie Beane. Frequently overlooked when not being used as a town scapegoat, she’s biding her time at the Brine Museum until she can earn enough money to leave town again. The one thing that’s going well is the app she created, Everything’s Brine, because no one knows she’s behind it. When she comes across a dead body she realizes a deleted message on her app could be a clue to the killer. Faced with telling the police and risking her secret getting out, she decides to search for the killer on her own. No way that could possibly go wrong, right? Worse than chasing a killer, though, she also has to contend with her childhood bully, prodigal son and pickle prince of Brine, Mercer Printz, as a coworker. In a town where being a Beane means being a curse, can Queenie find good luck for a change?
Eryn Scott is one of my favorite authors and I jumped at the chance to get an ARC of her newest book. I can honestly say it was better than I could have hoped for. Going for a spookier and slightly darker vibe than her other cozies, she still brings all the things I love about her books: smart, determined, relatable main character; strong family ties; quirky small town setting; a puzzling mystery; and adorable animals, in this case the black cat Toe Bean. While the main murder mystery is wrapped up neatly, there’s plenty of unresolved questions to build anticipation for more in the series: who is DR29? what exactly is Mercer hiding about his return to town? will he ever win over Queenie and make atonement’s for the past? is Queenie’s mom actually a psychic? Both Queenie and Mercer have trauma to work through and walls to bring down, but I’m already hoping for a happy ending for them. The narrative alternating between Queenie and Mercer’s point of view really helps to build empathy for Mercer as the audience is privy to things Queenie isn’t. Along with the closeness of her family and the introduction of out of town best friend, Jaclyn, I really liked the building of friendship between Queenie and Kurt and look forward to her having a strong support system in the future.
Eryn Scott is one of my favorite authors and I jumped at the chance to get an ARC of her newest book. I can honestly say it was better than I could have hoped for. Going for a spookier and slightly darker vibe than her other cozies, she still brings all the things I love about her books: smart, determined, relatable main character; strong family ties; quirky small town setting; a puzzling mystery; and adorable animals, in this case the black cat Toe Bean. While the main murder mystery is wrapped up neatly, there’s plenty of unresolved questions to build anticipation for more in the series: who is DR29? what exactly is Mercer hiding about his return to town? will he ever win over Queenie and make atonement’s for the past? is Queenie’s mom actually a psychic? Both Queenie and Mercer have trauma to work through and walls to bring down, but I’m already hoping for a happy ending for them. The narrative alternating between Queenie and Mercer’s point of view really helps to build empathy for Mercer as the audience is privy to things Queenie isn’t. Along with the closeness of her family and the introduction of out of town best friend, Jaclyn, I really liked the building of friendship between Queenie and Kurt and look forward to her having a strong support system in the future.
October 5, 2025
Fans of Scott’s “Whiskers and Words” series will recognize the small pickle-themed town of Brine, Washington; however, the entirely new cast of characters sets the tone for an intriguing murder mystery series that does not require having read Scott’s earlier books. Queenie Beane and her little black cat make a great pair to live next door to a cemetery. Who better to stumble upon a dead body in the cemetery… above ground… with the murder weapon attached? Not only does Queenie try to solve the case, but also the Brine community crime solvers and a bumbling police duo muddle around too. Everyone has distinct personalities, and the puns abound! Queenie gets herself into several “pickles” as she investigates in sketchy locations and collides, literally and figuratively, with her childhood nemesis, who is both “sweet” and “sour.” Unbelievably not one but TWO love interests present themselves to Queenie, who previously thought everyone in town hates her and her family. While the murder is solved, there are double cliff-hangers at the end, creating excitement for a second book. Eryn Scott, we need #2 sooner rather than later!
October 12, 2025
Eryn Scott has another fantastic cozy mystery series with Screamish! Even after writing so many cozy mystery books this one feels fresh and fun. It is set in a small town. the neighbors one from a previous series.
Queenie is a heroine with some snark and sharp edges and it was fun to see her banter with Mercer. The two of them definitely push each other's buttons. I can't wait to see how their relationship grows and changes as the series progresses.
The town/world building was so well done, too. With Queenie's job being at the museum, naturally some of the town history came up without feeling like an info dump. Eryn did a wonderful job creating a quirky, unique, and entertaining town. The pickle theme is hilarious and so fun.
This book is a fantastic kickoff to the new series, and it makes me want to go back and read all of Eryn's other cozy mysteries. I can't wait to see what comes next in this one!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Queenie is a heroine with some snark and sharp edges and it was fun to see her banter with Mercer. The two of them definitely push each other's buttons. I can't wait to see how their relationship grows and changes as the series progresses.
The town/world building was so well done, too. With Queenie's job being at the museum, naturally some of the town history came up without feeling like an info dump. Eryn did a wonderful job creating a quirky, unique, and entertaining town. The pickle theme is hilarious and so fun.
This book is a fantastic kickoff to the new series, and it makes me want to go back and read all of Eryn's other cozy mysteries. I can't wait to see what comes next in this one!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
October 22, 2025
good
Queenie Beane has had a string of bad luck, so when the app she created is the only place that has evidence on the killer behind the murder of a local woman, she feels obligated to look into it.
With her high school bully back in town and working beside her, her family’s normal propensity for drama, and her best friend miles away; Queenie has a lot to deal with. Luckily her cat Toe Bean is on hand to keep her company…
First in a new series, this introduces the Beane family, pariahs of the town of Brine, and some of the local residents (Especially one Mercer Printz).
It’s a fairly fast paced mystery, low on scares, but at times it does get spooky! Queenie is a very unusual character, and I’m really looking forward to getting to know her better in future books. I also hope we get to the bottom of what Mercer is up to soon too.
It’s a quirky tale, definitely in the cosy genre, and an entertaining read (especially if you’re not into the scary side of things!)
Queenie Beane has had a string of bad luck, so when the app she created is the only place that has evidence on the killer behind the murder of a local woman, she feels obligated to look into it.
With her high school bully back in town and working beside her, her family’s normal propensity for drama, and her best friend miles away; Queenie has a lot to deal with. Luckily her cat Toe Bean is on hand to keep her company…
First in a new series, this introduces the Beane family, pariahs of the town of Brine, and some of the local residents (Especially one Mercer Printz).
It’s a fairly fast paced mystery, low on scares, but at times it does get spooky! Queenie is a very unusual character, and I’m really looking forward to getting to know her better in future books. I also hope we get to the bottom of what Mercer is up to soon too.
It’s a quirky tale, definitely in the cosy genre, and an entertaining read (especially if you’re not into the scary side of things!)
September 29, 2025
I LOVED this book!
I enjoy all the author's books and having read Whiskers and Words series, which is set in Button, I had read mention of the neighboring town Brine.
This story is set in Brine. The town of Brine is all about pickles, even the street signs are named after pickles.
Queenie is the protagonist, and I really love her and her black cat.
Their family has been bullied and is the least liked in town. I felt bad for them.
But the humor was so perfectly blended in with the cozy mystery.
Add in the Pickle Prince. I really enjoy how a few chapters are told from his perspective.
Queenie has an app, which added a fantastic dimension to the story.
The murder mystery is fantastic, and Queenie does a fantastic job as a amateur sleuth.
The characters are fun and well written. The town is charming and fun.
The mystery is well written, and I had no idea who the killer was.
I loved the sneak peek for the next book, and I can't wait to read more!
I enjoy all the author's books and having read Whiskers and Words series, which is set in Button, I had read mention of the neighboring town Brine.
This story is set in Brine. The town of Brine is all about pickles, even the street signs are named after pickles.
Queenie is the protagonist, and I really love her and her black cat.
Their family has been bullied and is the least liked in town. I felt bad for them.
But the humor was so perfectly blended in with the cozy mystery.
Add in the Pickle Prince. I really enjoy how a few chapters are told from his perspective.
Queenie has an app, which added a fantastic dimension to the story.
The murder mystery is fantastic, and Queenie does a fantastic job as a amateur sleuth.
The characters are fun and well written. The town is charming and fun.
The mystery is well written, and I had no idea who the killer was.
I loved the sneak peek for the next book, and I can't wait to read more!
October 1, 2025
I'm a huge fan of the author, Eryn Scott. I've read almost everything she's written and what I haven't read, is on my TBR list to finish up soon. This book takes place in a sister town from another series she writes, Whiskers and Words. So I knew a little bit about the town already, a pickle themed town that is kind of darker than the quaint town of Button from the Whiskers and Words series.
Queenie is the main character and she is a smart woman with a tech background. Her family are also outcasts in the town and seem to catch blame for everything that goes wrong in the town. When her childhood bully, Mercer, comes back to town and becomes her coworker, Queenie is less than pleased. But Mercer seems to have changed. Queenie finds a body in the graveyard and when it becomes evident the local police won't solve it, Queenie starts investigating with her sweet black cat, Toe Bean.
There are so many quirky characters, a lot of back stories that we've only seen a glimpse of thus far, and some romantic tension. It's a darker cozy mystery but without the scarier elements. Like Scooby Doo in book form. And it's such a good read. Enough clues to keep you guessing, plenty of story lines to keep the pages turning, and still cozy enough that you can fall asleep right after reading.
Mercer also gets a couple chapters from his point of view, which I really like. We get to see things Queenie doesn't yet know. But gosh, I wish she knew. It provides a little redemption and accountability, and also that reminder that things aren't always what they seem. I can't wait to read the next book; I love everything Eryn Scott writes!
I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Queenie is the main character and she is a smart woman with a tech background. Her family are also outcasts in the town and seem to catch blame for everything that goes wrong in the town. When her childhood bully, Mercer, comes back to town and becomes her coworker, Queenie is less than pleased. But Mercer seems to have changed. Queenie finds a body in the graveyard and when it becomes evident the local police won't solve it, Queenie starts investigating with her sweet black cat, Toe Bean.
There are so many quirky characters, a lot of back stories that we've only seen a glimpse of thus far, and some romantic tension. It's a darker cozy mystery but without the scarier elements. Like Scooby Doo in book form. And it's such a good read. Enough clues to keep you guessing, plenty of story lines to keep the pages turning, and still cozy enough that you can fall asleep right after reading.
Mercer also gets a couple chapters from his point of view, which I really like. We get to see things Queenie doesn't yet know. But gosh, I wish she knew. It provides a little redemption and accountability, and also that reminder that things aren't always what they seem. I can't wait to read the next book; I love everything Eryn Scott writes!
I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 7, 2025
5 Star Review Screamish (A Black Cat Investigation Mystery #1) By Eryn Scott
I was excited when I heard that Eryn Scott had a new series releasing and if this book is anything to go by then she is off to a flying starts
Queenie Beane ( I just love her name) captured my interest from the first chapter. Add in her cat and you just know you are in for an entertaining read.
I loved this book from start to finish. It is a cozy mystery and one that I found thoroughly entertaining and well written. The intrigue and suspense kept me on the edge of my seat as I read.
There are many twists, turns and surprises in Screamish as Queenie follows the clues and I have to say that I was taken by surprise on a couple of occasions.
I was excited when I heard that Eryn Scott had a new series releasing and if this book is anything to go by then she is off to a flying starts
Queenie Beane ( I just love her name) captured my interest from the first chapter. Add in her cat and you just know you are in for an entertaining read.
I loved this book from start to finish. It is a cozy mystery and one that I found thoroughly entertaining and well written. The intrigue and suspense kept me on the edge of my seat as I read.
There are many twists, turns and surprises in Screamish as Queenie follows the clues and I have to say that I was taken by surprise on a couple of occasions.
September 30, 2025
The PERFECT mix of small town cosy feels, intriguing mystery plot lines (with so much potential for future books!) and romantic tension (good lawwwwd, the tension 🫠).
I’ve absolutely adored everything that I’ve read from this author so far, and I feel like this had a different kind of style - I LOVED it.
I didn’t want to put it down, and when I did I just found myself thinking about it until I could pick it back up again. I know this hasn’t technically released yet but… when is the next one coming out?!?! 😂
I received an advance reader copy of this book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’ve absolutely adored everything that I’ve read from this author so far, and I feel like this had a different kind of style - I LOVED it.
I didn’t want to put it down, and when I did I just found myself thinking about it until I could pick it back up again. I know this hasn’t technically released yet but… when is the next one coming out?!?! 😂
I received an advance reader copy of this book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 2, 2025
Spooky cozy mystery with a cute cat and a cute small town? Yes please!
I just love everything Eryn Scott writes, and this new series was a great entry into the small town of Brine. Yes, it’s all pickle themed. I love it.
I really enjoyed the banter between The Pickle Prince and Queenie, and I’m selfishly hoping for an enemies to lovers ending in this series because I love that trope.
The mystery itself had so many red herrings and twists and I really enjoyed being taken along for the ride. I am looking forward to diving back into the next in series and learning more about the characters and their backstories. And hopefully the identity of DR29!
Sorry for the late review Eryn! I received this as an ARC copy and I cannot wait for the next one!
I just love everything Eryn Scott writes, and this new series was a great entry into the small town of Brine. Yes, it’s all pickle themed. I love it.
I really enjoyed the banter between The Pickle Prince and Queenie, and I’m selfishly hoping for an enemies to lovers ending in this series because I love that trope.
The mystery itself had so many red herrings and twists and I really enjoyed being taken along for the ride. I am looking forward to diving back into the next in series and learning more about the characters and their backstories. And hopefully the identity of DR29!
Sorry for the late review Eryn! I received this as an ARC copy and I cannot wait for the next one!
October 23, 2026
Eeeepppp!!!! I have a new cozy mystery series to fangirl over only - sob - this is the only book in the series on audible and the print books don't seem to be available in Canada! ack! Especially with the teaser ending in Screamish! I am bibliophiled distraught! As you can tell by all the exclamation marks!!! Love this first book though. Queenie makes for an awesome cozy mystery heroine - a little bit grumpy, somewhat stand offish (she has her reasons) and determined to sleuth out a killer despite all the odds. The town is quirky, her childhood nemesis has just returned to town and her family's quirkiness makes the rest of the town seem almost..sane. Bwahahaha! Cozy Mystery Brilliance. I have become a huge Eryn Scott fan and have been working my way through her series only to get stalled on this once since there are four books but only one I can get my hands on. Gah! Hopefully that will change soon.
September 30, 2025
Thank you to Kristopherson Press and Eryn Scott for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I loved this! The perfect fall spooky (but not too spooky) cozy mystery! The cat was the cherry on top. The town really made me mad at how they treated Queenie but I’m hoping things will turn around for her especially after solving her first murder! I have some theories about who DR29 is. I also loved the Ashland reference. Reminded me of Ellie Alexander and her Bakeshop series! Eryn Scott never disappoints and this cozy is no exception.
I loved this! The perfect fall spooky (but not too spooky) cozy mystery! The cat was the cherry on top. The town really made me mad at how they treated Queenie but I’m hoping things will turn around for her especially after solving her first murder! I have some theories about who DR29 is. I also loved the Ashland reference. Reminded me of Ellie Alexander and her Bakeshop series! Eryn Scott never disappoints and this cozy is no exception.
October 12, 2025
Screamish indeed
What great fun! If you’ve read any of the Whiskers and Words series the Town of Brine will ring a bell. Here we are fully immersed in all the pickleness as we follow along with Queenie on her first adventure as a sleuth.
I absolutely loved this story. I love the wacky pickle names, the wacky townsfolk, the sweet Bean family and the mysterious pickle prince. The mystery was tricksy and kept me guessing. This is just a fun, whimsical read. Can’t wait for byte next adventure!!
What great fun! If you’ve read any of the Whiskers and Words series the Town of Brine will ring a bell. Here we are fully immersed in all the pickleness as we follow along with Queenie on her first adventure as a sleuth.
I absolutely loved this story. I love the wacky pickle names, the wacky townsfolk, the sweet Bean family and the mysterious pickle prince. The mystery was tricksy and kept me guessing. This is just a fun, whimsical read. Can’t wait for byte next adventure!!
October 21, 2026
Eryn Scott has easily become one of my favorite authors. Having read most of The Morrisey series (and it being spooky season), I decided to give Screamish, the first book of the Black Cat Investigations series, a try. I. LOVED. IT.
If there is one thing I’ve learned about Eryn, it’s that she can write the hell out of a cozy mystery novel. Screamish is the exact definition of a cozy mystery right from the start! On top of that, it’s witty, funny, and so so easy to read. The characters are lovable in their own special ways. Queenie is, well…a total queen! When Mercer was introduced into the story, oh boy was I excited. There were so many characters, but not in a bad way. I wanted to know every single one of their stories. Oh, did I mention the small town is PICKLE THEMED? Like are you actually kidding me? Talk about roping me in immediately.
I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!!
If there is one thing I’ve learned about Eryn, it’s that she can write the hell out of a cozy mystery novel. Screamish is the exact definition of a cozy mystery right from the start! On top of that, it’s witty, funny, and so so easy to read. The characters are lovable in their own special ways. Queenie is, well…a total queen! When Mercer was introduced into the story, oh boy was I excited. There were so many characters, but not in a bad way. I wanted to know every single one of their stories. Oh, did I mention the small town is PICKLE THEMED? Like are you actually kidding me? Talk about roping me in immediately.
I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!!
October 3, 2025
She’s done it again. I wasn’t sure she could create a character that would rival Pepper Brooks or Hadley James. I absolutely love Queenie Beane with her unrealistic confidence and her relatable vulnerability. And Mercer. What a great love interest! Sordid past and definite chemistry! I can’t wait for book 2!
October 2, 2025
What a fun new series. Love the names of the characters, so clever and funny. I'm looking forward to book #2.
October 11, 2025
So Fun To Read!
A spooky cozy with many layers, small town, paranormal elements, lots of suspects and a surprise ending, to me at least I never figure out who done it! I loved the story, the endearingly quirky people and the clever mystery. I can’t wait for the next one!
A spooky cozy with many layers, small town, paranormal elements, lots of suspects and a surprise ending, to me at least I never figure out who done it! I loved the story, the endearingly quirky people and the clever mystery. I can’t wait for the next one!
October 11, 2025
Eryn Scott does it again!!!
I absolutely loved Queenie and Mercer!! And we can’t forget about Toe Bean! This was such a fun read that had me hooked from the first chapter! I really liked the duel pov. And the mystery, as always, was masterfully handled! I cannot wait for book 2!
I absolutely loved Queenie and Mercer!! And we can’t forget about Toe Bean! This was such a fun read that had me hooked from the first chapter! I really liked the duel pov. And the mystery, as always, was masterfully handled! I cannot wait for book 2!
October 30, 2025
Nice cozy read
Love how we find out more about Button’s near Town Brine, so far sounds more quirky, looking forward to more to come.
Love how we find out more about Button’s near Town Brine, so far sounds more quirky, looking forward to more to come.
October 28, 2025
I love this book. Such a great premise and I am in love with the characters who will very much be interesting through several books. Can’t wait to see what happens. The next release is on Halloween I believe!!
December 2, 2025
This was a fun unique mystery with characters that I enjoyed getting to know. The town is quirky and interesting with a mystery that kept me guessing. I can’t wait to cont the series.
October 23, 2025
Different and enjoyable
I very much enjoyed this book. It has fun and intriguing characters and a twisty mystery which I didn't figure out right away. I am eager to read the next installment, and find out what Mercer's personal mystery is, and if he ever tells Queenie his story.
I very much enjoyed this book. It has fun and intriguing characters and a twisty mystery which I didn't figure out right away. I am eager to read the next installment, and find out what Mercer's personal mystery is, and if he ever tells Queenie his story.
October 7, 2026
Brine has a lot of things going for it. Well, mostly, it has pickle-related names. Which is fun. Brine is also not terribly kind to the Beane family. Which is why Queenie is working on making enough money to escape Brine (again) by creating an app for the town and all its myriad individuals.
Of course, given how the Beanes are treated, she's opting to stay anonymous about creating the app. Which becomes a leeeeetle problematic when she realizes she might have uncovered a clue about the recent death in the graveyard, but revealing said clue will out her as the app creator.
Given that the local detectives are not great at their jobs, Queenie decides to follow the clues herself.
As if all that's not enough, her former bully (who's now smokin' hot and gives off some fairly dangerous vibes) has returned to town and is working with her at the pickle museum. Mercer's just as snarky as he used to be, but he's working on changing himself. And, well, dealing with his past.
A little murder, an adorable (and smart) cat, a town full of interesting individuals, a man taking pains to deal with his baggage, and a lady who might not be the best at sleuthing, but she gives it her all. Every time.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Of course, given how the Beanes are treated, she's opting to stay anonymous about creating the app. Which becomes a leeeeetle problematic when she realizes she might have uncovered a clue about the recent death in the graveyard, but revealing said clue will out her as the app creator.
Given that the local detectives are not great at their jobs, Queenie decides to follow the clues herself.
As if all that's not enough, her former bully (who's now smokin' hot and gives off some fairly dangerous vibes) has returned to town and is working with her at the pickle museum. Mercer's just as snarky as he used to be, but he's working on changing himself. And, well, dealing with his past.
A little murder, an adorable (and smart) cat, a town full of interesting individuals, a man taking pains to deal with his baggage, and a lady who might not be the best at sleuthing, but she gives it her all. Every time.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
October 16, 2026
I don't like pickles, but I loved this pickle themed town! The characters were also a lot of fun and the mystery was great.
October 11, 2026
I sense a new favorite series here. Also, Mercer is so book boyfriend coded I am in love. Swoon
October 30, 2025
Nobody likes a Beane. Or at least, that's what Queenie's experiences have been ever since she was a kid. And now that she's moved back, she's just keeping her head down until her neighborhood app gets popular enough to monetize so she can get the heck out of Brine. She doesn't count on being reunited with her childhood bully or stumbling over a dead body, though.
There was a distinct lack of clues that made this mystery hard to solve, but that's my only real complaint about this book. It's much funnier than Scott's other mysteries, but other than at least one cringe-worthy moment, I had a really good time with this book. I laughed out loud and enjoyed the quirky characters and playful banter throughout. Whiskers and Words has not been supplanted in my heart, but I'll definitely be reading book 2 of the Black Cat Investigations!
There was a distinct lack of clues that made this mystery hard to solve, but that's my only real complaint about this book. It's much funnier than Scott's other mysteries, but other than at least one cringe-worthy moment, I had a really good time with this book. I laughed out loud and enjoyed the quirky characters and playful banter throughout. Whiskers and Words has not been supplanted in my heart, but I'll definitely be reading book 2 of the Black Cat Investigations!
September 28, 2025
Absolutely love this book!!! Eryn Scott always knocks books out of the park. Cannot wait for the second one.
This book kept me guessing who the killer was! I definitely believed it was whoever Queenie thought it was at that moment in the book.
The tension between Queenie & Mercer is fantastic as well. Loved how this book format was different from previous series and we got a couple chapters from Mercer’s point of view as well, the romance reader in me squealed.
The little snippet we get for book two has me on the edge of my seat!
This book kept me guessing who the killer was! I definitely believed it was whoever Queenie thought it was at that moment in the book.
The tension between Queenie & Mercer is fantastic as well. Loved how this book format was different from previous series and we got a couple chapters from Mercer’s point of view as well, the romance reader in me squealed.
The little snippet we get for book two has me on the edge of my seat!
October 7, 2025
Wonderful start to a new series!
Eryn Scott is definitely one of my very favorite authors. She writes wonderful books, which have great story-lines, and compelling mysteries. They are in well described, charming settings, with fabulous characters, usually some romance, and a ton of humor.
So, I was excited to read the first in a new series, set in the mythical town of Brine, Washington. I was not disappointed! The pickle theme was hilarious. The Beane family are the town's pariahs, and one of the main characters is Queenie Beane. Her childhood bully, Mercer Printz, heir to the Prinz Pickle company, returns to town and is working with her at the Pickle Museum, to Queenie's dismay.
When Queenie stumbles across a dead body in the cemetery behind her home, she wants to figure out who the murderer is, given that the police aren't exactly doing the job.
As things progress, we learn a lot about both Mercer and Queenie, and I love how that's played out.
I was so caught up in the story that it was REALLY hard to put the book down when I had to do other things.
While the main mystery was resolved, there are a number of things that haven't, which will, I'm sure, be continued in Book 2 and beyond.
I am SO ready !!!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eryn Scott is definitely one of my very favorite authors. She writes wonderful books, which have great story-lines, and compelling mysteries. They are in well described, charming settings, with fabulous characters, usually some romance, and a ton of humor.
So, I was excited to read the first in a new series, set in the mythical town of Brine, Washington. I was not disappointed! The pickle theme was hilarious. The Beane family are the town's pariahs, and one of the main characters is Queenie Beane. Her childhood bully, Mercer Printz, heir to the Prinz Pickle company, returns to town and is working with her at the Pickle Museum, to Queenie's dismay.
When Queenie stumbles across a dead body in the cemetery behind her home, she wants to figure out who the murderer is, given that the police aren't exactly doing the job.
As things progress, we learn a lot about both Mercer and Queenie, and I love how that's played out.
I was so caught up in the story that it was REALLY hard to put the book down when I had to do other things.
While the main mystery was resolved, there are a number of things that haven't, which will, I'm sure, be continued in Book 2 and beyond.
I am SO ready !!!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 29, 2026
This book is just what the description says it is - a cozy mystery without a lot of fright. I thought it was cute and the characters were quirky and enjoyable. Queenie Bean is living in her home town of Brine. Brine is where all things revolve around pickles. Queenie’s childhood nemesis has recently moved back to Brine and happens to be her new coworker. Queenie just wants her app “Everything Brine” to start making money so she can leave this town. Then Queenie stumbles upon a dead body and decides to solve the crime herself in order to keep her identity as the app creator a secret. It’s kind of a fun little way that she goes about trying to solve the crime. She and her coworker seem to finally come to an agreement of peace. I like how the solving of the crime made sense to me.
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