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One Rotten Apple
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2026
About the author
Penny Frost McGinnis
13 books146 followersPenny Frost McGinnis has lived in the world of books most of her life. From a small library shared with her cousins to a career working in libraries until retirement, she has developed a deep respect and love for the written word. An avid reader, Penny lives in southwest Ohio with her husband and their golden retriever, Rosie May. She embraces and enjoys her faith, family, fiber arts, and baseball. Her life’s goal is to encourage and uplift others through her writing.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 9, 2026
If you enjoy clean, cozy mysteries set in quiet small towns and a varied cast of characters, this first installment in the author's new 'Lyndie Lavender Cozy Mystery' series will appeal to you . . .
'One Rotten Apple' is filled with surprises and treats of all kinds. The Front Matter features the text of Psalm 23, a map of the setting of the story -- Seldom Seen, South Carolina -- and a list of the Cast of Characters.
Former war correspondent and photo journalist, Lyndie Lavender, has returned to her Aunt Cordy's homestead after experiencing the traumatic loss of a treasured colleague overseas. As the story opens, Lyndie and her sister Laurel are helping their aunt prepare for her annual Autumn Apple Fest.
Lyndie discovers the body of one of the town's well-known residents at the Festival. She soon decides to use her journalistic skills to assist her brother-in-law, Detective Danny Armstrong, in solving the heinous crime.
Even though they are warned repeatedly by Danny not to become involved in the case, Lyndie and her aunt's tenant, Zach, continue to sift through clues in their search to identify the culprit. The characters in the story are well-developed and include several villains and villainesses.
The story has a simple faith thread that is woven into the plot. The book is completely clean in language and content.
The lovely cover is appealing and unique. The author notes that the painting on which the cover is based was created by her daughter, and it features two of the delightful homestead animals readers will learn about in the story. The Back Matter includes several apple recipes for products mentioned in the story.
I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.
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'One Rotten Apple' is filled with surprises and treats of all kinds. The Front Matter features the text of Psalm 23, a map of the setting of the story -- Seldom Seen, South Carolina -- and a list of the Cast of Characters.
Former war correspondent and photo journalist, Lyndie Lavender, has returned to her Aunt Cordy's homestead after experiencing the traumatic loss of a treasured colleague overseas. As the story opens, Lyndie and her sister Laurel are helping their aunt prepare for her annual Autumn Apple Fest.
Lyndie discovers the body of one of the town's well-known residents at the Festival. She soon decides to use her journalistic skills to assist her brother-in-law, Detective Danny Armstrong, in solving the heinous crime.
Even though they are warned repeatedly by Danny not to become involved in the case, Lyndie and her aunt's tenant, Zach, continue to sift through clues in their search to identify the culprit. The characters in the story are well-developed and include several villains and villainesses.
The story has a simple faith thread that is woven into the plot. The book is completely clean in language and content.
The lovely cover is appealing and unique. The author notes that the painting on which the cover is based was created by her daughter, and it features two of the delightful homestead animals readers will learn about in the story. The Back Matter includes several apple recipes for products mentioned in the story.
I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.
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May 8, 2026
In One Rotten Apple, Lyndie Lavender has returned to the small town of Seldom Seen, South Carolina where she’s been living with her aunt. Aunt Cordy is 60 something and pretty much raised Lyndie and her sister during their high school years. Their parents are missionaries in Guatemala, so high school in the states made the most sense. Now in her early 40s, Lyndie has spent the last 20 years as a war photographer. After a terrible tragedy, Lyndie needed a change and has found comfort at her aunt’s apple orchard.
I thought that this book was very enjoyable. Though it’s a quick read, the pacing is relaxed, and the setting is calming. This is another book where I’d love to jump right in and live in town. Of course, there are always issues and personality clashes, but that’s everywhere! I liked getting familiar with the different downtown shops and their proprietors. Though the actual murder takes place on the orchard property, Lyndie goes to the town shops a lot. Like many cozy mystery books, the shops have clever names.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters and trying to figure out whodunit and why exactly did they do it? There are lots of red herrings as the suspects and reasons for the murder pile up! The murderer eventually confesses and is caught. I thought the mystery was well-plotted and that the reasons for the murder were varied.
I definitely think that cozy mystery readers will enjoy One Rotten Apple. The fall setting, apple orchard, adorable sheep, playful goats, and close knit family give it a very cozy feel. 4 stars!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I thought that this book was very enjoyable. Though it’s a quick read, the pacing is relaxed, and the setting is calming. This is another book where I’d love to jump right in and live in town. Of course, there are always issues and personality clashes, but that’s everywhere! I liked getting familiar with the different downtown shops and their proprietors. Though the actual murder takes place on the orchard property, Lyndie goes to the town shops a lot. Like many cozy mystery books, the shops have clever names.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters and trying to figure out whodunit and why exactly did they do it? There are lots of red herrings as the suspects and reasons for the murder pile up! The murderer eventually confesses and is caught. I thought the mystery was well-plotted and that the reasons for the murder were varied.
I definitely think that cozy mystery readers will enjoy One Rotten Apple. The fall setting, apple orchard, adorable sheep, playful goats, and close knit family give it a very cozy feel. 4 stars!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
May 13, 2026
It was a delight to review One Rotten Apple by author Penny McGinnis set in a small town in the beautiful setting of the Appalachian Mountains. As small town vibes go everyone knows everybody and is in everyone’s business. Yet there are many secrets to uncover.
When Lyndie’s elderly sweet aunt makes to the top of the suspect list, Lyndie will stop at nothing to sniff out the truth. She is bold, but it comes with the journalistic skills engrained in her. It has great plot twists, laughs, tender romance, and all great clean cozy feel.
Although I was given the book, I was not required to leave a good review.
When Lyndie’s elderly sweet aunt makes to the top of the suspect list, Lyndie will stop at nothing to sniff out the truth. She is bold, but it comes with the journalistic skills engrained in her. It has great plot twists, laughs, tender romance, and all great clean cozy feel.
Although I was given the book, I was not required to leave a good review.
May 6, 2026
If I find a book with a fall setting and apple festivals, it's usually a cozy mystery. One Rotten Apple has all the "ap-peel" needed to hold your attention. The plot is centered around the mayor being murdered during the apple festival and Lyndie Lavendar must solve the case.
She's not an officer, but is driven to get justice when her Aunt Cordy is the first suspect. It's such a small town that anyone could be the guilty person. There aren't many clues, so Lyndie and Zach spend time learning all they can about people who attended the apple festival.
Will the search for the criminal help or harm Lyndie, as she's still grieving her fellow war correspondent? Her brother-in-law, Danny, is the real police detective, but he doesn't seem to be able to keep her from following a dangerous trail. This was an easy read and a fun whodunit for me.
She's not an officer, but is driven to get justice when her Aunt Cordy is the first suspect. It's such a small town that anyone could be the guilty person. There aren't many clues, so Lyndie and Zach spend time learning all they can about people who attended the apple festival.
Will the search for the criminal help or harm Lyndie, as she's still grieving her fellow war correspondent? Her brother-in-law, Danny, is the real police detective, but he doesn't seem to be able to keep her from following a dangerous trail. This was an easy read and a fun whodunit for me.
May 7, 2026
I love the small town feel of this cozy mystery! Lyndie has seen the world and all it has to offer, both the good and the bad, and has come home to help her aunt out. When a delightful festival takes a turn for the worse with the death of the mayor, Lyndie finds out just how many people in their small town have secrets.
This is a delightful mystery and a wonderful start to a new series.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
This is a delightful mystery and a wonderful start to a new series.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
May 1, 2026
Come for the apples, stay for the adorable sheep!
Thimble and Floss were possibly my favorite part of this cozy mystery. I may have gotten slightly lost on Google looking at pictures of Valais Black Nose Sheep, so so cute! The back drop of the book is a apple orchard with a small hobby farm. After reading about all the apple treats, you can make a few with the recipes in the back.
One Rotten Apple touched on some good plot points and characters. I wish it had given a little more. I am left with wanting to know more about the characters and thier history, but maybe the author will write another? It does end rather quickly. I had to stop and think Oh! Wait! the mystery is being solved! I will say I had not entirely pegged down who did it, which is always good in a mystery book.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher. My opinions, as always, are my own.
Thimble and Floss were possibly my favorite part of this cozy mystery. I may have gotten slightly lost on Google looking at pictures of Valais Black Nose Sheep, so so cute! The back drop of the book is a apple orchard with a small hobby farm. After reading about all the apple treats, you can make a few with the recipes in the back.
One Rotten Apple touched on some good plot points and characters. I wish it had given a little more. I am left with wanting to know more about the characters and thier history, but maybe the author will write another? It does end rather quickly. I had to stop and think Oh! Wait! the mystery is being solved! I will say I had not entirely pegged down who did it, which is always good in a mystery book.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher. My opinions, as always, are my own.
May 8, 2026
“I believe we all have choices to make when we grow up. I choose to be a better person.”- Walt
There you have it. One of my fave quotes from the story, about taking personal responsibility. I enjoyed this cozy novel, One Rotten Apple, by Penny Frost McGinnis. I loved that it was set in small-town upstate South Carolina. Aunt Cordy is hosting her yearly Apple Fest, making for a good crowd and producing many possible suspects when the mayor’s murder is discovered. I loved the warmth of the family relationships between Aunt Cordy, Lyndie, Laurel, and then extending to Laurel’s hubby, Danny, as well as Zach, the young renter, and Walt, Aunt Cordy’s boyfriend. ( By the way, there is a short list of characters at the front. And a map! Yay! I like to be front-loaded this way!)
I will say it is rather sticky for Lyndie to investigate as a civilian, because her brother-in-law, Danny, is the local police. He is constantly reminding Lyndie to let the police do their job. Just how Laurel is able to get involved, given her divided loyalties, made me uneasy just to think about it!
When the murder is pinned on Aunt Cordy, Lyndie and Zach go to work with a little help from others investigating everyone, from another mayoral candidate to the mayor’s former secretary.
Walt is one of my fave characters. He’s quiet, he’s wise, and he loves Aunt Cordy. He balances her. And he loves those Aunt Cordy loves. Which means he is concerned about Lyndie’s anxiety attacks from her time as a war correspondent in far-flung areas of the earth. Determined to do something about it, he introduces 2 of my true fave characters to Lyndie: Valais Black-nose sheep!
Move over Highland Coos!! These remarkable animals are fluffy, soft, and comforting to anxiety-prone Lyndie. Cuter than cute with their little black faces, friendly, if accounts are to be believed ( by this point, I was off task and researching Valais Black-nose sheep)!!
With threads of faith, I found this first book of a new cozy series clean, warm, and comforting, perfect to read in between some very “serious” fiction. There’s also a lot of great, mouth-watering food described. (And one-not-so mouth-watering sandwich. Ugh!!)
I will be watching for more of Aunt Cordy, Lyndie, and of course, the Valais Black-nose sheep!
I received a copy of the book from the author via JustRead Tours. I also bought my own ecopy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“Don’t worry. Every worry steals some joy.”- Lyndie, quoting Aunt Cord
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted…”- Psalm 34:18
“In my distress and grief, I clung to the twenty-third Psalm. My shepherd’s goodness and love followed me. Even as I tried to catch a killer.” - (Lyndie)
There you have it. One of my fave quotes from the story, about taking personal responsibility. I enjoyed this cozy novel, One Rotten Apple, by Penny Frost McGinnis. I loved that it was set in small-town upstate South Carolina. Aunt Cordy is hosting her yearly Apple Fest, making for a good crowd and producing many possible suspects when the mayor’s murder is discovered. I loved the warmth of the family relationships between Aunt Cordy, Lyndie, Laurel, and then extending to Laurel’s hubby, Danny, as well as Zach, the young renter, and Walt, Aunt Cordy’s boyfriend. ( By the way, there is a short list of characters at the front. And a map! Yay! I like to be front-loaded this way!)
I will say it is rather sticky for Lyndie to investigate as a civilian, because her brother-in-law, Danny, is the local police. He is constantly reminding Lyndie to let the police do their job. Just how Laurel is able to get involved, given her divided loyalties, made me uneasy just to think about it!
When the murder is pinned on Aunt Cordy, Lyndie and Zach go to work with a little help from others investigating everyone, from another mayoral candidate to the mayor’s former secretary.
Walt is one of my fave characters. He’s quiet, he’s wise, and he loves Aunt Cordy. He balances her. And he loves those Aunt Cordy loves. Which means he is concerned about Lyndie’s anxiety attacks from her time as a war correspondent in far-flung areas of the earth. Determined to do something about it, he introduces 2 of my true fave characters to Lyndie: Valais Black-nose sheep!
Move over Highland Coos!! These remarkable animals are fluffy, soft, and comforting to anxiety-prone Lyndie. Cuter than cute with their little black faces, friendly, if accounts are to be believed ( by this point, I was off task and researching Valais Black-nose sheep)!!
With threads of faith, I found this first book of a new cozy series clean, warm, and comforting, perfect to read in between some very “serious” fiction. There’s also a lot of great, mouth-watering food described. (And one-not-so mouth-watering sandwich. Ugh!!)
I will be watching for more of Aunt Cordy, Lyndie, and of course, the Valais Black-nose sheep!
I received a copy of the book from the author via JustRead Tours. I also bought my own ecopy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.
Notable Quotables:
“Don’t worry. Every worry steals some joy.”- Lyndie, quoting Aunt Cord
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted…”- Psalm 34:18
“In my distress and grief, I clung to the twenty-third Psalm. My shepherd’s goodness and love followed me. Even as I tried to catch a killer.” - (Lyndie)
Read
March 8, 2026Lyndie is a former war-zone photographer, and she’s now living in a small town in the Appalachian foothills of South Carolina, where it’s peaceful … until she trips over the dead body of Mayor Richardson.
At first there were lots of suspects because the mayor was apparently killed with Lyndie’s Aunt Cordy’s apple butter paddle. Well, I knew sweet Aunt Cordy didn’t do it, but someone stole her paddle, and it could have been any of a number of people who attended the Autumn Apple Fest.
Red herrings, a funeral where I couldn’t tell who was faking it or who was genuine, and several possible motives made for a fun whodunit. When I settled on the motive, then I finally knew who my prime suspect was (and it wasn’t my first suspect, but that made the story even more intriguing).
This is a Christian novel, and the faith element is mainly seen through Lyndie’s character. Readers know when she’s praying and what she’s praying about, and though she has lost someone dear to her, readers know that God is healing her grief. It’s a faith-filled story without being preachy or heavy-handed with Bible-talk.
Near the end, there’s a hint that Lyndie and a certain gentlemanly, handsome character will become an item in a future book. (I guess we’ll see!)
A big kudos to the cover designer. That’s a real-person (not AI) painting of Thimble and Floss, two sheep that become Lyndie’s friends. It’s an adorable painting!
Overall, One Rotten Apple is a fun and charming cozy mystery!
At first there were lots of suspects because the mayor was apparently killed with Lyndie’s Aunt Cordy’s apple butter paddle. Well, I knew sweet Aunt Cordy didn’t do it, but someone stole her paddle, and it could have been any of a number of people who attended the Autumn Apple Fest.
Red herrings, a funeral where I couldn’t tell who was faking it or who was genuine, and several possible motives made for a fun whodunit. When I settled on the motive, then I finally knew who my prime suspect was (and it wasn’t my first suspect, but that made the story even more intriguing).
This is a Christian novel, and the faith element is mainly seen through Lyndie’s character. Readers know when she’s praying and what she’s praying about, and though she has lost someone dear to her, readers know that God is healing her grief. It’s a faith-filled story without being preachy or heavy-handed with Bible-talk.
Near the end, there’s a hint that Lyndie and a certain gentlemanly, handsome character will become an item in a future book. (I guess we’ll see!)
A big kudos to the cover designer. That’s a real-person (not AI) painting of Thimble and Floss, two sheep that become Lyndie’s friends. It’s an adorable painting!
Overall, One Rotten Apple is a fun and charming cozy mystery!
May 9, 2026
A pleasant Cozy Mystery, One Rotten Apple by Penny McGinnis is as sweet as apple pie while handling a not-so-sweet investigation into the sudden ending of the small town mayors life during an apple festival.
I felt a lightness when I started reading this novel. There is just something about picking up a small-town novel that instantly fills me with all the warm, fuzzy feelings. Cozy mysteries always have that intoxicating and cozy feel, which is why I’ve found myself drawn to them more and more. While you do have to suspend reality for a moment, it’s a cozy escape that feels welcoming and light despite it being a murder mystery.
I've heard of emotional support dogs, but I've never heard of emotional support sheep before, and Floss and Thimble were one of my favorite parts of this story. The bond between Lyndie and her sheep was instant and felt through the pages. I've never been around sheep before, but after reading this book and seeing the love it makes me want to.
I enjoyed all the scenes at the apple festival so much and could almost smell the delicious apples in the air as I read. I also liked getting to know the characters and coming along on the mystery. A warm, cozy escape that was exactly what I needed.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
I felt a lightness when I started reading this novel. There is just something about picking up a small-town novel that instantly fills me with all the warm, fuzzy feelings. Cozy mysteries always have that intoxicating and cozy feel, which is why I’ve found myself drawn to them more and more. While you do have to suspend reality for a moment, it’s a cozy escape that feels welcoming and light despite it being a murder mystery.
I've heard of emotional support dogs, but I've never heard of emotional support sheep before, and Floss and Thimble were one of my favorite parts of this story. The bond between Lyndie and her sheep was instant and felt through the pages. I've never been around sheep before, but after reading this book and seeing the love it makes me want to.
I enjoyed all the scenes at the apple festival so much and could almost smell the delicious apples in the air as I read. I also liked getting to know the characters and coming along on the mystery. A warm, cozy escape that was exactly what I needed.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
May 18, 2026
Cozy Mystery books are a genre that I truly love. One Rotten Apple by Penny Frost McGinnis is Book 1 in the Lyndie Lavender series and the most recent book that I have read.
I will admit the storyline started out a little slow, it took a couple of chapters to really get into the story. Lyndie Lavender has returned to her Aunt's Farm in Seldom Seen, South Carolina. Lyndie had recently spent 20 years as a Photo Journalist in War Zones. Lyndie is looking forward to relaxing and enjoy quiet peaceful days at her Aunt's Farm and the upcoming Apple Fest. The story takes a turn when Lyndie is the one to find the body of the a prominent member of the town. Detective Danny Armstrong takes the case and is determined to solve the crime. The Apple Fest if Lyndie's Aunt favorite Festival of the year, so Lyndie wants to help solve the crime and not disrupt the activities around town. I really LOVE that the Characters worked together and to keep the town safe. Lyndie also has a deep faith and it is shown throughout the book. Thimble and Floss, the sheep featured in the book, were a great addition to the story. The book truly is a Cozy Mystery story and I am so glad I kept reading. WONDERFUL BOOK!
I will admit the storyline started out a little slow, it took a couple of chapters to really get into the story. Lyndie Lavender has returned to her Aunt's Farm in Seldom Seen, South Carolina. Lyndie had recently spent 20 years as a Photo Journalist in War Zones. Lyndie is looking forward to relaxing and enjoy quiet peaceful days at her Aunt's Farm and the upcoming Apple Fest. The story takes a turn when Lyndie is the one to find the body of the a prominent member of the town. Detective Danny Armstrong takes the case and is determined to solve the crime. The Apple Fest if Lyndie's Aunt favorite Festival of the year, so Lyndie wants to help solve the crime and not disrupt the activities around town. I really LOVE that the Characters worked together and to keep the town safe. Lyndie also has a deep faith and it is shown throughout the book. Thimble and Floss, the sheep featured in the book, were a great addition to the story. The book truly is a Cozy Mystery story and I am so glad I kept reading. WONDERFUL BOOK!
May 5, 2026
One Rotten Apple, Lyndie Lavender Cozy Mystery: Book One, by Penny Frost McGinnis is an enjoyable, quick read—perfect for fans of low-angst, whodunnit-style mysteries.
Lyndie Lavender, retired war photographer and amateur sleuth, has recently returned to the town of Seldom Seen, South Carolina to live with her Aunt Cordy. Unfortunately, the peaceful haven she has found at her aunt’s apple orchard is upended after she unexpectedly stumbles over a body at her Aunt Cordy’s annual Autumn Apple Fest. Wanting to protect her aunt’s reputation, Lyndie determines to do whatever it takes to solve the mayor’s murder, clear her aunt’s reputation, and catch a killer.
My favorite quote is tied to the overarching theme of the One Rotten Apple—“Every worry steals some joy”—and what a wonderful reminder it is!
Lastly, I wish I had a Thimble and Floss in my life! And the apple recipes included at the end of the book look delicious (and would make an excellent treat while reading One Rotten Apple). . .
FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.
Lyndie Lavender, retired war photographer and amateur sleuth, has recently returned to the town of Seldom Seen, South Carolina to live with her Aunt Cordy. Unfortunately, the peaceful haven she has found at her aunt’s apple orchard is upended after she unexpectedly stumbles over a body at her Aunt Cordy’s annual Autumn Apple Fest. Wanting to protect her aunt’s reputation, Lyndie determines to do whatever it takes to solve the mayor’s murder, clear her aunt’s reputation, and catch a killer.
My favorite quote is tied to the overarching theme of the One Rotten Apple—“Every worry steals some joy”—and what a wonderful reminder it is!
Lastly, I wish I had a Thimble and Floss in my life! And the apple recipes included at the end of the book look delicious (and would make an excellent treat while reading One Rotten Apple). . .
FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.
May 9, 2026
Hello book one in the Lyndie Lavender series, what a great start. One Rotten Apple is written by Penny Frost McGinnis. This is book one in the Lyndie Lavender series - and it did not disappoint I absolutely love this cover. I loved the town and characters that the author has created.
Lyndie is a photographer that has spent the last 20 years taking pictures of war zones - now all she wants is peace. She retreats to her aunt’s in Seldom Seen, South Carolina. (Which I looked up and actually is a place referred to by locals that is off the beaten path) She settles in, and is finding the peace that she needs… until there was not any. Lyndie stumbles across a dead body on the opening day of the Apple Fest. The apple fest is her aunt’s pride and joy - and Lyndie is determined to find out who did it.
I absolutely loved getting to know the locals in Seldom Seen, The author has crafted such an amazing cast of characters. I loved the town, the people, and most importantly the mystery. I am so thrilled about this series .
Thank you to the author, publisher, and JustRead Publicity Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book — all thoughts are my own.
Lyndie is a photographer that has spent the last 20 years taking pictures of war zones - now all she wants is peace. She retreats to her aunt’s in Seldom Seen, South Carolina. (Which I looked up and actually is a place referred to by locals that is off the beaten path) She settles in, and is finding the peace that she needs… until there was not any. Lyndie stumbles across a dead body on the opening day of the Apple Fest. The apple fest is her aunt’s pride and joy - and Lyndie is determined to find out who did it.
I absolutely loved getting to know the locals in Seldom Seen, The author has crafted such an amazing cast of characters. I loved the town, the people, and most importantly the mystery. I am so thrilled about this series .
Thank you to the author, publisher, and JustRead Publicity Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book — all thoughts are my own.
May 9, 2026
Lyndie Lavender is recently back in Seldom Seen, SC, staying at her aunt’s homestead, seeking peace. But on the opening day of the homestead’s Apple Fest, peace is interrupted when Lyndie comes across a dead body. Who did it? Why? Why on Aunt Cordy’s land?
I love a small town cozy mystery, and One Rotten Apple by Penny Frost McGinnis did not disappoint. There’s warmth, heart, wonderful characters, a beautiful setting, and an intriguing mystery. This story reminds me of one of my favorite shows, the Great British Bake Off. “Umm…what?”, you say? That’s a competition show, but it’s not frantic. The contestants are nice to each other. It’s relaxing to watch. Same here. It’s a murder mystery, and a quick read, but it’s also calm and relaxing. I can’t wait to visit Seldom Seen again! Plus there are recipes at the end of the book. Yum!
My thanks for the complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are entirely my own.
I love a small town cozy mystery, and One Rotten Apple by Penny Frost McGinnis did not disappoint. There’s warmth, heart, wonderful characters, a beautiful setting, and an intriguing mystery. This story reminds me of one of my favorite shows, the Great British Bake Off. “Umm…what?”, you say? That’s a competition show, but it’s not frantic. The contestants are nice to each other. It’s relaxing to watch. Same here. It’s a murder mystery, and a quick read, but it’s also calm and relaxing. I can’t wait to visit Seldom Seen again! Plus there are recipes at the end of the book. Yum!
My thanks for the complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are entirely my own.
May 9, 2026
One Rotten Apple is the debut of the Lyndie Lavender Cozy Mystery series by Penny Frost McGinnis. This is a Christian cozy mystery. I love the cover! Lyndie was an international photojournalist but has retired and is back helping her Aunt Cordelia (Cordy) run the family apple orchard. It is the Fall Apple Festival and it takes place on their farm. The Mayor ends up dead and Lyndie, her friend Zach, and Cordy need to find the culprit. Lyndie's new sheep are adorable! The characters are likable and it is a very pleasant story. #OneRottenApple #LyndieLavenderCozyMystery
May 13, 2026
At the Apple Fall Festival that Aunt Cordy hosts on her apple farm/ homestead, there ends up being a murder on her land by the lake. The problem is, her apple butter spatula was used and found at the scene of the crime and it was the mayor of the town who was murdered. The number one suspect is Aunt Cordy but she didn’t do it. So Lyndie makes it her task to find out who the real suspect is and clear Aunt Cordy’s name.
This is a fun cozy mystery book and it would be perfect for fall or a good rainy day when you want to read a book in one sitting.
This is a fun cozy mystery book and it would be perfect for fall or a good rainy day when you want to read a book in one sitting.
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