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Cookies & Chance Mystery #2
Baked to Death
From #1 bestselling culinary cozy mystery author Catherine Bruns comes the next delightfully delicious Cookies & Chance Mystery...
Baker turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Sally Muccio’s, finally found the happiness that’s eluded her for years. She’s in love with a great guy, her bakery is thriving, and now she and her best friend Josie Sullivan are gearing up to appear on the popular reality baking show, Cookie Crusades. But a visit from Sal’s greedy ex-husband Colin, who's looking to cash in on the bakery’s dough, changes everything. Within a few hours Sal’s world—like the shop’s original fortune cookies—is broken apart when Colin turns up dead, and her boyfriend’s arrested for the crime. Now Sal’s mixing it up with vengeful ex-inlaws, a suspicious new employee, slippery baking competitors, and a greasy mobster who’ll stop at nothing to collect on Colin’s unpaid debt. Can Sal prove her man is innocent in time? Or is she about to get baked herself?
**Recipes Included!**
The Cookies & Chance Mysteries:
Tastes Like Murder (book #1)
Baked to Death (book #2)
A Spot of Murder (short story in the "Killer Beach Reads" collection)
Baker turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Sally Muccio’s, finally found the happiness that’s eluded her for years. She’s in love with a great guy, her bakery is thriving, and now she and her best friend Josie Sullivan are gearing up to appear on the popular reality baking show, Cookie Crusades. But a visit from Sal’s greedy ex-husband Colin, who's looking to cash in on the bakery’s dough, changes everything. Within a few hours Sal’s world—like the shop’s original fortune cookies—is broken apart when Colin turns up dead, and her boyfriend’s arrested for the crime. Now Sal’s mixing it up with vengeful ex-inlaws, a suspicious new employee, slippery baking competitors, and a greasy mobster who’ll stop at nothing to collect on Colin’s unpaid debt. Can Sal prove her man is innocent in time? Or is she about to get baked herself?
**Recipes Included!**
The Cookies & Chance Mysteries:
Tastes Like Murder (book #1)
Baked to Death (book #2)
A Spot of Murder (short story in the "Killer Beach Reads" collection)
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About the author
Catherine Bruns
61 books907 followersCatherine is the USA Today bestselling author of the Cookies & Chance mysteries. She lives in Upstate New York with her very patient husband, three sons and several spoiled pets. She holds a dual B.A. in English and Performing Arts and is a former newspaper reporter and press release writer. Catherine also writes the Italian Chef, Maple Syrup, and Cindy York mysteries. Her book, For Sale by Killer, won the Daphne du Maurier award for Mainstream Mystery/Suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
June 27, 2022
A nice easy read with down to earth, relatable characters and situations. Lots of funny moments in this nicely paced mystery. Sally has an amusing family that seems to make life more entertaining. Of course, reading about it and not actually experiencing it always puts a better spin on things; living with the family is more likely exasperating than entertaining! Looking forward to reading more about Sally and her Italian family, and hoping that Grandma Rosa takes on a more prominent role in future books.
May 22, 2020
Newest Assignment Details:
Where: Colwestern, New York
Who: Sally and gang
Finding out I was going back for a visit to Colwestern, New York to see Sally and the gang was a great surprise! Although two things scared me about this trip...being around all those delicious cookies again...and well...don’t tell...but Josie. I mean I love her, but she is a little intimidating! What a first day visit...Sally was running late so I was @ the shop w/ a wound up Josie! She was bursting at the seams with news! Then we all celebrated the women’s honor of being chosen as contestants on the reality show “cookie crusaders” ...along with a trip to Florida...which is where I just came from...ironic lol. Then Yeah...im not done…. this is what I meant by “what a day”.....Colin shows up. Sally’s cheating, lazy bum of an EX-husband showed up. He seems to think he owns half the bakery...ludicrous! Then came Mitzi...gees!!!! Although I really wanted a nap at this point, we all made plans to meet up and celebrate Josie’s birthday. Colin came in and ruined that...he got rough with Sal, and in turn Mike had to get rough w/ him...and some stitches (but he’s ok). It was time to call it a night!! The next morning two police officers showed up at the door... Colin was dead...shot to death in his hotel room. Sal was looking pale, and although I knew she didn’t wish her EX-husband dead...I also knew there was more to the story. Sal informed me over a cup of coffee that she woke up around 5:30 and Mike was gone. Everything seemed to snowball quickly from there. According to police Mike had motive, and fingerprints put him in Colin’s hotel room, and he was arrested. It does sound like a “recipe” for disaster. Of course, Sal bailed Mike out...she didn’t know who killed Colin (let’s face it....it could be anyone), but she did know that it wasn’t Mike. Mike feels differently about his chances and goes on the run. Sally asks me to accompany them on the trip to Florida, and to help her prove Mike’s innocence….
My thoughts:
Another scrumptious installment to the cookies and chance series! I love everything about this series. The writing is great, Sal is written as a smart sleuth (which is a relief to me), and the mystery kept me engaged from start to finish. It was easy to be fooled...because everyone seemed to have a reason to want Colin dead. I love all the secondary characters...Grandma Rosa is hilarious, Mike, Sal’s mom and dad, Josie, and even Mrs. Gavelli!
I recommend you make yourself a cup of coffee, and one of the tasty recipes provided….I suggest “Spice Cookies w/ Pumpkin Frosting”. Make sure you give yourself a chunk of time because you won’t want to put this one down!
For more book fun check out my blog at: beachbumbookworm.com
December 10, 2017
This series comes highly recommended if you like a crazy, chuckle-worth Italian family combined with a solid mystery full of red herrings.
Grandma Rosa is a wonderful character, full of good advice, patience and love for family and friends, I wish she was my grandmother.
Sal and Josie attending a cookie baking competition in Florida was not just a fun event but also perfectly embedded into the mystery.
I enjoyed this second installment even more than the first one.
It can be read as a stand alone but for the sake of the background story it is best to read the books in order.
Grandma Rosa is a wonderful character, full of good advice, patience and love for family and friends, I wish she was my grandmother.
Sal and Josie attending a cookie baking competition in Florida was not just a fun event but also perfectly embedded into the mystery.
I enjoyed this second installment even more than the first one.
It can be read as a stand alone but for the sake of the background story it is best to read the books in order.
January 2, 2016
First off I want to thank Catherine Bruns for giving me the opportunity to read and review Baked to Death. I couldn't put it down. I love how this series is progressing. This book moves at the perfect pace to get to know all of the characters and each of the lives they lead.
This book starts out with Sal in a great place in her life. Her bakery is becoming the place to go for the best cookies. She is finally getting her love life in order, maybe she has to decide between two great guys and maybe a third??? And she and Josie have been selected to be contestants on "Cookie Crusades" that is filmed in Florida with a grand prize of $20,000. This would be awesome for business and possibly help expand.
This is where the clock strikes midnight on the Cinderella story for Sal! Her ex husband Colin shows up drunk demanding half of her bakery, they get bambozuled by a new hire that turns out to be a spy! Then Sal takes out Josie and her hubby to celebrate Josie's birthday and Colin shows up. He ends up trying to hurt Sal! If all this isn't enough to make your head spin Colin ends up murdered. Yikes!!! What is Sal going to do? She has to find a way to clean up Colin's mess with the mob before she becomes the next victim.
The more I read this series the more I fall in love with the characters. They are so down to earth and believable. We all have a Josie in our lives and hopefully a Handsome man. All this being said I have to admit my favorite character is Grandma Rosa. She totally rocks! She is not only wise but she is hilarious. I almost think she has a gift for fortune telling that the family doesn't know about. She gives the perfect advice at the perfect time. Just like the Fortune Cookies??? I am eager to watch if and when Sal let's go of the past and starts to live again.
This book starts out with Sal in a great place in her life. Her bakery is becoming the place to go for the best cookies. She is finally getting her love life in order, maybe she has to decide between two great guys and maybe a third??? And she and Josie have been selected to be contestants on "Cookie Crusades" that is filmed in Florida with a grand prize of $20,000. This would be awesome for business and possibly help expand.
This is where the clock strikes midnight on the Cinderella story for Sal! Her ex husband Colin shows up drunk demanding half of her bakery, they get bambozuled by a new hire that turns out to be a spy! Then Sal takes out Josie and her hubby to celebrate Josie's birthday and Colin shows up. He ends up trying to hurt Sal! If all this isn't enough to make your head spin Colin ends up murdered. Yikes!!! What is Sal going to do? She has to find a way to clean up Colin's mess with the mob before she becomes the next victim.
The more I read this series the more I fall in love with the characters. They are so down to earth and believable. We all have a Josie in our lives and hopefully a Handsome man. All this being said I have to admit my favorite character is Grandma Rosa. She totally rocks! She is not only wise but she is hilarious. I almost think she has a gift for fortune telling that the family doesn't know about. She gives the perfect advice at the perfect time. Just like the Fortune Cookies??? I am eager to watch if and when Sal let's go of the past and starts to live again.
September 24, 2016
I cannot say enough good things about Catherine Bruns and her Cookies & Chance Mystery series. Baked to Death is the 2nd book in this series and its even better than the first book, Tastes Like Murder.
Things are going pretty good in Sally's life. Her bakery is doing well, the bakery is in a baking competition in Florida, she is finally divorced from her lowlife husband, Colin and she is with the man she is suppose to be with, her high school sweetheart. Everything is going smoothly until Colin shows up in town demanding money, gets in a bar fight and is found dead the next morning. After the police arrest Sally's boyfriend, she will do anything to clear his name. She even does some snooping around when her and Josie are in Florida competiting in the bakery contest. The only thing Sally walks away with is that Colin had a lot of enemies and cheated on everyone, not just her.
To really appreciate the story you really need to sit down in a comfy chair and get lost in the book. Catherine will have you reading faster than you ever thought you could read, you will be sitting up straighter as you get towards the end as things unfold, and you won't be paying attention to anything around you as the killer gets closer......
And if you're not sure about this series yet, the LAST line of the book will make your decision for you ! !
Things are going pretty good in Sally's life. Her bakery is doing well, the bakery is in a baking competition in Florida, she is finally divorced from her lowlife husband, Colin and she is with the man she is suppose to be with, her high school sweetheart. Everything is going smoothly until Colin shows up in town demanding money, gets in a bar fight and is found dead the next morning. After the police arrest Sally's boyfriend, she will do anything to clear his name. She even does some snooping around when her and Josie are in Florida competiting in the bakery contest. The only thing Sally walks away with is that Colin had a lot of enemies and cheated on everyone, not just her.
To really appreciate the story you really need to sit down in a comfy chair and get lost in the book. Catherine will have you reading faster than you ever thought you could read, you will be sitting up straighter as you get towards the end as things unfold, and you won't be paying attention to anything around you as the killer gets closer......
And if you're not sure about this series yet, the LAST line of the book will make your decision for you ! !
January 9, 2016
Baked to Death proved that the Cookies and Chance series still has delightful unpredictability. I was even on the edge of my seat from page 1 trying to figure out which love interest Sal selected. The author had set them both up so well that I could see justification for Sal to select either one and be on the road to potential happiness. I wasn't disappointed in her choice of man and it complimented the story very well. Loved the reality show and Grandma Rosa is a guiding star. It's the perfect read for a rainy day or the beach. (It's addictive!). Can't wait for the next installment to see if any of the chaos from this story carries over.
August 21, 2018
Baked To Death
Cookies & Chance Mystery, Book #2
Catherine Bruns
5+ Stars
Synopsis:
From #1 bestselling culinary cozy mystery author Catherine Bruns comes the next delightfully delicious Cookies & Chance Mystery...
Baker turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Sally Muccio’s, finally found the happiness that’s eluded her for years. She’s in love with a great guy, her bakery is thriving, and now she and her best friend Josie Sullivan are gearing up to appear on the popular reality baking show, Cookie Crusades. But a visit from Sal’s greedy ex-husband Colin, who's looking to cash in on the bakery’s dough, changes everything. Within a few hours Sal’s world—like the shop’s original fortune cookies—is broken apart when Colin turns up dead, and her boyfriend’s arrested for the crime. Now Sal’s mixing it up with vengeful ex-inlaws, a suspicious new employee, slippery baking competitors, and a greasy mobster who’ll stop at nothing to collect on Colin’s unpaid debt. Can Sal prove her man is innocent in time? Or is she about to get baked herself?
**Recipes Included!**
The Cookies & Chance Mysteries:
Tastes Like Murder (book #1)
Baked to Death (book #2)
A Spot of Murder (short story in the "Killer Beach Reads" collection) (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I love getting to spend time Sally and her family and friends. Her parents crack me up, their antics are very funny. I enjoy reading about the relationship between Sally, her sister Gianna and her best friend Josie. Gianna and Sally have a special bond because of their crazy parents, and Josie and Sally will do anything for each other. And her grandmother is a wise old woman and tells it like it is. All of the characters add so much to the book and it is so much fun getting to spend time with them.
The writing style flows smoothly and it defined the characters very clearly by their actions and words. The author takes the written word and develops a story full of descriptions, humor, intrigue and love. I really enjoy the inclusion of the fortune cookies, it is a clever way to add humor and teases the reader, who wonders if the fortune will come true.
The mystery was well plotted and was carried on well throughout the entire story. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through and I did not figure it out until the reveal at the end, which makes me happy.
I would highly recommend this book (and series) to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. Give it a try and I am sure you will be happy that you did.
Cookies & Chance Mystery, Book #2
Catherine Bruns
5+ Stars
Synopsis:
From #1 bestselling culinary cozy mystery author Catherine Bruns comes the next delightfully delicious Cookies & Chance Mystery...
Baker turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Sally Muccio’s, finally found the happiness that’s eluded her for years. She’s in love with a great guy, her bakery is thriving, and now she and her best friend Josie Sullivan are gearing up to appear on the popular reality baking show, Cookie Crusades. But a visit from Sal’s greedy ex-husband Colin, who's looking to cash in on the bakery’s dough, changes everything. Within a few hours Sal’s world—like the shop’s original fortune cookies—is broken apart when Colin turns up dead, and her boyfriend’s arrested for the crime. Now Sal’s mixing it up with vengeful ex-inlaws, a suspicious new employee, slippery baking competitors, and a greasy mobster who’ll stop at nothing to collect on Colin’s unpaid debt. Can Sal prove her man is innocent in time? Or is she about to get baked herself?
**Recipes Included!**
The Cookies & Chance Mysteries:
Tastes Like Murder (book #1)
Baked to Death (book #2)
A Spot of Murder (short story in the "Killer Beach Reads" collection) (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I love getting to spend time Sally and her family and friends. Her parents crack me up, their antics are very funny. I enjoy reading about the relationship between Sally, her sister Gianna and her best friend Josie. Gianna and Sally have a special bond because of their crazy parents, and Josie and Sally will do anything for each other. And her grandmother is a wise old woman and tells it like it is. All of the characters add so much to the book and it is so much fun getting to spend time with them.
The writing style flows smoothly and it defined the characters very clearly by their actions and words. The author takes the written word and develops a story full of descriptions, humor, intrigue and love. I really enjoy the inclusion of the fortune cookies, it is a clever way to add humor and teases the reader, who wonders if the fortune will come true.
The mystery was well plotted and was carried on well throughout the entire story. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through and I did not figure it out until the reveal at the end, which makes me happy.
I would highly recommend this book (and series) to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. Give it a try and I am sure you will be happy that you did.
December 5, 2017
Since I love baking and really enjoy cozy mysteries, I figured I might like BAKED TO DEATH by Catherine Bruns. Catherine was a new author to me so I had to find out for myself if her writing could keep me interested and wanting more. She more than delivered!
You can’t help but fell in love with the town of Colwestern and it diverse group of inhabitants. Sally “Sal” Muccio reminded me of myself at times – always needing to find out the answers that, somehow or other, always seem to place one in a pickle from time to time. Added to mix, an ex-husband that she finds out was nothing like she thought. After he was killed, he leaving large debts that have mob like men after Sally to collect. Sal must prove to the cops and everyone else that her man didn’t commit this crime. During all the hair raising, page turning chapters, she keeps you guessing whodunit and pulling for Sally to win the cookie competition while under so much stress.
If you enjoy reading a good book that is full of mystery, suspense, excitement, romance, and leaves you wanting more, then I suggest you read BAKED TO DEATH. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone book. However, like me, after reading it, you will be searching for the other books in this series!
You can’t help but fell in love with the town of Colwestern and it diverse group of inhabitants. Sally “Sal” Muccio reminded me of myself at times – always needing to find out the answers that, somehow or other, always seem to place one in a pickle from time to time. Added to mix, an ex-husband that she finds out was nothing like she thought. After he was killed, he leaving large debts that have mob like men after Sally to collect. Sal must prove to the cops and everyone else that her man didn’t commit this crime. During all the hair raising, page turning chapters, she keeps you guessing whodunit and pulling for Sally to win the cookie competition while under so much stress.
If you enjoy reading a good book that is full of mystery, suspense, excitement, romance, and leaves you wanting more, then I suggest you read BAKED TO DEATH. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone book. However, like me, after reading it, you will be searching for the other books in this series!
January 26, 2016
BAKED TO DEATH is a sweet way to go…if you’re looking for a great mystery!
In this tasty installment of the Cookies & Chance mysteries, BFFs, business partners, and bakers, Sally Muccio and Josie Sullivan find themselves in the world of reality competition TV on the show, Cookie Crusades. This story also finds Sally involved in a murder that hits too close to home.
Author Catherine Bruns is an exceptional writer who knows how to keep the readers’ attention. BAKED TO DEATH was an enjoyable story from the fun beginning, through the tension packed storyline, all the way to the satisfying end.
I’m very much looking forward to a third book in this fun series!
Check out the amazing cookie recipes at the back of the book! You’ll also find an excerpt of KILLER TRANSACTION, book one in the Cindy York Mysteries, also by Catherine Bruns.
NOTE: BAKED TO DEATH is a wonderful story, but it does include some mild language. Just a little more than typically found in a cozy mystery.
In this tasty installment of the Cookies & Chance mysteries, BFFs, business partners, and bakers, Sally Muccio and Josie Sullivan find themselves in the world of reality competition TV on the show, Cookie Crusades. This story also finds Sally involved in a murder that hits too close to home.
Author Catherine Bruns is an exceptional writer who knows how to keep the readers’ attention. BAKED TO DEATH was an enjoyable story from the fun beginning, through the tension packed storyline, all the way to the satisfying end.
I’m very much looking forward to a third book in this fun series!
Check out the amazing cookie recipes at the back of the book! You’ll also find an excerpt of KILLER TRANSACTION, book one in the Cindy York Mysteries, also by Catherine Bruns.
NOTE: BAKED TO DEATH is a wonderful story, but it does include some mild language. Just a little more than typically found in a cozy mystery.
February 19, 2021
I can’t believe that I waited three years to read the second book in this fantastic series. Baked to Death was every bit as good as the first book, and then some.
Sally Muccio’s life has been progressing well. Her bakery, Sally’s Samples, is such a success that she and her best friend (and baker) Josie Sullivan, have been invited to participate in a televised Cookie Crusades competition in Florida. And she has renewed her relationship with high school sweetheart, Mike Donovan. Her contented world is jarred, however, by the appearance of her ex-husband, Colin, a despicable man who manages to disrupt her life, anger her friends, and wind up dead – all within a day. When the police hone in on Mike as the prime suspect and he flees, Sal’s relationship is put to the test. She must use all of her wits to catch a killer.
I am a big fan of Catherine Bruns’s Italian Chef series. I like its gritty realism within the context of a cozy mystery. A lot of that is found in this series as well. Sal’s life is well-rounded, and the story unfolds over a variety of settings in both New York and Florida – the bakery, the competition, suspicious in-laws, and even a “mob” plot in Florida. Sal’s struggles to make sense of Mike’s disappearance and the evidence against him are handled realistically, and her determination to find Colin’s killer is admirable. I love her family. Grandma Rosa is precious, and the subplot about her sister Gianna’s preparation to take the bar exam is woven seamlessly into the novel. The mystery itself takes several twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. And the reveal is entirely satisfying.
If Baked to Death is any indication, Catherine Bruns’s Cookies and Chance Mysteries are worth taking a chance on. And I know that I will not wait another three years to read the next book in this excellent series.
Sally Muccio’s life has been progressing well. Her bakery, Sally’s Samples, is such a success that she and her best friend (and baker) Josie Sullivan, have been invited to participate in a televised Cookie Crusades competition in Florida. And she has renewed her relationship with high school sweetheart, Mike Donovan. Her contented world is jarred, however, by the appearance of her ex-husband, Colin, a despicable man who manages to disrupt her life, anger her friends, and wind up dead – all within a day. When the police hone in on Mike as the prime suspect and he flees, Sal’s relationship is put to the test. She must use all of her wits to catch a killer.
I am a big fan of Catherine Bruns’s Italian Chef series. I like its gritty realism within the context of a cozy mystery. A lot of that is found in this series as well. Sal’s life is well-rounded, and the story unfolds over a variety of settings in both New York and Florida – the bakery, the competition, suspicious in-laws, and even a “mob” plot in Florida. Sal’s struggles to make sense of Mike’s disappearance and the evidence against him are handled realistically, and her determination to find Colin’s killer is admirable. I love her family. Grandma Rosa is precious, and the subplot about her sister Gianna’s preparation to take the bar exam is woven seamlessly into the novel. The mystery itself takes several twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. And the reveal is entirely satisfying.
If Baked to Death is any indication, Catherine Bruns’s Cookies and Chance Mysteries are worth taking a chance on. And I know that I will not wait another three years to read the next book in this excellent series.
September 23, 2020
Love, love, loved it! Catherine Bruns never disappoints
August 18, 2016
Cookie Krieg
Sally Muccio hat endlich den Mann ihres Lebens und alles andere läuft auch rund. Sie führt mit ihrer Freundin Josie eine Keksbäckerei, die sehr gut ankommt. Die beiden sind sogar für einen Backwettbewerb in einer Fernsehsendung angenommen worden. Plötzlich taucht jedoch Sallys Ex-Mann Colin auf, der an ihr Geld will. Colin ist drogenabhängig und er hat Schulden gemacht. Wie er an Geld kommt, ist ihm fast egal. Und einen Tag später ist er tot. Der Verdacht fällt auf Sallys neuen Freund Mike. Wie perfekt war das Leben vor einem Moment und nun muss Sally alles dafür tun, um Mikes Unschuld zu beweisen.
Ein Kuschelkrimi wie er im Buche steht. Manchmal ein wenig sehr gefühlvoll reagiert Sally. Zum Glück hat sie ihre Großmutter, die sie mit viel Großmutterwitz und etlichen Versprechern wieder auf den Boden der Tatsachen holt. Vertrauen soll Sally haben, in die Welt und ihren Freund und überhaupt. Das ist manchmal nicht so einfach, gerade wenn sie alles gegen sie zu wenden scheint. Da ist die Backshow fast eine willkommene Ablenkung, bei der es auch nicht ohne Aufregung abgeht.
Herzig sind sie schon, die geschilderten Personen, Sally und ihre herzerwärmende Großmutter bilden den Mittelpunkt der Familie und einen Gegenpart zu den doch etwas überkandidelten Eltern. Josie macht ihren Part als beste Freundin wirklich gut. Die vielen Verehrer Sallys sind zu viel des Guten. Auch wenn sie ausgesprochen sympathisch wirkt, so muss doch nicht jeder vor ihr in die Knie sinken. Dafür kann man ihrem miesen Ex-Mann wirklich nur die Krätze an den Hals wünschen, bei dem was alles so über in zu Tage gefördert wird. Auch wenn in diesem Krimi ein klein wenig übertrieben wird, so unterhält die Lektüre gut und ist gerade richtig, wenn die Krimi-Mimi im Bett noch etwas schmökern will.
Sally Muccio hat endlich den Mann ihres Lebens und alles andere läuft auch rund. Sie führt mit ihrer Freundin Josie eine Keksbäckerei, die sehr gut ankommt. Die beiden sind sogar für einen Backwettbewerb in einer Fernsehsendung angenommen worden. Plötzlich taucht jedoch Sallys Ex-Mann Colin auf, der an ihr Geld will. Colin ist drogenabhängig und er hat Schulden gemacht. Wie er an Geld kommt, ist ihm fast egal. Und einen Tag später ist er tot. Der Verdacht fällt auf Sallys neuen Freund Mike. Wie perfekt war das Leben vor einem Moment und nun muss Sally alles dafür tun, um Mikes Unschuld zu beweisen.
Ein Kuschelkrimi wie er im Buche steht. Manchmal ein wenig sehr gefühlvoll reagiert Sally. Zum Glück hat sie ihre Großmutter, die sie mit viel Großmutterwitz und etlichen Versprechern wieder auf den Boden der Tatsachen holt. Vertrauen soll Sally haben, in die Welt und ihren Freund und überhaupt. Das ist manchmal nicht so einfach, gerade wenn sie alles gegen sie zu wenden scheint. Da ist die Backshow fast eine willkommene Ablenkung, bei der es auch nicht ohne Aufregung abgeht.
Herzig sind sie schon, die geschilderten Personen, Sally und ihre herzerwärmende Großmutter bilden den Mittelpunkt der Familie und einen Gegenpart zu den doch etwas überkandidelten Eltern. Josie macht ihren Part als beste Freundin wirklich gut. Die vielen Verehrer Sallys sind zu viel des Guten. Auch wenn sie ausgesprochen sympathisch wirkt, so muss doch nicht jeder vor ihr in die Knie sinken. Dafür kann man ihrem miesen Ex-Mann wirklich nur die Krätze an den Hals wünschen, bei dem was alles so über in zu Tage gefördert wird. Auch wenn in diesem Krimi ein klein wenig übertrieben wird, so unterhält die Lektüre gut und ist gerade richtig, wenn die Krimi-Mimi im Bett noch etwas schmökern will.
February 28, 2016
Baked to Death is excellent example of a well written cozy mystery; I loved it. While I really enjoyed Tastes Like Murder, the second book in the Cookies and Chance Mysteries casts that delightful book in the shadows. I am glad that she chose the love interest that she did but the other guy is awesome too; I hope we get to see him find someone special. Ms Bruns handles his continued interest in Sally smoothly and realistically.
When her ex comes back declaring that he will get half of her business or a lump sum of money, Sally feels like her world has hit the bottom again, but she soon discovers that things can get worse. Collin-the-jerk is murdered and her love is the prime suspect and she mentally rolls up her sleeves and adds finding a killer to her already full schedule. I like that even in her investigation she uses intelligence and caution, thereby avoiding one of the most irritating weaknesses of too many cozy mysteries. Her parents once again provide much of the humor while her grandmother is the balance in her life. Baked to Death isn't just a good cozy mystery; it is a good novel.
When her ex comes back declaring that he will get half of her business or a lump sum of money, Sally feels like her world has hit the bottom again, but she soon discovers that things can get worse. Collin-the-jerk is murdered and her love is the prime suspect and she mentally rolls up her sleeves and adds finding a killer to her already full schedule. I like that even in her investigation she uses intelligence and caution, thereby avoiding one of the most irritating weaknesses of too many cozy mysteries. Her parents once again provide much of the humor while her grandmother is the balance in her life. Baked to Death isn't just a good cozy mystery; it is a good novel.
January 6, 2016
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
This book had me intrigued until the end! I had several theories to the murderer -- one of which turned out to be right. I really love Sally's grandmother. This is the second book of the series, but the first book I have read. I am looking forward to going back and reading the first book to see how the story began! I am also a sucker for any mystery that has recipes at the end, she they were a wonderful touch!
This book had me intrigued until the end! I had several theories to the murderer -- one of which turned out to be right. I really love Sally's grandmother. This is the second book of the series, but the first book I have read. I am looking forward to going back and reading the first book to see how the story began! I am also a sucker for any mystery that has recipes at the end, she they were a wonderful touch!
January 7, 2016
This is a good cozy mystery. Full of twists and turns, and a happy ending. Sally's ex-husband, Colin, shows up and causes trouble for Sally in more ways than one. Her current boyfriend, Mike, is accused of his murder. Sally and Josie are preparing for a reality show competition and Colin has indirectly hurt their chances of winning the competition. Sally sets out to find out who murdered Colin and is causing so much trouble. But the question is... will it cost her her own life???
March 30, 2020
4.5 Stars
This is the second book in the Cookies and Chance mystery series by Catherine Bruns.
I think Kindle books get a bad rap sometimes. There is this misconception that they are bad or not edited or unprofessional. But this one totally bucks that system. This was an awesome representation of what Kindle should be and to a large extent is.
I picked this one up for the OWLs Readathon since it had a heart on the cover. I am so glad I finally read this! What an awesome book! This has to be a new favorite series for me. I had read Penne Dreadful sometime last year and loved that too. So, in a way, I was looking forward to this but it was lost in my kindle library.
Basic premise: Sally (Sal) Muccio runs a bakery with her best friend, Josie. She has finally gotten together with her high school sweetheart, Mike Donovan and things are good. Then her ex-husband shows up wanting half of her bakery even though he had nothing to do with its inception and a short time later, he ends up dead. Of course, Sal is the main suspect and her former boyfriend (not sure if boyfriend is the right word here) Detective Brian has her in his sights. He is still trying to win back her affection since he pursued her all through book one.
I thought the running back and forth between New York and Florida was a bit of a stretch for me. Colin had been living in Florida and Sal’s bakery is in NY. The team was invited to be on a cookie bake off show in Florida and in between the tv show hijinks they were able to do a bit of sleuthing about Colin’s activities.
The characters are awesome and memorable. Sal’s parents are a hoot! Her mom is in her second childhood and her dad is looking for the perfect casket. You immediately feel a kinship with Sal when Colin tries to take her business away from her after she worked so hard to build it up after his betrayal.
I am now officially addicted to this series. Already on book three!
If you love a good cozy mystery, definitely check this one out . You won’t be disappointed.
This is the second book in the Cookies and Chance mystery series by Catherine Bruns.
I think Kindle books get a bad rap sometimes. There is this misconception that they are bad or not edited or unprofessional. But this one totally bucks that system. This was an awesome representation of what Kindle should be and to a large extent is.
I picked this one up for the OWLs Readathon since it had a heart on the cover. I am so glad I finally read this! What an awesome book! This has to be a new favorite series for me. I had read Penne Dreadful sometime last year and loved that too. So, in a way, I was looking forward to this but it was lost in my kindle library.
Basic premise: Sally (Sal) Muccio runs a bakery with her best friend, Josie. She has finally gotten together with her high school sweetheart, Mike Donovan and things are good. Then her ex-husband shows up wanting half of her bakery even though he had nothing to do with its inception and a short time later, he ends up dead. Of course, Sal is the main suspect and her former boyfriend (not sure if boyfriend is the right word here) Detective Brian has her in his sights. He is still trying to win back her affection since he pursued her all through book one.
I thought the running back and forth between New York and Florida was a bit of a stretch for me. Colin had been living in Florida and Sal’s bakery is in NY. The team was invited to be on a cookie bake off show in Florida and in between the tv show hijinks they were able to do a bit of sleuthing about Colin’s activities.
The characters are awesome and memorable. Sal’s parents are a hoot! Her mom is in her second childhood and her dad is looking for the perfect casket. You immediately feel a kinship with Sal when Colin tries to take her business away from her after she worked so hard to build it up after his betrayal.
I am now officially addicted to this series. Already on book three!
If you love a good cozy mystery, definitely check this one out . You won’t be disappointed.
November 5, 2019
When Sally Muccio and her first true love Mike Donovan find their way back to each other life is back to where it was meant to be. Until her ex husband shows up in town staking a claim to half of her bakery. When he roughs Sally up at the local bar, Mike comes to her rescue and grab Colin off of her and the police are called. Before the cops show up Colin has left and Sally and Mike head home. The next morning Sally finds out that Colin was murdered during the night. Knowing that Mike had gone out int he middle of the night, Sally fears Mike will be the main suspect. To make matters worse, Colin's mother lists Sally as his wife in the obituary and everyone thinks Sally was lying about her divorce. it doesn't help that Mike has taken off and gone dark on Sally, making her more concerned about the police finding out.
When Sally and Josie win a spot on a cookie baking competition show they head to Florida and realize they can do a little snooping in Colin's old stomping grounds. What they find is that Colin owed a lot of money to some very bad people who saw the obituary and are holding Sally responsible for Colin's debt. With so much going on Sally and Josie need to win a cookie competition, find a murderer, and keep themselves safe.
The best part in this series is turning out to be the fortune cookies that Sally gives out to customers. While Sally is of the mind that they're just good fun, the messages seem to hit close to home for her and others with a freak level of premonition. This one isn't quite as good as the first one, but I'm enjoying this series and love how the fortune cookie messages tie in!
When Sally and Josie win a spot on a cookie baking competition show they head to Florida and realize they can do a little snooping in Colin's old stomping grounds. What they find is that Colin owed a lot of money to some very bad people who saw the obituary and are holding Sally responsible for Colin's debt. With so much going on Sally and Josie need to win a cookie competition, find a murderer, and keep themselves safe.
The best part in this series is turning out to be the fortune cookies that Sally gives out to customers. While Sally is of the mind that they're just good fun, the messages seem to hit close to home for her and others with a freak level of premonition. This one isn't quite as good as the first one, but I'm enjoying this series and love how the fortune cookie messages tie in!
December 1, 2024
"Baked to Death" by Catherine Bruns is book two in the "Cookies & Chance Mysteries" series. Sally just can't catch a break. Her ex-husband shows up and is demanding that she gives him money or he will take her to court. Then, a murder happens, and now she has to figure out who did it because the fingers are pointing to her current boyfriend, Mike. My favorite scene is when she runs downstairs in her towel, it had me laughing. I love the friendship that Sally and Josie share. I also enjoy Sally's family. They sure are a hoot. This was a great continuation to this series, and I look forward to reading others by Catherine.
August 23, 2019
Another new series for me
Sometimes I buy books and forget that I have them. I was looking through my kindle library and stumbled upon Baked to Death. The cover looked so good that I decided to read it.
I immediately fell in love with the style of writing and of course Sally and Mike.
Even though this is the second book in the series, I was able to follow along with the story and didn't feel confused by the characters.
I'm looking forward to reading the other books in this series.
Sometimes I buy books and forget that I have them. I was looking through my kindle library and stumbled upon Baked to Death. The cover looked so good that I decided to read it.
I immediately fell in love with the style of writing and of course Sally and Mike.
Even though this is the second book in the series, I was able to follow along with the story and didn't feel confused by the characters.
I'm looking forward to reading the other books in this series.
March 23, 2023
Sally Muccio has a cookie bakery together with her best friend, Josie Sullivan.
The bakery is starting to do well.
And she is back together with Mike Donovan her boyfriend from High School.
And Sally and Josie are going to be featured on a baking show.
Things are moving along until her ex stops by demanding half the value of the bakery.
Soon afterwards, her ex is found dead and Sally's boyfriend Mike is the main suspect.
Seems nothing goes right for long and its hard to tell friend from foe.
Vengeful ex-in laws that blame her for her ex husband's cheating, drug use and greed.
A suspicious employee, mobsters trying to collect money and crazy relatives.
The bakery is starting to do well.
And she is back together with Mike Donovan her boyfriend from High School.
And Sally and Josie are going to be featured on a baking show.
Things are moving along until her ex stops by demanding half the value of the bakery.
Soon afterwards, her ex is found dead and Sally's boyfriend Mike is the main suspect.
Seems nothing goes right for long and its hard to tell friend from foe.
Vengeful ex-in laws that blame her for her ex husband's cheating, drug use and greed.
A suspicious employee, mobsters trying to collect money and crazy relatives.
June 26, 2018
Fun murder mystery/love story that just let me relax and read. Good for beach or vacation reading.
January 31, 2016
Life was going well for bakery owner and amateur sleuth Sally Muccio. She’s been divorced from her low life, cheating, ex husband, Colin, for a few months and she’s now back in snowy Buffalo, New York with her old boyfriend, Mike.
Sally and Mike talk about living together and possibly getting married and having kids in the near future but Sally is happy with the way things are now and doesn’t want to rush into another marriage. Of course Mike is nothing like her ex Colin but Sally wants to wait a little while before she walks down the aisle for a second time.
Her new bakery is doing well with Sally’s best friend Josie working as the head baker. Josie also got them into a big baking competition in Florida with the winning prize of $20,000, what could possibly go wrong? Only everything.
Out of nowhere Sally’s ex, Colin returns to Buffalo from Florida and tells her that it was his idea to open the bakery and she owes him money for that. Colin had nothing to do with the new business and it was opened after their divorce so Sally is sure Colin does not have a vested interest.
But when Josie, her husband, Sally, and Mike are out celebrating Josie’s birthday at a local bar, a drunk Colin comes in and physically hurts Sally. The police are called but boyfriend Mike is very angry. That night he leaves his apartment while Sally is asleep and comes back a few hours later.
In the morning everyone in Buffalo finds out that Sally’s ex, Colin, was found murdered in his hotel room and Mike’s fingerprints are all over. Mike is arrested for Colin’s murder and is soon let out on bail. But instead of staying put he leaves Buffalo with a text message to Sally saying that he needs to be alone. And that is the last anyone hears from him.
When Sally and Josie go to Florida for the baking competition they also do some investigating during their free time and they find out a lot about Colin. Not only was he cheating on Sally when they were married but he was also cheating on the women he was cheating with. Colin also had a drug problem and owed a lot of money to mobsters who want Sally to pay back the debt now that Colin is dead.
Things are getting complicated. Sally is trying to hide the fact that Mike left Buffalo and she's also trying to avoid the romantic advances of not only a policeman but Colin’s best friend. That, along with keeping an eye open for the mobsters who are threatening her it’s getting harder and harder to figure out what to do or how she feels. And there is that baking competition that she and Josie need to win.
Did Mike really kill Colin or is someone trying to frame him? Sally is sure that Mike is innocent but she has to prove it to the police and to the rest of Buffalo and especially to Colin’s not so nice family.
I love a good cozy and this is one of them. The characters are great especially Sally’s grandmother who is the backbone of not only Sally’s family but all of her friends as well.
Sally’s parents embarrass her all the time by their constant public displays of affection and also because her 50 plus year old mom dresses like a 20 year-old with men ogling her and Sally’s dad walks around in shorts with sandals while wearing socks.
Sally’s ever suffering younger sister lives with her parents and grandmother while helping out at the bakery and studying for her law test.
The part I liked the best was the story line and the fact that I didn’t figure out who the killer was until I was almost at the end of the book.
“Baked to Death” is Catherine Bruns second book in her Cookies & Chance Mystery Series. I enjoyed this second story so much that now I’ll have to read the first.
If you enjoy a nice cozy this series is for you. Oh, and lots of recipes included at the end. Nothing like some good recipes to round out a book about a bakery.
Sally and Mike talk about living together and possibly getting married and having kids in the near future but Sally is happy with the way things are now and doesn’t want to rush into another marriage. Of course Mike is nothing like her ex Colin but Sally wants to wait a little while before she walks down the aisle for a second time.
Her new bakery is doing well with Sally’s best friend Josie working as the head baker. Josie also got them into a big baking competition in Florida with the winning prize of $20,000, what could possibly go wrong? Only everything.
Out of nowhere Sally’s ex, Colin returns to Buffalo from Florida and tells her that it was his idea to open the bakery and she owes him money for that. Colin had nothing to do with the new business and it was opened after their divorce so Sally is sure Colin does not have a vested interest.
But when Josie, her husband, Sally, and Mike are out celebrating Josie’s birthday at a local bar, a drunk Colin comes in and physically hurts Sally. The police are called but boyfriend Mike is very angry. That night he leaves his apartment while Sally is asleep and comes back a few hours later.
In the morning everyone in Buffalo finds out that Sally’s ex, Colin, was found murdered in his hotel room and Mike’s fingerprints are all over. Mike is arrested for Colin’s murder and is soon let out on bail. But instead of staying put he leaves Buffalo with a text message to Sally saying that he needs to be alone. And that is the last anyone hears from him.
When Sally and Josie go to Florida for the baking competition they also do some investigating during their free time and they find out a lot about Colin. Not only was he cheating on Sally when they were married but he was also cheating on the women he was cheating with. Colin also had a drug problem and owed a lot of money to mobsters who want Sally to pay back the debt now that Colin is dead.
Things are getting complicated. Sally is trying to hide the fact that Mike left Buffalo and she's also trying to avoid the romantic advances of not only a policeman but Colin’s best friend. That, along with keeping an eye open for the mobsters who are threatening her it’s getting harder and harder to figure out what to do or how she feels. And there is that baking competition that she and Josie need to win.
Did Mike really kill Colin or is someone trying to frame him? Sally is sure that Mike is innocent but she has to prove it to the police and to the rest of Buffalo and especially to Colin’s not so nice family.
I love a good cozy and this is one of them. The characters are great especially Sally’s grandmother who is the backbone of not only Sally’s family but all of her friends as well.
Sally’s parents embarrass her all the time by their constant public displays of affection and also because her 50 plus year old mom dresses like a 20 year-old with men ogling her and Sally’s dad walks around in shorts with sandals while wearing socks.
Sally’s ever suffering younger sister lives with her parents and grandmother while helping out at the bakery and studying for her law test.
The part I liked the best was the story line and the fact that I didn’t figure out who the killer was until I was almost at the end of the book.
“Baked to Death” is Catherine Bruns second book in her Cookies & Chance Mystery Series. I enjoyed this second story so much that now I’ll have to read the first.
If you enjoy a nice cozy this series is for you. Oh, and lots of recipes included at the end. Nothing like some good recipes to round out a book about a bakery.
March 11, 2016
Sally Muccio owns Sally’s Samples, a bakery in Colwestern, New York. She’s only been in business five months after moving from Florida back to her hometown to get away from her cheating ex-husband, Colin. She hired her best friend, Josie Sullivan, as the baker and reconnected with her high school love, Mike Donovan. The bakery is doing extremely well (and so is her romance) when Sally and Josie are invited to participate as contestants for Cookie Crusades, a reality baking competition in Orlando, Florida. With the grand prize $20,000 and the business it will bring to the bakery, Sally can’t pass up the chance to compete.
One of the perks that sets her bakery apart from others is she offers a free, home-made fortune cookie to every customer. A cookie breaks and she reads a strange fortune just before her ex-husband walks into her bakery telling her he should own 50% of her business. He’s got a shady attorney ready to sue, even though she opened the business after their divorce. Sally tries to shake it off and goes out with Mike, Josie and her husband to celebrate Josie’s birthday but the celebration is interrupted when Colin attacks her in the ladies’ room. Mike comes to her rescue and threatens to kill Colin if he ever comes near Sally again. Colin manages to slice Mike’s arm with a knife and escape, which enrages Mike even more.
The next morning the police show up and arrest Mike for the shooting murder of Colin, after finding his fingerprints in Colin’s motel room. Sally knows Mike went out in the middle of the night but he told her he was walking his dog. To make matters worse she finds he hid a gun in his bedroom but she’s sure he’s still innocent. Sally’s grandmother helps provide the funds to pay for bail so Mike doesn’t have to sit in jail. When he goes on the run, Sally’s love and her belief in his innocence is put to the ultimate test. Determined to find the truth, she leaves for Florida with Josie to participate in Cookie Crusades and look into Colin’s life after her divorce. Sally finds numerous people who wanted Colin dead and worries that they may be turning their sights on her. Can she find the real killer before it’s too late or will Mike take the fall?
Not only is BAKED TO DEATH an exciting, fast-paced story, there’s also a sweet romance about letting the past go and learning to hope for a better future. I loved the characters that Catherine has surrounding Sally, from her supportive, strong grandmother to her fun loving, romantic parents who end up mostly embarrassing Sally, her sister and Josie…and gave me a few giggles over their antics. The author also provides delicious recipes as part of her book. I tried Josie's Jelly Cookies and they were a huge hit! I look forward to reading more in this series!
One of the perks that sets her bakery apart from others is she offers a free, home-made fortune cookie to every customer. A cookie breaks and she reads a strange fortune just before her ex-husband walks into her bakery telling her he should own 50% of her business. He’s got a shady attorney ready to sue, even though she opened the business after their divorce. Sally tries to shake it off and goes out with Mike, Josie and her husband to celebrate Josie’s birthday but the celebration is interrupted when Colin attacks her in the ladies’ room. Mike comes to her rescue and threatens to kill Colin if he ever comes near Sally again. Colin manages to slice Mike’s arm with a knife and escape, which enrages Mike even more.
The next morning the police show up and arrest Mike for the shooting murder of Colin, after finding his fingerprints in Colin’s motel room. Sally knows Mike went out in the middle of the night but he told her he was walking his dog. To make matters worse she finds he hid a gun in his bedroom but she’s sure he’s still innocent. Sally’s grandmother helps provide the funds to pay for bail so Mike doesn’t have to sit in jail. When he goes on the run, Sally’s love and her belief in his innocence is put to the ultimate test. Determined to find the truth, she leaves for Florida with Josie to participate in Cookie Crusades and look into Colin’s life after her divorce. Sally finds numerous people who wanted Colin dead and worries that they may be turning their sights on her. Can she find the real killer before it’s too late or will Mike take the fall?
Not only is BAKED TO DEATH an exciting, fast-paced story, there’s also a sweet romance about letting the past go and learning to hope for a better future. I loved the characters that Catherine has surrounding Sally, from her supportive, strong grandmother to her fun loving, romantic parents who end up mostly embarrassing Sally, her sister and Josie…and gave me a few giggles over their antics. The author also provides delicious recipes as part of her book. I tried Josie's Jelly Cookies and they were a huge hit! I look forward to reading more in this series!
January 28, 2019
Death Returns to the Cookie Shop…Delicious!
Sally’s cookie shop, Sally’s Samples, is doing quite well, and the news that she and Josie have been selected as contestants in the Cookie Crusades, a Food Network reality baking competition, sends them into joyful excitement. But, excitement is replaced by exasperation when Sally’s ex-husband, Colin Brown, shows up threatening to take away half of her successful business, of course, $20,000 could make his claim go away. However, the Ex turns up dead, and the boyfriend is arrested for murder. Sally sets upon her own investigation. She is shocked by former girlfriends, questionable characters, very competitive competitors, and more than a few avenues of interest. How can things get any worse?
Catherine Bruns takes us on another enjoyable ride. Sally’s difficulties with the death of her ex and dealing with her former in-laws were written so well, I really felt bad…where’s Karma hiding from book 1? The drama at the baking competition was exactly how I thought it would be since I am a Food Network fan: behind-the-scenes, Sally and Josie partnership, and the drama among the other competitors. We are again treated to wonderful recipes, not just Catherine’s favorites, but actual recipes connected to the story. In this book we have Spice Cookies with Pumpkin Frosting which are the perfect holiday treat, along with the Cookie Crusades entries for Josie’s Jelly Cookies, Coconut Macaroons, and Brownie Biscotti.
1/27/19 Updated
"Baked to Death" earns 5/5 Award Winning Cookies...Totally Engaging Fun!
This story is well worth a second helping! Catherine’s Bruns’s work is always the main force, but Siobhan O’Day’s narration enhanced my “redo” with a very pleasant voice for Sally’s “I” perspective. Her voice artistry goes well beyond the traditional reading making entertaining changes in tone, emotion, and varied dialects and accents to illustrate the different characters. Josie’s “New Yawk” twang was so delightful! The Italian accent for Grandma Rosa and her nemesis Mrs Gavelli were different and spot on. All female narrators have the challenge to mimic a male voice, and Siobhan’s efforts didn't go unnoticed. I was really looking forward to hearing her artistry with the different generations. The differences between a youthful or aged tone is important, and Siobhan was great! My only complaint is that you miss out on the recipes…so I make sure to pick up the eBook for those!
Sally’s cookie shop, Sally’s Samples, is doing quite well, and the news that she and Josie have been selected as contestants in the Cookie Crusades, a Food Network reality baking competition, sends them into joyful excitement. But, excitement is replaced by exasperation when Sally’s ex-husband, Colin Brown, shows up threatening to take away half of her successful business, of course, $20,000 could make his claim go away. However, the Ex turns up dead, and the boyfriend is arrested for murder. Sally sets upon her own investigation. She is shocked by former girlfriends, questionable characters, very competitive competitors, and more than a few avenues of interest. How can things get any worse?
Catherine Bruns takes us on another enjoyable ride. Sally’s difficulties with the death of her ex and dealing with her former in-laws were written so well, I really felt bad…where’s Karma hiding from book 1? The drama at the baking competition was exactly how I thought it would be since I am a Food Network fan: behind-the-scenes, Sally and Josie partnership, and the drama among the other competitors. We are again treated to wonderful recipes, not just Catherine’s favorites, but actual recipes connected to the story. In this book we have Spice Cookies with Pumpkin Frosting which are the perfect holiday treat, along with the Cookie Crusades entries for Josie’s Jelly Cookies, Coconut Macaroons, and Brownie Biscotti.
1/27/19 Updated
"Baked to Death" earns 5/5 Award Winning Cookies...Totally Engaging Fun!
This story is well worth a second helping! Catherine’s Bruns’s work is always the main force, but Siobhan O’Day’s narration enhanced my “redo” with a very pleasant voice for Sally’s “I” perspective. Her voice artistry goes well beyond the traditional reading making entertaining changes in tone, emotion, and varied dialects and accents to illustrate the different characters. Josie’s “New Yawk” twang was so delightful! The Italian accent for Grandma Rosa and her nemesis Mrs Gavelli were different and spot on. All female narrators have the challenge to mimic a male voice, and Siobhan’s efforts didn't go unnoticed. I was really looking forward to hearing her artistry with the different generations. The differences between a youthful or aged tone is important, and Siobhan was great! My only complaint is that you miss out on the recipes…so I make sure to pick up the eBook for those!
January 19, 2016
BAKED TO DEATH is the second book in the "Cookies and Chance" Mystery series. It is the story of two ladies who run a cookie bakery, one of which is the owner, Sal. Sal seems to attract murder and trouble and that continues in book two. This time it is her ex-husband who is murdered, and her boyfriend is accused of the crime. Many complications and red herrings occur throughout the book, leading readers into several possible directions. I must say a couple of her tentative conclusions made sense to me... It was a jam packed week between the murder and resolution, including a nail biting cookie contest worth $20,000. You will have to read the book to see how it all turns out, but I will tell you it is an enjoyable mystery and a nice story about family and friends believing the best. There are moments of humor, between her Grandmother's English and Mrs. G's perception of reality, I enjoyed some chuckles.
Cookie recipes are included in the book. I haven't had a chance to try them yet, but they look straightforward and easy to make.
If you haven't read book 1 in the series (TASTES LIKE MURDER), you will still enjoy this book. As with most series however, you will enjoy it more if you read the series in order. Either way, read it and enjoy!
WARNING!!! You will need cookies to eat while reading this book!!! :)
Cookie recipes are included in the book. I haven't had a chance to try them yet, but they look straightforward and easy to make.
If you haven't read book 1 in the series (TASTES LIKE MURDER), you will still enjoy this book. As with most series however, you will enjoy it more if you read the series in order. Either way, read it and enjoy!
WARNING!!! You will need cookies to eat while reading this book!!! :)
January 7, 2016
3.5 stars.
Gotta say, Catherine Bruns can turn out a pleasant read. These cozies are unassuming and hit their paces right on target. I spent most of a day reading these books, happily curled up in my wingback chair, drawn in by Catherine's writing. Sally is a modest character--she is not a take-charge vigilante, but quietly determined to make things right. It drove me nuts when she would cave to everyone's demands--I could easily see why she stayed with her awful ex-husband as long as she did--but things seemed to work out for her anyway, and in a believable fashion. So it made sense when her sweet personality drew people in, especially the men who wanted to protect her and keep her safe. I also love the balance her gentleness brought to her friendship with the fiery Josie. But the real mystery is the fortunes in the fortune cookies--they seem to have a predictive magic all their own and the speculative-fiction lover in me wants to know where it comes from!
Anyway, the next time you're looking for a quick read with great writing and a perfectly structured plot, give Cookies and Chance a try. You won't be sorry.
Gotta say, Catherine Bruns can turn out a pleasant read. These cozies are unassuming and hit their paces right on target. I spent most of a day reading these books, happily curled up in my wingback chair, drawn in by Catherine's writing. Sally is a modest character--she is not a take-charge vigilante, but quietly determined to make things right. It drove me nuts when she would cave to everyone's demands--I could easily see why she stayed with her awful ex-husband as long as she did--but things seemed to work out for her anyway, and in a believable fashion. So it made sense when her sweet personality drew people in, especially the men who wanted to protect her and keep her safe. I also love the balance her gentleness brought to her friendship with the fiery Josie. But the real mystery is the fortunes in the fortune cookies--they seem to have a predictive magic all their own and the speculative-fiction lover in me wants to know where it comes from!
Anyway, the next time you're looking for a quick read with great writing and a perfectly structured plot, give Cookies and Chance a try. You won't be sorry.
October 9, 2016
Another fun read from Catherine Bruns! In this second Cookies and Chance Mystery, things are going pretty well for Sally. Business is good and she's happy in her new relationship. Then, like an ill wind, her ex-husband shows up in town and says that he plans on staking a claim on her business. Before Sally can figure out how to deal with this, her ex ends up murdered and her new boyfriend is arrested. She knows he's not guilty, but how can she prove it? To make matters worse, Sally has to deal with her ex's family, the madcap (but well-meaning) antics of her own family, and she and Josie are preparing to compete in a reality baking competition. I figured out pretty early on who the murderer was, although the motive wasn't revealed until much later on. Sally, Josie, and the rest of the characters are lively and fun and well developed. I enjoy the backdrop of the cookie shop and there are some good recipes in the book that I plan on trying out. Check this one out if you like cozy mysteries with humor and a little romance.
January 19, 2016
Sally Muccio is a divorced, cookie bakery owner, whose boyfriend is Mike Donavan, her HS sweetheart .They have reconnected after 10 years. Her ex, Colin Brown, is not a very nice person and is always looking for a way to make easy money.
Colin is killed and Mike is accused of the murder. Needless to say Sally is stressed and determine to help clear Mike’s name.
But the story is also about family, friendships , loyalty , faith and hope. I love Sally’s Grandma Rose and just want her to have her own story. Josie, Sally’s BFF, is also a caring and interesting character. You will have a few good laughs (or manifest horror) kwith Sally’s mother and father.
All in all, an enjoyable story filled with romance, mystery, murder, and a good time.
Colin is killed and Mike is accused of the murder. Needless to say Sally is stressed and determine to help clear Mike’s name.
But the story is also about family, friendships , loyalty , faith and hope. I love Sally’s Grandma Rose and just want her to have her own story. Josie, Sally’s BFF, is also a caring and interesting character. You will have a few good laughs (or manifest horror) kwith Sally’s mother and father.
All in all, an enjoyable story filled with romance, mystery, murder, and a good time.
January 17, 2016
Deliciously Baked!
This was a well-plotted page turner that I could not help be be drawn into! The cliffhanger at the end of book 1 was answered quite quickly & quite satisfactorily. There were quite a few surprises, especially when Sal's ex-husband shows up. Also, quite a few laughs - Sal's parents are quite a couple of oddball characters, as is Sal's grandmother's neighbor. The ending was quite a surprise & very heartwarming. Love this new series & am anxiously awaiting book 3!
This was a well-plotted page turner that I could not help be be drawn into! The cliffhanger at the end of book 1 was answered quite quickly & quite satisfactorily. There were quite a few surprises, especially when Sal's ex-husband shows up. Also, quite a few laughs - Sal's parents are quite a couple of oddball characters, as is Sal's grandmother's neighbor. The ending was quite a surprise & very heartwarming. Love this new series & am anxiously awaiting book 3!
January 16, 2016
Cookies, ex husbands and murder makes for an interesting read.
Sally and Josie are going great guns in their cookie business and they are hoping to win an upcoming cookie baking competition.
Sally's love life is on or is it?
Sally's family bring so much love warmth and hilarity as only a true Italian family can, they are loud, proud and always entertaining I just love them.
Great story and loved the ending
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