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Grilled Cheese Mysteries #6
Edam and Weep
When a fundraiser turns fatal, Carly Hale is confronted by a trail of clues that all point to her mother as the culprit . . .
When the local high school hosts a fundraiser, restaurant owner Carly Hale is happy to sign on and enlists her mother’s help selling her much-loved grilled cheese sandwiches at the school. But no good deed goes unpunished, and the vendor stationed next to them at the event turns out to be aggressively rude and bullies them both. Never one to be pushed, Carly’s mom gives the man a vicious tongue-lashing and assumes that’s the end of it—until later that day when the man is found dead, strangled with her scarf.
With her mom on the hook for murder, Carly has no choice but to find out who killed the man and why. It turns out the victim had always been bad news and had racked up a long list of enemies. One of those enemies may have been the menacing stranger Carly saw lurking on the edges of the fundraiser, but her intuition tells her the murdered man’s girlfriend may have been mixed up in it too. Certain one of them—or both—did the deadly deed, Carly realizes too late that all her sleuthing has landed her next on the killer’s hit list . . .
Includes tantalizing grilled-cheese sandwich recipes!
When the local high school hosts a fundraiser, restaurant owner Carly Hale is happy to sign on and enlists her mother’s help selling her much-loved grilled cheese sandwiches at the school. But no good deed goes unpunished, and the vendor stationed next to them at the event turns out to be aggressively rude and bullies them both. Never one to be pushed, Carly’s mom gives the man a vicious tongue-lashing and assumes that’s the end of it—until later that day when the man is found dead, strangled with her scarf.
With her mom on the hook for murder, Carly has no choice but to find out who killed the man and why. It turns out the victim had always been bad news and had racked up a long list of enemies. One of those enemies may have been the menacing stranger Carly saw lurking on the edges of the fundraiser, but her intuition tells her the murdered man’s girlfriend may have been mixed up in it too. Certain one of them—or both—did the deadly deed, Carly realizes too late that all her sleuthing has landed her next on the killer’s hit list . . .
Includes tantalizing grilled-cheese sandwich recipes!
Audiobook
First published July 9, 2025
38 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
About the author
Linda Reilly
14 books793 followersLinda Reilly is a mystery writer living with her two feline assistants in southern New Hampshire. She is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and Cat Writers' Association.
Her Grilled Cheese Mystery series featuring grilled cheese lover Carly Hale debuted in January 2022, published by Poisoned Pen Press.
Her first cozy mystery, Some Enchanted Murder, was a finalist for the 2014 Silver Falchion Award in the category "Best First Novel: Cozy, Traditional and Historical."
Linda is also the author of the Cat Lady Mysteries published by Kensington Lyrical and of the Deep Fried mysteries published by Berkley Prime Crime.
ESCAPE CLAWS, her first Cat Lady Mystery, was selected by Modern Cat Magazine, Connie's Book Club, as a "must read" in the Spring/Summer 2018 issue.
CLAWS OF ACTION, her fourth Cat Lady Mystery, was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by the Cat Writers' Association in its 2019 Communications Contest.
Her Grilled Cheese Mystery series featuring grilled cheese lover Carly Hale debuted in January 2022, published by Poisoned Pen Press.
Her first cozy mystery, Some Enchanted Murder, was a finalist for the 2014 Silver Falchion Award in the category "Best First Novel: Cozy, Traditional and Historical."
Linda is also the author of the Cat Lady Mysteries published by Kensington Lyrical and of the Deep Fried mysteries published by Berkley Prime Crime.
ESCAPE CLAWS, her first Cat Lady Mystery, was selected by Modern Cat Magazine, Connie's Book Club, as a "must read" in the Spring/Summer 2018 issue.
CLAWS OF ACTION, her fourth Cat Lady Mystery, was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by the Cat Writers' Association in its 2019 Communications Contest.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
November 18, 2025
This is part of a series that is new to me. I plan to read all. This story was lighthearted and mysterious. The characters were fun and the story moved right along. Outstanding narration.
I was blessed with an audio ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased. Enjoy!
I was blessed with an audio ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased. Enjoy!
September 1, 2025
This is probably my favorite one in the series so far and strangely, it's not because of the mystery but because of the family element. I felt like I got to know Carly and Ari better in this one as they welcomed his sister and her niece into the house. It seemed more personal and really let Carly's kindness and understanding shine through. The mystery, while complex, didn't really hold my interest and it annoys me so much when MCs are warned repeatedly to be careful and they just have to check "one more thing", which inevitably leads to them getting into trouble. Otherwise, I enjoyed the time spent in Balsam Dell with Carly and her circle and drooled, as usual, over the various snacks they all got to try.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
September 19, 2025
3.5 stars
I requested this from NetGalley's audio section not knowing it's #6 in the Grilled Cheese Mysteries series. I found some of the earlier books on Hoopla that I might try sometime. I do love grilled cheese so thought I might learn some interesting variations of it to try ... but that did not really happen.
An occasional cozy mystery can be a very good pallet cleanser, and that it was.
My thanks to NetGalley ... and a request: to please expand your offerings for those of us dedicated to new audiobooks. Psychological thrillers and popular mysteries in particular.
I requested this from NetGalley's audio section not knowing it's #6 in the Grilled Cheese Mysteries series. I found some of the earlier books on Hoopla that I might try sometime. I do love grilled cheese so thought I might learn some interesting variations of it to try ... but that did not really happen.
An occasional cozy mystery can be a very good pallet cleanser, and that it was.
My thanks to NetGalley ... and a request: to please expand your offerings for those of us dedicated to new audiobooks. Psychological thrillers and popular mysteries in particular.
July 17, 2025
This was a totally fun and sweet trip to visit with Carly, Ari, and the whole grilled cheese crew at the Eatery as Carly and Ari prepare for their wedding, only a month away. Unfortunately, before we can get there, Carly has a fundraiser at the local high school, Balsam Dell High School needs a new gym floor, Ari's sister shows up with a young child in tow and oh yeah Carly's mom is a suspect in a murder that happens at the fundraiser. With the wedding only a few weeks away, the last thing Carly wants is to be worried about another murder but her Mom is a suspect! While trying to stay under the police chief's radar, can Carly keep her wedding on track, her business running, figure out Ari's sister's issue and clear her mother's name? Come along for the ride, there are plenty of delicious treats and all our favorite characters to add to our mystery, not to mention a wedding at the end! Many thanks to #Netgally, #BeyondthePageBooks, and the author for a chance to join the fun! #EdamandWeep #GrilledCheeseMysteries #LindaReilly #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
October 4, 2025
Another one in the series that’s relatively short, and sweet, and a bit scary too! 😮
Carly and Ari are getting married… and soon! But, there’s another murder to solve…
And not that Carly doesn’t want to help, but really? A month before her wedding?
But, how can she NOT get involved when her sweet Mom is the primary suspect??
Carly does her thing, as she usually does, but this time, well… she gets in her own way…
And, ends up on the killers hit list…. All by herself! 👀🤔
So as she goes around their small town, sleuthing, someone is keeping tabs on her too!
4 bright, sharp, wedding-y…. 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Stars for me!!
And let me tell you, I never guessed whodunnit!!!
Oh…and there’s a dog… 🐶 and his name is … Havarti! ❤️
#EdamAndWeep by @LindaReilly and narrated beautifully by @Mia Gaskin.
*** THIS ONE HAS NOT YET BEEN RELEASED. PLEASE LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON 10/7/25!! ***
4 bright, loving, kind-hearted stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, #RBMedia and #DreamscapeMedia for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
Carly and Ari are getting married… and soon! But, there’s another murder to solve…
And not that Carly doesn’t want to help, but really? A month before her wedding?
But, how can she NOT get involved when her sweet Mom is the primary suspect??
Carly does her thing, as she usually does, but this time, well… she gets in her own way…
And, ends up on the killers hit list…. All by herself! 👀🤔
So as she goes around their small town, sleuthing, someone is keeping tabs on her too!
4 bright, sharp, wedding-y…. 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Stars for me!!
And let me tell you, I never guessed whodunnit!!!
Oh…and there’s a dog… 🐶 and his name is … Havarti! ❤️
#EdamAndWeep by @LindaReilly and narrated beautifully by @Mia Gaskin.
*** THIS ONE HAS NOT YET BEEN RELEASED. PLEASE LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON 10/7/25!! ***
4 bright, loving, kind-hearted stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, #RBMedia and #DreamscapeMedia for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
July 22, 2025
It was so awesome what Carly and Ari did for Ari’s sister and the little girl she was trying to adopt by taking them in when they were a little down on their luck. Little Quinne was wise beyond her age and really grew on me as a character. I was definitely pulling for the adoption to go through and that they’d get to come live in Vermont—the kid was seriously over the moon about Carly’s little dog Havarti. They were best buds!
The murder mystery hit close to home for Carly who found herself investigating since her mom was a suspect. She did try to make good choices and take someone along with her when she’d sleuth, but there’s always that one time…and of course she found herself in a showdown with the killer. I’d guessed part of who was guilty and as always, Carly alway amazes me with her guts and bravery to plow into any situation, lol.
The book had the most amazing ending and I just wanted it to keep going, definitely a great book hangover! I’m not totally sure, but this almost seemed like it could be the last book, although I could think of more adventures I’d like to hear about now there’s two new characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed and ARC of this book provided by Beyond the Page Publishing via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
The murder mystery hit close to home for Carly who found herself investigating since her mom was a suspect. She did try to make good choices and take someone along with her when she’d sleuth, but there’s always that one time…and of course she found herself in a showdown with the killer. I’d guessed part of who was guilty and as always, Carly alway amazes me with her guts and bravery to plow into any situation, lol.
The book had the most amazing ending and I just wanted it to keep going, definitely a great book hangover! I’m not totally sure, but this almost seemed like it could be the last book, although I could think of more adventures I’d like to hear about now there’s two new characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed and ARC of this book provided by Beyond the Page Publishing via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
July 18, 2025
4.25 stars
Carly Hale, the owner of Carly’s Grilled Cheese Eatery in Balsam Dell, Vermont, is helping out at a fundraiser for the local high school. Her mom, Rhonda, is also happy to be helping for this worthy cause. Before it even gets started, Brice Keaton, who is selling sodas in the booth next to Carly, starts complaining and bossing people around. When he crosses a line with Carly. Rhonda swoops in and is overheard warning the bully to stay away from her daughter. When Brice is found dead in the school's locker room, Rhonda becomes the prime suspect. Carly has to juggle her restaurant, dealing with an unexpected houseguest, making final arrangements for her upcoming wedding to Ari Mitchell, and proving her mom's innocence. There are a lot of new characters in this book, which is the 6th in the Grilled Cheese Mystery series. Many of them are unpleasant, so at first it was hard to say who the real killer was. However, I'm proud to say I caught onto an important clue before Carly did, but there was more to the reveal than I had figured out.
Two new characters who were never suspects are Ari's sister and 8-year-old niece. His sister Leslie comes on really strong at the beginning, but does soften. I was disappointed that they pretty much take over the story, and there aren't as many scenes with Carly and her staff, her best friend, Gina, or her sister Norah. Even most of Carly's scenes with Ari also have Leslie and Quinne in them. Happily, there is a sweet, satisfying ending to the book. However, I am not sure parts are hinting at things to come or if the author was wrapping up the series. (I hope we get more of Carly and her wonderful grilled cheese concoctions!)
Thank you, NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for the review copy of this ebook. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
Carly Hale, the owner of Carly’s Grilled Cheese Eatery in Balsam Dell, Vermont, is helping out at a fundraiser for the local high school. Her mom, Rhonda, is also happy to be helping for this worthy cause. Before it even gets started, Brice Keaton, who is selling sodas in the booth next to Carly, starts complaining and bossing people around. When he crosses a line with Carly. Rhonda swoops in and is overheard warning the bully to stay away from her daughter. When Brice is found dead in the school's locker room, Rhonda becomes the prime suspect. Carly has to juggle her restaurant, dealing with an unexpected houseguest, making final arrangements for her upcoming wedding to Ari Mitchell, and proving her mom's innocence. There are a lot of new characters in this book, which is the 6th in the Grilled Cheese Mystery series. Many of them are unpleasant, so at first it was hard to say who the real killer was. However, I'm proud to say I caught onto an important clue before Carly did, but there was more to the reveal than I had figured out.
Two new characters who were never suspects are Ari's sister and 8-year-old niece. His sister Leslie comes on really strong at the beginning, but does soften. I was disappointed that they pretty much take over the story, and there aren't as many scenes with Carly and her staff, her best friend, Gina, or her sister Norah. Even most of Carly's scenes with Ari also have Leslie and Quinne in them. Happily, there is a sweet, satisfying ending to the book. However, I am not sure parts are hinting at things to come or if the author was wrapping up the series. (I hope we get more of Carly and her wonderful grilled cheese concoctions!)
Thank you, NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for the review copy of this ebook. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
July 23, 2025
"Edam and Weep (A Grilled Cheese Mystery #6)" by Linda Reilly has Carly extra busy. Not only is she planning for her upcoming wedding but she is hosting her future sister-in-law. Also, Carly's mom is a murder suspect. Carly's mom isn't a serious suspect to anyone who knows her but the state cops only have evidence against her.
Carly's sister-in-law is just needing a little help getting back on track with a good job, Carly's sister to the rescue! The sister-in-law is also struggling to prove she should be able to adopt her niece through marriage.
Carly spends a lot of her free time tracking down anyone who knew the victim. At least this series likes to point out how much it's affecting her job and what's done about it. In the end I was partly there on figuring out the culprit before the reveal really started happening. By that point I still had a few doubts though.
Carly's sister-in-law is just needing a little help getting back on track with a good job, Carly's sister to the rescue! The sister-in-law is also struggling to prove she should be able to adopt her niece through marriage.
Carly spends a lot of her free time tracking down anyone who knew the victim. At least this series likes to point out how much it's affecting her job and what's done about it. In the end I was partly there on figuring out the culprit before the reveal really started happening. By that point I still had a few doubts though.
September 18, 2025
Carly and Ari are getting married in a month, but now her mom is the chief suspect in the murder of an unpleasant vendor at the local fundraiser. Add is the return of Ari's sister, now with a little girl in tow. Let the sleuthing begin! 5 star read!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from Beyond the Page Publishing via NetGalley.
#EdamandWeep by @lindareillyauthor #grilledcheesemysteryseriesBk6 #BeyondthePagePublishing
#NetGalley #cozymysteries #Vermont #recipes #fundraiser #cozymystery #friends #smalltown #smallbusiness #family #amateursleuth #goodreads #librarything #thestorygraph
*****things are even better! Now I've won the audio performed by Mia Gaskin. Sight read was good, but her audiobook narration is fantastic!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from Beyond the Page Publishing via NetGalley.
#EdamandWeep by @lindareillyauthor #grilledcheesemysteryseriesBk6 #BeyondthePagePublishing
#NetGalley #cozymysteries #Vermont #recipes #fundraiser #cozymystery #friends #smalltown #smallbusiness #family #amateursleuth #goodreads #librarything #thestorygraph
*****things are even better! Now I've won the audio performed by Mia Gaskin. Sight read was good, but her audiobook narration is fantastic!
September 29, 2025
Big Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the Publisher for the advanced copy! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
'Edam and Weep' is the sixth book in the 'Grilled Cheese Mysteries' by Linda Reilly. It's a cozy mystery full of heart and grilled cheese!
The mystery, first of all, was enjoyable, and there were a lot of twists. The ending was suspenseful as well.
The main character, moreover, is endearing, and her love story was entertaining.
But the family drama was the heart and soul of the story, and I loved the newfound family and the relationship between mother and daughter.
Finally, the audiobook was well narrated and produced.
'Edam and Weep' is the sixth book in the 'Grilled Cheese Mysteries' by Linda Reilly. It's a cozy mystery full of heart and grilled cheese!
The mystery, first of all, was enjoyable, and there were a lot of twists. The ending was suspenseful as well.
The main character, moreover, is endearing, and her love story was entertaining.
But the family drama was the heart and soul of the story, and I loved the newfound family and the relationship between mother and daughter.
Finally, the audiobook was well narrated and produced.
October 28, 2025
When the local high school hosts a fundraiser, restaurant owner Carly Hale is happy to sign on and enlists her mother’s help selling her grilled cheese sandwiches. When the vendor stationed next to them turns out to be rude and bullies them both, Carly’s mom gives the man a vicious tongue-lashing. Later that day the man is found dead. With her mom a suspect for the murder, Carly has no choice but to find out who killed the man and why.
This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I love Carly and all her friends and family in the series, and her delectable, delicious cheesy recipes. The plot was confounding, and I was surprised by who the culprit was in the end. This series has made me want to visit Vermont to see if I can find Carly's cheesy eatery. Thanks to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I love Carly and all her friends and family in the series, and her delectable, delicious cheesy recipes. The plot was confounding, and I was surprised by who the culprit was in the end. This series has made me want to visit Vermont to see if I can find Carly's cheesy eatery. Thanks to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
July 23, 2025
Carly is volunteering her food/time to help raise money for new school gym floor. When a grumpy fellow volunteer gets in their faces, Carly’s mom gives him a piece of her mind. Unfortunately that’s puts her on the top of the suspect list when the unlikable pop seller winds up dead. Add in a family issue in her finance’s family & the fact that their wedding is only a month away, Carly has her hands full.
This is an incredibly charming series, the idea of a grilled cheese eatery is perfect for cozies. The supporting cast of characters are strong, which is always a good thing for these kinds of series. I feel it gets stronger & better with each book. This has a fantastic twisty conclusion, one of the best one in the series. And there’s a lot of forward motion when it comes to the character development. Lots of changes, but good ones. I can easily recommend this book & the whole series.
Thank you Netgalley & Beyond the Page Publishing for the ARC of this book for an honest review.
🧀
Read if you like:
* Cheese Shop series by Korina Moss
* Bake Shop series by Ellie Alexander
This is an incredibly charming series, the idea of a grilled cheese eatery is perfect for cozies. The supporting cast of characters are strong, which is always a good thing for these kinds of series. I feel it gets stronger & better with each book. This has a fantastic twisty conclusion, one of the best one in the series. And there’s a lot of forward motion when it comes to the character development. Lots of changes, but good ones. I can easily recommend this book & the whole series.
Thank you Netgalley & Beyond the Page Publishing for the ARC of this book for an honest review.
🧀
Read if you like:
* Cheese Shop series by Korina Moss
* Bake Shop series by Ellie Alexander
July 30, 2025
Edam and Weep is the 6th book in the Grilled Cheese Mystery series by Linda Reilly. I absolutely love this series and have to say that this was my favorite book so far. It made me smile, laugh and even brought a few tears to my eyes. The love and interaction between the characters is amazing. Once I started reading, I didn't want to stop. I highly recommend Edam and Weep and the whole series..
August 18, 2025
What a fun series! I love that all the quirky characters are back for a twisty mystery and a happily ever after.
November 16, 2025
I enjoyed being back in Balsam Dell with Carly and her crew. Aside from an engaging mystery you are drawn to the characters and their relationships. Not to mention all the grilled cheese recipes make your mouth want. The ending was sweet and satisfying.
September 20, 2025
I really enjoyed this charming cozy mystery (maybe because it always has cheese involved which is one of my favorite foods). In this story, someone is murdered at a high school fundraiser. Carly Hale, the grilled cheese owner, does some investigating of her own to try and solve the crime. I want to thank the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for giving me an e-copy of this book, in return for an honest review.
December 13, 2025
I half guessed the murderer but at the same time wasn't on my radar
July 27, 2025
I really enjoy the grilled cheese mystery series and given the ending, I think this might be the last one? Edam and Weep seems to bring everything to a close with Carly and Ari’s wedding while also giving us another mystery to solve.
When Carly participates in the school fundraiser set up to be a 50’s theme, she’s shocked encounter a rude man at the soda stand who has a harsh argument with her mother. The police zero in on Carly’s mother when that man later turns up strangled and Carly needs to solve the mystery to clear her mother’s name. We also get to meet Ari’s sister who suddenly shows up with a little girl in tow, demanding money and how they all deal with their relationships. If this is the last one, I think it ended on a high note! Read this if you enjoy comfort food, cozy settings, and mysteries.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this early arc!
When Carly participates in the school fundraiser set up to be a 50’s theme, she’s shocked encounter a rude man at the soda stand who has a harsh argument with her mother. The police zero in on Carly’s mother when that man later turns up strangled and Carly needs to solve the mystery to clear her mother’s name. We also get to meet Ari’s sister who suddenly shows up with a little girl in tow, demanding money and how they all deal with their relationships. If this is the last one, I think it ended on a high note! Read this if you enjoy comfort food, cozy settings, and mysteries.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this early arc!
July 24, 2025
I adore this series, but what’s not to love. It’s has fancy grilled cheese sandwiches, a wonderful cast of characters, murder, mystery, and a charming small town atmosphere!
When a bully at the local fundraising event turns up dead, Carly jumps in to solve the murder (and to clear her mother’s name).
This story was packed with twists and turns, and the author writes in a way that you can solve the mystery alongside Carly. There were a couple of red herrings, but it was fun to put the pieces of the story together.
I loved the addition of Ari’s sister and his sister’s niece. It added another mystery (and complication to Ari and Carly’s lives), but made for such a sweet and heartwarming read.
I think this may be my favorite in the series so far- I can’t wait for the next. Thank you to #NetGalley and #BeyondthePagePublishing for an ARC.
When a bully at the local fundraising event turns up dead, Carly jumps in to solve the murder (and to clear her mother’s name).
This story was packed with twists and turns, and the author writes in a way that you can solve the mystery alongside Carly. There were a couple of red herrings, but it was fun to put the pieces of the story together.
I loved the addition of Ari’s sister and his sister’s niece. It added another mystery (and complication to Ari and Carly’s lives), but made for such a sweet and heartwarming read.
I think this may be my favorite in the series so far- I can’t wait for the next. Thank you to #NetGalley and #BeyondthePagePublishing for an ARC.
July 13, 2025
During the local high school’s fundraiser, an obnoxious vendor goes too far, prompting Carly’s mom Rhonda to confront him with a verbal dressing-down. When his body is found later that day and a video of Rhonda’s tongue-lashing goes viral, the police have no choice but to consider her their number one suspect. Carly is determined to clear her mother’s name so she can return her attention to her wedding plans – until Ari’s sister shows up with an usual and suspicious request.
I have come to enjoy this series more and more with each book, and the primary characters are like old friends by now. I like Carly, but her friends and family are right in that she needs to rein in her curiosity a bit. Granted, there wouldn’t be books to read if she did, so I guess there’s that :) Despite her proclivity to get into trouble, she has a good support network of friends, family and co-workers.
The identity of the murder victim won’t surprise anyone, but it did take a while to identify specific suspects. Mixed in with all the wedding discussion were several twists and turns. I fell hard for one of the red herrings, but in the end, was glad that wasn’t the actual story. I figured out part of the solution, but not all of it, nor the motive.
Things near the end of this book make me wonder if this is the end of the series. I would love to read more books with these characters, so I hope that’s not the case.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I have come to enjoy this series more and more with each book, and the primary characters are like old friends by now. I like Carly, but her friends and family are right in that she needs to rein in her curiosity a bit. Granted, there wouldn’t be books to read if she did, so I guess there’s that :) Despite her proclivity to get into trouble, she has a good support network of friends, family and co-workers.
The identity of the murder victim won’t surprise anyone, but it did take a while to identify specific suspects. Mixed in with all the wedding discussion were several twists and turns. I fell hard for one of the red herrings, but in the end, was glad that wasn’t the actual story. I figured out part of the solution, but not all of it, nor the motive.
Things near the end of this book make me wonder if this is the end of the series. I would love to read more books with these characters, so I hope that’s not the case.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 21, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Beyond the Page for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I discovered this series years ago, when I got an ARC of the first book. I’ve been a big fan of this adorable cozy mystery that hits all the right notes. What is cool is that it hasn’t lost any of the aspects that made me love it from the start. Also, following characters for years makes them feel like old friends when a new book is published.
Struggling to find time to read the ebook amongst my backlog of ARCs, I also received an ARC of the audiobook, and found Mia Gaskin to fit well with the voice I picture for Carly when reading the ebook. She’s been the voice of the series, which I have reread several times to stay current before a new book, and it was an enjoyable experience to listen to her.
I adore Carly. She’s a small-town sweetheart with a strong instinct for justice, to the point where she’ll pursue it herself rather than wait for the slower moving wheels of law enforcement. Yet instead of seeking vigilante justice, she works to uncover clues using her personal connections, and shares her information with law enforcement. However, this sometimes causes her to get into dangerous situations.
Things are a bit hectic in this story, but intentionally. Carly and Ari have finally decided to tie the knot, and it has been wonderful to see her finding happiness and such a healthy, supportive relationship with Ari, after losing her first husband in a car accident. These two have taken it slow over the course of the series, and are now so comfortable with each other that I was thrilled for both of them. Not only have they become family, they’ve mixed well and get along great with their respective in-laws to be. That is really showcased beautifully in this story, where Ari’s sister Leslie shows up with her niece Quinne in tow with a favor to ask. Carly’s whole family is also really supportive, and they have such positive interactions with Ari’s family.
Carly and Ari’s wedding is getting closer day by day, and neither of them really needs any more on their shoulders. A local fundraiser is about as much as Carly can take on, but she’s the kind of person who genuinely loves to serve people her beloved grilled cheese sandwich. Of course the vendor in the next booth over is so mean to Carly that her mother Rhonda winds up giving him verbal hell for it. When the vendor is found strangled with Rhonda’s scarf, Rhonda finds herself the main suspect, especially after footage of her interaction is posted online. Carly is obviously going to do her own investigation to clear her mother’s name. On top of all of this, Leslie and Quinne show up looking for a little help.
Despite all the stressors she’s facing, Carly somehow manages to keep her cool. I was surprised at how chill she was, and that she still found time to spend with all of the people who are important to her. Her generous and giving nature is on display here, and it makes it such a pleasure to fall back into her world, like visiting a good friend that I haven’t seen in a while. As light-hearted as the world of Balsam Dells can be, readers also get a really good sense of Carly’s desire to have children, especially as she interacts with the little girl who already calls her aunt. Carly and Ari have had this discussion, and I was thrilled to see them discuss their honeymoon and their future beyond that.
For the first time in this series, I was able to guess the culprit by their second scene. It was still a fun read as I checked out all the red herrings, of which there were many. When an unlikable character is killed, there’s usually quite a few suspects. Guessing the culprit didn’t interfere with how much I enjoyed the story, especially since that was my guess and I didn’t know for sure because I almost always get it wrong. At least this time I was able to pump my fist in the air and say “Yes!”
Overall, this is such a fun series and I’ve really come to love it more and more with each book in the series. I hope that I will get to follow Carly and Ari for a while longer, because I am nowhere near ready to let them go. I love the punny names for the sandwiches at Carly’s Eatery, and the delicious recipes in the back of the book. Even though the two recipes included in this book aren’t for me, I’m sure that there are plenty of people who would love to know how to make a Croque Monsieur at home, and Bleu Cheese Tarts are an intriguing recipe that I’ll have to recommend to my bleu cheese loving friends and family. The pacing is wonderful, and the character development is top notch, as always. It’s easy to recommend them to everyone, especially if you’re a cozy mystery fan.
I discovered this series years ago, when I got an ARC of the first book. I’ve been a big fan of this adorable cozy mystery that hits all the right notes. What is cool is that it hasn’t lost any of the aspects that made me love it from the start. Also, following characters for years makes them feel like old friends when a new book is published.
Struggling to find time to read the ebook amongst my backlog of ARCs, I also received an ARC of the audiobook, and found Mia Gaskin to fit well with the voice I picture for Carly when reading the ebook. She’s been the voice of the series, which I have reread several times to stay current before a new book, and it was an enjoyable experience to listen to her.
I adore Carly. She’s a small-town sweetheart with a strong instinct for justice, to the point where she’ll pursue it herself rather than wait for the slower moving wheels of law enforcement. Yet instead of seeking vigilante justice, she works to uncover clues using her personal connections, and shares her information with law enforcement. However, this sometimes causes her to get into dangerous situations.
Things are a bit hectic in this story, but intentionally. Carly and Ari have finally decided to tie the knot, and it has been wonderful to see her finding happiness and such a healthy, supportive relationship with Ari, after losing her first husband in a car accident. These two have taken it slow over the course of the series, and are now so comfortable with each other that I was thrilled for both of them. Not only have they become family, they’ve mixed well and get along great with their respective in-laws to be. That is really showcased beautifully in this story, where Ari’s sister Leslie shows up with her niece Quinne in tow with a favor to ask. Carly’s whole family is also really supportive, and they have such positive interactions with Ari’s family.
Carly and Ari’s wedding is getting closer day by day, and neither of them really needs any more on their shoulders. A local fundraiser is about as much as Carly can take on, but she’s the kind of person who genuinely loves to serve people her beloved grilled cheese sandwich. Of course the vendor in the next booth over is so mean to Carly that her mother Rhonda winds up giving him verbal hell for it. When the vendor is found strangled with Rhonda’s scarf, Rhonda finds herself the main suspect, especially after footage of her interaction is posted online. Carly is obviously going to do her own investigation to clear her mother’s name. On top of all of this, Leslie and Quinne show up looking for a little help.
Despite all the stressors she’s facing, Carly somehow manages to keep her cool. I was surprised at how chill she was, and that she still found time to spend with all of the people who are important to her. Her generous and giving nature is on display here, and it makes it such a pleasure to fall back into her world, like visiting a good friend that I haven’t seen in a while. As light-hearted as the world of Balsam Dells can be, readers also get a really good sense of Carly’s desire to have children, especially as she interacts with the little girl who already calls her aunt. Carly and Ari have had this discussion, and I was thrilled to see them discuss their honeymoon and their future beyond that.
For the first time in this series, I was able to guess the culprit by their second scene. It was still a fun read as I checked out all the red herrings, of which there were many. When an unlikable character is killed, there’s usually quite a few suspects. Guessing the culprit didn’t interfere with how much I enjoyed the story, especially since that was my guess and I didn’t know for sure because I almost always get it wrong. At least this time I was able to pump my fist in the air and say “Yes!”
Overall, this is such a fun series and I’ve really come to love it more and more with each book in the series. I hope that I will get to follow Carly and Ari for a while longer, because I am nowhere near ready to let them go. I love the punny names for the sandwiches at Carly’s Eatery, and the delicious recipes in the back of the book. Even though the two recipes included in this book aren’t for me, I’m sure that there are plenty of people who would love to know how to make a Croque Monsieur at home, and Bleu Cheese Tarts are an intriguing recipe that I’ll have to recommend to my bleu cheese loving friends and family. The pacing is wonderful, and the character development is top notch, as always. It’s easy to recommend them to everyone, especially if you’re a cozy mystery fan.
September 26, 2025
I enjoyed this book. This is my first experience with the series but it won't be my last.
I normally prefer an author just focusses on the mystery and not fluff the story out with home life, but the characters were so delightful that I actually enjoyed the home life drama and what drama there was! Definitely a lot going on to keep it entertaining and the main character, Carly, running around from wedding planning, to unexpected guests and even her own mother the prime suspect in a murder investigation. The characters and story seem just right to be made into a film for the hallmark channel especially with its happy ending, I was even picturing which actors should play the characters. The mystery was good, despite having worked out who was responsible I still enjoyed it. I might even have to start the series from the beginning.
When the local high school need to raise funds to carry out repairs in the gym, they get the local business involved in a nifty fifties dinner bash. Carly is happy to provide her grilled sandwiches, until the man next to her setup tries to steal her power for his soda pops. Despite the danger it poses he won't back down until Carly's mother puts him in his place. When he is found dead with a scarf that she was wearing wrapped around his neck, Carly's mother becomes the prime suspect. Carly knows her mother didn't do it and is despite to prove it, especially with her wedding just weeks away. To complicate things her fiancé's sister is back in town and looking for a favour. Can Carly clear her mother's name, help her soon to be sister in law all before the big day? Or will getting involved put an end to her wedding dreams and in the cross hairs of a killer?
I liked the narrator. She is one of the more talented narrators I have heard and it is always a pleasure to listen to a book when she is reading it.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I normally prefer an author just focusses on the mystery and not fluff the story out with home life, but the characters were so delightful that I actually enjoyed the home life drama and what drama there was! Definitely a lot going on to keep it entertaining and the main character, Carly, running around from wedding planning, to unexpected guests and even her own mother the prime suspect in a murder investigation. The characters and story seem just right to be made into a film for the hallmark channel especially with its happy ending, I was even picturing which actors should play the characters. The mystery was good, despite having worked out who was responsible I still enjoyed it. I might even have to start the series from the beginning.
When the local high school need to raise funds to carry out repairs in the gym, they get the local business involved in a nifty fifties dinner bash. Carly is happy to provide her grilled sandwiches, until the man next to her setup tries to steal her power for his soda pops. Despite the danger it poses he won't back down until Carly's mother puts him in his place. When he is found dead with a scarf that she was wearing wrapped around his neck, Carly's mother becomes the prime suspect. Carly knows her mother didn't do it and is despite to prove it, especially with her wedding just weeks away. To complicate things her fiancé's sister is back in town and looking for a favour. Can Carly clear her mother's name, help her soon to be sister in law all before the big day? Or will getting involved put an end to her wedding dreams and in the cross hairs of a killer?
I liked the narrator. She is one of the more talented narrators I have heard and it is always a pleasure to listen to a book when she is reading it.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
July 25, 2025
Edam and Weep by Linda Reilly takes us back to Carly Hale’s Grilled Cheese Eatery in Vermont, although today finds her at a fundraiser for the local high school’s gym floor which had been damaged by water. It is a 1950’s diner theme which works perfectly with grilled cheese. The booth next to her is a soda booth but the man running it is extremely unpleasant. In fact, he is kind of a bully which is what her mother, Rhonda Hale Clark saw when she arrived and she let him have it. Naturally she was caught on any number of cell phones so when he ended up dead, the police came a’calling. Carly is beside herself that her mother is in this much trouble. And Mom is stressed about it. One can see it in her face and hear it in her voice. Carly can’t resist investigating, promising Ari, her fiance, that she won’t get involved beyond that. No one believed that, even Carly.
This is a cute cozy series. Ari and Carly are due to get married in just a month and she really doesn’t have time for this investigation, but it’s her mom! These are friendly and pleasant characters, the reoccurring ones at least. Her staff is always willing to cover for her, which too often allows her to get in trouble. The mystery was complex, involving hidden identities, which she got all wrong, by the way. It is a short, sweet novel that always makes me smile.
I was invited to read Edam and Weep by Beyond the Page Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BeyondThePagePublishing #LindaReilly #EdamAndWeep
This is a cute cozy series. Ari and Carly are due to get married in just a month and she really doesn’t have time for this investigation, but it’s her mom! These are friendly and pleasant characters, the reoccurring ones at least. Her staff is always willing to cover for her, which too often allows her to get in trouble. The mystery was complex, involving hidden identities, which she got all wrong, by the way. It is a short, sweet novel that always makes me smile.
I was invited to read Edam and Weep by Beyond the Page Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BeyondThePagePublishing #LindaReilly #EdamAndWeep
September 23, 2025
3.5/5
This review is for the audio version of the book, narrated by Mia Gaskin.
This was fine as a cozy mystery.
Carly's grilled cheese sandwich shop is just one of the many local businesses that have been recruited to a charity event to help raise money for the high school's new gymnasium floor.
The afternoon is warm, friendly (mostly), and busy as they sell sandwiches and the event is well liked by those who come out.
Things fall completely to pieces that night when 1 of the attendees is found murdered and the prime suspect is a lot closer to Carly than she would like and she starts looking into the killing to help clear their name.
This was just OK for me. The plot was more than I was expecting from a cozy mystery, and wasn't bad at all.
My only real issue was that, while completely pleasant, the characters were kind of boring. There was nothing that really stood out about them. I guess in my cozy reads I'm looking for some eccentricities amongst the people I'm reading about, and there was none of that here.
There were perfectly nice and caring and nurturing people, they were just kind of boring.
If you vibe with the quieter and less eccentric cozy books, this would be worth your time to read.
This review is for the audio version of the book, narrated by Mia Gaskin.
This was fine as a cozy mystery.
Carly's grilled cheese sandwich shop is just one of the many local businesses that have been recruited to a charity event to help raise money for the high school's new gymnasium floor.
The afternoon is warm, friendly (mostly), and busy as they sell sandwiches and the event is well liked by those who come out.
Things fall completely to pieces that night when 1 of the attendees is found murdered and the prime suspect is a lot closer to Carly than she would like and she starts looking into the killing to help clear their name.
This was just OK for me. The plot was more than I was expecting from a cozy mystery, and wasn't bad at all.
My only real issue was that, while completely pleasant, the characters were kind of boring. There was nothing that really stood out about them. I guess in my cozy reads I'm looking for some eccentricities amongst the people I'm reading about, and there was none of that here.
There were perfectly nice and caring and nurturing people, they were just kind of boring.
If you vibe with the quieter and less eccentric cozy books, this would be worth your time to read.
August 19, 2025
This series just keeps getting better and better. The mystery was well crafted and held my interest. It was good to see Grant make a return appearance. I liked the new family members that were introduced. Normally, I hate weddings, but this one hit all the right notes. It had my laughing and crying. My only concern is that the final chapter felt a lot like a series finale. I hope I'm wrong about that. This is one of my favorite "foodie" series. I want to see what's next for Carly and Ari and their extended family and friends.
One weird bit of synchronicity. Just yesterday while browsing through recipes for sandwiches, I stumbled upon instructions for how to make several variations of the Croque Monsieur—the first time I'd ever heard of such a sandwich. I guess it's true that once you learn a new word (or a new recipe) you'll start see it again very soon.
One weird bit of synchronicity. Just yesterday while browsing through recipes for sandwiches, I stumbled upon instructions for how to make several variations of the Croque Monsieur—the first time I'd ever heard of such a sandwich. I guess it's true that once you learn a new word (or a new recipe) you'll start see it again very soon.
September 17, 2025
Edam and Weep is the sixth cozy mystery in the Grilled Cheese Mysteries series. Carly Hale is selling her famous grilled cheese at a fundraiser when a murderer strikes. When her mom is a prime suspect, Carly is determined to get to the bottom of it to clear her mom. It isn’t long before Carly is on the killers trail, but will she solve the mystery before it’s too late?
This is always an enjoyable cozy mystery series and I liked this mystery slot. I was pulled into this familiar setting quickly and the mystery kept my attention. I was guessing until the end and the way everything fit together made sense, but I didn’t see it coming. I enjoyed the mystery, but I really loved the family relationships in this book. The added characters were a great addition and I liked this break from the mystery. This mystery was easy to get through and a fun ride.
This is always an enjoyable cozy mystery series and I liked this mystery slot. I was pulled into this familiar setting quickly and the mystery kept my attention. I was guessing until the end and the way everything fit together made sense, but I didn’t see it coming. I enjoyed the mystery, but I really loved the family relationships in this book. The added characters were a great addition and I liked this break from the mystery. This mystery was easy to get through and a fun ride.
September 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape media for ALC.
Edam and Weep by Linda Reilly is a delightful addition to the cozy mystery genre. Set in a charming small town with a cheese shop at the heart of it all, this story has all the hallmarks I love—quirky side characters, mouthwatering food descriptions, and a mystery that keeps you guessing without ever feeling too dark.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrators really brought the story to life. Their pacing and character voices made it easy to stay immersed, adding warmth and personality to the already engaging plot. It truly felt like being dropped into the middle of this cozy community.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries filled with charm, small-town vibes, and just the right sprinkle of suspense, Edam and Weep is worth picking up—especially in audio!
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape media for ALC.
Edam and Weep by Linda Reilly is a delightful addition to the cozy mystery genre. Set in a charming small town with a cheese shop at the heart of it all, this story has all the hallmarks I love—quirky side characters, mouthwatering food descriptions, and a mystery that keeps you guessing without ever feeling too dark.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrators really brought the story to life. Their pacing and character voices made it easy to stay immersed, adding warmth and personality to the already engaging plot. It truly felt like being dropped into the middle of this cozy community.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries filled with charm, small-town vibes, and just the right sprinkle of suspense, Edam and Weep is worth picking up—especially in audio!
October 29, 2025
This is my first book in the Grilled Cheese Mystery series, and I just have one question: where has this series been all my life? This was such a delightful read! A clean, cozy mystery filled with lovable characters and small-town charm. Even though I started late in the series, I’ll definitely be going back to the beginning to read every single one.
Starting with this book only “spoiled” the romance ending a bit, but I don’t mind at all — I’m sure I’ll still enjoy watching everything unfold in the earlier stories. If you love cozy mysteries that feel like comfort food, this series is definitely worth a bite! 🧀📚
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen and review this advanced copy.
Starting with this book only “spoiled” the romance ending a bit, but I don’t mind at all — I’m sure I’ll still enjoy watching everything unfold in the earlier stories. If you love cozy mysteries that feel like comfort food, this series is definitely worth a bite! 🧀📚
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen and review this advanced copy.
July 28, 2025
Carly and Ari are close to their wedding date. But first there is a murder at a fundraiser and Carly's Mom is the chief suspect. Plus, Ari's sister arrives with a child in tow and a spot of bad luck in her life. Carly is keeping her business running and trying to figure out who really killed the man at the fundraiser. Lots of action in this story but a very sweet ending! Loved the new characters and hope there are more adventures to come!
August 15, 2025
Murder with wedding preparations
Wonderfully well integrated and suspenseful mystery with all the fun and excitement of wedding preparations and a family adoption. This plot threatened to be out of control at a few points, but Ms Reilly pulls it back together masterfully. Loved the addition of the sister and her adopted daughter. I likely will read this one again and definitely will be recommending it to my friends. Thanks for a lovely and well written story.
Wonderfully well integrated and suspenseful mystery with all the fun and excitement of wedding preparations and a family adoption. This plot threatened to be out of control at a few points, but Ms Reilly pulls it back together masterfully. Loved the addition of the sister and her adopted daughter. I likely will read this one again and definitely will be recommending it to my friends. Thanks for a lovely and well written story.
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