Cracker Jacked: A Juli Butler Mystery, Book 1

by Barbara Witek, Anna Crowe (Narrator)

When the news of her mother’s passing finally reaches her, a guilt-ridden Juli returns home ready to make amends with her past. Turning her mother’s antique store into an organic café for people and their pets seems to be the fresh start she needs. Only she doesn’t count on her old friend, Chase Hargrave, being the town Sheriff or that she’d be his number one suspect when a man turns up dead in her mother’s rose garden.

As clues are discovered, there seems to be more going on in New Hope than murder. Juli will stop at nothing, even if it means teaming up with a feisty parrot and Chase's needy sheepdog, to clear her name and gain his trust. Can two old friends abide by the rules, find a killer, and make peace...or has Juli cooked up more trouble than she can handle?

Audible Audio

Published October 31, 2025

About the author

I live in New York with my husband and 2 rambunctious black labs (Max & Marley) There is never a dull moment in our world.

When I'm not writing, I'm enjoying empty-nester life in the cul-de-sac. I also enjoy cross-country skiing and skating, hiking, anything crafty, and competitive game nights with family and friends!

I'm a firm believer in love at first sight and finding lost loves.