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A Cheese Shop Mystery #7
For Cheddar or Worse
In the new Cheese Shop Mystery from the Agatha Award-winning author of As Gouda as Dead, an extra-sharp tongued cheese critic is cut down during a summer cheese festival.
It’s time for the annual Cheese Festival in Providence, Ohio, and Charlotte Bessette’s cheese shop is packed with homemade specialties. Meanwhile, her friend Erin is prepping her dairy farm and inn for cheese makers, marketers, journalists, and one surprise guest—Lara Berry, pretentious cheese whiz, pompous bestselling author, and pungent critic whose extra sharp tongue can crumble a reputation.
Even though any love for Lara by her friends curdled long ago, Charlotte is surprised when the foodie is smothered to death in her room at Erin’s inn. Accusations start flying, but the one laying blame on Erin strikes Charlotte as a crock. Now, to clear her friend’s name, Charlotte has to sift through Lara’s ex-lovers, former business partners, and unforgiving enemies to find a killer before Lara’s past casts a tainted pall on the festival’s future.
RECIPES INCLUDED
It’s time for the annual Cheese Festival in Providence, Ohio, and Charlotte Bessette’s cheese shop is packed with homemade specialties. Meanwhile, her friend Erin is prepping her dairy farm and inn for cheese makers, marketers, journalists, and one surprise guest—Lara Berry, pretentious cheese whiz, pompous bestselling author, and pungent critic whose extra sharp tongue can crumble a reputation.
Even though any love for Lara by her friends curdled long ago, Charlotte is surprised when the foodie is smothered to death in her room at Erin’s inn. Accusations start flying, but the one laying blame on Erin strikes Charlotte as a crock. Now, to clear her friend’s name, Charlotte has to sift through Lara’s ex-lovers, former business partners, and unforgiving enemies to find a killer before Lara’s past casts a tainted pall on the festival’s future.
RECIPES INCLUDED
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2016
61 people are currently reading
1132 people want to read
About the author
Avery Aames
18 books593 followersAvery Aames, author of A Cheese Shop Mystery for Berkley Prime Crime, is the pseudonym for Daryl Wood Gerber. Daryl created the format for the popular sitcom, "Out of this World" and has won awards for her screenplays. She also writes short stories and suspense novels. Not one to simply read and cook, she tends to look for adventure. She has hitchhiked around Ireland by herself and she has jumped out of a perfectly good airplane.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
January 30, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Say Cheese for one last time. Seriously, I had tears in my eyes when I learned that this would be our last visit to Fromagerie Bessette. I absolutely love these characters and I will miss them dearly. Avery Aames pulls out all the stops and gives us a fabulous mystery to bring the series to a close.
Providence, Ohio is hosting their annual cheese festival. Food, music, plays and a “brain trust” for cheese makers, distributors, and journalists. The “brain trust” is being held at the Emerald Pastures Farm owned by Erin Emerald. She also has an inn where several of the participants are staying. One special surprise guest has been added to the group, Lara Berry, best selling author and food critic. She is not well liked by those who know her, her reviews have done damage throughout the industry. When she is found murdered there is no shortage of suspects but the prime one is Charlotte’s friend, Erin Emerald. Charlotte butts right into the investigation to prove her friend’s innocence.
All our favorite characters are back. Charlotte and Jordan are settling in to their married life and doing their best to mesh their very busy schedules. Charlotte’s grandmother, the mayor, is involved in almost every aspect of the festival. Her grandfather is helping out at the cheese shop while Charlotte attends the brain trust with her new hubby. Matthew and Meredith are expecting and she has been put on complete bed rest. Not an easy task for an active woman with 2 young girls in the house or the man trying to keep everything as normal as possible. Delilah and the police chief, Urso, have rekindled their relationship. And then we have all the crazy characters in town for the festival and the brain trust.
A fantastic plot full of surprises carries these characters through the pages. Interspersed between the main plots and subplots there is plenty of cheese, both tasting and food created with cheese. You will find yourself drooling. I found myself so entranced by the story I felt like I was searching out clues along with Charlotte and could almost taste the delectable treats sprinkled throughout the entire story.
I didn’t want the story to end. I slowed down my reading and tried to savor each and every interaction and step the characters took. I knew when I reached the final page there would be no more. No more Charlotte and Rebecca working together at the shop, no more Matthew picking out the perfect wine, no more Pépère sneaking pieces of cheese, no more Grand-mère and her magnificent plans for the city or the playhouse, no more Charlotte trying to get Urso to tell her things he shouldn’t, no more cheese and those amazing recipes, no more of so many things I am going to miss. I am greedy. I wanted more! The only good thing is that I will still be able to read what Avery Aames writes because she does have another series written as herself, Daryl Wood Gerber. The Cookbook Nook Mysteries are fun and fabulous too! So if like me and are saying good-bye to Charlotte and her family and friends, I hope you are saying hello to Jenna and everyone in Crystal Cove. Of course, if both series are new to you I highly recommend them all.
Say Cheese for one last time. Seriously, I had tears in my eyes when I learned that this would be our last visit to Fromagerie Bessette. I absolutely love these characters and I will miss them dearly. Avery Aames pulls out all the stops and gives us a fabulous mystery to bring the series to a close.
Providence, Ohio is hosting their annual cheese festival. Food, music, plays and a “brain trust” for cheese makers, distributors, and journalists. The “brain trust” is being held at the Emerald Pastures Farm owned by Erin Emerald. She also has an inn where several of the participants are staying. One special surprise guest has been added to the group, Lara Berry, best selling author and food critic. She is not well liked by those who know her, her reviews have done damage throughout the industry. When she is found murdered there is no shortage of suspects but the prime one is Charlotte’s friend, Erin Emerald. Charlotte butts right into the investigation to prove her friend’s innocence.
All our favorite characters are back. Charlotte and Jordan are settling in to their married life and doing their best to mesh their very busy schedules. Charlotte’s grandmother, the mayor, is involved in almost every aspect of the festival. Her grandfather is helping out at the cheese shop while Charlotte attends the brain trust with her new hubby. Matthew and Meredith are expecting and she has been put on complete bed rest. Not an easy task for an active woman with 2 young girls in the house or the man trying to keep everything as normal as possible. Delilah and the police chief, Urso, have rekindled their relationship. And then we have all the crazy characters in town for the festival and the brain trust.
A fantastic plot full of surprises carries these characters through the pages. Interspersed between the main plots and subplots there is plenty of cheese, both tasting and food created with cheese. You will find yourself drooling. I found myself so entranced by the story I felt like I was searching out clues along with Charlotte and could almost taste the delectable treats sprinkled throughout the entire story.
I didn’t want the story to end. I slowed down my reading and tried to savor each and every interaction and step the characters took. I knew when I reached the final page there would be no more. No more Charlotte and Rebecca working together at the shop, no more Matthew picking out the perfect wine, no more Pépère sneaking pieces of cheese, no more Grand-mère and her magnificent plans for the city or the playhouse, no more Charlotte trying to get Urso to tell her things he shouldn’t, no more cheese and those amazing recipes, no more of so many things I am going to miss. I am greedy. I wanted more! The only good thing is that I will still be able to read what Avery Aames writes because she does have another series written as herself, Daryl Wood Gerber. The Cookbook Nook Mysteries are fun and fabulous too! So if like me and are saying good-bye to Charlotte and her family and friends, I hope you are saying hello to Jenna and everyone in Crystal Cove. Of course, if both series are new to you I highly recommend them all.
September 7, 2021
Book 7 . Charlotte Granmere ( grandma) the mayor is having a Cheese Festival ( everything revolving cheese ) and Charlotte friend Erin is letting cheese makers stay at her inn Emerald Pasture Farm for Brain Trust that Erin and Kandise made up for chesse distributors, jourlalists and cheese makers. There was Kandase, Victor, Ryan Shayna Jordan ( Charlotte husband ) and Charlotte and a woman named Lara that was a Cheese expert. The only thing is that Lara picked fights with every single person. Victor for trying g to get every women Kandase for leaving her stranded in the town in Ohio, Shayna for having fake cheese Ryan for stealing from her and Erin for putting them in a run down inn. Then all of a sudden Lara has died. Is there all of them that hated her so much that they killed her.Charlotte and Matthew are cousins that own a Cheese Shop that their grandparents gave them. There are all kinds of cheeses and I Love cheeses. My mom used to tell me that I would become a rat if I eat to much cheese. That why I Love this series. This is the last book in this series. If you Love different cheeses you will like these books
February 15, 2019
Degna conclusione di una bella serie, anche se in questo libro mi è piaciuto di più lo svilupparsi della vita della protagonista e dei suoi amici che il giallo vero e proprio. Mi sa che questo è dovuto al fatto che ultimamente ho letto diversi libri in cui la vittima era semplicemente odiosa e quindi non ero tanto portata a cercare chi l'avesse ammazzata...
January 26, 2016
A delicious mystery, author Avery Aames is a true artisan in the cozy mystery world!
Sadly, like so many other wonderful series this past year, the Cheese Shop mysteries have some to an end with FOR CHEDDAR OR WORSE being the last. It will be missed.
Each and every chapter of FOR CHEDDAR OR WORSE made me hungry for more. Literally! Being a cheese lover, I could smell and taste every offering that was mentioned. But I also hungered for more and more if this amazing plot.
Well written, as always by author Aames, this installment of the Cheese Shop mysteries was filled with scene after scene of excitement and surprises. And not only entertaining, but as with all the other books in this series, informative.
With this last story in the series, Avery Aames has done an amazing job of letting us spend time with these wonderful characters. She has taken this series to the height of enjoyment, and given the character and readers a satisfying, if bittersweet farewell.
You’ll find the back of the book packed with yummy recipes, and there is an excerpt for GRILLING THE SUBJECT a Cookbook Nook mystery by Ms. Aames under her real name, Daryl Wood Gerber
Sadly, like so many other wonderful series this past year, the Cheese Shop mysteries have some to an end with FOR CHEDDAR OR WORSE being the last. It will be missed.
Each and every chapter of FOR CHEDDAR OR WORSE made me hungry for more. Literally! Being a cheese lover, I could smell and taste every offering that was mentioned. But I also hungered for more and more if this amazing plot.
Well written, as always by author Aames, this installment of the Cheese Shop mysteries was filled with scene after scene of excitement and surprises. And not only entertaining, but as with all the other books in this series, informative.
With this last story in the series, Avery Aames has done an amazing job of letting us spend time with these wonderful characters. She has taken this series to the height of enjoyment, and given the character and readers a satisfying, if bittersweet farewell.
You’ll find the back of the book packed with yummy recipes, and there is an excerpt for GRILLING THE SUBJECT a Cookbook Nook mystery by Ms. Aames under her real name, Daryl Wood Gerber
February 2, 2016
For Cheddar or Worse is the seventh book in the A Cheese Shop Mystery.
Charlotte and Jordan are looking forward to having a wonderful weekend at Erin Emerald's Emerald Pastures at her B&B. Erin is hosting a cheese “brain trust”, a get together of experts in the cheese and cheese making field. What was hoped to be a friendly and informative discussion on the making, marketing and of various types, fell short of its goal. Most all of the attendees seem to have an ax to grind with each other. At the first nights dinner, Lara Berry has heated discussion with everyone, other than Charlotte and Jordan. They included her former partner, Shayna, a former suitor, Victor Wolfman, Ryan Harris, a former cheese make and currently an author of books on the cheese industry and Kandice Witt, the organizer of the “brain trust.
The next morning when Lara doesn't come down to breakfast, Charlotte and Jordan and the others head to her room, once there they find the door locked. When they get the door open, they find the lifeless body of Lara in her bed, she had apparently been suffocated. Charlotte is faced with a classic “locked room” murder to help Chief Urso solve.
Another wonderful story from Aver Aames and once again, she has skillfully written into the story descriptions of various cheeses which she matches with food and drink.
Unfortunately, this is the last books in this entertaining series. I loved this series since the first book and have eagerly awaited the next. Aames has provided the reader with numerous types of cheese and recipes. As in the other books, this also has recipes included.
Charlotte and Jordan are looking forward to having a wonderful weekend at Erin Emerald's Emerald Pastures at her B&B. Erin is hosting a cheese “brain trust”, a get together of experts in the cheese and cheese making field. What was hoped to be a friendly and informative discussion on the making, marketing and of various types, fell short of its goal. Most all of the attendees seem to have an ax to grind with each other. At the first nights dinner, Lara Berry has heated discussion with everyone, other than Charlotte and Jordan. They included her former partner, Shayna, a former suitor, Victor Wolfman, Ryan Harris, a former cheese make and currently an author of books on the cheese industry and Kandice Witt, the organizer of the “brain trust.
The next morning when Lara doesn't come down to breakfast, Charlotte and Jordan and the others head to her room, once there they find the door locked. When they get the door open, they find the lifeless body of Lara in her bed, she had apparently been suffocated. Charlotte is faced with a classic “locked room” murder to help Chief Urso solve.
Another wonderful story from Aver Aames and once again, she has skillfully written into the story descriptions of various cheeses which she matches with food and drink.
Unfortunately, this is the last books in this entertaining series. I loved this series since the first book and have eagerly awaited the next. Aames has provided the reader with numerous types of cheese and recipes. As in the other books, this also has recipes included.
February 2, 2016
Daryl Wood Gerber, writing as AVERY AAMES, has done it again! FOR CHEDDAR OR WORSE is brilliant! Shades of Agatha Christie brilliant! We have a classic, closed room murder and a slew of suspects, each of whom hated the victim enough to kill her.
Charlotte Bessette (now Pace) and her hunky husband Jordan are staying at an inn on a local farm specializing in Cheddar. They're taking part in an event connected with Providence, Ohio's annual Cheese Festival. Everyone in attendance is surprised (and a little repulsed) by the appearance of a famous but despicable cheese critic who takes off running with her signature insults and elitism. Small wonder when she is found murdered, but who did it and how?
For fans of the Cheese Shop Mystery series, this 7th offering will not disappoint. All the familiar beloved (or not so much) characters are back, as well as a whole platter full of attendees to the Festival. This is a MUST READ for all cozy mystery lovers; heck for all readers, period!
Charlotte Bessette (now Pace) and her hunky husband Jordan are staying at an inn on a local farm specializing in Cheddar. They're taking part in an event connected with Providence, Ohio's annual Cheese Festival. Everyone in attendance is surprised (and a little repulsed) by the appearance of a famous but despicable cheese critic who takes off running with her signature insults and elitism. Small wonder when she is found murdered, but who did it and how?
For fans of the Cheese Shop Mystery series, this 7th offering will not disappoint. All the familiar beloved (or not so much) characters are back, as well as a whole platter full of attendees to the Festival. This is a MUST READ for all cozy mystery lovers; heck for all readers, period!
September 1, 2020
It's always bittersweet to read the last book in a good series and this was no exception. I enjoyed the mystery and it kept me guessing right up to the reveal. I was right there with Charlotte as she suspected everyone. I liked how everything wrapped up at the end and I'm happy for all the characters and what will be happening next for them (just wish I got to read about it). Recipes are included at the end.
February 27, 2016
Review: FOR CHEDDAR OR WORSE by Avery Ames
A truly delightful crafty cozy series continues! FOR CHEDDAR OR WORSE is 7th in Avery Ames' wonderful A Cheese Shop Mystery series. There is probably no food I love more than cheese, in all its ramifications, so I am delighted to discover this series, centered on "Fromagerie Bessette," the cheese-and-wine shop of Providence, Ohio. I've often explained that I enjoy Craft Cozies for the opportunity to learn about crafts. In this series, the educational factor is cheese. How delicious!
Charlotte Bessette is the current proprietor of "Fromagerie Bessette," the shop founded by the grandparents who raised her. Her grandmother, town mayor, institutes a week-long annual Cheese Festival. When the go-to expert for cheese and wine breezes in unexpectedly, almost everybody is ecstatic. Almost--someone is not happy, and determines the expert won't be leaving town--alive. When Charlotte' s friend Erin, dairy farmer and B&B owner, is automatically suspected, Charlotte leaps to investigate.
A truly delightful crafty cozy series continues! FOR CHEDDAR OR WORSE is 7th in Avery Ames' wonderful A Cheese Shop Mystery series. There is probably no food I love more than cheese, in all its ramifications, so I am delighted to discover this series, centered on "Fromagerie Bessette," the cheese-and-wine shop of Providence, Ohio. I've often explained that I enjoy Craft Cozies for the opportunity to learn about crafts. In this series, the educational factor is cheese. How delicious!
Charlotte Bessette is the current proprietor of "Fromagerie Bessette," the shop founded by the grandparents who raised her. Her grandmother, town mayor, institutes a week-long annual Cheese Festival. When the go-to expert for cheese and wine breezes in unexpectedly, almost everybody is ecstatic. Almost--someone is not happy, and determines the expert won't be leaving town--alive. When Charlotte' s friend Erin, dairy farmer and B&B owner, is automatically suspected, Charlotte leaps to investigate.
February 1, 2016
I am sad to see this series come to an end. Like a good cheese, this series has aged well.
The characters are familiar and like dear friends that you always enjoy a visit. As one comes to expect from Ms. Aames, the book was well-written with descriptions that had me in the middle of the action.
Although I am sad that we won't be visiting the Fromagerie Bessette again, it's a shop with an owner that we won't easily forget.
Note: I was provided a copy with no expectation of a positive review.
The characters are familiar and like dear friends that you always enjoy a visit. As one comes to expect from Ms. Aames, the book was well-written with descriptions that had me in the middle of the action.
Although I am sad that we won't be visiting the Fromagerie Bessette again, it's a shop with an owner that we won't easily forget.
Note: I was provided a copy with no expectation of a positive review.
April 19, 2016
Interesting start but towards the middle it was a bit boring. I like the recipes in the back of the book with notes from each character.
June 18, 2023
This was the last book in the series, and I found that the series started lagging towards the last few books. I really liked the first book, but the rest of the books in the series weren’t as good.
By the middle book in the series, Charlotte is engaged to Jordan, but I don’t remember him proposing in the previous book. It felt like they were starting to date then they were engaged by the next book.
The mystery in this book ok. It didn’t really grab my attention.
By the middle book in the series, Charlotte is engaged to Jordan, but I don’t remember him proposing in the previous book. It felt like they were starting to date then they were engaged by the next book.
The mystery in this book ok. It didn’t really grab my attention.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2025
The book was an easy read with lots of cheese information since the main character is at a cheese conference with her husband in her hometown when a murder happens.
March 1, 2016
I always know when I pick up one of Avery Aames (aka Daryl Wood Gerber) books I’m in for a treat with a wonderful story and great recipes to choose from. I wasn’t disappointed when I read FOR CHEDDAR OR WORSE, the seventh book in A Cheese Shop Mystery series.
The story begins a few months after Fromagerie Bessette cheese shop owner, Charlotte Bessette, marries Jordan Pace. Charlotte and Jordan are both attending a “Brain Trust” for cheese makers. The conference is being held at their friend, Erin’s, cheese making farm. Half of the twenty attendees are staying at the inn located on Erin’s property, including Charlotte and Jordan. The surprise attendee who shows up is none other than famous Lara Berry, an author who specializes in reviewing and writing about cheese, farms and wine. Lara, instead of being the polite nice person she portrays on television, is rude and insulting to some of those attending.
During dinner Lara verbally berates Erin for her run down farm and inn. But when Lara crosses the line and starts belittling Erin’s autistic brother, Erin becomes very angry. The next morning Lara does not appear for breakfast so Charlotte and Jordan decide to check on her. When she doesn’t answer their knocks on the inn’s bedroom door, Jordan breaks down the locked door and finds the arrogant author…dead. The police quickly determine it was murder but no one can figure out how the killer entered the room. The door was locked with a deadbolt in place and the only window on her third floor room was painted shut.
When a guest mentions she heard a violin plucked during the night in Lara’s room, the police find that Erin has an extremely valuable violin locked in her closet. Since she’s the only one with a violin, ugly accusations of murder are soon flying at Erin. Charlotte is pulled into seeking answers to clear her gentle friend’s name with the hopes that the investigation will not prove detrimental to Erin’s business and to her autistic brother. When a large piece of wooden balcony almost falls on top of her, Charlotte has to step up her investigation before she becomes the victim.
It is always a pleasure to go back and visit quaint Providence, Ohio with it’s festivals dreamed up by Charlotte’s Grandmère, who is the town’s mayor. Avery’s descriptions of the town, the shops and the people make you feel like you’ve visited there before and makes you feel welcome when you come back. I love how the author provides wonderful cheese suggestions…it makes my mouth water and makes me want to find a shop just like Fromagerie Bessette. The story had me hooked from the very beginning and kept me guessing up until the very end with a complete surprise that I never saw coming!
The story begins a few months after Fromagerie Bessette cheese shop owner, Charlotte Bessette, marries Jordan Pace. Charlotte and Jordan are both attending a “Brain Trust” for cheese makers. The conference is being held at their friend, Erin’s, cheese making farm. Half of the twenty attendees are staying at the inn located on Erin’s property, including Charlotte and Jordan. The surprise attendee who shows up is none other than famous Lara Berry, an author who specializes in reviewing and writing about cheese, farms and wine. Lara, instead of being the polite nice person she portrays on television, is rude and insulting to some of those attending.
During dinner Lara verbally berates Erin for her run down farm and inn. But when Lara crosses the line and starts belittling Erin’s autistic brother, Erin becomes very angry. The next morning Lara does not appear for breakfast so Charlotte and Jordan decide to check on her. When she doesn’t answer their knocks on the inn’s bedroom door, Jordan breaks down the locked door and finds the arrogant author…dead. The police quickly determine it was murder but no one can figure out how the killer entered the room. The door was locked with a deadbolt in place and the only window on her third floor room was painted shut.
When a guest mentions she heard a violin plucked during the night in Lara’s room, the police find that Erin has an extremely valuable violin locked in her closet. Since she’s the only one with a violin, ugly accusations of murder are soon flying at Erin. Charlotte is pulled into seeking answers to clear her gentle friend’s name with the hopes that the investigation will not prove detrimental to Erin’s business and to her autistic brother. When a large piece of wooden balcony almost falls on top of her, Charlotte has to step up her investigation before she becomes the victim.
It is always a pleasure to go back and visit quaint Providence, Ohio with it’s festivals dreamed up by Charlotte’s Grandmère, who is the town’s mayor. Avery’s descriptions of the town, the shops and the people make you feel like you’ve visited there before and makes you feel welcome when you come back. I love how the author provides wonderful cheese suggestions…it makes my mouth water and makes me want to find a shop just like Fromagerie Bessette. The story had me hooked from the very beginning and kept me guessing up until the very end with a complete surprise that I never saw coming!
January 31, 2016
For Cheddar or Worse is the 7th book in the Cheese Shop Mystery series by Avery Aames. Charlotte Bessette’s cheese and wine shop, "Fromagerie Bessette," in Providence, Ohio is filled with homemade specialties in preparation for the annual Cheese Festival. Charlotte’s grandmother, town mayor, cheese and wine expert extraordinaire has instituted an annual Cheese Festival and is present for the festivities to the delight of many, but not everybody. Charlotte’s friend, Erin has prepared her dairy farm and inn (a Bed & Breakfast) for cheese makers, marketers, journalists. Among her guests is, Lara Berry, an imperious, overbearing, pontifical, grandiose, pretentious, arrogant , haughty, conceited, egotistic, condescending, patronizing, self-proclaimed cheese expert, and renowned, best-selling author. Erin becomes the primary suspect finds when Lara Berry is found dead at her inn. Charlotte is determined to investigate and clear her friend from all suspicion. Unfortunately for Charlotte, the list of potential suspects is extensive.
The characters are fully developed friends you’d like to meet. The setting is wonderfully described so the reader has the feeling of “being there” to appreciate the sights, sounds and smells (especially of the delicious cheeses). Ms. Aames has crafted a tight plot with numerous twists and turns. This is the third book that I have read from this series, and, I believe it is the best. Ms. Aames crafted a wonderful ending to this series.
Unfortunately, like so many other wonderful series recently, the Cheese Shop mysteries has come to an end with the publication of For Cheddar or Worse. There is an expression, “All good things must come to an end.” I wish this series wasn’t one of them! The end of the book is filled with delicious recipes (the Caramel Cheesecake is delectable), and there is an excerpt from Grilling the Subject a Cookbook Nook mystery by Ms. Aames a.k.a. Daryl Wood Gerber which will be published August 2, 2016. If you enjoy a superbly written cozy mystery, this entertaining, informative book is one you don’t want to miss.
Full Disclosure – An ARC copy of this book was given to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
The characters are fully developed friends you’d like to meet. The setting is wonderfully described so the reader has the feeling of “being there” to appreciate the sights, sounds and smells (especially of the delicious cheeses). Ms. Aames has crafted a tight plot with numerous twists and turns. This is the third book that I have read from this series, and, I believe it is the best. Ms. Aames crafted a wonderful ending to this series.
Unfortunately, like so many other wonderful series recently, the Cheese Shop mysteries has come to an end with the publication of For Cheddar or Worse. There is an expression, “All good things must come to an end.” I wish this series wasn’t one of them! The end of the book is filled with delicious recipes (the Caramel Cheesecake is delectable), and there is an excerpt from Grilling the Subject a Cookbook Nook mystery by Ms. Aames a.k.a. Daryl Wood Gerber which will be published August 2, 2016. If you enjoy a superbly written cozy mystery, this entertaining, informative book is one you don’t want to miss.
Full Disclosure – An ARC copy of this book was given to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
February 15, 2016
I love this series even though I haven't read many books in it...yet. The books I did read I remembered loving so when I found out this was the last one in the series I knew I needed to read it.
There's a cheese festival aka as a brain trust for cheese makers in Providence,Ohio. Charlotte Bessette is very busy at her chesse shop,Fromagerie Bessette gearing up for it. It will be taking place at Charlotte's friend, Erin's cheese farm that makes award winning cheese.
Included are many guests that have occupations in the cheese world that will be attending but when Lara Berry shows up surprising everyone in the group or so they thought. Lara is a concieted, arrogant cheese expert and she's not shy to let everyone know it especially as she rants and raves at everyone at the brain trust telling them how she really feels.
As a reader, It was no surprise but to Charlotte it is always shocking when when Lara is found dead in her room at Erin's inn on her farm, smothered to death. It seems that everyone at the brain trust has a motive to want Lara dead. Charlotte soon takes it upon herself to find the person that really had it in for Lara after her friend, Erin becomes the number one suspect but could she have done it?. It seems Lara has a history with everyone there and a history filled with betrayal and distrust. Charlotte must find the killer to save her friend, her future and the Cheese festival.
The most delicious A Cheese Shop Mystery ever. An enticing and ooey and gooey plot. So sorry this will be the last book in the series but very happy there"s books I need to catch up on. Author Avery Aames must do her home work because the cheeses she mentions are good enough to eat and described beautifully. For Cheddar or Worse is the perfect end to a savory and entertaining mystery series.
Food,romance, mystery what's not to savor? !!!
FTC Disclosure Thank you to the publisher and/or author for providing us with a copy of this book for review.This did not influence our thoughts in any way. All the opinions of the book and review are honest and our own.
There's a cheese festival aka as a brain trust for cheese makers in Providence,Ohio. Charlotte Bessette is very busy at her chesse shop,Fromagerie Bessette gearing up for it. It will be taking place at Charlotte's friend, Erin's cheese farm that makes award winning cheese.
Included are many guests that have occupations in the cheese world that will be attending but when Lara Berry shows up surprising everyone in the group or so they thought. Lara is a concieted, arrogant cheese expert and she's not shy to let everyone know it especially as she rants and raves at everyone at the brain trust telling them how she really feels.
As a reader, It was no surprise but to Charlotte it is always shocking when when Lara is found dead in her room at Erin's inn on her farm, smothered to death. It seems that everyone at the brain trust has a motive to want Lara dead. Charlotte soon takes it upon herself to find the person that really had it in for Lara after her friend, Erin becomes the number one suspect but could she have done it?. It seems Lara has a history with everyone there and a history filled with betrayal and distrust. Charlotte must find the killer to save her friend, her future and the Cheese festival.
The most delicious A Cheese Shop Mystery ever. An enticing and ooey and gooey plot. So sorry this will be the last book in the series but very happy there"s books I need to catch up on. Author Avery Aames must do her home work because the cheeses she mentions are good enough to eat and described beautifully. For Cheddar or Worse is the perfect end to a savory and entertaining mystery series.
Food,romance, mystery what's not to savor? !!!
FTC Disclosure Thank you to the publisher and/or author for providing us with a copy of this book for review.This did not influence our thoughts in any way. All the opinions of the book and review are honest and our own.
January 31, 2016
For Cheddar or Worse by Avery Aames
The Seventh Cheese Shop Mystery
Charlotte is adjusting nicely to life as Charlotte Bessette Pace. The fact that she and her husband, Jordan, are staying at a local inn for the duration of the cheese convention (AKA Brain Trust) works as an ongoing honeymoon. While the cheese professionals are kept busy learning and sharing information at the Brain Trust, tourists and locals are filling the streets of Providence to celebrate the annual Cheese Festival. Things are not all cheesy goodness, however. a well known, and as it turns out NOT well loved, celebrity arrives unexpectedly and clashes begin to occur.
Aames explores the locked room mystery in For Cheddar or Worse, making the mystery even more challenging to solve. Not only do we have to figure out who killed Lara in her room, but how did the killer gain access as the door was locked from the inside and the windows sealed shut with paint! Adding to the puzzle are the many suspects, each of whom had ample reason to kill the victim. Heck, even I wanted to kill Lara after her scene in the dining room!
This seventh book in the Cheese Shop Mystery series continues to delight. In For Cheddar or Worse we're given a complex mystery filled with interesting and fun filled facts about cheese. The lives of the main characters are changing and there's a sense of rebirth as things in Providence seem to come full circle.
Recipes included.
The Seventh Cheese Shop Mystery
Charlotte is adjusting nicely to life as Charlotte Bessette Pace. The fact that she and her husband, Jordan, are staying at a local inn for the duration of the cheese convention (AKA Brain Trust) works as an ongoing honeymoon. While the cheese professionals are kept busy learning and sharing information at the Brain Trust, tourists and locals are filling the streets of Providence to celebrate the annual Cheese Festival. Things are not all cheesy goodness, however. a well known, and as it turns out NOT well loved, celebrity arrives unexpectedly and clashes begin to occur.
Aames explores the locked room mystery in For Cheddar or Worse, making the mystery even more challenging to solve. Not only do we have to figure out who killed Lara in her room, but how did the killer gain access as the door was locked from the inside and the windows sealed shut with paint! Adding to the puzzle are the many suspects, each of whom had ample reason to kill the victim. Heck, even I wanted to kill Lara after her scene in the dining room!
This seventh book in the Cheese Shop Mystery series continues to delight. In For Cheddar or Worse we're given a complex mystery filled with interesting and fun filled facts about cheese. The lives of the main characters are changing and there's a sense of rebirth as things in Providence seem to come full circle.
Recipes included.
February 4, 2016
Charlotte, the owner of Fromagerie Bessette, and her husband Jordan are looking forward to a few days at their friend Erin's dairy farm and inn immersing themselves in the cheese making process with other cheese makers, and others involved in the world of cheese. A "special guest" arrives in the form of Lara Berry, one of the area's most prestigious authorities on cheese and its producers. Charlotte, especially is excited about learning all she can from "people in the know", especially one as famous as Lara Berry. Charlotte and Jordan soon learn that Lara is not a very nice person, and has actually ruined reputations with her nasty reviews of cheese producing farms that she feels are not up to her exacting standards. After an especially nasty set to between Lara and other members of the group, Lara is found dead in her locked room. Erin, who was Lara's main target for criticism the night before becomes the prime suspect in Lara's murder. It's up to Charlotte to discover who wanted Lara dead. Everyone seems to have had a beef with Lara, including Lara's former partner, who was left almost bankrupt when Lara dissolved the partnership. Or could it be Victor, Lara's former lover? Charlotte will do anything to help Erin, including tracking down a dangerous killer! This was my first Cheese Shop mystery and I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
I received this book free from the author for a fair and honest review.
I received this book free from the author for a fair and honest review.
February 2, 2016
I received the book For Cheddar or Worse for free through Cozy mystery review crew. This is the last book in the series. I am sad that it is the last book, it has made me feel like I was in the town of Providence Ohio. I love the idea of the cheese shop and love learning about cheeses. The book starts out that it's time for the annual Cheese Festival. Meanwhile, her friend Erin is prepping her dairy farm and inn for the "brain trust" I thoroughly enjoyed Charlotte and her friends and family. I found some of the quiches and sandwiches the author mentioned very interesting and unique. I recommend this book to everyone who is a foodie and a non foodie. It's a great way to escape for an afternoon especially if you are in a snowstorm and stuck in the house. I am going to miss this series because I enjoyed the characters and started caring about them.
I wasn't able to figure out the murderer Avery Aames kept me guessing till the end. I usually am very good about figuring out who the murderer is but in this one I couldn't. I feel like I stepped into Providence Ohio and it makes me want to eat all the cheeses and recipes Avery describes. So if you want to escape to a lovely town for an afternoon of food, cheese, and wine this is the book to read. So get a glass of wine or a bottle and some cheese and enjoy the last book in this series.
I wasn't able to figure out the murderer Avery Aames kept me guessing till the end. I usually am very good about figuring out who the murderer is but in this one I couldn't. I feel like I stepped into Providence Ohio and it makes me want to eat all the cheeses and recipes Avery describes. So if you want to escape to a lovely town for an afternoon of food, cheese, and wine this is the book to read. So get a glass of wine or a bottle and some cheese and enjoy the last book in this series.
July 11, 2017
The annual cheese festival is currently underway leaving everyone quite busy. Not only is there an increase in tourist, but the local B&B is hosting a cheese convention. In attendance are farmers, makers, sellers, journalists and one rather dislikable critic and best selling author. It's no surprise when she becomes Providence's latest murder mystery. Charlotte jumps at the chance to start her own investigation when her good friend lands at the top of the suspect list.
This was a really good mystery that definitely kept me guessing and second guessing my suspect list. There were a lot of characters at the scene of the crime so there were plenty of clues to work through. They all had ample reason for wanting to harm the victim. I was even ready to punch her after her outburst during that dinner scene. I was especially intrigued by Erin's autistic brother and how he reacted to the murder. I also liked that the scene of the crime took place within a locked room. That was a good twist!!
I'm sad to see this series come to an end. I've enjoyed each visit with Charlotte and the residents of Providence. I may miss Grandpere the most! It ended good and the author wrapped up all of the storylines nicely amongst the main cast. I'm not a big fan of cheese, but I have loved the descriptions. I will definitely keep my eye out for the author's new series.
This was a really good mystery that definitely kept me guessing and second guessing my suspect list. There were a lot of characters at the scene of the crime so there were plenty of clues to work through. They all had ample reason for wanting to harm the victim. I was even ready to punch her after her outburst during that dinner scene. I was especially intrigued by Erin's autistic brother and how he reacted to the murder. I also liked that the scene of the crime took place within a locked room. That was a good twist!!
I'm sad to see this series come to an end. I've enjoyed each visit with Charlotte and the residents of Providence. I may miss Grandpere the most! It ended good and the author wrapped up all of the storylines nicely amongst the main cast. I'm not a big fan of cheese, but I have loved the descriptions. I will definitely keep my eye out for the author's new series.
February 4, 2016
Charlotte is passionate about cheese which is why she's excited to be part of the Brain Trust event that is taking place at Emerald Pastures Farm. Also, she is happy to get some alone time with her new husband. Unfortunately her plans are destined for failure. Lara Berry, a renowned wine and cheese expert, arrives and unhappiness ensues. She argues and insults everyone. She has a talent for making enemies. When she's murdered, everyone is a suspect. When the police focus on Erin as the killer, Charlotte is determined to find the truth. After all she has a talent for investigating. I love Charlotte with her fiery determination and her sleuthing ability. She is dedicated to family and friends. Jordan, her husband, is loving and supportive. They are a perfect couple. There are a stellar cast of secondary characters. They provide their love and support to our heroine. Providence is peaceful and bucolic. It's the perfect backdrop for murder. This cozy mystery had plenty of suspects who had a reason to kill Lara. I was kept guessing until the very end. For Cheddar or Worse is an exciting story with the added bonus of delicious recipes. I'm a fan of this author and her Cheese Shop Mystery series.
February 2, 2016
For Cheddar or Worse is the seventh installment in the Cheese Shop Mystery series. Providence, Ohio is the setting for the annual Cheese Festival and Charlotte and her new husband Jordan have agreed to participate in a "brain trust" for cheese makers. Renowned cheese expert Lara Berry joins the group unexpectedly and all are surprised and disgusted by her sarcastic and mean comments aimed at the other participants. It appears that several of those gathered have had run-ins or complicated history with Lara. When Charlotte finds Lara dead, it is her friend Erin who seems to be the most likely suspect. Charlotte does not believe Erin can be guilty of murder and once again finds herself involved in interviewing the key players in an effort to figure out the truth and reveal the real murderer. The story is interspersed with interesting facts about all kinds of gourmet cheeses, and the recipes at the end of the book are a real bonus. For Cheddar or Worse is a well written cozy mystery, with a cast of characters that enhance the story, as well as make it difficult to guess who the real murderer might be
I received this book in return for an honest review.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
February 9, 2016
Providence is hosting its first annual Cheese Festival, and several people involved in making and selling cheese are coming together to share ideas on the process. Newlyweds Charlotte and Jordan are excited to be a part of it – until Lara Berry shows up. Lara’s public persona hides a truly nasty person underneath, and she is murdered after telling the rest of the group exactly what she thinks of them. Can Charlotte figure out who actually killed Lara?
This book had some of the most intense scenes in the series, although I did feel the plot got a little sidetracked a couple of times. Still, it built up to a logical and exciting climax. Unfortunately, this is the last book in the series, but the author has done a good job of wrapping things up for those of us who are fans. That’s wonderful since these characters have always been strong, and they continue to be strong here.
NOTE: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This book had some of the most intense scenes in the series, although I did feel the plot got a little sidetracked a couple of times. Still, it built up to a logical and exciting climax. Unfortunately, this is the last book in the series, but the author has done a good job of wrapping things up for those of us who are fans. That’s wonderful since these characters have always been strong, and they continue to be strong here.
NOTE: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
February 5, 2016
A fantastic addition to the series. The characters were even more well written. The mystery was a locked room mystery that truly had me wondering and I didn't guess the murdered until the end. Bravo!!
Each book in this series has been good, this one was excellent. As usual, reading this book made me crave all kids of different cheeses. Beware, you will come away hungry. :)
I love the relationships that have developed through the books in this series. Familial relationships that have deepened, friendships that have become stronger, and romances that have come to fruition all seem so realistic and true to life.
If you like this series I suggest that you also read the Cookbook Nook series, it is written by the same author but that one is written under her real name Daryl Wood Gerber.
Wonderful books.
Each book in this series has been good, this one was excellent. As usual, reading this book made me crave all kids of different cheeses. Beware, you will come away hungry. :)
I love the relationships that have developed through the books in this series. Familial relationships that have deepened, friendships that have become stronger, and romances that have come to fruition all seem so realistic and true to life.
If you like this series I suggest that you also read the Cookbook Nook series, it is written by the same author but that one is written under her real name Daryl Wood Gerber.
Wonderful books.
January 31, 2016
For Cheddar or Worse by Avery Aames
#7 Cheese Shop, 2016, Berkley Prime Crime
Erin Emerald is hosting the annual Cheese Festival at her farm in Providence, Ohio. While most are excited that Lara Berry, the home-town girl who made it big has returned home for the festival, others are uneasy to say the least. After Lara disrupts the opening day's events by trashing her former business partner, then the host and her brother as well as several other small cheese producers, more than a few whish she would have stayed away. When she is murdered, the question becomes, which one of those wanted her dead?
Sadly, this is the last book planned for this series. While the author knew this would be the last of the Cheese Shop mysteries and was able to tie things up nicely for readers, there is a little wiggle room left for Charlotte and crew to possibly returnor maybe that's just my wishful thinking.
#7 Cheese Shop, 2016, Berkley Prime Crime
Erin Emerald is hosting the annual Cheese Festival at her farm in Providence, Ohio. While most are excited that Lara Berry, the home-town girl who made it big has returned home for the festival, others are uneasy to say the least. After Lara disrupts the opening day's events by trashing her former business partner, then the host and her brother as well as several other small cheese producers, more than a few whish she would have stayed away. When she is murdered, the question becomes, which one of those wanted her dead?
Sadly, this is the last book planned for this series. While the author knew this would be the last of the Cheese Shop mysteries and was able to tie things up nicely for readers, there is a little wiggle room left for Charlotte and crew to possibly returnor maybe that's just my wishful thinking.
February 7, 2016
If you are looking for a fun read for the weekend, this book is for you. I had not previously read any of the books in the Cheese Shop Series, and I would recommend reading the other books in the series. The main characters in the book, Charlotte, and her husband, Jordan, are newlyweds and are looking forward to some time to themselves, but also learning more about their chosen profession of making and selling cheese. Life gets interesting for these two when, during the conference, Lara Berry, a surprise guest, who is also very well known in the world of cheese-making, is found murdered in her locked room, at the cheese farm & inn, that her best friend, Erin, runs. It's up to Charlotte and Jordan, to discover who wanted Lara dead and why Erin is being framed for the murder. I received this book free, from the author, for a fair and honest review.
February 25, 2016
Avery Aames/Daryl Wood Gerber's descriptive writing style helps you to smell the smells and see the displays at Charlotte Bessette's Cheese Shop in Providence, Ohio. I love all of Aames/Gerber's series and they all make me hungry and wanting to live in the towns, so I can visit the shops. In this installment of this wonderful series, it is time for the Cheese Festival. Charlotte's friend Erin the dairy farm and inn owner finds herself as a suspect when a foodie author, critic is found dead at her inn. Charlotte has to sort through it all to clear her friends name. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the plot is well written, I love the characters and I think this is my favorite one so far of this series.
February 6, 2016
Charlotte Bissette runs the local cheese shop in Providence, Ohio. Her husband Jordan is now running the White Horse Restaurant. Her grandmother is a mayor of the town. They are having a cheese festival. There is also a brain trust being held at Erin's farm and B&B. The surprise guest is Lara Berry. She seems to aggravate everyone she sees. One day Lara is found dead. The room is locked from the inside and the window is sealed shut. The police chief Uuey is trying to figure out who killed her. Charlotte is determined to help her friend Erin who is the main suspect. The story takes many twist and turns. It keeps you wondering who really did it. Was it Erin or someone else. It is a wonderful read and great cozy mystery. It is a keeper for sure.
January 29, 2016
For Cheddar or Worse is the seventh Cheese Shop Mystery written by Avery Aames. With Providence, Ohio’s annual Cheese Festival in full swing, we find Charlotte with her hands full. Not only is she busy with the festival and her cheese shop, she now must find the killer of bestselling author, Lara Berry before her friend Erin is charged for a murder Charlotte knows she didn’t commit. With the cast of characters who were also Lara’s enemies, the suspects are adding up. I thoroughly enjoyed the Avery’s latest book, and as with all of her stories, they are full of twists and surprises!
I received this book for an honest review.
I received this book for an honest review.
September 19, 2017
First off I would like to say that I am deeply disappointed that this is the final book in the series. I have grown over the past couple years and 6 books to fall in love with Charlotte and the entire cast of characters! But I should never ever doubt the fantastic and fabulous Daryl Wood Gerber/Avery Aames in telling a fantastic story as well as ending a series so well. When food critic Laura Berry is found dead, Charlotte must clear her friend Erin's name! I was with Charlotte every step of the way and enjoyed all the cheese references as usual. We will miss reading about Charlotte but hopefully will come across her at another time in another series!!!!!
January 27, 2016
I love the Cheese Shop series by Avery Aames. Every time I read one of these books I feel like I have stepped into Bessette’s cheese shop and Providence. It is time for the Cheese Festival. Charlotte's friend Erin,the dairy farm and inn owner,finds herself as a suspect when a foodie author and critic, Lara Berry is found dead at her inn. Charlotte does what she does best and tries to find the real killer and clear her friend. I loved the book. The plot is well written as always and the characters feel like old friends. I can't wait for the next book.
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