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Little Bakery Cozy Mystery #1
Just Desserts and Murder: A Temperance Matthews Cozy Mystery
In Oak Hollow, every recipe comes with a dash of mystery...
Temperance Matthews thought opening her dream bakery in Oak Hollow—with her mini dachshund, Hank, at her heels—would be a sweet start to her new life. Instead, her shop goes up in flames, and a body is found among the ashes.
When her quiet assistant Louise shows up bruised, with twigs in her hair, and missing a shoe, Temperance’s data-analysis skills from her FBI days suddenly feel like the only hope of untangling the mystery. But the plot Jonah, the bakery’s former owner, is stabbed while trying to reach Temperance. The frosting on the cake? Louise’s boyfriend is the victim of the fire. Surveillance footage shows him entering through a locked back door—yet only three keys exist, and Louise doesn’t have one.
With threats mounting and the police closing in on a suspect, Temperance must follow a trail of half-baked clues before the real culprit turns her cozy little town into a crime scene… and who becomes the next target.
Just Desserts and Murder is book 1 in the exciting new Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series featuring Temperance Matthews. Each book can be read as a standalone.
Temperance Matthews thought opening her dream bakery in Oak Hollow—with her mini dachshund, Hank, at her heels—would be a sweet start to her new life. Instead, her shop goes up in flames, and a body is found among the ashes.
When her quiet assistant Louise shows up bruised, with twigs in her hair, and missing a shoe, Temperance’s data-analysis skills from her FBI days suddenly feel like the only hope of untangling the mystery. But the plot Jonah, the bakery’s former owner, is stabbed while trying to reach Temperance. The frosting on the cake? Louise’s boyfriend is the victim of the fire. Surveillance footage shows him entering through a locked back door—yet only three keys exist, and Louise doesn’t have one.
With threats mounting and the police closing in on a suspect, Temperance must follow a trail of half-baked clues before the real culprit turns her cozy little town into a crime scene… and who becomes the next target.
Just Desserts and Murder is book 1 in the exciting new Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series featuring Temperance Matthews. Each book can be read as a standalone.
- GenresCozy MysteryMystery
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 14, 2026
About the author
Lucinda Race
315 books682 followersAward-winning and best-selling author Lucinda Race is a lifelong fan of cozy mysteries and romance novels
She spins tales of small town romance and cozy mystery—writing the kinds of stories she loves to read. Whether she’s weaving a heartwarming romance or a cozy mystery, her fingers practically fly across the keyboard.
Lucinda lives with her little dog— a shih tzu mix rescue—who is always by her side. When she’s not immersed in writing mystery, suspense, or romance, she’s wandering in her garden or curled up with a book, devouring everything she can get her hands on.
Be sure to follow her on Bookbub for the latest on sales and new releases. https://bit.ly/LucindaRace
She spins tales of small town romance and cozy mystery—writing the kinds of stories she loves to read. Whether she’s weaving a heartwarming romance or a cozy mystery, her fingers practically fly across the keyboard.
Lucinda lives with her little dog— a shih tzu mix rescue—who is always by her side. When she’s not immersed in writing mystery, suspense, or romance, she’s wandering in her garden or curled up with a book, devouring everything she can get her hands on.
Be sure to follow her on Bookbub for the latest on sales and new releases. https://bit.ly/LucindaRace
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February 27, 2026I hope you take a chance on this new first in series cozy mystery featuring Temperance Matthews in Oak Hollow.
Temperance left her job as a data analyst with the FBI and turned to a low-key venture - running a bakery in the small town of Oak Hollow.
Unfortunately, not everyone in town are as friendly as they seem.
Temperance watches her dream of a new life turn to ash and then a body is found in the remains of wood and plaster.
Whodunit? You'll just have to read the book to find out.
Happy Reading.
Temperance left her job as a data analyst with the FBI and turned to a low-key venture - running a bakery in the small town of Oak Hollow.
Unfortunately, not everyone in town are as friendly as they seem.
Temperance watches her dream of a new life turn to ash and then a body is found in the remains of wood and plaster.
Whodunit? You'll just have to read the book to find out.
Happy Reading.
January 24, 2026
4 stars
Just Desserts and Murder kicks off Lucinda Race’s Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series with charm, suspense, and a delicious dash of danger. Oak Hollow may look like the perfect small town, but as Temperance and her trusty hound Hank quickly learn, every recipe here comes with a side of mystery.
Temperance’s new beginning turns into a nightmare when a body is discovered in the wreckage of her dreams. From that moment on, the cozy façade of Oak Hollow begins to crack.
As threats escalate and the police zero in on a suspect, Temperance finds herself racing to piece together the pieces of the puzzle to save Louise, before the real killer strikes again. With danger closing in and Oak Hollow’s secrets rising to the surface, she must rely on her wits, her training, and her unwavering determination to protect the people she cares about.
This cozy mystery blends small-town charm with gripping suspense, creating a story that’s both heartwarming and edge-of-your-seat thrilling. A delightful start to a series that promises plenty of twists, warmth, and irresistible intrigue.
I can’t wait to read more of this series.
Just Desserts and Murder kicks off Lucinda Race’s Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series with charm, suspense, and a delicious dash of danger. Oak Hollow may look like the perfect small town, but as Temperance and her trusty hound Hank quickly learn, every recipe here comes with a side of mystery.
Temperance’s new beginning turns into a nightmare when a body is discovered in the wreckage of her dreams. From that moment on, the cozy façade of Oak Hollow begins to crack.
As threats escalate and the police zero in on a suspect, Temperance finds herself racing to piece together the pieces of the puzzle to save Louise, before the real killer strikes again. With danger closing in and Oak Hollow’s secrets rising to the surface, she must rely on her wits, her training, and her unwavering determination to protect the people she cares about.
This cozy mystery blends small-town charm with gripping suspense, creating a story that’s both heartwarming and edge-of-your-seat thrilling. A delightful start to a series that promises plenty of twists, warmth, and irresistible intrigue.
I can’t wait to read more of this series.
January 24, 2026
4 stars
Just Desserts and Murder kicks off Lucinda Race’s Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series with charm, suspense, and a delicious dash of danger. Oak Hollow may look like the perfect small town, but as Temperance and her trusty hound Hank quickly learn, every recipe here comes with a side of mystery.
Temperance’s new beginning turns into a nightmare when a body is discovered in the wreckage of her dreams. From that moment on, the cozy façade of Oak Hollow begins to crack.
As threats escalate and the police zero in on a suspect, Temperance finds herself racing to piece together the pieces of the puzzle to save Louise, before the real killer strikes again. With danger closing in and Oak Hollow’s secrets rising to the surface, she must rely on her wits, her training, and her unwavering determination to protect the people she cares about.
This cozy mystery blends small-town charm with gripping suspense, creating a story that’s both heartwarming and edge-of-your-seat thrilling. A delightful start to a series that promises plenty of twists, warmth, and irresistible intrigue.
I can’t wait to read more of this series.
Just Desserts and Murder kicks off Lucinda Race’s Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series with charm, suspense, and a delicious dash of danger. Oak Hollow may look like the perfect small town, but as Temperance and her trusty hound Hank quickly learn, every recipe here comes with a side of mystery.
Temperance’s new beginning turns into a nightmare when a body is discovered in the wreckage of her dreams. From that moment on, the cozy façade of Oak Hollow begins to crack.
As threats escalate and the police zero in on a suspect, Temperance finds herself racing to piece together the pieces of the puzzle to save Louise, before the real killer strikes again. With danger closing in and Oak Hollow’s secrets rising to the surface, she must rely on her wits, her training, and her unwavering determination to protect the people she cares about.
This cozy mystery blends small-town charm with gripping suspense, creating a story that’s both heartwarming and edge-of-your-seat thrilling. A delightful start to a series that promises plenty of twists, warmth, and irresistible intrigue.
I can’t wait to read more of this series.
January 24, 2026
4 stars
Just Desserts and Murder kicks off Lucinda Race’s Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series with charm, suspense, and a delicious dash of danger. Oak Hollow may look like the perfect small town, but as Temperance and her trusty hound Hank quickly learn, every recipe here comes with a side of mystery.
Temperance’s new beginning turns into a nightmare when a body is discovered in the wreckage of her dreams. From that moment on, the cozy façade of Oak Hollow begins to crack.
As threats escalate and the police zero in on a suspect, Temperance finds herself racing to piece together the pieces of the puzzle to save Louise, before the real killer strikes again. With danger closing in and Oak Hollow’s secrets rising to the surface, she must rely on her wits, her training, and her unwavering determination to protect the people she cares about.
This cozy mystery blends small-town charm with gripping suspense, creating a story that’s both heartwarming and edge-of-your-seat thrilling. A delightful start to a series that promises plenty of twists, warmth, and irresistible intrigue.
I can’t wait to read more of this series.
Just Desserts and Murder kicks off Lucinda Race’s Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series with charm, suspense, and a delicious dash of danger. Oak Hollow may look like the perfect small town, but as Temperance and her trusty hound Hank quickly learn, every recipe here comes with a side of mystery.
Temperance’s new beginning turns into a nightmare when a body is discovered in the wreckage of her dreams. From that moment on, the cozy façade of Oak Hollow begins to crack.
As threats escalate and the police zero in on a suspect, Temperance finds herself racing to piece together the pieces of the puzzle to save Louise, before the real killer strikes again. With danger closing in and Oak Hollow’s secrets rising to the surface, she must rely on her wits, her training, and her unwavering determination to protect the people she cares about.
This cozy mystery blends small-town charm with gripping suspense, creating a story that’s both heartwarming and edge-of-your-seat thrilling. A delightful start to a series that promises plenty of twists, warmth, and irresistible intrigue.
I can’t wait to read more of this series.
March 12, 2026
I read one of Lucinda Race's other series and loved it. When I saw this one, I had to read it. I was definitely not disappointed. Lucinda is a talented author that can bring her stories to life. The characters have depth and are relatable.
In Just Desserts and Murder, Temperance Matthews has decided to quit her job as an FBI data analyst and open a bakery in Oak Hollow. When it burns down and a body is found in the ruins, Temperance is determined to figure out what happened. She was trained to see patterns that other people might not see easily. One of her assistants is a suspect in the murder, but the data doesn't add up for Temperance. She becomes a target when she starts to get too close to discovering the killer. Can she put the data together before she becomes the next victim?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In Just Desserts and Murder, Temperance Matthews has decided to quit her job as an FBI data analyst and open a bakery in Oak Hollow. When it burns down and a body is found in the ruins, Temperance is determined to figure out what happened. She was trained to see patterns that other people might not see easily. One of her assistants is a suspect in the murder, but the data doesn't add up for Temperance. She becomes a target when she starts to get too close to discovering the killer. Can she put the data together before she becomes the next victim?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2026
I love a good cozy mystery, especially when it moves fast. This book did just that! I From the beginning I was trying to piece together what happened and who did it! I was a bit odd but I loved every twist, tuen and development. I can’t wait to read more in the series.
January 24, 2026
4 stars
Just Desserts and Murder kicks off Lucinda Race’s Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series with charm, suspense, and a delicious dash of danger. Oak Hollow may look like the perfect small town, but as Temperance and her trusty hound Hank quickly learn, every recipe here comes with a side of mystery.
Temperance’s new beginning turns into a nightmare when a body is discovered in the wreckage of her dreams. From that moment on, the cozy façade of Oak Hollow begins to crack.
As threats escalate and the police zero in on a suspect, Temperance finds herself racing to piece together the pieces of the puzzle to save Louise, before the real killer strikes again. With danger closing in and Oak Hollow’s secrets rising to the surface, she must rely on her wits, her training, and her unwavering determination to protect the people she cares about.
This cozy mystery blends small-town charm with gripping suspense, creating a story that’s both heartwarming and edge-of-your-seat thrilling. A delightful start to a series that promises plenty of twists, warmth, and irresistible intrigue.
I can’t wait to read more of this series.
Just Desserts and Murder kicks off Lucinda Race’s Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series with charm, suspense, and a delicious dash of danger. Oak Hollow may look like the perfect small town, but as Temperance and her trusty hound Hank quickly learn, every recipe here comes with a side of mystery.
Temperance’s new beginning turns into a nightmare when a body is discovered in the wreckage of her dreams. From that moment on, the cozy façade of Oak Hollow begins to crack.
As threats escalate and the police zero in on a suspect, Temperance finds herself racing to piece together the pieces of the puzzle to save Louise, before the real killer strikes again. With danger closing in and Oak Hollow’s secrets rising to the surface, she must rely on her wits, her training, and her unwavering determination to protect the people she cares about.
This cozy mystery blends small-town charm with gripping suspense, creating a story that’s both heartwarming and edge-of-your-seat thrilling. A delightful start to a series that promises plenty of twists, warmth, and irresistible intrigue.
I can’t wait to read more of this series.
January 28, 2026
Temperance left her FBI life behind when she moved to Oak Hollow and opened her own bakery. Her life spirals out of control when her bakery goes up in flames. She’s gutted and doesn’t know what to do. Her previous skill in the FBI comes in handy when the police turn to her as a suspect when a murdered body is discovered in the ashes. Who killed him and why? With the help of her bestie Josie and Officer Casey, Temperance sifts through the clues. The friends and neighbors she thought she knew are hiding secrets and it will take all her deducting powers to nab the killer before she becomes the next victim.
Just Desserts & Murder is a small-town culinary cozy mystery I thoroughly enjoyed. Lucinda Race is a successful cozy mystery author but in this brand new series, there isn’t any paranormal or witchy elements. Instead, she has penned a cozy mystery where the amateur sleuth is a baker who has amazing investigative skills. It takes place in a small town with a slew of quirky residents. The descriptive narration is immersive and paints each scene with clarity. The plot moves at a natural pace. The mystery unfolds nicely with plenty of twists and turns to keep you entertained. The best part: all the delicious baked goods.
Lucinda Race has penned an addictive yet cozy mystery with a great team of sleuths including an adorable dog. Temperance is a delightful heroine, her intuitive detecting ability comes as natural to her as baking decadent cookies, cakes, and pastries. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Fans of Cleo Coyle, Jenn McKinlay, and Joanne Fluke will gobble up Just Desserts & Murder.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://substack.com/@nnlightsbookhea...
Just Desserts & Murder is a small-town culinary cozy mystery I thoroughly enjoyed. Lucinda Race is a successful cozy mystery author but in this brand new series, there isn’t any paranormal or witchy elements. Instead, she has penned a cozy mystery where the amateur sleuth is a baker who has amazing investigative skills. It takes place in a small town with a slew of quirky residents. The descriptive narration is immersive and paints each scene with clarity. The plot moves at a natural pace. The mystery unfolds nicely with plenty of twists and turns to keep you entertained. The best part: all the delicious baked goods.
Lucinda Race has penned an addictive yet cozy mystery with a great team of sleuths including an adorable dog. Temperance is a delightful heroine, her intuitive detecting ability comes as natural to her as baking decadent cookies, cakes, and pastries. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Fans of Cleo Coyle, Jenn McKinlay, and Joanne Fluke will gobble up Just Desserts & Murder.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://substack.com/@nnlightsbookhea...
February 7, 2026
Just Desserts and Murder by
Lucinda Race
I give this book a 3.5 star rating out of five stars for me.
There were some parts that had repetitive dialogue, and a few chapters were a bit long-winded. This book was predictable and a bit flat..
I would like to have seen more on the baking or Romance side to draw you in.
I did enjoy her connection and friendship with officer Butler. It was heartwarming .I loved her adorable pup Hank as well.
Temperance Matthews decided to own a bakery after previously being an FBI analyst and decided that she needed a change of scenery and less stress in her life, since she loves everything about baking, she purchased the building from jonah and celeste young, a very nice older couple that lives in town who gets involved in this mystery. .
So after her aunt passed away she inherited her aunt's house in the small town of oak hollow and lives there with her small dog Hank. Temperance has two employees that work for her, Lois Fletcher and Gina Davis .
Her best friend is Josie Shaw who lives nearby and helps out occasionally at the bakery when needed so when her bakery suddenly burns down she is there for her.
The police officer Casey Butler who is on the scene is asking her questions trying to make sure she gets all of the correct info for this case of possible arsen.. But when her employee Louise is missing they find her car nearby with lots of items that look like she packed quickly, they are worried something has happened to her..
Sergeant Franklin and Fire chief Wool speak with Temperance to say they have found a dead body in the bakery.
Now to find who the murderer is…
Lucinda Race
I give this book a 3.5 star rating out of five stars for me.
There were some parts that had repetitive dialogue, and a few chapters were a bit long-winded. This book was predictable and a bit flat..
I would like to have seen more on the baking or Romance side to draw you in.
I did enjoy her connection and friendship with officer Butler. It was heartwarming .I loved her adorable pup Hank as well.
Temperance Matthews decided to own a bakery after previously being an FBI analyst and decided that she needed a change of scenery and less stress in her life, since she loves everything about baking, she purchased the building from jonah and celeste young, a very nice older couple that lives in town who gets involved in this mystery. .
So after her aunt passed away she inherited her aunt's house in the small town of oak hollow and lives there with her small dog Hank. Temperance has two employees that work for her, Lois Fletcher and Gina Davis .
Her best friend is Josie Shaw who lives nearby and helps out occasionally at the bakery when needed so when her bakery suddenly burns down she is there for her.
The police officer Casey Butler who is on the scene is asking her questions trying to make sure she gets all of the correct info for this case of possible arsen.. But when her employee Louise is missing they find her car nearby with lots of items that look like she packed quickly, they are worried something has happened to her..
Sergeant Franklin and Fire chief Wool speak with Temperance to say they have found a dead body in the bakery.
Now to find who the murderer is…
May 13, 2026
A Temperance Matthews mystery where she’s searching through her own ashes … No she’s not dead it’s no paranormal but finding charred remains of a deceased is not the nicest thing to happen in her new place of business that’s just gone up in smoke. With her trusty pooch her mini dachshund Hank. She’s not the only one in disarray because her new assistant Louise has turned up out of sorts too. A bit dishevelled and in a mess. That’s not all because before much longer she’ll discover just who the deceased is….
Jonah the former owner is stabbed on his way to find Temperance. Is this interference or deference ? Who knows but also ,how come someone was able to open locked doors ? As the keys to the bakery adds up to only three and Louise can quite easily say it’s not me ,because she doesn’t own one ,see. Lucinda Race gives great pace in this storytelling. There’s lots to deduce and observations telling if you know where to look.
You’ll soon be on the hook and immersed in ,it’s edge of your seat action and great banter and interaction. Why was the man entering the bakery ,was it illusion and fakery . A misdirection gone wrong or was there something sinister going on ?
I know this ,this book was bliss to read as always. I enjoyed the divine storyline ,the characters and the side kick ,yes Hank looking at you . What does Louise do? How’s she recover from such loss . Find out for yourselves it’s on all good bookshelves.
Jonah the former owner is stabbed on his way to find Temperance. Is this interference or deference ? Who knows but also ,how come someone was able to open locked doors ? As the keys to the bakery adds up to only three and Louise can quite easily say it’s not me ,because she doesn’t own one ,see. Lucinda Race gives great pace in this storytelling. There’s lots to deduce and observations telling if you know where to look.
You’ll soon be on the hook and immersed in ,it’s edge of your seat action and great banter and interaction. Why was the man entering the bakery ,was it illusion and fakery . A misdirection gone wrong or was there something sinister going on ?
I know this ,this book was bliss to read as always. I enjoyed the divine storyline ,the characters and the side kick ,yes Hank looking at you . What does Louise do? How’s she recover from such loss . Find out for yourselves it’s on all good bookshelves.
January 27, 2026
3.5 Stars
Just Desserts and Murder: A Temperance Matthews Cozy Mystery is the first book in the Little Bakery Cozy Mystery series by Lucinda Race. It is a charming and yet suspenseful cozy mystery that blends small-town warmth with a dollop of danger.
The story follows Temperance Matthews, a former FBI analyst who trades high-stakes investigations for the comforting aroma of fresh treats in her dream bakery. But her peaceful new life in small town Oak Hollow is shattered when her shop goes up in flames - and soon gets even more complicated when a body is discovered in the wreckage.
Temperance is a relatable Character – she’s smart and determined – and we see her shrewd investigative instincts kick in, despite her desire for a quieter life. The supporting cast - from quirky townsfolk to her loyal dachshund, Hank – definitely added extra depth and personality to the overall story and made Oak Hollow feel like a place you’d want to visit (well, minus the murder, of course).
I really enjoyed this first instalment in a new series and look forward to diving into the next book/s. So, if you enjoy cozy mysteries with strong female leads, small-town charm, and just the right amount of suspense, then this is a treat worth tasting.
Happy Reading…
Just Desserts and Murder: A Temperance Matthews Cozy Mystery is the first book in the Little Bakery Cozy Mystery series by Lucinda Race. It is a charming and yet suspenseful cozy mystery that blends small-town warmth with a dollop of danger.
The story follows Temperance Matthews, a former FBI analyst who trades high-stakes investigations for the comforting aroma of fresh treats in her dream bakery. But her peaceful new life in small town Oak Hollow is shattered when her shop goes up in flames - and soon gets even more complicated when a body is discovered in the wreckage.
Temperance is a relatable Character – she’s smart and determined – and we see her shrewd investigative instincts kick in, despite her desire for a quieter life. The supporting cast - from quirky townsfolk to her loyal dachshund, Hank – definitely added extra depth and personality to the overall story and made Oak Hollow feel like a place you’d want to visit (well, minus the murder, of course).
I really enjoyed this first instalment in a new series and look forward to diving into the next book/s. So, if you enjoy cozy mysteries with strong female leads, small-town charm, and just the right amount of suspense, then this is a treat worth tasting.
Happy Reading…
March 2, 2026
Temperance Matthews' life has gone up in flames-literally. Frustrated with her life as an FBI analyst, she reinvented herself when she inherited an old home in a small town. She pivoted from clues to recipes and opened a bakery. But her dreams went up in smoke when her bakery catches fire. when the police discover a body in the bakery, Temperance can't help, but analyze the clues. Although this is book one of the series, the author doesn't fall into the cozy mystery trap of wasting time and pages telling the whole story of Temperance's move and career change, before getting to the mystery. She starts the story with the crime, about a year after the big move and mentions it in the dialogue. Other than reinventing her life and starting over, there are no tropes to be found. Although this is a culinary cozy, it isn't a typical armature sleuth trying to clear her name because the police are inept or fixated on her as the culprit. Temperance is a protagonist who is a former professional, the police are on the right track, but they recognize her as an asset to the investigation, not someone who needs to "leave it to the professionals." The mystery is well planned and well placed, but the best part of the book is the character development. Temperance has a warm friendship with her buddy Josie and a budding friendship with officer Casey Butler. I look forward to reading the next two books which come out in March and April!
Review of advance copy
Former FBI analyst, Temperance Matthews, watched her dream go up in smoke when her bakery burned down. The discovery of a dead body among the ruins, an attack on a friend, and threats directed at her has Temperance using her skills to connect the dots. Putting together a backup plan to save her business while working alongside the police to solve the case shows Temperance who she can count on in the small town of Oak Hollow. When a desperate killer thinks they have the upper hand, Temperance proves she’s a force to be reckoned with.
Lucinda Race kicks off a new cozy series with a smart and determined heroine. I enjoyed getting to know Temperance and her adorable dog, Hank, as they worked through the mystery. Her background made her a competent amateur sleuth and made the burgeoning friendship with Casey more believable. I loved her friendship with Josie as well and how she helped form the backup plan for the bakery. The mystery itself was well written and plotted and kept me guessing throughout.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lucinda Race kicks off a new cozy series with a smart and determined heroine. I enjoyed getting to know Temperance and her adorable dog, Hank, as they worked through the mystery. Her background made her a competent amateur sleuth and made the burgeoning friendship with Casey more believable. I loved her friendship with Josie as well and how she helped form the backup plan for the bakery. The mystery itself was well written and plotted and kept me guessing throughout.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2026
This is the first book I have read from this author and she now has a new fan. This is the first book from the Little Bakery Cozy mystery series. This book was a great start to an addictive series. I have not read a cozy mystery in a long time and I’m glad I picked this one. I could not help but fall in love with the characters right from the start. I was hooked on this story as well. I could not put this book down until the end. I was guessing what was going to happen right until I was finished. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
Temperance Matthews is ready to start a new life in a new small town called Oak Hallow. She is so excited to open up her own bakery. Temperance is loving her life until her bakery goes up in flames. She is shocked when they find a body in the ash of her bakery. Temperance was a suspect but now she is putting her FBI days to the test. She needs to find out who did this and why? Temperance is going to get help from her friend Josie and the officer on the case. Will they be able to find out who did the crime or will one of them be the next victim?
Temperance Matthews is ready to start a new life in a new small town called Oak Hallow. She is so excited to open up her own bakery. Temperance is loving her life until her bakery goes up in flames. She is shocked when they find a body in the ash of her bakery. Temperance was a suspect but now she is putting her FBI days to the test. She needs to find out who did this and why? Temperance is going to get help from her friend Josie and the officer on the case. Will they be able to find out who did the crime or will one of them be the next victim?
February 5, 2026
Just Desserts and Murder: A Temperance Matthews Cozy Mystery (Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series Book 1) by Lucinda Race.
4 of 5 Stars
An enjoyable and engaging cozy mystery and a great start to a new series. Leaving her FBI days behind her, Temperance Matthews opens her dream bakery in the small town of Oak Hollow. However, in stead of enjoying her new life she has to put her FBI skills to good use. As her new shop is destroyed by a fire and a body is found in the ashes. Her assistant Louise is a suspect, especially as it was her boyfriend who was the victim of the fire. Temperance soon discovers that Louise didn’t have one of the three keys to the bakery, and then the former owner Jonah is stabbed. As a suspect herself Temperance decides to investigate, but she needs to find the culprit before someone becomes the next target. I found the main character Temperance to be both realistic and relatable, and I loved her side kick, her mini dachshund Hank! This is a real page turner with a nice amount of suspense along with the mystery and small town vibes.
I look forward to being back with Temperance in Oak Hollow soon!
4 of 5 Stars
An enjoyable and engaging cozy mystery and a great start to a new series. Leaving her FBI days behind her, Temperance Matthews opens her dream bakery in the small town of Oak Hollow. However, in stead of enjoying her new life she has to put her FBI skills to good use. As her new shop is destroyed by a fire and a body is found in the ashes. Her assistant Louise is a suspect, especially as it was her boyfriend who was the victim of the fire. Temperance soon discovers that Louise didn’t have one of the three keys to the bakery, and then the former owner Jonah is stabbed. As a suspect herself Temperance decides to investigate, but she needs to find the culprit before someone becomes the next target. I found the main character Temperance to be both realistic and relatable, and I loved her side kick, her mini dachshund Hank! This is a real page turner with a nice amount of suspense along with the mystery and small town vibes.
I look forward to being back with Temperance in Oak Hollow soon!
February 5, 2026
This is the first book I have read by this author, but I just couldn’t pass up this cute cover. Luckily I was pleasantly surprised! I picked this up expecting a cute cozy mystery, and not only did it deliver, but it did so with an extra edge. Reading a mystery that goes off the rails almost immediately hooked me so fast. Temperance is a great main character because she’s smart, capable, and not clueless when things get dangerous, which I really appreciate. She’s refreshingly practical thanks to her FBI background, and that alone gave the mystery some real bite. I was on my toes the entire way through, guessing what could happen next and shocked when I was wrong. One thing I really liked was that the suspects felt believable and a bit messy, not overly obvious or like an expert career criminal. That felt even more real! The pacing was absolutely perfect, and the author perfectly balances cozy comfort with real stakes. By the end, I felt satisfied but also very ready to read the next one. I can’t wait to pick up the second book in the series. Don’t miss out on this mysterious, witty, dangerous pick!
January 26, 2026
I enjoyed reading this cozy mystery story. One of the things I enjoyed about this story is how the author used details to make it feel realistic. I also enjoyed how this author pulled me into the story from the start and kept me turning pages to the end. This is a well written story about Temperance and her cute dachshund Hank. She thought that opening a bakery in Oak Hollow would be a great way for a new life until it wasn’t. A fire leaves her bakery in ruins on top of that a body was found in the ruins. A series of things start happening in this small town and now she is left to find who is behind it. This is a story you don’t want to miss. This is also a story that kept me guessing on who did it. I found this is an easy story to read which kept me entertained. It is an engaging and hard to put down story. I also enjoyed all the characters in this story. They are connectable and have great growth throughout. They made this a fast paced story and one that I highly recommend.
January 31, 2026
Just Desserts and Murder is the first book in what promises to be a witty and charming cozy mystery series.
Temperance Matthews moves to Oak Hollow after leaving her stressful job at the FBI. She’s always wanted to open a bakery, and things seem to be going well until she gets a call that her bakery is on fire. To make matters worse, a body is found near the door.
At first, it looks like the body is Temperance’s employee, Louise. But then Louise shows up at Temperance’s door, badly bruised and with dangerously high blood sugar. When another person is attacked, and the victim found in the bakery turns out to be Louise’s boyfriend, Temperance decides to use her skills to find the murderer before anyone else gets hurt.
The story moved at a good pace and kept me interested. The mystery was full of surprises, and the characters felt real and likable. I especially enjoyed Temperance’s dog, Hank, who made a great sidekick. Temperance herself was a smart and engaging main character. All of these things made for a great mystery, and I’m excited to read more in the series.
Temperance Matthews moves to Oak Hollow after leaving her stressful job at the FBI. She’s always wanted to open a bakery, and things seem to be going well until she gets a call that her bakery is on fire. To make matters worse, a body is found near the door.
At first, it looks like the body is Temperance’s employee, Louise. But then Louise shows up at Temperance’s door, badly bruised and with dangerously high blood sugar. When another person is attacked, and the victim found in the bakery turns out to be Louise’s boyfriend, Temperance decides to use her skills to find the murderer before anyone else gets hurt.
The story moved at a good pace and kept me interested. The mystery was full of surprises, and the characters felt real and likable. I especially enjoyed Temperance’s dog, Hank, who made a great sidekick. Temperance herself was a smart and engaging main character. All of these things made for a great mystery, and I’m excited to read more in the series.
Review of advance copy
When I heard about this book coming out (I get the author’s newsletter and am on her BookSprout ARC team), I knew from the cover I was gonna love it. I’m a total sucker for any story with an adorable dachshund in it. Not only was little Hank adorable, but he was well-trained and smart. My Mia’s only half of that, smart, lol.
It was awesome how he took commands and was a big help in putting away a killer. I really enjoyed Temperance, Josie and Casey’s characters as well as Hank’s and thought they all worked well together. It was cool to have a main character who was a former FBI information analyst and well-respected in the eyes of the police. It was kinda fun how Casey eventually became a friend as well as police protection—loved some of the lines she had. After an exciting showdown and what the ending was leading to, I can’t wait for the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by BookSprout, and my opinions are my own.
It was awesome how he took commands and was a big help in putting away a killer. I really enjoyed Temperance, Josie and Casey’s characters as well as Hank’s and thought they all worked well together. It was cool to have a main character who was a former FBI information analyst and well-respected in the eyes of the police. It was kinda fun how Casey eventually became a friend as well as police protection—loved some of the lines she had. After an exciting showdown and what the ending was leading to, I can’t wait for the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by BookSprout, and my opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
Delightful!
This is a new series from Lucinda Race, who's written several other series that I've loved.
Temperance is a former FBI data analyst, who's moved to the small town of Oak Hollow where she has a home that belonged to her aunt, a mini-dachshund named Hank, and a bakery...
Well, she HAD a bakery. The book starts with it having just burned to the ground, and someone's body is found in the remains of the building. Is she also in danger? She sets out to help the police figure out who set the fire. There are a number of suspects, but I didn't figure out who it actually was til they were revealed.
I really enjoyed the book - it's well written, without a bunch of catch phrases or flowery descriptions. Just a very good book with an interesting mystery and some wonderful characters. Looking forward to learning more about them as the series progresses!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a new series from Lucinda Race, who's written several other series that I've loved.
Temperance is a former FBI data analyst, who's moved to the small town of Oak Hollow where she has a home that belonged to her aunt, a mini-dachshund named Hank, and a bakery...
Well, she HAD a bakery. The book starts with it having just burned to the ground, and someone's body is found in the remains of the building. Is she also in danger? She sets out to help the police figure out who set the fire. There are a number of suspects, but I didn't figure out who it actually was til they were revealed.
I really enjoyed the book - it's well written, without a bunch of catch phrases or flowery descriptions. Just a very good book with an interesting mystery and some wonderful characters. Looking forward to learning more about them as the series progresses!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2026
Just Desserts and Murder by Lucinda Race is just the type of books I love! I could not put it down. This book is about Temperance Matthews who leaves her FBI job behind to move into her aunt’s house that she inherited. Temperance loves to bake and so buys a bakery in the small town of Oak Hollow. Unfortunately, someone has other ideas, and the bakery burns to the ground. Then the police find a body that was inside. Temperance with the help of her longtime friend Josie and her new friendship with Casey need to figure out who did it. Questions mount as the former owner Jonah gets stabbed trying to talk to Temperance about something he saw. Josie also helps push Temperance toward figuring out what to do while her bakery is being rebuilt. I really loved this book and can’t wait for the next one. I loved getting to know the characters. While I’m waiting, I’m going to read some of the other books by Lucinda Race.
February 3, 2026
4 Stars
Just Desserts and Murder: A Temperance Matthews Cozy Mystery (Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series Book 1) By Lucinda Race
Just Desserts and Murder is the first book in the Little Bakery Cozy Mysteries Series. This is a wonderfully Cozy Mystery that I truly enjoyed reading while cozy underneath a warm blanket. This was a perfect snowy day read. This is a fairly new author to me so I wasn’t real sure what to expect going in but I’m definitely a fan. I got pulled in from the beginning and pretty much read in one afternoon because I simply had to know what was going to happen next. Temperance is a former analyst with the FBI who gave that up for her Bakery. But what will happen when the Bakery burns to the ground and a body is found in the wreckage? Now her investigation begins. Can she solve the mystery? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.
Just Desserts and Murder: A Temperance Matthews Cozy Mystery (Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series Book 1) By Lucinda Race
Just Desserts and Murder is the first book in the Little Bakery Cozy Mysteries Series. This is a wonderfully Cozy Mystery that I truly enjoyed reading while cozy underneath a warm blanket. This was a perfect snowy day read. This is a fairly new author to me so I wasn’t real sure what to expect going in but I’m definitely a fan. I got pulled in from the beginning and pretty much read in one afternoon because I simply had to know what was going to happen next. Temperance is a former analyst with the FBI who gave that up for her Bakery. But what will happen when the Bakery burns to the ground and a body is found in the wreckage? Now her investigation begins. Can she solve the mystery? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.
February 4, 2026
Just Desserts and Murder: A Temperance Matthews Cozy Mystery (Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series Book 1) by Lucinda Race. This is the 1st book in the Little Baker Cozy Mystery Series and I can't wait to read more. This one is great right off the bat. Its the story of Temperance Matthews who has just bought the store of her dreams and its literally going up in flames. All Temperance has ever wanted to do is have her own Bakery and do a little sleuthing on the side. So when her bakery goes up in flames and there is a body found in the wreckage you know she is on the case. Always by her side is Hank, Temperance's loyal dachshund who makes this story even cuter. The small town of Oak Hollow will help Temperance rebuild but when Temperance starts digging she begins to get threats on her own life. Will she even survive to reopen her dream bakery? This was such a fast paced, fun cozy mystery. Ready for the next book!
February 5, 2026
Temperance Matthews just wants a new sweet beginning as the owner of Early Rise Bakery. However, what she thought was her dream quickly goes up in smoke when her bakery burns down. Unfortunately, the bakery isn't the only thing that burned. There was also a body found in the ashes.
Luckily for us, our sleuth, Temperance Matthews is not just a baker in distress, she is a former FBI data analyst. Temperance is well versed in paying attention to details, connecting dots, and ultimately figuring out who done it, one crumb at a time.
Things I loved: The characters! I love the fact that Temperance is a baker, I love to bake, and who doesn't love a good mystery! The fact that she has a lovable dog sidekick is next level amazing, and I just love Hank! I loved everything about this book from the characters, to the town, and the mystery! The twists and turns, and finding the clues alongside Temperance was fantastic! If you love a good cozy mystery, this is a wonderful book!
Luckily for us, our sleuth, Temperance Matthews is not just a baker in distress, she is a former FBI data analyst. Temperance is well versed in paying attention to details, connecting dots, and ultimately figuring out who done it, one crumb at a time.
Things I loved: The characters! I love the fact that Temperance is a baker, I love to bake, and who doesn't love a good mystery! The fact that she has a lovable dog sidekick is next level amazing, and I just love Hank! I loved everything about this book from the characters, to the town, and the mystery! The twists and turns, and finding the clues alongside Temperance was fantastic! If you love a good cozy mystery, this is a wonderful book!
February 5, 2026
I love a good introduction to a new author and this is apparently the start of a new series too!
Temperance Matthews has dreamed for years of opening a bakery in the beautiful Oak Hollow. One day that dream came to fruition, but it was so very short lived. Her bakery goes up in flames and a body is found on site. It's bad enough that she lost her dream bakery, but she soon learns that her assistant has lost her boyfriend, as he was the victim. Another person was stabbed too! A lot of questions start to swirl and it's not long before the Temperance finds herself leaning on her background in the FBI. How can she ever prove who did this?
This is such a fun, cozy read! I love Hank, Temperance's dachshund dog and faithful companion. The story will keep you engaged and I'm very excited for the next adventure for these two. While this is the first book in the series, the author has already let us know that these books can be read as standalones.
Temperance Matthews has dreamed for years of opening a bakery in the beautiful Oak Hollow. One day that dream came to fruition, but it was so very short lived. Her bakery goes up in flames and a body is found on site. It's bad enough that she lost her dream bakery, but she soon learns that her assistant has lost her boyfriend, as he was the victim. Another person was stabbed too! A lot of questions start to swirl and it's not long before the Temperance finds herself leaning on her background in the FBI. How can she ever prove who did this?
This is such a fun, cozy read! I love Hank, Temperance's dachshund dog and faithful companion. The story will keep you engaged and I'm very excited for the next adventure for these two. While this is the first book in the series, the author has already let us know that these books can be read as standalones.
February 23, 2026
Just Desserts and Murder is the start of a new cozy series set in the small town of Oak Hollow. Temperance Matthews is a former FBI profiler turned bakery owner. When her bakery burns - with a body found inside - Temperance works to solve the mystery.
I wanted to read Just Desserts because I love cozy mysteries, love baking, and especially love dachshunds. This book features Temperance's' cute miniature dachshund, Hank. The author definitely has the dachshund personality down perfectly!
This is a wonderful start for a new series. I like the fact that Temperance has a strong detecting background (FBI) and has chosen to work as a baker. Those two worlds blend perfectly in this mystery.
The book is well paced, with several mystery surprises - as well as likable characters and dialogue that moves the story along well.
I recommend Just Desserts and Murder for other fans of cozy mysteries. I look forward to reading upcoming books in this new series!
I wanted to read Just Desserts because I love cozy mysteries, love baking, and especially love dachshunds. This book features Temperance's' cute miniature dachshund, Hank. The author definitely has the dachshund personality down perfectly!
This is a wonderful start for a new series. I like the fact that Temperance has a strong detecting background (FBI) and has chosen to work as a baker. Those two worlds blend perfectly in this mystery.
The book is well paced, with several mystery surprises - as well as likable characters and dialogue that moves the story along well.
I recommend Just Desserts and Murder for other fans of cozy mysteries. I look forward to reading upcoming books in this new series!
January 27, 2026
While I am not a huge mystery fan, I can’t help but love the cozy mystery genre and this story was extremely engaging from the first page. I am also a fan of any story that features a pet, especially an adorable pup like Hank, Temperance’s faithful mini dachshund. The author does a great job of keeping you on your toes as we follow Temperance as she tries to solve the murder and the fire that took out her bakery. You can feel the determination in her, as she is drawn into a murder mystery, after having retired from the FBI just wanting to have a quiet life running her bakery. I love that you really have to keep reading to the end to find out the whodunit and why, the author has so many twists and turns, red herrings, it keeps you guessing. It was great learning about other characters who live in Oak Hollow, and I look forward to reading the rest of the series!
January 29, 2026
“Just Desserts and Murder: A Temperance Matthews Cozy Mystery” is the first book in the Little Bakery Cozy Mystery Series by Lucinda Race.
Our main character Temperance Matthews is a retired FBI agent who now runs her own bakery in the little town of Oak Hollow. She thought that her retirement would be quiet compared to life at the Bureau – until Temperance’s skills are once again “unofficially” called on to investigate the arson of her business and apparent murder of one of her assistant’s boyfriends.
With the bakery’s former owner attacked while attempting to share what he knew about the crime & threats mounting, local police officer Casey Butler has suspects aplenty. Temperance, and her mini dachshund, Hank, need to sort through all the misdirection and half-baked clues for the truth…before one of them becomes the killers next target!
Our main character Temperance Matthews is a retired FBI agent who now runs her own bakery in the little town of Oak Hollow. She thought that her retirement would be quiet compared to life at the Bureau – until Temperance’s skills are once again “unofficially” called on to investigate the arson of her business and apparent murder of one of her assistant’s boyfriends.
With the bakery’s former owner attacked while attempting to share what he knew about the crime & threats mounting, local police officer Casey Butler has suspects aplenty. Temperance, and her mini dachshund, Hank, need to sort through all the misdirection and half-baked clues for the truth…before one of them becomes the killers next target!
January 29, 2026
This was a enjoyable small town cozy mystery. I really enjoyed the authors writing and I loved our main character Temperance. This is a cosy mystery filled with twists and turns that keeps you guessing.
Temperance finally thought she could have her dream. After leaving her stressful job as an FBI agent she moved to the small town and opened her very own bakery. Things seemed to be perfect until the morning her bakery went on fire. Suddenly all her dreams literally went up on flames but things take a even dangerous turn when there is also a body discovered.
With danger creeping closer Temperance finds herself in a race against time to solve this mystery before the killer has a chance to strike again. Who is the body found by the burning building? Was it murder or an accident? Was the fire set on purpose or by accident? And who is next on the killers list?
Temperance finally thought she could have her dream. After leaving her stressful job as an FBI agent she moved to the small town and opened her very own bakery. Things seemed to be perfect until the morning her bakery went on fire. Suddenly all her dreams literally went up on flames but things take a even dangerous turn when there is also a body discovered.
With danger creeping closer Temperance finds herself in a race against time to solve this mystery before the killer has a chance to strike again. Who is the body found by the burning building? Was it murder or an accident? Was the fire set on purpose or by accident? And who is next on the killers list?
January 31, 2026
Just Desserts and Murder was a really fun and cozy start to a new mystery series. I loved the small-town bakery setting, and Temperance Matthews is an easy main character to root for—smart, determined, and believable with her FBI background without it overpowering the cozy vibe. The mystery itself kept me guessing, with plenty of twists involving locked doors, missing keys, and suspicious characters, and I liked how the clues unfolded at a steady pace. Hank the mini dachshund was a total scene-stealer and added some extra charm. While a few parts felt a bit busy with everything happening at once, it never stopped being entertaining. Overall, this was a light, engaging read that mixes baked goods and murder in a satisfying way, and I’m definitely interested in picking up the next book in the series.
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