Stranger Cookies: A Paranormal Cozy Mystery

Cookie Corner #15

by Cindy Stark

Evie Bexley has mastered the art of conjuring the perfect cookie. But when a dangerous newcomer rolls into Honeysuckle Springs, no amount of sugar or spellwork can sweeten what she's stirring up.

Cassidy Brennan is a blogger with a gift for digging up secrets and a taste for selling silence. Her podcast has left a trail of ruined lives in other towns, and Honeysuckle Springs is next on her list. When Cassidy threatens Evie's friends, drops veiled warnings about witchcraft in the middle of a crowded restaurant, and whispers you're next directly in Evie's ear, it's clear the woman isn't just after a story. She's after power.

Before Evie can figure out how to protect her coven sisters—or herself—Cassidy turns up dead behind the old mill. Now, with half the town holding a grudge and her husband, Police Chief Caden Bexley, leading the investigation, Evie has a mess on her hands sweeter than nothing and darker than burnt caramel. Everyone had a reason to want Cassidy gone. The question is who finally stopped her.

With her familiar Kookie at her side, a pair of wine-sneaking elder witches full of questionable advice, and the sinking feeling that Cassidy knew more about Honeysuckle Springs' magical secrets than anyone realized, Evie is determined to find the truth. Because in a town full of witches, everyone has something to hide. But only one secret got Cassidy Brennan killed.

Stranger Cookies is book 15 in the light-hearted and humorous Cookie Corner Cozy Mystery series. If you like the thrill of solving a murder, enjoy a sweet romance, and adore picturesque small towns with endearing and quirky characters, you’ll love these stories.

Grab your copy today!

Does not contain gore or adult-situations.

171 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 27, 2026

About the author

Cindy Stark lives with her family and a sweet Border Collie in a small town shadowed by the Rocky Mountains. She writes romantic suspense and contemporary romances, and she loves to hear from readers.

Connect with her online at:
http://www.CindyStark.com
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http://twitter.com/CindyStark19

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Thank you!

Reviews

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

We return to Honeysuckle Springs, and the newlyweds, Chief Caden & Evie Bexley’s have just gotten back. Evie is a witch and she is learning much alongside her familiar, a kitten, Kookie. Her Aunt Birdie, now resides in her familiar’s body, Theodosia. Evie is meeting her fellow witch, Jenny at the Burger & Brew restaurant to discuss the upcoming Summer Solstice plan for the Coven. But, there is something wrong with Jenny, Evie notices that as soon as she sees her. We find out what right away. Rae, one of the servers at the restaurant is being hounded by a woman, who kept on about, ‘people and their right to the truth.’ Cassidy Brennan is the woman causing problems with a bunch of people in the town, including Jenny, and now Evie. Cassidy is some kind of journalist that moved into town a few months before. Cassidy starts in on Jenny, accusing her of some really horrible things. I was livid about this, for two reasons- it is in a public place and unless she had proof she shouldn’t have done it that way. 2. She starts in on Evie when Evie tries to stand up for her friend. Cassidy is a real nuisance to pretty much everyone she meets. We find out what she does- a subscription service and a blog. Jenny says this and also says that Cassidy is a blackmailer. Evie promises to tell Caden all about what happened and what Jenny said. There has to be something that can be done about the slander and other things that Cassidy was doing, especially the blackmailing.

Gertie & Aunt Birdie are in rare form in this book! OMG, I don’t know how many times they have made me laugh, or how much wine they drank. Sheesh. Caden calls while Evie is talking to Gertie and Birdie, to tell her that he will be home late, due to a death at the old mill. Yup, the nuisance is no more. Freaked, Evie, tells him that she needs to talk to him about that. Now, they have to solve the death as an accident or a homicide. There are quite a few suspects. Including Jenny & Rae. So, Evie sets out like normal to help and Kookie comes too. Evie catches Caden up on what she knows and is very bothered by the circumstances. One of the things that I realized in this book, that shocked me, was that Evie isn’t training Kookie as she should. This bothers me a lot. You’ll see why. Gertie teaches Evie a spell that had me giggling like mad for days after finishing the book, every time I thought of it. lol. I also cried because Gertie admits a bit of emotion too. I love that hilarious and nutty neighbor. Her familiar, Mochi is Kookie’s brother and he is nuts. I didn’t see a lot of the book coming. I can’t wait to see what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evie Bexley has mastered the art of conjuring the perfect cookie. But when a dangerous newcomer rolls into Honeysuckle Springs, no amount of sugar or spellwork can sweeten what she's stirring up.

Cassidy Brennan is a blogger with a gift for digging up secrets and a taste for selling silence. Her podcast has left a trail of ruined lives in other towns, and Honeysuckle Springs is next on her list. When Cassidy threatens Evie's friends, drops veiled warnings about witchcraft in the middle of a crowded restaurant, and whispers you're next directly in Evie's ear, it's clear the woman isn't just after a story. She's after power.

Before Evie can figure out how to protect her coven sisters—or herself—Cassidy turns up dead behind the old mill. Now, with half the town holding a grudge and her husband, Police Chief Caden Bexley, leading the investigation, Evie has a mess on her hands sweeter than nothing and darker than burnt caramel. Everyone had a reason to want Cassidy gone. The question is who finally stopped her.

With her familiar Kookie at her side, a pair of wine-sneaking elder witches full of questionable advice, and the sinking feeling that Cassidy knew more about Honeysuckle Springs' magical secrets than anyone realized, Evie is determined to find the truth. Because in a town full of witches, everyone has something to hide. But only one secret got Cassidy Brennan killed.

This Cookie Corner Paranormal Cozy mystery sweet romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building in the small, charming, picturesque town of Honeysuckle Springs, and characters who are magical, endearing, quirky, captivating, humorous, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling in this light-hearted and humorous world where there is a suspenseful race against time to solve a murder that will leave readers on the edge of their seats, a witches/cat/ culinary cozy mystery, an abundance of decadent food and desserts, chaos/drama, humor, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with stranger cookies and a Cookie Corner Paranormal Cozy mystery sweet romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly mysterious, intriguing, dangerous, magical, and unforgettable.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lisa Menor · Rating 5 out of 5]

If it seems as though Blogger/Podcaster Cassidy Brennan has come to Honeysuckle Springs to cause trouble, that assumption would be right. Spreading rumors as well as targeting the community of witches that reside there, seemed to be the topic of interest. But before Evie can tell Caden about Cassidy's threats, someone has already taken care of the problem. Cassidy has been murdered. There are a lot of suspects, including the witch community. Accusations of people's pasts and misdeeds worry Evie who just recently regained memories. What if there were more memories of her past-things she may have no recollection of-waiting to be revealed? The list of suspects hits too close to home for Evie. Caden is on the case, but as usual, so is Evie.

Fantastic murder mystery/whodunit! Love this book and it's amazing cast of quirky, witchy characters! The list of suspects does not disappoint either! Hooked me from the first page and could not put it down! Fantastic read!!!

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book with interesting characters and unusual mystery.

Amaon synopsis:
Evie Bexley has mastered the art of conjuring the perfect cookie. But when a dangerous newcomer rolls into Honeysuckle Springs, no amount of sugar or spellwork can sweeten what she's stirring up.

Cassidy Brennan is a blogger with a gift for digging up secrets and a taste for selling silence. Her podcast has left a trail of ruined lives in other towns, and Honeysuckle Springs is next on her list. When Cassidy threatens Evie's friends, drops veiled warnings about witchcraft in the middle of a crowded restaurant, and whispers you're next directly in Evie's ear, it's clear the woman isn't just after a story. She's after power.

Before Evie can figure out how to protect her coven sisters—or herself—Cassidy turns up dead behind the old mill. Now, with half the town holding a grudge and her husband, Police Chief Caden Bexley, leading the investigation, Evie has a mess on her hands sweeter than nothing and darker than burnt caramel. Everyone had a reason to want Cassidy gone. The question is who finally stopped her.

With her familiar Kookie at her side, a pair of wine-sneaking elder witches full of questionable advice, and the sinking feeling that Cassidy knew more about Honeysuckle Springs' magical secrets than anyone realized, Evie is determined to find the truth. Because in a town full of witches, everyone has something to hide. But only one secret got Cassidy Brennan killed.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Stranger Cookies is book 15 in the light-hearted and humorous Cookie Corner Cozy Mystery series. If you like the thrill of solving a murder, enjoy a sweet romance, and adore picturesque small towns with endearing and quirky characters, you’ll love these stories.
**It can be read as a stand-alone book, but there is a continuing story arc.'

The characters remain appealing and likeable and quirky. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building continues to be solidly drawn and impressive. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Molly · Rating 5 out of 5]

some victims are pretty unsympathetic. some suspects are also: an abrasive internet influencer with some money tendencies that were likely unethical, if not illegal, a slum lord like property owner, various citizens whose lives were just a bit messier than they might have hoped.

it raises sympathies that are tangled and a bit sad or frustrating.

beautiful though are they lovely and clever kitties, the emotion and history loaded coven, and a small town friends and family network that is both comforting, and immersed in built in conflicts of interest.

enticing reading interestingly layered.

[Tari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evie’s neighbor Gertie always cracks me up, but she actually had a moment of seriousness this time which was kinda sweet for the old curmudgeon witch, lol. I was sure I knew whodunit but boy was I surprised when guess the reveal came. Kookie did a lot to help find clues this time—she’s growing into an awesome familiar for Evie.

There were just a couple super tiny things that I didn’t feel got explained, but maybe they’ll show up down the road. I’m eager to read the next book, as always. You just never know what’s gonna happen when Evie and Kookie go sleuthing!

[J Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone is a suspect!

Cassidy Brennan, a toxic blogger with a large following and penchant for selling her silence Is found dead. Her threats of exposure had garnered many enemies, including some of Evie’s closest friends and coven sisters. No one was immune from Cassidy’s digging, not even Evie, and now they are all suspects. With the help of her sweet familiar Kookie, Evie must sift through clues to find the killer.

There is plenty of excitement in this mystery. It gave me hours of fun reading. I received an advance copy, but my review is honest and voluntary.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stranger Cookies is a magical, twisted, small town, cozy mystery. Blogger and blackmailer, Cassidy Brennan, has targeted Honeysuckle Springs, Evie and Evie's friends - both magical and non magical! Which uncovered secret or accusation lead to Cassidy's murder. With the help of her familiar Kookie, two older witches, and police chief Caden, Evie delves into the case. As always, there are many suspects, many possible motives, a read herring or two and more. I am always entertained as I watch Evie and Kookie unravel these cases. I definitely was not able to deduce the murderer - yeah!

[Nadine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took me on a wonderful escape from reality. I just love the humor in this series, and the light tone. It's just what I need in these weird times. And how can this series keep getting better? How can this series keep staying fresh? Some series get farfetched or repetitive 15 books in, but this one never does. And I just LOVE Evie and of course - that goes without saying, LOL - Kookie. Highly, HIGHLY recommend!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun cozy Paranormal Mystery

I really enjoyed reading the 15th book in this series. It was fun reading how Evie and her familiar Kookie helped her husband, Police Chief Caden solve the mystery. I like the other characters in this book too (the other witches in the coven, the other police officers, Valerie, Evie’s boss at the Cookie Corner). I would recommend this book and series to anyone who enjoys these kinds of mysteries.

[Lizz Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never threaten a witch. It seems logical to me. When a podcaster gathered secrets to hold over others, Evie found out she was on the list as well. After the podcaster's body was found Evie and Kookie look for answers. Where the answers lead are a surprising reveal. This is an enjoyable paranormal cozy that can be read as a standalone.

[LizJ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stranger Cookies Book 15 of Cookie Corner Paranormal Cozy Mysteries by Cindy Stark is a fabulous cozy murder mystery, amazing cast of quirky, witchy characters and great worldbuilding with lots of twists and turns. Can't wait for the next one!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a little of everything; snark, fun, friends, crazy characters and bunches of suspects. Good storyline, very up-to-date having a blogger as the villain. Of course, you can't forget the magic. A very good book that kept my attention throughout.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A blogger is dead. She was blackmailing half the town. The sheriff's wife is among the suspects. How can she solve the mystery and prove she didn't do it?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lauren Heiy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Strange Cookies: A Cookie Corner Paranormal Cozy Mystery book 15

Absolutely love these characters and Gertie more involved this time with a sneaky spell. This one involves a mean spotted podcaster who antagonists everyone.

[Rebecca Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book by author Cindy Stark.
Loved reading and couldn't put it down. Really awesome characters.
I highly recommend reading this wonderful book...

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer Laird-Lord · Rating 5 out of 5]

Someone is blackmailing the towns residents, unfortunately a murder takes place and Evie is on the case. Good story and wonderful entertaining characters. I would recommend this.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Diane Morrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read from Cindy Stark. I really enjoy her paranormal cozy mysteries. I like her characters and the plot. Really surprised by this one. That's all I'm going to say about it. Buy it, if you like a good, clean, quick read, you'll enjoy it. Looking forward to reading the next installment.

[Debbie Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I liked this mystery where the victim wasn't well liked and proved to be a criminal as well was solved.

[Carolyn Forrest · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story, well written.