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Popcorn Shop Mystery #1
Kernel of Truth
An all-new Popcorn Shop Mystery bursts on the scene, featuring gourmet popcorn entrepreneur Rebecca Anderson and her poodle Sprocket.
Opening a gourmet popcorn shop was never on Rebecca Anderson’s bucket list. But after a failed marriage to a celebrity chef, she’s ready for her life to open up and expand. She has returned to her hometown of Grand Lake, Ohio, with her popcorn-loving poodle Sprocket to start a new business—naturally called POPS. As a delicious bonus, Cordelia “Coco” Bittles, a close family friend who has always been like a grandmother to Rebecca, owns the chocolate shop next door, and the two are thinking of combining their businesses.
But when Coco’s niece, Alice, discovers her on the floor of her chocolate shop, those dreams go up in smoke. The local sheriff thinks Coco was the victim of a robbery gone wrong, but Rebecca isn’t so sure. As suspects start popping up all over, Rebecca is determined to turn up the heat and bring the killer to justice in a jiffy!
INCLUDES POPCORN RELATED RECIPES!
Opening a gourmet popcorn shop was never on Rebecca Anderson’s bucket list. But after a failed marriage to a celebrity chef, she’s ready for her life to open up and expand. She has returned to her hometown of Grand Lake, Ohio, with her popcorn-loving poodle Sprocket to start a new business—naturally called POPS. As a delicious bonus, Cordelia “Coco” Bittles, a close family friend who has always been like a grandmother to Rebecca, owns the chocolate shop next door, and the two are thinking of combining their businesses.
But when Coco’s niece, Alice, discovers her on the floor of her chocolate shop, those dreams go up in smoke. The local sheriff thinks Coco was the victim of a robbery gone wrong, but Rebecca isn’t so sure. As suspects start popping up all over, Rebecca is determined to turn up the heat and bring the killer to justice in a jiffy!
INCLUDES POPCORN RELATED RECIPES!
296 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 1, 2016
47 people are currently reading
1340 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
March 5, 2016
Nothing pops better than A Kernel of Truth
The most famous treat to share at the movies, or at home watching tv or a movie has become the theme of the newest series from author Kristi Abbott. You guessed it, popcorn. Opening up POPS her gourmet popcorn shop, has always been Rebecca Anderson's dream in Grand Lake, Ohio. Where she makes her delicious popcorn breakfast bars and popcorn balls with her fun-loving, klepto manic, poodle, Sprocket and business could never be better.
Cordelia "Coco" Bittles owns "Coco's Cocca's" next door, she is a chocolatier and makes some of the most scrumptious treats made of chocolate along with her niece, Jessica. Who just happens to be Rebecca's high school rival and it seems they are still enemies.Coco is Rebecca's friend and mentor and encouraged her to follow her culinary dreams and she genuinely loves her. Jessica makes a discovery of her aunt dead on the floor of her shop. It soon becomes a case of a robbery gone wrong with Coco fallen victim to a cruel murder.
After other shop owners businesses are broken into. With the town mayor lurking around the property, Rebecca soon starts to suspect hes up to no good but he is not the only one Rebecca suspects. No one in the town believes that Rebecca and Coco had a plan to go into a combined business together and soon reasons start popping up for the sheriff, who just happens to be her best friend and brother-in-law to suspect Rebecca.
This was a very emotional, character driven first book of a cozy mystery series. I instantly fell in love with these characters a very important thing if I'm going to continue reading and reviewing a series. Author Kristi Abbott has a talent for making the characters pop off the page and make them seem so real and genuine with true to life feelings all of the characters, including the murderer which was a surprise to me. It sort of caught me by surprise too when I started crying at times.
I also would be remiss if I didn't mention again that i'm a foodie and love the popcorn theme and Rebecca in her kitchen making her popcorn recipes was one of my favorite things about the book. I can't wait until the next book in the series" Pop Goes the murder" pops up and I can read it.
The most famous treat to share at the movies, or at home watching tv or a movie has become the theme of the newest series from author Kristi Abbott. You guessed it, popcorn. Opening up POPS her gourmet popcorn shop, has always been Rebecca Anderson's dream in Grand Lake, Ohio. Where she makes her delicious popcorn breakfast bars and popcorn balls with her fun-loving, klepto manic, poodle, Sprocket and business could never be better.
Cordelia "Coco" Bittles owns "Coco's Cocca's" next door, she is a chocolatier and makes some of the most scrumptious treats made of chocolate along with her niece, Jessica. Who just happens to be Rebecca's high school rival and it seems they are still enemies.Coco is Rebecca's friend and mentor and encouraged her to follow her culinary dreams and she genuinely loves her. Jessica makes a discovery of her aunt dead on the floor of her shop. It soon becomes a case of a robbery gone wrong with Coco fallen victim to a cruel murder.
After other shop owners businesses are broken into. With the town mayor lurking around the property, Rebecca soon starts to suspect hes up to no good but he is not the only one Rebecca suspects. No one in the town believes that Rebecca and Coco had a plan to go into a combined business together and soon reasons start popping up for the sheriff, who just happens to be her best friend and brother-in-law to suspect Rebecca.
This was a very emotional, character driven first book of a cozy mystery series. I instantly fell in love with these characters a very important thing if I'm going to continue reading and reviewing a series. Author Kristi Abbott has a talent for making the characters pop off the page and make them seem so real and genuine with true to life feelings all of the characters, including the murderer which was a surprise to me. It sort of caught me by surprise too when I started crying at times.
I also would be remiss if I didn't mention again that i'm a foodie and love the popcorn theme and Rebecca in her kitchen making her popcorn recipes was one of my favorite things about the book. I can't wait until the next book in the series" Pop Goes the murder" pops up and I can read it.
March 18, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Warning – pop some popcorn before you start reading this story. You are going to want to be munching as you read.
POPS is the newest shop in Grand Lake, right next to Coco’s Cocoas. In fact Coco and Rebecca have found they work pretty well together and are planning a new venture. That is until Coco is found dead in her shop. Robbery gone wrong, Rebecca doesn’t think so. She starts popping up all over town trying to prove it was murder and will bag the killer herself if she has to.
What a great idea for a mystery series. A Popcorn Shop with a peppy protagonist and a poodle named Sprocket, yes a poodle.
Kristi Abbott is off to a fantastic start. I was sad that our victim was Coco though, she seemed like a grand lady. Everyone loved her and her fudge, who would want her dead? Surprisingly there are plenty of suspects if Sheriff Cooper would open his eyes. He is Rebecca’s best friend and he is married to her sister, he can’t seriously think she had anything to do with the murder?
I liked all of these characters, Rebecca really pops off the page. She has escaped a bad marriage and is putting herself first for a change. I love the way she stands up to her ex. She has been friends with Dan forever and is thrilled he married her sister. She lives on their property and they have dinner together often. It is hard when he has to keep the case confidential and Rebecca keeps butting in where she shouldn’t. This family dynamic pulls us right into the story.
The mystery is very believable too and well written. A little predictable but the “why” was something that was not what I thought at all. There were several twists that made me think maybe I was wrong along the way. There is a surprising secret revealed when Rebecca rushes into a situation that was so not what she thought at all that put me back on the main track.
The story has just the start of a romance and I was happy that it is starting slow. I think Rebecca needs some time for just herself.
Bottom line, this is a charming start to what I hope becomes a long running series. The theme is unique and the characters are fresh and I hope to pop in for another visit very soon.
Warning – pop some popcorn before you start reading this story. You are going to want to be munching as you read.
POPS is the newest shop in Grand Lake, right next to Coco’s Cocoas. In fact Coco and Rebecca have found they work pretty well together and are planning a new venture. That is until Coco is found dead in her shop. Robbery gone wrong, Rebecca doesn’t think so. She starts popping up all over town trying to prove it was murder and will bag the killer herself if she has to.
What a great idea for a mystery series. A Popcorn Shop with a peppy protagonist and a poodle named Sprocket, yes a poodle.
Kristi Abbott is off to a fantastic start. I was sad that our victim was Coco though, she seemed like a grand lady. Everyone loved her and her fudge, who would want her dead? Surprisingly there are plenty of suspects if Sheriff Cooper would open his eyes. He is Rebecca’s best friend and he is married to her sister, he can’t seriously think she had anything to do with the murder?
I liked all of these characters, Rebecca really pops off the page. She has escaped a bad marriage and is putting herself first for a change. I love the way she stands up to her ex. She has been friends with Dan forever and is thrilled he married her sister. She lives on their property and they have dinner together often. It is hard when he has to keep the case confidential and Rebecca keeps butting in where she shouldn’t. This family dynamic pulls us right into the story.
The mystery is very believable too and well written. A little predictable but the “why” was something that was not what I thought at all. There were several twists that made me think maybe I was wrong along the way. There is a surprising secret revealed when Rebecca rushes into a situation that was so not what she thought at all that put me back on the main track.
The story has just the start of a romance and I was happy that it is starting slow. I think Rebecca needs some time for just herself.
Bottom line, this is a charming start to what I hope becomes a long running series. The theme is unique and the characters are fresh and I hope to pop in for another visit very soon.
September 11, 2020
Humorous cozy mystery.
Rebecca is not a quiet sleuth by any means and her (big) mouth combined with her combative attitude keeps things hopping in Grand Lake, Ohio.
Her standard poodle (50 lbs) Sprocket is her constant companion and a delightful dog.
Dan is the town’s sheriff and her brother-in-law.
Surprisingly good read for $3 from the Dollar General store !
c2016, Berkley Prime Crime Mystery
New author to me.
First book of the series.
I have ordered the other two books in this series :)
Rebecca is not a quiet sleuth by any means and her (big) mouth combined with her combative attitude keeps things hopping in Grand Lake, Ohio.
Her standard poodle (50 lbs) Sprocket is her constant companion and a delightful dog.
Dan is the town’s sheriff and her brother-in-law.
Surprisingly good read for $3 from the Dollar General store !
c2016, Berkley Prime Crime Mystery
New author to me.
First book of the series.
I have ordered the other two books in this series :)
March 1, 2018
Rebecca Anderson left the small town of Grand Lake, Ohio in highschool and never looked back, that is until she divorced her celebrity chef husband. She returned with her tail between her legs and moved into the garage apartment of her sister and BFF Dan. Her mentor, the person she worked for in highschool, and the one person who welcomed her back, Cordelia (Coco) Bittles, helped her to open her own popcorn shop. When Coco's body is discovered in her shop by he niece, Jessica, she screams so loud that Rebecca runs over to see what is going on. Rebecca can not let this go without sticking her nose in and helping to find the killer.
Rebecca and Jessica have had a rough relationship since childhood with Jessica causing problems and Rebecca taking the blame for it. It seems everyone in town thinks Jessica is an angel, with only Rebecca and a few others understanding that Jessica is not as she seems. We meet Dan, Rebecca's best friend since grade school and brother in law, who is also the town's sheriff. He has to make difficult decisions about arresting Rebecca when the situation gets tough. Dan's friend, Garrett, is Rebecca's attorney and potential love interest. Remaining family and friends plus the local shop keepers all help to round out a great story. We can't forget Rebecca's poodle, Sprocket, who plays a large part in the investigation as well.
Jessica plans to sell her aunt's store and secret fudge recipe in secret. Rebecca is determined to prove that Coco and her were planning to start a new business and that Coco was planning to change her will as well as trying to figure out who killed Coco. Rebecca's investigation ends her up in trouble and she has to call on Garrett for help. Some of the situations are pretty funny, but everytime something happens, more townspeople support Jessica with Rebecca losing business and friends. I figured out who the killer was pretty early on and even though I thought I couldn't be correct, I was. That is the reason why I only gave the book 3 stars. I kept thinking, how can the police be that dumb. There are recipes at the back of the book that might be worth a try if you like popcorn.
Rebecca and Jessica have had a rough relationship since childhood with Jessica causing problems and Rebecca taking the blame for it. It seems everyone in town thinks Jessica is an angel, with only Rebecca and a few others understanding that Jessica is not as she seems. We meet Dan, Rebecca's best friend since grade school and brother in law, who is also the town's sheriff. He has to make difficult decisions about arresting Rebecca when the situation gets tough. Dan's friend, Garrett, is Rebecca's attorney and potential love interest. Remaining family and friends plus the local shop keepers all help to round out a great story. We can't forget Rebecca's poodle, Sprocket, who plays a large part in the investigation as well.
Jessica plans to sell her aunt's store and secret fudge recipe in secret. Rebecca is determined to prove that Coco and her were planning to start a new business and that Coco was planning to change her will as well as trying to figure out who killed Coco. Rebecca's investigation ends her up in trouble and she has to call on Garrett for help. Some of the situations are pretty funny, but everytime something happens, more townspeople support Jessica with Rebecca losing business and friends. I figured out who the killer was pretty early on and even though I thought I couldn't be correct, I was. That is the reason why I only gave the book 3 stars. I kept thinking, how can the police be that dumb. There are recipes at the back of the book that might be worth a try if you like popcorn.
January 22, 2018
The caramel sauce was almost three hundred and fifty degrees when the screaming started,
Rebecca Anderson has returned to her hometown of Grand Lake, Ohio after a failed marriage to a celebrity chef. She has opened a popcorn shop with the help of her mentor Coco Bittles. Coco's body is discovered in her shop by he niece, Jessica and ultimately by Rebecca. So begins the adventure into finding Coco's killer.
This is an excellent start to the series. Each of the characters introduced is well thought out and presented in a memorable way. Too often a lot of characters are thrown at the reader and you have a hard time figuring out who is who and how they relate to the story. This is not the case. We learn information about each person including tidbits from their past which helps to see them as they are today.
Rebecca and Jessica have had a rough relationship since childhood with Jessica creating havoc and Rebecca taking the blame for it. We meet Dan, Rebecca's best friend and brother in law who is also the town's sheriff. He has to make difficult decisions about arresting Rebecca when the situation gets tough. Dan's friend, Garrett, is Rebecca's attorney and potential love interest. Remaining family and friends plus the local shop keepers all help to round out a great story.
Rebecca's poodle, Sprocket, plays a part in the investigation as well. I loved the references to Fraggle Rock!
Jessica is determined to prove that Rebecca killed her Aunt Coco to steal a family secret fudge recipe. Rebecca in turn tries to prove that she and Coco were working on a joint business plan that did not include Jessica.
Fringe characters of homeless men, Rebecca's overpowering ex-husband and a mysterious SUV create more questions about what is truly going on in this small town.
I suspected the killer early on but changed my mind several times as additional clues were presented. This was a fun read that I finished in one sitting. The recipes at the end of the book may make it to the kitchen for a trial.
A great first book that I recommend.
Rebecca Anderson has returned to her hometown of Grand Lake, Ohio after a failed marriage to a celebrity chef. She has opened a popcorn shop with the help of her mentor Coco Bittles. Coco's body is discovered in her shop by he niece, Jessica and ultimately by Rebecca. So begins the adventure into finding Coco's killer.
This is an excellent start to the series. Each of the characters introduced is well thought out and presented in a memorable way. Too often a lot of characters are thrown at the reader and you have a hard time figuring out who is who and how they relate to the story. This is not the case. We learn information about each person including tidbits from their past which helps to see them as they are today.
Rebecca and Jessica have had a rough relationship since childhood with Jessica creating havoc and Rebecca taking the blame for it. We meet Dan, Rebecca's best friend and brother in law who is also the town's sheriff. He has to make difficult decisions about arresting Rebecca when the situation gets tough. Dan's friend, Garrett, is Rebecca's attorney and potential love interest. Remaining family and friends plus the local shop keepers all help to round out a great story.
Rebecca's poodle, Sprocket, plays a part in the investigation as well. I loved the references to Fraggle Rock!
Jessica is determined to prove that Rebecca killed her Aunt Coco to steal a family secret fudge recipe. Rebecca in turn tries to prove that she and Coco were working on a joint business plan that did not include Jessica.
Fringe characters of homeless men, Rebecca's overpowering ex-husband and a mysterious SUV create more questions about what is truly going on in this small town.
I suspected the killer early on but changed my mind several times as additional clues were presented. This was a fun read that I finished in one sitting. The recipes at the end of the book may make it to the kitchen for a trial.
A great first book that I recommend.
April 18, 2019
I started this book this morning and literally couldn't put it down! The mystery itself was very good and kept me interested all the way through. Even though I had a feeling who the killer would be, I was still swayed at times when the red herrings popped up. I enjoyed all the characters, and I'm looking forward to reading on in the series to see what ended up happening with Coco's shop. I'm hoping that Garrett will be in the next books as well, since I liked that he and Rebecca were becoming a little more than friends. There were three of Rebecca's recipes in the back of the book along with the first chapter of the next book.
May 5, 2019
I was a bit skeptical of Rebecca at first, but I really like the way some of her friends call her out. I also like how we are told about her background in bits and pieces. Then there are so many people that show up! It becomes fun and we get a good idea of who Coco is/was. This was a strong beginning.
April 17, 2019
This was a fun read but I had a feeling who the suspect was early on. Not sure if it was that obvious or just that I have been reading too many cozies lately.
March 20, 2016
This book has everything I like in a cozy mystery: a great protagonist and plot, lots of humor, a Standard Poodle and popcorn. Actually the Poodle and the popcorn aren't a necessity, but I really enjoyed their presence here.
October 10, 2016
This book was a good start to a new cozy mystery series. I liked the theme of a popcorn shop as it was unique and not something that had been done previously in terms of a theme. I also thought the book has such a fun, bright cover. This is a well written story that is very character driven, which I don't mind. For the most part, the characters were all likable and I really enjoyed the relationship between Rebecca and her family. There were some great secondary characters in the townspeople as well. While I enjoyed the characters, toward the middle of the book I found Rebecca's actions to be impulsive and her constant complaints that everyone in the town was against her or thought she was a failure began to wear on me. The reason for my three star rating is that that while I enjoyed the characters, I didn't feel that the mystery was as strong as other's I have read. I figured out the identity of the killer and for the most part the reason behind it. While I felt the author tried to throw in some twists and turns they weren't enough to divert me from the real culprit. I would love to see a stronger mystery in the next installment. I enjoyed the story and writing enough that I will be checking out the next book in the series when it is released.
August 4, 2020
After divorcing her celebrity chef husband, Rebecca Anderson moves back to her hometown of Grand Lake, Ohio and (with the help of her mentor Coco) opens a gourmet popcorn shop. However, when Coco is murdered, Rebecca ends up as one of the suspects in her friend's murder, and has to clear her name.
This book is too cute. Rebecca, her adorable poodle Sprocket, her eccentric ex-husband Antoine, and all of the other quirky characters are delightful. While Rebecca does make some not so smart moves for a potential murder suspect, she's a chef, not a detective. And while her sheriff brother-in-law might not want to arrest her, the evidence may leave him no choice. Add on the kind of love triangle between her ex-husband (who still loves her), Rebecca, and her new boyfriend/lawyer Garrett, and you've got the makings for a really great book.
This book is too cute. Rebecca, her adorable poodle Sprocket, her eccentric ex-husband Antoine, and all of the other quirky characters are delightful. While Rebecca does make some not so smart moves for a potential murder suspect, she's a chef, not a detective. And while her sheriff brother-in-law might not want to arrest her, the evidence may leave him no choice. Add on the kind of love triangle between her ex-husband (who still loves her), Rebecca, and her new boyfriend/lawyer Garrett, and you've got the makings for a really great book.
August 9, 2016
This was ridiculous. It was incredibly obvious who the killer was, the book practically screamed it the whole way through. I also just found the main character frustrating. It took her so long to put things together and she just ineffectually muddled around. After seeing the same black SUV lurking around for what seems like forever she finally decides to call the police with the plates. No, just kidding, she decides walking up to the suspicious vehicle while a killer is on the loose and just demandingly banging on the window is the correct solution and not a good way to get her dead body dumped in a river. At least follow it from a distance or something. And, semi-spoiler for anyone who can't put two and two together, she takes forever to realize the connection between the fact that the victims smell like certain baking ingredients and then receive baked goods from a certain person who coincidentally used those ingredients. Huh, whatever could that indicate. Also the killer was incredibly dumb in the fact that they hung on to the lavender sachets that were incriminating, among other things. But that seems pretty par for the course in this town.
July 14, 2016
Rebecca Anderson’s morning is interrupted when she hears screaming from next door. The owner of the neighboring shop, Coco Bittles, has been found murdered. It appears to be a robbery gone wrong, but Rebecca digs in to try to find the truth since Coco was her mentor. Was it a robbery? If not, can Rebecca figure out what really happened?
This books walks a very fine line. Because Rebecca was close to the victim, we feel the depth of the loss. Yet there is some fun humor to keep the book from getting too serious. Rebecca herself has some maturing to do, but I feel we see that as the book progresses, and I loved that growth. She’s surrounded by a great group of family and friends I can’t wait to see again. And the mystery is strong with some nice detours before we reach the logical ending.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in hopes I would review it.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This books walks a very fine line. Because Rebecca was close to the victim, we feel the depth of the loss. Yet there is some fun humor to keep the book from getting too serious. Rebecca herself has some maturing to do, but I feel we see that as the book progresses, and I loved that growth. She’s surrounded by a great group of family and friends I can’t wait to see again. And the mystery is strong with some nice detours before we reach the logical ending.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in hopes I would review it.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
April 17, 2016
4-1/2 Stars! Plan on delving into this story with a bowl of your own popcorn! Rebecca Anderson is a new entrepreneur with her specialty popcorn shop, POPS. She loves creating new recipes for treats, and she and a close friend, Cordelia 'Coco' Bittles, who is a chocolatier, secretly plan to open a combined business together. Coco's shop is right next door in the charming Ohio town they live in. When Coco's niece, Jessica, finds her dead in her shop in what appears to be a robbery-homicide, Rebecca is broken-hearted. Jessica is an insecure and jealous person and responds with rudeness to any friendly overtures Rebecca makes toward her. More break-ins occur and the local sheriff, Rebecca's brother-in-law, Dan, is having trouble finding any conclusive evidence to lead to the culprit. Settle in for a few hours reading with this great whodunit. This cozy debut is a wonderful beginning for author, Kristi Abbott, and has delicious recipes at the end of the story.
May 1, 2025
This was a good start of a cute and cozy book with my favorite food ever popcorn.
I loved the dog Sprocket, totally got the Fraggle Rock reference and all of the yummy popcorn talk.
I like the fact the police officer is her brother in law and that she has a sister that she is close to.
I liked Rebecca as a MC and her relationship with the victim. The town was charming yet a little harsh as most small towns are. I giggled a few times at some of the antics. I also knew about the mayor… I really also liked the love interest, although it seemed very insta boyfriend just add water or in this case popcorn.
I was not a big fan of the ex and the story with him and how the MC does stupid things to get herself in trouble.
I will continue this series because I adore sprocket and enjoyed the story though I had the mystery figured out before I hit page 100. It was a cozy and yummy ride.
There is some cursing and mentions of sex in the book but it didn’t take the cozy out of it for me.
I loved the dog Sprocket, totally got the Fraggle Rock reference and all of the yummy popcorn talk.
I like the fact the police officer is her brother in law and that she has a sister that she is close to.
I liked Rebecca as a MC and her relationship with the victim. The town was charming yet a little harsh as most small towns are. I giggled a few times at some of the antics. I also knew about the mayor… I really also liked the love interest, although it seemed very insta boyfriend just add water or in this case popcorn.
I was not a big fan of the ex and the story with him and how the MC does stupid things to get herself in trouble.
I will continue this series because I adore sprocket and enjoyed the story though I had the mystery figured out before I hit page 100. It was a cozy and yummy ride.
There is some cursing and mentions of sex in the book but it didn’t take the cozy out of it for me.
March 27, 2023
Interesting enough, but some stuff didn't work and a lot of the characters just behaved childish.
October 6, 2017
I have mixed feelings about this book. As a first in a cozy series, it was okay. There's that struggle between plot and setting up all of the characters and back-story that becomes less of an issue in subsequent books.
In this case, I found that there wasn't enough backstory between Bec and Jessica and often Bec just looked like a bit of an idiot. But so did Jessica at times and both became characters I didn't completely enjoy. I felt for Dan, Garrett and Haley though.
Additionally, I struggled with the relationship between Garrett and Bec. I get that in a cozy that's just expected, but I wished for more development there rather than just having a relationship so the main character could have a relationship.
That sad, the mystery was fun and I thought that the murderer was an interesting choice. (this spoiler discusses whodunnit.)
Things I didn't expect in a cozy mystery - some character growth in the main character. She stops making some of the same mistakes and takes a bit of a stand against another character that made me happy. I was starting to dread another situation like in the Diva novels by Krista Davis. Luckily, that bullet seems to be dodged.
Overall, this wasn't a horrible first in series even if I did have issues with it. I'm not even much of a popcorn fan, but I really want to try some of the popcorn talked about in this book.
In this case, I found that there wasn't enough backstory between Bec and Jessica and often Bec just looked like a bit of an idiot. But so did Jessica at times and both became characters I didn't completely enjoy. I felt for Dan, Garrett and Haley though.
Additionally, I struggled with the relationship between Garrett and Bec. I get that in a cozy that's just expected, but I wished for more development there rather than just having a relationship so the main character could have a relationship.
That sad, the mystery was fun and I thought that the murderer was an interesting choice. (this spoiler discusses whodunnit.)
Things I didn't expect in a cozy mystery - some character growth in the main character. She stops making some of the same mistakes and takes a bit of a stand against another character that made me happy. I was starting to dread another situation like in the Diva novels by Krista Davis. Luckily, that bullet seems to be dodged.
Overall, this wasn't a horrible first in series even if I did have issues with it. I'm not even much of a popcorn fan, but I really want to try some of the popcorn talked about in this book.
October 25, 2020
how lucky am i that i have two new all time favorite cozies in the same month??
April 5, 2018
It was way better than what I was expecting it to be. I really liked the recipes at the end of the book and the MC was awesome! I guessed the murderer very early in the story but I didn't guessed all the little details so it's all good.
September 2, 2016
Rebecca has returned to her hometown a failure. Though she went to culinary school and married a hot shot celebrity chef, her marriage failed and she's now broke. She takes solace in baking and cooking. Her grandmother figure, Coco Bittles, owns the fudge shop next door and plans to go into business with Rebecca combining popcorn with fudge (um yes PLEASE!). When Rebecca hears screaming coming from next door, she enters the shop through the broken window to find Coco lying dead. Rebecca wants the murder solved but she quickly becomes a prime suspect. All the locals gossip about her and Rebecca knows who is feeding that gossip-Jessica! Coco's niece and Rebecca's rival since grade school, Jessica is Coco's legal heir and will inherit Coco's secret fudge recipe. If only Rebecca had some way to prove Coco meant to go into business with her, it would clear her name and show everyone she is not a failure.
I made the mistake of starting this late last night. I stayed up until halfway through the book when I got too tired to read. The murderer is very easy to figure out. I knew who did it right away and didn't waver until about 3/4 of the way into the book. The person had the motive, the means and the opportunity. Not to mention the clues add up. All that was left was to find out how Rebecca can prove it. Sadly, she doesn't figure it out until the end. She has to be rescued by a man, so I am taking points off for that. The best part of the book is the recipes. Yuummm. As soon as it cools off, I want to try some of the popcorn recipes. I've made popcorn balls before and it isn't easy. Popcorn + fudge = YES PLEASE!
I'm undecided whether I like Rebecca. I felt sorry for her at first. Jessica is a first class *itch and I longed to slap her. I'm only 2 inches taller - with shoes on - so it's a fair fight! She can't bite my knee. However, Rebecca has never learned to be polite and fake nice. She makes no pretensions as to her feelings for Jessica and it turns the town against her. I felt a tiny bit sorry for Jessica actually, at times. She was right about Rebecca being a food snob. Can't you just eat something someone made to be kind and caring even if it's not made "properly"? How many people in this world would even know that? I DO agree about tea though. That powdered stuff in bags is NOT tea. Rebecca's constant pity party got a bit on my nerves. I know how it feels to return to your hometown a failure. I get it. She's not a failure! She owns a successful business and her treats make people happy. She has a dog and nephew who adore her, a loving sister and brother-in-law and a hunky lawyer who wants to kiss her. How is that a failure? I didn't understand the narrow-mindedness of small town life and how that played into Rebecca's feelings. Coco should have stood up for Rebecca in the first place and announced her business intentions.
Rebecca also does some really stupid stuff. Technically the first time wasn't all that stupid but the next two times she got in trouble, she should have known better. She, like most cozy murder mystery heroines, hides evidence and lies to the police. This time the sheriff is her best friend and brother-in-law, so that's kind of not a good thing.
I'm also undecided about Garrett. I share his feelings towards green bean-hating toddlers. He makes Rebecca nervous but she doesn't really specify why. He seems nice and willing to help. I don't really get what he sees in Rebecca though.
This book lacks many quirky characters who make up the small town. Mostly there's Annie, who owns the flower shop and is Rebecca's friend. She seems to be Rebecca's only friend but they're not super close. There's also Barbara who owns an antiques shop and is the victim of a break-in similar to Coco's. Finally there are the panhandlers. Jared is a complex character. I like his quirkiness. His friend Tom, on the other hand, needs to be bashed on the head with a frying pan. He may even be a murderer for gosh sakes!
I enjoyed the recipes more than the plot but I'm willing to read the second book if my library gets it.
I made the mistake of starting this late last night. I stayed up until halfway through the book when I got too tired to read. The murderer is very easy to figure out. I knew who did it right away and didn't waver until about 3/4 of the way into the book. The person had the motive, the means and the opportunity. Not to mention the clues add up. All that was left was to find out how Rebecca can prove it. Sadly, she doesn't figure it out until the end. She has to be rescued by a man, so I am taking points off for that. The best part of the book is the recipes. Yuummm. As soon as it cools off, I want to try some of the popcorn recipes. I've made popcorn balls before and it isn't easy. Popcorn + fudge = YES PLEASE!
I'm undecided whether I like Rebecca. I felt sorry for her at first. Jessica is a first class *itch and I longed to slap her. I'm only 2 inches taller - with shoes on - so it's a fair fight! She can't bite my knee. However, Rebecca has never learned to be polite and fake nice. She makes no pretensions as to her feelings for Jessica and it turns the town against her. I felt a tiny bit sorry for Jessica actually, at times. She was right about Rebecca being a food snob. Can't you just eat something someone made to be kind and caring even if it's not made "properly"? How many people in this world would even know that? I DO agree about tea though. That powdered stuff in bags is NOT tea. Rebecca's constant pity party got a bit on my nerves. I know how it feels to return to your hometown a failure. I get it. She's not a failure! She owns a successful business and her treats make people happy. She has a dog and nephew who adore her, a loving sister and brother-in-law and a hunky lawyer who wants to kiss her. How is that a failure? I didn't understand the narrow-mindedness of small town life and how that played into Rebecca's feelings. Coco should have stood up for Rebecca in the first place and announced her business intentions.
Rebecca also does some really stupid stuff. Technically the first time wasn't all that stupid but the next two times she got in trouble, she should have known better. She, like most cozy murder mystery heroines, hides evidence and lies to the police. This time the sheriff is her best friend and brother-in-law, so that's kind of not a good thing.
I'm also undecided about Garrett. I share his feelings towards green bean-hating toddlers. He makes Rebecca nervous but she doesn't really specify why. He seems nice and willing to help. I don't really get what he sees in Rebecca though.
This book lacks many quirky characters who make up the small town. Mostly there's Annie, who owns the flower shop and is Rebecca's friend. She seems to be Rebecca's only friend but they're not super close. There's also Barbara who owns an antiques shop and is the victim of a break-in similar to Coco's. Finally there are the panhandlers. Jared is a complex character. I like his quirkiness. His friend Tom, on the other hand, needs to be bashed on the head with a frying pan. He may even be a murderer for gosh sakes!
I enjoyed the recipes more than the plot but I'm willing to read the second book if my library gets it.
March 4, 2016
WOW!!!! To say that I loved this book is an understatement. Kristi Abbott is a new author for me and I'm very excited to have finally found her! This book had it all! The main character is sassy, opinionated, strong AND she's a whiz with one of my favorite snacks. What more could you ask for? The love and dedication Rebecca (the main character) had to the victim (Coco) is very touching and Ms. Abbott has a unique ability to "suck you in" to the story line and you want to cry right along with Rebecca for her loss. The characters are wonderful and easy to envision having a relationship with. I was easily transported to the town of Grand Lake, OH. I love the quirky theme, A Popcorn Shop Mystery. How unique is that??? This is a great series and I look forward to future books in this lineup.
July 21, 2016
First in a series.
I was skeptical about this book. The cozy market is flooded with books about any tiny niche you can think of, and a popcorn shop was never on my radar. And I confess, I don't like popcorn. But this book surprised me.
The Whodunnit was a bit predictable, I had that part figured out from nearly the beginning, but I didn't completely know the why, so it was still a fun read. I love Sprocket and his human, Rebecca, isn't bad either, though she did come off as a bit immature. But I will say that if we never see Rebecca's ex again, that will be fine with me.
I will definitely be waiting for the next book in the series.
I was skeptical about this book. The cozy market is flooded with books about any tiny niche you can think of, and a popcorn shop was never on my radar. And I confess, I don't like popcorn. But this book surprised me.
The Whodunnit was a bit predictable, I had that part figured out from nearly the beginning, but I didn't completely know the why, so it was still a fun read. I love Sprocket and his human, Rebecca, isn't bad either, though she did come off as a bit immature. But I will say that if we never see Rebecca's ex again, that will be fine with me.
I will definitely be waiting for the next book in the series.
April 3, 2018
A few years ago, I tried to find a cozy mystery series to start reading. I read a few different books but didn't like what I read, so I gave up on them. I looked on Goodreads again recently to see if I had any luck finding another cozy to read. Kernel of Truth kept me entertained, wanting to find out how the story would end, and wanting to read more of the series.
I would have enjoyed the book more if the main character would have been more positive about herself and cared less of what others thought.
I appreciated the closeness and likability of the characters. I thought the idea of a popcorn shop was original. I look forward to reading more by the author.
I would have enjoyed the book more if the main character would have been more positive about herself and cared less of what others thought.
I appreciated the closeness and likability of the characters. I thought the idea of a popcorn shop was original. I look forward to reading more by the author.
March 4, 2016
Great book, I love the idea of a popcorn shop! This book is the first in a new series, full of great characters, and the recipes sound so good! I also loved the dog in the story, he was a lot of fun. I look forward to the next book!
July 8, 2017
Didn't even finish it. The main character was so annoying. Sounds silly I know but whatever.
There are too many other good books out there to read.
There are too many other good books out there to read.
April 9, 2021
Popcorn is my absolute favorite snack and I definitely couldn’t stop craving it as I devoured this cozy. This first book, in The Popcorn Shop Mystery, was full of great characters and a captivating storyline.
I loved Rebecca. She was snarky, headstrong and incredibly relatable. Not only is she trying to earn back the trust of her hometown, but she is getting over a very manipulative relationship. I liked that her divorce and ex husband played a part throughout the entire story. It was a great way to learn more about Rebecca and her past as well as believe why the locals were a touch reluctant to her return. I loved the scenes between her sister, best friend / BIL and nephew. They had that perfect mix of realistic banter. Garrett will be a great love interest!! I liked their playful flirtations and look forward to watching their relationship develop. Rebecca’s dog, Sprocket, might have stolen the show. Full of personality and a kleptomaniac, he was a great side kick and brought some good humor to several scenes.
The mystery was great. I felt Rebecca’s grief over the loss of her life long mentor and friend. That made the case seem more heartfelt to solve. The attacks on local shop owners stumped me and I honestly kept pinging between two suspects for the majority of the book.
The book does include several recipes that were mentioned throughout the story. I’ve never heard of Popcorn Fudge before. I look forward to reading the sequel and learning more about this fun cast of characters.
I loved Rebecca. She was snarky, headstrong and incredibly relatable. Not only is she trying to earn back the trust of her hometown, but she is getting over a very manipulative relationship. I liked that her divorce and ex husband played a part throughout the entire story. It was a great way to learn more about Rebecca and her past as well as believe why the locals were a touch reluctant to her return. I loved the scenes between her sister, best friend / BIL and nephew. They had that perfect mix of realistic banter. Garrett will be a great love interest!! I liked their playful flirtations and look forward to watching their relationship develop. Rebecca’s dog, Sprocket, might have stolen the show. Full of personality and a kleptomaniac, he was a great side kick and brought some good humor to several scenes.
The mystery was great. I felt Rebecca’s grief over the loss of her life long mentor and friend. That made the case seem more heartfelt to solve. The attacks on local shop owners stumped me and I honestly kept pinging between two suspects for the majority of the book.
The book does include several recipes that were mentioned throughout the story. I’ve never heard of Popcorn Fudge before. I look forward to reading the sequel and learning more about this fun cast of characters.
September 3, 2020
Rebecca has returned home to Ohio after she left her marriage and, with her culinary school background, started a popcorn shop. A dear friend who also owned the chocolate shop next door, is murdered. Rebecca and Coco are planning a business venture together, but that of course is stopped cold when Coco is found dead. Rebecca is sticking her nose into the investigation, and of course, muddling things up, including making herself look like a suspect.
This book had a lot of possibilities. As first in series, there was character development galore. Although I liked the book, there was a lot that left me feeling this is 'lather, rinse, repeat'...just another in the genre. Thus, no more than 3 stars.
What is it about old high school rivalries that have to continue into adulthood? We have that dynamic.
We sort of have a love triangle, although Rebecca's ex's feelings are not reciprocated by Rebecca. Still, he's present.
The murderer of Coco was hugely telegraphed. It was the only person possible.
We have a stubborn heroine that will not listen to reason. Who of course returns home feeling disgraced. Why doesn't anyone return to their home town feeling thrilled to be there?
While the wasn't one I wanted to put down and forget, there was really nothing new, other than possibly the Sheriff being Rebecca's bro-in-law. That was new and different. Otherwise, pretty much follows a formula.
This book had a lot of possibilities. As first in series, there was character development galore. Although I liked the book, there was a lot that left me feeling this is 'lather, rinse, repeat'...just another in the genre. Thus, no more than 3 stars.
What is it about old high school rivalries that have to continue into adulthood? We have that dynamic.
We sort of have a love triangle, although Rebecca's ex's feelings are not reciprocated by Rebecca. Still, he's present.
The murderer of Coco was hugely telegraphed. It was the only person possible.
We have a stubborn heroine that will not listen to reason. Who of course returns home feeling disgraced. Why doesn't anyone return to their home town feeling thrilled to be there?
While the wasn't one I wanted to put down and forget, there was really nothing new, other than possibly the Sheriff being Rebecca's bro-in-law. That was new and different. Otherwise, pretty much follows a formula.
May 12, 2022
A couple of years ago, cozy mysteries were my jam; I would read frequently. One of my reading challenges was to read a book with a dog on the cover; I remembered I had two cozy mysteries that, were bull's eye. I decided to go with Kernel of Truth, and the main reason is the colorfulness of the book cover, and the cozy popcorn mystery sounded delightful.
Rebecca is a feisty character who has returned to her small hometown to begin a new life after her divorce and finds people who knew her as a rebellious teenager not convinced that she's changed. She begins her popcorn treat store with enthusiasm and the encouraging support of an older lady who Kernel of Truth is a very emotional, character-driven first book of a cozy mystery series.
The mystery is very believable too and beautifully written. A little predictable but the “why” was not what I thought, and several twists made me think maybe I was wrong along the way. A surprising secret is displayed when Rebecca rushes into a situation that is not what she felt that puts her back on the main track. The theme is unique, the characters are fresh, and I hope to visit soon.
Rebecca is a feisty character who has returned to her small hometown to begin a new life after her divorce and finds people who knew her as a rebellious teenager not convinced that she's changed. She begins her popcorn treat store with enthusiasm and the encouraging support of an older lady who Kernel of Truth is a very emotional, character-driven first book of a cozy mystery series.
The mystery is very believable too and beautifully written. A little predictable but the “why” was not what I thought, and several twists made me think maybe I was wrong along the way. A surprising secret is displayed when Rebecca rushes into a situation that is not what she felt that puts her back on the main track. The theme is unique, the characters are fresh, and I hope to visit soon.
September 1, 2025
Rebecca Anderson was a trouble-making teen in the small town of Grand Lake, Ohio, on the edge of Lake Erie. She moved away and went to culinary school and then married a sexy, French restaurateur. Now after a failed marriage of 11 years, she returns home at the insistence of a dear friend and mentor, Coco. The townspeople love to gossip about and maintain that she is still a troublemaking loser. Coco encouraged her to open a gourmet popcorn shop and does well. Until Coco is murdered. With her behavior she soon becomes a suspect. Will she ever learn?
This was a disappointing read in my opinion. None of the characters, except the dog Sprocket, were likable. When Rebecca should have stood up for herself, she didn't. When she should have kept her mouth shut, she didn't. Ugh! The story was boring until about 2/3 of the way through the book.
I don't plan to go on to book 2. Not a keeper on my shelf.
This was a disappointing read in my opinion. None of the characters, except the dog Sprocket, were likable. When Rebecca should have stood up for herself, she didn't. When she should have kept her mouth shut, she didn't. Ugh! The story was boring until about 2/3 of the way through the book.
I don't plan to go on to book 2. Not a keeper on my shelf.
March 14, 2018
Rebecca had returned to her hometown after a divorce and opened up a popcorn shop next to her mentor's chocolate shop. Unfortunately, this book starts with the death of her mentor and she is pitted against Jessica (the niece) in an immature game of who can get the town to care about them the most. Jessica is winning (it helps that she never left and is involved in many things in town).
But then someone else is attacked and suddenly Rebecca is sort of a suspect (having the sheriff as a brother-in-law can be helpful) and the town's lawyer is interested (as is her ex who keeps asking her to return).
The insta-romance is a bit much and the killer was obvious, but I'll probably check out the next one.
But then someone else is attacked and suddenly Rebecca is sort of a suspect (having the sheriff as a brother-in-law can be helpful) and the town's lawyer is interested (as is her ex who keeps asking her to return).
The insta-romance is a bit much and the killer was obvious, but I'll probably check out the next one.
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